CDEN0109

I 27 industry report _ CAD/CAM I cosmeticdentistry 1_2009 Theimpetusforthisdevelopmentindentaltech- nology stems from two sources. The first was pro- tagonistsofcomputerisedchairsiderestorationde- siring to process an industrially fabricated ceramic with defined physical properties directly at the treatment unit (chairside) and provide the patient with the definitive restoration (omitting tempo- raries)inoneappointment.Thesecondwastheidea of employing oxide ceramics, like ZrO2, for crown- and bridge frameworks, by using CAD/CAM tech- nology or digitally controlled milling techniques. Other ceramics, such as lithium disilicate, also exhibit better properties after mechanical process- ing, as the blanks used are industrially manufac- tured under optimal conditions. In addition, the technologyofCAD/CAMsystemshasbeensubstan- tially improved. In the 1990s, computers became more powerful and measurement methods more effective, making it possible to adapt 3-D data acquisition systems to the needs of dentistry and simplify equipment handling. The evolution of CAD software enabled the development of a variety of construction possibilities and improved the quality ofgrinding/millingunits(Fig.2).Cost-effectiveness and high-quality restorations are the defining characteristics of CAD/CAM technology. Dentist anddentaltechnicianalikeprofitfromthisthrough standardised and controlled treatment and manu- facturing processes—and so does the patient. To- day, approximately 82 per cent of all-ceramic restorations in Germany are made using computer technology, which indicates that CAD/CAM tech- nology is establishing itself in dental offices and laboratories. The next step in its evolution is now anticipated. _Where do we stand today? New methods constantly change customary processes, and advancements simplify the work- flow. This is reflected in the increased mention of constructionmodels,articulationonaWindowsin- terface, biogeneric occlusal surface design using intelligent software, rapid prototyping, and 3-D printing in the context of CAD/CAM in scientific Fig.1_Virtualautomaticreconstruction: thescandataoftheantagonist, thefunctionalmovement,theadjacent teeth,andthepreparationcanbetaken intoconsiderationintheirentiretyto designanocclusalsurfacethatfits accordingtoallrequirements. (Image:Mehl) Fig.2_CADconstructionofawide- spanningZrO2 bridgeframework. Thesystemexaminestheconnectors forminimumthicknessandload- bearingcapacity. (Image:Mehl) Fig.3_Individualintra-oralimagesare anatomicallycorrect,astheyare compiledinavirtualquadrantmodel. (Photo:Sirona) Fig.4_Theintra-oralcamerascanner enablesanopticalimpressionofthe entiremaxillaormandible,leadingthe wayfortheimpression-freepractice. (Image:Wiedhahn) Fig. 1 Fig. 3 Fig. 4 Fig. 2