Many of our readers are operate or are keenly interested in personal 3D printers, but they are also aware that 3D printing was originally used for industrial uses. One of those uses is in dentistry, where “personalized fit” is essential. Creating one-time unique dental shapes is the business of dentists and 3D printing technology is a natural fit. That’s why several of the larger commercial 3D printer manufacturers address the dental 3D printing market. But what do 3D printers do for dentistry?
In a post by Objet in Today’s Medical Developments, Objet’s Head of Medical Solutions Avi Cohen provides a complete overview of the latest in dental 3D printing. Cohen describes the change in dentist workflow, from the traditional “artist” who manually sculpted dental implants, to today’s digital process, involving “intraoral scanners” that capture a 3D model of your teeth and 3D printers designed specifically for building dental implants.
While dentistry is obviously a discipline that involves highly personalized shapes, we’re wondering what other industries require personalization that could be assisted by 3D printing technology. Shoes? Gloves? Sports equipment? Furniture?
Via TMD
