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A Critical Review on 3D-Printed Dental Ceramics in Prosthodontic Rehabilitation

L. Yao

Journal of Ceramic Science and Technology, Vol. 16, No. 2 (2025), pp. 51-68

DOI: 10.4416/JCST2025-00005

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Abstract

Additive manufacturing (AM) technologies have transformed the way ceramic dental restorations are made, allowing for more complex designs and reducing material waste compared to traditional methods. This comprehensive review examines the current state of ceramic AM technologies in prosthodontic applications, focusing on three primary approaches: vat photopolymerization, direct inkjet printing, and 3D gel printing. Each technology presents distinct advantages and challenges in producing high-quality dental restorations. Critical processing parameters, including build orientation, layer thickness, and post-processing protocols, significantly influence the final properties of printed restorations. While recent advances have demonstrated promising results in terms of mechanical properties and aesthetic outcomes, challenges remain in achieving optimal accuracy, density, and long-term stability. The review analyzes material science considerations, particularly the formulation of ceramic suspensions and their impact on printability and final properties. Current limitations in resolution, material loading, and processing consistency are identified as key barriers to widespread clinical adoption. The potential for multi-material printing and functionally graded materials represents promising directions for future development, potentially enabling more biomimetic restorations.

Keywords

Computer-aided manufacturing, stereolithography, zirconium oxide, mechanical properties, digital workflow.

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