Complete digital workflow for the conversion of complete dentures to fixed implant-supported prostheses: A dental...

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Prosthodontics
• Digital Dentistry

Background:

• Fabricating complete arch implant-supported prostheses for edentulous patients can be complex.
• Existing removable complete dentures often require conversion for implant restorations.
• Patient experience and treatment efficiency are key considerations in prosthodontic workflows.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a completely digital workflow for fabricating complete arch implant-supported prostheses.
• To utilize existing removable complete dentures as a starting point for a digital process.
• To establish a fixed reference for digital alignment and articulation in edentulous patients.

Main Methods:

• A custom scan body attached to the most anterior screw-retained abutment was used as a fixed reference.
• Digital alignment and articulation were performed at the optimal occlusal vertical dimension and centric relation.
• The workflow was designed to be applicable to both maxillary and mandibular arches.

Main Results:

• The presented digital workflow streamlines the fabrication of implant-supported prostheses.
• Elimination of the need to convert existing prostheses was achieved.
• Improved treatment efficiency, enhanced patient experience, and reduced clinical visits were observed.

Conclusions:

• A completely digital workflow offers an efficient and minimally invasive approach for complete arch implant-supported prostheses.
• The use of a custom scan body as a fixed reference facilitates accurate digital alignment and articulation.
• This technique improves patient outcomes and simplifies the clinical process for edentulous patients.