HC Deb 20 May 1954 vol 527 cc2265-6
17. Mr. Janner

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that dental experts of the Royal Air Force are experimenting with the ultrasonic dentists' drill, operating at 25,000 vibrations a second, which can deal with cavities in teeth in one minute with no pain to the patient: and whether he will bring this method to the attention of dentists under the National Health Service.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Miss Patricia Hornsby-Smith)

My right hon. Friend is aware of this instrument. As it is still in an early experimental stage, it would be premature to encourage its use in the general dental service, but my right hon. Friend will watch developments with interest.

Mr. Janner

Would the hon. Lady ask her right hon. Friend to expedite the research into this drill, because it seems to be an extremely satisfactory instrument, and as there is no danger attached to its use, it should be used generally?

Miss Hornsby-Smith

We are certainly watching the experiments closely, but one point about it is that it is only usable vertically.

Mr. Paget

Has the hon. Lady risked it?