Purpose

The purpose of the present study is to investigate and illuminate which workflow regarding analog and digital models is preferred for fixed prosthetics, by dental technicians in the CAD/CAM department.

Material and method

A quantitative investigation was conducted as a survey in the city of Malmö. Surveys were physically distributed to dental laboratories working with both conventional and digital impressions and models in the CAD/CAM department regarding fixed prosthodontics. In the surveys, the dental technicians were asked how long their work experience is and which work model is preferred for implant-supported and tooth-supported crowns and fixed dental prostheses (FDPs).

Results

Nine dental laboratories worked with both techniques. Seven out of nine laboratories participated. The respondents consisted of 30 dental technicians. Fifteen had worked as a dental technician for more than 20 years. The work experience of the remaining was zero to 25 years. The work was mostly done with analog models for implant-supported and tooth-supported restorations. Dental technicians preferred analog models for tooth-supported and implant-supported FDPs longer than 5 units. The majority believed digital impression files are time-efficient, while analog models provide higher precision.

Conclusion

For tooth-supported and implant-supported single crowns, digital impression file is preferred which can be explained by perceived time efficiency. For tooth-supported and implant-supported three to five FDPs, analog model is preferred which can be explained by perceived high precision of the model. For FDPs longer than five units, analog model is preferred, which can be explained by perceived high precision of the model.