What is the impact of digital technologies on removable complete dentures: Advances, challenges, and clinical implications: A narrative review

BACKGROUND: With the rapid advancement of digital technologies, dentistry has witnessed significant innovations, particularly in the fabrication of removable complete dentures. The objective of this narrative review is to examine the evolution, current state, and future directions of digital removable complete dentures, with a focus on comparing computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) approaches to conventional techniques in terms of clinical efficiency and patient satisfaction. METHODS: A narrative review was conducted by searching PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science for articles published between January 2010 and April 2025. Relevant keywords related to digital dentures, CAD/CAM, 3D printing, and patient outcomes were used. Studies focusing on digital complete denture fabrication and comparisons with conventional methods were included. RESULTS: Evidence indicates that digitally fabricated complete dentures demonstrate comparable or superior outcomes in retention, adaptation, and patient satisfaction. They also reduce the number of clinical visits and post-insertion adjustments. However, concerns remain regarding material properties, cost-effectiveness, and long-term performance. CONCLUSIONS: Digital denture fabrication presents a promising alternative to conventional methods, although further advancements in materials and long-term clinical validation are needed. Tailored implementation of digital workflows can enhance treatment efficiency and patient experience in removable prosthodontics.