Systematic Review of the Quality of Stereolithographic Three-Dimensionally Printed Materials for Provisional Dental Restorations.

Abstract

Background and objectives: The use of stereolithographic (SLA) 3D printing technology in dentistry has expanded, particularly for the fabrication of provisional dental restorations. Understanding the mechanical properties and quality of SLA 3D-printed materials is essential to ensure clinical success and patient safety. This systematic review aims to critically evaluate and summarize the available evidence on the mechanical properties and quality of SLA 3D-printed materials.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science up to October 2024. Studies comparing the mechanical properties of SLA 3D-printed provisional restoration materials with those of milled, conventional, or other additive manufacturing methods were included. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Data on flexural strength, hardness, fracture resistance, surface roughness, marginal adaptation, accuracy, cement film thickness, shear bond strength, and biofilm formation were extracted and analyzed.

Results: The findings from the included studies indicate that SLA 3D-printed materials exhibit varied mechanical properties. Some studies reported that SLA 3D-printed resins had significantly lower flexural strength and hardness compared to milled PMMA and bis-acrylic resins. Other studies found that SLA 3D-printed resins showed clinically acceptable marginal adaptation, surface roughness, and fracture strength comparable to those fabricated by subtractive manufacturing and conventional methods. In terms of accuracy, build orientation influenced the dimensional accuracy of SLA-printed restorations. Studies assessing cement film thickness found that SLA-printed provisional restorations had higher cement film thickness compared to other materials. Regarding repairability and fatigue resistance, limitations were observed in some SLA resins.

Conclusions: The mechanical properties and quality of SLA 3D-printed materials for provisional dental restorations vary among studies. While SLA technology holds promise for efficient fabrication of provisional restorations, inconsistencies in material properties suggest a need for further research to optimize materials and printing parameters. Standardization of protocols is necessary to ensure reliable clinical performance of SLA 3D-printed provisional restorations.