DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY
Blender4Dental, the story continues… By Andrew Wheeler I Precision Ceramics
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uch 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 stays still for very long. So where are we now with this new progressive software that has gained 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 purchased, is free of any locked in contracts, no yearly charges, and free updates. It covers all aspects of crown and bridge work that you would expect, the only limit is one’s own knowledge. A helpful addition is the weekly zoom meeting that Michael and Wolf, the architects of B4D, hold. They explore many areas of the software that increase the user experience in a clear and easy to understand way. This alongside a fantastic online community, accredited instructors and video tutorials cover all you need to get designing. Another interesting development which has been launched is the VertXsplit model system. This allows users to purchase a base and create a printed split model that locates it, much the same as a conventional model tray system. This highlights the beauty of Blender4Dental, using the latest software but retaining the tried and tested methods, designed by technicians for technicians. 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 an interesting 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
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other popular CAD programs, but that limits the scope of the software in my opinion. 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 understandable that many technicians are not aware how their CAD software operates 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. Understanding why things go wrong and know how to fix them. It would be remiss of me not to mention an important draw and that is the cost of this software. Blender for Dental is low cost, but just as powerful, it allows smaller laboratories to make the move into digital dentistry without
the large financial outlay. Leaving behind wax knifes and plaster models dental professionals can purchase the software themselves and learn how to become proficient in computer aided design, placing themselves in a very valuable position as the industry changes. As more dental laboratories convert 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 is facing. You could say I am a fan of this software, understanding the digital design process in depth has allowed me to offer services that previously were not a consideration in my laboratory. Being able to guide people through the steps of this software has been a real privilege, and I look forward to seeing what the future holds. Learn more about Blender for Dental, contact Andrew Wheeler @ precision_ ceramics@yahoo.co.uk or visit https:// www.blenderfordental.com
www.dentaltechnician.org.uk 05/05/2022 16:47
