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Monday, October 18, 2004 - 3:30 PM
FRO 4.4

Rapid Prototyping of Dental Restoration via Multi-Material Slurry Extrusion

J. Wang, Institute of Materials Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT; L. Shaw, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT

This study investigates dental restoration via a rapid prototyping process, multi-material slurry extrusion. Aqueous slurries of dental porcelain powder is prepared and delivered through micro-extrusion layer by layer directly controlled by a 3-D CAD tooth file. The rheological and extrusion behavior of dental porcelain slurries are optimized via solid loading, pH value and water vaporization speed of the slurries after the delivery. Through the control of extrusion behavior of dental porcelain slurries and extrusion parameters, porcelain layers with overhanging or even bridging features can be fabricated. Fabrication of tooth crowns without supporting materials has been demonstrated. The shape of the tooth crown is reserved after sintering. This study shows the possibility of reducing the time and cost on dental restoration via rapid prototyping processes.

Summary: This study investigates dental restoration via a rapid prototyping process, multi-material slurry extrusion. Fabrication of tooth crowns without supporting materials has been demonstrated. The shape of the tooth crown is reserved after sintering. This study shows the possibility of reducing the time and cost on dental restoration via rapid prototyping processes.