{"id":3083,"date":"2026-02-26T22:24:29","date_gmt":"2026-02-26T22:24:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bestdentalhospitals.com\/blog\/cad-cam-definition-uses-and-clinical-overview\/"},"modified":"2026-02-26T22:24:29","modified_gmt":"2026-02-26T22:24:29","slug":"cad-cam-definition-uses-and-clinical-overview","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bestdentalhospitals.com\/blog\/cad-cam-definition-uses-and-clinical-overview\/","title":{"rendered":"CAD\/CAM: Definition, Uses, and Clinical Overview"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Overview of CAD\/CAM(What it is)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>CAD\/CAM means computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing.<br\/>\nIn dentistry, it is a digital way to design and make restorations such as crowns, inlays, onlays, and veneers.<br\/>\nIt often uses an intraoral scanner (a small camera) instead of traditional impression trays.<br\/>\nCAD\/CAM is commonly used in dental offices (chairside) and dental laboratories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why CAD\/CAM used (Purpose \/ benefits)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>CAD\/CAM is used to create dental restorations with a digital workflow that can improve consistency and efficiency compared with fully manual methods. The main problem it aims to solve is the need to replace or rebuild tooth structure accurately after decay, fracture, wear, or prior dental work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In general terms, CAD\/CAM can help with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Precision of fit and shape<\/strong>: Digital scanning and software design allow careful control over margins (edges) and contact points (where teeth touch). The final fit still depends on technique, material, and case complexity.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Efficiency and fewer appointments in some cases<\/strong>: Chairside CAD\/CAM can sometimes complete scanning, design, milling, and bonding in one visit. Varies by clinician and case.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Repeatability<\/strong>: Digital files can be saved and reused for remakes or adjustments, depending on the system and office protocols.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Communication<\/strong>: Digital designs can be shared between dentist and laboratory, supporting clearer planning and documentation.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Material options<\/strong>: CAD\/CAM can be used with multiple restorative materials (ceramics, zirconia, resin-ceramics, and composite blocks), allowing selection based on function and esthetics.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Patient comfort<\/strong>: Many patients prefer scanning to conventional impressions, though comfort varies.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>CAD\/CAM does not eliminate the need for clinical judgment. Tooth preparation design, bite (occlusion), gum health, and bonding\/cementation steps remain critical to outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Indications (When dentists use it)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Dentists may use CAD\/CAM in situations such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Single crowns<\/strong> for teeth with significant breakdown from decay or fracture<\/li>\n<li><strong>Inlays and onlays<\/strong> (partial-coverage restorations) when a filling may be too large or stressed<\/li>\n<li><strong>Veneers<\/strong> for selected esthetic or shape concerns (case-dependent)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Replacement of older restorations<\/strong> when margins are open, materials are worn, or decay is present<\/li>\n<li><strong>Implant crowns<\/strong> and related components in coordinated digital workflows (system-dependent)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Occlusal guards or splints<\/strong> made from digital scans (varies by device and indications)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Provisional (temporary) restorations<\/strong> designed digitally (often made in the lab; sometimes in-office)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Smile design and treatment planning<\/strong> for visualization and communication (not a guarantee of outcomes)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Contraindications \/ when it\u2019s NOT ideal<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>CAD\/CAM may be less suitable, or require modifications, in cases such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Extensive subgingival margins<\/strong> (edges far under the gumline), which can be harder to scan and isolate for bonding<\/li>\n<li><strong>Poor moisture control<\/strong> (saliva or bleeding), especially when adhesive bonding is planned<\/li>\n<li><strong>Limited remaining tooth structure<\/strong> where a different restorative strategy or foundation buildup may be needed<\/li>\n<li><strong>Complex multi-unit cases<\/strong> (for example, long-span bridges) that may be better handled with lab-based approaches and material choices; varies by system and case<\/li>\n<li><strong>Severe wear or unstable bite<\/strong> that requires broader occlusal planning before definitive restorations<\/li>\n<li><strong>Patients with heavy grinding\/clenching (bruxism)<\/strong> where material selection and thickness become more critical; some materials may be less ideal<\/li>\n<li><strong>When the required material is not available in the practice\u2019s CAD\/CAM system<\/strong>, prompting alternative fabrication methods<\/li>\n<li><strong>Situations where conventional impressions are preferred<\/strong> due to access, reflections, scanning limitations, or clinician preference<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cNot ideal\u201d does not mean \u201cnot possible.\u201d It often means the clinician may choose another workflow, another material, or additional steps to improve predictability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How it works (Material \/ properties)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>CAD\/CAM is a <strong>method of designing and manufacturing<\/strong>, not a single dental material. Because of that, some properties commonly discussed for direct filling materials do not apply in the same way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Flow and viscosity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Flow and viscosity describe how a paste-like material moves (for example, a flowable composite). <strong>These terms generally do not apply to CAD\/CAM restorations themselves<\/strong>, because many CAD\/CAM restorations are made from <strong>solid blocks<\/strong> (milled) or <strong>printed resins<\/strong> that are later cured.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The closest \u201cflow\u201d considerations in CAD\/CAM dentistry usually relate to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Resin cement<\/strong> (the bonding material that flows under a crown\/onlay\/veneer)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Impression alternatives<\/strong> (digital scanning replaces conventional impression materials)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Try-in pastes<\/strong> (used for shade evaluation in some veneer workflows)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Filler content<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Filler content is most relevant for <strong>resin-based CAD\/CAM blocks<\/strong> and <strong>resin cements<\/strong>. In general:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Higher filler content<\/strong> in resin-based materials is often associated with improved wear resistance and stiffness, though behavior varies by formulation and manufacturer.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Lower filler or more resin-rich materials<\/strong> may be easier to adjust and polish but can behave differently under long-term chewing forces.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Ceramics (like lithium disilicate) and zirconia are not described by \u201cfiller content\u201d in the same way as resin composites. Their performance is tied to ceramic microstructure, processing, and thickness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Strength and wear resistance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>CAD\/CAM restorations can be made from materials with different strength and wear characteristics, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Glass ceramics<\/strong> (commonly chosen for esthetics; strength depends on the specific ceramic and thickness)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Zirconia<\/strong> (often selected for higher strength; esthetics and translucency vary by formulation)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Resin-ceramic or hybrid materials<\/strong> (blend-like categories; behavior varies widely)<\/li>\n<li><strong>CAD\/CAM composite resin blocks<\/strong> (industrial curing can change properties compared with directly placed composites; performance still depends on case factors)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Wear resistance is not just a material property. It is influenced by bite forces, opposing tooth material, chewing patterns, surface finish, and parafunction (such as grinding).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CAD\/CAM Procedure overview (How it\u2019s applied)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A CAD\/CAM restoration can be delivered chairside or via a lab. The exact steps vary, but a simplified, general sequence often looks like this:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Assessment and preparation<\/strong>: The tooth is evaluated and shaped to receive the planned restoration (for example, an onlay or crown).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Digital scan<\/strong>: An intraoral scanner records the tooth, adjacent teeth, and bite relationship.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Design (CAD)<\/strong>: Software is used to design the restoration\u2019s shape, contacts, and bite anatomy.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Manufacture (CAM)<\/strong>: The restoration is milled from a block or produced through another manufacturing method (system-dependent).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Try-in and adjustments<\/strong>: Fit and bite are checked, and the restoration may be adjusted and polished or glazed depending on the material.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>To align with the core bonding\/cementation sequence commonly taught for adhesive dentistry, the delivery phase is often described as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Isolation<\/strong>: Keeping the tooth dry and clean (often crucial for adhesive bonding).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Etch\/bond<\/strong>: Conditioning the tooth surface and applying bonding agents as indicated (protocol varies by material and cement system).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Place<\/strong>: Seating the restoration with a luting agent (cement), commonly resin cement for many adhesive cases.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cure<\/strong>: Light-curing (and\/or chemical curing) the resin cement when applicable.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Finish\/polish<\/strong>: Cleaning excess cement, refining margins, adjusting bite, and polishing the restoration surface.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These steps are presented as a general overview, not a do-it-yourself guide. Specific protocols depend on the restorative material, cement system, and the clinician\u2019s technique.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Types \/ variations of CAD\/CAM<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>CAD\/CAM in dentistry can vary by <strong>where it is done<\/strong>, <strong>how it is manufactured<\/strong>, and <strong>what material is used<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">By workflow location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Chairside CAD\/CAM<\/strong>: Scanning, designing, and making the restoration in the dental office. Often used for single-unit restorations; time and complexity vary by case.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Lab-based CAD\/CAM<\/strong>: The dentist scans (or takes an impression), and a dental laboratory designs and manufactures the restoration. This can be helpful for complex esthetic layering, multi-unit planning, and certain materials.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">By manufacturing method<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Subtractive milling<\/strong>: A restoration is milled from a pre-made block\/disc. This is common for ceramics, zirconia, and composite blocks.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Additive manufacturing (3D printing)<\/strong>: More commonly used for models, surgical guides, temporaries, and some appliances; definitive tooth restorations depend on local regulations, materials, and system capabilities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">By restorative material<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Zirconia<\/strong>: Often selected when higher strength is a priority. Esthetic properties vary by product line.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Glass ceramics (e.g., lithium disilicate)<\/strong>: Often chosen for a balance of esthetics and strength; bonding protocols are material-specific.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Feldspathic or leucite-reinforced ceramics<\/strong>: Often used for veneers in certain workflows; material selection varies by case.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Hybrid ceramics \/ resin-ceramics<\/strong>: Materials designed to combine ceramic-like and resin-like behavior; properties vary by manufacturer.<\/li>\n<li><strong>CAD\/CAM composite resin blocks<\/strong>: Resin-based blocks that may have <strong>higher filler content<\/strong> than some direct materials and are cured under controlled conditions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u201cLow vs high filler,\u201d bulk-fill flowable, and injectable composites (where they fit)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Low vs high filler<\/strong>: Most relevant when comparing <strong>resin-based CAD\/CAM blocks<\/strong> and resin cements, or when comparing direct composite options used as alternatives.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Bulk-fill flowable composite<\/strong>: Typically a <strong>direct<\/strong> filling material placed in the mouth rather than milled. It may be used as a foundation or liner in some restorative plans, but it is not the CAD\/CAM restoration itself.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Injectable composites<\/strong>: Generally a <strong>direct<\/strong> technique using a template\/mold to shape composite. It can be discussed alongside CAD\/CAM as another modern, efficiency-focused approach, but it is a different workflow.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pros and cons<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pros<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Can produce restorations with digitally planned contours, contacts, and bite anatomy<\/li>\n<li>Often improves documentation and case communication through saved digital files<\/li>\n<li>May reduce the need for conventional impressions in many cases<\/li>\n<li>Offers multiple material choices (ceramics, zirconia, and resin-based blocks)<\/li>\n<li>Chairside workflows can sometimes shorten treatment time and reduce visits (varies by clinician and case)<\/li>\n<li>Digital design can support predictable reproduction of tooth form for remakes or adjustments (system-dependent)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cons<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Final success still depends heavily on tooth preparation, isolation, bonding\/cementation, and bite adjustment<\/li>\n<li>Equipment and training requirements can influence availability and cost (varies by clinic)<\/li>\n<li>Some cases are challenging to scan accurately (deep margins, bleeding, limited access)<\/li>\n<li>Material-specific steps (surface treatments, cement selection) add complexity<\/li>\n<li>Chairside milling\/design may not suit every complex esthetic case compared with lab artistry (case-dependent)<\/li>\n<li>Adjustments after milling can affect surface finish and wear behavior if polishing\/glazing is not well managed<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Aftercare &amp; longevity<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Longevity of CAD\/CAM restorations is influenced by many interacting factors rather than a single \u201cexpected lifespan.\u201d Common influences include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Bite forces and chewing patterns<\/strong>: Heavy biting or uneven contacts can increase stress on restorations.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Bruxism (clenching\/grinding)<\/strong>: Can contribute to chipping, cracking, or accelerated wear depending on material and design.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Oral hygiene and decay risk<\/strong>: Crowns and onlays can still develop decay at their margins if plaque control is poor or if the patient has a high cavity risk.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Gum health<\/strong>: Inflamed or receding gums can expose margins and complicate cleaning.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Material choice and thickness<\/strong>: Different CAD\/CAM materials respond differently to thin sections, sharp angles, and high-load areas.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Bonding\/cementation quality<\/strong>: Contamination control, cement selection, and technique can influence retention and sealing.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Regular dental checkups<\/strong>: Monitoring bite, margins, and gum response can help identify issues early.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Aftercare is generally similar to caring for natural teeth and other restorations: effective daily cleaning, attention to bite changes, and routine professional evaluation. Specific recommendations vary by clinician and case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Alternatives \/ comparisons<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>CAD\/CAM is one approach among several for restoring teeth. Alternatives differ in workflow, materials, and clinical indications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CAD\/CAM vs direct composite (flowable vs packable)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Direct composite<\/strong> is placed and shaped in the mouth.  <\/li>\n<li><strong>Flowable composite<\/strong> is thinner and adapts well to small areas, but is generally not chosen alone for high-stress, large restorations.  <\/li>\n<li><strong>Packable (sculptable) composite<\/strong> is thicker and may be preferred for building occlusal anatomy directly.  <\/li>\n<li><strong>CAD\/CAM restorations<\/strong> are fabricated outside the mouth (chairside or lab) and then bonded\/cemented. They may be considered when a restoration is too extensive or stressed for a predictable direct filling, though the decision varies by clinician and case.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CAD\/CAM vs glass ionomer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Glass ionomer<\/strong> is often used in specific situations (for example, when moisture control is difficult, or for certain temporary\/interim or low-stress applications). Some formulations release fluoride, but clinical benefit depends on case factors.<\/li>\n<li><strong>CAD\/CAM restorations<\/strong> are typically used for more definitive coverage or replacement of tooth structure, with material selection based on strength and esthetics needs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CAD\/CAM vs compomer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Compomer<\/strong> (polyacid-modified composite) is used less commonly in many adult restorative situations but may appear in certain indications and preferences. Its handling and properties sit between composite and glass ionomer categories, depending on the product.<\/li>\n<li><strong>CAD\/CAM<\/strong> is not a direct substitute for compomer; it is a fabrication method usually applied to indirect restorations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CAD\/CAM vs conventional lab-made restorations (non-digital impression workflows)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Traditional impressions and wax-ups can still produce high-quality restorations.  <\/li>\n<li>CAD\/CAM can improve efficiency and data sharing, but outcomes still depend on preparation design, occlusal planning, and the lab or clinician\u2019s expertise.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common questions (FAQ) of CAD\/CAM<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Is CAD\/CAM a type of filling material?<\/strong><br\/>\nCAD\/CAM is a digital design-and-manufacturing process, not one specific material. The restoration made with CAD\/CAM can be ceramic, zirconia, resin-ceramic, or a composite resin block. The material choice depends on the tooth, bite forces, esthetic goals, and clinician preference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Does a CAD\/CAM crown or onlay hurt to get?<\/strong><br\/>\nDiscomfort varies by person and procedure. Many restorative procedures use local anesthesia, and patients may feel pressure or vibration during preparation and scanning. Post-procedure sensitivity can occur with any restoration and depends on factors like tooth condition and bonding technique.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: How long does a CAD\/CAM restoration last?<\/strong><br\/>\nThere is no single lifespan that applies to everyone. Longevity depends on material type, restoration design, bite forces, hygiene, decay risk, and whether grinding\/clenching is present. Regular monitoring helps identify wear, margin changes, or bite issues early.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Is CAD\/CAM safe?<\/strong><br\/>\nCAD\/CAM is widely used in dentistry, and the workflow itself is generally considered a modern method of making restorations. Safety and performance relate more to appropriate case selection, the specific restorative material, and correct bonding\/cementation steps. Materials and devices also vary by manufacturer and regulatory region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Why do some restorations need to be bonded and light-cured?<\/strong><br\/>\nMany CAD\/CAM restorations are attached with resin cement, which can be light-cured, self-cured, or dual-cured depending on the product. Curing helps harden the cement and stabilize the restoration. The exact protocol depends on the material and cement system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Is CAD\/CAM always a same-day procedure?<\/strong><br\/>\nNot always. Some offices offer same-day restorations when they have chairside scanning, design, and milling capabilities and the case is suitable. Other cases are sent to a lab, which can require additional visits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Why might a dentist choose a lab-made CAD\/CAM restoration instead of chairside?<\/strong><br\/>\nLaboratories may provide additional esthetic customization, complex case planning support, or access to certain materials and finishing processes. Chairside workflows can be efficient, but they may not be ideal for every situation. The choice often depends on case complexity and available equipment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: How does CAD\/CAM affect cost?<\/strong><br\/>\nCost is influenced by many factors: the type of restoration (inlay vs crown), material choice, whether it is chairside or lab-fabricated, geographic region, and insurance coverage. CAD\/CAM equipment and lab fees can affect pricing structures, so ranges vary by clinic and case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: What should I expect after getting a CAD\/CAM crown\/onlay\/veneer?<\/strong><br\/>\nIt is common to have a brief adjustment period as you adapt to the new shape and contacts. Mild sensitivity or bite awareness can occur, and bite adjustments may be needed if the restoration feels high. If symptoms persist or worsen, patients typically contact their dental office for reassessment (general informational guidance only).<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>CAD\/CAM means computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing. In dentistry, it is a digital way to design and make restorations such as crowns, inlays, onlays, and veneers. It often uses an intraoral scanner (a small camera) instead of traditional impression trays. CAD\/CAM is commonly used in dental offices (chairside) and dental laboratories.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3083","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.7 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>CAD\/CAM: Definition, Uses, and Clinical Overview - Best Dental Hospitals<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bestdentalhospitals.com\/blog\/cad-cam-definition-uses-and-clinical-overview\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"CAD\/CAM: Definition, Uses, and Clinical Overview - Best Dental Hospitals\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"CAD\/CAM means computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing. In dentistry, it is a digital way to design and make restorations such as crowns, inlays, onlays, and veneers. It often uses an intraoral scanner (a small camera) instead of traditional impression trays. 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