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.
Source: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2016/09/prweb13683482.htm