3D Printing in Orthodontics? Oh Yeah

We can all agree that technology benefits our daily lives in lots of ways. Thankfully, orthodontic technology hasn’t been left behind — an increasing number of orthodontic specialists like your Evergreen, CO orthodontist are embracing 3D printing in their orthodontic practices. It’s a game changer when it comes to revolutionizing patient treatment and service. 

Wondering how 3D printing makes orthodontics better? As a high-tech orthodontist, Dr. John DuRussel is big on using leading edge orthodontic technology for creating smiles comfortably and efficiently — we’ve been using a 3D printer since April of 2023 and we’ve seen amazing benefits. Here are six key reasons why we’ve incorporated it into our practice.

1. Precision is the Name of the 3D Game

Braces and clear aligners require a perfect fit in order to shift your teeth comfortably, safely, and in a timely manner. Even small issues with fit can affect your entire treatment. With 3D printing, orthodontists can offer incredible precision — for dental appliances like braces brackets, clear aligners, and clear retainers.

Your Evergreen, CO orthodontic specialist, Dr. John DuRussel, uses our in-house 3D printer to print precise models of our patients’ teeth and oral structures from their digital scans. We use those digital models to make retainers, expanders, and many other custom orthodontic appliances for a perfect fit. 

2. Speed Matters

"Come back in two weeks for your appliance" doesn’t have to be the case anymore. Orthodontic appliances such as 3D printed-retainers, 3D-printed aligners, and 3D printed molds can materialize in a matter of hours. With our 3D printer, the ability to create teeth molds in-house at the start of the orthodontic process makes correcting orthodontic issues that much faster right from the get-go. 

3. Cost-Effectiveness For Patients

At Evergreen Orthodontics, our goal is to provide the best orthodontic treatment that fits your budget and lifestyle. Now, you might think cutting edge orthodontic technology like 3D printing will push orthodontic treatment out of range. But actually, using 3D printing in orthodontics can lead to cost-effectiveness in the long run. How? Traditional methods of producing your orthodontics often require multiple visits on your part, extensive labor at your orthodontist’s office, and time and manpower at the labs where appliances are produced. Plus there’s the cost of materials. With 3D printing, the process is streamlined and can result in saving both time and production costs.

4. Customization For The Best Outcomes

In orthodontics, custom treatment paired with an efficient, effective, and comfortable experience results in an amazing smile. The Evergreen Orthodontic Specialists team has embraced 3D printing to allow greater customization, whether you’re seeking early orthodontics, teen or adult braces or Invisalign®, or a retainer to lock in your stunning smile. 

5. Limitless Possibilities

As we mentioned, we currently use our 3D printer to produce molds for braces, clear aligners, and retainers, but 3D printing in orthodontics can achieve even more. According to this review, uses of 3D printing in orthodontics is seemingly endless; 3D printing is being tapped for producing bracket and archwires, nasoalveolar molding devices, orthognathic surgical splints, removable appliances, expansion appliances, auxiliary attachments, as well as clear aligners and clear retainers. And let's not forget about research and development: 3D printing opens the door to creating new types of dental appliances and improving treatment possibilities for even more beautiful, functional smiles.

6. Environmental Upsides

It’s no secret that your Evergreen, CO orthodontist values nature. When Dr. DuRussel isn’t creating beautiful, functional smiles, you can find him on the water, on the slopes, and in the forest. So it makes sense that we’re your high country orthodontist that considers sustainability. The 3D printing process allows for more efficient use of materials and resources. Plus, many 3D printers use eco-friendly, biodegradable materials like PLA - a corn-based, safe “plastic.” 

High Tech Orthodontics In Evergreen, CO

Bottom line? The use of 3D printing in orthodontics is a win for everyone involved, especially you, the patient! From amazing precision to cost- and time-saving benefits, this technology is moving the needle on orthodontic technology.

As a high-tech orthodontist, we’re all about harnessing cutting edge orthodontic technology for the best patient experience. Our 3D printer is one of many innovations we use to ensure our patients — from kids to grandparents — receive efficient, comfortable care. Give us a shout to schedule a complimentary consultation for modern braces or Invisalign in the Evergreen, CO mountain community.