Advanced implant overdenture superstructure treatment planning with computer-assisted design systems

The amount of available space between the residual ridge crest and the prosthetic teeth provide a challenge not only for the clinician but also for the dental technologist. This technical report demonstrates the applied use of a touch probe scanner (Pix30 3D Scanner, Dr. Picza, Roland DG Corporation; Irvine, CA, USA) used in conjunction with computer-assisted design (CAD) programs to reduce clinical chair time as well as reduce the cost of intraoral and laboratory components. Tooth arrangement and superstructure are scanned and positioned in various CAD programs to measure the available space for the superstructure. While there are limitations in the accuracy of the scanning process, these limitations have little effect on the treatment planning for complete overdentures as well as fixed prostheses. Once the scanning is complete, CAD programs can be used to improve planning, resulting in less wasted material, fewer errors in diagnosis, and reduction both in overall clinical and laboratory costs and clinical chair time.