Technology and Imaging
3D printing in dentistry
3D printing in dentistry builds models, guides and appliances layer by layer from a digital design. It is also called additive manufacturing.
Additive manufacturing, commonly called 3D printing, builds an object one thin layer at a time from a computer file. In dentistry it can make study models, surgical guides, night guards, temporary crowns, and parts of dentures.
A review says 3D printing supports a digital workflow and lets dental teams make detailed, patient-specific pieces. It also notes limits in material properties, regulation, and the need for special training. A scoping review found 3D printing used less material than milling.
The design file often starts with an intraoral scanner or digital impression and may use CAD/CAM software. This entry does not say that Town Center Dental has a 3D printer.