A robot from Boston-based AI-focused company Perceptive has successfully completed what it describes as the “world’s first” fully automated dental procedure on a human.

The machine, which has a robotic arm, completed the operation with technology that featured 3D volumetric imaging and artificial intelligence.

The procedure began with an optical coherence technology (OCT) scan of the patient’s teeth and mouth using Perceptive's handheld intraoral scanner.

The scanner can capture 3D images beneath the gum line, through fluids and under the tooth surface, allowing patients to fully visualise their dental conditions.

The system then used Perceptive’s AI algorithms to analyse the 3D data and plan the procedure.

After the initial treatment, which took place in Barranquilla, Colombia, the tech firm is now looking to expand the range of its dental procedures, focusing more on precise and efficient dental operations such as fillings and crowns.

The firm added that in the future it will aim to complete crown placements in just 15 minutes.

“This medical breakthrough enhances precision and efficiency of dental procedures, and democratiszes access to better dental care, for improved patient experience and clinical outcomes,” said chief executive Dr. Chris Ciriello.

Perceptive has raised $30 million in funding to date, with leading investors including PDS Health, Dr. Ed Zuckerberg, Innospark Ventures, KdT Ventures, Primavera Capital, Plaisance Capital, Y Combinator, and others.

“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 Dr. Edward Zuckerberg, the Facebook founder’s father.

The prototype is not currently on sale and does not have clearance from the American regulator, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

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