CIMdata PLM Industry Summary Online Archive

8 April 2010

Events News

Delcam Dental Developments go Trans-Atlantic

Delcam will demonstrate the latest versions of the DentCAD dental design software and the DentMILL dental machining system on both sides of the Atlantic on 8th May. The company will be taking part in Dental Technology Show to be held in Coventry on 7th and 8th May, and in the Lab Day West in Garden Grove, Los Angeles on 8th May. The 2010 version of DentCAD includes a completely new interface, an integrated data management module, an expanded library of standard tooth designs and improved STL file output for rapid prototyping equipment, as well as a number of enhancements to the design options, while the new DentMILL has additional five-axis machining options.

The improved DentCAD interface features a reduced number of toolbars to allow the maximum screen space for design, while the icons have been made bolder and clearer. Even dental technicians with limited experience of computer-aided design will find the software easy to learn and to use.

The new data management module makes it easier to record the details of the patient and dentist, and the restoration and material type etc. It enables a smooth process flow between the scanner used to collect the initial data, DentCAD and DentMILL.

Among the design enhancements is the automatic creation of a prep-line as soon as the restoration design is started in DentCAD. The prep-line is the most critical area of the design as it marks the border between the tooth and the gum, and so determines the accuracy of the fit of the restoration. The automatically-generated line can be edited by the user if required.

To reduce the chances of failure of the restoration in manufacture or, even worse, after fitting, DentCAD now lists any areas where the thickness of teeth fall below a chosen set of minimum parameters. The text description of any problem areas is reinforced by a colour map which highlights all the surfaces that fall below the specified requirements.

The extra five-axis machining options in DentMILL will make it easier to program the manufacture of dental bars, implant bridges and customised abutments. In addition, the previous options for the production of copings, bridges and abutments in ceramics and titanium have been enhanced. In particular, the ability to use multithreading technology has reduced calculation times for users with multi-processor computers.

As well as broadening the range of dental restorations that can be produced, the use of five-axis machining helps to reduce material wastage, minimise hand-finishing operations by removing undercut regions, and give more flexibility when machining difficult parts and materials such as hard-state Zirconia.

Become a member of the CIMdata PLM Community to receive your daily PLM news and much more.

Tell us what you think of the CIMdata Newsletter. Send your feedback.

CIMdata is committed to your privacy. Your personal information will never be sold or shared outside of CIMdata without your express permission.

Subscribe