REDEFINING PROSTHODONTICS WITH 3D PRINTING

Dentistry is amidst a digital revolution and patients are the definitive recipients of these innovative technological advancements. Three-dimensional (3D) printing is no more considered the future, but isthe reality for daily clinical practice. The term 3D printing, additionally referred as rapid prototyping, is commonly used to depict an additive manufacturing method which adds numerous layers under computerized control in order to create a three-dimensional object. Using this procedure, 3-Dimensional printed restorations, crowns, bridges, surgical guides and implants can be manufactured rapidly with extreme accuracy and precision. The benefits of this innovative technique exceed its drawbacks. 3D printing has prompted a change in digital dentistry with its broad learning, penetrating opportunities and a wide scope of applications. This article will facilitate an understanding of the digital workflow, methods and current uses of 3D printing in prosthetic dentistry.