Aim. To evaluate the degree of knowledge, acceptance and usage of dental CAD-CAM systems among dental technicians based in Romania and to identify the factors which contribute/ inhibit the usage of this technology. Materials and methods. A web-based survey containing 16 questions was distributed by means of an online social platform to dental technians practising in Romania. The questionnaire contained three different sections, focusing on topics related to the level of usage and common practices on subtractive manufacturing, demographics and perception of impact. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to quantify and interpret the resulting data. Results and disscusion. A number of 84 complete responses was obtained. The majority of respondents affirmed that they have theoretical knowledge about this technology (97.7%); also, a high number of dental technicians (54.8%) reported that they currently use some form of CAD-CAM technology in their laboratories. Most of the surveyed technicians acquired their knowledge in this domain through self-documentation, mainly using CAD-CAM to manufacture fixed restorations (91.3%). The majority of dental technicians (87%) consider that introduction of subtractive manufacturing systems has had a beneficial impact on their profession. Conclusions. Currently, a fairly moderate number of dental technicians in Romania are using CAD/CAM systems in their clinical practice, as the large initial investment required for their purchasing is the main barrier for further implementation of this technology.
Keywords:- CAD CAM
- dental technician.
- subtractive manufacturing.
- survey