Introduction

CAD/CAM Technology is transforming the way dental procedures are performed and stands for Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing. It refers to using digital technologies to design and fabricate dental restorations. 

With the increasing demand for efficient and high-quality dental care, the significance of CAD/CAM in dentistry cannot be overstated. By incorporating this cutting-edge technology into their clinical practice, dentists can improve the outcomes of their procedures and provide their patients with a more comfortable and stress-free experience. 

Whether you are a seasoned dental professional or just starting out, using CAD/CAM technology is an opportunity to enhance your practice digitally and stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving world of dentistry. Let’s take a brief look at various aspects of using CAD/CAM technology in dentistry!

Brief history of CAD/CAM technology in dentistry

CAD/CAM was introduced in dentistry over three decades ago in 1985. However, the technology used back then differed from what is used today. The first CAD/CAM machine in dentistry used triangular cameras to gain multidimensional measurements, and this information was transferred to a computer screen. With the help of a PC, the software for image processing and connections with a milling machine was made to get the first silicate inlay restoration at the University of Zurich.

Different components of a Dental CAD/CAM machine

A dental CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) system typically consists of the following components:

1. Scanner

This component captures the digital image of the dental model or preparation. It can be either an intraoral scanner, which takes a digital impression of the inside of the patient’s mouth or an extraoral scanner, which takes a digital impression of the outside of the patient’s oral cavity.

2. Design software

This component creates a virtual model of the patient’s teeth and the restoration. The software allows the dentist to design the restoration on the computer, using various tools to manipulate the restoration’s shape, size, and appearance.

3. Milling machine or 3D printer

This component fabricates the physical restoration from a block of dental material, such as ceramic, resin, or zirconia. The milling machine or 3D printer uses the digital design created in the design software to guide the cutting and shaping of the material.

4. Sintering furnace

In some cases, the restoration must be sintered (heated to high temperatures) to achieve the desired physical properties. The sintering furnace is used to perform this step in the fabrication process.

These components work together to create a seamless, efficient process for designing and fabricating dental restorations. 

• The dentist first captures a digital image of the patient’s teeth and designs the restoration using the design software. 
• The digital design is then sent to the milling machine or 3D printer, which fabricates the physical restoration. 
• In some cases, the restoration may need to be sintered to achieve the desired properties.

By using CAD/CAM dental technology, dentists can achieve greater accuracy, speed, and efficiency in their restorative dentistry procedures, resulting in better patient outcomes.

Different Types of CAD/CAM Machines used in Dentistry

There are three primary types of CAD/CAM systems available for use in dentistry:

1. Chairside CAD/CAM Systems

These compact, portable systems can be used in the dental office. They typically include a scanner, design software, and a milling machine or 3D printer. Chairside systems are often used for same-day restorations, such as crowns and veneers, and allow the dentist to fabricate the restoration in a single visit.

2. Laboratory CAD/CAM Systems

These are larger systems used in dental laboratories to fabricate restorations for dentists. Laboratory systems typically include a scanner, design software, a milling machine or 3D printer, and equipment such as sintering furnaces. Laboratory systems are used to fabricate more complex restorations, such as implant-supported crowns and bridges.

3. Hybrid CAD/CAM systems

These systems combine the benefits of chairside and laboratory systems, allowing for both in-office and laboratory fabrication of restorations. Hybrid systems typically include a scanner and design software and the ability to send digital designs to an external milling machine or 3D printer.

Applications of CAD/CAM in Clinical Practice

The applications of CAD/CAM systems in dentistry include:

1. Crowns and bridges: CAD/CAM technology can design and fabricate crowns and bridges customised to the patient’s unique needs.
2. Implants: CAD/CAM technology can design and fabricate implant abutments and crowns, resulting in more precise and accurate restorations.
3. Inlays and onlays: CAD/CAM technology can be used to design and fabricate inlays and onlays, which are used to restore decayed or damaged teeth.
4. Veneers: CAD/CAM technology can be used to design and fabricate veneers, which are used to improve the appearance of teeth.
5. Orthodontic appliances: CAD/CAM technology can be used to design and fabricate orthodontic appliances, such as clear aligners, that are customised to the patient’s needs.

Benefits of CAD/CAM in Dental Practice

The use of CAD/CAM in dentistry offers several benefits for dentists and their clinical practice. Some of these include:

1. Increased accuracy

CAD/CAM technology allows for the precise design and fabrication of dental restorations, resulting in a more accurate fit and greater restoration longevity.

2. Improved efficiency 

By using CAD/CAM technology, dentists can streamline their restorative dentistry procedures, reducing the number of appointments required and reducing the amount of time required to complete a restoration.

3. Enhanced aesthetics

CAD/CAM technology allows for greater control over the appearance of dental restorations, resulting in more natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing results.

4. Reduced stress on patients

CAD/CAM in dentistry allows for same-day restorations, reducing the need for multiple appointments and patient stress.

5. Shorter treatment times

By using CAD/CAM technology, dentists can streamline their restorative dentistry procedures, reducing the number of appointments required and the time required to complete a restoration.

6.  Increased profitability

By using CAD/CAM technology, dentists can increase their productivity and efficiency, resulting in increased profitability for their practice.

7. Increased comfort

CAD/CAM technology often results in restorations that fit better and are more comfortable for patients, reducing the likelihood of complications such as gum irritation or tooth sensitivity.

Challenges of CAD/CAM in Dental Practice

Despite the many pros of CAD/CAM in dentistry, it has its own challenges and drawbacks:

1. High investment cost

CAD/CAM systems are expensive, requiring a significant investment for dental practices.

2. Complex technology

CAD/CAM technology can be complex and challenging to master, requiring specialised training for dentists and their staff.

3. Limited materials options

While CAD/CAM technology has improved over the years, the options for dental materials that can be used with CAD/CAM systems still need to be improved, resulting in limitations on the types of restorations that can be fabricated.

4. Maintenance requirements

CAD/CAM systems require regular maintenance to ensure proper functioning and longevity, adding to the ongoing costs of using CAD/CAM technology.

Conclusion

CAD/CAM technology is revolutionising the field of dentistry and has the potential to significantly improve the accuracy, efficiency, and aesthetics of restorative dental procedures. Despite the challenges of adopting this technology, the benefits for dentists and patients are numerous.

As dentistry continues to evolve, dentists need to stay informed of the latest advancements and embrace technology that can improve the quality of care they provide. By incorporating CAD/CAM technology into their practices, dentists can improve their productivity, increase patient satisfaction, and ensure that their patients receive the best possible dental care.  

References

• The application of CAD / CAM technology in Dentistry – iopscience. (n.d.). Retrieved February 13, 2023, from https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1757-899X/200/1/012020 
• AlRashdi, A., Mutairi, F., Aldubaikhi, A., Zaylaee, L., Alharbi, A., & Mossa, H. (2020). Dental CAD/CAM: A brief review. International Journal of Medicine in Developing Countries, 1975–1979. https://doi.org/10.24911/ijmdc.51-1598178821 
•  Natalie Asmussen, C., Contributors: Natalie AsmussenNatalie used to work as a Community Health Worker and Health Insurance Navigator. She continues to follow her passion for connecting people with the healthcare they need by writing informative content about dentistry and medi, Contributors: Natalie AsmussenNatalie used to work as a Community Health Worker and Health Insurance Navigator. She continues to follow her passion for connecting people with the healthcare they need by writing informative content about dentistry and medicine., Asmussen, N., Medically reviewed by: , by:, M. reviewed, Dr. Rhonda Kalasho , & Kalasho, D. R. (2023, January 27). CAD/CAM dentistry for restorative dentistry and Orthodontics. Dentaly.org. Retrieved February 13, 2023, from https://www.dentaly.org/us/restorative-dentistry/cad-cam-dentistry/ 
• Susic, I., Travar, M., & Susic, M. (2017). The application of CAD / CAM technology in Dentistry. IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 200, 012020. https://doi.org/10.1088/1757-899x/200/1/012020 
• Beuer, F., Schweiger, J., & Edelhoff, D. (2008). Digital Dentistry: An overview of recent developments for CAD/CAM generated restorations. British Dental Journal, 204(9), 505–511. https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2008.350 
• Advantages and disadvantages of CAD and cam in dentistry. Bartleby. (n.d.). Retrieved February 13, 2023, from https://www.bartleby.com/essay/Advantages-And-Disadvantages-Of-CAD-And-CAM-PC6JA42MM26 

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