Question 1

What is CAD in CAD/CAM Dentistry?

Accepted Answer

In CAD/CAM Dentistry, CAD stands for Computer-Aided Design. This refers to the use of specialized software to create precise 3D digital models of dental restorations, such as crowns, bridges, veneers, inlays, or onlays. Dentists or lab technicians use CAD software to design the optimal shape, size, and fit of the restoration based on digital impressions (scans) of the patient's teeth and oral cavity. This digital blueprint serves as the foundation for the subsequent manufacturing process.

Question 2

What is CAM in CAD/CAM Dentistry?

Accepted Answer

In CAD/CAM Dentistry, CAM stands for Computer-Aided Manufacturing. This is the stage where the digital design created in CAD software is translated into instructions for a physical milling machine. CAM software generates specific toolpaths and machining strategies (often called G-code) that guide the automated cutting tools of a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) mill. These instructions tell the machine how to precisely cut and shape a dental restoration from a block of restorative material, ensuring the final product matches the digital design with high accuracy.

Question 3

What is Milling in CAD/CAM Dentistry?

Accepted Answer

In CAD/CAM Dentistry, milling refers to the subtractive manufacturing process carried out by a specialized CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine. Once the dental restoration is designed in CAD and programmed in CAM, the milling machine takes a solid block of restorative material (like zirconia, ceramic, or composite) and precisely carves away excess material. A rotating cutting tool removes tiny layers of the block, guided by the CAM software's instructions, until the exact shape and contours of the designed restoration are achieved. This automated process ensures high precision and consistency.

Question 4

What is CAD/CAM Milling in Dentistry?

Accepted Answer

CAD/CAM Milling in Dentistry is an advanced digital workflow that integrates Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) with automated milling to produce dental restorations. It begins with digitally scanning a patient's mouth to create a 3D model (CAD). This model is then used to design the desired restoration digitally. Next, CAM software generates precise instructions for a CNC milling machine, which carves the restoration from a block of material. This entire process allows for the creation of highly accurate, custom-fit, and aesthetically pleasing dental prosthetics like crowns, bridges, veneers, and inlays/onlays, often in a shorter timeframe than traditional methods.

CAD/CAM Milling

Revolutionizing Restorations with CAD/CAM Precision.

Seamless, natural-looking restorations designed for precision and beauty.