DIGITAL AIDS IN PROSTHODONTICS

Advances in digital imaging, computer-aided design, internet communication, digital manufacturing and new materials have simplified the diagnostic process and improved treatment outcomes. Digital technology has impacted patient motivation, practice management and clinical treatment procedures. The contemporary dental practice has endless options for preserving oral health and providing next to natural aesthetics with an enhanced approach, reduced treatment time, minimized error potential and better-quality assurance. Digitization has become part of contemporary prosthodontics with the probability of most procedures being based on digital techniques in the near future. The adoption of new treatment protocols to fabricate dentures with computer-aided technology will be no exception to controversy. However, current commercial protocols should be improved and validated through sound clinical and laboratory research to overcome many of the disadvantages listed. Thus, current and future clinicians should aid manufacturers in improving the current treatment protocols.