3D printing technology is widely used in many different modern industries, and healthcare is no exception. For instance, in dentistry, such tools significantly improve the quality of cosmetic and restorative procedures.
Considering the simplicity of the process for users – you just need to provide a 3D model of dentures, and the machine will make an accurate sample for you in less than an hour – it is not surprising that this field dental equipment market is one of the fastest growing.
According to a study from Skyquestt, a market research company in Massachusetts, the 3D dental printing industry will increase its value from $2.5 billion in 2023 to $15.9 billion in 2023.
What guides such existential financial growth? Which technologies are at the front of the industry? Let's find out.
3D Printing Application
There are two main branches of using 3D printing technologies.
Implantology – is the largest market segment. In this field, technology is used to produce implants from biocompatible materials such as different types of ceramics, including zirconia, etc. Modern 3D printing technology allows us to reach the highest level of implant personalization, customizing each for a unique client's anatomy, tooth shapes, and color. As Skyquestt reports, this field of 3D printing will face a significant expansion.
Dentures – are the market segment with the fastest growth. Commonly known as 'false teeth,' they are used to fix the problem of biting and chewing in people with edentulism without invasive procedures. Modern 3D printers, in collaboration with scanning and modeling technologies, allow doctors to produce new dentures faster than ever before using the strongest materials.
Industry Drivers
Skyquestt defines two main tendencies guiding the 3D printing area expansion:
- Rise of cosmetic dentistry. The population became more aware of aesthetic procedures, which are mainly aimed at making the patient's smile look good again. In addition, growing human wealth and an increasing number of different dental facilities make cosmetic dentistry more affordable for 'non-rich' clients.
- Spreading of edentulism. Human longevity has constantly increased over the centuries since the Middle Ages due to healthcare progress. According to MacroTrends statistics, the average life expectancy in 2023 was about 73 years. At this age, humans lose at least a few teeth, which increases the demand for dentures and implants.
Complications of the industry
Still, there is one noticeable restraint on the development of the 3D printing market: the cost of the printing equipment. To implement such technology in your facility, you need huge investments in purchasing hardware and software components and educating your staff to use them properly. Thus, small and medium-sized facilities may experience some complications with the adaptation of cutting-edge representatives of such devices.
