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Fabrication of lingual fixed retainers on 2D prints: testing A novel workflow
Athbi Alqareer1, Fahad Alsaad2, Veerasathpurush Allareddy3
1Department of Developmental and Preventive Sciences, College of Dentistry, Kuwait University, P.O. Box 24923, 13110, Safat, Kuwait. azbi.alqareer@ku.edu.kw.
Introduction:
The aim was to evaluate the feasibility of a novel workflow to produce Lingual Fixed Retainers (LFRs) using 2D prints compared to the conventional method.
Methods:
Twenty-three near-debond orthodontic casts were scanned using an intraoral 3D scanner. A 3D calibration model was produced to calibrate screenshots of 2D slices of the 3D models. After slicing, The 2D slices were then 2D-printed on an A4 paper. Dimensional accuracy of the 2D prints was checked using calibration marks set 50 mm apart within the calibration file. Two sets of 22 LFRs were made, a set on 2D prints and another on the stone casts. LFRs were compared regarding adaptation at individual teeth, overall placement decision, and "superiority of fit" among other things. All ratings were done twice, 1-week apart for reliability testing. Differences between groups were tested using Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests.
Results:
A total of 264 tooth-retainer adaptations were rated. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups according to the Chi-square test (p = 0.233). All 44 LFRs were "deliverable" with none needing to be sent back to the lab. The superiority of fit was in favor of the conventional method in half of the retainers (p = < 0.001). Residual irregularity had no effect on any tested outcome (p > 0.05).
Conclusion:
Calibrated 2D prints can be successfully used to fabricate LFRs. All 2D and 3D LFRs were deliverable. Conventional casts produced superior LFR fit than 2D prints.
Clinical Significance:
This workflow could allow dental clinics to expand the utility of their 3D scanners even without a 3D printing setup, reducing cost, environmental and health impacts of 3D printing.
