Nowadays, intraoral scanning, CAD/CAM processes, and dental 3D printing are part of everyday workflows. Yet, one question is becoming increasingly important: Which 3D printing technologies genuinely simplify daily work in dentistry and provide long‑term relief? In this interview, a dentist and a dental technician explain why they have intentionally expanded their digital workflow with filament printing (FFF/FDM).
Why efficiency across the entire process matters
3D printing in dentistry is often defined by its level of detail. In daily practice and lab workflows, however, overall efficiency, material handling, time investment, and occupational safety aspects related to 3 D printing are just as crucial. A comparison of different additive manufacturing technologies clearly shows how strongly post‑processing, cleaning steps, and finishing work impact efficiency.
Streamlined processes instead of additional workflow steps
Filament printing in dentistry is not intended to replace existing technologies, but rather to serve as a meaningful addition to the digital workflow. What truly matters is how seamlessly a 3D printing system can be integrated into existing CAD/CAM processes—without requiring special expertise or complex process chains.
Challenges and solutions in everyday office and lab work
The challenge
Resin‑based 3D printing (SLA/DLP) requires several downstream steps. Cleaning, drying, and post‑curing are essential components of this post‑processing workflow in 3D printing. These steps take time, increase process complexity, and create additional requirements for occupational safety and waste disposal.
The solution
With filament printing (FDM/FFF), chemical post‑processing is eliminated. Printed objects can be used or further processed immediately after printing. This results in a clear, predictable workflow that can be reliably implemented in both dental offices and dental laboratories.
How filament printing fits into the digital workflow
The fundamental digital workflow in dentistry remains unchanged: Scan – Design – 3D Printing. The difference lies in the handling after printing. When additional post‑processing steps are removed, 3D printing becomes easier to plan, more cost‑effective, and more seamlessly integrated into daily practice and lab routines.
Applications in dental 3D printing
Filament printing is especially suitable for common dental 3D printing applications, including:
- 3D printed temporary restorations
- Custom impression trays
- 3D printed orthodontic models
These applications benefit from the ability to produce models quickly, cleanly, and reproducibly, and to adapt them easily when needed.
Tips for getting started with filament printing
Even dental offices without an in‑house lab can benefit from implementing 3D printing in the dental clinic. CAD design can be outsourced, while filament printing is performed directly on‑site. A structured workflow lowers the barrier to get started and supports an economical in‑house production process.
Summary and interview download
Filament printing meaningfully enhances existing digital workflows in dentistry. The focus lies on the entire process, not just print resolution. Less effort, reduced costs, and streamlined processes make dental 3D printing truly practical for everyday use.
Successfully in use at the Lagodentes dental practice
Intraoral scans, digital planning and CAD/CAM manufacturing are standard practice at Lagodentes in Radolfzell. 3D printing is also well established there.
The range of digital manufacturing capabilities has now been expanded to include a SIMPLEX 2 SX filament printing system.
Dentist Matthias Burkhardt and master dental technician Eugen Ens explain why the team made this conscious decision: read the interview with ZWL from April 2026 - download the PDF now (German only)!
