Impact of Digital Workflow Integration on Fixed Prosthodontics: A Review of Advances and Clinical Outcomes

The field of prosthodontics has seen substantial advancements with the integration of digital workflows, which have revolutionized traditional clinical practices. These digital technologies, including intraoral scanners (IOS), computer-aided design (CAD), and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), have enhanced the precision, efficiency, and overall quality of prosthetic restorations. This review explores the clinical outcomes of adopting digital workflows in prosthodontics, with a focus on their impact on accuracy, time efficiency, and patient satisfaction. Additionally, the review addresses the challenges and barriers to widespread adoption, such as high equipment costs and the need for continuous updates and training. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, selecting peer-reviewed studies that focused on the use of digital workflows in tooth-borne and implant-supported prostheses. Findings suggest that digital workflows provide superior accuracy in prosthesis fabrication and significantly reduce treatment time, particularly with the advent of chairside CAD/CAM systems that enable same-day restorations. Furthermore, patient satisfaction is improved due to increased comfort and reduced treatment duration. However, barriers such as the financial investment and learning curve remain obstacles to broader implementation. The review highlights the transformative potential of digital workflows in prosthodontics and emphasizes the need for more long-term clinical studies to further establish their efficacy.