Prosthodontists

Prosthodontists already use many digital tools. For example, dentists now capture 3D images of teeth with scanners instead of clay molds and use computer-aided design (CAD) software to plan crowns, bridges, or dentures ^{[1] [2]}. Machines then mill or 3D-print the prostheses exactly to these digital designs ^{[1] [3]}.

AI software can even suggest optimal shapes and fits from scans ^{[3] [2]}. In some labs, robots help build dentures; one system uses a robotic arm to set teeth in a denture base ^[3]. However, key hands-on tasks still need a human.

Fitting a new crown or denture into a patient’s mouth, fine-tuning its fit, placing veneers, or repairing dentures are done by the prosthodontist or technician, not by machines ^{[3] [2]}. In short, computers and robots handle imaging, design and fabrication steps (making these steps more precise and faster) ^{[1] [3]}, but human experts still do the final fitting, adjustment and patient interaction that require skill and judgment.

AI tools for dentists (like image analysis, planning software, or 3D-print workflows) are becoming available and can speed up work ^{[2] [3]}. For example, AI-driven scanners and imaging programs can highlight cavities or plan implant positions more quickly than before ^[2]. These tools are attractive because they improve accuracy and may save time.

However, they can be expensive to buy and require training. Clinics must pay for scanners, printers, and software, which is a large upfront cost compared to current labor costs ^{[3] [3]}. If there is a shortage of skilled lab technicians or dentists, then investing in AI and robots makes more sense economically ^{[2] [3]}.

On the other hand, some dentists worry about tech issues, patient privacy, and legal rules, so they adopt new AI slowly ^{[3] [3]}. Public trust and clear regulations also affect how fast AI is used. In summary, because labs and practices see real gains in speed and quality, digital and AI tools are spreading.

But full automation is limited by cost, the need for human oversight, and ethical and technical barriers ^{[3] [3]}.