Smart Floss: Stress Check, One String at a Time

Smart floss- the next in line in the ”smart era”. From smartphones to smartwatches, smart TVs to even smart bulbs, everything is getting an intelligent upgrade. So, why not an everyday oral hygiene product? Let’s dive deep and understand what makes it smart.

This little string, which we use every day can predict your mood by detecting cortisol levels in your saliva. So, while you are cleaning your teeth, your floss is silently checking on you. How sweet!

How does it work?

While you are flossing, the saliva travels via capillary action through a microfluidic channel to an electrode at the end of the floss, before being analyzed by an in-built sensor. It will transfer the readings to your phone through an app. (Do you see why it’s called ‘smart’?)

A novel feature of this device is a material called electropolymerized molecularly imprinted polymer.  

It is designed like a plaster cast in a specific shape. In this case, it is shaped like cortisol molecules. When cortisol and eMIP interact with each other, it alters the electrical signal that transfers to the smartphone app. It is known to detect cortisol within 11-12 minutes.

And just like that, this little string becomes your health tracker. Since it is essentially integrated into your daily routine, it is easier to implement and keep track of your stress levels.

Why won’t traditional methods of cortisol detection work?

While current cortisol analysis depends on blood tests and lab work, they are not easy to measure cortisol levels. Moreover, when dealing with stress, it involves self-reporting and psychological tests which make us biased.

Why could this smart floss potentially benefit us?

It is less expensive, convenient to use, non-invasive, and time-saving. The eMIP can drastically cut down on expenses in contrast to constructing biosensors. It does not require expensive investments like the preparation of antibodies, receptors, etc. Since it involves casting, it is easier to detect other biological markers including glucose, fertility hormones, or even certain cancer markers.  However, it is worthwhile to note that this prototype is still being tested under laboratory conditions and not by flossers.. yet. While blood tests remain the gold standard for detecting stress, the floss can be used for long-term monitoring. But, it certainly has potential.

With smart floss in hand, you’re not just fighting cavities. You’re catching cortisol. The future of personal health might just start in your bathroom.

What do you think about this promising innovation? Let me know in the comments.