Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 3, 2025
Quasistatic Mechanical Testing for Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing Occlusal Veneers Cemented to Milled Dentin Analog Material
Published on: December 20, 2024
Accurate Bracket Placement with an Indirect Bonding Method Using Digitally Designed Transfer Models Printed in
Julia Süpple1, Julius von Glasenapp1, Eva Hofmann1
1Department of Orthodontics, Dentofacial Orthopedics and Pedodontics, Charité Center for Oral Health Sciences CC3, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Aßmannshauser Straße 4-6, 14197 Berlin, Germany.
3D printing orientation does not affect indirect bonding accuracy. This study found that bracket transfer model angulation on the 3D printer build platform had no significant impact on indirect bonding (IDB) accuracy, with most deviations within clinical limits.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Digital Dentistry
Background:
- Digital workflows offer advancements in indirect bonding (IDB) of orthodontic brackets.
- The accuracy of IDB can be influenced by various factors in the digital fabrication process.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of 3D printing orientation on the accuracy of indirect bonding.
- To assess the clinical acceptability of a digital IDB workflow using 3D-printed models and conventional trays.
Main Methods:
- 27 bracket transfer models were 3D printed at 15° and 75° angulations using a DLP printer.
- Indirect bonding was performed using pressure-molded trays fabricated on the printed models.
- Deviations between planned and actual bracket positions were measured using 3D analysis software.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant difference in transfer accuracy was observed between the 15° and 75° printing orientations.
- Approximately 97% of linear and 82% of angular deviations fell within clinically acceptable ranges (±0.2 mm and ±1°).
- The greatest linear inaccuracies were in the gingival-vertical direction, and angular inaccuracies were in palatal crown torque.
Conclusions:
- The printing orientation of transfer models on the 3D printer build platform does not significantly affect the accuracy of this indirect bonding method.
- The digital workflow combining 3D-printed models and conventional trays demonstrates clinical acceptability for indirect bonding.
