Dental Asia March/April 2022

DENTAL UPDATES
3Shape announces software updates to 3Shape Model Maker
Users of 3Shape TRIOS intraoral scanner
and 3Shape Studio applications can
now automatically convert their digital
impressions to dental models.
The new Model Maker solution, Model
Maker 2022.1, uses an automated
workflow powered by artificial intelligence
(AI)-technology that converts scans to
models in minutes.
Full arch dental model optimised for 3D printing
According to 3Shape, the model is
automatically generated from the TRIOS
scans with a single click and includes
key-features to optimise 3D printing.
The algorithm will create a model using
hollowing and drain holes, thus optimising
the use of resin and to ensure a good
printing experience. Bevels are also added
to the base structure of the dental model
to ensure that models can be removed
easily from the build platform of most
common 3D printers.
Additionally, an AI-powered algorithm in the
cloud will convert TRIOS scans to .STL files
which can then be exported and produced.
The algorithm ensures an automated workflow
requiring no input from the user. 3Shape
reported that generating a model can take a
couple of minutes depending on factors like
local internet speed. While waiting to receive a
model, users can exit the workflow using the
‘home’ button and continue to work on other
cases.
Other updates include a Cross Section tool to
inspect the model, and a progress overview
page to verify if the model has finished
generating.
Model Maker 2022.1 can only be accessed from
the 3Shape Unite platform. Users can enter their
workflow either from scratch as ‘new action’ in
their TRIOS scanning workflow or by selecting
relevant scans and images in the patient media
library to create a model. ■
3M reports Q4 and full 2021 performances
3M has announced their performance for Q4
and the whole of 2021. In particular, the total
sales for the healthcare segment, which includes
oral health, grew by 0.7% to US$2.3 billion in Q4
2021, and the segment’s organic local-currency
sales grew by 1.6% in the same period. The
segment’s operating income was $536 million,
a decrease of 1.6% year-on-year, and operating
margins were 23.6%.
On a geographic basis, total sales in Q4 2021
grew 2.1% in the Americas, and decreased 0.2%
in Asia-Pacific, and 4.5% in Europe, Middle East
and Africa (EMEA). Organic local-currency sales
grew 2.2% in the Americas, 1.4% in Asia-Pacific,
and decreased 1.9% in EMEA for the same
period.
"3M delivered a solid fourth-quarter performance
— with notable strength in December — as
we maintained our relentless focus on
serving customers in a challenging external
environment," said Mike Roman, chairman and
CEO of 3M. "Our team effectively managed
supply chain disruptions, made good progress
on pricing actions and controlled costs.
"Throughout 2021 we performed well, delivering
full-year sales growth of 10%, robust cash flow
3M headquarters (Image: 3M)
and a strong increase in EPS. We also returned
significant cash to shareholders, reduced debt
and helped the world respond to COVID-19. As
we continue to actively manage our portfolio
and improve our operations, we will prioritise
investments in fast-growing end markets to
drive long-term growth, as well as advance
our commitment to sustainability. As we enter
2022, I am confident we will continue to grow
our business and find new ways to apply
science to improve lives." ■
For the whole of 2021 results, 3M recorded
a 9.9% increase year-on-year to $35.4 billion.
Organic local-currency sales increased 8.8%
while acquisitions, net of divestitures, decreased
sales by 0.5%. Foreign currency translation
increased sales by 1.6% year-on-year.
6 DENTAL ASIA MARCH / APRIL 2022