Application of Digital Technology in Prosthetic Treatment for a Cleft Lip and Palate Patient: A Novel Dental Technique

Abstract

In the prosthetic treatment of cleft lip and palate, there is a risk of material impaction, aspiration, or mis-swallowing due to the complex maxillary morphology and compromised pharyngeal function. Moreover, expertise is required to ensure the prosthesis harmonizes with the patient's facial esthetics. Recent advancements in digital dentistry offer an effective and safer alternative to conventional methods. In this report, we describe a technique for fabricating a removable partial denture using a combination of digital devices, including an intraoral scanner, model scanner, 3D printer, and milling machine. A 59-year-old woman with a history of left-maxillary cleft lip and palate was treated with a digitally designed and fabricated prosthesis. The technique incorporated novel steps such as a digital altered cast technique and socket splicing method, allowing for improved functional adaptation and aesthetic integration by referencing 3D facial scans. This digital approach eliminated the need for traditional impression materials, reduced the number of clinical visits and adjustment sessions, and contributed to enhanced patient safety and satisfaction. The aim of this report is to demonstrate the clinical application and advantages of digital technology in the fabrication of a removable prosthesis for a patient with cleft lip and palate.