This is not a drill: Dentroid gets support to progress laser-based dental robot invention

Dentroid Technologies is leading a collaborative project to develop a specialised “micromirror” for use in robotic dental surgery, which will remove the need for drills and needles.

The project involves the Canberra-based startup, Griffith University and the Innovative Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre. IMCRC is providing $100,000 in grant support. 

Dentroid is developing a small, joystick-controlled robot, able to clip onto a patient’s tooth and be remotely operated to prepare a filling or use a laser instead of a turbine to precisely remove decay. The IMCRC-backed project focusses on a micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) mirror or micromirror as part of the laser system.

“Because our in-mouth device is compact, portable, and easy to use, it can facilitate early screening and diagnosis of dental issues, and then help administer the right treatment at the right time,” said Dr Omar Zuaiter, CEO and co-founder with  Alaa Habeb of Dentroid. 

“The device will also enable remote and mobile dentistry, a game changer when it comes to improving access and quality of oral healthcare across Australia.”

The IMCRC’s Dr Jason Coonan said Dentroid’s invention would have positive impacts including boosting Australia’s standing in the world of dentistry, and access to quality care in remote and disadvantaged communities.

“…this project [also] demonstrates, effective collaboration between industry and research partners is the key to delivering mutually beneficial translational research outcomes that grow Australia’s medical technology manufacturing industry and create global export opportunities,” said Coonan in a statement last week.

Separately, Dentroid (formerly known as Emudent) has been involved in an Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre-backed project with Griffith University, SDI, Australian National University and Lastek, focussing on its platform for tele-dentistry, which could, “introduce Industry 4.0 to the dental industry which will allow clinical guidance and optimisation of the surgical work.”   

Picture: supplied

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