CAD/CAM Removable Dental Prostheses: a Review of Digital Impression Techniques for Edentulous Arches and Advancements on Design and Manufacturing Systems

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The aim of this article is to provide an overview of CAD/CAM removable dental prostheses in the treatment of completely edentulous patients.

Recent Findings

Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing protocols continue to evolve in many areas in dentistry including removable complete dentures. Current protocols are advantageous in decreasing the number of clinical appointments needed, which may reduce the distress in elderly with limited access to care. In addition, CAD/CAM complete dentures are fabricated using standardized techniques using high-value quality controlled materials. Laboratory tabletop scanners are being used predominantly for the digitization of conventional impressions or dental casts. Further research is needed to further advance existing intra-oral scanners in digital impressioning of the completely edentulous jaws.

Summary

Use of digital technology in complete denture manufacturing provides prostheses with improved quality such as reduced porosity, polymerization shrinkage, and improved retention. Presence of digital depository data allows replacement dentures to be fabricated in case they are lost or damaged.

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