Management of Repeated Denture Fracture Through Direct Metal Laser Sintering Metal Reinforced Denture

Abstract

Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) is a type of additive metal production that is simpler, more precise, and healthier than traditional manufacturing, while being highly cost-effective. In this process, the metal powder which is free of binder or fluxing agent, is completely melted by the scanning of a high-power laser beam. The resulting part has properties like the original material. In removable prosthodontics, the fracture of heat cure acrylic resin dentures is an unsolved problem. The most common issue is a midline fracture of the maxillary denture. Among midline fractures, 71% were reported in maxillary complete dentures and 29% in mandibular dentures. Patients with heavy masticatory loads and those with parafunctional habits are more likely to experience this. In such circumstances, a metal framework base improves a prosthesis’s fracture resistance, stability, and retention. A 45- year-old female patient reported with a chief complaint of repeated fracture of maxillary complete denture and gave the history of midline fracture of upper denture three times in last 2 years. Intraoral examination revealed v shaped deep hard palate and severely resorbed mandibular ridge. DMLS metal reinforced maxillary denture and metal mesh reinforced mandibular denture was planned to prevent fracture of the denture in future. Metal framework reinforcement of complete denture is a simple, quick, and cost-effective technique to decrease the chances of denture fracture in future, thus beneficial for both patient and the dentist. One year follow-up has been done and patient is comfortable with the denture.