The Dimensional Changes of Clasp Arm in Removable Partial Denture Frameworks Fabricated Through DMLS and Conventional Lost Wax Technique: An In Vitro Study

AIM: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effect of CAD designing on the dimensions of the clasp arm. METHODOLOGY: A Kennedy Class III mod I cast was selected as the reference cast. Samples were divided into 2 groups, Group I with DMLS and Group II with Conventional lost wax technique. Three reference points were selected on the clasp arm and the vertical dimensions were measured in the digital design and compared it with the dimensions at the same points in the final framework. RESULTS: There was slight expansion in group 1 (p-value > 0.05) with mean of -0.035 and standard deviation 0.088. And there was decrease in dimensions in the clasp arm in group 2 (p-value < 0.05) with mean of 0.1741 and standard deviation 0.081. CONCLUSION: From the present study, it was concluded that the dimensions of the clasp arm of DMLS framework increased slightly, whereas the there was significant decrease in the clasp arm dimensions in the framework produced through conventional lost wax technique. Both the frameworks had clinically acceptable fit.