Here in the West, weight loss and the remedies that accompany it is a culture within itself. From diet regimes to overpriced personal training services to social media influencers, losing weight has never been more trendy. But I came across an invention that’s taken this trend to another level: The DentalSlim.

The DentalSlim is a weight loss device that uses magnets to clamp a patient’s jaw together. How it works is a dentist will implant magnets and locking bolts to a patient’s upper and lower molars, only allowing the jaws to open two millimeters, to restrict the patient to a liquid diet. It’s being hailed as a new tool to fight against obesity.

According to News Fusion, Professor Paul Brunton, the lead researcher from the University of Otago’s School of Health Sciences, advised the following:

“It is a non-invasive, reversible, economical and attractive alternative to surgical procedures.”

“The fact is, there are no adverse consequences with this device.”

The DentalSlim also comes with an emergency release tool in case a patient has to vomit or has a panic attack, unlike jaw wiring, which was made popular in the 1980s.

Seven women who reportedly participated in a two-week trial and were given a liquid diet lost a total of 6.36 kilograms (14 lbs), according to New Atlas. So this device is effective.

Professor Brunton continued with the following:

“The main barrier for people for successful weight loss is compliance.”

“This helps them establish new habits, allowing them to comply with a low-calorie diet for a period of time. It really kick-starts the process.

As unique as this invention is, I feel like it’s just another substitute for those who want to be lazy. Clean eating and regular exercise will always reign supreme when it comes to maintaining a healthy weight.

Until Next Time…

(Sources)

Photo Credit: New Atlas

Blaine, L. (2021, June 28). DentalSlim weight-loss device literally locks your mouth shut. New Atlas. https://newatlas.com/health-wellbeing/dentalslim-weight-loss-lock-mouth-shut/. 

Researchers trial magnetic ‘lockjaw’ against obesity. News Fusion. (2021, June 29). http://go.newsfusion.com/science-news/item/7735805.