BLENDER4DENTAL – THE STORY SO FAR. BY ANDREW WHEELER Leave a comment
Much has happened since the last article I wrote on the ‘new kid on the block’, And as we have come to expect nothing in digital dentistry stay still for very long. So where are we now with this new progressive software that has gain so much traction in the profession?
The biggest leap forward for this software has been the launch of the Crown and Bridge module, completing the suite that started with the Model module. As per the other parts of Blender4Dental the module, once brought, is free of any locked in contracts, no yearly charges, and free updates. You can design full- contour crowns, bridges, copings and frames, inlays and onlays, porcelain veneer and implant work. The only limit to the extent of this software is one’s own knowledge.
A helpful addition is the weekly zoom meeting that Michael and Wolf, the architects of B4D, hold. These explore many areas of the software that increase the user experience, this alongside a fantastic online community and video tutorials cover all you need to get designing.
Another interesting development which has just been launched is the VertXsplit model system. This allows users to print or buy a base and create a split model that locates inside the base, much the same as the conventional model tray system. This highlights the beauty of the software; it’s been developed by technicians that have worked at the bench and understand the needs and difficulties that dental technicians face.
The development of the software continues with more implant companies allowing their libraries to be used, expanding the variety available to users. The open-source theme runs alongside the software with users able to create their own tooth libraries and integrate them with the software, utilizing clear and easy to understand video tutorials.
For many years technicians have developed their own workflow and technical abilities to meet their clients demands, and in a strange way this software allows users to maintain that individual artistic side. Yes, there is a learning curve and that might put some off, it is tempting to compare it to other popular CAD programs, but that is missing the point. It should be looked upon as a rethink of how we manufacture appliances in the digital world, allowing us to still express ourselves through our work, something we have been doing for decades. Once the basics have been mastered, the knowledge of how CAD programs operate become understandable, which in turn gives the power into the hands of the technician. It is doubtful that many technicians know how their CAD software works as the user interface hides most of the workings, with B4D you get to delve into a world of vertices, surfaces, and edges. You get to inhabit the fascinating world of 3d design moving at will between various stages and not constrained to a pre-set workflow. It would be remiss of me not to mention a large draw and that’s the cost of this software. It opens the door to a section of our industry that are keen to improve and retrain. Leaving behind their wax knifes, lecrons and models they can purchase the software themselves and learn how to become proficient in CAD and therefore placing themselves in a very valuable position as the industry changes.
With more dental laboratories converting to digital it is hard to stand apart from the crowd. Blender4Dental can certainly help retain the personality we put into our work, as well as meet the challenges the industry as a whole is facing.
Learn more about Blender for Dental, contact Andrew Wheeler @ precision_ceramics@yahoo.co.uk or visit https://www.blenderfordental.com
