I already know of at least one company that 3D bioprints custom replacement teeth for patients rather than use implants.
It’s already got its patents granted and is transitioning from prototypes to production units, IIRC.
It’s already got its patents granted and is transitioning from prototypes to production units, IIRC.
So the bioprinting is an alternative means to construct a replicate tooth (as opposed to CNC milling).
Replicate teeth can be used as a less invasive/quicker healing alternative to implants under some conditions:
https://www.replicatetooth.com/for-patients/
"The REPLICATE System can only be used if the root of the original tooth is still in place. Also your dentist will need to evaluate if the surrounding bone structure is healthy enough to accept a REPLICATE Tooth."
So, a crown? We already have lots of nice materials and manufacturing techniques for crowns.
I'm not entirely sure why the root needs to be in place before – perhaps the chances of the implant integrating with bone is better immediately after extraction?