Intraoral scanning for immediate denture fabrication in a patient with an unstable fixed prosthesis and severe tooth mobility: A case report.

PATIENTS Conventional impression taking for immediate denture fabrication may pose substantial risks to patients with unstable fixed prostheses or severely mobile teeth. This case report describes the use of an intraoral scanner (IOS) to obtain digital impressions and interocclusal records in a 74-year-old woman with an unstable maxillary full-arch fixed prosthesis and non-salvageable abutment teeth, which carry a substantial risk of prosthesis dislodgement, unintended extraction, or loss of the pre-extraction interocclusal relationship. Digital impressions were obtained without removing the failing prosthesis, and interocclusal records were acquired at the existing intercuspal position to preserve the pre-extraction occlusal relationship. The teeth planned for extraction were digitally removed using computer-aided design software, and the working casts were fabricated by three-dimensional printing. An immediate complete maxillary denture is conventionally fabricated on a duplicated gypsum cast and delivered immediately after prosthesis removal and tooth extraction.

Discussion

Throughout the treatment, the digital approach preserved the pre-extraction occlusal relationship, avoided an edentulous interval, and supported oral function and patient comfort. The clinical contribution of this report lies in demonstrating the practical value of intraoral scanning in high-risk situations involving unstable prostheses and severe tooth mobility.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of a single case, digital impression and interocclusal recording with an IOS may be useful options for immediate denture fabrication in patients with unstable prostheses and severe tooth mobility, particularly when preserving the pre-extraction occlusal relationship and avoiding prosthesis dislodgement or unintended extraction are clinically important.