Three-dimensional printing technologies for dental prosthesis: a review
ISSN: 1355-2546
Article publication date: 5 May 2022
Issue publication date: 14 October 2022
Abstract
Purpose
Three-dimensional (3D) printing technologies have gained attention in dentistry because of their ability to print objects with complex geometries with high precision and accuracy, as well as the benefits of saving materials and treatment time. This study aims to explain the principles of the main 3D printing technologies used for manufacturing dental prostheses and devices, with details of their manufacturing processes and characteristics. This review presents an overview of available 3D printing technologies and materials for dental prostheses and devices.
Design/methodology/approach
This review was targeted to include publications pertaining to the fabrication of dental prostheses and devices by 3D printing technologies between 2012 and 2021. A literature search was carried out using the Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar search engines, as well as the use of a manual search.
Findings
3D printing technologies have been used for manufacturing dental prostheses and devices using a wide range of materials, including polymers, metals and ceramics. 3D printing technologies have demonstrated promising experimental outcomes for the fabrication of dental prostheses and devices. However, further developments in the materials for fixed dental prostheses are required.
Originality/value
3D printing technologies are effective and commercially available for the manufacturing of polymeric and metallic dental prostheses. Although the printing of dental ceramics and composites for dental prostheses is promising, further improvements are required.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors extend their appreciation to the Deputyship for Research and Innovation, Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia for funding this research work.
Citation
Alageel, O. (2022), "Three-dimensional printing technologies for dental prosthesis: a review", Rapid Prototyping Journal, Vol. 28 No. 9, pp. 1764-1778. https://doi.org/10.1108/RPJ-07-2021-0164
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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