New robotic toothbrush produces toothpaste independently

Researchers in the US have developed a robo-toothbrush that automates toothbrushing and does multiple steps at once. Microrobots clean the teeth and remove foreign objects from between the teeth, while at the same time producing toothpaste.

Already brushed your teeth today? Most will (hopefully) answer “yes” to this question. In recent decades, our oral hygiene has become more and more complex: In addition to brushing our teeth, we should floss every day and also use mouthwash if necessary. Isn’t there a way to simplify this process?

A research group also asked itself this question the University of Pennsylvania. Edward Steager’s team investigated whether a robotic system could clean interdental spaces and teeth in one go. The result is a new type of robotic toothbrush that takes on both tasks at the same time without any problems.

Robo toothbrush is made of iron oxide nanoparticles

Strictly speaking, the new technology is micro-robots made of iron oxide nanoparticles. They have both a catalytic and a magnetic effect. With the help of a magnetic field, the researchers can control the movement and configuration of the microrobots and influence their shape.

The nanoparticles can either form a bristle-like structure that removes plaque from the broad tooth surfaces. Or the micro-robots become elongated threads that can slide between the teeth like dental floss.

In both cases, the catalytic reaction causes the nanoparticles to produce antimicrobial substances that kill harmful oral bacteria on the spot.

Microrobots take the form of a toothbrush

Put simply: the microrobots can deform in such a way that they look like a toothbrush. The catalytic reaction in turn forms a kind of toothpaste. And all at the same time. The robotic toothbrush gently scrubs away plaque and other foreign bodies in the mouth and on the gums.

The big innovation here is that the robotic system can do all three steps in a single, hands-free and automated process.

It doesn’t matter if you have straight or crooked teeth, the system adapts to different surfaces.

Dental hygiene has an impact on our well-being

With the research results, the scientists hope that general dental health will improve. Because many people are still muffle when it comes to caring for their own teeth.

Their condition has a major impact on the whole body. Raise bad teeth such as the risk of chronic intestinal diseases. The reason for this is bacteria that penetrate our bloodstream via inflamed gums and populate the entire body.

So if you don’t have time for the important dental routine, the new toothbrush could offer a possible alternative to keep your pearly whites in good shape.

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