AI Robot Makes History with First-Ever Autonomous Dental Procedure, Completing Tasks 8x Faster Than Humans
August 2, 2024
In a groundbreaking achievement, an AI-controlled autonomous robot has successfully performed a complete dental procedure on a human patient for the first time.
Following a consultation with a human dentist, the robot autonomously planned and executed the dental operation.
Developed by Boston-based Perceptive, this robotic system utilizes advanced AI-driven technology to enhance dental procedures.
The robot employs a handheld 3D volumetric scanner that uses optical coherence tomography (OCT) to create detailed 3D models of the mouth without harmful X-ray radiation.
During the scanning process, the robot can automatically detect cavities with approximately 90% accuracy.
This robotic system significantly reduces the duration of dental visits, completing procedures eight times faster than a human dentist.
For instance, the robot can prepare a tooth for a dental crown in about 15 minutes, a task that typically takes two hours and often requires multiple visits.
AI algorithms analyze the captured data to plan dental procedures with high efficiency and precision, aiming to minimize manual labor and human error.
Dr. Chris Ciriello, CEO of Perceptive, emphasizes that this technology enhances precision, efficiency, and accessibility in dental care, ultimately improving patient experiences.
Dentist Karim Zaklama notes that this robotic system will transform dentistry by streamlining procedures and enabling earlier diagnoses.
Despite these advancements, the robot has not yet received FDA approval, and there is currently no timeline for when it will be available for public use.
Perceptive has raised $30 million to date, with investors highlighting the system's safety and reliability.
Summary based on 3 sources
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Sources

The Register • Aug 2, 2024
Say 'ahhhh' – AI robots are now gunning for your gums
New Atlas • Jul 31, 2024
Fully-automatic robot dentist performs world's first human procedure
Slashdot • Aug 2, 2024
Fully-Automatic Robot Dentist Performs World's First Human Procedure - Slashdot