STL, PLY, OBJ and DCM: Which Files Should You Send to Your Dental Lab?

What is an STL file?

STL is widely used in digital dental workflows to represent the three-dimensional geometry of a model.

It primarily describes the 3D shape and surface of an object.

In a dental workflow, an STL file may represent an arch, model or other geometric information required by the laboratory.

Because STL is primarily a geometric format, it does not necessarily retain colour or texture information that other formats may contain.

What is a PLY file?

PLY can also represent the three-dimensional geometry of a scan, but it can support additional information such as colour data depending on how the file is generated.

This information can be useful in workflows where the visual representation of the surface provides additional context.

That does not mean PLY is automatically preferable to STL. The appropriate choice depends on the scanner, software and case workflow.

What is an OBJ file?

OBJ is another format used to represent 3D objects.

It can be associated with texture or material information depending on how the data is exported.

As with PLY, its usefulness depends on the system being used and the information required by the laboratory.

What is a DCM file?

DCM files are associated with the DICOM standard used for medical imaging data.

They differ from 3D surface files such as STL, PLY and OBJ.

Depending on the workflow and case, DCM data may form part of the digital information used for a case.

Which formats does Digidental accept?

Digidental accepts:

• STL
• PLY
• OBJ
• DCM

The transmission method and files required can vary depending on the scanner, software and requested restoration or appliance.

If you are unsure which format to send, contact our team before submitting the case.

Is the digital file enough to start a case?

Not necessarily.

The laboratory also needs the information required to understand the prescription and manufacture the requested product.

Depending on the case, this may include:

• requested restoration or appliance;
• tooth or teeth involved;
• requested material or characteristics, when applicable;
• shade and relevant esthetic information;
• technician instructions;
• other information required for the case.

A 3D file provides digital data, but it does not replace the information required for the case prescription.

How can files be sent to Digidental?

Digidental works with several digital ecosystems, including:

• iTero
• 3Shape TRIOS
• Medit
• Carestream / DEXIS
• Dentsply Sirona Primescan

Depending on your system, the case may be transmitted through its corresponding platform or another workflow agreed upon with the laboratory.

Contact our team to confirm the appropriate method for your system and case.

What if your clinic doesn't use digital files?

Digital files are not required to work with Digidental.

We also accept conventional impressions and physical models.

A conventional impression can be poured to create a model and then digitized using our laboratory scanner. Existing physical models can also be scanned directly.