The latest advancements in 3D printing is like witnessing a blockbuster science fiction movie – it mesmerizes you and makes you believe in the impossible. This breakthrough technology is gradually becoming an indispensable aspect of our day-to-day. Soon, you will find 3D technology transforming dental torque wrenches, dental retractors, dental lasers, and periodontal scales in a dental office. With 3D printers, digital dentistry is no longer an unfulfilled dream. The dentistry market is already valued at $780 million, and by integrating 3D technology, the number is projected to increase to $3 billion by 2020. By 2025, the technology is likely to provide 60% of all the dental production needs. Undoubtedly, the 3D technology is unearthing the underlying benefits of dentistry and bringing a radical shift in the dental world.
Here are a few ways how 3D printing improves dentistry:
1. 3D printing Implants with digital precision
One of the leading challenges facing the dental industry is determining the optimum location, depth, and angulation of the implant. Understanding the bone anatomy of the patient is crucial for a successful outcome. Using 3D printing techniques, dentists can easily understand the anatomy and eliminate the possible unexpected findings during the surgical process. A 3D printed model of the mouth gives the dentist a visual tool to prepare before drilling the implant process. He can be more precise using his tools and avoid drilling too deep. This technical knowledge helps the dentist to save time and reduce the pain of patients.
2. Produce custom crown, tooth, caps, dentures, and bridges in less than 10 minutes
With additive manufacturing, dental practitioners can easily replace the crown, tooth, caps, and dentures in a timely manner. 3D printing creates polished, intricate products, which created traditionally, consumed a lot of time. The dentist scans the mouth of the patient and saves it as a digital file. Using the CAD software, the dentist can digitally repair and print the finished product in less than 10 minutes. The technology enables dentists to work efficiently and serve their customers better. These positive experiences are changing patients outlook towards dentistry.
3. Cost efficient for dentists and patients
Building a new dental laboratory and employing skilled staff is expensive. Depending upon the type and amount of work, the yearly fixed cost is estimated to be around $100,000 – $120,000. Using 3D printing, companies can save up to five times as much. The cost of 3D printing materials is much lower than the traditional lab. Furthermore, the high cost of running and maintaining a dental lab is reflected in the patient’s bill. Using 3D printing, dentists can pass on the cost benefits to the customers as well.
Today, 3D printing is ready to emerge from its nascent stage to become a reliable and viable alternative to the dental world.
