Technique to Fabricate Hollow Maxillary Complete Denture Using 3D Printed Template

Area of Science:

• Dental prosthetics
• Biomaterials engineering
• 3D printing in dentistry

Background:

• Severely resorbed alveolar ridges present challenges for complete denture rehabilitation.
• Increased denture weight, due to greater interarch space, compromises retention and stability.
• Existing methods for denture weight reduction have limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe an innovative technique for fabricating hollow maxillary dentures.
• To address the challenge of denture weight in patients with significant bone loss.
• To enhance the retention and resistance of removable complete dentures.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a double flask technique for denture fabrication.
• Incorporated a 3D printed hollow dental surgical guide resin spacer.
• Modified the double flask technique for integration of the hollow spacer during final closure.

Main Results:

• Successfully fabricated hollow maxillary dentures.
• The technique allows for the incorporation of a lightweight spacer within the denture base.
• Potential for improved denture retention and resistance due to reduced weight.

Conclusions:

• The described technique offers a novel approach to fabricating hollow maxillary dentures.
• 3D printed spacers provide a viable method for reducing denture weight.
• This innovation may lead to improved outcomes for patients requiring complete dentures on resorbed ridges.