Cosmetic and general dentists are good at what they do. They provide a range of services, such as fillings, teeth whitening, dentures, and dental implants, and know what it takes to give a patient the best care possible.
However, that doesn’t mean that technology doesn’t play a part. Like a dog is man’s best friend, a robot is a dentist’s. Read on to learn how robotic technology could influence your dental implant procedure.
A Miami, Florida-based company known as Neocis announced in January 2020 that its Yomi robotics system had successfully performed over 1,000 dental implant procedures in 2019. You read that right – a robot performed the procedures.
The Yomi is not just any robot; it’s a unique computerised navigational system that can help with pre-operative and intra-operative dental implant surgery. With the help of haptic robotic technology, it can work within the parameters laid out for the drill’s position, its depth, and orientation. By doing so, it can offer full surgical site visualisation.
When Neocis’ new robot gained FDA clearance in early 2017, it became the first device of its kind. Such was its advancement that the company was even able to raise $30 million to bring it into the commercial market.
While Neocis is elated with what they have been able to achieve, so too are dentists. Many who have tried the Yomi say it has been easy to incorporate into their practice and has set a new standard of care.
However, that’s not to say that dentists are now obsolete. While the Yomi robotic system has shown what is possible and what technology can do for everyday people, there is still every reason to make an appointment with your dentist who will use their own hands and tools to offer solutions to your problems.
During the dental implant procedure, dentists will carry out a comprehensive dental exam, which involves x-rays, 3D imaging, and teeth and jaw model creation. They will then review your medical history before tailoring a treatment plan to suit your unique situation. Considerations that are taken into account include your jaw’s condition and how many teeth you need to replace.
The dental implant surgery is performed in stages, with the removal of the damaged or decayed tooth followed by jaw bone preparation. That preparation process might involve bone grafting. Dental implant placement, bone growth, and healing, all have to occur before the abutment and artificial tooth are put in place.
Whether the Yomi or dentists perform the dental implant procedure, people can expect to feel some swelling in their gum and face after the process, as well as bruising, pain, and minor bleeding. However, the payoff can be significant, with patients gaining back full use of their jaw for natural eating and chewing functions.
Robotic technology is the way of the future, with several advancements being made every year. However, that’s not to say that your dentists will not be needed. From dentures and dental implants, through to fillings, crowns, and extractions, you can rely on your local dentist to take care of your teeth and gums.
