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New research has led to the development of a new battery-free sensor which could have a substantial impact on oral health. The new technology, called Densor, can be worn in the mouth as a dental brace. This technology can aid understanding of our mouths to researchers by providing useful data and insights.

The human mouth holds a vast range of information about our health, including both our oral health, and overall health.

In fact, data from our mouth can help scientists significantly, and is highly sought-after. But the process of collecting data from the mouth is challenging.

However, recent research has led to the development of a new battery-free sensor that can be worn in the mouth as a dental brace [1].

This research is exciting, and could provide scientists with an enhanced understanding of the mouth, whilst improving treatment outcomes for patients.

The new technology

The research was carried out by a team from Delft University and Radboud University in the Netherlands, Europe [1]. Their findings have been published in the Proceedings of the ACM on the Interactive, Mobile, Wearable and Ubiquitous Technologies journal [1].

The researchers pointed out that using internal sensors in the mouth is challenging for safety reasons. Therefore, they wanted to find a way of adding sensors into the mouth in a safe and effective way [1].

The team found that they were able to leverage the popularity of dental braces, by adding tiny sensors into braces. This resulted in the creation of Densor [1].

Densor is a battery-free sensor, and can be worn in the mouth via a regular dental brace. Therefore, patients get the use of a regular dental brace, but with the added benefit of the sensor.

This approach presents an innovative method of gaining insights about the mouth. It can provide long-term data and information on the oral health of patients.

What are the uses and benefits of the technology?

This new technology has a range of uses. In fact, it could prove beneficial to the millions of people that wear braces on a daily basis.

One benefit is sleep monitoring. The technology is capable of monitoring breathing levels and tooth movement, which could help to diagnose sleep apnea or bruxism (teeth grinding) [1].

Then there is also the added benefit of monitoring dental wear. For example, as teeth become decayed, the technology will be able to sense this, which could help with the early identification of dental problems.

Moreover, jaw and head movements can be monitored too. This can help to monitor swallowing and drinking – which means any problems can be identified [1].

Another key benefit of the technology is that it only requires a smartphone for charging and data reading purposes [1]. Otherwise, no additional hardware is needed.

Researcher comments

This technology has the potential to be incredibly helpful. The researchers were delighted by the outcome, with the findings already proving impressive.

Przemyslaw Pawelczak, a professor at Delft University, is one of the lead authors of the research. He commented on the creation of the technology [2].

Pawelczak said that “Densor is more than just a technological innovation”, saying that instead, “it is a step toward accessible and inclusive health monitoring” [2].

Continuing, Pawelczak said that “the ability to collect real-time, long-term data in the mouth is truly innovative”, whilst opening “doors to new preventive and diagnostic possibilities in areas such as nutrition, dental wear, or acid reflux issues” [2].

The future

The creation of this technology is exciting. The findings from this phase of research should help to guide future research directions and treatments.

While this is a positive start, the researchers wish to take their work further. The researchers are currently working on expanding the technology – with the aim of adding more sensors and improving data processing [1].

These steps could help to provide even more benefits. For example, the researchers are hoping to be able to detect acid reflux, and even monitor saliva levels in the mouth [1].

With saliva being crucial in oral health, being able to monitor its levels in the mouth could be really helpful – especially in determining acidity levels and identifying those with dry mouths.

Hopefully, the research will result in a long-term improvement in treatment outcomes. The technology certainly appears to be capable of providing researchers with key information.

Thinking points…

1) This technology is very exciting, and could have a significant impact on oral health in the long run. However, for now we need to focus on practical ways of keeping our oral health strong, including brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly. Additionally, you should also attend regular dental check-ups so that any issues can be spotted and then treated. We recommend booking an appointment now!

2) As discussed, the technology is very versatile. One such use for the technology could be detecting teeth grinding while sleeping. Teeth grinding affects many people without them realizing, and can result in enamel eroding. If you grind your teeth at night, mention this to your dentist at your next check-up, as they can provide advice on this.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To try and prevent problems, it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!

References

[1] Dsouza, V., Pronk, J., Peppelman, C., Madariaga, V. I., Pereira-Cenci, T., Loomans, B., & Pawelczak, P. (2024). Densor: An Intraoral Battery-Free Sensing Platform. Proceedings of the ACM on Interactive, Mobile, Wearable and Ubiquitous Technologies. 8 (4): p1-30. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1145/3699746.

[2] Delft University of Technology. (2024). Battery-free dental brace reveals crucial health data via smartphone. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-11-battery-free-dental-brace-reveals.html. Last accessed: 4th December 2024.

New research has explored the possibility of text messages being used as a method of improving toothbrushing frequency among teenagers. The research also looked to see if text messages can help to reduce tooth decay. Getting into good oral hygiene habits at a young age is important.

Many parents are all too familiar with the idea that getting the attention of their teenage son or daughter is far from easy – especially when they have a smartphone in their hand.

Some may have resorted to messaging their son or daughter on their phone to remind them of something. Now, new research has shown that such an approach may actually benefit the toothbrushing habits of teenagers [1].

The research suggests that teenagers are receptive to text message reminders about toothbrushing. This could benefit their oral health and overall wellbeing.

Background

This research involved looking at the oral health habits of teenagers. As discussed, smartphone use is rife among this age group. In fact, research shows that teenagers spend an average of 8 and a half hours on screens per day – a staggering amount [2].

Looking after oral health in teenage years is important. By having a strong oral hygiene routine, it can set habits that teenagers can hopefully take forward for the rest of their life.

However, tooth decay is a very common problem in teenagers. Research shows that tooth decay affects around a third of those aged between 12 and 15 [3].

The researchers also wanted to place some focus on youngsters living in areas of poverty. Tooth decay affects almost 50% of youngsters in areas of poverty [3].

Tooth decay can cause a range of problems. For example, these include toothache, eating problems, an infection, poor sleep, and reduced school attendance and performance.

The Research

The research was carried out by a team from the University of Sheffield in England. Moreover, they collaborated with other institutions across the United Kingdom. Subsequently, their findings were published in the Health Technology Assessment journal [1].

The study involved the creation of the BRIGHT trial, which involved 4,680 students aged 11 to 13 across 42 schools in England, Scotland and Wales [1].

For the purposes of the study, the students were split into two groups. One group would receive a 50-minute lesson delivered in a classroom by teachers, and two text messages per day to their mobile phone to remind them about toothbrushing [1].

The second group didn’t receive any of the above, other than routine education [1]. The researchers wanted to see what impact these text messages would have.

All 4,680 participants had their teeth examined at the start of the study. The text messages continued over a two-and-a-half-year period [1].

At the end of the period, the participants had their teeth re-examined. The researchers were looking to see if there was an increase or decrease in tooth decay.

The researchers then compared the groups to see if the group that had received the text messages had seen more of an improvement in their oral health than those that didn’t receive the texts [1].

The Results

The research produced mixed results. Overall, the impact on cavity prevention was minimal, with the two groups showing very little difference. Therefore, this means that the text messages didn’t particularly contribute towards lessening the need for restorative work like fillings [1].

However, there were some positives. The results showed that the text messages were particularly effective for students coming from low-income families. Their analysis found some evidence of tooth decay prevention among this group [1]. So this meant that those from low-income families were helped by the text messages.

Furthermore, the researchers also asked the participants to self-report on the frequency that they brushed their teeth. Promisingly, self-reported brushing habits improved after six months [1].

Therefore, this is another benefit to emanate from the text messages. With more people brushing their teeth, this should help their oral health in the long-term.

Summary

In conclusion, while the text messages may not have had the impact that the researchers hoped, there were certainly modest improvements.

The most positive element of the research was the excellent impact it had on teenagers from areas with high rates of poverty. This is very positive, as those from a poverty-stricken background are more vulnerable to oral health problems.

Professor Zoe Marshman of the University of Sheffield’s School of Clinical Dentistry has commented on the findings. She has mentioned that secondary school represents “a critical stage for toothbrushing practices to become an established behaviour for adulthood” [3].

Continuing, Marshman says that “it is vital to help young people to improve their understanding of the importance of toothbrushing and skills to prevent tooth decay” [3]. Therefore, this underlines how crucial toothbrushing is for this age group.

In terms of the next steps, the research team are hoping to use these findings to investigate what other measures can be put in place to help teenagers with their oral health.

The aim is that in the long term, we will see an improvement in the oral health of teenagers around the world. Text messages appear to offer a promising option in this regard.

Thinking points…

1) Having a strong oral health routine is crucial not only during teenage years, but also in adulthood! Remember to look after your teeth and brush frequently. Another important thing to do is to attend regular dental check-ups, as these allow a dentist to examine your oral health and notice any problems. We recommend that you book an appointment now!

2) Do you have a teenage son or daughter? If so, this research is very relevant! As seen above, having text reminders can be helpful to increase toothbrushing frequency. With this in mind, you could arrange for your children to get reminders on their phone to brush their teeth. Why not look into this possibility right away?!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To try and prevent problems, it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!

References

[1] Marshman, Z., Ainsworth, H., & Fairhurst, C., et al. (2024). Behaviour change intervention (education and text) to prevent dental caries in secondary school pupils: BRIGHT RCT, process and economic evaluation. Health Technology Assessment. 28 (52). DOI: https://doi.org/10.3310/JQTA2103.

[2] Rosenberg, D., & Szura, N. (2023). Teens are spending the equivalent of a 40-hour work week on their devices. Here’s how to help them find the right balance. Available: https://fortune.com/well/2023/10/24/teens-too-much-screen-time-find-balance/. Last accessed: 23rd October 2024.

[3] University of Sheffield. (2024). Text message reminders can help improve oral health in teenagers. Available: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/news/text-message-reminders-can-help-improve-oral-health-teenagers. Last accessed: 23rd October 2024.

Patients with Dementia are at a higher risk of oral health problems. Therefore, they should be prioritizing their oral health. But a research team has looked to see if patients receive the oral healthcare they need, and if they look after their own oral health. In concerning results, they found that oral health is commonly ignored and overlooked in this vulnerable population.

Dementia is a debilitating condition that impacts multiple areas of the lives of those suffering. It involves memory problems and physical issues.

While suffering with dementia is difficult enough, new research has found that dementia patients routinely have their oral health needs overlooked [1].

This concerning finding suggests that significant work needs to be done to ensure that dementia patients receive oral healthcare, which can boost their overall health.

What is Dementia?

Dementia is a syndrome that is associated with ongoing cognitive decline, worsening brain functioning, and physical health issues [2].

Dementia impacts the way someone thinks, sees, feels, remembers and behaves [2]. It is difficult for the person with the condition, as well as their loved ones.

Dementia is a common condition. The study that will be discussed took place in the United Kingdom. In the UK, 1 in 11 people aged over 65 has Dementia.

Research has also shown a connection between poor oral health and an increase in the chance of the onset of dementia in later life [3]. This underlines the importance of looking after our oral health.

The Research

This research was completed by a triumvirate of English universities. The University of Portsmouth, King’s College London and Queen Mary University worked in collaboration for the research, which was published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry [1].

The study involved the research team analyzing Care Act assessments for patients with dementia who live at home whilst receiving family support and/or paid care services [1]. This is opposed to someone receiving treatment in a specialized care home or medical facility.

The researchers interviewed caregivers, home-care workers and home-care managers. Moreover, assessments were reviewed, with the aim of seeing how many involved oral health.

Unfortunately, they found that oral hygiene was rarely addressed in these assessments. Therefore, the team pointed out that oral hygiene is essentially forgotten about, and in many cases, not recorded [1].

The team wanted to know why this was the case. During the interviews, they found some common themes. They were told that declining understanding, memory problems and physical disabilities all impacted their ability to complete oral health tasks themselves [1].

Furthermore, the problems were worsened due to inadvertent errors from those caring for the patients – typically caused by limited time, a lack of training and poor communication [1].

However, those being interviewed did show a good understanding of the importance of oral health – which was positive.

The research team put together free checklists that can be used by social workers and home care providers. These checklists were developed in association with experts in dementia and dental care [1].

The checklists feature a list of activities or tasks that each patient should complete. For instance, it includes brushing teeth, using mouthwash, flossing, and attending regular dental check-ups.

Author Comments

The results of the research are concerning to the authors. The research shows that an already vulnerable population is missing out on important oral healthcare.

Dr. Dia Soilemezi from the University of Portsmouth’s Department of Psychology has said that “good mouth and teeth care is important for people living with dementia in their own homes because they are at higher risk of dental problems and may find it difficult to report pain or discomfort” [4].

Continuing, Soilemezi underlines the wider impact of neglecting oral health, saying that “poor oral health not only influences physical health but also impacts self-esteem, dignity, nutrition and quality of life, so it needs to be taken seriously” [4].

Currently, the situation is not being taken seriously. Many dementia patients are seeing their oral health worsen by the day. It is important for policy makers to be aware of these findings, and for them to act to improve the situation.

The checklists put forward by the researchers are helpful. If these checklists are followed, it should result in oral healthcare being a priority for patients, resulting in an improvement in their dental health and overall quality of life.

Looking after oral health is crucial for everyone. But in more vulnerable patients like those with dementia, it is even more important. Therefore, increasing focus on the oral health of dementia patients is vital.

Thinking points…

1) As discussed earlier, research has shown there is a connection between poor oral health and an increased likelihood of having dementia in later life. Therefore, looking after your oral health can boost your chances of avoiding this condition. Remember to attend regular dental check-ups, as these provide a dentist with the chance to look at your oral health and provide advice. We recommend booking an appointment now!

2) Do you know anyone with dementia? The findings of this research are important – especially for those with the condition. Therefore, you could explain this article to them, or share this article with your social network. Increasing awareness of this situation can help to make policy makers aware of the need for change. Why not share the article now?

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To try and prevent problems, it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!

References

[1] Soilemezi, D., Wantonyi, K., Hill, V., & Manthorpe, J. (2023). Views of homecare staff and carers on oral needs and dental care for people living with dementia: A qualitative study. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry. 38 (12): e6039. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/gps.6039.

[2] NHS. (2023). About dementia. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia/about/. Last accessed: 23rd March 2024.

[3] Kiuchi, S., Cooray, U., Kusama, T., Yamamoto, T., Abbas, H., Nakazawa, N., Kondo, L., Osaka, K., & Aida, J. (2022). Oral Status and Dementia Onset: Mediation of Nutritional and Social Factors. Journal of Dental Research. 101 (4): p420-427. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/00220345211049399.

[4] University of Portsmouth. (2024). Mouth and dental care for people with dementia often overlooked, study finds. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-08-mouth-dental-people-dementia-overlooked.html. Last accessed: 9th August 2024.