CAD/CAM
Pronunciation: KAD-kam
Also written as: CAD/CAM — Computer-Aided Design / Computer-Aided Manufacturing
A digital workflow technology in which restorations are designed using software (CAD) and milled or 3D-printed by computer-controlled equipment (CAM).
Full Definition
In dentistry, CAD/CAM systems encompass chairside units (e.g., CEREC) and centralized laboratory milling centers that produce crowns, inlays, onlays, veneers, and implant prosthetics from pre-fabricated blocks of ceramic, resin composite, or zirconia. The process begins with intraoral scanning or model scanning to generate a digital impression, followed by virtual restoration design and automated milling or sintering. CAD/CAM has largely replaced hand-fabrication of many indirect restorations in contemporary prosthodontics. Editors should always render the acronym with a forward slash (CAD/CAM), not a hyphen (CAD-CAM), unless house style dictates otherwise.
Usage
Usage note: Always use a forward slash: CAD/CAM. Both letters of each abbreviation should be capitalised. Clarify on first use as 'computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM)'.
In Context
- "The CAD/CAM-fabricated lithium disilicate inlay was seated without adjustment, demonstrating excellent marginal adaptation." — Prosthodontics case report
- "CAD/CAM technology reduced laboratory turnaround time from two weeks to a single appointment." — Dental technology review