Digital transition: the collaboration between dentists and laboratory technicians on CAD/CAM restorations.

BACKGROUND

Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) systems, especially digital impression systems, are connecting dental offices and dental laboratories, resulting in enhanced communication and restorative processes.

METHODS

The authors present a case report in which they feature the combined use of in-office and laboratory CAD/CAM technologies that include making full-arch maxillary and mandibular digital impressions, filling out a digital laboratory prescription, digitally submitting the case to the laboratory, fabricating digital models and designing and fabricating restorations in the laboratory.

RESULTS

The authors enhanced the smile of a 63-year-old woman who was concerned about the appearance of her existing dental restorations and her overall smile by using milled CAD/CAM all-ceramic polylithic restorations.

CONCLUSIONS

Digital restorative dentistry has matured. Although it previously was limited to the chairside single-visit treatment concept, it now can be applied to almost any restorative situation, including full-mouth rehabilitation.