Architecture and design of a robotic mastication simulator for interactive load testing of dental implants and the mandible.

Statement Of Problem: Determination of interactive loading between a dental prosthesis and the host mandible is essential for implant prosthodontics and to preserve bone.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate a robotic mastication simulator to replicate the human mastication force cycle to record the required interactive loading using specifically designed force sensors.

Material And Methods: This robotic mastication simulator incorporated a Stewart parallel kinematic mechanism (PKM) controlled in the force-control loop.