Digitization in Prosthodontics

Abstract

The advent of digital radiography, as well as the first iterations of intraoral scanning and computerassisted design and computer-assisted manufacturing (CAD/CAM) crowns, sparked widespread use of digital technology in dentistry in the early nineties. Digitisation and innovation have infinite potential in prosthodontics, whether in clinic or laboratory processes. New digital devices and processing software, as well as appealing materials and robust manufacturing procedures, are significantly changing dentistry. Today, a growing number of dental clinics and labs see the advantages of becoming digital. A diverse range of digital solutions is possible, including Computer-Aided Design-Computer Assisted Manufacturing (CAD-CAM) technology, rapid prototyping, stereolithography, the CEREC system, and numerous others that are being investigated. The merits and hurdles to digital technology implementation in prosthodontics will be discussed in this review paper. We will also discuss the influence of digital technology on dental learning and its prospects in digital dental care.