Force Sensor Design and Measurement for Endodontic Therapy

Abstract

To assist endodontic therapy, in this paper, a force sensor is designed and fabricated for measuring the axial force and the bending moment simultaneously. By detecting the bending moment, we can know the severity of bending. Axial force detection is also desired, as excessive axial forces may result in instrument buckling or even root canal perforation. This paper installs three sensing cells in each of two planes to detect the bending direction. Each sensing cell consists of a pressure-sensitive electric conductive rubber and an electrode. The size of the force sensor is 1.4-mm wide and 6-mm high for matching the size of endodontic instruments and making it feasible in the endodontic treatment. Experimental results on accuracy, repeatability, and nonlinearity are presented to validate the proposed sensor.

A virtual reality simulator for training endodontics procedures using manual files

“…In the specific area of endodontics, only work on file deformation and tooth pulp behaviour analysis was found. Tsao and colleagues [7], for instance, propose a new haptic device to identify the curvature of an endodontic file when inside a root canal and the force applied by the user when moving the file. Min Li and Yun-Hui Liu [8] present tests with new simulation methods for the interaction of endodontic files with the tooth's pulp using a robot.…”

Evaluation of a haptic virtual reality simulator for endodontics training

“…Tests with users have shown the device's ability to convincingly mimic teeth perforation and that the simulator can potentially be used as a teaching tool. Another variety of hardware is described by Tsao and colleagues [8], who planned to ascertain an endodontic file's curvature when placed inside a root canal, as well as the force applied by the user during the execution of kinematic motion.…”

Avaliação de um Simulador Háptico de Realidade Virtual para Treinamento de Endodontia

“…Em testes realizados com usuários verificaram que o dispositivo é capaz de reproduzir de forma convincente a perfuração do dente e que o simulador utilizado para testar o dispositivo tem potencial para ser utilizado como ferramenta de ensino. Outro tipo de hardware é descrito por Tsao et al (2013) e pretende identificar a curvatura de uma lima endodôntica quando está dentro de um canal radicular e a força empregada pelo usuário quando realiza os movimentos cinemáticos.…”