The biggest problems requiring dental treatment are generally tooth loss, tooth extractions due to decay, and tooth fractures. Most of these processes result in the loss of one of the healthy teeth in a person. Implants are almost the only solution for tooth loss. Although there are many different implant methods, the basic procedure is fixed: First, the dental tissue in the area where the implant will be placed is cleaned (if the tooth is not completely lost). Then, the gum is opened and a type of screw is attached to the bone where the tooth root is located to ensure the implant fits. Afterward, the gum is sutured, allowing the bone and tissue to rest. Once the healing process is complete, a mold of the tooth is taken. This mold enables the production of the implant. Finally, the produced implant is trialed and placed.
Basically, the process for all implants is similar. Therefore, this process is quite long. This is why people generally avoid implant treatment. During this period, they might postpone appointments or neglect going to the doctor at the right times. Methods that make this process shorter and less laborious have always been sought after. Robotic implants are one of these. The biggest difference in this application, which is both easier and faster, is that the implant is placed without lifting the gums.
Robotic implants are completed in these basic stages:
- A three-dimensional tomography of the patient is taken. This procedure is performed to see the patient’s bone tissue quality and bone dimensions.
- Next, the tooth structure is simulated on a computer by deciding on the ideal structure of the tooth to be made, considering the person’s bone and the gap where the implant will be placed. Thus, the most suitable tooth for the person’s jaw is visualized in 3D.
Robotic implants provide a significant advantage by being completed in a short time. However, this is not its only superiority. One of the most important skills in implant treatment is opening the socket where the implant screw will be placed in the bone. The depth, angle, and width of this socket are of critical importance for the success of the treatment. Robotic implants guarantee that this process is performed perfectly. It reduces the margin of error to almost zero.
Since surgical procedures are easier and fewer in robotic implants, the recovery period is quite short. Pain and swelling are generally not observed. Additionally, since there is no suturing or stitch removal process, you visit the hospital less frequently. The biggest challenge in robotic implants is that it is more difficult to make revisions to the implant method used during the treatment process. More fixed materials and bolting methods are used. Therefore, it may not be suitable for everyone. Furthermore, because a lot of procedures are applied to the mouth and gum area in a short time with an intense schedule, there is a possibility that patients may feel uncomfortable with this situation.
Robotic implants are a reliable method that can be applied to all age groups and patients. However, certain patients should be more careful when deciding on the application. It may not always be the ideal method for patients with osteoporosis. People with very narrow or short jawbones must consult their doctor to benefit from robotic implants. Beyond this, it is ideal for those who do not have time for long processes or who feel discomfort from dental treatments.
Robotic Implant Prices
One of the elements wondered about with every new application and dental treatment is the price. Although implant treatment is known as a long and expensive treatment, this is not a necessity. Many factors determine the price of the treatment.
In robotic implants, the factor that affects the price the most is understood through examination. The patient’s dental health is very important. The more difficult the implant procedure, the higher the price. The number of teeth to be treated is also a significant metric.
As in most dental treatments, the quality of the material used is important in this field. As the price increases, the lifespan and hygienic conditions of the material used also increase. Ordinary implant applications may be more affordable than robotic implants because they are used more routinely, their materials are produced by older and more established companies, and there are more specialized doctors available.
In addition, the expertise of the doctor performing the procedure and the equipment of the clinic also affect the prices.
Why Robotic Implants? (Advantages)
The differences offered by robotic treatment compared to traditional implant methods are as follows:
- Zero Margin of Error: The risk of nerve damage or placing the implant at the wrong angle is minimized.
- Stitch-free and Less Painful: In most cases, it is applied using the “flapless” method, where the gum is not fully opened. This reduces post-operative swelling and pain.
- Aesthetic Perfection: Since the implant is placed at the most ideal angle, the prosthesis (tooth) to be placed on top looks much more natural and aesthetic.
- Speed: Since planning is done digitally, surgical time is shortened.
Who Is It Suitable For?
Robotic dental treatment is actually suitable for almost every patient who wants an implant. However, it is especially preferred in the following cases:
- Complete edentulism (toothlessness) cases (All-on-4 or All-on-6 systems).
- Cases where the amount of bone is at a critical level.
- Patients with surgical fear (dental phobia).
- Individuals with a busy work schedule aiming for the fastest recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the fundamental difference between robotic implant treatment and the traditional method?
In the traditional method, the physician places the implant by visualizing the tomography image in their mind and relying on their experience. In the robotic system, a digital “roadmap” is created before the surgery begins. The robotic arm does not allow even a millimeter of deviation from this map. In other words, while the traditional method is focused on “manual dexterity and experience,” the robotic method is focused on “data and flawless guidance.”
2. Is there a risk of the robot making an error or breaking down during surgery?
Robotic systems operate as “semi-active,” not “active.” This means the robot does not move on its own; it only guides the surgeon’s hand. If the surgeon tries to move outside the planned safe zone, the robotic arm shows physical resistance and stops. Additionally, the system tracks the patient’s instantaneous head movements via sensors and updates the plan within seconds. This maximizes safety.
3. Does robotic surgery really shorten the recovery time?
Yes, absolutely. In classic implant surgeries, the gum is usually cut extensively to expose the bone (flap operation). In robotic surgery, since the exact location of the implant is known, only a small hole just large enough for the implant is opened. Thanks to this method, also known as “stitchless implant,”:
- Bleeding is minimal.
- Post-operative swelling (edema) does not occur.
- The risk of infection decreases significantly.
4. Is bone grafting (bone powder) required for this treatment method?
The robotic system flawlessly identifies the point where the existing bone is densest and of the highest quality. Sometimes, in cases where the traditional method would label the bone as “insufficient,” a narrow angle where bone exists can be captured thanks to robotic planning, and the implant can be placed. However, if the bone volume is completely insufficient, bone powder application may still be required before robotic surgery.
5. Can robotic implants be performed with any brand of implant?
Generally, yes. Robotic surgery systems are compatible with the digital libraries of many world-renowned implant brands. Your physician can proceed by defining the implant brand they use into the system.
