What Is CAD/CAM Technology in Dentistry?

CAD/CAM technology in dentistry is a computer-aided design and manufacturing method. Abbreviated from the term Computer Aided Design / Computer Aided Manufacturing, this technology is widely used in the dental field in Vietnam.

The CAD/CAM process in dentistry

The CAD/CAM process in dentistry includes the following steps:

1. Information collection: By transferring information about the tooth surface, jawbone relationship, and bite alignment into the computer, the technician can begin the design process.
2. Virtual design on the computer: Through design software, the technician creates a “virtual” model of the ceramic restoration. This process replaces the traditional use of wax models.
3. Ceramic tooth fabrication: From the designed “virtual” model, the technician uses manufacturing machinery to create an actual ceramic restoration. This process ensures that the restoration matches the designed model precisely.

Advantages of CAD/CAM technology in dentistry

CAD/CAM technology in dentistry offers several significant advantages:

1. Precision: The precision of CAD/CAM technology is evident from the design process to the fabrication of ceramic teeth. The ceramic tooth margins fit more accurately, creating a natural and lifelike restoration.
2. Reduces tooth decay: The tight fit between the ceramic tooth and the tooth stub helps reduce the risk of decay.
3. Reduces tooth movement: Ceramic teeth made using CAD/CAM technology help prevent tooth movement and reduce food accumulation.
4. Increases restoration longevity: CAD/CAM technology helps prevent gum recession and increases the lifespan of the restoration.
5. Saves time and costs: The CAD/CAM design and manufacturing process saves time and treatment costs for patients. Additionally, concerns about remaking ceramic teeth are minimized.

The CAD/CAM process at Viet Dental Lab

Viet Dental Lab is a lab that utilizes modern CAD/CAM technology in the ceramic restoration process. This process includes the following steps:

1. Restoration preparation: Includes pre-treatment imaging, tooth measurement, and creating a replica of the tooth using plaster casts or digital scanners.
2. Ceramic tooth design and fabrication: The technician uses a 3D scanner to scan the tooth model and create a virtual design on the computer. Then, the manufacturing machinery produces a precise ceramic restoration based on this design.
3. Inspection and adjustment: After the ceramic restoration is fabricated, the technician inspects and adjusts it to ensure it meets the patient’s requirements.
4. Installation: Finally, the ceramic restoration is installed onto the patient’s real tooth, ensuring a perfect fit and function.

With CAD/CAM technology in dentistry, the design and manufacturing of ceramic teeth become precise, fast, and time-saving for both technicians and patients. Additionally, restorations from this technology provide excellent aesthetic results and long-lasting durability.