| Plasma treatment of caries: a novel method in dentistry | |
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In dentistry dental cavities (Figure 1) as a result of caries are a major problem. Cavities in teeth can be cleaned and/or sterilised by mechanically drilling or laser techniques. In both methods heating or vibrations can take place and this can be painful for the patient (heating and vibrations can irritate the nerve). |
| Figure 1: Dental cavity | |
| In dentistry dental cavities (Figure 1) as a result of caries are a major problem. Cavities in teeth can be cleaned and/or sterilised by mechanically drilling or laser techniques. In both methods heating or vibrations can take place and this can be painful for the patient (heating and vibrations can irritate the nerve). | ![]() |
| Figure 2: Temperature measurement | |
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3: First in vivo experiment
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Aim of the researchIn this project the impact of plasma on the cleaning of dental cavities will be studied. Our goal is to find a less destructive and less painful approach to clean dental cavities. Plasmas can treat and sterilize irregular surfaces, therefore they are very suitable to decontaminate dental cavities without drilling. |
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