From 3D imaging to 3D printing in dentistry - a practical guide.

Abstract

3D imaging in dentistry plays an essential part in diagnostics and treatment planning. To transform digital images into a real object that can be experienced haptically may provide new opportunities to practitioners regarding patient communication, skills training, and treatment planning. Therefore, the aim of this article is to provide a practical guide from 3D imaging to 3D printing using low-cost printers and open source software; the authors used 3D Slicer software and a Meshmixer printer, including the printer's own software. The article presents step-by-step instructions on how to perform rapid prototyping via fused deposition modeling (FDM) and stereolithography (SLA). As an example, we printed the skull of a patient with Saethre-Chotzen syndrome who was undergoing maxillofacial surgery. The protocol explained here should enable the technically interested clinician to produce patient-specific 3D models in-house, prefabricate osteosynthesis plates, and take advantage of the benefits of 3D printing for dentist-patient communication.

• Authors: Norman Moser, Petra Santander, Anja Quast
• Journal: International journal of computerized dentistry (Int J Comput Dent) 2018 Vol. 21 Issue 4 Pg. 345-356 ISSN: 1463-4201 [Print] England
• PMID: 30539177 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Topics

• Humans
• Imaging, Three-Dimensional
• Models, Dental
• Patient Care Planning
• Printing, Three-Dimensional
• Software