Adding supports to dental 3D printing models is a crucial step to ensure the successful printing of various dental appliances, such as surgical guides, denture bases, crowns and bridges, indirect bonding trays (IBT), orthodontic models, restoration models, and clear aligners. Here's a general guide on how to add supports for each of these types of dental 3D prints:
1. Surgical Guides:
- Ensure the STL file for the surgical guide is correctly oriented in the 3D printing software.
- Add supports to the surgical guide where it contacts the build platform and along any overhangs or undercuts.
- Consider using tree-like or lattice supports, as they can be easier to remove and provide stability during printing.
- Adjust the support density and thickness based on the material and printer specifications.
2. Denture Bases:
- Orient the denture base model correctly in the software.
- Add supports to the underside of the denture base to ensure proper adhesion to the build platform.
- Use medium-density supports since denture bases typically have larger surface areas.
- Make sure that supports don't obstruct critical areas where the teeth will be attached later.
3. Crown and Bridge:
- Orient the crown or bridge models to minimize the need for supports. They should generally be printed with the occlusal or incisal surface facing upwards.
- Add supports sparingly, focusing on areas with overhangs, undercuts, or thin structures, such as connectors.
- Consider using tree-like supports or manual support placement for precise control.
4. Indirect Bonding Trays (IBT):
- Position the IBT models in the 3D printing software so that the bonding tray features are oriented correctly.
- Add supports selectively under the bonding tray and any delicate or thin sections.
- Use minimal supports to avoid interfering with the bonding process.
5. Orthodontic Models:
- Place the orthodontic models in the software with the base on the build platform.
- Add supports where necessary, such as under the arches and any delicate features like brackets or wires.
- Use light to medium-density supports, as orthodontic models often have intricate details.
6. Restoration Models:
- Orient restoration models based on the tooth preparation and the restorations needed.
- Add supports to areas with overhangs, undercuts, and intricate features like post spaces.
- Use medium-density supports for stability.
7. Clear Aligner Models:
- Position the clear aligner models in the software with the arches facing up or down, depending on your printer's specifications.
- Add supports sparingly, focusing on the attachment points for the aligner.
- Adjust support density and thickness to ensure secure printing without over-supporting.
Remember that the specific support settings may vary depending on your 3D printer and the dental resin material being used. It's essential to consult the printer's documentation and, if available, any recommended settings from the resin manufacturer for optimal results. Additionally, many dental 3D printing software packages have automated support generation tools to simplify this process, so take advantage of those features when available. After printing, carefully remove the supports to ensure the final dental appliance's accuracy and fit.