Molar medication

For many people, particularly the elderly or those with neurodegenerative disorders, remembering when to take medication can be a problem.

To help solve this issue, researchers in Germany have developed an intelligent drug-filled tooth implant, Intellidrug, that administers medicine as and when the patient needs it.

The device is designed as a dental prosthesis consisting of a drug-filled reservoir, a valve, two sensors and number of electronic components, including micro-actuators. The entire implant is small enough to fit inside two artificial molars at the back of the mouth where it will look similar to the patient's natural teeth and will still allow the patient to speak and eat freely.

Dr Thomas Velten was part of the team at the

that developed the device. He said that Intellidrug would be of great help to a number of patients, not only the elderly. One of the target groups for the project is people who are suffering from long-term conditions such as diabetes or hypertension who require regular medication.