With the exposure of defects in traditional technology and the popularization of advanced digital technologies, computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) have become widely used in the field of dentistry. Different scanning strategies and printing methods will affect the results of impression. Moreover, it will affect the accuracy of dental prostheses. Therefore, research in scanning and three-dimensional (3D) printing technology is of great significance.

There are different scanning modes and principles of intraoral and extraoral scanner, as well as varieties of 3D printing types. Therefore, there are great changes and numerical gaps between different combinations. Selecting the best scanning and printing strategy and manufacturing the highest quality prostheses are the direction we have been pursuing and striving for. Besides, these techniques can be used in tandem with additional complex scanning tools, including cone-beam computed tomography systems (CBCT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and scanning electronic microscopy (SEM). These methods help dentists with accurate treatment planning, improved communication with laboratories, and reduced treatment time.

The aim of this Special Issue is to bring together original research and review articles discussing the application of scanning and 3D printing technology in dental science. We welcome submissions discussing scanning probe techniques such as atomic force microscopy (AFM). Submissions should also include scanning analysis methodology and related issues in the fields of biology, physics, chemistry, material science, and advanced technologies.

Potential topics include but are not limited to the following:

• Intraoral and extraoral scanning of patients
• Advancements in 3D printing methods and technologies
• 3D modelling, imaging, and analysis of materials, cells, microorganisms, and chemical structure
• Accuracy evaluation of virtual and physical models
• Micro/nano-scale characterization of the impression materials
• Finite element analysis of the prosthesis
• Atomic force microscopy (AFM) for studying the mechanical properties of teeth