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Making informed decisions about incorporating a CAD/CAM system into dental practice
Lori Trost1, Suzette Stines, Lorri Burt
1Center for Contemporary Dentistry, Columbia, IL 62236, USA. trost@htc.net
Background:
The authors drew from their clinical application and practice management experience to present a guide to incorporating into the dental practice computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology for creating dental restorations.
Methods:
The authors examine various factors in the purchase of CAD/CAM technology: clinical considerations and implications, practice and patient impact, and practical aspects of financial return. They also offer guidelines to and provide questions for dentists who may be considering a purchase of such technology.
Conclusions:
CAD/CAM technology is a key component for a technologically current dental office.
Clinical Implications:
Today's dental care consumer is more aware of his or her treatment options, and CAD/CAM technology may help the dentist meet such a patient's needs. With software improvement, attention to user-friendliness and positive clinical performance history, CAD/CAM systems are a significant stride forward into one-appointment esthetic dentistry.
