What I (currently) use
I am often asked what I use and why. Below is a list. May the best tool win. Updated March 2026.
Digital dentistry
Intraoral scanner: Trios 5 Move+
We are on our second iteration of Trios scanner after 3 iterations in the CEREC world. We like the Move+ form factor for its ease of moving between operatories. We zip-tie a UPS to the base so we can move it without shutting it down.
Design software: 3Shape Design System 2025
Our primary design software is 3Shape Design System 2025. It is not intuitive and its error messages are maddening, but it remains the best tool for the job. I was initially against the AI features, now I rely on them weekly.
3D Printer: Formlabs 3B
The 3B printer is dated now and can't keep up with the print speeds of the latest generation(s), but this machine has been a solid workhorse since 2019 and has ample speeds in a non-laboratory setting.
CBCT: Kavo/Kerr OP3D Pro
We primarily use CBCT for endodontic diagnosis, but do use the capability to plan surgeries and print surgical guides several times each year at the request of the placing surgeon.
Materials
Milling center: Haus Milling
I chose Haus because of their material availability and their quality has been excellent. It is also very helpful that they are in the same timezone when considering cutoff times.
3Y Zirconia: ArgenZ HT+
This is my workhorse material. It is my go-to in the posteriors and I frequently use in the anterior as well for patients with low esthetic and high functional demands. I follow the material guidelines straight from the Argen website.
Gradient Zirconia: ArgenZ Anterior
When more translucency is required, this gradient zirconia has strength similar to lithium disilicate but better optics than any 3Y zirconia.
Productivity
Fantastical
Fantastical ties my work and personal calendars together into one application that is on my computers and phone. I particularly enjoy the quarter view.
Todoist
This is my go-to task manager for managing my recurring and one-off tasks. This runs my life as much as the appointment book.
Dropbox
It is hardly novel technology, but having your files synced and available across devices is mission critical in a connected world, especially if you want to be productive and efficient.
NameQuick
This little tool uses AI to automatically rename any files I save to my 'literature review' folder in Dropbox. Fully customizable, I have it dialed to put the article title, journal, and year. Incredibly helpful in staying organized and on top of current literature.
Microsoft 365
In the dental world, it is worth paying extra for Business Premium to gain the ability to send and receive encrypted emails in addition to the Microsoft suite and managed email services.
Fastmail
For non-patient care emails, Fastmail is an affordable and predictable email service provider that I run all my personal email addresses through.