One of the most compelling trends in cosmetic dentistry is the growth of 3D dentistry using 3D printing technology.
3D dentistry consists of producing oral appliances, surgical guides, bleaching trays and other dental models in the practice’s dental lab instead of sending them out to an outside dental lab. This saves money and time for the patient without any loss in quality or accuracy.
How cosmetic dentists use 3D printing technology is changing rapidly and the possible applications are expanding, including:
Replace or Repair Damaged Teeth:
The dentist scans the patient’s mouth with a small digital wand. This creates a 3D image of the teeth and gums, which is saved as a computer file. Computer Aided Design (CAD) software enables the dentist to digitally design the tooth repair and print the finished product on a 3D printer.
Develop Oral Models:
Traditional technology includes creating a mold by having the patient bite down on gooey, uncomfortable clay. This changes with 3D printing. A dentist can instead use the digital wand to scan the teeth, design an oral appliance and print it in the on-site dental lab.
Create Dental Implants:
The same process can also be used to 3D print all kinds of dental implants such as crowns, bridges, dentures and more. The only difference is the precise material used in the printing process.
Construct Surgical Guides:
Not only can 3D printers handle the dental implants themselves, but they can also 3D print the drill surgical guides needed to complete certain dental procedures.
Benefits:
Patients save money and time with 3D dentistry. For example, with traditional technologies, a single crown can cost a patient $2,000 or more. 3D dentistry lower overhead costs and that savings is passed onto patients. They also save time since waiting for an external dental lab to produce what is needed can take weeks and thus procedures will require multiple visits.
Using 3D printing is faster and more accurate. Manual model-making is time consuming while 3D printing allows for multiple appliances to be printed at once. Accuracy is also improved since 3D printers convert digital images into physical objects by printing 16-micron-thick layers one on top of the other. Increased production capacity and more accurate end results greatly benefit patients.
Choose the Right Dentist:
Cosmetic dentistry procedures are performed to improve the smile and appearance of a person. However, choosing the right dentist who is specialized in such a procedure is essential. Whether you need to improve your appearance, get an attractive smile, or restore the oral functions, getting the right treatment at the right time is crucial. Not only does Advanced Dental Artistry maintain a comprehensive dental lab, including 3D printing capabilities, but Dr. Yost completes over 150 hours of continuing education every year, primarily through the Spear Education Program, where he also teaches.
Whenever you or your loved ones need to go for cosmetic dentistry procedures, choose the right dentist. Choose Dr. Yost and Advanced Dental Artistry in Wilmington, DE. Contact us online or call us at (302) 477-1888 to schedule an appointment for you or a family member.
