Evaluation of open-face maxillary complete denture for patients with prominent premaxilla: a crossover study.

BACKGROUND: The establishment of good facial esthetics is one of the main objectives of complete denture construction. Unfortunately, it may be the caused issue for patients having a prominent premaxilla due to excessive lip support by the labial flange of the maxillary denture. Open-face dentures (OFD) may suggest suitable prosthetic management for these patients. However, clinical evidence regarding the efficiency of OFD is scarce. METHODS: A total of 38 completely edentulous participants having prominent premaxilla and skeletal class I Angle's classification were enrolled in this study. Each participant received a mandibular complete denture and 2 opposing maxillary dentures; conventional (CD) and open-face (OFD). On the day of denture insertion, the participants were divided into 2 groups; CD-OFD and OFD-CD where CD-OFD group was instructed to use the mandibular denture and the maxillary CD for 3 months and then to use the maxillary OFD for another 3 months after a wash-out period of 2 weeks. While group OFD-CD was instructed to use the mandibular denture and the maxillary OFD for 3 months then to use the maxillary CD for another 3 months after a wash-out period of 2 weeks. The dislodging force of the maxillary dentures was evaluated using the universal testing machine and the patient perception of retention, esthetics, and comfort was evaluated using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Evaluation was carried out 1 day, 1 month, and 3 months after denture insertion. The Student t-test was used to compare the 2 maxillary dentures and the intervals for each denture were compared by using the ANOVA test with repeated measures followed by a Post Hoc test (adjusted Bonferroni) for pairwise comparison. RESULTS: The significance of the obtained results was judged at the 5% level (P value). The dislodging force and patient perception of retention did not show significant differences between the 2 dentures, while the perception of esthetics showed significant differences throughout the follow-up period. Perception of comfort showed an insignificant difference only at the 3-month interval. CONCLUSIONS: Open-face maxillary dentures can be a suitable alternative for patients with prominent premaxilla to achieve satisfactory retention, aesthetics, and comfort.

Complete denture rehabilitation for a patient with Parkinson's disease using clinical strategies: A case report.

OBJECTIVE: To present clinical strategies for prosthetic rehabilitation with complete dentures (CDs) of a Parkinson's disease patient. CASE REPORT: An 82-year-old patient sought the Department of Dentistry at UFRN, reporting retention dissatisfaction and hamper to the mandibular CD adaptation. Patient-reported a dry mouth sensation, and exhibited disordered mandibular movements, tremors, and resorbed mandibular ridge. Aiming retention and stability, double molding with zinc enolic oxide impression paste, neutral zone technique, and non-anatomic teeth were proposed as clinical strategies. At delivery, identification and relief in the supercompression areas were performed to facilitate the acceptance and use of the new dentures. CONCLUSION: The strategies promoted patient satisfaction regarding retention, stability, and comfort. This treatment may be considered for the rehabilitation of Parkinson's disease patients, favoring the adaptation process.

Digital duplication of maxillary complete denture: A dental technique.

OBJECTIVE: This technique aims to construct a virtual, well-adapted maxillary denture from an existing, ill-fitting denture in completely edentulous patients. CLINICAL CONSIDERATIONS: A functional impression is made using the loose maxillary denture, and a cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) of the entire old denture is carried out. The obtained digital imaging and communication in medicine (DICOM) file was segmented using an image computing platform software (3D slicer). The resultant Standard Tessellation Language (STL) file was 3D printed in porcelain white-like resin, then colored and characterized. CONCLUSIONS: The technique introduces a high-quality digital denture replicate with good retention, that can replace the traditional duplication technique. It can also be used as a relining method for old dentures. This proposed digital technique reduces the number of clinical appointments while also providing a digital library for future denture manufacture. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The proposed technique offers a high-quality digital denture replicate that can replace the traditional duplication technique. This digital technique also reduces the number of clinical appointments required for denture duplication.

Digital optimization of teeth setup in an edentulous patient with partial glossectomy: A case report.

The purpose of this clinical report was to describe the use of a piezographic impression associated with computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) for teeth setup and of digital tools for neuro-musculo-kinetic analyses. An edentulous patient with hemiglossectomy and heavily resorbed mandible consulted for complete denture rehabilitation to improve their masticatory function and speech. Master casts, wax rims, and piezographic impression were scanned for digital prosthetic work. Two digital try-ins were performed to respect the neutral zone: try-in 1 with posterior crossbite and try-in 2 without crossbite. Muscle activity and mandibular kinetics were performed for each try-in following the MAC2 protocol (six criteria): muscular tone, contraction synchrony, contraction efficiency, interocclusal rest distance, amplitude of mandibular movement, and velocity. Try-in 2 showed better data than try-in 1 in all criteria: muscle tone (respectively 71% vs. 59%), contraction synchrony (79% vs. 75%), contraction efficiency (85% vs. 77%), an increase in range of motion of 3.3 mm, and a better velocity (0.35 ± 0.12 s vs. 0.57 ± 0.14 s, p = 0.008). The piezographic impression, in combination with CAD-CAM, allowed the comparison of two prosthetic designs and the selection of the try-in with the best neuro-musculo-kinetic results.

Accuracy of anterior denture tooth arrangements of CAD-CAM complete removable dental prostheses made with a tooth mold template.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Research evaluating the accuracy of anterior tooth mold templates to computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacture (CAD-CAM) fabricated complete removable dental prostheses (CRDPs) is limited. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate the accuracy of the anterior denture tooth arrangement on CAD-CAM complete removable dental prostheses made with the anterior tooth mold template. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A maxillary and mandibular edentulous model was mounted on a semiadjustable articulator to simulate a patient's maxillary arch. Definitive impressions and jaw relation records were made as per the manufacturer's protocol. A maxillary and mandibular anatomic measuring device was completely seated onto the edentulous models, centered on the edentulous model midline, and horizontally positioned parallel to the mandibular ridge. A medium-size anterior tooth mold template sticker was attached on the anatomic measuring device to identify the maxillary dental midline and incisal edge position and was sent to the manufacturer as the proposed tooth arrangement reference for the definitive complete removable dental prostheses. A total of 10 milled complete removable dental prostheses were generated for 2 groups by using 2 different tooth arrangement techniques. One group (n=5) used the monobloc milling technique without bonding of denture teeth, while the other group (n=5) used the bonding system for denture teeth on the milled denture base. For comparison, a camera mounted on a tripod was used for photographic documentation. Reference markers placed on the edentulous model were used to orient and measure the difference of 4 aspects of the anterior tooth arrangement: average incisal edge position, intercanine distance, midline, and clinical crown length of the left central incisor. The difference values between the tooth mold template and definitive complete removable dental prostheses were statistically analyzed by multivariate ANOVA (α=.05) and 1-sample t tests (adjusted α=.0125). RESULTS: Overall, statistically significant differences were found between the tooth mold template (control) and definitive complete removable dental prostheses at all measuring aspects except for the midline of the midline of the milled arrangement technique (P<.0125). In terms of the midline value, the value of the milled group did not show a significant difference compared with tooth mold template (-0.19 mm). However, the value of the bonded group indicated a significant difference of midline (0.44 mm toward to the left of the tooth mold template midline). When the complete removable dental prosthesis milled denture tooth and complete removable dental prosthesis bonded denture tooth techniques were compared, there was no difference in the tested variables between the milled and the bonded groups (P>.0125). CONCLUSIONS: The tooth mold template did not represent an accurate position for definitive complete removable dental prostheses for either the milled or bonded techniques. The largest differences were found at the average incisal edge of the anterior teeth and the intercanine distance for both groups. However, there was overall no clinical difference between the 2 groups (milled and bonded) of CAD-CAM complete removable dental prostheses.

Evaluation of the clinical performance of dentures manufactured by computer-aided technology and conventional techniques: A systematic review.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: The introduction of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) technology for complete denture fabrication may have improved clinical outcomes compared with conventional techniques. However, systematic reviews comparing these techniques are lacking. PURPOSE: The purpose of this systematic review was to identify, compare, and synthesize the outcomes of published clinical studies related to complete denture fabrication, with respect to the differences between CAD-CAM technology and conventional techniques. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A comprehensive search of studies published up to March 16, 2020, was conducted by using the PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, SciELO, and Embase databases according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement criteria and was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO ID 42020202614). The population, intervention, comparison, and outcome (PICO) question was: Do CAD-CAM complete dentures have a similar functional performance to those fabricated by conventional techniques? The quality of publications was appraised by using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) checklists. RESULTS: Of the 1232 titles, 6 articles were selected. The studies reported better retention of digitally manufactured complete dentures without denture adhesives than that of conventional complete dentures with or without denture adhesives. Other studies reported that dentures manufactured with digital systems were better adapted to tissue surfaces, required less clinical time, were lower in cost, and provided better experience and satisfaction to patients. CONCLUSIONS: The assessment of CAD-CAM planning and manufacturing through clinical studies is ongoing. However, preliminary results indicate better clinical performance and lower overall costs of digital complete dentures than conventional dentures.

Fully digital workflow for replicating treatment dentures: A technique for jaw relation transfer and dynamic occlusal adjustment.

This technique report presents a novel method of digitally replicating a treatment denture and converting it into a definitive denture. The procedure accurately duplicates the appearance of the mucosal surface and border of the treatment dentures, mounts the jaw relation on a virtual articulator to arrange artificial teeth, and optimizes the occlusion based on recorded mandibular motion tracks. This technique uses personalized jaw relation transfer and dynamic occlusal adjustment to establish balanced occlusion, which accomplishes the digital duplication of the treatment denture with high accuracy and minimal effort.

A simplified technique for fabricating complete dentures for patients with Parkinson's disease: a case report / Técnica simplificada como alternativa para confecção de próteses totais para paciente com Doença de Parkinson: relato de caso

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Parkinson's disease is a neurological disorder that affects 1% of individuals aged 60 years and older. The associated symptoms can impose limitations on the available dental treatment options. CASE DESCRIPTION: This case report follows the CARE guidelines and presents an adapted and simplified technique to fabricate complete dentures for a 74-year-old male edentulous patient with Parkinson's disease. This modified technique enabled the fabrication of complete dentures in 4 clinical sessions of approximately 40 minutes. The first session involved manufacturing a preliminary impression with fast-setting alginate. The base plates and occlusal rims were then adjusted for artificial teeth arrangement during the second session. The final prosthesis was completed in the third session, which involved a teeth try-in and fabrication of a functional impression with low-melting thermoplastic material and polyether. Finally, denture installation was performed in the fourth session and follow-up consisted of 3 weekly sessions. DISCUSSION: Considering that the treatment provided satisfactory aesthetics and function, mastication and socialization benefits, and improved the self-esteem and well-being of the older patient with Parkinson's disease, the authors suggest this adapted and simplified technique for fabricating complete dentures. (AU)

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVO: A doença de Parkinson é uma desordem neurológica que afeta 1% dos indivíduos com 60 anos ou mais. Os sintomas associados podem impor limitações nas opções de tratamento odontológico disponíveis. DESCRIÇÃO DO CASO: Este relato de caso segue o protocolo CARE e apresenta uma adaptação da técnica simplificada para confecção de novas próteses totais, para um paciente edêntulo, do sexo masculino, de 74 anos com doença de Parkinson. Essa técnica modificada possibilita a confecção de próteses totais em quatro sessões clínicas de aproximadamente 40 minutos. A primeira sessão envolveu uma moldagem preliminar com alginato de presa rápida. As placas articulares com rodetes de cera foram ajustadas para montagem dos dentes artificiais durante a segunda sessão. A prótese definitiva foi concluída na terceira sessão, que envolveu a prova dos dentes e moldagem funcional com material termoplástico de baixa fusão e poliéter. Por fim, a instalação da prótese foi realizada na quarta sessão e o acompanhamento consistiu em três sessões semanais. DISCUSSÃO: Considerando que o tratamento proporcionou estética e função satisfatórias, benefícios mastigatórios e de socialização, melhora da autoestima e bem-estar do idoso com doença de Parkinson, os autores sugerem o uso da adaptação da técnica simplificada para confecção de prótese total. (AU)

Patient-reported outcome measures of digitally versus conventionally constructed removable dentures: a systematic review protocol.

OBJECTIVE: This review will evaluate patient-reported outcome measures of treatment with digitally fabricated versus conventionally manufactured removable dental prostheses in partially or completely edentate adults. INTRODUCTION: Compared with conventionally manufactured dental prostheses, digitally fabricated prostheses may simplify and reduce the number of clinical steps and minimize errors in the production of prostheses without compromising occlusal accuracy and fit. This may, in turn, improve patient satisfaction, ability to speak, esthetics, stability, and oral health status. Determining evidence of patient-reported outcomes will assist the dental practitioner when communicating patient expectations. INCLUSION CRITERIA: This review will consider experimental and quasi-experimental study designs, including randomized and non-randomized controlled trials, comparative clinical studies, prospective or retrospective trials, longitudinal clinical studies, clinical reports, and technique articles. The review will include patient-reported outcome measures from fully or partially edentulous adult participants who received either conventionally or digitally fabricated dental prostheses. METHODS: The following databases will be searched for scientific, peer-reviewed literature: Academic Search Complete, CINAHL, Dentistry and Oral Sciences (all via EBSCO), MEDLINE (PubMed), ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. The search strategy will include terms relevant to the intervention, which will be adapted for each bibliographic database, in combination with database-specific filters, where available. The language restriction will be English and Dutch. All included studies will be critically appraised and data will be extracted for synthesis. If possible, a meta-analysis will be conducted. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach will be followed to evaluate the certainty of evidence. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER: PROSPERO CRD42018094357.

Fit Accuracy of Removable Partial Denture Frameworks Fabricated with CAD/CAM, Rapid Prototyping, and Conventional Techniques: A Systematic Review.

OBJECTIVE: Analyzing and comparing the fit and accuracy of removable partial denture (RPDs) frameworks fabricated with CAD/CAM and rapid prototyping methods with conventional techniques. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present systematic review was carried out according to PRISMA guidelines. The search was carried out on PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane collaboration, Science direct, and Scopus scientific engines using selected MeSH keywords. The articles fulfilling the predefined selection criteria based on the fit and accuracy of removable partial denture (RPD) frameworks constructed from digital workflow (CAD/CAM; rapid prototyping) and conventional techniques were included. RESULTS: Nine full-text articles comprising 6 in vitro and 3 in vivo studies were included in this review. The digital RPDs were fabricated in all articles by CAD/CAM selective laser sintering and selective laser melting techniques. The articles that have used CAD/CAM and rapid prototyping technique demonstrated better fit and accuracy as compared to the RPDs fabricated through conventional techniques. The least gaps between the framework and cast (41.677 ± 15.546 µm) were found in RPDs constructed through digital CAD/CAM systems. CONCLUSION: A better accuracy was achieved using CAD/CAM and rapid prototyping techniques. The RPD frameworks fabricated by CAD/CAM and rapid prototyping techniques had clinically acceptable fit, superior precision, and better accuracy than conventionally fabricated RPD frameworks.

Biomechanics in Removable Partial Dentures: A Literature Review of FEA-Based Studies.

The present study was aimed at reviewing the studies that used finite element analysis (FEA) to estimate the biomechanical stress arising in removable partial dentures (RPDs) and how to optimize it. A literature survey was conducted for the English full-text articles, which used only FEA to estimate the stress developed in RPDs from Jan 2000 to May 2021. In RPDs, the retaining and supporting structures are subjected to dynamic loads during insertion and removal of the prosthesis as well as during function. The majority of stresses in free-end saddle (FES) RPDs are concentrated in the shoulder of the clasp, the horizontal curvature of the gingival approaching clasp, and the part of the major connector next to terminal abutments. Clasps fabricated from flexible materials were beneficial to eliminate the stress in the abutment, while rigid materials were preferred for major connectors to eliminate the displacement of the prosthesis. In implant-assisted RPD, the implant receive the majority of the load, thereby reducing the stress on the abutment and reducing the displacement of the prosthesis. The amount of stress in the implant decreases with zero or minimal angulation, using long and wide implants, and when the implants are placed in the first molar area.

Maxillary reservoir denture to overcome radiation-induced xerostomia - Light at the end of the tunnel.

Xerostomia is a subjective symptom of dry mouth. It can occur as a part of the systemic disease, drug-induced side effect, or following therapeutic radiation therapy to the head-and-neck region. The primary complication faced by these xerostomic patients is the difficulty in retention of removable dentures. It is important to recognize that the prosthodontic management of these patients requires special attention and care. In an attempt to overcome the presence of xerostomia, several techniques of introducing reservoirs into the dentures containing salivary substitutes have been proposed. This case report presents a simplified approach for the construction of a reservoir in the maxillary denture, specifically in patients where other treatment modalities have failed. This technique provided excellent lubrication to oral tissues, hygienic for the patient, and utilized routine denture base material.

Diseño de Sonrisa Digital / Digital Smile Desinge

Nowadays, a lot of people need in reconstruction of the teeth in connection with their loss. Before prosthetics or any other manipulations, a person wants to quickly see the aesthetic appearance of his future tooth. At the moment, many dentists use the option of verbal explanation to the patient, what will look like a smile or a front row of teeth after treatment, but the visual representation of the person remains aside. But now this can be achieved with the help of "Digital smile design", which shows the person the final result of the dentition. This technology has a number of advantages. Some of them are the rapid creation of a prototype model and high accuracy in the manufacture of work. Thanks to these technologies, communication between the specialist and the patient has been facilitated. The digital smile design has simplified the doctor's work process and reduced patient data processing time. From now on, achieving aesthetic results in the reconstruction of teeth for the dentist is not a problem.

An easy transition from conventional to digital dentures for an edentulous patient: a case report.

The edentulous population is increasing globally regardless of the advancement in dental materials and technology. Computer-engineered complete dentures can significantly reduce clinical time, provide better patient satisfaction, and enable digital record archiving. A patient's existing denture provides useful information for the fabrication of new dentures. An examination checklist can be used to ensure a methodical evaluation of the patient's oral conditions and existing dentures and guide the clinician in deciding whether to continue treatment or refer the patient to a specialist. Once the decision is made to continue treatment, the clinician can duplicate the patient's existing dentures and make necessary corrections. The corrected duplicates can then be used as custom trays and record bases and sent to a laboratory for digital design and fabrication of new dentures. This case report describes the replacement of 30-year-old, ill-fitting dentures with digitally designed and milled prostheses that restored the vertical dimension of occlusion, masticatory function, and esthetics. In addition, an examination checklist to aid in treatment planning is offered.

Teaching Complete Denture Procedures to Dental Students by Conventional or Simplified Methods: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

With populations aging around the world, the need for complete dentures is likely to increase in Brazil and other developing countries, as well among low-income populations globally, making the teaching of cost-efficient techniques to dental students essential. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of complete dentures fabricated by the simplified method in comparison to the conventional method regarding patients' oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and satisfaction, dentures' functional quality, and masticatory performance of patients who were rehabilitated by dental students. From February 2016 to April 2017, final-year dental students at the Federal University of Alfenas, Brazil, were instructed to fabricate new complete dentures for 36 edentulous patients, who were randomly divided into two groups according to denture manufacturing method: simplified method or conventional method. Patients' OHRQoL and satisfaction and the prostheses quality were evaluated at one, three, and six months. Masticatory performance was evaluated at three months. The results showed there was no significant difference between the two methods regarding OHRQoL, patient satisfaction, prostheses quality, or masticatory performance (p>0.05). All aspects evaluated also remained constant for the same group (simplified method or conventional method) in all periods of evaluation (p>0.05). The study concluded that the simplified method for complete denture fabrication was able to produce protheses with functional quality and patient satisfaction comparable to those produced with the conventional method, even when made by dental students.

Using Intraoral Scanning Technology for Three-Dimensional Printing of Kennedy Class I Removable Partial Denture Metal Framework: A Clinical Report.

Removable partial dentures (RPDs) are used to restore missing teeth and are traditionally fabricated using the lost-wax casting technique. The casting process is arduous, time-consuming, and requires a skilled technician. The development of intraoral scanning and 3D printing technology has made rapid prototyping of the RPD more achievable. This article reports a completed case of direct fabrication of a maxillary RPD metal framework (Kennedy Class I) using intraoral scanning and 3D printing techniques. Acceptable fit and satisfactory clinical outcome were demonstrated. Intraoral scanning and 3D printing for fabrication of the RPD metal framework is a useful alternative to conventional impression and casting techniques, especially for patients suffering from nasal obstruction or intolerance.

Use of Resin-Based Provisional Material to Create the Posterior Palatal Seal in Complete Denture Definitive Impressions.

The purpose of this article was to present an alternative procedure using resin-based provisional material to create the posterior palatal seal (PPS). This method offers more practicality in clinical routine and increased control for addition of material to create the PPS when compared to traditional techniques such as the use of impression wax.

The Influence of Age, Gender, Mandibular Bone Height, Previous Experience with Prostheses, and Fabrication Methods on Masticatory Performance of Complete Denture Wearers.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of age, gender, mandibular bone height, previous experience with prostheses, and methods for denture fabrication on masticatory performance of complete denture (CD) wearers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: For this study, 29 individuals treated with CDs fabricated by simplified or conventional methods had their masticatory performance assessed 4 weeks after the prostheses' adjustment and control, using the sieve method and almonds as a natural food test. Experimental variables related to age, gender, and previous use of complete dentures were collected from dental records. Panoramic digital radiographs were used to determine mandibular bone height according to the criteria described by the American College of Prosthodontists. Data on masticatory performance were assessed using t-test for independent samples to make comparison between simplified and conventional methods, and a multiple linear regression analysis was performed to evaluate the influence of age, gender, previous experience with CDs, and mandibular bone height on masticatory performance using SPSS software with a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: There was no significant influence regarding the method for CD fabrication (p = 0.92), age (p = 0.36), mandibular bone height (p = 0.37), and previous experience with prostheses (p = 0.15) on masticatory performance of CD wearers. Female patients presented lower masticatory performance than male (p = 0.04) patients did. CONCLUSIONS: Considering the limitations of this study, it was concluded that gender might be considered a risk factor for masticatory performance of CD wearers. Female patients demonstrated reduced masticatory performance in comparison to male patients.

Randomized controlled clinical trial of digital and conventional workflows for the fabrication of zirconia-ceramic posterior fixed partial dentures. Part II: Time efficiency of CAD-CAM versus conventional laboratory procedures.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Clinical trials are needed to evaluate the digital and conventional fabrication technology for providing fixed partial dentures (FPDs). PURPOSE: The purpose of the second part of this clinical study was to compare the laboratory production time for tooth-supported, 3-unit FPDs by means of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) systems and a conventional workflow. In addition, the quality of the 3-unit framework of each treatment group was evaluated clinically. MATERIAL AND METHODS: For each of 10 participants, a 3-unit FPD was fabricated. Zirconia was used as the framework material in the CAD-CAM systems and included Lava C.O.S. CAD software (3M) and centralized CAM (group L); CARES CAD software (Institut Straumann AG) and centralized CAM (group iT); and CEREC Connect CAD software (Dentsply Sirona) and centralized CAM (group C). The noble metal framework in the conventional workflow (group K) was fabricated by means of the traditional lost-wax technique. All frameworks were evaluated clinically before veneering. The time for the fabrication of the cast, the 3-unit framework, and the veneering process was recorded. In addition, chairside time during the clinical appointment for the evaluation of the framework was recorded. The paired Wilcoxon test together with appropriate Bonferroni correction was applied to detect differences among treatment groups (α=.05). RESULTS: The total effective working time (mean ±standard deviation) for the dental technician was 220 ±29 minutes in group L, 217 ±23 minutes in group iT, 262 ±22 minutes in group C, and 370 ±34 minutes in group K. The dental technician spent significantly more time in the conventional workflow than in the digital workflow, independent of the CAD-CAM systems used (P<.001). CONCLUSIONS: Irrespective of the CAD-CAM system, the overall laboratory time for the dental technician was significantly less for a digital workflow than for the conventional workflow.

Obtaining reliable intraoral digital scans for an implant-supported complete-arch prosthesis: A dental technique.

This article describes a technique for obtaining an accurate complete-arch digital scan for an edentulous patient. To achieve this, an auxiliary polymeric device that simulates a denture is designed, fabricated, and placed in the mouth. This device, having the geometry of a typical dental arch, facilitates the digitalization of the edentulous complete arch. This is because the change in radius of the curvature (change of geometry) enables the scanner to perform a more accurate alignment. Initially, the necessary location of the implants is acquired, and then the soft tissue is added. This technique can achieve accurate complete-arch digital scans. Distances between implants are closer to the gold standard when using this auxiliary geometry piece than those obtained without using it.