Assessment of Occlusal Force and Local Gas Release Using Degradable Bacterial Cellulose/Ti₃C₂T_xMXene Bioaerogel for Oral Healthcare

Dental diseases resulting from movement disorders and volatile gases are very common. The classic method for detecting occlusal force is effective; however, its function is one-time rather than real-time monitoring, and the technology is very time-consuming. Herein, we report a multifunctional, flexible, and degradable bacterial cellulose/Ti3C2Tx MXene bioaerogel for the accurate detection of occlusal force and early diagnosis of periodontal diseases. Combining the mechanical properties of MXene and the abundant functional groups of bacterial cellulose, 3D porous bioaerogels exhibit both pressure-sensitive and ammonia (NH3)-sensitive responses. By integrating these substances into a flexible array, the resulting device can distinguish the intensity, location, and even the time sequence of the occlusion force; moreover, it can provide NH3 gas and occlusion force response signals. Therefore, this technology is promising for both disease diagnosis and oral health. In addition, the introduction of a renewable biomaterial allows the bioaerogel to degrade completely using a low-concentration hydrogen peroxide solution, making the device environmentally friendly and satisfying the demands for sustainable development.