This talk will be based on the findings from Professor Ting's AAOF Center grant, "Standard Characterization of Clear Orthodontic Aligners," and will present the findings from the Center grant and correlate to the properties of 3D printed aligners and clinical applications. The basic principles of material properties and biomechanics will be refreshed for the audience. Professor Ting will discuss the present and future applications of direct 3D printed aligners in contrast to the current aligner treatment. Different approaches for direct 3D printing will be discussed. And allowing clinicians to have a realistic understanding of this exciting area. The goal is to share independently tested and reliable test data with AAO members without influencing all companies.
Learning Objectives:
After this lecture, attendees will be able to:
Learn the biomaterial and biomechanics principles of 3D printing material.
Evaluate the pros and cons, the challenges, and the potential of 3D printing aligners.
Independently assess different commercial available thermoplastic and 3D printing materials.
