The field of stress monitoring has taken a revolutionary step forward with the development of a new dental floss pick that can assess stress levels at home. Chronic stress can have detrimental effects on both physical and mental health, making early detection crucial. In a recent study published in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, researchers introduced a dental floss pick with a built-in sensor capable of measuring levels of the stress hormone cortisol within minutes. This innovative device could provide users with valuable insights into their stress levels and prompt them to seek help when needed.
Traditional methods of monitoring cortisol levels, such as blood tests at a doctor’s office or self-reported questionnaires, are not always practical or accurate. To address this challenge, the researchers integrated a cortisol sensor into a common household item – the dental floss pick. This approach eliminates the need for complex analyses or bulky mouthguards, making stress monitoring more convenient and accessible.
The dental pick features floss that collects saliva, which is then transported to a flexible electrochemical sensor embedded in the handle. The sensor, made of an electrode with an electropolymerized molecularly imprinted polymer (eMIP), detects cortisol levels by measuring changes in electrical current. The device wirelessly transmits the data to a mobile device, providing users with real-time feedback on their stress levels.
In testing, the dental floss pick demonstrated high sensitivity and accuracy in detecting cortisol levels, even in small quantities. The device performed comparably to the standard ELISA saliva test, showcasing its potential as a reliable tool for stress monitoring. The researchers believe that this innovative device could be adapted to detect other important salivary molecules in the future.
Overall, the development of this dental floss pick represents a significant advancement in stress monitoring technology. By integrating a cortisol sensor into a familiar everyday item, researchers have made stress monitoring more convenient, accurate, and user-friendly. This device has the potential to empower individuals to take control of their stress levels and seek help when needed.
