ISO 18618:2022

Overview - ISO 18618:2022 (Dentistry - Interoperability of CAD/CAM systems)

ISO 18618:2022 defines an XML-based interchange format (IDS) to enable reliable transfer of dental case data and CAD/CAM data between software systems. Published as the second edition in 2022, it updates the IDS XML schema and interoperability examples (including dental implants, removables, appliances and orthodontics) to reflect rapid software innovation in digital dentistry. The standard promotes open interoperability across dental practices, laboratories, manufacturers and service providers.

Key technical topics and requirements

• IDS XML schema and XSD (normative): Annex A contains the XML Schema Definition; the standard relies on W3C XML 1.0 and XSD 1.1 for schema validation.
• Document structure and transactions: IDS documents can contain transaction nodes for submissions, queries (DataQuery), updates, notifications and catalogs.
• Catalogs and core XML elements:
  • PatientCatalog, DentistCatalog, OrderCatalog, ProductCatalog, FileCatalog, CADDataCatalog, IDMapCatalog
  • CADDataCatalog supports inclusion or referencing of scans and design files.
• Identifiers and traceability:
  • Use of UUIDs (128-bit, 36-character string) for unique element keys and an IDMap for alternate identifiers.
  • File naming: files carrying IDS data shall use the .ids extension.
• Extensibility: ExtraInfo child nodes (e.g., <DentistExtraInfo>) allow implementers to embed proprietary XML without breaking schema validation.
• Tooth numbering, units and naming: Standard references (e.g., ISO 3950) govern tooth designation and measurement units.
• Security and storage:
  • Addresses importance of data privacy for data “at rest” and “in transit.”
  • Recommends using a ZIP container for transporting the IDS XML file and associated files (implementation-specific).
• Examples and validation: Annex B provides informative examples to assist testing and implementation.

Practical applications - who uses ISO 18618:2022

• Dental software vendors (intraoral scanners, CAD programs, lab management systems) to standardize data exchange.
• Dental laboratories and manufacturers to receive and process digital orders and CAD designs.
• Dental practices and clinicians (originators) to submit orders with traceability and delivery instructions.
• Brokers and service platforms that consolidate orders or route cases across providers. The standard reduces manual rework, speeds manufacturing workflows, and improves interoperability across multi-vendor CAD/CAM ecosystems.

Related standards and references

• ISO 1942 (vocabulary), ISO 3166-1 (country codes), ISO 3950 (tooth designation), ISO 16443 (implant vocabulary), ISO 18739 (CAD/CAM process chain)
• W3C XML 1.0 and W3C XML Schema Definition (XSD) 1.1

Keywords: ISO 18618:2022, dental CAD/CAM interoperability, IDS XML, XML schema, dental data exchange, UUID, CADDataCatalog, FileCatalog, digital dentistry.