3D Printing In Dentistry: Revolutionizing Customization And Delivery Of Dental Prosthetics

Abstract

The use of 3D printing in the fabrication of dental prosthetics has exhibited great possibilities in increasing the accuracy, individualization, and speed of prosthesis production. In this article,  the dimensional accuracy, mechanical properties, and cost of dental prosthetics are made using 3D printing techniques with those made using conventional techniques. In the present study, dental prosthetics single crowns, bridges, and partial dentures were produced through 3D printing technology with resin-based and ceramic-based materials. Dimensional accuracy was determined by quantification of the difference between the produced part from the intended design, mechanical properties were investigated by flexural strength test and durability test under mastication cycles. A cost analysis was also performed to assess the cost of 3D printing with other conventional fabrication techniques. The outcome revealed that 3D-printed prosthetics were within close dimensional control, with variations within allowable limits for all categories. The average flexural strength of the resin-based prosthetics was 75 MPa while for the ceramic-based prosthetics, it was 150 MPa. Both materials showed great resistance to wear and did not lose any of their structural strength after cycles of 100,000. Also, by integrating 3D printing, costs of production were cut down compared to the conventional methods of production.3D Printing is shown to be a feasible and economical solution for the fabrication of accurate dental prosthetics. It improves accuracy and sand strength, and cuts costs a great tool for practice in the modern dental field