Digital workflows for complete denture teeth arrangement: Technique, clinical implications, and future directions

Aim: The aim of the study is to evaluate digital workflows for complete denture teeth arrangement and compare them with conventional techniques, with emphasis on their relevance to dental education, clinical training, and skill acquisition. Materials and Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar for studies published between 2010 and 2024 using the keywords complete denture, C computer-aided design (CAD)/computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), digital denture, virtual tooth arrangement, 3D printing, and prosthodontics. Relevant randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews, and observational studies were included. Summary: Conventional denture fabrication relies heavily on operator skill and involves time-consuming laboratory procedures, often leading to variability in tooth arrangement. Digital workflows – integrating intraoral scanning, CAD, CAM, and 3D printing – provide improved precision, reproducibility, and efficiency. Clinical studies demonstrate higher patient satisfaction and reduced adjustment needs with digital dentures. However, challenges such as high cost, limited material options, and the need for specialized training hinder universal adoption. Conclusion: Digital technologies are reshaping prosthodontics by enabling predictable, patient-centered denture fabrication. Hybrid approaches that combine digital precision with conventional customization currently offer the most practical solution. With advancements in artificial intelligence and biomaterials, fully digital dentures are likely to become the future standard of care.