Robotic precision: Haptic tele-operation in dental procedures

A new tele-operated robotic system is pushing dentistry toward a more precise and less invasive future. Developed by researchers in Europe, the platform uses haptic feedback to simulate the feeling of drilling through enamel and dentin, allowing operators to maintain control even from a distance. Early tests on dental phantoms showed accuracy improvements of up to 30% compared with manual procedures. This type of technology could not only aid in delicate surgeries like root canal treatments but also enable remote dental care in underserved or rural regions, where access to specialists remains limited.