The application of rapid prototyping in prosthodontics

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Technology
• Additive Manufacturing

Background:

• Rapid prototyping (RP) techniques are established in oral maxillofacial surgery simulation and implantology.
• Emerging research in molding materials and RP forming processes enhances its attractiveness for dental prosthesis fabrication.
• Limited published material exists on RP technology specifically for dental prosthesis pattern fabrication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and discuss the applications of RP techniques in prosthodontics.
• To highlight the fabrication of various dental prostheses using RP.
• To explore the potential impact of RP on traditional prosthodontic practices.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on RP applications in prosthodontics.
• Discussion of specific RP fabrication processes for dental prostheses.
• Categorization of RP applications into four key areas.

Main Results:

• RP is applied to fabricate wax patterns for dental prostheses.
• RP facilitates the creation of dental (facial) prosthesis molds or shells.
• RP enables the fabrication of both dental metal and zirconia prostheses.
• The review covers four distinct applications of RP in prosthodontics.

Conclusions:

• RP techniques offer broad benefits for diverse dental prosthesis production.
• RP technology has the potential to revolutionize traditional prosthodontic workflows.
• Further research and adoption of RP are expected to advance dental restorative treatments.