Overview
PIC Dental pioneered commercial dental photogrammetry in 2010, offering stereo camera systems that achieve 6-micron precision and <4-micron trueness under controlled conditions. With 49+ peer-reviewed publications and 1.4+ million clinical cases, PIC represents the most validated photogrammetry solution. However, equipment costs of $60,000-80,000 and two-device workflow requirements make physical dental verification jigs such as Dental implant verification systems relevant alternatives for many practices.
What You'll Need
- Understanding of photogrammetry technology
- Assessment of equipment investment capacity
- Evaluation of case volume for ROI
- Consideration of workflow complexity tolerance
Step-by-Step
Understand PIC Technology
High-precision stereo camera system uses two CCD cameras with infrared flash, capturing 10 extraoral images per second. Working distance 15-30cm with maximum 45-degree capture angle. Capture time under 30 seconds for most dental full-arch cases. Three form factors: Station (portable), Gravity (mobile cart), System (all-in-one).
Review PIC Accuracy Data
Published specifications: precision 6 microns, trueness <4 microns. Liu et al. (2024): PIC achieved best trueness (21±4 microns RMS) compared to IOS and open-tray impressions. Accuracy unaffected by implant distribution, distance, or arch length—validated in 10 patients with 6-implant prostheses.
Evaluate Equipment Investment
PIC systems typically range $60,000-80,000. Legacy system upgrade available at approximately 25% of new system cost. 2025 PIC app enables smartphone-based photogrammetry on iPhone 14 Pro+ with pay-per-use subscription as lower-cost entry point.
Understand Workflow Requirements
Three-step process: (1) Implant capture with PIC transfers under 30 seconds, (2) Soft tissue capture via IOS or impression, (3) Digital model alignment in dental CAD software. PIC does NOT capture soft tissue—two-device workflow is mandatory.
Assess Training and Learning Curve
PIC Pro Training: 3-5 days on-site covering capture techniques, immediate loading protocols, CAD integration. System designed for consistent results regardless of operator experience. However, attention to technique details remains important for optimal results.
Calculate Per-Case Economics
PIC transfers (proprietary dental scan bodies) required for each case—pricing requires manufacturer quote. Eliminates impression materials, dental verification jigs, multiple fit appointments, and remakes. ROI depends heavily on case volume and current remake rate.
Compare to Physical Verification
PIC provides immediate digital verification with documented accuracy. Physical jigs such as Dental implant verification systems provide tactile confirmation, no equipment investment, immediate use without training, and independence from digital workflow. Some practices use both: PIC for capture, Dental implant verification for physical confirmation.
Tips & Best Practices
- PIC app offers lowest barrier to entry for practices exploring photogrammetry
- Lab services (e.g., Iverson Dental Labs) offer PIC scanning without equipment purchase
- 49+ peer-reviewed publications provide extensive scientific validation
- Consider physical verification to confirm digital accuracy during workflow transition
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming photogrammetry eliminates all verification needs
Physical try-in provides confirmation that digital data alone cannot. Many practices use both approaches.
Underestimating two-device workflow complexity
implant positions (PIC) + soft tissue (IOS) requires CAD file merging. Evaluate your software capabilities.
Purchasing without ROI calculation
$60,000-80,000 investment requires sufficient dental full-arch volume. Calculate break-even based on your case mix.
Ignoring proprietary component costs
PIC transfers are required for each case. Factor ongoing consumable costs into total cost of ownership.