Noninvasive 3D Facial Scanning

The human face as a three-dimensional (3D) object and its morphology are a very dynamic field of clinical research. The ongoing and advancing shift of imaging from the classical two-dimensional (2D) methods to the sophisticated 3D techniques has facilitated the usage of 3D digital surface images for a detailed representation of the external soft tissues of craniofacial structures which can noninvasively be acquired by 3D facial surface imaging technology or facial scanning. The integration of noninvasive 3D facial scanning in planning, treatment, and clinical prognosis has led to the improved accuracy, efficiency, and predictability of growth and treatment outcomes in the craniofacial region. This chapter provides an in-depth practical understanding of the principles of various noninvasive 3D facial scanning methods for 3D digital surface data acquisition and their craniofacial and dental applications.