Three-Dimensional printed model for preclinical training in oral radiology

3D printing is experiencing significant growth in the teaching and learning process. This study aims to present a 3D printed skull model for preclinical intraoral radiographic practice.

Two 3D printed mannequins were created. One mannequin used an STL file of a skull that was edited using two 3D modelling software (Meshmixer and Netfabb). The second mannequin was designed directly from a patient's segmented CBCT data and then converted into an STL file. Both mannequins were printed using fused deposition modelling (FDM) technology and polylactic acid (PLA) filament; teeth for the second mannequin were also printed using digital light processing (DLP). The printed skull bones were attached, the mandible was articulated to the articular fossa of the temporal bone, and the teeth were inserted into the alveoli. Intraoral radiographs of both mannequins were taken using a digital sensor (RVG 5100, Carestream).

Both 3D printed mannequins showed satisfactory radiographic appearance, allowing geometric representation of each intraoral radiographic projection, regardless of STL file origin. Anatomical structures, such as the periodontal ligament space, zygomatic process of the maxilla and intermaxillary suture, were represented. The material cost of the first and second printed prototype was $34.00 and $39.00, respectively.

The use of 3D printed models is presented as an alternative to artificial commercial phantoms for the preclinical training of intraoral radiographic techniques through the combined benefits of superior radiographic projection quality, the possibility of model manipulation and an affordable price.