CAD = Computer aided design
CAM = Computer aided manufacturing

CAD/CAM technology has been used in the manufacturing industry for many years. Today , CAD/CAM technology is used in dentistry to help dental lab technicians create precise shapes and sizes for dental restoration.
The goal is to offer more durable and better fitted single and multiple tooth restoration.

CAD/CAM technology allows dental lab technicians to design the anatomical features , size and shape of a tooth restoration on a computer. The CAD/CAM computer screen presents  a 3-D custom image of the teeth and gums from the patient so the technician can use a cursor to draw the precise design of the tooth restoration. Then, the computer develops the restoration through a milling chamber that cuts the tooth-like ceramic material into a precise replica of the drawing.

The Advantages of CAD/CAM Technology

One of the advantages of CAD/CAM technology is that, provided the CAD/CAM equipment is located in the dental lab.
Because CAD/CAM technology is highly precise, it may enhance the quality of the impression and complement the skill of your dentist or lab technician. But CAD/CAM technology cannot replace the dentist or dental lab technician, who must be accurate in creating the initial impression. For example, a high level of skill is crucial in fabricating and fitting crowns. An ill-fitted crown can leave space between the teeth, which may be problematic in two ways:

• Increased risk of infection or disease because debris may lodge in the open space.
• Increased risk of teeth shifting because of the open space.

Previously, it has been difficult to offer high levels of tooth restoration strength without using metals, such as in an amalgam dental filling or gold restoration. However, today's porcelain ceramics work very well in the milling chamber, providing strength, durability, and a high esthetic value. Furthermore, today's materials such as zirconium may be more "fracture resistant" than those of the past. Although CAD/CAM is an exciting technology, it is not necessarily applicable to all procedures requiring porcelain.