Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 16, 2026

07:42
Quasistatic Mechanical Testing for Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing Occlusal Veneers Cemented to Milled Dentin Analog Material
Published on: December 20, 2024
764
Clinical Performance of 3D-Printed Provisional Dental Crowns.
Thomas W Hardison1,2, Dwayne R Gentry3, James J Renda1,2
1Postgraduate Dental School, 59th Dental Group, Joint-Base San Antonio, Lackland, TX 78236, United States.
Military Medicine
|September 27, 2025
Summary
This study compared 3D-printed provisional dental crowns to traditional ones. While 3D-printed crowns offered better initial aesthetics, they showed higher fracture and retention loss rates over two months.
Area of Science:
- Dental Materials Science
- Additive Manufacturing
- Prosthodontics
Background:
- Advancements in additive manufacturing (3D printing) offer new materials for provisional dental crowns.
- FDA-cleared 3D-printed materials exist, but clinical performance data is lacking.
- This study evaluates 3D-printed provisional crowns in resource-limited settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- Assess short-term clinical performance of a 3D-printed provisional crown material.
- Compare it to a traditional direct provisional crown material.
- Explore the feasibility of additive manufacturing in deployed environments.
Main Methods:
- Crossover design with each patient receiving both crown types on the same tooth.
- Qualitative assessment using modified FDI criteria at baseline and 2 months.
- Quantitative wear analysis via digital scan superimposition.
Main Results:
- 3D-printed crowns showed superior baseline surface luster and anatomic form.
- After 2 months, 3D-printed crowns had better luster and periodontal response.
- However, 3D-printed crowns exhibited increased fracture and retention loss; no volumetric wear difference was found.
Conclusions:
- 3D-printed Temporary CB Resin is a viable alternative to direct provisional materials.
- Careful occlusal adjustment and cementation are needed to prevent dislodgement/fracture.
- Additive manufacturing shows promise for deployed settings, pending workflow optimization.

