Upper partial
Trim Scan → Survey / Blockout → Add Parts → Draw Connector → Mesh & Connector → refine → Save for Build.
EXOCAD PARTIALCAD · PRACTICAL GUIDE
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COMMON PROBLEM
I need to remove wax
Start with the most targeted option. If that does not suit the shape you need, try the next method.
- 1Select Wax → Cut SelectionUse this when you need to remove a defined area of wax precisely.
- 2Clone (Fill Wax) + ShiftHold Shift while using Clone to remove a fixed thickness of wax. Hold Ctrl to add on top.
- 3Smooth → Smudge modeUse this for small local corrections when you want to reshape the wax instead of cutting a clean boundary.
Case Setup in DentalDB
Set up the prescription, arch and framework indication correctly before entering PartialCAD.
Read setup steps Trim ScanRemove excess scan data before designing the framework.
Read steps and settings Survey / BlockoutChoose an insertion path and manage undercuts before building the framework.
Read steps and settings Edit BlockoutAdjust blockout wax after the initial survey.
Read steps and settings Secondary BlockoutApply a second, more controlled blockout pass where the design needs it.
Read steps and settings Add PartsPlace imported components such as teeth or gingiva into the case.
Read steps and settings Draw ConnectorDraw the curves that define connectors, clasps, bars and other framework boundaries.
Read steps and settings Draw CurvesCreate or edit curves with the additional curve-fitting controls.
Read steps and settings Mesh & ConnectorCreate a mesh or major connector from the prepared curves.
Read steps and settings MeshGenerate a mesh as a separate operation when the case calls for it.
Read steps and settings BarDesign a lingual bar for a lower partial framework.
Read steps and settings Clone (Fill Wax)Use Ctrl to add wax on top; Hold Shift while using Clone to remove a fixed thickness of wax; hold Ctrl to add on top of existing wax.
Read steps and settings Finish LinesDefine the finish-line boundaries where the framework meets the model or wax.
Read steps and settings Apply ClaspsChoose and place clasp forms on the prepared design.
Read steps and settings SmoothSmooth rough wax or switch to smudge mode to remove material.
Read steps and settings Smooth AreaSmooth a broader selected region rather than brushing a small spot.
Read steps and settings SmudgePush or pull wax locally to reshape an area.
Read steps and settings TugPull a local region of wax to adjust its shape.
Read steps and settings MaskProtect an area from accidental edits while working nearby.
Read steps and settings Select WaxSelect wax or blockout, erase parts of the selection, cut the selection, or convert between wax and blockout.
Read steps and settings Emboss with CurveAdd a raised or recessed feature following a curve.
Read steps and settings Emboss with ImageUse an image or text graphic to add a surface marking, label or identifying detail to the design.
Read steps and settings FillerFill a gap or low area with material.
Read steps and settings Paint FillerPaint filler material into a chosen area.
Read steps and settings Retention BeadAdd retention-bead detail to the wax surface.
Read steps and settings PostAdd a post feature where the design requires one.
Read steps and settings Apply Supports / PipeCreate a pipe-like feature or support geometry.
Read steps and settings Measure WaxInspect wax thickness and check the design in section.
Read steps and settings Assemble PartsReview and assemble the separate designed components.
Read steps and settings Save for BuildGenerate the final framework mesh and prepare output files.
Read steps and settingsNo matching guide entries
Try a shorter phrase such as “wax”, “blockout”, “curve” or “thickness”.
DETAILED REFERENCE
Step-by-step instructions and settings
Open any tool card to jump to its documented steps, mouse controls, parameters and workflow notes. This guide keeps the technical reference intact while making it easier to find.
Plain-language glossary
Quick meanings for terms that appear throughout PartialCAD. Type any of these words into the search box at the top of the page.
- Blockout
- Material added to fill unwanted undercuts so the framework can follow its intended path of insertion.
- Refractory model
- A duplicate model made from a heat-resistant material for fabricating a cast framework.
- Riser
- A raised support or feed feature used in some manufacturing processes. In a dental framework workflow, do not assume a visible raised feature is a riser; confirm the term and purpose in the specific CAM or fabrication process.
- Relief wax
- The planned space between the refractory surface and the underside of the mesh or framework. In the Mesh settings, Relief Wax is the distance from the refractory surface to the bottom of the mesh.
- Tissue stop
- A small intentional contact area on the framework that rests against the cast or tissue surface. It helps control seating and maintain the planned position during processing. Its location and size should follow the prescribed design.
- Draft angle
- The angle that affects whether a surface can be withdrawn along the chosen insertion direction.
- Insertion path
- The direction the partial framework is intended to move into and out of the mouth.
- Undercut
- A recessed area relative to the selected insertion path; it may provide clasp retention or require blockout.
- Major connector
- The main rigid part joining the framework components across the arch.
- Minor connector
- A smaller connector joining components such as rests or clasps to the major connector.
- Rest seat
- A prepared tooth surface that receives a rest and helps support the partial denture.
- Finish line
- The boundary where the metal framework meets adjacent resin or other material.
- Lingual bar
- A lower-arch major connector positioned along the tongue side of the mandible.
Hardware & Software Requirements
← Back to finderPartialCAD has stronger hardware requirements: for the graphics card than the classic exocad DentalCAD, because a lot of data processing is done on the GPU.
- A dedicated NVIDIA or AMD GPU with up-to-date drivers
- Minimum 8 GB system RAM (16 GB+ recommended)
- SSD storage for project files
- Latest exocad DentalDB and PartialCAD license
For full hardware specifications, consult the official exocad hardware requirements page.
Mouse Controls
← Back to finderPartialCAD uses the standard exocad mouse interface. 3Dconnexion 3D mice are also supported.
| Action | Control |
|---|---|
| Select, Draw, or Paint | Left-click & hold |
| Rotate the view | Right-drag |
| Show properties / context menu | Right-click (on object or background) |
| Translate (pan) the view | Left + Right drag |
| Zoom | Scroll wheel |
| Re-center view | Scroll wheel click |
| Increase / Decrease tool size | Shift + Scroll wheel |
| Increase / Decrease tool strength | Ctrl + Scroll wheel |
Right-click on the CAD window background to access save, load, help, and other scene options. All scene files (.partialCAD) are saved in the project folder accessible through DentalDB.
Keyboard Shortcuts
← Back to finderUse these shortcuts to quickly switch tools and perform common actions.
Add PartY
Add PostA
BackCtrl+Backspace
BarU
Clasp toolG
CloneC
Clone presets (1-5)1-5
Draw CurveD
Edit BlockoutK
Secondary BlockoutShift+K
Edit CurveCtrl+D
Emboss with CurveL
Emboss with ImageShift+L
End / Close a curveE
FillerN
Paint FillerShift+N
Finish lineJ
Increase Tool SizeQ
Decrease Tool SizeW
Increase Tool StrengthAlt+Q
Decrease Tool StrengthAlt+W
MaskM
Next / DoneCtrl+Space
PipeP
Prepare for Build.
Retention BeadI
RulerR
SaveCtrl+S
Save AsCtrl+Shift+S
Select WaxS
SmoothV
Smooth AreaShift+V
Toggle hide waxZ
SmudgeB
Trim ScanX
TugT
Undo / RedoCtrl+Z / Y
View menuF11
Zoom to show allF
Snap main to top/side viewsF2–F5
Snap aux window viewsF6–F9
Toggle aux windowF10
Toggle Show/Hide windowO
Smooth–Smudge toggleAlt+1
Smooth modesAlt+2/3/4
Workflow Overview
← Back to finderPartialCAD uses a guided, wizard-based workflow. Click Next: at the bottom of each step to proceed. Additional tools are available via the Expert: icon on the right side of the screen.
Recommended Workflow Order
- Trim Scan
- Survey
- Edit Blockout
- Add Parts
- Draw Connector
- Mesh & Connector
- Bar
- Clone
- Finish Lines
- Apply Clasps
- Refine & Detail
- Save for Build
Lower partial
Trim Scan → Survey / Blockout → Add Parts → Draw Connector → Bar → refine → Save for Build.
Flexible partial
Trim Scan → Survey / Blockout → prepare the design as required → Save for Build. Connector steps may be skipped for this workflow.
These are orientation paths, not a substitute for the prescription, lab protocol or version-specific instructions. Use the guided Next button and the tool-specific notes for the case in front of you.
Case Setup in DentalDB
- Complete the prescription in DentalDB (client and patient name are required).
- Define one or more "Partial framework" teeth on one arch.
- For antagonist use, set up "Antagonist" in the opposing arch.
- Partial Frameworks can only be designed in one arch at a time, so set up two cases for upper and lower.
- Scan as usual, then click Design: or PartialCAD: in the database to launch the CAD application.
1 Trim Scan Workflow
← Back to finderRemove unnecessary scan data before beginning the design. The input scan should only include the mesh under the partial framework plus any involved teeth.
Use this when: Trim Scan is the right first step when the scan contains a base, stray geometry, or areas you know will not be part of the design.
Common mistakes / if it goes wrong: If the trim clips a tooth or model area you need, undo before continuing and reposition the cut.
| Control | Description |
|---|---|
| Select with Ball | Paint an area of mesh to be cropped or deleted. |
| Select with Plane | Position a flat plane to select data on one side. The scan data is marked in the direction of the orange arrow. Useful for trimming the bottom of a model. |
| Eraser | Paint-select an area to remove from the current selection. |
| Select All | Select the entire model for trimming. |
| Select None | Clear the entire selection. |
| Invert Selection | Reverse selected and un-selected areas. Only selected areas will be deleted. |
| Tool Size | Adjust brush diameter. Also via Shift+Middle-Mouse-Wheel. |
| Delete | Remove the selected area from the scan. Ctrl+Z to undo. |
Be careful not to cut any relevant areas when using the Plane selector. Use the view arrows (lower-right toolbar) to check from multiple angles.
2 Survey / Blockout Model Workflow
← Back to finderSpecify the insertion direction of the partial relative to the scan data. The software displays undercut colors so you can evaluate and adjust the path of insertion.
Use this when: Use Survey when you need to choose or review the path of insertion and understand where undercuts fall relative to that direction.
Common mistakes / if it goes wrong: If the undercut colours look surprising, check the viewing angle and insertion direction before editing blockout wax.
Setting the Insertion Path
- Left-click: on the scan. The insertion arrow changes from white to red and the cursor becomes a 4-arrow cross.
- Left-drag: to rotate the model to the desired insertion path. Undercut colors update on release.
- Set From View: rotate the model to the desired insertion angle and click this button.
- Default Insertion: reset to the original Z-axis.
Blockout Parameters
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Draft Angle | Desired blockout wax draft angle (typically 2–3°). Zero degrees (default) may create tight frameworks. |
| Reduce Scan | Cut extra data from the bottom of the model. Use the slider to adjust the plane. |
| Block Out Undercuts | Uncheck to prevent any blockout from being done (rarely used). |
| Apply | Generate a refractory model with light-blue "blockout wax" in the undercuts. |
| Undo | Ctrl+Z or the undo button to re-set parameters. |
Undercut Depth Color Scale
Adjust the undercut color scale by left-clicking the bottom number of the scale to set the maximum value. The mid-scale adjusts accordingly.
3 Edit Blockout Workflow K
← Back to finderExpose undercuts in the blockout wax to define where retention elements (clasps) will go. The cursor is a ball-brush that you adjust with Q/W.
Use this when: Use Edit Blockout to remove or reshape blockout wax after the path of insertion has been chosen.
Common mistakes / if it goes wrong: If you expose an area that should remain blocked out, undo the stroke and work with a smaller brush. Recheck the intended clasp undercut.
Smudge (Remove Blockout)
- Left-click: on blockout wax to remove it, exposing undercut color depth from Survey.
- Keep the cursor moving in small circles or zig-zag for maximum effectiveness.
- Adjust Tool Size: and Wax Hardness: sliders to control area and sensitivity.
Smooth Blockout
- Normal: preserves blockout wax while smoothing.
- Add: adds blockout wax during smoothing.
- Remove: removes blockout wax during smoothing.
- Smooth Level: adjusts smoothing strength within the tool area.
Additional Relief Wax
Stone models have sharp edges that scanners round off. If the partial doesn't seat properly, add a light blockout layer using Smooth in Add mode at moderate Smooth Level on sharp edges (rest seats, inter-proximal areas, bead line internal edges).
Hotkeys: Alt+1 toggles smooth/smudge. Alt+2 normal, Alt+3 add, Alt+4 remove smooth.
Secondary Blockout Expert Shift+K
← Back to finderRe-survey a paint-selected area of the refractory model for partials requiring a secondary insertion axis.
| Control | Description |
|---|---|
| Set Path | Set the secondary insertion direction. |
| Select Area | Define the area of blockout to re-survey. |
| Default Insertion / Set from View | Reset or set from current view angle. |
| Eraser | Remove area from re-survey selection. Use Shift to modify. |
| Tool Size | Adjust brush diameter. |
| Draft Angle | Add draft angle for the new blockout wax. |
| Apply | Initiate secondary blockout in the selected area. |
When converting partial wax to blockout, ALL: wax will be converted, including designed partial wax. Use Select Wax: to selectively convert first.
4 Add Parts Workflow Y
← Back to finderImport and manage mesh objects in the current scene. PartialCAD auto-imports all mesh objects defined in DentalDB and designed in DentalCAD.
Importing Parts
- Click Import: to add an arbitrary mesh object file (.stl, .ply, etc.). The object must be pre-positioned relative to the scan data.
- Each imported part appears in the Group Selector. Right-click to select; use Ctrl+right-click for multi-select.
Part Treatment Modes
| Mode | Description |
|---|---|
| Enable Part | Activate this part for the design. |
| Remove | Eliminate the part from the scene. |
| Move / Rotate / Scale | Transform the part position, orientation, and size. |
| Reference | Visualization only (default for Partial Framework parts in DentalDB). |
| Non-Editable | Add to partial framework output as-is (default for DentalCAD-designed parts). |
| Inside Surface to Refractory | Convert the inside surface to refractory. |
| Solid Wax | Convert to editable wax. This generally creates watertight output. |
| Hollow Wax | Make the wax hollow (useful for additive manufacturing). |
| Hollow Thickness | Adjust minimum thickness of the hollow wax. |
| Extend to Bottom | Keep bottom open and extend with negative draft (-10.00). |
| Fill with Blockout | Preserve the hollow of the tooth. |
| Refractory | Add to refractory model (useful for designing partials on top of crowns not part of the partial). |
| Fill Imported Part to Bottom | Close the bottom of the refractory (useful when scanning a primary telescope). |
Click Apply: for a single part or Apply All: for all parts simultaneously.
5 Draw Connector Workflow D
← Back to finderDefine curves on the refractory model that are used by many other tools. Open curves are used for lingual bars, clasps, and finish lines; closed curves are used for major connectors, meshes, and extraction sites.
Curve Drawing Controls
| Control | Description |
|---|---|
| Draw | Left-click on model/wax to create new curves. Double-click to end. Closed curves: double-click the first point. |
| Replace | Click an existing curve and replace it with a new one. |
| Edit | Select curves or control points. Drag to modify. Add points by clicking; delete by clicking + right-click. |
Use E to terminate a curve manually. Ctrl+Z to undo. For closed curves, if you miss the 2nd click on the start point, type E to end manually.
Workflow Variations
- Upper Partials →: Next: Mesh & Connector
- Lower Partials →: Next: Bar
- Flexible Partials →: Next: Save for Build
Draw Curves (Expert Mode) Expert
← Back to finderIn Expert mode, the Draw Curves tool offers advanced options for curve fitting, line types, and junctions.
Curve Fitting Options
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Fit to Top Surface | Curve fits to the top-most surface (scan data, blockout, or wax). When unselected, the curve floats between control points. This is useful for lingual bars and finish lines above rough surfaces. |
| Fit to Refractory | Curve fits to the top-most surface of scan data or blockout, but beneath partial wax. |
| Fit to Mesh | Draws curves on scan data. Used to define virtual bead line prior to Survey. |
Special Modes
- Two Point: for straight, un-fit lines. Click once to start, once to end. Convenient for support bars.
- T-Junction: connect curves at a "T" junction by selecting a point on an existing curve. Used for approach-arm clasps and multiple support bars.
- Open Loop: prevents closed curves from being created. Useful for clasps, finish lines, and support bars.
Clasp Drawing Patterns
- Ring clasps: single open curve, drawn from max support point to tip.
- Akers clasps: single curve (tip-to-tip) or 2 curves (each from guide plane to tip).
- "J" clasps 2 curves: approach arm from solid support to transition, then from transition end to clasp tip.
- "T" clasps 2 or 3 curves: approach arm first, then tip-to-tip, or two curves from transition to each tip.
6 Mesh & Connector Workflow
← Back to finderApply the major connector, meshes, and split gingiva in a single combined step (available from 2023+ releases).
Main Controls
| Control | Description |
|---|---|
| Settings | Configure Mesh, Connector, and Split Gingiva parameters. |
| Checkboxes [2,3,4] | Enable/disable Major Connector, Mesh generation, and Split Gingiva. |
| Preview | Show proposed result without committing. |
| Clear | Clear the current proposal. |
| Apply | Commit results to beige wax. |
| Cut View | Sectional view. Slider to change slice; left-drag for ruler; right-drag to rotate cut plane. |
Mesh Settings
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Pattern | Hole pattern (Round, Square, Solid). |
| Hole Size | Size of mesh holes. Also adjustable via graphic interacter arrow drag. |
| Mesh Wax | Thickness of the mesh itself, starting at top of relief wax. |
| Relief Wax | Distance from refractory surface to bottom of mesh. |
| Mesh Rim | Create a rim around the mesh. |
| Fit mesh inside gingiva | Force mesh wax to fit inside the gingiva. |
| Expand gingiva to fit mesh | Expand part to accommodate retention mesh by specified amount. |
| Semi-auto Finish Line | Convert gingiva edge to a finish line. |
Connector Settings
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Stipple | Stipple pattern for the major connector surface. |
| Invert | Invert the stipple pattern on apply. |
| Scale | Horizontal scale of stipple pattern. |
| Offset | Vertical thickness of stipple on top of base thickness. |
| Thickness | Vertical thickness of major connector (excluding stipple). |
| Linear Falloff | Falloff angle at connector edges. Larger = smoother transition and slightly wider connector. |
| Apply over existing wax | Place connector on top of existing wax. |
Split Gingiva Settings (QuickSnap Workflow)
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Mesh Interlock | How much bottom gingiva overlaps into the mesh. |
| Bottom Draft | Draft in insertion direction for insertion/removal. |
| Use Full Gingiva Base | Extend bottom to avoid touching patient gingiva. |
| Min. Thickness | Minimum thickness value. |
Mesh (Standalone) Expert
← Back to finderApply meshes to closed curves drawn earlier. Meshes consist of a blue blockout wax "riser" and a beige wax mesh pattern on top.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Pattern | Hole patterns: Round, Square, or Solid (for manual Smudge hole creation). |
| Hole Size | Size of mesh holes. Adjustable via slider or graphic interacter arrow drag. |
| Mesh Wax | Thickness of the mesh itself. |
| Relief Wax | Distance from refractory surface to bottom of mesh. Adds blue blockout wax. |
| Auto-Select | Automatically select all closed curves as mesh curves (identical parameters). |
Graphic Interacter
Click and drag points on the interacter to adjust Pattern Position, Pattern Orientation, and Hole Size (drag the arrow tip).
To fill a particular mesh hole, use Clone: at mesh thickness. To add a tissue stop, use Select Wax: to convert an area of the mesh riser from blockout to wax.
7 Bar (Lingual Bar) Workflow U
← Back to finderDraw and configure the lingual bar for lower partials.
Controls
| Control | Description |
|---|---|
| Profiles | Select from preset bar profiles in the drop-down. |
| Profile Editor | Create or edit custom bar profiles. |
| Flip | Flip profile upside-down (non-symmetrical profiles only). |
| Rotate | Rotate profile 180°. |
| Capped Ends | Create rounded corners to blend into adjoining partial parts. |
| Settings | Adjust sizing and features numerically. |
| Profile Orientation | Orient toward Refractory (default) or Curve Tangent. |
| Bar Smoothing | Amount of surface smoothing (larger = smoother). |
| Apply | Commit bar preview to wax. |
Bar Settings
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Thickness / Width | Basic bar dimensions. Fixed Aspect: locks them equal. |
| Width 1 / Width 2 | Taper control for each end. Swap Ends: reverses which end each value applies to. |
| Offset Above Surface | Increase thickness to offset bar above the refractory model. |
| Depth Below Surface | Extend thickness below bar surface so the bottom smoothly intersects connected wax areas. |
8 Clone (Fill in Wax) Workflow C
← Back to finderApply rest seats, distal guide planes, and add material around the mesh to receive finish lines. The Clone tool adds a fixed thickness of wax.
Use this when: Use Clone when you need to add wax of a controlled thickness, build up a local area, or remove a fixed thickness with the Shift modifier.
Common mistakes / if it goes wrong: If the result is too heavy or cuts into the wrong area, undo immediately and check the modifier and brush size before trying again.
Mouse Operations
- Left-click & drag: add Clone wax.
- Shift + Clone: remove a fixed thickness of material.
- Ctrl + Clone: add on top of existing wax.
- 1–5 quickly switch between preset thicknesses.
Parameters
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Tool Size | Diameter of the added wax. Use +/- or Shift+Scroll Wheel. |
| Wax Thickness | Thickness of the added wax. |
| Settings → Bottom Cutoff | Limit clone to a specific part of the model using the slider. |
| Presets | Additional thickness presets: Occlusal Rest / Lingual Rest / Minor Connector / Connector / Mesh. |
| Clone Blockout | Hide wax and add blockout material to an area. |
Typical values: 1 mm for rest seats and guide planes; 1.75 mm to match the top of the mesh.
9 Finish Lines Workflow J
← Back to finderApply finish lines to open curves drawn on the major connector or lingual bar/apron.
Controls
| Control | Description |
|---|---|
| Profile | Select the cross-sectional profile of the finish line. |
| Profile Editor | Create or edit custom finish line profiles. |
| Flip | Flip profile upside-down (non-symmetrical only). |
| Rotate | Rotate profile 180°. |
| Settings | Adjust size, height, and taper of the finish line. |
| Preview | Display preview and allow changes. |
| Apply | Commit preview to wax. |
Finish Line Settings
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Thickness / Width | Basic dimensions. Fixed Aspect: maintains constant proportion. |
| Width 1 / Width 2 | Taper control for each end of the finish line. Swap Ends: reverses references. |
| Depth Below Surface | Height of the base. Adjust it so the bottom completely intersects mesh, clone, or major connector areas. |
Left-click edit points on the curve to adjust the position of the finish line. Once satisfied, click Apply and repeat for each finish line.
10 Apply Clasps Workflow G
← Back to finderSequentially apply clasps and minor connectors to open curves.
Use this when: Use Apply Clasps when the framework design calls for clasp components on open curves and their placement has already been planned.
Common mistakes / if it goes wrong: If the clasp does not sit as expected, review the curve and survey direction first rather than forcing the clasp into place.
Clasp Types
| Type | Use Case | How to Draw |
|---|---|---|
| Single Curve [1] | Ring and bracing clasps | Click on the curve |
| Dual Curve [2] | Akers (opposing) clasps on the same tooth | Click on the curve(s) |
| Dual Curve "J" [3] | Single-point approach arms | Click approach arm first, then single clasp segment |
| Dual Curve "T" [4] | Dual-clasp approach arms | Click approach arm first, then each of the 2 clasp segments |
| Triple Curve "T" [5] | Complex approach arms | Click approach arm first, then each clasp segment once |
Clasp Profile Controls
- Profiles [6]: select from preset clasp profiles.
- Profile Editor [7]: create or edit custom profiles.
- Flip [8]: mirror top to bottom along the midpoint.
- Rotate [9]: rotate 180° (inside and outside become reversed).
- Settings [10]: adjust taper and offset.
- Clasp Smoothing [11]: higher value = smoother surface.
Clasp Settings Dialog
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Thickness [1] | Basic clasp thickness from the model. |
| Width [2] | Width along the surface of the model. |
| Width 1 / Width 2 [3,4] | Taper control: define specific widths along the curve. Uncheck to disable tapering. |
| Swap Ends [5] | Reverse which end the modified widths refer to. |
| Clasp [6] | For I-bar single-curve clasps, the entire clasp floats above the gingiva or tooth. Use Clone to extend the tip to the undercut. |
| Use Defaults [7] | Revert all settings to defaults. |
Change the Clasp Type before: selecting curves on the model. For approach arm clasps, draw the approach arm section first.
11 Refine & Detail Workflow
← Back to finderOnce the main framework shape is in place, inspect the design and make local corrections before building. Choose the tool based on the problem: Select Wax for a defined cut, Smooth for surface correction, Smudge to push or pull wax, and Measure Wax to check thickness.
Do not use a smoothing or wax-editing tool to compensate for a wrong insertion path or an incorrect framework layout; return to the relevant design step and check the case before continuing.
Smooth Expert V
← Back to finderGeneral-purpose smoothing and wax editing tool with two modes.
Use this when: Use Smooth for local surface cleanup. Choose the mode that matches the job: smooth a rough surface or reshape/remove wax in a targeted area.
Common mistakes / if it goes wrong: If an edge becomes rounded or a thin area changes unexpectedly, undo and use a smaller brush with shorter strokes.
Edit Wax: Smudge Mode
- Smooth / Smudge toggle: switch between smoothing and removing wax.
- Edit Blockout: switch to blockout editing.
- Wax Only Mode: recommended only for editing the bottom part of the wax. Additive smooth when in wax-only mode to quickly smooth the partial.
- Tool Size: brush diameter.
- Wax Hardness: controls material removal sensitivity.
Edit Wax: Smooth Mode
- Tool Size: brush diameter.
- Smooth Level: overall smoothing strength.
- Flatten Material: flatten surface within tool area.
- Add Material: add wax during smoothing.
- Remove Material: remove wax during smoothing.
- Blend smoothly into Mask: smoother transition at mask edges.
Alt+1 toggles smooth/smudge. Alt+2/3/4 changes flatten/add/remove modes.
Smooth Area Expert Shift+V
← Back to finderSmooth all wax within a paint-selected area. Often used for extraction sites.
| Control | Description |
|---|---|
| Toggle Erase Mode | Remove area from selection. Use Shift to modify. |
| Select All / None / Invert | Bulk selection controls. |
| Diameter | Tool size for painting/erasing. |
| Blend with Mask | Control sharp vs. smooth transition at mask boundaries. |
| Wax Only | When checked, only partial wax is selected (unchecked: blockout wax too). |
| Feather Level | How edges blend into surrounding wax. |
| Smooth Level | Overall smoothness of the top surface. |
| Preserve Detail | Amount of detail carried over from the bottom surface. |
| Apply | Perform smoothing. Ctrl+Z to undo. |
Smudge Expert B
← Back to finderSmudge is accessed via the Smooth tool in Smudge mode. It removes (or adds) wax material interactively. Use left-click to remove, and keep the cursor in small circles or zig-zag motions for best results.
- Adjust Tool Size: with Q/W or Shift+Scroll Wheel.
- Adjust Wax Hardness: to control removal sensitivity.
- Toggle between Smooth and Smudge with Alt+1.
Tug Expert T
← Back to finderGeneral-purpose free-forming tool for modifying existing wax by "tugging." Rarely used but available for fine adjustments.
| Control | Description |
|---|---|
| Diameter | Tool diameter. Use Shift+Middle-Mouse-Wheel to adjust. |
| Use Ruler | Show tug distance as measurement at cursor position. |
| Restrict to Normal | Only allow tugs perpendicular to the local surface. |
| Clear | Clear the current tug proposal. |
| Apply | Commit the tug. Ctrl+Z to undo. |
Mask Expert M
← Back to finderProtect areas of wax from being modified by other tools. Paint-select the areas you want to preserve.
| Control | Description |
|---|---|
| Eraser | Remove area from the mask. |
| Select All | Mask the entire model. |
| Select None | Clear all masking. |
| Invert Selection | Reverse masked and un-masked areas. |
| Tool Size | Brush diameter for painting/erasing. |
| Falloff | Edge dynamics: 100% = sharp edges, 50% = gradual effect. |
| Opacity | Masking strength: 100% = fully protected, 50% = edits reduced by 50%. |
Select Wax Expert S
← Back to finderDefine an area of blockout or partial wax, and optionally convert between the two types.
Use this when: Use Select Wax when you need to isolate a defined patch of blockout or partial wax, or use Cut Selection for a clean, bounded removal.
Common mistakes / if it goes wrong: If the selection catches the wrong surface, cancel or undo and inspect the selection boundary from another angle before cutting.
| Control | Description |
|---|---|
| Toggle Erase Mode | Remove area from selection. Use Shift to modify. |
| Select All / None / Invert | Bulk selection controls. |
| Cut Selection | Remove the selected area from the wax. |
| Convert Wax to Blockout | Convert selected partial wax to blockout. |
| Convert Blockout to Wax | Convert selected blockout to partial wax. |
| Tool Size | Brush diameter. Also via Shift+Middle-Mouse-Wheel. |
Emboss with Curve Expert L
← Back to finderFixed embossing or de-bossing of a region defined by a curve.
Usage
- Click a curve.
- Click once in the area to be embossed.
- Adjust parameters and click Apply.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Thickness | Emboss/deboss depth. |
| Falloff Distance | Total falloff distance. 0 = sharp edges. |
| Falloff Angle | Angle at the edge of the emboss. |
| Linear / Adaptive / Rounded Falloff | Falloff shape options. |
| Apply Additive | Create a pipe (add material) from the selected curve. |
| Apply Subtractive | Remove material using the selected curve. |
Advanced Settings
- Direction: Surface Normal, Average Surface Normal, or Path of Insertion.
- Normal Smoothing: slider to adjust smoothing.
Emboss with Image/Text Expert Shift+L
← Back to finderPlace an image, logo, label, or text on the surface. Use it for markings or texture patterns, including circular text where your version’s text controls support it. Check the preview and placement before applying.
Modes
- Select Image: choose an image file. Repeated in X/Y if the area is larger. Left-click to place.
- Select Text: enter text in the dialog. Left-click to place.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Invert Image | Invert text and background areas. |
| Mirror | Mirror the pattern left to right. |
| Width | Overall width (aspect ratio fixed by the proposal). |
| Emboss / De-Boss | Add to or subtract from the surface. |
| Depth | Emboss/deboss depth. |
| Falloff | Soften edges. Useful for patterns; not recommended for text. |
| Preview | Show wax preview of the effect. |
| Apply | Convert blue proposal to wax. |
Text Settings
- Enter multi-line text using Enter.
- Set Font: adjust font and style.
- Save As: save frequently used text as a .bmp image for reuse.
- Update: refresh the blue proposal.
Always check that text is legible, especially over stippled areas. Use the Mask: tool to limit the embossed area.
Filler Expert N
← Back to finderFill an area within a closed curve with wax. Useful for deep extraction sites. Typically done after Survey, before partial design.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Smooth Level | Smoothing of the top of the filled area. |
| Fill Passes | Number of smoothing passes (higher = smoother). |
| Thickness | Thickness of the filled area. |
| Apply | Perform the fill, creating partial wax. |
When converting partial wax to blockout, ALL: wax will be converted. Use Select Wax: to selectively convert partial wax to blockout first.
Paint Filler Expert Shift+N
← Back to finderInteractive paint-wax tool for adding wax or blockout over an area. Useful for large areas like rugae that need relief wax.
| Control | Description |
|---|---|
| Toggle Erase Mode | Remove painted area. Use Shift to modify. |
| Select None | Clear any selection of filling area. |
| Diameter | Tool diameter. Use Shift+Middle-Mouse-Wheel to adjust. |
| Smooth Level | Overall amount of filling. |
| Apply | Calculate the paint filler result (may take a few seconds). Ctrl+Z to undo. |
Retention Bead Expert I
← Back to finderApply retention beads to an area of a partial defined by a closed curve.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Size of the beads. |
| Density | Density of the beads. |
| Undercut | Amount of bead that forms undercut (retention extent). |
| Clear | Delete the current bead proposal. |
| Apply | Convert proposal to wax. Ctrl+Z to undo. |
Post Expert A
← Back to finderPosts support denture teeth. Click a point on the mesh at the base of the desired post.
| Setting | Description |
|---|---|
| Extend to Top | Level post with the top of the refractory. |
| Length | Post length (slider or typed value). |
| Uniform Scale | Maintain size ratio; scale evenly. |
| Thickness | Base thickness of the post. |
| End Thickness | Thickness of the tip. |
| Surface Offset | Vertical distance between post and selected surface. |
| Align to Surface Normal | Position at 90° perpendicular to the surface. |
| Use All Visible Surfaces | Place post on any mesh (e.g., imported teeth/gingiva). |
| Preview Opacity | Transparency of the post preview. |
You can also import a custom post file via Use File: and maintain its Actual Size.
Apply Supports / Pipe Expert P
← Back to finderCreate wax "pipes" or support bars from drawn curves. Support bars prevent warping of printed resin patterns.
| Control | Description |
|---|---|
| Start Diam. | Diameter of the pipe. |
| End Diam. | Ending diameter (enable checkbox for non-uniform pipes). |
| Apply Additive | Create a pipe from the selected curve. |
| Apply Subtractive | Remove a pipe from the wax. |
| Clear | Remove created pipes. |
| Apply | Commit the pipe. |
Support bar placement:: Lower partials: one bar between posterior ends. Upper partials: two bars: one posterior-to-posterior, one from the midpoint of the posterior bar to the most anterior point.
Measure Wax Expert R
← Back to finderMeasure the thickness of partial wax or 3D distance between two points.
| Mode | Description |
|---|---|
| Ruler Tool | Left-click to set first point, then second click fixes the 3D distance measurement. |
| Thickness Tool | Display wax thickness (to nearest point of refractory) at any point under the cursor. |
Colorize Thickness
- Set Minimum: and Maximum: sliders.
- Click Apply: too-thin areas appear blue, too-thick areas appear red.
- Measure Blockout: measure blockout-to-refractory thickness.
Assemble Parts Workflow
← Back to finderApplies to the QuickSnap workflow. Assemble all designed parts with cement gap parameters.
| Control | Description |
|---|---|
| Settings | Change cement gap parameters. |
| Apply | Assemble the parts. |
| Cut View | Sectional view of your design. |
Cement Gap Settings
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Horizontal / Vertical Gap | Cement gap values in each direction. |
| Uniform Gap | Use the same value for both horizontal and vertical. |
| Draft Angle | Draft angle according to insertion direction. |
| Smooth Level | Smoothness of the connection between parts (higher = smoother). |
Cut View Hotkeys:: Slider to change slice position. Left-drag for ruler (Ctrl for multiple). Right-drag to rotate cut plane. Right+Left to move cut plane. Scroll to zoom.
12 Save for Build Workflow .
← Back to finderPrepare the design for final output. The process may take a couple of minutes.
Save the project or export an STL?
Editable project
- Right-click an empty area of the PartialCAD workspace.
- Choose Save As.
- Save the project with the
.PartialCADextension.
Use this to keep a project you can reopen and continue editing.
STL for output
- Finish Apply Build: and wait for the final build to appear.
- Right-click the finished build/mesh.
- Choose Save as STL file: and select the destination.
An STL is the exported mesh, not the editable PartialCAD project.
Menu wording can vary between exocad versions. Check the options in your installed version before relying on a version-specific label.
Main Controls
| Control | Description |
|---|---|
| Presets | Edit the presets list. |
| Settings | Adjust relief parameters for scanning smoothness. |
| Auto Relief | Improve built part fit with automatically generated relief. |
| Apply Build | Generate the final partial framework mesh. Output files go to the project directory. |
| Cut View | Sectional view of the design. |
| Exploded View | Toggle exploded view of Build Parts (Ctrl to group teeth with gingiva). |
Wizard Settings
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Reduce Tolerance | Max error between wax and output mesh. Lower = larger file. Uncheck for maximum file size. |
| Orient to Insertion Axis | Rotate output with path of insertion to -Z axis (for accurate 3D printing). |
| Fill Void Check | Detect and fill internal "bubbles." Rarely used; slows processing. |
| Save Drafted Refractory | Export the refractory model with optional edited blockout. |
| Model Scale Factor | Compensate for shrinkage in the printing process. |
Expert Settings
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Optimized for Milling | Multiple individual meshes that may intersect. Fine for milling and most printers. |
| Optimized for Watertightness | Single closed shell, no internal surfaces. Slight accuracy loss for imported parts. |
| Watertight, No Resurfacing, Slow | Single closed shell preserving original triangulation. No accuracy loss but slower. |
Relief Parameters
Margin Width
- Connector: relief value under the connector.
Static Relief (Constant Offset)
- Clasps: relief under clasps.
- Connector: relief under connector.
- Imported Parts: relief under imported parts.
- Other: relief under other parts.
Dynamic Relief (Auto-detected)
- Connector: dynamic relief under connector.
- Imported Parts: dynamic relief under imported parts.
- Other (except clasps): dynamic relief under other parts.
- Save Relief with Scene: persist relief to blockout on save.
When the build finishes, inspect the framework mesh over the transparent model, including its underside. The generated output is also placed in the project directory; use the right-click export steps above when you need a separate STL file.