Intraoral scanner and computer-aided design/manufacturing technology for the fabrication of double-crown-retained removable dental prosthesis: A clinical report

Patient: This clinical report describes treatment with a double-crown-retained removable dental prosthesis fabricated using an intraoral scanner (IOS) and computer-aided design/manufacturing technology (CAD/CAM). A 68-year-old female patient presented with complaints of missing maxillary right first and left second premolars. CAD/CAM technology was applied to plan treatment with a double-crown-retained removable dental prosthesis. The patient consented to this treatment option but did not want orthodontic treatment for the anterior crossbite of the right side. After the definitive preparation of the abutment teeth, the shape of the provisional restoration was adjusted to match the definitive prosthesis. An IOS was used to obtain digital scans of the provisional restoration, occlusion, antagonist arch, and prepared surface of the abutment teeth. First, the primary crowns were milled from cobalt-chromium alloy. Next, using an intraoral scanner, a pick-up impression of the primary crowns was performed, and the secondary crowns were designed, milled, and veneered. After delivery, the patient expressed satisfaction with the functionality, esthetics, and fit of the double-crown-retained removable dental prosthesis. Discussion: The surface of the primary crowns was coated with scan spray when the pick-up impression was made using the IOS. Practice is needed to achieve a thin and homogeneous coating with scan spray to improve reproducibility. Conclusion: Double-crown-retained removable dental prostheses can be successfully fabricated using an IOS and CAD/CAM technology, resulting in patient satisfaction.