Comparison of retention and denture base adaptation between conventional and 3D-printed complete dentures

Abstract

Background. In recent years, complete denture construction has been revolutionized using computer-aided designing and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) technology. This clinical study compared the retention and denture base adaptation of 3D-printed complete dentures fabricated using dimethacrylate-based resins with a photoinitiator versus conventional complete dentures. Methods. Ten completely edentulous patients were nominated for this study. Each patient received two complete dentures. One complete denture was conventionally fabricated, while the other was digitally fabricated through 3D printing of dimethacrylate-based resins with a photoinitiator. Denture base adaptation for both dentures was evaluated using surface matching software. Denture retention was also evaluated using a digital force meter at the time of complete denture insertion (T0 ), after three months (T3 ) and six months (T6 ) of denture use. Results. Regarding adaptation (mean misfit values), a statistically insignificant difference was detected between the two differently fabricated complete dentures. In addition, comparable satisfactory retention values were observed for both conventionally fabricated and 3D-printed dentures; however, there was an insignificant increase in retention over time. Conclusion. 3D-printed complete dentures fabricated using dimethacrylate-based resins could be a promising alternative to conventionally fabricated complete dentures with satisfactory denture base adaptation and retention.

Clinical Applications of 3D-Printed Polymers in Dentistry: A Scoping Review

“…Two clinical crossover studies were found that compared clinical parameters of 3D-printed complete removable dental prostheses (CRDPs), such as adaptation, retention, and occlusal forces. One study found no significant differences for adaptation or retention between the conventional and 3Dprinted dentures, 43 while the second study found differences in the occlusal schemes, with the printed one having less favorable distribution. 44 An important potential benefit of a CAD/CAM denture base is the ability to decrease the thickness while maintaining clinically acceptable mechanical properties.…”

Comparative Evaluation of the Digital Workflow and Conventional Method in Manufacturing Complete Removal Prostheses

“…The conventional protocol for fabricating a mucosa-supported prosthesis involves a lengthy sequence of clinical and laboratory steps, which can result in a relatively long time period for completion. The polymerization shrinkage of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and the difficulty in duplicating the prosthesis in case of a need to revert to earlier manufacturing stages can be considered the main drawbacks of the technique [7][8][9][10][11].…”