Applying digital dentistry to removable partial denture: Attempts at research, clinical treatment and education

Abstract

CAD/CAM technology is spreading in the field of removable denture, and complete denture production systems have been developed and applied to clinical treatment. It is also possible to fabricate frameworks using CAD/CAM technology. Intraoral scanners have been applied to edentulous jaws, but they have not yet been put into practical use because pressure impressions of mucosa ridge are required for partially edentulous dentition. This paper summarizes the research, clinical treatment, and education on removable partial denture using CAD/CAM technology carried out until now in our department. It also discusses the current status and issues of the application of digital dentistry to removable partial dentures.