CAD/CAM Milled Ceramics
How computer-aided design and manufacturing produces ceramic restorations.
CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) milled ceramics represent a digital workflow for fabricating dental restorations. The process begins with a digital impression or scan of a physical model, which is imported into design software. The restoration is digitally designed, and the data is sent to a milling machine that carves the restoration from a pre-fabricated ceramic block. Milling blocks are available in various ceramic materials including lithium disilicate, zirconia, leucite-reinforced porcelain, and hybrid ceramics. Chairside CAD/CAM systems like CEREC allow dentists to design and mill restorations in the office, enabling same-day delivery. Laboratory-based systems offer more material options and allow for more complex cases. Advantages of milled ceramics include consistent material quality (factory-produced blocks have fewer defects), reduced fabrication time, digital record-keeping, and excellent fit accuracy. Multi-layered blocks with shade gradients improve aesthetics without the need for manual layering. As milling technology and ceramic materials continue to advance, CAD/CAM restorations are becoming the standard for many types of dental work.