A Hybrid Digital Workflow for Complete Removable Dentures: A Three-Session Protocol for the Edentulous Patient - A...

This case report highlights the use of a hybrid digital protocol for the fabrication of bimaxillary complete removable dentures (CRDs) in an elderly, fully edentulous patient. The aim was to minimize the number of clinical appointments while achieving functional, esthetic, and durable results.

An 84-year-old edentulous patient, previously discouraged by a conventional denture protocol, underwent rehabilitation using a three-appointment hybrid workflow. Digital intraoral and facial scans were captured during the initial visit using custom devices to determine the vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO) and centric relation (CR). In the second session, secondary impressions were taken with polyether materials using digitally fabricated occlusion bases. Intermaxillary relationships were refined with the Gnathometer system, and all records were digitized. Final dentures were virtually designed and milled from poly(methyl methacrylate) discs, integrating the base and teeth into a monolithic structure (Ivotion, Ivoclar, Schaan, Liechtenstein). The third session focused on prosthesis delivery and functional validation.

The hybrid protocol enabled the precise capture of anatomical and functional data while significantly reducing treatment time. The final prostheses demonstrated excellent fit, retention, stability, and occlusion, with no need for adjustments. The patient expressed high satisfaction with both the comfort and efficiency of the process.

This case suggests that a hybrid digital protocol may offer a viable alternative for the prosthetic rehabilitation of edentulous elderly patients, particularly when reducing chair time is critical. However, these results are limited to a single clinical case and require confirmation through larger-scale studies.