Additive Zirconia in Dentistry: Techniques, Trends, and Future Perspectives

Additive manufacturing (AM) has gained significant traction in the dental field, yet its application in dental ceramics, specifically zirconia (ZrO₂), is still evolving. ZrO₂, a widely used biomaterial, has become popular in dental procedures due to its exceptional properties. Although subtractive technologies like milling and CAD/CAM are prevalent for ZrO₂ restorations, they have limitations. The integration of AM in ceramic restoration production is a burgeoning area of research and industry interest globally, requiring a comprehensive understanding among dental professionals. This review paper explores various AM technologies for ZrO₂ processing, discussing their advantages and future potential. The results indicate that while techniques like stereolithography and digital light processing can produce ZrO₂ restorations with improved surface quality and dimensional accuracy, challenges such as porosity, reduced mechanical strength compared to conventional milling, and variability in sintering outcomes persist. The findings show encouraging potential for AM in ZrO₂-based restorative, implant, and regenerative dentistry. Despite this, more refinements and substantiation are needed before it can be widely adopted in clinical settings.