Scientists Invented 'Weight-Loss Device' That Locks Jaw Shut And People Are Outraged

The weight loss industry is notorious for its controversial methods, ranging from dangerous diets to popping pills.

Recently, the prescription drug Ozempic has taken Hollywood by storm due to its appetite-curbing abilities that ‘trick the brain’ into thinking you're full.

However, the high demand for Ozempic for weight loss purposes has led to shortages, making it difficult for those who need it to treat type 2 diabetes to find it.

Among the most controversial weight-loss methods is the ‘world's first weight-loss device’, which locks the user's jaw shut.

Created by researchers from New Zealand's University of Otago, the DentalSlim Diet Control consists of magnets attached to the bottom and top first molar teeth.

This setup restricts the jaw from opening more than 2 millimeters wide, forcing the user to consume a lower-calorie liquid diet.

Scientists have come up with a 'weight-loss' device that locks the user's jaw shut. University of Otago

The device was recently featured in a study published in Nature's British Dental Journal.

After using the DentalSlim for two weeks, seven participants lost an average of 14 pounds each and ‘were motivated to continue with their weight loss journey’.

Despite these results, the public reaction has been overwhelmingly negative, with many people expressing their outrage on X (formerly Twitter).

One person wrote: "And this, kids, is why ethics needs to be taught in science. Good God, I thought medicine was past these kinds of torture devices."

Another added, "90% sure this is in breach of a few health and war crime laws."

A third person joked, "Have you considered wiring the professors' fingers together so they can do less of this?"

In response to the backlash, Professor Paul Brunton, lead researcher from the University of Otago’s Division of Health Sciences, stated: 

Even though users drop an average of 14 pounds in two weeks, people are furious about the weight-loss device. Getty Stock Images

"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 University also released a statement to clarify the purpose of the device:

"To clarify, the intention of the device is not intended as a quick or long-term weight-loss tool; rather it is aimed to assist people who need to undergo surgery and who cannot have the surgery until they have lost weight."

"After two or three weeks they can have the magnets disengaged and device removed. They could then have a period with a less restricted diet and then go back into treatment. 

"This would allow for a phased approach to weight loss supported by advice from a dietician."

Despite these clarifications, the debate around the DentalSlim Diet Control continues.

While some see it as a groundbreaking tool for weight loss, others view it as a step backward to medieval methods.

The controversy highlights the ongoing struggle to find effective and ethical solutions in the weight loss industry.