An implant for wireless in situ measurement of lip pressure with 12 sensors

Abstract

This paper reports on the wireless measurement of lip pressure against the teeth. A prior version with a maximum of 4 wired sensors is significantly improved. A flexible printed circuit board allows for the use of two sensors per tooth and up to 12 sensors matching to the individual patient's dental arch. Wireless power supply and data transmission abandons any disturbing influences to the natural posture of the mandible. The needed high resolution is accomplished by the use of modified barometric pressure sensors, which are able to measure forces with direct contact between the lips and the piezo-resistive membrane. The implant can operate for hours on a coin-battery and transmit data to any tablet-or personal-computer in the range up to 10m from the closed mouth.