How to Choose Dental CAD/CAM Equipment: Guide Based on Full Workflow for Clinics and Labs

Introduction 
In the dynamic landscape of digital dentistry, choosing the right CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) equipment is pivotal for achieving precision, efficiency, and superior patient outcomes. This technology streamlines the creation of dental restorations like crowns, bridges, and veneers, reducing time and errors compared to traditional methods. As of 2025, the global dental CAD/CAM market is valued at approximately $3.1 billion, projected to reach $6.1 billion by 2030 with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.8%. This growth is fueled by the rising prevalence of oral diseases, affecting over 3.7 billion people worldwide, and increasing demand for aesthetic, same-day solutions.

Equipment selection depends on whether you're operating in a chairside (clinic-based) or laboratory setting. Chairside systems prioritize speed for single-visit treatments, ideal for high-volume practices in urban areas like New York or London. Laboratory setups focus on scalability and complexity, suiting specialized labs in regions such as Asia-Pacific, where market growth is fastest at around 12% CAGR. North America holds about 36% of the market share, driven by high adoption rates exceeding 40% in advanced clinics.

Understanding the CAD/CAM Workflow for Equipment Selection

The CAD/CAM process transforms patient data into final restorations. Selecting equipment requires aligning tools with workflow steps, ensuring seamless integration. For clinics, compact, user-friendly devices enable in-house production; labs need robust, high-throughput machines for batch processing.

Step 1: Scanning and Model Preparation – Choosing Accurate Scanners
Data acquisition is the foundation. Intraoral scanners capture 3D images directly in the mouth for chairside use, while lab scanners handle models or impressions.

For chairside clinics: Opt for fast, ergonomic intraoral scanners like the YRC-S03 or YRC-P5 intraoral scanner. These provide micron-level accuracy (5-10 microns), quick scans (under 2 minutes for a full arch), and easy integration with design software. Ideal for same-day crowns in busy practices, they reduce patient discomfort and eliminate physical impressions. 

For laboratories: Desktop scanners such as RS600 or RS1000 are recommended for high-volume scanning of gypsum models or impressions. These offer superior resolution for complex cases like bridges, with automated features for efficiency. 

Step 2: Design and Nesting – Selecting Intuitive CAD Software

Design software turns scans into virtual restorations. Both settings use similar tools, but chairside needs quick, dentist-friendly interfaces, while labs require advanced nesting for multiple units.

Step 3: Milling/Carving – Picking the Right Milling Machine

Milling fabricates the restoration from blocks. Wet milling suits glass-ceramics; dry for zirconia.

Chairside: The 6X wet milling machine is ideal, handling ceramics with precision (5-axis) and speed (10-20 minutes per crown). Compact design fits small clinics, with low noise for patient comfort.

Laboratory: Select the 5X dry milling machine for zirconia efficiency, processing multiple units simultaneously. High spindle speed (60,000 RPM) and automatic tool changers boost throughput for labs in high-demand areas like Asia-Pacific.

Step 4: Dyeing and Drying – Equipment for Aesthetic Enhancement
Post-milling, zirconia requires coloring for natural shades. Use dedicated dipping stations or brushes, followed by low-temperature dryers (80-100°C).

Step 5: Sintering – Choosing Reliable Furnaces
Sintering densifies zirconia at high temperatures (1450-1550°C).
Laboratory: The F10+ or HS007 sintering furnaces are recommended, offering programmable curves for various zirconia types and large chambers for batches. High reliability minimizes defects in volume production

Step 6: Glazing – Tools for Surface Finishing

Glazing adds shine via low-temperature firing (750-850°C).

Our glaze pastes are available in 18-color and 8-color packs.

Step 7: Porcelain
To achieve a layered and aesthetically pleasing effect, ceramic layers are applied and fired at a temperature of 900-1000°C.
Our porcelain furnace has a maximum temperature of 1200°C and a heating rate of up to 200°C per minute.

Conclusion

Selecting dental CAD/CAM equipment based on the full workflow ensures optimized performance. For chairside, models like S03/P5 scanners , 6X mills and porcelain furnace enable rapid care; labs thrive with RS600/RS1000 scanners, 5X mills, and F10+/HS007 furnaces and porcelain furnace. As the market grows to $7.48 billion by 2034, informed choices drive success in digital dentistry worldwide. Consult local suppliers for demos and align with your practice's needs for long-term efficiency.