Influence of 3D-Printing Parameters and Characteristics of Complete Denture Bases on Evaluated Properties: A Scoping Review.

Abstract

Purpose: To verify the parameters and characteristics evaluated in 3D-printed complete denture (CD) bases and how they influence CD properties.

Materials and methods: This work was registered in Open Science Framework (osf.io/4um6v) and followed the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews. A search of peer-reviewed articles published up to April 9, 2020, was performed on the PubMed, LILACS, Cochrane Library, and Science Direct databases. The review question based on the PCC (population, concept, and context) was: What printing parameters and characteristics of CD bases can influence their properties?

Results: The database search resulted in 1,945 articles, and the initial screening was carried out in 1,390 articles, 17 of which were selected for inclusion in this review. The present authors verified that cleaning the prosthesis with alcohol after printing followed by a postcuring cycle influences biocompatibility and residual monomers. The printing angle influences physicomechanical properties, microbial adhesion, and tissue adaptation. Accuracy is influenced by layer thickness and manufacturing technique, which also influences retention and tissue adaptation. The incorporation of antimicrobial agents influences physicomechanical properties and antimicrobial activity. The method of union between the denture base and teeth influences mechanical strength.

Conclusions: Printed denture bases showed good adaptation to tissues and accuracy with 100-µm layer thickness, but the base must be cleaned in ethanol followed by postcuring for better biocompatibility. Nano- and microparticles can be added to provide antimicrobial activity and better resistance. The printing angle and mechanical properties must be better evaluated. Int J Prosthodont 2023;36:620-629.