How CAD/CAM Technology Improves Aesthetics

In orthodontics, CAD/CAM technology plays a huge role in the design of fixed appliances, clear aligners, customized appliances, and other types of retainers. Due to the developments in 3D printing, all of these devices can be fabricated in a digital environment and increase digital workflow. So how does all of this apply to patients? CAD/CAM technology allows us to create three-dimensional images that can be manipulated through computer software, and it's just one aspect of today's orthodontics that has increased workflow and patient satisfaction with their treatments. This is often due to its increased focus on aesthetics - where traditional methods of treatment lacked this form of precision and care, digital workflows have created a better environment for their patients, providing needs beyond just health concerns.

How CAD/CAM Technology Improves Aesthetics

Applying this technology to orthodontics aims to reduce the overall time frame for treatments, providing more predictable, aesthetically pleasing options that make for happier patients. Among these applications, CAD/CAM technology helps produce effective aligners, customizable devices, indirect bonding trays, and even virtual brackets for retainers. Because of its digital framework, more patients are experiencing better aesthetic value with their treatments. CAD/CAM operates on three pillars, which include:

• Digital Imaging: Through the scans provided by intraoral devices, digital images can be acquired from the patient's dental arches and can help produce high-quality images that can assist in diagnosing and treating orthodontic conditions.

• Image Manipulation: With specific software, the images provided by the scanners can be manipulated and visualized to greater degrees to diagnose conditions further, specify details, and make changes to treatment plans.

• 3D Printing Files: Once the treatment is approved and finalized, those files can be submitted to either a laboratory or the orthodontists' 3D printer to be fabricated, which can improve digital workflow for orthodontists and create a faster treatment time for patients.

These pillars work together to create a faster turnout time, a more accurate focus on aesthetics, and a more comfortable patient environment. CAD/CAM technology has become a digital milestone for orthodontics for its ability to bring focus to aesthetics. When it comes to overall patient treatment, its clinical applications can therefore consider the patient's desires for aesthetics.

How Do Patients Benefit From CAD/CAM Technology?

CAD/CAM provides digitally processed workflows for orthodontists, but for patients, it provides a higher focus on aesthetics, reducing the overall costs and increasing better accuracy. Now, concerns that patients have previously noted can be better addressed, including signs of dental triangles, poor tooth enamel strength, and misaligned jawlines, and creating a more positive environment. These advancements in technology can help in various circumstances, especially if the patient is working with a multi-modal treatment plan that requires the input of multiple specialists to take in. Treatment times are shortened, financial costs are reduced, and patients can experience a more aesthetically pleasing smile in no time at all. For more information about cosmetic orthodontic treatment, visit your local orthodontist today for an appointment.