CAD/CAM Technology: How Dental Restorations Are Designed and Manufactured

CAD/CAM technology has changed the way certain dental restorations are designed and manufactured. By combining digital software with specialized equipment, dental professionals can create customized restorations that help restore the shape, function, and appearance of selected teeth.

At Dental Global, this technology is one of the resources used to support certain restorative treatments, following an evaluation of each patient’s needs.

What Does CAD/CAM Mean in Dentistry?

CAD/CAM stands for Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing.

In dentistry, the system allows a restoration to be designed digitally and produced using specialized equipment. It is commonly used to manufacture certain dental crowns and other restorations when clinically indicated.

How Does the CAD/CAM Process Work?

Although the process may vary depending on the case, it generally involves several steps:

1. Dental examination. The dentist evaluates the tooth and determines whether a restoration is needed and which option is appropriate.

2. Tooth preparation and digital records. When indicated, the tooth is prepared and the required information is captured using a scanner or another suitable recording method.

3. Digital design. The restoration is designed using specialized software, taking into account the tooth’s shape and its relationship with neighboring teeth.

4. Manufacturing. Specialized equipment creates the restoration based on the digital design and selected material.

5. Fitting and placement. The dentist checks the fit and bite before permanently placing the restoration.

The exact sequence depends on the type of restoration and the patient’s clinical condition.

Which Restorations Can Be Made With CAD/CAM?

One of the best-known applications is the production of certain dental crowns. Crowns may be recommended when a tooth is weakened, has lost a significant amount of structure, or needs protection following certain treatments.

The ability to manufacture other restorations depends on the system, the material, and the clinical indication. Not every cosmetic treatment or dental restoration is necessarily made using CAD/CAM.

What Are the Benefits of CAD/CAM Technology?

• Customized design: the restoration is created to suit the tooth’s characteristics and the patient’s needs.
• Greater control over design: digital planning allows the shape of the restoration to be carefully developed.
• Integrated design and manufacturing: both stages are coordinated within one workflow.
• Potentially shorter waiting times: in selected cases, a restoration may be designed and manufactured more quickly.
• Organized treatment planning: digital information supports coordination between clinical and manufacturing stages.

The benefits depend on the case, the equipment available, and the conditions required to complete treatment.

Can a CAD/CAM Crown Be Ready on the Same Day?

In selected cases, yes. When the examination, tooth preparation, design, manufacturing, and clinical checks can all be completed in one visit, a restoration may be placed within a shorter timeframe.

However, not every patient is suitable for this workflow. Preliminary treatment, gum care, cavity treatment, or a healing period may be necessary. The dentist will determine the appropriate timeline for each case.

Do CAD/CAM Restorations Last Forever?

No. Although a properly indicated and maintained restoration can last for many years, its lifespan depends on the material, bite, patient habits, oral hygiene, and regular dental checkups.

To protect a restoration, brush properly, clean between your teeth, avoid using your teeth to open objects, and attend recommended dental visits. If you grind your teeth, ask your dentist about suitable protective measures.

Digital Restorations at Dental Global

At Dental Global, a Specialized Dental Center in Santo Domingo, we use CAD/CAM technology to manufacture selected dental restorations. Our team evaluates each case to determine whether this option is appropriate and explains the procedure, expected timeline, and necessary care.

Technology is an important tool, but treatment success also depends on a proper examination, the right clinical indication, and professional follow-up.

Schedule an evaluation to learn about the options available to restore the function and appearance of your teeth.

Dental Global, a Specialized Dental Center in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

📞 809-740-0112
🌐 www.dentalglobal.com.do
📍 Plaza Luperón, First Floor, Local 16, Av. Independencia, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic