Basic CAD

Why this course?

Did you just purchase a 3D printer or are considering it? Are you looking to learn some easy designs that have a high return on your investment? 

You are in the right place. Dr. Nate Farley and Dr. Kent Howell have been involved with digital dentistry from the days that only one printer was in the dental scene. We have used a variety of software programs over the years and continue to use some that are free or very inexpensive. This course is meant to give attendees a look at these entry-level programs to get a taste for digital dentistry design.

What will I learn?

MODELS

When you have scanned intraorally, it creates a shell of information that has no thickness. This makes it impossible to print a model. There are a few simple steps to learn to be able to turn scans into printable models. And, if you want to save on resin, learn to make those models hollow!

DIGITAL WAX-UPS

Often, to successfully maneuver complex cases (and even some simpler ones), it is valuable to see the end result beforehand. It can be tough to justify the expense of a full mouth rehab before the patient has even accepted. Instead, you can utilize free software to set teeth and visualize the final teeth. And, with an in-office 3D printer, you can print out this plan, make a putty matrix, and use that to test the set-up in the mouth.

SURGICAL GUIDES

Designing and printing your own guides will not only up your game for implant dentistry, but could be one of the best ways to profit from a 3D printer. Learn to align a CBCT with an intraoral scan, plan out the implant, and make a guide.