Development of removable partial dentures by using additive manufacture and casting processes

Purpose: This work aims to present a methodology developed for dimensional analysis of removable partial dentures, following a route with a model manufactured by additive manufacture and a further casting process of a Co-Cr alloy part. Design/methodology/approach: The method for designing and manufacturing removable partial dentures (RPD) is focused on their completely virtual design. They are manufactured with resin additive manufacturing chrome-cobalt cast alloys. A 3D image correlation scanner was used for dimensional and geometrical tolerance analysis. Findings: The prostheses manufactured by CAD-CAM route are more accurate than conventional ones, but they suffer distortion during the casting process. This distortion did not interfere with the patient’s well-being or with the adaptation to the prosthesis. Research limitations/implications: The technique presented herein paper allows preparing better fitting prosthesis. Providing the best comfort and masticatory power. Practical implications: Improving the precision in the manufacturing process of a removable partial denture is very important for professional dentists and their patients. Originality/value: The proposed technique and the work approach provide the prosthesis preparation with shorter ambulatory time in addition to greater comfort to the patient.