Vat Photopolymerization Additive Technique for Dental Zirconia Fabrication: A Systematic Review

Background: The VAT photopolymerization process is a potential way to create complex and functional zirconia structures since it allows for the fabrication of components with outstanding surface polish and mechanical qualities. This technique involves layer-by- layer curing of liquid resin using a light source to produce the desired zirconia product. 3D-printed zirconia is created via VAT photopolymerization, which is a process whereby a light-sensitive liquid resin is allowed to solidify in a vat. This study aims to comprehensively analyze the theoretical and practical aspects of Vat photopolymerization additive manufacturing technologies utilized in creating dental zirconia. Methods: An electronic systematic review was performed on multiple databases (Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct on this subject and in a manual search of the scholarly literature. The articles included in this review were selected after searching for and reading relevant published works from 2018 to 2024. A literature search for publications published until now was conducted using internet databases without regard to date. The review focuses on the advancements in this area, illustrating the evolution of dental zirconia fabrication techniques in additive manufacturing, focusing on vat photopolymerization approaches. Findings: Until recently, digital light processing and Stereolithography were the only methods for producing dental zirconia in Vat polymerization. The basic concept of this technology was the utilization of liquid resin oligomers or monomers that undergo polymerization when subjected to specific frequencies of light. By the technique of laser curing, Stereolithography constructs three-dimensional structures in layers. Digital light processing involves using a digital micro-mirror device to project ultraviolet light onto a surface, which is then reflected into a photopolymer vat. Due to how efficiently digital light processing works, it promises to be a 3D printing technique for ceramics production. Conclusions: Digital Light Processing is a faster and more accurate method for manufacturing complex components compared to Stereolithography. It can be used in top-down or bottom-up manufacturing, depending on the building's structure. Bottom-up systems require less slurry, making them more cost-effective. Top-down printers can produce larger pieces.