Q: How do I get started as a new client? Simply reach out through our Contact page and we'll get you set up with a secure client portal and dedicated Google Drive folder. Once onboarded, you'll be able to submit cases, access completed files, and schedule consultations directly from your portal.

Q: What files do I need to submit for a case? You'll need three things — a CBCT scan, an intraoral scan of the implant arch, and an intraoral scan of the opposing arch in occlusion. The CBCT provides the 3D bone anatomy, the implant arch scan gives us the surgical reference, and the opposing arch scan in occlusion is required for every case since all guides are designed with a complimentary virtual wax-up to ensure the restoration is planned with the final prosthetic outcome in mind.

Q: What file formats do you accept? CBCT scans should be submitted as a .ZIP file containing DICOM (.dcm) files. Intraoral scans — including the implant arch and opposing arch in occlusion — are accepted in .STL or .OBJ format.

Q: How do I upload my case files? Once onboarded, you'll have a private Google Drive folder. Upload your files to the Incoming — Case Files subfolder. All data is encrypted and stored in compliance with HIPAA guidelines.

Q: What happens after I submit a case? Once your files are received, we'll review your case and reach out if any clarification is needed. A virtual case review will be scheduled to approve the plan before finalization. Once approved, we'll complete the design and notify you when your files or guide are ready.

Q: What implant systems do you support? We support all major implant systems including Nobel Biocare, Straumann, Zimmer Biomet, Dentsply Sirona, BioHorizons, Osstem, and more. If you're unsure whether your system is supported, contact us and we'll confirm.

Q: Can you design guides for full arch cases? Yes — we design guides for single implant, multiple implant, and full arch cases including All-on-4 and All-on-6 configurations.

Q: What is a virtual wax-up and why does it matter? A virtual wax-up is a digital simulation of the final restoration placed over your patient's anatomy. It allows us to plan implant positioning with the end prosthetic in mind — ensuring the guide is designed for the best possible restorative outcome, not just anatomical placement. Every case at 3D Guide Works includes a complimentary virtual wax-up.

Q: What drilling protocols do you support? We support fully guided, partially guided, and pilot drilling only protocols. Just specify your preference when submitting your case or during your virtual case review.

Q: How does pricing work for multiple implants? Our base price includes the first implant. Each additional implant in the same case is $50. For example, a 3-implant case would be $150 + $100 = $250 for a Full Surgical Guide, or $75 + $100 = $175 for an STL File.

Q: How long does a case take? Most cases are completed within 3–5 business days from the time all files are received and the virtual case review is approved. Turnaround may vary for complex or full arch cases.

Q: Is rush turnaround available? Rush design is available on a case-by-case basis — contact us to discuss your timeline. For Full Surgical Guide cases, rush lab shipping is also available at the client's expense.

Q: When do I get invoiced? We invoice after your case is complete and files have been delivered. We believe in earning your trust before collecting payment.

Q: What payment methods do you accept? We accept all major credit and debit cards through our secure payment processor. Payment links are sent directly to your email upon case completion.

Q: How is my patient data protected? All files are stored in Google Drive, which is encrypted in transit (TLS) and at rest (AES-256). Google has signed a HIPAA Business Associate Agreement (BAA) with 3D Guide Works. Each client has a private, isolated folder — no other clients can access your files.

Q: Do I need to de-identify files before uploading? Yes — all files must be de-identified before uploading. Please use patient initials only, along with the region and scan type. Example: J.H. Upper Jaw CBCT 2026-05-16. Do not include full patient names, dates of birth, or chart numbers. These instructions are also saved in your Google Drive folder for easy reference.

Q: What is included in a free consultation? Our complimentary 30-minute virtual consultation covers case complexity, implant positioning, anatomy review, restoration planning, and any questions you have before submitting. There is no commitment required. This offer is available for a limited time.

Q: How do I schedule a consultation? Log into your client portal and click the Schedule a Consultation button. You'll be directed to our scheduling page where you can pick a date and time that works for you. A Google Meet link will be sent automatically upon booking.