3D Printed Polymers in Dentistry and Their Clinical Applications

Objectives: This scoping review aims to discuss the current and promising clinical applications of three-dimensional
printed polymers across the field of dentistry.
Methods: Two independent reviewers conducted an electronic search on PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus (Elsevier) and Cochrane Library databases including articles written in English from January 2003 to September 2023. The search terms were ((3D printing) OR (3-dimensional printing) OR (three dimensional printing) OR (additive manufacturing)) AND ((polymer) OR (resin)) AND (dent*). Case reports, in-vitro, in-situ, ex-vivo or clinical trials focused on applications of three-dimensional printing with polymers in dentistry were included. Review articles, systematic reviews, and articles comparing material properties without investigation on clinical application and performance/accuracy were excluded.
Results: The search provided 2,896 titles from which 969 were duplicates and therefore removed. A total of 1628 studies were excluded and 473 studies will be reviewed. Studies considered innovations and applications in clinical prosthodontics and restorative dentistry, endodontics, periodontology and implantology, oral surgery, orthodontics, and pediatric dentistry. The themes of the review are likely to be but not limited to: 1. Established applications – good accuracy and repeatability which could be considered standard for clinical care. 2. Current applications where limitations exist but still appropriate for clinical use. 3. Potential promising applications which require further development.
Conclusions: Dental, oral and maxillofacial applications of three-dimensional printing polymers are increasing due to advanced technology. An understanding of the current and potential future 3D printing possibilities is essential for continued improvement and implementation of 3D printing practices.