Carbon, a leading innovator in 3D printing technology, has introduced FP3D, a groundbreaking flexible, removable partial denture (FRPD) resin. This innovative material brings Carbon’s proven dual-cure chemistry to the dental industry, offering significant improvements in the performance and reliability of dental appliances. Engineered for enhanced durability, flexibility, and strength, FP3D is designed to match the properties of traditionally produced polymer-based flexible partial denture materials.
Dual-Cure Chemistry in Dental Applications
Traditional single-cure resins often lack the durability, retention, and longevity needed for demanding dental applications.
Carbon’s FP3D overcomes these limitations by incorporating secondary heat-activated chemistry into the resin. This process allows the material to build strength and durability during a baking step without compromising viscosity and accuracy during printing. The result is robust, engineering-grade parts with high durability.
Carbon’s dual-cure technology has been successfully applied across various industries, including partnerships with Riddell for 3D-printed football helmet liners and collaborations with athletic brands for high-performance midsoles. Now, this technology is being brought to the dental sector.
Enhancing Dental Lab Efficiency
Following the success of the AO Suite launched in 2024, Carbon is introducing new tools to further automate dental lab workflows. These include automatic print preparation software and AO polishing cassette expansion, compatible with the M3 and M3 Max printers. The polishing cassette utilizes advanced light-scattering technology to polish parts directly during printing.
FP3D is expected to launch in late 2025, pending FDA clearance, and is poised to redefine the future of 3D-printed removable partial dentures.
