Digital Denture Laboratory

How a Digital Impression is Used to Create Digital Dentures

For the fastest results, we encourage our dentists to take digital impressions, which serve as the foundation for designing the denture in CAD software. However, a digital denture can also be made from an analogue impression by scanning a physical mould. The digital model enables precise customisation of the denture design. Once the design is finalised, it is sent to a CAM machine, ensuring the denture is manufactured with high accuracy based on the digital model.

Digital Denture Workflow

The process of creating digital dentures can vary depending on the type of denture required. Below is an overview of the workflows for different digital denture types.

Workflow for Digital Dentures:

Initial Consultation: Assessing the patient’s needs and suitability for digital dentures.
Digital Impression Scan: Capture detailed 3D images of the patient’s mouth using an intraoral scanner.
CAD Design: The digital scans are then imported into CAD software, where the dentures are meticulously designed by our dental technicians.
CAM Manufacturing: Once the design is finalised, it is sent to a CAM machine that mills the dentures from high-quality PMMA materials.
Fitting and Adjustment: Ensure the dentures fit and make any necessary adjustments.

Workflow for Digital Denture Implants:

1. Initial Consultation: Assessing the patient’s suitability for implants.
2. Digital Planning: Designing the implant-supported denture using CAD software.
3. Surgical Guides: Creating guides for precise implant placement.
4. Implant Placement: Surgically placing the implants in the patient’s jawbone.
5. Denture Fabrication: Designing and producing the denture to fit the implants.
6. Fitting and Adjustment: Ensuring optimal integration and comfort for the patient.

Types of Digital Dentures

• Digital Complete Denture: These dentures are designed to replace all teeth in either the upper or lower arch. 
• Digital Partial Denture: These are designed to replace multiple missing teeth. 
• Digital Implant Denture: Supported by dental implants, these dentures offer enhanced stability and function for patients seeking a more permanent solution.
• Digital Immediate Denture: Created in advance and placed immediately after tooth extraction.
• Digital Denture for Children: Designed for younger patients, accounting development needs of children.

Materials Used to Create Digital Dentures

PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate)

PMMA, is a strong, biocompatible material commonly used in digital denture fabrication. It offers several benefits:

• Durability: PMMA dentures are highly resistant to wear and fracture, ensuring long-lasting performance.
• Aesthetics: They provide a natural appearance with excellent colour stability, maintaining their look over time.
• Comfort: PMMA is lightweight and can be precisely moulded to fit the patient’s mouth.

FAQ

Can a digital denture be relined?

Yes, a digital denture can be relined. Relining involves adding new material to the tissue side of the denture to ensure a snug fit against the gums, which may change shape over time.

What is the turnaround time for a digital denture?

The turnaround time for a digital denture starts from 3 days.