IMP165 - The Cutting Edge of Digital Prosthodontics and Beyond-Article

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Digital dentistry has evolved from early CAM systems and CEREC to CBCT, intraoral scanners, and 3D printing, but adoption required time for hardware, software, materials, and workflows to align. Today, digital tools are reshaping prosthodontics by improving efficiency, accuracy, communication, and patient experience. In implant dentistry, clinicians use CBCT, intraoral scanning, photogrammetry, T-Scan, CAD/CAM, milling, and 3D printing to better plan implant position, restore cases faster, and produce reproducible prosthetics. Same-day restorations, next-day lab work, and lower remake rates are now possible, while falling costs have made these tools more accessible.<br /><br />The article highlights the growing role of artificial intelligence, which is being integrated into diagnosis, scan analysis, treatment planning, denture design, and digital smile design. Facial scanning and 4D jaw tracking are expanding virtual patient modeling. Robotics is another major development, especially in implant surgery and dental labs, where robotic systems can improve precision and efficiency, though cost remains a barrier.<br /><br />Material science is also advancing, with zirconia increasingly replacing lithium disilicate in many applications and 3D-printing materials improving rapidly. Looking ahead, the field may be transformed by smart prosthetics and implants that collect data, monitor health, and even deliver therapies. Experimental work includes sensor-based implants, bioresponsive coatings, LED-powered implants, and implant designs intended to restore more natural sensation.<br /><br />The far future may include regenerative dentistry, such as lab-grown teeth or medications that stimulate tooth regrowth. Dental education is adapting as well, with students learning both digital and conventional workflows. Despite digital progress, the article concludes that conventional methods will still have a place, though a smaller one, as prosthodontics continues moving toward a more integrated, data-driven future.

Keywords

digital dentistry

prosthodontics

implant dentistry

CBCT

intraoral scanners

3D printing

artificial intelligence

robotics

zirconia

regenerative dentistry