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By Natalia Tsar, DDS, LVIF –
CAD/CAM is an acronym for computer-aided design/ computer-aided manufacturing. Used for decades in the manufacturing industry to produce precision tools, parts and automobiles, CAD/CAM tech- nology has been increasingly incorporated into dentistry over the past 20 years.
CAD/CAM technology and metalfree materials are used by dentists and dental laboratories to provide patients with milled ceramic crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays and bridges.
As the materials and technology available for CAD/CAM dentistry have improved over the years, so too have the restorations that patients can receive from this form of digital dentistry. Today’s CAD/CAM restorations are better-fitting, more durable and more natural looking (multi-colored and translucent, similar to natural teeth) than previously machined restorations.
Benefits of CAD/CAM Dentistry
Less time/ Fewer appts: One of the advantages of CAD/CAM technology is that if your dentist has this technology in the office, same day dentistry may be a
treatment option for you!
CAD/CAM dental technologies such as CEREC in-office System can be used to make an inlay, onlay, crown or veneer restoration in a single appointment, while you wait.
Increased comfort/ decreased anxiety: The scanner is a compact, hand-held wand. Once your dentist begins the scanning process, it can be stopped and started as many times as necessary. You’ll never be stuck with a mouth full of goop! Because there is only one visit you will have anesthetic only one time.
Accuracy: Digital impressions create an exact replica of what is in your mouth. This results in a more accurate fitting restoration.
Special Considerations for CAD/CAM Dentistry
CAD/CAM technology is not a replacement for the accuracy and talent provided by a dentist. Dentists must be precise in creating the initial tooth preparation and must be accurate when taking the digital impression and drawing the restoration.
Equally important is the accuracy and skill with which they design a restoration, particularly since the fit of a restoration is critical to preventing future tooth damage. For example, an ill-fitted crown, veneer, inlay or onlay can leave space between the teeth, or between the tooth preparation and the restoration. This could lead to an increased risk of infection, disease, or recurrent decay.
When to Choose CAD/CAM Dentistry
It is important to note that not every tooth can be treated with a CAD/CAM restoration. Your dentist will determine if a CAD/CAM restoration is among the appropriate treatment options for your condition.
Dr. Natalia Tsar is one of the few Dentists on the East Coast of Florida to offer neuromuscular dentistry, which considers the actual positioning and function of the jaw. Neuromuscular dentists seek to establish a harmonious relationship of the teeth, muscles and jaw joints, helping to relieve problems that occur with misaligned bites such headaches, migraines, neck pain, jaw pain, and chipped or fractured teeth.
Dr. Tsar graduated Cum Laude from University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine where she was in the top 10 in her class and received 12 clinical awards. While developing and growing her dental practice in Utica, NY, she continued her training in orthodontics, TMJ and cosmetic dentistry. She has been awarded a fellowship from the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies.
When not taking care of her patients, Dr. Tsar spends time being active in tennis, golf and soccer with her husband and two young boys. She enjoys a healthy life style which she approaches holistically including a healthy diet, staying active and regular yoga practice. Dr. Tsar also carries this holistic approach into her dental practice.
Tsar Dental Excellence – 561.833.2364 | www.tsardentalexcellence.com
