Cam dental
In dentistry, CAM means computer-aided manufacturing, which turns a digital design into a restoration or appliance.
The short answer
Dental CAM is computer-aided manufacturing: a milling machine or 3D printer makes a restoration, model, surgical guide, or appliance from a digital design.
How does a digital scan begin the CAM workflow?
The workflow commonly starts with an intraoral scan or a scanned impression. Design software defines the shape and contacts, then a machine mills blocks such as ceramic or zirconia, or prints a suitable resin, followed by finishing and clinical fitting.
What should you check before a CAM appliance is made?
Ask which component is being made, what material is selected, how the fit and bite are checked, and whether staining, glazing, sintering, or polishing is needed. Bring information about allergies, grinding, and previous restorations.
When does a CAM-made crown need dental attention?
Seek care if a CAM-made crown or appliance feels high, traps food, cuts the gum, loosens, or causes bite or jaw pain. Adjustment or remake decisions require checking the fit and the supporting tooth.
What should you ask about CAM and CAD/CAM dentistry?
Is CAM the same as CAD/CAM dentistry? Which dental materials can CAM equipment make?
Frequently asked questions
Is CAM the same as CAD/CAM dentistry?
The workflow commonly starts with an intraoral scan or a scanned impression. Design software defines the shape and contacts, then a machine mills blocks such as ceramic or zirconia, or prints a suitable resin, followed by finishing and clinical fitting.
Which dental materials can CAM equipment make?
Ask which component is being made, what material is selected, how the fit and bite are checked, and whether staining, glazing, sintering, or polishing is needed. Bring information about allergies, grinding, and previous restorations.
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Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.