Digital Applications and Techniques in Prosthodontics and Restorative Dentistry

Digital Dentistry Laboratory, an integral part of the Interdisciplinary Centre for Research and Development in Dentistry at Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, is an educational and research hub dedicated to academic excellence and technological innovation, designed to simulate clinical practice as realistically as possible through full integration of the digital CAD/CAM workflow, from digital data acquisition to the fabrication and post-processing of restorations, prototype components and medical devices.

The infrastructure includes intraoral scanners, digital articulators, facial scanners, dental microscopes, clinical photography systems and virtual reality technologies. The laboratory also has equipment supporting the entire CAD/CAM workflow for both dental practices and dental laboratories, including laboratory scanners, computer-controlled milling machines, multiple 3D printing systems tailored to different clinical and experimental applications, and specialised post-processing equipment.

All equipment is integrated within a connected digital architecture, alongside 20 workstations equipped with high-performance computers and specialised design software (CAD), enabling users to work through the entire digital workflow. The laboratory also features advanced technologies for clinical simulation and practical skills development in a controlled, realistic environment—PLANMECA iSim simulators, introduced in early 2022, the first of their kind in Romania and among the first implemented in Europe, designed to facilitate the transition from preclinical training to clinical practice by faithfully reproducing the design and functionality of a fully equipped dental unit. The educational facilities are complemented by two SIMtoCARE haptic simulators, which reproduce the tactile experience of treatment procedures and help develop coordination, manual dexterity and tactile memory, supporting a modern training process based on real-time feedback and experiential learning.

An interdisciplinary approach is one of the defining features of the laboratory’s academic identity, with digital technologies used across multiple branches of dentistry to facilitate collaboration between specialties and the development of modern protocols for diagnosis, planning and treatment. The laboratory therefore serves as an integrated platform for education, research and clinical practice, delivering workshops, practical courses and training sessions for students, dental residents, doctoral students, dentists and dental technicians, with an emphasis on developing the digital skills required for contemporary practice. The laboratory also supports continuing professional development through training programmes and certificates of complementary studies, such as “Digital Applications and Techniques in Prosthodontics and Restorative Dentistry”, accredited by the Ministry of Health and designed for all dentists wishing to enhance their skills and integrate digital workflows into clinical practice. Participants can use advanced technologies and explore the clinical applications of complete digital workflows, from intraoral scanning and digital planning through to CAD design, 3D printing, milling and the fabrication of customised devices.

Research and innovation are supported through ongoing involvement in scientific projects, interdisciplinary collaborations and academic activities at both national and international levels. The results of this work are reflected in numerous publications in specialist journals, participation in international conferences and congresses, and academic awards and recognition received over the years.

By integrating advanced digital technologies and promoting an environment focused on applied education, research and innovation, the Digital Dentistry Laboratory supports the training of a new generation of professionals prepared to meet the standards and challenges of contemporary dentistry.