Sirona introduces 3D to CEREC inLab

Sirona launched 3-D restoration design software for the CEREC inLab in February with 32 people representing 23 of the 24 labs in Australia and New Zealand currently using the system present at the two-day launch workshop.

CEREC inLab allows dental laboratories to laser scan a model or wax-up, design a custom-fit restoration using the system's Computer Aided Design (CAD) software and then mill the prosthesis (CAM).

"The new 3D software for the CEREC inLab literally adds a whole new dimension to the system," said Morné Cheetham, CEREC manager for Australasian Sirona agents, Halas Dental. "Laboratories can now see a full three-dimensional representation of the scanned image and design a precise fit coping or full restoration quickly and easily."

CEREC inLab will produce copings, multiple-unit bridges (currently to a maximum of 40mm), splinted teeth, veneers, inlays, onlays and full crowns from a range of materials including Zirconium Oxide (YZ), Zirconia, Spinell, Alumina and Vita MKII Vitablocs.

The system comprises a combined laser scanner and milling unit plus either a laptop or desktop computer to run the restoration design software. The operator simply mounts the model or wax-up into the scanner and starts the scanning process. The resultant three dimensional image is then used to start the restoration design process.

Electronic versions of the VITA and Heraeus Kulzer crown libraries are included in the system as are a range of other design aids to ensure a perfect result every time. The software warns of any areas that require adjustment for thickness, for example. Virtual articulation paper also enables you to verify the antagonist relationship so you can test for functional occlusion before the restoration is milled.

Once the design phase has been completed, a block of the chosen material is loaded in the milling unit in the same way as the scanned model. CEREC inLab will then replicate the restoration you have designed.

The choice of materials available for the system ensures optimal aesthetics can be achieved with finished restorations. Crowns can be stained and fired in a furnace similar to handmade prosthetics.

"A further advantage of CEREC inLab is that it allows laboratories to quickly design precise fitting inlays and onlays," Mr Cheetham said. "Traditionally, this has been a time consuming process and often revenue neutral at best. CEREC inLab can turn this into a profit centre for the laboratory.

"The addition of the 3D software to the inLab now makes the system even easier to use and many labs are also finding it a great way to interest the younger generations in the dental laboratory business."