Dental crowns and bridges are fixed prosthetic restorations used to replace or restore damaged or missing teeth. With advancements in CAD/CAM technology and dental milling machines, the fabrication of crowns and bridges has become faster, more precise, and more customizable, improving patient outcomes in both function and esthetics.
A dental crown is a cap that completely covers a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are used in various clinical cases, such as:
• Severely decayed or fractured teeth
• After root canal therapy
• For cosmetic improvements
• To support a large filling
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring onto adjacent teeth or dental implants. It typically consists of:
• Abutments: The supporting teeth or implants.
• Pontic: The false tooth (or teeth) that fills the gap.
Modern crowns and bridges can be made from a variety of materials, chosen based on durability, esthetics, and clinical requirements:
• Zirconia (ZrO₂): Strong, biocompatible, and highly durable; ideal for posterior restorations.
• Lithium Disilicate (e.g., IPS e.max): Aesthetic glass-ceramic used mainly in anterior regions.
• Metal-Ceramic (PFM): Traditional solution combining strength of metal with esthetic ceramic overlay.
• Full-Metal Crowns (Gold or alloys): Used for molars requiring high strength.
• Resin-based materials: Used for temporary or provisional restorations.
The digital fabrication process for crowns and bridges includes:
1. Intraoral Scanning: Captures a 3D image of the patient’s teeth.
2. CAD Design: The restoration is digitally designed using dental CAD software.
3. CAM Milling: The restoration is milled from a solid block of ceramic, zirconia, or composite material using a dental milling machine.
4. Sintering or Crystallization: (if needed) Final material properties are achieved.
5. Finishing: Staining, glazing, and polishing for natural esthetics.
• High Precision Fit
• Reduced chair time
• Same-day restorations (chairside systems)
• Custom esthetic design
• Consistent quality and repeatability
• Functionality: Restores chewing efficiency and bite alignment.
• Aesthetics: Matches the natural tooth color and translucency.
• Longevity: Materials like zirconia can last over a decade with proper care.
• Minimally Invasive Options: Some systems allow for ultra-thin restorations.
• AI-assisted crown design: Improving accuracy and reducing design time.
• 3D printing integration: For temporary crowns and digital wax-ups.
• Advanced multi-layer zirconia: For better esthetics and natural shading.
• Faster sintering ovens: Allowing full-contour zirconia crowns in under 20 minutes.
Dental crowns and bridges remain essential solutions for restorative dentistry. With the integration of CAD/CAM technology and high-performance materials, they offer enhanced functionality, esthetics, and durability. The use of dental milling machines allows for precise, fast, and customized restorations, transforming both the dental lab and chairside experience. As digital innovation continues, crowns and bridges will remain a cornerstone of modern dental care.