People have been talking about the benefits of 3D printing in the medical field for ages, but it was only seen as a more futuristic method that was too ahead of its time for practical use. It would be a while before the average person gets to experience the perks, but that time has finally come! 3D printers are becoming more normalized in Fontana dental offices to be used for dentures, crowns, and other tools. These machines have made certain dental practices easier for dentists which translates to lower bills for patients.
How Does It Work?
The basic idea of 3D printing is that a computer-generated model is created as a blueprint for the final product. The physical model is typically made of a material that can be heated and molded, such as plastic. A machine will distribute this plastic layer by layer until it finishes creating an accurate version of the original blueprint. When this technology was first discovered, it was a costly process that was mainly used in labs for various research projects. However, within as little as a decade, this technology has been perfected to the point where the average person is now able to have a 3D printer in their own home. As you may expect, this technology comes in handy for many industries including dentistry.
3D Printers In Dentistry
Since 3D printers have become more normalized, many dentists have considered how they can be used to improve their current practices. If the average person can afford to have one in their home, then it’s not so far-fetched for a dental office to have one in-house as long as the benefits outweigh the cost. Dentists and patients alike in Fontana will be glad to know that 3D printing is beneficial enough to revolutionize how we perform current procedures and how much money it can save both parties.
The Benefits of 3D Printing In Dentistry
To put it simply, 3D printers can save money all around by cutting down the number of materials needed for each procedure and the short amount of time that it takes for the entire process. Eliminating the need for days of lab work and extra visits reflects on the patient’s number of bills as well as the amount on each invoice which makes it more accessible to the general public. And while there’s the preconceived notion that the fast and cheap option in any aspect would diminish the quality, that is certainly not the case in dentistry. In fact, the quality of dentures and crowns is actually improved thanks to 3D printing.
A Much Faster Process
For ages, clay-like waxy materials have been used to make dental impressions for dentures and crowns. The patient would have to bite down on the substance for a prolonged period of time before being carefully extracted. The dentist then sends it to the lab where the denture or crown is created, but this can take up to a few weeks and there’s no guarantee that the final product will be completely perfect since the model can be accidentally altered in the process.
| Steps For Getting Dentures and Crowns With a 3D Printer |
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A More Custom Fit
With the help of 3D printing, the patient’s mouth can be scanned and a denture or crown can be fabricated on the spot. And with a computer scan, there’s little chance that the “imprint” will be altered. Even if the fit isn’t exactly perfect, the dentist could easily make the appropriate changes to the 3D model before printing an improved version, all without needing to wait multiple weeks.
Other Uses For 3D Printers In Dentistry
Other than crafting dentures and crowns for patients to use, 3D printing can also aid dentists during their procedures for enhanced quality in their practice. For example, it’s common for dentists to accidentally place implant roots incorrectly due to the awkward and limited angles available to get to the problem area. Now, dentists can 3D-print surgical guides that are placed over the gap as a way for them to find the exact spot in which to drill in the implant post. The 3D-printed guide can easily be removed once the post is secured. 3D printing can also be used to create a personalized casting of the patient’s mouth so that the dentist can gain a better understanding of the layout and plan their procedures more accurately.
| Dental Procedures That Benefit From 3D Printing |
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Where to Get the Best Experience In Fontana
If you’re needing a denture or dental crown but are dreading the tedious process and high cost, you’ll be glad to know that Fontana residents can visit Southridge Dental Group for local dentistry supported by 3D printing practices. You can expect faster procedures and a less intrusive method of crafting the perfect denture or crown for you! No longer will you need to wear yourself out biting down on wax longer than you would like to. Call 909-822-9090 to make an appointment and get started on receiving the easiest treatment for your missing teeth.
Some people with missing teeth have trouble deciding whether they should look into getting dental implants or whole dentures. While you can read about the differences between dentures and implants online, the best thing you can do is schedule an appointment with Southridge Dental Group for an expert opinion. Either way, we can make your procedure easier and more affordable with the help of 3D printing!