Purpose This paper is intended to summarize the current available literature in which low-cost, open-source RepRap 3D printers are incorporated in the field of dentistry in an attempt to improve or replace conventional clinical and/or laboratory procedures.
Methodology An electronic search of publications from January 2004 to July 2014 was performed, by two researchers, in two electronic databases: Medline (PubMed) and EMBASE Library. All searches were limited to human subjects investigations, published in English. Search terms included general and specific terms from the field of dentistry and additive manufacturing.
Findings The contribution of RepRap 3D printers to the field of dentistry is so far limited to only two applications, respectively reconstruction of study models for orthodontic measurements and reconstruction of skull segments.
Originality/value This review brings focus on the few researches and applications of low-cost RepRap printers in the dental field. In spite of the promising results reported, there still remains a sizable sector in which the capabilities of these low-cost, open source 3d printers are to be tested.
- 3D printing
- additive manufacturing
- open source
- rapid prototyping
- RepRap