International Journal of Computerized Dentistry, 01/2004

This article provides an overview of the status of current CAD/CAM technology and possible development trends. In addition to a description of the different CAD/CAM components required for producing computer-assisted dental restorations, innovative design methods recently introduced into dental technology are also mentioned. In the description of the practical application of the current CAD/ CAM systems, the possibilities and limits of the present-day techniques and future outlook are illustrated. In this context, the current range of materials available for the computer-assisted production of biocompatible and at the same time highquality dental restorations is also discussed. In conclusion, the different economic concepts coming into consideration in view of the high investment costs of the current CAD/CAM systems are presented and discussed. Keywords: CAD/CAM, digital data acquisition, production of computerassisted dental restorations, new production technologies, NPM alloy, titanium, zirconium oxide

The Cerec-3D software was introduced officially at the IDS 2003 with the version 2.00 R1000. The decisive difference compared with the preceding software generations was that the prepared tooth and the restoration were displayed three dimensionally. Thus, the virtual changes which could be made with the aid of editing tools could also be controlled and seen immediately in 3D. The latest officially available version of the Cerec-3D software version 2.10 R1500 differs in some further developments from the first version 2.00 R1000; these are for example: - If the semiautomatic margin detector is switched off while marking the preparation margin, the alternative intensity image appears instead of the 3D display. - Designing has been decisively improved by the extension of the "Drop" tool (function of continuous application and removal of material). - Under morphologically difficult circumstances, the design proposal can be magnified/reduced in size and repositioned in all spatial directions. - The Parameter setting again permits setting an adhesive gap width specific to the dentist and unit. As an example, the version 1500 software is demonstrated on a simple clinical case in which the occlusion points were defined virtually with the aid of a functional bite registration, eliminating the need for occlusal grinding-in. Keywords: Cerec-3D, virtual design, Version 1500

In order to facilitate diagnosis of images generated with the NewTom 9000, the professional DICOM viewer eFilm Workstation was used for evaluation. Primary reconstructions of patient data of one hundred NewTom 9000 examinations were exported to the DICOM format and subsequently imported in the DICOM viewer eFilm Workstation. Multiplanar reconstructions (MPR) and three-dimensional reconstructions were computed for diagnostic purposes. All desired perspectives can be viewed with this software with CT-like printouts, offering several additional features and an uncomplicated print modus. The DICOM viewer eFilm Workstation is an easy-to-use alternative to the standard software provided by quantitative radiology. Keywords: NewTom 9000, eFilm, multiplanar reconstruction, digital volume tomography, 3D imaging

Ceramic restorations - suitable for the anterior as well as the posterior region, simultaneously satisfying the demand for high strength, longevity, and esthetics - are an increasingly important field for the dental professional. Because of its outstanding mechanical properties and esthetics with a proven track record in other industrial areas, zirconium oxide (zirconia) is emerging in the dental industry. As the manufacturing method of choice, CAD/CAM is important for the dental laboratory; however, in the final analysis, the primary focus will be on the material properties and the clinical performance of the result of the CAD/CAM process - in this case, zirconia crowns and bridges. This is especially true since some concepts do not require the acquisition of a CAD/CAM system at all. Keywords: crowns, bridges, Lava, zirconia, Lava zirconia, strength, longevity, esthetics

Virtual Reality - meaning the visualization of abstract computer processes - is gaining increasing significance in the everyday routine of the dental laboratory working with CAD/CAM technology. This is indispensable especially when processing the new high-strength materials such as ZrO2. The average maximum chewing forces previously permitted a bridge in the posterior region only when metal ceramics were used. With the aid of modern computer technology, it is now possible to use the all-ceramic material of zirconium dioxide for these indications. The technical procedure in the dental laboratory corresponds largely to the production techniques that are known from use with aluminum oxide. VITA VM 9 (Vita Zahnfabrik, Bad Säckingen, Germany) is available as veneer material. Its coefficient of thermal expansion is perfectly matched to the ceramic. Keywords: Y-TZP, YZ cubes, Vita VM 9, Cerec inLab, framework