Trends In The Development Of The Techologies For Fabrication Of Complete Dentures For Patients With Total Tooth Loss

Abstract

Total tooth loss leads to significant changes in the maxillofacial region, which affects the masticatory function, speech, esthetic outlook, reflexes and the human psyche. The facial frame obtains the so-called “ageing look”. The extraoral changes, especially after a quick complete tooth loss, are shocking both for the patients and for those around them. The treatment plan for these patients requires the fabrication of complete dentures. The technologies for the production of this type of construction have undergone their own evolution. From the classic cuvette technique with acrylic plastic to the digital fabrication with the help of CAD-CAM milling and 3D printing. The aim of the current article is to trace the development of the technologies for fabrication of complete dentures in patients after total tooth loss highlighting the main trends. Today, 50 million dentures are produced globally every year, but only 1% are fabricated with the help of digital instruments. The traditional denture fabrication is a time- and labor-consuming process. The production process for the construction of a digital denture is different from the traditional one. The digital denture production is the future of dental technology. It has the potential to provide a lower price and higher quality care for the patients. Digital technologies do not deprive complete dentures of the possibility of customization. Digital denture designs can be used multiple times but, when needed, can be altered. The endurance and mechanical properties and bio-compatibility of the constructions are much better compared to those fabricated using conventional technologies. Digitization and 3D printing are a means to a reliable, predictable and highly esthetic treatment.