Telescopic works in dental technology: Critical success factors in manufacturing processes
Telescopic works play a crucial role in dental technology. As holding elements, they fix the dentures in the mouth, a task that requires precision and the highest quality standards. At CADdent, this task is accomplished with a mix of experience and innovative spirit.
The different manufacturing methods of telescopic works
Telescopics can be manufactured in two main ways: traditional modeling and casting and modern CAD/CAM manufacturing processes. The latter offer a variety of options, such as subtractive manufacturing (milling) or additive manufacturing (e.g. LaserMelting) and are particularly suitable for the production of parallel telescopics. This flexibility allows both primary and secondary telescopics to be manufactured efficiently.
An innovative option is the production of a superstructure framework using PEEK high-performance polymer, but this is rarely chosen due to the challenging processing options. Instead of a traditional electroplated cap, you can mill a thin cap made of high-performance polymer. But even if the superstructue framework is often manufactured in a traditional way, the production of the associated PEEK caps is increasing. This approach reflects the progressive and original solutions that CADdent is known for.
Advantages and disadvantages as well as critical success factors of the various manufacturing processes for telescopic works
Each manufacturing process has its own advantages and disadvantages which need to be taken into account:
1. Casting:
A traditional method to be implemented without CAD/CAM systems, but it requires a lot of working time as well as energy and material consumption.
Critical factors of success:
Precise molding: An exact molding is the basis for a precisely fitting wax model and thus for the final casting.
Accurate wax modeling: The skill and precision in wax modeling are crucial to the quality of the final product.
Controlling the embedding material: Skillful handling and control of the embedding material is important for a uniform and error-free casting result.
2. Subtractive manufacturing – Milling:
It offers quick implementation and distortion-free fit. However, limitations such as the lack of small-part retentions, milling shadows, milling corrections and the dependence on scan quality must be observed.
Critical factors of success:
Wall thickness: Compliance with the minimum wall thickness requirements is crucial to ensure the stability and longevity of the telescopics.
Quality: The quality of the final product must be consistent and repeatable. The use of tactical scanning techniques can contribute to accuracy and reliability.
Positioning in the blank / disk: It is important to place the telescopics on the blank or disk efficiently, but not too closely, to avoid wasting material and optimize the machining process.
3. Additive manufacturing – LaserMelting:
It also allows for quick implementation and is cost-effective. It creates everything modeled virtually, including retentions and undercuts. The disadvantages are a rougher surface and the need to rework the fitting surfaces.
Critical factors of success:
Wall thickness: Here too, compliance with the minimum requirements for wall thickness is essential for the functionality and durability of the telescopics.
Quality of the scan: For good results with LaserMelting, high quality and repeatability of the scan is required.
Accuracy of the CAD models: Precise and detailed CAD models are the necessary basis for successful implementation.
Machine calibration: Exact calibration of the laser systems guarantees precision in production.
Supports / Fabrication support structures: Correct placement of these structures is critical to stability during the manufacturing process.
Post-processing: Thorough, high-quality post-processing is necessary to achieve optimal fit and surface quality.
CADdent's preferred method for producing telescopic works
At CADdent, the LaserMelting process is preferred due to its cost effectiveness and the requirements for non-precious metal or titanium work. However, for exclusive telescopic works, dental laboratories usually remain true to traditional gold production
CONCLUSION
These critical success factors make it clear that quality and precision are the highest priority at every step of the dental telescopic manufacturing process at CADdent. Taking these factors into account ensures that each denture is not only functional, but also an expression of craftsmanship and technological expertise. With a professional, experienced and at the same time progressive approach, CADdent proves that the combination of traditional methods and modern technology is the best way to achieve high quality and patient-oriented dental solutions.