3Shape

Holmens Kanal No 7

3Shape is a Danish company specializing in the development and marketing of 3D scanners and CAD/CAM software solutions for the dental and audio industries. Founded in 2000 by two graduates from the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), Tais Clausen and Nikolaj Deichmann, 3Shape has established itself as a leading innovator in digital dentistry and audiology solutions. The company's headquarters are located in Copenhagen, Denmark, with additional offices and facilities spread across the globe.

History

3Shape was established with the vision of revolutionizing dental technology. Initially focusing on small dental clinics, the company expanded its reach to dental laboratories and larger dental institutions, offering a range of products that digitize the previously manual processes involved in dental healthcare. Over the years, 3Shape has grown significantly, both in terms of its product offerings and its geographical footprint, with a strong presence in North America, Europe, and Asia.

Products

3Shape's product line includes a variety of 3D scanners designed for dental practices and labs, which are used to create digital impressions of patients' teeth. These digital impressions are then used in conjunction with 3Shape's CAD/CAM software to design and manufacture dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, and implants. The company's software solutions are known for their advanced features, including realistic color scanning, comprehensive design tools, and integration with a wide range of manufacturing equipment.

Dental Systems

The Dental System by 3Shape is a comprehensive suite of software solutions designed for dental professionals. It includes tools for scanning, designing, and manufacturing dental prosthetics and orthodontic devices. The system is highly regarded for its accuracy, efficiency, and flexibility, allowing dental professionals to deliver personalized treatments with improved outcomes.

TRIOS Intraoral Scanners

One of 3Shape's flagship products is the TRIOS line of intraoral scanners. These handheld scanners allow dentists to take high-quality digital impressions of patients' teeth directly in the dental office. The TRIOS scanners are celebrated for their speed, ease of use, and the ability to capture detailed 3D images, enhancing the patient experience and the precision of dental treatments.

Audiology Solutions

In addition to its dental products, 3Shape also offers solutions for the audiology sector. This includes scanning technology and software for designing and manufacturing custom earpieces for hearing aids. The audiology solutions from 3Shape streamline the production of hearing aids, making it faster and more efficient while ensuring a high level of comfort and fit for the end-user.

Awards and Recognition

3Shape's contributions to digital dentistry and audiology have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. The company has been praised for its innovation, product design, and impact on improving dental and auditory health care.

Challenges and Controversies

Like many companies in the healthcare technology sector, 3Shape has faced challenges, including legal disputes related to patent infringements and competition. Despite these challenges, the company remains committed to advancing digital solutions in dentistry and audiology.

Future Directions

3Shape continues to invest in research and development, with a focus on leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to further enhance the capabilities of its products. The company aims to make dental and auditory care more accessible, efficient, and personalized through continuous innovation.