CAD/CAM Dental Technology: Same-Day Crowns and More

CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) technology allows dental restorations to be designed digitally and fabricated in-office or at a dental lab using milling machines or 3D printers. The most well-known application is same-day dental crowns, where a digital scan replaces the traditional impression and a crown is milled from a ceramic block during a single appointment. CAD/CAM has improved the accuracy, speed, and consistency of dental restorations.

2 min readMedically reviewed contentLast updated March 26, 2026

Key Takeaways

CAD/CAM enables same-day dental crowns, eliminating the need for temporary crowns and a second appointment.
A digital scan replaces messy traditional impressions, improving comfort and accuracy.
In-office milling produces a crown in 15 to 60 minutes from a solid ceramic block.
CAD/CAM restorations are highly accurate, with fit precision measured in microns.
The technology is used for crowns, bridges, veneers, inlays, onlays, and implant abutments.
Same-day crowns typically cost the same as traditionally made crowns ($800 to $2,000).

Understanding CAD/CAM Dental Technology

Advances in dental technology continue to improve the precision, comfort, and outcomes of dental treatment. Patients benefit from these technologies through more accurate diagnoses, less invasive procedures, and faster recovery times.

Clinical Applications

This technology is used across multiple dental specialties. Your dental specialist can explain how it applies to your specific treatment plan and whether it is available at their practice.

Not all dental offices have the same equipment, so if a specific technology is important to you, ask about it when scheduling your consultation.

Find a Dental Specialist

Search by location on My Specialty Dentist to find dental specialists with advanced technology and equipment in your area.

Search Prosthodontists in Your Area

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cad cam dental technology?

Is this technology safe?

Yes. All dental technologies in clinical use have undergone rigorous testing and regulatory approval. Your dental specialist is trained in the proper use of these instruments and follows established safety protocols.

Does this technology cost extra?

In most cases, the cost of technology is built into the overall treatment fee rather than charged separately. Some advanced imaging (like CBCT scans) may have a separate fee. Ask your provider for a detailed cost breakdown.

Do all dental offices have this technology?

Not all offices have the same equipment. Specialty practices tend to have more advanced technology than general dental offices. If a specific technology is important for your treatment, ask about availability when scheduling.

Does insurance cover treatments using this technology?

Insurance covers the dental procedure itself, not the specific technology used. Whether you receive a crown made with CAD/CAM or traditional methods, the insurance coverage is the same for the crown procedure.

How do I know if I need this technology for my treatment?

Your dental specialist will recommend the appropriate technology based on your specific diagnosis and treatment plan. During your consultation, ask about the technology that will be used and how it benefits your particular case.