Tiny, Robotic Teeth Cleaners
Army of Microrobots Wipe Out Dental Plaque Source: UPENN's Microrobot Teeth Cleaners New Innovation from the University of Pennsylvania A team of engineers, dentists and biologists at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a crew of microscopic, robotic cleaners for your teeth. The new technology combines two robotic systems: one for the surface of the teeth and the other for inside, tough to get to places between the teeth and inside the teeth such as for root canals. Both robotic systems rely on iron-oxide nanoparticles. CARs The UPENN researchers call their system CARs, or Catalytic Antimicrobial Robots. The microbots can be steered magnetically to breakdown biofilm and accumulated material like plaque on teeth. This is a robotic biofilm removal system that has a wide range of applications. The team continues to work on their technology. They believe other applications include keeping water pipes and catheters clean as well as reducing...