Comparative clinical evaluation of removable partial denture frameworks fabricated traditionally or with selective laser melting: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Statement of problem

The clinical efficacy of selective laser melting (SLM) for fabricating removable partial dentures (RPDs) is not well established.

Purpose

The purpose of this clinical study was to compare the performance of SLM-fabricated frameworks with that of those fabricated via traditional lost wax casting.

Material and methods

A double-blind, randomized, crossover design was used to compare cobalt-chromium partial denture frameworks (n=29) fabricated by using SLM or traditional methods. The time taken for adjustments and the clinical fit and stability of the adjusted frameworks were appraised. The accuracy of the frameworks was assessed by measuring the space between the occlusal rest seat and the corresponding rest seat. Statistical comparisons between the 2 frameworks were carried out by using a linear mixed-effect model for repeated measurements (α=.05).

Results

Frameworks fabricated by using both SLM and traditional techniques had an acceptable fit based on subjective clinical evaluation. The overall mean ±standard deviation space between the occlusal rest and rest seat for SLM frameworks (273.7 ±44.5 μm) was comparable with that of traditional frameworks (242.2 ±44.5 μm). The clinical fit adjustment time, 7.76 ±6.43 minutes for SLM and 5.49 ±6.39 minutes for traditionally fabricated frameworks, was statistically similar (P=.067).

Conclusions

Dentures fabricated via SLM and traditional techniques had comparable accuracy of fit and clinical fitting time.