In the evolving world of digital dentistry, two names dominate the space of Dental CAD Design Services—Exocad and 3Shape. These powerful CAD CAM dental software platforms are transforming how dental labs and clinics design crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants with speed, precision, and flexibility.
Whether you’re a dental technician, dentist, or CAD designer for dental labs, choosing the right software—Exocad vs 3Shape—is a major decision. Each offers a unique experience with powerful features and tools for dental CAD CAM workflows. So which one should you pick?
Let’s explore a detailed comparison to help you make an informed choice for your dental CAD design needs.
Overview: What Are Exocad and 3Shape?
Exocad is a popular open-system CAD software known for its speed, flexibility, and affordability. Developed in Germany, it’s widely used in dental CAD outsourcing and is in great demand in Dental CAD Design Services due to its compatibility with a wide range of scanners, milling machines, and 3D printers.
3Shape, on the other hand, is a Danish-developed CAD CAM dental platform, highly regarded for its advanced features, AI-powered design automation, and seamless integration with digital dental workflows. It’s often the go-to choice for larger dental labs and clinics that require sophisticated digital dentistry solutions.
Ease of Use and Interface
Exocad
Exocad is known for its user-friendly interface and shorter learning curve. Dental CAD designers who offer outsourced dental CAD design services often prefer Exocad due to its flexibility and easy-to-use tools for creating crowns, bridges, veneers, and custom abutments. It allows quick modifications, making it ideal for fast turnaround and remote STL file editing.
3Shape
3Shape offers a more detailed and slightly complex interface. While powerful, it requires proper training and can be intimidating for beginners. However, once mastered, its automation tools—especially for dental implant CAD design and digital smile design (DSD)—can significantly boost productivity.
Software Features and Modules useful for Dental CAD Design Services
Exocad Offers:
- DentalCAD Core + modules (Implant, Model Creator, Provisional, etc.)
- Full denture CAD design
- Smile Creator for virtual smile designs
- Easy integration with open system CAD CAM
- Lightweight software, ideal for outsourcing labs
3Shape Offers:
- Dental System, Ortho System, Implant Studio
- AI-powered design suggestions
- Extensive library of materials and parts
- Integrated with 3D scanners and milling tools
- Best for large-scale dental laboratories
If you’re in need of custom dental CAD design for Zirconia, Emax, or temporary crown CAD design, both platforms offer powerful tools—but 3Shape’s automation gives it a slight edge in bulk workflows.
Compatibility and Integration
Exocad
- Works with almost all intraoral scanners and lab scanners
- Compatible with open STL files
- Easily integrates with 3D printing dental CAD solutions
- Supports dental CAD STL file editing and export
3Shape
- Best suited with its own scanners like Trios
- More closed-system, but works with STL export
- Seamless integration with high-end lab machinery
- Great for digital dental design with complex workflows
If you’re running a remote dental CAD design service or working with global dental labs, Exocad’s open compatibility gives you more freedom.
Cost and Licensing
Exocad
- Offers perpetual license with optional modules
- Cost-effective for freelancers and small dental labs
- Cheaper upgrades and flexibility in licensing
3Shape
- Subscription-based pricing
- Higher initial investment, especially for modules
- Better suited for large clinics and digital dental enterprises
For dental CAD design outsourcing companies or freelance CAD designers, Exocad may provide better value.
Performance and Speed
Exocad is famous for its high-speed rendering and faster processing of files, making it ideal for labs requiring quick STL file delivery. Its performance is consistent, even on moderate hardware.
3Shape is a bit heavier in terms of processing but delivers more visual accuracy, especially for full-arch restorations, implant planning, and smile design simulations.
User Base and Community Support
Exocad
- Strong community of CAD CAM dental freelancers
- Tons of online tutorials and forums
- Large user base in Asia, Europe, and North America
3Shape
- Supported by certified training centers
- Extensive documentation
- Mostly used by high-end clinics and institutional dental labs
Use Case: Who Should Use What?
Final Verdict: Exocad or 3Shape?
The choice between Exocad and 3Shape ultimately depends on your needs, budget, and workflow:
- Choose Exocad if you want affordable, fast, and open-system dental CAD design that supports remote work and freelance flexibility.
- Choose 3Shape if you operate a large clinic or lab and want advanced AI tools, seamless integration, and powerful digital smile design capabilities.
Both platforms are revolutionizing the CAD CAM dental services industry. Whichever you choose, make sure it aligns with your technical team, hardware setup, and long-term digital dental goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Dental CAD Design?
Dental CAD (Computer-Aided Design) Design is the digital process of designing dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, implants, and dentures using specialized software. It is a key part of modern digital dentistry and improves precision, speed, and efficiency.
2. What is the difference between Exocad and 3Shape?
Exocad is an open-system dental CAD software known for its affordability, speed, and compatibility with various devices. 3Shape is a more comprehensive, premium software offering advanced AI tools and integrated workflows, mostly suited for large dental labs and clinics.
3. Is Exocad better than 3Shape for small dental labs?
Yes, Exocad is generally preferred by small dental labs due to its flexible licensing, cost-effectiveness, and easy-to-use interface. It supports fast STL file editing and integrates well with multiple scanners and milling machines.
4. Which CAD software is more beginner-friendly: Exocad or 3Shape?
Exocad is more beginner-friendly with a simpler interface and less steep learning curve. 3Shape offers powerful features but may require formal training to use effectively.
5. Can I use Exocad and 3Shape with 3D printers?
Yes, both Exocad and 3Shape can export STL files compatible with most 3D printers used in dental labs. However, Exocad supports a broader range of third-party hardware due to its open-system architecture.
6. Is 3Shape worth the cost for high-volume dental CAD CAM services?
Yes, 3Shape offers robust tools for high-volume workflows, such as digital smile design, implant planning, and orthodontics. While it’s more expensive, its automation features can significantly improve productivity in large setups.
7. Can I outsource dental CAD design using Exocad or 3Shape?
Absolutely. Many dental labs and freelancers offer outsourced CAD CAM dental design services using Exocad or 3Shape. Exocad is often preferred for outsourcing due to its ease of use and fast file turnaround.
8. Which CAD software is better for implant design: Exocad or 3Shape?
Both are capable, but 3Shape has an edge in implant design due to its Implant Studio module, which offers advanced planning, guided surgery tools, and extensive library support.
9. What file formats do Exocad and 3Shape use?
Both platforms support STL files, which are standard in digital dental design. They also offer proprietary formats for internal use, but STL is commonly used for printing, milling, and outsourcing purposes.
10. Which CAD software supports full denture design?
Both Exocad and 3Shape support full denture design. Exocad’s denture module is especially appreciated by small and mid-sized labs for its simplicity and affordability, while 3Shape provides more detailed design control and AI integration.
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