Method and scan body for preparing a final prosthesis

Abstract

A computer-implemented method for creating a digital model is provided. The method comprises obtaining a first set of scan data indicative of a temporary prosthetic structure (33) arranged on a dental implant embedded in a jaw of a patient. The method comprises obtaining a second set of scan data indicative of the temporary prosthetic structure arranged on a scan body (1) comprising indica (3) indicative of a mounting geometry of the dental implant. The second set of scan data includes a soft tissue emergence profile (31) of the temporary prosthetic structure and the indica. The method comprises selecting a third set of scan data indicative of at least the mounting geometry of the scan body from a database, based on the indica. The method comprises generating a first 3D- model (200) of the temporary prosthetic structure and surrounding dentition, by aligning the first set of scan data, the second set of scan data and the third set of data.

Description

[0001] METHOD AND SCAN BODY FOR PREPARING A FINAL PROSTHESIS

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure pertains to the field of restorative dentistry. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a method and a scan body for creating a digital model for the preparation of a final prosthesis, such as a single crown or a small bridge, e.g. replacing two to three teeth.

[0004] Background

[0005] Dental implants offer a reliable and long-lasting solution for replacing missing natural teeth. The implant serves as an artificial root, providing a sturdy anchor for the future prosthesis.

[0006] After the implant is placed in the jaw, a process known as osseointegration begins. During this phase, which can last several months, the bone gradually fuses with the surface of the implant, creating a strong and stable bond. To protect the implant site and maintain aesthetics and function during this period, a temporary prosthesis is often fitted which mimics the shape of the missing tooth, or teeth.

[0007] The temporary prosthesis has several purposes: it protects the surgical site by reducing damage or infection risk, enables normal activities like chewing and speaking, maintains the patient's smile which boosts confidence during healing, and helps contour gum tissue for a natural emergence profile. The emergence profile, which refers to the contour and shape of the prosthetic structure as it passes through the soft tissue, impacts both aesthetics and function.

[0008] Once osseointegration is complete and the implant is securely anchored in the bone, the final prosthesis can be crafted. Shaping the emergence profile of the final prosthesis to be similar to that of the temporary prosthesis is beneficial for the health and aesthetics of the soft tissue. A consistent emergence profile ensures that the soft tissue remains stable and does not collapse or get damaged, which is beneficial for both healing and the overall appearance.

[0009] In order to design an aesthetically pleasing and functional final prosthesis, the dental technician must have an accurate model of the dentition of the patient, including the position of the implant within this. As an alternative to traditional impression-takingmethods, the use of intraoral scanning technology is becoming increasingly popular. Intraoral scanners capture detailed digital images of the implant site and surrounding teeth, creating accurate 3D models of the patient's dental anatomy. This method eliminates the need for physical impression materials, making the process more comfortable for the patient. Using these digital impressions, a dental laboratory fabricates the final prosthesis, which could be a crown, bridge, or denture, depending on the specific case.

[0010] A scan body is a specialized component used in dental implantology to facilitate accurate digital impressions. It is typically made of biocompatible material and is designed to be easily identifiable in digital imaging. According to conventional scanning methods, a scan body is temporarily attached to the implant, providing a reference point for intraoral scanners.

[0011] Once the scan body is in place, the intraoral scanner captures detailed images of the implant site, including the position and orientation of the scan body. These images are then used to create a precise 3D model of the patient's dental anatomy. The scan body ensures that the implant's location in the jaw is accurately recorded, which is crucial for designing a well-fitting final prosthesis.

[0012] In order to attach the scan body to the implant, the temporary prosthesis must be removed. The resulting scan will capture the contour of the soft tissue around the implant, which provides an inverse impression of the emergence profile of the temporary prosthesis. However, after removal of the temporary prosthesis the soft tissue will collapse slightly, which affects the accuracy of the inverse emergence profile captured by the scan. Due to the importance of the shape and contour of the emergence profile, this reduction in accuracy is disadvantageous to the design of the final prosthesis.

[0013] In order to provide a more accurate model of the temporary prosthesis emergence profile the following procedure can be followed. The temporary prosthesis is removed from the implant and attached to an implant analog outside the mouth. A silicon mould is created around the temporary prosthesis to capture the shape of its emergence profile. Subsequently, the scan body together with the silicon mould is fastened to the implant in the mouth, and the gap between the scan body and the silicon mould is filled with composite material to recreate the emergence profile. The scanbody with the recreated emergence profile is scanned both inside and outside the mouth, providing information about the emergence profile and the position of the implant. These scans are combined with further scans of the patient’s mouth to create a digital model that includes the position of the implant, the recreated emergence profile, and the surrounding dentition and soft tissue. This method involves multiple additional steps to accurately capture and recreate the emergence profile, at additional time and cost to the patient and dental practitioner.

[0014] As can be readily appreciated from the above description, existing scanning methods have several disadvantages that impact the accuracy and efficiency of dental prosthesis creation. One major issue is the collapse of soft tissue during scanning, which leads to inaccurate data on the emergence profile. The workflow required to overcome this is complex and involves multiple steps, such as removing the temporary crown, creating a silicon mould, and filling gaps with composite material, making the process time-consuming and prone to errors. Additionally, manual adjustments and handling of components outside the mouth increases the risk of inaccuracies and inconsistencies in the final prosthesis. These disadvantages highlight the need for improved scanning methods that can provide more accurate and reliable data for dental prosthesis creation.

[0015] Summary

[0016] Accordingly, there is a need for methods and systems for creating a 3D digital model, which may mitigate, alleviate, or address the existing shortcomings, and improves the accuracy, predictability, and long-term success of prosthetic emergence profile design.

[0017] The current disclosure provides a method for creating a digital model to assist in the preparation of a final prosthesis, such as a single crown. Particularly, the method may be used during preparation of the final prosthesis, in particular the preparation of the emergence profile of the final prosthesis, which can be based on the shape of a temporary prosthetic structure, e.g. a temporary prosthesis arranged on a temporary abutment.

[0018] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for creating a digital model. The method comprises obtaining a first set of scan data indicative of a temporary prosthetic structure mounted to a dental implant embedded inthe jaw of a patient and the surrounding dentition, the dental implant comprising mounting geometry with which the temporary prosthetic structure cooperates in order to fix the position of the temporary prosthetic structure relative to the implant. The method further comprises obtaining a second set of scan data indicative of the temporary prosthetic structure mounted on a scan body, the scan body replicating the mounting geometry of the dental implant and comprising indica for identification of the mounting geometry, the second set of scan data including the emergence profile, herein also referred to as the soft tissue emergence profile, of the temporary prosthetic structure and the indica of the scan body. The method further comprises selecting a third set of data from a database, the third set of data being indicative of at least the mounting geometry of the scan body. The selection is made based on the indica contained in the second set of scan data. The method further comprises generating a first 3D-model of the temporary prosthetic structure and surrounding dentition, by aligning the first set of scan data, the second set of scan data and the third set of data.

[0019] The method of the present invention thus enables the emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure to be accurately integrated into the first 3D model in a simple manner. This is achieved by obtaining a second set of scan data indicative of the temporary prosthetic structure mounted on a scan body, the second set of scan data including the emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure and the indica of the scan body. In contrast to standard scan bodies, which are connected to the dental implant embedded in the jaw of the patient, the scan body used in the present invention instead comprises mounting geometry which replicates the mounting geometry of the implant. This enables the temporary prosthetic structure to be scanned outside of the mouth, such that the emergence profile is visible. The indica of the scan body enable a third set of data to be selected for inclusion in the 3D model, this data being indicative of at least the mounting geometry of the scan body, which is equivalent to the mounting geometry of the embedded implant. In this way, the position and orientation of the implant mounting geometry of the embedded implant can be integrated into the first 3D model without the need for a traditional scan body to be mounted to the implant. Further, as, according to this method, the data indicative of the emergence profile is obtained directly from the temporary prosthetic structure (via the second set of scan data) and not through the contour of the soft tissue after removal of the temporaryprosthetic structure from the implant, this provides a more accurate rendering of the emergence profile in the first 3D model. During the healing process the patient’s soft tissue will surround the soft tissue emergence profile, creating a soft tissue socket that inversely matches the soft tissue emergence profile. However, as discussed above, the soft tissue begins to collapse as soon as the temporary prosthetic structure is removed. The digital model obtained by the present method thus enables a final prosthesis to be created which better fits in the soft tissue socket formed by the emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure.

[0020] In the following passages, different features of the invention are defined in more detail. Each example method step or product feature so defined may be combined with any other example method step, steps, product feature or features unless clearly indicated to the contrary.

[0021] The method may be a computer-implemented method. In other words, one or more processors may be configured to carry out one or more steps of the method as disclosed herein.

[0022] The first and second sets of scan data can be obtained in any order. For example, the temporary prosthetic structure may be first mounted to the dental implant embedded in the jaw of the patient and scanned to obtain the first set of scan data and then mounted to the scan body and scanned to obtain the second set of scan data. Alternatively, the temporary prosthetic structure may first be mounted to the scan body and scanned to obtain the second set of scan data and then mounted to the dental implant embedded in the patient’s jaw to obtain the first set of scan data. Alternatively, the first and second set of scan data can be obtained from a memory, such as from a database, or from an electronic file.

[0023] A temporary prosthetic structure can herein be seen as a provisional component used in dental implantology which mimics the shape of a natural tooth or teeth and which is intended for connection to a dental implant during, for example, a healing phase before a final prosthesis is placed. The temporary prosthetic structure may serve as an intermediate structure that can help create or maintain a soft tissue contour and ensure a proper function and aesthetics while the implant integrates with a surrounding bone, such as during osseointegration. In one or more examples the temporary prosthetic structure comprises a temporary crown, i.e. a structure which mimics a singletooth, or a small bridge, i.e. a structure which mimics two to three teeth. The method is considered particularly beneficial for single tooth prosthetic structures.

[0024] The method of the present invention includes the step of obtaining a first set of scan data indicative of a temporary prosthetic structure mounted to a dental implant embedded in the jaw of a patient as well as the surrounding dentition.

[0025] The first set of scan data may be intraoral scan data. The first set of scan data may be indicative of the dentition in the immediate vicinity of the embedded dental implant and in one or more examples of the dentition and anatomy of the full arch in which the implant is embedded. The first set of scan data may also be indicative of the dentition and anatomy of the opposing arch of the patient.

[0026] The first set of scan data may be obtained from a memory, such as from a database or electronic file, comprising the first set of scan data. In one or more example methods, the first set of scan data may be obtained via intraorally scanning the temporary prosthetic structure mounted to the dental implant and the surrounding dentition.

[0027] The dental implant embedded in the jaw of the patient comprises mounting geometry with which the temporary prosthetic structure cooperates in order to fix the position of the temporary prosthetic structure relative to the implant. Typically, the mounting geometry includes one or more abutment surface against which a temporary prosthetic structure abuts to fix the axial position of the temporary prosthetic structure relative to the implant. Typically, the mounting geometry further includes anti-rotation geometry for fixing the rotational position of a temporary prosthetic structure relative to the implant. Many different implant mounting geometries are known in the art and all may be used in the present method. In one or more examples, the implant may comprise a bore having an internal thread. This enables the temporary prosthetic structure and other structures to be fastened to the implant by a separate fastener screw. The implant may include further geometries and features, such as for example an external thread for providing primary stability in the jaw. Such features do not form a part of the mounting geometry as they do not play any role in fixing the position of the temporary prosthetic structure relative to the implant.

[0028] The temporary prosthetic structure includes an emergence profile that extends from the coronal end of the implant to the surface of the gum. Since the dental implantis embedded within the patient’s jaw, with the soft tissue covering the emergence profile, this profile is not visible, or at least not fully visible, in the first set of scan data. Instead, the first set of scan data will be indicative of those parts of the temporary prosthetic structure exposed in the oral cavity of the patient, for example the supragingival portion of the temporary prosthetic structure. The supra-gingival portion of the temporary prosthetic structure herein refers to the portion of the temporary prosthetic structure located coronally of the soft tissue when the temporary prosthetic structure is mounted on the implant embedded in the jaw of the patient.

[0029] The temporary prosthetic structure may comprise a temporary prosthesis arranged on a temporary abutment. The temporary abutment serves as an intermediary between the implant and the temporary prosthesis. It provides a solid base for the prosthesis, e.g. crown, bridge, or denture, to be securely arranged. The temporary abutment can be a patient specific component or a stock component. Further, when the temporary abutment is a stock component, it may be adjusted by the dental practitioner prior to use, e.g. the abutment height may be reduced or an emergence profile of the abutment can be adapted in a patient specific manner. While the abutment may be a stock component, the temporary prosthesis arranged on the temporary abutment is typically patient specific and is designed to mimic the shape of a tooth, or teeth. When the temporary prosthetic structure comprises a temporary prosthesis arranged on a temporary abutment, the emergence profile is formed by the outer surface of the component(s) which in use extend through and are in contact with the soft tissue. Thus, in many cases, the emergence profile is formed by sections of both the temporary abutment and the temporary prosthesis. Depending on the design of the temporary abutment and temporary prosthesis however, the emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure may be formed exclusively by the temporary prosthesis or the temporary abutment. Alternatively, the temporary prosthetic structure may be a temporary prosthesis which is directly mounted to the implant, without an intervening abutment, and which mimics the shape of a natural tooth or teeth. In such situations the emergence profile, like the rest of the temporary prosthetic structure, is formed exclusively by the temporary prosthesis. Thus, in the context of the present invention, a “prosthesis” is a component which is designed to mimic the shape of a natural tooth or teeth, while a “prosthetic structure" is a more general term that encompasses aprosthesis but may include additional, underlying components, such as abutments or healing caps, which provide for the attachment of the prosthesis to an implant. The method of the present invention is particularly advantageous when the temporary prosthetic structure includes an emergence profile that is at least partially patient specific.

[0030] In one or more examples, the temporary prosthetic structure comprises a temporary prosthesis arranged on a temporary abutment, the temporary abutment cooperating with the mounting geometry of the dental implant in order to fix the position of the temporary abutment and temporary prosthesis relative to the implant, and with the mounting geometry of the scan body in order to fix the position of the temporary abutment and temporary prosthesis relative to the scan body.

[0031] The method of the present invention includes the step of obtaining a second set of scan data indicative of the temporary prosthetic structure mounted on a scan body. The scan body replicates the mounting geometry of the dental implant embedded in the jaw of the patient and comprises indica, such as an identifier, for identification of the mounting geometry. Different scan bodies may be associated with different mounting geometries and may thus have different indica. The indica may act as a unique identifier for identifying the respective mounting geometry. The indica may comprise one or more indentations and / or protrusions and / or planar surfaces arranged on a surface of the scan body in a unique pattern for a respective mounting geometry.

[0032] As the mounting geometry of the scan body replicates the mounting geometry of the implant, the temporary prosthetic structure can be mounted on the scan body in an identical manner as to the embedded implant. Thus, the mounting geometry of the scan body comprises, for example, the one or more abutment surface and, where present, the anti-rotation geometry of the implant mounting geometry.

[0033] Mounting the temporary prosthetic structure to a scan body enables the temporary prosthetic structure to be scanned outside of the mouth. As such, the emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure, as well as the supra-gingival portion, is visible. The second set of scan data therefore includes the soft tissue emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure. In other words, the second set of scan data includes data indicative of the soft tissue emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure.The scan body typically further comprises orientation geometry for identification of the orientation of the scan body by a scanning device. The orientation geometry enables the orientation of the scan body to be recognised during scanning and thus facilitates alignment of the multiple images taken during scanning in order to form the second set of scan data. Any orientation geometry known in the art can be used in the scan body. In one or more examples the orientation geometry may comprise one or more planar surface arranged at a non-perpendicular angle, in order words arranged non-orthogonally, to the longitudinal axis of the scan body. In some examples the indica of the scan body may also function as the orientation geometry of the scan body. In other examples however the indica and orientation geometry are formed by separate elements of the scan body.

[0034] The second set of scan data, which includes the soft tissue emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure and the indica of the scan body, typically further includes the supra-gingival portion of the temporary prosthetic structure and may also include the orientation geometry of the scan body.

[0035] The second set of scan data may be obtained from a memory, such as from a database or electronic file, comprising the second set of scan data. In one or more example methods, the second set of scan data may be obtained via scanning the temporary prosthetic structure mounted on the scan body.

[0036] As discussed above, the temporary prosthetic structure may comprise a temporary prosthesis arranged on a temporary abutment. In such examples, the step of obtaining a second set of scan data comprises obtaining a second set of scan data indicative of the temporary prosthesis and temporary abutment when the temporary abutment is mounted on a scan body. In such cases the emergence profile may be formed exclusively by the temporary prosthesis or the temporary abutment, or it may be formed by sections of both the temporary abutment and the temporary prosthesis.

[0037] The method comprises selecting a third set of data from a database, the third set of data being indicative of at least the mounting geometry of the scan body, the selection being made based on the indica contained in the second set of scan data. Typically, the third set of data is further indicative of at least the orientation geometry of the scan body.The third set of data may be a digital model of at least the mounting geometry, and typically also the orientation geometry, of the scan body comprised in a digital library comprising multiple scan bodies, such as a plurality of digital models, such as 3D-models, that represent the specific mounting geometries of various scan bodies, and hence also the mounting geometry of various dental implants, together with, typically, the specific orientation geometries of the various scan bodies. By selecting the third set of data based on the indica of the scan body, the first 3D model can accurately replicate the implant's mounting geometry. In this way, the generated first 3D-model can contain an accurate position and orientation of the implant embedded in the patient’s jaw without the need to conduct a scan using a traditional implant-mounted scan body. The indica provided on the scan body, which is included in the second set of scan data, allows the correct digital model of the mounting geometry to be selected for inclusion in the first 3-D model. In one or more examples, the recognition of the indica and selection of the third set of data occurs without manual input from the user. In other words, the selection step is performed by the one or more processors as part of a computer implemented method.

[0038] The method comprises generating a first 3D-model of the temporary prosthetic structure and surrounding dentition, by aligning the first set of scan data, the second set of scan data and the third set of data.

[0039] Alignment of the first and second sets of scan data may be achieved by matching surfaces of the temporary prosthetic structure that are present in each set of scan data, such as, for example, one or more portions of the supra-gingival portion. This alignment enables the soft tissue emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure, contained in the second set of scan data, to be accurately integrated into the first 3D model relative to the surrounding dentition. The indica of the scan body, as included in the second set of scan data, enable a third set of data to be selected for inclusion in the 3D model, this data being indicative of at least the mounting geometry of the scan body, which is equivalent to the mounting geometry of the embedded implant. In this way, the position and orientation of the implant mounting geometry of the embedded implant can be integrated into the first 3D model without the need for a traditional scan body to be mounted to the implant. Instead, through matching the location and orientation of the scanbody in the second set of scan data with the third set of data, for example bymatching the orientation geometry or mounting geometry contained in the second and third sets of data, the mounting geometry of the implant can be accurately located within the first 3D-model.

[0040] By aligning the first set of scan data, the second set of scan data, and the third set of data, a precise position of the implant mounting geometry in relation to the temporary prosthetic structure and the surrounding dentition can be ensured. In addition, the use of the second set of scan data in the generation of the first 3D model ensures that the first 3D model contains an accurate representation of the emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure.

[0041] In one or more examples, the scan body further comprises orientation geometry for identification of the orientation of the scan body by a scanning device, the second set of scan data further includes the orientation geometry of the scan body, and the third set of data is further indicative of the orientation geometry of the scan body.

[0042] In one or more examples, the first set of scan data is indicative of those parts of the temporary prosthetic structure exposed in the oral cavity of the patient, such as the supra-gingival portion, the second set of scan data further includes the supra-gingival portion of the temporary prosthetic structure and an orientation geometry of the scan body, and the third set of data is further indicative of at least the orientation geometry of the scan body.

[0043] The digital model obtained by the present method enables a final prosthesis to be created which better fits in the soft tissue socket formed by the emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure. Thus, in one or more examples, the first 3D-model may be used to create a final prosthesis. In other words, the method may comprise creating, such as producing, using the first 3D-model, a final prosthesis. Creating the final prosthesis may comprise outputting data indicative of the final prosthesis to a Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) system, for example a dental milling machine and / or a 3D printer.

[0044] In one or more examples, the method comprises generating, based on the first 3D-model, a second 3D-model of a final prosthesis, wherein the second 3D-model comprises an emergence profile based on the emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure.This embodiment of the present invention therefore enables the generation of a 3D model of a final prosthesis that can incorporate the emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure. This is achieved in a simpler, more efficient, as well as more precise, manner than previous methods. The method of the present invention allows the user to obtain, in a small number of simple steps, data on the emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure, which can then be integrated into a 3D-model of the patient’s dentition for use in the design of the final prosthesis.

[0045] In one or more examples, the generation of the second 3D model may include modifying the generated first 3D model of the temporary prosthetic structure to form the external surface of the final prosthesis. For example, the emergence profile of the first 3D model may be adjusted according to user needs. In particular, the emergence profile may be slightly enlarged in comparison to the emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure. This ensures a tight seal between the soft tissue socket and the final prosthesis. In addition, or alternatively, known virtual modelling techniques, such as tooth mirroring, can be employed to create an external surface of the final prosthesis that best fits with the existing dentition of the patient. In one or more examples, tooth mirroring comprises mirroring a portion, such as a supra-gingival portion, of a neighbouring tooth onto a portion of the temporary prosthetic structure.

[0046] In one or more examples, the method comprises the further step of producing, based on the second 3D-model, the final dental prosthesis.

[0047] The final dental prosthesis may for example be produced by outputting the second 3D-model to an additive manufacturing device, such as a 3D-printer. Alternatively, the second 3D-model may be used by CAD / CAM software to control CNC machinery to form the final prosthesis.

[0048] The final prosthesis may be a single monolithic component for direct attachment to the dental implant embedded in the jaw of the patient. The third set of data used to generate the first 3D model is indicative of the mounting geometry of the implant, meaning that the final prosthesis can be produced with mounting geometry having a complementary shape to the implant mounting geometry. Typically however, the final prosthesis is arranged for attachment to a final dental abutment. The final dental abutment is usually a stock component which is mounted to the dental implant and serves as an intermediate structure between the implant and final prosthesis, which istypically glued or screwed to the abutment. The use of a final abutment ensures that the abutment mounting geometry can be precisely produced to ensure a firm, sealing connection with the implant mounting geometry. It is also possible for the final abutment to be patient-specific, or for a stock final abutment to be modified prior to mounting to the dental implant. In both cases the first 3D model of the present invention may, in one or more examples, be utilised to generate any patient-specific features of the final abutment, for example any portion of the final abutment that forms a part of the emergence profile.

[0049] When a final abutment is used in the creation of the final prosthetic structure, it is beneficial that the final abutment has the same or a similar design to any temporary abutment used in the temporary prosthetic structure. In particular, the shape and diameter of the abutment platform on which the prosthesis rests, herein referred to as the prosthetic platform of the abutment, and the height of this platform above the dental implant, should be matched by the prosthetic platform of the final abutment in order to best replicate the emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure.

[0050] In one or more examples therefore, the method comprises determining, based on the first 3D model and a fourth set of data representative of a plurality of abutments, an abutment to be used with a final prosthesis. The fourth set of data may comprise a digital library containing a plurality of data sets, also referred to herein as data subsets, each data set representative of an abutment. The various abutments represented in the fourth set of data may have varying geometries, dimensions, and / or configurations. In particular, the plurality of abutments represented in the fourth set of data may have varying prosthetic platform diameters located at varying heights. The fourth set of data may therefore assist in the selection of the abutment that best matches the temporary abutment, in particular the prosthetic platform of the temporary abutment, and thus ensure optimal fit, function, and aesthetics for the final prosthesis.

[0051] This step may, in one or more examples, comprise selecting a data subset representative of an abutment from the fourth set of data, and aligning the selected data subset with the first 3D model to show the abutment representation relative to the temporary prosthetic structure and the scan body. These steps may be repeated with a plurality of data subsets from the fourth set of data. The combining, for example overlaying, of the abutment representation with the temporary prosthetic structurewithin the first 3D model enables the user to visually assess the similarity of the represented abutment to the temporary abutment used in the temporary prosthetic structure. In particular, this alignment provides a visual confirmation as to whether the position and diameter of the prosthetic platform of the selected abutment representation corresponds to the position and diameter of the temporary abutment prosthetic platform. In one or more examples, one or more processors may assess the similarity of the represented abutment to the temporary abutment used in the temporary prosthetic structure. In one or more examples, the one or more processors may execute imaging software configured for assessing the similarity of the represented abutment to the temporary abutment used in the temporary prosthetic structure. In particular, this alignment provides a visual confirmation as to whether the position and diameter of the prosthetic platform of the selected abutment representation corresponds to the position and diameter of the temporary abutment prosthetic platform.

[0052] The plurality of data subsets within the fourth set of data may each provide a full representation of an abutment. In other words, all features of the abutment may be represented by the data subset. In one or more examples however, each data subset provides a limited representation of an abutment, for example the plurality of data subsets may each represent only the prosthetic platform of the abutment, or only the prosthetic platform and the shape of the part of the abutment coronal of the prosthetic platform. When a prosthesis is arranged on the abutment, the part of the abutment coronal of the prosthetic platform is typically located within the prosthesis. The provision of limited representations of abutments within the fourth set of data reduces the amount of data which must be contained in the fourth set of data while still providing enough information for the determination of the most suitable final abutment. In particular, rather than each data subset providing a representation of the mounting geometry of the abutment, each data subset may instead include a representation of the location of one or more element of the abutment, for example the prosthetic platform, relative to a location on the exterior surface of the scan body, for example a proximal surface, the indica or an orientation geometry of the scan body. As the first 3D model comprises data indicative of the scan body, for example from the second and third sets of data, a data subset from the fourth set of data can be accurately located in the first3D model by matching the representation of the abutment to the location on the exterior of the scan body contained the first 3D model.

[0053] The determination of the most suitable final abutment can be made manually by the user based on the combination of the first 3D model and fourth set of data. The user may, in one or more examples, be assisted in this determination by the step of highlighting, within the first 3D model, discrepancies between the prosthetic platform height and diameter of the temporary abutment and the prosthetic platform height and diameter of the selected and aligned abutment representation from the fourth set of data. The step of highlighting can be performed by the one or more processors as part of a computer implemented method. Alternatively, in one or more examples, the method may allow for automatic selection of the most suitable abutment represented in the fourth set of data, for example through Al analysis by one or more processors.

[0054] The step of determining an abutment to be used with a final prosthesis may be carried out after the generation of the first 3D model and prior to, where present, the step of generating the second 3D model. In examples in which the step of modifying the generated 3D model to form the external surface of the final prosthesis is also present, the step of determining an abutment to be used with the final prosthesis may be caried out prior to this modification step. The data subset representative of the selected abutment may, in one or more examples, be used together with the first 3D model, and / or the modified first 3D model, in the generation of the second 3D model.

[0055] The method of the present invention includes obtaining a second set of scan data indicative of the temporary prosthetic structure mounted on a scan body. In one or more examples the method further comprises the prior step of mounting the temporary prosthetic structure on a scan body, the scan body replicating the mounting geometry of the dental implant embedded in the jaw and comprising indica for identification of the mounting geometry.

[0056] This scan body is considered inventive in its own right and therefore, according to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a scan body for holding a temporary prosthetic structure during an extraoral scanning procedure. The scan body comprises mounting geometry for cooperating with a temporary prosthetic structure to fix the position of the temporary prosthetic structure relative to the scan body. The mounting geometry of the scan body replicates the mounting geometry of a knowndental implant. The scan body further comprises indica for identification of the mounting geometry.

[0057] The scan body of the present invention as described above and in further detail below can be used in the above described method to achieve the advantages and benefits described above. In particular, the mounting geometry and indica of the scan body enable data obtained in an extra-oral scan of the temporary prosthetic structure to be accurately aligned with data obtained in an intra-oral scan in order to generate a first 3D model that accurately replicates both the soft tissue emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure and the position of the known implant embedded in the jaw of a patient relative to the patient’s dentition.

[0058] The scan body of the present invention is intended for holding, such as securing and / or stabilizing, a temporary prosthetic structure during an extraoral scanning procedure. In one or more examples, the scan body comprises a post element which extends from a proximal end to a distal end along a central longitudinal axis, the mounting geometry and indica being located in the proximal portion of the post element.

[0059] In the context of the scan body, “proximal” refers to the direction towards the location of the temporary prosthetic structure when this is fixed to the scanbody and “distal” to the opposing direction. Therefore, the proximal end of the scan body, or a component of the scan body, is the end which, in use, is closest to the temporary prosthetic structure and the distal end is that which is furthest from the temporary prosthetic structure.

[0060] Locating the mounting geometry in the proximal portion therefore eases connection between the scan body and temporary prosthetic structure and ensures that the scanning device may have an unobstructed view of the soft tissue emergence profile and coronal regions of the temporary prosthetic structure. Locating the indica in the proximal portion of the post element makes this easily visible to a dental scanner while this is used to scan the temporary prosthetic structure.

[0061] The scan body comprises mounting geometry for cooperating with a temporary prosthetic structure to fix the position of the temporary prosthetic structure relative to the scan body. This mounting geometry replicates the mounting geometry of a knowndental implant and therefore can have any of the features discussed above in relation to the implant mounting geometry.

[0062] In one or more examples, the mounting geometry may comprise one or more abutment surface against which the temporary prosthetic structure can abut in order to fix the axial position of the temporary prosthetic structure relative to the scan body, for example relative to the longitudinal axis of the post element. The one or more abutment surface may be, for example, a conical surface or a planar surface. In one or more example the mounting geometry may comprise both a conical abutment surface and a planar abutment surface, each surface forming an abutment surface for axially fixing the position of a different temporary prosthetic structure.

[0063] Many dental implants comprise a blind bore which extends from the coronal end of the implant towards the apical end. Various features of the mounting geometry of such implants can be located in or around such a bore. In one or more examples therefore, the post element of the scan body comprises a bore extending from the proximal end towards the distal end of the post element along the central longitudinal axis. The mounting geometry may comprise a conical abutment surface located in the bore. Additionally or alternatively, the mounting geometry may comprise a planar annular abutment surface surrounding the bore, the planar annular abutment surface extending in a plane perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis. Additionally or alternatively, the mounting geometry may comprise a conical annular abutment surface surrounding the bore and tapering radially outwards away from the proximal end of the post element. In one or more examples, the scan body mounting geometry comprises at least two of the above described abutment surfaces, and further may comprise all three of the above described abutment surfaces.

[0064] In one or more examples, the mounting geometry of the scan body further comprises anti-rotation geometry for fixing the rotational position of a temporary prosthetic structure relative to the scan body, for example relative to the post element. In one or more examples the anti-rotation geometry has a non-circular-symmetric crosssection in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the post element. For example, the anti-rotation geometry may have a polygonal cross-section, such as hexagonal or octagonal. Alternatively, the anti-rotation geometry may comprise one or more radially extending groove or protrusion. In one or more examples the anti-rotationgeometry comprises a hexolobular cross-section. The anti-rotation geometry of the scan body may replicate the anti-rotation geometry of any implant known in the art. In one or more examples, the anti-rotation geometry is located in the above described bore of the post element.

[0065] In one or more examples, the bore of the post element of the scan body comprises an internal thread. This enables the temporary prosthetic structure to be fastened to the scan body by a separate fastener screw. In this way the scan body can utilise a fastening method employed in many dental implants. In one or more examples the internal thread is located distally of the anti-rotation geometry and the one or more abutment surface of the mounting geometry.

[0066] The scan body of the present disclosure comprises indica, such as an identifier, for identification of the mounting geometry. Different scan bodies may be associated with different mounting geometries and may thus have different indica. The indica act as a unique identifier for identifying a particular mounting geometry of a scan body and thereby of the dental implant used when obtaining the first set of scan data in the above described method.

[0067] The indica may comprise one or more indentations and / or protrusions and / or planar surfaces arranged on a surface of the scan body, such as on the proximal portion of the post element.

[0068] In one or more examples the scan body comprises orientation geometry for identification of the orientation of the scan body by a scanning device. The orientation geometry enables the orientation of the scan body to be recognised during scanning and thus facilitates alignment of the multiple images taken during scanning. The orientation geometry of the scan body may comprise any orientation geometry known in the art. In one or more examples the orientation geometry comprises one or more planar surface arranged at a non-perpendicular angle to the longitudinal axis of the post element. Such a surface is easily identifiable in digital imaging and allows the orientation of the scan body to be accurately determined. In one or more examples the orientation geometry comprises one or more, for example a single, planar surface which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the post element. In one or more examples the orientation geometry is located in the proximal portion of the post element of the scan body. Locating the indica and orientation geometry in the proximal portion, in the vicinity ofthe mounting geometry, reduces the length of the scan body that must be scanned in order to obtain the second set of scan data.

[0069] In one or more examples, the orientation geometry may be formed by the indica of the scanbody, for example when the indica comprise one or more planar surface. However, in alternative examples the indica and orientation geometry are separate elements of the scan body.

[0070] The scan body of the present invention may consist solely of the post element. In one or more examples however, the scan body further comprises a base, the base extending from a proximal end to a distal end along a central longitudinal axis and comprising, at its proximal end, connection geometry for connecting the post element to the base. The connection geometry may comprise, for example, a bore extending from the proximal end of the base towards the distal end in which the distal portion of the post element can be accommodated. The bore may extend along the central longitudinal axis of the base such that, when the post element is connected to the base, the central longitudinal axis of the base is coaxial with the central longitudinal axis of the post element. Alternatively, the connection geometry of the base may comprise a proximally extending protrusion for accommodation in a cavity or bore at the distal end of the post element.

[0071] The post element may further comprise a distally facing stop surface located at the proximal end of the distal portion, the stop surface being configured to abut the proximal end of the base upon insertion of the distal portion into the bore, thereby limiting the movement of the post element in a distal direction. The distally facing stop surface may be formed by a section, such as a central section, of the post element having a wider diameter than the distal portion of the post element. The proximal portion of the post element is located proximal of the stop surface, such that the mounting geometry and indica remain exposed when the post element is connected to the base.

[0072] In one or more examples, the post element is rotatably connected to the base such that the post element of the scan body is rotatable relative to the base about a single rotational axis, which may be its central longitudinal axis. The proximal portion of the post element, which may comprise the mounting geometry and the indica, as well as the orientation geometry, can thus be rotated about a single axis relative to the base.Rotating the post element of the scan body about a single rotational axis ensures that the temporary prosthetic structure mounted to this remains stable in both the longitudinal and lateral directions of the longitudinal axis. This stability enhances scan accuracy and precision by minimizing distortions, maintaining consistent orientation, and ensuring that the entire circumference of the temporary prosthetic structure is fully captured.

[0073] Since the dental scanner acquires images frame by frame, movement of the temporary prosthetic structure about multiple axes, which typically occurs when the user holds and rotates the scan body by hand, could lead to misalignment between frames, compromising scan quality. By minimizing movement, the alignment between scanned images is significantly simplified and improved, leading to a better scan quality.

[0074] The enhanced accuracy and precision of the second set of scan data facilitates the creation of a more precise digital model of the temporary prosthetic structure, including its emergence profile, allowing for the final prosthesis to be manufactured with improved fit, and enhanced patient comfort.

[0075] In one or more examples of the method of the present invention therefore, mounting the temporary prosthetic structure on the scan body comprises mounting the temporary prosthetic structure on a scan body rotatable around a single axis, such as the longitudinal axis of a post element of the scan body. The second set of scan data may be obtained while the scan body, such as the post element of the scan body, is rotated about its single rotational axis, such as around its longitudinal axis. In one or more examples the second set of scan data may be obtained using a dental scanner while the scan body is rotated about a single rotational axis, such as around its longitudinal axis.

[0076] The second set of scan data may be obtained by the one or more processors, for example using a dental scanner.

[0077] In examples in which the post element is rotatably mounted to the base, the distal portion of the post element may have a circular cylindrical shape with an outer diameter having a close fit with the inner surface of the bore of the base. Providing the distal portion of the post element with a circular cylindrical shape allows for rotational movement of the post element relative to the base around the central longitudinal axis of the post element when the post element is connected to the base.In one or more examples, the post element may be permanently connected to the base, such that the user cannot separate the components from one another. In alternative examples however, the post element and base may be configured for removeable connection.

[0078] As mentioned above, different scan bodies may be associated with different mounting geometries and may thus have different indica. This allows the method of the present invention to be applied in relation to a plurality of implants having different mounting geometries.

[0079] Therefore, a plurality of scan bodies for holding a temporary prosthetic structure during an extraoral scanning procedure may be provided, the plurality of scan bodies each comprising different mounting geometries and different indica, so that the indica of each scan body provides a unique identification for the mounting geometry of that scan body. Each scan body may thus replicate the respective mounting geometry of a different implant and may have any of the features described above in relation to the scan body.

[0080] Alternatively, in one or more examples, the scan body may comprise a plurality of post elements, the plurality of post elements each comprising different mounting geometries and different indica, so that the indica of each post element provides a unique identification for the mounting geometry of that post element. Each post element may thus replicate the respective mounting geometry of a different implant. The scan body may further comprise the above described base, namely a base extending from a proximal end to a distal end along a central longitudinal axis and comprising, at its proximal end, connection geometry for connecting each post element interchangeably to the base. In this way, the post elements act as scan body inserts which can be interchangeably connected to the base for obtaining a second set of scan data for use in the above method. The post element selected will be dependent on the implant embedded in the jaw of the patient.

[0081] The plurality of post elements may have any of the features described above in relation to the post element. For example, each post element may be arranged for rotatable connection to the base, such that each post element is rotatable relative to the base about a single rotational axis, such as its central longitudinal axis, when the post element is connected to the base. In such embodiments each post element may have adistal portion as described above, in particular a distal portion with a circular cylindrical shape.

[0082] Alternatively, the plurality of post elements may be arranged for non-rotational connection to the base. In such embodiments the connection geometry of the base, such as the above described bore, may have a non-circular symmetric cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the base, and the distal portion of each post element may have a complementary non-circular symmetric cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the post element.

[0083] In one or more examples, the base of the scan body may comprise a plurality of holders for receiving the plurality of interchangeable post elements. The plurality of holders may be bores arranged on a surface of the base, such as on the proximal surface of the base. This ensures that the plurality of interchangeable post elements are readily available for the scanning procedure.

[0084] In one or more examples, the scan body may further comprise an intermediate element extending along a central longitudinal axis from a proximal end to a distal end, the distal portion of the intermediate element being complementary to the connection geometry of the base and the proximal portion of the intermediate element comprising attachment geometry for interchangeably attaching the plurality of post elements to the intermediate element. The intermediate element therefore acts as an intermediate structure connecting the post elements to the base.

[0085] The connection between the base and intermediate element may be as described above in relation to the base and post element. For example, the connection geometry of the base may comprise a bore extending from the proximal end of the base towards the distal end in which the distal portion of the intermediate element can be accommodated. The bore may extend along the central longitudinal axis of the base such that, when the intermediate element is connected to the base, the central longitudinal axis of the base is coaxial with the central longitudinal axis of the intermediate element. The intermediate element may further comprise a distally facing stop surface located at the proximal end of the distal portion, the stop surface being configured to abut the proximal end of the base upon insertion of the distal portion into the bore, thereby limiting the movement of the intermediate element in a distal direction. The distally facing stop surface may be formed by a section, such as a centralsection, of the intermediate element having a wider diameter than the distal portion of the intermediate element. Alternatively, the connection geometry of the base may comprise a proximally extending protrusion for accommodation in a cavity or bore in the distal portion of the intermediate element.

[0086] In one or more examples, the intermediate element may be rotatably connected to the base such that the intermediate element, and hence any post element attached to the intermediate element, is rotatable relative to the base about a single rotational axis, for example its central longitudinal axis. In such examples the distal portion of the intermediate element may have a circular cylindrical shape with an outer diameter having a close fit with the inner surface of the bore of the base.

[0087] In one or more examples, the intermediate element may be permanently connected to the base, such that the user cannot separate the components from one another. This is particularly beneficial when the intermediate element is rotatably connected to the base as it prevents potential wearing or damage to the rotatable connection which may occur with repeated connection and disconnection of the intermediate element.

[0088] The proximal portion of the intermediate element comprises attachment geometry for interchangeably attaching the plurality of post elements to the intermediate element. The attachment geometry and attachment between the intermediate element and post element may have any of the features previously described in relation to the connection geometry and connection between the base and post elements. In one or more examples, each post element may comprise a distal portion configured to be inserted into a bore at the proximal end of the intermediate element. Alternatively, the attachment geometry of the intermediate element may comprise a proximally extending protrusion for accommodation in a cavity or bore at the distal end of the post element.

[0089] The attachment geometry of the intermediate element may comprise antirotation geometry for fixing the rotational position of the attached post element relative to the intermediate element. The anti-rotation geometry may have a non-circular symmetric cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the intermediate element, for example a polygonal, multilobular, cross-shaped, star-shaped, and / or multi-angled shape. The distal portion of each post element may have acomplementary non-circular symmetric cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the post element, such that each post element can be attached to the intermediate element in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0090] In one or more examples, the distal portion of each post element comprises a circular cylindrical surface and a single protrusion extending radially outwards from this surface. The attachment geometry of the intermediate element in such examples may comprise a bore having a circular cylindrical surface and a single groove extending radially outwards from this surface and shaped to accommodate the protrusion of the distal portion of each post element.

[0091] In one or more examples, the intermediate element is rotatably connected to the base and the attachment geometry comprises anti-rotation geometry for fixing the rotational position of the attached post element relative to the intermediate element. In this way multiple post elements can be detachably attached to the intermediate element for rotation about a single axis, such as the central longitudinal axis of the attached post element.

[0092] In all examples featuring a plurality of post elements, the distal portion of each post element may be identical, thus ensuring easy and accurate connection of each post element to a base or attachment to an intermediate element.

[0093] The current disclosure may further relate to a model generating device comprising an interface, memory, and one or more processors, wherein the one or more processors are configured to perform a method as disclosed herein, such as the method for creating a digital model.

[0094] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, given by way of example only, which is made with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0095] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0096] Fig. 1 illustrates an example method for creating a digital model according to the current disclosure,

[0097] Fig. 2 illustrates a first set of scan data indicative of a temporary prosthetic structure and surrounding dentition according to the current disclosure,Fig. 3 illustrates a second set of scan data indicative of the temporary prosthetic structure mounted on a scan body,

[0098] Fig. 4 illustrates a first 3D model of the temporary prosthetic structure and surrounding dentition,

[0099] Figs. 5A-5B illustrate the step of determining, based on the first 3D model and a fourth set of data, an abutment to be used with a final prosthesis,

[0100] Figs. 6A-6B show an example scan body, such as a post element, according to the current disclosure,

[0101] Fig. 7 shows a temporary prosthetic structure mounted to the scan body of Figs. 6A-6B,

[0102] Fig. 8 shows an example intermediate element of the scan body according to the current disclosure,

[0103] Fig. 9 shows an example base of the scan body according to the current disclosure, Fig. 10A-B illustrate an example scan body according to the current disclosure comprising the base of Fig. 9, the intermediate element of Fig. 8 and a plurality of post elements as shown in Figs. 6A-B, and

[0104] Fig. 11 is a block diagram illustrating an example model generating device according to the current disclosure.

[0105] Detailed Description

[0106] Fig. 1 illustrates an example method 100 for creating a digital model, such as a digital model to assist in the preparation of a final prosthesis. The method may be a computer-implemented method, such as a method carried out by one or more processors.

[0107] The method comprises obtaining S101 a first set of scan data, such as intraoral scan data, indicative of a temporary prosthetic structure mounted to a dental implant embedded in the jaw of a patient and the surrounding dentition. The temporary prosthetic structure may be, for example, a single crown temporary prosthesis arranged on a temporary abutment. The dental implant comprises mounting geometry with which the temporary prosthetic structure cooperates in order to fix the position of the temporary prosthetic structure relative to the implant. The temporary prosthetic structure includes a soft tissue emergence profile that extends through the soft tissue ofthe patient. During the healing process the patient’s soft tissue will surround the soft tissue emergence profile, creating a soft tissue socket that inversely matches the soft tissue emergence profile. Since the dental implant is embedded within the patient’s jawbone, with the soft tissue covering the emergence profile, this profile may not be visible in the first set of scan data. Instead, the first set of scan data will be indicative of those parts of the temporary prosthetic structure exposed in the oral cavity of the patient, for example the supra-gingival portion of the temporary prosthetic structure. The first set of scan data may be obtained from a memory, such as from a database, comprising the first set of scan data. In one or more example methods, the first set of scan data may be obtained via an intraoral scan of the full arch of the patient containing the temporary prosthetic structure.

[0108] In one or more example methods, the method comprises mounting SI 03 the temporary prosthetic structure, such as the temporary abutment with the temporary prosthesis, on a scan body. The scan body replicates the mounting geometry of the dental implant embedded in the jaw and comprises indica, such as an identifier, for identification of the mounting geometry. The scan body typically further comprises orientation geometry for identification of the orientation of the scan body by a scanning device.

[0109] The method comprises obtaining SI 05 a second set of scan data indicative of the temporary prosthetic structure mounted on the scan body. The second set of scan data includes, and is thus indicative of, the soft tissue emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure and the indica of the scan body. The second set of scan data typically further includes, and is thus indicative of, the supra-gingival portion of the temporary prosthetic structure and the orientation geometry of the scan body. The second set of scan data may be obtained via scanning using a dental scanner. In particular the second set of scan data may be obtained while the scan body is rotated about a single rotational axis, such as around the longitudinal axis of the scan body. The second set of scan data may also be obtained from a memory, such as from a database, comprising the second set of scan data. The second set of scan data may be obtained by the one or more processors.

[0110] The method comprises selecting S106 a third set of data from a database, the third set of data being indicative of at least the mounting geometry of the scan body,the selection being made based on the indica contained in the second set of scan data. Typically, the third set of data is further indicative of at least the orientation geometry of the scan body. The third set of data may be a digital model of the scan body comprised in a digital library comprising multiple scan bodies, such as a plurality of 3D digital models, that represent the specific mounting geometries of various scan bodies, and hence also the mounting geometry of various dental implants.

[0111] The method comprises generating S107 a first 3D-model of the temporary prosthetic structure and surrounding dentition, by aligning the first set of scan data, the second set of scan data and the third set of data. By aligning the first set of scan data, the second set of scan data, and the third set of data, a precise position of the implant mounting geometry in relation to the temporary prosthetic structure and the surrounding dentition can be ensured. In addition, the use of the second set of scan data in the generation of the first 3D model ensures that the first 3D model contains an accurate representation of the soft tissue emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure.

[0112] In one or more examples, the method comprises determining S109, based on the first 3D model and a fourth set of data representative of a plurality of abutments, an abutment to be used with a final prosthesis. The fourth set of data may comprise a digital library containing a plurality of data subsets, each subset representative of an abutment. The various abutments represented in the fourth set of data may have varying geometries, dimensions, and / or configurations, in particular various prosthetic platforms. These digital abutment representations allow for precise selection of a component that ensures optimal fit, function, and aesthetics for the final prosthesis.

[0113] This step SI 09 may comprise selecting S109A a data subset representative of an abutment from the fourth set of data, and aligning S109B the selected data subset with the first 3D model to show the abutment representation relative to the temporary prosthetic structure and the scan body. These steps may be repeated with multiple data subsets in order to determine the most appropriate abutment for use with the final prosthesis.

[0114] In one or more example methods, the method comprises creating, using the first 3D-model, a final prosthesis.

[0115] This can be achieved, in one or more example methods, by generating Sill, based on the first 3D-model, a second 3D-model of the final prosthesis, wherein thesecond 3D-model comprises a soft tissue emergence profile based on the soft tissue emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure.

[0116] This step Sill may include modifying SI 11 A the generated first 3D model of the temporary prosthetic structure to form the external surface of the final prosthesis.

[0117] In one or more examples, the method comprises producing SI 13, based on the second 3D-model, the final dental prosthesis. The final dental prosthesis may for example be produced by outputting the second 3D-model to an additive manufacturing device, such as a 3D-printer. Alternatively, the second 3D-model may be used by CAD / CAM software to control CNC machinery to form the final prosthesis.

[0118] Fig. 2 illustrates an example first set of scan data as obtained in step S101 of method 100 in Fig. 1. This first set of scan data is indicative of a temporary prosthetic structure 33 and the surrounding dentition 42. In this case the temporary prosthetic structure 33 is a single crown temporary prosthesis 30 arranged on a temporary abutment 10 (see Fig. 3). The temporary prosthesis 30 has a patient specific shape designed to mimic the shape of the missing tooth. The temporary prosthetic structure is mounted to a dental implant (not shown) embedded in the jaw of a patient. As can be seen from Fig. 2, the first set of scan data is only indicative of those parts of the temporary prosthetic structure 33 exposed in the oral cavity of the patient, in this case the supra-gingival portion 32 of the temporary prosthetic structure. In particular, the soft tissue emergence profile is hidden by the soft-tissue 40, such as the gingiva. The supra-gingival portion 32 of the temporary prosthetic structure refers to the portion of the temporary prosthetic structure, in this example the portion of temporary prosthesis 30, located coronal of the soft tissue and hence also the soft tissue emergence profile, such as the visible surface of the temporary prosthesis 30, when the temporary prosthesis is arranged on the implant.

[0119] Fig. 3 illustrates an example second set of scan data indicative of the temporary prosthetic structure 33, such as the temporary prosthesis 30 arranged on a temporary abutment 10, mounted on a scan body 1 as obtained in step SI 05 of method 100 in Fig.

[0120] 1. The scan body 1 replicates the mounting geometry of the dental implant embedded in the jaw of the patient and comprises indica 3 for identification of the mounting geometry. The scan body 1 further comprises orientation geometry 24 for identification of the orientation of the scan body by a scanning device. In this example the orientationgeometry 24 comprises a single planar surface arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the scan body 1. By scanning the temporary prosthetic structure 33 while mounted to the scan body 1, the soft tissue emergence profile 31, as well as the supra-gingival portion 32, is visible. In the present example the emergence profile 31 is formed by sections of both the temporary abutment 10 and the temporary prosthesis 30. The second set of scan data thus includes the emergence profile 31 of the temporary prosthetic structure 33 as well as the supra-gingival portion 32. Additionally, the second set of scan data includes the indica 3 and mounting geometry 24 of the scan body 1, further facilitating precise digital modelling.

[0121] Fig. 4 illustrates an example first 3D model 200 of the temporary prosthetic structure 33 and surrounding dentition 42, as generated in step SI 07 of method 100, based on the first set of scan data, the second set of scan data (shaded parts in Fig. 4) and the third set of data. The 3D model 200 is generated by aligning, such as overlaying, the first set of scan data illustrated in Fig. 2 with the second set of scan data illustrated in Fig. 3. Alignment of the first and second sets of scan data is achieved by matching surfaces of the temporary prosthetic structure 33 that are present in each set of scan data, such as those of its supra-gingival portion 32 (matched surfaces of the first and second sets of scan data are illustrated with cross-hatched shading in Fig. 4). This alignment enables the soft tissue emergence profile 31 of the temporary prosthetic structure 33, contained in the second set of scan data, to be accurately integrated into the first 3D model 200 relative to the surrounding dentition 42. Consequently, this approach ensures a more accurate representation of the emergence profile 31 in the first 3D model, as compared to conventional methods of determining the emergence profile based on the soft tissue contour following the removal of the temporary prosthetic structure 33 from the implant. The indica 3 of the scan body 1, as included in the second set of scan data, enable a third set of data to be selected for inclusion in the 3D model 200, this data being indicative of at least the mounting geometry of the scan body 1, which is equivalent to the mounting geometry of the embedded implant, as well as the orientation geometry 24. In this way, the position and orientation of the implant mounting geometry of the embedded implant can be integrated into the first 3D model without the need for a traditional scan body to be mounted to the implant. Instead, the location and orientation of the orientation geometry 24 of scan body 1 in the second setof scan data can be matched with the location and orientation of the orientation geometry 24 in the third set of data, thus allowing the mounting geometry of the implant to be accurately located within the first 3D-model. The digital model 200 obtained by this method thus enables a final prosthesis to be created that more precisely confirms to the soft tissue cavity formed by the emergence profile 31 of the temporary prosthetic structure 33, thereby enhancing the accuracy and fit of the final prosthesis.

[0122] Figs. 5A-B illustrate the step of determining, based on the first 3D model 200 and a fourth set of data representative of a plurality of abutments, an abutment to be used with the final prosthesis. The fourth set of data in this example comprises a digital library containing a plurality of data subsets, each subset representative of an abutment. The various abutments represented in the fourth set of data have varying geometries, dimensions, and / or configurations. In particular, the plurality of abutments represented in the fourth set of data have varying prosthetic platform diameters that are located at varying heights relative to the dental implant to which they are mounted. This step, in the present example, comprises selecting a data subset representative of an abutment from the fourth set of data, and aligning the selected data subset with the first 3D model to show the abutment representation relative to the temporary prosthetic structure 33 and the scan body 1. These steps may be repeated with a plurality of data subsets from the fourth set of data.

[0123] Fig. 5 A illustrates the selection and alignment of a first data subset 110A from the fourth set of data with the first 3D model 200. The first data subset 110A provides a limited representation of a first abutment 10A. This limited representation includes the location of the prosthetic platform P of the first abutment 10A relative to the proximal surface U of the scan body 1 and the shape S of the abutment coronal of the prosthetic platform. As the first 3D model 200 comprises data indicative of the scan body 1 from the second and third sets of data, the data subset 110A from the fourth set of data can be accurately located in the first 3D model 200 by matching the representation of the abutment 10A to the location of the proximal surface of the scan body 1 in the first 3D model 200. Upon overlaying this first data subset 110A, a visible gap (G) can be detected between the location of the prosthetic platform P in the first data set 110A and the location of the prosthetic platform P’ of the temporary abutment 10 of the temporary prosthetic structure 33. Additionally, the first abutment 10A is tootall for the temporary prosthesis 30, nearly protruding through its exterior surface. Consequently, the first abutment 10A can be assessed as incompatible with the temporary prosthetic structure 33 in the first 3D model 200.

[0124] Fig. 5B illustrates the selection and alignment of a second data subset HOB from the fourth set of data with the first 3D model 200. The second data subset HOB provides the same limited representation as discussed above in respect of a second abutment 10B. In this case, an assessment, such as a visual assessment, shows that the prosthetic platform P of the second abutment 10B corresponds to the prosthetic platform P’ of the temporary abutment 10 and that the second abutment 10B is shorter than the first abutment 10 A, ensuring that it remains fully embedded within the temporary prosthesis 30. It can thus be determined that the abutment 10B represented by data set 110B best matches temporary abutment 10. Using this abutment 10B with the final prosthesis will thus ensure optimal fit, function, and aesthetics for the final prosthesis.

[0125] Fig. 6A-6B show an example scan body 1 according to an example of the current disclosure. The scan body 1 is configured for holding, such as securing and / or stabilizing, a temporary prosthetic structure, such as a single crown temporary prosthesis arranged on a temporary abutment, during an extraoral scanning procedure. The scan body 1 comprises a post element 11 which extends from a proximal end 11 A to a distal end 1 IB along a central longitudinal axis Lp. The scan body 1 comprises mounting geometry 2 for cooperating with the temporary prosthetic structure, such as the temporary abutment, to fix the position of the temporary prosthetic structure relative to the scan body 1. The mounting geometry 2 of the scan body 1 replicates the mounting geometry of a known dental implant. The scan body 1 further comprises indica 3, such as an identifier, for identification of the mounting geometry 2. The mounting geometry 2 and the indica 3 are located in a proximal portion 5 of the post element 11.

[0126] As the mounting geometry 2 of the scan body 1 replicates the mounting geometry of a known implant, the temporary prosthetic structure can be mounted on the scan body in an identical manner as to the embedded implant. In the present example the post element 11 of the scan body 1 comprises a bore 14 extending from the proximal end 11 A towards the distal end 1 IB of the post element 11 along the central longitudinal axis Lp. The mounting geometry 2 comprises a conical abutment surface 2B located in the bore 14 and a planar annular abutment surface 2A surrounding the bore 14, theplanar annular abutment surface 2A extending in a plane perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis Lp. The mounting geometry 2 further comprises anti-rotation geometry 2C for fixing the rotational position of a temporary prosthetic structure relative to the post element 11. The anti -rotation geometry 2C has a non-circular-symmetric cross-section, e.g. hexolobular, in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Lp and is located in the bore 14 of the post element 11. The bore 14 of the post element 11 further comprises an internal thread (not shown) for enabling the temporary prosthetic structure to be fastened to the scan body 1 by a separate fastener screw. This internal thread is located distally of the conical abutment surface 2B and anti-rotation geometry 2C.

[0127] The indica 3 acts as a unique identifier for identifying the mounting geometry 2 of the scan body 1. The indica 3 of the example scan body 1 comprises a plurality of indentations arranged on the proximal portion 5 of the post element 11. A coronally facing surface 4 of the proximal portion 5 may be selected so that the indica 3 arranged thereon is easily visible to a dental scanner positioned in proximity and oriented towards the scan body 1 during use. The surface 4 may taper radially inwards in the proximal direction, e.g. to form a conical surface. By making the surface 4 tapered, the field of view of the indica 3 can be increased, thereby allowing the indica to be detected from a wider angle.

[0128] The example scan body 1 comprises orientation geometry 24 for identification of the orientation of the scan body by a scanning device. The orientation geometry 24 enables the orientation of the scan body to be recognised during scanning and thus facilitates alignment of the multiple images taken during scanning. The orientation geometry 24 of the present example comprises a single planar surface which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis Lp and which is located in the proximal portion 5 of the post element 11.

[0129] The post element 11 may further comprise a distal portion 6. The distal portion 6 of the example post element 11 comprises a circular cylindrical surface 6A and a single protrusion 8 extending radially outwards from this surface 6A. The distal portion 6 may be configured to be inserted into a bore of a support structure to facilitate scanning of the post element 11. The single protrusion 8 is configured for preventing a rotation of the post element 11 relative to the support structure. The example postelement 11 comprises a distally facing stop surface 9 located at a proximal end of the distal portion 6, the stop surface 9 being configured to abut a proximal end of the support structure upon insertion of the distal portion 6 into a bore of the support structure, thereby limiting a movement of the post element 11 in a distal direction in relation to the support structure. The distally facing stop surface 9 is formed by a section of the post element 11 having a wider diameter than the distal portion 6 of the post element 11. The proximal portion 5 of the post element 11 is located proximal of the stop surface 9, such that the mounting geometry 2, indica 3 and orientation geometry 24 remain exposed when the post element 11 is connected to the support structure. In one or more examples, the support structure is an intermediate element, such as intermediate element 12 of Fig. 8, or abase.

[0130] The distal portion 6 of the example post element 11 is particularly configured to be inserted into a bore of an intermediate element, such as bore 13 A of the intermediate element 12 shown in Fig. 8, and / or a bore of a base in a rotationally fixed manner. The single protrusion 8 is configured to be inserted into a groove of the bore, such as into single groove 13C extending radially outwards from a cylindrical surface 13B of bore 13A of the intermediate element 12 of Fig. 8.

[0131] The example post element 11 comprises a distally facing stop surface 9 located at the proximal end of the distal portion 6, the stop surface 9 being particularly configured to abut a proximal end of an intermediate element, such as the proximal end 12A of the intermediate element 12 of Fig. 8, upon insertion of the distal portion 6 into a bore of the intermediate element, such as bore 13A of the intermediate element 12 in Fig. 8, thereby limiting the movement of the post element 11 in a distal direction. The distally facing stop surface 9 is formed by a section of the post element 11 having a wider diameter than the distal portion 6 of the post element 11. The proximal portion 5 of the post element 11 is located proximal of the stop surface 9, such that the mounting geometry 2, indica 3 and orientation geometry 24 remain exposed when the post element 11 is connected to the intermediate element or a base.

[0132] Fig. 7 shows the scan body 1 of Figs. 6A-6B with a temporary prosthetic structure comprising a temporary abutment 10 and temporary prosthesis 30 mounted to the scan body 1. The temporary abutment 10 cooperates with the mounting geometry 2 of the scan body 1 to fix the position of the temporary prosthetic structure relative tothe scan body 1. As the mounting geometry 2 of the scan body 1 replicates the mounting geometry of a known dental implant, the temporary prosthetic structure will be mounted to the scan body 1 in an identical manner as to the known implant, thus allowing the method of the present invention to accurately position the mounting geometry of the embedded implant in the generated 3D model 200. In order to cooperate with the mounting geometry 2 of the scan body 1, and the mounting geometry of the implant, the temporary abutment 10 comprises abutment mounting geometry (not shown) having a complementary shape to the mounting geometry of the dental implant, and of the scan body 1. A coronal section of the temporary abutment 10 is configured to receive the temporary single crown prosthesis 30, such that the prosthesis 30 rests on the prosthetic platform P’ of the temporary abutment 10.

[0133] The scan body 1 may consist solely of the post element 11. However, in the present example the scan body further comprises an intermediate element 12 and a base 20.

[0134] Fig. 8 shows an example intermediate element 12 of the scan body 1. The intermediate element 12 extends along a central longitudinal axis Li from a proximal end 12A to a distal end 12B. A proximal portion 15 of the intermediate element 12 comprises attachment geometry 13 for attaching the post element 11 to the intermediate element 12. The intermediate element 12 therefore acts as an intermediate structure connecting the post element 11 to the base (such as base 20 shown in Fig. 9). The attachment geometry 13 comprises a bore 13A extending from the proximal end 12A towards the distal end 12B in which the distal portion 6 of the post element 11 can be accommodated. The bore 13 A extends along the central longitudinal axis Li of the intermediate element 12 such that, when the post element 11 is connected to the intermediate element 12, the central longitudinal axis of the intermediate element Li is coaxial with the central longitudinal axis Lp of the post element 11. The bore 13 A has a circular cylindrical surface 13B and a single groove 13C extending radially outwards from this surface 13B, thus forming anti -rotation geometry having a non-circular-symmetric cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Li.

[0135] The bore 13A of the intermediate element 12 is shaped to accommodate a distal portion of a post element, such as the distal portion 6 of the post element 11 in Fig. 6A-B, in a rotationally fixed manner. The single groove 13C is configured to receive thesingle protrusion 8 extending radially outwards from the circular cylindrical surface 6A of the post element 11 of Fig. 6A-B.

[0136] The proximal end 12A of the intermediate element 12, may be configured to abut a distally facing stop surface of the post element, such as stop surface 9 of the post element 11 of Fig. 6A-B, upon insertion of the distal portion of the post element into bore 13A of the intermediate element 12, thereby limiting the movement of the post element in a distal direction.

[0137] The distal portion 16 of the intermediate element 12 has a circular cylindrical shape configured for insertion into a bore of the base, such as bore 21 A of base 20 in Fig. 9. The circular cylindrical shape of the distal portion 16 may have an outer diameter configured to have a close fit with an inner surface of the bore of the base, such as bore 21A of base 20 in Fig. 9. This allows for rotational movement of the intermediate element 12 relative to the base.

[0138] The intermediate element 12 comprises a distally facing stop surface 19 located at a proximal end of a distal portion 16 of the intermediate element. The distally facing stop surface 19 is formed by a central section 17 of the intermediate element 12 having a wider diameter than the distal portion 16 of the intermediate element 12. The stop surface 19 is configured to abut a proximal end of a base, such as proximal end 20A of the base 20 in Fig. 9, upon insertion of the distal portion 16 into a bore of the base, such as bore 21 A of base 20 in Fig. 9, thereby limiting the movement of the intermediate element 12 in a distal direction relative to the base.

[0139] The intermediate element 12 is configured to be rotatably connected to a base 20 such that the intermediate element 12 is rotatable relative to the base 20 about a single rotational axis, in this embodiment its central longitudinal axis Li. The proximal portion 5 of the post element 11, which comprises the mounting geometry 2, the indica 3 and orientation geometry 24, can thus, when attached to the intermediate element 12, be rotated about a single axis relative to the base 20.

[0140] Fig. 9 shows an example base 20 of the scan body 1 according to the current disclosure. The base 20 extends from a proximal end 20A to a distal end 20B along a central longitudinal axis LB and comprises, at its proximal end 20A, connection geometry 21 for connecting the intermediate element 12 to the base 20. The connection geometry 21 comprises a bore 21A extending from the proximal end 20A of the base20 towards the distal end 20B in which the distal portion 16 of the intermediate element 12 can be accommodated. The bore 21A extends along the central longitudinal axis of the base LB such that, when the intermediate element 12 is connected to the base 20, the central longitudinal axis LB of the base is coaxial with the central longitudinal axis Li of the intermediate element and hence also with the central longitudinal axis Lp of the post element 11 when this is attached to the intermediate element 12 (see Fig. 10A).

[0141] The proximal end 20A of the base 20 is configured to abut a distally facing stop surface of the intermediate element , such as the distally facing stop surface 19 of the intermediate element 12 of Fig. 8, upon insertion of a distal portion of the intermediate element, such as distal portion 16 of the intermediate element 12 of Fig. 8, into the bore 21 A of the base 20, thereby limiting the movement of the intermediate element in a distal direction relative to the base 20.

[0142] The intermediate element 12 is rotatably connected to the base 20 such that the intermediate element 12 is rotatable relative to the base 20 about a single rotational axis, in this embodiment its central longitudinal axis Li. The proximal portion 5 of the post element 11, which comprises the mounting geometry 2, the indica 3 and orientation geometry 24, can thus, when attached to the intermediate element 12, be rotated about a single axis relative to the base 20.

[0143] The bore 21 A of the base 20 may have an inner diameter configured to have a close fit with a distal portion of an intermediate element, such as distal portion 16 of the intermediate element 12 of Fig. 8. This allows for rotational movement of the intermediate element 12 relative to the base 20.

[0144] The example base 20 further comprises a plurality of holders 23 for receiving a plurality of interchangeable post elements 11. The plurality of holders 23 are bores arranged on the proximal surface 22 of the base 20. This ensures that the plurality of interchangeable post elements 11 are readily available for the scanning procedure.

[0145] Figs. 10A and 10B show an example scan body 1 in an assembled configuration, comprising the post element of Figs. 6A-B, the intermediate element 12 of Fig. 8 and the base 20 of Fig. 9. The scan body 1 comprises base 20, intermediate element 12, and a plurality of post elements 11, such as post elements 111, 112, 113, 114, 115. The plurality of post elements 111, 112, 113, 114, 115 each comprise different mounting geometries 2 and different indica 3 A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E which provide a uniqueidentifier for the mounting geometry of that post element. Each post element 11 may thus replicate the respective mounting geometry of a different implant. The distal portion 6 of each post element 11 is identical, thus ensuring easy and accurate attachment of each post element 11 to intermediate element 12.

[0146] A first post element 111 of the plurality of post elements 11 is releasably attached to the attachment geometry of the intermediate element 12 in a rotationally fixed manner. A temporary prosthetic structure 33 is mounted to the mounting geometry 2 of the post element 111. The intermediate element 12 is rotatably connected to the base 20. The distally facing surface 19 of the intermediate element 12 abuts the proximal end 20A of the base 20 and limits the movement of the intermediate element 12 in a distal direction along the longitudinal axis Li. Similarly, the distally facing surface 9 of the post element 111 abuts the proximal end 12A of intermediate element 12 and limits the movement of the post element 111 in a distal direction along the longitudinal axis Lp. By rotating the intermediate element 12 around the longitudinal axis Li relative to the base 20 a stable extraoral scan of the temporary prosthetic structure 33, including the emergence profile 31 can be obtained.

[0147] While, in the present example, the scan body 1 comprises a plurality of post elements 11, an intermediate element 12 and a base 20, in other embodiments the scan body 1 may comprises only one or more post element 11 and a base 20. In such instances the post element(s) 11 may comprise a distal portion 6 as shown in Fig. 6A or a distal portion 16 as shown in Fig. 8. The bore 21 of the base 20 being in such embodiments correspondingly shaped to accommodate this distal portion in either a rotatable (distal portion 16) or rotationally fixed (distal portion 6) manner.

[0148] Fig. 11 is a block diagram illustrating an example model generating device 700 according to the disclosure. The model generating device 700 comprises memory / memory circuitry 701, one or more processors / processor circuitry 702, and an interface / electronic interface 703. The model generating device 700 may be configured to perform any of the methods disclosed herein, such as the method 100 of Fig. 1.

[0149] The model generating device 700 is optionally configured to perform any of the operations disclosed in Fig. 1, such as any one or more of S101, S105, S106, S107, SI 09, SI 09 A, S109B, Sill, Sill A, and SI 13. The operations of the model generating device 700 may be embodied in the form of executable logic routines, e.g. lines of code,software programs, etc., that are stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium, such as memory 701, and are executed by one or more processors 702.

[0150] Furthermore, the operations of the model generating device 700 may be considered a method that the model generating device 700 is configured to carry out. Also, while the described functions and operations may be implemented by software, such functionality may as well be carried out via dedicated hardware or firmware, or some combination of hardware, firmware and / or software.

[0151] Memory circuitry 701 may be one or more of a buffer, a flash memory, a hard drive, a removable media, a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, a random-access memory (RAM), or other suitable devices. In a typical arrangement, memory circuitry 701 may include a non-volatile memory for long term data storage and a volatile memory that functions as system memory for processor circuitry 702. Memory circuitry 701 may exchange data with processor circuitry 702 over a data bus. Control lines and an address bus between memory circuitry 701 and processor circuitry 702 also may be present (not shown in Fig. 11). Memory circuitry 701 is considered a non-transitory computer readable medium. Memory circuitry 701 may be configured to store information in a part of the memory. The interface 703 may be used to receive scan data and / or output information, such as the second 3D-model to a CAM system for creating, such as producing, the final prosthesis.

[0152] The above embodiments are to be understood as illustrative examples of the invention. Further embodiments of the invention are envisaged. It is to be understood that any feature described in relation to any one embodiment may be used alone, or in combination with other features described, and may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other of the embodiments, or any combination of any other of the embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described above may also be employed without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the accompanying claims.

[0153] In the current disclosure, when a set of data is said to ‘include’ a feature, this is to be understood as meaning that the data set includes data indicative of the mentioned feature. The scan data thus provides a digital representation of the mentioned features. In other words, the second set of data including, for example, the orientation geometryof the scan body is to be understood as the second set of data being indicative of the orientation geometry.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A computer-implemented method for creating a digital model, the method comprising:obtaining (SI 01) a first set of scan data indicative of a temporary prosthetic structure (33) mounted to a dental implant embedded in the jaw of a patient and the surrounding dentition (42), the dental implant comprising mounting geometry with which the temporary prosthetic structure cooperates in order to fix the position of the temporary prosthetic structure relative to the implant,obtaining (SI 05) a second set of scan data indicative of the temporary prosthetic structure mounted on a scan body (1), the scan body replicating the mounting geometry of the dental implant and comprising indica (3) for identification of the mounting geometry, the second set of scan data including the soft tissue emergence profile (31) of the temporary prosthetic structure and the indica of the scan body, selecting (SI 06) a third set of data from a database, the third set of data being indicative of at least the mounting geometry (2) of the scan body, the selection being made based on the indica contained in the second set of scan data, andgenerating (SI 07) a first 3D-model (200) of the temporary prosthetic structure and surrounding dentition, by aligning the first set of scan data, the second set of scan data and the third set of data.

2. The method according to claim 1, whereinthe temporary prosthetic structure (33) comprises a temporary prosthesis (30) arranged on a temporary abutment (10), the temporary abutment cooperating with the mounting geometry of the dental implant in order to fix the position of the temporary abutment and temporary prosthesis relative to the implant, and with the mounting geometry (2) of the scan body in order to fix the position of the temporary abutment and temporary prosthesis relative to the scan body.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the method further comprises: generating (Sill), based on the first 3D-model (200), a second 3D- model of a final prosthesis, wherein the second 3D-model comprises a soft tissue emergence profile based on the soft tissue emergence profile of the temporary prosthetic structure (33).

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the step of generating the second 3D model comprises:modifying (S 111 A) the generated first 3D model (200) of the temporary prosthetic structure (33) to form the external surface of the final prosthesis.

5. The method according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the method further comprises:producing (SI 13), based on the second 3D-model, the final dental prosthesis.

6. The method according to claim 2 or any of claims 3 - 5 when dependent on claim 2, wherein the method further comprises:determining (SI 09), based on the first 3D model (200) and a fourth set of data representative of a plurality of abutments (10A, 10B), an abutment to be used with a final prosthesis.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the step of determining (SI 09) an abutment to be used with a final prosthesis comprises:selecting (S109A) a data subset representative of an abutment from the fourth set of data, andaligning (S109B) the selected data subset with the first 3D model (200) to show the abutment representation relative to the temporary prosthetic structure (33) and the scan body (1).

8. The method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the method further comprises:mounting (S103) the temporary prosthetic structure on a scan body (1), the scan body replicating the mounting geometry of the dental implantembedded in the jaw of the patient and comprising indica (3) for identification of the mounting geometry.

9. The method according to claim 8, whereinthe scan body (1) is rotatable around a single axis, andwherein the second set of scan data is obtained while the scan body is rotated about said axis.

10. The method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the second set of scan data is indicative of the temporary prosthetic structure mounted on the scan body (1), the scan body further comprising orientation geometry for identification of the orientation of the scan body by a scanning device, the second set of scan data further including the orientation geometry of the scan body, and the third set of data is further indicative of the orientation geometry of the scan body.

11. A scan body (1) for holding a temporary prosthetic structure (33) during an extraoral scanning procedure, wherein the scan body comprises mounting geometry (2) for cooperating with a temporary prosthetic structure to fix the position of the temporary prosthetic structure relative to the scan body, wherein the mounting geometry of the scan body replicates the mounting geometry of a known dental implant, the scan body further comprising indica (3) for identification of the mounting geometry.

12. The scan body according to claim 11, wherein the scan body (1) comprises a post element (11) extending from a proximal end (11 A) to a distal end (1 IB) along a central longitudinal axis (Lp), the mounting geometry (2) and indica (3) being located in the proximal portion (5) of the post element.

13. The scan body according to claim 12, wherein the scan body (1) further comprises a base (20), the base extending from a proximal end (20A) to a distal end (20B) along a central longitudinal axis (LB) and comprising, at its proximal end, connection geometry (21) for connecting the post element (11) to the base.

14. The scan body according to claim 13, wherein the post element (11) is rotatably connected to the base (20) such that the post element is rotatable relative tothe base about a single rotational axis, preferably the central longitudinal axis of the post element (Lp).

15. The scan body according to claim 12, 13 or 14, wherein the scan body (1) comprises a plurality of post elements (111, 112, 113, 114, 115), the plurality of post elements each comprising different mounting geometries (2) and different indica (3 A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E), so that the indica of each post element provides a unique identification for the mounting geometry of that post element.

16. The scan body according to claim 15 when dependent on claim 13 or 14, wherein the scan body (1) further comprises an intermediate element (12) extending along a central longitudinal axis (Li) from a proximal end (12A) to a distal end (12B), the distal portion (16) of the intermediate element being complementary to the connection geometry (21) of the base and the proximal portion (15) of the intermediate element comprising attachment geometry (13) for interchangeably attaching the plurality of post elements (111, 112, 113, 114, 115) to the intermediate element.

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