This may be one of the most debated medical innovations of the year. Researchers from New Zealand's University of Otago and the UK have developed DentalSlim, a magnetic jaw lock designed to combat the global obesity epidemic.
Designed for those struggling with self-control, DentalSlim imposes a near-permanent jaw closure to enforce a liquid diet for weight loss. Announced on June 28, 2021, by the University of Otago in collaboration with British experts, the device has drawn sharp criticism on social media in New Zealand and the UK—largely due to its torture-like appearance rather than a sleek medical tool.
Lead researcher Prof. Paul Brunton emphasizes that DentalSlim is a non-invasive, reversible device and a cost-effective alternative to surgery. Published in the British Dental Journal, their study showed obese women losing an average of 6.36 kg (5.1% of body weight) over two weeks.
Despite promising results, wearing the device full-time could prove challenging. A dentist affixes it to the jaws using powerful magnets and nuts that require specialized tools to remove. It allows a 2 mm opening for minimal function, with emergency unlocking available.
While liquid diets aid weight loss, risks include cheating—like one participant melting and drinking chocolate. Speech is also impaired. Researchers stress it's not for long-term use but for rapid pre-op weight loss before procedures like gastric banding. Further studies on psychological effects are essential for medical approval.
