A technique for improved gingival esthetics on complete arch implant-supported acrylic resin prototype prosthesis

An important step during the workflow of complete arch fixed implant-supported prostheses is the fabrication of an acrylic resin prototype prosthesis so that the patient can visualize the definitive treatment outcome or to be used as an interim prosthesis. The prototype prosthesis is typically designed digitally as a single file and is produced by milling from a solid block of white-colored prepolymerized acrylic resin. A common challenge in fabricating a resin-based prototype prosthesis is reproducing the natural appearance of the gingival architecture in gingiva-colored material. Current methods, including multicolored resin blocks, gingiva-colored stain, and layering with gingiva-colored composite resin, can be costly, time-consuming, and labor-intensive. This article describes a straightforward chairside technique that allows clinicians to fabricate an acrylic resin prototype prosthesis with appropriate gingival esthetics.