Digital Scanning and Design
exocad
exocad is a dental software company based in Darmstadt, Germany. Founded in 2010 as a spin-off from the Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research, it has been part of Align Technology since 2020. Its CAD/CAM software is used to design crowns, bridges, dentures and smile makeovers in dental labs and clinics around the world.
Use at the clinic
exocad is one of the platforms used to process digital impressions taken with an intraoral scanner and to design crowns, bridges, veneers and implant-supported restorations. In the clinic the reason for working in this software is that the restoration can be finished on screen before anything is tried in the mouth. Its open architecture means it runs alongside scanners and production equipment from different manufacturers.
Strengths
Detailed digital design
Your restoration is planned on screen before anything is fitted in your mouth. The bite and the fit against neighbouring teeth are checked before production starts.
Preview your new smile
The Smile Creator module shows how your new smile could look on your own photos before treatment begins.
Open system
exocad works with many brands of scanners, milling units and 3D printers, so the clinic can choose the equipment that suits each step of your treatment.
Implant planning support
The exoplan software lets the clinical team plan implant surgery on your 3D scans and design a surgical guide for the procedure.
Points to consider
Software, not a treatment
exocad is a design tool. The final result still depends on your dentist's plan, the accuracy of your scan and the materials chosen for production.
Needs a full digital workflow
You benefit most when the clinic pairs the software with intraoral scanning and digital production. Not every practice has this setup in place.
The on-screen preview is a guide
The digital design gives you a realistic idea of the outcome. The final look can still vary slightly with the chosen material, your gum line and lighting.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is exocad and what does it do in my treatment?
- exocad is software used to design restorations such as crowns, bridges and veneers digitally. Because the work is done on a digital model of your mouth, your restoration is planned to fit your teeth.
- How long do crowns designed with exocad last?
- Lifespan depends on the material chosen and how you care for your teeth, not on the software alone. A precisely designed restoration fits well, and with good oral hygiene and regular check-ups it can serve you for many years.
- Can I see my new smile before treatment starts?
- Yes. With the Smile Creator module you can preview a possible version of your new smile on your own photos. This makes it easier to decide on the plan together with your dentist before treatment begins.
Let's find the right system for you
The right brand and system for you becomes clear after a clinical assessment. Reach out to our team with any questions.