Easier Implant Restoration: CAD/CAM Generated Implant Abutments

Computer-designed and -generated implant abutments offer restorative dentists alternative ways of restoring implants compared to present restorative techniques. Standard implant prosthetic techniques rely on implant level impressions and casting technology for component fabrication. Other techniques have included shaping or reduction of a stock component by either lab or dentist. Speaking to dental providers at my seminars and lectures, I have found that many dentists are looking for alternative ways to restore implants in a fast, easy, and predictable manner. In fact, some dentists I have spoken to avoid restoring implants because they feel too overwhelmed with the selection, technique, and protocol for restoring implants. Because of this, some of these providers do not offer implants as a treatment alternative. I have found that implant abutments generated by computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) can be more precise than those created using traditional casting technology. This increased accuracy has specific application to implant dentistry, where precision of components may affect implant longevity, prosthetic success, and ease of restoration. After reading this article, the reader should be able to recognize and understand the CAD/CAM application in the dental field when restoring implants.