Would You Want A Robot To Help With Your Dental Implant Surgery?

Although not yet the default option, the use of robotics in dentistry is becoming more common. Many dental clinics already offer robot-assisted procedures for their patients, and if you're considering replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant, your dentist may inform you that your surgical procedure will be assisted by a dental robot. How does this process differ from traditional dental implants? 

The End Result

Firstly, please rest assured that you will still be receiving a traditional dental implant—with the precise type of implant depending on your specific needs and case history. The end result is the same, regardless of whether the procedure involved a robot or was entirely performed by a human. The key difference is the implantation procedure itself. From a patient's perspective, what can you expect when your implant procedure has robotic assistance? 

A Robotic Guide

A key point to consider is that the robot (which resembles a multidirectional robotic arm equipped with the necessary implantation instruments) doesn't in fact perform the procedure itself. It's not as though your dentist hands over control to the robot. The robot merely guides the dentist for optimal placement of your implant, making precise calculations that are more effective than a dentist performing freehand work as they refer to a surgical guide compiled from x-rays. The robot is not autonomous, and your dentist's hand remains on the robotic arm attachment at all times.

Active Monitoring

The improved precision of the overall procedure is perhaps what most benefits a patient. The system's software has compiled a digital surgical guide to determine the best position and angle for your dental implant. It actively monitors you during the implantation process, and it's self-correcting. For example, if you move your head during the procedure, the system will account for this and will change its approach accordingly as the robotic arm guides your dentist through the surgical implantation procedure.

After Your Surgery

The end result is a pristine dental implant that can be accomplished with the utmost efficiency and comfort, which minimizes the chance of postoperative concerns (which were already minimal). You still must follow your dentist's aftercare instructions to the absolute letter. While your implant will be stable and perfectly positioned, it's not immune from postoperative infections, and it's your responsibility to maintain the highest possible level of dental hygiene to ensure that your implant retains its integration with your jaw, which is what allows it to function as a substitute for a natural tooth.

Don't be concerned if your dentist tells you that your dental implant procedure will have robotic assistance. It simply means that you're in for a smooth ride.

Reach out to a clinic like Bremen Family Dentistry, PC to learn more.


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