PROCESSING METHODS FOR THREE-DIMENSIONALLY PRINTED SURGICAL GUIDES IN DENTISTRY: A SYSTEMATIZED REVIEW

Modern surgical dentistry widely uses three-dimensionally printed surgical guides to ensure accurate transfer of a digital plan into clinical practice. The subject of this study was the effect of disinfection and sterilization on the accuracy, fit, mechanical properties, surface condition, and microbiological safety of such devices. The aim of the study was to perform a systematized analysis of current publications devoted to the effects of different processing protocols on three-dimensionally printed dental surgical guides. The study hypothesis was that the effect of processing is determined not only by the method of decontamination, but also by the material, printing technology, post-curing regimen, and geometry of the structure. The study was conducted as a systematized literature review. The analysis included original experimental studies evaluating steam sterilization, chemical disinfection, low-temperature processing methods, and their effects on functionally significant characteristics of surgical guides. Data synthesis was performed narratively, as the studies differed in materials, manufacturing technologies, processing protocols, and assessed outcomes. The obtained data showed that processing prior to clinical use has a measurable impact on guide properties. Steam sterilization at a lower temperature generally appears to be more sparing than a high-temperature regimen; however, it may also alter fit and mechanical properties. Chemical disinfection more often preserves geometry but cannot be considered a substitute for sterilization. Low-temperature methods represent a promising alternative for heat-sensitive materials. The choice of a processing protocol should be based on a verified combination of material, printing technology, post-processing, and sterilization regimen, and should be confirmed by control of the guide’s accuracy and safety.