{"id":3085,"date":"2026-02-26T22:28:30","date_gmt":"2026-02-26T22:28:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bestdentalhospitals.com\/blog\/chairside-cad-cam-definition-uses-and-clinical-overview\/"},"modified":"2026-02-26T22:28:30","modified_gmt":"2026-02-26T22:28:30","slug":"chairside-cad-cam-definition-uses-and-clinical-overview","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bestdentalhospitals.com\/blog\/chairside-cad-cam-definition-uses-and-clinical-overview\/","title":{"rendered":"chairside CAD\/CAM: Definition, Uses, and Clinical Overview"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Overview of chairside CAD\/CAM(What it is)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>chairside CAD\/CAM is a dental workflow where restorations are designed on a computer and made in the dental office the same day.<br\/>\nCAD means computer-aided design, and CAM means computer-aided manufacturing.<br\/>\nIt is commonly used to make crowns, inlays, onlays, and some veneers in a single appointment.<br\/>\nIt typically combines a digital scan, design software, and an in-office milling unit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why chairside CAD\/CAM used (Purpose \/ benefits)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>chairside CAD\/CAM is used to replace or rebuild damaged tooth structure with a precisely shaped restoration made from a manufactured block of material (often ceramic or a ceramic-resin hybrid). The main goal is to restore function (chewing), tooth anatomy (shape and contact points), and appearance while fitting accurately to the prepared tooth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For patients, the appeal is often convenience and efficiency. Traditional indirect restorations commonly involve multiple visits: an impression, a temporary restoration, and a later cementation appointment after a lab makes the final piece. chairside CAD\/CAM aims to reduce that workflow by keeping the design and manufacturing steps in the clinic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From a clinical perspective, chairside CAD\/CAM can help solve common restorative problems such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Moderate to extensive tooth breakdown<\/strong> from decay, fracture, or replacement of older restorations.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cuspal coverage needs<\/strong>, where a tooth\u2019s biting surface or cusps (the pointed parts on molars\/premolars) need reinforcement.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Time-sensitive restorations<\/strong>, when a same-day solution is preferred and clinically appropriate.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Fit and occlusion refinement<\/strong>, since digital design and milling allow controlled anatomy that can be adjusted chairside.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Potential benefits often discussed with chairside CAD\/CAM include fewer appointments, no traditional impression material for many cases, and predictable shaping of the restoration. Outcomes and efficiency can vary by clinician, case complexity, software\/milling system, and material selection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Indications (When dentists use it)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>chairside CAD\/CAM is commonly considered for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Single-unit crowns<\/strong> on posterior (back) teeth and, in selected cases, anterior (front) teeth<\/li>\n<li><strong>Inlays and onlays<\/strong> (partial-coverage restorations) when a filling would be too large or stressed<\/li>\n<li><strong>Replacement of large failing restorations<\/strong> when remaining tooth structure benefits from an indirect restoration<\/li>\n<li><strong>Fractured cusps<\/strong> or cracked teeth where cuspal coverage is indicated (case-dependent)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Esthetic corrections<\/strong> in selected situations (for example, some veneers), depending on material and preparation design<\/li>\n<li><strong>Implant crowns<\/strong> in some workflows (varies by system, clinic setup, and case)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Contraindications \/ when it\u2019s NOT ideal<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>chairside CAD\/CAM may be less suitable when:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Moisture control is difficult<\/strong>, because adhesive bonding and cementation can be sensitive to contamination (saliva, blood, crevicular fluid).<\/li>\n<li><strong>The preparation margin is too deep under the gumline<\/strong>, making scanning, isolation, and adhesive steps more challenging.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Very limited interocclusal space<\/strong> exists, where minimum material thickness requirements may be hard to meet (varies by material and manufacturer).<\/li>\n<li><strong>High-risk occlusion or severe parafunction<\/strong> (such as significant bruxism\/clenching) is present, where material selection and design become more critical and another approach may be preferred (varies by clinician and case).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Multiple adjacent restorations<\/strong> require complex esthetics or occlusal reconstruction that a lab workflow may handle more predictably (varies by clinician and case).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Complex shade matching<\/strong> is needed in highly visible areas, where layered ceramics made by a laboratory may be considered.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Equipment or workflow limitations<\/strong> exist in the clinic (scanner access, milling unit capability, staffing, time).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These are not absolute rules. Appropriateness depends on diagnosis, preparation design, material choice, and clinician experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How it works (Material \/ properties)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The \u201cmaterial\u201d in chairside CAD\/CAM typically refers to <strong>prefabricated restorative blocks<\/strong> that are milled into a crown, inlay, onlay, or veneer. Because the restoration is manufactured from a solid block, properties are influenced by industrial processing and the specific block composition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Flow and viscosity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Flow and viscosity are properties discussed with <strong>liquid or paste materials<\/strong> (like flowable composite resins and cements). They do <strong>not<\/strong> directly apply to the CAD\/CAM block itself, because the block is solid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The closest relevant \u201chandling\u201d concept in chairside CAD\/CAM is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Millability<\/strong> (how the block cuts and how tools wear)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Margin integrity<\/strong> after milling (how sharply and accurately fine edges can be produced)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cement handling<\/strong>, because a resin cement\u2019s viscosity and film thickness can affect seating and cleanup (varies by material and manufacturer)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Filler content<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cFiller content\u201d is a common way to describe resin composites. Some CAD\/CAM blocks are <strong>resin-based<\/strong> and may be described in terms of <strong>filler particles<\/strong> embedded in a resin matrix (for example, resin nano-ceramic or hybrid ceramic concepts). Other blocks are primarily <strong>ceramic<\/strong> (such as glass ceramics), where \u201cfiller content\u201d is not the usual way to categorize them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In general terms:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>More ceramic content<\/strong> (in a ceramic-dominant material) may relate to hardness, wear behavior, and optical properties.<\/li>\n<li><strong>More resin content<\/strong> (in a hybrid material) may relate to ease of milling, potential shock absorption, and repairability with composite (material-dependent).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Strength and wear resistance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Strength and wear resistance are key considerations, especially for posterior teeth and patients with heavy bite forces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Strength<\/strong> (often discussed as flexural strength or fracture resistance) varies widely by material type and manufacturer.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Wear resistance<\/strong> matters for the restoration itself and for the opposing tooth. Different ceramics and hybrid materials can have different wear patterns, and polishing\/glazing quality can influence surface smoothness.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Bonding strategy<\/strong> also impacts clinical performance. Many chairside CAD\/CAM restorations rely on adhesive bonding, and surface treatment differs by material (for example, some ceramics are etched; others are treated differently). Specific protocols vary by material and manufacturer.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">chairside CAD\/CAM Procedure overview (How it\u2019s applied)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A typical chairside CAD\/CAM visit follows a digital-to-restoration workflow. Steps and sequencing vary by clinic and system, but the overall path is consistent: diagnose, prepare, scan, design, mill, and bond\/cement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A concise overview of the clinical flow is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Assessment and treatment planning<\/strong>: The dentist evaluates the tooth, existing restorations, bite, and periodontal health to decide if a chairside CAD\/CAM restoration is appropriate.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Tooth preparation<\/strong>: Damaged tooth structure and old restorative material are removed as needed, and the tooth is shaped to provide clearance and defined margins.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Digital impression (intraoral scan)<\/strong>: A scanner captures a 3D image of the prepared tooth, nearby teeth, and the bite relationship.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Computer design (CAD)<\/strong>: The restoration is designed in software, including contacts (how it touches neighboring teeth) and occlusion (how it meets the opposing teeth).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Milling (CAM)<\/strong>: A milling unit cuts the restoration from a selected block. Some materials may require additional processing steps depending on manufacturer directions.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Try-in and adjustments<\/strong>: The restoration is checked for fit, contacts, and bite, then adjusted as needed.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>To align with common restorative steps during bonding\/cementation, the final placement phase is often summarized as:<br\/>\n<strong>Isolation \u2192 etch\/bond \u2192 place \u2192 cure \u2192 finish\/polish<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Isolation<\/strong>: Keeping the field dry and clean to support predictable bonding.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Etch\/bond<\/strong>: Conditioning the tooth and, when indicated, the internal surface of the restoration using the system appropriate for the materials involved.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Place<\/strong>: Seating the restoration with cement or bonding resin.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cure<\/strong>: Light-curing if a light-cured or dual-cured resin cement system is used (protocol varies).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Finish\/polish<\/strong>: Cleaning excess cement, refining margins, and polishing to a smooth surface.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This is a general overview, not a step-by-step instruction set. Exact protocols vary by clinician, case, and manufacturer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Types \/ variations of chairside CAD\/CAM<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>chairside CAD\/CAM can vary in both <strong>technology workflow<\/strong> and <strong>restorative material choice<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common chairside CAD\/CAM restoration types<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Inlays<\/strong>: Fit inside the cusps of a tooth (partial coverage).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Onlays<\/strong>: Extend over one or more cusps (more coverage than an inlay).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Crowns<\/strong>: Cover the entire prepared tooth.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Veneers<\/strong>: Cover the front surface of a tooth in selected cases (material and preparation dependent).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Material categories often used chairside<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Because brand names and exact compositions differ, materials are often described broadly as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Glass ceramics<\/strong>: Often selected for esthetics and bonding capability; handling and finishing depend on the specific ceramic.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Polycrystalline ceramics<\/strong>: Often discussed for strength; bonding and processing steps can differ from glass ceramics.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Hybrid or resin-based CAD\/CAM blocks<\/strong>: Contain resin with ceramic or glass fillers; often milled efficiently and may be repairable with composite in certain situations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Material selection is case-dependent and varies by clinician and manufacturer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How this differs from direct composite \u201cvariations\u201d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Patients may hear terms like <strong>low vs high filler composite<\/strong>, <strong>bulk-fill flowable<\/strong>, or <strong>injectable composites<\/strong>. These are typically <strong>direct restorative materials<\/strong> placed and shaped inside the tooth (a \u201cfilling\u201d approach), not milled from a block.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They are still relevant because they represent alternatives or complements to chairside CAD\/CAM:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A dentist may choose a <strong>direct composite<\/strong> (including bulk-fill or injectable techniques) for smaller to moderate defects.<\/li>\n<li>A dentist may choose <strong>chairside CAD\/CAM<\/strong> when a more extensive, indirect shape is needed (for example, cuspal coverage), or when a milled restoration fits the clinical goals better.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The decision is usually based on tooth structure remaining, stress patterns, isolation feasibility, and esthetic requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pros and cons<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Pros:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Same-day workflow<\/strong> is possible in many cases, reducing the need for a separate delivery visit.<\/li>\n<li><strong>No traditional impression material<\/strong> may be needed when digital scanning is used.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Digital design control<\/strong> can help refine contacts and occlusion before milling.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Factory-made blocks<\/strong> offer consistent starting material quality (properties vary by material and manufacturer).<\/li>\n<li><strong>No temporary restoration<\/strong> may be required in some same-day cases, which some patients find convenient.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Chairside adjustability<\/strong> allows real-time modifications and polishing during the appointment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Cons:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Not every case scans or isolates easily<\/strong>, especially with deep margins or moisture challenges.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Equipment cost and maintenance<\/strong> can affect availability and fee structures (varies by clinic).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Learning curve<\/strong> for scanning, design, and milling workflows can influence efficiency and outcomes.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Material-specific limitations<\/strong> exist, including thickness requirements and bonding\/finishing protocols (varies by material and manufacturer).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Appointment length<\/strong> can be longer on the day of treatment because design and milling happen during the visit.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Esthetic complexity<\/strong> for highly demanding cases may sometimes be better served by a lab-based, layered approach (case-dependent).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Aftercare &amp; longevity<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Longevity of chairside CAD\/CAM restorations depends on multiple interacting factors rather than one single feature of the technology. In general, durability is influenced by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Bite forces and chewing patterns<\/strong>, including heavy function on back teeth.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Bruxism (clenching\/grinding)<\/strong>, which can increase stress on restorations and natural teeth.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Oral hygiene and caries risk<\/strong>, because decay can develop at restoration margins if conditions favor it.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Diet and habits<\/strong>, such as frequent exposure to acidic drinks or hard objects (effects vary).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Material choice and design<\/strong>, including thickness, margin placement, and whether the restoration is bonded or cemented (varies by case and system).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Regular dental checkups<\/strong>, which help monitor margins, bite, and surrounding gum health over time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>After placement, clinicians often focus on maintaining smooth surfaces and stable bite contacts, since roughness and high spots can contribute to wear or discomfort. Any restoration\u2014chairside or lab-made\u2014can require maintenance or replacement eventually, and timelines vary widely by patient and circumstance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Alternatives \/ comparisons<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>chairside CAD\/CAM is one option within a larger set of restorative approaches. Comparing options is usually about matching the technique and material to the size of the defect, stress level, and clinical conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">chairside CAD\/CAM vs direct composite (flowable vs packable)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Direct composite (packable\/sculptable)<\/strong> is commonly used for small to moderate cavities and repairs, placed directly in the tooth and shaped by the clinician.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Flowable composite<\/strong> has lower viscosity (flows more easily) and can be useful for small repairs, liners, or specific indications; it is not a direct substitute for a milled restoration in high-stress, extensive cases.<\/li>\n<li><strong>chairside CAD\/CAM<\/strong> is an indirect approach: the restoration is fabricated outside the mouth and then bonded\/cemented. This can be advantageous when anatomy and cuspal coverage need to be built precisely, or when a large direct filling may be more technique-sensitive.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Choice depends on cavity size, remaining tooth structure, isolation, and occlusion. Varies by clinician and case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">chairside CAD\/CAM vs glass ionomer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Glass ionomer<\/strong> is often discussed for its fluoride release and moisture tolerance relative to some resin materials, and it may be selected for certain high-caries-risk situations or temporary\/interim needs (indication-dependent).<\/li>\n<li><strong>chairside CAD\/CAM restorations<\/strong> are typically chosen when a stronger, shaped, indirect restoration is desired for function and longevity, though outcomes vary by material and case.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These are generally used for different clinical goals rather than being direct substitutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">chairside CAD\/CAM vs compomer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Compomers<\/strong> (polyacid-modified composite resins) are often used in specific scenarios, sometimes in pediatric or low-stress areas, depending on clinician preference and case needs.<\/li>\n<li><strong>chairside CAD\/CAM<\/strong> is more commonly associated with indirect restorations like inlays\/onlays\/crowns, where full contour and occlusal anatomy are milled.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Again, the comparison is mostly about indication and load demands rather than a simple \u201cbetter vs worse.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common questions (FAQ) of chairside CAD\/CAM<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Is chairside CAD\/CAM the same as a same-day crown?<\/strong><br\/>\nIt can be. chairside CAD\/CAM is the technology workflow, and one common product is a same-day crown. Some clinics also use chairside CAD\/CAM for inlays, onlays, and selected veneers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Does the scanning hurt?<\/strong><br\/>\nIntraoral scanning is generally noninvasive and is often described as more comfortable than traditional impressions. Comfort can vary depending on gag reflex, mouth opening, and how long the scan takes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Will I need an injection or drilling?<\/strong><br\/>\nMany restorations require tooth preparation, which often involves dental instruments and, in many cases, local anesthesia. The need for anesthesia and the extent of preparation vary by the tooth\u2019s condition and the type of restoration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: How long does a chairside CAD\/CAM appointment take?<\/strong><br\/>\nTime depends on the tooth, the type of restoration, and the clinic workflow. The visit may be longer than a short filling appointment because scanning, design, and milling happen the same day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: How long do chairside CAD\/CAM restorations last?<\/strong><br\/>\nThere is no single lifespan that applies to everyone. Longevity varies by material and manufacturer, tooth position, bite forces, bonding\/cementation approach, oral hygiene, and habits like bruxism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Is chairside CAD\/CAM safe?<\/strong><br\/>\nchairside CAD\/CAM is a widely used clinical workflow. Safety considerations are similar to other restorative dentistry procedures: proper diagnosis, appropriate material selection, and careful bonding\/cementation steps. Individual suitability varies by clinician and case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Will it look natural?<\/strong><br\/>\nMany chairside CAD\/CAM materials are designed to mimic tooth color and translucency. The final appearance depends on material selection, shade matching, tooth color, staining, and finishing\/polishing steps. Highly demanding cosmetic cases may have different options depending on the situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Is chairside CAD\/CAM more expensive than other options?<\/strong><br\/>\nCost can vary by clinic, region, tooth location, material choice, and insurance coverage. Some patients find the fee comparable to lab-made crowns, while others notice differences based on the practice\u2019s technology and material selections. It is best viewed as \u201cvaries by clinician and case,\u201d rather than a fixed price range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: What should I expect after the restoration is placed?<\/strong><br\/>\nIt is common to have an adjustment period as your bite and tongue adapt to the new shape. Some people notice temporary sensitivity, while others do not. Any ongoing discomfort or a bite that feels \u201chigh\u201d is typically something a dental office can evaluate and adjust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Can a chairside CAD\/CAM restoration be repaired?<\/strong><br\/>\nIn some cases, small chips or marginal issues may be repairable, depending on the material and the type of damage. Certain resin-based or hybrid materials may be more straightforward to repair with composite than some ceramics, but repairability varies by material and manufacturer.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>chairside CAD\/CAM is a dental workflow where restorations are designed on a computer and made in the dental office the same day. CAD means computer-aided design, and CAM means computer-aided manufacturing. It is commonly used to make crowns, inlays, onlays, and some veneers in a single appointment. It typically combines a digital scan, design software, and an in-office milling unit.<\/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-3085","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>chairside 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\/chairside-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=\"chairside CAD\/CAM: Definition, Uses, and Clinical Overview - Best Dental Hospitals\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"chairside CAD\/CAM is a dental workflow where restorations are designed on a computer and made in the dental office the same day. CAD means computer-aided design, and CAM means computer-aided manufacturing. It is commonly used to make crowns, inlays, onlays, and some veneers in a single appointment. 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