Abstract: The method provides a means for a dentist to record the shape in situ of teeth prepared for repair. During a search mode, a high resolution grey scale image is presented on a monitor. The scan head is positioned over the prepared cavity, using this visual feedback. A trigger initiates actual 3D data acquisition, which is accomplished in a fraction of a second using an active triangulation principle. The result is stored in congruent memory banks in the form of a 3D profile and a pseudoplastic grey scale image representing the back-scattered contrast. The pseudoplastic contrast image is displayed instantaneously on the monitor. The point to point relationship between the pseudoplastic grey scale image and the 3D profile allows use of the grey scale display as a drawing plane for operator data verification and editing.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for machining a custom-shaped dental restorative part from a blank of dental material yield the entire part in a single operation, and include a workpiece being mounted on a support member which facilitates rotation and axial movement of the workpiece. A separating disk is used for almost the entire machining operation, and an additional tool in the shape of a burr can optionally be provided to shape more elaborate pieces. The disk and burr are supported by a tool holder which is supported for movement parallel to and rotationally about an axis. The disk and burr are powered by a closed loop fluid supply arrangement. A tool velocity sensing scheme is utilized for adaptive feed and to compensate for tool wear. The machining mechanism and associated control circuitry are enclosed in a common cabinet so as to provide a mobile unit suitable for use in a dentist's office.

Abstract: A blank adapted for use in custom fabrication of an implant for dental restoration includes first and second joined parts. The first part is made of the raw material of the ultimate implant, whereas the second part can be made of a different material. The second part is shaped to facilitate a positive support of the blank in a milling machine, and is preferably equipped with a code-bearing surface which permits information about the physical properties of the blank to be sensed by the machine. In a preferred realization, the first part is made from ceramic silica and the second part from aluminum, and the two are bonded by an acrylic glue.

Abstract: The surface characteristics of an organ that needs restoration, for example, a tooth which has been prepared for an inlay insertion, are read by means of a noncontact scan-head. The three-dimensional shape parameters of the implant required to restore the tooth in function and appearance are computed on the basis of the recorded contour data. These parameters are then used in a program sequence which controls a milling, cutting or erosive process in order to manufacture the restorative inlay while the patient waits.