Abstract

The adoption of 3D printing technology in contemporary dentistry has transformed the way dental materials and devices are produced. This review examines the detailed mechanics of 3D printing, highlighting its layer-by-layer construction and high precision, which allow the fabrication of intricate dental structures. We discuss various 3D printing techniques, including stereolithography (SLA), digital light processing (DLP), and fused deposition modeling (FDM), each offering distinct mechanical characteristics and clinical applications. The review also explores the manufacturing of 3D-printed biomaterials, emphasizing advances in material science that ensure prosthetics and implants are biocompatible, durable, and functionally reliable. Additionally, the applications of 3D printing in dentistry—such as crowns, bridges, orthodontic appliances, and surgical guides— are addressed, demonstrating how these innovations improve patient outcomes and optimize clinical workflows. Overall, this review highlights the critical role of mechanical accuracy in 3D printing, which continues to drive advancements in dental care.