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Accuracy of Removable Partial Denture Frameworks Fabricated Using Conventional and Digital Technologies.
1University of Zurich, Center of Dental Medicine, Clinic of Reconstructive Dentistry.
Summary
The conventional casting of milled patterns (C-M) showed superior fit accuracy for removable partial denture (RPD) metal frameworks compared to other digital and conventional methods. Digital technologies offer comparable accuracy, but connector areas need improvement.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Dental Prosthodontics
- Manufacturing Technologies
Background:
- Removable partial denture (RPD) fabrication relies on precise metal framework fit for clinical success.
- Digital manufacturing technologies are increasingly explored as alternatives to conventional methods for RPD frameworks.
- Understanding the fit accuracy differences between various manufacturing approaches is crucial for optimizing RPD design and function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the fit accuracy of RPD metal frameworks manufactured using conventional and digital technologies.
- To evaluate the impact of different manufacturing methods on the precision of RPD frameworks at specific anatomical sites.
Main Methods:
- Fifteen mandibular RPD metal frameworks were fabricated using five methods: conventional lost-wax casting (C-LW), conventional casting of milled patterns (C-M), conventional casting of printed patterns (C-P), selective laser melting (SLM), and direct metal laser sintering (DMLS).
- Fit accuracy was assessed by measuring silicone replicas of the frameworks at 11 sites and 29 areas using a digital microscope.
- Statistical analysis included Wilcoxon signed rank and Friedman tests to compare accuracy measurements (μm).
Main Results:
- Before finishing, the C-M method demonstrated significantly better fit accuracy (118 μm) than all other methods (195–265 μm).
- After finishing, C-M (205.7 μm) maintained significantly better accuracy than C-LW (285.7 μm) and SLM (249 μm), with comparable results to C-P and DMLS.
- Manufacturing technologies significantly affected accuracy at minor and major connector areas of the RPD frameworks.
Conclusions:
- The conventional casting of milled patterns (C-M) offers superior fit accuracy for RPD metal frameworks compared to other tested methods.
- Digital manufacturing technologies like SLM and DMLS provide comparable fit accuracy to some conventional techniques, but improvements are needed.
- Accuracy at critical connector areas remains a challenge for digital technologies, requiring further research and development for optimal RPD performance.
