Robot dentist performs world's first fully automated procedure

A robot has completed a fully-automated dental procedure on a human, in a world first.

The technology features a robotic arm - along with artificial intelligence and 3D imaging - for performing dental work.

The US-based company Perceptive says its technology aims to be more accurate and faster in completing procedures including fillings and crowns.

Chief executive and founder Dr Chris Ciriello said: "This medical breakthrough enhances precision and efficiency of dental procedures."

The company's received $30m (£23.5m) in funding and is backed by dentist Edward Zuckerberg, the father of Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg.

The firm claims that, in the future, crown placements could be completed in just 15 minutes.

That compares to the current method needing two hour-long visits to the dentist.

Part of the process begins with a 3D scan of a patient's tooth and mouth, capturing images beneath the gum line.

The robotic device is still a work in progress though.

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

But the makers insist it is safe and claim their technology will "transform dentistry".