The Evolution of 3D Printing in Dentistry: Insights from Daniel Wismeijer In a recent EAO Digital Days session, Daniel Wismeijer shared his expertise on the transformative role of 3D printing in modern dentistry. As a leading figure in the field, Wismeijer discussed the technological advancements and practical applications of 3D printing, emphasizing its growing importance in creating precise, efficient, and cost-effective dental restorations.
The Precision and Efficiency of 3D Printing Wismeijer began by highlighting the unparalleled precision that 3D printing offers. Unlike traditional methods, 3D printing allows for the creation of dental restorations that fit patients perfectly, akin to the potential of individualized gene sequencing in medicine. This precision is particularly valuable in dentistry, where the accuracy of fit can significantly impact the success of treatments.
Moreover, 3D printing is a more efficient and environmentally friendly option compared to traditional milling. It enables multiple components to be produced simultaneously on a single build platform, using fewer materials and generating less waste. This efficiency not only reduces costs but also aligns with global efforts to minimize environmental impact.
Understanding the Technology To appreciate the full potential of 3D printing in dentistry, it's essential to understand the technology behind it. Wismeijer explained the process starting from an intraoral scan or a model scan, which generates a point cloud. This point cloud is then converted into a digital surface using tessellation, resulting in a detailed and accurate representation of the scanned object.
Various 3D printing techniques, all relying on STL (Standard Tessellation Language) files, can be used to produce dental restorations. These include digital light processing (DLP), fused deposition modeling (FDM), jetting techniques, selective laser sintering (SLS), and stereolithography. Each method has its unique applications and advantages, allowing for the creation of a wide range of dental products from crowns and bridges to more complex structures.
Challenges and Considerations Wismeijer also addressed some of the challenges associated with 3D printing in dentistry. One critical factor is the placement and angulation of the object on the build platform, which can affect the precision of the final product. The quality of the photopolymer, the calibration of the machine, the lifespan of the light source, and the temperature and speed of the motor all play crucial roles in determining the accuracy and quality of the printed object.
Support structures are another important consideration. These structures prevent the object from being damaged during the printing process and removal from the platform. Research conducted by Wismeijer and his team found that the angulation and placement of these supports significantly impact the precision and strength of the final product.
Practical Applications and Future Prospects Wismeijer showcased several practical applications of 3D printing in dentistry. He presented a case where a fractured zirconia crown was replaced with a 3D printed crown, demonstrating the technology's ability to produce aesthetically pleasing and functional restorations. While the initial results showed some color discrepancies, ongoing improvements in materials and techniques are quickly addressing these issues.
He also discussed the potential of 3D printing with zirconia, a material commonly used in dental restorations. Although the process is currently time-consuming and expensive due to the need for debonding and sintering, advancements in this area hold promise for future applications.
In a notable example, Wismeijer shared the story of a young patient who received a 3D printed crown immediately after implant placement. This approach not only streamlined the treatment process but also provided a durable and cost-effective solution that remained functional for over two years.
Embracing Change in Dentistry Wismeijer concluded by emphasizing the importance of embracing change in dentistry. The rapid advancement of digital technologies and 3D printing requires dental professionals to continuously learn and adapt. By staying ahead of these changes and integrating new technologies into their practice, dentists can enhance patient care and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving field.
In summary, Daniel Wismeijer's presentation underscored the significant impact of 3D printing on dentistry. As the technology continues to evolve, it promises to revolutionize the way dental restorations are designed and produced, offering unprecedented precision, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.