What Does Spatial-MiC Have To Do With AI In Dentistry?

First, there’s a bit of confusion to clear up.

For those not in the know, a spatial mic captures 360º of immersive sound, by using eight microphones to simultaneously record from all directions. They’re often used in surround videos where again, the scenescape is recorded from multiple orientations at the same time; achieved with an omnidirectional camera, or a rig of cameras taping overlapping angles. When playback is a flat surface, the viewer has panoramic control. Projected onto spherical screens, it’s cinematic virtual reality.

Those already familiar with what a spatial mic is, the hyphen and capital C probably seemed like a curious typo. For pedants, an inexcusable, coffee-spluttering unbelievably annoying one. For others, maybe didn’t register at all. Humans have quite a habit of letting our brain fill in, or gloss over the bits that are skewif in something we think we already know. It’s what makes eye witnesses pliable and deemed unreliable in courtrooms all over the world. What AI does with what we’re sure we know, is a whole new world of worldly newness and dentistry isn’t sitting on the sidelines scoffing popcorn. Particularly because of the bucket-sized hypocrisy, with tooth-cracking unpopped kernels, and hulls stuck between causing gum irritation or setting the scene for some not okay decay.

As we’re all aware (nervously or otherwise) AI has the capability to perform tasks that used to require human intelligence.

When computer intelligence is gleaned from data, it moves to machine learning (ML). Massive data input allows pattern recognition, whereby predictions can be formulated. ML software is referred to as a ‘neural network’. In dentistry for example, complex images are fed in large datasets into the network where it learns to recognise decay from a dental x-ray.

This use in dentistry has progressed so far that in July 2024, the first robot crown preparation guided by AI was performed on a very willing human. The efficiency and precision of robotics has it already used in training, implant placement and endodontics.

The “Pedia_Roid” humanoid robot created by the Japanese company tmsuk realistically simulates the squirming, fidgeting and flinching young children are prone to, during dental examinations and treatments. It even spontaneously closes its mouth. Weighing 23 kilos and 110 centimetres tall, these movements are generated from proportional pressure regulators with piezo technology: electricity from pressure. It allows fluid movement, without any mechanical clicking sounds, to 24 pneumatic cylinders. It creates thousands of deceptively life-like gestures and motions of arms, fingers and legs. Facially, it’s not limited to the head and mouth – incredibly, it includes eyelids and irises.

It’s mic drop worthy; and brings us to where we started …

Spatial-MiC (or sMiC) is one of the latest developments in dental technology. It is the result of collaborative research from the Faculty of Dentistry of the University of Hong Kong (HKU), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS-QIBEBT), Qingdao Stomatological Hospital, and Qingdao Women and Children’s Hospital.

Researchers compiled the most comprehensive study to date of tooth-explicit dental plaque on participant 4-year-olds. The children were categorised into two groups: those with no caries, and those with teeth that were decayed, missing or filled. Using a cutting-edge ribosome sequencing approach, the microbial make-up and function of each individual tooth was mapped over the course of 11 months.

Eighty-nine preschoolers provided 2,504 study samples. Distinct, identifiable patterns emerged prior to the advent of a cary.

It was also found that there is naturally different bacteria colonies on incisors and molars. Predictable, gradient markings were observed. Maintained by both tooth anatomy and saliva flow, this spacial pattern disrupts when cavities start to develop.

Transmigration of microbes happens between front and back teeth, as well as other definitive micro-organism shifts.

By combining information from each tooth and its adjacent ones, with 93% reliability, spatial-MiC was able to determine cavity sites two months prior to them being clinically detectable. Current cavity assessment methods comprise of visual examination, probing and x-rays. Early indications can be overlooked, or non-discernible. Even laser fluorescence technology that illuminates the tooth surface for early diagnosis of decay doesn’t equal the impressive accuracy of sMiC.

Tooth microbiota activity and the chronic tooth decay it causes, has long been a global health burden for all age groups. The ability to identify a characteristic microbial signature for each tooth, and execute single-tooth level diagnosis and prevention, is a masterful strategy in achieving optimal early-age oral health.

The global prevalence of early childhood caries (ECC) is defined by being under the age of 6, and estimated to affect 48% of this demographic. It’s even more pervasive in China, where over 70% of 5-year-olds have this chronic disease. It causes pain, infection, and interrupts sleep. Nutrition intake is greatly reduced, and it all impacts cognitive development and academic performance.

Treatment is commonly the tooth being filled, before later needing either root canal therapy or extraction.

Often both.

Having EEC carries severe, lifetime repercussions from the beginning. It sets an unfortunate precedence for decay, pain, tooth loss and gum disease throughout. Which is what makes early diagnosis, prognosis and prevention so crucial.

The ultimate endeavour is to give dental clinics worldwide, access to the system, and to expand sMiC technology to include the wider population.

Spatial mics have levelled the playing field for artists and interviewers to record and disseminate work and sound bites that may not have otherwise come to light. Spatial-MiC will do the same; and it has teeth.

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Note: All content and media on the Bacchus Marsh Dental House website and social media channels are created and published online for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice.

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