STL is the most popular and widespread 3D file format for 3D printing and basic CAD model interchange and is generated directly by the scanning equipment that typically sits within the dentist’s reach. Eliminating the need for the traditional physical teeth impressions, hand-held intra-oral scanners can quickly and comfortably capture a patients’ 3D teeth anatomies without taking messy impressions.

Invisalign treatment has been growing in popularity since its launch in 1999, and its reach has spread around the world. Its use of digital scanning, computer modelling and 3D printing enables it to produce customised teeth aligners that steadily move the teeth into place over the period prescribed to each patient.