The required wall thickness is specific to the printer and resin system. Hollow models must be thick enough to remain dimensionally stable during printing, post-curing and thermoforming. Follow the model-resin…
FAQ Category: 3D-Printed Models and Digital Workflows
Do printed models need to be fully post-cured before thermoforming?
Yes. Printed models should be washed and post-cured according to the resin manufacturer’s protocol before thermoforming. Inadequately processed resin may remain tacky, distort more easily or interact with the heated…
Why does thermoforming material stick to a printed model?
A common cause is residual uncured resin caused by incomplete washing or post-curing. Heat can make contaminated model surfaces tacky and encourage the thermoforming material to adhere. Overheating and material…
How do I stop a printed model from deforming during thermoforming?
Use a resin validated for the intended thermoforming workflow, complete the specified post-cure and avoid excessive heat exposure. Keep the model design sufficiently robust and follow any wall-thickness recommendations for…
What is the ideal height for a 3D-printed thermoforming model?
The model should be kept as low as practical while still retaining the anatomy required for the appliance. Reduced-height digital models use less resin and reduce the distance the heated…
Can reduced-height printed models improve thermoforming results?
Yes. Reducing unnecessary model height can decrease material stretching, improve final thickness distribution, reduce printing resin and make appliance removal easier. Reduced-height models also integrate well with specialised digital thermoforming…
Which 3D printing resin can be used for thermoforming?
Use a dental model resin whose manufacturer specifically supports thermoforming or confirms that it remains dimensionally stable under the required heat exposure. Not every general-purpose 3D-printing resin is suitable. Printer,…
Can thermoforming heat damage a 3D-printed model?
Yes. Some resins can soften or distort if they are exposed to excessive temperature or heat for too long. Use a resin suitable for thermoforming, complete the manufacturer’s washing and…
Can I thermoform directly over a resin model?
Yes, provided the resin model has been accurately printed, thoroughly washed, correctly post-cured and is suitable for the thermoforming conditions being used. This is a common digital workflow for retainers,…
Should 3D-printed models be solid or hollow?
Both solid and hollow models can be used, depending on the printer, resin and model design. Solid models are straightforward and robust, while hollow models can reduce resin consumption and…