WO2013045926A2 - Oral hygiene apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

Oral hygiene apparatus comprising a handle (20) which is at least in part hollow to define a compartment (70) therewithin, a toothbrush element (12) which has a brush head (18) and which extends from the handle (20), an interdental cleaning device cartridge (14) removably engagable with the compartment (70), and a plurality of independent interdental cleaning devices (16) storable within the cartridge (14). A said interdental cleaning device (16) includes an interdental cleaning head (52) having at least one interdental cleaning element (56, 58). A said interdental cleaning device (16) is dispensable from the cartridge (14), when the cartridge is engaged with the compartment of the handle and when removed, and which is releasably engagable with at least one of the toothbrush element (12), handle (20) or cartridge (14). An interdental cleaning device cartridge (14) for storing and dispensing interdental cleaning devices (16) is also disclosed. The interdental cleaning device cartridge comprises a container (102) for storing interdental cleaning devices (16), a dispensing slot (128) provided by the container (102), a biasing mechanism for biasing interdental cleaning devices (16) within the container (102) towards the dispensing slot (128), and a controller (130, 132) operable to dispense interdental cleaning devices (16) from the container (102) through the dispensing slot (128).

Description

Oral Hygiene Apparatus

The present invention relates to oral hygiene apparatus, and more particularly, but not necessarily exclusively, to a device comprising a toothbrush element and a handle having integrated storage for interdental cleaning elements, in which the interdental cleaning elements are individually connectable to the toothbrush element.

The importance of brushing teeth to foster and maintain good oral hygiene is well understood. Nonetheless, dentists consider that better oral hygiene can be achieved through regular flossing as well as an established brushing routine. Flossing reaches surfaces of a tooth that a brush cannot reach. It is therefore just as important as brushing for avoiding tooth decay, bad breath and gum disease. However, dentists report that only a small proportion of their patients actually act on their advice (based on NOP survey, April 2004 of 1000+ adults). It is assumed that people who do not or cannot visit a dentist can only be in an unhealthier predicament.

It would appear that several "barriers-to-adoption" of this advice exist. Primarily, dental products, such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, toothpicks, inter-dental brushes and floss, have been developed independently and functionally separately of each other. A "synchronised team effort" has hitherto been lacking.

Secondly, the act of flossing itself has also been a barrier. Flossing requires practise in order to avoid pain or injury, and the development of a good technique is required to achieve effective flossing. Many existing flossing products are uncomfortable to use and cause discomfort on the fingers and gums of the user. The combination of ill designed products and poor technique have led many people to try flossing yet abandon it before a successful routine has been established.

Thirdly, another barrier is time-related. A fast pace of life fosters the perception that flossing is inherently messy, tiring and time-consuming. Hence flossing is considered to be more of a chore than a contribution to a healthy lifestyle, especially if people have very tight fitting teeth and/or sensitive gums.

These problems are compounded if the user is infirm, has a physical disability or has an arm- or hand-related injury.

Parts of the world, such as Europe and Japan, are sustaining their original teeth for longer and longer into old-age. Against a backdrop of an ageing population with frail or fragile fingers, concerns for good oral hygiene can only become increasingly important. Finally, floss is currently available as a continuous thread or tape (also known as "ribbon") wound on a reel within a container and cut to length against a blade. This means of dispensing can lead to wastage of product as the user wraps a portion of the floss around their fingers; a significant portion of the floss wrapped around the fingers does not enter the user's mouth and is subsequently discarded together with the portion of floss that did enter the mouth. Additionally, to many users, wrapping floss around one's fingers can be uncomfortable and unsightly, and worryingly can lead to a slight tourniquet effect on the fingertips, where blood flow is restricted.

Floss is also available on generally designed floss heads mounted to a handle. However, storage of such floss heads can be problematic due to inappropriate storage containers such as low-cost plastic bags. Hence, flossing equipment can become strewn about, which is not only untidy but also unhygienic.

It is an object of the invention to provide an oral hygiene apparatus which addresses or substantially overcomes the above mentioned problems.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided oral hygiene apparatus comprising a handle which is at least in part hollow to define a compartment therewithin, a toothbrush element which has a brush head and which extends from the handle, an interdental cleaning device cartridge removably engagable with the compartment, and a plurality of independent interdental cleaning devices storable within the cartridge, a said interdental cleaning device including an interdental cleaning head having at least one interdental cleaning element, a said interdental cleaning device being dispensable from the cartridge, when the cartridge is engaged with the compartment of the handle and when removed, and being releasably engagable with at least one of the toothbrush element, handle or cartridge.

The oral hygiene apparatus is advantageous as it provides an integrated solution to brushing and flossing. The apparatus is compact and organised, incorporating two otherwise independent products into a single portable product. This saves the user time and effort in locating and marshalling the two independent products together, making the user more likely to floss in addition to brushing their teeth.

Preferable and/or optional features of the first aspect of the invention are set forth in dependent claims 2 to 25. According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided an interdental cleaning device cartridge for storing and dispensing interdental cleaning devices, said interdental cleaning device cartridge comprising a container for storing independent interdental cleaning devices including an interdental cleaning head having at least one interdental cleaning element, a dispensing slot provided by the container, a biasing mechanism for biasing interdental cleaning devices within the container towards the dispensing slot, and a controller operable to dispense a said interdental cleaning device from the container through the dispensing slot.

Preferable and/or optional features of the second aspect of the invention are set forth in dependent claims 28 to 34.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided oral hygiene apparatus comprising a toothbrush element connectable to a handle, and an interdental cleaning device, the toothbrush element having a brush head and the interdental cleaning device being connectable to the toothbrush element at the brush head and/or partway between the head and a tail of the handle.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided an interdental cleaning device comprising a support having spaced apart first and second legs, and spaced apart first and second interdental cleaning elements extending between the first and second legs.

For a better understanding of the present invention, and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of an oral hygiene apparatus in accordance with the invention, with a toothbrush element of the apparatus shown in an operative condition;

Figure 2 shows a perspective partial cut away view of the apparatus of Figure 1;

Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 1, with the toothbrush element shown in a storage condition;

Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a toothbrush head which is a part of the apparatus of Figure 1;

Figure 5 shows a perspective view of an interdental cleaning device of the apparatus, which is detachably mountable to the toothbrush head of Figure 4; Figure 6 indicates schematically how the interdental cleaning device of Figure 5 detaches from the toothbrush head;

Figure 7 shows a perspective view of a cartridge of the apparatus, in which the plurality of interdental cleaning devices shown in Figure 5 are storable and from which the interdental cleaning devices may be dispensed at the user's convenience;

Figure 8 indicates schematically how the cartridge of Figure 7 is storable within and removable from the apparatus of Figure 1;

Figure 9 indicates schematically a first step of dispensing an interdental cleaning device from the cartridge, when the cartridge is located within the handle; and

Figure 10 indicates schematically a second step of dispensing an interdental cleaning device from the cartridge, again when the cartridge is located within the handle.

With reference to Figures 1, 2 and 3, an oral hygiene apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the invention is indicated generally at 10. The oral hygiene apparatus 10 includes a toothbrush element 12 and an interdental cleaning device cartridge 14 for storing and dispensing a plurality of interdental cleaning devices 16, being in this case floss heads preferably without handles.

The toothbrush element 12 comprises a toothbrush head 18 which is detachably connectable to a graspable handle 20. Advantageously, this provides for the toothbrush head 18 being disposable, in accordance with rate of wear and tear or advice from Dental Professionals, and replaceable independently of the handle 20, leading to an overall reduction in the use of raw materials in dental products, with consequential environmental benefits. Alternatively, the toothbrush head 18 may be permanently attached to the handle 20.

The toothbrush head 18 and interdental cleaning device cartridge 14 are receivable within the handle 20 for ease of storage. The benefit of this is that the toothbrush element 12 is compact and more suitably arranged for travel should the user also wish to use the product away from the home environment. Moreover, the toothbrush head 18 is protected from pocket lint, dust, other particulate matter and undesirable contact with external surfaces or other toothbrushes leading to cross-contamination.

In an operative condition, the toothbrush element 12 is connected to one end of the handle 20 and the interdental cleaning device cartridge 14 is typically stored within the handle 20, as indicated in Figures 1 and 2. In a storage condition, as indicated in Figure 3, the toothbrush element 12 is also storable inside the handle 20.

As shown in Figure 4, the toothbrush element 12 comprises the head 18, a base 24 and an elongate neck 26 interconnecting the head 18 and base 24. The head 18 and the neck 26 are preferably integrally formed with each other, although may be separable. Additionally or alternatively, the base 24 is at least partially integrally formed with the neck 26, beneficially all as one-piece.

The head 18 is preferably substantially planar and has first and second opposing surfaces 28, 30. A plurality of bristles 31 extends from the first surface 28 in a conventional manner. An interdental cleaning device 16, in this case being a floss head and described in more detail below with reference to Figure 5, is detachably mountable to the second surface 30 of the head 18. This arrangement is beneficial since use of the interdental cleaning device 16 is intuitive; the act of flossing closely resembles that of brushing. Furthermore, flossing may also be carried out single-handedly.

A release element (best seen in Figure 6), preferably comprising a pair of urgeable elements 32a, 32b such as push buttons or levers, is visibly provided in the head 18 for releasing the interdental cleaning device 16 from the head 18. A pair of pivotably interconnected and spring-loaded arms may be disposed within the head 18, and connected to the pair of urgeable element 32a, 32b. The pair of urgeable elements 32a, 32b is squeezably operable to cause the internal pair of arms to release the interdental cleaning device 16, thereby detaching the interdental cleaning device 16 from the head 18.

The neck 26 is slender and is preferably at least in-part arcuate. The neck 26 may be resilient such that the toothbrush element 12 is slightly flexible in use. The neck 26 has first and second ends 34, 36, the first end 34 terminating in the head 18 and the second end 36 terminating in the base 24. The second end 36 is preferably flared having a greater lateral extent than the first end 34, and the corners 38 at the first and second ends 34, 36 may be filleted, as shown in the drawings. This aids in preventing, reducing or limiting a buildup of toothpaste on the in use toothbrush element 12.

The base 24 includes a substantially circular or part-circular shoulder 40, first and second collars 42, 44 coaxial with the shoulder 40 and interspaced by an annular gasket or other sealing element 46, and a disc-like cap 48. The shape of the shoulder 40 is not necessarily important and other forms may be used. The base 24 is connectable to the handle 20 and as such includes connection means.

In this case, the connection means is provided by the first and second collars 42, 44, the gasket 46 and the cap 48. The purpose of the gasket 46 is to ensure that the toothbrush element 12 is connectable to the handle 20 as a tight or snug sealing push- fit, and consequently ensures that there is no or substantially no lateral movement of the toothbrush element 12 relative to the handle 20 when the toothbrush element 12 is in an operative condition.

It is envisaged that alternative connection means may be used, for example, the toothbrush element 12 may connect to the handle 20 with a screw-thread arrangement or by using a bayonet type arrangement. In such alternative arrangements, the connection means may be at least partially provided on the handle 20.

Turning now to Figure 5, the interdental cleaning element or interdental cleaning device 16 comprises a generally U-shaped support having first and second leg portions 50, 52 interconnected with a central spar 54, and first and second interdental cleaning elements, in this case being floss strings 56, 58, extending between free distal ends of the leg portions 50, 52. The simultaneous use of two interdental cleaning elements 50, 52 is beneficial as it enables the user to clean a greater surface area of teeth at once than with a single interdental element, which reduces the time it takes to floss one's teeth. The angle of each first and second leg portion 50, 52 relative to the central spar 54 is preferably different and obtuse. In this embodiment, the first leg portion 50 is longer than the second leg portion 52 allowing extension of the interdental cleaning device 16 beyond the distal edge of the second surface 30. The arrangement beneficially results in the two in use floss strings 56, 58 being angled downwards towards the toothbrush head 18. This is useful for accessing various parts of the user's mouth, and helps to provide an improved cleaning experience.

The interdental cleaning device 16 may be adjustably positionable relative to the toothbrush element 12 in the longitudinal plane of the apparatus 10. In other words, tiltable forwards to a leading edge of the head 18 of the toothbrush element 12, and tiltable backwards towards a tail end of the handle 20. Preferably, the interdental cleaning device 16 may be positionable in two or more preset positions. For example, three positions may be provided: a first position in which the interdental cleaning head is in an upright condition; a second position in which the interdental cleaning head leans or tilts forwards towards the leading edge of the head 18, and a third position in which the interdental cleaning head leans or tilts backwards towards the base 24. Such functionality maximizes user comfort and flossing effectiveness.

The first and second floss strings 56, 58 are lengths of conventional dental floss, for example, thin filaments (or "threads") of nylon or plastic ribbon, cut to an appropriate size. The floss strings 56, 58 are mounted to the first and second leg portions 50, 52 and are laterally spaced apart, one above the other with respect to the central spar 54. Preferably, the floss strings 56, 58 are different in that one of the floss strings 56, 58 may be filament type dental floss and the other may be ribbon type dental floss. Preferably, the first floss string 56, which is furthest away from the central spar 54, is filament type dental floss whilst the lower second f oss string 58, closest to the central spar 54, is ribbon type dental floss. This arrangement provides enhanced cleaning benefits as the first floss string 56 enters the space between two contiguous teeth first and guides the following second floss string 58 into the same space. Whilst the filament floss string 56 cleans around the gum area, the ribbon floss string 58 is able to clean between the teeth without additional control or movement from the user.

One or both of the first and second interdental cleaning elements may be an interdental brush. Preferably, the second interdental element 58 is an interdental brush for enhanced cleaning around the gum area.

As indicated in Figure 6, the interdental cleaning device 16 is engagable with the toothbrush head 18 using engagement means. Such engagement means permit the user to replace the interdental cleaning device 16 with a new one after use or to more easily stow away the toothbrush element 12 in the handle 20 in preparation for travel. The release element, mentioned above with respect to Figure 4, forms part of the engagement means.

In this embodiment and best seen in Figure 5, the engagement means includes a protrusion 60 disposed in or on a rear face of the central spar 54, which extends in a direction away from the leg portions 50, 52. The protrusion 60 includes a stem 62 and a cap 64 at a distal end thereof, the cap 64 having a larger lateral cross section than the stem 62. A recess 66 (see Figure 6) is disposed in the second surface 30 of the toothbrush head 18 and is shaped for receiving the protrusion 60. Preferably, the protrusion 60 engages with the recess 66 with a snap-fit since this intuitively conveys to the user the fact that a successful coupling has taken place. The release element couples the protrusion 60 to the head 18 by encircling or substantially encircling the stem 62 and abutting the cap 64. This maintains a secure and re leasable connection between the interdental cleaning device 16 and the toothbrush head 18.

The protrusion 60 and/or recess 66 may be at least partially facetted to assist in a stepwise adjustment of the interdental cleaning device 16 relative to the toothbrush element 12.

The engagement means also fixes the orientation of the floss strings 56, 58 relative to the longitudinal extent of the handle 20. In this embodiment, the floss strings 56, 58 extend between the first and second leg portions 50, 52 in alignment, or in parallel, with the longitudinal extent of the handle 20. However, it is envisaged that the interdental cleaning head 16 may be rotatably mountable on the head 18, such that the floss strings 56, 58 or other interdental cleaning elements extend parallel with the longitudinal extent of the handle 20, perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the handle 20, or substantially at any point therebetween.

As an alternative, the recess 66 could be provided in the interdental cleaning device 16 and the protrusion 60 on the head 18. However, this is not a preferred arrangement since the recess 66 would weaken the structure of the interdental cleaning device 16 or require the scale of the interdental cleaning device 16 to be increased accordingly which could potentially make the interdental cleaning device 16 uncomfortable in the user's mouth.

Alternative engagement means may be used to connect each interdental cleaning device 16 to the head 18. For example, the interdental cleaning device 16 may slidingly engage with an undercut recess or keyway on the head 18.

Furthermore, the interdental cleaning device 16 may be connected at any point on toothbrush element 12, or partway between the head 18 and the tail of the handle 12. As best seen in Figure 2, the handle 20 comprises a hollow body member 68 which defines a first compartment 70 for receiving a plurality of interdental cleaning devices 16 and/or an interdental cleaning device cartridge 14, and optionally a second compartment 72 for storing the toothbrush element 12. The interdental cleaning device cartridge 14 is described in further detail below with reference to Figure 7. The body member 68 is preferably tubular and, in this embodiment, is preferably constructed of two interconnectable longitudinal halves, one of which has been removed for the sake of clarity in Figure 2. In an assembled condition, the body member 68 has a preferably cylindrical or substantially cylindrical external profile so as to be comfortably graspable by the user. A partition wall portion 74 may extend internally across the lateral extent of the body member 68 to separate the internal cavity in two for improved hygiene. The body member 68 is typically made from a plastics material for ease of manufacturing, and may include one or more elastomeric grip portions.

A, preferably profiled, grip 76 may be provided on or in an external surface 78 of the body member 68 for grasping by the hand of the user. Preferably, the grip 76 is ergonomic for ease of comfort and improved aesthetics. For example, the grip 76 may include curved edges and would optionally be formed of or from elastomeric material. The body member 68 preferably includes a clip 80, similar to a pen clip, mounted on or connected to the external surface and adjacent to the second compartment 72. The clip 80 includes a preferably non-slip flat face 81 for making contact with a supporting surface for stability. The clip 80 limits slippage of the handle 20 relative to a support surface, for example, a bathroom shelf. The clip 80 may be formed integrally with the body member 68.

As shown in Figure 3, the clip 80 also prevents the toothbrush from rolling, and additionally, it also lifts the toothbrush head 18 away from a support surface, which clearly has potential hygiene benefits. The clip 80 is also useful when applying toothpaste to the toothbrush head, which can even be carried out single-handedly if required. The clip 80 also facilitates attachment of the apparatus 10 to a pocket within a jacket or bag, which means that the apparatus 10 is readily locatable and portable.

The second compartment 72 is sized and shaped to accommodate at least the majority of the toothbrush element 12. A plurality of ventilation apertures 82 is provided through a body wall of the body member 68 and in communication with the second compartment 72. One or two ventilation apertures 82 need only be provided, though more is preferable. The apertures may be formed simply of geometric patterns or be so formed as to represent a commercial logo or brand identifier.

The ventilation apertures 82 are arranged linearly along the longitudinal extent of the body member 68. Each ventilation aperture 82 may be an annular opening, or it may be a part-annular segment, as indicated in Figures 1 and 2. It is possible that additional or alternatively shaped apertures may be used. The ventilation apertures 82 help aerate the toothbrush head 18 when it is stored within the second compartment 72, thereby reducing the risk of undesirable bacterial growth. The ventilation apertures 82 are also useful for draining any fluid that has been carried into the second compartment 72 on the toothbrush head 18, out from the body member 68.

An internal stop 84 is disposed proximate to an openable end 86 of the second compartment 72, against which the base 24 of the toothbrush element 12 abuts when the apparatus 10 is in an operative condition.

As mentioned above, the connection means for connecting the toothbrush element 12 to the handle 20 may be at least partially provided on the handle 20, and specifically at the openable end 86 of the second compartment 72.

In this case, the first compartment 70 is sized and shaped to accommodate the majority of the interdental cleaning device cartridge 14. The interdental cleaning device cartridge 14 is slidably receivable in the handle 20.

As best seen in Figure 1, the body member 68 also comprises a cartridge viewing aperture 88 extending through a body wall adjacent the first compartment 70. The cartridge viewing aperture 88 is preferably elongate and aligned along the longitudinal extent of the body member 68. The purpose of the cartridge viewing aperture 88 is simply to enable users to inspect the cartridge 14 to determine how many interdental cleaning devices 16 remain therein and as such, any shape or configuration achieving this aim could be used.

The body member 68 further comprises a thin cover portion 92 provided on the external surface 78 thereof, in close proximity to an open end 94 of the first compartment 70. The cover portion 92 is configured to closely follow the contours of the external surface 78. The cover portion 92 is slidably moveable between a first position, in which the cover portion 92 overhangs the open end 94 of the first compartment 70, and a second position, in which the cover portion 92 superimposes the body member 68 and therefore no longer overhangs the open end 94 of the first compartment 70. The extent of the overhang is preferably in the range of 5 to 10 mm. Preferably, the cover portion 92 is biased into the first position. The cover portion 92 includes a generally U-shaped notch 96 formed into a leading edge 98 thereof. The notch 96 is arranged in alignment with the cartridge viewing aperture 88 such that the cartridge viewing aperture 88 appears to remain complete even when the cover portion 92 is in the second position.

A further grip 100 may be provided on the cover portion 92. The further grip 100 is preferably elongate and again aligned along the longitudinal extent of the body member 68. For improved aesthetics, the further grip 100 may be arranged in alignment with the cartridge viewing aperture 88 and may be of a similar size thereto when the cover portion 92 is in the second position. This may not be essential though and any suitable shape or configuration of further grip 100 may be used.

Turning now to Figure 7, the interdental cleaning device cartridge 14 comprises a generally cylindrical container 102 having a chamber 104 therewithin for storing interdental cleaning devices 16, and a dispensing head 106 connected to a first end 105 of the container 102.

An interdental cleaning device cartridge 14 obviates the need to refill the handle 20 with interdental cleaning devices 16, such as floss heads when the supply of interdental cleaning devices 16 therein has been exhausted, which can be challenging. The cartridge 14 also provides the benefit of having multiple interdental cleaning devices 16 stored conveniently in a bespoke container, thereby avoiding interdental cleaning devices 16 strewn about a bathroom. The cartridge 14 is arranged to organise a plurality of interdental cleaning devices 16 into a stack arrangement, thereby preventing interdental cleaning devices 16 from becoming tangled up.

The container 102 includes retaining means for retaining the cartridge 14 within the handle 20. When the interdental cleaning device cartridge 14 is in situ within the handle 20, only the dispensing head 106 protrudes from the handle 20. The retaining means preferably comprises a pair of spaced apart resilient detent members 108 disposed in a sidewall of the container 102. The detent members 108 may be diametrically opposed to one another. The detent members 108 are preferably resilient cantilever arms in this case, which are able to flex slightly inwardly as the cartridge 14 is being inserted into and removed from the handle 20, as indicated in Figure 8. The biasing of the arms cause factional engagement with an interior wall surface of the handle 20 Alternatively, each detent member may have a locking protrusion (not shown) which is engagable with a corresponding recess disposed on an internal wall of the first compartment 70. The locking protrusions prevent or limit movement of the cartridge relative to the handle 20. In such an arrangement, the locking protrusion may be disengagable from the corresponding recess when the cover portion is in the second position.

The container 102 may also include locating means (not shown) to prevent or limit angular rotation of the cartridge 14 relative to the handle 20. Such locating means may include at least one protrusion and corresponding recess, such as a key and keyway, provided in the internal and external surfaces of the container 102 and first compartment 70 respectively.

The container 102 also preferably includes an interdental cleaning device viewing opening 112 in communication with the chamber 104. The interdental cleaning device viewing opening 112 is preferably elongate and aligned along the longitudinal extent of the container 102. It is also preferably located to be alignable with the viewing aperture 88. Alternatively, the interdental cleaning device viewing opening 112 may be circular or any other suitable shape. The purpose of the interdental cleaning device viewing opening 1 12 is to enable users to inspect the chamber 104 to determine how many interdental cleaning devices 16 remain therein and again any shape or configuration achieving this aim could be used.

The chamber 104 may include a rail 114 which is an elongate recess extending substantially along the length of the container 102. The rail 114 is shaped so as to be at least partially engagable with the engagement means of the interdental cleaning device 16, namely the stem 62 and the cap 64. The rail 1 14 facilitates compact stacking of the interdental cleaning devices 16 inside the container 102.

Other guide means for stacking and controllably dispensing an interdental cleaning device 16 from the cartridge may also be possible. For example, runners or keyways. As best seen in Figure 2, a biasing device is also located within the chamber 104 contiguous a second end 116 of the container 102, the second end 116 being spaced apart from the first end 105. In the present case, the biasing device comprises a spring element 118 and a planar plate element 120 connected to the spring element 118. Under the biasing action of the spring element 118, the plate element 120 exerts pressure onto the interdental cleaning devices 16 stored within the cartridge 14. The biasing device urges the interdental cleaning devices 16 towards the first end 105 of the container 102. The plate element 120 may also at least partially engage with the aforementioned rail 114 to avoid undesirable rotation of the plate element 120 under the action of the spring element 118.

Turning back now to Figure 7, the dispensing head 106 is preferably partially cylindrical, and has first and second ends 122, 124 and an intermediate body portion 126. The first end 122 includes a wall portion which extends only partially circumferentially, thereby forming a dispensing slot 128 between the container 102 and the body portion 126 of the dispensing head 106. Interdental cleaning devices 16 from within the container 102 are passable one at a time through the dispensing slot 128 to exit the cartridge 14. Corners of the second end 124 are smoothly rounded, primarily for the comfort of the user.

As suggested in Figure 9, when the cover portion 92 is in the second position, the dispensing slot 128 is exposed. When the cover portion 92 of the handle 20 is in the first position, the dispensing slot 128 is concealed. This functionality is beneficial as it prevents or reduces the risk of foreign matter, for example, dirt or moisture, from entering the cartridge 14.

As indicated in Figure 10, a controller, including a dispensing user interface, is configured to dispense interdental cleaning devices 16 one by one through the dispensing slot 128 and out from the cartridge 14. Here, the controller, which is more clearly seen in Figure 2, includes a dispensing trigger comprising a push button 130 connected to an ejector member 132. Other suitable arrangements are envisaged.

In this arrangement, the dispensing trigger is mounted to interdental cleaning device cartridge 14, and specifically to the container 102, to one side of the dispensing slot 128. However, the controller may be provided at any convenient location on the interdental cleaning device cartridge 14, and/or equally at any suitable location on the handle 20.

Also, the controller may be provided as part of the biasing device. For example, this could be a worm and a cooperating thumb wheel arrangement, the thumb wheel being rotated to cause the floss heads to sequentially exit the dispensing aperture. Optionally, the interdental cleaning device cartridge 14 includes a base support (not shown) which is connectable to the container 102. This facilitates use of the interdental cleaning device cartridge 14 as a standalone dispensing unit. The base support improves the stability of the container 102 on a surface, such in a bathroom cabinet. Preferably, the base support holds the container 102 in an upright condition. The base support may be dispensed with and the cartridge 14 used as a standalone device.

The container 102 and dispensing head 106 are preferably made from a plastics material in order to reduce the weight of the cartridge 14.

Although the body member 68 has been described as having two compartments, this need not necessarily be the case. The body member may be tubular and have no centrally located partition wall portion. Instead, the two compartments may be defined arbitrarily by the extent to which the cartridge is received into the body member. Demarcation of the two compartments may occur simply by the location of a stop against which the cartridge is abutable.

In the absence of an interdental cleaning device cartridge 14, an end cap may be provided to plug or cover the open end 94 of the first compartment 70.

Although the oral hygiene apparatus has been described as having a cartridge for storing the plurality of floss heads, the cartridge is not necessarily essential. The interdental cleaning elements may be storable directly within the handle without the use of a cartridge. If the cartridge is omitted, a rail similar to rail 114 may be provided within the handle to facilitate easy dispensing of interdental cleaning elements from the handle. Although the recess 66 has been shown and described as being located on the toothbrush head 18, the engagement means may be at least partially located at any position on the toothbrush element 12, particularly the base 24. For example, if the recess 66 is located in or proximate cap 48, then the interdental cleaning element is usable even when the toothbrush element 12 is stored within handle 20. Alternatively, the engagement means may be at least partially located on the handle 20 or on the interdental cleaning device cartridge 14.

Although the cartridge has been described as being operable in situ within a handle, the cartridge is autonomous and as such the cartridge may be operable without a toothbrush head or handle. The cartridge alone provides for compact and convenient storage for a plurality of interdental cleaning elements, such as floss heads, thus avoiding strewn floss heads about a bathroom. Furthermore, since the engagement means for the interdental cleaning element may be provided at least partially on the cartridge, the cartridge also fulfills the function of a handle for a standalone flossing device.

Although the apparatus has been shown to include a manual toothbrush element, the toothbrush element and/or cartridge may be electrical, for example, by being motorised. It is thus possible to provide a toothbrush with engagement means on the head and/or between the head and the tail of the handle to releasably connect an interdental cleaning device, such as the aforementioned floss head. The engagement means may allow for indexed rotation and/or tilting of the interdental cleaning device relative to the toothbrush. The engagement means may take the form of the previously described engagement means and/or a snap-lock or push- fit engagement mechanism.

The apparatus, whether manual or electric, may include a timer device operable to sound an alert after a pre-determined period of time. Preferably, the timer device is energisable using one or more batteries. The timer device is beneficial to avoid cursory and prolonged and potentially damaging brushing and/or flossing.

In conjunction with the one or more batteries and the timer device, the apparatus may be adapted to operate a UV light source once the toothbrush is replaced within its chamber, to further dispel, remove or substantially eliminate the build-up of bacteria.

In use, as and when required, an interdental cleaning device 16 is mounted to the toothbrush head 18. When the interdental cleaning device 16 is no longer required, the interdental cleaning device 16 is simply detached from the toothbrush head 18 when the user squeezes the push buttons 32a, 32b. For storage, for example during travel, the toothbrush element 12 is removed by pulling from the openable end 86 of the body member 68, reversing and reinserting into the second compartment 72, with the toothbrush head 18 leading the passage into the second compartment 72. The cap 48 of the base 24 remains visible and closes the otherwise openable end 86 of the second compartment 72. Engagement means may be included on the base 24 to allow releasable connection of a floss head or other interdental cleaning device 16, even whilst the toothbrush head 18 is received within the handle 12. When the supply of interdental cleaning devices 16 within the cartridge 14 is exhausted, the cartridge 14 is removed from the handle 20 and replaced in a straightforward and simple manner. Accordingly, there is provided an oral hygiene apparatus which successfully combines a toothbrush head with an interdental cleaning device, both of which can be hygienically stored when not required. Furthermore, the invention also provides for compact and convenient storage of interdental cleaning devices, with or without a refill cartridge for the apparatus.

It is also convenient to be able to utilise the brush head entirely independently of the interdental cleaning devices. By having the handle with two opposing compartments, the head can be received in one compartment, and the interdental cleaning devices can be received, preferably stacked within the cartridge, in the opposing compartment.

Furthermore, by utilising a cartridge design whereby interdental cleaning devices can be dispensed from one end of the handle which is opposite an end with the brush head is convenient. The removable cartridge also allows simplified refilling, as well as use which is independent of the brush head and handle.

The modular design brings a synergy to the product development process with benefits for both suppliers and retailers alike, for example, in terms of a reduction in packaging and transportation. This improved efficiency throughout the supply and distribution chain leads to a reduction in costs, whilst minimising the impact on the environment. The embodiment described above is provided by way of example only, and various changes and modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

Claims

1. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) comprising a handle which is at least in part hollow to define a compartment (70) therewithin, a toothbrush element (12) which has a brush head (18) and which extends from the handle (20), an interdental cleaning device cartridge (14) removably engagable with the compartment (70), and a plurality of independent interdental cleaning devices (16) storable within the cartridge (14), a said interdental cleaning device (16) including an interdental cleaning head (16) having at least one interdental cleaning element (56, 58), a said interdental cleaning device (16) being dispensable from the cartridge (14), when the cartridge is engaged with the compartment of the handle and when removed, and being releasably engagable with at least one of the toothbrush element (12), handle (20) or cartridge (14).

2. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein an angular orientation of the interdental cleaning device (16) relative to the toothbrush element (12) and/or handle (20) is adjustable.

3. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in claim 2, wherein a rotational angular position and/or a tiltable angular position of the interdental cleaning device (16) on the toothbrush element (12) and/or handle (20) is settable.

4. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the toothbrush element (12) further comprises a base portion (24) for connection with the handle (20), and a neck portion (26) interconnecting the head (18) and base portion (24), the head (18) having first and second opposing surfaces (28, 30), a plurality of bristles (31) disposed on or in the first surface (28), and the interdental cleaning device (16) being detachably mountable to the second surface (30).

5. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in claim 4, wherein each interdental cleaning device (16) is connectable to the head (18) with engagement means (60, 66), the engagement means comprising a protrusion (60) and a correspondingly shaped recess (66).

6. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein each interdental cleaning device (16) comprises a generally U-shaped support having first and second leg portions (50, 52), and first and second interdental cleaning elements (56, 58) extending between free ends of the leg portions.

7. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in claim 6, wherein at least one of the first and second interdental cleaning elements (56, 58) is filament type dental floss.

8. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in claim 6 or 7, wherein at least one of the first and second interdental cleaning elements (56, 58) is ribbon type dental floss.

9. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein at least one of the first and second interdental cleaning elements (56, 58) is an interdental brush.

10. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the toothbrush element (12) is detachably connectable to the toothbrush handle (20).

11. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the toothbrush element (12) is integrally formed as one-piece with the handle (20).

12. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the handle (20) comprises a hollow body member (68) having first and second openable ends.

13. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the head (18) is at least partially receivable within the handle (20).

14. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the handle (20) further defines a second compartment (72).

15. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the brush head (18) is at least partially receivable within the second compartment (72).

16. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the toothbrush element (12) is receivable within the handle (20) with the brush head (18) first.

17. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a clip (80) on the handle (20), the clip (80) including a flat face (81) for preventing or limiting unintentional movement of the apparatus.

18. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one ventilation aperture (82) in the handle (20).

19. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cartridge (14) includes guide means (1 14) for stackably guiding the plurality of interdental cleaning devices (16) in the cartridge (14).

20. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cartridge (14) includes a dispenser (118, 120) for positively controllably dispensing an interdental cleaning device of the plurality of interdental cleaning devices (16) in the cartridge (14).

21. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in claim 19 or 20, the interdental cleaning device cartridge (14) comprising a container (102) defining a chamber (104) for storing interdental cleaning devices (16), a dispensing head (18) connected to a first end of the container (102) and through which interdental cleaning devices (16) are passable, a biasing device (118, 120) at a second opposing end of the container (102) for biasing interdental cleaning devices (16) towards the dispensing head (106) and a controller (130, 132) operable to dispense interdental cleaning devices (16) from the cartridge (14).

22. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in claim 21 , further comprising an interdental cleaning device viewing opening (1 12) extending through the container (102) for viewing a number of interdental cleaning devices (16) remaining within the chamber (104).

23. Oral hygiene apparatus ( 10) as claimed in claim 21 or claim 22, further comprising retaining means in or on an external surface of the container (102) for retaining the interdental cleaning device cartridge (14) within the handle (20).

24. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a timer device operable to sound an alert after a pre-determined period of time.

25. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) as claimed in claim 24, wherein the apparatus is adapted to operate a UV light source for dispelling, removing or substantially eliminating the build-up of bacteria therewithin.

26. An interdental cleaning device cartridge (14) for storing and dispensing interdental cleaning devices (16), said interdental cleaning device cartridge (14) comprising a container (102) for storing independent interdental cleaning devices (16) including an interdental cleaning head (16) having at least one interdental cleaning element (56, 58), a dispensing slot (128) provided by the container (102), a biasing mechanism (118, 120) for biasing interdental cleaning devices (16) within the container (102) towards the dispensing slot (128), and a controller (130, 132) operable to dispense a said interdental cleaning device (16) from the container (102) through the dispensing slot (128).

27. An interdental cleaning device cartridge (14) as claimed in claim 26, further comprising an interdental cleaning device viewing aperture (112) extending through the container (102) for determining the number of interdental cleaning devices (16) that remain therewithin.

28. An interdental cleaning device cartridge (14) as claimed in claim 26 or claim 27, further comprising engaging means for engaging an interdental cleaning device (16) with an exterior surface of the container (102).

29. An interdental cleaning device cartridge (14) as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 28, further comprising a base support connectable to the container (102) for holding the container (102) in an upright condition.

30. An interdental cleaning device cartridge (14) as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 29, further comprising a cover (102) for covering the dispensing slot (128).

31. An interdental cleaning device cartridge (14) as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 30, wherein the controller (130, 132) includes a dispensing user interface (130).

32. An interdental cleaning device cartridge (14) as claimed in claim 31 , wherein the user interface includes a trigger (130).

33. An interdental cleaning device cartridge (14) as claimed in claim 31 or claim 32, wherein the controller (130, 132) is at or adjacent to the dispensing slot (128).

34. Oral hygiene apparatus (10) comprising a toothbrush element (12) connectable to a handle (20), and an interdental cleaning device (16), the toothbrush element (12) having a brush head (18) and the interdental cleaning device (16) being connectable to the toothbrush element (12) at the brush head (18) and/or partway between the head (18) and a tail of the handle (20).

35. An interdental cleaning device (16) comprising a support having spaced apart first and second legs (50, 52), and spaced apart first and second interdental cleaning elements (56, 58) extending between the first and second legs (50, 52).