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Adoption and Barriers to CAD/CAM Technology Among Dentists in the Dominican Republic: A Cross-Sectional Study
Patricia Grau Grullón1, Rodrigo Varella Carvalho2, Gabriela Velázquez1
1Centro de Investigación en Biomateriales y Odontología, Universidad Iberoamericana (UNIBE), Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
Introduction:
Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) have transformed modern dentistry, yet evidence from the Caribbean remains limited.
Objective:
To assess CAD/CAM adoption among dentists in the Dominican Republic and identify associated demographic and professional factors, barriers, and future adoption intentions.
Methods:
A nationwide cross-sectional online survey was administered to dentists registered with the Dominican Dental Association between June and November 2024. A validated questionnaire was distributed through professional networks and social media. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariable logistic regression to examine associations between adoption and specialty, practice type, postgraduate education, and years since graduation.
Results:
A total of 374 dentists responded; the adoption rate was 39.3%. Adoption was significantly associated with specialty and practice type (P < .001), but not with years since graduation (P = .740) or geographic region (P = .464). Prosthodontists (odds ratios [OR] = 9.16) and orthodontists (OR = 7.50) were the most likely adopters, while dentists in public institutions (OR = 0.18) and academia (OR = 0.28) were less likely to use CAD/CAM. Among nonusers, major barriers included high costs (41.9%). However, 71.4% expressed intention to adopt CAD/CAM.
Conclusions:
Adoption of CAD/CAM in the Dominican Republic is shaped by specialty and practice setting but limited by financial and educational barriers. Expanding training opportunities and reducing costs may facilitate more equitable digital integration.
Clinical Significance:
Understanding determinants of CAD/CAM adoption can guide targeted training and policy strategies to improve efficiency and care quality in resource-limited regions.
