Effect of Auxiliary Occlussal Devices on the Occlusal Accuracy of Multiple Implant‐Supported Restorations Fabricated Using Digital Workflow: A Randomized Control Trial

Objective This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of auxiliary occlusal devices (AODs) in improving occlusal accuracy and reducing clinical adjustments in a fully digital workflow for multiple (3 or more) implant‐supported single crowns. Materials and Methods Twenty‐nine patients with a total of 106 implant‐supported single crowns were enrolled. Participants were randomly assigned to either the test group (with AODs) or the control group (without AODs). Both groups underwent a digital workflow, and the morphology of restorations was recorded before and after occlusal adjustment using an intra‐oral scanner. Quantitative occlusal modifications, including grinding and porcelain additions, were calculated by 3D analysis software, and crown remake (occlusal deficiency > 0.5 mm) was documented. Statistical analysis included the Mann–Whitney U test, Fisher's exact test, and generalized linear mixed model to assess the effects of group assignment, edentulous position, and their interaction on the amount of occlusal adjustment. Results The test group exhibited significantly lower rates of porcelain addition (16.4% vs. 26.3%, p = 0.051) and crown remake (3.8% vs. 20.4%, p = 0.015) compared to the control group. The absolute amount of occlusal modification was significantly reduced in the AOD group (median 0.3290 mm) compared to the control (median 0.5273 mm, p = 0.001). Notably, free‐end saddle crowns showed a higher incidence of occlusal porcelain addition ( p = 0.022), but the use of AODs in these cases significantly mitigated the need for adjustments ( p = 0.007). Conclusion The incorporation of AODs in a digital workflow significantly improves the precision of occlusal registration and reduces chairside modifications and remakes. AODs are especially beneficial in complex cases such as free‐end saddles and should be considered a valuable adjunct in digital implant prosthodontics. Trial Registration This study was registered on the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ( https://www.chictr.org.cn/ ; ChiCTR2200064819)