CAD-CAM denture teeth made on cast metal removable partial denture frameworks

Area of Science:

• Dental Prosthodontics
• Digital Dentistry
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Prefabricated denture teeth often require extensive modification for removable partial dentures (RPDs), especially in cases of severe edentulous space discrepancy.
• This modification process can be time-consuming and may compromise the final fit and occlusion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a digital workflow for fabricating custom denture teeth directly onto a cast metal framework for RPDs.
• To establish harmonious occlusion and improve efficiency in managing complex edentulous spaces.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing digital technology to design custom denture teeth, which are then milled from a double-cross-linked polymer.
• Integrating the milled teeth onto the cast metal framework for wax evaluation and subsequent processing via heat polymerization.
• Performing post-wax elimination modifications on milled teeth to enhance acrylic resin bonding.

Main Results:

• The digital fabrication technique allows for precise customization of denture teeth to fit edentulous spaces, including splinted configurations for multiple tooth replacements.
• Milled denture teeth facilitate a streamlined wax evaluation and processing workflow.
• Post-processing modifications ensure optimal adaptation and reduce the risk of bond failure.

Conclusions:

• Digital fabrication of custom denture teeth offers an efficient and accurate alternative to modifying prefabricated teeth for RPDs, particularly in challenging clinical situations.
• This technique enhances the management of severe edentulous space discrepancies and contributes to improved occlusal harmony.
• The workflow integrates digital design and milling with traditional RPD processing, optimizing outcomes.