The digital process chain plays an important role in modern dentistry, especially in the fabrication of dental prostheses. By utilising advanced CAD/CAM technology, dental practices can work with impressive precision and efficiency to achieve excellent results. In this article, we would like to give you an insight into the digital process chain using the example of the treatment of a patient in the practice 'Zahnärzte am Himmeloh'.
The first step on the way to the perfect dental restoration begins with the digital impression of the denture including preparation. Dr Herzberg uses an intraoral scanner for this. The scan is quick and precise and a display shows which areas have already been scanned in real time. The digital impression significantly simplifies the entire process, as the software used by the scanner is directly compatible with the subsequent processing steps. This means that all data is securely stored and assigned to the correct patient - an important step for the subsequent workflow.
The CAD/CAM processing step for designing the dental restoration now takes place. The exact design is planned with the help of CAD software, in this case Exocad Chairside. Among other things, the position of the implant and the emergence profile are determined and the tooth shape is precisely designed.
The appropriate milling block is then selected and the restoration is positioned in the block.
In the next step, the milling file is calculated, whereby no manual control of the CAM software is required, as blocks are processed instead of discs. This reduces the error rate and speeds up the process. As soon as the milling file has been created, it is automatically transferred to the CORiTEC one+ - the milling process can now begin.
Now comes the actual production process - milling. The Lithium disilicate blank is clamped in the corresponding holder in the machine. In this specific case, two crowns are milled from Lithium disilicate blocks. The appropriate tool for clamping the blocks and the holder is supplied with the machine. The CORiTEC one+'s intuitive touch display makes it easy to operate.
The CORiTEC one+ offers many possibilities in terms of materials and results - a wide range of different materials can be processed and e.g. inlays through to full dentures can be milled.
After milling, the holder is removed from the machine and the crowns are finalised. They are separated from the block and can now be further processed by grinding. It is also possible to colour the results. In this case, the crowns are fired in a sintering oven to strengthen them and improve their colour. This ensures that the highest quality standards are met and leads to the best possible result for the patient.
The final step of the digital workflow is the insertion of the dental prosthesis in the patient. The dentist first removes the temporary restoration (if present) and cleans the prepared area in the mouth. The crowns are then coated with an adhesive and inserted.
Thanks to the digital process chain and the precise work of the CORiTEC one+, the dental prosthesis fit exactly.
Please find out more about our CORiTEC one+ as The Advanced Chairside Solution.
