Additive manufacturing for Dentistry: A comprehensive review of techniques and applications

The advancement of effective and versatile additive manufacturing (AM) techniques, also known as 3D printing, represents a revolutionary shift in modern manufacturing processes. This transformative technology has opened remarkable opportunities for the mass customization of medical devices, signaling a shift toward truly personalized medicine. In dentistry specifically, AM has gained considerable attention, offering innovative solutions for fabricating a wide range of products, including dental implants, prostheses, dental devices, drug-delivery systems, and much more. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the seven major categories of 3D-printing techniques (vat photopolymerization, material jetting, binder jetting, material extrusion, powder bed fusion, sheet lamination, and directed energy deposition), as classified by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). Functional descriptions based on its existing applications are discussed in detail, and future applications based on their expected benefits and potential drawbacks are also addressed. This study emphasizes the potential of AM in dental applications, highlighting its growing capabilities and its critical role in defining the future of dentistry. The findings illustrate current advancements and outline a roadmap for continued innovation and wider implementation within the industry.