3D Printing and Dental Implants: What You Need to Know

Dental implants are still considered the best option for most people who need a tooth replacement after an extraction. Not everyone is a candidate for this option, but if you are, a dental implant is a strong, effective long-term solution to replace a missing tooth. 

You may be wondering how dental implants are made. In recent years, this process has changed from manufacturers that create dental implants with highly advanced machinery to the even more advanced process of 3D printing. 

But how does this work, and what do you need to know? 

At Ueno Center Dental Specialists, we strive to give our patients the best state-of-the-art treatment options for their oral health. Jeremy K. Ueno, DMD, and our other providers want you to be informed about 3D printing and how it’s being used to produce dental implants.

Dental implants 101 

First, we offer this quick lesson about dental implants. A dental implant is what acts as the tooth root, providing stabilization for the crown, which acts as your tooth. The implant is made of a titanium alloy in most cases, although some patients prefer the option of a zirconia implant.

In many cases, we’re able to provide you with a temporary implant and crown the same day as your extraction. This is much better for your oral health overall, as it avoids the issues that can come from missing a tooth while you’re waiting for your permanent implant. 

Some patients require bone grafting in order to support the implant. This is the case if your bone density has been compromised by decay or other problems. Eventually, you’ll have a permanent implant and crown that looks no different from your other teeth.

3D printing for dental implants 

While dental implants used to be created with traditional manufacturing methods, 3D printing has emerged in recent years as a beneficial alternative. In fact, studies have shown that this is a highly effective and advantageous option for creating dental implants. Here’s why.

Speed

Creating dental implants with 3D printing rather than traditional methods is often faster, allowing you to get your temporary implant and even your permanent implant quicker. This means a decreased likelihood of you experiencing the issues associated with missing teeth. 

Accuracy

Errors are often less likely to occur with 3D-printed implants than those created with traditional methods. 3D printing allows manufacturers to look at the implant from all angles and to not only view but create the most accurate product possible. 

Cost-effective

In some cases, 3D printing can provide a more economical solution for creating dental implants. It allows the manufacturers to save on materials, assembly, and production costs, which can often be high due to the amount of work involved in creating these implants. 

Flexible

In some cases, the implant may need changes during production. 3D printing allows for this kind of flexibility, especially when it comes to avoiding the use of additional appliances to make these changes. 

Should I get a 3D-printed dental implant? 

There are many advantages to 3D printing for dental implants. At Ueno Center Dental Specialists, we want to offer our patients the best options for their needs. We would be happy to discuss dental implants with you and determine if 3D printing is the right choice. 

Do you want to make an appointment? Call today to speak with someone in our Campbell, California, office, or click here to request a consultation.