Utilizing Intraoral Scanning and Computer-Aided Design/Manufacturing for Creating a New Dental Crown to Match an Existing Removable Prosthesis: A Case Report

Abstract

This clinical report demonstrates the successful dental crown treatment for a 39-year-old female patient with a fractured posterior lower right second molar wearing a removable partial prosthesis and refusing to make a new one. The patient's preference for a new dental crown on her lower right second molar was respected, and an intraoral scanner (IOS) was employed to capture the fractured abutment's anatomy, which also serves as part of her removable denture. Following abutment preparation, a second IOS scan recorded the modified abutment. A temporary crown of the abutment was fabricated and secured to protect the prepared abutment. Comprehensive data, including an intraoral scan with an existing removable denture file, an intraoral scan without a removable denture, an intraoral scan of an unprepared abutment file, an intraoral scan of prepared abutment, and a digital photo of shade selection were transmitted to the dental laboratory. Utilizing computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing technology, a new dental crown compatible with the existing removable prosthesis was created. After fitting the new crown, occlusion, aesthetics, function, and attachment assessments were conducted to ensure optimal results. Subsequent follow-ups confirmed the patient's satisfaction with the functionality, aesthetics, and fit of her removable partial denture with the new dental crown.