Print and Try Technique: 3D-Printing of Teeth with Complex Anatomy a Novel Endodontic Approach

Abstract

The purpose of this report is to evaluate the applicability of a novel Print and Try technique in the presence of aberrant endodontic anatomies and to achieve a predictable treatment with improved outcome. According to guidelines, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is recommended in the presence of complex anatomies. The volumes were utilized to produce a stereo lithographic (STL) file, from which a 3D-plastic tooth model including a hollow root canal system was obtained. The 3D-patient-specific model facilitates the treatment planning and the trial of therapeutic approaches. Using a transparent material, all the treatment steps could be directly visualized. Subsequently, endodontic therapy could be performed in vivo with reduced operating time and with a better overview. Clinicians benefit from the Print and Try technique when facing a complicated root canal system with reduced stress and higher chances of success. In aberrant endodontic anatomies, the use of a transparent 3D plastic model, derived from the CBCT dicom, provides an exact preview of clinical challenges that will be met intra-operatively. A patient centered tailored approach to shaping, cleaning, and filling strategies can be applied.

A Novel Self-Assessment Method for Training Access Cavity on 3D Printed Endodontic Models

“…In most cases, the workflow to obtain 3D printed teeth starts with DICOM files of the natural tooth, derived from a CBCT or microCT scan. The DICOM files are then converted into STL files and thoroughly refined, prepared, and smoothed with dedicated software before being printed [ 46 , 47 ]. This type of processing typically requires many hours of work and represents the main limitation of the production process.…”

3D-Printed Teeth in Endodontics: Why, How, Problems and Future—A Narrative Review

“…Another use for 3D-printed teeth is in complex anatomical clinical cases, allowing clinicians to understand the root canal configuration and try a specific clinical treatment before reproducing it on a patient. The clinician can train and find the best approach to be more confident during the real treatment [1,60,61].…”