Total CAD/CAM Supported Method for Manufacturing Removable Complete Dentures.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Technology
• Prosthodontics

Background:

• Conventional complete denture fabrication involves wax processing, leading to potential inaccuracies and increased porosity.
• Porosity in denture bases can promote the retention and growth of Candida albicans, a common oral pathogen.
• Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) offers a digital alternative for improved precision and material properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel, wax-free workflow for complete denture fabrication using CAD/CAM technology.
• To evaluate the advantages of CAD/CAM in terms of accuracy, fit, and reduced porosity compared to conventional methods.
• To assess the impact of CAD/CAM fabrication on Candida albicans retention on denture bases.

Main Methods:

• A workflow combining rapid prototyping (RP) for occlusion rims and trial setups, and rapid milling for the definitive denture base.
• Utilizing prepolymerized acrylic resin for milling to eliminate polymerization shrinkage.
• Adapting and bonding conventional denture teeth into milled sockets within the CAD/CAM-generated denture base.

Main Results:

• CAD/CAM fabrication provides high accuracy and predictable outcomes in complete denture fit.
• Milling of prepolymerized acrylic resin minimizes shrinkage, resulting in a more stable denture base.
• Reduced porosity in CAD/CAM fabricated dentures leads to decreased retention of Candida albicans.

Conclusions:

• The presented CAD/CAM workflow offers a precise, efficient, and wax-free method for complete denture fabrication.
• This digital approach enhances denture fit, reduces microbial retention, and improves overall patient outcomes.
• CAD/CAM technology represents a significant advancement in complete denture prosthodontics.