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For implant photogrammetry, you need a compatible capture system, coded implant markers or transfers, and capture software. You also need a separate way to record soft tissue—usually an intraoral scanner, or an impression that is digitized—and dental CAD software to align the datasets. Photogrammetry records implant positions and angulations; in the PIC workflow, it does not capture the soft-tissue surface.
What the equipment does—and what it does not do
Dental implant photogrammetry uses images of coded markers attached to implants or abutments to calculate their relative positions and angulations. The resulting implant-position data is only part of the digital model. In the PIC workflow, the exported PIC file contains implant positions and angulations, not soft-tissue data. PIC dental describes this workflow and its equipment.
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To complete the model, capture the soft-tissue geometry separately and align it with the photogrammetry data in dental CAD software. The ITI’s clinical guide to photogrammetry likewise describes a camera capturing multiple views of coded scan-body geometry.
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Equipment to plan for
1. A photogrammetry capture system
A dedicated extraoral photogrammetry camera photographs the coded markers from multiple views around the arch. PIC offers Gravity, System, and Station form factors; its product information says they use the same key elements. The ITI workflow guide names PIC and iCam4D as examples of photogrammetry cameras. Check current models, availability, support, and software directly with the manufacturers before choosing a system.
#1 Best Overall
- Mini Body:246g, small and ergonomic design 14mm ultra low inlet height 1 7mm great depth of Ĭeld
- High accuracy for data:Get the impression data directly and the data can be uploaded directly to cloud, which makes it easy to restore and traceable.
- Intuitive image:Realistic scan colors,Offers full HD color or monochromatic scanning
- CAD/CAM Systems for Dentists,Produces open STL and PLY files for easy sharing with the lab of your choice
- Supports full clinical workflows in orthodontics, restorative, implant and sleep dentistry
A smartphone-based workflow is another option. PIC describes its app as a smartphone photogrammetry system that requires a compatible iPhone and PIC transfers. The app page accessed for this guide lists iPhone 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max. Compatibility can change, so check PIC’s current app compatibility list before buying. PIC’s description of the app as requiring no extra equipment is a vendor claim.
2. Coded implant markers or transfers
These are physical, coded components attached to the implant platforms or abutments. The capture system recognizes their geometry to calculate implant positions. PIC calls its markers PIC transfers and describes them as coded 3D abutments; the ITI guide refers to coded scan-body geometry. They are system-specific components, not interchangeable accessories merely because they look similar.
Rank #2
- Instant, High-Definition Imaging: Digitize the oral cavity with exceptional clarity. Our system provides instant, high-quality images crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. The preset exposure function simplifies the process, enabling rapid capture with consistent results every time.
- Unparalleled Efficiency and Uptime: Never worry about power during a busy clinic day. With a robust battery that supports over 300 exposures per charge, your workflow remains smooth and uninterrupted.
- Designed for Comfort and Stability: We prioritize the operator's experience. The lightweight design, coupled with an elastic and fully adjustable hand strap, reduces fatigue and ensures a stable, secure grip for perfect shooting posture and sharp images, regardless of hand size.
- Intelligent and User-Friendly Workflow: From power-on to image capture, the process is streamlined for maximum efficiency. The responsive 3.0-inch IPS LCD screen offers quick touch control and a wide viewing angle, allowing for easy operation and immediate image assessment right at the point of care.
- Commitment to Safety: Your well-being is our priority. The System is engineered to produce high-resolution diagnostic images while maintaining very low radi-ation doses. The secure strap and stable handling provide an added layer of safety during operation.
Before ordering, confirm the implant manufacturer and platform, whether the connection is bone-level or tissue-level, whether an abutment-level workflow applies, and whether the marker is supported by the exact capture system, software, and CAD process. PIC says its transfers cover thousands of platforms and support mixed platforms; treat this as a vendor statement and verify that the specific components fit the intended case.
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The described PIC workflow accepts either an intraoral scan or a conventional impression that is digitized. It describes scan bodies, healing caps, transepithelial abutments, or implant platforms as possible shared landmarks for aligning the datasets. If your practice or lab does not already have an intraoral scanner, account for that equipment—or for the impression and digitization steps—in your workflow and budget.
Rank #3
- Simple Positioning: One hand operation for higher stability and convenience as well as freeing your fingers from your mouth for less cross infection
- Instant Imaging: Instant imaging for fast diagnosis. USB 2.0 connection for sharp images 3 seconds for achieving images acquisition
- User-friendly Software: One click installation with no need of IP settings. Digital case management. Smart contrast for sharper images.Multiple-format images sharing & remote consultation
- Better Images: Dynamic range of 16 bits creates high quality images for accurate diagnosis. For example: Periapical images after root canal filling. Periodontal ligament widening.Trabecular bone structure is clearly visible.Perfect wisdom teeth structure image
- Package includes: Digital sensor: 1Set; U Disk: 1Pcs; Sensor holder: 1Pcs; Disposable Sensor protective sleeve:100Pcs; Aluminum plate:1Pcs (40*40*6mm)
4. Capture software, file handling, and dental CAD
PIC’s dedicated system uses PIC suite software to capture marker images and generate a PIC file exported as an STL containing marker geometry for alignment. The implant-position data is then aligned with the soft-tissue dataset in dental CAD software; PIC names exocad and 3Shape as examples. Confirm that your scanner exports a usable file, your marker libraries are available, and your CAD software and versions support the intended handoff.
Choosing a buying path
| Buying path | What it includes | Questions to resolve |
|---|---|---|
| Dedicated extraoral system | A camera or system, coded markers, and capture software. PIC offers Gravity, System, and Station form factors. | How many cases will you capture? Would a portable system, fixed station, or all-in-one form factor suit the clinic? Which implant platforms and marker libraries are supported? What are the purchase, service, and training costs? |
| Smartphone-based system | PIC app, a supported iPhone, and PIC transfers, according to the vendor. | Is your exact phone model currently supported? Does the app’s payment model fit your case volume? Will the lab and CAD workflow accept the required markers and files? |
| Other dedicated systems | The ITI guide and a comparative study identify iCam4D as a system used in photogrammetry workflows. | Check current models, marker availability, software, support, and CAD workflow with the vendor. Do not assume coded bodies interchange between systems. |
There is no single equipment choice that follows from a precision headline alone. Compare marker and platform coverage, case volume, capture speed and ease, portability, software and CAD integration, training, service, regional availability, and total cost. Prices and marketplace availability are not established here.
Rank #4
- Crystal Clear Intraoral Images - Easily capture clear photos that help patients see the need for treatment! Case comprehension means case acceptance. This market-share leading intraoral dental camera is specially designed to take clear, well-illuminated images without lag, allowing dental professionals to efficiently help patients see what they see.
- Sharp and Focused - Our intra-oral dental camera takes clear images without lag. Its 4mm-45mm fixed focal distance eliminates the need for manual focusing and the frustration and wait associated with auto-focus hunting.
- Quick, One-Button Capture - Save time with every patient interaction with a quick, lag-free click! Intraoral dental pictures are immediately saved to the patient's chart with a single button press of the MouthWatch camera. No mouse or keyboard is needed!
- Easy to Integrate - Looking for a digital dental camera that is also well-supported and will work seamlessly with your imaging software? Our proprietary capture software is included with each camera and supports all major imaging solutions, such as Eaglesoft, Dexis, Schick, Apteryx, and more, with over 50 integrations available
- Complimentary Lifetime Customer Support - Integrations can typically be done in under 5 minutes by our customers following the clear instructions that come with each dental camera. Our friendly, responsive team is available by phone, live chat and email when help is needed.
What the available accuracy evidence can tell you
An open-access in-vitro study compared conventional splinted open-tray impressions, intraoral scanning, and photogrammetry setups using PIC and iCam4D, with system-specific scan bodies and camera setups. That establishes that these acquisition approaches have been compared in a laboratory setting; it does not establish a universal clinical winner or superior patient outcomes. Read the BMC Oral Health study.
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1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minutePIC’s product page states “6 microns” precision under controlled light, temperature, and humidity conditions, while its workflow page separately states “<4 microns” accuracy under controlled light, temperature, and humidity conditions. These are differently worded vendor claims; they should not be treated as equivalent measurements or as an independent comparison. The product and workflow pages do not state a publication year for these figures.
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- 【Adjustable-height Tabletop】Featuring a flexible height-adjustable Tabletop(30 cm to 87 cm), this design adapts perfectly to different user heights and usage scenarios for enhanced comfort. With a spacious 60x42 cm surface area and a 30 kg load capacity, it easily accommodates daily equipment and supplies. Note that the column height is fixed, with only the worksurface adjustable for targeted convenience.
- 【Universal Oral Scanner Holder】This universal holder is compatible with major intraoral scanners including 3Shape, iTero, Sirona, and Planmeca. It keeps your device organized and within reach, reducing clutter and saving time during dental procedures. The secure grip prevents accidental falls, protecting sensitive scanning equipment.
- 【Integrated Storage】Features a lockable drawer measuring 35x25 cm, offering safe and secure storage for valuable instruments such as intraoral scanners and other essential equipment. The lockable design protects your costly devices from loss or damage, ensuring convenient access while maintaining high security for your valuable dental and medical tools.
- 【Smooth Mobility】Equipped with four 360° swivel silent casters, each with an independent foot brake for flexible and stable control. The cart moves smoothly on various floors and surfaces, while the dedicated brakes firmly lock each wheel to keep the trolley steady, ensuring a safe and stable platform for precise operations.
- 【Hidden Cable Design】This cart features a hidden cable management system to keep wires tidy and out of the way, effectively reducing clutter and potential hazards, while maintaining a clean and professional workspace.
PIC also says its system has been used for more than 2 million full-arch cases since 2010 in more than 55 countries, and that more than 70 scientific studies validate its clinical precision. These are figures published by PIC, not independently audited statistics. The same vendor page attributes a passive-fit threshold below 100 microns to a 2017 systematic review by Katsoulis and colleagues; the original review is not linked here, so that threshold is not independently verified.
Quick Recap
Pre-purchase checklist
- List the implant platforms and connection levels used in the cases you expect to capture.
- Confirm marker availability and compatibility for every platform and the exact capture system.
- Choose between a dedicated camera and phone workflow based on case volume, portability, and total cost.
- If considering the PIC app, verify that the exact iPhone model is currently supported.
- Include soft-tissue capture through an intraoral scanner or an impression-and-digitization workflow.
- Check file exports, marker libraries, CAD alignment, lab handoff, and software-version support.
- Compare training, service, throughput, and regional availability as well as purchase cost.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
