Masticatory efficiency, quality of life, comfort, retention and satisfaction on digital denture: case report

Eficiência masticatória, qualidade de vida, conforto, retenção e satisfação com prótese total digital: caso clínico

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to describe a clinical protocol for fabrication of maxillary and mandibular dentures using CAD/CAM technology. Further, digital and conventional dentures fabricated for the same patient were compared. The comparison was based on patient’s satisfaction, comfort, retention, number of follow-up sessions, masticatory performance and quality of life. No laboratorial step was needed for CAD/CAM fabrication and less sessions were required up to denture insertion. Compared to the conventional dentures, digital dentures provided better satisfaction, comfort and retention and required less follow-up sessions. Both dentures presented similar results about masticatory performance and quality of life. As a conclusion, digital denture is a viable treatment alternative for edentulous patients. However, controlled and randomized clinical trials are required to reveal the real benefits of this treatment alternative compared to the conventional denture.

Indexing terms
Computer-aided design; Denture, complete; Dentistry