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Plasma Needle to Replace Dentist's Drill

Posted by ryuzaki0 on from the this'll-only-hurt-for-a-little-while dept.

dylanduck writes "From the New Scientist Tech article: "Sticking a needle with a flaming plasma tip into your mouth may not at first strike you as much of an improvement on conventional dentistry. However, the plasma needle, which is cold and painless to the touch, could be just the panacea we have been waiting for.""

3 of 169 comments (clear)

  1. Maybe a little better..... by Mayhem178 · · Score: 4, Interesting

    To me, it seems like the pain involved with getting cavities filled is due to the high frequency vibrations caused by the drill, not the actual drilling itself. While I have my reservations about having a plasma tip stuck into my mouth, I guess I'd be willing to give it a go.

    Of course, I don't plan on having any more cavities, so...

    --

    "You will pay for your lack of vision..." - Emperor Palpatine to Ray Charles

  2. Incomplete Summary by Penguinoflight · · Score: 4, Interesting

    This "plasma needle" apparently will be good at killing bacteria and surgical cuts. It does use Nitric Oxide to function however, which is poisonous to inhale.

    --
    "And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Savior of the World"
    1 John 4:14
    1. Re:Incomplete Summary by Mayhem178 · · Score: 4, Interesting

      I think the real problem would be with nitrogen dioxide (NO2, as opposed to nitrous oxide, N20, which would actually be preferable!). Nitric oxide is very volatile; it'll react with oxygen in the air almost immediately.

      2NO + O2 = 2NO2

      It's been a while since chemistry, but I think that's right.

      --

      "You will pay for your lack of vision..." - Emperor Palpatine to Ray Charles