Researchers hope that soon teeth will be created in just a few minutes with a 3-D printer
Placing a cap or a crown on a broken tooth, or on top of a dental implant, is a daily occurrence in our office. We have an on-site laboratory, so we’re pretty fast and cost effective when it comes to getting caps for our patients, but a new discovery could change things radically.
3-D Printed Antimicrobial Teeth
Researchers in the Netherlands have created a 3-D printed tooth, made of antimicrobial plastic, that kills the bacteria that causes tooth decay. The project is still in the research stage, but it could mean that dentists could create a tooth for their patients in just a few minutes, that would not only be a perfect fit, but would also be resistant to decay.
Until the research becomes a reality, we’ll continue to use the tools we have, to do the best job we can.
The Advantage of Caps on Teeth
Caps, that cover a tooth to restore its appearance, strength and shape, can be used for different types of dental treatments:
- to fit over a damaged or decayed tooth
- on top of a dental implant
- to anchor a dental bridge
- to protect a weak tooth
Placing a cap on an existing tooth or a dental implant, has the advantage of retaining bone in the jaw and avoiding the sunken look that accompanies bone loss.
The Advantage of an On-Site Lab
This dental replica was made using a 3D printer. Researchers are now working on ways to make 3D-printed teeth resistant to bacteria. Photograph: Stratasys
The beauty of caps on teeth is that they are custom made to look and feel like the original, natural tooth. They last a long time and, if something does happen and they need replacing, they are easily replaced.
The technicians in our on-site lab work closely with Dr. Stone to made sure that the look and feel of every cap is perfect. Even when a temporary cap is required, while the permanent cap is being made, you are never without a tooth. Having an on-site lab means there is no waiting for an outside lab to complete the work, which saves our patients time and money.
Caps on Dental Implants
Dr. Stone specializes in the placement of dental implants. He teaches dental implant technique to other dentists in two colleges in South Florida. An important part of the dental implant is the cap that is placed onto the implant itself. As a Prosthodontist, Dr. Stone is concerned not only with the function of each tooth, but with its appearance, as well. Having an on-site lab to complete the dental implant process allows us to give his patients the best possible results.
Contact Us
We are looking forward to the day when we can use a 3-D printer and have a tooth ready in ten minutes. Our office does have the most modern equipment available and we are able to provide our patients with caring and efficient service.
Please give us a call for an appointment, or if you have any questions about caps, dental implants, dentures or any of the other cosmetic dentistry services we provide.
