Research progress of 3D printing technology in the field of oral materials

The emergence of three-dimensional (3D) printing has represented a significant technological breakthrough, exerting a profound influence across various domains of society in recent times. There has been a noticeable shift in the healthcare industry's dominant paradigm of therapeutic interventions, particularly regarding the utilization of 3D printing technology to mend or replace damaged or missing biological components. Adopting cutting-edge technology can significantly enhance the range of applications within the field of oral healthcare. A significant amount of research is being conducted to leverage the substantial potential of 3D printing in oral applications, with a focus on developing customized treatment plans tailored to specific case scenarios. By building specialized implantology from different biological composite materials layer by layer, 3D printing technology precisely restores the anatomical structure of defects in the mouth and maxillofacial region. This review presents a comprehensive discussion on the history and classification of 3D printing technology, as well as the dynamics of biological materials, cells, and bioactive factors utilized in repairing oral and maxillofacial bone defects. Additionally, this review provides an update on the materials commonly used in typical oral healthcare applications and examines future trends and concerns related to material perspectives in oral healthcare management.