Enhancing the predictability of complex rehabilitation with a removable CAD/CAM-fabricated long-term provisional prosthesis: a clinical report

Abstract

Implementing any definitive prosthetic treatment of the residual edentulous ridge involves several risks. The patient's expectations may not be completely fulfilled as such treatment procedures include major changes in function and esthetics. Innovative materials, such as high-density polymers based on a highly cross-linked polymethylmetacrylate (PMMA) or composite resin for CAD/CAM-manufacturing are an alternative treatment option. They enhance the predictability of complex rehabilitations, especially in situations where the prognosis of the residual ridge behavior over time is challenging. This article describes an innovative approach of an extended pretreatment phase by using intraoral scanning and CAD/CAM technology for the fabrication of a long-term provisional removable dental prosthesis made of high-density polymer.