Digital Dentistry: CAD/CAM, exocad, and Intraoral Scanners

Digital dentistry refers to the use of intraoral scanning, computer-aided design (CAD), and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technologies in the planning of dental treatments and the production of prosthetic restorations. Images captured with digital scanners, in place of conventional impression materials, stand out as a method that can affect both patient comfort and the speed of the workflow between the dentist and the laboratory. In recent years, the use of digital systems in dental clinics and laboratories has become increasingly widespread. This article summarizes the general workings of the CAD/CAM system through example software and hardware, and touches on commonly asked questions about the process.

How Does the CAD/CAM System Work?

The CAD/CAM workflow essentially consists of three stages: acquiring digital data (scanning), designing the restoration in a computer environment (CAD), and manufacturing the designed structure through milling or 3D printing (CAM). Through these three stages, restorations such as crowns, bridges, inlays/onlays, and, in some cases, full dentures can be designed and produced digitally. Compared to traditional methods, digitizing certain steps can also make it relatively easier to make changes at the design stage. In the milling stage, ceramic, composite, or zirconium blocks are generally used, while 3D printing tends to be preferred more for temporary restorations, surgical guides, and model production.

exocad can be cited as an example of the software used at the design stage; software of this kind allows dental technicians and dentists to plan the restoration design digitally. The scope of use, modules, and licensing terms of such software vary by manufacturer; which software a clinic or laboratory chooses to use is determined by its workflow needs.

What Are Intraoral Scanners Used For?

Intraoral scanners are devices used to capture digital images of teeth and soft tissues without the use of conventional impression material. There are numerous scanner models on the market from different manufacturers; the Medit i700 is one example of an intraoral scanner used in clinical practice. Digital impressions obtained with the scanner can be transferred directly into the CAD software to be included in the design process, or sent electronically to the dental laboratory.

For some patients, digital scanning can offer a more comfortable experience compared to conventional impression material, and it can allow the condition inside the mouth to be viewed on screen in real time; this can be seen as a factor that facilitates communication between the patient and the dentist. However, it is the treating dentist who decides whether a digital scanner is suitable for any given clinical situation.

The Impact of the Digital Workflow on Clinical and Laboratory Processes

The digital scanning and design process can also make it easier to share data between the dentist and the dental laboratory; files can be transmitted electronically to start the production process. In some cases, this can require fewer patient appointments and speed up communication. However, it would not be accurate to describe a standard process that applies to every case, since the systems used, the complexity of the case, and clinical needs can vary from patient to patient.

Digital archiving also stands out as another advantage of this workflow; a patient's digital impression and design data can be stored and used as a reference for future restorations or for comparison purposes during check-ups. This can be particularly useful in prosthetic treatments that require long-term follow-up.

General Information About Cost and System Selection

The cost of the software and hardware used in digital dentistry (such as design software like exocad or various intraoral scanner models) varies depending on the license type, hardware specifications, training and support services, and the supplier. For this reason, rather than providing a precise price, it is more appropriate for interested clinics and laboratories to contact the relevant manufacturer or distributor directly for up-to-date information.

Which combination of scanner and design software is suitable for a given clinic or laboratory can depend on many factors, such as patient volume, the existing workflow, staff familiarity with the software, and integration requirements. For this reason, system selection is usually finalized after trial periods and discussions with vendor companies.

Finding Clinics and Laboratories with Digital Infrastructure

When looking for a dental clinic or dental laboratory that uses digital dentistry technologies, the directory on Medikalfirma.com can be a useful starting point; you can search by city to access the contact information and service descriptions listed on company profiles. This makes it easier to compare clinics or laboratories with infrastructure suited to your needs.

Transitioning to a digital workflow can be a time-consuming process for clinics and laboratories; for this reason, learning in advance which digital systems a clinic or laboratory uses and its experience with them can help you understand what to expect during the treatment process.