3D Printing in Pediatric Dentistry

Abstract

The integration of three-dimensional (3D) printing technology into healthcare has revolutionized patient-specific treatment approaches. As an advanced additive manufacturing method, 3D printing has paved the way for a new era of customized, efficient, and minimally invasive dental care tailored specifically to the needs of young patients. This review article explores the current applications, notable advancements, material innovations, and clinical impacts wof 3D printing in Pediatric dentistry.

Keywords

Introduction

Table 1 Most common used biomaterials [Eshkalaket al. (2020)]

Bioprinting

Cell-based 3D printing is known as "bioprinting," and the hydrogels that are used to contain the cells during printing are known as "bioinks." Hydrogels are preferred because of their great biocompatibility, low cytotoxicity, high water content, and modifiable mechanical and chemical composition. They are also biodegradable. For example, alginate and calcium, and fibrinogen and thrombin. The theory behind laser-assisted bioprinting (LAB) is that a laser pulse causes localized heating in a solution containing cells, which allows for the exact deposition of cells onto a substrate or platform

1. 3D Printing in Dentistry: The dental industry has been using 3D printing for more than ten years. Using laser-sintered alloys and guided implant drills for implant surgery operations were two of the first uses of additive fabrication technologies in dentistry.

2. Digital Workflow: The progress in digital image acquisition and the adoption of CAD/CAM technology have paved the way for a completely digitalized approach to dental treatment. Intraoral scanning has replaced conventional plastic moulds. Data collection utilizing various scanning technologies is the initial step. Using either extraoral or intraoral scanning equipment, like CT, CBCT, MRI and laser digitizing.

 3D Printing Techniques in Dentistry

The most often used 3D printing techniques in dentistry are polyjet printing, bioprinting, stereolithography (SLA), selective laser sintering (SLS), and fused deposition modeling (FDM).

In fused deposition modelling (FDM), The material on the spool is introduced into a heated nozzle, where it melts and is extruded in the specified dimensions, one layer at a time. Once a layer is completed, the nozzle is lifted, or the print bed is lowered.

SLA (Stereolithography) This process entails continuously raising a container containing the polymer, causing the material to harden progressively and forming a 3D object. Another 3D printing method known as digital light processing (DLP), which relies on photopolymerization, has been employed in the fabrication of zirconia implants.

The polyjet printer boasts the highest resolution. It achieves this by building the 3D model layer by layer using printer heads that jet layers of liquid photopolymer onto a build tray, which are then solidified by UV light curing. They feature a quick printing process and can produce a precise resolution as low as 25 microns. They are also capable of replicating complex shapes.

Applications Of 3D Printing in Pediatric Dentistry

1. Aesthetic restorations 3D printed templates provide efficient, convenient and esthetic option for the direct resin composite restoration of fractured anterior teeth. They help to reproduce the anatomy, color, and translucency of the fractured tooth with precision.
2. Designing & fabrication of space maintainers the trial design is obtained by scanning the cast using the dental scanner, and the digital design of the band & loop similar to the conventional space maintainer. Materials used -titanium based powdered metal material and clear photopolymer resin.
3. Impression making Small children and those with special needs may experience gag reflex during placement of loaded impression trays in the mouth. Scanning & 3D printing treatment reduces the chair side time.
4. Splint designing during dental traumatology Contemporary splints even after best modifications cannot guarantee accurate repositioning and durability. According to Tiwari et al, digitally scanned information through CBCT will enable designing of a splint which can be cemented or cured into its position in traumatised region.
5. 3D scaffold printing in regenerative dentistry Use of 3D printing has already been utilised for designing and creating customised scaffolds, where stem cells can be retained and regenerated in presence of growth factors.
6. Auto transplantation 3D printed templates help to achieve a guided atraumatic approach in auto transplantation of tooth. Strbac et al stated that this can lead to fewer failure rates and improved outcome. Vandekar et al used 3D printing to scan and replicate an impacted permanent maxillary central incisor.
7. 3D printing in sports dentistry 3D technique can help in manufacturing the customised mouth guards in single appointments and keep the information stored for re-orders even at a click of a smart phone-based application.
8. Education models for student’s 3D printed tooth models base on computerized tomographic images of extracted teeth are more realistic anatomical passage structure compared to plastic typodont teeth. Marty et al compared the perception of students between 3D printed models versus series Models in Hands-On Pediatric Dentistry Sessions.

CONCLUSION

3D printing is poised to redefine pediatric dentistry by enabling patient-specific, efficient, and minimally invasive care. While challenges such as cost, training, and regulation remain, ongoing advancements in materials, software, and printing technologies are likely to accelerate its integration into everyday practice. With its ability to enhance precision, patient comfort, and clinical outcomes, 3D printing holds the potential to become an indispensable tool in the future of pediatric dentistry.

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