"Digital Dentistry" is here!

The dental field has always been a strong branch of the healthcare system. It has also been a dreadful issue in terms of cost for many people. From a simple clean to dental surgery, the main cost arises from the equipment  needed and the replacement parts for the teeth.

While 3D printing has been revolutionising the medical field for the past few years, it has set foot in the dentistry. It marks the start of "Digital Dentistry". This has been a prototype for some time but in recent times it shows promising results to replace the costly alternatives.

The developments began with models being created for educational or simple reference purposes. At a time nearly 30 models were able to produced in a time frame, which had 3-4 models being manufactured by existing factories. So far only mouth guards have been a product that can be used in the mouth. But a full set of parts for braces and other dentures are not far from being 3D printed.

Cheaper production means, cheaper prices. This changes the amount of dentures that can be accessed by third world country citizens, since the affordability is a huge factor for them and also with many people from developed countries.

The research conducted by Apex promises this change to take place soon. Here's a video to provide an overview of "Digital Dentistry".

Source: http://youtu.be/hl3GvW-cfGM