A new method for generating ceramic restorations: a CAD-CAM system.
The CAD-CAM CEREC system is a small, complex unit developed for electronically designing and milling ceramic restorations. The system makes it possible to generate a restoration without taking impressions, developing temporary prostheses, and without laboratory assistance. The entire restorative procedure is performed in one appointment. Basic features include the following: the cavity preparation is scanned stereo-photogrammetrically, using a three-dimensional miniature video camera; the small microprocessor unit stores the three-dimensional pattern depicted on the screen; the video display serves as a format for the necessary manual construction via an electrical signal; the microprocessor develops the final three-dimensional restoration from the two-dimensional construction; the processing unit automatically deletes data beyond the margins of the preparation; the electronic information is transferred numerically to the miniature three-axis milling device; driven by a water turbine unit, the milling device generates a precision-fitting restoration from a standard ceramic block; the entire process of electronic designing and subsequent milling of a ceramic restoration requires approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
Leinfelder
K F
KF
Biomaterials Clinical Research, School of Dentistry, University of Alabama, Birmingham 35294.
Isenberg
B P
BP
Essig
M E
ME
D003198:Computer Simulation; D003199:Computer Systems; D003748:Dental Equipment; D003776:Dental Porcelain; D003793:Dental Restoration, Permanent / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted
D003776:Dental Porcelain