WO2015074267A1

WO2015074267A1 - Oral care implement

Info

Publication number: WO2015074267A1
Application number: PCT/CN2013/087758
Authority: WO
Inventors: Wenjin XI; Guangsheng GUO; Bo Zhang
Original assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
Priority date: 2013-11-25
Filing date: 2013-11-25
Publication date: 2015-05-28
Also published as: EP3062657A4; AU2013405984A1; CN105722428B; US20160353871A1; TW201531264A; AU2013405984B2; EP3062657A1; RU2016120317A; MX2016006677A; CN105722428A

Abstract

An oral implement comprises a head (10) and a handle (12). The head (10) comprises a first face (14) and a plurality of cleaning elements (34, 36) extending therefrom, a proximal section (16) adjacent to the handle (12) and a distal section (18) remote from the handle (12). The head (10) further comprises a flexible bridge (20) coupling the distal section (18) to the proximal section (16), so that the distal section (18) is flexibly moveable relative to the proximal section (16). The flexible bridge (20) further comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face (14); wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along the flexible bridge (20) in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head (10).

Description

ORAL CARE IMPLEMENT

BACKGROUND

[0001] Oral care implements with various handle and head structures are known. However, it would be desirable to pio vide an oral care impleme nt which c an provide inc reased e ase of ac cess to the bac k tee th for cleaning, while avoiding problems caused b y xcess brushing pressur .

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0002] In one aspect the present invention provides an oral care implement comprising a head and a handle, the head comprising a first face and a plurality of cleaning elements extending from the first face;

wherein the head comprises a proximal section adjacent to the handle and a distal section remote from the handle;

wherein the head further comprises a flexible bridge coupling the distal section to the proximal section so that the distal section is flexibly moveable relative to the proximal section, the flexible bridge further comprising at least one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face, wherein the at least one el as tumeric cleaning element extends along the flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a bngitudinal axis of the head.

[0003] Optionally a bngitudinal axis of the distal section is tilted with respect to a bngitudinal axis of the proximal section by an angle of from 8° to 15°.

[0004] Optionally a bngiludinal axis of the distal sectbn is substantially aligned with a longiftidinal axis of the proximal section.

[0005] O tionally the proximal section and the distal section each have a straight linear edge extending in a direction perpendi ular to a longitudinal axis of the head, wherein the straight linear edge of the distal section faces the straight linear edge of the proximal sectbn, and wherein the flexible bridge couples the straight linear edge of the distal section to the straight linear edge of the proximal sectbn so that the distal sectbn is flexibly move ble relative to the proximal section

[0006] Optionally the flexible bridge comprises an elastameric material. Further optbnally the elastameric material comprises thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). [0007] Optionally the at least one elastomenc cleaning element is inte ral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge.

[0000] Optionally the proximal section and the distal section are formed from a rigid plastic or resin material.

[0009] Optionally the rigid plastic or resin material comprises poljfpropjjdene.

[0010] Optionally the fle ible bridge comprises abridging section formed from the rigid plastic or resin material, the bridging section joining the proximal se tion to the distal section, wherein a ratio of a depth of the bridging section at its narrowest point to a depth of the proximal section is from 1 :3 to 1 :7.

[0011] Optionally the bridging se ction exte nds across an entire width of the head.

[0012] Optionally the head further comprises a second face on an opposite side of the head to the first face, and wherein the bridging section is lo ated between the first face and the second face.

[0013] Optionally a distance between the bridging section and the first fa e is greater than a distance between the bridging section and the second face. Further optionally, the distance betw en the bridging section and the first face is from 2 to 4 times greater than the distance bet we en the bridging sec tion and the sec ond face .

[0014] Optionally the flexible bridge further comprises an elastomeric material sunounding the at least one bridging section.

[0015] Optionally the elastom ric material comprises the moplastic elastomer (TPE).

[0016] Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is integral with the elastomeric material of the fl xible bridge.

[0017] Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is an elastomeric wall.

[0010] Optionally the elastomeric wall extends along the flexible bridge in a straight linear configuration.

[0019] Optionally the elastomeric wall has a distal edge remote from the first face, the elastomeric wall comprising at least one note h ex tending from the distal edge of the elastomeric wall towards the first face of the head.

[0020] Optionally the elastomeric wall has a height measured from the first face to the distal edge of the elastomeric wall, the least one notch extending from the distal edge towards the first fa e by a distance of from 5/8 to 7/8 of the height of the elastomeric wall. [0021] Optionally the plurality of cleaning elements comprises a first plurality of cleaning elements extending from the proximal section, and a second plurality of cleaning elements extending from the distal section.

[0022] Optionally the fust pi urahty of cleaning elements comprises tape red bristles.

[0023] Optionally the second plurality of cleaning elements comprises tape red bristles .

[0024] Optionally the tapered bristles are tufted in square tuft holes.

[0025] Optionally a height of the first plurality of cleaning elements is equal to a height of the second plurality of cleaning elements.

[0026] Optionally the at l ast one elastomeric cleaning element has a height which is equal to the height of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements.

[0027] Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element has a height which is less than the height of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements.

[0020] Optionally the head further comprises a second face located on an opposite side of the head to the first lace, the se cond fac e comprising a tissue cle anser.

[0029] Optionally the tissue cleanser comprises an elastomeric material.

[0030] Optionally the flexible bridge comprises the elastomeric material and wherein the tissue cleanser is integral with the flexible bridge.

[0031] Optionally the head has a length of from 20 mm to 40 mm.

[0032] Optionally the head has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 15 mm.

[0033] Optionally the distal section has a length which is less than a length of the proximal section. Further optionally the ratio of the length of the distal section to the length of the proximal section is from 1 :3 to 1 : 1 .2.

[0034] Optionally the handle includes a body portion, and a neck portion connecting the head to the body portion.

[0035] Optionally a longitudinal axis of the neck portion is substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis of the proximal section of the head.

[0036] Optionally a ngiludinal axis of the body portion is tilted with respect to a bngitudinal axis of the neck portion by an angle of from 5° to 15°.

[0037] Optionally the nec k portion has a maximum width of from 3 mm to 7 mm .

[0038] Optionally the body portion has a maximum width of from 9 mm to 15 mm. [0039] In another aspect, the present invention ptuvides oral care impl ment comprising a he d and a handle, the head comprising a first face and a plurality of cleaning elements extending from the first face; wherein the head comprises a proximal section adj cent to the handle and a distal section remote from the handle; wherein the head further comprises a flexible bridge coupling the distal se tion to the pioximal section so that the distal section is flexibly move able relative to the proximal section; wherein the plurality of cleaning elements comprises a first plurality of cleaning elements extending from the proximal section, and a second plurality of cleaning ele ments e xtending from the distal section, at least one of the first and se cond pluralities of cleaning elements comprising tapered bristles.

[0040] Optionally the first plurality of cleaning elements comprises tape red bristles.

[0041] Optionally the second pi urality of cleaning elements comprises tape red bristles .

[0042] Optionally the tapered bristles are tufted in square tuft holes.

[0043] Optionally a height of the first plurality of cleaning elements is equal to a height of the second plurality of cleaning elements.

[0044] Optionally a longitudinal axis of the distal section is tilted with respect to a ngitudmal axis of the proximal section by an angle of from 8° to 15°.

[0045] Optionally a tongiludinal axis of the distal section is substantially aligned with a longiftidinal axis of the proximal section.

[0046] Optionally the flexible bridge further comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along the flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a bngitudinal ax is of the head.

[0047] Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is an elastomeric wall.

[0049] Optionally the elastomeric wall extends along the flexible bridge in a straight linear configuration.

[0049] Optionally the elastomeric wall has a distal edge remote from the first face, the elastomeric wall comprising at least one note h ex tending from the distal edge of the elastomeric wall towards the first face of the head.

[0050] Optionally the elastomeric wall has a height measured from the first face to the distal edge of the elastomeric wall, the least one notch extending from the distal edge towards the first face by a distance of from 5/8 to 7/8 of the height of the elastomeric wall. [0051] Optionally the at least one elastomerijc cleaning element has a height which is equal to a height of the fust and second pluralities of cleaning elements.

[0052] Optionally the at least one el as to mem: cleaning element has a height which is less than a height of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements.

[0053] Optionally the flexible bridge comprises an elastomeric material. Further optionally, the elastomeric material comprises ttermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

[0054] Optionally the flexible bridge further comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along the flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a tongiludinal axis of the head, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is mtegral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge.

[0055] Optionally the proximal section and the distal section are formed from a rigid plastic or resin mate rial . Further optionally, the rigid plastic or resin mate rial comprise s polypropylene .

[0056] Optionally the flexible bridge comprises abridging section formed from the rigid plastic or resin material, the bridging section joining the proximal section to the distal section, wherein a ratio of a depth of the bridging section at its narrowest point to a depth of the proximal section is from 1 :3 to 1 :7.

[0057] Optionally the bridging s ction extends across an entire width of the head.

[0050] Optionally the head further comprises a second face on an opposite side of the head to the first face, and wherein the bridging section is located between the first face and the second face.

[0059] Optionally a distance between the bridging section and the first face is greater than a distance between the bridging section and the second fa e. Further optionally, the distance betw en the bridging s ction and the first face is from 2 to 4 times greater than the distance bet we en the bridging sec tion and the sec ond face .

[0060] Optionally the flexible bridge further comprises an elastomeric material surrounding the at least one bridging section. Further optionally, the elastomeric material comprises thermoplastic elastomer (Ί Ε).

[0061] Optionally the flexible bridge further comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along the flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is integral with the elastoineric matenal of the flexible bridge.

[0062] Optionally the head further comprises a second face located on an opposite side of the head to the first fa e, the se cond fac e comprising a tissue cle anser.

[0063] Optionally the tissue cleans r comprises an elastomeric material.

[0064] Optionally the flexible bridge comprises the elastomeric material and the tissue cleanser is integral with the flexible bridge.

[0065] Optionally the head has a length of from 20 mm to 40 mm.

[0066] Optionally the head has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 15 mm.

[0067] Optionally the distal section has a length which is less than a length of the proximal section.

[0068] Optionally the ratio of the length of the distal section to the length of the proximal section is from 1 :3 to 1 :1.2.

[0069] Optionally the handle includes a body portion, and a neck portion connecting the head to the body portion.

[0070] Optionally a longitudinal axis of the neck portion is substantially aligned with a longiftidinal axis of the proximal section of the head

[0071] Optionally a tongiludinal axis of the body portion is tilted with respe t to a bngitudinal axis of the neck portion by an angle of from 5° to 15°.

[0072] Optionally the nec k portion has a maximum width of from 3 mm to 7 mm .

[0073] Optionally the body portion has a maximum width of from 9 mm to 15 mm.

[0074] Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed des ription provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed des ription and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intend d for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. In particular, any of the various features of the oral care implement as discussed be w in conne tion with various embodiments could be combined.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0075] The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed des ription and the accompanying drawings, wherein: [0076] Figure 1A illustrates a side view of a toothbrush in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Figure IB illustrates a front view of the toothbrush of Figure 1A.

[0070] Figure 1C illustrates a rear view of the toothbrush of Figure 1A.

[0079] Figures A to 2F illustrate a toothbrush head in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 2 A shows a front view of the head.

[0081] Figure 2B shows a rear view of the head.

[0082] Figure 2C shows a side vie wof the head.

[0083] Figure 2D is a perspective vie wof the toothbrush head, illustrating the flexible movement of the distal section with respect to the proximal section.

[0084] Figure 2E shows a perspective view of the toothbrush head in which the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge has be en omitted in order to show the bridging structure.

[0085] Figure 2F shows a side view of the toothbrush head of Figure 2E, in which the first and second pluralitie s of c leaning eleme nts have been omitte d.

[0086] Figures 3A to 3E illustrate a toothbrush head in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] Figure 3 A shows a front view of the head.

[0088] Figure 3B shows a rear view of the head.

[0089] Figure 3C shows a side vie wof the head.

[0090] Figure 3D is a perspective vie wof the toothbrush head, illustrating the flexible movement of the distal section with respect to the proximal section.

[0091] Figure 3E shows a perspective view of the toothbrush head in which the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge has be en omitted in order to show the bridging structure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0092] The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way inte nded to limit the invention, its applic ation, or uses .

[0093] As used throughout ranges are used as shorthand for describing each and every value that is within the range. Any value within the range can be selected as the terminus of the range . In addition, all references cited herein are hereby incorporated by referenced in their entireties. s

In the eve nt of a conflict in a definition in the present disclosure and that of a cited re ferenc e, the present disclosure controls.

[0094] The description of illustrative embodiments according to principles of the present invention is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description. In the description of enifoodiments of the invention disclosed herein, any reference to direction or orientation is merely intended for convenien e of des ription and is not intended in any way to hmit the scope of the present invention. Relative terms such as "lower," ''upper," "horizontal," 'Vertical," "above," "below," "up," "down," "top" and "bottom" as well as derivatives thereof (e.g., "horizontally" "downwardly" "upwardly," et .) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description only and do not require that the apparatus be constructed or operated in a particular orientation unless explicitly indicated as such. Terms such as "attached," "affixed," "connected," "coupled," "interconn cted," and similar refer to a relationship wher in structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or ir.din¾ctiy1hrough intervening structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise . Moreover, the features and benefits of the invention are illustrated by reference to the exemplified embodime ts. Accoidingly, the invention expressly should not be limited to su h exemplary enibodiments illustrating some possible non- limiting combination of features that may exist alone or in other combinations of features; the scope of the inve ntion being defined by the claims appended hereto.

[0095] In the following description, the invention is dis ssed in terms of a manual toothbrush, and method of manufacturing the same, having the inventive multi-component handle. However, in other forms, the mvention could be in the form of other oral care implements including a soft-tissue cleansing implement, an inter- proximal pick, a flossing tool, a plaque scraper, a powered toothbrush, or other ansa te implement designed for oral care. It is also to be understood that other embodiments may be utilised, and that stmctural and functional modifications maybe made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0096] Figures lA to 1C illustrate a toombrush m accordar.ee with an enitoodiment of the present invention, wherein a distal section IS of the head 10 (the distal section IS being remote from the handle 12) is coupled to a proximal section 16 of the head 10 (the proximal section 16 being adjacent to the handle 1 ) by a flexible bridge 20 so that the distal section IS is fie xibly movable with respect to the proximal se tion 16 (as illustrated in Figure 2D). In this embodiment, the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal se tion IS is tilted by an angle a with respect to the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16, the angle a being approximately 13°. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1A, the longitudinal axis A- A of the body portion 22 of the handle 12 is tilted by an angle β with respect to the bngitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion 24 of the handle 12. In this embodiment, the angle G is approximately 10°. The longitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion is substantially aligned with the bngitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 of the head 10.

[0097] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1A to 1 C, the ratio of the length of the distal section IS to the length of the proximal section 16 is approximately 1 : 1.3. the distal section IS having a length of 11.6 mm and the proximal section 16 having a length of 15.3 mm. The total length of the head 10 (as measured along the direction of the Y-Y axis) is 29.1 mm. The distal section IS has a width of 9.3 mm and the proximal section 16 has a width of 10.7 mm.

[0090] The head 10 of the toothbrush of Figures 1 A to 1C is shown in more detail in Figures 2A to 2F. However, the head as shown in Figures 2 A to 2F could also be used in other embodiments of the present invention. It is also noted that the head as shown in Figures 3 A to 3E could be used with the handle as illustrated in Figures 1A to 1C.

[0099] As illustrated in Figures 2 A to 2F. the head 10 comprises a first face 14. with a plurality of cleaning elements extending therefrom. The plurality of cleaning elements comprises a first plurality of c barring elements 34 extending from the proximal section 16, and a second plurality of cleaning elements 36 extending from the distal section IS. The first and second pluralities of cleaning elements 3 36 comprise tape red bristles tufted in square tuft holes 3S, which tuft holes 3S have dimensions of 1.40 mm x 1 .40 mm. The first plurality of cleaning elements 34 have a length which is e qual to that of the second plurality of cleaning ele ments 36.

[0100] The head 10 includes square tuft holes 3S which are positioned in a grid arrangement of columns and rows on the proximal and distal sections 16, IS. The centres of tuft holes 3S in adjacent columns are spaced apart by 2.50 mm in the distal section IS and by 2.20 mm in the proximal section 16. The centres of tuft holes 3S in adjacent rows are spaced apart by 2.55 mm in both the proximal and distal sections 16, IS. The distal section IS includes a distal-most row 40 of tuft holes 3S, wherein the centres of the tuft holes in the distal- most row 40 are spaced apart from one another by 2.20 mm. The distance betwe n the centres of the tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 and a line joining the c entre s of the tuft holes in the row adj acent to the distal- most row 40 is 2.43 mm. The proximal section 16 includes a proximal- most row 42 of tuft holes, wherein the centres of the tuft holes in the proximal-most row 42 are spaced apart from one another by 2.20 mm. The distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the proximal-most row 42 and a line joining the centres of the tuft holes in the row adjacent to the proximal-most row 42 is 2.66 mm. In the distal- and proximal-most rows 40, 42 the tuft holes 3S are offset with respect to the columns. The centres of the tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 are spaced at a distance of 1.10 mm from a line joining the centres of the tuft holes of a column disposed on the longitiidinal axis X-X of the distal section IS. The centres of the tuft holes in the proximal-most row 42 are spaced at a distance of 1.10 mm from lines joining the centres of the tuft holes of each column of the proximal section 16.

[0101] The head 10 further comprises a second face 32, which second fac 32 comprises a tissue cleanser 44. The tissue cleanser 44 comprises a plurality of nubs 46 for cleansing soft tissues of the mouth.

[0102] In this embodiment, the distal section IS and the proximal section 16 are formed of polypropylene. As illustrated in Figures 2D to 2F, the flexible bridge 20 comprises a bridging section 30 formed from the polypropylene, which bridging section 30 joins the proximal and distal sections 16, IS and is located between the first face 14 and the second lace 32. The ratio of the depth of the bridging section 30 at its narrowest point to the depth of the proximal section 16 is approximately 1 .6. The depth of the proximal section 16 is equal to the depth of the distal section IS, and is 5.3 mm. The distance between the bridging section 30 and the first face 14 is approximately 4 times the distance between the bridging section 30 and the second face 32. The flexible bridge 20 furth r comprises an elastomeric material surrounding the bridging section 30, and the tissue c leanse r 44 is inte gral with the flexible bridge 20.

[0103] Figures 3A to 3E illustrate a toothbrush head in accordance with another en^odiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the head 10 includes a proximal section 16 adjacent to the handle 12, and a distal section I remote from the handle 12. The proximal section 16 and the distal section IS are joined by a flexible bridge 20. In the embodiment shown, the longitiidinal axis X-X of the distal section IS is substantially aligned with a bngitudinal axis Y- Y of the proximal section 16. The proximal section 16 and distal section IS each have a straight linear edge extending in a direction perpendi ular to a bngiliidinal axis of the head 10, wherein the straight linear edge 4S of the distal section IS faces the straight linear edge 50 of the proximal section 16. The flexible bridge 20 couples the straight linear edge 4S of the distal section IS to the straight linear edge 50 of the proximal section 16, so that the distal section IS is flexibly movable with respect to the proximal section 16 (as illustrated in Figure 3D). The ratio of the length of the distal section IS to the length of the proximal section 16 is approximately 1 : 1 .3, the distal section IS having a length of 1 1 .6 mm and the proximal section 16 having a length of 15.4 mm. The total length of the head 10 is 30.1 mm. The distal section IS has a width of 9.3 mm and the proximal section 16 has a width of 10.7 mm.

[0104] The flexible bridge 20 further comprises an elastomeric cleaning element 26 extending from the first face 14, which elastomeric cleaning eleme t 26 extends along the flexible bridge 20 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the head 10.

[0105] The elastomeric cleaning element 26 is an elastomeric wall extending along the flexible bridge in a straight, line r configuration, and has a distal edge remote from the first fa e. The elastomeric wall comprises a notch 2S extending from the distal edge towards the first face 14 by a distance of about o7S of the he ight of the elastome ric wall .

[0106] The proximal and distal sections 16, IS are formed of polj iopyiene and the flexible bridge comprises a bridging section 30 formed of the polypropylene. The bridging section joins the ptoximal section 16 to the distal section IS, and is located between the first face 14 and the second face 32. The second face 32 comprises a tissue cleanser 44. The flexible bridge 20 further comprises an elastomeric material surrounding the bridging section 30, and the tissue cleanser 44 is integral with the flexible bridge 20. The tissue cleanser 44 comprises a plurality of nubs, 46.

[0107] The ptoximal section 16 comprises a first plurality of cleaning elements 34 extending from the first face 14, and the distal sec tion 18 comprises a second plurality of cleaning eleme ts 36 extending from the first face 14. The first and second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36 comprise tapere d bristle s t fte d in squaie tuft hole s 3S, which tuft holes have dime nsions of 1 .40 mm x 1.40 mm. The first plurality of cleaning elements 34 have a length which is e ual to that of the second plurality of c leaning eleme nts 36. The head 10 includes square tuft hole s 3S which are positioned in a grid arrangement of columns and rows on the proximal and distal sections 16, IS (as described above in relation to the arrangement of tuft holes 3S in Figures 2 A to 2F). The distal section 18 includes a distal-most row 40 of tuft holes 38 and the proximal section lo^~ includes a proximal- most row 42 of tuft holes wherein, in the distal- and proximal- most rows 40. 42, the tuft hole s 38 are offse t with re spe ct to the columns (as describe d above in re lation to the arrangeme nt of tuft holes 38 in Figure s 2 A to 2F) .

[0108] The elastome ric c leaning e lement 26 has a he ight which is less than the he ight of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36.

[0109] In one aspect, the present invention provides an oral care implement comprising a head 10 and a handle 12, the head 10 comprising a first face 14 and a plurality of cle aning elements extending from the first face 14. The head 10 comprises a proximal section 16 adj cent to the handle 12, a distal section 18 remote from the handle 12, and a flexible bridge 20 coupling the distal section 18 to the proximal section 16 so that the distal section 18 is flexibly movable relative to the proximal section 16. The flexible bridge 20 further comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 extending from the first face 14. The at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 extends along the flexible bridge 20 in a direction perpendi ular to a longitiidinal axis of the head 10. The elastomeric cleaning element 26 acts to pohsh the tooth surface s and cle an the teeth.

[0110] The flexible bridge 20 alb ws the distal section 18 to move forward and backward relative to the proximal section 16 during use of the oral caie implement, allowing the oral care implement to reach deep into the mouth to clean the back teeth. This flexibility also reduces or preve nts exce ss pressure being applied to the back teeth whe n brushing .

[0111] In some embodiments, a bngitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 is tilted with respect to a bngitiidinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 by an angle a of from 8° to 15°, from 9° to 14°, from 10° to 13°, or of about 1 °. In these embodiments, the longitudinal axis X- X of the distal section 18 is tilted by the above angle a with respect to the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal se tion 16 when the oral care implement is in a stressless state i.e . when no for e is being applied to the implement in order to cause the distal section 18 to move relative to the proximal section 16 (such as when the implement is not in use). The distal section 18 can move with respect to the proximal section 16 upon application of force during use, but returns to its initial position with the axis X-X inclined by angle a with respect to the axis Y-Y once any applied force has been removed. The longitiidinal axis X-X of the distal section being tilted by angle a with respect to the bngitiidinal axis Y-Y of the proximal sectbn 16 albws the head to fit to the curve of the teeth, and the flexible bridge allows the head to adapt to the contours of the teeth/ ooth surfac .

[0112] In other embodiments, the bngitudinal axis X-X of the distal section IS is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16. In these mbodiments, the longitiidinal axis X-X of the distal section IS is substantially align d with the bngitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 when the oral care implement is in a stressless state i.e. when no force is being applied to the implement in order to cause the distal section IS to move relative to the proximal section 16 (such as when the implement is not in use). The distal section 18 can move with respect to the pro imal section 16 upon application of force during use, but returns to its initial position with the axis X-X substantially aligned with the axis Y-Y once any applied force has been r moved.

[0113] In some en^odiments, the proximal section 16 and the distal section IS each have a straight linear edge extending in a direction perpendicular to a longitiidinal axis of the head 10, wherein the straight linear edge 48 of the distal section IS faces the straight linear edge 50 of the proximal section 16. In these embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 couples the straight linear edge S of the distal section IS to the straight linear edge 50 of the proximal section 16 so that the distal section IS is flexibly move able relative to the ptoximal section 16.

[0114] In some embodiments, the handle 12 includes a body portion 22, and a neck portion 24 connecting the head 10 to the body portion 22. In various embodiments, a bngitiidinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion 24 is substantially aligned with the bngitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal sectbn 16 of the head 10. In various embodiments, a bngihidinal axis A- A of the body portion 22 is tilted with respect to the bngitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion 24 by an angle β of from 5° to 15°, from 6° to 14°, from 7° to 13°, from 8° to 12°, fum ^Q0 to 11°, or of about 10° The provision of this angle β b tween the bngitudinal axes A- A and Z-Z of the body portion 22 and the neck port ton 24, respectively results in an ergonomic handle which al ws the user to reach the back teeth more easily.

[0115] In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section IS is tilted with respect to a bngitiidinal axis Y-Y of the proximal sectbn 16 by an angle a of from S° to 1 °, from ^QO to 14°, from 10° to 13°, or of about 13°, and the bngitudinal axis A-A of the body portion 22 is til ted with respect to a bngitiidinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion by an angle β of from 5° to 15°, from 6^"° to 14°, from to 13°, from S° to 12°, from ^QO to 11°, or of about 10°. The provision of both angle β between the bngitiidinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion 24 and the longiftidinal axis A- A of the body portion 22, and angle a b tween the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section IS and the longiftidinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16, provides for improved reach of the oral care implem nt to cl an the back teeth and rear-most areas of the mouth.

[0116] In some embodiments, the body portion 22 comprises a thumb grip 52 located adjacent to the area of connection of the body portion 22 to the neck portion 24. In one embodime t, the body portion 22 comprises the thumb grip 52 on one side thereof and a finger grip area 54 on an opposite side thereof, wherein the thumb grip 52 is located on the same side of the oral care implement as the first face 14 of the head 10. The thumb grip 52 maybe embossed/textured so as to provide an anti-slip are a for increased ease of gripping of the oral care implement by a use r . Where the thumb grip 52 is embossed or textured, this may also provide a massaging effect on the thumb of a user. In some embodiments, the thumb grip 52 comprises an elastomeric material in order to provide a comfortable gripping area. In such embodiments, the elastomeric material provides a gripping surface which is softer than the material (such as a rigid plastic or resin material e .g . polypropyle ne) from whic h the body portion and/or ne ck portion are formed.

[0117] In some embodiments, the distal section 18 has a le ngfh whic h is le ss than a length of the proximal se tion 16. In some embodiments, the distal s ction IS has a length of from 9 mm to 13 mm, from 10 mm to 12.5 mm, from 11 mm to 12 mm or of about 1 1 .5 mm. In some embodiments, the proximal section 16 has a length of from 14.5 mm to 17 mm, from 15 mm to 16 mm, or of about 15.4 mm. In some embodiments, the distal section IS has a length of from 11 mm to 12 mm and t e proximal section 16 has a length of fiom 15 to 16 mm. The distal section IS is thus able to over the surface of a single tooth, thus providing improved ease of reach of the oral care implement to the back teeth in the mouth, while the proximal section 16 ensures an acceptable total length of the head.

[0118] In various embodiments, the ratio of the length of the distal section IS to the length of the proximal section 16 is from 1 :3 to 1 : 1.2, from 1 :2.5 to 1 :1.25, from 1 :2 to 1 :1 .3 or about 1 :1 .3.

[0119] In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 comprises an elastomeric material. Suitable elastomeric materials include, but are not kmited to, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

[0120] In various e mbodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge 20. [0121] In various embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cteaning element 26 is an elastom ric wall. In some embodim nts, the elastomeric wall extends along the flexible bridge 20 in a straight, linear configuration.

[0122] In some embodiments, the elastome ic wall has a distal edge remote from the first face 14, the elastomeric wall comprises at least one notch 28 extending from the distal edge of the elastomeric wall towards the fiist face 14 of the head 10. The notch 28 ensures that the elastomeric cleaning wall is of the correct level of softness to provide acceptable mouthfeel to the consumer. In some embodiments, the elastomeric wall has a height measured from the first fac e 14 to the distal edge of the elastome ric wall, the le ast one notch 28 e xtending from the distal edge towards the first face 14 by a distance of from 5/8 to 7/8 of the height of the elastomeric wall. The further the notch 28 tends from the distal edge of the elastomeric wall towards the first face, the greater the level of softness of the elastomeric wall.

[0123] In some embodiments, the proximal section 16 and the distal section 18 are formed from a rigid plastic or resin material. In various embodiments, the rigid plastic or resin material comprises polypropylene.

[0124] In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 comprises a bridging section 30 formed from the rigid plastic or resin material. The bridging section 30 joins the proximal section 16 to the distal section 18. The presence of the bridging section 30 can provide increased ease of manufacture, for example if the head is injection-molded then the bridging section allows the proximal section 16 and the distal section 18 to be form d integrally conn cted by the bridging section 30. A ratio of a depth E¾ of the bridging section 30 at its narrowest point to a depth Dj of the proximal section 16 is from 1 :3 to 1 :7, from 1 :3.5 to 1 :6^", or from 1 :4 to 1 :5, so that the distal section 18 is flexibly movable relative to the proximal section lo^", despite being connected thereto by the bridging section 30. In some embodiments, the de pth D j of the proximal section is from 4 mm to 6.5 mm, from 4.5 mm to 6 mm, or from 5 mm to 5.5 mm. The depth of the distal section 18 maybe the same as the depth of the proximal section 16. In some embodiments, the bridging se ction 30 exte nds across an entire width of the head 10.

[0125] The length of the flexible bridge (in a direction parallel to the bngitiidinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16) maybe from 1.7 mm to 3.2 mm, from 2 mm to 3 mm, or from 2.3 mm to 2.7 mm. In some embodiments, a ratio of the length of the flexible bridge 20 to the length of the distal section 18 is from 1 :3 to 1 :5, from 1 :3.5 to 1 :4.5, from 1 :3.8 to 1 :4.2, or about 1 :4. This allows for the oral care implement to have sufficient bristle density along the length of the head for effective cleaning of the teeth, while providing an acceptable level of flexibility of the distal section IS relative to the proximal section 16.

[0126] In some embodiments, the head 10 further comprises a second face 32 on an opposite side of the head 10 to the first face 14, and the bridging section 30 is located between the first face 14 and the second face 32. In some embodiments, a distan e between the bridging section 30 and the first face 14 is greater than a distance between the bridging section 30 and the second face 32, providing the desired flexibility of movement of the distal section 18 relative to the proximal section 16. In some embodiments, the distance between the bridging section 30 and the first fa e 14 is from 2 to 4 times greater, from 2.5 to 3.5 times greater, or about 3 times gre ter than the distance between the bridging section 30 and the second face 32.

[0127] In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 further comprises an elastomeric material surrounding the at least one bridging section 30. Examples of such elastomerijc materials include, but are not limited to, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

[0120] In some embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge 20.

[0129] In some embodiments, the plurality of cleaning elements comprises a first plurality of cleaning eleme ts 34 extending from the proximal section 16, and a second plurality of cleaning elements 36 extending from the distal section IS.

[0130] In some embodiments, the first plurality of cleaning elements 34 comprises tapered bristles. In certain embodiments, the second plurality of cleaning elements 36 comprises tapered bristles. In various embodiments, both the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36 comprise tapered bristles. In some embodime ts, portions of the first plurality of cleaning elements 34 are tapered. In some embodiments, portions of the second plurality of cleaning elements 36 are taper d. In some embodiment, portions of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36 are tapered.

[0131] In some embodiments, the first and/or second pluralities of cleaning l ments 34, 36 are tapered.

[0132] In some embodiments, the tapered bristles aie tufted in square tuft holes 38. The provision of the tapered bristles in the square tuft holes 38 allows the bristles to reach deep into the interdental ar as in order to provide effective cleaning, whilst providing bristle softness for optimal gum cane. The provision of square tuft holes enhances cleaning of the tooth surfaces, as the contact area of the bristles of a particular tuft on the tooth surface is gre ter for a square tuft hole than for a round tuft hole of similar dimensions. In some embodiments, the tuft holes on the first face 14 have dimensions of 0.8 itim n 0.8 mm to 2.0 mm x 2.0 mm; of 1.0 mm x 1 .0 mm to 1.8 mm x 1.8 mm; of 1 .2 mm x 1.2 mm to 1.5 mm x 1.5 mm; or of about 1.4 mm x 1 .4 mm. In various embodiments, the head comprises tuft holes 38 which are positioned in a grid arrangement of columns (parallel to the bngifridinal axes X-X and Y-Y of the proximal section 16 and the distal section 18) and rows (perpendicular to the longitudinal axes X-X and Y-Y of the ptoximal section 16 and the distal section 18). In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of tuft holes in successive rows is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.8 mm, from 2.4 mm to 2.6 mm, or about 2.5 mm. In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of tuft holes in successive columns on the distal section is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from

2.2 mm to 2.8 mm, fiom 2.4 mm to 2.6 mm, or about 2.5 mm, and the distance between the centres of tuft holes in successive columns on the proximal section is from 1.6 mm to 2.6 mm, from 1 .8 mm to 2.5 mm, from 2.0 to 2.3 mm, or about 2.2 mm. In some embodiments, the head includes a distal-most row 40 of tuft holes 38 and a pro imal-most row 42 of tuft holes 38, in which rows the tuft hole s are not aligned with the columns forme d by tuft holes of other rows . In some embodiments, the tuft holes of the proximal- and distal- most lows 40, 42 are offset with respect to the columns. In some embodiments, the centres of the tuft holes in the distal- most row 40 are spaced by a distance of from 0.5 mm to 1.5mm, from 0.8 mm to 1.3 mm, from 1 .2 mm to

1.3 mm, or about 1 .10 mm from a line joining the centres of the tuft holes of a column disposed on the bngitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18. In some embodiments, the centres of the tuft holes in the proximal- most low 42 are spaced by a distanc of from 0.5 mm to 1 .5mm, from 0.8 mm to 1.3 mm, from 1 .2 mm to 1 .3 mm, or about 1.10 mm from lines joining the centres of the tuft holes of the columns of the proximal section 16 from which the tuft holes of the proximal-most row are offset. In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 and a line joining the centres of the tuft holes in the row adjacent to the distal-most row 40 is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, fiom 2.2 mm to 2.8 mm, from 2.3 mm to 2.5 mm, or about 2.4 mm. In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the proximal- most row 42 and a line joining the centres of the tuft holes in the row adjacent to the proximal-most row 42 is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.9 mm, from IS

2.4 mm to 2.S mm, or about 2.6 mm. In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 is from 1 .6 mm to 2.6 mm, from 1.8 mm to 2.5 mm, from 2.0 to 2.3 mm, or about 2.2 mm, and the distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the proximal-most row 42 is from 1.6 mm to 2.6 mm, from 1 .8 mm to 2.5 mm, from 2.0 to 2.3 mm, or about 2.2 mm.

[0133] In some embodiments, a height of the first plurality of cleaning elements 34 is equal to a height of the second plurality of cleaning elements 36.

[0134] In various embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 has a height which is e qual to the he ight of the first and se cond pluralities of cle aning e lements 34, 36.

[0135] In other embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 has a height which is less than the height of the first and second pluralitie s of cleaning ele ments 34, 36.

[0136] In some embodiments, head 10 further comprises a second face 32 located on an opposite side of the head 10 to the first face 14, the second face 32 comprising a tissue cleanser 44. In some embodiments, the tissue cleanser comprises a plurality of nubs 46 for cleansing soft tissues of the mouth e.g. the insides of the cheeks and lips, and the tongue. The inclusion of the tissue cleanser 44 allows the oral care implement to provide thorough cleaning of the oral cavity, with cleansing of soft tissues as well as cleaning of the teeth.

[0137] In some embodiments, the tissue cleanser 42 comprises an elastomeric material. Examples of suitable elastomeric material which maybe used for the tissue cleanser 42 include, but are not limited to thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

[0138] In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 comprises the elastomeric material and the tissue cleans r 42 is integral with the flexible bridge 20.

[0139] In c ertain e mbodiments, the he ad 10 has a length of from 20 mm to 40 mm, from 25 mm to 35 mm, from 27 mm to 33 mm, or about 30 mm, or about 29 mm. In some e mbodiments, the head 10 has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 15 mm, from 7 mm to 13 mm, from 9 mm to 12 mm, or about 11 mm. In some embodiments, the distal section 18 has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 13 mm, from 7 mm to 12 mm, from S mm to 11 mm, or of about 9 mm. In some embodiments, the proximal section 16 has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 15 mm, from 7 mm to 13 mm, from 9 mm to 12 mm, or about 1 1 mm. In some embodiments, the maximum width of the distal section 18 is less than the maximum width of the proximal section 16. The compact head (and particularly the compact size of the distal section 18) also assists in reaching of hard-to-reach areas of the mouth, such as the back teeth, particularly for users having a smaller oral cavity size than that for whi h many oral care implements are designed.

[0140] In some en odiments, the neck portion 24 has a maximum width of fiom 3 mm to 7 mm, from 4 mm to 6 mm, or of about 5 mm.

[0141] In some embodiments, the body portion 22 has a maximum width of from 9 mm to 15 mm, from 10 mm to 14 mm, from 1 1 mm to 13 mm, or of about 15 mm.

[0142] In another aspect, the prese t invention provides an oral care implement comprising a head 10 and a handle 12, the head 10 comprising a first face 14 and a plurality of cleaning elements extending from the first face 14. The head 10 comprises a proximal section lo^~ adj cent to the handle 12 and a distal section 18 remote from the handle 12. The head 10 further comprises a flexible bridge 20 coupling the distal section IS to the proximal section 16 so that the distal section IS is fl xibly moveable relative to the proximal section IS. The plurality of cleaning elements comprises a first plurality of cleaning elements 34 extending from the proximal section 16, and a second plurality of cleaning elements 36 extending from the distal section IS, at least one of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements comprising tapered bristles.

[0143] In some embodiments, the first plurality of cleaning elements 34 comprises tapered bristles. In certain embo dime nts, the second plurality of cleaning elements 36 comprises tapered bristles. In various embodiments, both the first and second pluralities of cl aning elements 34, 36 comprise tapered bristles.

[0144] In some embodiments, the tapered bristles aie tufted in square tuft holes 3S. The provision of square tuft holes enhances cleaning of the tooth surfaces, as the contact area of the bristles of a particular tuft on the tooth surface is greater for a square tuft hole than for a round tuft hole of similar dimensions. In some embodiments, the tuft holes on the first face 14 have dimensions of 0.S mm x 0.S mm to 2.0 mm x 2.0 mm; of 1.0 mm x 1 .0 mm to 1.S mm x 1.8 mm; of 1 .2 mm x 1.2 mm to 1.5 mm x 1.5 mm; or of about 1 .4 mm x 1.4 mm. In various embodiments, the head comprises tuft holes 38 which are positioned in a grid arrangement of columns (parallel to the bngitudinal axes X-X and Y-Y of the proximal section 16 and the distal section 18) and rows (perperidicular to the longitudinal axes X-X and Y-Y of the proximal section 16 and the distal section 18). In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of tuft holes in successive rows is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.8 mm, from 2.4 mm to 2.6 mm, or about 2.5 mm. In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of tuft holes in successive columns on the distal section is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.8 mm, from .4 mm to 2.6 mm, or about 2.5 mm, and the distanc e bet wee n the centres of tuft holes in successive columns on the proximal section is from 1.6 mm to 2.6 mm, from 1.8 mm to 25 mm, from 2.0 to 2.3 mm, or about 2.2 mm. In some en^odiments, the head includes a distal- most row 40 of tuft holes 38 and a proximal-most row 42 of tuft holes 38, in which ID ws the tuft holes are not aligned with the columns formed by tuft holes of other rows. In some embodiments, the tuft holes of the proximal- and distal- most rows 40, 42 are offset with respect to the columns. In some embodiments, the centres of the tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 are spaced by a distance of from 0.5 mm to 1 .5mm, from 0.8 mm to 1.3 mm, from 1.2 mm to 1 .3 mm, or about 1 .10 mm from a line joining the c ntres of the tuft holes of a column disposed on the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18. In some embodiments, the centres of the tuft holes in the proximal- most row 42 are spacedb a distance of from 0.5 mm to 1.5mm, from 0.8 mm to 1 .3 mm, from 1 .2 mm to 1 .3 mm, or about 1.10 mm from lines joining the centres of the tuft holes of the columns of the proximal section 16 from which the tuft holes of the proximal- most row are offset. In some embodiments, the distance between the entres of the tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 and a line joining the centres of the tuft holes in the row adjacent to the distal-most row 40 is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.8 mm, from 2.3 mm to 2.5 mm, or about 2.4 mm. In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the proximal-most row 42 and a line joining the centres of the tuft holes in the row adjacent to the proximal-most low 42 is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.9 mm, from 2.4 mm to 2.8 mm, or about 2.6 mm. In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 is from 1 .6 mm to 2.6 mm, from 1.8 mm to 2.5 mm, from 2.0 to 2.3 mm, or about 2.2 mm, and the distance betwee n the c entre s of the tuft holes in the proximal-most row 42 is from 1.6 mm to 2.6 mm, from 1.8 mm to 2.5 mm, from 2.0 to 2.3 mm, or about 2.2 mm.

[0145] In some embodiments, a height of the first plurality of cleaning elements 34 is equal to a height of the se cond plurality of cleaning elements 36.

[0146] In some embodiments, a bngitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 is tilted with respect to a tongihidinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 by an angle a of from 8° to 15°, from 9 to 14°, from 10° to 1 °, or of about 1 °. In these embodiments, the longitudinal axis X- X of the distal section IS is tilted by the above angle a with respect to the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 wh n the oral care implem nt is in a stressless state i.e . when no forc is being appli d to the impl ment in order to cause the distal section IS to move relative to the proximal section 16 (such as when the implement is not in use). The distal section IS can move with respect to the proximal se tion 16 upon application of force during use, but returns to its initial position with the axis X-X inclined by angle a with respect to the axis Y-Y once any applied force has been removed. The longitiidinal axis X-X of the distal se tion being tilted by angle a with respect to the bngiliidinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 allows the head to fit to the curve of the teeth, and the flexible bridge allows the head to adapt to the contours of the teeth/ ooth surfac e .

[0147] In other embodiments, a longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section IS is substantially aligned with a bngitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16. In these embodiments, the longitiidinal axis X-X of the distal section IS is substantially align d with the tongitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal se tion 16 when the oral care implement is in a stressless state i.e. when no force is being applied to the implement in order to cause the distal section IS to move relative to the proximal se tion 16 (such as when the implement is not in use). The distal section IS can move with respect to the proximal section 16 upon application of force during use, but returns to its initial position with the axis X-X substantially aligned with the axis Y-Y once any applied force has been removed.

[0148] In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 further comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 extending from the first face 14, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 extends along the flexible bridge 20 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the head 10. The elastomeric cleaning element 26 acts to clean the teeth and polish the tooth surfaces.

[0149] In some embodiments, the at le st one elastomeric cleaning element 26 is an elastomeric wall. In some embodiments, the elastomeric wall extends along the flexible bridge 20 in a straight, linear configuration.

[0150] In some embodiments, the elastomeric wall has a distal edge remote from the first face 14, the elastomeric wall comprising at l ast one notch 2S extending from the distal edge of the elastomeric wall towards the fiist face 14 of the head 10. The notch 2S ensures that the elastomeric cleaning wall is of the correct level of softness to provide acceptable mouthfeel to the consumer. In some embodiments, the ekstomeric wall has a height measured from the first fac e 14 to the distal edge of the elastome ric wall, the le ast one notch 28 e xtending from the distal edge towards the first face 14 by a distance of from 5/8 to 7/8 of the height of the elastomeric wall. The further the notch 28 e tends from the distal edge of the elastomeric wall towards the first face, the greater the level of softness of the elastomeric wall.

[0151] In various einbodiments, the at least one lastomeric cleaning element 26 has a height which is e qual to the he ight of the first and se cond pluralities of cle aning e lements 34, 36.

[0152] In other en^odiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 has a height which is less than the height of the first and second pluralitie s of cleaning ele ments 34, 3 .

[0153] In various embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 comprises an elastomeric material. Suitable elastomeric materials include, but are not limited to, thermoplastic elastomer.

[0154] In some mbodiments, the at least one lastomeric cleaning element is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge 20.

[0155] In some embodiments, the proximal se tion 16 and the distal section 18 are formed from a rigid plastic or resin material. In various n±iodiments, the rigid plastic or resin material comprises polypropylene.

[0156] In some en^odiments, the flexible bridge 20 comprises a bridging section 30 formed from the rigid plastic or resin material, the bridging section 30 joining the proximal se tion 16 to the distal section 18. The presence of the bridging section 30 can pnjvide increased ease of manufacture, for example if the head is injection-molded then the bridging section allows the proximal section 16 and the distal section 18 to be formed integrally conn cted by the bridging section 30. A ratio of a depth E¾ of the bridging section 30 at its narrowest point to a depth Dj of the proximal section 16 is from 1 :3 to 1 :7, from 1 :3.5 to 1 :6, or from 1 :4 to 1 :5, so that the distal section 18 is flexibly movable relative to the proximal section 16, despite being connected thereto by the bridging section 30. In some embodiments, the de pth D j of the proximal section is from 4 mm to 6.5 mm, from 4.5 mm to 6 mm, or from 5 mm to 5.5 mm. The depth of the distal section 18 may e the same as the depth of the proximal section 1 . In some embodiments, the bridging se ction 30 exte nds across an entire width of the head 10.

[0157] The length of the flexible bridge (in a direction parallel to the bngitiidinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 1 ) maybe from 1.7 mm to 3.2 mm, from 2 mm to 3 mm, or from 2.3 mm to 2.7 mm. In some embodiments, a ratio of the length of the flexible bridge 20 to the length of the distal section 18 is from 1 :3 to 1 :5, from 1 :3.5 to 1 :4.5, from 1 :3.8 to 1 :4.2, or about 1 :4. This allows for the oral care implement to have sufficient bristle density along the length of the head for effective cleaning of the teeth, while providing an acceptable level of flexibility of the distal section 18 relative to the proximal se tion 16.

[0158] In some embodiments, the head 10 further compris s a se ond face 32 on an opposite side of the head 10 to the first face 14, and wherein the bridging section 30 is located between the first face 14 and the s ond face 32. In some embodiments, a distance between the bridging section 30 and the first face 14 is greater than a distance between the bridging section 30 and the second face 32. In some embodiments, the distance between the bridging section 30 and the first face 14 is from 2 to 4 times greater, from 2.5 to 3.5 times greater, or about 3 times greater than the distance between the bridging section 30 and the second face 32.

[0159] In some embodiments, the fle ible bridge 20 further comprises an elastomeric material surrounding the at least one bridging section 30. Examples of such elastomeric materials include, but are not limited to thermoplastic elastomer. In some embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge 20.

[0160] In some embodiments, head 10 further comprises a second face 32 located on an opposite side of the head 10 to the first face 14, the second face 32 comprising a tissue cleanser 44. In some embodiments, the tissue cleanser comprises a plurality of nubs A6 for cleansing soft tissues of the mouth e.g. the insides of the cheeks and lips, and the tongue. The inclusion of the tissue cleanser 44 allows the oral care implement to provide thorough cleaning of the oral cavity, with cleansing of soft tissues as well as cleaning of the teeth.

[0161] In some embodiments, the tissue cleanser 42 comprises an elastomeric material. E amples of suitable elastomeric material which maybe used for the tissue cleanser 42 include, but are not limited to thermoplastic elastomer.

[0162] In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 comprises the elastomeric material and the tissue cleanser 42 is inte ral with the flexible bridge 20.

[0163] In c ertain e mbodiments, the he ad 10 has a length of from 20 mm to 40 mm, from 25 mm to 35 mm, from 27 mm to 33 mm, or about 30 mm, or about 29 mm.

[0164] In some enitoodiments, the head 10 has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 15 mm, from 7 mm to 13 mm, from 9 mm to 12 mm, or about 11 mm. In some embodiments, the distal section 15 has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 13 mm, from 7 mm to 12 mm, from S mm to 1 1 mm, or of about 9 mm. In some embodiments, the proximal se ction 1 o^" has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 15 mm, from 7 mm to 13 mm, from 9 mm to 12 mm, or about 11 mm. In some embodiments, the maximum width of the distal section IS is less than the maximum width of the proximal se tion 16. The compact h ad (and particularly the compact size of the distal section IS) also assists in reaching of hard-to-reach ar as of the mouth, such as the back teeth, particularly for users having a smaller oral cavity size than that for which many oral care implements are designed.

[0165] In some embodiments, the distal section 1 S has a le ngth whic h is le ss than a length of the proximal section 16. In some embodiments, the distal section IS has a length of from 9 mm to 13 mm, from 10 mm to 12.5 mm, from 11 mm to 12 mm or of about 1 1 .5 mm. In some embodiments, the proximal section 16 has a length of from 14.5 mm to 17 mm, from 15 mm to

16 mm, or of about 15.4 mm. In some embodiments, the distal section IS has a length of from 11 mm to 12 mm and the proximal section 16 has a length of from 15 to 16 mm. The distal section IS is thus able to cover the surface of a single tooth, thus providing improved ease of reach of the oral care implement to the back teeth in the mouth, while the proximal section 16 ensures an acceptable total length of the head.

[0166] In various embodiments, the ratio of the length of the distal section IS to the length of the proximal section 16 is from 1 :3 to 1 : 1.2, from 1 :2.5 to 1 :1.25, from 1 :2 to 1 :1 .3 or about 1 :1 .3.

[0167] In some en^odiments, the handle 12 includes a body portion 22, and a neck portion 24 connecting the head 10 to the body portion 22.

[0160] In some en±iodiments, a longitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion 24 is substantially aligned with a bngitudinal axis Y- Y of the proximal se ction 16 of the he ad 10.

[0169] In some embodiments, a bngitudinal axis A- A of the body portion 22 is tilted with respec t to a bngitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion by an angle G of from 5° b 15°, from 6° to 14°, from ta 1 °, from S° ta 12°, from 9° to l l⁰, or of about 10°. The proviston of this angle G betwe n the longitudinal axes of the body portion 22 and the neck 24 provid s an ergonomic handle which alb s the user to reach the back teeth more easily.

[0170] In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal sectton IS is tilted with respect to a bngitiidinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section IS by an angle a of from S° to 15°, of from 9° to 14°, from 10° to 13°, or of about 13°, and the bngitudinal axis A-A of the body portion 22 is tilted with respect to a tongihidinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion by an angle β of from 5° to 15°, from 6^"° to 14°, from 7° to 13°, from 8° to 12°, from 9° to 11°, or of about 10°. The provision of both angle β between the bngitadinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion 24 and the longitiidinal axis A- A of the body portion 22, and angle a between the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section IS and the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16, provides for improved reach of the oral care implement to clean the back te th and rear-most areas of the mouth.

[0171] In some embodiments, the body portion 22 comprises a thumb grip 52 located adjacent to the are of conne tion of the body portion 22 to the neck portion 24. In one embodiment, the body portion 22 comprises the thumb grip 52 on one side thereof and a finger grip area 54 on an opposite side thereof, wherein the thumb grip 52 is located on the same side of the oral care implement as the first face 14 of the head 10. The thumb grip 52 maybe embossed/textured so as to provide an anti-slip are a for increased ease of gripping of the oral care implement by a use r. Where the thumb grip 52 is embossed or textured, this may also provide a massaging effect on the thumb of a user. In some embodiments, the thumb grip 52 comprises an elastomeric material in order to provide a comfortable gripping area. In such embodiments, the elastomeric material provides a gripping surface which is softer than the material (such as a rigid plastic or resin material e .g . polypropyle ne) from whic h the body portion and/or ne ck portion are formed.

[0172] In some embodiments, the neck portion 24 has a maximum width of from 3 mm to 7 mm, from 4 mm to 6 mm, or of about 5 mm

[0173] In some embodiments, the body portion 22 has a maximum width of from 9 mm to 15 mm, from 10 mm to 14 mm, from 1 1 mm to 13 mm, or of about 15 mm.

[0174] The inventive aspects discussed above may be practiced for a manual toothbrush or a powered toothbrush. In operation, the previously described features, individually and/or in any combination, may improve the control, performance, aesthetics and cost point of oral implements. Other constructions of toothbrush are possible. For example, the head may be replaceable or interchangeable on the handle. The head may include various oral surface engaging elements, such as inter- proximal picks, brushes, flossing element plaque scrapper, tongue cleansers and soft tissue massages. While the various features of the toothbrush work together to achieve the advantages previously described, it is recognised that individual features and sub-combinations of these features can be used to obtain some of the aforementioned advantages without the necessity to adopt all of these features in an oral care implement.

[0175] While the invention has been described with respect to specific e amples including presently preferred modes of carrying out the invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous variations and permutations of the above described systems and techniques. It is to be understood that other embodiments ma be utilised and structural and functional modifications maybe made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Thus, the spirit and scope of the invention should be construed broadly as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED ΙΞ :

1. An oral care implem nt comprising a head and a handle, the head comprising a first face and a plurality of cleaning elements extending from the first face;

wherein the head comprises a proximal section adjac nt to the handle and a distal s tion remote from the handle;

wherein the head further comprises a flexible bridge coupling the distal section to the proximal section so that the distal section is flexibly moveable relative to the proximal section, the flexible bridge further comprising at least one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along the flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a bngitudinal axis of the head.

2. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein a longitudinal axis of the distal section is tilted with respec t to a bngitudinal axis of the proximal section by an angle of from 8° to 15°.

3. The oral caie implement of claim 1, wherein a longitudinal axis of the distal section is substantially aligned with a bngitudinal axis of the proximal sectbn.

4. The oral care implement of anyone of claims 1 to 3, wherein the proximal section and the distal section each have a straight linear edge extending in a direction perpendicular to a longiftidinal axis of the head, wherein the straight linear edge of the distal section faces the straight lin ar edge of the proximal section, and wherein the flexible bridge couples the straight linear edge of the distal section to the straight linear edge of the proximal s ction so that the distal sectbn is flexibly moveable relative to the proximal section.

5. The oral care implement of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the flexible bridge comprises an elastomeric material.

6. The oral care implement of claim 5, wherein the elastomeric material comprises thermoplastic elastomer.

7. The oral care implement of an one of claims 5 to 6, wh rein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge .

8. The oral care implement of anyone of claims 1 to 7, wherein the proximal section and the distal s tion are formed from a rigid plastic or resin material.

9. The oral c are impleme nt of claim 8, whe rein the rigid plastic or re sin mate rial comprises poljfpropyiene.

10. The oral care implement of any one of claims 8 to 9, wherein the flexible bridge comprises a bridging section formed from the rigid plastic or r sin material, the bridging section joining the proximal section to the distal section, wherein a ratio of a depth of the bridging section at its narrowest point to a depth of the proximal sec tion is from 1 :3 to 1 :7.

11. The oral care implement of claim 10, wherein the bridging section extends across an entire width of the head.

12. The oral care implement of any one of claims 10 to 11. wherein the head further comprises a second face on an opposite side of the head to the f st face, and wherein the bridging section is located b tween the first face and the second face.

13. The oral care implement of claim 1 , wherein a distance between the bridging section and the first face is gre ate r than a distanc e betwe en the bridging section and the second fac .

14. The oral care implem nt of claim 13, wherein the distance between the bridging s tion and the fust face is from 2 to 4 times greater than the distance between the bridging section and the second face.

15. The oral care implement of any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the flexible bridge further comprises an elastomeric material surrouriding the at least one bridging section. 1ό^~. The oral care implement of claim 15, wherein the elastomeric material comprises thermoplastic elastomer.

17. The oral care implement of any one of claims 15 to 16, wherein the at least one elastomeric leaning element is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge.

IS. The oral care implement of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is an elastomeric wall.

19. The oral care implement of claim IS, wherein the elastomeric wall extends along the flexible bridge in a straight, linear configuration.

20. The oral care implement of anyone of claims IS to 19, wherein the elastomeric wall has a distal edge remote from the first face, the elastomeric wall comprising at least one notch extending from the distal edge of the elastomeric wall towards the first face of the head.

21. The oral care implement of claim 20, wherein the elastomeric wall has a height measured from the first face to the distal edge of the elastomeric wall, the least one notch extending from the distal edge towards the first face by a distance of from 5/S to 7 S of the height of the elastomeric wall.

22. The oral care implement of anyone of claims 1 to 21, wherein the plurality of cleaning elements comprises a first plurality of cleaning elements extending from the proximal section, and a se cond plurality of cl aning elements extending from the distal section.

23. The oral care implement of claim 22, wherein the first plurality of cleaning elements comprises tape red bristles.

24. The oral care implement of any one of claims 22 to 23, wherein the second plurality of cleaning elements comprises tapered bristles .

25. The oral re implement of any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein the tapered bristles are tufted in square tuft holes.

26. The oral care implement of any one of claims 22 to 25, wh rein a height of the first plurality of cleaning elements is equal to a height of the second plurality of cleaning elements.

21. The oral caie implement of claim 26, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element has a height which is equal to the height of the fust and second pluralities of cleaning elements.

28. The oral caie implement of claim 26, wherein the at least one lastomeric cleaning element has a height which is less than the height of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements.

29. The oral care implement of an one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the head further comprises a se cond fac e be ate d on an opposite side of the he ad to the first face , the sec ond face comprising a tissue cleanser.

30. The oral care implement of claim 29, wherein the tissue cleanser comprises an elastomeric material.

31. The oral care implement of claim 30, wherein the flexible bridge comprises the elastome ric mate rial and wherein the tissue c le anser is integral with the flexible bridge .

32. The oral care implement of any one of claims 1 to 31, wherein the head has a length of from 20 mm to 40 mm.

33. The oral care implement of anyone of claims 1 to 32 wherein the head has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 15 mm.

34. The oral caie implement of any one of claims 1 to 33, wherein the distal section has a length which is less than a length of the proximal section.

35. The oral care implement of claim 34, wherein the ratio of the length of the distal section to the length of the proximal section is from 1 :3 to 1 .1.2.

36. The oral care implement of anyone of claims 1 to 35, wherein the handle includes a body portion, and a neck portion connecting the head to the bodyportion.

37. The oral care implement of claim 36, wherein a longitudinal axis of the neck portion is substantially aligned with a tongitudinal axis of the proximal section of the head.

38. The oral care implement of any one of claims 36 to 37, wherein a ngitudmal axis of the body portion is tilted with respect to a bngitudinal axis of the neck portion by an angle of from 5° to 15°.

39. The oral care implement of any one of claims 36 to 38, wherein the neck portion has a maximum width of from 3 mm to 7 mm.

40. The oral c are imple ment of any one of claims 36 to 39, whe rein the body portion has a maximum width of from 9 mm to 1 mm.

41. An oral care implement comprising a head and a handle, the head comprising a first face and a plurality of cleaning elements extending from the first fac ;

wherein the head further comprises a flexible bridge coupling the distal section to the proximal section so that the distal section is flexibly move able relative to the proximal section; wherein the plurality of cleaning elements comprises a fust plurality of cleaning lements extending from the proximal section, and a second plurality of cleaning elements extending from the distal section, at least one of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements comprising tapered bristles.

42. The oral care implement of claim 41, wherein the first plurality of cleaning elements comprises tape red bristles.

43. The oral care implement of anyone of claims 41 and 42, wherein the second plurality of cleaning elements comprises tapered bristles .

44. The oral care implement of any one of claims 41 to 43, wherein the tapered bristles are tufted in square tuft holes.

45. The oral care implement of any one of claims 41 to 44, wherein a height of the first plurality of cl ning elements is equal to a height of the second plurality of cleaning elements.

4o^~. The oral care implement of an one of claims 41 to 45, wherein a ngitudinal axis of the distal section is tilted with respect to a bngitudinal axis of the proximal section by an angle of from 8° to 15°

47. The oral care implement of anyone of claims 41 to 45, wherein a bngiludinal axis of the distal section is substantially aligned with a bngitudinal axis of the proximal section.

48. The oral care impl ment of any one of claims 41 to 47, wherein the flexible bridge further comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face, wherein the at least one elastomeric cl ning element extends along the flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal ax is of the head.

49. The oral care implement of claim 48, wherein the at least one lastomeric cleaning element is an elastomeric wall.

50. The oral care implement of claim 49, wherein the elastomeric wall extends along the fl xible bridge in a straight, linear configuration.

51. The oral care implement of anyone of claims 49 to 50, wherein the elastomeric wall has a distal edge remote from the first face, the elastomeric wall comprising at least one notch extending from the distal edge of the elastomeric wall towards the first face of the head.

52. The oral care implement of claim 51, wherein the elastomeric wall has a height measured from the first face to the distal edge of the elastomeric wall, the least one notch extending from the distal edge towards the first fac by a distance of from 5/8 to 7 S of the height of the elastomeric wall.

53. The oral care implement of any one of claims 48 to 52, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element has a height which is equal to a height of the first and second pluralities of cleaning el ments.

54. The oral care implement of any one of claims 48 to 52, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element has a height which is less than a height of the first and second pluralities of cleaning el ments.

55. The oral care implement of any one of claims 41 to 54, wherein the flexible bridge comprises an elastomeric material.

56. The oral care implement of claim 55, wherein the elastomeric material comprises thermoplastic elastomer.

57. The oral care implement of any one of claims 55 to 5o^~, wherein the flexible bridge further comprises at least one elastomeric clearing element extending from the first face, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along the flexible bridge in a diiection perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head, and wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge.

58. The oral care implement of an one of claims 41 to 57, wherein the proximal section and the distal section are formed from a rigid plastic or resin material.

59. The oral care implement of claim 52, wherein the rigid pkstic or r sin material comprises polypropylene.

60. The oral care implement of any one of claims 58 to 59, wherein the flexible bridge comprises a bridging section formed from the rigid plastic or resin material, the bridging section joining the proximal section to the distal section, wherein a ratio of a depth of the bridging section at its narro est point to a depth of the proximal sec tion is from 1 :3 to 1 :7.

61. The oral care implement of claim 60, wherein the bridging section extends across an entire width of the head.

62. The oral care implement of any one of claims 60 to 61, wherein the head further comprises a second face on an opposite side of the head to the first face, and wherein the bridging s ction is located b tween the first face and the second face.

63. The oral care implement of claim 62, wherein a distance between the bridging section and the first face is gre ate r than a distanc e betwe en the bridging section and the second fac .

64. The oral care implem nt of claim 63, wherein the distance between the bridging s ction and the first face is from 2 to 4 times gre ter than the distance between the bridging section and the second face.

65. The oral care impl ment of any one of claims 60 to 64, wherein the flexible bridge further comprises an elastomeric material surrounding the at least one bridging section.

66. The oral care implement of claim 65, wherein the elastomeric material comprises thermoplastic elastomer.

61. The oral care implement of any one of claims 65 to 66, wherein the flexible bridge further comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleariing element extends along the flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head, and wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge. o^"S. The oral care implement of any one of claims 41 to 61, wherein the head further comprises a second lace located on an opposite side of the head to the fust face, the second face comprising a tissue cleanser.

69. The oral care implement of claim o^~8, wherein the tissue cleanser comprises an elastomeric material.

70. The oral care implement of claim 69, wherein the flexible bridge comprises the elastome ric mate rial and wherein the tissue c le anser is integral with the flexible bridge .

71. The oral care implement of any one of claims 41 to 70, wherein the head has a length of from 20 mm to 40 mm.

72. The oral care implement of any one of claims 41 to 71 wherein the head has a width of from 5 mm to 15 mm.

13. The oral care implement of anyone of claims 41 to 72, wherein the distal section has a length which is less than a length of the proximal section.

74. The oral care implement of claim 73, wherein the ratio of the length of the distal section to the length of the proximal section is from 1 .3 to 1 :1.2.

75. The oral care implement of any one of claims 41 to 74, wherein the handle includes a body portion, and a neck portion connecting the head to the body portion.

16. The oral care implement of claim 75, whe κ in a longitudinal axis of the n ck portion is substantially aligned with a tongitudinal axis of the proximal section of the head.

77. The oral care implement of any one of claims 75 to 16, wherein a bngitudinal axis of the body portion is til ted with respect to a bngiliidinal axis of the neck port n by an angle of from 5° to 15°.

78. The oral care implement of any one of claims 75 to 11, wherein the neck portion has a maximum width of from 3 mm to 7 mm.

7 . The oral c are imple ment of any one of claims 75 to 78, whe rein the body portion has a maximum width of from 9 mm to 15 mm.