3Shape

3Shape is a Danish manufacturer of scanners and software that operates worldwide and has made it its business to create time and space in the dental industry through its developments. Due to its strong brand communication and the self-contained system compatibility, one often speaks of the “Apple” among dental scanners. 

In Germany, 3Shape is represented by 3Shape Germany GmbH - based in Düsseldorf - which is responsible for sales and the academy for the DACH region.
 

[Translate to Englisch:] 3Shape

3Shape the "Apple" among dental scanners

3Shape is basically an open system. STL files are created from construction data. Laboratories are thus free to choose their partners and suppliers. The compatibility and operation between 3Shape's own products - such as the TRIOS intraoral scanner and the 3Shape design software - is more user-friendly than using the design software in combination with third-party products. While other software houses (such as Exocad) only sell the software, 3Shape also supplies the associated desktop scanner with the software. 

3Shape software packages and modules

3Shape offers two different software packages. The LabCare Package and the Basic Package. With the LabCare package, laboratories benefit from free support and training, as well as regular software upgrades. With the basic version, on the other hand, support is chargeable. There are no software upgrades here, the purchase version remains permanent.

Software modules

  • Dental System (crowns & bridges, tertiary frameworks, etc.)

  • Splint Studio

  • Clear Aligner Studio

  • Ortho System

  • Implant Studio/ Abutment Designer

3Shape scanner offer

 

D2000      

E4 

E3      

E2    

E1 

Camera  

4 x 5 MP 4 x 5 MP 2 x 5 MP 2 x 5 MP 2 x 5 MP

Precision (ISO 12836)

5 μm 4 μm 7 μm 10 μm 10 μm

Scan duration (full jaw)   

16 Sec. 9 Sec. 18 Sec. 24 Sec. 32 Sec.

Scan duration (full jaw impression)     

65 Sec. 45 Sec. 64 Sec. 72 Sec. 104 Sec.

 Texture

Colour Colour Colour B/W n / a
Scan strategy

Die scanning on the model           
and all-in-one scanning       

Die in the model   Standard    Standard    Standard   

Advantages of 3Shape scanners

  • With the help of an articulator holder, articulators can be inserted into the e-scanner in order to scan the bite directly. 

  • The scanning process starts immediately as soon as the model has been inserted into the scanner. 

  • High scanning speed and thus higher productivity.

  • With the all-in-one scanning function of the D2000, two models can be scanned at the same time, so that the upper and lower jaw, all inserted stumps and occlusion information can be recorded with one scan.

3Shape further and advanced training

3Shape offers the "Online learning hub" for further education and training and the constant expansion of knowledge. Numerous case studies and blog posts can be found on this platform. In addition to on-demand webinars, virtual classes in small groups of up to 6 people and individual training courses, 3Shape also offers free training videos on its own YouTube channel. There is also the option of attending classroom courses with a maximum of 10 participants in 3Shape's own rooms. 

OUR CONCLUSION

Vorteile von 3Shape:

3Shape impresses with its intuitive and simple user interface and, depending on the model, a very precise and detailed scan. Compared to other systems, the 3Shape system is very intuitive to use and therefore particularly user-friendly.

Disadvantages of 3Shape:

Compared to other systems, 3Shape is very rigid and leaves little room for creativity and “out of the box” approaches. In addition, 3Shape support is very difficult to reach, so many users are looking for solutions with the help of their manufacturing service providers.

There is no right or wrong with scanners and software. Especially in this area, it is particularly important to pay attention to your own preferences and requirements in the laboratory. In our opinion, the 3Shape system is well suited for CAD / CAM beginners. Technicians who prefer to remain flexible, like to try things out or work out their own solutions, are better off with a system that is not so self-contained.