From Porcelain Teeth to CAD/CAM Precision: The Denture Revolution

Gregg Helvey, DDS, CDT

October 2026 Course - Expires Wednesday, October 31st, 2029

Web Only

Abstract

This presentation traces the history of denture-making from 1850 to today, covering the key materials, inventors, and turning points — from vulcanized rubber and porcelain, through acrylic resin and titanium implants, to today's digital CAD/CAM workflows and zirconia. Along the way, it highlights the science, the controversies (including a literal patent-dispute assassination), and the steady march toward stronger, more precise, and more comfortable tooth replacement.

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CREDITS: 1 SI
AGD CODE: 670 - Removable Prosthodontics
COST: $0.00
PROVIDER: Conexiant Education
SOURCE: CDEWorld | October 2026
COMMERCIAL SUPPORTER: HALEON

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify the major materials used in denture fabrication since 1850 — including vulcanite, acrylic (PMMA), cobalt-chromium, titanium, and zirconia — and explain why each replaced the one before it.
  • Describe how key innovations, such as Brånemark's discovery of osseointegration and the shift to digital scanning and CAD/CAM manufacturing, transformed denture stability, precision, and turnaround time.
  • Recognize how today's zirconia-based, digitally designed dentures compare to historical approaches in strength, durability, and patient outcomes.

Presenter Qualifications:

Dr. Helvey earned his dental degree from Georgetown University School of Dentistry in 1976. Following graduation, he served for two years in the United States Air Force at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia. He later dedicated 23 years as an Associate Professor at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry. He also taught cosmetic dentistry in the Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) program. In addition to his academic and clinical experience, Dr. Helvey has been a Certified Dental Technician since 2015, bringing a unique blend of clinical and technical expertise to the field of dentistry.

Disclosures:

Dr. Helvey has received an honorarium from Conexiant Education for his preparation and presentation of this program.

Queries for the presenter may be directed to justin.romano@broadcastmed.com.