Digitalization is transforming modern dentistry at a rapid pace. One of the key drivers of this development is digital impression-taking using intraoral scanners, which are increasingly replacing traditional silicone or alginate impressions. For dentists, this not only means greater comfort for their patients but also the entry into a fully digital workflow (Zimmermann et al., 2015).
Especially when combined with chairside CAD/CAM systems, a new treatment scenario becomes possible: instead of sending impressions to the laboratory and scheduling a second appointment, restorations such as inlays, onlays, or crowns can be designed, fabricated, and inserted directly in the practice (Reich & Schierz, 2013). As a result, treatment times are significantly reduced—often to just a single visit.
The use of intraoral scanners and chairside CAD/CAM systems therefore offers not only more efficient workflows but also higher patient satisfaction and increased value creation within the practice. At the same time, implementing these technologies requires investments, training, and a clear strategy.
This article explains how dentists can optimize the digital workflow using intraoral scanners and chairside CAD/CAM systems, what benefits these technologies offer, and where their current limitations lie.
