CAD/CAM dentistry is becoming more and more popular among dental professionals. CEREC, iTero, E4D, PlanScan, and True Definition: Odds are you've heard about at least one of these systems.

In CAD/CAM dentistry (Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing) the operator captures a digital scan of a patient's tooth, then sends the image to a milling machine and mills a restoration, often in a single visit.

Whether you're wondering what all the excitement is about, or considering adding a CAD/CAM unit to your office, we've put together a list of 10 benefits that this technology can bring to your practice.

 

1. User-Friendly Operation

The majority of CAD/CAM products include software that gently guides the operator through the acquisition and milling process.

For example, Dentsply Sirona explains that the CEREC Omnicam offers user training, and also creates a proposal for the restoration that often requires no modifications at all.

CAD/CAM solutions are designed to be user-friendly and fit easily into any practice.

2. Single-Visit Treatment

Instead of the 2-3 weeks required for traditional impressions, CAD/CAM dentistry gives you the option to complete the process in a single visit. Doctors who own both a scanner and mill can begin processing the restoration immediately.

Dentists love being able to satisfy their clients this way, especially when positive buzz is so important for a dental practice's success.

3. Digital Impressions

CAD/CAM dentistry employs digital scans of a patient's tooth, so impression material and trays aren't required. This means patients avoid the discomfort of traditional impressions, and they don't have to wait as long for the tooth image to be acquired.

4. Increased Revenue

Did you know that, according to Dentsply Sirona, 50% of dental patients are willing to pay more for CAD/CAM restorations? Bottom line: Investing in this technology is likely to pay off in the long run.

5. Accelerated Practice Growth

Dentsply Sirona also reports that 2 out of 3 dental patients are willing to change their dentist in order to receive CAD/CAM restorations. Doctors looking for a way to stand out from the crowded dental market don't need to look any further than CAD/CAM solutions.

Related: CEREC Omnicam vs. Bluecam

Related: Patterson Service Club and Your Used CEREC

6. No Patient Surprises

This is a variation on our company value of "No Buyer Surprises," but in relation to your patients.

CAD/CAM dentistry allows you to easily control and predict how the final restoration will turn out. This means a restoration is less likely to require a correction. No unpleasant surprises for you or your patients.

7. Improved Patient Safety

Because CAD/CAM technology uses sculpted porcelain, it avoids the use of metal amalgam. This greatly reduces your patients' exposure to trace levels of mercury.

8. Natural Restoration Shades

Restorations produced using CAD/CAM provide shades that are closer to a patient's natural enamel. Patients will love the look, and they're more likely to recommend your services to others.

9. Longer-Lasting Restorations

The quality of restorations produced using CAD/CAM technology is superior to traditional methods. This means more durable, longer-lasting restorations for dental patients. As one dentist pointed out in an interview with Ivoclar Vivadent, even if a restoration needs to be fixed at some point, a replacement restoration can be accessed from a doctor's database and recreated in 15-20 minutes.

10. Greater Treatment Appreciation

The final advantage isn't the most obvious, but may be the most magical and the most important. The Ivoclar Vivadent interview (mentioned above) points out that patients will likely appreciate their restorations even more when they're able to see the entire amazing process in action. Instead of the unpleasant, boring ordeal of traditional impressions, their time in the dental chair becomes an exciting and educating experience.

One final tip from Ivoclar Vivadent: Keep your milling machine visible to patients during the milling process, and you'll send their enthusiasm for CAD/CAM dentistry skyrocketing.

Spread the Word

Get the most out of this technology by letting your patients know! We've got a quick rundown of 4 ways to market your CAD/CAM system here.

For more information about choosing a CAD/CAM dentistry system, use our Used CAD/CAM Dentistry Buyer's Guide.