3D printing market to boom for dentistry

Anisha Hall Hoppe, Dental Tribune International

Wed. 11. October 2023

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NORTHBROOK, Ill., US: By 2028, the value of the dental 3D-printing market is expected to surge to US$6.7 billion, from US$3.0 billion currently—a compound annual growth rate of 17.5%—according to a recent report by MarketsandMarkets. This substantial growth is largely attributed to the technology’s advantages of speeding up product development, crafting high-quality complex items, enabling mass personalisation and reducing wastage. Factors like the ageing population and the increase in dental caries further boost the significance of 3D printing in dentistry.

The report dissects the market based on application, technology, region, product and service, and end user. The key takeaways include:

Regional growth: The Asia Pacific region is witnessing strong growth, owing to its vast patient base, the rise of dental practices and dental tourism.
Driving forces: A growing geriatric population, a surge in cosmetic dental procedures and the integration of 3D printers in medical establishments underpin the market’s expansion.
Promising opportunities: The rising trend of CAD/CAM technology and advancements in dental 3D-printing resins promise lucrative prospects.
Challenges: High set-up and operational costs can hinder the market, particularly for small to medium-sized laboratories. The costly nature of 3D-printing materials compared with conventional alternatives and the lack of insurance coverage for 3D-printing procedures further exacerbate this issue.
Industry dynamics: The high prevalence of dental diseases globally, especially caries in developed countries, signals a growing demand for restorative procedures, which 3D printing can address. However, the industry struggles with the dearth of a skilled workforce proficient in additive manufacturing.

The report also provides a comprehensive technological overview. Vat photopolymerisation is the dental 3D-printing segment projected to grow at the highest compound annual rate over the forecast period. It is primarily utilised for crafting dental implants, dentures and cranio-maxillofacial guides because of its superior resolution and surface finish. In particular, the liquid crystal display subcategory of vat photopolymerisation is expected to be the fastest-growing segment between 2023 and 2028, owing to its cost-efficiency and compact size.

It would also be wise to take note of key market participants, including 3D Systems, Stratasys and Desktop Metal, all based in the US. These entities have fortified their market position through strategic partnerships, acquisitions and expansions.

In summary, the dental 3D-printing market is on an uptrend, propelled by technological advancements, growing demand and strategic industry alliances. However, high costs and a skills gap pose challenges that the industry must address in order to sustain its growth.