The rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics are transforming the field of dentistry, making procedures faster, more precise, and accessible. One company at the forefront of this revolution is Perceptive, a Boston-based AI firm that recently announced a groundbreaking achievement in dental care: the completion of the world’s first fully automated dental procedure on a human. This milestone, achieved with their advanced robotic dentistry system, signifies a new era in dental care, where AI-driven technology could significantly reduce the time and effort required for common procedures like crown placements.
Dr. Chris Ciriello, the CEO and Founder of Perceptive, emphasized the transformative potential of this technology. “This medical breakthrough enhances the precision and efficiency of dental procedures, and democratizes access to better dental care,” he stated. According to Dr. Ciriello, the system not only improves patient experiences but also leads to better clinical outcomes by streamlining complex procedures and making them more accessible to a broader population.
So, how exactly does this innovative system work?
Perceptive’s robotic dentistry platform integrates AI-driven 3D imaging software with a robotic arm capable of performing intricate dental tasks. One of the system’s most impressive capabilities is its ability to complete crown placements in just 15 minutes. This is a significant improvement over traditional methods, which typically require at least two visits of about an hour each. The system’s speed and precision are made possible by its use of 3D volumetric data for both diagnostics and treatment planning. This allows for early detection of dental issues and highly accurate treatment, reducing the likelihood of complications and the need for follow-up visits.
The procedure begins with an optical coherence tomography (OCT) scan, performed using Perceptive’s handheld intraoral scanner. This scanner captures detailed 3D images of the patient’s tooth and mouth, going beneath the gum line and through fluids to provide a comprehensive view. The level of detail in these images surpasses that of traditional dental imaging, offering patients a clearer understanding of their dental conditions and the necessary treatments. This visualization is not just a technological feat; it empowers patients to make informed decisions about their care.
Idea Born in Rural Canada
The inspiration behind this technology has roots in Dr. Ciriello’s early experiences in rural Canada. After completing dental school, he noticed a significant shortage of dentists in his area, which left many patients without adequate care. To address this gap, he founded his own Dental Support Organization (DSO). However, as the organization grew, the demand for dental services continued to outpace the available resources. This challenge led Dr. Ciriello to explore technological solutions that could scale dental care without compromising quality. The result of this quest is Perceptive’s robotic dentistry system, a tool that promises to revolutionize the way dental care is delivered.
Perceptive’s vision has garnered significant attention and support from key players in the industry. Stephen E. Thorne IV, Founder and CEO of PDS Health—a leading dental and medical support organization—has been following Perceptive’s progress closely. “I’ve been closely tracking Perceptive’s progress since seeing Dr. Ciriello present his concept at the ADA Forsyth dentech conference years ago,” Thorne said. He acknowledged the enormous potential of Perceptive’s technology and expressed enthusiasm for helping the company bring its vision of fast, fully automated dental restorations to life.
The company has also attracted considerable financial backing, raising $30 million in funding from a range of prominent investors. These include PDS Health, Dr. Ed Zuckerberg, Innospark Ventures, KdT Ventures, Primavera Capital, Plaisance Capital, and Y Combinator. Such substantial support highlights the confidence that industry leaders have in Perceptive’s ability to transform dental care. In addition to its impressive list of investors, Perceptive has formed strategic partnerships with respected institutions like the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and the American Dental Association’s Forsyth Institute. These collaborations are likely to accelerate the development and deployment of Perceptive’s technology, bringing it closer to widespread clinical use.
