Comparison of the retention of conventional versus digitally fabricated remov- able partial dentures. A cross over study

Abstract

Purpose: The goal of this clinical study is to evaluate retention of digital removable partial dentures as few clinical data is available regarding this new approach. The clinical trial compared retention of digital RPD fabricated with digital impression, digital designing and casting a 3D printed pattern with conventional RPD. Materials and methods: Twenty partially edentulous participants were enrolled in this study. Each patient received conventional RPD (group I) constructed for the lower arch. Its retention was evaluated during three months of follow up using digital force gauge device. Then, they were recalled and a digital impression was taken. A three dimensional image was formed and converted into 3D computer file that could be read by the computer-aided design (CAD) software. The RPD framework was digitally designed and a 3D printed resin patterns was produced, which were then cast into a metal framework by conventional method. The digitally fabricated dentures (group II) were assessed for denture retention at delivery and after one and three months later .All data were tabulated and statistically analyzed. Results: There was significant difference between both groups at different follow up periods as (P value < 0.05) and there was significant difference between different intervals for each group as (P value < 0.05) except for the digital dentures group as there was insignificant different between (insertion- three months) and (one-three months) intervals. Conclusion: Retention of digital RPD fabricated with digital impression, digital designing and casting a 3D printed pattern was higher than conventional RPD.