A robot has performed a fully automated dental procedure on a human, in a world first.
According to Sky News, the robot relied on its robotic arm, artificial intelligence, and a 3D scan of the patient’s teeth and mouth to perform the procedure.
The US-based company Perceptive says it hopes its technology will become more accurate and faster in performing other dental procedures including fillings and crowns.
The company claims that in the future, a dental crown can be completed in just 15 minutes, while the current method requires two two-hour visits to the dentist.
The company’s founder and CEO, Dr. Chris Cirillo, said: “This medical breakthrough enhances the accuracy and efficiency of dental procedures.”
Cirillo pointed out that dentist Edward Zuckerberg, father of Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, is a strong supporter of the company.
The robot has not received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration, but its makers insist it is safe and claim that their technology will “change dentistry.”