rexresearch.com
Allan COOPERSMITH
PerioTwist
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ryanhops/periotwist-a-future-without-flossing?ref=category_newest
PerioTwist ~ A Future without Flossing
by Dr. Allan Coopersmith
A simple yet revolutionary dental device
that will clean smelly germs between your teeth where your
toothbrush and mouthwash can't go.
About this project
Once in a lifetime, a product is invented that is such a simple
solution to such a complex problem.
I've been a dentist for over 40 years, and research can tell you
that everyone has a build up of smelly germs BETWEEN their teeth
that can cause gum disease, bad breath and can even lead to tooth
loss and an increased risk of heart attacks, diabetes, and other
horrible diseases.
The Solution
Periotwist is a reusable anti-bacterial inter-dental cleaner that
not only cleans but also can medicate the most neglected yet most
important space in your mouth – between your teeth!
Easy Instructions
Gently insert the PerioTwist between your teeth. Then push/pull or
Twist!
Forget floss and wire brushes that tear, scratch or break
There's a reason your dentist keeps telling you to floss - it's
important! But there's also a reason no one ever does it!
Flossing is often difficult, time-consuming and occasionally
painful. Alternatives like wires and brushes break, scratch and
damage your teeth, and often result in expensive dental work.
PerioTwist is designed to fit between all your teeth – no matter
how large or small the space, or how large or small your hands
are. Use it anytime, anywhere and in less time that the
alternatives.
How it works - Just like a "Turbo Toothpick"
Research has conclusively established that the inter-dental area
is the area of the mouth that is the most prone to gum disease,
cavities, and bad breath. and yet this area is the most neglected
because most current cleaning devices are ineffective, difficult
to use, and have many other disadvantages causing non-compliance.
PerioTwist is super simple to use. Just insert it between your
teeth and twist or push/pull it and let the magic of its design
take care of the rest. Alternatively, you could also dip it into
any paste (like toothpaste, liquid or gel for addition benefits)
and twist it clockwise as you withdraw it leaving toothpaste or
other medicaments to keep on treating.
Meet Dr. Allan Coopersmith (BSC.DDS.FAGD.FADI.FICD.FCARDP.FACD)
Dr. Allan Coopersmith, BSc DDS FAGD FADI FICD FCARDP FACD FIADFE,
graduated Suma Cum Laude from McGill University, in the Faculty of
Science. He went on to graduate McGill School of Dentistry in 1975
to earn his Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree graduating first in
his class over four years with the Thornton gold medal.
His post graduate training as a General Practice Resident at the
Albert Einstein Medical Centre permitted him to attain his
American National Board Certification and Northeast Regional Board
Certification with a Massachusetts Dental License which is still
active today.
Dr. Allan Coopersmith was bestowed the honour by his peers with
fellowships in the Academy of General Dentistry, Academy of
Dentistry International, InternationalCollege of Dentists,
Canadian Academy of Restorative Dentistry and Prosthodontics,
American College of Dentists and the International Academy of
Dento-Facial Aesthetics.
Dr. Coopersmith was a lecturer and clinical Instructor in the
Department of Restorative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, McGill
University for 20 years. He holds numerous dental patents. Dr.
Coopersmith currently practices General and Cosmetic Dentistry in
Westmount Quebec, Canada.
Educational Achievements:
University Scholarship 1971-1972-1973-1974
McGill University B.Sc. 1973.
Great Distinction McGill University DDS 1975.
Great Distinction National Dental Examining
Board of Canada. 1975
American National Board Exams. 1975
Northeast Regional Board Exams. 1978
Albert Einstein Medical Center—General Practice
Resident 1976
Dr. Thornton Gold Medal - Highest Standing
McGill Faculty of Dentistry throughout 4 years
Lecturer Faculty of Dentistry, Dept. of
Restorative Dentistry, McGill University. 1976-2000
Fellow American College of Dentist.
Prizes and other Achievements:
Alpha Omega Prize
Orthodontic Prize
Order of Dentists of Quebec
Canadian Dental Association
Alpha Omega Dental Fraternity
Fellow Academy of General Dentistry
Quebec Dental Surgeon’s Association
Fellow Academy of Dentistry International
Founder—Dentists for Dentists Organization
Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario
Fellow of the International College of Dentists
Holder of numerous dental patents and
trademarks
Federation of Dental Societies of Greater
Montreal
Board of Dentistry-The Commonwealth of
Massachusetts. 1983- 2010
Fellow Canadian Academy of Restorative
Dentistry and Prosthodontists
Fellow of the American College of Dentists
Fellow of the International Academy of
Dento-Facial Esthetics
Risks and challenges
We feel we've derisked our crowdfunding campaign to the best of
our ability. We've tested and sourced the very best local
manufacturers. PerioTwist has been vetted by numerous dental
professionals and tested on hundreds of individuals.
While there are competitors on the market, PerioTwist is patent
protected and is the only inter-dental cleaner that can be twisted
and push/pulled, thereby providing the best cleaning experience.
US2015238294
DENTAL DEVICE
A dental device comprising: a handle and; a stem. The stem having
a tip with an end. The tip has a first groove winding therearound
extending from a first distal point proximate the end towards the
handle at least one complete turn around the tip to a first-groove
termination point. The stem has a first flange projecting outward
therefrom and winding therearound. The first flange extends away
from the handle from a first proximal point towards the end of the
tip to a first-flange termination point. At least a portion of the
stem having the first groove and at least a portion of the first
flange is suitable for insertion into an area between two teeth,
whereby the area between the teeth may be cleaned by the at least
a portion of the stem inserted between the teeth.
CROSS-REFERENCE
[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 61/708,786, filed Oct. 2, 2012,
entitled “Dental Device”. That application is incorporated herein
by reference herein in its entirety.
FIELD
[0002] The present technology relates to dental devices suitable
for inter-dental cleaning use and delivery of dentally-active
materials.
BACKGROUND
[0003] The area between the teeth (which is referred to as the
inter-dental area) is the area which is most prone to plaque
accumulation, periodontal breakdown and dental caries because it
is the area of the mouth which is the most difficult to clean.
[0004] Specifically, the inter-dental area refers to the
inter-proximal area, which is the area between adjacent teeth
which consists of the roots of the teeth which are covered in
cementum which overlies the dentin surface and may also contain
enamel which covers the dentin from the crest of the gingiva to
the contact area—the area where to proximal teeth contact one
another (i.e., dentin, enamel, cementum, gingiva, sub-gingival
sulcus, periodontal pocket, etc.). Often the cementum is eroded or
abraded leaving the underlying soft vulnerable dentin surface
exposed leading to hypersensitivity or caries. This is the area
also most vulnerable to plaque accumulation leading to periodontal
breakdown.
[0005] Most devices designed to clean this inter-dental area
require manual dexterity, are difficult to use, take too much
time, are painful, inefficient, tear or break easily, and/or are
expensive, and therefore contribute to poor compliance by the
patient. Dental floss is difficult to use and does not adequately
clean the inter-dental areas especially when some periodontal
breakdown has already occurred. Currently most inter-dental
devices are brushes which are commonly made from nylon bristles
which have been inserted into a twisted wire stem. These brushes
are fragile and break frequently. The wire can scratch and
irritate the fragile root surface as well as dental restorations
and implants. They are often too wide to fit comfortably between
the teeth. Other inter-dental cleaners which are shaped like
wedges can clean only by a push/pull technique and often leave
plaque and debris behind.
[0006] These devices are also limited as they are not able to
adequately deliver dentally-active materials such as medications,
antiseptics, fluorides, re-calcification products, varnishes,
whitening products, polishing products etc. to the area between
the teeth. Although some existing products may be used to carry or
deliver said substances, most will remove these substances from
between the teeth as the device is withdrawn. Further, the
existing products are mostly used manually and are not designed to
have the additional benefit of easily and effectively being used
in a motorized apparatus, sonic or ultrasonic device, or dental
hand piece.
[0007] One device previously proposed by creator of the present
technology attempting to ameliorate in this area was the device
described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,806,125, entitled “Inter Dental Tooth
Cleaner and Delivery Device”, issued Oct. 5, 2010, incorporated by
reference herein in its entirety. While that device is certainly
adequate for its intended purpose, improvements thereto are
nonetheless possible.
SUMMARY
[0008] It is thus an object of the present technology to provide
improvements to devices intended for cleaning the inter-dental
area.
[0009] Hence, in one aspect, embodiments of the present technology
provide a dental device comprising: a handle; a stem, the stem
having a tip with an end, the tip having a first groove winding
therearound extending from a first distal point proximate the end
towards the handle at least one complete turn around the tip to a
first-groove termination point (e.g. in a similar manner to the
flute of a drill bit); the stem having a first flange projecting
outward therefrom and winding therearound (e.g. in a similar
manner to the thread of a screw), the first flange extending away
from the handle from a first proximal point towards the end of the
tip to a first-flange termination point; at least a portion of the
stem having the first groove and at least a portion of the first
flange being suitable for insertion into an area between two
teeth; whereby the area between the teeth may be cleaned by the at
least a portion of the stem inserted between the teeth.
[0010] The stem of the device is sized and dimensioned so that at
least the tip (and likely more of the stem) can be inserted into
an inter-dental area of two adjacent teeth for cleaning purposes.
Depending on the intended use of the device, different embodiments
will have stems (including tips) of different shapes and sizes.
Depending on the size and shape of the stem, the configuration of
the groove(s) and flange(s) present on the stem, and on the size
and shape of the inter-dental area into which the stem is being
inserted, at least one of the groove(s) and flange(s) will be
present in the interdental area and will contact the teeth along
with the exterior (outer) surface of the stem. (In most
embodiments the tip is solid and is small/narrow enough to fit
into the smallest of inter-dental areas.) The area of contact of
the teeth with the stem will be cleaned in part by the mechanical
action of the contact. Thus the stem may be repeatedly removed and
re-inserted into the inter-dental area in one aspect of the
cleaning. (The stem is inserted between into the inter-dental area
and then pushed in between the teeth until resistance is felt.)
Foreign materials (food debris, plaque, etc.) in the inter-dental
area may be pushed out the lingual side of the teeth as the stem
is inserted into the inter-dental area or such materials may be
trapped within the groove(s) and/or valley(s) created by
successive turns of the flange(s) of the device and may be removed
from the inter-dental area when the stem is removed.
[0011] The stem may also be rotated (be it manually or with
mechanized assistance) once inserted. In this respect, the
groove(s) and flange(s) are structured and arranged on the stem
(in particular by being wound therearound) to assist with cleaning
inter-dental area in an additional manner. When the stem is
rotated in one direction, depending on the handedness of the
winding of the groove(s) and/or flange(s) present thereon and on
the size and shape of the stem/tip, this rotation may assist in
causing the stem to be drawn deeper into the inter-dental area as
the groove(s) may act to grip the teeth (in a screw-like manner).
This rotation may also assist in extracting foreign materials from
the inter-dental area in a similar fashion to the way that the
flute of a drill bit assists in extracting the material through
which the bit is drilling (e.g. swarf). (For right-handed windings
the stem would be rotated clockwise to accomplish this function.
For left-handed windings the stem would be rotated
counter-clockwise to accomplish this function.) The foreign
materials may travel up the stem (towards the handle) within the
groove(s) and/or within the valley(s) created between successive
turns of the flange(s) and out of the inter-dental area for
removal. In some circumstances, this may be more efficient at
removing foreign materials than simply removing and re-inserting
the stem in the inter-dental area. Alternatively, when the stem is
rotated in the opposite direction, this rotation may also assist
in extracting foreign materials from the inter-dental area, by
entrapping them within the groove(s) and/or within the valley(s)
created by successive turns of the flange(s) and transporting them
through the inter-dental area to the lingual side of the teeth.
(For right-handed windings the stem would be rotated
counter-clockwise to accomplish this function. For left-handed
windings the stem would be rotated clockwise to accomplish this
function.)
[0012] Rotation in either direction may also assist in cleaning in
the inter-dental area via friction while contacting the teeth.
Rotation of the stem is not limited solely to when the stem is
fully inserted between the teeth. The stem may also be rotated
while the stem is being inserted and/or withdrawn from between the
teeth, to further assist in cleaning.
[0013] In some embodiments the flanges and the grooves have a
helical or spiral or modified spiral arrangement and structure.
The longitudinal, horizontal and oblique structure of the spiral
of the flanges and grooves provides for cleaning and delivery of
substances to the inter dental area, and particularly when the
device is rotated, vibrated, and irrigated or any and all
combinations thereof. This structure also facilitates easier
withdrawal from the mold during the manufacturing process.
[0014] In some embodiments, the device may be easily attachable to
other devices. The device may function manually as it is held and
rotated or used in an in-out manner by finger action of the handle
or handle extension (handle may attach to the device cover), or a
mechanical apparatus. The stem may be inserted into or onto a
sonic or ultrasonic device and vibrated. The stem consists of
flanges and grooves arranged in horizontal, oblique and vertical
arrangement, (which also allows for easy and unhindered ejection
from a mold), allowing for cleaning as well as dispersal of
substances and medicaments when vibrated. The vibrations are
transmitted to the flanges and grooves of the device so that when
said device is inserted into the inter dental space, the increased
movement and friction provides for an improved cleaning of this
space, even when keeping the device stationary, preferably when
the device is rotated or inserted and withdrawn. Medicaments may
also be more effectively transmitted to the interdental space
using vibration when attached to a sonic or ultrasonic apparatus
much in the same way as a dog disperses water from his fur as he
shakes back and forth. Easy attachment of the device to sonic and
ultrasonic apparatuses will transmit vibration to improve the
delivery and depth of penetration within the sulcus and
specifically inter dentally, of medicaments to the teeth, gingiva
and periodontal tissues. The device can also be easily attached to
a water irrigating apparatus, pumping substances and medicaments
into or onto said device as the device cleans and medicates. It
may be easily attached to apparatuses which may produce rotation,
vibration, as well as irrigation or any and all combinations
thereof. The device may be easily attachable to a common manual
toothbrush, preferably the handle, (allowing for the convenience
of brushing and inter dental cleaning with the same device). When
the device is attached to the dorsal or ventral aspect of the
handle, the device preferably would be used in an in-out manner.
When the device is attached to the end of the manual toothbrush,
the device can be easily made to rotate as the toothbrush is
rotated, or can be used in an in-out manner as well.
[0015] The groove(s)/flange(s) of the stem may also serve a second
purpose, to assist in delivering dentally-active materials to the
inter-dental area. For example, were the stem to be dipped into a
fluidic dentally-active material, such material might be entrapped
within the groove(s) and/or valley(s) between successive flange(s)
of the stem (in addition to coating the exterior surface of the
stem). Were the stem to be inserted into the inter-dental area,
such material would likely become dislodged and/or rub off the
stem at the contact area and be delivered to the inter-dental
area. Further, and again depending on the handedness of the
winding of the groove(s) and/or flange(s), rotating the stem in
the opposite direction (i.e. counter-clockwise for right-handed
windings, clockwise for left-handed windings), will reverse the
direction of travel of materials within the groove(s) and/or
valley(s) created between successive turns of the flange(s) as we
described above. Thus, when the stem is inserted into the
inter-dental area and rotated in the opposition direction from
that described above with respect to the “drill-like” foreign
material removal, dentally-active materials within the groove(s)
and/or within the valley(s) created between successive turns of
the flange(s) may travel to the inter-dental area and be delivered
there by this action as well. A significant amount of delivered
material remains in the inter-dental area after the device is
removed. Thus, the inter-dental area may be simultaneously cleaned
(by friction) and, for example, be medicated (e.g. fluorinated via
the delivery of fluorinated materials) in this manner as well.
(For the purposes of the present specification, dentally-active
materials may include, but are not limited to, medicaments,
antiseptics, antibiotics, abrasives, antibacterials, whiteners,
de-sensitizers, de-mineralizers, re-mineralizers, varnishes,
fluorides, dental pastes, dental slurries, dental gels and dental
solutions (e.g. re-mineralization pastes.))
[0016] The stem may be manufactured from any suitable
dentally-compatible material. Examples of such materials include
plastics such as regular or high-density polyethylene,
polypropylene, polycarbonates, etc.; wood; rubber; latex;
silicone; or related or derived materials. The stem need not be
manufactured from a single or uniform material. Any suitable
combination of suitable materials is possible. The stem may be
manufactured by and suitable means appropriate to the material(s)
of which it is being made. Between different embodiments,
mechanical properties of the stem such as rigidity, flexibility,
compressibility, elasticity, etc. will vary. The only requirement
with respect to any such mechanical properties is that the stem
must be suitable for its intended purposes as described herein.
[0017] In some embodiments of the present technology, the
first-groove termination point and the first-flange termination
point are the same point. Thus the first groove is continuous with
the first flange. (Similarly in embodiments where there is more
than one groove and/or flange, other grooves may share termination
points with other flanges.) Without wishing to be bound by any
particular theory, in some embodiments, this configuration appears
to assist in the transport of materials within/by the groove(s)
and flange(s), and particularly in the transfer of materials from
a groove to a flange and vice-versus.
[0018] In some embodiments of the present technology, the
first-groove termination point and the first-flange termination
point are radially offset from one another. Thus, the first-groove
termination point and the first-flange termination point appear to
have been “twisted” around the stem of the device from one
another. In embodiments where there is more than one groove and/or
flange, the termination points of other grooves may be radially
offset from the termination points with other flanges in a similar
manner.
[0019] In some embodiments of the present technology, the
first-groove termination point and the first-flange termination
point are axially offset from another. In some such embodiments,
the first-groove termination point is closer to the end of the tip
than is the first-flange termination point. In such embodiments,
the two points are longitudinally spaced from one another on the
stem; thus, there is a longitudinal gap between them. In other
such embodiments, the first-groove termination point is further
from the end of the tip than is the first-flange termination
point; thus, the first groove and the first flange are
“interwound” for a portion of each. In some such embodiments, the
first groove extends within a part of the valley formed between
successive turns of the first flange. In some embodiments, this
may assist in the transport of materials within/by the groove and
flange, and particularly in the transfer of materials from a
groove to a valley created between successive turns of a flange
and vice-versus. In embodiments where there is more than one
groove and/or flange, the termination points of other grooves may
be axially offset from the termination points with other flanges
in a similar manner.
[0020] In should be understood that in some embodiments, the
first-groove termination point and the first-flange termination
point may be both radially and axially offset from one another. In
embodiments where there is more than one groove and/or flange, the
termination points of other grooves may be radially offset from
the termination points with other flanges in a similar manner.
[0021] In some embodiments, the first groove is continuous with a
valley formed between successive turns of the first flange. In
this respect, the first groove terminates at the same point on the
stem as the valley created between successive turns of the first
flange. Again, depending on the embodiment and the materials
involved, this may assist in the transport of materials within/by
the groove and flange, and particularly in the transfer of
materials from the groove to the flange and vice-versus. In
embodiments where there is more than one groove and/or flange,
other grooves may be continuous with other valleys formed between
successive turns of other flanges.
[0022] In some embodiments, the first groove and the first flange
are of a same handedness. In some such embodiments, the first
groove and the first flange are each left-handed. In some such
embodiments, the first groove and the first flange are each
right-handed. The particular handedness in any particular
embodiment might vary depending on, for example, whether the
device were intended to be used by right-handed people or by
left-handed people. Without wishing to be bound by any particular
theory, it is theorized that right-handed people would prefer to
use devices with left-handed windings of the groove(s) and
flange(s). In embodiments where there is more than one groove
and/or flange, each of the grooves and the flanges may be of a
same handedness.
[0023] However, in some embodiments, the first groove and the
first flange are of an opposite handedness. In some such
embodiments, the first groove is left-handed and the first flange
is right-handed. In some such embodiments, the first groove is
right-handed and the first flange is left-handed. Depending on the
embodiment, such configurations may be useful for example to allow
for the groove(s) to be used to assist in the removal of foreign
materials from the inter-dental area and the flange(s) to be used
to assist in the delivery of dentally-active materials to the
inter-dental area, or vice-versa. In embodiments where there is
more than one groove and/or flange, each of the grooves may be of
an opposite handedness to each of the flanges.
[0024] In some embodiments the first groove is of uniform depth,
thickness, and shape. In some embodiments, the first groove is of
at least one of a non-uniform depth, a non-uniform thickness, and
a non-uniform shape. No particular depth, thickness, or shape of
the groove is required. The groove may be of any depth, thickness
or shape allowing the groove to serve its intended functions as
described herein. In embodiments where there are multiple grooves,
the grooves may be of a uniform depth, thickness and shape or of
at least one of a non-uniform depth, a non-uniform thick, and a
non-uniform shape.
[0025] In some embodiments, the first flange is of a uniform
thickness. In some embodiments, the first flange is of a variable
thickness. No particular flange thickness is required. The flange
may be of any thickness allowing the flange to serve its intended
functions as described herein. In embodiments where there are
multiple flanges, the flanges may be of a uniform thickness and
length or of at least one of a non-uniform thickness and/or
length.
[0026] In some embodiments, the first flange tapers towards the
end of the tip. Thus, in some such embodiments, the distance the
flange extends away from the stem becomes smaller as the flange
progresses towards the end of the tip of the stem. Where such it
is the case, it is not required that the flange taper at a uniform
rate. The flange may taper either uniformly or non-uniformly. In
embodiments where there are multiple flanges, the flanges may
taper either uniformly or non-uniformly. In addition, some flanges
may taper and others may not.
[0027] In some embodiments, the first flange uniformly extends
from the stem. Thus, in some such embodiments, the distance the
flange extends away from the stem is constant. In embodiments
where there are multiple flanges, each of the flanges may
uniformly extend from the stem, at least one of the flanges may
extend uniformly from the stem, or none of the flanges may extend
uniformly from the stem.
[0028] In some embodiments, the stem is one of circular,
triangular or square in cross-section. In some such embodiments,
the stem is entirely one of circular, triangular or square in
cross-section. In some such embodiments, the stem is more than one
of circular, triangular or square in cross-section.
[0029] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the stem tapers
towards the end of the tip. In some such embodiments such tapering
may be uniform. In some such embodiments, such tapering may be
non-uniform.
[0030] In some embodiments, the tip is one of circular, triangular
or square in cross-section. In some such embodiments, the tip will
be of the same cross-section as the remainder of the stem. In some
such embodiments, the tip will be of a different cross-section
than another part of the stem. In some such embodiments, the tip
is more than one of circular, triangular or square in
cross-section.
[0031] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the tip tapers
towards the end of the tip. In some such embodiments, the tapering
may be uniform. In some such embodiments, the tapering may be
non-uniform.
[0032] In some embodiments, the tip is of a uniform cross-section.
[0033] In some embodiments, the first groove is helical. In
embodiments where there is more than one groove, each of the
grooves may be helical. For example, in embodiments where there
are two grooves, each of the grooves may be helical forming a
double helix. In some embodiments, the first groove (while still
winding around the stem) does not form a perfect helix. In
embodiments where there is more than one groove, none of the
grooves may form perfect helices. In some embodiments, the first
groove may be a perfect spiral. In embodiments where there is more
than one groove, each of the grooves may be a perfect spiral.
[0034] In some embodiments, the first groove has a series of
linear portions interconnected by a series of curved portions. In
some such embodiments, corresponding linear portions of each turn
of the first groove are parallel. In some such embodiments, each
turn of the first groove has four distinct linear portions. In
embodiments where there are multiple grooves, each of the grooves
may have the aforementioned characteristics. Depending on the
embodiment and the method of manufacture of the stem, having
structures described in the present paragraph may simplify the
manufacture of the stem. For example, such structures may make the
stem easier and/or simpler to remove from a mold.
[0035] In some embodiments, the first flange is helical. In
embodiments where there is more than one flange, each of the
flanges may be helical. For example, in embodiments where there
are two flanges, each of the flanges may be helical forming a
double helix. In some embodiments, the first flange (while still
winding around the stem) does not form a perfect helix. In
embodiments where there is more than one flange, none of the
flanges may form perfect helices. In some embodiments, the first
flange may be a perfect spiral. In embodiments where there is more
than one flange, each of the grooves may be a perfect spiral.
[0036] In some embodiments, the first flange has a series of
planar portions interconnected by a series of curved portions. In
some such embodiments, corresponding planar portions of each turn
of the first flange are parallel. In some such embodiments, each
turn of the first flange has four distinct planar portions. In
embodiments where there are multiple flanges, each of the flanges
may have the aforementioned characteristics. Depending on the
embodiment and the method of manufacture of the stem, having
structures described in the present paragraph may simplify the
manufacture of the stem. For example, such structures may make the
stem easier and/or simpler to remove from a mold.
[0037] In some embodiments the first groove is continuous. Thus,
the first groove would have no breaks or discontinuities as the
first groove winds around the stem.
[0038] In some embodiments, the first groove is discontinuous.
Thus, the first groove would have at least one (or even several)
break(s) or discontinuity(ies) as the first groove winds around
the stem. No particular form or manner of construction of such
break(s) or discontinuity(ies) is required. Where there are
multiple such breaks or discontinuities they need not be of the
same form.
[0039] In embodiments where there are multiple grooves, there is
no requirement that the continuity/discontinuity be the same
between the grooves.
[0040] In some embodiments, the first flange is continuous. Thus,
the first flange would have no breaks or discontinuities as the
first groove winds around the stem.
[0041] In some embodiments, the first flange is discontinuous.
Thus, the first flange would have at least one (or even several)
break(s) or discontinuity(ies) as the first flange winds around
the stem. No particular form or manner of construction of such
break(s) or discontinuity(ies) is required. Where there are
multiple such breaks or discontinuities they need not be of the
same form. As non-limiting examples, such break(s) or
discontinuity(ies) may take the form of notches, grooves,
recesses, indents, etc.
[0042] In embodiments where there are multiple flanges, there is
no requirement that the continuity/discontinuity be the same
between the flanges.
[0043] In some embodiments, the dental device further comprises at
least one channel extending longitudinally along an exterior
surface of the stem at least in part through discontinuities in at
least one of the first flange and the first groove. Depending on
the embodiment, such a longitudinal extending channel may, for
example, assist in the delivery of fluid to the inter-dental
space. Such fluid could include, for example, dentally-active
material as defined hereinabove, or water. In some such
embodiments, the stem has at least one opening located proximate
the at least one channel, and the stem has a hollow portion
fluidly connected to the at least one opening, whereby fluid can
flow through the hollow portion through the at least one opening
and into the at least one channel. In some embodiments, the fluid
may be stored within the stem and/or the handle. In some
embodiments, the fluid may be stored in a reservoir attached to
the handle. In some such embodiments, the fluid may be released
and forced to flow via positive pressure being applied to the
reservoir. In some such embodiments, the fluid may be caused to
enter the reservoir (to fill the reservoir for later use) through
the openings via negative pressure in the reservoir (e.g. similar
to an eyedropper). In some embodiments there are multiple such
channels having any number of the above characteristics. In some
such embodiments, a pump may pump the fluid from the reservoir.
[0044] In some embodiments, an exterior of the stem has a
plurality of openings and at least one hollow portion fluidly
connected to the plurality of openings, whereby fluid can flow
through the hollow portion through the plurality of openings. In
some embodiments, at least some of the plurality of openings are
located in the valley(s) between successive turns of the
flange(s). (As was discussed hereinabove, should fluid enter the
groove(s) and/or valley(s) in a portion of the stem not then
located in the inter-dental area, a rotation of the stem may cause
the fluid to flow from its then current location through the
groove(s) and/or valley(s) to the inter-dental area for delivery
thereto.) In some embodiments, the fluid may be stored within the
stem and/or the handle. In some embodiments, the fluid may be
stored in a reservoir attached to the handle. In some such
embodiments, the fluid may be released and forced to flow via
positive pressure being applied to the reservoir. In some such
embodiments, the fluid may be caused to enter the reservoir (to
fill the reservoir for later use) through the openings via
negative pressure in the reservoir (e g similar to an eyedropper).
In some such embodiments, a pump may pump the fluid from the
reservoir.
[0045] In some embodiments, the dental device further comprises at
least one channel in a valley formed between successive turns of
the first flange. Depending on the embodiment, such a channel may
serve to increase the volume of the valley located between
successive turns of the first flange, this increasing the ability
of the valley to assist in the transportation of material as
described hereinabove. In some embodiments there are multiple such
channels.
[0046] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the stem is at
least one of coated and impregnated with a dentally-active
material(s). In this respect, rather than (or in addition to)
dipping the stem into a dentally-active material, a
dentally-active material may be in or on the stem itself. Such
coating or impregnated material, for example, could have been
applied at the time of manufacturing of the stem. In some
embodiments such dentally-active material may act as a catalyst or
in some way combine with another substance that may be present in
the mouth such as, for example, but not limited to, saliva,
bacteria, biofilm, water, residual mouthwash, toothpaste, or any
other medicament varnish, paste, gel slurry which is carried to
the mouth so as to activate or become activated in order to
perform by way, of an example, a therapeutic, cleansing, whitening
or other function.
[0047] It should also be understood that a portion of the stem
(including the flanges and/or the grooves) may have a
dentally-active material sprayed thereon (in addition or in place
of such coating or impregnation).
[0048] In some embodiments, the stem has at least one radial
recess allowing for bending of the stem. In some embodiments, the
stem has multiple such radial recesses. Such radial recesses may
allow for continued bending of the stem as the stem is rotated
such that the stems stays in its intended position and/or location
notwithstanding such rotation. Between different embodiments,
various physical characteristics (e.g. shape, size, location,
etc.) of such radial recess(es) may vary. No particular such
physical characteristics are required. Any physical
characteristics permitting the recess(es) to carry out their
intended function will suffice. Where there are multiple such
radial recesses such physical characteristics need not be the same
for any or all of the radial recesses. Further no particular order
or arrangement of multiple recesses is required.
[0049] As has been discussed hereinabove, the stem is not limited
to having a single groove and a single flange. Stems having
multiple grooves and/or multiple flanges are included within the
present technology. In such cases it is not necessary that the
number of grooves and flanges be equal. In some embodiments the
number will be equal, in others there may be more grooves, in
still others there may be more flanges. Thus, in some embodiments,
the tip has a second groove winding therearound from a second
distal point proximate the end towards the handle at least one
complete around the tip to a second-groove termination point, the
second groove being offset from and interwound with the first
groove; and the stem has a second flange projecting outward
thereform and winding therearound, the second flange extending
away from the handle from a second proximal point towards the end
of the tip to a second-flange termination point, the second flange
being offset from and interwound with the first flange.
[0050] It should be noted that the properties of the first groove
and/or first flange described above can also be applied (with the
necessary changes being made) to the second (or additional)
groove(s) and/or second (or additional) flange(s).
[0051] In some embodiments, the dental device further comprises a
plurality of bristles extending outwardly from radially around the
stem towards the end of the tip. These bristles may, for example,
be active in assisting of cleaning of the teeth. The ends of the
bristles form an outer dentally-active edge analogous to the
cleaning surface of a common toothbrush. In some such embodiments,
an even outer dentally-active edge is formed by the bristles. In
some such embodiments, an outwardly sloping outer dentally-active
edge is formed by the bristles. In some such embodiments, an
inwardly sloping outer dentally-active edge is formed by the
bristles. In some embodiments, the slope of the outer edge may
vary with the outer edge's intended function, i.e. which teeth it
is intended that they assist in cleaning.
[0052] In some embodiments, the dental device further comprises a
dome-shaped cup extending outwardly from radially around the stem
towards the tip for assisting in cleaning the teeth. The cup is
relatively flexible and may be made of any conventional
dentally-compatible material such as rubber, silicone or plastic.
The cup may have additional structures that assist in cleaning the
teeth such as, for example, ribs, ridges or abrasive surface.
[0053] In some embodiments, the handle has an attachment mechanism
for releasable attachment of the dental device to a mechanized
device (e.g. a motor, a pump, a sonic device or an ultrasonic
device) or a manual device (e.g. a hand tool, toothbrush, etc.).
Depending on the embodiment, any number of conventional attachment
mechanisms may be suitable. Such mechanisms include friction
fitting devices, mechanical locking or interlocking devices,
mechanical fasteners, etc.
[0054] In some embodiments, the device further comprises a cover
sized to releasably cover the stem when the device is not in use.
In some such embodiments, the cover may be releasably attachable
to the handle of the device. In some such embodiments, the cover
may serve as a reservoir of a dentally-active material, e.g. into
which the stem may be dipped. In some such embodiments, the cover
may have a valve (e.g. a one-way valve) for filling the reservoir
with a dentally-active material.
[0055] In another aspect, embodiments of the present technology
include a method of cleaning an area between two teeth comprising
inserting at least a portion of the stem of the dental device
described hereinabove between the teeth, and rotating the stem
thereof.
[0056] In the context of the present specification, the words
“first”, “second”, etc. have been used as adjectives only for the
purpose of allowing for distinction between the nouns that they
modify from one another, and not for the purpose of describing any
particular relationship between those nouns. Thus, for example, it
should be understood that, the use of the terms “first groove” and
“second groove” is not intended to imply any particular order,
type, chronology, hierarchy or ranking (for example) of/between
the grooves.
[0057] Embodiments of the present technology each have at least
one of the above-mentioned object and/or aspects, but do not
necessarily have all of them. It should be understood that some
aspects of the present technology that have resulted from
attempting to attain the above-mentioned object may not satisfy
this object and/or may satisfy other objects not specifically
recited herein.
[0058] Additional and/or alternative features, aspects and
advantages of embodiments of the present technology will become
apparent from the following description, the accompanying drawings
and the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0059] For a better understanding of the present
technology, as well as other aspects and further features
thereof, reference is made to the following description which is
to be used in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, where:
[0060] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dental device
being a first embodiment of the present technology.
[0061] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a dental device
being a second embodiment of the present technology.
[0062] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a dental device
being a third embodiment of the present technology.
[0063] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a dental device
being a fourth embodiment of the present technology.
[0064] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a dental device
being a fifth embodiment of the present technology.
[0065] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a dental device
being a sixth embodiment of the present technology.
[0066] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a cover of the sixth
embodiment attached to a standard toothpaste tube.
[0067] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a dental device
being a seventh embodiment of the present technology, shown with
a reservoir.
[0068] FIG. 9 an engineering drawing of an eighth
embodiment of the present technology.
[0069] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a dental device
being a ninth embodiment of the present technology.
[0070] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a dental device
being a tenth embodiment of the present technology.
[0071] FIG. 12 is an elevation view of the dental device of
FIG. 10.
[0072] FIG. 13 is an elevation view of the dental device of
FIG. 11.
[0073] FIG. 14 is a close-up perspective view of the dental
device of FIG. 10.
[0074] FIG. 15 is a close-up perspective view of the dental
device of FIG. 11.
[0075] FIG. 16 is a schematic elevation view an eleventh
embodiment of the present technology.
[0076] FIG. 17 is a schematic elevation view of a twelfth
embodiment of the present technology.
[0077] FIG. 18 is an elevation view of a dental device
being a thirteenth embodiment of the present technology.
[0078] FIG. 19 is an elevation view of a dental device
being a fourteenth embodiment of the present technology.
[0079] FIG. 20 is an elevation view of a dental device
being a fifteenth embodiment of the present technology.
[0080] FIG. 21 is an elevation view of a dental device
being a sixteenth embodiment of the present technology.
[0081] FIG. 22 is a close-up elevation view of a dental
device being a seventeenth embodiment of the present technology.
[0082] FIG. 23 is a close-up elevation view of a dental
device being an eighteenth embodiment of the present technology.
[0083] FIG. 24 is an elevation view of a dental device
being a nineteenth embodiment of the present technology.
[0084] FIG. 25 is an elevation view of a dental device
being a twentieth embodiment of the present technology.
[0085] FIG. 26 is an elevation view of a dental device
being a twenty-first embodiment of the present technology.
[0086] FIG. 27 is an elevation view of a dental device
being a twenty-second embodiment of the present technology.
[0087] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of a dental device
being a twenty-third embodiment of the present technology.
[0088] FIG. 29 is a schematic view of the dental device of
FIG. 28 with a cover.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0089] In the Figures, there are shown various detal devices 10,
110, 210, etc. It is to be expressly understood that the various
dental devices 10, 110, 210, etc. are merely some embodiments of
the present technology. Thus, the description thereof that follows
is intended to be only a description of illustrative examples of
the present technology. This description is not intended to define
the scope or set forth the bounds of the present technology. In
some cases, what are believed to be helpful examples of
modifications to dental devices 10, 110, 210, may also be set
forth below. This is done merely as an aid to understanding, and,
again, not to define the scope or set forth the bounds of the
present technology. These modifications are not an exhaustive
list, and, as a person skilled in the art would understand, other
modifications are likely possible. Further, where this has not
been done (i.e. where no examples of modifications have been set
forth), it should not be interpreted that no modifications are
possible and/or that what is described is the sole manner of
implementing that element of the present technology. As a person
skilled in the art would understand, this is likely not the case.
In addition it is to be understood that the dental devices 10,
110, 210, may provide in certain instances simple embodiments of
the present technology, and that where such is the case they have
been presented in this manner as an aid to understanding. As
persons skilled in the art would understand, various embodiments
of the present technology may be of a greater complexity.
[0090] In FIG. 1, there is shown a dental device 10 being a first
embodiment of the present technology. The dental device 10 has a
handle 12 and stem 14 extending therefrom. The stem 14 has a tip
16. In this embodiment, the handle 12, stem 14, and tip 16 have
been unitarily formed from plastic via an injection molding
process. In this embodiment handle 12, stem 14, and tip 16
continuously taper from an end 18 of the handle 12 to an end 20 of
the tip 16. The tip 16 is solid and is sized so as to be able to
fit within an inter-dental space between to adjacent teeth. The
stem 14 has a flange 22 projecting outward therefrom and winding
therearound. The flange 22 extends away from the handle 12 from a
proximal point 24 to a flange termination point 26. The flange 22
is in the form of a continuous left-handed helix. In between turns
of the flange 22 are openings 28 which fluidly communicate with a
hollow chamber (not shown) in the handle 12, allowing for the
delivery of fluid into the valley 30 formed between successive
turns of the flange 22.
[0091] The tip 16 has a groove 32 formed therein and winding
therearound. The groove 32 extends from a distal point 34
proximate the end 20 of the tip 16 towards the handle 12 to a
groove termination point 36. In this embodiment, the groove
termination point 36 is axial offset from the flange termination
point 26 with the groove termination point 36 being closer to the
end 20 of the tip 16 than is the flange termination point 26. Thus
there is an axial “gap” 38 between the groove termination point 36
and the flange termination point 26. The groove is in the form of
a continuous left-handed helix.
[0092] The end 18 of the handle 12 has an attachment mechanism
(not shown) for releasably attaching the dental device to a
motorized device. In addition, the handle is sufficiently large
enough to be held and turned by hand.
[0093] The dental device 10 may be used to clean the inter-dental
area between two adjacent teeth as was described hereinabove. For
example, the tip 16 of the stem 14 may be inserted into the
inter-dental area and push therein until resistance is felt.
Depending on the size and shape of the inter-dental area into
which the stem 14 is being inserted, at least one of the groove 32
and flange 22 will be present in the inter-dental area and will
contact the teeth along with the exterior (outer) surface 40 of
the stem 14. The area of contact of the teeth with the stem 14
will be cleaned in part by the mechanical action of the contact.
Thus the stem 14 may be repeatedly removed and re-inserted into
the inter-dental area in one aspect of the cleaning. Foreign
materials (food debris, plaque, etc.) in the inter-dental area may
be pushed out the lingual side of the teeth as the stem 14 is
inserted into the inter-dental area or such materials may be
trapped within the groove 32 and/or valley 30 created by
successive turns of the flange 22 of the device 10 and may be
removed from the inter-dental area when the stem 14 is removed.
[0094] The stem 14 may also be rotated (be it manually or with
mechanized assistance) once inserted. In this respect, the groove
32 and flange 22 are structured and arranged on the stem (in
particular by being wound therearound) to assist with cleaning
inter-dental area in an additional manner. When the stem 14 is
rotated in a counter-clockwise direction, this rotation may assist
in causing the stem 14 to be drawn deeper into the inter-dental
area as the groove 32 may act to grip the teeth (in a screw-like
manner). This rotation may also assist in extracting foreign
materials from the inter-dental area in a “drill-like fashion” as
described above. Alternatively, when the stem 14 is rotated in the
clockwise direction, this rotation may also assist in extracting
foreign materials from the inter-dental area, by entrapping them
within the groove 22 and/or within the valley 40 created by
successive turns of the flange 22 and transporting them through
the inter-dental area to the lingual side of the teeth. Rotation
in either direction may also assist in cleaning in the
inter-dental area via friction while contacting the teeth.
[0095] As was discussed above, the groove 32 and flange 22 of the
stem 14 may also serve a second purpose, to assist in delivering
dentally-active materials to the inter-dental area. In this
respect, for example, dentally-active material within the hollow
chamber in the handle 12 may exit the openings 28 and enter the
valley 30 between successive turns of the flange 22. When the stop
is rotated clockwise, this dentally-active material will travel
within the valley 40 to the inter-dental area and be delivered
there. A significant amount of delivered material remains in the
inter-dental area after the device is removed. Thus, the
inter-dental area may be simultaneously cleaned (by friction) and,
for example, be medicated (e.g. fluorinated via the delivery of
fluorinated materials) in this manner as well.
[0096] In FIG. 2, there is shown a dental device 110 being a
second embodiment of the present technology. The dental device 110
has a handle 112 and stem 114 extending therefrom. The stem 114
has a tip 116. In this embodiment, the handle 112, stem 114, and
tip 116 have been unitarily formed from plastic via an injection
molding process. In this embodiment handle 112, stem 114, and tip
116 continuously taper from an end 118 of the handle 112 to an end
120 of the tip 116. The tip 116 is solid and is sized so as to be
able to fit within an inter-dental space between to adjacent
teeth. The stem 114 has a flange 122 projecting outward therefrom
and winding therearound. The flange 122 extends away from the
handle 112 from a proximal point 124 to a flange termination point
126. The flange 122 is in the form of a continuous right-handed
helix. In between turns of the flange 122 are openings 128 which
fluidly communicate with a hollow chamber (not shown) in the
handle 112, allowing for the delivery of fluid into the valley 130
formed between successive turns of the flange 122.
[0097] The tip 116 has a groove 132 formed therein and winding
therearound. The groove 132 extends from a distal point 134
proximate the end 120 of the tip 116 towards the handle 112 to a
groove termination point 136. In this embodiment, the groove
termination point 136 and the flange termination point 126 are the
same point. Thus, the groove 132 is continuous with the flange
122. The groove is in the form of a continuous right-handed helix.
[0098] The end 118 of the handle 112 has an attachment mechanism
(not shown) for releasably attaching the dental device to a
motorized device. In addition, the handle 12 is sufficiently large
enough to be held and turned by hand.
[0099] In FIG. 3, there is shown a dental device 210 being a third
embodiment of the present technology. The dental device 210 has a
handle 212 and stem 114 extending therefrom. The stem 214 has a
tip 216. In this embodiment, the handle 212, stem 214, and tip 216
have been unitarily formed from plastic via an injection molding
process. In this embodiment handle 212, stem 214, and tip 216
continuously taper from an end 218 of the handle 212 to an end 220
of the tip 216. The tip 216 is solid and is sized so as to be able
to fit within an inter-dental space between to adjacent teeth. The
stem 214 has a flange 222 projecting outward therefrom and winding
therearound. The flange 222 extends away from the handle 212 from
a proximal point 224 to a flange termination point 226. The flange
222 is in the form of a continuous right-handed helix.
[0100] The tip 216 has a groove 232 formed therein and winding
therearound. The groove 232 extends from a distal point 234
proximate the end 220 of the tip 216 towards the handle 212 to a
groove termination point 236. In this embodiment, the groove
termination point 236 is axial offset from the flange termination
point 226 with the groove termination point 236 being closer to
the end 220 of the tip 216 than is the flange termination point
226. Thus there is an axial “gap” 238 between the groove
termination point 36 and the flange termination point 26. The
groove is in the form of a continuous right-handed helix.
[0101] The end 218 of the handle 212 has an attachment mechanism
(not shown) for releasably attaching the dental device to a
motorized device. In addition, the handle 212 is sufficiently
large enough to be held and turned by hand.
[0102] In FIG. 4, there is shown a dental device 310 being a
fourth embodiment of the present technology. The dental device 310
has a handle 312 and stem 314 extending therefrom. The stem 314
has a tip 316. In this embodiment, the handle 312, stem 314, and
tip 316 have been unitarily formed from plastic via an injection
molding process. In this embodiment handle 312, stem 314, and tip
316 continuously taper from an end 318 of the handle 312 to an end
320 of the tip 316. The tip 316 is solid and is sized so as to be
able to fit within an inter-dental space between to adjacent
teeth. The stem 314 has a flange 322 projecting outward therefrom
and winding therearound. The flange 332 extends away from the
handle 312 from a proximal point 324 to a flange termination point
326. The flange 322 is in the form of a continuous right-handed
helix.
[0103] The tip 316 has a groove 332 formed therein and winding
therearound. The groove 332 extends from a distal point 334
proximate the end 320 of the tip 316 towards the handle 312 to a
groove termination point 336. In this embodiment, the groove
termination point 336 and the flange termination point 326 are the
same point. The groove 332 is, however, in the form of a
continuous left-handed helix.
[0104] The end 318 of the handle 312 has an attachment mechanism
(not shown) for releasably attaching the dental device to a
motorized device. In addition, the handle 312 is sufficiently
large enough to be held and turned by hand.
[0105] In FIG. 5, there is shown a dental device 410 being a fifth
embodiment of the present technology. The dental device 410 has a
handle 412 and stem 414 extending therefrom. The stem 414 has a
tip 416. In this embodiment, the handle 412, stem 414, and tip 416
have been unitarily formed from plastic via an injection molding
process. In this embodiment handle 412, stem 414, and tip 416
continuously taper from an end 418 of the handle 412 to an end 420
of the tip 416. The tip 416 is solid and is sized so as to be able
to fit within an inter-dental space between to adjacent teeth. The
stem 414 has a flange 422 projecting outward therefrom and winding
therearound. The flange 432 extends away from the handle 412 from
a proximal point 424 to a flange termination point 426. The flange
322 is in the form of a continuous left-handed helix.
[0106] The tip 416 has a groove 432 formed therein and winding
therearound. The groove 432 extends from a distal point 434
proximate the end 420 of the tip 416 towards the handle 412 to a
groove termination point 436. In this embodiment, the groove
termination point 436 is axial offset from the flange termination
point 426 with the groove termination point 436 being closer to
the end 420 of the tip 416 than is the flange termination point
426. Thus there is an axial “gap” 438 between the groove
termination point 436 and the flange termination point 426. The
groove 432 is, however, in the form of a continuous left-handed
helix.
[0107] The end 418 of the handle 412 has an attachment mechanism
(not shown) for releasably attaching the dental device to a
motorized device. In addition, the handle 412 is sufficiently
large enough to be held and turned by hand.
[0108] In FIG. 6, there is shown a dental device 510 being a sixth
embodiment of the present technology. The dental device 510 has a
handle 512 and stem 514 extending therefrom. The stem 516 has a
tip 516. In this embodiment, the handle 512, stem 514, and tip 516
have been unitarily formed from plastic via an injection molding
process. In this embodiment, dental device has a cover 542 that
covers the stem 514. The cover 542 is releasably attached to the
handle 512 of the device 510 via a screw-type attachment mechanism
546. When not in use (covering the stem 514), the end 544 of the
cover 542 may be inserted into the end 518 of the handle 512 and
releasably retained therein. In this embodiment, the handle 512
has a series of grooves 548 allowing for easier manipulation
thereof.
[0109] FIG. 7 shows the cover 542 of FIG. 6 releasably attached to
a standard tube of toothpaste 552 via an adapter 550. Adapter 550
allows the cover 542 to be filled (or refilled) with
dentally-active material (e.g. toothpaste) (adapter 550 also
allows air to exit the cover 542 while the cover 542 is being
filled). Once the cover 542 is filled with the desired amount of
toothpaste it is removed from the adapter 550 and the stem 514 of
the device 510 is inserted therein. In this manner the toothpaste
will coat the exterior surface 540 of the stem 514 including the
flange 522, the valley 530 between successive turns of the flange
522, and the groove 632. Toothpaste can thus be delivered to the
inter-dental area when the device 510 is in use as is described
hereinabove.
[0110] In FIG. 8, there is shown a dental device 610 being a
seventh embodiment of the present technology. The dental device
610 has a handle 612 and stem 614 extending therefrom. The stem
614 has a tip 616. In this embodiment, the handle 612, stem 614,
and tip 616 have been unitarily formed from plastic via an
injection molding process. The stem 614 has a flange 622
projecting outward therefrom and winding therearound. The flange
622 extends away from the handle 612. The flange 622 is in the
form of a continuous left-handed helix. In between turns of the
flange 622 are openings 628 which fluidly communicate with a
hollow chamber (not shown) in the handle 612, allowing for the
delivery of fluid into the valley 630 formed between successive
turns of the flange 622.
[0111] The hollow chamber extends from the openings 628 to the end
618 of the handle 612. The end 618 of the handle 612 is open
allowing for the insertion therein of the stem 658 of a reservoir
658. The stem 658 of the reservoir 656 and the opening in the end
of the handle 612 are appropriately sized and shaped to create a
seal therebetween. The stem 658 has protrusions 660 thereon which
cooperate with dimples 654 in the handle 612 to releasably attach
the reservoir 658 to the handle 612 of the device 610. Once the
reservoir 656 is attached to the device 610 it may be manually
squeezed to expel a dentally-active material contained therein out
through an opening (not shown) in the stem 658 of the reservoir
and into the hollow chamber of the handle 612 and stem 614 of the
device 610. Continued pressure exerted on the reservoir 656 will
force the dentally-active material through the hollow chamber, out
of the openings 628 and into the valley 630 between successive
turns of the flange 622 where it can be delivered to the
inter-dental area as described hereinabove. In this embodiment,
reservoir 658 may also act in a manner similar to an eye-dropper
such that negative pressure in the reservoir 658 (owing to a
squeezed reservoir 658 being released) may cause fluid to enter
the hollow chamber in the stem 614 and handle 612 through the
openings 628 and travel to the reservoir 656 filling it.
[0112] In FIG. 9, there is shown a dental device 710 being an
eighth embodiment of the present technology. The dental device 710
has a handle 712 and a stem 714 extending therefrom. The stem 714
has a tip 716. The stem 714 has a flange 722 projecting outward
therefrom and winding therearound. Flange 722 is a right-handed
winding.
[0113] The tip 716 has a groove 732 formed therein and winding
therearound. The groove 732 is continuous with the flange 722.
Groove 732 is a right-handed winding.
[0114] In FIG. 9, some of the various dimensions of the device 710
are shown.
[0115] In FIGS. 10, 12, and 14, there is shown a dental device 810
being a ninth embodiment of the present technology. The dental
device 810 has a handle 812 and a stem 814 extending therefrom.
The stem 814 has a tip 816. In this embodiment, the handle 812,
stem 814, and tip 816 have been unitarily formed from plastic via
an injection molding process. In this embodiment a portion of the
stem 814 tapers from near handle 812 to before the beginning of
the tip 816. The remainder of the stem 814, including the tip 816
is cylindrical being of a uniform circular cross-section. The tip
816 is solid and is sized so as to be able to fit within an
inter-dental space between to adjacent teeth. The stem 814 has a
flange 822 projecting outward therefrom and winding therearound.
The flange 822 extends away from the handle 812 from a proximal
point 824 to a flange termination point 826. Each turn of the
flange 822 has a series of four planar portions 862a, 862b, 862c,
862d interconnected by a series of curved portions 864a, 864b,
864c, 864d. Corresponding planar portions of each turn of the
flange 822 are parallel (e.g. portion 862a of each turn of the
flange 822 is parallel to portion 862a of other turns of the
flange 862a, etc.). Flange 822 is a right-handed winding.
[0116] The tip 816 has a groove 832 formed therein and winding
therearound. The groove 832 extends from a distal point 834
proximate the end 820 of the tip 816 towards the handle 812 to a
groove termination point 836. In this embodiment, the groove
termination point 836 and the flange termination point 826 are the
same point. Thus, the groove 832 is continuous with the flange
822. Each turn of the groove 832 has a series of four linear
portions 866a, 866b, 866c, 866d interconnected by a series of
curved portions 868a, 868b, 868c, 868d. Corresponding linear
portions of each turn of the groove 832 are parallel (e.g. portion
866a of each turn of the groove 832 is parallel to portion 866a of
other turns of the groove 862a, etc.). Groove 832 is a
right-handed winding.
[0117] In this embodiment there is a radial recess 870 allowing
for bending of the stem 814 extending around the stem 814. Radial
recess 870 is semi-circular in cross-section.
[0118] Referring to FIG. 12, in this embodiment the distal end of
the handle 812 has a series of ridges 874 (shown only in FIG. 12)
which facilitate turning of the handle 812. The proximal end 872
of the handle 812 is smooth to allow for friction fit of a cover
(not shown) to assist in releasably retaining the cover. The end
818 of the handle 812 has an opening therein that is sized and
dimensioned to releasably retain therein a cover (not shown) when
not in use (covering the stem 814).
[0119] In FIGS. 11, 13, and 15, there is shown a dental device 910
being a tenth embodiment of the present technology. The dental
device 910 has a handle 912 and a stem 914 extending therefrom.
The stem 914 has a tip 916. In this embodiment, the handle 912,
stem 914, and tip 916 have been unitarily formed from plastic via
an injection molding process. In this embodiment a portion of the
stem 914 tapers from near handle 912 to before the beginning of
the tip 916. The remainder of the stem 914, including the tip 916
is cylindrical being of a uniform circular cross-section. The tip
916 is solid and is sized so as to be able to fit within an
inter-dental space between to adjacent teeth. The stem 914 has a
flange 922 projecting outward therefrom and winding therearound.
The flange 922 extends away from the handle 912 from a proximal
point 924 to a flange termination point 926. Each turn of the
flange 922 has a series of four planar portions 962a, 962b, 962c,
962d interconnected by a series of curved portions 964a, 964b,
964c, 964d. Corresponding planar portions of each turn of the
flange 922 are parallel (e.g. portion 962a of each turn of the
flange 922 is parallel to portion 962a of other turns of the
flange 962a, etc.). Flange 922 is a left-handed winding.
[0120] The tip 916 has a groove 932 formed therein and winding
therearound. The groove 932 extends from a distal point 934
proximate the end 920 of the tip 916 towards the handle 912 to a
groove termination point 936. In this embodiment, the groove
termination point 936 and the flange termination point 926 are the
same point. Thus, the groove 932 is continuous with the flange
922. Each turn of the groove 932 has a series of four linear
portions 966a, 966b, 966c, 966d interconnected by a series of
curved portions 968a, 968b, 968c, 968d. Corresponding linear
portions of each turn of the groove 932 are parallel (e.g. portion
966a of each turn of the groove 922 is parallel to portion 966a of
other turns of the groove 962a, etc.). Groove 932 is a
right-handed winding.
[0121] In this embodiment there is a radial recess 970 allowing
for bending of the stem 914 extending around the stem 914. Radial
recess 970 is semi-circular in cross-section.
[0122] Referring to FIG. 13, in this embodiment the distal end of
the handle 912 has a series of ridges 974 (shown only in FIG. 13)
which facilitate turning of the handle 912. The proximal end 972
of the handle 912 is smooth to allow for friction fit of a cover
(not shown) to assist in releasably retaining the cover. The end
918 of the handle 912 has an opening therein that is sized and
dimensioned to releasably retain therein a cover (not shown) when
not in use (covering the stem 912).
[0123] In FIG. 9, there is shown schematic of a dental device 1010
being an eleventh embodiment of the present technology. The dental
device 1010 has a handle 1012 and stem 1014 extending therefrom.
The stem 1014 has a tip 1016. In this embodiment the stem 1014,
and tip 1016 continuously tapers from to an end 320 of the tip
316. In this embodiment, the taper is more significant than in
other embodiments shown herein, such that the stem is short,
stubby, and “plug-like”. The stem 1014 has a flange 1022
projecting outward therefrom and winding therearound. The flange
1022 is in the form of a continuous right-handed helix. The tip
1016 has a groove 1032 formed therein and winding therearound. The
groove 1032 is in the form of a continuous right-handed helix that
is continuous with flange 1022.
[0124] In FIG. 16, there is shown schematic of a dental device
1010 being an eleventh embodiment of the present technology. The
dental device 1010 has a handle 1012 and stem 1014 extending
therefrom. The stem 1014 has a tip 1016. In this embodiment the
stem 1014, and tip 1016 continuously tapers from to an end 1020 of
the tip 1016. In this embodiment, the taper is more significant
than in other embodiments shown herein, such that the stem is
short, stubby, and “plug-like”. The stem 1014 has a flange 1022
projecting outward therefrom and winding therearound. The flange
1022 is in the form of a continuous right-handed helix. The tip
1016 has a groove 1032 formed therein and winding therearound. The
groove 1032 is in the form of a continuous right-handed helix that
is continuous with flange 1022.
[0125] In FIG. 17, there is shown schematic of a dental device
1110 being a twelfth embodiment of the present technology. The
dental device 1110 has a handle 1112 and stem 1114 extending
therefrom. The stem 1114 has a tip 1116. In this embodiment the
stem 1114, and tip 1116 continuously tapers from to an end 1120 of
the tip 1116. In this embodiment, the taper is more significant
than in other embodiments shown herein, such that the stem is
short, stubby, and “plug-like”. The stem 1114 has a flange 1122
projecting outward therefrom and winding therearound. The flange
1122 is in the form of a continuous right-handed helix. The tip
1116 has a groove 1132 formed therein and winding therearound. The
groove 1132 is in the form of a continuous right-handed helix that
is continuous with flange 1122.
[0126] In FIG. 18, there is shown a dental device 1210 being a
thirteenth embodiment of the present technology, which is similar
to dental device 810. The dental device 1210 has a handle 1212 and
a stem 1214 extending therefrom. The stem 1214 has a tip 1216. In
this embodiment, the handle 1212, stem 1214, and tip 1216 have
been unitarily formed from plastic via an injection molding
process. In this embodiment a portion of the stem 1214 tapers from
near handle 1212 to before the beginning of the tip 1216. The
remainder of the stem 1214, including the tip 1216 is cylindrical
being of a uniform circular cross-section. The tip 1216 is solid
and is sized so as to be able to fit within an inter-dental space
between to adjacent teeth. The stem 1214 has a flange 1222
projecting outward therefrom and winding therearound. The flange
1222 extends away from the handle 1212 from a proximal point (not
labelled) to a flange termination point (not labelled). Each turn
of the flange 1222 has a series of four planar portions
interconnected by a series of curved portions. Corresponding
planar portions of each turn of the flange 1222 are parallel.
Flange 1222 is a right-handed winding.
[0127] The tip 1216 has a groove 1232 formed therein and winding
therearound. The groove 1232 extends from a distal point (not
labelled) proximate the end 1220 of the tip 1216 towards the
handle 1212 to a groove termination point (not labelled). In this
embodiment, the groove termination point and the flange
termination point are the same point. Thus, the groove 1232 is
continuous with the flange 1222. Each turn of the groove 1232 has
a series of four linear portions interconnected by a series of
curved portions. Corresponding linear portions of each turn of the
groove 1232 are parallel. Groove 1232 is a right-handed winding.
[0128] In this embodiment, extending outwardly from radially
around the stem 1214, is a plurality of bristles 1278 forming a
brush 1276 having an outwardly sloping outer dentally-active edge
1280.
[0129] In FIG. 19, there is shown a dental device 1310 being a
fourteenth embodiment of the present technology, which is similar
to dental device 810. The dental device 1310 has a handle 1312 and
a stem 1314 extending therefrom. The stem 1314 has a tip 1316. In
this embodiment, the handle 1312, stem 1314, and tip 1316 have
been unitarily formed from plastic via an injection molding
process. In this embodiment a portion of the stem 1314 tapers from
near handle 1312 to before the beginning of the tip 1316. The
remainder of the stem 1314, including the tip 1316 is cylindrical
being of a uniform circular cross-section. The tip 1316 is solid
and is sized so as to be able to fit within an inter-dental space
between to adjacent teeth. The stem 1314 has a flange 1322
projecting outward therefrom and winding therearound. The flange
1322 extends away from the handle 1312 from a proximal point (not
labelled) to a flange termination point (not labelled). Each turn
of the flange 1322 has a series of four planar portions
interconnected by a series of curved portions. Corresponding
planar portions of each turn of the flange 1322 are parallel.
Flange 1322 is a right-handed winding.
[0130] The tip 1316 has a groove 1332 formed therein and winding
therearound. The groove 1332 extends from a distal point (not
labelled) proximate the end 1320 of the tip 1316 towards the
handle 1312 to a groove termination point (not labelled). In this
embodiment, the groove termination point and the flange
termination point are the same point. Thus, the groove 1332 is
continuous with the flange 1322. Each turn of the groove 1332 has
a series of four linear portions interconnected by a series of
curved portions. Corresponding linear portions of each turn of the
groove 1332 are parallel. Groove 1332 is a right-handed winding.
[0131] In this embodiment, extending outwardly from radially
around the stem 1314, is a plurality of bristles 1378 forming a
brush 1376 having an inwardly sloping outer dentally-active edge
1380.
[0132] In FIG. 20, there is shown a dental device 1410 being a
fifteenth embodiment of the present technology, which is similar
to dental device 1410. The dental device 1410 has a handle 1412
and a stem 1414 extending therefrom. The stem 1414 has a tip 1416.
In this embodiment, the handle 1412, stem 1414, and tip 1416 have
been unitarily formed from plastic via an injection molding
process. In this embodiment a portion of the stem 1414 tapers from
near handle 1412 to before the beginning of the tip 1416. The
remainder of the stem 1414, including the tip 1416 is cylindrical
being of a uniform circular cross-section. The tip 1416 is solid
and is sized so as to be able to fit within an inter-dental space
between to adjacent teeth. The stem 1414 has a flange 1422
projecting outward therefrom and winding therearound. The flange
1422 extends away from the handle 1412 from a proximal point (not
labelled) to a flange termination point (not labelled). Each turn
of the flange 1422 has a series of four planar portions
interconnected by a series of curved portions. Corresponding
planar portions of each turn of the flange 1422 are parallel.
Flange 1422 is a right-handed winding. The tip 1416 has a groove
1432 formed therein and winding therearound. The groove 1432
extends from a distal point (not labelled) proximate the end 1420
of the tip 1416 towards the handle 1412 to a groove termination
point (not labelled). In this embodiment, the groove termination
point and the flange termination point are the same point. Thus,
the groove 1432 is continuous with the flange 1422. Each turn of
the groove 1432 has a series of four linear portions
interconnected by a series of curved portions. Corresponding
linear portions of each turn of the groove 1432 are parallel.
Groove 1432 is a right-handed winding.
[0133] In this embodiment, extending outwardly from radially
around the stem 1414, is a plurality of bristles 1478 forming a
brush 1476 having an even outer dentally-active edge 1480.
[0134] In FIG. 21, there is shown a dental device 1510 being a
sixteenth embodiment of the present technology, which is similar
to dental device 1510. The dental device 1510 has a handle 1512
and a stem 1514 extending therefrom. The stem 1514 has a tip 1516.
In this embodiment, the handle 1512, stem 1514, and tip 1516 have
been unitarily formed from plastic via an injection molding
process. In this embodiment a portion of the stem 1514 tapers from
near handle 1512 to before the beginning of the tip 1516. The
remainder of the stem 1514, including the tip 1516 is cylindrical
being of a uniform circular cross-section. The tip 1516 is solid
and is sized so as to be able to fit within an inter-dental space
between to adjacent teeth. The stem 1514 has a flange 1522
projecting outward therefrom and winding therearound. The flange
1522 extends away from the handle 1512 from a proximal point (not
labelled) to a flange termination point (not labelled). Each turn
of the flange 1522 has a series of four planar portions
interconnected by a series of curved portions. Corresponding
planar portions of each turn of the flange 1522 are parallel.
Flange 1522 is a right-handed winding.
[0135] The tip 1516 has a groove 1532 formed therein and winding
therearound. The groove 1532 extends from a distal point (not
labelled) proximate the end 1520 of the tip 1516 towards the
handle 1512 to a groove termination point (not labelled). In this
embodiment, the groove termination point and the flange
termination point are the same point. Thus, the groove 1532 is
continuous with the flange 1522. Each turn of the groove 1532 has
a series of four linear portions interconnected by a series of
curved portions. Corresponding linear portions of each turn of the
groove 1522 are parallel. Groove 1532 is a right-handed winding.
[0136] In this embodiment, extending outwardly from radially
around the stem 1514, is a dome-shaped cup 1582 for assisting in
cleaning the teeth.
[0137] In FIG. 22, there is shown a portion of a dental device
1610 being a seventeenth embodiment of the present technology. The
dental device 1610 has a handle 1612 (not shown) and a stem 1614
extending therefrom. The stem 1614 has a tip 1616. The stem 1614
has a flange 1622 projecting outward therefrom and winding
therearound. Flange 1622 is a discontinuous right-handed winding.
[0138] The tip 1616 has a groove 1632 formed therein and winding
therearound. The groove 1632 is continuous with the flange 1622.
Groove 1632 is a discontinuous right-handed winding.
[0139] In this embodiment, the discontinuities in the flange 1622
and the groove 1632 are aligned with the longitudinal axis of the
stem 1614. Extending the through the discontinuities in the flange
1622 and the groove 1632 along the stem 1614 to almost the end
1620 of the tip 1616 is a channel 1684. At the other end of the
channel 1684 there is an opening 1628 which communicates with a
hollow portion 1682 inside of the stem 1614. Fluids may thus pass
from the hollow portion 1682 through the opening 1628 and travel
in the channel 1684 to the inter-dental area.
[0140] In FIG. 23, there is shown a portion of a dental device
1710 being an eighteenth embodiment of the present technology. The
dental device 1710 has a handle 1712 (not shown) and a stem 1714
extending therefrom. The stem 1714 has a tip 1716. The stem 1714
has a flange (not shown) projecting outward therefrom and winding
therearound. The tip 1716 has a groove 1732 formed therein and
winding therearound. Groove 1832 is a continuous right-handed
winding.
[0141] In this embodiment, the discontinuities in the groove 1732
are aligned with the longitudinal axis of the stem 1714. Extending
the through the discontinuities in the groove 1732 along the stem
1714 to almost the end 1720 of the tip 1716 is a channel 1784.
Fluids may flow in the channel 1784 to the inter-dental area.
[0142] In FIG. 24, there is shown a portion of a dental device
1810 being a nineteenth embodiment of the present technology. The
dental device 1810 has a handle 1812 (not shown) and a stem 1814
extending therefrom. The stem 1814 has a tip 1816. The stem 1814
has a flange 1822 projecting outward therefrom and winding
therearound. Flange 1822 is a discontinuous right-handed winding.
[0143] The tip 1816 has a groove 1832 formed therein and winding
therearound. The groove 1832 is continuous with the flange 1822.
Groove 1832 is a continuous right-handed winding.
[0144] In this embodiment, the discontinuities in the flange 1822
and those through the groove 1832 are aligned with the
longitudinal axis of the stem 1814. Extending the through the
discontinuities in the flange 1822 and the groove 1832 along the
stem 1814 to almost the end 1820 of the tip 1816 is a channel
1884. Fluids may flow in the channel 1884 to the inter-dental
area.
[0145] In FIG. 25, there is shown a portion of a dental device
1910 being a twentieth embodiment of the present technology. The
dental device 1910 has a handle 1912 (not shown) and a stem 1914
extending therefrom. The stem 1914 has a tip 1916. The stem 1914
has a flange 1922 projecting outward therefrom and winding
therearound. Flange 1922 is a continuous right-handed winding.
[0146] The tip 1916 has a groove 1932 formed therein and winding
therearound. The groove 1932 is continuous with the flange 1922.
Groove 1932 is a continuous right-handed winding.
[0147] In this embodiment, located in between valleys 1930 created
by successive turns of the flange 1932 is a channel 1984. Channel
1984 increases the volume of the valleys 1930 to assist in
transporting fluid therethrough.
[0148] In FIG. 26, there is shown a dental device 2010 being a
twenty-first embodiment of the present technology. The dental
device 2010 has a handle 2012 and a stem 2014 extending therefrom.
The stem 2014 has a tip 2016. The stem 2014 has a flange 2022
projecting outward therefrom and winding therearound. Flange 2022
is a right-handed winding.
[0149] The tip 2016 has a groove 2032 formed therein and winding
therearound. The groove 2032 is continuous with the flange 2022.
Groove 2032 is a right-handed winding.
[0150] In this embodiment, a cover 2042 covers the stem 2014 when
the device 2010 is not in use. Cover 2042 is releasably attached
to handle 2012 via a friction fit between the end of cover 2042
and a raised annular portion 2086 of handle 2012.
[0151] In FIG. 27, there is shown a dental device 2110 being a
twenty-second embodiment of the present technology. The dental
device 2110 has a handle 2112 and a stem 2114 extending therefrom.
The stem 2114 has a tip 2116. The stem 2114 has a flange 2122
projecting outward therefrom and winding therearound. Flange 2122
is a right-handed winding.
[0152] The tip 2116 has a groove 2132 formed therein and winding
therearound. The groove 2132 is continuous with the flange 2122.
Groove 2132 is a right-handed winding.
[0153] In FIG. 27, some of the various dimensions of the device
2110 are shown.
[0154] In FIG. 28, there is shown a dental device 2210 being a
twenty-third embodiment of the present technology. The dental
device 2210 has a handle 2212 and a stem 2214 extending therefrom.
The stem 2214 has a tip 2216. The stem 2214 has a flange 2222
projecting outward therefrom and winding therearound. Flange 2222
is a right-handed winding.
[0155] The tip 2216 has a groove 2232 formed therein and winding
therearound. The groove 2232 is continuous with the flange 2222.
Groove 2232 is a right-handed winding.
[0156] In FIG. 28, some of the various dimensions of the device
2210 are shown.
[0157] As can be seen in FIG. 28, within the end 2218 of the
handle 2212 there is an opening 2288 into a cavity 2290. Cavity
2290 is sized and dimensioned to receive and securely releasably
retain therein a standard dental instrument.
[0158] Referring to FIG. 29, in one embodiment, a cover 2242 can
have a structure 2292 of similar size and dimensions to standard
dental instrument. The structure 2292 can also be inserted into
the cavity 2290 when the cover is not in use.
INTER DENTAL TOOTH CLEANER AND
DELIVERY DEVICE
US8887740
An inter dental device which is a tooth cleaner and gum massager
which cleans the area between anterior and posterior teeth,
comprising a handle and a stem and flanges and a tip which is
grooved or twisted in a spiral pattern, and the flanges extending
from a central stem are arranged in a spiral pattern which is
continuous with the spiral pattern of the grooves of the tip. This
device also may serve as a delivery device which holds and
delivers substances to the area between teeth, and does not remove
said substances as the device is withdrawn.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/205,251, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,806,125,
entitled “Inter Dental Tooth Cleaner and Delivery Device”, filed
Aug. 17, 2005. Through the '251 application, this application
claims the benefit of U.S. provisional Patent Application Ser. No.
60/602,007, filed Aug. 17, 2004, entitled “Interprox™”. The
contents of both of these applications are incorporated herein by
reference.
FIELD OF INVENTION
The present invention relates to an a inter dental device which is
a tooth cleaner which cleans the area between anterior and
posterior teeth, comprising a handle and stem and flanges and tip,
and the flanges extending from a central stem, said flanges
arranged in a spiral pattern and tip grooved or twisted to form a
spiral pattern continuous with the flange spiral. The twisted
spiral grooves and flanges serve to remove bacteria, food and
debris when said device is rotated clockwise and also serve to
hold substances such as, but not limited to, medicaments and
antiseptics within the spirals and grooves, and said substances
which can be deposited between teeth when the device is rotated
counterclockwise without removing said substances as the device is
withdrawn. The handle as well as the cover of said device can be
used as a reservoir for said substances. The device can be
inserted into a motorized handle so that it can be rotated
clockwise or counterclockwise.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The area between the teeth which is referred to as the inter
dental area is the area which is most prone to plaque accumulation
and periodontal breakdown and dental caries because it is the area
of the mouth which is the most difficult to clean.
The inter dental area refers to the inter proximal area which is
the area between adjacent teeth which consists of the roots of the
teeth which are covered in cementum which overlies the dentin
surface. Often the cementum is erroded or abraded leaving the
underlying soft vulnerable dentin surface exposed leading to
hypersensitivity or caries. This is the area also most vulnerable
to plaque accumulation leading to periodontal breakdown.
Most devices designed to clean this inter dental area require
manual dexterity, are difficult to use, take too much time, are
painful, inefficient, tear or break easily, are expensive and
therefore contribute to poor compliance by the patient. Dental
floss is difficult to use and does not adequately clean the inter
dental areas especially when some periodontal breakdown has
already occurred. Currently most inter dental devices are brushes
which are commonly made from nylon bristles which have been
inserted into a twisted wire stem. These brushes are fragile and
break frequently. The wire can scratch and irritate the fragile
root surface as well as dental restorations and implants. They are
often too wide to fit comfortably between the teeth. Other inter
dental cleaners which are shaped like wedges can clean only by a
push/pull technique and often leave plaque and debris behind.
Kandleman designed an inter dental cleaner to clean the inter
proximal area and then deposit medicaments or antiseptics to said
areas without removing said medicaments or antiseptics as the
device is withdrawn. His device is inefficient and the applicator
section is too long and is redundant and useless when the device
is used only to clean the inter proximal areas and will jab and
interfere with the tongue and cheeks as it cleans between the
teeth. Furthermore the applicator must be thick enough to contain
holes connecting to a hollow channel to deliver said medicaments
so that it will bend and not adequately fit the small area between
anterior and crowded teeth. At the same time the applicator must
be thin yet rigid enough to guide the device through the narrow
inter dental space. The Kandleman device would require an
excessively large handle to hold enough material to treat the
entire mouth and cannot be refilled easily (with an eye dropper
effect) through the tip which is too narrow with holes that are
too small and the distance from the tip to the semi rigid
deformable handle is too long. The Kandleman device needs an
additional section which is an applicator which is different from
the cleaning section. This applicator section is redundant,
especially if it is used for cleaning between the teeth, and is
complicated and expensive to manufacture.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
There is therefore a need for a dental device which is an inter
dental cleaner which can fit into both large, medium and small
inter dental areas, and may also deliver materials for instance,
but not limited to, medicaments or antiseptics to the area between
teeth without removing said materials as the device is withdrawn
from the inter proximal area. In all cases as mentioned in this
patent, the inter dental area or the area between teeth or the
inter proximal area may refer to the teeth surfaces between teeth
including but not limited to dentin, enamel, cementum, the
gingiva, the sub gingival sulcus, and the periodontal pocket. This
device should be simple and inexpensive and easy to manufacture
and to use and should fit between large and small inter dental
spaces. The material should be stored or carried and then released
easily by said device. It is preferred that the applicator section
need not be different from the cleaning section. The device should
be easily refillable so that the entire mouth may be treated. This
device should be easily attachable to a motorized device which
could facilitate its use and functionality. It could be used by
the dentist in office or given to the patient for use at home.
The invention specifically lies in that the device is designed to
clean between the teeth using flanges and grooves which are
arranged in an uninterrupted continuous spiral so that it can be
easily inserted between teeth and when the handle is rotated
clockwise, the grooves and the spiral engage and clean the inter
proximal surfaces of adjacent teeth and as the device is further
rotated, food debris, plaque etc., is directed away from the inter
dental space by the continuous spiral arrangement of grooves and
flanges, allowing for an efficient.
It is a preferred embodiment of this invention that two helices
which are slightly offset from one another are arranged in a
spiral manner to more efficiently clean and distribute substances
to the inter proximal area.
The uninterrupted continuation of the spiral in the groove of the
tip extending to the spiral in the flange allows for a continuous
flow of plaque, food, debris etc., out of the inter dental space
when the device is rotated clock wise, and the continuous flow of
medicaments into the inter proximal space when the device is
rotated counter clockwise.
The spiral structure of the grooved tip allows for cleaning and
removal of plaque, food and debris as the device is rotated or
pulled and pushed, or twisted then pulled, and because the central
shaft of the tip is solid, it can be made small and narrow enough
to fit into the narrowest inter dental spaces found frequently
with anterior teeth and crowded situations. There is no exposed
wire or metal which can injure the periodontal tissue or cementum,
dentin, and would therefore be safe for use with implants.
Another mode of action is when the handle is rotated clockwise,
the grooves and the spiral engage the inter proximal surfaces of
adjacent teeth and as the device is further rotated, the device is
drawn deeper between the teeth (in a screw like manner), and as
resistance is felt, the device is then pulled out from between the
teeth bringing with it food, debris and plaque etc. in a “twist
and pull” motion.
Conversely, when the handle of the device is rotated counter
clockwise, the spiral pattern of the flanges which are continuous
with the grooves in the tip, the mode of action is such that any
material which is held or stored in the grooves or flanges is
carried or deposited thoroughly into the area between the teeth
and remains there without being withdrawn as the device is removed
from between the teeth while being rotated counter clockwise.
The grooves in the channels and the spaces between the flanges
serve to increase the surface area and facilitate both the
cleaning and removal of plaque, food and debris, etc., as well as
the retention of material (medicaments, antiseptics, etc.,) which
can be delivered to the inter dental area. The uninterrupted
continuous nature of the spiral of the grooves and the spiral of
the flanges also facilitates these actions. The material can be
loaded into the grooves and spaces between the flanges by dipping
the device into said material and returning it to the mouth to be
placed into the inter dental area without dripping or spilling.
The cap or cover of the inter dental device can be loaded with
material and as the device is withdrawn from said cap or container
the material is loaded in the grooves and flanges ready for
delivery to the inter dental area. The cap can also have a
reservoir to hold additional material associated with it.
The handle and stem can be hollow and continuous thereby allowing
for the storage of material in the handle. As the handle is
squeezed the material travels down the hollow stem out the holes
between the flanges and as the handle is rotated counterclockwise,
the material travels from the middle of the device (thick and
strong enough to accommodate a hollow stem and holes) towards the
tip which is solid and thin enough so that it can be inserted
between anterior and crowded teeth with small inter dental spaces.
The device can be easily inserted into a motorized device which
allows for clockwise and counterclockwise rotation. The motorized
device produces cleaning and massaging of the gums while utilizing
a “screw like” action routing and removing plaque and debris and
food etc. from between the teeth.
As embodied and broadly described herein the present invention
provides a device which is an inter dental cleaner which cleans
and massages the area between teeth and a delivery device which
holds and delivers substances for instance, but not limited to,
medicaments or antiseptics, to the area between teeth, and does
not remove said substances as the device is withdrawn.
Other objects and features will become apparent by reference to
the following description and the drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1. represents a side view of the inter dental tooth
cleaner (device) consisting of a handle, stem, and tip and
extending from the stem are a (first) single helix of flanges
which are arranged in a spiral pattern and are continuous with
the spiral pattern of the grooves of the tip. The spiral pattern
is arranged in a clockwise manner so that when the device is
placed into the inter proximal area and when the handle is then
rotated in a clockwise manner, the flanges and the grooves of
the device withdraw plaque and food and debris from the inter
dental area utilizing a screw or router type action.
FIG. 2. Is similar to FIG. 1 indicating a (second)) single
helix of flanges and grooves which is very slightly offset from
the first single helix.
FIG. 3. Represents a combination of FIGS. 1 & 2
indicating a combination of both single helices of flanges and
grooves (double helix) which increases the efficiency of action.
FIG. 4. Represents a longitudinal view of a preferred
embodiment of the inter proximal tooth cleaner. Note that the
measurements indicated are not intended to be absolute but
rather indicate approximations of a preferred embodiment of this
invention.
FIG. 5 represents a longitudinal view of a tooth cleaner
(device) which has a slight bend in the stem so as to gain
access to posterior areas of the mouth and indicates that as the
handle is rotated clockwise the flanges and grooves also rotate
creating a screw like cleaning action between the teeth. The
spiral pattern of the flanges and grooves draw out the bacteria
(plaque) and food and debris in the direction from the tip to
the handle.
FIG. 6 demonstrates a side view of the Tooth cleaner/drug
delivery device indicating a handle and stem that are rigidly
deformable and contain a continuous hollow chamber extending
from said handle through the stem and connect to holes in the
stem between the flanges so that when the handle, which contains
a substance for instance but not limited to a medicament or
antiseptic or fluoride or varnish, is squeezed, positive
pressure is exerted on said substance which travels down the
stem and out the holes between the flanges. As the handle is
rotated counterclockwise, said substance is pushed or
transported along the channels formed by the spiral arrangement
of said flanges towards the tip of the device and then is
deposited in the area between the teeth and as the handle
continues to be turned counterclockwise, said material is left
between the teeth and is not withdrawn as the device is removed.
For small inter proximal areas such as found between
anterior or crowded teeth in which only the narrow tip of the
device will fit, the substance travels out the holes between the
flanges and is carried or transported to the tip of the device
by the channels within the grooves which is continuous with the
spiral flanges, and said material is carried or transported to
the inter proximal area and is deposited there. As the handle
continues to be turned counterclockwise, said material is left
between the teeth and is not withdrawn as the device is removed.
FIG. 7. Refers to the longitudinal cross section a
preferred embodiment of the tooth cleaner/drug delivery
dispenser.
FIG. 8. Refers to the side view of the tooth cleaner/drug
delivery dispenser which is covered by a cover which may contain
a substance for instance but not limited to a medicament or
antiseptic or fluoride or varnish, as indicated in FIG. 6.
FIG. 9. refers to FIG. 8. with the cover being cut in a
longitudinal cross section so that the tooth cleaner/drug
delivery dispenser can be seen inside the cover. This cover may
contain a substance as in FIG. 6 and when dipped into this
container and then withdrawn, the substance is retained in the
flanges and grooves of the stem and tip respectively and can now
be transported and deposited into the area between the teeth as
said device holding the substance is inserted into the inter
dental space and rotated counterclockwise.
FIG. 10. refers to a side view of the tooth cleaner/drug
delivery dispenser.
FIG. 11. refers to a longitudinal cross section of the cap
or container which may hold a substance as referred to in FIG.
6.
FIG. 12 refers to a motorized handle to which the tooth
cleaner/drug delivery device releasably attaches, and said
handle can rotate the tooth cleaner/drug delivery device
clockwise to clean the area between the teeth or
counterclockwise to deliver substances to the area between
teeth.
In the drawings, preferred embodiments of the invention are
illustrated by way of example. It is to be expressly understood
that the description and drawings are only or purposes of
illustration and as an aid to understanding, and are not intended
to be a definition of the limits of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF
THE INVENTION
FIG. 1. The handle 1 of the device is ribbed and allows for a good
grip and easy rotation of same. Extending from it is a stem 10
which tapers toward the tip 9. The stem 10 has a narrowing 11
approximately midway between the handle 1 and the tip 9, and
allows for bending of the device to access hard to reach areas of
the mouth, (especially in the posterior regions) and coincident
rotation of the flange 12 and the groove 6 and the end of the tip
8 as the handle 1 is rotated. The area 4 between turns 3 of the
flange 12, as well as the grooves 6, in the tip 9 of the device
will transport food and bacteria and debris out from the inter
dental area as the device is rotated clockwise and will hold and
transport substances to the inter dental space as the device is
rotated counterclockwise, and will leave said substances in the
inter dental space without being removed as the device is rotated
counterclockwise, as it is being withdrawn from the inter dental
area. The flange 12 may be tapered or cylindrical. The stem 10 may
be deformably rigid for cleaning the area between teeth by turning
said device clockwise and may be dipped into substances, for
instance but not limited to a medicament or antiseptic or fluoride
or varnish, and be held within the spaces 4 between turns 3 of the
flange 12, the groove 6, and transported to the area between the
teeth by turning said device counterclockwise, and deposited there
without being withdrawn as the device is removed. The handle 1,
and stem 10, may be continuous and hollow to hold substances
within the interior of the device and said substance can be
transported to the area between the teeth and expressed out the
holes 5 which are located between turns 3 of the flange 12. The
spiral configuration of the flange 12 is continuous with the
groove 6 of the tip 9 to allow a continuous uninterrupted flow of
debris and plaque when the device is rotated clockwise to perform
cleaning actions, or to transport or deliver substances to the
area between the teeth as the device is rotated counterclockwise.
FIG. 2 refers to the second embodiment of a helix which is
slightly offset so that the space 21 between turns of the flange
12 is located slightly closer to the tip 9 of the device. The
flange 12 is spirally arranged in a preferred embodiment of this
invention in the shape of a cone but can be arranged spirally in
other shapes for example but not limited to a cylinder.
FIG. 3. refers to the device which has both first and second
spiral combined in a continuous spiral manner so that there are a
greater number of spaces between turns of the flanges 31, and
grooves 32, and a greater surface area to clean and hold and
transport substances.
FIG. 4. Refers to the measurements of a preferred embodiment of
the shape of the cleaning device as well indicating the spiral
continuation 42 of the flange 12 as it meets the groove 6 of the
tip 9.
FIG. 5 refers to the action of rotation of the tooth cleaning
device with a bend 11 in the distal part of the stem 10 which
allows rotation of the flanges 12 and grooves 6 as the handle 51
is rotated. This bend 11 may be spiral or helical or be comprised
of a different material such as rubber or metal or other type of
plastic or silicone. The indentation 11 facilitates the rotation
from the handle 51 to the flanges 12 and the grooves 6 around the
neck of the device which is bent to gain access to the hard to
reach posterior segments of the mouth. The device is inserted
between the teeth and rotated in a clockwise direction 75 thereby
engaging the grooves 6 and/or the flanges 12 between the teeth
thereby capturing and transporting food, bacterial plaque and
debris in a screw like manner, out from the area between the teeth
in the direction 74 from the device tip 8 to the handle 51. The
neck of the handle 52 may engage the interior aspect (not shown)
of the device cover.
FIG. 6. Refers to a tooth cleaner and drug delivery device which
acts as a tooth cleaner when the handle 61 is rotated clockwise
(not shown) and as a drug delivery device when the handle is
rotated counterclockwise 73. As the handle 61 which is hollow 62
contains a substance for instance but not limited to a medicament
or antiseptic or fluoride or varnish, is squeezed, positive
pressure is exerted on said substance which travels 71 down the
hollow stem 64 and out the holes 5 between in area 4 between turns
3 of the flanges. As the handle is rotated counterclockwise 73,
said substance is pushed or transported along the channels 4
formed by the spiral arrangement of said flanges towards the tip 9
of the device and then is deposited in the area between the teeth
and as the handle 61 continues to be turned counterclockwise, said
material is left between the teeth and is not withdrawn as the
device is removed. For small inter proximal areas such as found
between anterior or crowded teeth in which only the narrow tip 9
of the device will fit, the substance travels out the holes 5
between the flanges and is carried or transported to the tip 9 of
the device where the grooves 6 continue to carry or transport said
material in the direction 72 towards the end of the tip 8 to the
inter proximal area and deposit same without being removed as the
device is withdrawn. The substance travels down the continuation
42 of the spiral flanges into the grooves 6 of the tip 9 which is
solid and very thin and can therefore enter between the narrow
inter dental space of anterior and crowded teeth and deposit
substances in these hard to reach areas. The handle 61 can be made
of a semi rigid deformable material which can contain a substance
which when squeezed exerts a positive pressure thereby causing
said substance to travel down the hollow stem 64 out the holes 5
in the direction 71 towards the tip 9 of the device. The part 63
of the handle 61 which is proximal to the flanges may be very
slightly tapered so that the opening (not shown) of the cover 82
(see FIG. 8) of the device, can fit over said taper to secure the
cover to the device by a friction lock or screw type attachment.
FIG. 7. Refers to the longitudinal cross section a preferred
embodiment of the tooth cleaner/drug delivery dispenser. It should
be noted that all measurements are approximations of this
preferred embodiment.
FIG. 8 refers to the cover 82 which may act as to protect and keep
clean the device or may also contain a substance as in FIG. 6.
which will coat and be carried in the flanges and grooves of the
device which can then be transported to the inter proximal area.
The cover 82 is releasably secured to the handle 80 of the device
by way of example, friction locking or screw retained, snap on or
other manner.
FIG. 9. refers to a longitudinal cross section of the cover of the
device demonstrating how the cover 82 may be secured or attached
to the handle 80 of the device whereby the inner proximal surface
91 of the cover 82 locks with the outer distal surface 90 of the
handle 80 and how the substance as, can be contained within said
cover 82.
FIG. 10 refers to the device which has been separated from its
cover shown in FIG. 11. The open end 110 of the cover attaches to
the proximal base 90 of the handle in a tight manner creating a
seal to prevent spillage of substances within the cover 95 and
forming a protective barrier from contaminating said device. The
stem 92 and flanges 12 and the tip of the device as shown in FIG.
10. may be covered and protected by the cover as shown in FIG. 11
and said cover has an outer shell 94 and an inner cavity 95 which
can function to keep clean and protect said inter dental cleaner
or function to contain a substance for instance but not limited to
a medicament or antiseptic or fluoride or varnish, or any
combination thereof; when the device is placed inside the cover
94, the substance coats and is held or stored within the spiral
arrangement of the flanges and grooves of the tip (refer to FIG.
1), and when said device is withdrawn from the inner cavity 95 of
the handle, the substance is carried to the space between the
teeth and is deposited there as the tip is inserted between the
teeth (not shown).
FIG. 12. refers to a handle 100 with a motorized head 101 which
rotates said device in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction
which renders the device more efficient to remove the plaque and
the food and the debris from the inter dental space. The device
can be attached to the head of the motorized handle by a friction
lock or screw or male/female type or other type of attachment