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CAD/CAM Digital Prosthetics

Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing of dental prostheses (crowns, bridges, full-arch restorations, implant-supported prostheses) using intraoral scanning, digital design software, and chairside or laboratory milling/3D printing for precision fit and aesthetic outcomes.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı department. Book Appointment →

What is CAD/CAM Digital Prosthetics?

CAD/CAM (computer-aided design / computer-aided manufacturing) digital prosthetics is a workflow that replaces conventional impressions, wax-ups, and lost-wax casting with digital scanning, virtual design, and computer-controlled milling or 3D printing. The workflow includes intraoral scanning (TRIOS, iTero, CEREC Primescan), digital impression conversion, virtual occlusal articulation, prosthesis design in CAD software, and material fabrication.

Materials used include zirconia (high-strength full-contour, layered, multilayer), lithium disilicate glass-ceramic (e.max), hybrid ceramics (Vita Enamic, Cerasmart), PMMA provisionals, and titanium for implant frameworks. Manufacturing methods include subtractive milling (5-axis CNC) for crowns and bridges, additive 3D printing (SLA, DLP) for surgical guides and provisional restorations, and selective laser melting for cobalt-chromium and titanium frameworks.

Advantages include single-visit chairside dentistry (CEREC), elimination of impression material errors, precise marginal fit (microns), digital archiving for future reference, predictable aesthetic outcomes through virtual smile design (DSD), and reduced laboratory turnaround time. Indications expanded to full-arch implant-supported prostheses (All-on-4/All-on-6), full-mouth rehabilitation, and complex maxillofacial prosthetics.

Symptoms

Need for crown, bridge, inlay, or onlay restoration
Replacement of failing existing dental prosthesis
Aesthetic concern requiring smile design
Implant-supported prosthesis requirement
Multiple missing teeth needing fixed restoration
Discomfort with conventional impression materials
Time-limited treatment goal (single-visit dentistry)

Risk Factors

Severely decayed or fractured tooth requiring full coverage
Periodontal disease with tooth loss
Bruxism or parafunctional habits (need durable materials)
Aesthetic dissatisfaction with existing restorations
Patient preference for digital workflow
Compromised manual dexterity for impression compliance
Edentulism requiring complete digital denture

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Tooth fracture or large restoration loss
  • Pain or sensitivity in restored tooth
  • Aesthetic concern (color, shape, alignment)
  • Loose or fractured existing prosthesis
  • Difficulty with conventional impressions
  • Implant placement requiring precise prosthetic planning
  • Multiple missing teeth limiting function or aesthetics

Treatment Methods

01
Intraoral scanning to capture digital impression (TRIOS, iTero, Primescan)
02
Digital design with CAD software (exocad, 3Shape, inLab)
03
Milling of zirconia, lithium disilicate, or hybrid ceramic crown
04
3D printing of surgical guide or provisional restoration
05
Same-visit chairside fabrication (CEREC) or laboratory milling
06
Digital smile design (DSD) for aesthetic case planning
07
All-on-4/6 full-arch implant-supported prosthesis fabrication

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.