Robot-assisted haptic guidance in endodontics: A pilot study evaluating efficiency and tooth structure preservation.

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Robotics
• Surgical Technology

Background:

• Robot-assisted (RA) haptic guidance systems offer constrained movement for precise implant placement.
• This technology contrasts with dynamic navigation systems by guiding operators along predefined paths.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and precision of RA-guided endodontic access preparation.
• To compare RA with freehand (FH) approaches in three in vitro endodontic procedures: calcified canal access, post removal, and microsurgery.

Main Methods:

• Extracted teeth underwent RA or FH treatment by residents and experienced endodontists.
• Effectiveness was measured by operative time; precision by tooth structure volume removed (CBCT).
• Statistical analysis included ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests.

Main Results:

• The RA approach significantly reduced operative time across all modalities compared to FH.
• RA significantly minimized the volume of tooth structure removed versus FH.
• A significantly smaller bevel angle was observed with RA in root-end resections.

Conclusions:

• Robot-assisted haptic guidance enhances efficiency and precision in challenging endodontic procedures.
• RA preserves tooth structure, showing potential clinical value for complex cases.
• This technology may improve outcomes in accessing calcified canals, removing posts, and endodontic microsurgery.