The 3D dental printer: how does it work, advantages?

 Digital transformation has changed the practice of multiple fields of activity . Medicine in general and more specifically the dental sector is not left out. As such, we have seen the rise of 3D printing in the world of dentistry in recent years. Indeed, the 3D (three-dimensional) printer , this digital technology tool, is revolutionizing dentistry thanks to its precision and the quality of its results. It is an innovative technique , full of resources, which is now one of the best allies of dental clinics and laboratories. We tell you everything about this additive manufacturing process.

A 3D dental printer: how does it work?

The dental 3D printer is nothing more than a piece of equipment based on cutting-edge technology where several layers of materials are added in order to create a dental part by solidification . This method has great potential. Professionals generally use it to print dental models, including a copy of the patient's teeth. It can also be used to print devices that are used inside the mouth of patients (this can be aligners for example) and prostheses, whether for alignment, whitening or retention . The 3D dental printer can also be used to set up surgical guides . These can generate elements that can help during dental surgery. As for the operation of a 3D dental printer, it should be noted that it is structured in three phases:

• Step 1  : In most cases, the orthodontist or dentist must have an intraoral scanner . This device allows them to scan the patient's mouth. The data collected will then be transferred to the laboratory where the 3D printing will be performed. In the event that the dental establishment does not have a scanner, an impression of the patient's mouth is made. This impression will then be transformed into a plaster model that will be sent directly to the laboratory;

• 2nd step  : In the laboratory, the information is processed using modeling software . This allows the design to be obtained. Subsequently, the digital models of the desired dental part are reconstructed;

• 3rd step : this is the 3D printing phase. We use successive layers of liquid , powder or wire (filaments) in order to create the required physical model. These different layers are automatically linked together.

Note that there are two types of 3D dental printers: resin printers and filament printers. Resin printers are the most recommended since they offer exceptional precision and are easy to use.

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What are the advantages of a 3D dental printer?

The advantages of 3D printing in the dental field are numerous. First, this technique allows the clinic to have a digital simulation of the future treatment. The position of the implant, the depth and the orientation can be identified via the 3D printed guide. As a result, the operation takes place in optimal comfort for patients and is painless.

Also, 3D dental printing provides significant time savings and thus increases the efficiency of experts. Indeed, thanks to additive manufacturing, it is possible to create simple or complex models in a few minutes or hours . No need to wait weeks to produce a prototype.

Another very important asset is related to the increase in the quality of the parts. This ensures reliable, precise results without margin of error. Some 3D dental printers are equipped with advanced features that allow better development of dental models. The 3D dental printer also allows for cost optimization .

Since the device is very fast, it allows professionals to better focus on customer service. The clinic will thus be able to attract more clients . Result? We will notice a decrease in the amortized cost of consumables and equipment.