Fully-Automatic Robot Dentist Performs First Human Procedure

In a historic moment for the dental profession, an AI-controlled autonomous robot has successfully performed an entire procedure on a human patient for the first time. The procedure was completed about eight times faster than a human dentist could achieve.

Advanced Technology and 3D Imaging

The system, developed by Boston-based company Perceptive, utilizes a hand-held 3D volumetric scanner. This scanner creates a detailed 3D model of the mouth, including teeth, gums, and even nerves beneath the tooth surface, using optical coherence tomography (OCT). Unlike traditional methods, this process eliminates harmful X-ray radiation by using light beams to generate high-resolution volumetric models with a cavity detection accuracy rate of around 90%.

Automated Procedure Execution

After the 3D model is created, the human dentist and patient can discuss the necessary procedures. Once decisions are made, the robotic dental surgeon takes over, planning and executing the operation. The robot’s first specialty is preparing a tooth for a dental crown, a procedure that typically takes dentists about two hours over two visits. The robo-dentist completes it in approximately 15 minutes.

High Precision and Safety

Remarkably, Perceptive claims that the machine can operate safely even under movement-heavy conditions. Dry run testing on moving humans has been successful, showcasing the robot's capability in real-world scenarios.

Expert Endorsements and Future Potential

“We’re excited to successfully complete the world's first fully automated robotic dental procedure,” says Dr. Chris Ciriello, CEO and Founder of Perceptive. “This medical breakthrough enhances the precision and efficiency of dental procedures and democratizes access to better dental care, improving patient experience and clinical outcomes. We look forward to advancing our system and pioneering scalable, fully automated dental healthcare solutions for patients.”

Karim Zaklama, DDS, a general dentist and member of Perceptive’s clinical advisory board, adds, “Perceptive’s AI-driven robotic system will transform dentistry. The patient experience will be better because of streamlining procedures and enhancing patient comfort. The advanced imaging capabilities, particularly the intraoral scanner, provide unparalleled details which will enable us to diagnose issues earlier with greater accuracy and allow us to connect with patients more effectively. This efficiency allows us to focus more on personalized patient care and reduces chair time, enabling us to treat more patients effectively.”

Future of Robotic Dentistry

While the concept of a robot drilling into your teeth may seem daunting, it’s not much different from a human doing it. High-precision human-controlled robotic surgery is already advancing, removing the need for an incredibly steady hand. Teleoperating a robot can train it to perform the same job autonomously in the future, making this an idea to get accustomed to.

Potential Benefits and Rollout

The benefits are clear: significantly reduced procedure times, less fatigue from keeping your mouth open, and potentially lower dental bills due to time savings. However, the robot is not yet FDA-approved, and Perceptive has not set a timeline for public rollout. The company aims to extend the machine's capabilities and broaden the range of treatments it can perform.