Producing innovative diagnostic software/products for the earlier identification of dental decay and other potential problems (Spin out company Manchester Imaging Ltd)

Narrative

Manchester Imaging Limited is a dental diagnostic software spinout from the University of Manchester.  The company software aims to assist dentists in detecting early tooth decay, before a filling is needed, empowering patients to look after their teeth more effectively and saving money for insurance companies and governments by reducing the need for dental restorations and repairs. Detecting early-stage enamel caries has the big advantage of avoiding the need for fillings, which are necessary when decay is identified at a later, more advanced stage. However, detecting early-stage enamel caries can be difficult and time consuming by visual inspection alone. The company's first product AssistDent®  was launched in 2019 and uses artificial intelligence to help community dentists identify decay at an early stage, when it can be reversed – for instance, by applying fluoride varnishes –removing the need for fillings later. 

Impact date	2014
Category of impact	Health and wellbeing, Technological, Economic
Impact level	Benefit