In-office appliance fabrication 101, where do I even start?

Finally, you decided to make the switch to digital dentistry, but don’t know where to start. The essential core of digital dentistry is based on two things: 3D scanning, and 3D printing (additive manufacturing). So, let’s break down the process a bit. 

 First thing’s first, get a scanner.

According to the American Dental Association, digital intraoral scanning is quickly becoming an essential service in today's dental practices. The dental industry is going all digital. Chairside in-house digital workflow helps dentists elevate patient care through high-quality care at a faster pace. With the addition of digital office scans, dental offices can improve their workflow and communication with patients, which automatically results in more efficient office operations.

 What is the best scanner out there?

Intraoral scanners are replacing the tedious process of taking dental impressions - the patients don’t like it, and guess what? Your team doesn't like it either. But scanners these days come in so many varieties, so which one is best for your practice? The essential factors you have to think about are this: (1) Why am I going to scan my patients? (2) What is my initial investment budget? (3) How much do I care about software packages that are coming with the scanner? (4) What are the annual storage, consumables, and subscription costs? The top three most common scanners on the market are Trios from 3shape; Medit 700; and iTero. 

Trios by 3shape has a fantastic quality scan for both regional and whole arch scans. It comes with a slew of software packages like clear aligner studio. Medit is an inexpensive option that has average hardware and good software, and most users pick this scanner for its affordability. iTero is a good option if you are offering the Invisalign appliance to your patients.  [site]

 Decide to work with a lab or purchase your own 3D printer.

If you opt to go the in-office appliance fabrication path, having a 3D printer helps improve the fast delivery of care in your practice. As the market for 3D dental printers grew, the operating costs have significantly dropped. That, coupled with minimal maintenance and user-friendly designs, can have you integrating digital dentistry and 3D printing into your practice in no time! 

Common dental 3D printers on the market are SprintRay Pro (DLP-based printers) and Formlab (SLA-based printers). LCD printers like Phrozen are the alternative option. The main difference between digital light processing vs stereolithography-based printers is the 3D printing speed. These desktop 3D printers are different from what dental labs are using. Ideal 3d printing solutions also include equipment for post-processing: (i) cleaning the liquid resin and (ii) curing the printed appliances (e.g., orthodontic models or splints).

FDA is introducing more stringent regulations on the biocompatibility of liquid resins for medical and dental applications. The use of biocompatible resins is not critical in 3D printing dental models for prototyping or simulating the care. Nonetheless, in a digital workflow where a provider prints various appliances with different resins, it is hard to keep track of biocompatibility for various non-dental and dental resins.

The 3D printing technology for high throughput of appliances used by dental labs is different. 3D systems have many printers commonly used in digital dental laboratories. The build volume of large printers allows for printing a high quantity of dental and orthodontic appliances.

According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, in 2019 about one-third of all practicing dental professionals (32%) expect a trend toward more digital or CAD/CAM technologies. Dental 3D printing, milling, and scanners are all expected to provide significant growth opportunities by integrating with CAD/CAM technology. Although most crowns and bridges are made in the lab, you can do more than just dentures, crowns, and bridges with a 3D printer!  [site]

Thanks to new software advancements, 3D scanners, printers, and other advanced technologies have increased office efficiencies to new heights. It has also allowed dental practices to cut down on costs while improving the quality of care, which benefits both doctors and patients. These advancements translate to better clinical workflows and an improved treatment experience for all patients. 

 What services do you want to start offering using your 3D printer?

Most commonly, a beginner in the digital dental field starts with either or both of these: night guards, retainers, and whitening trays. 3D printing dental models, orthodontic aligners, and surgical guides are other examples. There is a growing demand for dental restoration solutions and aesthetic treatments such as whitening, so this is a great place to start your transition into becoming a digital dental practice.

If you’ve been looking for more dental products to add to your products, you’ll definitely want to consider 3D printing. Want more information on 3D printing and the benefits of digital dentistry? Consider signing up to join Seattle Digital Dental Hub. We are an exclusive small-group dental study club. We offer the continuing education needed to bring your practice up to speed, and hands-on implementation seminars. You’ll get unlimited access to the dental study club founder and industry leader, Dr. Rooz Khosravi, as he guides you through the unknowns of buying a printer, training the team, standardizing automated processes, and scaling your new in-office solutions. SDDH provides you with CE credits approved by the AGD-PACE program by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD).