Improvement of prosthetic device fit using a 3D scanner

<p>Purpose: We superimposed the digital scan data of a maxillary complete denture fabricated by microwave curing with the digital scan data of a physical working model, then investigated the change in fit by adjusting interference areas.</p><p>Methods: The scan data of 10 maxillary complete dentures fabricated by microwave curing and 10 working models were superimposed to investigate changes in fit according to adjustment of interference areas. The interference areas were then machined and re-evaluated.</p><p>Main results: The fit rates were 60.1±4.8% immediately after polymerization, 69.3±5.9% for the first round of grinding, and 73.4±6.0% for the second round of grinding. One-way analysis of variance showed that the compliance rate significantly increased with grinding. Additionally, multiple comparisons were made between uncut and first grinding, first and second grinding, and uncut and second grinding; the fit rate significantly increased in all cases. Repeated measurements and analysis of variance regarding deviation between the working model and the finished denture showed that the deviation was significantly reduced by grinding and the overall fit was improved; however, there were differences among the sites, and not all sites displayed similar improvement.</p><p>Principal conclusions: By superimposing the stereolithography data of a working model on the mucosal surface of a maxillary complete denture using a three-dimensional scanner, we were able to improve the fit. (J Osaka Dent Univ 2024; 58: 85-93)</p>