CAD/CAM – White fillings, veneers or crowns
In days gone by, you may have needed to visit the dentist two or three times to have a quality, white ceramic restoration. Today through the use of CAD/CAM technology restoration can be performed quickly and effectively by your dentist.
CAD/CAM, instead uses the latest Computer-Aided design and Manufacture techniques to give you white fillings, veneers or crowns, all in less visits than without using CAD/CAM technology.
Importance of CAD/CAM
CAD/CAM uses the latest technology to allow you to undergo treatment in just one session which in the past would have required multiple sessions. CAD/CAM works to protect and preserve your own tooth’s structural integrity and uses long lasting highly durable material helping you maintain your new smile for longer.
Is it right for you?
If you are suffering decay and/or defective fillings then CAD/CAM restoration might be right for you. Dental decay results from acid attacking the tooth surfaces. Acid is produced when sugar from foods we eat comes in contact with plaque bacteria on and in between the teeth. Each sugar intake produces up to 30 minutes of acid production. If decay is not detected, it can cause extensive damage to the tooth.
What’s involved?
Once your dentist determines that CAD/CAM is the correct course of treatment, your visit will begin by preparing the tooth. Any decay, if present, is removed, leaving as much as possible of your healthy tooth to support the CAD/CAM restoration. Your dentist will then use a specially designed electronic camera that creates a digital 3D model of your tooth.
You can then watch your dentist design your new restoration on a computer screen using the 3D image created by the camera. A solid block of porcelain ceramic is inserted into the machine and automatically converted to exactly match this computer model.
Special tools then sculpt your restoration to the finest detail based on the restoration designed on the CAD/CAM computer. The completed restoration is then bonded into your mouth. The custom made restoration is completed and placed in your mouth with the whole process being done in one appointment. CAD/CAM restorations are natural looking, smooth white and hard-wearing, just like the enamel surface of the rest of your teeth. The ceramic material is biocompatible and is not affected by hot or cold. Ask your dentist for more details about CAD/CAM or make an appointment for a check-up today.
Procedures Using CAD/CAM
Fillings (inlays/onlays)
Decay and old filling material can be removed; individually manufactured fillings can then be fitted exactly to suit each individual. Depending on the severity, the entire procedure may be completed within one visit.
Porcelain Veneers
Malpositioned and discoloured teeth can be restored with porcelain veneers. Veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are custom made to fit on the front of your natural teeth. They allow your dentist to change the shape, colour and length of your teeth.
Porcelain Crowns
A porcelain crown restores missing or reduced tooth surfaces by providing coverage over all areas of your tooth. Your natural tooth is then protected and can function normally. Using CAD/CAM there are no impressions and no temporary crowns. A treatment time may be completed within one visit.
Benefits of Porcelain Dental Resorations using CAD/CAM
• The complete restoration can be performed in just one visit to your dentist.
• Each restoration is custom-made to fit your tooth because it is made from an exact modal of your individual tooth.
• Comfortable fit to suit your needs.
• Protects and preserves your own tooth’s structural integrity.
• High quality, long lasting and durable.
• Cost effective solution for complete restoration.
• Metal-free restorations.
Importance of maintaining healthy teeth
Regular visits to your dentist, proper daily brushing, flossing, and a healthy diet will help your teeth stay with you well into old age.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.