Introduction

This instruction is a step by step guide to prepare models from inter-oral scans using XiP, xDENT201 photopolymer material, xCURE Desktop. In this example we use iTero scan data on the MyiTero cloud. Instructions are for use on a Windows PC.

Step1: Scan the Patient

Follow instructions from the scanner manufacturer to collect the scan.

Step2: Export the Scan 

In this example, an iTero scanner was used to collect the scan data for upper and lowers. View the scan data in the MyiTero cloud.

1. Login in MyiTero using your iTero credentials - www.myitero.com/login
2. Select the Patients Tab from home page to search for the patient file
3. Locate/select the patient's latest scan that you wish to export - a drop down with additional buttons will appear. Select the values shown then press Export
   
   
4. Download the files when prepared in the cloud to the Downloads folder on your computer. Files will download as a zip archive - you must extract the .stl files from the zip directory before importing to NexaX. You can open the zip directory in Windows File Manager by pressing Extract All. There will be a separate upper and lower stl file
   
   

Step3: Prepare .nxa Printable file in NexaX

Open NexaX and select the printer and resin matching what you are using then press Apply. We recommend printer XiP and material xDENT2021-Gray. If you don't have NexaX, download and install from here.

We recommend increasing base exposure to max and reducing Base Offset Outer Edge to -1mm (on solid models) to ensure the models stick to the build plate and can be removed without damage.

Next Import the models downloaded from the scan from the patient directory. Note the models won't have any marking on them, so use file names that include the patient name or case number. You can import more than one .stl at a time by holding Ctrl.

You may see a message that the models are corrupted. Select Fix Models if this occurs. The models should be solid with a flat bottom. If they are not oriented as expected, you will need to use the Transform menu to orient the flat bottom to the platform using the Orient to Base tool. If they don't look right (only have a single wall or one is upside down, then you can also re-export and make sure to use the recommended settings. 

If you need to orient to base, then select the flat base of the model to flip it around

It is a good idea to check the first layer is flat on the plate by sliding down to the bottom layer if you have any uncertainty. 

Save the job and give it an appropriate name including patient name, material, printer model, etc. 

The saved file will appear in a directory in the default save-to path (click the gear next to Save Job to confirm the default path, typically in the Documents/NexaX Output folder. The printable file is with extension .nxa, and an editable scene .nxs file is also stored in the /Data folder in case you need to make changes and re-print.

Step4: Send the File to the Printer

Click the green Send to Printer button. Make sure the correct .nxa file was selected and the correct printer is selected.

If your printer is not listed, go to Manage Printers and select Add by IP then type the IPv4 address of your printer and press Connect. IPv4 may have a format like 192.168.1.74   You can check it by going to the printer and pressing the gear icon:  Settings > Connections > Ethernet (or WiFi) then the connection (i).

After adding the printer, go back to Create & Send Job screen and Send Job and select the printer then press Send Job.

If you run into an issue, follow instructions on this page. 

Alternatively, you can save the .nxa file to the root directory of a USB memory stick and load that into the printer. 

Step5: Prepare XiP to Print

1. Use the rubber spatula to gently stir resin in the vat and inspect for cured material on the membrane. 

2. Verify the build plate surface is clean from any cured material and there are no protrusions or burrs. 

3. Load the build plate into the printer and lock it in place by raising lever up.

4. Verify the resin vat has at least 0.4L of resin loaded. There should be enough resin to cover the left "ear" of the vat. Ideally a resin bottle and spout are loaded to maintain the level during printing, but dental prints don't use enough material to require feeding during the print.

Step 6: Print and remove from Build plate

Press the icon on the printer that looks like 3 sheets of paper and it will navigate to USB, History, or Queue. Find your file and press it to load it to memory, then press Print.

You may be prompted to confirm the material level is ok and build plate is installed. Press skip or confirm as needed until the print starts. 

When the print is finished, push down the build plate latch to free it and slide it off. Hold a tray underneath to catch any drips.  Confirm all models printed and attached to the build plate. If any model didn't stick to the plate, run the clean job to remove cured material and inspect the membrane for damage. 

Use a sharp metal straight edge to pry the models off the build plate. You may tap gently from all sides with a dead-blow hammer to help loosen it. Push the tool toward the tray and away from yourself, and wear safety glasses and a smock to catch any spatter. 

Step7: Wash

Blot excess resin from the surface of the parts with a paper towel, then place in an Isopropyl Alcohol bath for 2 minutes. When the bath gets dirty, keep using it then transfer to a more clean Isopropyl Alcohol bath and wash another 2 minutes. Dry the parts with a clean paper towel and let them dry for 15 minutes or so. You might also dry in a warm box or with a hair dryer to go faster. 

Step8: Post Cure

Ensure the parts are dry and not tacky. Place them flat side down in the xCURE Desktop and run the Model Material setting (5min at 50% duty cycle with All wavelengths).  Flip the parts and run another 5 min. 

The models can now be used for making aligners or retainers in a thermoforming machine. They are safe to handle without gloves after the post-cure. 

Updated April 17, 2024 04:04