3D Printing at the Dentist? Here’s How
Three-dimensional printing technology is taking over many industries. From manufacturing to entertainment, you’ll find 3D-printed items just about anywhere you look. You might be surprised to know that this technology has many applications in dentistry as well. Here are some ways Chloe Dental and other dentists in Houston and Katy, TX, are incorporating this tech into our practices in order to improve outcomes for our patients.
3D-Printed Crowns, Dentures, and Other Prosthetics
When used with medical-grade polymers, 3D printers can now make false teeth of all types. This technology lowers the cost of crowns and dentures, while also speeding up the time between initial appointment and application of the new teeth. In addition, the technology allows for precise measurement and creation, so you get a better fit.
3D-Printed Guides and Templates for Surgeries
For oral and maxillofacial surgeries, 3D printers can create surgical guides and templates to improve the accuracy of a procedure. This technology reduces the risk of injuries during oral surgery as well, and it can lower the operating time.
3D Printing in Periodontics
When someone has gum disease or bone loss, 3D printing can create scaffolds that provide structure to encourage soft tissue regeneration. With the help of the pinpoint accuracy of 3D printers, these devices can have better contact with the surface of the bone, which encourages better tissue growth. In periodontics, dentists in Houston and Katy, TX, can also use 3D-printed surgical guides.
3D Printing in Orthodontics
From aligners to retainers to models, the opportunities for 3D printing in orthodontics seem endless. By using this technology, we help our patients save time and money as they move forward with orthodontic care.
At Chloe Dental, we remain dedicated to helping our patients with the industry’s leading dental technology, and 3D printing is part of that. Schedule an appointment today to learn how our technology can help you have a smile you love.
