Is there a free trial available?
Yes, you can try us for free for 30 days. Our friendly team will work with you to get you up and running as soon as possible.
How do Direct Print Aligners (DPA) compare with conventional Thermoformed Aligners (TFA) in terms of time and cost?
Generally speaking, both DPA and TFA workflows have comparable manufacturing times and material costs. Compared to TFA manufacturing, DPA resin is more expensive, but it produces more aligners per liter. Also, DPA printing may take longer, but the post-processing time is significantly shorter than that of TFA manufacturing.
What are the advantages of DPA?
Aligners made with DPA resin have a uniform thickness through the aligner unlike the uneven thickness inherent to the TFA manufacturing process. – DPA resin has a shape memory similar to NiTi wire where it is soft when immersed in hot water, and become hard when it cools down. It also returns to its original shape in it is hot, similar to NiTi. – This results in analigner that is a much better fit and easier to insert. – This is expected to provide better tracking and more control and predictability in treatment.
What are the benefits of shape memory for DPA?
Aligners made from TC-85 deliver a constant force of approximately 1 Newton, which is considerably less than those made with TFA. A classic aligner tends to lose its initial force rather quickly, primarily due to deformation. In contrast, a DirectPrint Aligner can be reactivated by warming it up in hot water. This warming process triggers the Shape Memory effect, which in turn restores the original shape and, consequently, the force applied.
What equipment is necessary for DPA?
ArchForm treatment planning software, a DPA-validated 3D printer, DPA-specific UV curing machine, a DPA-specific centrifuge, and a compressed air connection for the UV curing machine.
What printers are currently validated for DPA?
Sprintray Pro 95, Sprintray Pro 55, Uniz Slash 2,Uniz NBEE, Asiga MAX, Shining Acufab-L4K
How long does post processing (spinning, removal of supports, curing) of Direct Print Aligners take?
Approximately 25 minutes
How many aligners can be direct printed per liter of DPA resin?
A 1 liter bottle of DPA resin can produce about 125-135 aligners.
