Conservative Restoration Options
Precision and preservation
3D printing can create personalised dental restorations with
highly accurate and minimally invasive method
Conservative Restoration Options
Precision and preservation
3D printing can create personalised dental restorations with
highly accurate and minimally invasive method
3D printing for conservative dental restorations
3D printing in dentistry can be considered a conservative approach when compared to traditional dental procedures that often require more extensive tooth preparation. Here are a few reasons why 3D printing can be seen as a conservative choice:
Minimally invasive: 3D-printed dental restorations, such as crowns and veneers, typically involve less removal of natural tooth structure. This is due to the precise nature of 3D printing, which allows for a restoration that fits perfectly and only addresses the damaged or decayed areas of the tooth.
Reduced chair time: 3D printing can lead to shorter chair time for patients, reducing the time spent in the dental office. This is often seen as a conservative approach because it minimises the patient’s exposure to dental procedures.
Preservation of healthy tooth structure: By minimising the amount of healthy tooth structure that needs to be removed, 3D printing helps preserve the integrity of the patient’s natural teeth.
Patient comfort: Patients often experience less discomfort during and after procedures involving 3D-printed restorations due to the reduced invasiveness of the process.
Direct resins vs 3D-printed resins
Direct resins are composite materials that the dentist shapes and applies directly to the patient’s teeth. These resins are commonly used for small fillings, bonding procedures and minor restorations. They offer the advantage of being a same-day solution, eliminating the need for multiple appointments. However, their success is highly technique-sensitive, and larger restorations can be challenging to achieve due to issues with contacts, contours and polymerisation. The degree of conversion in direct resins is around 60%, meaning they never fully cure, resulting in compromised mechanical properties.
On the other hand, 3D-printed resins are used to create restorations indirectly, fabricated using 3D printing technology. These resins are cured in a highly controlled environment in increments as small as 100 micrometers, achieving above 90% polymerisation. This process leads to superior wear resistance, strength and overall mechanical properties, making 3D-printed resins a reliable choice for inlays, onlays, crowns, bridges and dentures.
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