# Influence of Model Design and Printing Orientation on the Dimensional Accuracy of 3D-Printed Models for Implant-Supported Restorations

## TL;DR

This study shows that printing 3D dental models at 0° or 90° angles improves accuracy compared to 45°, with model design having less impact.

## Contribution

The study identifies optimal printing orientations for 3D-printed dental models to ensure accurate implant placement.

## Key findings

- Printing at 0° or 90° orientations yields higher dimensional accuracy than 45°.
- Hollow models at 45° orientation showed better accuracy than solid models at the same angle.
- Mean deviations ranged from 131 μm to 382 μm across different orientations and designs.

## Abstract

Dimensional accuracy of 3D-printed implant models is essential for precise implant-supported restorations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of printing orientation and model base design on the accuracy of implant position transfer. A standardized maxillary model with four implants was scanned using an intraoral scanner. Solid and hollow models were designed and printed using digital light processing (DLP) technology at orientations of 0°, 45°, and 90° (n = 10 per group). All models were digitized with a high-precision industrial scanner, and implant position deviations were determined by comparing corresponding reference points with the master model. Data were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance and post hoc tests (α = 0.05). Printing orientation significantly affected accuracy (p < 0.001). Models printed at 45° showed the highest deviations, whereas those printed at 0° and 90° exhibited comparable and superior accuracy. Model design (solid vs. hollow) had no significant influence at 0° and 90°, but hollow models were more accurate at 45° (p < 0.001). Mean deviations ranged from 131 μm to 382 μm. Printing at 0° or 90° is recommended, while 45° orientations should be avoided. Model design showed minimal effect on accuracy.