A world first
AI-driven robot performs dental procedure on a human
In a world first, a robot has successfully completed a fully automated dental procedure on a human. In addition to artificial intelligence (AI) and three-dimensional imaging, the technology includes a robotic arm for dental work. The US-based company, Perceptive, claims that its technology is designed to make dental operations, like fillings and crowns, more precise and efficient.
Perceptive, a leader in AI-driven automated dental technology, completed the procedure using its advanced robotic dentistry system. The company said it marks a significant leap forward in dental care, integrating advanced imaging, AI and robotics to set a new standard of care in dentistry. Perceptive’s system integrates AI-driven 3D imaging software with a robotic arm designed to perform dental procedures, starting with restorative dentistry, with what the company describes as unparalleled speed and precision. The proprietary system aims to complete tasks such as crown placements in just 15 minutes, a reduction from the current method that can require two practice visits of around an hour each.
“We’re excited to successfully complete the world’s first fully automated robotic dental procedure,” said Dr Chris Ciriello, the founder and chief executive of Perceptive. “This medical breakthrough enhances precision and efficiency of dental procedures, and democratises 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.”
Perceptive’s AI robotics system uses 3D volumetric data for diagnostics and treatment planning, enabling early and highly accurate diagnoses. The procedure begins with an optical coherence technology (OCT) scan of the patient’s tooth and mouth using Perceptive’s handheld intraoral scanner. This advanced scanner captures 3D images beneath the gum line, through fluids and under the tooth surface, offering unparalleled imaging capabilities. Patients can clearly visualise their dental conditions through these detailed images, helping them better understand their need for care.
The system then uses Perceptive’s AI algorithms to analyse the 3D data and plan the procedure with efficiency and high precision. By automating these procedures, Perceptive enables dentists to diagnose and treat more patients with higher quality care in less time, reducing the need for manual labour and minimising the chances of human error.
“I’ve been closely tracking Perceptive’s progress since seeing Dr Ciriello present his concept at the ADA Forsyth dentech conference years ago,” said Stephen E. Thorne IV, founder and chief executive of PDS Health, a leading integrated dental and medical support organisation with more than 1,000 offices across America.
“I have seen the promise of Perceptive’s incredible technology firsthand.
“We are excited to help them operationalise their vision of fully completed dental restorations in minutes.”
German Gallucci, chairman of restorative dentistry at Harvard School of Dental Medicine, added: “Perceptive’s technology achieves over a 90% accuracy rate for detecting caries without the ionising radiation associated with traditional X-rays and CBCT scanners — a significant improvement over the approximately 40% accuracy of 2D X-rays. This ensures safer and more precise diagnoses, enhancing patient care and safety.”
The company has received $30 million in funding and is backed by dentist Edward Zuckerberg, the father of Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg.
“The robotics system has been designed and rigorously tested to ensure that dentists can perform treatments safely, even in conditions where patient movement is prevalent,” said Mr Zuckerberg, a pioneer in the integration of technology in the dental clinic. “This commitment to safety is core to Perceptive’s dedication to providing reliable and effective dental care solutions using state-of-the art technology.”
The system does not have clearance from the FDA but its makers insist it is safe and claim their technology will “transform dentistry”
“Perceptive’s AI-driven robotic system will transform dentistry. The patient experience will be better because of streamlining procedures and enhancing patient comfort,” said Karim Zaklama, a general dentist and multi-practice owner supported by PDS Health and a member of Perceptive’s clinical advisory board.
“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 personalised patient care and reduces chair time, enabling us to treat more patients effectively.”
The system is not currently on sale in the US and does not have clearance from the American regulator, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Find out more at www.perceptive.io
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