Advances in 3D Printing for Removable Prosthetics-Insights and Perspectives

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Prosthodontics

Background:

• Additive manufacturing, particularly three-dimensional (3D) printing, is rapidly advancing in removable prosthodontics, complementing established subtractive methods.
• Vat-photopolymerization and laser sintering are key 3D printing technologies used for fabricating denture bases, teeth, frameworks, and implant attachments.
• Current clinical evidence suggests 3D-printed complete dentures offer comparable adaptation and patient satisfaction to conventional or milled prostheses, with added benefits of reduced appointments and digital reproducibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in 3D printing applications for various removable prosthodontic restorations.
• To provide clinicians with an overview of current 3D printing technologies, their clinical performance, and future directions in the field.
• To highlight the potential of 3D printing to enhance efficiency and patient outcomes in prosthodontic treatments.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on three-dimensional (3D) printing technologies in removable prosthodontics.
• Analysis of clinical performance data for 3D-printed complete dentures, removable partial dentures, implant-retained overdentures, and occlusal splints.
• Evaluation of emerging trends and future perspectives in 3D printing for prosthodontic applications.

Main Results:

• Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a viable option for complete dentures, removable partial denture frameworks, implant attachments, and occlusal splints, demonstrating promising accuracy and mechanical properties.
• Printed complete dentures show comparable adaptation and patient satisfaction to conventional methods, with benefits in workflow efficiency and reproducibility.
• While printed occlusal splints offer good fit and comfort, challenges related to materials and limited long-term data persist; process variability and post-processing are critical for metal frameworks.

Conclusions:

• Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a transformative technology in removable prosthodontics, offering streamlined workflows, reduced treatment times, and improved patient comfort.
• Further advancements in multi-material printing, development of durable and bioactive resins, and standardized clinical protocols are expected to enhance the role of 3D printing.
• Clinicians must remain aware of material limitations and processing specifics for successful long-term outcomes, while future multi-material printing holds potential for improved structural integrity and esthetics.