
Bangalore, 2025Ā ā In a world-first innovation,Ā Indian Institute of Science (IISc)Ā researchers and deep-tech startupĀ TheranautilusĀ have developedĀ CalBotsĀ ā microscopic magnetic robots that actively seek and seal exposed dentinal tubules, revolutionizing treatment forĀ 1.5 billion peopleĀ suffering from tooth sensitivity globally.
š¬ How CalBots Work
1ļøā£ Guided Navigation
- 200nm-sized bots steered byĀ external magnetic fieldsĀ to precisely target tubules
- 10x more accurate than traditional desensitizing gels
2ļøā£ Smart Sealing
- CarryĀ biocompatible mineral nanocapsulesĀ (hydroxyapatite/fluoride)
- Release payload only on contact with dentin (pH-triggered)
3ļøā£ Self-Destruct
- Dissolve into harmless ions after treatment
š” Why This Disrupts Dentistry
Parameter | Conventional Treatment | CalBots |
---|---|---|
Effect Duration | 3-6 months | 2+ years |
Procedure Time | 15-20 min | 5 min |
Tubule Coverage | 30-40% | >95% |
Side Effects | Gum irritation | None |
š ļø Development Journey
- 2019:Ā IIScās proof-of-concept (Science Robotics paper)
- 2022:Ā Theranautilus spin-off (backed by C-CAMP & DBT)
- 2024:Ā CompletedĀ large-animal trialsĀ (92% success rate)
š Market Potential
- $18BĀ global desensitizing products market
- Targets bothĀ clinicsĀ (in-office procedure) andĀ OTCĀ (future home kit version)
š Commercialization Path
- 2025:Ā SeekĀ CDSCO approvalĀ for human trials
- 2026:Ā Partner withĀ Dental chainsĀ (Clove Dental interested)
- 2027:Ā LaunchĀ “Painless Pro”Ā professional system ($5K/unit)
š§ Expert Insight:
“This is microrobotics’ first practical application in dentistry ā the start of a precision oral care revolution.”
āDr. Debayan Dasgupta, Theranautilus CTO
š¢ Would you volunteer for nanobot dental treatment?
#MedTech #Dentistry #Nanobots #IISc #DeepTech #HealthcareInnovation