Background
Microstomia is a principal clinical symptom in patients with scleroderma. It is characterized
by an abnormally small mouth opening, which makes traditional prosthetic rehabilitation
difficult.
Methods
First, the primary impression and jaw relation record were acquired using an intraoral
scanning technique and the primary diagnostic dentures were fabricated using 3-dimensional
printing (3DP). The definitive impression and jaw relation were obtained and digitally
scanned. The second diagnostic denture was also made to confirm the esthetic and occlusal
effects. Next, the adjusted dentition parts were scanned and milled from a cross-linked
polymethyl methacrylate disk. In addition, the titanium alloy frameworks were also
fabricated using 3DP. With flasking, the milled dentition parts were inserted and
the definitive dentures were finally fabricated and delivered to the patient.
Results
The authors constructed the definitive removable partial dentures successfully using
the digital methods of intraoral scanning, computer-aided design, and 3DP.
Conclusions and Practical Implications
These digital methods provide an alternative option for prosthetic rehabilitation
in scleroderma patients with severe microstomia.
