Clinical relevance of laser-sintered cobalt-chromium alloys for prosthodontic treatments: a review

Abstract

The acceptance of metal additive manufacturing (AM) technique in dentistry depends on the clinical evidence and performance. There is an increased interest in laser-sintered cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) alloys as it is reported to have advantages over conventional cast Co-Cr alloys.Laser sintering is a complex thermo-physical process that can vary the final product, which is dependent on alloying constituents, laser beam, accuracy of scanners and building machines and the parameters of the controlled environment. This review looks at all relevant publications over the last 10 years on in-vitro mechanical and biocompatibility properties used to verify the suitability of intraoral laser-sintered Co-Cr alloys. For the purpose of this review the term laser sintering also refers to laser melting technologies. The review notes that although there has been considerable progress with laser-sintered Co-Cr alloys, there is still a gap in knowledge and hence, further studies need to be undertaken to ascertain their suitability and provide recommendations.