Aim: In this study two fringe projection scanner systems were used for a 3 dimensional reconstruction of the back. Optical 3 d scanners are characterized by a short acquisition of about seconds. Over 20 images can be recorded per second. Because of this reason it is common to use for studies with children and young adults. In this study the ABW-Scanner (GeBioM) and the Formetric Body Scan System (Diers®) were used.
Materials and Methods: The two back scanner systems were used in 5 probands (female, average age 26). The mandibula was brought into 7 different functional positions when scanned: restposition (1), habitual intercuspitation (2), provocation of first contact using cotton rolls in molar region right side (3), molar region left side (4), premolar region right side (5), premolar region left side (6) and incisor region (7).
Results: Both scanner systems showed a statistical significant change (Kruskal-Wallis-test; p=0,001) between every mandible functional position. Wide variations were seen in provocation of occlusal prematurity premolar region on both sides. Shoulder highness and rotation, highness of the pelvis and the torsion of the shoulder compared to the pelvis were seen in the ABW-Scanner and the Formetric System.
Conclusion: The additional use of 3 dimensional Scanning sytems is useful when examination of patients body posture is requested. Both Scanners show a correlation between quality and quantity to the localisation of the occlusal contacts. More studies with higher proband groups are required.