What is Dental CAD/CAM? A Complete Guide

CAD/CAM stands for Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing. In dentistry it replaces traditional impressions and manual fabrication with a precise digital chain, improving quality, speed and repeatability.

How the CAD/CAM chain works

1. Digital scanning

An intraoral scanner or lab scanner captures an accurate 3D model and outputs an STL file — no physical impression required.

2. Design (CAD)

In the design software, the technician models the crown, bridge, abutment or veneer with precise control of anatomy and occlusion.

3. Manufacturing (CAM) — milling or printing

The design is sent to a CAD/CAM milling machine that cuts the restoration from zirconia or other materials. A sintering furnace then brings zirconia to final strength.

Advantages over traditional workflows

Higher accuracy and repeatability, no impression errors, faster turnaround, digital archiving, and easier collaboration between clinic and lab.

What equipment do you need to start?

A full workflow typically combines a scanner, design software, a milling machine and (for zirconia) a sintering furnace. You can equip step by step. Explore our full catalog on the Products page.

Tip: CAD/CAM success depends on component compatibility — an open-output scanner with matching software and milling avoids future headaches.

Dentiva recommendation

Dentiva supplies the full CAD/CAM chain — scanners, milling machines, sintering furnaces and materials — CE-certified, with expert consultation and support.