Effectiveness of postprocessing on 3D printed resin biocompatibility in prosthodontics: A systematic review.

Statement of problem: Additive manufacturing is used in prosthodontics for producing casts, surgical guides, and interim and definitive prostheses. Printed resin components that will be in contact with the oral mucosa must meet biocompatibility requirements in accordance with current standards for medical devices. Despite such approvals being obtained by the manufacturer, the dentist remains responsible for following the manufacturer recommendations. Evidence for the effect of postprocessing 3-dimensionally (3D) printed resin components on biocompatibility is lacking PURPOSE: The purpose of this systematic review was to assess the effectiveness of 3D printing postprocessing on the biocompatibility of resins that will be in contact with the oral mucosa.

Material and methods: The PubMed, Scopus, and DOSS search engines were used to identify articles. Two independent researchers conducted the systematic review by following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and by following a combination of keywords.

Results: Of a total of 249 articles, 27 were selected, including only 1 in vivo study. Thirty-two commercially available and a few experimental resins were tested. The main applications were removable denture bases and denture teeth, interim and definitive fixed restorations, occlusal splints, and surgical guides. Postprocessing procedures were those recommended by the manufacturer, experimental, or not implemented and involving alcohol, ultrasonic or centrifugal rinsing, photopolymerization at different UV wavelengths, a nitrated atmosphere chamber with air drying or compressed air drying and with heat treatment. The majority of postprocessed 3D printed resins were reported to be noncytotoxic, implying sufficient biocompatibility.

Conclusions: The heterogeneity of materials and methods did not allow the identification of an ideal postprocessing protocol or of the need for additional steps after following the manufacturer's recommendations.