Material Innovations and Digital Advances in Telescopic Denture Prosthodontics: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Telescopic denture systems, distinguished by their double-crown construction and programmable retention, have occupied an established position in prosthodontic rehabilitation for more than a century. In recent years, the field has been reshaped by two converging developments: the emergence of high-performance biomaterials and the widespread adoption of digital fabrication technologies. This review examines the current state of evidence on material innovations—including zirconia ceramics, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), noble metal alloys, and base metal alternatives—alongside digital workflows encompassing computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM), intraoral scanning, and additive manufacturing, as applied specifically to telescopic prosthetic systems. Searches were conducted for literature published between January 2010 and March 2026 in all primary databases, with the date range selected to ensure contemporary clinical and materials science relevance. Clinical outcomes, retentive mechanisms, biological considerations, and patient-centred measures are addressed throughout. The review identifies a trend towards increased precision, improved aesthetics, and enhanced customisation in telescopic prostheses fabricated through digital means, whilst acknowledging that the evidence base—particularly for newer materials in this specific prosthetic category—remains in a developing phase. Challenges related to material standardisation, clinical validation, cost, and practitioner expertise are discussed, and directions for future research are identified.