Developing low-cost imaging technology for dental health
Official title: Next generation MEMS-VCSEL technology for ultra-low-cost dental and periodontal swept source optical coherence tomography imaging
Funded at Praevium Research, INC. · NIH-10929536 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new laser imaging device that could help dentists see your teeth and gums more clearly and quickly, making it easier to check for issues like gum disease without any uncomfortable procedures.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Praevium Research, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Goleta, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 13, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $861,274 |
| NIH project number | 5R44DE031194-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10929536 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals seeking dental care, particularly those with concerns related to periodontal health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not require dental imaging or have no dental health issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a new type of imaging device that uses advanced laser technology to improve dental imaging. By utilizing microelectromechanical systems vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (MEMS-VCSELs), the device aims to provide high-speed and flexible imaging capabilities at a lower cost. The collaboration between Praevium Research and the University of Washington will enhance the ability to noninvasively assess dental conditions, particularly periodontal health, by allowing for deeper imaging without invasive procedures. Patients may benefit from more accurate and accessible dental diagnostics as a result of this innovative technology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more affordable and effective dental imaging solutions, improving early detection and treatment of dental diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging technologies for dental applications, suggesting that this approach could be successful.
Where this research is happening
-
Praevium Research, INC.
Goleta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jayaraman, Vijaysekhar — Praevium Research, INC.
- Study coordinator: Jayaraman, Vijaysekhar
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Developing advanced imaging technology for eye diseases
This study is working on a new way to take pictures of the retina using visible light, which will help doctors spot eye conditions like age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy more quickly and accurately, leading to better care for patients.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.