EP1744700A1 - Procede et dispositif permettant d'ameliorer le traitement des dents et des gencives - Google Patents

Procede et dispositif permettant d'ameliorer le traitement des dents et des gencives

Info

Publication number
EP1744700A1
EP1744700A1 EP05716108A EP05716108A EP1744700A1 EP 1744700 A1 EP1744700 A1 EP 1744700A1 EP 05716108 A EP05716108 A EP 05716108A EP 05716108 A EP05716108 A EP 05716108A EP 1744700 A1 EP1744700 A1 EP 1744700A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
dental
insert
teeth
dental device
trough
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP05716108A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
Guy De Vreese
Michael Williams
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
SYLPHAR NV
Original Assignee
REMEDENT NV
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from PCT/EP2004/005029 external-priority patent/WO2005107636A1/fr
Priority claimed from PCT/EP2004/005030 external-priority patent/WO2005107637A1/fr
Application filed by REMEDENT NV filed Critical REMEDENT NV
Priority to EP05716108A priority Critical patent/EP1744700A1/fr
Priority claimed from PCT/EP2005/002788 external-priority patent/WO2005107638A1/fr
Publication of EP1744700A1 publication Critical patent/EP1744700A1/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61C—DENTISTRY; APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR ORAL OR DENTAL HYGIENE
    • A61C17/00—Devices for cleaning, polishing, rinsing or drying teeth, teeth cavities or prostheses; Saliva removers; Dental appliances for receiving spittle
    • A61C17/16—Power-driven cleaning or polishing devices
    • A61C17/22—Power-driven cleaning or polishing devices with brushes, cushions, cups, or the like
    • A61C17/228—Self-contained intraoral toothbrush, e.g. mouth-guard toothbrush without handle

Definitions

  • the bleaching of teeth is a procedure for the management of stained or discoloured teeth. Generally, it involves the administration of bleaching agents under professional supervision or the self-application of an over-the-counter teeth whitening product to the teeth of an upper and/or lower dental arch.
  • a practitioner takes a dental impression of the subject and a custom-fitting dental appliance is made therefrom which fits to the subject's dental arches.
  • An appliance for either the upper, lower arches or both dental arches is made, depending on the request of the subject.
  • the dentist applies the bleaching agent thereto, fits the appliance to the dental arches and the subject typically waits for a period of up to 120 minutes while the treatment takes place.
  • the bleaching agent used by a dental practitioner may be more caustic than the bleaching agents available for home use, the practitioner has to monitor the subject in case the agent comes into contact with oral cavity and/or is ingested.
  • the subject is provided with said appliance and an amount of bleaching agent sufficient for continued home treatment.
  • concentration of bleaching agent is reduced for unsupervised home use.
  • the home treatment usually continues daily for the prescribed amount of time, and the length of a typical session is between 30 and 120 minutes per day.
  • the method of whitening by a dental profession presents a number of disadvantages mentioned above which includes a high time-cost for the subject, discomfort, and the potential for injury to a subject during each treatment session.
  • Bleaching agents which are available over-the-counter provide an alternative means for whitening teeth.
  • Such over the counter treatments typically comprise a disposable, soft, universal fit U-shaped tray which contain a pre-measured quantity of bleaching agent. The subject fits the tray to his or her dental arches and the tray is kept in position for up to sixty minutes.
  • foam trays commonly used in home bleaching systems have several drawbacks. They may fail to direct and confine the application of home bleaching agents on the surfaces of a patient's teeth, which is critical to its safety and efficacy. In addition, a subject will often experience discomfort due to excessive salivation, restricted breathing through the mouth, and restricted swallowing.
  • Some home treatment systems use a tray having predispensed quantity of bleaching agent.
  • a particular limitation of these systems is the reduced shelf life and associated efficacy of existing bleaching agents. Over a limited period of time, the efficacy of the agent may be attenuated primarily due to moisture in the agent or the surrounding air.
  • bleaching agents utilized in both the professional and over the counter markets are either viscous liquids or gels.
  • the peroxy compounds are hydrous and typically provided in gel matrices of differing concentrations.
  • Carbamide peroxide gels dispensed in the professional market range between about 10 to 25 percent while the concentration of carbamide peroxide in over the counter products range between about 6 and 15 percent.
  • Bleaching agents are commercially available >and packaged in separate dispensing containers such as bottles and tubes, and most often, gels.
  • the peroxy compounds utilized in the professional and over the counter markets are hydrated and generally provided in gel matrices differing in concentration.
  • Carbamide peroxide gels dispensed in the professional market range between about 10 and 25 percent, while the concentration of carbamide peroxide in over the counter products range between about 6 and 15 percent.
  • the patient When applied at home, the patient dispenses an estimated quantity of bleaching agent to the rigid custom dental appliance, and then places the appliance over the dental arches being treated.
  • carbamide peroxide systems utilize gels comprising hydrogen peroxide coupled to urea in either anhydrous glycerin base or a soluble, aqueous Carbopol base.
  • carbamide peroxide When carbamide peroxide is hydrated, the hydrogen peroxide breaks down into urea and peroxide, which subsequently breaks down into water and oxygen. This instability of the agent in hydrated form limits the efficacy of existing bleaching agents, particularly when exposed to water.
  • Curing and dental light In dental tooth restoration, a dental practitioner places a light-curable filling material in the area of the tooth to be restored, such as, for example, a cavity, and cures the filling material with light of an appropriate wavelength. Curing light is provided by a light curing device which is introduced into the oral cavity, and is capable of projecting light onto the light curable material.
  • Light curing devices commonly in use comprise a light source such as a bulb, and an optic fiber terminating in a hand-held tip which directs light from the bulb to a position desired by the practitioner.
  • the bulb has a service life of approximately 20 to 25 hours, and thus has to be replaced frequently.
  • the practitioner is required to direct manually the light beam therefrom and hold the tip in the appropriate position during the curing process.
  • the tips are expensive and prone to permanent malfunction if damaged as a result of even minor accidents.
  • the tips must also be produced in a range of sizes and shapes to allow application of light to different locations in the mouth and for different indications.
  • the tips are typically of relatively short length so that the light source when attached and in use is in close proximity to a patient's face.
  • the subject During the curing process, the subject must be positioned on the dentist's chair, close to the light source. She or he is required to maintain an uncomfortable open-mouthed position during the procedure. The practitioner has to restrict his movements when using the light otherwise the fibre optic trailing from the light source becomes tangled.
  • light curing devices of the art have a number of disadvantages. They are large instruments, taking up space in the dental surgery, and they require manual and prolonged use by the dental practitioner during the curing process. The time spent holding a light beam over a curable material could be better employed by both the practitioner and the subject. Furthermore, they require constant, regular maintenance.
  • Non-specific light sources such as operating lights or a mirror provided on a headband for use by the dental practitioner provide general illumination in the mouth but do not provide the concentrated focus that is sometimes required for specific purposes.
  • Some instruments provide light directly into a subject mouth; these are hand held and require an assistant to orient the beam.
  • Other instruments are mounted on a flexible stand and can be fixed a positioned by the practitioner. However, should a subject move his or her head during a procedure, the light is required to be repositioned. Lights which enter the open mouth also restrict the movements by and line of sight of the practitioner by virtue of the size of the light and cable attached thereto.
  • Some instruments such as dental drills contain their own light channelling devices that are commonly composed of glass fiber optic components. These components also suffer from the disadvantages of comparative fragility and are prone to damage.
  • Some dental interventions cause wounds, operational openings and swellings in the gums, which eventually heal over time. Before healing has completed, however, discomfort in a mouth of a subject may affect breathing, eating, and speech. Pain associated with dental arches can be intense. Prescription pain killers are usually required to manage the pain, which may not be suitable for a subject. Similarly, orthodontal treatments cause lesions in the gums. Such lesions typically take a long time to heal particularly where a removable or adjustable brace is applied. There is, therefore, a need in the prior art to increase the rate of healing after dental interventions.
  • Dental pain associated with the dental arch, gums, teeth and nerves of a subject is often intensely uncomfortable.
  • prescription medicines are typically prescribed and orally administered. However, these can take time to act.
  • the dose is strong pain killers is regulated and restricted.
  • pain killers may not be suitable for use with a subject (e.g. due to allergy). While high doses of pain killer might be necessary to manage pain, the limits placed on dosage often preclude complete pain relief. There is, therefore, a need for effectively managing pain associated with the dental arch of a subject which overcomes the problems of the prior art.
  • AIMS OF THE INVENTION It is an aim of the present invention to provide a method and device for expediting the bleaching of a subject's teeth. In expediting the process, the problems associated with both the professional and home whitening procedures such as cost and discomfort to the subject are overcome.
  • Such a device provides intense and focused beam which illuminates the opposite dental arch, and a minimal intrusion of the oral cavity.
  • Such a device provides therapies such as massage, pain relief, anti-bacterial treatment, treatment for bad breath and tissue stimulation with enhanced effects with a minimal intrusion of the oral cavity.
  • the invention relates to a dental device comprising: (a) - a trough, shaped for the immersion of teeth and/or gums of a dental arch, or - a dental brace, shaped for attachment to the teeth of a dental arch, and (b) one or more electroluminescent devices, ELDs.
  • a dental device wherein the light emitted from an ELD pulsates.
  • a dental device wherein the frequency of said pulsation is between 1 and 500 times per second.
  • the number of ELDs is two or more and said ELDs illuminate in patterned sequence.
  • a dental device according to the invention further comprising one or more reflectors.
  • a dental device according to the invention further comprising one or more power sources.
  • a dental device further comprising a means for connection to an external power source.
  • a dental device according to the invention further comprising an inverter.
  • a dental device according to the invention further comprising one or more switches.
  • a dental device further comprising one or more means to regulate said electrical components.
  • a dental device further comprising one or more means to provide functionality for a timed period, after which time, the device switches off.
  • trough or brace has a means to receive or support an insert comprising one or more agents.
  • a dental device further comprising at least one Light Emitting Diode, LED.
  • a dental device wherein the number of visible LEDs is two or more and said LEDs illuminate in patterned sequence.
  • a dental device wherein said ELD or LED where present emits light of a wavelength suitable for curing dental restorative materials.
  • a dental device where in said ELD or LED where present emits light of wavelength between 400 to 510 nm.
  • a dental device where in said ELD or LED where present emits light of a wavelength suitable for enhancing the activity of one or more bleaching agents.
  • a dental device further comprising at least one means for providing heat stimulation.
  • said means to provide heat stimulation is a heating strip comprising one or more heating elements.
  • a dental device further comprising at least one means for providing physical stimulation.
  • a dental device wherein a means to provide physical stimulation is an ultrasonic transducer.
  • a dental device wherein a means to provide physical stimulation is an ultrasonic motor.
  • a dental device wherein a means to provide physical stimulation is a magnetic motor.
  • a dental device further comprising one or more protrusions capable of abrasive cleaning, massaging and/or polishing teeth and/or gums.
  • a dental device further comprising at least one means to provide electrical stimulation.
  • a dental device wherein said means to provide electrical stimulation is a pair of electrodes.
  • a dental device wherein said ELD, or where present, one or more of said LED, means for providing heat stimulation, means for providing physical stimulation, means to provide electrical stimulation is positioned such that its' functionality is directed towards the anterior surface of said teeth and/or gums.
  • a dental device wherein said ELD, or where present, one or more of said LED, means for providing heat stimulation, means for providing physical stimulation, means to provide electrical stimulation is positioned such that its' their functionality is directed towards the top surface of said teeth and/or gums.
  • said ELD, or where present, one or more of said LED, means for providing heat stimulation, means for providing physical stimulation, means to provide electrical stimulation is positioned such that its' functionality is directed towards the posterior surface of said teeth and/or gums.
  • a dental device in which the device comprises a trough, further comprising a second device comprising a trough according to any of claims 1 to 22, said second device arranged so that the teeth of both the upper and lower arches are each immersable in a trough.
  • a dental device wherein a single switch and/or regulating means are provided.
  • a dental device wherein at least part of the device is made from a translucent material allowing light from said ELD or LEDs to be viewed from the anterior of said device.
  • a dental device wherein at least part of the device is made from one or more of the following materials: coloured polymer, patterned polymer, composite, translucent polymer, opaque polymer.
  • the invention relates to the use of a device according to the invention for curing light-curable dental materials.
  • Preferred embodiments can include any of the uses according to claims 38 to 47.
  • the invention relates to a method for providing dental treatment comprising the use of a dental device according to the invention.
  • Preferred embodiments can include any of the methods according to claims 73 to 75.
  • Figures 1 to 3 a single trough device of the invention.
  • Figure 4 a device comprising an insert.
  • Figures 5A and 5B a double-troughed device of the invention.
  • Figure 6A to 6D Views of a single trough device of the invention.
  • Figure 7A and 7B Views of an a dental illumination device of the invention.
  • Figure 8 An exploded view of a double-troughed device of the invention.
  • Figures 9 and 10 a single trough device of the invention.
  • Figures 11 to 13 a brace device according to the invention.
  • Figure 14A to 14F examples of possible components of a kit according to the invention including straight stick inserts (A), U-shaped inserts (B), a charger/programmer (C), a button battery (D), a cleaning brush (E), and an instruction booklet (F).
  • Figures 15 and 16 kits according to the invention.
  • the present invention relates to an autonomous dental device comprising:
  • the inventors have found the functionality provided by the electrical components on the device can enhance treatments such as teeth whitening, the curing of restorative dental materials, pain relief, treating infections, and illumination of a subject's teeth during dental work.
  • Examples of such functionality include light (e.g. visible, UV and IR), heat, physical stimulation and electrical stimulation.
  • the autonomous nature of the device i.e. self contained
  • the subject is not restricted to procedures such as curing, or teeth whitening which normally require their presence on a dentist's chair and the equipment associate therewith. This further frees the dental chair for other patients.
  • the use of a subject's own dental arch as a support for said functionality alleviates a dental practitioner from holding and directing an external source of illumination, heat, UV light, IR light etc., so enabling a practitioner to use both hands for performing dental manipulations.
  • an autonomous dental device comprises: (a) a trough, shaped for the immersion of teeth and/or gums of a dental arch,
  • a device of the invention can enhance treatments such as, for example, cleaning, massage, pain relief, anti-bacterial treatment, anti-plaque treatment, healing, treatment for bad breath, and tissue stimulation.
  • treatments such as, for example, cleaning, massage, pain relief, anti-bacterial treatment, anti-plaque treatment, healing, treatment for bad breath, and tissue stimulation.
  • the autonomous nature of the device i.e. having a self contained power source
  • the subject is not restricted to procedures such which normally require their presence on a dentist's chair and the equipment associate therewith. This further frees the dental chair for other patients.
  • the use of a subject's own dental arch as a support for said functionality alleviates a dental practitioner from holding and directing an external source of, for example, ultrasound or heat, so enabling a practitioner to use both hands for performing dental manipulations.
  • the above mentioned troughs are replaced by a brace formed at least partly from wire, which clips to the upper or lower teeth.
  • components are integrated attached to or integrated into the wire.
  • a trough according to the present invention is any container shaped for the immersion of teeth and/or gums of the dental arch.
  • the container may be formed by any material that is compatible with the body.
  • material suitable for a trough include, but are not limited to polycarbonate, foam, polypropylene, rubberised polymer, composite, polymer.
  • the trough is formed of the same material throughout.
  • the trough is made from two or more materials.
  • a flexible material might be used in the portions of the trough expected to change shape to accommodate a dental arch (e.g. foam in the inner wall of the trough), and a stiff material used to support components (e.g.
  • the walls of a trough are formed from substantially a single continuous sheet so forming a sealed device.
  • the trough may, for example, be formed in a mould, and components and working parts introduced therein during a moulding process.
  • a device of the invention is formed of different interfitting parts.
  • a device may be assembled from separately moulded parts which are clipped and/or sealed together.
  • the inner trough wall and the outer trough wall might be separately formed, so that during production, components and working parts can be readily assembled into the device.
  • reversibly interfitting parts allow access to be gained to the workings of the device, for example, for repair or to change a battery etc.
  • Figure 6C depicts a device of the invention comprising a sub mould part 68, a soft form trough 61 , and a battery cover 64.
  • a separate sub mould part 68 facilitates convenient assembly of a device during production, and the compartment cover 64 allows the battery to be changed.
  • the trough is of a size, shape and flexibility to allow an adaptable fit on a wide variety of dental arches.
  • suitable shapes include U-shaped, horse-shoe shaped troughs.
  • a single size has the benefit of reduced mass- production costs, reduced storage space requirements and simpler consumer choice.
  • the trough is available in a variety of sizes and/or shapes.
  • a choice of sizes and shapes provides a close-fitting appliance, and allows the appropriate degree of treatment to be delivered for a given size of dental arch.
  • the trough is custom-made for a particular dental arch.
  • a custom-fitting device has the best fit which allows the functionality to be precisely delivered, and hence the appropriate degree of treatment to the dental arch.
  • a trough further comprises a means to receive one or more said electrical components, stimulation or heat-providing devices.
  • Said means are any which allow said components to be positioned so that their functionality is provided towards the desired location. Examples of such means include but are not limited to one or more hollows in the wall of the trough, one or more grooves, holes, lugs, ridges, slots, gripping means etc, provided in said hollow or a wall of the trough.
  • the trough further comprises a receiving or supporting means to hold one or more agents.
  • the trough further comprises a receiving means to receive one or more inserts, said inserts comprising said agents.
  • An example of receiving means include the base of the trough, one or more grooves, one or more holes, one or more gripping means, one or more lugs, one more ridges, one or more slots etc.
  • the brace further comprises a receiving means or supporting for one or more inserts, said inserts comprising said agents.
  • a receiving means may be a slot for holding a gel strip.
  • a supporting means may be a wire for supporting a gel strip in contact with the teeth in situ.
  • Such a receiving means in the dental device allows agents which are activated or enhanced by, for example, light, heat, electrical and/or physical stimulation to be provided to a subject's teeth and/or gums, while being closely and precisely coupled to the source of light, heat, electrical or physical stimulation. It further allows the agents which transmit, for example, light, heat, electrical and/or physical stimulation to be provide in intimate contact with the source of the light, heat, electrical and/or physical stimulation and a subject's teeth and/or gums.
  • a dental device is a brace
  • it comprises wire elements suitable for clipping said brace to the teeth.
  • the wire elements may be held in a support which is shaped to fit the behind the teeth.
  • a brace according to the invention is of the removable construction, well known in the art in orthodontic treatments, and as a 'fake brace' for cosmetic effect.
  • a brace of the invention comprises one wire element which spans the front of the teeth.
  • other wire elements include one or more clips suitable for attachment to other teeth (e.g. rear molars, wisdom teeth etc).
  • Material suitable for wire elements are known in the art of orthodontics and include, but are not limited to titanium, stainless steel, gold, silver, platinum, copper, ceramic, plastic, plastic/metal composite.
  • the support typically adopts the shape of the of the posterior (inner) face of the teeth.
  • the support as known in the art, is designed to lie behind the upper or lower teeth. It is usually in intimate contact with the posterior face of the upper or lower teeth, along at least part of the teeth.
  • the support may be horse-shape shaped. Where the brace is designed for the upper teeth, the support may adopt at least part of the shape of the upper palate.
  • Material suitable for the support include, but are not limited to polycarbonate, polypropylene, rubberised polymer, composite, polymer.
  • the brace is of a size, shape and flexibility to allow an adaptable fit on a wide variety of dental arches.
  • suitable shapes include U-shaped, horse-shoe shaped.
  • a single size has the benefit of reduced mass-production costs, reduced storage space requirements and simpler consumer choice.
  • the brace is available in a variety of sizes and/or shapes.
  • a choice of sizes and shapes provides a close-fitting appliance, and allows the appropriate degree of treatment to be delivered for a given size of dental arch.
  • the brace is custom-made for a particular dental arch.
  • a custom-fitting device has the best fit which allows the functionality to be precisely delivered, and hence the appropriate degree of treatment to the dental arch.
  • a brace further comprises a means to receive one or more said electrical components, stimulation means and/or heat-providing devices.
  • Said means are any which allow said components to be positioned so that their functionality is provided towards the desired location. Examples of such means include but are not limited to one or more one or more lugs, ridges, gripping means etc, provided in the wire or support of said brace .
  • one or more wire elements may also provide aforementioned functionality.
  • one or more wires of the brace can provide heat (e.g. a wire element incorporating a heating element).
  • one or more wires of the brace provide light (e.g. a wire element incorporating an electroluminescent light).
  • one or more wires of the brace provide electrical stimulation (e.g. a wire element incorporating one or more electrodes).
  • the brace further comprises a receiving means to receive one or more agents.
  • a receiving means includes a clip suitable for attachment of an agent in a solid form.
  • the solid agent may take the form of a band (medband) or thin tape strip which lies between the teeth and the wire of the brace.
  • Such brace form of the dental device allows agents which are activated or enhanced by, for example, light, heat, electrical, stimulation to be provided to a subject's teeth and/or gums, while being closely and precisely coupled to the source of light, heat, electrical stimulation etc. It further allows the agents which transmit, for example, light, heat, electrical stimulation to be provide in intimate contact with the source of the functionality and a subject's teeth and/or gums.
  • a dental device according to the present invention is provided with one or more electrical components, said components providing additional functionality.
  • At least one component is a light emitting diode (LED).
  • An LED of the present invention may be any suitable for inclusion in a wall of the trough or attachment to a brace.
  • the provision of at least one LED in a device according to the invention enhances dental processes which require light such as curing, bleaching, and illumination.
  • An LED has a long lifetime compared with bulbs presently used, therefore, a device of the present invention requires low maintenance.
  • the power consumption of an LED is lower than that of a convention bulb, therefore, the power supply may also be miniturised and battery life extended.
  • LEDs are capable of emitting light only, while emitting little or no heat, therefore, procedures which are enhanced only by light can be selectively activated, such as blue light curing, while procedures which are enhanced only be heat are not expedited.
  • An LED provided in a device according to the invention allows light to be directly administered to the teeth and or gums, and may be used to activate substances contained in the trough or in a med-band (see below) such as bleaching agent, anti-bacterial agent, pain killer etc.
  • an LED is capable of emitting light of a single wavelength or range of wavelengths.
  • the spectral bands of light include, but are not limited to visible light, ultraviolet (UV) light, and infrared light.
  • an LED can be any, including but not limited to a coloured LED (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet etc), a white-light LED, an ultrabright LED.
  • coloured LEDs the emitted wavelength or range of wavelengths are any of the visible spectrum, and are generally in the range 420 to 660 nm.
  • an LED may emit blue light (e.g. between 400 and 500 nm).
  • An LED according to the invention may be any capable of providing UV light.
  • the emitted wavelength or range of wavelengths are any of the UV spectrum, and are generally within the range 370 to 410 nm.
  • An LED according to the invention may be any capable of providing IR light.
  • the IR light may be in the near-infrared spectrum.
  • the wavelength or range of wavelengths are generally in the range 750 to 1300 nm, 800 to 1200 nm, 900 to 1100 nm, 900 to 1000 nm, 750 to 1000 nm, or 1000 to 1300 nm.
  • an LED is capable of providing heat. Heat may be provided by means of said LED emitting infrared radiation, preferably in the far infrared spectrum.
  • Examples of the wavelengths include, but are not limited to 1400 to 14 000 nm, 1 400 to 10 000 nm, 1 400 to 8 000 nm, 1 400 to 7 000 nm, 1 400 to 6 000 nm, 1 400 to 5 000 nm, 1 400 to 4 000 nm, 1 400 to 3 000 nm, and 1 400 to 2 000 nm.
  • the provision of at least one far-IR LED in a device according to the invention enhances and activates dental processes which require heat such as curing, bleaching and pain relief.
  • a far- IR LED provided in a device according to the invention allows heat to be directly administered to the teeth and or gums, and may be used to activate and enhance the action of substances contained in the trough such as bleaching agent, anti-bacterial agent, pain killer etc. It may also be used without any agent, or in combination with a heat conducting material in the trough to provide therapeutic heat to the teeth and/or gums.
  • the number of LEDs in a device of the invention when present may be 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 , 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20, or more than 20.
  • At least one component is an electrolumiscent device (ELD).
  • ELD electrolumiscent device
  • Electrons are accelerated to ballistic energies by high fields in the phosphor
  • the luminescent center relaxes toward the ground state and emits a photon.
  • All ELDs have the same basic structure as known by the skilled person. There usually at least six layers to the device.
  • the first layer is a baseplate (usually a rigid insulator like glass), the second is a conductor, the third is an insulator, the fourth is a layer of phosphors, and the fifth is an insulator, and the sixth is another conductor.
  • ELDs are quite similar to capacitors except for the phosphor layer.
  • An ELD can be thought of as a "lossy capacitor” in that it becomes electrically charged and then loses its energy in the form of light.
  • the insulator layers are necessary to prevent arcing between the two conductive layers.
  • An alternating current (AC) is generally used to drive an ELD because the light generated by the current decays when a constant voltage is applied. There may be, however, ELDs that are DC driven.
  • ELDs are well known in the art, and understood to mean illumination devices characterised according to one or more of the features below: - comprising a (semiconducting) phosphor,
  • an ELD comprises a pair of electrodes and a phosphor layer, said electrodes capable of activating the phosphor, or
  • an ELD comprises an inverter.
  • the electrodes and phosphor assembly in an ELD which emit light can be arranged in a variety of configurations as known to the skilled person. For example, they can form a wire, a thin panel which can be a strip, tape, or any regular or irregular shape. They can be flexible or rigid.
  • An ELD of the present invention may be any suitable for inclusion in a wall of the trough.
  • An ELD of the present invention may be any suitable for incorporation into a brace.
  • the provision of at least one ELD in a device according to the invention enhances dental processes which require light such as curing, light sources or bulbs presently used, therefore, a device of the present invention requires low maintenance.
  • An ELD provides light continuously and evenly along the length of the electrode thereby providing equal energy to the desired teeth, without hotspots (intense light) or blackspots (weak/no light).
  • the power consumption of an ELD is lower than that of a convention light sources, therefore, the power supply may also be minaturised and battery life extended.
  • ELDs are capable of emitting light only, while emitting little or no heat, therefore, procedures which are enhanced only by light can be selectively activated, such as blue light curing, while procedure ⁇ which are enhanced only by heat are not expedited.
  • An ELD provided in a device according to the invention allows light to be directly administered to the teeth and or gums, and may be used to activate substances contained in the trough or brace such as bleaching agent, anti-bacterial agent, pain killer etc.
  • an ELDs is capable of emitting light of a single wavelength or range of wavelengths.
  • the spectral bands of light include, but are not limited to visible light and ultraviolet (UV) light.
  • the ELDs of the present invention are different from LEDs as is understood by the skilled person.
  • an ELD can be any, including but not limited to a coloured ELD (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet etc), a white-light ELD, an ultrabright ELD.
  • coloured ELD the emitted wavelength or range of wavelengths are any of the visible spectrum, and are generally in the range 420 to 660 nm.
  • an ELD may emit blue light (e.g. between 400 and 500 nm).
  • An ELD according to the invention may be any capable of providing UV light.
  • the emitted wavelength or range of wavelengths are any of the UV spectrum, and are generally within the range 370 to 410 nm.
  • An ELD according to the invention may be any capable of providing IR light.
  • the IR light may be in the near-infrared spectrum.
  • the wavelength or range of wavelengths are generally in the range 750 to 1300 nm, 800 to 1200 nm, 900 to 1100 nm, 900 to 1000 nm, 750 to 1000 nm, or 1000 to 1300 nm.
  • the number of ELDs in a device of the invention when present may be 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 , 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20, or more than 20.
  • an ELDs provides a continuous light.
  • an ELDs provides a pulsating light.
  • the frequency of pulsation may be more than 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 , 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 , 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 , 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41 , 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51 , 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58 59, 60 or more than 60 times per second. It may be 1 to 400, 1 to 300, 1 to 200 , 1 to 150, 1 to 100, 1 to 50 or 1 to 25 times per second.
  • the pulsation may be "on or off", or may fade to "on or off states.
  • ELDs generally provide light via one or more wires which illuminate across their entire length, and around 360 deg.
  • a device of the present invention may be provided with one or more reflectors, positioned to reflect some or most of the light emitted away from the teeth, back towards one or more surfaces of the teeth. For example, where an ELD provides light towards the anterior surface of the teeth, one or more reflectors located towards the anterior of the device may reflect light back towards the teeth such that little or no EL can be seen through the anterior of the device.
  • any of the inverter, controller and/or power supply are integrated into the device. According to one aspect of the invention, any of the inverter, controller and/or power supply are not integrated into the device.
  • One or more ELD components may be located outside the trough. For example, the inverter, controller and/or power supply may be located so that they are outside the mouth when the device is inserted.
  • At least one component is a means for providing heat such as a heat transducer.
  • a heat transducer is any device capable of transforming electrical current into heat. Examples of heat transducers include, but are not limited to, a wire heating element, a ceramic heating element, a silicon heating element, a semi-conductor heating element, a far IR light source, a heating strip, and a far-IR light emitting diode (LED) as mentioned above.
  • the advantages of providing a heat transducer in a device of the invention are mentioned above in the context of a far-IR LED.
  • the number of heat transducers in a device of the invention when present may be 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 , 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20, or more than 20.
  • a far-IR light source is capable of emitting far IR radiation at a single wavelength or at a range of wavelengths in the far-IR spectrum.
  • the wavelengths include, but are not limited to Examples of the wavelengths include, but are not limited to 1400 to 14 000 nm, 1 400 to 10 000 nm, 1 400 to 8 000 nm, 1 400 to 7 000 nm, 1 400 to 6 000 nm, 1 400 to 5 000 nm, 1 400 to 4 000 nm, 1 400 to 3 000 nm, 1 400 to 2 000 nm.
  • At least one heat transducer in a device according to the invention enhances the effects of physical stimulation.
  • the combination of two or more of physical stimulation, electrical stimulation, light and heat e.g. physical stimulation and heat
  • At least one heat transducer provided in a device according to the invention allows heat to be directly administered to the teeth and or gums. Heat may be used to activate and enhance the action of substances contained in the device such as cleaning agent, anti-bacterial agent, pain killer, plaque loosening agent etc. It may also be used without any agent, or in combination with a heat conducting material to provide therapeutic heat treatment to the teeth and/or gums.
  • At least one component is a stimulating means for delivering stimulating electrical current.
  • stimulating means include electrodes, pads and associated circuitry.
  • a stimulating means provided in a device according to the invention allows electrical stimulation to be directly administered to the teeth and/or gums, or may be used to activate and enhance the action of substances such as bleaching agent, cleaning agent, anti-bacterial agent, pain killer etc. It may also be used without a substance, or in combination with an electrical conducting material to provide therapeutic stimulation to the teeth and/or gums. For example, electrical stimulation may be applied to reduce pain, increase blood flow, enhance healing by providing Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS). The pulses and intensity thereof for such relief are known to the skilled person. It is a further aspect of the invention that a device of the present invention is provided with one or more connectors to allow a device of the present invention to connect to a TENS pulse providing unit.
  • the number of electrical stimulation means in a device of the invention when present may be 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 , 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20, or more than 20.
  • a device is provided with one or more means for providing physical stimulation.
  • at least one means for providing physical stimulation is a transducer that can convert electrical current into vibrational (translational) or rotational movement.
  • Physical stimulation is within the ordinary meaning of the word.
  • physical stimulation implies the use of a mechanical force applied to a subject. Examples of such force include dragging, rubbing, abrasing, brushing, scraping, polishing, massaging, scrubbing, grinding, etc. depending on the degree of force necessary to achieve the desired effect.
  • the frequency of such movement (or energy) may be suitable for, for example, rotating a set of bristles on the surface of teeth and gums.
  • the frequency of such movement may be suitable for ultrasonic cleaning of teeth by an immersible ultrasonic transducer, for example.
  • the frequency of such movement may be suitable for massaging teeth and gums by use of an ultrasonic motor, for example.
  • the intensity of the movement may be adjusted according to the desired application.
  • any transducer producing physical stimulation is suitable for a dental device disclosed herein.
  • At least one means for providing physical stimulation is an ultrasonic transducer.
  • An ultrasonic transducer can be any type, including, but not limited to, air transducers, contact transducers, ultrasonic transmitters, piezoelectric transducers, piezo film transducers, and magnetostrictive transducers.
  • the number of ultrasonic transducers in a device of the invention when present may be 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 , 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20, or more than 20.
  • the frequency range of an ultrasonic transducer according to the invention is between 20 to 800 kHz, 20 and 700 kHz, 20 and 600 kHz, 20 and 500 kHz, 20 and 400 kHz, 20 and 300 kHz, 20 and 200 kHz, 20 and 150 kHz, 20 and 100 kHz, 20 and 50 kHz, 20 and 30 kHz, or 20 and 250 kHz.
  • An ultrasonic transducer provided in a device according to the invention allows ultrasonic stimulation to be directly administered to the teeth and/or gums, and may be used to activate and enhance the action of substances contained in the device such as, for example, cleaning agent, anti-bacterial agent, pain killer, massage gel etc.
  • Ultrasonic stimulation may also be used without an active substance, or in combination with an ultrasound-conducting material to provide, for example, ultrasonic cleaning to the teeth and/or gums, increasing blood flow to the gums, loosening plaque on the teeth and below the gums, massage, healing, and stimulation of the tissues.
  • At least one means for providing physical stimulation is an ultrasonic motor.
  • An ultrasonic motor according to the invention can be any type, including but not limited to ultrasonic piezoelectric motors, and thin-disc piezoceramic ultrasonic motor transducers.
  • the number of ultrasonic motors in a device of the invention when present may be 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 , 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20, or more than 20.
  • an ultrasonic motor provides a massaging to the teeth and/or gums which increases blood flow, loosens plaque and enhances healing.
  • An ultrasonic motor may be positioned anywhere in the device suitable for conducting physical stimulation to the teeth and/or gums.
  • an ultrasonic motor may be positioned such that it vibrates at least a portion of a trough or brace as disclosed herein.
  • Figure 5B depicts four ultrasonic motors located towards the ends of the dental device, two of which provide vibrations to each of the upper and lower trough.
  • Such an ultrasonic motor may conduct movement to one or more protrusions located on the device and described below. Said protrusions contact the teeth and/or gums, and are capable of abrasive cleaning and/or polishing thereof.
  • At least one means for providing physical stimulation is a magnetic motor.
  • a magnetic motor is any which uses a magnet or magnetism to drive movement.
  • An magnetic motor according to the invention can be any type, including but not limited to permanent-magnet motors, AC motors.
  • the number of magnetic motors in a device of the invention when present may be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 , 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20, or more than 20.
  • Such a magnetic motor provides a massaging to the teeth and/or gums which increases blood flow, loosens plaque and enhances healing.
  • a magnetic motor may be positioned anywhere in the device suitable for conducting physical stimulation to the teeth and/or gums.
  • Such an magnetic motor may conduct movement to one or more protrusions located on the device and described below. Said protrusions contact the teeth and/or gums, and are capable of abrasive cleaning and/or polishing thereof.
  • a device comprises more than one of the same type of component.
  • a device may be disposed with a row of LED each of which emits blue light.
  • a device comprises more than one different types of component.
  • a device may be disposed with a row of UV-, blue-light LEDs, and electrodes.
  • a dental device comprises one or more means to provide physical stimulation. Said means may a number of ultrasonic motors, a number of ultrasonic transducers, a number of magnetic motors or a combination of both.
  • a dental device may comprise one or more heat providing means.
  • Said heat-providing means my be a number of far IR-LEDS, a number of heat transducers, or both. Such functionality may be provided simultaneously or during separate treatments.
  • the electrical components are positioned such that functionality (e.g. light, heat, ultrasonic vibration) is directed towards the desired location.
  • functionality e.g. light, heat, ultrasonic vibration
  • the positioning of components is known to the skilled person.
  • At least one electrical component is positioned such that functionality is directed towards the anterior surface of said teeth and/or gums. This may be achieved, for example, by providing an electrical component on or in the inner anterior wall of the trough, or by incorporating or attaching an electrical component into a wire of a brace. It may also be achieved by providing an electrical component in a hollow between the anterior inner and outer walls of a trough.
  • At least one electrical component is positioned such that functionality is directed towards the posterior surface of said teeth and/or gums. This may be achieved, for example, by providing an electrical component on or in the inner posterior wall of the trough, or by an electrical component into the support of a brace. It may also be achieved by providing an electrical component in a hollow between the posterior inner and outer trough walls.
  • At least one electrical component is positioned such that functionality is directed towards to the top surface of said teeth and/or gums. This may be achieved, for example, by providing an electrical component on or in the inner base wall of the trough, or by in incorporating an electrical component into a portion of a brace which crosses the top surface of the teeth. It may also be achieved by providing an electrical component in a hollow between the base inner and outer trough walls. According to another embodiment of the present invention, at least one electrical component is positioned such that functionality is directed towards the top surface of said teeth and/or gums located on the opposing dental arch. This may be achieved, for example, by providing an electrical component on or in the outer base wall of the trough.
  • dental device may be provided with a visible light LED or ELD positioned in the outer wall of the base of the trough, projecting light towards the teeth and gums on the opposing dental arch.
  • At least one electrical component may be disposed within the wall of the trough so that the functionality is provided through the material of the wall of the trough.
  • at least part of an electrical component is exposed, so that functionality does not necessarily pass though the material of a wall of the trough.
  • at least part of a component is recessed, proud or flush with the surface of the trough.
  • a dental device comprises electrical components arranged to that functionality is directed towards two or more of i) the anterior surface of the teeth and/or gums, ii) the posterior surface of said teeth and/or gums, iii) the top surface of said teeth and/or gums.
  • the top, front and/or back of a subject's teeth and/or gums may be treated by a single device.
  • At least part of an electrical component is provided in a hollow between the inner and outer walls of a trough, so providing functionality to the top surface, anterior surface, and/or posterior surface of said teeth and/or gums, depending on how said component is positioned in said hollow.
  • a dental device according to the present invention may be provided with a row of visible light LEDs positioned in a hollow between the anterior inner and outer trough walls; they may project light through the material of the inner trough wall towards the anterior surface of the teeth and gums.
  • a dental device may be provided with one or more ultrasonic motors, disposed in separate hollows towards the ends of a trough (see for example, Figure 6D which depicts a single ultrasonic motor, 73). They provide vibration to one or more the surfaces of the teeth and/or gums of a dental arch.
  • a dental device may be further provided with a row of far-IR LEDs positioned in a hollow between the anterior inner and outer trough walls; they may project IR heat through the material of the inner trough wall towards the anterior surface of the teeth and gums.
  • the number of electrical components (e.g. physical stimulation providing means) in a dental device is at least one.
  • the number of electrical components may be sufficient to provide treatment in the regions required.
  • the number of electrical components may be sufficient to provide functionality of an intensity required.
  • the number may be sufficient to provide sufficient coverage of the dental arch.
  • a device further comprising one or more means to regulate said electrical components.
  • a means includes a controller comprising circuitry.
  • a controller may regulate each component, or may regulate two or more components as part of the same circuit.
  • the means may regulate the intensity of the functionality e.g. the brightness of the LED, the intensity of an ELD, the heat output from the heat transducer, the intensity of electrical stimulation, the heat output from a ceramic heating element, the intensity of the ultrasound from an ultrasound transducer, the intensity of heat from an IR LED etc.
  • the means may provide a programmed pulsing of an electrical component e.g.
  • the means may provide an electrical component with timed on and off periods. Such timing would provide a fixed treatment time, a variable treatment time, a progressively shorter treatment time or a treatment regiment prescribed by a dental practitioner or manufacturer. Such means may be programmable or "hard-wired”.
  • the regulating means provides pulses suitable for TENS pain relief. Controlling the functionality of one or more components allows the treatment to be precisely modulated according to the needs of the subject.
  • the treatment to be compatible with any substance or concentration thereof placed in the trough or in contact with the brace. It further allows a single device to have multiple functionality, said functions being activated depending on the treatment required (e.g. blue/UV light for curing, heat for pain relief, the necessary components therefor being present in the same device; heat and vibration for pain relief, vibration only for plaque removal, the necessary components therefor being present in the same device).
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a programming device comprising a means for transmitting regulating information to the controller.
  • the means for transmitting information to the controller may be any, including, but not limited to one, or more electrical contacts, electromagnetic radiation, optical link.
  • a programming device may optionally comprise one or more of the following features: a supporting means for the dental device, a user input means, a display, a computer interface. It is a further aspect of the invention that said programming device comprises one or more of the features of the charging device mentioned below.
  • a dental device further comprising a sound transducer or a vibration transducer which indicates to a subject by sound or by vibration a stage of the treatment, while the subject is wearing said dental device.
  • a sound may be any audible signal, and includes but is not limited to a buzz, one or more tones, clicks, or speech or music.
  • a vibration may be any that can be felt by a dental arch.
  • a device may signal by means of said transducer, for example, the start of treatment, end of treatment, number of minutes until the end of treatment, an error, a change in the program, battery life etc.
  • speech is used to indicate an event, sound may be transmitted to the ear via the bones of the jaw.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a device further comprising at least one visual indicating means.
  • An indicating means may be used to provide information such as, for example, battery life, type of program, programming information, program intensity, and any other aspect of the treatment. Examples of indicating means include, but are not limited to LEDs, LCDs.
  • the visual indicating may be one or more LEDs and/or ELDs which are components disposed in the device.
  • a power source may be a battery, a rechargeable cell or any other self- contained means for providing electrical current.
  • a battery may be any, such as, for example, a button battery.
  • a rechargeable cell may be recharged through a mains powered adapter, a car-battery powered adapter, a solar charging means or any other suitable source of electrical current.
  • the device is powered by an external power source.
  • a device is provided with a means for connection to an external power source.
  • the external power source may be, for example, an external battery pack, mains power, solar power, wind-up ("clockwork") generator. Where main power is used, an transformer may reduce the voltage if necessary.
  • the device takes power from a source already available in a bathroom, such as, for example, from an electric tooth brush.
  • the device may be equipped with means to draw power from an electric tooth brush recharger e.g. via a device compatible with the charging base of a tooth brush, such as a conductance coil.
  • the device may be equipped with means to draw power from an electric tooth brush e.g. from the head portion of an ultrasonic electric toothbrush.
  • a device comprises at least one power source which is removable.
  • a button battery might be removed once it has expired, and be replaced with a fresh battery.
  • a device might be supplied with a battery present not as part of the device, for insertion into a device upon use.
  • a device has a means for holding a power source, such that said source can be inserted and removed by a user of the device.
  • Said means may comprise, for example, a battery compartment comprising one or more electrical contacts.
  • Said means may further comprise one or more of a shaped recess complementary in shape to at least part of a battery, a removable compartment cover, a battery clip, a battery cartridge. Any means for holding a power source so that said source changable is suitable according to the present invention.
  • a device comprises at least one sealed power source which is designed to last for a fixed number of treatments. Once the treatment has finished or battery life has expired, the device and battery therein are disposed of.
  • Charging device One embodiment of the present invention is a charging device comprising a means for providing charging current to a rechargeable cell of the dental device.
  • the charging current may be provided by any means, including electrical contact, conductance, electromagnetic radiation.
  • a charging device may optionally comprise one or more of the following features: a supporting means for the dental device, a user input means, a display, a computer interface. It is a further aspect of the invention that said charging device comprises one or more of the features of the programming device mentioned above.
  • a switching means may be used to allow control of the device. For example to turn the device on or off, to select a program, to select an intensity, to program the regulator.
  • Reading means Another embodiment of the present invention is a device further comprising at least one reading means for reading information provided by an insert.
  • Said reading means may read information regarding the insert such as the agents held therein, the concentration of agents, the appropriate functionality (e.g. heat, light, ultrasound), the intensity of functionality required, the duration of functionality required.
  • Such as reading means may be any, including but not limited to electrical contacts, optical reader, electromagnetic receiver.
  • the one or more of the electrical components, controller, sound and switch may be cooperatively connected, wired and configured in a device using methods and technologies known to the skilled person.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a dental device further comprising a second device as disclosed herein, said second device arranged so that the teeth and/or gums of both the upper and lower arches are each immersable in a trough.
  • the upper and lower trough are provided with the functionality as disclosed herein.
  • Such a double-troughed dental device allows both the upper and lower arches to be treated simultaneously, so halving the time for the treatment of both arches.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a double-troughed dental device described above further comprising a means for the passage of air between the posterior and anterior of said dental device.
  • a means may be any, and includes, but is not limited to, one or more openings between the upper and lower troughs, one or more ducts connecting the posterior of the dental device to its anterior end. Said means allows a subject to breathe comfortably while receiving treatment from the device.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a double-troughed dental device described above wherein each trough is provide with its own controller, battery compartment and/or switch.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a double-troughed dental device described above wherein the device is provided a single controller, battery compartment and/or switch.
  • One embodiment of the present invention is a dental device provided in a colour, style and/or material to enable identification of a personal dental device.
  • a device may be provided in a variety of opaque bright colours, translucent materials, patterned polymers, composites, designer styles, custom painted, photographically etched, embossed, engraved etc. styles.
  • identification may be required, for example, in families wherein each family member is in possession of a dental device of the present invention.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a dental device disclosed herein constructed in part from a translucent material which allows light from one or more LED or ELD electrical components to be viewed from the open mouth of a subject.
  • Children for example, may be reluctant to wear a dental device for any period of time, due to the often unsightly appearance of dental devices. Therefore, it is an aspect of the invention to provide a dental device disposed with at least one visible light LED and/or ELD which may be viewed from the open mouth of a subject, e.g through the translucent material of a trough.
  • a further aspect of the invention is a device wherein two or more visible light LEDs illuminate in a pattern, such as, for example, chasing lights, flashing light etc.
  • a further aspect of the invention is a device wherein at least two visible light LEDs are different colours.
  • a device may have a row of LEDs, each a different colour, and which flash in a predetermined pattern, or in time to speech or music.
  • two or more visible light LEDs are two or more visible light ELD or at least one visible light LED and at least one visible light ELD in the above embodiments.
  • Such an arrangement of LEDs and/or ELDs encourages children, for example, to wear a dental device while receiving treatment - the LEDs/ELDs providing a distraction while simultaneously providing treatment to the teeth and/or gums of the dental arch.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is an insert comprising one or more agents, for receiving the functionality of at least one electrical component of a dental device as disclosed herein.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is an insert comprising one or more agents and a means for reciprocating with the receiving means of the dental device in order to locate correctly and optionally secure the insert into a receiving means of the dental device.
  • the functionality of the dental device e.g. visible light, UV light, IR-light, heat, electrical, physical stimulation
  • An insert of the present invention allows agents which are activated or enhanced by, for example, light, heat, physical or electrical stimulation to be provided to a subject's teeth and/or gums, while being closely and precisely coupled to the source of light, heat, electrical stimulation.
  • agents which are activated or enhanced by, for example, light, heat, physical or electrical stimulation to be provided to a subject's teeth and/or gums, while being closely and precisely coupled to the source of light, heat, electrical stimulation.
  • An insert of the present invention may also allow the agents which transmit, for example, light, heat, electrical stimulation to be in intimate contact with the source of the light, heat, electrical, physical stimulation and a subject's teeth and/or gums. Good conductance so achieved allows efficient conductance of the functionality to the teeth and/or gums and further means that treatment can be controlled and adjusted according to the needs of the subject.
  • an insert comprises one or more agents which are bleaching agents suitable for whitening teeth.
  • bleaching agents are known in the art and include but are not limited to oxygen radical generating agent such as metal ion free peroxides, organic peroxides, metal ion containing peroxides, metal chlorites, perborates, percarbonates, peroxyacids and combinations thereof.
  • oxygen radical generating agent such as metal ion free peroxides, organic peroxides, metal ion containing peroxides, metal chlorites, perborates, percarbonates, peroxyacids and combinations thereof.
  • Specific, non- limiting examples of bleaching agents suitable for use with the invention are redox agents such as monopersulfate, Oxone, ammonium persulfate, potassium persulfate, potassium monopersulfate, potassium peroxymonosulfate, potassium bisulfate, potassium sulfate, and potassium peroxidisulfate.
  • bleaching agents suitable for use with the device of the invention are the peroxide class of bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide, calcium peroxide, carbamide peroxide, urea peroxide, sodium percarbonate, sodium perborate, calcium hydroxide, calcium chlorite, barium chlorite, magnesium chlorite, lithium chlorite, potassium chlorate, hypochlorite, chlorine dioxide, magnesium carbonate and perhydrol urea and mixtures and derivatives thereof.
  • the bleaching agent used is hydrogen peroxide.
  • an insert comprises one or more cleaning agents, which are suitable for cleaning with teeth and gums. Examples of cleaning agents include baking soda, tooth paste, and tooth gel.
  • an insert comprises one or more pain-relief agents, which are suitable for relieving pain associated with teeth, gums and nerves.
  • pain-relieving agents include but are not limited to aspirin, ibuprofen, b durva.
  • an insert comprises one or more anti-bacterial agents, which are suitable for treating bacterial associated with the teeth gums and nerves.
  • anti-bacterial agents include but are not limited to penicillin, erythromycin, chlroamphenicol, tetracycline.
  • an insert comprises one or more anti-bad-breath agents, which are suitable for treating bad breath (e.g. halitosis).
  • anti-bad breath agents include but are not limited to cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), zinc chloride, and chlorhexidine.
  • an insert comprises one or more healing agents, which are suitable for treating wounds, operational openings, swellings or lesions caused by dental braces, dental implants etc.
  • healing agents include but are not limited to vitamin E, aloe vera.
  • an insert comprises one or more plaque-removing agents.
  • plaque removing agents include, but are not limited to triclosan, chlorhexidine gluconate, cetylpyridinium chloride, sanguinarine, stannous fluoride, octenidine, bispyridine, and delmopinol.
  • an insert comprises tooth polish.
  • an insert comprises a formulation, suitable for conducting a functionality to the teeth and/or gums.
  • a formulation suitable for conducting heat, physical stimulation (e.g. vibration), light, electrical stimulation etc.
  • Such a formulation enable the efficient and effective transfer of heat, light, electrical, physical stimulation from the trough or brace to the teeth and/or gums.
  • an insert may comprise a combination of agents and/or formulations which permit multiple treatments, enhanced by multiple functionalities.
  • an insert may comprise light-activated pain relief agents, heat-enhanced menthol agents and agents for conducting electrical stimulation; a suitably configured device may simultaneously or sequentially activate the pain relief agents, enhance the methanol agents and provide TENS therapy.
  • an insert may comprise heat- enhanced menthol agents and agents for conducting ultrasonic vibration; a suitably configured device may simultaneously or sequentially enhance the methanol agents and provide message therapy.
  • Such a multiple therapy delivered by a single unit provide enhanced treatment for the subject in a conveniently-delivered form.
  • an insert comprises a cassette which holds one or more agents formulated in a suitable carrier.
  • a cassette is at least partially trough-shaped and is suitable for insertion into at least part of the trough of the device.
  • Said cassette permits the immersion of teeth and/or gums of a dental arch therein.
  • Said cassette permits functionality provided by the trough (e.g. light, heat, physical stimulation etc) to be conveyed to the agents held within the cassette.
  • the conveyance of functionality maybe provided, for example,
  • a material for the cassette which allows the functionality to pass therethrough e.g. a clear polymer for the transmission of visible light, a heat conducting substance for the transmission of hear
  • said cassette is made from a solid, polymeric material.
  • said cassette is provided with a means for indicating the contents held therein which can be read by a reading means in the trough.
  • a cassette provided with bleaching agents formulated in a suitable carrier may provide an indication of one or more of the following: the bleaching agents held, the concentration of bleaching agents, the appropriate functionality (e.g. heat, light, physical stimulation) required to interact with the agents, the intensity of functionality required, the duration of functionality required.
  • a cassette provided with an indicating means may be inserted into a dental device, and said device will automatically select the treatment program for use with the contents of the cassette. If the device is not equipped with the appropriate functionalty, it may indicate so through, for example, an audible signal, and not proceed with the treatment.
  • Such an indicating on the cassette means may be, for example, light readable, electronically readable (e.g. a chip), physically readable (e.g. one or more grooves), electromagnetically readable etc.
  • said cassette is provided with a means for reciprocating with the receiving means of the dental device in order to locate correctly and optionally secure the cassette into the dental device.
  • This means may interact with any of the trough base, ridges, grooves, holes, lugs etc. of the receiving of the dental device means mentioned above.
  • Suitable formulations of the agents for a cassette are any which provide the appropriate viscosity, stickiness, friction, and are compatible with the cassette, teeth/gums and trough. Considerations include the ability of the formulation to enter crevices of the teeth and gums, ability to be contained within the cassette without undue spillage, ability to conduct functionality (e.g. light, heat, physical stimulation) to the agents and the teeth, ability to remain on a dental arch for a period of time, compatibility with the agents. Suitable formulations of agents and carrier are known to the person skilled in the art.
  • a cassette facilitates the cleaning of the trough, since the agent is contained within the cassette. This allows a trough to be constructed from lightweight and less robust materials which are not required to withstand abrasive cleaning. After use, for example, a trough may be left to soak.
  • the cassette may be refillable or disposable. The refillable option allows a cost-saving for the subject, while the disposable option provides convenience.
  • an insert is formulated as a stick gel for insertion into a dental device disclosed herein.
  • Suitable formulations of the agents for a stick gel are any which provide the appropriate viscosity, stickiness, friction, and are compatible with the teeth/gums and trough. Considerations include the ability to enter crevices of the teeth and gums, ability to be contained within the trough without undue spillage, ability to conduct functionality (e.g. light, heat, electrical, physical stimulation) to the agents and the teeth, ability to remain on a dental arch for a period of time, compatibility with the agents, ability to maintain a form which can be inserted and removed from the trough. Suitable formulations of agents and carrier are known to the person skilled in the art.
  • the stick gel can be formulated in a high viscosity aqueous or nonaqueous gel.
  • gelling agents useful in the present invention include carboxymethyl cellulose, carboxypolymethylene, carboxypropyl cellulose, poloxamer, carrageenan, silica and natural gums such as gum karaya, xanthan gum, Guar gum, gum arabic and mixtures thereof.
  • the amount of gelling agent to form the gel composition can be from 0.1% to 15%, preferably from 1% to 10% by weight of the substance.
  • Humectants may be added when formulating the bleaching agent in a gel.
  • suitable humectants useful in the present invention include glycerin, sorbitol, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol and other food grade polyhydric alcohols.
  • humectants can be present in an amount of from 10% to 95% by weight of substance.
  • a pH adjusting agent may be added to optimize stability of the gel and make it safe for the hard and soft tissues in the oral cavity.
  • suitable pH adjusting agents include sodium hydroxide, sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, citric acid and combinations thereof.
  • a stick gel is a straight tube-shape having sufficient flexibility be bent for insertion in a trough.
  • a stick gel is essentially tubular, its shape complementing at least part of the receiving portion of the trough.
  • an insert is formulated as a band of gel (gel strip, or 'med band') for insertion into a groove or other receiving means of the trough or dental brace.
  • an insert is formulated as a thin band of gel ('med band') for use with a dental brace, which lies between the teeth and the wire of the brace.
  • a band allows the treatment of a specific part of the dental arch with agent, such as, for example, the front teeth only.
  • Suitable formulations of the agents for a gel strip are any which provide the appropriate viscosity, stickiness, friction, and are compatible with the teeth/gums and trough. Considerations include the ability to contact the crevices of the teeth and gums, ability to be stay in contact with the teeth, ability to conduct functionality (e.g. light, heat, electrical, physical stimulation) to the agents and the teeth or gums, ability to remain on a dental arch for a period of time, compatibility with the agents, ability to maintain a form which can be inserted and removed from the trough or brace. Suitable formulations of agents and carrier are known to the person skilled in the art.
  • a gel strip is a straight strip of gel having sufficient flexibility be bent for insertion in a receiving means in the device.
  • a gel strip is a straight strip of gel suitable for reversibly adhering to the teeth. Such embodiment is useful when the device is brace.
  • a gel strip is a straight strip of gel, its shape complementing at least part of the receiving means of the trough.
  • a gel strip is a straight strip of gel, its shape complementing at least part of the receiving means of the brace.
  • a gel strip is a straight strip of gel, suitable for attachment to the teeth and cooperation with a brace of the invention.
  • the a gel strip include is formulated using the same gelling agents and additives as used in the stick gel.
  • the inserts according to the present invention may be packaged as a plurality of inserts. Such a package provides a course of treatment wherein the number of inserts indicates the length of the treatment. For example, a teeth whitening course might be packaged to contain between 1 and 10 inserts. Alternatively, an insert might be singly packaged.
  • Types of packaging for the inserts of the invention are any and include, foil pouches, blister packs, foil-sealed trays, etc.
  • One embodiment of the present invention is a dental device as disclosed herein for use in treating teeth and/or gums.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a use of dental device as disclosed herein for treating teeth and/or gums.
  • treatments include, but are not limited to bleaching of teeth, pain relief, treatment of bacterial infections, treatment of bad breath, healing, loosening plaque.
  • a device may be programmed to treat the gums and/or teeth for a fixed period of time (e.g. 2 to 30 minutes), after which time, an audible signal is emitted indicating the end of the treatment.
  • the device may be used in this way daily, for example, for a number of prescribed days, or until the batteries run out.
  • One embodiment of the present invention is a dental device as disclosed herein for use in treating teeth and/or gums.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a use of dental device as disclosed herein for home treatment.
  • treatments include, but are not limited to cleaning of teeth and gums, pain, bacterial infections, bad breath, healing, loosening plaque.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a method for treating teeth and/or gums comprising the step of applying a dental device as disclosed herein to either or both dental arches. Another embodiment of the present invention is a method for treating teeth and/or gums further comprising a step of placing an insert as disclosed herein into said dental device. Another embodiment of the present invention is a method for treating teeth and/or gums further comprising a step of placing toothpaste into a trough of a dental device as disclosed herein.
  • a device may be programmed to treat the gums and/or teeth for a fixed period of time (e.g. 2 to 30 minutes), after which time, an audible signal is emitted indicating the end of the treatment.
  • the device may be used in this way daily, for example, for a number of prescribed days, or until the batteries run out.
  • Dental practice treatment and continued home treatment Another embodiment of the present invention is a method for treating the teeth and/or gums teeth of a subject comprising: (A) the use of a dental device and insert on a subject as disclosed herein by a dental practitioner, wherein the concentration of agent is suitable for supervision by said practitioner, and
  • a subject may visit a dental practitioner for one or more treatments, wherein a high concentration of agent is used, suitable for use by a dental professional. Subsequent treatments may be performed at home, using less concentrated amounts of agents, by the non-practitioner, preferably the subject.
  • the dental device may be the same device throughout the treatment.
  • the practitioner may provide the subject with instructions on how to use the device, may program the device for the course of treatment, and/or may select the most appropriate concentration of bleaching agent.
  • the method provides an advantage that the subject receives professional advice and treatment, said treatment being conveniently continued away from the dental surgery.
  • Whitening teeth One embodiment of the present invention is a dental device as disclosed herein for use in whitening teeth.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a use of dental device as disclosed herein for whitening.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a method for whitening teeth comprising the step of applying a dental device as disclosed herein to either or both dental arches.
  • a dental device is configured with the electrical components which activate or enhance a bleaching agent.
  • the electrical components which activate or enhance a bleaching agent.
  • at least one component is an LED which provides light.
  • One embodiment of the present invention is a dental device as disclosed herein for use in curing restorative dental materials.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a use of dental device as disclosed herein for curing restorative dental materials.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a method for curing restorative dental materials comprising the step of applying a dental device as disclosed herein to either or both dental arches.
  • a dental device For curing, a dental device is configured with the electrical components compatible with the restorative material.
  • One embodiment of the present invention is a dental device as disclosed herein for use in relieving pain.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a use of dental device as disclosed herein for relieving pain.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a method for relieving pain comprising the step of applying a dental device as disclosed herein to either or both dental arches.
  • a dental device is configured with the electrical components which activate or enhance a pain-relieving agent.
  • at least one component is a heat transducer which provides heat.
  • a dental device is provided with an ultrasonic motor and a plurality of far-IR LED.
  • a dental device is configured with the electrical components which act directly on the teeth or gums to provide pain relief.
  • the dental device may deliver electrical stimulation to the gums or teeth, in which case the component is a stimulating means.
  • the dental device may deliver physical stimulation and/or heat directly to the gums and/or teeth, optionally with the use of a ultrasonic/heat conducting agent.
  • the device is configured to provide TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) to the gums or teeth for pain relief.
  • TENS Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation
  • the dental device may deliver heat to the gums or teeth, in which case, at least one component is a means for providing heat stimulation.
  • a device is provided with a combination or one or more of the above components to provide a multiple pain relief therapy with or without agent.
  • One embodiment of the present invention is a dental device as disclosed herein for use in treating bacterial infections.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a use of dental device as disclosed herein for treating bacterial infections.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a method for treating bacterial infections comprising the step of applying a dental device as disclosed herein to either or both dental arches.
  • a dental device is configured with the electrical components which activate or enhance an anti-bacterial agent.
  • at least one component is a heat transducer which provides heat.
  • the device is configured for use with an insert comprising an antibacterial agent chloramphenicol, a dental device is provided with an ultrasonic transducer.
  • One embodiment of the present invention is a dental device as disclosed herein for use in treating bad breath.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a use of dental device as disclosed herein for treating bad breath.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a method for treating bad breath comprising the step of applying a dental device as disclosed herein to either or both dental arches.
  • a dental device is configured with the electrical components which activate or enhance an anti-bad-breath agent.
  • at least one component is a heat transducer which provides heat.
  • a device is configured for use with an insert comprising cetylpyridinium chloride, a dental device is provided with an ultrasonic transducer.
  • One embodiment of the present invention is a dental device as disclosed herein for use in enhancing healing.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a use of dental device as disclosed herein for enhancing healing.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a method for enhancing healing comprising the step of applying a dental device as disclosed herein to either or both dental arches.
  • a dental device is configured with the electrical components which stimulate blood flow.
  • an electrical stimulation means By stimulating blood and optionally providing heat, healing times are greatly reduced. This may benefit the recovery of a subject after dental procedures such as, for example, tooth extraction or any procedure which causes lesions. It may further assist in the control of discomfort associated with wearing orthodontic braces that need adjusting, and with post dental implants.
  • the treatment may be combined with the use of an insert comprising, for example, any of vitamin E, aloe vera, heat conducting formulation, pain-relieving agent etc. Loosening plaque
  • One embodiment of the present invention is a dental device as disclosed herein for use in loosening plaque.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a use of dental device as disclosed herein for loosening plaque.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a method for loosening plaque comprising the step of applying a dental device as disclosed herein to either or both dental arches.
  • a dental device is provided with physical stimulation-providing means and optionally heat-providing means.
  • a dental device is provided with physical stimulation-providing means and one or more other electrical components. By physically stimulating the gums and/or teeth, plaque is removed above and below the gum line.
  • a dental device is configured with physical stimulation-providing means and optionally heat-providing means which activate or enhance a plaque loosening agent.
  • a dental device is configured with physical stimulation-providing means and one or more other electrical components which activate or enhance a plaque loosening agent.
  • a dental device is provided with an ultrasonic transducer.
  • FIG. 1 Another embodiment of the present invention is a device or insert disclosed herein further comprising one or more protrusions which contact the teeth and/or gums, said protrusions capable of abrasive cleaning, massaging and/or polishing teeth and/or gums.
  • the protrusions may be one or more bristles, moulded protrusions, rubber beading, abrasive pad, polishing pad etc. Said abrasion or polishing may be achieved by movement of said protrusions such as, for example, vibrational, rotational, lateral movement etc.
  • Said movements may be provided by one or more physical stimulation-providing means in said dental device, such as, for example, an ultrasonic motor, ultrasonic transducer, a magnetic motor, an AC motor etc.
  • the protrusions may be located in a wall of the trough, and arranged so as to contact any of the anterior, posterior or top surfaces of the teeth and/or gums, or a combination thereof.
  • a set of bristles may be provided in the anterior inner wall of a trough
  • a cleaning agent such as toothpaste, or tooth polish may be added to a trough.
  • the protrusions are provided in an insert, they may be located and arranged so as to contact any of the anterior, posterior or top surfaces of the teeth and/or gums, or a combination thereof.
  • the protrusions may be provided on a wall of a cassette or backing strip of a med band mentioned herein, or on the wall of an insert.
  • One embodiment of the present invention is a dental device as disclosed herein for use in illuminating the teeth and/or gums of the oral cavity during dental procedures.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a use of dental device as disclosed herein for illuminating the teeth and/or gums of the oral cavity during dental procedures.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is a method for illuminating the teeth and/or gums of the oral cavity during dental procedures comprising the step of applying a dental device as disclosed herein to either dental arch.
  • a dental device is provided with at least one visible light LED or ELD positioned on the device, such that light is projected therefrom onto the opposing dental arch.
  • this may be achieved, by providing one or more light-emitting LEDs or ELD on or in the outer base wall of the trough. It may also be achieved by providing an electrical component in a hollow between the base inner and outer trough walls. It may also be achieved by incorporating an ELD or LED into a portion of a brace which crosses the top surface of the teeth.
  • a device further comprises one or more lenses for focusing light emitted by an LED or ELD.
  • the appropriate positioning and lenses suitable therefor are known to the skilled person.
  • One or more lenses in dental device allows light to be focused intensely on a particular area, or allows light to be diffused across a wide area, so enabling a dental professional to perform dental procedures with greater ease.
  • a dental device comprises a means for adjusting the focus of one or more lenses.
  • Kits Another embodiment of the present invention is a kit comprising a dental device as disclosed herein and one or more inserts as disclosed herein.
  • the kit provides one or more inserts which comprise a higher concentration of bleaching or cleaning agent suitable for use by a dental practitioner, and one or more inserts which comprise a lower concentration of bleaching or cleaning agent, suitable for home use.
  • the dental device of the kit is provide with one or more electrical components suitable for enhancing or stimulating the effect of said agents.
  • the kit is intended for use in the first instance by a dental practitioner for whitening teeth:
  • the inserts comprising a higher concentration of agents are intended for use by the practitioner on the subject, and the inserts comprising a lower concentration of agents are intended for use by non- practitioner, for example by the subject.
  • the kit provides one or more inserts which comprise a concentration of bleaching agent suitable for home teeth bleaching.
  • the dental device of the kit is provide with one or more electrical components suitable for enhancing or stimulating the effect of the bleaching agents.
  • the kit is intended for use by a non-practitioner for self-whitening of a subject's teeth.
  • the kit provides one or more inserts which comprise a concentration of cleaning agent suitable for home teeth bleaching.
  • the dental device of the kit is provide with one or more electrical components (e.g. physical stimulation providing means) suitable for enhancing or stimulating the effect of the cleaning agents.
  • the kit is intended for use by a non-practitioner for self-whitening of a subject's teeth.
  • the kit provides one or more inserts which comprise one or more anti-bad breath agents suitable for treatment of bad breath and a dental device provided with one or more electrical components suitable for enhancing or stimulating the effect of the anti-bad breath agent (s).
  • kits provided with one or more inserts in which anti-bad breath agent is at a concentration suitable for use in a dental surgery or suitable for use at home are also provided.
  • kit provided with one or more inserts in which anti-bad breath agent is at a concentration suitable for use in a dental surgery and one or more inserts in which a concentration of anti-bad breath agent is suitable for continued use at home are also provided.
  • the kit provides one or more inserts which comprise one or more anti-bacterial agents suitable for treatment of bacterial infections and a dental device provided with one or more electrical components suitable for enhancing or stimulating the effect of the anti-bacterial agent(s).
  • Another aspect of the invention is a kit provided with one or more inserts in which antibacterial agent is at a concentration suitable for use in a dental surgery and one or more inserts in which a concentration of antibacterial agent is suitable for continued use at home.
  • the kit provides one or more inserts which comprise one or more pain-relieving agents suitable for treatment of pain and a dental device provided with one or more electrical components suitable for enhancing or stimulating the effect of the pain relieving agent(s).
  • Another aspect of the invention is a kit provided with one or more inserts in which pain-relieving agent is at a concentration suitable for use in a dental surgery and one or more inserts in which a concentration of pain-relieving agent is suitable for continued use at home.
  • the kit provides one or more inserts which comprise electrical-stimulation-conducing formulation and a dental device provided with one or more electrical components suitable for electrically stimulating the teeth and/or gums.
  • a kit maybe used for the relief of pain and/or for enhanced healing.
  • One aspect of the invention is a kit provided with one or more inserts in which electrical-stimulation-conducing agent is at a concentration suitable for use in a dental surgery or suitable for use at home.
  • Another aspect of the invention is a kit provided with one or more inserts in which electrical- stimulation-conducing agent is at a concentration suitable for use in a dental surgery and one or more inserts in which a concentration of electrical-stimulation-conducing agent is suitable for continued use at home.
  • the kit provides one or more inserts which comprise plaque removing agents and a dental device provided with one or more electrical components (e.g. physical stimulation providing means and optionally one or more heat- providing means), said components suitable for assisting removing plaque (e.g. by physically stimulating the teeth and/or gums).
  • a kit maybe used for the loosening plaque.
  • One aspect of the invention is a kit provided with one or more inserts in which plaque-removing agent is at a concentration suitable for use in a dental surgery or suitable for use at home.
  • Another aspect of the invention is a kit provided with one or more inserts in which plaque- removing agent is at a concentration suitable for use in a dental surgery and one or more inserts in which a concentration of plaque-removing agent is suitable for continued use at home.
  • the kit provides one or more inserts which comprise healing agents and a dental device provided with one or more electrical components (e.g. physical stimulation providing means and optionally one or more heat- providing means), said means suitable for providing a healing effect (e.g. physically stimulating the teeth and/or gums).
  • a kit maybe used for healing dental lesions.
  • One aspect of the invention is a kit provided with one or more inserts in which healing agent is at a concentration suitable for use in a dental surgery or suitable for use at home.
  • Another aspect of the invention is a kit provided with one or more inserts in which healing agent is at a concentration suitable for use in a dental surgery and one or more inserts in which a concentration of healing agent is suitable for continued use at home. Examples of components of kits are provided in Figures 13 to 15.
  • a kit of the invention may be provided with one or more or items depicted in Figures 13 to 15, with or without a dental device.
  • a kit may be provided with any combination of inserts as disclosed herein and a dental device therein provided with any combination of electrical components.
  • the inserts may further comprise a combination of agents for example one or more of pain-relief agents, tooth whitening agents, electrical-stimulation conducting agents, anti-bacterial agents, anti-bad breath agents etc.
  • a kit may be suitable for providing a combination of therapies such as, for example, bleaching and bed breath, or pain relief and enhanced healing.
  • FIG. 1 The present invention is exemplified by the following figures which do not limit the scope of the invention.
  • the Figures depict an ELD, LED or ultra sonic motor as the electrical component as illustrations of possible embodiments. However, this is no way excludes the possibility that one or more other electrical components may be incorporated into the device, or excludes other combinations of components.
  • the ELD wire or ELD panel depicted below are readily interchangeable.
  • Figure 1 shows a dental device 1 of the present invention comprising a trough 2, wherein an ELD wire 3 is disposed in the inner wall of the anterior 4 of the trough.
  • Said electrical components, a regulating means 5, a switch 6, and one or more button batteries 7 are co- operatively connected.
  • FIG. 2 shows a dental device 8 of the present invention comprising a trough 2, wherein an ELD wire 21 is disposed in the inner wall of the based of the trough.
  • Said electrical components, a regulating means 5, a switch 6, and one or more button batteries 7 are co- operatively connected.
  • FIG. 3 shows a dental device 10 of the present invention comprising a trough 2, wherein an ELD wire 31 is disposed in the inner wall of the posterior 32 of the trough.
  • Said electrical components , a regulating means 5, a switch 6, and two button batteries 7 are co-operatively connected.
  • Figure 4 shows a dental device 1 of the present invention as in Figure 1 further comprising an insert 41 according to an embodiment of the invention, said inserted located in the base of the trough.
  • FIG. 5A shows a dental device 51 of the present invention comprising two troughs 52, 54 suitable for the immersion of both dental arches.
  • An ELD wire 56 is disposed in the inner anterior wall of a trough 52 suited for immersion in the upper dental arch, and another ELD wire 57 is disposed the inner anterior wall of a trough 55 suited for immersion in the lower dental arch.
  • both sets of ELD wires, a single regulating means 58, said regulating means connected to a switch 59 and two button batteries 60 are co-operatively connected.
  • Figure 5B shows a dental device 51 of the present invention comprising two troughs 53, 54 suitable for the immersion of both dental arches.
  • One row of silicon heating elements 56 is disposed in the inner anterior wall of a trough 52 suited for immersion in the upper dental arch, and another row of silicon heating elements 57 is disposed the inner wall of the anterior of a trough 55 suited for immersion in the lower dental arch.
  • the trough is further provided with four ultrasonic motors 510, 511 , 512, 513 located towards the ends of the troughs, two of which vibrate the upper trough (511 , 512), and two vibrate the lower trough (510, 513).
  • all the electrical components, a single regulating means 58, said regulating means being connected to a switch 59 and two button batteries 514 are co- operatively connected.
  • Figure 6A depicts another example of a device according to the present invention and some of the main components therein.
  • a device comprises a soft- form trough 61 , having a channel 62 shaped to receive an insert.
  • the device comprises a sub mould 68, which fits into the trough so forming part of a battery compartment 66.
  • the sub mould 68 also provides support for battery contacts 67.
  • a battery compartment cover 64 comprises a recess to accommodate part of the battery 65.
  • An ELD panel 63 is positioned in the anterior wall of the trough.
  • Figure 6B depicts an alternative view of the device as shown in Figure 6A.
  • An ELD panel is provided 63 and functionality is directed on to the anterior surface of the teeth and/or gums of the dental arch.
  • Figure 6C depicts some of the main elements of a device as shown in Figure 6A in an "exploded view". Indicated are a soft foam mouth piece 61 , ELD panel 63, battery 65, battery compartment cover 64, submould 68, which forms a part of a battery compartment 69, and battery contact 67.
  • Figure 6D depicts another example of a device according to the present invention and some of the main components therein.
  • a device comprises a soft- form trough 61 and a sub mould 68, which fits into the trough so forming part of a battery compartment 66.
  • the sub mould 68 also provides support for battery contacts 67.
  • a battery compartment cover 64 comprises a recess to accommodate part of the battery 65.
  • Ultrasonic motors 610, 611 are positioned in the anterior wall of the trough, so that physical stimulation therefrom is transmitted to the whole trough.
  • Figure 7A depicts another example of a device according to the present invention and some of the main component therein.
  • a device comprises a soft-form trough 71 and a sub mould 78, which fits into the trough so forming a part of a battery compartment 76.
  • the sub mould 78 also provides support for battery contacts 77.
  • a battery compartment cover 74 comprises a recess to accommodate part of the battery 75.
  • a support board on which components such as light producing LEDs are provided 73 is positioned in the wall of the base of the trough, so that light is projected therefrom towards the teeth and gums on the opposing dental arch.
  • Figure 7B depicts some of the main elements of a device as shown in Figure 6A in an "exploded view". Indicated are a soft foam mouth piece 71 , support board on which light producing LEDs. are mounted 73, battery 75, battery compartment cover 74, submould 78, which forms a part of a battery compartment 79, and battery contact 77.
  • FIG. 8 depicts another example of a device according to the present invention and some of the main components therein.
  • the exploded view depicts an upper trough comprises a soft- form trough 81 , and an ELD panel 82 mounted on a circuit board 83. Air vent, one of which is indicated 810 assists with breathing through the mouth.
  • a battery cover 84, two button batteries 85 are depicted.
  • the lower trough comprises a soft-form trough 86, part of a battery compartment 89 and an ELD panel 812 mounted on a circuit board 813.
  • the trough also provides support for battery contacts 87. Air vents 811 assist with breathing through the mouth.
  • Figure 9 depicts another example of a device according to the present invention 91 and some of the main components therein.
  • the exploded view depicts a trough 92, an ELD panel 93, battery cover 94, two button batteries 95, a switch 97 and controller/inverter 98.
  • a gel strip 99 is also depicted.
  • Figure 10 depicts another example of a device 101 according to the present invention and some of the main components therein.
  • the view depicts a trough 102, an ELD wire 103, a unit 105 comprising a button battery 105, and a controller/inverter 104.
  • Figure 11 depicts other examples of devices according to the present invention, which are braces.
  • a brace for the upper teeth 111 is shown in situ, attached to the upper jaw 113.
  • a gel strip 117 is held between the brace and front teeth.
  • An ELD wire 115 incorporated into the brace provides functionality.
  • the same features are present in a brace 112 suitable for the lower teeth 114, which incorporates an ELD wire 116 in contact with a gel strip 118.
  • Figure 12 depicts brace for the upper teeth 121.
  • Wires such as 126 embedded in a plastic support 122 allow the brace to be clipped to the teeth.
  • An ELD wire 125 incorporated into the brace provides functionality.
  • the support holds a battery 123 and control/inverted 124 which are co-operatively connected to the ELD wire 125.
  • Figure 13 depicts brace for the lower teeth 136.
  • Wires such as 131 embedded in a plastic support 132 allow the brace to be clipped to the teeth.
  • An ELD wire 135 incorporated into the brace provides functionality.
  • the support holds a battery 133 and control/inverted 134 which are co-operatively connected to the ELD wire 135.
  • Figure 14A shows a package 141 of four straight, tube shaped inserts 143, each insert provided in its own sealed pouch 142.
  • Figure 14B shows a package 144 of four trough-shaped inserts 146, each insert provided in its own sealed pouch 145.
  • Figure 14C shows a charging/programming device 147 disposed with a mains plug 149, and a U-shaped station 148 for receiving a dental device.
  • Figure 14D shows a button battery 1410 for use in a dental device
  • Figure 14E shows a cleaning brush 1411, which may be used to clean a trough of a dental device
  • Figure 14F depicts an instruction booklet 1412, which explains the device, use and inserts to a subject and/or dental professional.
  • Figure 15A depicts a kit 151 for the professional and continued home whitening of teeth according to the invention, comprising a dental device 152, inserts comprising a professional- use (High) concentration of bleaching agent 153, inserts comprising a home-use (Low) concentration of bleaching agent 154, a cleaning brush 155, and an instruction booklet 156.
  • a dental device 152 inserts comprising a professional- use (High) concentration of bleaching agent 153
  • inserts comprising a home-use (Low) concentration of bleaching agent 154 comprising a cleaning brush 155, and an instruction booklet 156.
  • Figure 15B depicts a kit 157 for the professional and continued home whitening of teeth according to the invention, comprising a dental device 158, inserts comprising a home-use (Low) concentration of bleaching agent 159, a cleaning brush 1510, and an instruction booklet 1511.
  • a dental device 158 inserts comprising a home-use (Low) concentration of bleaching agent 159, a cleaning brush 1510, and an instruction booklet 1511.
  • Figure 16 depicts a kit 161 for home whitening of teeth according to the invention, comprising a dental device 164, gel strip 163, contained in a hinged box 162.

Abstract

L'invention concerne un dispositif autonome comprenant une gouttière formée de manière à permettre l'immersion des dents et/ou des gencives d'une arcade dentaire, ou d'un appareil orthodontique, et un ou plusieurs composants électroniques assurant la fonctionnalité du dispositif. L'invention concerne en outre des méthodes de blanchiment des dents, d'atténuation de la douleur, de traitement antibactérien, de traitement contre la mauvais haleine, et de cicatrisation. L'invention se rapporte également à des éléments rapportés destinés à être utilisés avec le dispositif décrit.
EP05716108A 2004-05-11 2005-03-16 Procede et dispositif permettant d'ameliorer le traitement des dents et des gencives Withdrawn EP1744700A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP05716108A EP1744700A1 (fr) 2004-05-11 2005-03-16 Procede et dispositif permettant d'ameliorer le traitement des dents et des gencives

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/EP2004/005029 WO2005107636A1 (fr) 2004-05-11 2004-05-11 Procede et dispositif permettant d'ameliorer le traitement des dents et des gencives
PCT/EP2004/005030 WO2005107637A1 (fr) 2004-05-11 2004-05-11 Procede et dispositif pour renforcer le traitement des dents et des gencives
EP05716108A EP1744700A1 (fr) 2004-05-11 2005-03-16 Procede et dispositif permettant d'ameliorer le traitement des dents et des gencives
PCT/EP2005/002788 WO2005107638A1 (fr) 2004-05-11 2005-03-16 Procede et dispositif permettant d'ameliorer le traitement des dents et des gencives

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1744700A1 true EP1744700A1 (fr) 2007-01-24

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EP05716108A Withdrawn EP1744700A1 (fr) 2004-05-11 2005-03-16 Procede et dispositif permettant d'ameliorer le traitement des dents et des gencives

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EP (1) EP1744700A1 (fr)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN106308962A (zh) * 2016-09-30 2017-01-11 杭州沃开尼克科技有限公司 新型智能电动牙刷及电动牙刷组件

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See references of WO2005107638A1 *

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN106308962A (zh) * 2016-09-30 2017-01-11 杭州沃开尼克科技有限公司 新型智能电动牙刷及电动牙刷组件

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