Daniel Wolfinger spearheaded a cutting-edge new technology at Pi Dental Center. Dan introduced 3D-printing to our Center, created the protocol and developed the procedures necessary to produce custom-made night guards. Learn more about custom 3D mouthguards.
Daniel Wolfinger
Daniel Wolfinger is a first year dental student at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts, and the son of Dr. Glenn Wolfinger. Dan enjoys working with his hands and interacting with patients.
While Dan was still an undergraduate in college, he purchased a 3D printer and learned how to use it to make all sorts of products.
A few years ago, Dan joined Pi Dental Center’s team working in both clinical and lab areas. Eventually, seeing a need for this new technology, Dan chose to incorporate 3D printing into Pi Dental Center’s armamentarium.
3D Technology: Describe and Define how it’s done
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Step 1 – creation of the digital file for the custom 3D mouthguards –
A precise replica of the patient’s dental anatomy is created at Pi Dental Center using our digital scanners. The digital file along with a prescription outlining material and exact specifications is sent to Daniel for completion of the mouthguard.
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Step 2 – production of custom 3D mouthguards –
Daniel manufactures the mouthguard using the 3D printer. The printer utilizes a light-curing precision process to generate an exact reproduction from the scanned digital file. During production, Daniel Wolfinger works with a team of designers to perfect the guard then he sends the brand new mouthguard to Dr. Wolfinger for final approval.
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Step 3 – delivery of the mouthguard –
Next, we deliver the custom 3D mouthguard to the patient. Since the fit is precise, adjustments are rarely necessary.
Benefits or Good Features
- Accuracy of fit
- Quality and durability
- Better shock absorption than traditional guards
- Ability to quickly and easily reproduce the guard, should it get lost
- A streamlined process – The digital file goes directly from the scanner to processing of the final product. There are no intermediate steps.
What types of custom 3d mouthguards do we make?
Daniel said, “I believe that 3D printing advancements are fascinating.” Using his skills, Dan incorporates new and old-school methods to manufacture mouth guards and models.
In addition to 3D printed night guards, Pi Dental Center produces custom immediate night guards, sports guards in-house and others.
In the future, Pi Dental Center will use 3D printing technology more extensively at Pi Dental Center. Dan mentioned, “In addition to mouthguards and digital models, we plan to use 3D printing to make All-on-4 dental implant supported temporary prostheses and crowns.”
Author: Chris Raines, Web Site Administrator
