21/09/2026
Aitutaki has witnessed the first screening of a very special documentary celebrating community, innovation and the power of a smile.
The documentary, Akaieie Te Mata Katakata, tells the story of an inspiring digital denture project led by Dr. Liz Webb, bringing the latest advances in digital denture technology to the people of Aitutaki and helping provide dentures to members of the community who needed them.
At the heart of the project was the use of 3Shape digital technology, demonstrating how modern digital workflows can transform the way dentures are designed and produced - even in a remote island community.
A number of leading companies and individuals supported the project by donating equipment, products and their time. Ivoclar generously gifted products to assist with the printing and milling of the dentures, Sprint Ray provided a 3D printer, while 3Shape provided technology to help bring the digital workflow to life.
The project was also made possible through the expertise of Duchenne's very own team members, John Batchelor, Tristan Pattinson, Deborah Bassett, and Emily Munn, who donated their professional knowledge and experience to the project. Their involvement helped bring together the digital and clinical sides of the process and ensured the community could benefit from the latest techniques in digital denture production.
The first screening in Aitutaki was a fitting way to celebrate the project, allowing the community to see their own story on screen and recognise the incredible effort that went into making it happen.
What started with an idea to use modern technology to help a community has grown into something much bigger: a story of generosity, collaboration and innovation.
Photography by Mack Marona. Documentary made by Lola Sheenagh.
