Digital Design for Dental and Maxillofacial Prosthesis

Graphic showing applications and benefits of using CAD in dentistry and medicine. Dental Applications: Crown design and restoration, Bridge design for multiple teeth, Implant planning and placement, Orthodontic aligners (like Invisalign) Medical Applications: Prosthetic limbs design, Surgical instruments, Medical devices, Anatomical models for education and surgery planning Key Benefits: Precision (Accurate measurements and fit), Speed (Faster production times), Customization (Patient-specific solutions), Quality (Consistent, reproducible results).

Utilize digital design software (ExoCAD) and clinical cases from a local commercial laboratory to perform prosthetic design.

Project description

In this project, we will utilize digital design software (ExoCAD) and clinical cases from a local commercial laboratory to perform prosthetic design. Basic familiarity with computer science and 3D printing is desirable, but not necessary. Must be an enthusiastic learner and willing to work collaboratively.

Project outcome

The specific outcomes of this project will be identified by the faculty mentor at the beginning of your collaboration. 

Learning outcomes

1. Learn about CAD for biomedical applications.
2. Gain appreciation for the complexity and convenience of digital manufacturing.
3. Learn and develop basic lab skills.

Project details

Timing, eligibility and other details
Length of commitment About a semester; 3-5 months
Start time Anytime
In-person, remote, or hybrid? Hybrid
Level of collaboration Small group project (2-3 students)
Benefits

Potential academic credit, work study, and/or stipend
Who is eligible All undergraduate students, but  pre-health students (dental and medical - orthopedics) are specifically encouraged to apply

Core partners

  • Local 3D design company
  • School of dentistry and medicine

Project mentor

Praveen Arany

Associate Professor

Oral Biology & Biomedical Engineering

Phone: (716) 829-3479

Email: prarany@buffalo.edu

Start the project

  1. Email the project mentor using the contact information above to express your interest and get approval to work on the project. (Here are helpful tips on how to contact a project mentor.)
  2. After you receive approval from the mentor to start this project, click the button to start the digital badge. (Learn more about ELN's digital badge options.) 
Start the Digital Badge

Preparation activities

Once you begin the digital badge series, you will have access to all the necessary activities and instructions. Your mentor has indicated they would like you to also complete the specific preparation activities below. After you’re approved to begin the project, your mentor will send the relevant materials. Please reference this when you get to Step 2 of the Preparation Phase. 

  • Reading articles or books
  • Attending orientations
  • Attending workshops and trainings
    • HIPPA training

Keywords

CAD, digital design, health, dentistry, medicine, prosthesis, computer  science