Leading the charge with 3D-printed prostheses

Our team consists of three registered denturists, one registered dental technician, two administrative support members and a therapy dog, who is our office greeter. Our digital journey started in 2016. We acquired the first desktop scanner for dentures in our province. From there, we continually advanced with digital dentures and have seen continual advancements in digital denture technology. Desktop scanners, intra-oral scanners, 3D printers and milling units continue to progress.

Our laboratory currently carries three 3D printers from Asiga: the MAX UV, Ultra and PRO 4K. We have had other printers over the years, but Asiga’s printers have proved to be the most reliable and are validated for use with over 500 materials. For us, the advantages of 3D printing include a streamlined process in which we can produce multiple detailed laboratory pieces all at the same time in a cost-effective manner. It comes down to efficiency, speed and accuracy, which together translate into increased production for the business without compromising patient care.

With current advancements and a large selection of materials to choose from, it can be difficult to know what will work best for your business. I have worked closely with Ivoclar since I graduated from school and have never really deviated from its materials: impression materials, teeth, resins, articulators, processing systems—we have them all because they work and they work well! Because of the research and development Ivoclar puts into its products, it was easy to select Ivotion Base Print. We knew we could rely on this resin to be aesthetic, strong, accurate and repairable. Thanks to the quick and easy post-polymerisation protocol and because no additional glaze layer is needed, you can trim and go straight to polishing with consistent results. What more can you ask for in a printed base resin?

We will continue to explore digital trends in denture technology, and we see additive manufacturing continuing to go neck and neck with subtractive manufacturing. The advantages of digital dentistry and what it brings to us from a clinical and technical perspective are obvious. Digital dentistry really is a full circle process that ultimately provides the patient, clinician and technician with the best possible outcomes. Ivoclar has been a partner to our business over the years and now has a solution for all denture needs: conventional production, 3D printing or milling. We are excited about bringing Ivoclar and Asiga together in our laboratory and clinic.