From Restoration to Regeneration: A Review of 3D Printing Strategies in Digital Dentistry

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology, or additive manufacturing, has fundamentally transformed medical paradigms by shifting dentistry from traditional subtractive manufacturing to an era of personalized, biological regeneration. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the primary 3D printing classifications currently utilized, including stereolithography, fused deposition modeling, selective laser sintering, and material jetting, analyzing their specific technical principles and material capabilities. We systematically categorize their applications across diverse dental disciplines, ranging from endodontics, periodontal disease management, and prosthodontics to orthodontics, maxillofacial reconstruction, and temporomandibular joint regeneration. Beyond the fabrication of anatomical models and surgical guides, this article critically evaluates the efficacy of these technologies in constructing bioactive scaffolds and cell-laden hydrogels designed to induce osteogenesis and angiogenesis. Special emphasis is placed on the paradigm shift from passive mechanical restoration to active biological regeneration, highlighting the potential of bioprinting in restoring physiological vitality to native tissues. Despite current barriers regarding the trade-off between mechanical durability and biological activity, as well as vascularization challenges, the convergence of artificial intelligence and 4D printing promises to establish 3D printing as a foundational standard for the next generation of regenerative dental therapeutics.

Impact Statement

The integration of three-dimensional printing into dentistry marks a paradigm shift from inert prosthetic replacement to biological tissue regeneration. This review critically analyzes the current landscape of additive manufacturing, with a specific focus on its application in constructing bioactive scaffolds and tissue-engineered constructs for periodontal and maxillofacial regeneration. By systematizing the capabilities of technologies such as stereolithography, digital light processing, and bioprinting, this article provides tissue engineers and clinicians with a clear roadmap for selecting materials and methods. It highlights the translational potential of bioprinting in overcoming current limitations in oral tissue repair, serving as a vital reference for future research in personalized regenerative medicine.