Robotic technologies in prosthodontics and implantology: a scoping review of current applications and future directions

This scoping review synthesizes current evidence on the applications, effectiveness, workflow, and limitations of robotic technologies in prosthodontics and implant dentistry, focusing on their potential to enhance precision, reproducibility, and clinical outcomes. A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, SCOPUS, EMBASE, and Web of Science from January 2015 to May 2025, following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Studies were screened and selected based on predefined inclusion criteria, with data extracted into categories of prosthetic dentistry, implant dentistry, and robotic development stages. Twenty-one studies were included (7 prosthodontics, 14 implantology). In prosthodontics, robotic systems demonstrated high accuracy in veneer and crown preparations (errors < 0.4 mm) and automated denture arch generation (positioning accuracy 0.09 mm). Implant dentistry studies revealed robotic systems (Yomi, Remebot) outperformed static/dynamic navigation in precision, with mean angular deviations < 2.81° and coronal/apical deviations < 1 mm. Semi-active and active robots dominated implant applications, while prosthodontic robots were primarily active but less clinically advanced. Robotic technologies hold transformative potential for implant and prosthetic dentistry, with higher precision and workflow efficiency. However, robust clinical trials and cost-effective solutions are needed for adoption of these systems in regular clinics.