A predictable all-digital workflow to retrofit a crown to an existing removable prosthesis

Area of Science:

• Dental prosthetics
• Digital dentistry

Background:

• Fabricating crowns under existing removable partial dentures presents significant challenges for dentists, technicians, and patients.
• Accurate communication of prosthesis components (rests, clasps) to the lab is crucial, often requiring complex manual techniques.
• Traditional methods and even some digital approaches can be time-consuming, technique-sensitive, and prone to inaccuracies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present an updated, digital workflow for fabricating crowns under existing removable partial dentures.
• To eliminate inaccuracies associated with manual laboratory procedures.
• To improve efficiency and predictability in crown fabrication for this specific clinical scenario.

Main Methods:

• Leveraging contemporary intraoral scanning technology.
• Implementing a completely digital workflow from scanning to fabrication.
• Eliminating traditional stone cast alterations and elastomeric/resin indexes.

Main Results:

• The digital workflow provides a predictable and accurate method for crown fabrication.
• Inaccuracies associated with manual manipulation are significantly reduced.
• Potential for decreased chair time and laboratory costs.

Conclusions:

• Contemporary intraoral scanning and digital workflows offer a superior alternative for fabricating crowns under existing removable partial dentures.
• This approach enhances accuracy, efficiency, and predictability compared to traditional methods.
• The digital method benefits dentists, technicians, and patients by streamlining the process.