3D Printing in Orthodontics

Precision and Efficiency: Manufacturing Orthodontic Components from Stainless Steel or CoCr with the 2Create 3D Printers

In modern orthodontics, custom-fit components play a crucial role in successful treatment. With our 2Create metal 3D printers, highly precise orthodontic components made from stainless steel or CoCr can be produced quickly and cost-effectively.

dentist

CoCr or Stainless Steel:
The Right Choice for Orthodontic Components

Stainless steel and CoCr are the preferred materials in orthodontics due to their excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility.

Advantages of Stainless Steel:

  • No mandatory thermal post-processing required
  • Minimal distortion, easy correction if necessary
  • Easy to polish for a smooth surface
  • More affordable than CoCr
  • Can be optimally welded to stainless steel expanders

Advantages of CoCr:

  • Higher material stiffness for thin-walled structures
  • Increased hardness and strength for particularly durable components
  • Excellent corrosion resistance for long-term use

Applications:
Orthodontic Components in Detail

With the 2Create 3D printers, a wide range of orthodontic components can be manufactured in CoCr or stainless steel, including:

1. Bands and Arches

  • Molar Band: A fixed metal band used to stabilize orthodontic appliances.
  • Four-Bar Appliance: Used for precise tooth movement and rotation.
  • Multiband Appliance: Uses multiple bands to secure orthodontic components.

 

2. Retention

  • Haas Appliance: A palatal expander for widening the maxilla.
  • Nance Appliance: A fixed retainer that supports stabilization.
  • TPA (Transpalatal Arch): A wire running across the palate to stabilize molars.

 

3. Bondable Extensions and Support Elements

  • Bondable Extensions: Direct bonding elements for fixed appliances.
  • Occlusal Rests: Supportive elements for bite elevation or tooth guidance.

Print Time and Efficiency

4 large RPEs in just 2.5 hours with the 2Create

12+ large RPEs in under 4 hours with the 2Create Plus

Learn how Neo Lab significantly boosted their productivity with the Create Plus Metal 3D printer. 

What is a Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE)?

A Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE) is an orthodontic device used to widen the upper jaw by applying gradual outward pressure on the palatal bones. This expansion is particularly effective in young patients, where the midpalatal suture has not yet fully fused. RPEs are crucial for treating crossbites, crowding, and improving overall dental arch alignment.

rpd output by neolab

3D Printing in Orthodontics

The 2Create Workflow for RPE and Other Orthodontic Components

The process of manufacturing orthodontic components with 2Create or 2Create Plus is straightforward and efficient:

  1. 1. Data Preparation: Import STL data into the 2onelab CAM software and optimally position the components on the build platform.
  2. 2. Print Preparation: Define the print parameters for stainless steel or CoCr, including scan strategy and layer thickness. The choice of powder is flexible, and the correct parameters can be easily accessed from 2Connect.
  3. 3. Post-Processing: Remove support structures and polish the components – manually, with a tumbler, or via an electropolishing process.
  4. 4. Expander Welding: Using a laser welding system, the expander can be directly attached to the component.
  5. 5. Quality Assurance: Verify the accuracy, surface quality, and material properties of the components.
3D printed RPE (Stainless Steel) by 2onelab
RPE (Stainless Steel) with welded expander - printed by 2onelab

3D Printing in Orthodontics

The 2Create Workflow for RPE and Other Orthodontic Components

The process of manufacturing orthodontic components with 2Create or 2Create Plus is straightforward and efficient:

  1. 1. Data Preparation: Import STL data into the 2onelab CAM software and optimally position the components on the build platform.
  2. 2. Print Preparation: Define the print parameters for stainless steel or CoCr, including scan strategy and layer thickness. The choice of powder is flexible, and the correct parameters can be easily accessed from 2Connect.
  3. 3. Post-Processing: Remove support structures and polish the components – manually, with a tumbler, or via an electropolishing process.
  4. 4. Expander Welding: Using a laser welding system, the expander can be directly attached to the component.
  5. 5. Quality Assurance: Verify the accuracy, surface quality, and material properties of the components.

Sustainability and Material Efficiency

  • Minimal material waste: Only the necessary amount of powder is used for printing.
  • Excess powder can be directly sieved (using 2onelabs 2Sieve) and reused.

Successful Integration into Orthodontic Laboratories Worldwide

Numerous orthodontic laboratories worldwide are already utilizing our solutions. Do you want to integrate the entire workflow into your lab and enhance efficiency? Contact us – we’ll help you achele success!

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