An insight into 3-dimensional printing in orthodontics

Abstract

The field of orthodontics in its new era is stepping ahead to newer technologic perspective. Additive manufacturing is a relatively new technology with rapidly growing range of applications in many fields of medicine and dentistry. A paradigm shift has constituted the progression from gypsum laboratory to 3-Dimensional printing. 3D printing is now easily accessible for orthodontists, being a reliable and cost-effective manufacturing method, which may be used in many aspects of orthodontic practice, and its potential is still growing. The article gives necessary insight into the history, development, available technologies of additive manufacturing and provides updates of application of 3-D printing in orthodontics.