CAD/CAM Removable Prosthodontics

Abstract

Computer-based technology has an ever-expanding impact upon dentistry with enhanced data acquisition and fabrication capabilities. Recently, this technology has been applied to removable prosthodontics, and this chapter presents the current status of computer technology for the fabrication of complete dentures and removable partial dentures. The physical and esthetic properties along with the handling characteristics of poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA) were an improvement over the previous materials used for removable prosthodontics. The successful use of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) in the fabrication of fixed, implant, and maxillofacial prostheses along with a shortage of qualified dental laboratory technicians encouraged the application of CAD/CAM in the field of removable prosthodontics. Currently, two commercial manufacturers are available for the fabrication of CAD/CAM dentures. Both manufacturers allow the fabrication of dentures in 2 appointments. The first appointment consists of data gathering and the second appointment consists of denture placement and adjustments.