Three-dimensional Printing Technology: Patient-friendly and Time-saving Approach for Space Management in an Autistic Child in COVID-19 Times

Abstract

Aim and objective: The present case report comprehensively illustrates the use of a novel digital three-dimensional (3D) printed band and loop space maintainer [computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM)] for the guidance of eruption with their distinctive attribute of reduced chairside time in a home-schooled autistic child.

Background: Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a promising and emerging technology in the arena of dentistry based on CAD/CAM. It has led to the production of customized 3D objects or patient-specific prostheses with accurate results achieved in a time-saving manner. 3D printing has been employed in several latitudes of dentistry; however, the applications are few in the field of pediatric dentistry.

Case description: The paper describes the space management of an autistic child for the missing mandibular left primary second molar through the novel technique of 3D printed band and loop space maintainer.

Clinical significance: The novel technique has definite advantages, including high precision, accuracy, fast production, and reduced patient exposure to dentists and vice versa, which has been the need of the hour since the advent of the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Conclusion: Three-dimensional (3D) printing minimizes dental aerosol-generated exposure by decreasing chairside procedural time and minimizing procedural sitting. The cost-benefit analysis, as applied to the Indian scenario, has also been computed, which makes it equally acceptable. Moreover, 3D printing reduces material waste production, offering a greener and environmentally friendly option in the coming years. The future of pediatric dentistry will evolve with signs of progress in the latest materials and technologies.

How to cite this article: Yangdol P, Kalra N, Tyagi R, et al. Three-dimensional Printing Technology: Patient-friendly and Time-saving Approach for Space Management in an Autistic Child in COVID-19 Times. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(S-3):S321-S326.

Keywords: Case report; Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing; Digital dentistry; Pediatric dentistry; Space maintainer; Three-dimensional printing.