Dental Robotics - The Future of Dentistry - A Narrative Review

Abstract Robots were introduced during the Industrial Revolution as supportive tools to assist human labour. In the dental field, the application of robotics began as early as 1967, when Jenkins first introduced their use. The integration of robotics in dentistry is steadily advancing, supported by essential technologies that are both adaptable and capable of further development. Dental robots offer exceptional precision in performing procedures, significantly reducing the margin for error—especially in complex treatments such as dental implant placement and root canal therapy. By automating various aspects of dental care, robotics helps minimize human error, leading to more consistent and predictable outcomes, fewer complications, and a reduced need for corrective procedures. Meanwhile, artificial intelligence (AI) supports accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and better prediction of patient outcomes. There are several obstacles to this technology like technological advancements in medical/dental applications are extremely expensive, less patient acceptance and compliance among dentists, the motivation to receive such treatment is reduced with the increase in technique invasiveness. Another reason robotics is still considered a field of low interest in dentistry may be the lack of expert knowledge to program and control those systems as a non-professional. However, challenges like high costs, complex operability, limited sensory perception, and inadequate manipulation capabilities still hinder widespread adoption of robotics in dentistry.