What to do when you cannot post-process your scan

Post-processing is an essential part of the workflow, where the system converts the captured raw data into a usable scan file.

Post-processing may fail with the following or similar errors: 

• Index was outside the bounds of the array
• Failed to serialize mesh
• View Direction must not contain NaN or infinity
• Margin trace failed
• Matrix is singular
• Object reference not set to an instance

Solution

Step 1: Check if scans are sufficiently trimmed, removing any excess tissue or artifacts. Insufficient trimming is one of the most common reasons why a scan fails to post-processed.

Step 2: Verify that the scan quality is sufficient. Ensure the teeth and restoration area are fully captured, there should be no large gaps, holes, double images, or stitching issues. Trim any overlapping areas, rescan areas missing data, and then attempt post-processing again. For a video guide of the recommended scan strategy click here. 

Step 3: Check the number of 3D images. This number can be found at the bottom of your scan screen. It is recommended to have no more than 2000-2500 images per single full jaw scan, otherwise, post-processing may fail.

Step 4: Check if the order form corresponds to the actual scan you intended to take. If there are any errors in the order form, it might be best to re-do the case and set the order form properly.

How to avoid post-processing errors in the future

1. Follow the offical 3Shape scan strategy. An improper scan strategy can cause distortions, inaccuracy on scans, and post-processing issues.
2. Avoid having overlapping scans. When re-scanning the same area multiple times, it creates layers mounted on top of each other. This can cause problems and/or distortions in the post-processing as the system will not be able to detect which layer should be taken into account.
3. Make sure the teeth were sufficiently scanned, and that there are no large gaps or holes in the data (partially scanned areas).
4. Check the number of 3D images during scanning. It is recommended to stay within the frame of 2000-2500 images per single full jaw scan.
5. Trim unnecessary soft tissue and artifacts before post-processing.