We're going digital: the current state of CAD/CAM dentistry in prosthodontics

Abstract

This paper reviews the current state of computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) in dentistry, with a special focus on restorative dental applications. The potential, advantages, and limitations of the technology will be discussed, comparing the digital workflow to conventional techniques, based on contemporary clinical evidence. The technology does seem to offer a more streamlined and efficient means of treatment planning and delivery of care through reduced chairside time, with reported improved patient satisfaction. Nonetheless, the accuracy and treatment outcomes of CAD/CAM treatment modalities are inconsistent and do not support a superior performance to existing conventional techniques, rather a comparable one.