WO1992006671A1 - Process for detecting dental plaque and tooth care set - Google Patents

Process for detecting dental plaque and tooth care set Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1992006671A1
WO1992006671A1 PCT/DE1991/000810 DE9100810W WO9206671A1 WO 1992006671 A1 WO1992006671 A1 WO 1992006671A1 DE 9100810 W DE9100810 W DE 9100810W WO 9206671 A1 WO9206671 A1 WO 9206671A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
plaque
light
teeth
additive
toothbrush according
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/DE1991/000810
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Wolfgang Wiedemann
Original Assignee
Wolfgang Wiedemann
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Wolfgang Wiedemann filed Critical Wolfgang Wiedemann
Publication of WO1992006671A1 publication Critical patent/WO1992006671A1/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61Q—SPECIFIC USE OF COSMETICS OR SIMILAR TOILETRY PREPARATIONS
    • A61Q11/00—Preparations for care of the teeth, of the oral cavity or of dentures; Dentifrices, e.g. toothpastes; Mouth rinses
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A46—BRUSHWARE
    • A46B—BRUSHES
    • A46B15/00—Other brushes; Brushes with additional arrangements
    • A46B15/0002—Arrangements for enhancing monitoring or controlling the brushing process
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A46—BRUSHWARE
    • A46B—BRUSHES
    • A46B15/00—Other brushes; Brushes with additional arrangements
    • A46B15/0002—Arrangements for enhancing monitoring or controlling the brushing process
    • A46B15/0016—Arrangements for enhancing monitoring or controlling the brushing process with enhancing means
    • A46B15/0036—Arrangements for enhancing monitoring or controlling the brushing process with enhancing means with a lighting means, e.g. laser, bulb
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/0059—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons using light, e.g. diagnosis by transillumination, diascopy, fluorescence
    • A61B5/0082—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons using light, e.g. diagnosis by transillumination, diascopy, fluorescence adapted for particular medical purposes
    • A61B5/0088—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons using light, e.g. diagnosis by transillumination, diascopy, fluorescence adapted for particular medical purposes for oral or dental tissue
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61K—PREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K8/00—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations
    • A61K8/02—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by special physical form
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A46—BRUSHWARE
    • A46B—BRUSHES
    • A46B2200/00—Brushes characterized by their functions, uses or applications
    • A46B2200/10—For human or animal care
    • A46B2200/1066—Toothbrush for cleaning the teeth or dentures
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61K—PREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K2800/00—Properties of cosmetic compositions or active ingredients thereof or formulation aids used therein and process related aspects
    • A61K2800/40—Chemical, physico-chemical or functional or structural properties of particular ingredients
    • A61K2800/42—Colour properties
    • A61K2800/43—Pigments; Dyes
    • A61K2800/434—Luminescent, Fluorescent; Optical brighteners; Photosensitizers

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a method for determining dental plaque and for cleaning teeth, and to a dental care set for carrying out this method.
  • plaque dyes which color the tooth area significantly more than the plaque-free tooth parts.
  • These dyes are conventionally applied to solid substances. bound and often deformed into tablets or dragees to be chewed.
  • the dyes previously used for the purpose of determining plaque all have the disadvantage of staining the existing dental plaque to a greater or lesser extent, on the other hand also the plaque-free teeth and the gums, which naturally creates an optically extremely unfavorable impression. Since these dyeings last a few hours in the case of the dyes used hitherto, it is uncomfortable for the person concerned to show himself in public after carrying out such a plaque test. In these conventional methods, it is also disadvantageous that the plaque test is carried out after tooth cleaning and that tooth plaque which is still present is therefore often not removed by the user for convenience.
  • the invention has set itself the task of developing a method and a device for determining dental plaque which avoids discoloration of the plaque and teeth visible under normal lighting conditions and which is to be carried out at the same time as cleaning the teeth.
  • a toothpaste is first applied to the teeth and distributed there, which contains a food-approved additive which deposits significantly more in the plaque than on plaque-free teeth and that with visible light of a certain wavelength fluoresces and that then the teeth emerge by means of visible light of a wavelength below that of the fluorescent light of the additive, irradiated and optically checked for residues of plaque.
  • the irradiation can take place simultaneously during cleaning.
  • the method according to the invention advantageously ensures a connection between tooth cleaning and checking for plaque. This simplifies plaque control for the user, and is not used as often for convenience.
  • the additive added to the toothpaste has the property of only fluorescing under light of a certain wavelength, so that it is not visible under normal daylight and artificial lighting by means of light of the usual wavelength. Rather, the dental plaque only becomes visible when the teeth are illuminated by light of a certain wavelength that triggers the fluorescence.
  • Substances that are approved for use with food are to be used as additives, since toothpaste is introduced into the oral cavity and partial swallowing cannot be excluded. Visible light is used for the illumination, since ultraviolet light - even in small amounts - has a carcinogenic effect on the oral mucosa.
  • a dental care set which consists of a toothpaste which contains a food-approved additive which deposits significantly more in the plaque than on plaque-free teeth and which fluoresces under visible light of a certain wavelength and a toothbrush the light visible in the area of the brush head has a wavelength below that of the fluorescent light of the additive.
  • This dental care set advantageously provides the means and equipment required to carry out the test and cleaning method according to the invention.
  • a toothbrush is also proposed, in which a light source and / or the energy supply are integrated.
  • the light source be integrated in the handle of the toothbrush and that the bristles at least partially consist of light-conducting fibers which are acted upon by the light source.
  • the - in part - design of the bristles as light guides ensures direct and direct illumination of the teeth to be cleaned.
  • the light-guiding fibers receive the light directly or at a certain spatial distance from the light source, where it is guided by conduction inside the brush. It is conceivable that the light guides are introduced into the carrier plate in the manner of the bristles and only take up the light guided through the handle and head of the brush at the attachment point.
  • the light exit be attached to the front and / or front side of the bristle carrier plate.
  • This arrangement also ensures uniform and direct illumination of the teeth to be cleaned.
  • the toothbrush have a mechanical switch that moves the bristles serving as light guides relative to the bristle carrier plate.
  • the advantage associated with this is that the bristles serving as light guides can be drawn to the bristle carrier plate during tooth cleaning and thus be protected. In addition, this prevents damage to the tooth enamel caused by the light guides, which is important if, for example, glass fibers should be used as the light guide.
  • Light source emits light reflected approximately parallel to the bristles.
  • This arrangement also offers the advantage of simple construction and direct and effective illumination of the teeth. Another advantage is that the bristle head can be easily replaced.
  • the toothbrush contains a sensor for measuring the intensity of the fluorescent light emitted by the additive deposited in the dental plaque and a control device which activates an optical and / or acoustic signal transmitter when the light intensity falls below a predetermined level and / or in the case of electric toothbrushes, the energy supply to the motor is interrupted. This creates a control loop and a fully automatic check for the presence of dental plaque.
  • the sensor measures the fluorescent light emitted by the plaque.
  • the control device - which can consist, for example, of a microprocessor - compares the measured values with a predetermined value and activates an optical and / or acoustic signal generator which indicates to the user that he can stop cleaning the teeth; since there is no more or only a small amount of coating.
  • the energy supply to the motor can also be interrupted instead of the signal.
  • fluorescine and / or hematoxilin be used as an additive.
  • Fluorescine is a dye that fluoresces yellowish. When illuminated with blue light, the fluorescine embedded in the plaque becomes yellowish, while the plaque-free teeth appear blue.
  • Hematoxilin is a natural product of vegetable origin, which is contained in the wood of the South American hematoxilinu cambecianum and in alcohol and
  • Figure 2 shows a toothbrush according to the invention with a handle designed as a light guide
  • FIG 3 shows a toothbrush according to the invention with a sensor and control device
  • the brush head (1) is shown, from which light emerges.
  • this light is emitted by a light source (2) which draws its energy from the energy supply (3), the exemplary embodiment shown in the drawing consisting of a conventional dry cell battery.
  • the light emitted by the light source (2) is guided through the handle (4) by means of the light-conducting fibers (6) to the brush head or the bristle carrier plate (8).
  • the bristles (5) partially represent a continuation of the light-guiding fibers (6).
  • the mechanical switch (9) which presses the bristles (5) serving as light guides (6) partially into the bristle carrier plate (8). can withdraw.
  • FIG. 2 shows a toothbrush according to the invention consisting of handle (4), brush head (1), bristle carrier plate (8), light source (2) and energy supply unit (3). It is essential here that light exits (7) are located on the rear and front side of the bristle head. Part of the light is also reflected here by the mirror (10) approximately parallel to the bristles (5).
  • FIG. 3 shows a toothbrush according to the invention consisting of a handle (4), bristle head (1), bristle carrier plate (8), light source (2), energy supply (3) and bristles (5).
  • the special feature here is the presence of the sensor (11), which measures the intensity of the fluorescent light. This measured intensity is usually a device (12) compared with a predetermined value, this control device emitting a signal when this predetermined intensity value is undershot

Abstract

The proposal is for a process for detecting dental plaque in which first of all a toothpaste is applied to and distributed on the teeth which contains a nutritionally acceptable additive with the property of depositing considerably more readily on plaque than on teeth without plaque. In addition, this additive has the property of fluorescing under visible light of a certain wavelength. Thus, in accordance with a given process, the teeth are illuminated by a special toothbrush containing a light source (2). This toothbrush is characterized in that it emits visible light with a wavelength below that of the fluorescence light of the additive in the region of the brush head (1). Cleaning and optical monitoring for plaque are thus combined.

Description

Verfahren zur Feststellung von Zahnbelag und Zahnpflegeset Procedure for determining dental plaque and dental care set
Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zur Feststel¬ lung von Zahnbelag (Plaque) und zur Zahnreinigung sowie ein Zahnpflegeset zur Durchführung dieses Verfahrens.The invention relates to a method for determining dental plaque and for cleaning teeth, and to a dental care set for carrying out this method.
In der Zahnmedizin ist seit langem bekannt, daß Zahnbelag (Plaque) bei der Entstehung von Karies eine erhebliche Rolle spielt, da diese an das Vor¬ handensein von Bakterien und Kohlenhydraten, wie sie sich im Zahnbelag befinden, gebunden ist. Eine wirksame Prophylaxe der Karies kann daher durch gründliche Reinigung der Zähne bei bestmöglicher Entfernung des Zahnbelags erreicht werden. Es ist zur Erreichung dieses Zieles sehr hilfreich, auch dem Laien Mittel an die Hand zu geben, mit denen er den mit bloßen Auge nicht ohne weiteres sichtbaren Zahnbelag bei oder nach der Zahnreinigung feststel- len kann, um seine persönliche Zahnpflege darauf abzustimmen.It has long been known in dentistry that plaque plays a significant role in the development of caries, since it is linked to the presence of bacteria and carbohydrates, such as those found in the plaque. Effective prophylaxis of caries can therefore be achieved by thoroughly cleaning the teeth with the best possible removal of the plaque. In order to achieve this goal, it is very helpful to provide laypersons with tools that they can use to determine the plaque that is not easily visible to the naked eye during or after tooth cleaning in order to match their personal dental care.
Es ist bekannt, zu einer solchen Selbstdiagnose des Vorhandenseins von Plaque Farbstoffe zu verwenden, die den zahnbeiag deutlich stärker einfärbeπ als die belagfreien Zahnteile. Dabei werden diese Farb¬ stoffe herkömmlicherweise an feste Substanzen ge- bunden und häufig zu Tabletten bzw. Dragees ver¬ formt, die zu zerkauen sind.It is known to use such a self-diagnosis of the presence of plaque dyes, which color the tooth area significantly more than the plaque-free tooth parts. These dyes are conventionally applied to solid substances. bound and often deformed into tablets or dragees to be chewed.
Die zu Zwecken der Feststellung von Plaque bisher verwendeten Farbstoffe weisen jedoch allesamt den Nachteil auf, zum einen den vorhandenen Zahnbelag, zum anderen auch die belagfreien Zähne und das Zahnfleisch mehr oder weniger stark einzufärben, was naturgemäß einen optisch äußerst ungünstigen Eindruck hervorruft. Da diese Färbungen bei den bisher verwendeten Farbstoffen einige Stunden an¬ halten, ist es nach Durchführung eines solchen Pla- quetests für den Betroffenen unangenehm, sich etwa in der Öffentlichkeit zu zeigen. Bei diesen her¬ kömmlichen Methoden ist zudem nachteilig, daß der Plaquetest nach der Zahnreinigung erfolgt und noch vorhandener Zahnbelag vom Verwender deshalb aus Be¬ quemlichkeit oft nicht beseitigt werden wird.However, the dyes previously used for the purpose of determining plaque all have the disadvantage of staining the existing dental plaque to a greater or lesser extent, on the other hand also the plaque-free teeth and the gums, which naturally creates an optically extremely unfavorable impression. Since these dyeings last a few hours in the case of the dyes used hitherto, it is uncomfortable for the person concerned to show himself in public after carrying out such a plaque test. In these conventional methods, it is also disadvantageous that the plaque test is carried out after tooth cleaning and that tooth plaque which is still present is therefore often not removed by the user for convenience.
Hiervon ausgehend hat es sich die Erfindung zur Aufgabe gemacht, ein Verfahren sowie eine Vorrich¬ tung zur Feststellung von Zahnbelag zu entwickeln, das eine bei normalen Lichtverhältnissen sichtbare Verfärbung des Zahnbelags und der Zähne vermeidet sowie gleichzeitig mit der Zahnreinigung durch- zuführen ist.Proceeding from this, the invention has set itself the task of developing a method and a device for determining dental plaque which avoids discoloration of the plaque and teeth visible under normal lighting conditions and which is to be carried out at the same time as cleaning the teeth.
Diese Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß dadurch gelöst, daß zunächst auf die Zähne eine Zahnpaste aufge¬ bracht und dort verteilt wird, die ein lebens it- telzugelassenes Additiv enthält, das sich im zann- belag (Plaque) deutlich stärker ablagert als auf belagfreien Zähnen und das bei sichtbarem Licht ei¬ ner bestimmten Wellenlänge fluoresziert und daß so- dann die Zähne mittels sichtbaren Lichts einer Wel¬ lenlänge unter der des Fluoreszenzlichtes des Addi¬ tivs austritt, bestrahlt und auf Reste von Plaque optisch kontrolliert werden. Insbesondere kann die Bestrahlung gleichzeitig wäh¬ rend der Reinigung erfolgen.This object is achieved according to the invention in that a toothpaste is first applied to the teeth and distributed there, which contains a food-approved additive which deposits significantly more in the plaque than on plaque-free teeth and that with visible light of a certain wavelength fluoresces and that then the teeth emerge by means of visible light of a wavelength below that of the fluorescent light of the additive, irradiated and optically checked for residues of plaque. In particular, the irradiation can take place simultaneously during cleaning.
Auf vorteilhafte Weise stellt das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren eine Verbindung von Zahnreinigung und Kontrolle auf Plaque sicher. Dadurch wird für den Verwender die Plaque-Kontrolle vereinfacht, sie wird weniger oft aus Bequemlichkeit unterbleiben. Zudem hat das der Zahnpaste beigegebene Additiv die Eigenschaft, nur bei Licht einer bestimmten Wellen¬ länge zu fluoreszieren, so daß es bei normalem Ta- gesucht und künstlicher Beleuchtung mittels Lichtes der hierzu üblichen Wellenlänge nicht sichtbar ist. Sichtbar wird der Zahnbelag vielmehr nur, wenn die Zähne mittels Licht einer bestimmten Wellenlänge, das die Fluoreszenz auslöst, beleuch- tet werden. Als Additiv sollen hier solche Substan¬ zen Verwendung finden, die lebensmittelzugelassen sind, da Zahnpaste in die Mundhöhle eingebracht wird und ein teilsweises Verschlucken nicht auszu¬ schließen ist. Zur Beleuchtung wird sichtbares Licht verwendet, da ultraviolettes Licht - auch in geringen Mengen - kanzerogen auf die Mundschleim¬ haut wirkt. Es wird vorteilhaft sein, sichtbares Licht blauer Farbe einzusetzen, das sich im Tages¬ licht und in künstlicher Beleuchtung vergleichs- weise geringe Anteile finden. Mit diesem Verfahren ist es dem Laien möglich, gleichzeitig mit der Zahnreinigung den Erfolg dieser Reinigung am Vor¬ handensein von Plaque zu kontrollieren. Ist noch Zahnbelag festzustellen, kann die Zahnreinigung so¬ fort fortgesetzt werden.The method according to the invention advantageously ensures a connection between tooth cleaning and checking for plaque. This simplifies plaque control for the user, and is not used as often for convenience. In addition, the additive added to the toothpaste has the property of only fluorescing under light of a certain wavelength, so that it is not visible under normal daylight and artificial lighting by means of light of the usual wavelength. Rather, the dental plaque only becomes visible when the teeth are illuminated by light of a certain wavelength that triggers the fluorescence. Substances that are approved for use with food are to be used as additives, since toothpaste is introduced into the oral cavity and partial swallowing cannot be excluded. Visible light is used for the illumination, since ultraviolet light - even in small amounts - has a carcinogenic effect on the oral mucosa. It will be advantageous to use visible light of blue color, which is comparatively small in daylight and in artificial lighting. With this method, the layperson can simultaneously check the success of this cleaning on the presence of plaque while the teeth are being cleaned. Is still To determine the plaque, the tooth cleaning can be continued immediately.
Des weiteren wird ein Zahnpflegeset vorgeschlagen, das aus einer Zahnpaste, die ein lebensmittelzuge¬ lassenes Additiv enthält, das sich im Zahnbelag (Plaque) deutlich stärker ablagert als auf belag¬ freien Zähnen und das bei sichtbarem Licht einer bestimmten Wellenlänge fluoresziert sowie einer Zahnbürste, aus der im Bereich des Bürstenkopfes sichtbares Licht einer Wellenlänge unter der des Fluoreszenzlichtes des Additivs austritt, besteht. Dieses Zahnpflegeset stellt in vorteilhafter Weise die zur Durchführung des erfindungsgemäßen Test- und Reinigungsverfahrens benötigten Mittel und Ge¬ rätschaften bereit.Furthermore, a dental care set is proposed which consists of a toothpaste which contains a food-approved additive which deposits significantly more in the plaque than on plaque-free teeth and which fluoresces under visible light of a certain wavelength and a toothbrush the light visible in the area of the brush head has a wavelength below that of the fluorescent light of the additive. This dental care set advantageously provides the means and equipment required to carry out the test and cleaning method according to the invention.
In einer Abwandlung der Erfindung wird außerdem eine Zahnbürste vorgeschlagen, in die eine Licht- quelle und/oder die Energieversorgung integriert sind.In a modification of the invention, a toothbrush is also proposed, in which a light source and / or the energy supply are integrated.
Die Handhabung der erfindungsgemäßen Zahnbürste und die Durchführung des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens werden damit erleichtert, da ein Hantieren mit ei- ner separaten Lichtquelle bzw. Energieversorgungs¬ einheit oder einem Verbindungskabel entfällt.The handling of the toothbrush according to the invention and the implementation of the method according to the invention are thus made easier since there is no need to handle a separate light source or energy supply unit or a connecting cable.
In einer Weiterbildung der Erfindung wird außerdem vorgeschlagen, daß die Lichtquelle in den Griff der ;_ahnbürsτ_e integriert ist und die Borsten wenig¬ stens teilweise aus lichtleitenden Fasern bestehen, die durch die Lichtquelle beaufschlagt sind. Durch die - teilweise - Ausbildung der Borsten als Lichtleiter ist eine unmittelbare und direkte Be¬ leuchtung der zu reinigenden Zähne gewährleistet. Die lichtleitenden Fasern nehmen das Licht unmit- telbar an oder in einer gewißen räumlichen Entfer¬ nung zur Lichtquelle auf, wo es durch Leitung in¬ nerhalb der Bürste hingeleitet wird. So ist denk¬ bar, daß die Lichtleiter nach Art der Borsten in der Trägerplatte eingebracht werden und am Befesti- gungspunkt erst das durch Griff und Kopf der Bürste geleitete Licht aufnehmen.In a further development of the invention it is also proposed that the light source be integrated in the handle of the toothbrush and that the bristles at least partially consist of light-conducting fibers which are acted upon by the light source. The - in part - design of the bristles as light guides ensures direct and direct illumination of the teeth to be cleaned. The light-guiding fibers receive the light directly or at a certain spatial distance from the light source, where it is guided by conduction inside the brush. It is conceivable that the light guides are introduced into the carrier plate in the manner of the bristles and only take up the light guided through the handle and head of the brush at the attachment point.
Außerdem ist bevorzugt, daß den Lichtaustritt auf der Vorder- und/oder Stirnseite der Borstenträger- platte anzubringen.It is also preferred that the light exit be attached to the front and / or front side of the bristle carrier plate.
Auch durch diese Anordnung ist eine gleichmäßige und direkte Beleuchtung der zu reinigenden Zähne sichergestellt.This arrangement also ensures uniform and direct illumination of the teeth to be cleaned.
Weiterhin wird vorgeschlagen, daß die Zahnbürste einen mechanischen Schalter aufweist, der die als Lichtleiter dienenden Borsten relativ zur Borsten- trägerplatte bewegt. Der damit verbundene Vorteil besteht darin, daß die als Lichtleiter dienenden Borsten während der Zahn¬ reinigung zur Borstenträgerplatte gezogen und so geschont werden können. Außerdem wird damit einer Verletzung des Zahnschmelzes durch die Lichtleiter vorgebeugt, was dann wichtig ist, wenn als Licht- leiter etwa Glasfasern zur Verwendung kommen soll¬ ten. In einer vorteilhaften Weiterbildung der Erfindung ist zudem daran gedacht, eine Lichtquelle in den als Lichtleiter ausgebildeten und genutzten Griff der Zahnbürste einzubringen und in die Trägerplatte einen Spiegel zu integrieren, der das von derIt is also proposed that the toothbrush have a mechanical switch that moves the bristles serving as light guides relative to the bristle carrier plate. The advantage associated with this is that the bristles serving as light guides can be drawn to the bristle carrier plate during tooth cleaning and thus be protected. In addition, this prevents damage to the tooth enamel caused by the light guides, which is important if, for example, glass fibers should be used as the light guide. In an advantageous development of the invention, it is also contemplated to introduce a light source into the handle of the toothbrush, which is designed and used as a light guide, and to integrate a mirror in the carrier plate, which mirrors that of the
Lichtquelle emittierte Licht etwa parallel zu den Borsten reflektiert.Light source emits light reflected approximately parallel to the bristles.
Auch diese Anordnung bietet den Vorteil einfachen Aufbaus und einer direkten und wirkungsvollen Be- leuchtung der Zähne. Ein weiterer Vorteil ist, daß so der Borstenkopf problemlos austauschbar ist.This arrangement also offers the advantage of simple construction and direct and effective illumination of the teeth. Another advantage is that the bristle head can be easily replaced.
Schließlich wird hinsichtlich der zu verwendenden Zahnbürste vorgeschlagen, daß diese einen Sensor zur Messung der Intensität des von dem im Zahnbelag abgelagerten Additives emittierten Fluoreszenz¬ lichtes und eine Regelvorrichtung enthält, die einen optischen und/oder akustischen Signalgeber bei Unterschreitung einer vorbestimmten Lichtinten- sität aktiviert und/oder bei elektrischen Zahnbür¬ sten die Energiezufuhr zum Motor unterbricht. Hierdurch entsteht ein Regelkreis und eine vollau¬ tomatische Kontrolle des Vorhandenseins von Zahnbe¬ lag. Der Sensor mißt das vom Zahnbelag emittierte Fluoreszenzlicht. Die Regelvorrichtung - die bei¬ spielsweise aus einem Mikroprozessor bestehen kann - vergleicht die gemessenen Werte mit einem vorbe¬ stimmten Wert und aktiviert einen optischen und/oder akustischen Signalgeber, der dem Verwender anzeigt, daß er die Zahnreinigung abbrechen kann; da Belag nicht mehr oder nur noch in geringem Um¬ fang vorhanden ist. Bei elektrischen Zahnbürsten kann anstelle des Signals zusätzlich die Energiezu¬ fuhr zum Motor unterbrochen werden. Hinsichtlich der Zahnpaste wird zuletzt vorgeschla¬ gen, daß als Additiv Fluorescin und/oder Hämatoxi- lin Verwendung finden.Finally, it is proposed with regard to the toothbrush to be used that it contains a sensor for measuring the intensity of the fluorescent light emitted by the additive deposited in the dental plaque and a control device which activates an optical and / or acoustic signal transmitter when the light intensity falls below a predetermined level and / or in the case of electric toothbrushes, the energy supply to the motor is interrupted. This creates a control loop and a fully automatic check for the presence of dental plaque. The sensor measures the fluorescent light emitted by the plaque. The control device - which can consist, for example, of a microprocessor - compares the measured values with a predetermined value and activates an optical and / or acoustic signal generator which indicates to the user that he can stop cleaning the teeth; since there is no more or only a small amount of coating. With electric toothbrushes the energy supply to the motor can also be interrupted instead of the signal. With regard to toothpaste, it is finally proposed that fluorescine and / or hematoxilin be used as an additive.
Vorteilhaft an diesen Stoffen ist zum einen, daß sie handelsüblich und vergleichsweise preiswert, zum anderen, daß sie nicht-toxisch sind. Fluorescin ist ein Farbstoff, der gelblich fluoresziert. Bei Beleuchtung mit blauem Licht wird das im Zahnbelag eingelagerte Fluorescin somit gelblich sichtbar, während die belagfreien Zähne blau erscheinen. Hä- matoxilin ist ein Naturstoff pflanzlichen Ur¬ sprungs, der im Holz des südamerikanischen Hämato- xilinu Cambecianum enthalten und in Alkohol undAn advantage of these substances is, on the one hand, that they are commercially available and comparatively inexpensive, and, on the other hand, that they are non-toxic. Fluorescine is a dye that fluoresces yellowish. When illuminated with blue light, the fluorescine embedded in the plaque becomes yellowish, while the plaque-free teeth appear blue. Hematoxilin is a natural product of vegetable origin, which is contained in the wood of the South American hematoxilinu cambecianum and in alcohol and
Wasser löslich ist. Beide Stoffe sind zur Durchfüh¬ rung medizinischer Tests weit verbreitet.Water is soluble. Both substances are widely used to carry out medical tests.
Weitere Einzelheiten, Merkmale und Vorteile der Er¬ findung lassen sich den zeichnerisch dargestellten Ausführungsbeispielen entnehmen. Es zeigen:Further details, features and advantages of the invention can be found in the illustrated exemplary embodiments. Show it:
Figur 1 eine erfindungsgemäße Zahnbürste mit als1 shows a toothbrush according to the invention with as
Lichtleitern ausgebildeten BorstenBristles trained in light guides
Figur 2 eine erfindungsgemäße Zahnbürste mit als Lichtleiter ausgebildetem GriffFigure 2 shows a toothbrush according to the invention with a handle designed as a light guide
Figur 3 eine erfindungsgemäße Zahnbürste mit Sensor und Regeleinrichtung In Figur 1 ist der Bürstenkopf (1) dargestellt, aus dem Licht austritt. Dieses Licht wird im zeich¬ nerisch dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel von einer Lichtquelle (2) emittiert, die ihre Energie aus der Energieversorgung (3) bezieht, wobei die im zeich¬ nerisch dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel aus einer herkömmlichen Trockenbatterie besteht. Das von der Lichtquelle (2) emittierte Licht wird durch den Griff (4) mittels der lichtleitenden Fasern (6) zum Bürstenkopf bzw. zur Borstenträgerplatte (8) gelei¬ tet. Die Borsten (5) stellen teilweise eine Fort¬ setzung der lichtleitenden Fasern (6) dar. Sichtbar ist auch der mechanische Schalter (9) , der bei Druck die als Lichtleiter (6) dienenden Borsten (5) teilweise in die Borstenträgerplatte (8) zurücktre¬ ten läßt.Figure 3 shows a toothbrush according to the invention with a sensor and control device In Figure 1, the brush head (1) is shown, from which light emerges. In the exemplary embodiment shown in the drawing, this light is emitted by a light source (2) which draws its energy from the energy supply (3), the exemplary embodiment shown in the drawing consisting of a conventional dry cell battery. The light emitted by the light source (2) is guided through the handle (4) by means of the light-conducting fibers (6) to the brush head or the bristle carrier plate (8). The bristles (5) partially represent a continuation of the light-guiding fibers (6). Also visible is the mechanical switch (9), which presses the bristles (5) serving as light guides (6) partially into the bristle carrier plate (8). can withdraw.
In Figur 2 ist eine erfindungsgemäße Zahnbürste be¬ stehend aus Griff (4) , Bürstenkopf (1) , Borstenträ- gerplatte (8) , Lichtquelle (2) und Energieversor¬ gungseinheit (3) dargestellt. Wesentlich hierbei ist, daß sich an der Rück- und Stirnseite des Bor¬ stenkopfes Lichtaustritte (7) befinden. Ein Teil des Lichtes wird hier auch von dem Spiegel (10) an- nähernd parallel zu den Borsten (5) reflektiert.FIG. 2 shows a toothbrush according to the invention consisting of handle (4), brush head (1), bristle carrier plate (8), light source (2) and energy supply unit (3). It is essential here that light exits (7) are located on the rear and front side of the bristle head. Part of the light is also reflected here by the mirror (10) approximately parallel to the bristles (5).
In Figur 3 ist eine erfindungsgemäße Zahnbürste be¬ stehend aus Griff (4) , Borstenkopf (l) , Borstenträ¬ gerplatte (8) , Lichtquelle (2) , Energieversorgung (3) und Borsten (5) dargestellt. Die Besonderheit besteht hier im Vorhandensein des Sensors (11) , der die Intensität des Fluoreszenzlichtes mißt. Diese gemessene Intensität wird in der RegelVorrichtung (12) mit einem vorbestirwten Wert verglichen, wobei diese Regelvorrichtung bei Unterschreiten dieses vorbestimmten Intensitätswertes einen SignalgeberFIG. 3 shows a toothbrush according to the invention consisting of a handle (4), bristle head (1), bristle carrier plate (8), light source (2), energy supply (3) and bristles (5). The special feature here is the presence of the sensor (11), which measures the intensity of the fluorescent light. This measured intensity is usually a device (12) compared with a predetermined value, this control device emitting a signal when this predetermined intensity value is undershot
(13) aktiviert, der optische und/oder akustische Signale emittiert. (13) activated, which emits optical and / or acoustic signals.

Claims

P A T E N T A N S P R Ü C H E PATENT CLAIMS
1. Verfahren zur Feststellung von Zahnbelag (Plaque) und zur Zahnreinigung, d a d u r c h g e k e n n z e i c h n e t , daß zunächst auf die Zähne eine Zahnpaste aufgebracht und dort verteilt wird, die ein lebensmittelzugelassenes Additiv ent¬ hält, das sich im Zahnbelag (Plaque) deutlich stär¬ ker ablagert als auf belagfreien Zähnen und das bei sichtbarem Licht einer bestimmten Wellenlänge fluo¬ resziert, und sodann die Zähne mittels sichtbaren Lichts einer Wellenlänge unter der des Fluoreszenz¬ lichtes des Additivs bestrahlt und auf Reste von Plaque optisch kontrolliert werden.1. A method for determining dental plaque (plaque) and for cleaning teeth, characterized in that a toothpaste is first applied to the teeth and distributed there, which contains a food-approved additive that deposits significantly more strongly in the dental plaque (plaque) than on plaque-free teeth and which fluoresce under visible light of a certain wavelength, and then the teeth are irradiated by means of visible light at a wavelength below that of the fluorescent light of the additive and optically checked for residues of plaque.
2. Verfahren nach Anspruch 1, d a d u r c h g e k e n n z e i c h n e t, daß während des Bürstvorgangs die Bestrahlung vorgenommen wird.2. The method of claim 1, d a d u r c h g e k e n n z e i c h n e t that the irradiation is carried out during the brushing process.
3. Zahnpflegeset zur Durchführung des Verfahrens nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, g e k e n n z e i c h ¬ n e t d u r c h eine Zahnpaste, die ein lebens¬ mittelzugelassenes Additiv enthält, das sich im Zahnbelag (Plaque) deutlich stärker ablagert als auf belagfreien Zähnen und das bei sichtbarem Licht einer bestimmten Wellenlänge fluoresziert sowie einer Zahnbürste, aus der im Bereich des Bürsten¬ kopfes (1) sichtbares Licht einer Wellenlänge unter der des Fluoreszenzlichtes des Additivs austritt, besteht.3. Dental care set for carrying out the method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by a toothpaste which contains a food-approved additive which deposits significantly more in plaque than on plaque-free teeth and which fluoresces under visible light of a certain wavelength and a toothbrush from which visible light of a wavelength below in the area of the brush head (1) that emerges from the fluorescent light of the additive.
4. Zahnbürste nach Anspruch 3, d a d u r c h g e k e n n z e i c h n e t , daß eine Lichtquelle (2) und/oder eine Energieversorgungseinheit (3) in die Bürste integriert sind.4. Toothbrush according to claim 3, that a light source (2) and / or an energy supply unit (3) are integrated in the brush.
5. Zahnbürste nach Anspruch 3 oder 4, d a ¬ d u r c h g e k e n n z e i c h n e t , daß die Lichtquelle (2) in den Griff (4) integriert ist und die Borsten (5) wenigstens teilweise aus lichtlei- tenden Fasern (6) bestehen, die durch die Licht¬ quelle (2) beaufschlagt sind.5. Toothbrush according to claim 3 or 4, since ¬ characterized in that the light source (2) is integrated in the handle (4) and the bristles (5) at least partially consist of light-guiding fibers (6) through the Licht¬ source (2) are acted upon.
6. Zahnbürste nach einem der Ansprüche 3 bis 5, d a d u r c h g e k e n n z e i c h n e t , daß sich der Lichtaustritt (7) auf der Rück- und/oder Stirnseite der Borstenträgerplatte (8) befindet.6. Toothbrush according to one of claims 3 to 5, d a d u r c h g e k e n n z e i c h n e t that the light outlet (7) is on the back and / or end face of the bristle carrier plate (8).
7. Zahnbürste nach einem der Ansprüche 3 bis 6, g e k e n n z e i c h n e t d u r c h einen me¬ chanischen Schalter (9) , der die als Lichtleiter dienenden Borsten (5) relativ zur Borstenträger¬ platte (8) bewegt.7. Toothbrush according to one of claims 3 to 6, a mechanical switch (9) which moves the bristles (5) serving as light guides relative to the bristle carrier plate (8).
8. Zahnbürste nach einem der Ansprüche 3 bis 7, g e k e n n z e i c h n e t d u r c h eine Lichtquelle (2) in dem als Lichtleiter ausgebilde¬ ten Griff (4) und einem in die Trägerplatte (8) in¬ tegrierten Spiegel (10) , der das von der Licht¬ quelle (2) emittierte Licht etwa parallel zu den Borsten (5) reflektiert.8. Toothbrush according to one of claims 3 to 7, characterized by a light source (2) in the handle (4) designed as a light guide and a mirror (10) integrated in the carrier plate (8), which mirror emits the light emitted by the light source (2) approximately parallel to the bristles (5) reflected.
9. Zahnbürste nach einem der Ansprüche 3 bis 8, g e k e n n z e i c h n e t d u r c h einen9. Toothbrush according to one of claims 3 to 8, g e k e n n z e i c h n e t d u r c h one
Sensor (11) zur Messung der Intensität des von dem im Zahnbelag abgelagerten Additives emittierten Fluoreszenzlichtes und einer Regelvorrichtung (12) , die einen optischen und/oder akustischen Signalge- ber (13) bei Unterschreitung einer vorbestimmten Intensität aktiviert und/oder bei elektrischen Zahnbürsten die Energiezufuhr zum Motor unter¬ bricht.Sensor (11) for measuring the intensity of the fluorescent light emitted by the additive deposited in the dental plaque and a control device (12) which activates an optical and / or acoustic signal transmitter (13) when the intensity falls below a predetermined level and / or in the case of electric toothbrushes Energy supply to the motor interrupts.
10. Zahnpasta nach Anspruch 3, g e k e n n ¬ z e i c h n e t d u r c h Fluorescin oder Häma- toxilin als Additiv. 10. Toothpaste according to claim 3, g e k e n n ¬ z e i c h n e t d u r c h fluorescein or haemotoxin as an additive.
PCT/DE1991/000810 1990-10-16 1991-10-16 Process for detecting dental plaque and tooth care set WO1992006671A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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DEP4032779.5 1990-10-16
DE19904032779 DE4032779C2 (en) 1990-10-16 1990-10-16 Toothbrush for determining dental plaque

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Publication Number Publication Date
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EP0593375A1 (en) * 1992-10-15 1994-04-20 LASER MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY, Inc. Dental hygiene appliance
WO1997001298A1 (en) * 1995-06-28 1997-01-16 Philips Electronics N.V. Electric toothbrush with means for locating dental plaque
WO1997029714A1 (en) * 1996-02-16 1997-08-21 Smithkline Beecham Consumer Healthcare Gmbh Toothbrush
WO1998027891A1 (en) * 1996-12-23 1998-07-02 Karl Massholder Cleaning system and surface cleaning method
WO1999059462A1 (en) * 1998-05-16 1999-11-25 Helmut Hund Gmbh Toothbrush with fluorescence means for locating dental plaque
WO2000007482A1 (en) 1998-08-05 2000-02-17 Smithkline Beecham Gmbh & Co. Kg Toothbrush
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WO2006028099A1 (en) 2004-09-10 2006-03-16 Lion Corporation Dental plaque detection system and dental plaque detection method
US7270543B2 (en) 2004-06-29 2007-09-18 Therametric Technologies, Inc. Handpiece for caries detection
US7467946B2 (en) 2005-05-18 2008-12-23 Biolase Technology, Inc. Electromagnetic radiation emitting toothbrush and dentifrice system
US7845039B2 (en) 2003-09-09 2010-12-07 The Procter & Gamble Company Toothbrush with severable electrical connections
WO2012005891A1 (en) 2010-06-29 2012-01-12 Mcneil-Ppc, Inc. Method for cleaning the oral cavity
US8186997B2 (en) 2010-06-29 2012-05-29 Mcneil-Ppc, Inc. Method for cleaning the oral cavity
US8241035B2 (en) 2005-05-25 2012-08-14 Biolase, Inc. Device having activated textured surfaces for treating oral tissue
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US8314377B2 (en) 2009-12-23 2012-11-20 Mcneil-Ppc, Inc. Device and method for detecting plaque in the oral cavity
US8360771B2 (en) 2006-12-28 2013-01-29 Therametric Technologies, Inc. Handpiece for detection of dental demineralization
US8429783B2 (en) 2005-11-14 2013-04-30 Colgate-Palmolive Company Light-emitting oral care implement
US8512040B2 (en) 2010-06-29 2013-08-20 Mcneil-Ppc, Inc. Device and method for cleaning the oral cavity
US9566225B2 (en) 2006-11-13 2017-02-14 The Procter & Gamble Company Products and methods for disclosing conditions in the oral cavity

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EP0593375A1 (en) * 1992-10-15 1994-04-20 LASER MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY, Inc. Dental hygiene appliance
WO1997001298A1 (en) * 1995-06-28 1997-01-16 Philips Electronics N.V. Electric toothbrush with means for locating dental plaque
WO1997029714A1 (en) * 1996-02-16 1997-08-21 Smithkline Beecham Consumer Healthcare Gmbh Toothbrush
JP2000504605A (en) * 1996-02-16 2000-04-18 スミスクライン・ビーチャム・コンシューマー・ヘルスケア・ゲゼルシャフト・ミット・ベシュレンクテル・ハフツング toothbrush
WO1998027891A1 (en) * 1996-12-23 1998-07-02 Karl Massholder Cleaning system and surface cleaning method
US6343400B1 (en) 1996-12-23 2002-02-05 Karl Massholder Cleaning system using ultraviolet radiation and photoactivatable semiconductor material
US6616451B1 (en) * 1997-06-20 2003-09-09 Biolase Technology, Inc. Electromagnetic radiation emitting toothbrush and dentifrice system
US7261558B2 (en) * 1997-06-20 2007-08-28 Biolase Technology, Inc. Electromagnetic radiation emitting toothbrush and dentifrice system
US6485300B1 (en) 1998-05-16 2002-11-26 Helmut Hund Gmbh Toothbrush with fluorescence means for locating dental plaque
AU750410B2 (en) * 1998-05-16 2002-07-18 Helmut Hund Gmbh Toothbrush with fluorescence means for locating dental plaque
JP2002515276A (en) * 1998-05-16 2002-05-28 ヘルムート・フント・ゲゼルシャフト・ミット・ベシュレンクテル・ハフツング Toothbrush with fluorescent means for locating plaque
WO1999059462A1 (en) * 1998-05-16 1999-11-25 Helmut Hund Gmbh Toothbrush with fluorescence means for locating dental plaque
US6862771B1 (en) 1998-08-05 2005-03-08 Smithkline Beecham Gmbh & Co. Kg Toothbrush head with means to direct and collect radiation
WO2000007482A1 (en) 1998-08-05 2000-02-17 Smithkline Beecham Gmbh & Co. Kg Toothbrush
US7845039B2 (en) 2003-09-09 2010-12-07 The Procter & Gamble Company Toothbrush with severable electrical connections
US7270543B2 (en) 2004-06-29 2007-09-18 Therametric Technologies, Inc. Handpiece for caries detection
US8110178B2 (en) 2004-09-10 2012-02-07 Lion Corporation Dental-plaque detection system and dental-plaque detection method
WO2006028099A1 (en) 2004-09-10 2006-03-16 Lion Corporation Dental plaque detection system and dental plaque detection method
EP1792581A1 (en) * 2004-09-10 2007-06-06 Lion Corporation Dental plaque detection system and dental plaque detection method
EP1792581A4 (en) * 2004-09-10 2008-09-17 Lion Corp Dental plaque detection system and dental plaque detection method
US7467946B2 (en) 2005-05-18 2008-12-23 Biolase Technology, Inc. Electromagnetic radiation emitting toothbrush and dentifrice system
US7942667B2 (en) 2005-05-18 2011-05-17 Biolase Technology, Inc. Electromagnetic radiation emitting toothbrush and dentifrice system
US8241035B2 (en) 2005-05-25 2012-08-14 Biolase, Inc. Device having activated textured surfaces for treating oral tissue
US8429783B2 (en) 2005-11-14 2013-04-30 Colgate-Palmolive Company Light-emitting oral care implement
US8984699B2 (en) 2005-11-14 2015-03-24 Colgate-Palmolive Company Light-emitting oral care implement
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AU2012200622B2 (en) * 2005-11-14 2012-10-11 Colgate-Palmolive Company Light-emitting oral care implement
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US9566225B2 (en) 2006-11-13 2017-02-14 The Procter & Gamble Company Products and methods for disclosing conditions in the oral cavity
US8360771B2 (en) 2006-12-28 2013-01-29 Therametric Technologies, Inc. Handpiece for detection of dental demineralization
US8314377B2 (en) 2009-12-23 2012-11-20 Mcneil-Ppc, Inc. Device and method for detecting plaque in the oral cavity
US8512040B2 (en) 2010-06-29 2013-08-20 Mcneil-Ppc, Inc. Device and method for cleaning the oral cavity
US8702422B2 (en) 2010-06-29 2014-04-22 Mcneil-Ppc, Inc. Device and method for cleaning the oral cavity
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US8187002B2 (en) 2010-06-29 2012-05-29 Mcneil-Ppc, Inc. Method for cleaning the oral cavity
WO2012005891A1 (en) 2010-06-29 2012-01-12 Mcneil-Ppc, Inc. Method for cleaning the oral cavity
US8186997B2 (en) 2010-06-29 2012-05-29 Mcneil-Ppc, Inc. Method for cleaning the oral cavity

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DE4032779C2 (en) 2000-10-26

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