Expert consensus on digital restoration of complete dentures

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Digital Health

Background:

• Conventional complete denture restoration relies heavily on manual techniques and clinical experience.
• Advancements in digital technologies, such as computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM), are transforming dental prosthetics.
• Digital tools offer potential for increased precision, predictability, and patient comfort in denture fabrication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the principles, advantages, and limitations of digital complete denture technology.
• To provide practical recommendations for clinical application and standardization.
• To support practitioners in adopting digital workflows for complete denture restoration.

Main Methods:

• Review of current digital technologies in complete denture restoration, including intraoral scanning, facial scanning, 3D printing, and CNC machining.
• Expert consensus on best practices for case selection, digital workflow implementation, and outcome assessment.
• Development of clinical guidance for indications, procedures, precautions, and evaluation metrics.

Main Results:

• Digital technologies offer enhanced precision, predictability, and efficacy compared to conventional methods.
• Digital workflows streamline the restoration process, reducing patient visits and improving comfort.
• Challenges remain in standardization, including case selection, workflow consistency, and long-term outcome evaluation.

Conclusions:

• Digital complete denture technology presents significant advantages but requires further standardization for widespread clinical adoption.
• This expert consensus provides a framework for practitioners to effectively utilize digital tools in complete denture restoration.
• Further research and standardization are crucial to optimize the long-term outcomes and clinical application of digital denture technology.