Controlling the occlusion of single restorations with CAD/CAM technology

Computer-assisted design, computer-assisted machining (CAD/CAM) technology has received considerable clinical and research interest as a means to fabricate all-ceramic restorations. Laboratory CAD/CAM systems recreate occlusal anatomy and functional contacts using accurately articulated casts to minimize the amount of intraoral occlusal adjustment. CAD/CAM systems designed for the chairside do not use articulated casts, and yet fabricate full-contour restorations in a single appointment. Several design techniques are discussed to illustrate the 3 dimensional capability of the CAD program to plan and control occlusal contacts before milling the final restoration.