EU researchers are developing a dental Intellidrug prosthesis that can release precise dosages into the mucous membranes in the mouth. It has the ability to check and sustain steady blood levels of any drug. Compare to existing drug prostheses and implants, it can fit into two artificial molars. Dr. Oliver Scholz of the Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering IBMT explains "The dental prosthesis consists of a drug-filled reservoir, a valve, two sensors and several electronic components. Saliva enters the reservoir via a membrane, dissolves part of the solid drug and flows through a small duct into the mouth cavity, where it is absorbed by the mucous membranes in the patient's cheeks."
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Smart Drug-releasing Dental Prostheses
- Developing improved drug delivery systems through smart dental prostheses.
- Mucosal Drug-release Technology
- Advancements in precise nanotechnology drug-delivery methods.
- Oral Health Biotechnology
- Advances in nanotechnology for oral health maintenance and care.
Where This Applies
- Dentistry
- Development of drug-releasing dental prostheses as new offering in dental services.
- Pharmaceuticals
- Collaboration with dental prostheses manufacturers to develop smart drug-delivery systems.
- Biomedical Engineering
- Research undertaken to develop new technologies for oral health through nanotechnology.
