CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing) technology is widely used in dentistry to improve the accuracy, efficiency, and speed of dental procedures.
In dentistry, CAD/CAM technology can be used to design and fabricate dental restorations, such as crowns, bridges, inlays, and onlays, and even full arch implant-supported bridges, as well as orthodontic appliances, such as clear aligners. The process starts with a digital scan of the patient’s teeth, which is then used to create a 3D model on a computer. The dentist can then use software to design the restoration or appliance, and the design is sent to a milling or printing machine to manufacture the final product.
Advantages of CAD/CAM in dentistry include:
Improved accuracy and precision: The computerized design and manufacturing process reduces the margin for error and results in a more precise and accurate fit.
Increased efficiency: With CAD/CAM, the time it takes to design and fabricate a restoration or appliance is significantly reduced compared to traditional methods, leading to fewer appointments and a faster turnaround time.
Enhanced esthetics: The technology allows dentists to create restorations that are highly esthetic and closely match the color, texture, and translucency of the surrounding teeth.
Reduced chair time: With CAD/CAM, the dentist can complete the entire process, including design and fabrication, in a single appointment, reducing the amount of time the patient spends in the dental chair.
Overall, CAD/CAM technology is transforming dentistry by enabling dentists to provide their patients with high-quality, precise, and efficient dental treatments.