Cretu Ionut Cosmin, Tibeica Andreea, Curca Razvan, Agop-Forna Doriana, Camilar Maria, Radu Alexandru, Forna Norina
ABSTRACT
The rapid evolution of digital technologies has profoundly transformed contemporary implant dentistry, enabling more precise, efficient, and predictable treatment workflows. The integration of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) systems into implant-prosthetic rehabilitation has revolutionized diagnostic procedures, treatment planning, surgical execution, and prosthetic fabrication. By combining digital imaging modalities, intraoral scanning, virtual treatment planning, and advanced manufacturing techniques, clinicians can achieve highly accurate implant placement and prosthetic outcomes while reducing treatment time and improving patient satisfaction.
Digital workflows in implant dentistry typically involve the integration of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) data with intraoral scans to generate comprehensive three-dimensional virtual models. These datasets facilitate prosthetically driven implant planning, allowing clinicians to evaluate anatomical structures, optimize implant positioning, and fabricate static or dynamic surgical guides. Furthermore, CAD/CAM technologies enable the production of customized implant abutments, crowns, fixed partial dentures, and full-arch prostheses with high precision and reproducibility.
Recent advances in digital dentistry have also expanded the range of materials available for CAD/CAM fabrication, including zirconia, lithium disilicate, titanium, hybrid ceramics, and high-performance polymers. These materials have demonstrated favorable mechanical properties, esthetic outcomes, and long-term clinical performance. In addition, the incorporation of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms into digital workflows has introduced new possibilities for automated treatment planning, prosthetic design optimization, and predictive clinical decision-making.
The available evidence suggests that digital workflows can improve the accuracy of implant placement, enhance prosthetic fit, minimize biological and technical complications, and increase overall treatment predictability. However, factors such as equipment costs, learning curves, software interoperability, and operator experience continue to influence the successful implementation of digital technologies in daily clinical practice.
The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of contemporary digital workflows in implant dentistry, focusing on the integration of CAD/CAM technologies, digital planning strategies, restorative materials, clinical outcomes, and future developments that are shaping the next generation of implant-prosthetic rehabilitation.
Loading...
Reload document 
Open in new tab