Assessment of Application of 3D printing in Implant Dentistry among Postgraduates, Faculties and Dental Practitioners in Karnataka

BackgroundThree-dimensional 3D printing has revolutionised dentistry with applications ranging from prosthodontic devices and dental implants to the fabrication of surgical guides study models and 3D imaging.Aim The present study aimed to evaluate dental practitioners knowledge and utilization of 3D printing in implant dentistry.Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered 20-item questionnaire distributed to dental professionals in Karnataka. The survey was made available both as printed copies and as an online version created using Google Forms. The online questionnaire was disseminated through various social media platforms and email to reach willing participants.Results Only 5 of respondents were familiar with dental 3D printing while just 3 understood its underlying principles. About 10 of the participants reported to be aware of the prerequisites yet 22 were unaware of the ideal materials for 3D printing dental implants. Overall 58 demonstrated knowledge of all relevant signals. However only 3 had prior experience using this technology and within this group just 1 believed that it improved their surgical performance. The majority 97 had no prior experience with this technology primarily because it was unavailable in their field of expertise and prohibitively expensive.nbspConclusion Given the wide range of dental specialties in which 3D printing can be applied there is a pressing need for experts in this technology within the dental community. Institutional adoption of 3D printing together with the availability of optional hands-on training will be essential to ensure its effective and widespread use.