V-Print c&b temp from VOCO: an aesthetic 3D-printed material for temporary crowns with a focus on flexural strength

VOCO has introduced the V-Print c&b temp temporary light-curing 3D printing material, which prioritizes flexural strength and the aesthetic characteristics of temporary restorations.

The manufacturer claims that the combination of mechanical strength and appearance provides temporary constructions with adequate functional reliability and patient aesthetic satisfaction; however, the press release lacks detailed data on the composition, numerical mechanical characteristics, and clinical trials.

Key points

• Prioritizing flexural strength is a key parameter for materials used in temporary bridges and crowns under bending loads.
• Aesthetics — enhanced optical suitability for temporary restorations is claimed (color stability, transparency/opalescence, polishability).

Practical significance for the clinician

Indications and intended clinical applications

The material is positioned for the fabrication of temporary crowns, inlays, bridges, and single-unit temporary structures using digital printing methods (SLA/DLP/specific technology supported by the manufacturer). In clinical practice, this can be useful when there is a need to combine long-term temporary prosthetics with satisfactory aesthetics in the esthetic zone.

Technology and protocol requirements

Achieving the claimed properties critically depends on post-processing steps: removal of uncured residue, adequate post-curing, and surface grinding and polishing. The manufacturer’s recommendations for printing parameters, layer thickness, and post-curing regimes must be strictly followed. Non-compliance with the protocol may result in reduced strength and increased polymerization shrinkage.

Compatibility with temporary cements and adhesion

When cementing temporary restorations, it is essential to consider the material’s base compatibility with temporary cements and adhesive systems. It is recommended to verify adhesion according to the VOCO technical data sheet and, if necessary, use appropriate primers or surface mechanical treatment.

Aesthetic considerations

For the clinician, parameters such as polishability, shade range, and color stability in the oral environment are important. The temporary material must provide adequate masking of the prepared dentin and harmonize with any temporary veneers or restorations the patient is using during the adaptation period.

Limitations and risks

• The initial announcement lacks detailed data from laboratory and clinical studies — independent verification of strength, wear, microcrack formation, and color stability during long-term use is required.
• Temporary 3D-printed materials should not be used as long-term permanent restorations without confirmed data on their durability and biocompatibility from clinical studies.
• In areas of high occlusal load and for long-span bridge frameworks, caution is advised: test samples under laboratory conditions or restrict use to short-term temporary bridges.

Recommendations for implementation into clinical practice

Before starting use

• Request the technical data sheet and post-processing protocol from the manufacturer, including information on compatibility with specific 3D printer models and light sources for polymerization.
• Conduct in-clinic testing — fabricate several typical temporary restorations and evaluate the marginal fit, grindability, polishability, and shade stability under a microscope.
• Verify compatibility with the temporary cements and adhesives you use in your practice.

Clinical tips

• Ensure thorough cleaning and complete post-curing according to the VOCO protocol before try-in and cementation.
• If necessary, adjust the occlusion with minimal intervention; avoid excessively thin walls in load-bearing areas.
• Document the material’s performance in your clinic (photographic records, duration of use, instances of chipping or staining) to accumulate practical data.

The need for independent research

For an objective assessment of new materials, including V-Print c&b temp, published data on the following are required:

• Flexural strength, stiffness, and modulus of elasticity tests;
• Wear and microhardness of the surface layer;
• Color stability and stain resistance over time;
• Clinical perspectives: duration of use, complication rates, and patient satisfaction.

Conclusion for the practicing dentist

V-Print c&b temp from VOCO is presented as a promising 3D-printed temporary material with an emphasis on flexural strength and aesthetics. Currently, this positioning requires confirmation through independent laboratory and clinical studies. For implementation into practice, it is recommended to follow the manufacturer’s protocols, conduct local testing, and document clinical experience before widespread use in complex and long-term temporary restorations.