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When 3D printing was first introduced to the world, most people (even industry experts) laughed at the technology and thought that it would be nothing more than a trend that soon disappeared once again. At first, this was a fair assumption given the restricted capabilities of the technology.
However, it’s fair to say that 3D printing has surprised everybody. Beyond making fun items at home, 3D printing has grown so much that it’s now used in aerospace parts manufacturing, education, and dentistry. It’s this last industry that has grabbed much attention in recent years.
Application of 3D Printing in Orthodontics
Looking at the whole dentistry industry, and this includes orthodontics, the market for dental 3D printing was worth more than $3 billion by 2025. One reason for this is that 3D printing in the industry is growing, and companies are investing more and more in the area.
For example, one way that specialists are using 3D printing is to repair damaged teeth. Previously, dentists would have to look at problems manually and assess the damage by hand. Now, they scan the tooth with a digital wand, and this immediately creates a 3D image of the mouth. With CAD (computer-aided design) software, the specialist can design a replacement or repair before printing. World-class dentist clinics are doing just the same.
Elsewhere, orthodontists would previously ask patients to bite down on a spongy material to get an insight into their teeth, gums, and mouth shape (and positioning). Eventually, the spongy material would harden, and specialists could make a brace or another treatment. Now, the same technology allows orthodontists to scan a mouth and receive the same information…only hours (or days!) sooner.
In some cases, the dentist will even have a 3D printer to print the required treatment. While on this note, orthodontists can also print caps, crowns, dentures, bridges, and other items for treatment. Rather than patients waiting weeks for treatment, they can receive it sooner (and potentially limit the damage caused in the meantime).
Another way that 3D printing is changing the orthodontics industry is by printing surgical tools. Typically, this is a large expense for dentists and other professionals in the field. For instance, professionals would have to spend on expensive drill guides and other surgical tools. Now, they can print the tools required to save both time and money.
Benefits of 3D Printing in Orthodontics
First and foremost, using trusted 3D printing services in Australia allows specialists to save money. Why? For one thing, they’re no longer at the mercy of expensive laboratories. Rather than outsourcing certain tasks, they can rely on 3D printing. Rather than paying a lab for every item, orthodontists can print many items in the office, paying for the 3D printer and the materials for each item.
Of course, lower costs for orthodontics means that they can offer a more competitive price for customers.
Even after this, the benefits extend to speed and accuracy. 3D scanning and printing allow for tailored solutions much faster than through previous methods. Patients have problems fixed sooner, and this helps their confidence in the long term.
With all of this in mind, it’s not surprising that 3D printing has been rapidly growing in the orthodontics niche, and it continues to change the industry every day.
How 3D Printing Works in Dentistry
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), digital dentistry has three steps. First, a dentist scans the mouth with a small digital wand. The scan makes a 3D image of the teeth and gums. Second, the dentist designs the treatment on a computer with CAD software. Third, a 3D printer builds the device layer by layer. The printer can make aligners, crowns, dentures, bridges, and surgical guides. The process is faster than the old method of taking a physical mould and sending it to a lab.
What Can Be 3D Printed?
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), 3D printing is used in dentistry for clear aligners, crowns, dentures, bridges, and surgical guides. Clear aligners are one well-known example. Each aligner is printed from a digital model of the patient’s teeth. The aligners are changed every one or two weeks to move the teeth step by step. 3D printing also makes models of the mouth for planning surgery. A surgeon can practise on a printed model before the real procedure. This can make surgery safer and faster.
Safety and Regulation
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 3D-printed dental devices are regulated as medical devices. Most medium-risk devices must be cleared by the FDA before it can be sold in the United States. The materials used must be safe for the mouth. They must not cause harm when they stay in the mouth for a long time. A printed device must also meet rules for design, making, and quality. A patient should ask the dentist whether the device has been cleared by the FDA.
Digital Impressions vs Traditional Moulds
According to the ADA, a digital scan is more comfortable than a traditional mould. A traditional mould uses a tray filled with a soft material that hardens in the mouth. Many patients find it unpleasant. A digital scan uses a small wand. A digital scan can be accurate for crowns and short bridges, but a full-mouth scan can be less accurate than a mould for dentures. The digital file can be sent to a lab quickly. A digital scan also lets the dentist show the patient a 3D image of their teeth on a screen.
Oral Health Basics
According to the CDC, good oral health starts with daily care. Brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Clean between the teeth daily with floss or another tool. Visit the dentist regularly. Limit sugary foods and drinks. Do not smoke. Smoking raises the risk of gum disease and mouth cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does 3D printing work in dentistry?
According to the ADA, a dentist scans the mouth with a digital wand, designs the treatment on a computer, and prints the device layer by layer. The printer can make aligners, crowns, dentures, bridges, and surgical guides.
What can be 3D printed for teeth?
According to the NIH, 3D printing is used for clear aligners, crowns, dentures, bridges, and surgical guides. Clear aligners are one well-known example.
Are 3D-printed dental devices safe?
According to the FDA, 3D-printed dental devices are regulated as medical devices. Most medium-risk devices must be cleared by the FDA before it can be sold in the United States. The materials must be safe for the mouth.
Are digital impressions better than traditional moulds?
According to the ADA, a digital scan may be faster and more comfortable than a traditional mould. The digital file can be sent to a lab quickly.
How can I keep my teeth healthy?
According to the CDC, brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, clean between the teeth daily, visit the dentist regularly, and limit sugary foods and drinks.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only. It is not medical advice and it does not replace care from a dentist or a doctor. This guide gives no medical advice for readers. Talk to a dentist about any dental treatment, including 3D-printed devices.
Last Updated: 6 November 2026