Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
by Dr Andrew Ip, Marsfield Dental Care, NSW
TriniQ is a resin that has been validated for use with multiple 3D printer brands. I use it frequently because it’s such a versatile material approved for multiple applications.
What’s good about it
This material is designed for producing definitive restorations such as veneers, crowns, onlays, inlays and restorations up to three units. It can also be used for a temporary or provisional restoration. As it has so many uses and is suitable for multiple types of printers, it’s easy to stock and cover a lot of bases.
Once a veneer is printed and processed, it looks very similar to a composite or porcelain veneer. For areas that are not bearing too much load, such as onlays and inlays for veneers, they will last for years. I would think twice before using them in a full coverage situation. A three-unit bridge would be a bit too ambitious but for single units, partial coverage or in areas where there’s not too much load, they work very well.
I prefer 3D printing to milling because it’s much faster. You can print six veneers simultaneously in around 30 minutes. Milling six veneers takes around 20 minutes each. It’s more efficient to manufacture multiple items in one go.
In the near future, I’m sure larger fillings will be easily 3D printed rather than putting on a matrix band and packing composite. This technology will invariably replace some of the more direct applications of composites.
What’s not so good
The negative thing about this material is that the end result is monolithic in colour. The restorations need a bit of characterisation and post-processing to make them pop. The material isn’t as strong as more commonly milled ceramics so it must be case-specific when using it as a definitive restorative option.
Where did you get it
CM Medical and Andarsyn
