Effect of surface treatment strategies on bond strength of additively and subtractively manufactured hybrid materials for permanent crowns.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the bond strength of different computer-aided design / computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) hybrid ceramic materials following different pretreatments. METHODS: A total of 306 CAD/CAM hybrid material specimens were manufactured, n = 102 for each material (VarseoSmile Crownplus [VSCP] by 3D-printing; Vita Enamic [VE] and Grandio Blocs [GB] by milling). Each material was randomly divided into six groups regarding different pretreatment strategies: control, silane, sandblasting (50 µm aluminum oxide particles), sandblasting + silane, etching (9% hydrofluorics acid), etching + silane. Subsequently, surface roughness (Ra) values, surface free energy (SFE) were measured. Each specimen was bonded with a dual-cured adhesive composite. Half of the specimens were subjected to thermocycling (5000 cycles, 5-55 °C). The shear bond strength (SBS) test was performed. Data were analyzed by using a two-way analysis of variance, independent t-test, and Mann-Whitney-U-test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Material type (p = 0.001), pretreatment strategy (p < 0.001), and the interaction (p < 0.001) all had significant effects on Ra value. However, only etching on VSCP and VE surface increased SFE value significantly. Regarding SBS value, no significant difference was found among the three materials (p = 0.937), while the pretreatment strategy significantly influenced SBS (p < 0.05). Etching on VSCP specimens showed the lowest mean value among all groups, while sandblasting and silane result in higher SBS for all test materials. CONCLUSIONS: The bond strength of CAD/CAM hybrid ceramic materials for milling and 3D-printing was comparable. Sandblasting and silane coupling were suitable for both millable and printable materials, while hydrofluoric etching should not be recommended for CAD/CAM hybrid ceramic materials. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Since comparable evidence between 3D-printable and millable CAD/CAM dental hybrid materials is scarce, the present study gives clear guidance for pretreatment planning on different materials.

Mechanical properties of 3D-printed and milled composite resins for definitive restorations: An in vitro comparison of initial strength and fatigue behavior.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the flexural strength and fatigue behavior of a novel 3D-printed composite resin for definitive restorations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty disc-shaped specimens were manufactured from each of a nanohybrid composite resin (NHC), polymer-infiltrated ceramic network (PICN), and 3D-printed composite resin (3D) with CAD-CAM technology. Biaxial flexural strength (σin ) (n = 30 per group) and biaxial flexural fatigue strength (σff ) (n = 20 per group) were measured using piston-on-three-balls method, employing a staircase approach of 105 cycles. Weibull statistics, relative-strength degradation calculations, and fractography were performed. The results were analyzed with 1-way ANOVA and Games-Howell post hoc test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Significant differences in σin and σff among the groups (p < 0.001) were detected. The NHC group provided the highest mean ± standard deviation σin and σff (237.3 ± 31.6 MPa and 141.3 ± 3.8 MPa), followed by the PICN (140.3 ± 12.9 MPa and 73.5 ± 9.9 MPa) and the 3D (83.6 ± 18.5 MPa and 37.4 ± 23.8 MPa) groups. The 3D group exhibited significantly lower Weibull modulus (m = 4.7) and up to 15% higher relative strength degradation with areas of nonhomogeneous microstructure as possible fracture origins. CONCLUSIONS: The 3D-printed composite resin exhibited the lowest mechanical properties, where areas of nonhomogeneous microstructure developed during the mixing procedure served as potential fracture origins. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The clinical indications of the investigated novel 3D-printed composite resin should be limited to long-term provisional restorations. A cautious procedure for mixing the components is crucial before the 3D-printing process, since nonhomogeneous areas developed during the mixing could act as fracture origins.

Interdisciplinary Delphi study by PROSEC North America: Recommendations on single indirect restorations made from ceramic and nonmetallic biomaterials for posterior teeth.

OBJECTIVE: This article puts forward consensus recommendations from PROSEC North America regarding single indirect restorations made from ceramic and nonmetallic biomaterials in posterior teeth. OVERVIEW: The consensus process involved a multidisciplinary panel and three consensus workshops. A systematic literature review was conducted across five databases to gather evidence. The recommendations, informed by findings from systematic reviews and formulated based on a two-phase e-Delphi survey, emphasize a comprehensive treatment strategy that includes noninvasive measures alongside restorative interventions for managing dental caries and tooth wear. The recommendations advocate for selecting between direct and indirect restorations on a case-by-case basis, favoring inlays and onlays over crowns to align with minimally invasive dentistry principles. The recommendations highlight the critical role of selecting restorative biomaterials based on clinical performance, esthetic properties, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines. They emphasize the importance of precision in restorative procedures, including tooth preparation, impression taking, contamination control, and luting. Regular follow-up and maintenance tailored to individual patient needs are crucial for the longevity of ceramic and nonmetallic restorations. CONCLUSIONS: These PROSEC recommendations provide a framework for dental practitioners to deliver high-quality restorative care, advocating for personalized treatment planning and minimally invasive approaches to optimize oral health outcomes. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The PROSEC North America recommendations highlight the importance of minimally invasive techniques in posterior tooth restorations using ceramic and non-metallic biomaterials. These principles prioritize tooth structure conservation and personalized treatment planning, essential for enhancing clinical outcomes and long-term oral health.

Segmentation of process-related contaminations on two-piece abutments using pixel-based machine learning: a new quantification approach?

PURPOSE: A reference method for quantifying contaminations on two-piece abutments manufactured using CAD/CAM has not yet been established. In the present in vitro study, a pixel--based machine learning (ML) method for detecting contamination on customized two-piece abutments was investigated and embedded in a semiautomated quantification pipeline. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-nine CAD/CAM zirconia abutments were fabricated and bonded to a prefabricated titanium base. All samples were analyzed for contamination by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging followed by pixel--based ML and thresholding (SW) for contamination detection; quantification was performed in the postprocessing pipeline. Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Bland-Altmann plot were applied to compare both methods. The contaminated area fraction was recorded as a percentage. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the percentages of contamination areas (median = 0.004) measured with ML (median = 0.008) and with SW (median = 0.012), asymptotic Wilcoxon test: P = 0.22. The Bland-Altmann plot demonstrated a mean difference of -0.006% (95% confidence interval [CI] from -0.011% to 0.0001%) with increased values from a contamination area fraction of > 0.03% for ML. CONCLUSION: Both segmentation methods showed comparable results in evaluating surface cleanliness; pixel-based ML is a promising assessment tool for detecting external contaminations on zirconia abutments. Further studies are required to investigate the clinical performance of this tool.

A novel digital way to measure the vertical and horizontal dimensions of the supra-crestal peri-implant soft tissues.

AIM: To report on a novel digital superimposition workflow that enables measuring the supra-crestal peri-implant soft tissue dimensions all along implant treatment and afterwards. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A preoperative CBCT and intra-oral scans (IOS) are successively taken before surgery, at the end of the healing period, at prosthesis delivery, and over time; they are digitally superposed on a dedicated software. Then, the stereolithography files (STL) of the healing abutment, of the prosthetic abutment and the crown are successively merged into the superposition set of IOSs. RESULT: The workflow protocol of merging successively the STL of each item into the superposition set of IOSs enables capturing the dimensions of the height and width of the supra-crestal soft tissues, at every level of the healing abutment, the prosthetic abutment and the crown. In addition, it allows measuring the vertical distance that the crown exerts pressure on the gingiva and the thickness of the papillae at every level of the abutment. CONCLUSION: This novel digital superimposition workflow provides a straightforward method of measuring the vertical and horizontal dimensions of the supra-crestal peri-implant soft tissues, including the papillae, at each stage of the implant treatment process. It allows investigating a certain number of soft tissue variables that were previously inaccessible to clinical research. It should help enhancing our comprehension of the peri-implant soft tissue dynamics.

Health economic evaluation of forced orthodontic extrusion of extensively damaged teeth: up to 6-year results from a clinical study.

OBJECTIVES: Clinical data on retaining extensively damaged teeth using forced orthodontic extrusion followed by restorative rehabilitation are scarce, and economic evaluations are basically absent. A health economic evaluation of this method was performed based on a clinical study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a convenience sample of individuals recruited from routine care, extensively damaged teeth were orthodontically extruded prior to restoration. Patients were followed up for up to 6 years. The health outcome was tooth retention time. Direct medical, non-medical, and indirect initial and follow-up costs were estimated using the private payer's perspective in German healthcare. Association of initial direct medical treatment costs and cofounding variables was analyzed using generalized linear models. Success and survival were secondary outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 35 teeth in 30 patients were followed over a mean ± SD of 49 ± 19 months. Five patients (14%) dropped out during that period. Median initial costs were 1941€ (range: 1284-4392€), median costs for follow-up appointments were 215€ (range: 0-5812€), and median total costs were 2284€ (range: 1453 to 7109€). Endodontic re-treatment and placement of a post had a significant impact on total costs. Three teeth had to be extracted and in three patients orthodontic relapse was observed. The survival and success rates were 91% and 83%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of this clinical study, total treatment costs for orthodontic extrusion and subsequent restoration of extensively damaged teeth were considerable. Costs were by large generated initially; endodontic and post-endodontic therapies were main drivers. Costs for retreatments due to complications were limited, as only few complications arose. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The restoration of extensively damaged teeth after forced orthodontic extrusion comes with considerable initial treatment costs, but low follow-up costs. Overall and over the observational period and within German healthcare, costs are below those for tooth replacement using implant-supported crowns. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: DRK S00026697).

Root-analogue implants compared to forced orthodontic extrusion: a retrospective analysis of clinical, radiological and esthetic outcomes after restoration.

OBJECTIVES: To assess clinical, radiological and esthetic outcomes of restorations supported by root-analogue implants (RAIs) or roots of severely damaged teeth after forced orthodontic extrusion (FOE). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Clinical data regarding milled one-piece (titanium/zirconia roots and zirconia abutments) RAIs (REPLICATE™ System) and FOE were recorded and retrospectively evaluated for 40 patients by two investigators. Strict inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. Functional and esthetic outcomes were assessed for n = 20 pre-molars and n = 20 anterior teeth via comparison of radiographic and digital images applying the novel Functional Implant Prosthodontic Score (FIPS). Krippendorff's alpha coefficient was calculated to assess inter-rater reliability. Mann-Whitney-U-Test was used to compare the assessed parameters. Level of significance was set to p < 0.05. RESULTS: After a mean observation period of 18.4 ± 5.7 months for restorations supported by RAIs and 43.9 ± 16.4 months for restorations after FOE, mean FIPS scores were 9.2/8.8 ± 1.1/1.2 (RAIs) and 7.4/7.7 ± 1.3/1.5 (FOE), respectively. Krippendorff's alpha coefficients did not reveal unacceptable inter-rater reliabilities regarding the investigators and applicability of FIPS. Significant differences were documented when comparing restorations after FOE or supported by RAIs regarding bone loss (p < 0.01), presence of papillae (p < 0.05) and quality and quantity of mucosa (p < 0.02) in favor of FOE. CONCLUSIONS: Within the main limitations of sample size and the retrospective study design, both concepts seem to provide clinically acceptable results. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Bone- and tissue-preserving characteristics regarding the concept of FOE are promising. It could be applicable for socket preservation and subsequent conventional implant placements in an adapted workflow.

Forced orthodontic extrusion to restore extensively damaged anterior and premolar teeth as abutments for single-crown restorations: Up to 5-year results from a pilot clinical study.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Clinical data on orthodontic extrusion to restore teeth deemed unrestorable because of their defect size are scarce. It remains unclear for which defects forced orthodontic extrusion and tooth retention is preferred to extraction. PURPOSE: The purpose of this pilot clinical study was to investigate the survival, frequency, and type of complications of extensively damaged teeth requiring single-crown restorations after forced orthodontic extrusion. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Participants were recruited from consecutive patients in need of restorative treatment of extensively damaged teeth at a university clinic. The teeth were orthodontically extruded to reestablish the biologic width and to ensure a 2-mm ferrule preparation before restoration. The primary endpoint was restoration success and survival. At recall, survival was defined as the tooth being in situ and success as a symptom-free tooth with an intact, caries-free restoration and with physiological pocket probing depths, no signs of intrusion, ankylosis, root resorption, or periapical radiolucency. Recalls were performed every 6 months; the outcome was assessed by radiographic and clinical evaluation after up to 5 years of clinical service. Quantitative parameters were described with mean values and standard deviations. RESULTS: Thirty-four participants were assessed for eligibility and enrolled (mean ±standard deviation age: 53.4 ±18.9 years). Four participants were premature dropouts. Data were analyzed for 35 teeth in 30 participants. The amount of extrusion varied between 2 and 6 mm (mean ±standard deviation 3.4 ±0.9 mm). The mean duration of extrusion was 18.9 ±12.6 days and the mean duration of retention was 126.94 ±88.1 days. The mean ±standard deviation crown-to-root ratio after treatment was 0.8 ±0.1 (range: 0.5 to 1.0). Three participants exhibited orthodontic relapse before restoration. Teeth were successfully restored after repeated extrusion. After a mean observation period of 3.3 years (range: 1 to 5.2 years), 29 of 31 teeth were still in situ. Two teeth were fractured, and 4 participants were not available for recall. Thus, the survival rate was 94%. No resorption or periapical translucencies were observed radiographically. Clinical examinations revealed physiological probing depths and absence of ankyloses. One tooth presented with marginal bone loss. The most frequent type of complication was orthodontic relapse at recall (n=3). A total of 84% of teeth were considered a success. CONCLUSIONS: Forced orthodontic extrusion allowed for the restoration of anterior and premolar teeth deemed as nonrestorable because of their defect size. Tooth retention of extensively damaged teeth and their use as abutments for single-crown restorations can be recommended.

Accuracy of fully guided dental implant placement: A prospective clinical in-vivo investigation using intraoral scan data.

AIM: To compare the planned implant position (PIP) with the transferred implant position (TIP) after fully guided implant placements in single-tooth gaps. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Dental implant placements were planned using two different implant systems (Camlog Screw-Line [C-SL] and Straumann Bone Level Tapered [S-BLT]), and two different planning software programs (SMOP and coDiagnostiX). All implants were placed according to fully guided protocols, and intraoral scans were performed intraoperatively. For the comparison of PIP and TIP, scan data were imported to Geomagic Control X (GCX) software and accuracies were evaluated. Deviations were reported in a coordinate system (x- [mesiodistal], y- [vestibulo-oral], and z- [vertical] axis) at entry points and apices. Total deviations, including angular deviations, were calculated with GCX. For statistical analysis, the level of significance was set to P < 0.05. RESULTS: Twenty-six patients received 26 implants. Mean 3D deviation at the implant's entry point was 0.61 mm ± 0.28 for C-SL and 0.63 mm ± 0.24 for S-BLT. For the implant's apex, mean 3D deviation of 0.96 mm ± 0.41 was documented for C-SL and 1.04 mm ± 0.34 for S-BLT. Mean angular deviation was 2.58 degrees ± 1.40 for C-SL and 2.89 degrees ± 1.12 for S-BLT. Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences between implant systems, but showed significant deviations regarding the z-axis, both at entry point and apex (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Fully guided implant placements in single-tooth gaps provide accurate results. Due to significant vertical deviations, reevaluation of both drilling and insertion depths prior to implant installation should be considered. Maintenance of 1.5- to 2-mm safety distances to critical structures was confirmed.

Survival and success of veneered zirconia crowns.

AIM: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the long-term clinical survival and success rate of veneered zirconia crowns with a modified anatomical framework design after 10 years in function. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In total, 36 zirconia crowns were fabricated for 28 patients. An anatomically modified framework design was developed. Crowns were inserted between 2008 and 2009. A follow-up of 19 patients with 28 crowns was conducted in 2020 to document mechanical and biologic parameters. Additionally, a modified version of the pink esthetic score (PES) was documented. Patient satisfaction was assessed using United States Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria. The success and survival rates were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier analysis. RESULTS: After more than 10 years of clinical service, the survival rate of the zirconia crowns was 92.9%. Biologic complications occurred in 12% of the examined crowns, whereas technical complications occurred in 54%. Mostly, chippings (50%) and insufficient marginal gaps (50%) were observed. Most crowns were positively evaluated for more than one technical complication. Periodontal conditions with probing depths of up to 3 mm were comparable with measured values before crown delivery (73% to 75%). Most of the crowns had modified PES values of 10 or higher. Patient satisfaction was high. CONCLUSIONS: The modified framework design led to a high survival rate of the crowns but a relatively low success rate. High patient satisfaction and inconspicuous periodontal conditions were demonstrated. Biologic complications occurred far less frequently than technical complications.

Survival and complications of 3D-printed, non-invasive restorations for prosthetic rehabilitations: A 12-month preliminary observational study.

AIM: The adjustment and transfer of a stable occlusion can be a major challenge in prosthetic rehabilitations. The aim of this study was to assess a non-invasive treatment option for complex prosthetic rehabilitations and occlusal analyses using 3D-printed restorations clinically. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eleven patients received a partial or complete rehabilitation with the aid of 3D-printed restorations (n=171). After 12 months of clinical service, all restorations were analyzed using the United States Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria. RESULTS: The 12-month clinical data revealed that 3D-printed restorations showed a survival rate of 84.4%. Complications occurred mostly regarding the anatomical form (7%) or marginal integrity (6AC%) and were consequently rated "Charlie" or "Delta." Color stability and color match of 3D-printed restorations were rated "Alpha" in 83% and 73%, respectively, of all restorations. Marginal inflammation was rated "Alpha" in 89% of all restorations. An excellent surface texture and no secondary caries or postoperative sensitivities (100%) were observed. CONCLUSIONS: 3D-printed restorations might be an alternative treatment option for initiating complex prosthetic rehabilitations. Technical complications rarely occurred. Biological complications did not occur at all. The color stability showed promising results after 12 months of clinical service. However, the results should be interpreted with caution. Long-term results with a high number of restorations should be awaited.

Effectiveness of soft tissue augmentation procedures for coverage of buccal soft tissue dehiscence around dental implants: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: This systematic review evaluated the effectiveness of soft tissue augmentation procedures for complete coverage and mean coverage of buccal soft tissue dehiscence (BSTD) in patients with implant-supported restorations. METHODS: Three databases were surveyed for randomized (RCTs), non-randomized controlled clinical trials (CCTs), cohort studies, case-control studies, and case series with a minimum of five patients per control or test group. Studies dealing with soft tissue augmentation procedures to cover BSTD-occurring during implant function and not due to the result of peri-implantitis-were included. Risk of bias was evaluated with RoB 2 or the National Institutes of Health's Quality Assessment. Whenever possible, exploratory meta-analyses were performed to evaluate weighted mean effects (WME) for the different outcomes. The primary outcomes were the percentage of complete coverage and mean coverage of BSTD. RESULTS: Seven articles were included. Only one study was a RCT, with a high risk of bias. Meta-analyses showed that after 1 year (2 studies, n = 36 patients; WME = 70; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 50; 90; p = .23) as well as after 5 years (3 studies, n = 54 patients; WME = 70; 95%; CI = 60; 80; p = .44), complete coverage of BSTD could be achieved in 70% of the cases. CONCLUSION: Based on limited evidence, it can be concluded that BSTD can be substantially reduced with the use of soft tissue augmentation procedures. Further research with comparative trials using larger samples and longer follow-up periods is needed to study the stability of soft tissues in the long term.

Occurrence, associated factors and soft tissue reconstructive therapy for buccal soft tissue dehiscence at dental implants: Consensus report of group 3 of the DGI/SEPA/Osteology Workshop.

OBJECTIVES: To systematically assess the literature and report on (1) the frequency of occurrence of buccal soft tissue dehiscence (BSTD) at implants, (2) factors associated with the occurrence of BSTD and (3) treatment outcomes of reconstructive therapy for the coverage of BSTD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two systematic reviews addressing focused questions related to implant BSTD occurrence, associated factors and the treatment outcomes of BSTD coverage served as the basis for group discussions and the consensus statements. The main findings of the systematic reviews, consensus statements and implications for clinical practice and for future research were formulated within group 3 and were further discussed and reached final approval within the plenary session. RESULTS: Buccally positioned implants were the factor most strongly associated with the risk of occurrence of BSTD, followed by thin tissue phenotype. At immediate implants, it was identified that the use of a connective tissue graft (CTG) may act as a protective factor for BSTD. Coverage of BSTD may be achieved with a combination of a coronally advanced flap (CAF) and a connective tissue graft, with or without prosthesis modification/removal, although feasibility of the procedure depends upon multiple local and patient-related factors. Soft tissue substitutes showed limited BSTD coverage. CONCLUSION: Correct three-dimensional (3D) positioning of the implant is of utmost relevance to prevent the occurrence of BSTD. If present, BSTD may be covered by CAF +CTG, however the evidence comes from a low number of observational studies. Therefore, future research is needed for the development of further evidence-based clinical recommendations.

Restoration of 1325 teeth with partial-coverage crowns manufactured from high noble metal alloys: a retrospective case series 18.8 years after prosthetic delivery.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate long-term survival and success rates of conventionally cemented partial-coverage crowns (PCCs) manufactured from high noble metal alloys (hn). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Restoration-, periodontal- and tooth-related criteria on patients, restored with a single or multiple conventionally cemented hnPCCs in a private dental office were collected from existing patient records. With regard to semi-annual follow-ups, data of the most recent clinical evaluations were considered. Kaplan-Meier and log-rank tests were used for statistical analyses. Level of significance was set at p ≤ .05. RESULTS: Between 09/1983 and 09/2009, 1325 hnPCCs were conventionally cemented on 1325 teeth in 266 patients (mean age: 44.5 ± 10.7 years). Due to various reasons, 81 hnPCCs showed complications, documenting a success rate of 93.9% after a mean observation period of 18.8 ± 5.7 years. Of these, additional 14 restorations were counted as survival, resulting in a survival rate of 94.9%. Most frequent complications were periodontal issues (n = 29, 35.8%). Significantly higher success rates were documented for hnPCCs of patients aged between 37 and 51 years (p = .012). CONCLUSION: Partial-coverage crowns from high noble metal alloys showed excellent survival and success rates after a mean observation period of 18.8 ± 5.7 years. Higher patient age was one of the risk factors. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: According to the results of this study, hnPCCs still represent an excellent therapeutic option-even in modern dentistry.

In Vivo Analysis of the Regeneration Capacity and Immune Response to Xenogeneic and Synthetic Bone Substitute Materials.

Although various studies have investigated differences in the tissue reaction pattern to synthetic and xenogeneic bone substitute materials (BSMs), a lack of knowledge exists regarding the classification of both materials based on the DIN ISO 10993-6 scoring system, as well as the histomorphometrical measurement of macrophage subtypes within their implantation beds. Thus, the present study was conducted to analyze in vivo responses to both xenogeneic and synthetic bone substitute granules. A standardized calvaria implantation model in Wistar rats, in combination with established scoring, histological, histopathological, and histomorphometrical methods, was conducted to analyze the influence of both biomaterials on bone regeneration and the immune response. The results showed that the application of the synthetic BSM maxresorb® induced a higher pro-inflammatory tissue response, while the xenogeneic BSM cerabone® induced a higher anti-inflammatory reaction. Additionally, comparable bone regeneration amounts were found in both study groups. Histopathological scoring revealed that the synthetic BSM exhibited non-irritant scores at all timepoints using the xenogeneic BSM as control. Overall, the results demonstrated the biocompatibility of synthetic BSM maxresorb® and support the conclusion that this material class is a suitable alternative to natural BSM, such as the analyzed xenogeneic material cerabone®, for a broad range of indications.

Digital versus conventional complete dentures: A randomized, controlled, double-blinded crossover trial.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: The Baltic Denture System provides a digital way to fabricate complete dentures in 2 visits. Conventional dentures using injection or compression molding require additional visits and complex laboratory procedures. However, how the fabrication method affects clinical outcomes is unclear. PURPOSE: The purpose of this clinical, randomized, controlled, double-blinded crossover trial was to evaluate the impact of the fabrication method (digital versus conventional production) of complete dentures on clinical outcomes. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sixteen participants received 2 pairs of new complete dentures, produced in a digital and a conventional workflow. Each complete denture was worn for an observation period of 3 months. The order of the dentures was randomized. The primary outcome was the clinical assessment of the dentures by a blinded examiner, including peripheral extension, cutout for buccal and labial frenula, denture extension, and denture thickness. Denture esthetics were evaluated by the midline, position of anterior teeth, buccal corridor, and smile arc, and occlusal relationships were evaluated by the vertical dimension, sagittal relation, the Camper plane, and occlusion. In addition, the retention of maxillary and mandibular dentures and phonetics was evaluated. Differences between the prostheses were statistically analyzed with the McNemar test (α=.05). RESULTS: The borders of the digital dentures were significantly more often overextended at the time of insertion (P=.021), reducing the retention of the digital dentures, especially the maxillary dentures (P=.016). The borders of the dentures could be corrected so that after 2 weeks and 3 months, no significant differences could be seen between digital dentures and conventional dentures. CONCLUSIONS: The fabrication method has a significant influence only on the dimension of the denture border. It was significantly more often overextended in digital dentures and impaired retention, especially of the maxillary dentures, at the time of insertion. As this parameter is correctable, no significant clinical differences could be observed over the observation time of 3 months between digital dentures and conventional dentures.

Digital versus conventional complete dentures: A randomized, controlled, blinded study.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Several manufacturers have developed a digital workflow for removable prosthodontics. The Baltic Denture System is a 2-visit procedure for the digital production of complete dentures, but clinical studies comparing the system with conventional methods are lacking. PURPOSE: The purpose of this randomized, controlled, blinded crossover trial was to evaluate the impact of the digital versus conventional production of complete dentures on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) measures. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sixteen participants received 2 sets of new complete dentures produced with a digital (2 visits) and conventional (5 visits) workflow. Each complete denture was in clinical service for an observation period of 3 months. The order of the dentures was randomized, starting with digital or conventional followed by changing the set of dentures after 3 months. The primary outcome was the time-dependent change in the OHRQoL, assessed by using the Oral Health Impact Profile, German version (OHIP-G49), comparing the digital with the conventional workflow. The secondary outcome was the time needed for the fabrication process. The median values of OHIP-G49 total sum scores and OHIP-G49 dimensions were calculated for baseline and 14 days and 3 months after insertion of the dentures. Changes of sum scores over time and differences between the workflows were analyzed by using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test (α=.05). RESULTS: The data of 16 participants (11 men and 5 women; 66 ±8.5 years) were evaluated. The median values of the total OHIP-G49 sum scores and the sum scores of OHIP-G49 dimensions did not differ between workflows (P>.05). With digital dentures, more physical pain was observed after 2 weeks (P=.039). Participants with conventional dentures had less functional limitation after 14 days and felt less handicapped after 3 months (P=.036). Digital dentures were fabricated within 4 hours, whereas fabrication of conventional dentures took 10.5 hours for dentists and dental laboratory technicians. CONCLUSIONS: From the perspective of the participants, the fabrication method of the complete dentures had no significant influence on OHRQoL. However, digital dentures needed only 2 visits, 1 hour less chair time, and 5 hours less time for the dental laboratory technicians.

Immediate loading of a fixed full-arch prosthesis on four template-guided implants.

BACKGROUND: Treatment of the edentulous maxilla with a fixed full-arch prosthesis on four immediately loaded implants has been discussed as a treatment option, although generally five implants are recommended for that indication. The precise transfer of the virtually planned position by 3D-guided implant placement is an essential prerequisite for delivering the prefabricated temporary restoration at the time of surgery. Three-point support on the teeth or implants ensures that the template for the guided surgery is soundly seated during the operation. CASE PRESENTATION: In the described case, the three-point support was carried out by teeth and temporary implants in the molar region inserted prior to the CBCT. The virtual implant planning determined the best prosthetic implant position while using the available bone to avoid extensive augmentation. Following this, a metal-reinforced provisional restoration was prepared using a drilling template. Four implants were placed in the planned position with the aid of a tooth-/implant-supported guide. The prosthetic axis of the angulated distal implants is balanced by 17-degree angled abutments. After transferring the implant position to the dental laboratory, the prepared restoration was finalized. The remaining teeth were extracted and the temporary restoration was delivered 3 h after implant placement. The definitive fixed full-arch zirconia restoration with micro layering was placed 9 months later in a stable situation. CONCLUSION: The remarkable accuracy of the implant placement with a surgical template generated from preoperative virtual implant planning ensures a relatively short treatment time and an uneventful and fast recovery with minimal discomfort. The immediate prosthodontic rehabilitation is a benefit, not only for the patient but also for the dental team. Micro-layered monolithic zirconia seems to be a promising option for screw-retained full-arch prostheses.

In vivo full-arch accuracy of intraoral scanners: a narrative review.

AIM: The present narrative review aims to provide an overview of the in vivo accuracy of full-arch scans performed with currently used intraoral devices and to compare different methods for the determination of in vivo accuracy. Materials and methods: An electronic search was performed with the PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Web of Science databases, including articles from 2015 to 2020. Specific search strategies were developed for each platform. RESULTS: The final search resulted in five published articles. The mean values of trueness and precision of the examined scanners ranged from 12.9 to 80.01 µm for trueness and from 42.9 to 86.0 µm for precision in full-arch dentition. Not all studies evaluated both trueness and precision. Furthermore, the methods and references for determining the in vivo accuracy proved to be very different. CONCLUSION: To date, no scientific consensus on the required accuracy of in vivo full-arch scans has been reached and published. Due to the small number of studies on the in vivo accuracy of full-arch scans, further studies should be conducted in this area. In addition, a concept for a valid reference that can be scanned both extraorally and intraorally should be developed.

Rehabilitation of one-piece screw-retained implant crowns placed at second-stage surgery-a retrospective patient series.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the esthetic and functional rehabilitation of single implants delivering the final crown during second-stage surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In 26 single-tooth implants, the impressions were taken immediately after implant placement to fabricate the final crowns. During the second-stage surgery, the screw-retained hybrid crowns were delivered. Six months to 3 years after placement of the crown, a modified pink esthetic score (PES) was measured. Additionally, the number of treatment sessions was recorded. The mesial and distal contact points and the static and dynamic occlusion were examined. Patients' satisfaction was measured using a questionnaire. RESULTS: In this retrospective study, 21 posterior and 5 anterior implants were included. The average pink esthetic score was 11.3 out of 14. The most frequent limitations were incomplete papillae and deficits of the alveolar ridge. The average number of appointments was three, consisting of impression taking and surgery consent, implant placement, and crown delivery. Average patients' satisfaction was 46.7 out of 50 and thus, extremely high. CONCLUSIONS: The presented approach allows the second-stage surgery and delivery of the final restoration for single-tooth implants in the same session. As the peri-implant mucosa is adapted to the final restoration in the first place, a more natural emergence profile is achieved. However, there is an increasing risk for reduced or missing papillae. Patients' satisfaction is generally very high. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: A method for direct definitive prosthetic restoration during the exposure of single-tooth implants is examined, advantages and disadvantages will be described, and patient acceptance is validated.