CAD/CAM Dentistry (Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing in Dentistry) is an advanced area of dentistry that uses computer technology to help design and manufacture different types of dental restorations. We now utilize this technology to produce accurate crowns, veneers, inlays/onlays, bridges, dental implant restorations and orthodontic appliances.
The benefit of CAD/CAM technology is that it allows the practitioner the ability to produce esthetic, well-fitting prosthetic dental restorations on-site in a matter of hours.
The benefit of CAD/CAM technology is that it allows the practitioner the ability to produce esthetic, well-fitting prosthetic dental restorations on-site in a matter of hours.
Today's same day CAD/CAM restorations are better fitting, more durable and more natural looking (multi-colored and translucent, similar to natural teeth) than previous CAD/CAM restorations. They also are less likely to fracture than materials used in the past.
Same day dentistry provides treatment in a single dental appointment for certain conditions using in-office CAD/CAM technology. Patients can receive milled metal-free crowns, veneers, onlays and inlays while they wait if their dentist has either a CEREC (made by Sirona) or E4D Dentist System (made by D4D Technologies) in the dental office.
Not every tooth can be treated with a CAD/CAM restoration. Your dentist will determine if a CAD/CAM restoration is among the appropriate treatment options for your condition. Additionally, despite improvements in the esthetics of CAD/CAM materials, patients may find that some CAD/CAM restorations look too opaque and lack natural characterizations.
Depending on the type of restoration that's needed (such as veneers), your dentist may prefer conventional laboratory fabrication techniques for the high esthetic value. Therefore, patients must discuss their particular situation and desires with their dentist, who will make the final treatment decision based on a thorough examination.
