Robot dentist drills patient's teeth in first fully automated dental procedure
Technology
Faster than a human dentist
(Web Desk) - Experts have unveiled what they claim is the first fully automated robotic dental system designed to work faster than a human dentist.
Boston-based Perceptive revealed a shocking video of a bot taking on the dreaded tooth drilling.
The firm is backed by Ed Zuckerberg, the father of Facebook boss Mark Zuckerberg, who is a leading dentist.
Perceptive says it's created a piece of AI-driven 3D imaging software and a robotic arm that can do restorative dentistry for now, with "unparalleled speed and precision".
They say tasks like a crown placement usually requires two visits to the dentist lasting at least an hour each.
But the robot aims to bring this down to just 15 minutes.
"We’re excited to successfully complete the world's first fully automated robotic dental procedure,” said Dr Chris Ciriello, CEO and Founder of Perceptive.
"This medical breakthrough enhances precision and efficiency of dental procedures, and democratizes access to better dental care, for improved patient experience and clinical outcomes.
"We look forward to advancing our system and pioneering scalable, fully automated dental healthcare solutions for patients."
The system is able to build a detailed 3D model of everything from your teeth and gums, through to the nerves.
An advanced scanner captures 3D pictures beneath the gum line, through fluids and under the tooth surface.
Perceptive also claims it can safely treat teeth "even in the most movement-heavy conditions".
It analyses the data from the 3D images to plan out the procedure, freeing human dentists up to diagnose and treat more patients with better care in less time.
The device is currently under development with no indication of when it'll be available to the masses.
Perspective's next hurdle will be to seek regulatory approval.
