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Objective To review materials available in computer‐aided design/computer‐aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM), their various properties and accuracy are compared to conventional materials/methods when available. Overview CAD/CAM in dentistry is constantly growing and becoming a user‐ and patient‐friendly technology and service using intraoral scanners and laboratory/chairside milling units to manufacture dental restorations and appliances from multiple materials including wax, metals, composite resins, and ceramics. Properties of these materials may vary when compared to restorations prepared from conventional and additive manufacturing methods. Understanding the differences in these properties is important for material and fabrication method selection. Additive manufacturing is becoming an alternative to subtractive manufacturing in many applications. However, chemical composition, mechanical and physical properties of these materials are still lacking. 3D printed materials require a considerable amount of research and time to prove their clinical efficacy. Conclusion The current developments in, and possibilities of, CAD/CAM technology is exciting and is transforming restorative dentistry. With all this excitement, it is crucially important to ensure that proper testing and evaluation of the various materials are warranted before making definite claims and decisions to replace conventionally prepared materials. Clinical Significance CAD/CAM materials are versatile and emerging as the material of choice for many restorations and appliances. For recently introduced CAD/CAM materials, it is important to ensure that proper clinical‐ and research‐based evidence confirming the success and durability of these materials are available before recommending them in patient care.

The effect of staining and vacuum sintering on optical properties and the bi-axial flexural strength of partially and fully stabilized monolithic zirconia (PSZ, FSZ) were evaluated. Disc-shaped specimens divided into three subgroups (n=15): non-stained, stained and non-stained with vacuum sintering. After staining and sintering, optical properties were evaluated using a reflection spectrophotometer and bi-axial flexural strength was tested using the piston-on-three balls technique. Statistical analysis was performed using multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) followed by post-hoc Tukey's tests (p<0.05). Staining decreased translucency parameter (TP) values of FSZ (p<0.05). Sintering under vacuum enhanced TP values for PSZ (p<0.05). Staining enhanced surface gloss for both types of zirconia (p<0.05). Staining increased bi-axial flexural strength of FSZ (p<0.05), while it decreased the strength of PSZ (p<0.05). Sintering under vacuum provided minimal benefits with either type of zirconia.

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