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Updated: Apr 18, 2026
3D Planning and Printing of Patient Specific Implants for Reconstruction of Bony Defects
Published on: August 4, 2020
Computer-aided design and 3D fabrication of a segmented silicone obturator-RPD prosthesis for rehabilitating
Siyi Wang1, Yunqi Cai2, Jin Pan2
1Clinician, Department of Prosthodontics, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology; Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, PR China.
Abstract:
Maxillary defects caused by tumor resection, trauma, or congenital malformation often result in impaired speech, mastication, and esthetics. Conventional 1-piece polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) obturator-removable partial dentures (RPDs) have been widely used but often suffer from bulkiness, poor fit, and maintenance difficulties. This article presents a digital workflow for the design and fabrication of segmented silicone obturator-RPD prostheses to improve precision, modularity, and patient comfort. Computed tomography (CT) and computer-aided design were used to reconstruct the maxillary defect and design separate obturator and RPD components. The prosthesis was fabricated using 3-dimensional (3D) printing. A silicone obturator was formed using a split negative mold and mechanically connected to the RPD framework. The segmented design provided accurate adaptation, enhanced retention, and convenient detachment for cleaning or replacement. This digital workflow enabled precise anatomic replication, efficient fabrication, and simplified maintenance, demonstrating the clinical feasibility of digitally fabricated, modular obturator-RPD systems as a patient-specific, precise, and practical alternative to conventional monolithic designs.
