Recently, the FDA approved the first-ever 3D printing technology for creating dentures. On the one hand, this seems like a revolutionary technology, but in reality, it’s not. It’s actually very similar to the current process by which a lot of dentures are already being made.
A Quick and Easy Approval Process for Similar Technologies
Dentca’s chief executive officer said of his device, “This clearance completely revolutionizes the denture manufacture process, which has barely changed in 100 years.” Of course he has to say things like that, but it’s really not true.
We know the new 3D printer from Dentca isn’t revolutionary because it entered the market using the FDA’s 510(k) clearance system, which is used for medical devices that are “substantially equivalent” to devices that have already been approved. Although this is quick and convenient for the device manufacturer–they don’t have to perform studies demonstrating the safety and effectiveness of their device–it also undermines the claim that this is really a huge technological advance in the manufacture of dentures.
A Very Low-Tech Approach to High-Tech
The new 3D printer was said to be similar to the Trubyte Denture Base Resin System. The systems share most of their technology, creating dentures in layers that are light-cured one after another. The Dentca system uses a stereo lithographic additive printer to create the layers, rather than having them created manually by lab technicians. Once the dentures are complete, pre-fitted plastic teeth are placed in the denture.
But the Dentca system still requires manual impressions made at the dentist’s office, which are then sent to the lab for manufacture. Essentially, if the denture manufacture process has barely changed in 100 years, this doesn’t really seem like it’s that much of a change, either.
FOY® Dentures Are a Revolution in Dentures
On the other hand, we know that there has been a revolution in denture technology. FOY® Dentures is a new approach to fitting and manufacturing dentures, utilizing radical new approaches to dentistry, including dental implants and neuromuscular dentistry to get the best fit and function. Meanwhile, new materials like advanced ceramics are used to ensure the most lifelike appearance.
Don’t be fooled by inflated claims about dentures that are really “substantially equivalent” to the way dentures have been made for 100 years or more. Look for the true revolution in dentures: FOY® Dentures.
If you want to learn more about FOY Dentures™ in Columbia, SC, please call for an appointment with a denture dentist at Smile Columbia Dentistry.