Digital Workflows in Prosthodontics.

Abstract

The rapid advancement of scanning technologies, design software, and manufacturing techniques has led to the maturation of digital workflows in prosthodontics over the past few decades. Initially perceived as alternatives to analogue workflows, digital workflows now offer significant advantages in diagnosis, treatment planning, communication, and prosthesis design and fabrication. The growing demand for efficient, predictable, aesthetic, and outcome-driven prosthodontic treatments has led to increasing adoption of digital workflows. This integration has transformed each step of prosthodontic treatment, resulting in three digital workflows: laboratory, clinical, and combined clinical-laboratory workflows. Although most prosthodontic treatments can now be executed digitally, a universally applicable digital workflow is yet to be established. Contrary to analogue workflows, digital workflows continue to evolve rapidly, with significant improvements anticipated in the near future that may establish them as the mainstream approach in prosthodontics. This review article aims to: (1) illustrate the importance of digital workflows in modern prosthodontics, (2) discuss available digital workflows in relation to different areas of prosthodontics, and (3) explore how recent advancements in digital dentistry are likely to shape the future of prosthodontics.