Case Background
Dentist: Dr. Juan Francisco González
Key Device: PioNext Mini
Recommended Material: PioNext Splint Resin
Workflow: Chairside
Dentist Introduction
Dr. Juan Francisco González is an orthodontist who graduated from UNITEC, Mexico, with a strong focus on the clinical application, education, and research of digital dentistry and 3D printing.
As a prominent speaker and digital dentistry educator, he regularly shares advanced digital workflows and clinical case studies through his YouTube channel, @CursosOdonto3D. He currently practices in Ecuador while continuing to advance his research and educational initiatives in the digital dental field.
Case Overview
Temporomandibular dysfunction is a common condition among patients seeking orthodontic treatment. Premature occlusal contacts can alter mandibular positioning and overstimulate the masticatory system, potentially resulting in facial pain, muscle stiffness, and TMJ discomfort.
An occlusal splint can provide a simple and effective approach to promote muscle relaxation and help restore a more stable bite pattern, allowing for a more accurate occlusal analysis prior to orthodontic treatment.
In this clinical case, Dr. Juan completed the entire workflow in-office using the PioNext Mini, a compact system that integrates both printing and post-curing. The occlusal splint was fabricated and delivered in a single appointment, significantly reducing patient wait times while providing a streamlined and efficient patient experience.
Case Highlights
Open Workflow
The PioNext Mini features a highly open workflow architecture. In addition to the proprietary PioCreat Box, it is fully compatible with ChituBox slicing software. This flexibility allows clinicians to utilize their preferred tools, minimizing the learning curve and easing integration into existing routines.
Fast & Reliable Printing
Featuring a leveling-free design, the PioNext Mini is ready to print right out of the box, eliminating tedious hardware setup.
In this case, Dr. Juan successfully printed the occlusal splint in approximately 20 minutes, significantly reducing chairside waiting time for the patient.
When ambient temperatures drop, resin viscosity increases, which can compromise the dimensional accuracy and surface quality of the occlusal splint.
The PioNext Mini addresses this with a built-in 25–35°C temperature-controlled chamber. By maintaining optimal resin flow regardless of the external environment, the system ensures consistent, high-quality prints while drastically reducing the need for post-processing adjustments and remakes.
As functional appliances, occlusal splints demand high accuracy and precise occlusal configuration to ensure proper fit and function. Utilizing a 0.1 mm layer thickness, the PioNext Mini faithfully reproduces intricate occlusal surface details, ensuring reliable and precise clinical outcomes.
Simplified Post-Processing
Following the print, Dr. Juan seamlessly transitioned to post-curing using the PioNext Mini itself. The curing unit is cleverly integrated into the side of the machine, eliminating the need for separate curing equipment and saving valuable clinic countertop space.
Recommended Settings:
Power: 40% | Time: 1.5 min
Note: These recommended settings are specific to PioNext Splint Resin and are provided for reference purposes only.
After support removal, the appliance requires only standard light finishing, polishing, and glazing before it is ready for delivery. This simplified workflow minimizes hands-on chairside time and drives efficient clinical throughput.
Same-Day Delivery with Accurate Results
The occlusal splint demonstrated an excellent fit and superior surface quality, fully meeting stringent clinical requirements.
By offering an integrated chairside 3D printing ecosystem encompassing software, hardware, and validated materials, the PioNext Mini overcomes the traditional challenges of long production cycles and low delivery efficiency.
Empowering the digital chairside workflow, it not only elevates clinical productivity but also provides patients with a remarkably convenient, same-day treatment experience.
Recommended Material: Splint Rigid Resin
| Clinical Need | Why Choose PioNext Splint Resin |
| Wearing Comfort | Low irritation and biocompatible for long-term intraoral wear. |
| Long-Term Stability | ·Low shrinkage for dimensional stability. ·Withstands repeated sterilization at 135°C without cracking or deformation. |
| Frequent Insertion & Removal | ·High elongation at break for enhanced durability. ·Excellent impact resistance to help resist fracture during repeated use. |
