Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 3, 2026
3D Planning and Printing of Patient Specific Implants for Reconstruction of Bony Defects
Published on: August 4, 2020
A digital workflow with computer-assisted implant planning for fabricating an impression splinting framework and
Junying Li1, Zhaozhao Chen2, Bo Dong3
1Doctoral candidate, State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, PR China; Research fellow, Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, Ann Arbor, Mich.
This study introduces a digital workflow for creating implant components after guided surgery. It streamlines the process, reducing dental lab work, chair time, and overall treatment expenses.
Area of Science:
- Dental Implantology
- Digital Dentistry
- Prosthodontics
Background:
- Guided implant surgery necessitates precise prosthetic components.
- Traditional methods for fabricating implant-supported prosthetics can be time-consuming and costly.
- Preoperative digital planning offers opportunities for workflow optimization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a fully digital workflow for designing and manufacturing a splinted framework and custom tray for multiple implants placed with guided surgery.
- To evaluate the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of this digital protocol.
- To eliminate the need for additional patient visits post-surgery for definitive impression procedures.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing preoperative digital implant planning data.
- Designing a splinted framework and custom tray using CAD/CAM software.
- Manufacturing the components through digital fabrication techniques.
- Integrating the workflow with guided surgery protocols.
Main Results:
- A fully digital workflow was successfully implemented for fabricating prosthetic components.
- The protocol eliminated the need for post-surgical impression appointments.
- Significant reductions in laboratory procedures, chairside time, and treatment costs were achieved.
Conclusions:
- The described digital workflow offers an efficient and cost-effective alternative for fabricating prosthetic components for multiple implants placed with guided surgery.
- This protocol optimizes the treatment process by leveraging preoperative digital data.
- The digital approach enhances patient comfort and reduces overall treatment duration.
