Digital Denture Laboratory

How a Digital Impression is Used to Create Digital Dentures

For the fastest and most accurate results, we recommend dentists take digital impressions, which form the foundation for designing dentures using CAD software. Alternatively, digital dentures can be made from analogue impressions by scanning the physical mould into a digital format.

The digital model is a 3D render of the patient’s dentition. This allows for precise customisation of the denture design. Once the computer design is finalised, the file is sent to a CAM machine, where the denture is manufactured with exceptional accuracy, ensuring an excellent fit with reliable, replicable results.

Digital Denture Workflow

The process of creating digital dentures varies based on the type of denture needed. Below is an outline of the workflows for different types of digital dentures:

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: Digital scans are 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: Assess the patient’s suitability for implant-supported dentures and plan the treatment approach.
2. Digital Planning: Use CAD software to design the implant-supported denture and plan the implant positions.
3. Surgical Guides: Create precise guides to ensure accurate implant placement during surgery.
4. Implant Placement: Surgically place the implants into the patient’s jawbone for a secure foundation.
5. Denture Fabrication: Design and produce the denture to fit perfectly onto the implants, ensuring stability and aesthetics.
6. Fitting and Adjustment: Fit the denture, make any necessary adjustments, and ensure comfort and proper integration for the patient.

Types of Digital Dentures

• Digital Complete Denture
  Designed to replace all teeth in either the upper or lower arch, offering a fully restored smile and functionality.
• Digital Partial Denture
  Created to replace multiple missing teeth, these dentures blend seamlessly with the patient’s existing teeth.
• Digital Implant Denture
  Supported by dental implants, these dentures provide enhanced stability and function, ideal for patients seeking a long-term solution.
• Digital Immediate Denture
  Made in advance and placed immediately after tooth extraction, allowing patients to leave with a functional smile on the same day.
• Digital Denture for Children
  Specially designed for younger patients, considering their unique development needs and comfort.

Materials Used to Create Digital Dentures

PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate) is a durable and biocompatible material commonly used in the fabrication of digital dentures. It resists wear and fracture, ensuring it lasts a long time. PMMA also offers excellent aesthetics, providing a natural appearance with outstanding colour stability that maintains its look over time. Additionally, it is lightweight and can be precisely moulded to fit comfortably in the patient’s mouth, making it an ideal choice for digital denture manufacturing.

FAQ

Can a digital denture be relined?

Yes, digital dentures can be relined. This process involves adding new material to the gum side of the denture to maintain a snug fit as the gums change over time.

What is the turnaround time for a digital denture?

The turnaround time for a digital denture is as quick as 3 days.