Carbon DLS Accuracy for Dental Materials

For dental indications, Carbon DLS™ accuracy is described in terms of the percentage of surface scan points within a tolerance band, for example 94% of points within ±50 μm.

Previously, we gave very conservative high-level guidance around our tolerances. We now offer more granular guidance based on several years’ worth of CT scans and field data on dental applications. The following figures are a summary of the updated guidelines for dental models followed by a deeper dive into the data itself.

Updated Dental Indication Accuracy Guidelines

Given the importance of accuracy for dental applications, we have thoroughly analyzed and optimized the accuracy of our printed parts, and continue to seek further improvements. We use a state-of-the-art CT scanning system for analyzing accuracy, which enables us to measure the accuracy of intricate internal features, such as implant analog or removable die sockets within a model. This level of analysis is not possible with optical scanners. By having the in-house ability to rapidly measure the accuracy in these critical areas, we can use the results of scans to determine the optimal print settings, versus using measurements of calibration blocks or generic geometries, which is not as effective for dental applications. As a result, we use CT scanning in the validation of all of our dental materials.

We have scanned a very large subset of models, and determined average accuracy figures. The average accuracy of dies, quadrant models, and full arch models, when the critical areas are analyzed (i.e. exclude the bases of models), is 94% of points within ±50 μm (±5%). An example scan can be seen below:

In addition, average values for clear aligner models used in thermoforming have been determined to be 96% of points within ±100 μm (±5%). An example scan can be seen below:

3D as It’s Meant to Be

If you have questions about our dental accuracy guidelines, please reach out to us at dental@carbon3d.com.