3D posture measurements in dental applications

This paper describes the implementation of a compact and un-intrusive 3D magnetic posture measurement instrument and its application in dental hygiene studies. This system has been integrated with a force-sensing toothbrush and is being used to study the causes of gingival recession in patients at Newcastle University Dental School. 3D posture sensors allow the forces applied to the dental arch during tooth brushing to be related to mouth position. A proposal for the sensor's placement on a powered brush and the subject being tested is presented.