Straumann Markings Explained: Roxolid, SLA, SLActive, Loxim, BLX, TLX, synOcta for CAD Library Selection
Straumann is one of the most widely used implant systems worldwide, yet its markings often confuse even experienced technicians. Roxolid and SLActive refer to material and surface, BLX and TLX are implant lines, while synOcta and Loxim describe connections and delivery mechanisms. A single misread term can lead to the wrong CAD library and a remake.
Below is a structured breakdown that will help you correctly select scan body, abutment and analog libraries in exocad, 3Shape Dental System or DentalCAD.
Roxolid — implant material
Roxolid is Straumann's proprietary titanium-zirconium alloy (approx. 85% Ti, 15% Zr). It is mechanically stronger than commercially pure Grade IV titanium, allowing reduced-diameter implants without compromising strength. The material itself does not affect CAD library choice — connection geometry depends on the line (BL, BLT, BLX, TLX). However, Roxolid often pairs with narrow platforms (e.g. Ø 3.3 mm), so always verify the platform diameter.
SLA and SLActive — implant surfaces
SLA (Sandblasted, Large grit, Acid-etched) is Straumann's classic surface from the late 1990s. SLActive is its hydrophilic version, accelerating osseointegration to 3–4 weeks instead of 6–8.
For CAD work these markings are irrelevant: surface treatment does not change connection geometry. Don't confuse SLA surface with SLA 3D printing, and don't look for a separate "SLActive library" — it does not exist.
BLX and TLX — modern implant lines
BLX (Bone Level X), launched in 2019, features the TorcFit conical connection and apically aggressive thread design for immediate placement. Platforms: 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, 5.5, 6.5 mm. CAD libraries for BLX are separate from classic BL/BLT — the connection is different.
TLX (Tissue Level X) is the tissue-level counterpart introduced in 2020. It uses the same TorcFit connection but with a built-in gingival collar of different height and shape. BLX and TLX are not interchangeable — abutments and scan bodies differ.
Loxim — transfer retention, not a connection
Loxim is an integrated retention feature on BLX/TLX implants and transfer pieces that allows the implant to be placed without a separate carrier screw. Beginners often search for a "Loxim library", but it is a delivery mechanism, not a connection type. For CAD purposes only the line matters — BLX or TLX — and the corresponding TorcFit library is selected.
synOcta — connection for Tissue Level and Standard Plus
synOcta is the internal octagon connection used on Straumann's classic tissue-level implants (Standard, Standard Plus, Tissue Level) with RN (Regular Neck, Ø 4.8 mm) and WN (Wide Neck, Ø 6.5 mm) platforms. Introduced in 1999, it remains widely used today.
In CAD libraries synOcta abutments are labelled by neck platform (RN/WN), not by implant body diameter. This is a common pitfall: a Ø 4.1 mm implant may have an RN neck — you must pick RN synOcta, not "4.1".
How to avoid mistakes when choosing a CAD library
Verification workflow: 1) identify the line (BL, BLT, BLX, TLX, Standard Plus, Tissue Level); 2) confirm the platform/neck (NC, RC, NN, RN, WN or TorcFit diameter); 3) match the scan body manufacturer — original Straumann CARES or compatible (Medentika, NT-Trading, Createch). Material (Roxolid/Titanium) and surface (SLA/SLActive) have no impact on library selection.
If a required library is missing or won't load in exocad or 3Shape, or if you need help installing any version of CAD software and connecting Straumann libraries — message us on Telegram or WhatsApp and we'll sort it out quickly.