Comparative Analysis of Three Facial Scanners for Creating Digital Twins by Focusing on the Difference in Scanning Method

Background: Multi-dimensional facial imaging is increasingly used in hospital clinics. A digital twin of the face can be created by reconstructing three-dimensional (3D) facial images using facial scanners. Therefore, the reliability, strengths, and weaknesses of scanners should be investigated and approved; Methods: Images obtained from three facial scanners (RayFace, MegaGen, and Artec Eva) were compared with cone-beam computed tomography images as the standard. Surface discrepancies were measured and analyzed at 14 specific reference points; Results: All scanners used in this study achieved acceptable results, although only scanner 3 obtained preferable results. Each scanner exhibited weak and strong points because of differences in the scanning methods. Scanner 2 exhibited the best result on the left endocanthion; scanner 1 achieved the best result on the left exocanthion and left alare; and scanner 3 achieved the best result on the left exocanthion (both cheeks); Conclusions: These comparative analysis data can be used when creating digital twins through segmentation, selecting and merging data, or developing a new scanner to overcome all shortcomings.