How to Mill a Restoration from an STL File Using inLab CEREC

Step 1: Importing the STL File

To begin milling a restoration from an STL file, follow these steps:

Open inLab CAM Software: Start by launching the inLab computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software on your computer.
Create a New Job: Navigate to the “Administration” stage and create a new job. With this new job, select the mill you will be using along the top toolbar that sits above your previously manufactured projects.
Import STL File: Go to the “Scan” stage, select “Import Item” in the items section, and click “Open” to import your STL file.
- File Type Selection: If your STL file does not appear in the file selection window, ensure that the file type dropdown is set to show STL files.
Select Mill and Restoration: Select desired mill under “Machine Type” and the type of restoration under “Item Type”.
Select Material: Select material of restoration under “Manufacturer” and “Material Name”.

Confirm Crown Margin: Ensure that the margin is traced correctly on the STL of the restoration.

Select the Case: In the “Items Section”, your restoration should already be selected.
Choose Block: In the “Blanks Section”, select “Add Blank” at the top right.
Create a Block: Name the block and select the material you’re milling.
Position the Restoration: Position the restoration to the desired area within the block.
Navigate to Production: Select the production options for milling speed and details, then click “Start Production” at the bottom of the screen.

Margin Adjustment: If you imported an STL file without internal data, you may need to manually redraw or adjust the margins in the CEREC inLab software before milling.
Material Selection: Confirm that your chosen material is compatible with both your milling machine and the desired restoration properties.

By following these steps, you can successfully mill a restoration from an STL file using the inLab CEREC system.