Computer technologies CAD/CAM for creating the perfect crown

All processes involved in the fabrication of an individual orthopedic dental crown are closely interconnected. One link cannot exist without another. The modern approach to creating a high-quality, precise, and highly functional dental crown today is impossible to imagine without CAD/CAM technology.

CAD/CAM is a digital method that automates the process of creating dental restorations. Thanks to CAD/CAM technology, the design of the restoration is modeled in electronic format. Simply put, prosthetics using CAD/CAM technology is computer modeling of the future restoration and its production controlled by a computer.

The abbreviation CAD/CAM stands for:

CAD – Computer-Aided Design
CAM – Computer-Aided Manufacturing
The innovative CAD/CAM dental prosthetics system is actively used in the “Sa-Nata” clinic, more precisely — in our digital dental laboratory “Sa-Nata Dynasty.” The CAD/CAM system is based on the use of computer technologies for automated digital design, modeling, and production of various orthodontic structures such as crowns, bridges, veneers, as well as frameworks for removable and fixed dental prostheses.

One of the main advantages of the CAD/CAM system in dentistry is the elimination of human error, since the entire design and manufacturing process is controlled by a computer. This ensures a more precise and predictable result and reduces the risk of mistakes that can occur with traditional prosthetic methods.

In addition, the CAD/CAM system allows for more efficient use of materials, as it optimizes the cutting process and minimizes waste. It also ensures faster and more accurate fabrication of prostheses, reducing the time required to complete the prosthetic procedure.

Fabrication of an orthopedic crown using CAD/CAM technology:

Scanning of the oral cavity using the Primescan Dentsply Sirona intraoral scanner. The scanner captures information from the area of future prosthetic work and converts it into a digital model.
Project creation. Based on the obtained 3D digital model, the specialist studies the model on the computer, selects prosthetic options, adjusts the shape of the future crowns, their surface relief, and wall thickness. At this stage, it is possible to compare the initial and intermediate results and approve the project. This digital tooth model becomes the basis for designing the crown. Milling using the Sirona Inlab MC5 grinding unit. The created model is transferred to the milling machine, all settings and parameters are configured, and the machine processes the crown from a blank according to the specified parameters. The processing includes cutting, polishing, and grinding of the structure.
Sintering of the crown in a special furnace. The preliminary shape of the crown is placed in a specialized furnace, where it undergoes the sintering process. During heating, the material becomes denser and stronger, while also acquiring the desired optical properties such as color and translucency.

Final finishing. After creating the crown using CAD/CAM technologies, it undergoes final finishing to achieve the exact shape and shading that matches the patient’s natural tooth. This may include coloring, glazing, and polishing to achieve the most realistic appearance. Once this stage is completed, the finished crown is tried on and fixed in place.

For more details on the step-by-step process of creating an orthopedic crown, you can also read our separate article “Fabrication of an orthopedic crown.”

CAD/CAM technology in dentistry allows the creation of various types of crowns, including:

Temporary crowns. They are used as a temporary solution, for example, during the process of manufacturing permanent crowns. Temporary crowns can be made from provisional materials such as acrylic or composite using CAD/CAM technology. They are typically used to protect the tooth from damage and maintain aesthetics until the permanent crown is ready.
Permanent single crowns. Single crowns used to restore one tooth can be fabricated using CAD/CAM technology. The dentist designs the shape and dimensions of the crown on a computer using specialized software, after which the milling unit creates the crown from the selected dental material, such as ceramic or zirconia. Bridge crowns. Bridge crowns, used to replace one or several missing teeth, can also be made using CAD/CAM technology. The dentist designs the bridge structure on the computer, including the abutments and replacement teeth. The milling unit then fabricates the bridge from the selected dental material.
Telescopic crowns for removable partial dentures. Telescopic crowns used in removable partial dentures can also be produced with CAD/CAM technology. The dentist designs the crown on the computer, taking into account the specifics of the denture structure, and then it is milled from the appropriate dental material.

Advantages of a crown made using CAD/CAM technology:

High precision and detail. The use of CAD/CAM technology allows the creation of crowns with exceptional accuracy and detail. Computer modeling makes it possible to precisely define the shape, size, and contact points of the crown, ensuring a more accurate match to the patient’s tooth anatomy and bite.
More predictable manufacturing process. The use of CAD/CAM technology enables dentists to have greater control over the crown fabrication process. The software allows visualization and optimization of the crown design before production, reducing the likelihood of errors and discrepancies.

Speed and efficiency. Fabricating dental crowns using CAD/CAM technology can be a faster and more efficient process compared to traditional methods. Crowns can be produced by milling machines in a relatively short time, which reduces patient waiting time and simplifies the dentist’s workflow.
High quality and durability. Crowns made using CAD/CAM technology can provide excellent quality and longevity. The use of high-grade dental materials and precise milling ensures crowns with perfect fit and strength.

Aesthetic characteristics. CAD/CAM technology also allows dentists to achieve a high level of aesthetics in crowns. CAD software enables visualization and optimization of the aesthetic aspects of the crown, such as shape, color, and texture, resulting in a natural and attractive appearance.
Individualization. Individualization is one of the key advantages of dental crowns made with CAD/CAM technology. CAD software allows dentists to carefully design crowns taking into account the anatomical features of the patient’s tooth and bite, while also providing the ability to create crowns with personalized aesthetic characteristics. Using CAD/CAM technology, dentists can visualize and optimize the shape, dimensions, contact points, color, and texture of the crown so that it perfectly matches the anatomy and aesthetics of the patient’s other teeth.

Functionality. With CAD/CAM technology, it is also possible to create crowns that take into account the functional characteristics of the patient’s teeth, such as bite, occlusion, and articulation. This ensures an optimal fit and functional efficiency of the crown, which is an important factor for its long-term performance.

Digital dentistry has truly revolutionized the process of manufacturing dental prostheses. With the use of computer technology, the production process has become more precise, faster, and more convenient for patients.

One of the main advantages of digital dentistry is the ability to fabricate dental prostheses in a single day. Previously, patients had to wait several days or even weeks to receive their finished prosthetic structure. Now, thanks to automated processes, the dentist can take measurements and perform modeling during a single appointment, then send the data to the laboratory for fabrication. After that, the prosthesis can be placed on the same day, significantly reducing the patient’s waiting time.

Digital dentistry also enables more precise modeling of dental structures. Using computer technologies, the dentist can create a digital model of the dental restoration, which reduces the likelihood of errors and discrepancies. This also allows the patient to see a virtual image of their future prosthesis, helping them better visualize the result and make adjustments before the actual structure is produced.

Another important aspect of digital dentistry is the ability to use various materials, such as ceramics, titanium, zirconia, and others, for the fabrication of dental prostheses. This makes it possible to choose the most suitable material depending on the patient’s needs, providing greater flexibility and quality in the production of prosthetics.

However, despite all the advantages of digital dentistry, it is important to note that it is not a universal solution for every case and requires specific technical knowledge and equipment. Each case is individual, and the choice of method for creating dental restorations should be based on the professional assessment of the dentist and the patient’s specific needs.

In the network of “Sa-Nata” dental clinics, every detail is carefully thought out. What is especially important — we constantly improve our knowledge and keep up with global trends. Every step in our work with a patient is well-considered and precisely planned.

Our own digital dental laboratory “Sa-Nata Dynasty,” combined with the experience and expertise of our prosthodontists, the teamwork of our dental technicians, and the use of digital CAD/CAM technologies and innovative equipment, gives us a unique opportunity to fabricate orthopedic crowns, veneers, and other restorations perfectly suited to patients with diverse clinical situations and individual characteristics. “Sa-Nata” brand restorations are aesthetic, perfectly resemble natural teeth, and are incredibly strong and durable!

We wish each of you who dreams of a radiant smile to feel confident in the hands of true professionals!