In recent years, dentistry has undergone a major revolution with the advent of digital dentures. As time efficiency and precision become critical factors, digital dentures offer the perfect restoration solution, delivering superior speed and fit compared to traditional methods. This approach enables dentists to provide the best possible experience for their patients. This article provides an in-depth look at digital dentures and how technology transforms dental restorations.
Digital dentures are prosthetic teeth produced entirely through digital technology, from design to fabrication. The process leverages CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) technology to create highly accurate dentures that fit seamlessly with the patient’s oral structure. Instead of weeks of waiting and multiple appointments, digital dentures can be completed in just a few days, offering unparalleled precision compared to traditional techniques.
Dentists use intraoral scanners to take impressions directly from the patient’s mouth and collect digital data. These scanners eliminate the discomfort of holding traditional impression trays in the mouth. This technology streamlines the process by reducing manual steps, especially for bite alignment, vertical dimensions, or esthetics. Previously, if the midline were off, the dentist would need to remove all the teeth, redo the wax setup, reposition the teeth, and continue the fabrication process.
With digital scanning, the dentition is captured within minutes while keeping the patient comfortable. During the design stage, technicians can design and 3D-print dentures in a short time, significantly reducing treatment time and the number of patient visits to the dentist.
The digital denture fabrication process is a collaboration between dental clinics and labs. Sometimes, the entire process can be handled in-house by a specialist, but it often requires teamwork from laboratories, as not all facilities fully implement digital technology.
Additionally, each type of digital denture has unique characteristics: recreating an old model differs from immediate dentures, and partial dentures are distinct from trial dentures. However, the general workflow can be summarized into the following steps:
This step is carried out in the dental clinic using digital scanning. The impression process varies depending on whether the patient is missing all teeth or some teeth or is recreating an existing model.
Once the intraoral scanner collects the data, the clinic transfers it to the dental lab. Through specialized software, these digital files can be sent with photos and notes to ensure precise customization according to the patient’s needs.
Technicians at the lab use CAD/CAM software to create a digital model of the dentures. This software allows for personalization and ensures a precise fit with the patient’s oral anatomy. Whether it’s a complete or partial denture, the software automates much of the design process, from analyzing the dental structure to simulating the gum base.
All designs are stored as digital files, enabling easy access and adjustments when needed. Technicians can also replicate or create trial versions before final production, reducing errors.
After finalizing the design, the data is transferred to either a milling machine or a 3D printer for fabrication.
This step ensures the denture not only matches the required shape but also achieves realistic details in color and surface texture. Technicians use composite materials to apply thin layers of color to the teeth and gum base. These layers are meticulously built up to achieve a natural look.
For the gum base, details such as veins or subtle ridges are added for a lifelike appearance rather than leaving a flat surface. The teeth are given a degree of translucency to mimic the enamel’s natural light-reflective properties.
The final step ensures the denture has a smooth, glossy surface that is easy to clean and long-lasting. Technicians use high-speed rotary tools and specialized polishing wheels to smooth out uneven areas on the gum base and teeth. Polishing solutions or dedicated waxes are sometimes applied to enhance the natural shine and appearance.
Digital dentures are not just a technological advancement but also a solution that helps dentists reduce working time and ensure consistency in each restoration case, enhancing the patient experience. If you’re looking for a dental laboratory that offers high-quality digital dentures, contact VTS today for a free consultation!
