Fabrication of a facially generated tooth reduction guide for minimally invasive preparations: A dental technique

This article describes a 3D virtual diagnostic analysis for treatment planning an esthetically driven functional rehabilitation by using computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) technology. In this protocol, a digitally planned diagnostic waxing (exocad DentalCAD) was used to visualize the proposed tooth position and the presence of areas without sufficient material thickness for the prospective additive restorations. This approach uses an additively manufactured clear resin guide to selectively reduce surfaces of a tooth erupted beyond the proposed occlusal plane. By using a 3D-printed occlusal reduction guide, the digital diagnostic waxing is accurately represented, tooth reduction controlled, and adequate occlusal clearance for the required restorative material thickness provided with a minimally invasive approach.