Irritation, gum swelling, and patient discomfort are common complaints that dentists face in traditional dental procedures. These issues may become worse and take a long recovery time. The dental 3D printer helps the dentist create precise dental models, crowns, bridges, and dentures.
Equipped with the latest technology, a 3D printer produces custom-fit models that reduce the chance of errors. There are different dental 3D printer types available in the market. Let’s explore the specifications, unique features of each one, and key features that help you to choose the best one for your needs.
How Dental 3D Printing Works?
The dental metal 3D printer works on precision, accuracy, and additive manufacturing principles. Dentists create dental models layer by layer to avoid any fitting errors. Doctors take digital scans of the patient’s mouth or teeth. After the precise adjustment and inspection, this scan is turned into 3D models in the computer.
Finally, printers use this model to create different dental models like crowns, bridges, and braces. Dentists use high-quality materials in this process that make sure it stays strong. This technology saves time and provides quality models that are custom fit.
Top 5 Types of Dental 3D Printers You Need to Know About
Here are the details of each dental 3D printer type with proper unique features that help you to sort out which is best for your needs.
1. SLA (Stereolithography) Printers
The SLA 3D printer dental has resin-based 3D printing technology. The resin provides high-precision results by using a laser to cure liquid layer by layer. The laser draws the design and hardens the resin according to your model requirements. The laser technology provides a high level of accuracy and precision in dental models.
Best Suited For:
Dentists used this type of printer to make:
- Crowns
- Bridge
- Dentures
- Clear aligners
Unique Features of SLA Printers:
Here are the features that make this SLA 3D printer dental ideal for dentists:
- High Resolution: This printer is known for its high resolution due to laser technology. The layer produces a fine layer of the model that results in a sharp and clear edge.
- Excellent Surface Finish: One of the greatest features of this printer is that it produces a smooth finish for the object. Dentists don’t need to do further polishing and furnishing with dental burs.
- Great for Complex Shapes: Dental models require detailed geometry, and the SLA 3D printer dental enables the creation of complex shapes with great accuracy. The models made by this printer fit perfectly in the patient’s mouth.
2. DLP (Digital Light Processing) Printers
DLP dental 3D printers use light projector technology instead of a laser. This type of printer is due to the light projector known for speed. Dentists create high-quality and high-volume dental products without any misalignments. DLP Dental 3D Printer with digital light cure each layer of resin thoroughly. So, the final products are free from any errors.
Best Suited For:
With this printer, dentists can make the following:
- Veneers
- Implants
- Replica teeth
- Orthodontic models
Unique Features of DLP Printers
The DLP dental 3D printers have the edge over others due to the following features:
- Faster Print Times: SLA printers cure one point of the model at a time. A DLP printer with light technology cures the whole layer simultaneously and enables dentists to improve their productivity.
- Affordable: One of the greatest advantages of this printer is its cost-effectiveness. You can achieve flawless dental model results at an affordable price.
- Wide Application: The application of this printer is not limited to making crowns, bridges, and dentures. You can also create orthodontic models, like replicas of teeth and surrounding structures, in a shorter time.
Aidite provides high-quality and cost-effective DLP 3D Printer to make veneers, single crowns, and connecting bridges with exact precision and accuracy. The AI technology of this printer helps you to achieve results in a short time. Dentists can reduce the patient’s sitting time and increase productivity.
3. FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) Printers
FDM printers use thermoplastic material in their operation. This material is heated and extruded via a nozzle. You can melt plastic and deposit it layer by layer. The printer nozzle moves back and ejects material to make models.
Best Suited For:
You can make the following dental models:
- Prosthetics models
- Orthodontic aligners
- Surgical guide
Unique Features of FDM Printers:
Dentists who use this printer take advantage of the features below:
- Budget-Friendly: Unlike other printers, this uses thermoplastic technology, which is a cost-effective solution. This is a great investment for dentists to make quality dental models.
- Ease of Use: The interface of this printer is user-friendly and requires minimal setup. You won’t need any technical expert or training to start producing dental models.
- Good for Prototyping: It is great for prototyping and testing design before making any final products. It enables the dentist to fine-tune their model before making final results.
4. SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) Printers
This printer also uses laser technology to melt the powder layer by layer. SLS printer is known for its ability to produce strong and precise dental models. You can use plastic or metal material to make solid objects.
Best Suited For:
The SLS printer used to make:
- Implant models
- Temporary crowns
- Surgical guide
Unique Features of SLS Printers:
The SLS printer has some great features that make it stand out from others.
- Durable Parts: Dentists can produce dental parts that are strong and durable due to sintering laser technology. These parts withstand daily wear and tear.
- Complex Geometries: You can make complex geometry designs of dental models with great accuracy. Furthermore, dentists can customize the design to make sure the model fits precisely into a patient’s teeth.
- Versatile Materials: One of the greatest advantages of this printer is its versatility. You can use different materials like titanium, stainless steel, and plastics for specific needs of projects.
5. MJP (MultiJet Printing) Printers
As the name mentioned, this type of printer uses print head or jet technology. This type of printer sprays layers of material to build surfaces and make dental models. The printer then uses UV light to harden the material.
Best Suited For:
You can create the following dental models:
- Crowns
- Bridges
- Prosthodontic models
Unique Features of MJP Printers:
Well, the specific features of this printer are:
- Multi-Material Capability: One of the best perks of this printer for dentists is its multi-material capability. Dentists can use different types of materials to make accurate and well-designed dental models.
- Highly Detailed Prints: Dental models need detailed and accurate prints to make custom models for patients. This printer scans the patient’s mouth precisely and makes precise prints that don’t need any adjustment.
- Smooth Finish: This printer makes smooth-finish dental models that do not require any polishing or finishing. The dentist can increase their productivity by reducing the need for cutting.
How to Choose the Right Dental 3D Printer for Your Practice?
It is important to keep the following factors in mind before choosing the dental DP printer for labs.
Dental Procedure Nature
Different dental procedures need different technology-based printers. If you focus on orthodontics, you need a printer that can create a detailed 3D model. So, consider what type of work you do before selecting the printer.
Budget and Cost of Operation
It’s important to evaluate your budget before making a final decision. Some printers are high in price due to the latest technology. Choose the model that fits within your budget range. So you don’t break the bank and get quality results.
Print Speed
In dental practices and procedures, speed is everything. Choose the printer that produces high-quality models with great speed. It allows you to handle other patients and increases your productivity.
Print Quality and Resolution
To make precise dental models, it’s important to select a printer that produces high-quality prints of the patient’s mouth. Printers like DLP and LCD dental 3D printers provide top print quality that can handle fine detail. Be careful about the resolution and print quality before making payment.
The Costs of Dental 3D Printers
The cost of a dental 3D printer varies according to different factors. The types of dental 3D printers, specifications, material compatibility, and speed are a few among them. The average cost of a 3D printer is between $5,000 and $50,000.
The mode of operation or procedure complexity also influences the prices. The printers used for small practices are available in the range of $5,000 to $7,500. The cost of the mid-range printer is between $7,500 and $15,000.
While for high-volume production or dental models, this type of printer is mostly in the range of $15,000 to $50,000. Maintenance, like replacing some parts, also increases the expense. Despite this cost, the 3D printer is worth the investment for all dentists.
FAQS
What is 4D printing in dentistry?
It’s the process of creating 3D-printed structures that are used to enhance the smile appearance of the patient. Furthermore, this structure helps dentists replace broken or decayed teeth. You can use it to make implants, bridges, and crowns also.
What is the difference between a 3D and 4D printer?
The 4D printer prints objects just like a 3D printer. However, the 3D printer creates objects layer by layer. On the other hand, the 4D printer can change the shape of the object in response to heat or air. Both printers are designed to make precise dental products.
What is 3D printing in orthodontics?
3D printing in orthodontics is all about creating surgical guides, clear aligners, and splints. It enables dentists to provide precise treatment and improves the accuracy of results. Furthermore, it also reduces the timing during operation and improves productivity.
Conclusion – Which Dental 3D Printer Types are Best For You?
To summarize, dental 3D printers are used to make high-quality and precise dental models. Dentists use different dental 3D printer types to make crowns, veneers, and implants. There are 5 different dental 3D printer types available in the market. Each has its specifications and features that make each of them distinct from the other.
Which one is best for you? It’s up to your requirements. If you want to make high-quality and precise bridges and crowns, the Aidite 3D Printers provides precise scanning of a patient’s mouth. Dentists can use this to create custom-fit bridges and crowns.