3D Printing of Complete Dentures: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Additive Manufacturing
• Prosthodontics

Background:

• Conventional denture fabrication is time-consuming and technique-sensitive.
• Digital dentistry offers potential improvements in efficiency and customization for prosthodontic applications.
• Additive manufacturing (3D printing) is emerging as a viable alternative for fabricating dental prostheses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current literature on the application of 3D printing for complete denture fabrication.
• To compare the properties of 3D-printed dentures with conventionally processed and milled dentures.
• To identify current limitations and future directions for 3D-printed denture technology.

Main Methods:

• A literature search was performed on PubMed using keywords related to 3D-printed complete dentures and digital workflows.
• Articles published from 2016 onwards were included to ensure relevance.
• Key parameters evaluated included material strength, color stability, and denture base adaptation.

Main Results:

• 3D-printed dentures demonstrate material strength meeting ISO standards.
• Denture base adaptation of 3D-printed dentures is comparable to conventionally processed dentures.
• Potential clinical challenges include fractures, color stability, and staining, with ongoing material development.

Conclusions:

• While the ideal 3D-printed denture material is yet to be developed, current options show potential for clinical use.
• Advancements in printing resins are improving physical and esthetic properties.
• 3D printing represents an evolving technology with a promising future in complete denture fabrication.