At LMT Lab Day Chicago 2025, Carbon introduced FP3D, a new resin designed for flexible, removable partial dentures. The material is the first in the dental sector to use Carbon’s dual-cure chemistry, a technology that has already transformed industries including footwear, cycling, and sports equipment.
FP3D differs from traditional single-cure dental resins by incorporating a secondary heat-activated step that strengthens parts after printing. This dual process allows dental labs to achieve both precise prints and long-term durability. According to Carbon, the material delivers “engineering-grade” performance in 3D printed dental devices, making them more resilient to the demands of daily use.
Carbon has a history of applying its dual-cure technology in high-performance environments. Previous applications include Riddell’s 3D printed football helmet liners, midsoles for leading athletic shoes, and bike saddles engineered for comfort and durability. Extending this approach to dental appliances aligns with the growing adoption of digital workflows in dental laboratories.
Alongside FP3D, Carbon unveiled updates to its automation suite. Enhancements include no-code print preparation software and an expanded polishing system compatible with the company’s M3 printers. These tools aim to simplify lab operations, reduce manual labor, and improve consistency across printed parts.
Although FP3D is still under FDA review and not yet available in the United States, its introduction underscores the evolving role of 3D printing and advanced materials in dental manufacturing. By integrating automation with innovative resins, Carbon is positioning digital dentistry as a faster, more reliable, and highly adaptable alternative to traditional methods.
As 3D printing continues to reshape dental labs, FP3D could mark a pivotal step in producing more durable and precise removable partial dentures. Its development signals a broader trend toward leveraging advanced chemistry to enhance the performance and reliability of dental devices.