3D Printing in Orthodontics: An Introduction
Jack Slaymaker1*, Julian Woolley2 and Sunil Hirani3
1 General Dentist, Cambridge Dental, 39 Newnham Rd, CB3 9EY, Cambridge, UK.
2 Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Orthodontics, Cambridge University Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust, UK.
3 Specialist Orthodontist, UK.
*Corresponding Author: Jack Slaymaker, General Dentist, Cambridge Dental, 39 Newnham Rd, CB3 9EY, Cambridge, UK.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.58624/SVOADE.2023.04.0155
Received: September 28, 2023 Published: October 31, 2023
Abstract
Aim: To introduce 3D printing to individuals or practices providing orthodontic treatment.
Introduction: 3D printing or additive manufacturing is the fabrication of objects from a 3D digital model. 3D printing can be achieved by the successive deposition of photo-sensitive resin material, cured solid with a light source such as a laser. This allows for customisable appliances and improved workflow in practice. 3D printing is a rapidly evolving technology, with many practices beginning to implement it into their digital workflows. Adoption and integration come with many challenges.
Conclusion: Provided suitable materials and 3D printing protocols are followed, 3D-printing produces accurate and robust dental models without the errors associated with conventional dental impressions and plaster models. While this involves the transition from conventional methods of fabrication and outsourcing to a fully digital workflow, savings and improved efficiencies can result.
Keywords: 3D-printing, Additive Manufacturing, Aligners, CAD, SLA, DLP, Digital Orthodontics, Digital Workflow
Citation: Slaymaker J,Woolley J, Hirani S. 3D Printing in Orthodontics: An Introduction. SVOA Dentistry 2023, 4:6, 229- 241.
