The starting point for most dental lab CAD/CAM workflows is the 3D scanner. While several imaging technologies can be used, all dental lab scanners are designed to create a 3D digital model based on either a physical dental model or impression. There are a number of features to consider when selecting the 3D scanner that is the best fit for your lab including the scan speed and scanner capacity. Some scanners provide automated scanning for individual dies, while others only scan models. Dental lab scanners are commonly sold bundled with dental lab CAD/CAM software, so it’s important to be sure the scanner and its software are compatible with the mill, 3D printer or other production workflow you have planned. Training and support are other considerations when selecting a dental lab scanner.
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| Company | 3Shape | 3Shape | 3Shape | 3Shape | 3Shape |
| Item | D2000 3D Scanner System | D1000 3D Scanner System | E1 | E2 | E3 |
| Price | Inquire | Inquire | Inquire | Inquire | Inquire |
| Scan Speed | 15 sec (single die), 25 sec (full arch) | 15 sec (single die), 25 sec (full arch) | Arch: 40 seconds; Die: 25 seconds; Full Arch Impression: 130 seconds | Arch: 30 seconds; Die: 20 seconds; Full Arch Impression: 90 seconds | Arch: 24 seconds; Die: 18 seconds; Full Arch Impression: 80 seconds |
| Scan Chamber Size | Expanded for 2 Models | Expanded | Not Available | Not Available | Not Available |
| Scan Technology | Four 5-MP Cameras, Blue LED Multi-Line | Four 5-MP Cameras, Blue LED Multi-Line | 2 x 5 MP cameras, Blue LED Multiline | 2 x 5 MP cameras, Blue LED Multiline | 2 x 5 MP cameras, Blue LED Multiline |
| Accuracy | 5 µm | 5 µm | 10 µm | 10 µm | 7 µm |
| Model Scanning | Yes - 2 Models | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Impression Scanning | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-Die Scanning | Yes - In Model All-In-One Scanning | Yes - In Model All-In-One Scanning | Not Available | Not Available | Not Available |
| Color Scanning | Color Texture Scanning | Color Texture Scanning | No | No | Yes |
| File Type | Open STL | Open STL | Open STL | Open STL | Open STL |
| Description | Designed to maximize dental lab productivity, the D2000 scanner features room to simultaneously scan two models. The highly accurate multi-line | A highly accurate 3D scanner for highly productive labs, the D1000 scanner features Blue LED multi-line scanning technology for 5 micron accuracy. The | Designed to make 3D digital scanning accessible to labs of all size, the E1 scanner sets a new standard for entry level CAD/CAM solutions. With rapid | An economical option to help dental labs increase their productivity, the E2 scanner is a faster and more robust scanning solution than the E1. The | The top of the line for 3Shape’s entry level scanners, the E3 is a powerful and fast scanner with the accuracy needed to handle the precision |
| Get Info | Not Available | Not Available | Not Available | Not Available | Not Available |