Additive Manufacturing for Complete Denture Fabrication: A Narrative Review.

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Prosthodontics

Background:

• Complete dentures are essential for oral function and aesthetics.
• Conventional and milled denture fabrication methods have limitations.
• Additive manufacturing (3D printing) presents a novel approach to denture fabrication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and compare the benefits and limitations of additive manufacturing for complete denture fabrication.
• To assess the current state of research on 3D printed dentures.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar.
• Articles related to additive manufacturing for complete dentures were systematically reviewed.
• Findings were categorized to facilitate a narrative review.

Main Results:

• Additive manufacturing offers advantages such as reduced cost, less material waste, simultaneous fabrication, and complex design capabilities.
• Current research indicates that 3D printed dentures may have reduced flexural strength, fracture toughness, color stability, and denture base adaptation compared to milled dentures.
• Print orientation significantly influences accuracy, strength, surface roughness, and Candida albicans adherence in printed dentures.

Conclusions:

• Additive manufacturing presents significant advantages for complete denture fabrication.
• Further research is required to address limitations in physical properties and understand the impact of print orientation.
• Advancements in materials and techniques suggest a growing role for 3D printing in future denture fabrication.