VITA and SensAble Partner to Integrate VITA’s Tooth Librariesinto the SensAble Dental Lab System Allows Dental Labs to Deliver Great Fit, Function and Esthetics – Faster

WOBURN, MA; BAD SACKINGEN, GERMANY; BREA, CA December 1, 2009 SensAble Technologies and VITA, the dental restoration leader for over 80 years based in
Bad Sackingen, Germany, today announced that SensAble has integrated VITAs celebrated PHYSIODENS and VITAPAN digital tooth libraries into the SensAble Dental Lab System (SDLS). SensAbles system is an integrated CAD/CAM solution to scan, design and fabricate a wide variety of dental restorations, including full-contour crowns and bridges, as well as metal and flexible partials.

These two digital libraries were created specifically for inclusion in SensAbles system by precisely scanning VITAs hand-crafted denture teeth renowned for their exacting conformance to the look, shape and function of natural teeth. Dental lab technicians use the 3D models of the teeth as a starting-point for digitally designing the perfect fitting restoration for a patient. By offering VITAs tooth libraries in digital form within SensAbles system, the two companies expand dental labs choice and flexibility to deliver the most functional and esthetically pleasing restorations to their dentists restorations created with digital speed, precision and efficiency.

Using the SensAble Dental Lab System, lab technicians can select a virtual tooth from the library, and then quickly adjust the size, morphology, and placement as needed. They can use the tooth libraries to quickly design porcelain or full metal crowns and bridges. Additionally, the VITA digital tooth libraries help speed the design of combination cases where the teeth on a removable partial need to match the patients fixed restorations.

SensAbles unique CAD/CAM system allows technicians to hold a Nintendo-Wii-like haptic (force feedback) device instead of a computer mouse that enables them to literally feel the on-screen model as they apply, smooth and carve digital wax. This 3D virtual touch approach mimics the traditional method of hand modeling dental restorations yet adds the consistency, precision and repeatability of a digital system.

SensAble shares the same commitment to long-term innovation in the dental restoration business as VITA, said Bill Sundheimer, president and COO, at Vident. We immediately saw how SensAbles use of 3D virtual touch in their Dental Lab System could help lab technicians rapidly transition to digital design because it allowed them to build on the artisanship and skills theyd already spent years perfecting. The more we learned about SensAble and the depth of its 3D modeling capabilities, the more we found it to be the ideal company to work with on our digital initiatives.”

VITA denture teeth have been synonymous with high-end excellence providing the patient with both exceptional esthetics and function, said Bob Steingart, president of SensAble Dental Products. By adding VITAs digital tooth libraries to the SensAble system, we provide more versatility, which enables labs to speed design by choosing the best virtual teeth for the case at hand. Were proud that VITA chose SensAble as its digital partner and we look forward to our continued work together.

About VITA and Vident
VITA Zahnfabrik is an independent, family-owned enterprise now in its third generation. For over 80 years now, the company has been doing justice to the principle upon which it was founded, namely: systematic solutions for the fabrication of premium dental restorations.

Vident, A VITA Company, has been a provider of innovative dental products since 1985 and is the North American subsidiary of VITA, manufacturer of the internationally recognized Classical Shade Guide, 3D-Master Shade System and quality VITA restorative materials. For information on the VITA system of esthetic restorative products call 800-828-3839 or visit www.vident.com.

About SensAble Technologies

Founded in 1993, SensAble Technologies is the leading developer of 3D touch-enabled (force feedback) solutions and technology that allow users to not only see and hear an on-screen computer application, but to actually feel it. With 41 patents granted and over 7,000 systems installed worldwide, SensAble Technologies’ haptic technology is being used in applications ranging from designing toys and footwear, to surgical simulation and stroke rehabilitation, to dental restorations, as well as a range of research and robotic applications. The company markets its own 3D modeling solutions as well as its haptic devices and developer toolkits to medical, dental, design, and manufacturing companies; educational and research institutions; and OEMs. SensAble products are available through direct and reseller channels worldwide. www.sensabledental.com.

SensAble and SensAble Technologies, Inc. are trademarks or registered trademarks of SensAble Technologies, Inc. Other brand and product names are trademarks of their respective holders.