Quick Overview
- 1#1: exocad - Leading dental CAD software for designing crowns, bridges, implants, aligners, and full-mouth restorations with modular workflows.
- 2#2: 3Shape Dental System - Comprehensive CAD/CAM platform integrating scanning, design, and production for dental labs and clinics.
- 3#3: DWOS - High-speed intuitive dental CAD software optimized for rapid prosthetic design and manufacturing.
- 4#4: inLab SW - Advanced CAD/CAM software for precise design of restorations compatible with CEREC and inLab systems.
- 5#5: hyperDENT - Modular dental CAD solution tailored for high-volume labs and milling centers with flexible automation.
- 6#6: 3Design Dental NG - AI-assisted dental CAD/CAM software for creative and precise restoration designs.
- 7#7: Romexis CAD/CAM - Integrated imaging and CAD/CAM software for full dental workflows including design and milling.
- 8#8: AI dite CAD - User-friendly CAD software for designing dental prosthetics optimized for 3D printing and milling.
- 9#9: ZFX CAD/CAM - Professional dental CAD software for high-precision zirconia and metal restorations.
- 10#10: BlueSkyPlan - Free implant planning software with CAD tools for surgical guides and prosthesis design.
These tools were selected based on a focus on advanced features, user-centric design, precision in fabrication, and overall value, considering diverse needs from small clinics to high-volume labs.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines key dental CAD software tools such as exocad, 3Shape Dental System, DWOS, inLab SW, hyperDENT, and more, exploring their unique features and practical applications. Readers will discover insights to match tools with their specific needs, whether focusing on design efficiency, integration with lab workflows, or technical capabilities, aiding in informed software selection.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | exocad Leading dental CAD software for designing crowns, bridges, implants, aligners, and full-mouth restorations with modular workflows. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | 3Shape Dental System Comprehensive CAD/CAM platform integrating scanning, design, and production for dental labs and clinics. | enterprise | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | DWOS High-speed intuitive dental CAD software optimized for rapid prosthetic design and manufacturing. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | inLab SW Advanced CAD/CAM software for precise design of restorations compatible with CEREC and inLab systems. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | hyperDENT Modular dental CAD solution tailored for high-volume labs and milling centers with flexible automation. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 6 | 3Design Dental NG AI-assisted dental CAD/CAM software for creative and precise restoration designs. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | Romexis CAD/CAM Integrated imaging and CAD/CAM software for full dental workflows including design and milling. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | AI dite CAD User-friendly CAD software for designing dental prosthetics optimized for 3D printing and milling. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 9 | ZFX CAD/CAM Professional dental CAD software for high-precision zirconia and metal restorations. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | BlueSkyPlan Free implant planning software with CAD tools for surgical guides and prosthesis design. | other | 7.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
Leading dental CAD software for designing crowns, bridges, implants, aligners, and full-mouth restorations with modular workflows.
Comprehensive CAD/CAM platform integrating scanning, design, and production for dental labs and clinics.
High-speed intuitive dental CAD software optimized for rapid prosthetic design and manufacturing.
Advanced CAD/CAM software for precise design of restorations compatible with CEREC and inLab systems.
Modular dental CAD solution tailored for high-volume labs and milling centers with flexible automation.
AI-assisted dental CAD/CAM software for creative and precise restoration designs.
Integrated imaging and CAD/CAM software for full dental workflows including design and milling.
User-friendly CAD software for designing dental prosthetics optimized for 3D printing and milling.
Professional dental CAD software for high-precision zirconia and metal restorations.
Free implant planning software with CAD tools for surgical guides and prosthesis design.
exocad
specializedLeading dental CAD software for designing crowns, bridges, implants, aligners, and full-mouth restorations with modular workflows.
Modular architecture with AI-assisted tools like Auto Articulator for hyper-realistic functional designs
Exocad is a leading open-architecture CAD/CAM software for digital dentistry, enabling precise design of dental restorations including crowns, bridges, implants, full dentures, and orthodontic appliances. It supports end-to-end workflows from 3D scanning to milling and 3D printing, with seamless integration across over 1,500 intraoral scanners, lab scanners, and production machines. Renowned for its speed, accuracy, and flexibility, it's the choice for top dental labs worldwide.
Pros
- Industry-leading precision and reliability in designs
- Extensive modular library covering 100+ indications
- Broad compatibility with scanners and mills
Cons
- High upfront licensing costs
- Steep learning curve for advanced modules
- Annual maintenance fees add to long-term expense
Best For
High-volume dental laboratories and advanced clinics prioritizing accuracy, speed, and customizable workflows.
Pricing
Base DentalCAD license €6,500-€20,000+ depending on modules; annual Smart Upgrade ~18% of license cost.
3Shape Dental System
enterpriseComprehensive CAD/CAM platform integrating scanning, design, and production for dental labs and clinics.
RealColor technology for photorealistic 3D visualization with true color texture from scanner data
3Shape Dental System is a leading CAD/CAM software suite for dental professionals, enabling precise digital design of restorations such as crowns, bridges, implants, veneers, and full-arch prosthetics. It integrates with 3Shape's TRIOS scanners and supports end-to-end workflows from intraoral scanning to milling and 3D printing. The software features advanced automation tools, extensive indication libraries, and quality analysis functions to streamline lab production and ensure high-precision outcomes.
Pros
- Vast library of over 1,000 indications and automated design tools for efficiency
- Seamless integration with 3Shape hardware and open workflows for mills/printers
- Advanced quality tools like margin line detection and collision analysis
Cons
- High subscription costs and modular pricing structure
- Steep learning curve despite intuitive UI for complex workflows
- Requires high-end hardware for optimal performance
Best For
High-volume dental labs and clinics needing advanced automation for diverse restorations and implant planning.
Pricing
Subscription-based with annual licenses starting at around €12,000-€25,000 depending on modules, users, and add-ons; custom quotes required.
DWOS
specializedHigh-speed intuitive dental CAD software optimized for rapid prosthetic design and manufacturing.
Cross360 technology for optimized support structures and sequential milling, reducing material waste and production time
DWOS by Dental Wings is a professional-grade CAD/CAM software suite tailored for dental laboratories, enabling the design of a wide range of restorations including crowns, bridges, implants, dentures, and custom abutments. It features advanced automation tools, seamless integration with intraoral scanners and milling machines, and supports diverse materials for high-precision output. With modular suites like DWOS Design and DWOS Synergy, it optimizes workflows from scanning to production, making it a robust choice for labs seeking reliability and efficiency.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy and automation for complex designs like multi-unit bridges and implants
- Strong hardware integration with major scanners and mills
- Modular architecture allows customization to specific lab needs
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring trained technicians
- Higher upfront and maintenance costs
- Less intuitive interface compared to more modern competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large dental labs with experienced CAD users prioritizing precision and high-volume production.
Pricing
Custom modular pricing with perpetual licenses starting at $10,000+ plus annual maintenance fees around 15-20%; quotes required.
inLab SW
enterpriseAdvanced CAD/CAM software for precise design of restorations compatible with CEREC and inLab systems.
Biogeneric Individual® tooth design for anatomically precise, patient-specific restorations
inLab SW from Dentsply Sirona is a comprehensive CAD software for dental laboratories, enabling precise design of restorations such as crowns, bridges, implants, dentures, and orthodontic appliances. It integrates seamlessly with Dentsply Sirona's scanners, mills, and 3Shape compatibility for efficient digital workflows. Leveraging biogeneric design algorithms and AI-assisted tools, it delivers anatomically accurate prosthetics with high reproducibility.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Dentsply Sirona hardware ecosystem
- Advanced biogeneric and AI-supported design tools for superior accuracy
- Extensive material libraries and multi-indication support
Cons
- High initial and subscription costs
- Steeper learning curve for non-DS users
- Limited third-party hardware flexibility
Best For
Established dental labs invested in Dentsply Sirona equipment seeking high-precision CAD/CAM workflows.
Pricing
Subscription-based; typically €5,000–€15,000 annually depending on modules and lab size (contact vendor for quote).
hyperDENT
specializedModular dental CAD solution tailored for high-volume labs and milling centers with flexible automation.
Modular architecture with specialized modules for advanced indications like screw-retained full-arch bridges and multi-unit abutments
hyperDENT is a modular CAD/CAM software suite tailored for dental laboratories, enabling precise design of restorations such as crowns, bridges, implants, bars, and full-arch prosthetics. Its open architecture supports seamless integration with a wide range of intraoral scanners and milling machines from multiple vendors. The software emphasizes customization through add-on modules, making it suitable for complex, high-volume lab workflows.
Pros
- Highly modular system for customized workflows
- Advanced tools for implant planning and bar design
- Excellent compatibility with diverse hardware ecosystems
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Interface feels dated compared to competitors
- Higher cost due to modular add-ons
Best For
High-volume dental labs specializing in implants and complex prosthetics that require flexible, open-system integration.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at around €6,000 for the base package, with specialized modules costing €1,500–€5,000 each; annual maintenance optional.
3Design Dental NG
specializedAI-assisted dental CAD/CAM software for creative and precise restoration designs.
Hybrid parametric-organic modeling with automatic anatomy proposals for rapid, realistic designs
3Design Dental NG from ArtVPS is a specialized CAD software for dental prosthetics design, offering parametric and organic modeling tools for creating crowns, bridges, implants, veneers, and full-arch restorations. It emphasizes intuitive workflows with real-time anatomy generation and multi-threaded processing for efficiency. The NG version improves speed and usability over predecessors, supporting integration with various intraoral scanners and milling machines.
Pros
- Intuitive organic modeling for natural-looking prosthetics
- Parametric design allows easy modifications and automation
- Strong compatibility with scanners and CAM systems
Cons
- Higher upfront cost compared to some competitors
- Limited built-in lab management tools
- Support responsiveness varies by region
Best For
Dental labs and technicians prioritizing intuitive, organic CAD design for high-quality anatomical prosthetics without a steep learning curve.
Pricing
Perpetual license starting at ~€14,000-€18,000, with optional annual maintenance (~20% of license cost).
Romexis CAD/CAM
enterpriseIntegrated imaging and CAD/CAM software for full dental workflows including design and milling.
Anatomy-based auto-design with virtual articulator for natural, patient-specific restorations
Romexis CAD/CAM from Planmeca is an advanced dental CAD software module integrated within the Romexis platform, enabling precise digital design of restorations such as crowns, bridges, veneers, implants, and full-mouth rehabilitations. It supports seamless workflows from intraoral scanning to milling, with tools for anatomy-based modeling, virtual articulation, and automated margin detection. Ideal for practices using Planmeca hardware, it emphasizes open-system compatibility for various mills and materials.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Planmeca scanners and mills for efficient chairside workflows
- Comprehensive library of anatomically accurate designs and automation tools
- Open architecture supports multiple materials and third-party mills
Cons
- Learning curve for advanced features despite intuitive interface
- Best value within Planmeca ecosystem, less optimal for mixed hardware setups
- Pricing can be high for standalone use without bundled hardware
Best For
Dental practices and labs invested in Planmeca equipment looking for an integrated, high-precision CAD/CAM solution.
Pricing
Typically bundled with Planmeca hardware; standalone perpetual license or subscription starts around €5,000-€10,000 depending on modules.
AI dite CAD
specializedUser-friendly CAD software for designing dental prosthetics optimized for 3D printing and milling.
AI-powered auto-articulation and rapid full-arch design generation
AI dite CAD is a dental CAD software solution from AI dite, focused on efficient design of dental restorations including crowns, bridges, implants, and full-arch prosthetics. It supports open workflows with compatibility for various intraoral scanners and milling machines via STL/PLY imports. The software features automated tools for articulation, margin detection, and anatomy generation, making it suitable for dental labs streamlining digital workflows.
Pros
- Open system with broad scanner and mill compatibility
- Automated design tools for faster workflows
- Cost-effective for small to mid-sized labs
Cons
- Fewer advanced simulation features than top competitors
- Limited third-party integrations
- User interface can feel dated in some areas
Best For
Small to medium dental laboratories looking for an affordable, reliable CAD solution integrated with AI dite's materials and mills.
Pricing
Perpetual license around $3,000-$5,000 with optional annual maintenance; volume discounts available.
ZFX CAD/CAM
specializedProfessional dental CAD software for high-precision zirconia and metal restorations.
Comprehensive scanbody and abutment library supporting over 100 implant brands for unmatched versatility in implant design.
ZFX CAD/CAM is a professional dental CAD software solution tailored for dental laboratories, enabling precise design of crowns, bridges, implants, abutments, and full-arch restorations. It supports seamless workflows with a wide range of intraoral scanners and CNC milling machines through open STL and EXOCAD compatibility. The software excels in complex prosthetic cases with advanced morphing tools and an extensive library of over 100 implant systems.
Pros
- Vast implant library with 100+ systems for broad compatibility
- Efficient design tools for full-arch and multi-unit prosthetics
- Strong integration with open workflows and various hardware
Cons
- Interface can feel less modern compared to top competitors
- Limited advanced automation and AI features
- Subscription pricing may strain smaller labs
Best For
Mid-sized dental labs specializing in implantology and complex fixed prosthetics.
Pricing
Modular subscription starting at €150/month per module, with full packages around €2,500-€4,000 annually; contact for custom quotes.
BlueSkyPlan
otherFree implant planning software with CAD tools for surgical guides and prosthesis design.
Unlimited free access to full-featured implant planning and surgical guide export without subscriptions
BlueSkyPlan is a free dental implant planning software from BlueSkyBio that allows users to import DICOM files from CBCT scans for 3D visualization and treatment simulation. It supports virtual implant placement, bone segmentation, and design of surgical guides for 3D printing. While focused primarily on implantology, it lacks comprehensive CAD/CAM tools for restorative dentistry like crown or bridge design.
Pros
- Completely free with no usage limits or watermarks
- Straightforward workflow for implant planning and guide design
- Supports a solid library of popular implant systems
Cons
- Limited to implant planning without full restorative CAD capabilities
- Dated user interface compared to premium competitors
- Smaller selection of third-party implants and abutments
Best For
Budget-conscious implantologists and oral surgeons seeking a no-cost solution for basic CBCT-based surgical planning.
Pricing
Free for all users, with optional paid support or advanced modules.
Conclusion
After reviewing the top 10 dental CAD software solutions, exocad emerges as the leading choice, excelling with its modular workflows for crowns, bridges, aligners, and full-mouth restorations. Close behind are 3Shape Dental System, a comprehensive platform integrating scanning, design, and production, and DWOS, a high-speed tool optimized for rapid prosthetic design, each offering distinct strengths for different needs. Together, these tools showcase the innovation driving modern dental technology, from precision manufacturing to user-friendly interfaces.
Don’t miss out on the top-ranked exocad—explore its versatile features and start streamlining your dental design processes today, whether for labs, clinics, or specialized restorations.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison