Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing ceramic biomaterials in dentistry: Past to present

Esthetic dentistry, driven by a high demand for esthetically appealing and naturally looking restorations, especially, all-ceramic restorations, has become a segment of dentistry which has experienced tremendous improvements in the recent years. The increasing use of polycrystalline alumina and zirconia as framework materials and the increasing popularity and variety of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) systems seem to be mutually accelerating trends. In fact, CAD-CAM technology opens up a new opportunity for dental biomaterials scientists in the research field. Newer and improved materials are available at every moment. The present review gives an overview on the different materials available in ceramics used in dental CAD/CAM technology. A search of English language peer-reviewed literature was undertaken using MEDLINE and PubMed with a focus on CAD-CAM ceramic articles published between 1996 and 2014. A hand search of nonindexed literature was, also, completed. Search terms included: CAD/CAM; All Ceramics; Zirconia. The literature demonstrates that multiple all-ceramic materials and systems are currently available for clinical use and there is not a single universal material or, system for all clinical situations.