Different technologies may currently be used to produce dental prostheses, such as additive manufacturing and traditional milling. This study aims to evaluate and improve the fabrication process for hot-pressed porcelain dental prostheses and compare the use of masked stereolithography apparatus (MSLA) casting to computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) casting. The cost-benefit analysis of producing dental prostheses through various technologies, including additive manufacturing and traditional milling, has not been fully explored. The cost of materials and processes used to produce prostheses varies based on complexity of design and materials used, and long-term effects, such as durability and wear and tear, must be taken into account.
Using key elements of part costs and estimation cost models, a multivariable approach was used to evaluate the practicality of the recommended strategy and process improvement.
The research found that MSLA casting provides a higher return on investment than CAD/CAM casting, and the optimized production process could be more suitable for the size and annual demand for prostheses.
Overall, this study highlights the need for a more comprehensive understanding of the cost-benefit analysis of different dental prosthesis production methods and emphasises the importance of evaluating long-term effects on the cost-benefit analysis.
