Team approach between prosthodontics and dental technology

Abstract

A collaborative relationship between prosthodontists and dental technicians can greatly improve the esthetic and functional results of restorations. When each discipline takes the time to understand the strengths and challenges of the other, together they can formulate a treatment plan that will culminate in a successful result. The diagnostic waxup gives the dental team a three-dimensional illustration of the problem and allows the patient to view the problem and discuss solutions. Intraoral records taken by the prosthodontist are used with the technician's centric relation jigs to properly mount the casts. When the prosthodontist and technician agree on materials to be used in the fabrication of the provisional prosthesis and master dies, more accurate and functional results are achieved. Of special interest are the tooth preparations: The shape of the margins can enable the dental technician to easily create an accurate restoration. A treatment waxup allows full communication of information about the restoration between the prosthodontist, dental technician, and patient, ensuring that all three parties are satisfied with the look and function before the definitive restoration is made. The type of material and the color properties for the definitive restoration are of utmost importance, and the combined skills and experience of the prosthodontist and dental technician can create an excellent result. This article defines specific points in the restorative process when a collaborative effort between the prosthodontist and the dental technician dramatically improve the end result.