Dental CAD/CAM: What You Need to Know

Vitality Technologies • July 12, 2022

Dental CAD/CAM technology has revolutionized the dental industry. This technology allows dentists and digital dental laboratories to create dental prosthetics and other dental appliances using a computer. In this CAD/CAM article, we will discuss what dental CAD/CAM is, how it works, and the benefits of using this technology in dentistry!


What is Dental CAD/CAM


Dental CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing) is an ever-evolving technology that is revolutionizing the dental industry. With CAD/CAM, dentists and dental labs can create customized, precision dental crowns, inlays, and onlays quickly and accurately. The CAD/CAM process begins with a digital scan of the patient's mouth, which is used to create a high resolution 3D model of the teeth. This model is then used to design the restoration, which is then milled from a block of dental ceramic. The finished restoration is then polished and fitted to the patient's tooth. CAD/CAM provides numerous benefits for both dentists and patients. For dentists, it provides accuracy and fast turnaround times, and for patients, it means fewer visits to the dentist and fewer temporary crowns. Lets dive into some of the primary benefits of CAD/CAM technology:


The primary benefits of CAD/CAM technology in dentistry:

  • Digital Impressions remove the need for traditional impressions
  • Fast Turn-Around Times
  • Accuracy
  • Cost-Effective


Let's take a look at each of these benefits in more detail:


Digital Impressions

One of the most beneficial advantages of CAD/CAM technology is that it eliminates the need for traditional dental impressions. Digital impressions are taken using a special intraoral scanner, which captures a high-resolution digital image of the teeth and gums. This digital dental image is then used to create a precise three-dimensional model of the mouth, which can be used to design the restoration. This means that the entire process is much more accurate and efficient, and there is no need for messy dental impressions!


Fast Turn-Around Times

Another big advantage of CAD/CAM technology is that it drastically reduces turnaround times. With traditional methods, patients would have to wait weeks or even months to receive their dental restoration. However, with CAD/CAM, the digital impression can be sent instantly to a dental lab that can immediately start to create the dental product! This is a huge benefit for both dentists and patients.


Accuracy

Another advantage of CAD/CAM technology is that it is much more accurate than traditional methods. With traditional methods, there is always the potential for errors during the dental impression process. However, with CAD/CAM technology, the digital image is used to create a precise three-dimensional model of the mouth, which means that there is no room for error! This is a huge benefit for both dentists and patients.


Cost-Effective

Finally, CAD/CAM technology is also much more cost-effective than traditional methods. This is because the entire process is much faster and more efficient, which means that dental labs can produce more restorations in a shorter amount of time. This also means that dentists can see more patients in a day, which leads to increased revenue!


What types of Dental products can be created using CAD/CAM technology?


CAD/CAM technology can be used to create a wide variety of dental products, including:

  • Dental Crowns
  • Inlays and Onlays
  • Veneers
  • Dental Bridges
  • Dentures
  • Full Crowns
  • Dental Implants


Conclusion


CAD/CAM technology is changing the dental industry, and it is clear that there are many advantages to using this technology. If you are a dental professional or a patient, we hope that this blog post has given you a better understanding of what CAD/CAM is and how it can benefit you!


About Vitality Technologies Dental Laboratory


At Vitality Technologies Dental Lab, we are always keeping up with the latest advances in dental technology. Our state-of-the-art dental lab facility in West Springfield, MA is equipped with the latest CAD/CAM technology, and our skilled technicians are experts in creating beautiful, natural-looking dental restorations. If you are looking for a high-quality, affordable dental lab, we would be happy to provide you with a free quote! Contact Vitality Technologies online or call our office today!



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