Plasma Brush Promises Pain-free Restorations
Plasma Brush Promises Pain free Restorations Clinicians may one day be able to use a futuristic dental instrument that is said to help make restorative procedures pain free, while also increasing procedural efficiency. Developed by University of Missouri
Clinicians may one day be able to use a futuristic dental instrument that is said to help make restorative procedures pain-free, while also increasing procedural efficiency. Developed by University of Missouri (MU) engineers in collaboration with Nanova Inc—a Columbia, Missouri-based firm that designs dental devices and materials—the plasma brush uses chemical reactions as a means of preparing carious teeth for restorations.
According to university sources, the plasma brush can disinfect and clean tooth preparations in less than 30 seconds. In addition, the brush’s cool flame alters the tooth surface so that a strong bond with restorative agents and materials can be achieved. The MU team reports laboratory trials show that direct restorations made using this technology are up to 60% stronger than traditional methods. This combination of increased efficiency and stronger bonds has the potential to increase the restoration’s lifespan, as well as reduce costs for dental practices, patients, and insurance companies.
“Two hundred million tooth restorations cost Americans an estimated $50 billion a year,” notes Hao Li, PhD, associate professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering in the MU College of Engineering, “but [use of] the plasma brush would reduce these costs.” The team’s research was funded by the National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health. Researchers anticipate that human clinical trials will begin this year.
