The CAD-CAM technology applied at the Faculty of Dentistry, Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University, emphasizes precision, speed, and patient comfort in the field of dentistry. Dr. Pelin Atalay Seçkiner, a faculty member, explained the stages of the process and the advantages it provides.

Dental CAD/CAM systems used in dentistry have undergone significant development over the past 25 years and have become widely used in both clinics and laboratories. With advancements in technology, dentists are now able to produce faster, more precise, and aesthetically pleasing restorations.

Dr. Pelin Atalay Seçkiner, who provided information about this system implemented at the Faculty of Dentistry, Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University, stated that the process consists of three stages.

Three-Stage CAD-CAM Process

1. CSD (Computerized Surface Digitization) Surface Scanning and Digital Transfer:
   In the first stage, the intraoral environment is digitally scanned and transferred to a computer. This process starts with the scanning of the teeth and supporting tissues using computer-assisted measurement.

2. CAD (Computer-Aided Design) Computer-Aided Design:
   In the second stage, the restoration is planned and designed in three dimensions within the computer environment.

3. CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) Computer-Aided Manufacturing:
   In the final stage, the designed restoration is shaped using computer-assisted manufacturing (CAM), which is carried out using milling (cutting) or printing (additive manufacturing) methods.

Advantages of CAD-CAM Systems

Seçkiner highlighted several advantages that this system offers in dental applications, including the following:

• The quality of restorations increases, and the error rate decreases.
• The treatment process accelerates, leading to time efficiency.
• Patient comfort and satisfaction improve.
• The need for impression materials decreases, preventing material waste.
• Energy consumption is reduced, providing an environmentally friendly treatment method.
• In some cases, the restoration can be completed and delivered to the patient on the same day.

Seçkiner emphasized that digital technologies make data transfer easier and speed up the workflow, replacing traditional impression methods with digital systems that provide more precise and accurate results.

"With the use of these technologies, the quality and precision of dental restorations have increased, and workflows have become more efficient. Digital systems provide great advantages to dentists in treatment planning and simulation processes," said Seçkiner, underscoring the transformation brought about by digitization in dentistry.

Today, CAD-CAM technology continues to complete dental treatments more quickly, offering patients a more comfortable and effective healthcare service.