Template-aided and freehand guiding plane preparation for removable partial dentures: A randomized controlled trial.

Purpose: To evaluate the accuracy of guiding plane preparation for removable partial dentures (RPDs) using 3D-printed templates compared to the freehand method.

Materials and methods: Twenty partially edentulous patients requiring RPDs were randomly divided into two groups: the template-aided group (n = 10) and the freehand group (n = 10). Fifty-six guiding planes were prepared by a single clinician using two different methods. The angle deviation between the prepared guiding plane and the RPD path of placement was measured for both groups. The 3D deviations between the prepared guiding plane and the designed guiding plane were measured for the template-aided group. Patient satisfaction with the RPD was evaluated 2 weeks post-RPD wearing.

Results: The angular deviation observed in the template-aided group (1.77±1.11 degrees) was significantly lower than that (6.29±4.18 degrees) in the freehand group (p < .001). Additionally, the 3D deviation between the prepared guiding plane and the designed guiding plane of the template-aided group was 106.2±40.9 µm. No significant difference in patient satisfaction scores related to RPD wearing was found between the two groups.

Conclusions: Utilizing the cobalt-chromium (CoCr) alloy template significantly improved the accuracy of guiding plane preparation in the clinic, irrespective of the site of the abutment tooth.