Every day hundreds of thousands of people, mainly elderly, are burdened by loose fitting, and therefore malfunctioning mouth prostheses. This often results in digestive problems. Therefore, it is highly desirable when a better adhesive is developed and, in addition to that, a feasible usage procedure of removing the adhesive from the prosthesis and the jaws in an easy to use, clear and above all hygienic way.
Background Information
Every day hundreds of thousands of people, mainly elderly, are burdened by loose fitting, and therefore malfunctioning mouth prostheses. This often results in digestive problems. For many of them prosthesis or implants do not offer a solution. Many elderly people have little bone structure, and therefore implantation is not always possible. Also the project of treatment and application of the implants is quite stressful. Furthermore, implants plus prostheses are very expensive. As an alternative, a good adhesive would improve the quality of life of many thousands of people in the Netherlands alone. However, current adhesives give mediocre results. Above that, proper application and cleaning is a dirty and unhygienic affair for many of them.
Assignment Description
It is highly desirable that a better adhesive is developed and, in addition to that, a feasible usage procedure of removing the adhesive from the prosthesis and the jaws in an easy to use, clear and above all hygienic way. Nowadays ultrasonic cleaning devices are already in use for these and similar procedures. Because of the above mentioned terms of use, a group of dental practitioners have taken initiative to find a conclusive, innovative and biocompatible adhesive which can reconcile two (seemingly) contradictory demands, here in play: excellent ‘sticking properties’ for the prosthesis in the mouth and being removable easily, in a hygienic procedure from the mouth. The practitioners would like to know if new adhesive alternatives are promising and feasible, and how these can be brought into development by further research, design and clinical tests. The dental practitioners, settled in the region of The Hague, are open and willing to offer their expertise and advice. Also, first prototype adhesive products can be tested with the help of voluntary client-patients in their work practices.
Recommended Study Program
Master student, Biomedical Technology
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Starting Date
As soon as possible