Sinterex is using 3D printing to quickly produce dental implant bridges, while the UAE is also pushing for more 3D printed advances in dentistry. 

Going to the dentist is a real fear for many people. However, if your dentist had a 3D printer, would you be so scared of a visit? Better get used to the idea; 3D scanning and printing are transforming the dental industry.

This year, for example, the world’s first 3D printed dental implant bridges were developed in the United Arab Emirates.

Metal 3D printing company Sinterex developed a 14-unit framework in cobalt chrome. This was then fitted into a patient’s mouth. The company is the first to be licensed for industrial 3D printing in Dubai. 

Managing director of Sinterex, Julian Callanan, explains the process. He said:

“There have been about 500 units produced in two months time, all of which have been successfully implanted in patients, primarily in Dubai, but we’ve also expanded the scope of our client base to include Sharjah and Abu Dhabi, as well as Jordan and Iran.”

How Sinterex Creates Implant Bridges

3D printing is used to create the implant bridges. A bed fusion process involves a layer of metal powder being melted using a high-powered laser. This continues until there are enough layers to create the product.

Middle East Dental Laboratory then takes over the process. Their aim is to make the teeth look natural, so they finish the metal framework and add ceramics.

Impressively, printing takes just hours, compared to the days required for traditional methods. Perhaps because of this, there is noticeable change in dentistry practise. You may find that soon, your local surgery has a 3D printer.

Callanan explains: “What I’m seeing now is that they have their own 3D printers, their own 3D scanners, and are becoming increasingly digitalized.”

In the UAE, 3D printing is making a big difference. Already, local authorities are creating 3D printed teeth to help push for a world leading 3D printing hub by 2030. As well as this, a Dubai Health Authority official said that the government will be using 3D printing to create dental molds.

“3D printing is a key supporting technology….it all also benefits the patients,” Callanan added.

Source: Khaleej Times