The stage was set for existing advances in dentistry in the 1950s and 1960s when prototypes of computer-aided design (CAD) and computer aided manufacturing (CAM) were introduced into industrial settings. In those applications, the geometry of the "parts " was simpler than that generally needed for dental restorations, but the same technique could be applied to creating dental crowns. Advances in electronic technology have influenced every aspect of our society including dentistry. New technologies are constantly introduced that will ultimately make current dental procedures obsolete....

The change in dentistry from need based dentistry to elective dentistry has made a significant impact on the profession and the public perception of dentists.It is estimated that up to one half of the dentistry accomplished at this time is elective. Much of this treatment is what could be considered to be esthetic dentistry including smile designing, bonding, veneers, tooth colored inlays and onlays, non metallic crowns and fixed prosthesis, orthodontics and surgical procedures, and many other procedures. Dentists and their staff must be proactive in their patient educational activities to...