Fabrication of titanium implant-retained restorations with nontraditional machining techniques

Traditional laboratory techniques are being supplemented by modern precision technologies to solve complex restorative problems. Electrical discharge machining combined with laser scanning and computer aided design-computer aided manufacturing can create very precise restorations without the lost wax method. A laser scanner is used to create a three-dimensional polyline data model that can then be converted into a stereolithography file format for output to a stereolithography apparatus or other rapid prototyping device. A stereolithography-generated model is used to create an electric discharge machining electrode via copper electroforming. This electrode is used to machine dental restorations from an ingot of titanium, bypassing the conventional lost wax casting process. Retaining screw access holes are machined using conventional drilling procedures, but could be accomplished with electric discharge machining if desired. Other rapid prototyping technologies are briefly discussed.