Additive manufacturing is gaining increasing importance in dentistry. According to the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Dentists in Germany, around nine million people require dental prosthetics annually, including crowns, bridges, and dentures. In a joint doctoral project, Marius Behnecke is working at Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences in cooperation with Osnabrück University on a novel approach: 3D-printed dental prosthetics enriched with the antiseptic agent chlorhexidine.
The aim of the research is to develop materials that meet the mechanical demands of dental technology while simultaneously offering therapeutic benefits. The active agent is intended to be released locally and in controlled doses to prevent inflammation while minimizing systemic side effects.
“Specifically, the goal is to produce a 3D-printed dental prosthetic that incorporates the antiseptic agent chlorhexidine,” explains Behnecke. “Chlorhexidine has an antiseptic effect. At the same time, the prosthetic must meet the high material standards of dental technology, since the health of the patient is always the top priority.”
3D printing allows for highly customized fits, which improves both wearing comfort and hygiene. Areas that are typically difficult to clean can benefit from the bioactive surface by offering better protection against microbial buildup.
“All these factors can contribute to reducing treatment costs—both for patients and the healthcare system as a whole,” adds Behnecke. “By preventing infections through the integrated active agent, costly follow-up treatments can be avoided.”
However, the technical implementation is complex. The base material is a mixture of liquid monomers, glass particles, and chlorhexidine. Homogeneous distribution of the agent and prevention of separation during processing are key challenges. The material is cured layer by layer using UV light, and exposure time and intensity must be carefully calibrated to preserve both the material properties and the stability of the active ingredient. Additionally, the release profile of the agent over time is being investigated to ensure a consistent therapeutic effect.
“The even distribution of the agent and preventing separation of the liquid material are the biggest challenges in the manufacturing process,” says Behnecke. “It’s also essential that the process works with standard equipment already in use in dental practices and labs, so that no costly new devices are required.”
The research is part of the EU-funded project 3D-Perm. Outside of dentistry, Professor Dr. Svea Petersen also sees potential for bioactive materials in orthopedics and implant technology.
“The research conducted by Marius Behnecke demonstrates how new technologies and materials can help advance medical engineering—with direct benefits for patients and healthcare,” says Professor Dr. Svea Petersen, professor of chemistry and surface modification of polymer biomaterials, who supervises the project on behalf of Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences.
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