In version 4.0, Slice replaces the old Cut tool. It is easy to forget about the usefulness of this tool – it’s not in plain view as it was in previous software versions. It is, however, easier to use and can help us in so many ways. I like to use it in the Mill Preview so I can be absolutely certain that the full effects of my parameters are able to be viewed.

I use the Slice tool in three ways:

After designing my restoration, I like to examine the thickness of the restoration by scrolling through it. This helps me to fully evaluate my design and make sure I am thick enough in every area. It is so simple to correct a thin spot at this point.

Secondly, I use this tool from time to time to evaluate my preparations. There is nothing more humbling than seeing your work on the screen, very large. You can see if you are smooth enough and how your margins are prepared.  

Finally, I always use this tool if I have a fractured or de-bonded  restoration, to learn from my mistakes. That, I feel is the tool’s most powerful use. Use it to learn and get better.

There are some things that you can do to use this tool quickly and efficiently. From the sidebar, choose Analyzing Tools and you will see the option for Slice. The angle of the model is critical for you to get the proper view and therefore the proper information. I select from the Objects View option Either Mesial View or Buccal View. You can play around with this to get the information that you want.

By turning on both the upper and lower models and clicking Slice, you will get a view like this. Keep in mind that this is from the mesial aspect.

Note on the upper left, the visible icons allow you to scroll through the restoration. Here you can see the effect of your spacer and any over-milling you may experience. I will also turn on the cursor details to remind me of just how thin I am. As shown in the next screen shot.

This image shows where some over milling, combined with an already thin restoration, can give us a critically low spot. With the opposing arch in place, we can also see where we can add to create more harmony in the patient’s occlusion.

There is so much information available by using the Slice function. It’s one of those things that is not necessary to use every time, but it’s good to have knowledge of its use. Pull it out of your bag of tricks from time to time; it can help you to do your job even better.

Jeff, your blogs are always really good. Quality info for all types of users!!

I'm glad to see some attention paid to the slice tool. I really like using it on anterior cases. It's very useful to evaluate ceramic thickness on veneers and the lingual aspect of crowns.