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Fully digital workflow for duplicating clasp-retained removable partial dentures using three-dimensional printing: A
Shiwei Song1, Nan Ren2, Fenglan Li3
1Researcher, State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Digital Dentistry Center, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, PR China; Researcher, School of Stomatology, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, Shanxi, PR China.
This study presents a digital workflow for remaking removable partial dentures (RPDs). Existing denture components were scanned, redesigned, 3D printed, and assembled into new RPDs with improved frameworks.
Area of Science:
- Dental prosthetics
- Digital dentistry
- Biomaterials engineering
Background:
- Removable partial dentures (RPDs) are crucial for restoring function and aesthetics.
- Traditional RPD fabrication involves multiple manual steps, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors.
- Digital workflows offer potential for increased precision and efficiency in prosthodontics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a fully digital workflow for replicating and redesigning removable partial dentures (RPDs).
- To evaluate the feasibility of using 3D printing for fabricating components of new RPDs based on existing ones.
- To create new RPDs with redesigned frameworks using digital technologies.
Main Methods:
- A complete digital workflow was employed for RPD replication.
- Artificial teeth and denture bases from existing RPDs were duplicated using scan data.
- Components were separated, redesigned, fabricated via 3D printing, and assembled into new dentures.
Main Results:
- A fully digital process for RPD replication was successfully established.
- Existing denture components were accurately captured and utilized in the new designs.
- 3D printing enabled the fabrication and assembly of new RPDs with redesigned frameworks.
Conclusions:
- The described digital workflow provides a viable method for replicating and redesigning removable partial dentures.
- This approach allows for the incorporation of redesigned frameworks, potentially improving RPD fit and function.
- Digital dentistry and 3D printing offer promising advancements in the fabrication of RPDs.
