I digital dentistry _ CAD/CAM Fig. 9 Fig. 9_The individual images are combined in an anatomically correct way in order to create a virtual quadrant model. (Photo: Dr Andreas Bindl) Fig. 10_CBVT image showing the adjustment of the implant post; the CEREC data record shows the location and insertion axis of the planned crown. (Illustration: Dr Andreas Bindl/Sicat) Fig. 10 _Implant planning with the help of imaging systems The integration of the CEREC system and conebeam volumetric tomography (CBVT) enhances the reliability of implant planning. The low-radiation CBVT system generates a detailed 3-D image of the bone structure. This ensures greater diagnostic accuracy, as well as the precise localisation of the anatomical structures. CBVT thus provides the basis reported that anatomically sized, adhesively bonded implant molar crowns (VITA Mark II silicate ceramic) with occlusal wall thicknesses of 1.5 mm have performed well in laboratory tests. This applies to crowns placed on titanium abutments and crowns placed on ZrO2 abutments.18 _Summary CEREC has been transformed from a computerbased ‘inlay machine’ into a highly versatile system for single-visit dentistry. In future, CEREC will coordinate various functions in dental practices and laboratories. Numerous internationally recognised studies have proved that chairside ceramic inlays and onlays achieve clinical survival rates that are comparable to those of cast-gold restorations. With the introduction of optoelectronic impression-taking for entire quadrants, CEREC has opened the door to impression-free dentistry and has integrated dental laboratories more closely into the work flow of dental practices. CEREC technology has demonstrated to dental professionals that CAD/CAM processes and computer-aided treatment methods will determine the future activities and actions of dental practices and laboratories._ Fig. 11 Fig. 11_Prof Mehl, physicist and biologist (left), has been collaborating closely with Prof Mörmann in Zurich in his role as visiting professor. (Photo: DGCZ/Kern) for the surgical planning of the implant.17 The CEREC intra-oral camera is used to scan the implant site and the adjacent teeth. Following this, the software generates a virtual 3-D model, on the basis of which the future implant crown is designed and prosthetic planning conducted. The 3-D model with the implant crown is then superimposed on the 3-D CBVT image. This allows the clinician to position the implant with reference to the planned prosthesis and the available bone structure (Fig. 10). CEREC is already deployed for the fabrication of implant superstructures. Dr Daniel Wolf et al. Editorial note: A complete list of references is available from the publisher. _contact cosmetic dentistry Manfred Kern, Wiesbaden, Germany German Society of Computerized Dentistry – International Society of Computerized Dentistry secretariat@dgcz.org www.dgcz.org 38 I cosmetic dentistry 4_ 2009