Plasma treatment of caries: a novel method in dentistry

 

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
 Figure 3: First in vivo experiment

 

Aim of the research

In 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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