First in-human intervention using a semi-automated robot for tooth restorative treatment

TL;DR

A semi-automated robotic system was successfully used in human dental procedures, showing high precision and patient satisfaction.

Contribution

First in-human use of a semi-automated robotic system for tooth restoration with sub-50μm precision and same-day crown delivery.

Findings

No adverse events occurred in six patients treated with the robotic system.

Prepared crowns achieved a good-to-excellent fit and were cemented during the same visit.

Participants reported no pain during or after the robotic procedure.

Abstract

The advent of digital technologies has not only disrupted but also revolutionized dentistry by enhancing precision, efficiency, and predictability 1,2. Robotic technologies represent the next transformative leap, by enabling automated workflows that minimize human error and streamline treatments 3,4. In restorative dentistry, traditional crown preparation involves manual shaping of the tooth, obtaining impressions, and multiple patient appointments. In this study we present data from the first in-human study performed by a semi-automated robotic tooth preparation system (SARP). SARP digitally preplans the tooth preparation, executes it with sub-50μm precision, and allows the pre-manufacturing of restorations for same-day delivery. Among the six patients who completed the procedure, no adverse events occurred. The root mean square deviation of the final preparation relative to the planned shape was 39μm. Prepared crowns (n = 5) achieved a good-to-excellent fit and were permanently cemented during the same visit. All participants reported no pain during or after the procedure using SARP. These findings suggest that SARP can enhance procedural precision, reduce treatment times, and improve patient satisfaction while increasing practice efficiencies. A future integration of SARP with advanced imaging modalities, (i.e. optical coherence tomography), is expected to further improve treatment options 5–8. Larger, controlled trials are currently planned to validate these results, assess long-term outcomes, and explore the system’s potential to improve cost-effectiveness and expand access to restorative dental care.

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