Guide for 3D Printing Soft Tissue for Gingiva Mask Implant Models

As digital workflows become more prevalent in fabricating implant-supported prosthetics, the utilization of 3D printed soft tissue models has become essential. This application guide provides a detailed walkthrough of the process involved in creating and 3D printing soft tissue and gingiva mask components for dental implant models. It covers the necessary steps to ensure accurate and precise results.

Required Hardware

• Shape X RP
• Shape X 3D Printer
• Shape X Wash/Dry
• Shape X Cure

• 3rd Party Dental Lab scanner for dental models or impression.
• 3rd Party Intraoral scanner for direct patient scan.

Required Software

• Shape X CAM

• 3rd Party Dental CAD software for designing restoration.

Required Materials

• Shape X Gingiva Mask Resin.

• Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) ≥99% .
• Cutting tools.

In order to design a dental prosthetic using dental CAD software, it is necessary to obtain a digital representation of the patient's anatomy. This can be accomplished by either directly scanning the patient's mouth using a 3D intraoral scanner or by scanning a physical impression or poured model using a desktop 3D scanner.

To generate a gingiva mask for your dental model, it is important to carefully follow the instructions provided by your dental CAD software. These instructions will guide you in creating a dental model that meets the necessary requirements.

We recommend a minimum thickness of 2mm.

Most dental design software typically generates a manufacturing file in the .stl format. To proceed, you need to find this file and transfer it to Shape X 3D Printer.

* Before Press "Print" button:

> Please ensure that the black screw of the build platform and the set of two screws that hold the resin container are securely tightened.

> Carefully inspect both the build platform and the resin container film to ensure there is no cured resin present.

> Ensure that the resin temperature falls within the recommended range of 25 to 35°C. Preheat the resin if necessary and mix it thoroughly with Shape X RP. Before use, clean the resin container with a filtration paper if it has been previously used. Additionally, ensure that the resin is not expired and that the quantity in the container is above the indicated minimum level.

4.1 Part Removal

To remove the printed parts from the build platform, utilize a scraping tool positioned beneath the part raft. By rotating the tool, gently separate the parts from the platform.

4.2 Washing

In a well-ventilated area and while wearing appropriate protective masks and gloves, submerge the printed parts in an isopropyl alcohol (IPA, ≥99%) solution within the Shape X Wash/Dry apparatus. Allow the parts to undergo a 3-minute washing cycle.

or submerge the printed parts in an isopropyl alcohol (IPA, ≥99%) solution within a black box. Allow the parts to undergo a 6-minute washing cycle.

4.2 Drying

Utilize compressed air to aid in the drying process of the parts, facilitating a quick inspection of unwashed resin remaining after using Shape X Wash/Dry machine.

4.3 Curing

1> While keeping the raft and supports intact, position the printed parts in the Shape X Cure device with the raft side facing downwards. Proceed to post-cure the parts for a duration of 2 minutes.

2> Remove Support structure and raft with cutting disc.

3> Clean Parts from white powder with IPA, then compressed air.

4> Position the printed parts in the Shape X Cure device. Proceed to post-cure the parts for a duration of 2 minutes.

To finalize the case, carefully place and assemble the gingiva into the models, ensuring all components are properly aligned. This step completes the process.