Title: Use of CAD/CAM and 3D printing technology for the fabrication of Co/Cr denture frames
Abstract:
Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) systems have well-established use in Dentistry for the design and production of fixed dental prostheses. However, they are not yet popular for the design and fabrication of removable prostheses.
The University Dental Hospital of Cardiff (UDH), part of the University Dental Hospital of Wales has installed and trialing a CAD/CAM system with various medical and dental applications. The Dental Laboratory CAD/CAM service provides custom made medical devices in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Restorative Dentistry and Neurosurgery. In the field of removable prosthodontics, currently, the CAD/CAM designed dentures account approximately for the 25% of the number of the Co/Cr frames made in the UDH.
CAD/CAM design and 3D printing fabrication of Co/Cr denture frames present certain advantages and disadvantages compared with the traditional route of fabrication of denture frames. The service is more cost effective and time efficient, and the clinician can have better control during the stage of the design; it also allows the replication and trial of the designs. However, the cost of the equipment and the training requirements for both clinicians and technicians may have a negative impact on the broader use of the technology. As the technology gains greater recognition, General and Specialised Dental Practice can benefit from the incorporation of CAD/CAM technology for the fabrication of removable prostheses.
