3Shape was founded in 2000 in Copenhagen, Denmark, by Tais Clausen and Nikolaj Deichmann. The two met during their university years and began researching 3D scanning technology, initially applying it outside dentistry before pivoting to become one of the most influential companies in digital dentistry.
Key Development Milestones
2000: Company founded in Copenhagen. Early focus on 3D scanning solutions for the hearing aid industry.
2002–2005: Entered the dental market with Dental Designer CAD software, establishing a strong presence in laboratory workflows.
2011: Launched the first TRIOS intraoral scanner, pioneering powder-free, real-time color video scanning and an open-system approach that disrupted the market.
2015: Released TRIOS 3, which solidified 3Shape's leadership position through improved speed, accuracy, and ergonomics.
2017: Introduced TRIOS 3 Wireless - one of the first true wireless intraoral scanners.
2019–2020: Launched TRIOS 4 with enhanced AI diagnostic capabilities (including caries detection features).
2022: Released TRIOS 5 featuring the ScanAssist intelligent alignment engine and factory calibration-free design for easier, more reliable scanning.
2023–2025: Continued expansion of AI tools, cloud connectivity (3Shape Unite), more affordable models (such as TRIOS Core), and broader app/ecosystem development.
Business Model
3Shape generates revenue primarily through hardware sales and recurring software subscriptions (TRIOS + Dental System annual fees). Its deliberate open-system strategy allows clinics to freely choose laboratories and manufacturing partners, standing in contrast to more closed ecosystems such as certain Dentsply Sirona workflows. The company maintains strong dual presence in both clinical (intraoral scanners) and laboratory (model scanners + CAD software) segments.
Market Position
3Shape has long ranked among the global leaders in intraoral scanner market share, competing closely with Align Technology (iTero) and Dentsply Sirona. It holds particular strength in the premium clinic segment and laboratory CAD/CAM software. Industry discussions in recent years - including speculation around potential strategic moves involving Align - have further highlighted the ongoing importance and future of open digital systems.
Looking for High Performance Without Premium Pricing or Subscription Lock-In?
While 3Shape set many of the industry benchmarks for open-system scanning, clinics increasingly seek comparable accuracy, speed, and openness at a more accessible total cost of ownership.
At Aident3D, our AI-30 Intraoral Scanner delivers:
≤10 μm accuracy and 20–25 mm ultra depth of field
Ultra-lightweight design (as low as 156 g) for all-day comfort
Powder-free true-color scanning with intelligent anti-fog heating
Fully open STL / PLY / OBJ export - seamless with exocad, 3Shape Dental System, and most major CAD/CAM platforms
No mandatory high annual software fees for core functionality
Pair it with Aident lab scanners and dental 3D printers for a complete, flexible Scan → Design → Print workflow that keeps your practice independent and cost-efficient.
Want to compare open-system options for your clinic or lab?
Request a free quote, demo, or side-by-side comparison:
https://www.aident3d.com/inquiry
Explore the AI-30 Intraoral Scanner:
https://www.aident3d.com/3d-scanner/intraoral-scanner/
