Perceptive: Robot dentist

2024: Robot dentist performs world's first human procedure

At the end of July 2024, a robot dentist controlled by artificial intelligence, for the first time in the world, completely performed the procedure on a human patient. It took him eight times less time than a human dentist.

The system, created by Boston-based Perceptive, uses a hand-held 3D volumetric scanner that builds a detailed 3D model of the mouth, including teeth, gums and even nerves beneath the tooth surface, using optical coherence tomography (OKTAS). In OKTAS, only conventional light rays are used, which eliminates harmful X-ray radiation. At the stage of compiling the model, the dentist and the patient can discuss the upcoming procedure, and when the decision is made, a robot is taken up, which plans and performs the operation.

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Businesswire

The first operation performed on a person was to prepare the tooth for the installation of a dental crown. The manufacturer Perceptive claims the procedure typically takes at least two hours, and dentists typically divide it into two visits. The robot dentist copes with it in about 15 minutes, significantly increasing the comfort of the operation for the patient.

The manufacturer also claims that the new robot is able to safely perform its work "even in the most difficult conditions and when moving." The use of the robot improves the accuracy and effectiveness of dental procedures and in the future may provide access to the best dental care for all patients. In addition, advanced imaging capabilities will allow dentists to diagnose problems earlier and with greater accuracy than before.

The robot has not yet been approved by regulators, so Perceptive has not set a time frame for it to enter the market, so it will take several more years before patients have access to the new product.^[1]

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