You can go ahead and delete your calorie-counting app because soon a tiny tooth sensor will be monitoring what you eat. Most people normally do not remember what they ate a week, or even a day ago, but this new tiny sensor created by a team from Tufts University could revolutionize the way we diet. Researchers of the project believe future and improved versions of the device will be able to track a much wider amount of nutrients and chemicals. The device was announced in March 2018. The gadget could be a huge benefit for doctors when keeping track of patients’ diets.
The golden sensor is designed to be mounted on a tooth. It measures 2mm by 2mm, according to a statement done by researchers from Tufts University. Although most patients will want to use the device in a hidden location, it is highly suggested to wear the sensor on the center surface of a front tooth. This sensor is able to communicate wirelessly through devices such as a smartphone and can provide information regarding glucose, salt, and alcohol consumption. When the user eats certain foods, the sensor, composed of three layers, sends signals through radiofrequenct waves making the device change its color. This allows those monitoring the data to detect what was eaten. The first and last layer have a thin gold protection. The middle is found to be the most prominent since it is the one that absorbs and tracks the data. All the layers work together as a tiny “antenna” according to a statement made by the researchers.
While this is not the first tooth sensor to be developed, it does have the fullest comprehensive application of any similar technology. This device will hopefully help doctors and researchers make connections between dietary intake and overall health. Inventions like this one, with the help of technology, can help us make healthier decisions. When thisproduct is released we will surely get to see positive results from doctors and satisfied customers.
