CAD/CAM - international magazine of digital dentistry

I am able to do all of this while participating with more than 15 preferred provider organiza- tions (PPO), as well as several reduced-fee plans and two union plans. I attribute the success of the practice to five key factors (Table 1). Although every factor plays a critical role in the growth and success of a practice, technology has the most significant impact on my practice’s abil- itytogeneratehigh-qualityrestorativedentistryin a more efficient and less stressful way. My practice utilizes networked office management software with computers in every operatory, office and support area. In addition to digital radiography, we regu- larly use intraoral cameras, diode and erbium lasers and, most importantly, chairside CAD/CAM technology. Our ability to provide high-quality dentistry with ease and efficiency relies on the integration and utilization of all of these dif- ferent technologies, with CAD/CAM being at the centre of our restorative treatment appoint- ments. The decision to purchase and implement new technology can be challenging. In a PPO practice, where fees can be as much as 30 per cent lower than in a fee-for-service office, the decision can be even more intimidating. With a lower potential profitmargin,addedcapitalexpenditurescanhave more of an impact on your bottom line. I considered several factors when choosing to add CAD/CAM to my technology armamentarium. Quality, fit and durability of the restorations were the primary focus of my clinical decision. The profitability, practical application and return on my investment were the primary focus of my business decision. _Control and aesthetics Aesthetics was a significant concern as well. Would I be able to achieve optimal aesthetics with the available materials with same-day CAD/CAM dentistry? Would the materials available offer enough va- riety to handle complicated aesthetic challenges? After I completed some additional clinical traininginCAD/CAMaesthetics,includingstaining and glazing IPS Empress and IPS e.max ceramic (Ivoclar Vivadent), and now the simplified polish- ing of LAVA Ultimate (3M ESPE), I was surprised by how easy it was to achieve great aesthetics. I now find myself tackling the more challenging cosmetic cases on my own because I have more control when characterization is done chairside. The E4D Dentist System also offers the option to have your restorations designed and/or milled offsite using the E4D SKY network. For an addi- tional fee, you can actually send your scans to D4D Technologies to expert designers to have your designs or milling completed if you choose. This is a great service for dentists who are new to the technology, are just getting into more advanced restorative/cosmetic cases or want to maximize utilization while still keeping a full schedule. Inaddition,theE4DDentistSystem(DentaLogic Version 4.5) can import and export open file for- Fig. 3_Teeth #8 and #9 pretreatment. Fig. 4_Immediate post-treatment (same-day IPS e.max). I 17 CE article _ CAD/CAM standards I CAD/CAM 3_2013 Fig. 4Fig. 3 Five key factors to practice success Technical skill Proficiency in clinical, diagnostic and communcation skills for the practitioner and team Team Highlyskilled,motivated,well-trainedandeasilyadaptableindividuals Systems Clear and effective protocol for clinical, administrative and financial practice management Marketing Effective marketing and advertising to generate awareness and new patients Technology Cutting-edge technology to increase efficiency and productivity Table 1_Five key factors to practice success.