Long-term clinical outcomes of CAD-CAM milled versus 3D-printed removable partial dentures

Limited evidence exists regarding the long-term clinical performance, patient satisfaction and prosthesis outcomes of CAD-CAM milled and 3D-printed removable partial dentures (RPDs). Therefore, it is of interest to evaluate the long-term clinical performance, patient satisfaction and prosthesis outcomes of CAD-CAM milled and 3D-printed removable partial dentures (RPDs) in 60 patients over a 24-month period. Framework fit, retention, stability, required adjustments and functional outcomes were assessed at multiple follow-up intervals along with patient-reported parameters including comfort, aesthetics and masticatory efficiency. Both groups demonstrated satisfactory clinical performance and aesthetics throughout the study duration. However, CAD-CAM milled RPDs showed significantly better framework fit, retention and required fewer adjustments, with higher patient satisfaction scores (p < 0.05), while functional outcomes were comparable between the groups. Thus, data shows the both fabrication methods are clinically reliable, although CAD-CAM milled RPDs offer superior precision and patient comfort.