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Effects of Build Angle and Position in the Build Platform on the Dimensional Accuracy of 3D-Printed Molar Crowns
Purpose:
To investigate the effects of build angle and position in the build platform on the dimensional accuracy of 3D-printed molar crowns using digital light processing technology (DLP).
Materials And Methods:
A mandibular right first molar crown was designed digitally and printed using DLP at nine standardized positions in the build platform at 90-, 120-, 135-, 150-, 180-, 210-, 225-, 240-, and 270-degree build angles. The experiment was repeated three times per build angle. Specimens were scanned with a TRIOS 4 scanner (3Shape). STL files of each specimen were compared to the original file using Geomagic Control X. Accuracy was evaluated by root mean square (RMS), 2D Compare, and simulated coordinate measuring machine (CMM) measurements. Results were analyzed using two-way and one-way ANOVA. Statistical significance was set at P < .05.
Results:
Build angle influenced the dimensional accuracy of DLP, with the lowest RMS values recorded at 210 degrees and C2 position. Crowns oriented toward 90 degrees (152 ± 46.6 μm) and 270 degrees (209 ± 25.7 μm) exhibited the greatest amount of deviation at mesial and distal internal axial surfaces and the greatest amount of deviation at external finish lines, which ranged from -81.9 to 79.9 μm.
Conclusions:
Molar crowns can be placed in any position of the build platform of a DLP printer. However, crowns should be oriented at build angles that reduce the effects of resin pooling and minimize the number of layers at the finish line to maximize accuracy. A build angle of 210 degrees is recommended for optimal results.
