Dr. Alex Touchstone: A comprehensive list of ideal chairside CAD/CAM features

Alex Touchstone, DDS, is a recognized pioneer in chairside dental CAD/CAM technology and one of the first advocates of digital dentistry.

His digital dentistry case studies are well documented, and he frequently shares his experience and knowledge with dental colleagues around the world through articles published in leading dental journals, lectures and workshops at major dental meetings and through his popular, interactive Web portal CADCAMCan.com.

For more than a decade, Dr. Touchstone has combined the latest advances in dental technology with proven clinical techniques to expand his private general dentistry practice and provide his patients with the highest level of cosmetic and restorative care.

Q: Why E4D?

A: In my experience, the only Chairside CAD/CAM or Scan-Only system that has ALL of my desired features is the E4D system. Before you make such an important investment in your practice, carefully evaluate each system with this list in hand.

Over the years, I have experienced both the joy and frustration of integrating many CAD/CAM systems into my practice. I have learned that careful application of new technologies requires a fair amount of research and education.

Q: What should clinicians thinking about digital impressions and CAD/CAM focus on?

A: From my perspective, a comprehensive list of desired features for an ideal chairside CAD/CAM or scan only platform looks like this:

Workflow

• Decreases procedural time

• Team delegation opportunities

• Seamless collaboration with labs (open architecture)

• Intuitive scanning and software

Clinical

• Optimal fit, therefore powder-free

• Proven, highly esthetic material choices

• Improved restoration longevity

Productivity

• Positive return on investment

• Increased profit per restoration

• Generates team excitement

Education and support:

• Rational cost hardware upgrades

• Comprehensive training

• Real time support

Patients

• Increases patient treatment acceptance

• Encourages referrals

• Engenders trust