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CAD/CAM Milling
In CAD/CAM milling, a design made from scan or model data is machined under computer control from zirconia, PMMA and wax discs. We work directly with your intraoral scan files and mill only after checking the design for manufacturability.
Indications
When to choose it
- Zirconia crowns, bridges and frameworks
- PMMA temporary crowns, bridges and full-arch temporaries
- Milling of wax-ups before pressing or casting
- Implant-supported zirconia superstructures (according to the case plan)
- PMMA prototypes and mock-ups from a digital wax-up
Points to discuss with the laboratory
- Internal angles narrower than the bur diameter and very thin edges cannot be machined precisely; the design is adapted to these limits.
- If the margin cannot be read in the scan data, the design relies on estimation; a rescan may be requested.
For the dentist
Production from a scan file
For cases received as intraoral scans, design starts without pouring a plaster model. A 3D-printed model is added for checking if needed.
Registered design
The design is stored digitally. In the event of fracture or loss, the restoration can be reproduced in the same form.
PMMA prototype first
Before definitive zirconia, the same design can be milled in PMMA and tried in the mouth.
Materials
| Material | Brand | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Zirconia disc (Cercon) | Zirkon Zahn | Pre-sintered zirconia |
| PMMA disc | – | Temporary restorations and prototypes |
| Wax disc | – | Wax-ups for pressing and casting |
| Digital infrastructure | 3Shape, Camcube | Brands we work with |
Manufacturer and CE details of materials are on the Quality page.
What we need when you send a case
- Intraoral scan file (STL) or impression
- Opposing arch and bite scan
- Material and shade information (VITA guide)
- For implant work: implant system and scan body details
- Whether you want design approval
Production process
- Data checkThe scan file is checked for margins, occlusion and missing areas.
- DesignThe restoration is designed in CAD software and minimum thicknesses are checked.
- Nesting and millingThe design is nested in the disc and milled from the chosen material.
- Sintering or next stageZirconia is sintered; PMMA goes to finishing, wax-ups go to pressing or casting.
- Fit checkMargins, intaglio surface and contacts are checked on the model.
Photographs
Frequently asked questions
How can I send scan files?
We can work with files exported in STL format from your intraoral scanner. Contact us for options to send via your scanner portal.
Can I see the design before production?
If you want design approval, state this on the Rx form; the design is shared with you before milling. Waiting for approval may extend the turnaround time.
How long can a milled PMMA temporary be used?
The period of use depends on the dentist's plan and the material manufacturer's instructions. If you are planning a long-term temporary, state this on the Rx form; design and thicknesses are adjusted accordingly.
Frequently requested with this case
Zirconia Crowns and Bridges
Monolithic or layered zirconia crowns and bridges; CAD/CAM milling, sintering and shading.
Laser Sintering (SLM Metal Frameworks)
SLM metal production from digital design for porcelain-fused-to-metal bridges and implant bar frameworks.
3D printing: models, try-in dentures and surgical guides
Working models, try-in dentures, surgical guides and custom appliances produced from scans.
Send your CAD/CAM milling case.
Fill in the form or call us. Your case manager responds within 24 hours.