Get to Know CAD/CAM Dentistry

CAD/CAM dentistry is a branch of dentistry and prosthodontics where computer aided design and computer aided manufacturing is used to get better design to create better dental restoration - dental prosthesis, crows and so on.

CAD/CAM technology is useful for dentists and for laboratories in produced milled ceramic crows, onlays, inlays, veneers, and bridges. This technology finds application in fabricating dental implant abutments, which are meant to replace missing tooth/teeth.

Over the past few years, CAD/CAM technology has become more modern and this has made more convenient for individual looking for restorative dentistry. Today, restorative dental aids made with this technology look aesthetically good and long lasting.

How is it done?

CAD/CAM technology used in dentistry enables the professionals (dentists, CAD/CAM technicians, etc.) to design the required dental restoration on a computer. The computer shows a 3-d for a custom-made image of the desired tooth/teeth that is going to be given to the user. Or, it is done by scanning the images of the preparation with an optical scanner.

The dentist/laboratory technician uses the 3-d image thus obtained and CAD software to get the final design of the restoration. How long the technician takes to design restoration varies according to the quality of the professional and complexity of the dental condition.  In some cases the time is just a few minutes whereas in others it may take longer half an hour or longer.

When the final design is ready, the restoration (the inlay, veneer, crown, bridge) is milled out of a single piece of ceramic in a machine.

For whom?

CAD/CAM dentistry is not for all. The dentist determines your suitability to undergo the process. Some people may not like to undergo this process because the ceramic material may match with the face of the individual.

According to the type of restoration the patient requires the dentist may suggest traditional fabrication techniques which are known for lasting longer. The individual should discuss the matter with the dentist.

Beneficial effects

Modern CAD/CAM restoration last longer and are more facture resistant.

It is less time consuming. You can get it done the same day.

There is no need of traditional impression. If it is done in the dentist’s office, no temporary restoration or traditional impression is required. No need of second appointment. Local anesthesia is applied.

The dentist will have 100% influential in making the CAD/CAM successful or a failure. This is because, the inlay, crown, veneer- everything is designed by the dentist himself/herself. On the other hand, a laboratory made crown is done as per the technicians who get it from models of plaster of Paris and have had not seen the patient. Thus, you will get the more accurate restorative when you go for CAD/CAM dentistry.

Choose a reputable dentist in your city. Make a little research and take the help of word of mouth. Check with past clients, you can estimate how good the dentist’s services are.