Virtual Planning and Rapid 3D Prototyping Surgical Guide for Anterior Crown Lengthening Surgery: A Clinical Case Report

Soft Tissue Retraction Maneuver in Cone Beam Computed Tomography Prior to Crown-Lengthening Procedure-A Technical Note

Background: An accurate determination of the biological width and the relationship of the cemento-enamel junction with the border of the alveolar bone is crucial during a clinical crown-lengthening (CCL) procedure. The aim of this study was to present a technical note about the retraction techniques in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) prior to CCL, highlighting the significant enhancement in procedural accuracy and predictability that these techniques offer. Methods: Clinical and radiological examinations should be performed before a CCL procedure. It is necessary to determine the length of the tooth crowns, the periodontal pockets' depth, and the phenotype of the gingiva. The ideal CBCT examination should be performed with soft tissue retraction. This can be achieved using retractors or cotton rolls. Results: Retraction of the lips, cheeks, and tongue allows one to assess the marginal gingiva, the cemento-enamel junction, and the alveolar bone. A detailed plan of the CCL procedure, which involves retraction, ensures both the aesthetic appeal and the achievement of a newly defined gingival zenith, enhancing the overall visual harmony. Conclusions: Compared with conventional radiographic imaging, the soft tissue retraction maneuver in CBCT prior to CCL surgery offers an effective approach to the evaluation and diagnosis of soft and hard tissue. This is because of the detailed planning of the aesthetic CCL procedure. Such an approach leads to superior aesthetic outcomes in dentistry, contributing to the advancement of aesthetic dentistry through a harmonious blend of art and science.

3D printed biomedical devices and their applications: A review on state-of-the-art technologies, existing challenges, and future perspectives

3D printing, also known as Additive manufacturing (AM), has emerged as a transformative technology with applications across various industries, including the medical sector. This review paper provides an overview of the current status of AM technology, its challenges, and its application in the medical industry. The paper covers the different types of AM technologies, such as fused deposition modeling, stereolithography, selective laser sintering, digital light processing, binder jetting, and electron beam melting, and their suitability for medical applications. The most commonly used biomedical materials in AM, such as plastic, metal, ceramic, composite, and bio-inks, are also viewed. The challenges of AM technology, such as material selection, accuracy, precision, regulatory compliance, cost and quality control, and standardization, are also discussed. The review also highlights the various applications of AM in the medical sector, including the production of patient-specific surgical guides, prosthetics, orthotics, and implants. Finally, the review highlights the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) and artificial intelligence (AI) for regulatory frameworks and safety standards for 3D-printed biomedical devices. The review concludes that AM technology can transform the healthcare industry by enabling patients to access more personalized and reasonably priced treatment alternatives. Despite the challenges, integrating AI and IoMT with 3D printing technology is expected to play a vital role in the future of biomedical device applications, leading to further advancements and improvements in patient care. More research is needed to address the challenges and optimize its use for medical applications to utilize AM's potential in the medical industry fully.

Combined Application of Virtual Simulation Technology and 3-Dimensional-Printed Computer-Aided Rapid Prototyping in Autotransplantation of a Mature Third Molar

The use of computer-aided rapid prototyping (CARP) models was considered to reduce surgical trauma and improve outcomes when autotransplantation of teeth (ATT) became a viable alternative for dental rehabilitation. However, ATT is considered technique-sensitive due to its series of complicated surgical procedures and unfavorable outcomes in complex cases. This study reported a novel autotransplantation technique of a 28-year-old patient with an unrestorable lower first molar (#36) with double roots. Regardless of a large shape deviation, a lower third molar (#38) with a completely single root formation was used as the donor tooth. ATT was performed with a combined use of virtual simulation, CARP model-based rehearsed surgery, and tooth replica-guided surgery. A 3D virtual model of the donor and recipient site was generated from cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) radiographs prior to surgery for direct virtual superimposition simulation and CARP model fabrication. The virtual simulation indicated that it was necessary to retain cervical alveolar bone during the surgical socket preparation, and an intensive surgical rehearsal was performed on the CARP models. The donor tooth replica was used during the procedure to guide precise socket preparation and avoid periodontal ligament injury. Without an additional fitting trial and extra-alveolar storage, the donor tooth settled naturally into the recipient socket within 30 s. The transplanted tooth showed excellent stability and received routine root canal treatment three weeks post-surgery, and the one-year follow-up examination verified the PDL healing outcome and normal functioning. Patient was satisfied with the transplanted tooth. This cutting-edge technology combines virtual simulation, digital surgery planning, and guided surgery implementation to ensure predictable and minimally invasive therapy in complex cases.