CAD/CAM are terms that refer to computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) of workpieces. In dental technology, the terms CAD and CAM are used together to describe the manufacturing method for dental prostheses, crowns, bridges, or surgical guides and the equipment used for this purpose.
CAD/CAM are terms that refer to computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) of workpieces.
In dental technology, the terms CAD and CAM are used together to describe the manufacturing method for dental prostheses, crowns, bridges, or surgical guides and the equipment used for this purpose.
The CAD/CAM workflow essentially consists of three phases: data acquisition (CAI), data processing (CAD), and manufacturing (CAM). In the first phase, data acquisition (CAI), the oral situation is captured and digitized. This is done either with an intraoral scanner or indirectly through a model scanner. The model scanner digitizes plaster models created using traditional impression methods, bringing them into the digital world. Additionally, a 3D X-ray machine (CBCT) can complement the digital dataset with bone structures, enabling implant planning and temporomandibular joint diagnostics.
In the second phase, data processing (CAD), optimized computers and specialized software are required for displaying and processing digital works. Using the software, treatment planning is carried out based on the digital data, and implants, dental prostheses, or aligners are designed. For dental prostheses, templates for implants, abutments, or teeth can be selected and customized from the software’s own database. This digital dental prosthesis can be placed directly in the virtual dentition, and its function can be simulated within the software.
If the dental prosthesis fits aesthetically and functionally, the dataset can be exported and sent to the third phase, manufacturing (CAM).
In CAM, there are both additive and subtractive manufacturing processes. Additive manufacturing includes various 3D printing methods, which are suitable for producing models, occlusal splints, and plastic or metal templates.
In dental technology, DLP, SLA, and SLM printers are most commonly used. Subtractive manufacturing includes milling and grinding machines for chairside or labside production.
Different materials like ceramics, lithium disilicate, plastics, or titanium are milled or ground from blocks and blanks to create the desired medical product. Unlike the commonly used 3-axis machines, Dental Mathi’s laboratory uses a 5-axis simultaneous machine capable of high-precision dry and wet grinding. This allows for undercuts and the production of challenging geometries such as removable partial dentures and bridges.
The machine is regularly calibrated with test specimens to ensure the highest possible accuracy.
Dental Mathi’s milling technology offers many advantages, including a unique variety of materials such as translucent and opaque zirconia, various metals, plastics, and special ceramics. With various milling systems and strategies, the team achieves precise accuracy with exceptional precision. The range of services offered includes single crowns and bridge frameworks, telescopic crowns, and complex superstructures, including extensive restorations with up to 16 units.
