Can 3D Printing Impact the Domain of Prosthodontics?-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Abstract

In the context of prosthodontics, the utilization of 3D printing technology has been a subject of growing interest and investigation, and there is a need to evaluate the evolving role of 3D printing in prosthodontics and its potential implications for patient care and treatment outcomes. Patient-related outcomes were evaluated through diverse assessment tools, such as visual analog scales (VAS), oral health impact profile (OHIP), patient satisfaction surveys, and clinical evaluations. Statistical analyses were performed to determine the observed effects of 3D printing on these outcomes. A total of seven papers were included in the review. While some studies reported favorable outcomes associated with 3D-printed prostheses, including improved oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), denture retention, and certain patient satisfaction parameters, others indicated comparable efficacy between 3D printing and conventional methods. Analysis of clinical performance showed that 3D-printed prostheses exhibited acceptable survival and maintenance rates over extended periods. The collective evidence suggests that 3D printing is a viable treatment modality in various prosthodontic applications, offering potential advantages in terms of patient outcomes and treatment efficiency.