Our recent research indicates that a tactile tongue esthesiometer could be made from an existing oral esthesiometer, whose trade name is WOM. A pilot study indicated that the temporary mock-up of the tactile-tongue esthesiometer had high reliability and validity coefficients. Further, the device is easily sterilized without losing its calibration, in comparison to the Semmes-Weinstein Pressure Esthesiometer (a device much used in the field). The technical objectives for Phase I are: (1) to create the device, (2) to demonstrate practicality by calibration of the stimulus, (3) to check reliability of the stimulus, (4) to check reliability of thresholds, and (5) to apply for patent protection. In Phase II, indices of validity will be measured and norms established. This tactile device can measure the sensitivity of the tongue, and can be used to assess irritation as reflected in heightened tactile thresholds.Awardee's statement of the potential commercial applications of the research:The instrument offers the opportunity for the application of oral tactile sensation for rehabilitative efforts.National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)
