Evaluation of Manufacturing Accuracy in Merlon Fracture Models Fabricated by Vat Photopolymerization 3D-Printing Technologies

Abstract

This study evaluates the manufacturing accuracy of Merlon fracture models produced using two vat-photopolymerization-based three-dimensional (3D) printers: digital light processing (DLP) and liquid-crystal display (LCD). The Merlon fracture model is used to assess dimensional precision and machining accuracy. The root mean square (RMS) values, wall and bottom thicknesses, and field-emission scanning electron microscopy images are analyzed. The DLP-based printers exhibit lower RMS values and superior accuracy compared with LCD-based printing and subtractive milling. Polymer-based slurries for permanent dental applications exhibit better dimensional stability than those for temporary restorations. This study also highlights the significant impact of postprocessing and cleaning procedures on the final model accuracy. These findings suggest that optimizing the postprocessing parameters is crucial for enhancing the precision of 3D-printed dental restorations. The Merlon fracture model is a viable method for evaluating additive manufacturing accuracy, contributing to the improved clinical application of vat photopolymerization in dental prosthetics.