Preoperative Dental Models Made by 3D Printing: A Case Report of a Cementoblastoma Near the Canal of Inferior Alveolar Nerve

Objectives: The 3D printing technology for medical applications is growing, including customized dental models which offer preoperative simulation on dental operations. We demonstrate a customized anatomical model of a 51 y/o male diagnosed with cementoblastoma, adjacent to the inferior alveolar canal.
Methods: Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was used to offer medical images, which can reveal the relative position of the lesion and other bony structures. The 3D medical images are processed by Software, including Avizo, Geomagic, and SolidWorks. The 3D models are made by 3D printer Objet Eden260VS Dental Advantage.
Results: To meet the demands of the surgeons, the customized preoperative model can be designed and modified with Software. The model was initially fabricated into 2 sections, Figure 1 and Figure (2+3), respectively. As in Figure 2 and 3, the anatomical parts needed, including the lesion and the inferior alveolar canal, could be selected and fabricated. The simulated operation could be manipulated on the model to achieve the safest approach to the lesion.
Conclusions: From this case to the extent of similar situations, it can be foreseen that the 3D printing applications in customized preoperative modeling have effectively enhanced the predictability and precision for surgical outcomes.