Materials for chairside CAD/CAM-produced restorations.

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Restorative Dentistry
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) in dentistry has roots over 35 years old.
• CEREC is the pioneering chairside CAD/CAM system with over two decades of clinical application.
• Early CAD/CAM focused on esthetic ceramic restorations, single-visit procedures, and conservative tooth preparation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review materials utilized in CAD/CAM fabricated dental restorations.
• To present the structure, properties, and clinical success of materials for chairside and laboratory-based all-ceramic restorations.
• To evaluate the suitability of CAD/CAM materials for contemporary dental restorative applications.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of materials used in CAD/CAM dental restorations.
• Analysis of material properties including structure and performance.
• Evaluation of clinical success data for chairside and laboratory-milled restorations.

Main Results:

• CAD/CAM restorations exhibit significant clinical success, driven by material advancements and system improvements.
• Chairside fabricated full-contour ceramic restorations can enhance tooth reinforcement and ensure favorable long-term outcomes.
• High-strength milled all-ceramic materials are suitable for fabricating multi-unit anterior and posterior bridges.

Conclusions:

• The structure, properties, and clinical performance of CAD/CAM materials validate their integration into standard dental procedures.
• CAD/CAM technology provides reliable and effective options for various dental restorative needs.
• Continued advancements in CAD/CAM materials contribute to predictable and successful restorative dentistry.