Advanced Additive Manufacturing Technique: Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) - A Review.

ABSTRACT

Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) is an innovative additive manufacturing (AM) method that makes dental prosthesis directly from digital blueprints.  DMLS, on the other hand, builds restorations layer by layer using a high-power laser to selectively fuse metal powders. This is different from traditional lost-wax casting or subtractive CAD/CAM machining.DMLS uses metal alloys that are safe for the body, like cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) and titanium (Ti6Al4V).  The digital procedure starts with scanning within or outside the mouth, then moves on to computer-aided design (CAD), data slicing, and laser sintering in a controlled inert atmosphere.  The final prosthesis is improved by post-processing techniques like heat treatment, polishing, and veneering. DMLS is a big step forward in dental prosthodontics because it combines accuracy, speed, and design freedom.  There are several problems with using it in everyday practice, like the cost of equipment, the roughness of the surface, and the need for post-processing. However, as technology continues to improve, its use in everyday practice is likely to grow. This review article aims to emphasize the uses, benefits, and therapeutic relevance of DMLS in contemporary dentistry.

Key Words: Direct Metal Laser Sintering [DMLS], Additive Manufacturing, Powder Bed Technique.