Creating a bite rim for the initial vertical dimension setup in denture fabrication is a crucial step in ensuring patient comfort and fit. Traditionally, this process required extensive manual work, incorporating facial scans, facebows, or other guiding information to establish the mid-line accurately. However, with the advent of digital dentistry tools like Medit apps, dental professionals can now streamline this process, enhancing efficiency and precision. This blog post provides a detailed walkthrough on designing a 3D printable bite rim using Medit apps, aiming to simplify this critical step for dental practitioners.
The journey begins with scanning the upper and lower edentulous arches, a foundational step that ensures the accuracy of the subsequent design stages. After scanning, the next step involves loading the files into the Medit Splints app, where the actual design process kicks off.
Designing the Bite Rim: Step-by-Step
Selecting the Arch and Design Type
Start with choosing the Maxilla and opting for a Flat Plane design. This selection is crucial as it sets the foundation for the bite rim’s structure.
Manual Creation Mode
Dive into the Manual Creation mode, focusing on the Inner Surface Creation Mode. Here, the insertion path is established, setting the stage for a precise fit. Maximum inner surface offset is applied to ensure no retention issues, a key consideration for a successful bite rim design.
Outline Designation
With edentulous scans, the system allows for manual setup of the margin. This flexibility is vital in ensuring the bite rim can fully settle later on. The margin should be broad enough to accommodate the full structure of the bite rim.
Designing for Continuity
In the Design Mode, use the sculpting tool to create marks that will aid in the continuity of occlusion scanning. This step is essential for maintaining the integrity of the occlusal surface during further scanning and adjustments.
Completing the Design
Once the design for one arch is complete, do the same process for the opposite arch, ensuring both are precisely designed for the initial occlusion setup.
Adjustments and Finalization
After designing both arches, the files are loaded into the Medit Design app for further adjustments. This includes aligning the arches for initial occlusion, removing occlusal surfaces from the splints for a perfect fit, and using various tools like Combine, Bridge, and Fill holes to merge and refine the design.
A notable step involves importing a thin square STL (available for download below the clip) and positioning it on the virtual occlusal plane. This inclusion is critical for accurately cutting the plane from the bite block, ensuring a seamless fit and optimal vertical dimension setup.
The Outcome
Following these detailed steps results in a pair of upper and lower bite rims, ready for the initial vertical dimension setup. This process, made efficient and precise with Medit apps, represents a significant leap forward in digital dentistry, offering dental professionals a streamlined approach to a traditionally complex procedure.
For a visual and detailed guide on designing a 3D printable bite rim with Medit apps, watch our instructional video here.
This quick guide ensures you have all the necessary steps and tips at your fingertips, simplifying the design process for your dental practice.
