Practical applications of robots in prosthodontics for tooth preparation and denture tooth arrangement: A scoping review

Abstract

Statement of problem

With the increasing interest in using robots in dentistry and the widespread dissemination of information on this topic and its applications, a comprehensive review of robot applications in prosthodontics is needed.

Purpose

The purpose of this scoping review was to assess the current status of prosthodontic robotic applications, their achievements to date, and the barriers hindering their broader adoption and further advancement.

Material and methods

The checklist for Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) was used to conduct this review. A comprehensive search methodology was developed to identify relevant studies on the use of robots in prosthodontic procedures in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. The inclusion criteria were studies that specifically outlined the application of robots in the field of prosthodontics.

Results

Eighteen relevant studies were found. Of these, 10 studies focused on assessing the effectiveness of robotic systems through in vitro testing using phantom models for tooth preparation. These studies specifically explored the processes involved in creating complete crowns and veneers. The remaining 8 studies investigated the use of robotics in tooth alignment, with a specific focus on complete dentures.

Conclusions

Robots have the potential to improve precision and accuracy in prosthetic dentistry. However, clinical studies are needed to confirm the widespread use of robots in prosthodontics, as their clinical application is still in its early stages.