Roughly ⅓ of American adults say that they’d like to improve the overall look of their smile.
Luckily, modern technology has made it easier than ever to do just that.
3D printing is used in a variety of industries, like the architecture profession, the automotive industry, and medical practices.
Now, it’s taking over orthodontics. Read on to learn more about how 3D printing can help you to get accurate, fast, and better-than-ever results when it comes to orthodontic appliances.
How 3D Printing Is Used in Orthodontics
Let’s talk about the kinds of orthodontic treatment plans and appliances that 3D printing can help to improve.
If you’re considering getting Invisalign or another kind of clear alignment, 3D printing makes the process much easier and faster.
Using in-office printing means that orthodontists can upload the scans right into the software. Then they can print the trays in-office, eliminating the need to send out molds to the vendor. The software also allows orthodontists to clearly see the areas that need improvement, and to make minute adjustments that can make a huge difference.
3D printing also speeds up the indirect bonding process, which not only speeds up the process, but also seriously decreases patient discomfort. Plus, the detailed nature of this technology can cut down on the number of painful and time-consuming (not to mention expensive) repositionings.
Making retainers that fit perfectly with a limited need for adjustments is also possible thanks to 3D printing.
Understanding the 3D Printing Process
Let’s talk about how the 3D printing process works in orthodontics.
First, your orthodontist will take an intraoral scan of your teeth to create a digital impression of your impression of your mouth. Then, they’ll use design software to draw up the perfect treatment plan — one that’s often less intrusive than those in the past.
Next, the dental appliance is printed out, sometimes in-office and often as quickly as one hour. Finally, the treatment process begins, with your orthodontist able to make the right adjustments along the way.
The Benefits of 3D Printing
There are countless reasons why 3D printing will revolutionize the orthodontics world for both dental professionals and patients alike.
First of all, 3D printing makes the process of taking impressions much less of a mess. No more biting down on cold, uncomfortable molds and gels. It also speeds up the process. In many cases, both taking the mold and creating retainers, aligners, and other dental appliances can be completed in-office.
This means your impressions will no longer need to be shipped off to a lab — and that having to retake the impression will rarely happen.
3D printing also allows your orthodontist to create incredibly detailed, accurate, and highly customized dental appliances.
This means better and faster results.
Ready to Upgrade Your Smile?
Want to learn more about how 3D printing technology can give you the results you’ve always dreamed of?
Interested in understanding all of your options when it comes to straightening your teeth?
Whether you need a retainer for your teenager, want to discuss Invisalign, or are considering the Damon System, we want to help you to find the best possible smile solution.
Get in touch with us today to request an appointment.