In Case You Missed It: The Game-Changing Role of 3D Printing in Dentistry

In the ever-evolving world of dentistry, staying ahead with innovative technologies is key. A recent webinar, led by dental expert Dr. Susan McMahon, delved deep into the profound impact of 3D printing on dental practices.

Having integrated 3D printing into her own practice for five years, Dr. McMahon shared insights on how this technology has considerably reduced the time dental offices spend on managing physical impressions and models. If you missed it, here’s a brief overview of the webinar alongside some key takeaways.

**Highlight 1: Efficiency and Precision**

Dr. McMahon highlighted how transitioning to a digital workflow drastically reduces the need for remakes. She emphasized, "Digital workflows reduce remakes by about 80% compared to traditional methods." This efficiency has allowed for a more streamlined process and even increased satisfaction among patients due to reductions in appointment times and the discomfort commonly associated with traditional impressions.

**Highlight 2: Environmental and Space Benefits**

Another significant benefit discussed was the environmental and space-saving advantages of 3D printing. Traditional impressions generate substantial waste, but as Dr. McMahon pointed out, "There are 2.2 pounds of waste generated per traditional impression." She also noted the stress of storage space for physical models, explaining the average dental office requires 12 square feet of storage for every hundred models. The shift to digital versions eliminates these issues and contributes to a more earth-friendly operation.

**Highlight 3: Enhanced Patient Experience**

3D printing isn’t just about efficiency—it’s also about the patient experience. Dr. McMahon reflected on how digital impressions have been favored by patients, stating, "Digital impressions eliminate gagging and discomfort that 92% of patients prefer digital

workflows." Patients not only receive better-fitting dental appliances like provisionals and occlusal guards, but they also benefit from a quicker and more comfortable dental visit.

Catch the full webinar recording to explore these points in detail, get FREE CE credits, and learn more about the transformative role of 3D printing in dental practices. Visit VOCOLearning.com for the on-demand video and additional resources. Use this opportunity to stay on the cutting edge of dental technology and enrich your practice with 3D printing advancements.