Daniel Portal’s path into digital dentistry didn’t follow the rules, and that’s exactly why it worked. From witnessing CAD/CAM transform labs overnight to building a career around exocad training and independent design, his perspective cuts through the hype and focuses on what actually works. This conversation explores the reality behind today’s workflows, including the limitations of intraoral scans, why photogrammetry has become essential for full arch accuracy, and where tools like face scanning and AI still fall short. It also looks ahead at the shift toward additive manufacturing and how evolving technology continues to reshape both clinical outcomes and the role of the technician.

Sources
Revilla León M, Aragoneses R, Arroyo Valverde EM, Gómez Polo M, Kois JC. Classification of scanning errors of digital scans recorded by using intraoral scanners. Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry. 2025;37:1363 to 1371. https://doi.org/10.1111/jerd.13419

Mitrani R. The use of a plaster verification jig to ensure accuracy of the master cast. Spear Education. Published August 12 2019. https://www.speareducation.com/resources/spear-digest/the-use-of-a-plaster-verification-jig-to-ensure-accuracy-of-the-master-cast-jig/