Precision. Personalization. Better Outcomes.
At Third Coast Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we use 3D printing technology to bring digital surgical planning to life—literally. This advanced tool allows us to create custom, patient-specific surgical guides, anatomical models, and implant templates that improve accuracy, efficiency, and safety in complex procedures.
What Is 3D Printing in Oral Surgery?
3D printing is a process that turns digital scans and treatment plans into precise physical models using biocompatible materials. With the help of advanced imaging like cone beam CT (CBCT) and digital impressions, we can generate highly detailed models of a patient’s teeth, jawbone, and surrounding structures. These models are then used to fabricate custom guides and tools tailored to the individual patient’s anatomy.
How We Use 3D Printing at Third Coast OMS
We integrate 3D printing into several aspects of patient care, including:
- Custom Surgical Guides for Dental Implants
Using CBCT data and 3D-printed guides, we can place dental implants with extreme precision—ensuring optimal angulation, depth, and position. This minimizes guesswork during surgery and leads to more predictable outcomes and faster healing. - Anatomical Models for Surgical Planning
For complex cases, such as impacted teeth, jaw tumors, or reconstructive surgery, we can print exact replicas of the patient’s anatomy. These physical models help us visualize challenges in advance, communicate clearly with patients, and rehearse surgical procedures before entering the operating room. - Temporarily Restorations and Prosthetics
In some cases, 3D printing enables us to fabricate temporary restorations or templates that can be used during the healing phase or as placeholders while permanent prosthetics are being developed. - Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery Planning
For corrective jaw surgeries, 3D-printed surgical splints and models help us plan and execute precise repositioning of the jaws, improving function and aesthetics while reducing surgical time.
The Benefits of 3D Printing in Oral Surgery
- Greater surgical accuracy and predictability
- Shorter time in surgery
- Improved communication between doctor and patient
- Minimized surgical risk and complications
- Faster recovery and improved comfort
At Third Coast OMS, we continually invest in technologies like 3D printing because we believe our patients deserve the most advanced, efficient, and personalized care possible. By combining surgical expertise with digital innovation, we’re changing the way oral surgery is delivered—and raising the standard for outcomes.