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Review
. 2023 Nov 24;15(23):4525.
doi: 10.3390/polym15234525.

Recent Advances in 3D Printing of Polymers for Application in Prosthodontics

Mariya Dimitrova  1 , Angelina Vlahova  1   2 , Yavor Kalachev  1 , Stefan Zlatev  1   2 , Rada Kazakova  1   2 , Saverio Capodiferro  3
Affiliations
Review

Recent Advances in 3D Printing of Polymers for Application in Prosthodontics

Mariya Dimitrova et al. Polymers (Basel). .

Abstract

Contemporary mass media frequently depict 3D printing as a technology with widespread utilization in the creation of dental prosthetics. This paper endeavors to provide an evidence-based assessment of the current scope of 3D printing's integration within dental laboratories and practices. Its primary objective is to offer a systematic evaluation of the existing applications of 3D-printing technology within the realm of dental prosthetic restorations. Furthermore, this article delves into potential prospects, while also critically examining the sustained relevance of conventional dental laboratory services and manufacturing procedures. The central focus of this article is to expound upon the extent to which 3D printing is presently harnessed for crafting dental prosthetic appliances. By presenting verifiable data and factual insights, this article aspires to elucidate the actual implementation of 3D printing in prosthetic dentistry and its seamless integration into dental practices. The aim of this narrative review is twofold: firstly, to provide an informed and unbiased evaluation of the role that 3D printing currently plays within dental laboratories and practices; and secondly, to instigate contemplation on the transformative potential of this technology, both in terms of its contemporary impact and its future implications, while maintaining a balanced consideration of traditional dental approaches.

Keywords: 3D printing; additive manufacturing; digital; polymers; prosthetic restorations; prosthodontics.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Design of the conducted study.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Molecular structures of the polymers for 3D Printing in Prosthodontics—(a) PMMA; (b) PLA; (c) PEEK; (d) ABS.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Three-dimensional-printed polymers used in prosthetic dentistry and their application.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Application of 3D printers in dentistry.
Figure 5
Figure 5
Three-dimensional-printing technologies, applied in prosthetic dentistry.
Figure 6
Figure 6
Three-dimensional–printed model of an upper jaw (origin of the Figure: author’s own clinical case, no copyright issue).
Figure 7
Figure 7
Three-dimensional-printed provisional bridges (origin of the Figure: author’s own clinical case, no copyright issue), (Temporary CB Resin, Formlabs Dental, Somerville, MA, USA).
Figure 8
Figure 8
Permanent resin block crowns (origin of the Figure: author’s own clinical case, no copyright issue), (Permanent Crown Resin, Formlabs Dental, USA).
Figure 9
Figure 9
Post and core restoration, fabricated by PEEK (origin of the Figure: author’s own clinical case, no copyright issue).
Figure 10
Figure 10
Three-dimensional-printed denture base for an upper complete removable denture (origin of the Figure: author’s own clinical case, no copyright issue), (NextDent, 3D Systems, Soesterberg, The Netherlands).
Figure 11
Figure 11
Three-dimensional printing of denture artificial teeth in the 3D printer NextDent 5100 (origin of the Figure: author’s own clinical case, no copyright issue), (NextDent, 3D Systems, Sosterberg, The Netherlands).
Figure 12
Figure 12
Three-dimensional–printed occlusal splint for the upper jaw (origin of the Figure: author’s own clinical case, no copyright issue), (NextDent Ortho Flex, 3D Systems, Soesterberg, The Netherlands).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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