Three Dimensional-Printed Gingivectomy and Tooth Reduction Guides Prior Ceramic Restorations: A Case Report

Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) dentistry have significantly changed workflows in recent years. Restorations and devices can now be digitally designed and 3D-printed for dental care purposes. This clinical case report provides straightforward protocols for the digital design and 3D manufacture of gingivectomy and tooth preparation guides. These types of guides improved the gingival architecture of the anterior teeth and provided controllable tooth preparations prior to labial ceramic veneers. Thoughtful clinical evaluation started with listening to the patient's chief complaint and extra- and intra-oral evaluations. Then a digital wax-up was performed, followed by an intra-oral mock-up, to evaluate the shape of the proposed restorations. After patient acceptance, the clinical procedure started with the gingivectomy and tooth preparation. Hand-crafted porcelain veneers were bonded under rubber dam isolation to avoid any contamination and maximize the bonding protocol. The esthetic and functional demands were fully satisfied. Predictable outcomes can be obtained whenever a meticulous evaluation and execution of all the steps are performed. Three dimensional printing technology allows the fabrication of devices such as gingivectomy and tooth reduction guides that help accomplish the desired results.