A Tiny Device With Big Potential
Researchers at the University of Basel have developed a miniature dental robot that could simplify one of the most common dental procedures: preparing a tooth for a crown. They call the device the Miniature Intraoral Robot (MIR). Engineers designed the robot to fit comfortably inside a patient’s mouth while carrying out highly precise tooth preparation.
The robot measures just 43 × 26 × 28 millimeters—about the size of a wine cork. Despite its compact size, it could help dentists streamline a treatment process that currently requires multiple appointments.
Reducing the Number of Dental Visits
When severe decay damages a tooth, dentists often need to prepare it for a crown. They typically remove the damaged material, reshape the tooth, take impressions, and fit a temporary crown before placing the final restoration during a later visit.
The University of Basel team aims to create a faster digital workflow. Dentists could first scan the tooth and generate a detailed treatment plan. They could then order the permanent crown immediately. Following that plan, the MIR would prepare the tooth with remarkable precision, potentially reducing both treatment time and the number of appointments.
Precision at a Microscopic Scale
To evaluate the system, the researchers tested the robot on synthetic tooth models and ceramic materials that closely mimic natural enamel. The robot follows a two-step drilling process. First, it removes material from the top surface. Then, it refines the sides using a thinner drill.
Even without built-in positioning sensors, the prototype achieved a positional error of less than 0.2 millimeters. These results demonstrate the robot’s ability to perform delicate dental work with impressive accuracy.
What Comes Next?
The researchers are now integrating sensors and a miniature camera into the robot. These additions will allow the system to track its position continuously and adjust its movements in real time. Although the technology still requires further development before dentists can use it in clinics, the project marks an important step toward automated, personalized, and more efficient dental care.
