What Are PLA Models in Dentistry?
Let’s start with the basics. PLA, or polylactic acid, is a biodegradable thermoplastic made from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane. Sounds cool already, right? In the dental world, PLA has become a go-to material for making temporary and educational models. It’s safe, non-toxic, and easy to work with using modern 3D printers.
Dental clinics use PLA for printing diagnostic models, surgical guides, and even mock-ups for patient education. These 3d print prototype models help dentists explain procedures, plan restorations, and simulate surgeries. Since PLA is affordable and environmentally friendly, it’s an excellent choice for both practice and patient communication. According to Dental Tribune, 3D printing in dentistry significantly cuts lab costs while improving workflow precision.
PLA also prints fast, which means dentists don’t need to wait days to get their prototypes. That’s a huge benefit in urgent cases or for same-day treatments. It’s not just about saving time—it’s about working smarter with materials that are safe for patients and staff.
Printable Models for Dental Clinics
When we talk about printable dental models, we’re referring to STL files. These are digital 3D files that can be sent directly to a 3D printer. No fuss. No delays. With the right file, any clinic with a compatible printer can produce accurate dental models in-house. STL models have become the standard in modern digital dentistry.
These models are super helpful in areas like prosthodontics, orthodontics, and surgical planning. Want to print a segment of a jaw to simulate implant placement? No problem. Need a full arch for denture fitting? Easy. With STL files, you can print anything from basic models without gingiva to more advanced anatomical models.
There are even options for sectioned models that come apart to show internal structures or guide surgical procedures. This level of customization helps improve patient care and supports dental teams in planning with maximum precision. And of course, a reliable 3d print prototype of the patient’s mouth ensures better communication between doctors, labs, and patients.
Who Needs Printable Dental Models?
Let’s break it down. First off, any dental clinic that owns a 3D printer will benefit from printable models. They can reduce external lab costs and speed up their workflow. Instead of waiting for a physical model to be shipped back and forth, they just print it onsite. Clinics that handle surgical cases, prosthetics, or aligners use this every day.
Dentists who already work with digital impressions also love this setup. Once a digital scan is made—using systems like iTero, Medit, or 3Shape—it’s easy to turn that scan into an STL file. From there, they can print diagnostic models or create a 3d printed dentures setup for evaluation. According to NIH, the accuracy of 3D printed dental models is comparable to traditional casts.
Educational institutions are another major user group. Dental schools use PLA 3D models to teach students procedures in a safe, repeatable way. Lastly, dental labs without in-house designers can outsource STL design and still keep up with modern workflows. That’s where companies like BioDent come in—offering design + print services to keep your lab running smooth.
Our Services: PLA Printing and STL File Design
Alright, here’s how we do things at BioDent—super straightforward. We’ve got two main services: we create STL files, and we do high-quality PLA 3D printing. You can use either one or both, depending on what you need.
Let’s say you already have a digital scan of a patient’s teeth. Great! Just send it to us—we’ll turn it into a clean, ready-to-print STL file. Don’t have a 3D printer? No worries. We can print the model for you and ship it straight to your clinic.
We work with all the popular scanners like 3Shape, Exocad, and Medit. So whether it’s a simple crown or a full arch for implants, we’ll make sure the model fits your case perfectly. And if your lab has specific preferences for how things should look or function, our team can tweak the design accordingly.
Need a model that comes apart in pieces? Something with gingiva included? Or just a solid, reliable diagnostic model? Easy. You just send us the scan, and we’ll handle the rest. We’re also happy to help clinics that are new to digital workflows and just need some guidance to get started.
You’ve got a few flexible options with us:
- Just the STL file – if you have your own printer and just need a printable design.
- Printed PLA model – if you want us to take care of the printing and ship it to you.
- All-in-one package – from your scan to the final printed model, ready to go.
Basically, we’re here to make your life easier—whether you’re just dipping your toes into digital dentistry or you’re already deep into it and just need a reliable partner to handle the tech side.
Why Choose PLA and Printable Dental Models?
So, why do more and more clinics switch to PLA and STL models? Honestly, because it just makes sense. Let me walk you through it like I would to a friend over coffee.
First of all, PLA is super safe and eco-friendly. It’s made from things like corn starch and sugarcane—natural stuff. And when it’s done being useful, it can break down under industrial composting conditions. That means you’re not adding to the world’s plastic problem. Plus, no toxic smells or dangerous particles during printing. You can literally have it running in the same space where your team works, no stress.
Then there’s the cost. PLA is way cheaper than some of the other materials like resins or composite mixes. If you’re printing models regularly—for diagnostics, planning, or patient education—it really adds up. And with PLA, you’re not cutting corners. You’re just making a smarter choice budget-wise.
Now let’s talk speed. PLA prints fast. Like, in a couple of hours, depending on the size. So if you’re in a rush to prep a case or need a same-day model to explain something to a patient—boom, done. And the quality? Don’t worry. Modern 3D printers handle PLA like a pro. You’ll still get that fine detail and precision you’d expect in a clinical setting.
One of my favorite things about PLA models? They’re perfect for showing patients what’s going on. Since they’re non-toxic and totally safe to handle, you can hand the model to your patient and say, “Here’s what we’re planning,” or “This is where the implant will go.” It helps patients feel more confident and involved. That kind of trust goes a long way.
Still on the fence? Here’s a quick checklist of why PLA models are just a solid, no-brainer choice:
- Eco-friendly – made from plants, not oil
- Non-toxic – safe to handle, even around patients
- Affordable – great for everyday use in any clinic
- Fast to print – saves you time, helps you work quicker
- High precision – accurate enough for detailed clinical planning
- Ideal for dentures and diagnostics – reliable, repeatable results
Bottom line? PLA and STL models make your workflow easier, your patient interactions clearer, and your practice more efficient. It’s one of those upgrades that pays for itself fast—and just makes you wonder why you didn’t start using it sooner.
How to Order Printable or PLA Models from BioDent
Alright, let me break it down for you—ordering from BioDent is super easy. Whether you’re new to 3D printing or already knee-deep in digital dentistry, we’ve made the whole process as smooth as possible. No tech headaches, no complicated steps.
First, think about what exactly you need:
Just want the STL file so you can print it yourself?
Go with the STL-only option. You send us your scan, and we’ll send back a clean, ready-to-print file. That’s it. Fast and simple.
Don’t have a printer or just want us to do it for you?
Choose our PLA model printing service. We’ll take care of everything—design the file (if needed), print it, and ship the finished model right to your clinic. Zero hassle on your end.
Want the full package, from scan to printed model?
Then our Scan-to-Print turnkey service is perfect for you. Just send us the scan, and we’ll handle the design, print, and even case setup if it’s a complex one. You’ll get a finished model that’s fully customized to your case.
Here’s how to get started:
- Go to our order form (easy to find on our site).
- Upload your STL file or intraoral scan (formats like .stl, .obj, etc. are all good).
- Choose your service option – STL-only, PLA print, or Scan to Print.
That’s it! Once we receive your files, we take over from there. We’ll clean up the scan if needed, design the model to match your specs, and either send you the STL or the printed PLA model.
Working on something more detailed like 3D printed dentures or trial setups? No problem—we’ve got your back. For those cases, our team can help you digitally prep everything before we print. We make sure the result fits your workflow, your protocols, and your lab standards.
Whether you’re printing a basic diagnostic model or a full arch with removable sections—we’ve done it all, and we’ll make sure you get exactly what you need.
Bottom line:
- No complicated tech steps
- No long back-and-forth
- Just a smooth, fast process to get you high-quality dental models—on your terms
