D3Splint User Manual
Introduction
D3Splint is a CAD application for learning to design, and for prototyping occlusal guards and other removable appliances. It is developed on the open source software platform Blender. We distribute it packaged together with Blender 2.79. The software has evolved since late 2017 years to be nearly feature complete in 2020. It has excellent control of the occlusal surface, a semi adjustable articulator and precise control over blockouts and offsets. There are workflows for the following styles of appliance.
- Simple Shells
- Flat Plane
- Michigan Style
- Anterior Deprogrammer
Other Workflows Possible
- Farrar
- Gelb
While practically no basic knowledge of Blender is necessary to accomplish an appliance design, Blender’s built in modeling tools can be utilized to make custom designs or prototypes by leveraging its modeling, constructive solid geometry and remeshing tools.
Table of Contents
Rotating the View (Middle Mouse Button) 14
Basic Splint Workflow (Simple Shell) 18
Wax Rim while in Mark Curves Mode 41
Generate Functional Surface 44
Subtract Functional Surface 45
Details of Landmarks and Mounting 62
How the Mounting is Established 62
Check Clearance Operator (Mode) 66
Adjusting The Insertion Axis 68
The Result on the Refractory Model 69
Default Values, Preferences and Properties 69
Live Parameters vs Animation 71
Cleanup Distal Excess Scan Data 73
Controlling Occlusal Depth (Mark Posterior Contacts) 75
Making Changes After Finalize 75
Changing Retention (Offset/Undercut) 75
Changing Margin Line (Offset/Undercut) 76
Changing Occlusion (Pin Setting or Articulator Angles) 76
Indications/Intended Use
This is academic software for use in understanding how night guards and occlusal appliances are constructed from 3-dimensional components and adapted to source geometry. It is not intended for clinical use as it has not been validated in any way. It is provided with the hope that it is useful, but with no guarantee of fitness for any use.
System Requirements
Operating System: Windows 10 64 bit, MacOS Catalina
Windows: MSV C++ 2017 or later Redistributable Package
Processor:
Minimum: Intel Core i5 (gen 7) quad core or greater, AMD Ryzen 5 quad core or greater
Recommended: Core i7 7700 or higher or Ryzen 5 3600 or Ryzen 7 2700 or higher
Powerhouse:
Intel: Core i7 9700k, Core i9 9900k,
AMD: Ryzen 7 3700x, Ryzen 9 3950x
Memory:
Minimum: 8GB ram
Recommended: 16 GB
Powerhouse: 32BG
Monitor:
Minimum: 1080p resolution, 14” or greater
Recommended: 15” laptops are workable, 24” desktop monitors
Input:
Recommended: 3 button mouse with scroll wheel, keyboard with numberpad
Minimum: Workarounds for using laptop trackpad but will cause finger fatigue quickly
Untested: 3D mouse
Installation
You will receive an email from info@d3tool.com with a link to download the software. You may also find it under the downloads section when you log into d3tool.com. Click the download link.
Alternatively you can download the program directly from your D3Tool Account. To do this log in to your account at d3tool.com. And click the “My Account” button at the top right of your screen. From there you can access your Downloads page on the menu to the left of the page. To download the installer click the orange button on the right side of the page.
The download will begin at the bottom of your browsing window.
Windows Installation
To install the program double click the file D3Splint_Installer.exe from your browser or downloads folder. When you do you will likely get an error message as shown below (Left).
To bypass this error message click “More info” and a new menu will give you the option to Run Anyway (pictured above, right). Click Run Anyway to begin the installation.
It will ask you to select your preferred language and accept the user agreement (pictured above). There will also be an option to create a desktop shortcut, which we recommend (pictured below). The next menu will confirm the installation, by asking you to click Install.
The loading screen will run for a few minutes and once it is done the Setup Wizard will give you the option to open D3Splint. We recommend doing so as you will want to go ahead and install any and all available updates. Your software is now installed.
Mac Installation
Note that these instructions may show images for D3Tray but are identical for D3Splint. After the download finishes, you can “show in finder” or you can manually navigate to the .zip folder in Finder.
Right click (or two finger click if using trackpad), Open With -> Archive Utility and wait for the folder to unzip
After it unzips, you can enter the folder and you will find the D3Splint application. You can drag it to your docker bar so that you have easy access to it. You should not move the application out of it’s folder.
Mac OS Permissions/Unsigned App Problem
Option 1
“Ctrl” +
Once you have downloaded and unzipped the installer (Right) you may get an error message like the one seen below (Left).
One way to open the program is to hold the “Ctrl” or Control key on your keyboard while you click the program. This will open a new menu like the one seen below.
Select “Open” at the top of the menu and you should see this new warning (Above, Left). Once you click “Open” your computer will then trust the application and it will open and run as normal.
Option 2
Short Story: System Preferences -> Security Privacy -> Open Anyway
When you first download and unzip and run d3tray, Mac OS may complain about the fact that this is an unsigned application that did not come from the app store. This is an important part of the MacOS security system but it is very inconvenient for development of simple open source applications.
To work around, open system preferences -> security and privacy and you will see d3tray listed as a blocked app.
Mac OS App Translocation Problem
Short Story: Place d3splint.app in applications folder
Another security feature which sometimes inhibits the functioning of D3Splint (and Blender in general) is app translocation. This is another great security feature which is troublesome for portable and unsigned applications. This is most commonly run into if you attempt to save user preferences. A very long error message will pop up
Zoomed in you will see some of the following.
............
The solution to this is to place the application in the applications folder.
https://developer.blender.org/T53814
Updating the Software (Windows)
D3Splint for Windows now runs all software updates from within the software. To run the update launch D3Splint. You should see the three windows pictured below appear on your screen. Note: The black screen will disappear in a few moments; that is completely normal.
The smaller gray window will be your User Preferences window, which we will use to run the update. If this window gets closed or does not open, it can be re opened by going to File > User Preferences as shown below (right).
In the User Preferences window you will see a checkbox labeled “3D View: D3Tool Splint Module”. Click the white arrow to the left of this label to open D3Splint’s menu.
This will show the version information for D3Splint, and ask you to check the box certifying that you understand the software is Not For Clinical Use. This disclaimer is in place because of how much control the user has when designing an appliance, that we cannot guarantee output of results (minimum thickness and such). It is the users responsibility as a certified clinical dentist to verify the appliances design. Once checked, a new menu will appear (pictured below).
At the bottom of this new menu will be an option to Log In and check for updates. Click Log In to see the menu pictured below, left, and enter your d3tool.com account information.
Once your login information is entered a banner will run at the top of the screen stating “Credentials Validated”. If this banner says “Credentials Not Accepted” that means your login information was incorrectly entered. Once accepted you will be able to click “Check for D3Splint Update”. The button will say “Checking…” for a brief moment. If an update is available the button will then say “Update not to (Newest Version)”. Click that button to run the update.
Once the update has run, you will see the error pictured below. Completely close D3Splint and reopen the application to activate the update.
After reopening the application the User Preferences should now show the new version number.
Your software is now up to date.
Updating the Software (Mac)
Mac updates require logging into d3tool.com and retrieving a new copy from your downloads section (a clean reinstall).
First Time Opening
When you open the software for the first time, you will need to do a couple of things to ensure it functions properly. The “User Preferences” window will be automatically opened.
- Find the “D3T Splint Module”, expand the preferences by clicking the white arrow.
- Check the “Not for Clinical Use” button.
- Press “Set Mandatory Settings.”
- Press “Save User Settings”
Basic Layout of Software
Double click the Blender icon or your shortcut to open Blender/D3Splint. By default, D3Splint starts up with the standard layout of Blender but with the D3Splint panel already configured. It is separated into five areas containing the Editors listed below:
- The Info Bar at the top (Blue)
- The large 3D View in the center(Yellow)
- An Outliner at the top right
- A Properties Panel at the bottom right
- A Timeline at the bottom
Info (blue), 3D View (yellow), Outliner (red), Properties (green), Timeline(purple)
You will spend nearly the entirety of your interaction in the 3D View, and the Tool Panel inside of the 3D View. Occasionally you may venture into the Outliner or into the Properties Panel.
While not often necessary, you may occasionally want to resize the different editor regions. One example would be to enlarge the Outliner to see more of the list of objects in the project. See the standard Blender 2.79 documentation on how to hover your mouse near the area boundary, and click and drag to resize.
https://docs.blender.org/manual/en/2.79/interface/window_system/areas.html#changing-the-size
Navigation in the 3DView
The basic navigation operations are rotate, pan and zoom. When you do these, it is important to note that you are not actually manipulating the model in space, rather you are changing your viewing orientation.
Rotating the View (Middle Mouse Button)
You can rotate by pressing down on your middle mouse wheel, and dragging your mouse
Zoom (Scroll Wheel)
Roll the scroll wheel in and out to zoom and out
Pan (Shift + Middle Mouse)
Press “Shift” and hold the Middle Mouse button to pan the view.
These are critical skills to have to reduce frustration once you actually begin the work flow. For new users it is recommended to take about 3 to 5 minutes just getting used to viewing the models from different directions and rotating the view around.
Visual Preferences
Depending on the resolution of your screen, your eyes, and how far away your monitor is, you may need to adjust the buttons, icon and text sizes of the software. This can be achieved by opening the user preferences. Go to “File” -> “User Preferences” in the Info Bar at the top of the screen. A new window will pop up. Select the “Interface” tab. The most common setting to change is the display scale, particularly on laptops with high resolution displays (eg, Apple Retina)
You might need to change your operating system settings as well. Here is an example i Windows control panel where the default display size is set to 125%. Some users need to set their Windows display size to 100% instead of 125% and then change the Blender Scale to get the right combination of button and menu size that is acceptable.
The Splint Panel
At the left of the 3D View is the Tools Panel. By default, the “Dental” tab will be active in the Tool Panel to the left of the screen. As you work through the workflow, more buttons and options will appear in the Splint Workflow part of the panel to guide you through the steps.
Basic Splint Workflow (Simple Shell)
Setup Project Properties
First certify that this is not for clinical use. For your first project
- Uncheck Auto Background
- Choose “Maxilla” as the Jaw Type
- Choose “Simple Shell” as the workflow.
Import Model
Press the “Import STL Models” button, and navigate to the folder where your models are stored. Left click on the file name,hold shift and left click on any additional files. They will highlight orange. Then click “Import STL” in the upper right.
Set Splint Model
Press the “Set Splint Model.” The border of the 3D view will turn red. Hover your mouse over the model you want to build the splint on. The outline will become thick and orange. Left click on the model to confirm and it will turn a glossy model stone color. Repeat with the set opposing.
Set Landmarks
Landmarks on the cast are identified to help define the occlusal plane. Make sure you are clicking the anatomic Right and Left molars not the screen right and left.. If a tooth is missing, choose two corresponding teeth (eg, 2nd molar and 2nd molar or 2nd premolar and 2nd premolar). Also make sure to choose equivalent points (Cusp/Cusp or Fossa/Fossa).
Survey Model
Press the Survey Model Button. This step allows you to choose the insertion path of the appliance. Alter your view so that you are viewing the model from the occlusal plane and press “Capture View.” Then alter your view slightly to evaluate the undercuts which will be indicated with shadows. You can adjust your view and press “Capture View as many times as you want until the view is correct. You can also use the helper functions “Tweak” to slightly alter the insertion axis 1.5 degrees at a time. When satisfactory, press “Commit” (upper left)
Save Your Work
The application will not proceed further until you save.
- Press the “Recommend Save!” button.
- Then type “first_test” in the file name bar.
- Press “Save as Blender File” in the upper right.
This way, if mistakes are made, you can revert to this part of the workflow by File -> Open -> and reselect this file.
Refractory Model
This step establishes the undercut removal and a compensation gap which will be applied to the original model. Decrease offset for tighter fit (more friction) and Increase undercut for more engagement (more “snap”) of undercuts.
This animation shows variation in the amount of undercut while keeping offset constant.
As of D3Splint Version 1.0.3 there is a new setting to the Refractory Model. To open the setting first click the “Refractory Model” button in the main left hand menu. At the bottom of the pop up window check “Advanced Options” to expand the menu.
There is now a smoothing option available. However this option is not something that would be needed for most cases. Selectively smooths negative features, embrasures etc, preserves cusp tip and positive anatomy to the .0001mm precision compared to unsmoothed models. This does smooth the transition of the undercut very slightly very slightly so might need to bump allowed undercut by 0.01 when using this.
Mark Splint Outline
The mark splint outline tool is used to indicate the outline of the appliance on the refractory model. Press “Mark Splint Outline.” The refractory model will turn translucent so the original model can be seen underneath. Left click single points to draw the outline. Right click points to delete them.
To close the loop, you will need to have one point selected (usually the last point you added) and then hover near the other point you wish to connect to, but not directly over it, until a green line previews the connection and a thick green circle appears around it. Click the larger green ring and the loop will close.
After the perimeter has been established:
- Press “Next” and the cursor will turn into an eyedropper
- Click on the region that corresponds to the splint shell. It will turn a random color.
- Press “Next” again and the boundary of the patch will turn sharp/crisp
- Then press “Next” again. If you experience trouble with this step, please see the more detailed description of this operator HERE
Create Splint Shell
Press the “Splint Shell” button. The thickness of the shell can be specified in the menu that pops up. Press “OK” to execute and the shell will appear a few seconds later.
Finalize
All the components are now ready to create the final output. The finalize operator performs all of the constructive solid geometry operations to create a 3d printable mesh model. In this case, the refractory model is subtracted from the shell. In more complex workflows rims or discluding elements will be incorporated before the finalize step. Inspect the interior of the shell to make sure it appears that teeth have been removed.
The Flat Plane
Your next design should be a flat plane appliance. At this point it is just advisable to attempt to complete the design, not perfect it. Familiarity with the overall flow is more important than the details of each step at this stage.
Setup Project Properties
- Uncheck Auto Background
- Choose “Maxilla” as the Jaw Type
- Choose “Flat Plane” as the workflow.
Import Model
Press the “Import STL Models” button, and navigate to the folder where your models are stored. Left click on the file name,hold shift and left click on any additional files. They will highlight orange. Then click “Import STL” in the upper right.
Set Splint Model
Press the “Set Splint Model.” The border of the 3D view will turn red.
- Hover your mouse over the model you want to build the splint on. The outline will become thick and orange.
- Left click on the model to confirm and it will turn a glossy model stone color.
- Repeat with the “Set Opposing”
Set Landmarks
Landmarks on the cast are identified to help define the occlusal plane. Make sure you are clicking the anatomic Right and Left (not the right and left of screen) molar. If a tooth is missing, choose two corresponding teeth (eg, 2nd molar and 2nd molar or 2nd premolar and 2nd premolar). Also make sure to choose equivalent points (Cusp/Cusp or Fossa/Fossa). Afterward, the model will appear mounted in the articulator. Accept your mounting no matter what it is. We will cover adjusting the mounting late.
Survey Model
Press the Survey Model Button. This step allows you to choose the insertion path of the appliance. Alter your view so that you are viewing the model from the occlusal plane and press “Capture View.” Then alter your view slightly to evaluate the undercuts which will be indicated with shadows. You can adjust your view and press “Capture View as many times as you want until the view is correct. You can also use the helper functions “Tweak” to slightly alter the insertion axis 1.5 degrees at a time. When satisfactory, press “Commit” (upper left)
Save your Work
Refractory Model
This step establishes the undercut removal and a compensation gap which will be applied to the original model. Decrease offset for tighter fit (more friction) and Increase undercut for more engagement (more “snap”) of undercuts. The refractory model will appear in green over top of the original models.
As of D3Splint Version 1.0.3 there is a new setting to the Refractory Model. To open the setting first click the “Refractory Model” button in the main left hand menu. At the bottom of the pop up window check “Advanced Options” to expand the menu.
There is now a smoothing option available. However this option is not something that would be needed for most cases. Selectively smooths negative features, embrasures etc, preserves cusp tip and positive anatomy to the .0001mm precision compared to unsmoothed models. This does smooth the transition of the undercut very slightly very slightly so might need to bump allowed undercut by 0.01 when using this.
Mark Splint Outline
Review the Mark Splint Outline fundamentals in the Simple Shell workflow. Also review the comprehensive document on marking the outline. In the animation below, the margin is sketched by holding “Shift + LeftClick and Drag”
When using the sketch tool, often the sketches will not be connected. Breaks in the outline will prevent moving to the next step. The “Connect Endpoints” tool can be used to make sure the outline is a closed loop.
Create Splint Shell
Press the “Splint Shell” button. The thickness of the shell can be specified in the menu that pops up. Press “OK” to execute and the shell will appear a few seconds later.
Minimum Thickness Shell
This operation creates a shell that is used to visualize if the shell surface has become too close to the model which would result in violating the material thickness. If your regular shell is visible, you will not be able to see this unless you hide the splint shell or the thickness is violated by occlusion tools or by sculpting.
Mark Occlusal Curves
This operation establishes the perimeter of a virtual “wax rim” which will be added to the appliance. The goal is to create smooth, even curves that approximate the opposing arch, and the appliance shell.
Marking The Curves
The maxillary curve is marked first, then the mandibular curve, and then the curves are adjusted. Left click along the arch and curve points will stick to the model. Right click on a point to delete it.
Adjusting The Curves
Press “Curves Only” and both models will turn translucent. Now the curves are free to be translated in space and are not constrained to the model surface. Left click and drag to move a point. Use this to create a smooth flowing curve along each arch.
Wax Rim while in Mark Curves Mode
Press “Calculate Rim” in the right panel and the Wax Rim will be created from the curves and appear translucent and yellow. For this example, accept the rim and press “Commit.” In later tutorials more advanced control over the rim will be discussed. Your curve establish the boundaries of the rim.
Fuse Rim
Press “Fuse Rim To Shell.” The yellow rim will disappear and become one with the shell
Blockout Large Concavities
Rotate the view to inspect the back side of the appliance. If there is a concavity or self overhanging region on the lingual of the splint, it can be automatically removed with the “Blockout Large Concavities” function.
Mark Posterior Contacts
Use the Mark Posterior Contacts to establish a flat posterior region that will evenly contact the posterior teeth. Left Click on the cusp tips of the posterior teeth to add points. As more points are added, a red smooth surface will be created between the points. The points can be adjusted by clicking and dragging. Press Next and then press Commit.
Subtract Posterior Surface
The surface that was created in the previous step will be subtracted from the splint shell.
Generate Functional Surface
Press generate functional surface. The virtual articulator will animate the lower jaw through the full envelope of motion of each linear condyle track. Wait for the animation to finish. The sample image below has been sped up will look significantly different than the animation on your screen!
Subtract Functional Surface
Press “Subtract Functional Surface” to remove the full envelope from the occlusal surface of the splint.
The result will be that there are MIP contacts on the posterior and a relatively flat surface in the anterior.
Remesh Smooth
The Remesh/Smooth function will soften hard edges and blend the shapes of the splint together. It will also destroy the occlusal contacts so another step will be needed to re-establish the contacts. Remesh/Smooth can be performed at any time during the workflow
Grind MIP
Use the Gind MIP button to re-establish the centric contacts in the occlusal surface.
Finalize
Finalize the appliance. This will apply the final constructive solid geometry operation (boolean subtraction of the refractory model). Rotate your view to inspect the intaglio surface.
Anterior Deprogrammer
After designing a simple shell, and a flat plane, not in background mode, the anterior deprogrammer is the best next appliance to design.
Setup Project Properties
- Uncheck Auto Background
- Choose “Maxilla” as the Jaw Type
- Choose “Anterior Deprogrammer” as the workflow.
Import Model
Press the “Import STL Models” button, and navigate to the folder where your models are stored. Left click on the file name,hold shift and left click on any additional files. They will highlight orange. Then click “Import STL” in the upper right.
Set Splint Model
Press the “Set Splint Model.” The border of the 3D view will turn red.
- Hover your mouse over the model you want to build the splint on. The outline will become thick and orange.
- Left click on the model to confirm and it will turn a glossy model stone color.
- Repeat with the “Set Opposing”
Set Landmarks
Landmarks on the cast are identified to help define the occlusal plane. For the deprogrammer workflow it’s not strictly necessary to do this however it does help align the case and propose the deprogrammer element in the right orientation.
Hide the Articulator afterwards to make visualization easier. Click the eye icon in the outliner at the upper right.
Survey Model
Press the Survey Model Button. This step allows you to choose the insertion path of the appliance. Alter your view so that you are viewing the model from the occlusal plane and press “Capture View.” Then alter your view slightly to evaluate the undercuts which will be indicated with shadows. You can adjust your view and press “Capture View as many times as you want until the view is correct. You can also use the helper functions “Tweak” to slightly alter the insertion axis 1.5 degrees at a time. When satisfactory, press “Commit” (upper left).
Save your Work
Refractory Model
This step establishes the undercut removal and a compensation gap which will be applied to the original model. Decrease offset for tighter fit (more friction) and Increase undercut for more engagement (more “snap”) of undercuts. The refractory model will appear in green over top of the original models.
Mark Splint Outline
Review the Mark Splint Outline fundamentals in the Simple Shell workflow. Also review the comprehensive document on marking the outline. In the animation below, the margin is placed by sequentially left clicking. Press Next, then select the interior region of the splint. Press Next again.
Create Splint Shell
Press the “Splint Shell” button. The thickness of the shell can be specified in the menu that pops up. Press “OK” to execute and the shell will appear a few seconds later.
Place Deprogrammer Element
Left click on the incisal edge of the shell to place the 3D cursor in the location that you wish to place the deprogrammer element. You will get a popup that has parameters in it. See the image below for how those parameters affect the shape of the deprogrammer.
Edit Deprogrammer Element
If you decide that you need to alter the size/shape/position, you can edit the deprogrammer element. Press “Edit Deprogrammer” and then click and drag left to right to scroll the values. You can also click the small arrows beside the values to adjust them in small increments. Values can also be typed into the input boxes. When the deprogrammer is selected, you can use the Red, Green and Blue arrows and arcs to position the element. You may wish to hide the opposing jaw to better visualize. You can establish preset values for this in the user preferences.
Fuse Deprogrammer Element
Once the element is properly positioned and edited, fuse the element to the shell. It will turn from a pale yellow to the splint shell color.
Blockout Concavities
One convenient way to remove the large overhang is to use the blockout large concavities tool.
Finalize
Finalize the appliance. This will apply the final constructive solid geometry operation (boolean subtraction of the refractory model). Rotate your view to inspect the intaglio surface.
How to Send a Help Ticket in Software
D3Tool has integrated a new tool to allow users to send a help ticket directly from within our software. This function is operational through our support subscription (the first month of which is included with every software purchase).
Now when you launch D3Tool, there is a new menu along the very left edge of the screen. Above the D3Tool tab there is now one labeled “D3Tool Help Desk”. Clicking on that tab will reveal the new helpdesk ticket function.
The bottom most button is the “Start Ticket” which will prompt a text box. In the text box provide a brief description of the error you are experiencing.
Once the ticket has started another set of menu options will appear in their place. From there you can opt to attach screenshots and/or the entire project file. Clicking “Submit Ticket” will compile any and all attached files along with the description and submit it to the D3Tool Support Team. It also offers the opportunity to log in with your D3Tool account credentials.Once you select “Submit Ticket”, it will prompt you to enter a subject and click OK. After that your ticket number will be generated in the text console.
The D3Tool Help Ticket menu will remain active and allow additional files to be uploaded to the ticket after the fact.
After the ticket is submitted, an email confirming your help ticket will be sent to the email associated with your D3Tool account.
Details of Landmarks and Mounting
After setting landmarks, the models appear mounted in the articulator. The manipulator widget also appears centered on the Maxillary Model. The default positioning of the models in the articulator is controlled by the landmarks you set and the settings in the user preferences.
How the Mounting is Established
The flat occlusal plane is defined by the two molar landmarks and the incisal edge. The midpoint between the molars and the midline point are used to establish the sagittal plane. The models are then placed in the articulator with the incisal edge placed at an average value distance from the condyles and the occlusal plane canted at the desired values (7.5 degrees default)
Adjusting the Mounting
Left click and drag on the arrows of the manipulator widget to reposition the models in the articulator. Left Click and Drag on the white arc to rotate the models around the vieweing direction. Left Click and Drag on the Red, Green or Blue arcs to rotate around the principal X,Y,Z axes
You can use the view menu to change the view from the side or front. Notice our coordinate system is 90 degrees from the Blender reference so choosing Right view will give you a Frontal view. This will be remedied in future versions. The angle from the horizontal plane to a line connecting the condyles and the maxillary incisal midpoint is displayed. The radius from the condyles to the maxillary incisal midpoints is displayed along a green line. These measurements are similar to the Balkwill angle and Bonwill’s triangle however are not directly equivalent since those values reference mandibular landmarks. A photograph or a direct measurement from condyle to incisal midpoint could be used to establish a reasonable estimate for mounting.
How to Match a Specific Mounting Table
In order to replicate the mounting created by a particular average value mounting table, at a minimum, the following measurements need to be recorded (or known) in mm
- The distance from the condyle to the incisal edge position: _______mm
- The angle made between the incisal edge point, and the horizontal plane: _____mm
- Set occlusal plane angle as desired.
Example 1: the Kois Analyzer on a Panadent Articulator.
(Kois and Panadent are trademarks of their respective manufacturers and are not affiliated with D3Tool LLC). This is an example requested by several users.
Step 1: Measure the distance between the condyle and the incisal edge of the guide table. In this example it is 116mm.
Step 2: Measure the Angle
Using a protractor, view the articulator in from the side. Plase a ruler or other straight line from the center of the rotation axis to the incisal point, and record the angle made with the horizontal element of the articulator. In this case 32 degrees.
Using Measurements: This angle can also be calculated by measuring the horzointal measurement, and the vertical measurement to the incisal point. Angle is calculated as the inverse tangent of the vertical measurement divided by the horizontal measurement. You can copy and paste the following into google but replace vertical and horizontal with your measurements. It’s important that you add “in deg”
atan(vertical/horizontal) in deg
Example 2: A HIP mounting a Panadent Artculator.
(Kois and Panadent are trademarks of their respective manufacturers and are not affiliated with D3Tool LLC). This is an example requested by several users.
Step 1: Measure the distance
From the condyle to the papillla pin. Here we can see that it is 100mm.
[TODO, insert photo]
Step 2: Measure the Angle
Using a protractor, view the articulator in from the side. Plase a ruler or other straight line from the center of the rotation axis to the incisal point, and record the angle made with the horizontal element of the articulator. In this case 23 degrees.
Using Measurements: This angle can also be calculated by measuring the horizontal (light blue) and vertical (light green) distances to the invisive papilla pin. Angle is calculated as the inverse tangent of the vertical measurement divided by the horizontal measurement. You can copy and paste the following into google but replace vertical and horizontal with your measurements. It’s important thatyou add “in deg”
atan(vertical/horizonta) in deg
Opening the Pin to Increase Clearance
After mounting the case as described in the previous section, the “Change Pin Setting” can be used to alter the pin setting. The value entered into the box is relative to the current position and represents millimeters of opening at an arc of closure 100mm along a perfect perpendicular from the condyles. In practical terms, starting from MIP with an average value mounting, 3.5 to 5.0 of pin opening would be needed to create 1.5mm to 2.0mm of clearance at the 2nd molars. Repeated use of the operator is cumulative. Executing the operator at +4.0 and then at -1.0 would result in a net of +3.0. The “Recover Mounting” function can be used to return to the original mounting.
Consider Recording the Bite Open
While many use an MIP bite successfully by using the articulator to simulate hinge opening, the general consensus is that recording an open bite is a more accurate starting point assuming the position is recorded properly. See this video from a user for reference
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5AjvwqpfQkI
Checking Clearance
Adequate clearance between the models is important to ensure the following:
- The software behaves correctly when establishing occlusal surface of splint
- 3D printing process success
- Adequate strength in the printed part
Check Clearance Operator (Mode)
The check clearance operator will initiate a mode where one model is dynamically colored based on its distance to the other model. The color will update with changes to the model orientation (for example on the articulator). It updates in near real time (10fps on fast PC’s and 4fps on medium spec laptops).
Color Ramp
The color ramp mode will apply a red color to all areas less than or equal to the specified distance and then a blend color from red to green for areas that are between the specified distance and up to 25% more clearance. For example setting a clearance of 2.0mm will shade all areas less than greater than 2.0mm but less than 2.5mm in the ramp color.
Not using a color ramp will just shade the areas less than the specified clearance with a hard transition from red to model color.
Accumulate
When the accumulate option is checked, the coloration will remain on the model through animation on the articulator. Effectively shading the model surface if it is ever within the specified distance. This is meant to emulate occlusal paper markings
Adjusting The Insertion Axis
See “Survey Model” section in Simple Shell or Flat Plane workflow for basic use. Ater pressing “Capture View” the undercut areas will be shadowed on the model. There are two ways to adjust the path of insertion captured. The view can be repositioned and “Capture View” pressed again and a new insertion direction will be chosen (not pictured). Alternatively there are helper buttons which adjust the path of insertion in small increments. Press “Tweak Right” “Tweak Left” “Tweak Anterior” “Tweak Posterior” to adjust the direction.
The Result on the Refractory Model
The goal of the survey step is to define the path from which undercuts will be blocked out.. Below are two examples showing the resulting refractory model after altering the insertion axis.
Default Values, Preferences and Properties
We will use the fit and retention values of the Refractory Model to demonstrate the relationship between User Preferences, Operator Values, and Splint Properties..
User Preferences - Store the default or preferred values for a parameter
Splint Properties - Store the value actually used on an individual case
Operator Values - Allow the user to specify a value at the time of execution
In the image below, the refractory model has not yet been calculated. The Splint Properties will initially show the default values from User Preferences. When the Refractory Model operation is pressed, the operator pop-up proposes the default values from User Preferences. The Operator Values in the pop-up gives them the opportunity to override the User Preferences value.
If the user sets the Operator Values to override the default values, the operator will execute the user input, and then store that value in the Splint Properties. If you are changing the values all the time, the user should update their User Preferences.
Articulator Dynamics
The D3Splint articulator is a semi adjustable articulator with true physical collisions simulation between the pin and the guide table. It is driven by translation of the non working condyle down a condylar path, and calculating the resulting side shift on the working side and resulting rotation in the coronal and horizontal planes. From there a physical collision between the guide pin and incisal table is iterated to solve for the resulting hinge opening (sagittal plane rotation).
The following parameters can be manipulated:
- Intra-Condyle Width
- Condyle Angle
- Bennett Angle (Progressive Side Shift)
- Immediate/Precurrent Side Shift
- Incisal Guidance Angle
- Canine Guidance Angle
Live Parameters vs Animation
Live Parameters
The articulator parameters can be manipulated in a live/dynamic fashion to interactively view, assess and change the various components of the articulator. The user can drive each condyle through it’s range of motion and observe the resulting behavior. This operator always sets the animation timeline to 0 when finished.
Animation
Once the parameters have been set, the software then builds an animation (stored list of many positions of the articulator) to later use in simulations. If the user edits the parameters, the animation will be regenerated
In Practical Use
After the landmarks are set, D3Splint generates an animation at the default parameters. This can be quickly previewed by scrolling the timeline at the bottom of the screen. If the resulting animation does not appear to be adequate, the user can then use the live parameters to make adjustments the recommended order of adjustments for a simple case in which case we assume the condyle width and condyle angle are appropriately estimated.
- Set range of motion
- Set incisal guidance
- Set canine Guidance
https://vimeo.com/433463932/bbcfaf46c0
Cleanup Distal Excess Scan Data
While a solid and perfect digital model is not necessary to design a splint, careful attention should be paid to the area behind the lower distal most teeth. This is an area that frequently has excess scan data of the cheek. This can cause aberrations in the occlusal surface of maxillary appliances.
Prevention
This is best handled by trimming the data in the scan software before you export your models! However if you need to trim data, the model work tools in D3Splint are capable.
The Problem
This small area of excess tissue get’s animated with the dynamic surface, and creates artificial artifacts which disrupt the final occlusal surface of the appliance
The Solution
- If you notice this while scanning, delete the data before the case is exported from your scan software
- If you notice before beginning your splint design
- select the lower model
- press “Paint Model” in the model work section
- Ctrl + Shift + Leftmouse and drag to lasso the offending part of the mesh
- Press “Delete Painted”
- Press “Finish Paint” when done
- If you notice after the occlusal surface has been generated
- Follow all steps in 2
- Pres “Generate Dynamic Surface” and wait for the surface to be remade
- If you ahve alread subtracted the posterior surface
- Sculpt splint shell
- smooth/add material to repair defect
- Press “Subtract Functional Surface”
After regenerating the occlusal surface
Controlling Occlusal Depth (Mark Posterior Contacts)
The area you see through the red surface will be what is imprinted in the occlusal marks of the appliance after Grind MIP function is run.
It’s often best to mark your points in the anterior on the cingulum so that the dynamic surface can control the anterior occlusal surface.
Making Changes After Finalize
Occasionally, the user may want to make changes to an appliance design after the design has been finalized. This is often the case when the initial appliance had issues with fit or occlusion or if the user simply noticed something they wanted to change after they had worked through the case. These steps allow you to correct these design issues without destroying much of your other work.
Changing Retention (Offset/Undercut)
- Delete Final Splint Object
- Unhide Splint Shell and Select it
- Recalculate Refractory Model
- Refinalize
- Generate New Report
- Export
Changing Path of Insertion
- Delete Final Splint Object
- Unhide Splint Shell and Select it
- Survey Model
- Recalculate Refractory Model
- Refinalize
- Generate New Report
- Export
Changing Margin Line (Offset/Undercut)
- Delete Final Splint Object
- Unhide Splint Shell and Select it
- TURN OFF AUTO BACKGROUND
- Mark Splint Margin
- Minimum Thickness Shell -> At desired shell thickness
- Correct to Minimum Thickness
- Finalize
Changing Occlusion (Pin Setting or Articulator Angles)
- Delete Final Splint Object
- Unhide Splint Shell, Articulator, Upper Jaw and Lower Jaw Objects
- Change articulator values
- Re-Fuse Rim (if needed, don’t use the fuse in Mark Curves)
- Generate Functional Surface
- Re-Establish new occlusion
- Subtract Posterior Plane
- Subtract Dynamic Surface
- Manual Sculpting
- Re-Finalize
- Generate New Report
- Export
Adding a Print Raft
A print raft might allow you to print the appliance without supports at an angle on some printers with some resins. This is considered an advanced technique and may increase your chances of fit issues or print failures. However we added this feature due to demand from the user community.
When to Add It
It is best to add the print raft after all design steps but before finalize
How to Add
- Left click to place the 3D cursor where you want the raft to contact the appliance
- Press “Add Print Raft”
- Choose your values
- Edit your values in real time if needed (“Edit Print Raft”)
- Press “Join Print Raft”
Adjusting Width/Height Etc
Print Raft Features in D3Splint
Rectangular
A simple box style platform for minimal surface contact and a larger print bed contact surface.
First set the raft type to rectangular and select Add Print Raft. A menu will appear to alter the initial specs of the raft. Click okay or left click on the splint to place the raft.
Once the raft is generated it will appear and the anterior ridge of the splint. You can now move it with the move/rotate tools in the object view (pictured Below Left), or change the values by clicking Edit Raft from the menu on the left (pictured Below Right).
Once the raft is adjusted to your specifications select Join Print Raft and resume the final steps of finalizing the splint as usual.
Vu Le Style
Minimal supports concentrated in the anterior as the posterior is mainly self supporting at an approximately 45-50 degree angle.
Start by selecting the Vu Le Style raft. A menu of options will appear that allow you to customise of density, size, contact angle and several other factors. Clicking OK will generate the raft. This raft can be moved in the object window or altered numerically by clicking the Add Vu Lee Raft button and adjusting the values in the menu.
Once the raft is adjusted to your specifications select Join Print Raft and resume the final steps of finalizing the splint as usual.
Ribbon Style
A thin, but solid curtain support with a large rectangular print base and label.
To start, select the Ribbon Style raft. This will add a new menu both in the side menu (Pictured Below Left) and in the upper left corner of the world view panel (Pictured Left). Click Add Support Ribbon to begin drawing the support edge.
Select Add Support Ribbon to begin clicking a ribbon along the anterior edge across the front third or so of the appliance to optimize support without interfering with the anterior functional surface. (Pictured Above Right). Once the line is satisfactory click Commit in the Mark Curves Mode Menu.
With the curtain drawn it is time to select Add Raft. This will open a submenu that will allow you to adjust the angle of the raft, its size and add a text label. (Pictured Below Left).
Clicking OK will generate the raft as pictured above, right. Once the raft is adjusted to your specifications select Join Print Raft and resume the final steps of finalizing the splint as usual. After the Splint is finalized it is ready to print.
In general, the ribbon style is best suited for appliances where there is enough anterior projection of the ramp or flat surface that the lowest part with respect to the print bed orientation is also nearly the most anterior part. Here is an example (a more class II) where the Vu Le style would be better suited. Notice how there are supports on the facial aspect.
Add-on Doesn’t Appear in Panel
Some users report that in their initial installation, the addon does not show up on the panel at the left. This is caused most commonly by twos scenarios.
MSV C++ Redistributable Package
This is a software package (built and distributed by Microsoft) that is often NOT installed on brand new computers. However many softwares depend on it and for that reason a PC that has been in use for a while or has other CAD programs on it may often already have it installed. To update this library, please see the System Requirements section of this document.
Incomplete Unzipping During Installation
Occasionally, the user accidentally cancels the unzipping process before it is complete. The windows unzipping utility is surprisingly slow and will give an incorrect time estimate. Make sure the folder unzips completely before attempting to run D3Splint