NI dentists smile on new technology

The technology is safe to use on patients

Technology which could change the face of dentistry across the world has been developed at Queen's University in Belfast.

The technology - which is now under-going detailed tests on patients - could mean the end of drilling, filling and injections for some people.

One dentist has described the new device as "almost too good to be true."

Most of the research is on primary decay

However, it has now been passed as being safe to use on patients.

It involves putting a plastic cap on a tooth and squirting ozone at the bacteria which are causing the tooth to decay - stopping them in their tracks.

There is even evidence that the decay can be reversed, as the tooth begins to re-mineralise and harden.

Most of the research is on primary decay - the first hole in a tooth which is obviously most common among the younger age groups.

Fillings and injections

However, dentists' drills will not become obsolete.

Existing fillings will still need repaired and replaced.

Dentists' chairs may be emptier

In addition, the ozone does not work on decay between teeth - only when it is exposed on the biting surface or side of the tooth.

But for large numbers of patients this technology could mean no drilling, fillings or injections.

About 100 dental practices across the UK - including some in Northern Ireland - are now trying out the device on patients.

They will feed what happens back to the researchers.