Hanako Showa: The robot dental patient
I recently had my mouth examined by a dentist, and I was fortunate to get one with years of experience. I always wondered who are the patients for the starting dentist.
Fortunately, the dentist-in-training will have more at his disposal than a frightened grin with this 5-foot tall Japanese robot developed by Showa University and robot maker Tmsuk. This robot, named Hanako Showa, has very realistic movements of its eyes, head, and tongue. It even has a place for saliva, so its mouth will have to be sucked out just like a real patient.
Hanako can also behave in a realistic way such as saying “Ouch! It hurts!” and turning its head. I can only assume that the novice dentist must apply some fake Novocaine. Then the dentist can ask the patient “are you OK?” I am assuming the robot will respond affirmatively if you’re doing it right.
By the way, Hanako will produce a vomit response if the dentist touches her uvula, and I’m told touching her robot breasts is also a big no-no. I don’t really know what it will do if you accidentally brush up against her…anyway, I guess it teaches future dentists to be sensitive to female patients.
Apparently, over ninety students at Showa University have performed examinations on Hanako. The developers plan on making many Hanakos, and selling them to dental schools.
Join 8 reviews or comments
Jan Says: April 1, 2010 at 10:21 am
This whole idea of a robot dental patient looks a little ridiculous, but I think it is representative a a step in the right direction as far as the dental community is concerned. I have always tried to stay on top of the newest technology in my field and, so far, have done pretty well. Our newest addition is a new kind of dental software that allows us to access our information from anywhere. I think it’s about time dentists catch up with the times.
Medicine 2.0 News: iPad arrives and Disclaimers rise « ScienceRoll Says: April 6, 2010 at 6:48 pm
[...] Hanako Showa: The robot dental patient (Coolest Gadgets) [...]
Chula Vista Dentist Says: September 24, 2010 at 1:38 pm
I can see how this could be a very useful toy to practice on, it will give new dentists a more realistic experience so that they’re less anxious performing on real patients in the future. I wonder how much one of these costs?
Salford Dentist Says: October 31, 2010 at 12:36 am
Did everyone take a look at the Scotsmans claim today that leading dental consultants in Scotland are getting an astounding £120 k each and every year?? I have to look into that line of work, evidently they’re doing something right! oh and, I needed to feel sorry for the inferior associate dentists – they earn only £60-70k!
Jon Says: December 17, 2010 at 4:14 pm
It’s going to be quite a while before this becomes commonplace in a dental office. Many dentists are so reluctant to adopt new technology. But, those who do get way ahead of the pack.
chula vista locksmiths Says: April 20, 2011 at 11:07 am
They should also train Hanako to negotiate at the end about the price. Visiting a dentist shouldn’t be a privilege only few can afford.
Ann@DentalImplants Says: July 28, 2011 at 10:30 pm
Well this is an interesting thing. A robot patient could really help dentists in practice. I hope this one could simulate pain, too. Just so the dentists would know. 
Hanako Showa: The robot dental patient « Ramiend Corporation Says: April 1, 2010 at 6:51 am
[...] Read More Here : Hanako Showa: The robot dental patient [...]