Digital Dentures- The Future of Complete Dentures in Oral Rehabilitation

Abstract

The conventional method of fabricating Complete Dentures (CDs) consists of many clinical and laboratory steps, making it more susceptible to certain problems and inevitable errors. With the advances in the field of technology, these errors can be avoided or minimised. Digital technology making use of computers for designing and or manufacturing CDs is referred to as digital dentures. In this, entire dentures are made by machining the denture’s bases using Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing (CAD/CAM). Technology’s quick development in the form of CAD/CAM has had a significant impact on all areas of dentistry, but notably prosthodontics and restorative dentistry. This system has not only simplified the process of fabrication of CDs but also reduced the clinical chairside time, number of dental appointments and helped to deliver error free dentures. It also helps to store the data in digital form which can be utilised further for fabricating other sets of dentures for that particular patient. The most important advantage over conventional denture is that, it lacks polymerisation shrinkage of the acrylic resin and exhibit high strength. Furthermore, it also eliminates laboratory work time. The provision of prosthodontic treatment requires the patient, a qualified physician, and competent laboratory personnel on various levels. The goal of the current review article was to demonstrate how modern technology may replace the traditional approach not only by making labour easier but, also by enabling precise full denture production.

Keywords

• 3-dimensional printing
• conventional denture
• milling