Digital transformation has profoundly reshaped dental technology in recent years. Processes that once relied solely on craftsmanship are now increasingly defined by digital workflows, automated systems, and CAD/CAM technologies. Two methods in particular have come to the forefront: subtractive manufacturing through milling and grinding, and additive manufacturing through 3D printing. Both approaches have revolutionized the market, yet each has inherent limitations.
Additive technologies offer greater design freedom and economically efficient production of dental structures but often lag in terms of surface quality, precision, and available materials. Subtractive technologies provide maximum precision, process reliability, and material diversity but are less efficient when it comes to complex geometries and material waste.
The future, therefore, lies in combining the strengths of both worlds: hybrid manufacturing. It merges the efficiency and flexibility of additive technologies with the clinical precision and surface quality of subtractive finishing. With the CORiTEC 650i PRO series, imes-icore—alongside the CORiTEC 350i series—has created a system that consistently implements this hybrid approach. It offers dental laboratories and milling centers a solution that meets today’s highest standards while anticipating future developments.
Another hybrid system is currently under development within the imes-icore family: the CORiTEC Mythos System, planned for launch in early 2026. It will combine subtractive framework production and additive “coating” fully automated within a single machine.
