Computer aided design for fixed partial denture framework based on reverse engineering technology / 中华口腔医学杂志

ABSTRACT

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To explore a computer aided design (CAD) route for the framework of domestic fixed partial denture (FPD) and confirm the suitable method of 3-D CAD.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>The working area of a dentition model was scanned with a 3-D mechanical scanner. Using the reverse engineering (RE) software, margin and border curves were extracted and several reference curves were created to ensure the dimension and location of pontic framework that was taken from the standard database. The shoulder parts of the retainers were created after axial surfaces constructed. The connecting areas, axial line and curving surface of the framework connector were finally created.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The framework of a three-unit FPD was designed with RE technology, which showed smooth surfaces and continuous contours.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>The design route is practical. The result of this study is significant in theory and practice, which will provide a reference for establishing the computer aided design/computer aided manufacture (CAD/CAM) system of domestic FPD.</p>