What is a consideration when adopting CAD/CAM technology in a dental lab?

• A. Requires investment in technology and training
• B. Eliminates all human labor
• C. Makes all processes manual
• D. Reduces initial cost

Answer: (A)

Adopting CAD/CAM hinges on planning for an upfront investment in both technology and training. A dental lab must budget for the scanner or intraoral capture device, design software licenses, milling or 3D printing equipment, consumables, and ongoing maintenance. Equally important is allocating time and resources to train technicians to design restorations, manage digital workflows, calibrate equipment, and troubleshoot issues. Without this investment in tools and skills, the system won’t deliver its expected benefits, regardless of its technical capabilities.

This isn’t about eliminating human labor or making every step manual. In reality, CAD/CAM shifts many tasks from purely manual fabrication to digital design and automated production, but skilled technicians are still essential for planning, verifying fit, selecting materials, finishing, and quality control. And the initial cost is not typically reduced; there’s usually a higher upfront outlay before any long-term savings from efficiency and consistency are realized.