Advancements in Orthodontic Appliances

Dentistry has been at the forefront of 3D printing since the technology’s inception, pushing it forward and providing many of its most practical applications. Modern developments make 3D printing an essential part of many procedures in American orthodontics, offering fast, accurate, and precise treatment.

Modern orthodontic technology combines 3D printing with other advancements to achieve incredible results in planning and creating orthodontic appliances. Digital scanning captures the finest details of the smile, with the resulting 3D model providing a foundation for 3D printing.

Working from that 3D model, dentists can create orthodontic appliances designed to fit patients’ smiles perfectly. The end result is a more effective and comfortable treatment.

3D printing also dramatically increases orthodontic treatment workflows. In the past, any type of orthodontic appliance would require working with an external lab. On-site 3D printing cuts out weeks of waiting time so patients can get started on their new smiles sooner.

Using digital scans and modeling throughout the 3D-printed appliance workflow also speeds things up considerably. Instead of dealing with physical impressions, X-rays, and other materials, everything is managed digitally for instant processing and communication. Many types of 3D printers also allow for rapid prototyping, so you can test the fit of an appliance quickly before creating the final version.

Enhancing Treatment Accuracy and Patient Comfort

One of the most beneficial applications of 3D printing in orthodontic treatment is the use of 3D-printed jigs during treatment. Based on digital scans and planning, a 3D-printed jig provides a guide for exact bracket placement. This level of accuracy is a critical factor in treatment outcomes.

3D printed jigs minimize manual errors and increase the success rate of orthodontic treatment, leaving more patients fully satisfied with their smiles. Accurate placement also reduces the need for readjustments, which saves time for both dentists and patients.

With less chair time, minimal discomfort, and a shorter treatment timeline, the overall patient experience greatly improves with the use of 3D printing.

Cost-Effectiveness and Accessibility

When it comes to orthodontic care, cost is one of the most significant factors for many patients. The use of 3D printing reduces overall treatment costs. Dentists create orthodontic models and devices with less overhead, allowing them to carry out treatment with lower costs for their patients.

In-house 3D printing of orthodontic appliances eliminates the reliance on external suppliers and labs. These professional services are often expensive and contribute to a significant part of the overall cost of treatment. Handling these tasks in-house with 3D printing provides considerable savings.

These cost savings can be the difference between a patient pursuing the care they need vs. going without. But 3D printing expands access to orthodontic treatment in other ways as well: With it, appliance creation and treatment are possible anywhere, making it a perfect choice for regions with limited medical infrastructure.

Future Prospects

While 3D printing has been used in dentistry longer than it has been in many other fields, the technology is still relatively young. Research is ongoing to create new materials and methods that further enhance durability, flexibility, and other key factors in successful orthodontic appliances.

Rapidly advancing technologies currently include the printers themselves, printing materials, CAD/CAM software, digital scanning, and more. Together, these advancements continue to drive the field of modern orthodontic treatment forward.

For dentists, keeping up with the rapid pace can be difficult. That’s why it’s wise to identify continuing education options that keep you up to date on the latest treatments and methods. The American Orthodontic Society offers a variety of courses to introduce dentists to these new technologies and to refine their treatment capabilities.

Keep your practice at the cutting edge of orthodontics technology.

Of course, 3D printing is just one example of the many new technologies driving dentistry and orthodontics forward. But keeping up with these developments gives your practice a competitive edge and lets you provide better treatment for your patients. Check out the latest news from the American Orthodontic Society for more on new technologies and opportunities to learn cutting-edge techniques.