Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
by Dr Khumo Tlhalerwa, Tumut Dental, NSW
I use this printer at least two or three times a week. I also have a dentist from Wagga Wagga who works here occasionally. If he needs something printed, instead of sending it to the lab, he just prints it out when he comes to work. It’s made our lives much easier.
What’s good about it
It has cut down the number of days and appointments for my implant patients. I can do a consultation in the morning then do the treatment planning and design the surgical guide in the afternoon. The surgical guide prints out overnight and I place the implant the next morning or next available reserved implant surgery appointment.
Recently, I was printing a full temporary bridge. I saw the patient, had Osteon Medical Nexus design the bridge, and then printed it with my own printer. I couldn’t be happier seeing my patient smiling just two days after his implant surgery.
I also like how easy it is to create physical models when I need them. I just scan the patient using my iTero or Omnicam and then print the model.
Using the 3D printer is a straightforward procedure. You just have to take your time and learn how to operate the machine correctly.
What’s not so good
You need to be savvy with software to get the most out of the printer. On some cases, I use three different types of software. You also need some problem-solving skills. It can be easy to get frustrated with machines and computers but you just need to work out the problem. There’s also a 70 per cent alcohol wash that’s part of the process and the smell is very strong and unpleasant.
