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. 2019 Apr 16;9(3):179–185. doi: 10.1016/j.jobcr.2019.04.004

Table 2.

Steps to create a 3D printed dental model by using additive manufacturing.

S. No Step used Description References
1 Digital 3D model of the patient's mouth
  • Digital models are created by 3D scanners in the form of cloud data with fast and accurate dimensions

  • Used 3D scanner for precise scanning of patient mouth and teeth

Haleem and Javaid 201836; Kumar et al., 201837
2 Modification in design
  • After scanning, it is essential to ensure that the dental model will fit perfectly by adjusting shape, size and position

  • Easy modification in design is done through the use of different software and the associated AM technology

Azari and Nikzad 200938; Tahmaseb et al., 201439
3 3D printing
  • Fabricate 3D solid object directly from the 3D digital file by the addition of materials layer by layer

  • Dental implants are manufactured using different AM technologies according to the specification of printing material

  • Post-processing is used to increase the physical property and strength of the implant

  • Reliable for reconstruction of precise teeth and other tools used in dentistry

  • It is cost effective as compared to the other manufacturing techniques and can well be used for training

Kumar et al., 201640; Chang et al., 201541; Javaid and Haleem 201842
4 Testing and Implementation
  • Ensures that the physical model is as per required quality and strength

  • Under a specific condition of load, it must be feasible & reliable

  • Testing is essential before actual implementation

  • Dental model printed by this technology is used during surgery of the patient

Chen et al., 201443; Francisco et al., 201644