Technology has been revolutionizing orthodontics, giving current orthodontists significant advantages over their predecessors. The usage of a 3D printer is one of the most innovative tools available to today’s orthodontists. Orthodontists are improving treatment for patients all across the world by utilising this cutting-edge technology.
What is 3D Printing?
Despite the fact that 3D printing has been around for a long time, it remains a mystery to many people. The procedure begins with the creation of a 3D digital model of the item to be made. The data is then interpreted by the 3D printer, which layers the material until the object is complete. It’s the polar opposite of carving a sculpture or instrument out of wood. You’re layering the material to build something new, rather than carving out the extra material bit by bit to shape an object.
Clear Braces
The introduction of Invisalign is one of the most notable uses of 3D printing in orthodontics. This ground-breaking system of clear, plastic aligners has forever changed orthodontic treatment by allowing patients to straighten their teeth without having to wear braces.
These aligners can be made fast and efficiently using 3D printing while also providing a precise fit for patients. The iTero scanner, a 3D scanning equipment that delivers exact intraoral images of a patient’s teeth, works in unison with this 3D printing technology. The Invisalign trays can be printed and handed to the patient after the scan is completed. Clear plastic retainers are also made using this method.
Study Models
Even if a patient does not qualify for Invisalign, 3D printing can be used to aid in their therapy. If a patient is getting traditional braces, for example, a model of their jaw and teeth will be needed to produce their unique set of braces. 3D printing is an extremely efficient and practical method of creating these things.
Pre-3D printer innovation incorporates having the patient clench down on gooey, awkward mud so it could solidify into a form, which turns into the underlying model for planning a treatment for supports or Invisalign. This isn’t really with 3D printing. A dental specialist can utilize a similar innovation to check the teeth, plan an orthodontic machine and print the final product in-house.
Custom Braces and Retainers
Retainers, such as the conventional Hawley retainer, are also made using these models. The plastic piece that adheres to the roof of the mouth may be made fast and with great precision using the 3D model.
The comfort of 3D printing innovation is additionally utilized in the assembling of individual braces. These braces are put on a reasonable plastic aligner like the Invisalign aligner prior to being applied to the patient’s teeth. Subsequently, custom braces give incredible outcomes significantly quicker and give patients a general better result.
