VOLUME 219 NO. 11 DEC 11 2015 | A. Dawood, B. Marti Marti, V. Sauret-Jackson and A. Darwood
The article discusses the application of 3D printing technology in dentistry and maxillofacial surgery. 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing or rapid prototyping, has been hailed as a disruptive technology that will transform manufacturing. In dentistry, 3D printing is particularly relevant due to advancements in 3D imaging and modeling technologies such as cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and intraoral scanning, as well as the long-standing use of CAD/CAM technologies. The technology is used for various applications, including the production of drill guides for dental implants, physical models for prosthodontics and orthodontics, and the fabrication of dental, cranio-maxillofacial, and orthopedic implants. The article reviews the types of 3D printing technologies available, such as stereolithography (SLA), photopolymer jetting (PPJ), powder binder printing (PBP), selective laser sintering (SLS), and fused deposition modeling (FDM). Each technology has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of technology depends on the specific application. The article also highlights the importance of integrating 3D printing with planning and design software to create a streamlined workflow. Despite the challenges, such as high costs, maintenance, and health and safety concerns, 3D printing is expected to play an increasingly important role in dentistry, enabling more creative and innovative treatments.The article discusses the application of 3D printing technology in dentistry and maxillofacial surgery. 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing or rapid prototyping, has been hailed as a disruptive technology that will transform manufacturing. In dentistry, 3D printing is particularly relevant due to advancements in 3D imaging and modeling technologies such as cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and intraoral scanning, as well as the long-standing use of CAD/CAM technologies. The technology is used for various applications, including the production of drill guides for dental implants, physical models for prosthodontics and orthodontics, and the fabrication of dental, cranio-maxillofacial, and orthopedic implants. The article reviews the types of 3D printing technologies available, such as stereolithography (SLA), photopolymer jetting (PPJ), powder binder printing (PBP), selective laser sintering (SLS), and fused deposition modeling (FDM). Each technology has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of technology depends on the specific application. The article also highlights the importance of integrating 3D printing with planning and design software to create a streamlined workflow. Despite the challenges, such as high costs, maintenance, and health and safety concerns, 3D printing is expected to play an increasingly important role in dentistry, enabling more creative and innovative treatments.