3D Printing: Dream Becomes Reality

The buzz at the Dental Laboratory Owners Association of California’s CAD/CAM Symposium in November 2005? Rapid prototyping technology. First developed in the 1980s and used in the automotive and aerospace industries, the technology had laboratory owners enthusiastic about what was called the “next generation of CAD/CAM.” Advocates touted the technology’s potential for increased efficiency and less material waste.

Today, in their pursuit of achieving an all-digital workflow, more than three-quarters of labs are using 3D printing either via in-house equipment or outsourcing. They’re fabricating models, waxups, nightguards, temporary restorations and more, saying the technology offers an easy and predictable process that increases productivity and consistency and renders model making and hand waxing obsolete.

And, thanks to manufacturer innovations, the technology and materials just keep getting better.