Knowledge and practices of 3d printing in dental practitioners of Maharashtra: A cross-sectional study

Background: 3D printing has revolutionized dentistry. Along with 3D imaging, its use ranges from surgical planning, dental implants, and aligners to prosthodontic appliances and even study models. Aims: To assess the knowledge and practices of dental practitioners regarding the use of 3D printing in dentistry. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the form of a self-administered online questionnaire consisting of 19 questions which was circulated among the dental practitioners of Maharashtra. Methods and Material: The survey's Google link was generated and sent to the willing participants via various social media platforms and e-mails. Statistical Analysis: SPSS version 17 software was utilized and Chi-square test was applied. Results: 85.2% of the respondents were aware about dental 3D printing. 47.6% knew its working principle. 52.5% knew the pre-requisites, while 58.7% were unaware of the best material for dental 3D printing. Only 55.5% were aware of all of its indications. Just 38.7% had an experience of either observing or working with this technology of which 78.7% thought that it had enhanced their ability to execute the surgical procedure. 61.3% had no experience of this technology, the reason mostly being unavailability in their area of practice and the technology being expensive. A statistical difference was found in the knowledge and practices based on age, sex, education, and experience with P value = 0.05. Conclusion: Knowledge of 3D printing in the dental fraternity is necessary due to its wide applications in multitude of dental specialities. Its introduction at an institutional level with optional hands-on trainings shall ensure its use efficiently.