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Template-aided and freehand guiding plane preparation for removable partial dentures: A randomized controlled trial
Hefei Bai1, Hongqiang Ye2, Kenan Ma2
1Center of Digital Dentistry, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices & Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology & NHC Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology (Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences), Beijing, P. R. China.
3D-printed templates significantly improve guiding plane preparation accuracy for removable partial dentures (RPDs). This method enhances precision compared to freehand preparation, benefiting RPD fabrication.
Area of Science:
- Dental prosthetics
- CAD/CAM in dentistry
Background:
- Accurate guiding plane preparation is crucial for removable partial denture (RPD) success.
- Traditional freehand methods can lead to inaccuracies in guiding plane preparation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the accuracy of guiding plane preparation for RPDs using 3D-printed templates versus the freehand method.
- To assess the impact of template-aided preparation on clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Main Methods:
- Twenty partially edentulous patients were divided into template-aided and freehand groups.
- Guiding planes were prepared, and angular and 3D deviations were measured.
- Patient satisfaction with RPDs was evaluated post-treatment.
Main Results:
- The template-aided group showed significantly lower angular deviation (1.77±1.11°) compared to the freehand group (6.29±4.18°).
- 3D deviations in the template-aided group were measured at 106.2±40.9 µm.
- No significant difference in patient satisfaction was observed between the groups.
Conclusions:
- 3D-printed cobalt-chromium (CoCr) alloy templates significantly enhance the accuracy of guiding plane preparation.
- This improved accuracy is consistent across different abutment tooth locations.
- Template-aided preparation offers a more precise alternative to freehand techniques for RPDs.
