IMCRC collaboration is developing laser for cutting edge robotic dentistry
New pathway to ultra-precise and needle-free dental treatment
A collaborative research project between the Innovative Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (IMCRC), dental technology company Dentroid Technologies and Griffith University is bringing Australians one step closer to accessing comfortable, pain free dentistry.
The project $650,000 worth in research effort (cash and on-kind) will develop a high-power laser micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) mirror (or “micromirror”) for the world’s first in-mouth laser-enabled robotic assistive device.
By replacing the traditional drill mechanism with gentle lasers, the innovative device will help dentists to provide patients ultra-precise and needle-free dental treatment with unprecedented convenience and speed.
Dr Jason Coonan, IMCRC’s Deputy CEO, said that automation and robotic assistance in dentistry is still in its early stages. IMCRC co-funding the development of the Australian manufactured MEMS mirror, a key component of Dentroid’s revolutionary robotic dentistry device, will catayse the further development in the manufacturing of this tremendously exciting technology.
“This research collaboration has wide ranging impacts, from improving oral health for many populations across the world to leveraging Australia’s position as a global leader in dental excellence,” he said.
“As this project demonstrates, effective collaboration between industry and research partners is the key to delivering mutually beneficial transational research outcomes that grow Australia’s medical technology manufacturing industry and create global export opportunities.”