Digital Model Replacement Enhances Free-End Removable Partial Dentures

Dental defects are common clinical conditions that impair masticatory function, speech clarity, and facial aesthetics. Removable partial dentures (RPDs) remain the primary restorative approach, particularly for patients unsuitable for implants. Impression accuracy is critical for RPD efficacy, especially in free-end edentulism. Traditional anatomic impressions often lead to unstable free-end margins and frequent denture adjustments, compromising restoration quality. This study compared digital model replacement technology (combining digital models with selective pressure impressions) against conventional impression techniques in fabricating free-end RPDs. Evaluation metrics included fabrication precision, production cycle, clinic visits, masticatory efficiency, and patient satisfaction. Digital model replacement technology significantly improved processing accuracy of free-end RPDs compared to traditional methods, reducing free-end sinking and instability. Additionally, the digital approach shortened production cycles, decreased clinic visits, and enhanced both masticatory efficiency and patient satisfaction. Digital model replacement improves model stability, comfort, and patient satisfaction, offering an advanced free - end edentulism restoration method with great practical and clinical significance.