Implementing a new curriculum for computer-assisted restorations in prosthetic dentistry.

Area of Science:

• Dental Technology
• Prosthodontics
• Digital Dentistry

Background:

• Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) is increasingly popular for fixed prosthetic restorations.
• Integration of CAD/CAM technology into dental school curricula remains limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and implement a voluntary CAD/CAM curriculum in prosthetic dental education.
• To evaluate the impact of CAD/CAM training on student interest, clinical application, and confidence.

Main Methods:

• A curriculum based on Kern's method was established at a German dental school.
• Student participation and satisfaction were measured using a visual analogue scale.
• Clinical performance of CAD/CAM-fabricated restorations was assessed.

Main Results:

• 94% of students participated, showing significant interest in the CAD/CAM curriculum.
• Nearly 50% of students applied their CAD/CAM knowledge to fabricate patient crowns.
• Restorations produced by students in the program demonstrated favorable clinical outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Phased implementation of CAD/CAM training enhanced student self-confidence in tooth preparation for all-ceramic crowns.
• Students utilizing CAD/CAM technology showed a tendency to prepare more teeth.
• Further research is needed to determine the effect of independent CAD/CAM single-crown fabrication on preparation quality.