3D Resin-coated pressure sensor response for bite force assessment: A pilot study.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Dental Technology
• Sensor Technology

Background:

• Occlusal splints with integrated sensors aid in diagnosing and monitoring bruxism by measuring bite force.
• Accurate bite force measurement is crucial for effective bruxism management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the accuracy of a pressure sensor (FlexiForce A201) when covered with varying thicknesses of 3D printing resin.
• To determine the optimal resin thickness for accurate bite force recording in bruxism monitoring devices.

Main Methods:

• A FlexiForce A201 pressure sensor was calibrated and subsequently tested with 3D printing resin layers of 1 mm, 1.15 mm, 1.4 mm, and 1.6 mm.
• Load tests were conducted using a MultiTest 2.5 dV force tester to assess sensor response under different resin thicknesses.

Main Results:

• A higher discrepancy between applied load and sensor reading was observed with 1 mm and 1.6 mm thick resin coverings.
• The sensor demonstrated improved accuracy when shielded by 1.15 mm and 1.4 mm thick resin layers.

Conclusions:

• Pressure sensors can be effectively utilized in occlusal splints for bruxism monitoring.
• A 3D printing resin thickness of 1.15 mm or 1.4 mm is recommended for enhanced pressure sensor accuracy in this application.