Robotic dentistry has come to the UK
We are proud to announce the arrival of Europe’s first dental robot to LCIAD.
This advanced technology allows us to plan and carry out porcelain laminate veneer preparations with a level of precision five times greater than can be achieved with manual procedures.
The brainchild of globally recognised clinicans Dr Galip Gūrel, Dr Stéfen Koubi and Lupin Dental in France, this innovation promises to raise the level of minimally invasive aesthetic dentistry to a higher standard globally. We are delighted that they have recognized the reputation for quality at LCIAD and chosen LCIAD to be the first practice in Europe to receive the first robot unit.
What does the Lupin dental robot do?
When conventional porcelain laminate veneers are carried out, there is usually a degree of tooth surface removal required to achieve the ideal thickness and internal shape of each veneer. Even in the best hands, this may result in more surface removal than absolutely required due to variability in human motion.
The Lupin Robot workflow allows mathematically precise calculation of the tooth shaping required based on 3D planning. This achieves the ideal minimum preparation shape which is carried out by a robot with 5 times more control than the human hand. The accuracy is such that the final veneers can be manufactured before the appointment and fitted immediately after tooth preparation.
This means that impressions, temporary veneers and waiting for veneers to be made are replaced by a single visit delivery after suitable pre-operative planning.
Which patients will benefit from this?
We routinely carry out extensive dental work to replace lost tooth structure especially in patients with advanced wear including additive veneers for the front teeth.
This system is designed to ensure that precious remaining tooth structure is retained to the maximum extent whilst providing an ideal base for porcelain veneers to restore previous tooth shapes back to their natural contours.
What is the process?
It is important that the robotic process of making porcelain laminate veneers is carried out in a healthy mouth. Therefore, we would always insist that the following process is followed by all patients:
- New Patient consultation. This is common to all new patients attending LCIAD for the first time and is a comprehensive record of your current dental condition. This is followed by a preliminary or full dental report depending on the complexity of your condition.
- Optimal dental hygiene and gum health. It is important that your teeth are clean and that your gums are healthy. Any pre-existing gum problems must be treated first.
- No active decay. Any decay or leaking fillings or dental infections must be treated first to ensure that the underlying dental structures are sound.
- Tooth crowding, bite problems and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues must be addressed first. Porcelain veneers will only be successful in patients with a stable and well supported bite with the teeth in the correct positions to optimize results.
We will then arrange for 3D aesthetic planning of your desired tooth shapes and organise porcelain laminate veneers to be carried out by the robotic Lupin method after these issues have been addressed as required.
What are the limitations?
Currently the Lupin Robot is designed to prepare veneers on the upper front eight teeth only, though further applications are certainly in the pipleine.
It is best utilised for patients with worn teeth requiring veneers. Patients who have previously had porcelain laminate or composite veneers would need to have these removed first before starting the process for robotic veneer planning.