Advancements in digital data acquisition and CAD technology in Dentistry: Innovation, clinical Impact, and promising integration of artificial intelligence

This review examines recent advancements in digital data acquisition and CAD technology in dentistry, highlighting improvements in communication, AI integration, and predictive analytics in diagnostic and treatment tools. Over the past decade, these innovations have enhanced workflow efficiency, enabling precise planning, automated processes, and faster treatment turnaround times. AI-enhanced CAD systems show significant promise for improving diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes. Utilizing these advanced technologies improved dental workflow, particularly the full digital workflow. Intraoral scanning, CBCT data acquisition, facial scanning, smile, and CAD design have revolutionized dental practice, rendering digital dentistry the primary daily routine.The future of dentistry is entirely digital; virtual dental arches, virtual smiles, virtual articulators, and virtual patients are the face of the modern dental era. AI aids significantly in data acquisition, diagnosis, planning, and CAD designing. However, the review underscores the need for validation, monitoring, and ethical oversight to ensure safe and effective AI applications in clinical settings. It also emphasizes the importance of practitioners’ understanding of CAD components in CAD-CAM systems, facilitating informed technology selection to optimize treatment efficacy and patient outcomes.