Wireless sensors look down in the mouth

A wireless, battery-less sensing technology originally developed for obtaining data from inside Formula 1 engines is having a profound effect on dental research into cariogenicity.

A wireless, battery-less sensing technology originally developed for obtaining data from inside Formula 1 engines is having a profound effect on dental research into cariogenicity, thanks to University of Leeds spinout company, Instrumentel.

Instrumentel's sensing system, called IntraSense uses miniaturised electronics to collect data from harsh and difficult to access environments.

In collaboration with the Leeds International Centre for Cariogenicity Research (LICCR), of the Leeds Dental Institute, Instrumentel has developed its technology for sensing plaque acid levels in the mouth.

Instrumentel's technology consists of a miniature electronic communicator connected to a sensor which, in this case, is mounted inside the mouth in order to measure pH levels.

Importantly the system does not require batteries to power the electronics embedded in the denture.

In the research carried out by LICCR and Instrumentel, the technology has been proven to have several key strengths over other sensing systems currently being used in dental research.

The system has low sensitivity to intra-oral temperatures which means its accuracy is not adversely affected, it can be connected and disconnected without disturbing plaque and does not drift during use, and it has a mean error rate of just 0.05pH.

The technology has been engineered to fit into a brace plate, which is placed in the mouth, and enables researchers to measure changes in pH levels in situ.

Professor Monty Duggal, Professor of Child Dental Health and Head of Paediatric Dentistry at LICCR explains: "When we eat, acid is produced in the mouth, which leads to decay".

"Traditionally we've taken plaque from patients and measured it outside the mouth, but this isn't always the most accurate of methods".

"The Instrumentel technology allows us to accurately measure pH levels in real life situations".

The implications for this application of Instrumentel's IntraSense technology are far reaching and it is envisaged that LICCR and Instrumentel will be able to assist companies seeking to determine the effects their products have on dental health in the future and whether they are "kind to teeth".

Instrumentel's CEO, Steve Couchman says: "The application of our technology in this field has given us an insight into the important role sensing technology plays in the dental and medical sectors".

"We can develop our technology to suit our customers' needs in a wide range of sectors, and see this latest project as proof of the diversity of what we have to offer".

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