Abstract: Objective: To primary explore the application of 3D scanning and 3D printing technique in the restoration of edentulous patient. Methods: 30 edentulous cases (Atwood class 1-4) visited our hospital from 3/1/2018 to 5/1/2020 were selected. The cases were randomly divided into 2 groups: the traditional complete denture group (Group A) and the 3D printing complete denture group (Group B). Each group had 15 cases. Group A used traditional method to manufacture the complete denture, and Group B used 3D scanning, CAD (Computer-aided design), 3D printing, and duplicate denture technique to manufacture the dentures. The patients' satisfaction was measured using the visual analogue scale (VAS) at 4 time points: immediately after denture delivery, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months following denture delivery. Results: The ability to speak and chew and the comfort of two groups of dentures were gradually improved in the first three time points. The VAS scores increased to a satisfy level after 3 months. The esthetics and stability of two groups of dentures scored high since the initial delivery. The VAS scores of two groups on esthetics, ability to speak, ability to chew, stability, and comfort had no statistic difference (P>0.05) on each time point. The visiting times of 3D printing complete denture were significantly decreased in comparison to traditional complete denture. Conclusion: 3D printing complete denture can restore the edentulous patients rapidly, so as to meet the patients’ demanding of esthetic and function.

Key words: 3D scanning, 3D printing, complete denture, clinical application, exploration