Biodegradable and Biocompatible 3D Constructs for Dental Applications: Manufacturing Options and Perspectives

Designing 3D constructs with appropriate materials and structural frameworks for complex dental restorative/regenerative procedures has always remained a multi-criteria optimization challenge. In this regard, 3D printing has long been known to be a potent tool for various tissue regenerative applications, however, the preparation of biocompatible, biodegradable, and stable inks is yet to be explored and revolutionized for overall performance improvisation. The review reports the currently employed manufacturing processes for the development of engineered self-supporting, easily processable, and cost-effective 3D constructs with target-specific tuneable mechanics, bioactivity, and degradability aspects in the oral cavity for their potential use in numerous dental applications ranging from soft pulp tissues to hard alveolar bone tissues. A hybrid synergistic approach, comprising of development of multi-layered, structurally stable, composite building blocks with desired physicomechanical performance and bioactivity presents an optimal solution to circumvent the major limitations and develop new-age advanced dental restorations and implants. Further, the review summarizes some manufacturing perspectives which may inspire the readers to design appropriate structures for clinical trials so as to pave the way for their routine applications in dentistry in the near future.