The dentistry world is being constantly transformed with technological advances and distinctive approaches to dental practice as 3D printing continues to pave the way. 3D printing has become a haven of new opportunities in not only dentistry but society itself. Began in the 1980’s, 3D printing influenced digital enhancements in dentistry procedures and tools.
Since then, specialized tools and equipment utilized in everyday dental procedures have become much more efficiently. The printer’s capabilities are vast on specific intricacies of dental instruments and parts which brought forth a transition to digital dentistry.
What Is 3D Printing?
3D printing is a manufactured technology set to additive processes for digitally designed objects. There are several types of these advanced printing machineries along with different types of material to be printed of. Since there are several types of printing, opportunities to create ideas and tools are unimaginable with developing technology.
How It Comes Into Play
Old dentistry practices require outdated tools and equipment in preparation for procedures, but these appliances may take strenuous hours and multiple visits over a brief period of time. While with 3D printing, amount of doctor visits are cut in half, processes operate efficiently, and better quality in all dentistry devices.
You may wonder how the process works for digitally printing new teeth and enhancing dentures, there are a few steps prior to any finalized execution. Similar to previewing a patient’s teeth, a dental hygienist will scan a patient’s teeth, which in turn creates a 3D image to examine any dental complications. From there, the dentist is able to digitize your finished teeth and thus begin the printing process. Below is a list of dental procedures that are able to be conducted under 3D printing so far.
- Dental Implants: 3D printing provides a replacement tooth more efficiently and effectively than with traditional methods. It allows economical sensibility for customers who seek low-cost yet accurate procedures. Luckily, this printing method continues to develop and grow till its optimally used for dentistry operations.
- Dentures: Same as dental implants, dentures are able to be manufactured by the printer and can be printed with clear-cut material. As of now, they are only formulated for dental clinic tests but will be premiered soon.
- Crowns: Known as one of the common applications, crowns are quickly and easily created in a time-saving manner.
- Aligners/Retainers: Similar to all of procedures above, aligners and retainers go through a process of scan, design, print, prepare, thermoform, and finished. With certain machinery, aligners and retainers are able to be built within that same day.
Benefits to 3D Printing
Dental professions rely heavily on laboratory equipment to create dental implants, dentures, aligners, and other dental products. What would be considered a strenuous workload, can now be produced in a skilled manner with other beneficial factors for not only dental hygienist but for patients as well. Here are a few benefits to utilizing 3D printing at a dentistry clinic:
- Inexpensive: Traditional dental work can be costly with costs of over thousands of dollars while 3D printing has offered cost-effective methods. It allows cheaper costs for dentist and patients, as well as avoiding costly payment plans.
- Long-Lasting Treatment: Conventional dentistry tends to lack durability throughout the years, while 3D printing produces longevity and maintains its structure.
- Time-Saving: As previously said, old dentistry methods take numerous visits and can be overall time consuming. Luckily, 3D scanners efficiently achieve treatments in a shorter period of time.
Need More Information?
The dental industry continues to improve in its methodology of treatment and tools. Here at TrustImplants, we provide state-of-the-art technology developments for all dental procedures. Start your journey to a new smile by contacting us today.
