Efficacy and safety of temperature data loggers in measuring compliance with the use of oral appliances

The purpose of this study was to verify the cytotoxicity of a temperature data logger (Thermochron iButton, DS1921G; Maxim, Dallas, TX, USA) and to show the clinical use of such loggers in measuring compliance with oral appliances (OA). In the first experimental study (in vitro cytotoxicity test), we used Testskin (Toyobo, Osaka, Japan) to examine the influence on cytotoxicity caused by use of a temperature data logger (Thermochron) in a human dermal tissue model. The cytotoxicity of extracted fluid in which Thermochron was immersed was calculated and only minimal cytotoxic effects were observed. In the second study, six patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome were studied to determine compliance with OA use. Thermochron was attached to the surface of the appliance on the buccal side and was used by the patients. After 1 month, the Thermochron was extracted from the OA and analyzed. Two patients used the OA every day, but one patient used it on only 20% of the recording days. No negative results associated with the use of the Thermochron were reported. The results indicated that temperature data loggers are effective for measuring compliance with the use of OAs.