In order to meet the needs of its customers, KTJ needed technologies that would allow for rapid production, a high degree of customization and low costs at the same time. Several rounds of negotiations and research finally led them to the Objet® Eden260V 3D printer for KTJ’s CAD/CAM Digital Centre, which plays a key role in the dental prostheses fabrication process. Choosing from four materials specifically designed for the dental industry, the centre uses its Objet Eden260V 3D Printer to print dental models with exceptional detail and real simulation. KTJ technicians and engineers use the Objet Eden260V 3D printer in its dental modelling process, which is a critical part of dental prostheses production.
After a patient’s digital data is collected through intra-oral 3D scanning, a technician places the patient’s digital data in CAD to create a printable STL file. The patient’s dental model is then 3D printed from the STL file. Finally, the 3D printed model is used as a base to test fitment of a variety of dental prostheses. The Objet Eden260V 3D Printer has reduced the time required for KTJ’s dental modelling process. Combining 3D scanning and CAD/CAM designs, it rapidly prints dental models for fitting dental crowns, bridges and fixtures. Additionally, it produces surgical guides and other prostheses that are intended for short exposure to patients’ mouths. “Digital dentistry has revolutionised the dental modelling process. Using the Objet Eden260V, a patient’s dental restoration can now be completed in just one day,” said Kevin Shi, manager of KTJ’s Digital CAD/CAM Centre.
Digital dentistry requires a high degree of customization because each patient has unique dental anatomy and dental conditions. 3D scanning and imaging allows the Objet Eden260V 3D Printer to produce dental models accurately, simulating patient’s real dental conditions, while helping dentists make the best treatment decisions. All of these features help eliminate fit issues and patient discomfort caused by inaccuracies in restorations created by traditional modelling, creating higher patient satisfaction. Shi explained, “Customers are now happier with our treatments as it causes less pain and discomfort, and they can even take the dental models home as gifts.”
Digitalizing the dental modelling process has dramatically reduced KTJ’s operational costs. In the past, KTJ mailed dental models to customers for testing, which was costly and slow. Making adjustments greatly increased the amount of time customers needed to wait to receive their final prostheses. Now, all of these costs have been eliminated because the 3D printer allows designs to be shared digitally and instantaneously. “The Objet Eden260V has boosted our business with a streamlined modelling process and lower costs while making our customers happier. It’s a big smile for everybody,” said Shi.
