Overview: This article explains how to set up a complete denture case in Chairside software using a patient's existing dentures as a reference for fit and vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO).
Clinical Scenarios for Existing Dentures
Use the existing denture workflow when performing the following clinical tasks:
Fabricating a new denture using a current full denture as a reference for the occlusal relationship.
Creating an exact copy of a current full denture.
[!NOTE] If using a current partial denture as a reference, use the Chairside Immediate Denture Workflow. If only changing the intaglio (fit) of the denture, use the Chairside Reline Denture Workflow.
Case Setup and Patient Selection
On the Chairside homescreen, click Start.
Enter the patient’s first and last name.
For existing patients, select the patient name and click Order Something New.
For new patients, enter the gender and birthday, then click Create and Continue.
[!NOTE] If this is a refabrication order, please refer to this article: How To Refabricate an Order.
Product Selection Process
Click Dentures, then select Denture.
Select New Denture, then click Next.
Select Yes - I will use the existing denture to establish my patient’s bite and vertical dimension.
Specify if you want an exact copy:
Select Yes for an exact copy and click Next.
Select No if you do not want an exact copy. Type specific instructions regarding required changes and click Next.
Specify if the denture is implant-supported:
Select No if the denture is not implant-supported.
For implant-supported cases, click Switch to Overdentures on the right side of the screen.
Select the relevant arch (Maxillary, Mandibular, or Both) and click Next.
Review selections. Click Add Another Item for additional products or Start Scanning to begin.
Denture Preparation and Impression Capture
Evaluate the fit of the existing denture before scanning. If the denture is loose, follow the impression capture procedure below. If the denture fits well, proceed directly to scanning.
Impression Capture Procedure
Ensure the existing denture is clean, dry, and free of debris.
Apply a thin, even layer of light body impression material to the intaglio (inside) of the denture.
Place the denture into the patient’s mouth.
Apply firm, evenly dispersed pressure across the denture. Avoid seating the denture in an anterior-to-posterior direction to prevent material from seeping into the oropharynx.
Perform functional movements of the cheeks and labial tissues.
Instruct the patient to protrude their tongue and move the tongue side-to-side.
Wait for the light body impression material to set completely.
Post-Impression Processing
Relieve the suction of the denture by placing one finger gently under the posterior buccal border, then remove the denture from the patient’s mouth.
Evaluate the impression for voids, inconsistencies, or overhangs. Re-impress if necessary.
Trim any excess impression material from the tooth surfaces of the denture.
Confirm the vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO) is correct. Adjust the VDO if necessary.
Occlusal Relationship and Bite Registration
Instruct the patient to bite down and evaluate the interocclusal relationship.
Adjust the denture if discrepancies exist in the following areas:
The plane of occlusion
The curve of Spee
The curve of Wilson
The incisal curve
Apply a layer of bite registration material to the occlusal surfaces of the mandibular teeth.
Instruct the patient to bite down into a repeatable, natural position.
Confirm the VDO and occlusal relationship are correct while the bite registration material is in place.
Trim excess bite registration material covering the buccal and facial surfaces of the teeth.
Required Clinical Photographs
Capture and upload the following images of the patient wearing the dentures:
Natural Smile: One head-on photo of the patient smiling naturally.
Profile Pictures: Two profile photos (one from each side) of the patient smiling naturally.
Cheek Retractors: One head-on photo of the patient with cheek retractors in place.