Dental Technology: 3D Printed Teeth And More

Digital manufacturing tools have been used in dentistry for quite some time. Computer-aided design and manufacturing(CAD/CAM) have improved the quality of restorative procedures like crowns, veneers, and dental bridges. But what makes 3D printing different from these earlier processes? With three-dimensional manufacturing, the outcome is predictable, less invasive, and faster - ensuring that you get a perfect smile sooner! According to an article published in the Journal of 3D Printing in Medicine, additive manufacturing is ideal for customized dental treatments like dentures, dental implants, and orthodontic appliances such as braces and aligners. If you are looking to improve your smile, ask your dentist about these 3D treatments.

Losing your teeth can affect your self-confidence; fortunately, a partial or full denture set can help with this. Traditionally, getting the right set takes multiple visits to the dentist, where they would take gum impressions, record bite patterns, jaw alignment, and check for correct fitting. 3D technology helps shorten this process. Using an intraoral scanner, your dentist can get an accurate, digital impression of your mouth and arch. 3D dentures can give you a natural-looking smile with fewer dentist visits.

Did you know that your teeth are unique? With the rapid advancements in additive manufacturing, you can get perfectly fitting 3D teeth. Dentists can create a digital model of your teeth that will then be printed into a physical replacement tooth.

Dental implants are surgically inserted posts into the jawbone. They work as an anchor for dentures, crowns, and replacement teeth. 3D printing can produce bone-like dental implants with the same complex structure as the jawbone.

Aligners and other orthodontic appliances like braces are specially designed to fit the mouth and correct specific malocclusions by gently moving teeth into the ideal place to create a straight smile. 3D printing can be used in orthodontics to create digital models of the teeth. These models are used to determine the type of misalignment and the best treatment course. According to an article published in the Journal of Stomatology, intraoral scans have higher accuracy and reliable diagnosis. Orthodontists usually go through extensive processes to ensure the best treatment for their patients. With 3D technology, the process is much shorter, and you still get a comfortable set of aligners.

3D printing is an exciting manufacturing tool that is being used across various industries. If you are looking to correct missing teeth or a misaligned smile, 3D printed teeth, dentures, dental implants, or aligners may be available options for you. With this rapidly growing technology, you can get a customized treatment to achieve the perfect smile you deserve.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.