Proof of concept design for a toothbrush with on‐board vacuum to reduce oral aspirates
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Published:2023-11-27
Issue:
Volume:
Page:
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ISSN:0734-0664
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Container-title:Gerodontology
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language:en
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Short-container-title:Gerodontology
Author:
Griffith Alexandra1234ORCID,
Roy Abhishek1234,
Kulkarni Sahitya1234,
Simmons Glennon1234,
Osorno Laura1234,
Kumar Vivek1234ORCID
Affiliation:
1. Department of Biomedical Engineering New Jersey Institute of Technology Newark New Jersey USA
2. Department of Biological Sciences New Jersey Institute of Technology Newark New Jersey USA
3. Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering New Jersey Institute of Technology Newark New Jersey USA
4. Department of Endodontics Rutgers School of Dental Medicine Newark New Jersey USA
Abstract
BackgroundOver the course of brushing, aerosolised particles develop in the mouth. In individuals who do not have the ability to expel these oral aspirates, they can be inhaled and cause aspiration pneumonia. This article showcases a novel vacuum toothbrush, termed “ToothVac,” and provides findings from its first human trial.MethodsThe ToothVac device suctions saliva and aspirates during brushing, storing them in a removable reservoir at the bottom of the brush, to minimise the risk of inhalation and subsequent infection. Further descriptions of the various components of the ToothVac are included. This trial involved 18 participants who brushed using the ToothVac with the vacuum suction turned on and then off.ResultsThe volume of saliva produced was measured and compared. The ToothVac significantly reduced the amount of saliva that was produced by these participants when brushing.ConclusionThe device has potential clinical potential in that it may reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonia and related lung infections. Potential future research may include clinical trials for specific indications or marketing for oral aspirate removal, as well as optimisation of brush design using injection moulding for scalable manufacturing.
Funder
National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences
National Eye Institute
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research
National Science Foundation
Subject
Geriatrics and Gerontology,General Dentistry
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