Oral care device

Abstract

Disclosed herein are various oral care devices and bristle patterns for oral care devices, including bristle patterns for toothbrush heads, finger toothbrushes, and tongue cleaning devices. The bristle pattern of the brush head may include a first bristle region having a first bristle core and a first outer bristle layer disposed at least partially around the first bristle core; and a second bristle region disposed adjacent the first bristle region, the second bristle region having a second bristle core and a second outer bristle layer disposed at least partially around the second bristle core. As viewed in the top surface, the first bristle region may have a first convex outer boundary, the second bristle region may have a second convex outer boundary, and the transition region may include an inflection point between the first and second convex outer boundaries.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 411,026, filed on September 28, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 404,116, filed on September 6, 2022, the entire contents of each application are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Background Art Technical Field

[0003] The present field relates to oral care devices, particularly to the bristle patterns of toothbrush heads, finger toothbrushes, and tongue cleaning devices.

[0004] Description of Related Art

[0005] Although bristle toothbrushes and other oral care devices have been used by humans for centuries, tooth and gum diseases remain a serious problem worldwide. Many toothbrushes are ineffective at cleaning interdental spaces and the small gaps and recesses within teeth. The various tongue cleaning devices currently in use do not effectively clean the user's tongue. In addition, cleaning someone else's teeth can be inconvenient. Therefore, there remains a continuing need for improved oral care devices. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one embodiment, a toothbrush head can include: a base having a width along a transverse direction of the toothbrush head and a length along a longitudinal direction of the toothbrush head, the longitudinal direction not being parallel to the transverse direction, the base having a proximal portion and a distal portion opposite the proximal portion along the longitudinal direction; and a plurality of bristles extending from the base along a bristle direction of the toothbrush head, the bristle direction not being parallel to the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction. The plurality of bristles can be arranged in a bristle pattern that includes: a first bristle region having a first bristle core and a first outer bristle layer at least partially surrounding the first bristle core, as observed in a cross - sectional side plane defined by the bristle direction and the longitudinal direction, the first bristle core having a first core contact surface; a second bristle region disposed near the first bristle region, the second bristle region having a second bristle core and a second outer bristle layer at least partially surrounding the second bristle core, as observed in the cross - sectional side plane, the second bristle core having a second core contact surface; and a transition region between the first and second bristle regions. As observed in a top plane defined by the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction, the first bristle region can have a first convex outer boundary, the second bristle region can have a second convex outer boundary, and the transition region can include an inflection between the first and second convex outer boundaries.

[0007] In some embodiments, the first core contact surface is non-concave, and the second core contact surface is also non-concave. In some embodiments, the respective brushing surfaces of the first and second outer bristle layers are substantially planar. In some embodiments, the plurality of bristles includes a first peak disposed near the distal portion of the base in the first outer bristle layer, a second peak disposed in the transition region, and a third peak disposed in the second outer bristle layer attached to the proximal portion of the base. In some embodiments, the plurality of bristles has a first valley disposed between the first peak and the second peak in the first outer bristle layer, and a second valley disposed between the second peak and the third peak in the second outer bristle layer. In some embodiments, the first core contact surface includes one or more bristles that are shorter than the bristles at the first and second peaks but longer than the bristles at the first valley in the bristle direction, and the second core contact surface further includes one or more bristles that are shorter than the bristles at the second and third peaks but longer than the bristles at the second valley in the bristle direction. In some embodiments, as observed in a cross-sectional side plane, the first outer bristle layer has a first concave outer contact surface, and as observed in a cross-sectional side plane, the second outer bristle layer has a second concave outer contact surface. In some embodiments, the first and second concave outer contact surfaces include continuously varying surface normals. In some embodiments, the first and second concave outer contact surfaces are inclined inwardly towards their respective first and second bristle cores. In some embodiments, at least 75% of the total surface area of the first and second concave outer contact surfaces includes surface normals that are not parallel to the bristle direction. In some embodiments, at least 75% of the total surface area of the first and second concave outer contact surfaces is not parallel to the top surface. In some embodiments, as observed in the top surface, the first bristle core is substantially annular, and as observed in the top surface, the second bristle core is substantially annular. In some embodiments, the first bristle region includes a brushing surface that includes the first core contact surface and is at least partially defined by the distal ends of the plurality of bristles in the first outer bristle layer, the brushing surface having a first curvature in the distal region and a second curvature in the internal region between the distal region and the transition region, the second curvature being greater than the first curvature. In some embodiments, the internal region includes a valley between the first peak at the distal region and the second peak at the transition region. In some embodiments, at the distal region, a first brushing angle between the brushing surface and the longitudinal direction is greater than a second brushing angle between the brushing surface and the longitudinal direction at the internal region. In some embodiments, the toothbrush head may include a first gap between the first bristle core and the first outer bristle layer, the first gap being greater than the maximum spacing between two adjacent bristles in the plurality of bristles. In some embodiments, the toothbrush head may include a second gap between the second bristle core and the second outer bristle layer, the second gap being greater than the maximum spacing between two adjacent bristles in the plurality of bristles. In some embodiments, there are no bristles in the first and second gaps.In some embodiments, as viewed in the top surface, the first bristle region has a first concave inner boundary and the second bristle region has a second concave inner boundary. In some embodiments, the first convex outer boundary is continuous with the second concave inner boundary and the second convex outer boundary is continuous with the first concave inner boundary. In some embodiments, the first bristle region has a first length in the longitudinal direction and the second bristle region has a second length in the longitudinal direction, the first length being greater than the second length. In some embodiments, the first length is in the range of 3 mm to 15 mm and the second length is in the range of 3 mm to 15 mm. In some embodiments, the width of at least one of the first bristle region and the second bristle region is in the range of 4 mm to 16 mm. In some embodiments, the width of at least one of the first and second bristle cores is in the range of 1 mm to 6 mm. In some embodiments, the bristle pattern includes a brace receiving recess extending in the longitudinal direction. In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second core contact surfaces is substantially planar. In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second core contact surfaces is convex. In some embodiments, the first convex outer boundary has a first curvature in the longitudinal direction and a second curvature different from the first curvature in the transverse direction. In some embodiments, the brushing surface of the first bristle region has a first curvature in the longitudinal direction and a second curvature different from the first curvature in the transverse direction.

[0008] In another embodiment, the toothbrush head may include: a base having a width in the transverse direction of the toothbrush head and a length in the longitudinal direction of the toothbrush head, the longitudinal direction not being parallel to the transverse direction, the base having a proximal portion and a distal portion opposite the proximal portion in the longitudinal direction; and a plurality of bristles extending from the base in the bristle direction of the toothbrush head, the bristle direction not being parallel to the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction. The plurality of bristles may be arranged in a bristle pattern including: a first central occlusal surface cleaning region extending from the distal portion; a first annular portion at least partially surrounding the first central occlusal surface cleaning region, the first annular portion being configured to at least overlap with the buccal and lingual surfaces of a first tooth in use; a second central occlusal surface cleaning region extending from the proximal portion; a second annular portion at least partially surrounding the second central occlusal surface cleaning region, the second annular portion being configured to at least overlap with the buccal and lingual surfaces of a second tooth in use, the first tooth being distal to the second tooth.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first annular portion includes a first outer bristle layer, and the second annular portion includes a second outer bristle layer. The plurality of bristles includes a first peak in the first outer bristle layer, a second peak in the transition region between the first and second outer bristle layers, and a third peak in the second outer bristle layer. In some embodiments, the plurality of bristles includes a first valley between the first peak and the second peak and a second valley between the second peak and the third peak. In some embodiments, the transition region includes an inflection point between the first and second bristle regions. In some embodiments, the first and second annular portions are joined at the second peak. In some embodiments, the first central occlusal cleaning region includes a first bristle core having a first non-concave core contact surface, and the second central occlusal cleaning region includes a second bristle core having a second non-concave core contact surface. In some embodiments, the toothbrush head may include a first gap between the first bristle core and the first outer bristle layer, the first gap being greater than the maximum spacing between two adjacent bristles of the plurality of bristles. In some embodiments, the toothbrush head may include a second gap between the second bristle core and the second outer bristle layer, the second gap being greater than the maximum spacing between two adjacent bristles of the plurality of bristles. In some embodiments, there are no bristles in the first and second gaps. In some embodiments, as viewed in the top plane, the first annular portion has a first convex outer boundary and a first concave inner boundary, and the second annular portion has a second convex outer boundary and a second concave inner boundary. In some embodiments, the first convex outer boundary is continuous with the second concave inner boundary, and wherein the second convex outer boundary is continuous with the first concave inner boundary. In some embodiments, the first and second central occlusal cleaning regions are substantially planar.

[0010] In another embodiment, the toothbrush head may include: a base having a width in a transverse direction of the toothbrush head and a length in a longitudinal direction of the toothbrush head, the longitudinal direction not being parallel to the transverse direction, the base having a proximal portion and a distal portion opposite the proximal portion in the longitudinal direction; and a plurality of bristles extending from the base in a bristle direction, the bristle direction not being parallel to the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction. The plurality of bristles may be arranged in a bristle pattern that includes: a first bristle region having a first bristle core and a first outer bristle layer at least partially surrounding the first bristle core, the first outer bristle layer being shaped to clean at least a convex side surface of at least a first tooth, the first outer bristle core being shaped to clean at least an occlusal surface of the first tooth; a second bristle region having a second bristle core and a second outer bristle layer at least partially surrounding the second bristle core, the second outer bristle layer being shaped to clean at least a convex side surface of at least a second tooth, the second bristle core being shaped to clean at least an occlusal surface of the second tooth; and a transition region between the first bristle region and the second bristle region. The plurality of bristles may have a first peak in the first bristle region near the distal portion of the base, a second peak in the transition region, and a third peak in the second bristle region near the proximal portion of the base.

[0011] In some embodiments, the transition region includes an inflection point between the first and second bristle regions.

[0012] In another embodiment, the toothbrush head may include: a base having a width in the transverse direction of the toothbrush head and a length in the longitudinal direction of the toothbrush head, the longitudinal direction not being parallel to the transverse direction, the base having a proximal portion and a distal portion opposite the proximal portion in the longitudinal direction; and a plurality of bristles extending from the base in the bristle direction of the toothbrush head, the bristle direction not being parallel to the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction. The plurality of bristles may be arranged in a bristle pattern including: a first bristle region having an outer boundary and a first outer bristle layer that extends inwardly from the outer boundary of the first bristle region toward the central portion of the first bristle region, the outer boundary of the first bristle region having a first distal peak, a transverse valley, and a second proximal peak to contact the surface of a first tooth in use; and a second bristle region disposed near the first bristle region, the second bristle region having an outer boundary and a second outer bristle layer that extends inwardly from the outer boundary of the second bristle region toward the central portion of the second bristle region, the outer boundary of the second bristle region configured to overlap at least the buccal and lingual sides of a second tooth near the first tooth in use. The second proximal peak of the first outer bristle layer may be disposed at a transition region between the first bristle region and the second bristle region.

[0013] In some embodiments, the bristle pattern further includes a first bristle core and a second bristle core, the first outer bristle layer at least partially surrounding the first bristle core and the second outer bristle layer at least partially surrounding the second bristle core.

[0014] In another embodiment, the toothbrush head may include: a base having a width in the transverse direction of the toothbrush head and a length in the longitudinal direction of the toothbrush head, the longitudinal direction not being parallel to the transverse direction, the base having a proximal portion and a distal portion opposite the proximal portion in the longitudinal direction; and a plurality of bristles extending from the base in the bristle direction of the toothbrush head, the bristle direction not being parallel to the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction, the plurality of bristles arranged in a bristle pattern including a bristle region having a bristle core and an outer bristle layer disposed at least partially around the bristle core. As viewed in a top surface defined by the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction, the bristle region may have an outer boundary having a first curvature in the longitudinal direction and a second curvature different from the first curvature in the transverse direction. The distal end of the bristle region may at least partially define a brushing surface having a third curvature in the longitudinal direction and a fourth curvature different from the third curvature in the transverse direction.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first and second curvatures include convex curvatures. In some embodiments, the third and fourth curvatures include concave curvatures.

[0016] In another embodiment, a method of manufacturing a user-specific toothbrush head is disclosed. The method may include: receiving data regarding the structure of one or more teeth of a user; determining a bristle pattern for one or more teeth of the user based at least in part on the received data regarding the structure; and manufacturing a toothbrush head having the bristle pattern.

[0017] In some embodiments, receiving data regarding the structure of one or more teeth of a user includes receiving or capturing an image of one or more teeth of the user. In some embodiments, receiving data regarding the structure of one or more teeth of a user includes obtaining dimensional information of one or more teeth of the user. In some embodiments, determining the bristle pattern includes selecting a bristle pattern from a plurality of predefined bristle pattern designs. In some embodiments, the method may include manufacturing a replacement toothbrush head having the bristle pattern. In some embodiments, the method may include obtaining updated data regarding one or more teeth of the user and determining a new bristle pattern for the user based at least in part on the obtained updated data regarding the user. In some embodiments, receiving data regarding the structure of one or more teeth of a user includes receiving the dimensions of the most distal teeth of the user. In some embodiments, receiving data regarding the structure of one or more teeth of a user includes receiving the dimensions of two of the most distal teeth of the user. In some embodiments, obtaining data regarding the structure of one or more teeth of a user includes receiving the dimensions of two molars of the user. In some embodiments, manufacturing the toothbrush head includes manufacturing a toothbrush head disclosed in any of the embodiments shown herein.

[0018] In another embodiment, a method of manufacturing a user-specific toothbrush head is disclosed. The method may include manufacturing a toothbrush head having a bristle pattern that is at least partially based on data regarding the structure of one or more teeth of a user.

[0019] In some embodiments, the method may include receiving data regarding the structure of one or more teeth and determining a bristle pattern for one or more teeth of the user based at least in part on the received data regarding the structure.

[0020] Another aspect of the present disclosure is a tongue cleaning device that includes a base and a plurality of bristles extending non-parallel from a first side of the base. The tongue cleaning device further includes a first cleaning blade that extends non-parallel from a second side of the base opposite the first side.

[0021] Variations of the above aspect further include a plurality of bumps disposed on the second side.

[0022] Variations of the above aspect further include a handle, with the base disposed at a distal end of the handle.

[0023] A variation of the above aspect is that at least one of the base and the cleaning blade includes stainless steel.

[0024] A variation of the above aspect is that the base includes stainless steel.

[0025] A variation of the above aspect is that the cleaning blade includes a polymer material.

[0026] A variation of the above aspect is that the plurality of bumps includes stainless steel.

[0027] A variation of the above aspect further includes a second tongue cleaning blade on a second side, the second tongue cleaning blade being spaced apart from the first tongue cleaning blade.

[0028] Another aspect of the present disclosure is a tongue cleaning device including a base formed of stainless steel. At least one tongue cleaning projection extends from the base. The tongue cleaning projection includes at least one of a cleaning blade and a plurality of bumps.

[0029] A variation of the above aspect is that at least one tongue cleaning projection includes a cleaning blade and a plurality of bumps.

[0030] A variation of the above aspect is that the cleaning blade includes a polymer material.

[0031] A variation of the above aspect is that the plurality of bumps includes stainless steel.

[0032] A variation of the above aspect is that the cleaning blade and the plurality of bumps are disposed on a first side of the base, and a plurality of bristles extend from a second side of the base opposite the first side.

[0033] Another aspect of the present disclosure is a finger toothbrush including a finger sleeve sized and shaped to receive a user's finger. The finger toothbrush includes a brush head base coupled to the finger sleeve and a plurality of bristles extending non-parallel from the brush head base. The finger toothbrush further includes a bite block coupled to the finger sleeve or the brush head base.

[0034] A variation of the above aspect is that the bite block includes a material having a higher modulus of elasticity than the finger sleeve.

[0035] A variation of the above aspect is that the bite block is coupled to the brush head base.

[0036] A variation of the above aspect is that the bite block is coupled to a side of the finger sleeve opposite the brush head base.

[0037] A variation of the above aspect is that the bite block is disposed in a ring shape along one side of the finger sleeve.

[0038] A variation of the above aspect is that the bite block is disposed in a distal portion of the finger sleeve. Description of the Drawings

[0039] The present disclosure is described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like elements, and in which:

[0040] Figure 1A is a front top perspective view of a brush head according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 1B is Figure 1A a close-up view of the brush head in

[0042] Figure 1C is Figure 1A a side view of the brush head of

[0043] Figure 1D is Figure 1A a side view of the brush head of

[0044] Figure 1E is Figure 1A a bottom view of the brush head of

[0045] Figure 1F is Figure 1A a top view of the brush head of

[0046] Figure 1G is Figure 1A a front view of the brush head of

[0047] Figure 1H is Figure 1A a rear top perspective view of the brush head of

[0048] Figure 1I is Figure 1A a side view of the brush head of

[0049] Figure 1J is Figure 1A a close-up rear top perspective view of the brush head in

[0050] Figure 1K is Figure 1F a cross-sectional side view of the brush head of taken along line K-K

[0051] Figure 1L is Figure 1A a top view of the brush head of

[0052] Figure 1M is Figure 1A a side perspective view of the brush head of

[0053] Figure 1N is a front top perspective view of a brush head according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] Figure 1O is Figure 1N a side view of the brush head in

[0055] Figure 1P is a top view of a brush head according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] Figure 2A is a top front perspective view of a brush head according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] Figure 2B is Figure 2A a top view of the brush head of

[0058] Figure 2C is Figure 2A a front view of the brush head of

[0059] Figure 3A is a top front perspective view of a brush head according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] Figure 3B is a top front perspective view of a brush head according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] Figure 3C is Figure 3B a front view of the brush head in

[0062] Figure 3D is a front view of a brush head according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] Figure 4A is a top front perspective view of a tongue scraper according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] Figure 4B is Figure 4A a bottom front perspective view of the tongue scraper of

[0065] Figure 5A is a top rear perspective view of a tongue scraper according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] Figure 5B is a top rear perspective view of a tongue scraper according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] Figure 5C is Figure 5B a bottom front perspective view of the tongue scraper of

[0068] Figure 5D is Figure 5A a bottom front perspective view of the tongue scraper of

[0069] Figure 6A is a side view of a finger brush according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] Figure 6B is a side view of a finger brush according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] Figure 6C is a side view of a finger brush according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] Figure 6D is a side view of a finger brush according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Embodiments

[0073] Traditional toothbrushes are designed without considering tooth geometry. Most toothbrushes are unable to effectively clean smaller and hard-to-reach areas, such as the surfaces between teeth and occlusal surfaces, especially distal teeth such as molars. In addition, human teeth and gums come in various sizes and shapes, and each person's teeth have different functions and forms. There is still a need for a toothbrush that can better reach hard-to-reach areas, fit all or most of a user's teeth, and can be customized for people with different tooth shapes and forms.

[0074] Various embodiments disclosed herein relate to the design of the bristle pattern of a toothbrush head and methods for customizing the bristle pattern of a toothbrush for a user. More specifically, the bristle pattern can be configured to easily and effectively reach hard-to-reach areas, including areas between teeth, areas near the gum line, occlusal surfaces, etc. In addition, the bristle pattern of the toothbrush can be customized according to the specific shape and size of the user's teeth and gums to clean the teeth of a specific user more effectively than a general-purpose toothbrush.

[0075] I. Bristle Pattern of Toothbrush Head

[0076] In various embodiments, the bristle pattern according to the present disclosure can be implemented on the toothbrush head of a manual toothbrush or an electric toothbrush. In some embodiments, the bristle pattern can be implemented on a complete toothbrush including a handle. In other embodiments, the bristle pattern can be implemented on a replaceable toothbrush head to enable simple and regular replacement and have a wide compatibility with different types of toothbrushes.

[0077] Various embodiments of the bristle pattern according to the present disclosure are as Figures 1A - 3D shown. For example, the bristle pattern of the brush head 100 can include a first bristle area 102 shaped to conform to and clean a first tooth, a second bristle area 104 shaped to conform to and clean a second tooth, and a transition area 106 between the first bristle area 102 and the second bristle area 104 (see Figure 1A ). Each bristle area can have a generally concave profile such that the bristles can conform to at least the buccal and / or lingual surfaces of teeth having a convex surface. The bristles on the distal and proximal sides of each bristle area (e.g., at the distal portion 180 and proximal portion 110 shown in Figure 1I ) can be longer than the bristles in the middle (e.g., Figure 1IThe internal region 170) shown is longer to form a concave profile of the bristle pattern. Longer bristles on the proximal side of the first bristle region and the distal side of the second bristle region can form a transition region including a ridge to effectively reach and clean the gaps between adjacent teeth when the user brushes the buccal, lingual or occlusal surfaces of the teeth. Longer bristles on the distal side of the first bristle region and the proximal side of the second bristle region can similarly clean the gaps between adjacent teeth or any other hard-to-reach areas that can be individually accessed.

[0078] In various embodiments, the left and right sides of each bristle region can be configured to clean the gum line and / or interdental spaces of the user's oral cavity. The gum line of humans can curve differently. When the user brushes the buccal or lingual surface of one or more teeth, the sides of the bristle region can be shaped to fit the gum line of the user's teeth, thereby better cleaning the tooth area near the gum line and the space between the gum and the teeth. In some embodiments, to accommodate the gum line that typically curves towards the gums, the sides of the bristle pattern can be shaped to curve outwards to its sides. As shown, the profile of the bristle pattern including two bristle regions can substantially form an "S" shape, an "∞ (infinity)" shape or an "8" shape.

[0079] As Figures 1A - 1P shown, the brush head 100 can include a base 108 having a width along the transverse direction y of the brush head 100 and a length along the longitudinal direction x of the brush head 100 that is not parallel to the transverse direction y. The base 108 can have a proximal portion 110 and a distal portion 180 opposite the proximal portion 110 along the longitudinal direction x. Multiple bristles can extend from the base 108 along the bristle direction z of the brush head 100, and the bristle direction z is not parallel to the longitudinal direction x and the transverse direction y. It should be understood that Figures 1A - 1O no single bristle is shown, but the bristle pattern is shown as continuous for ease of illustration. Those skilled in the art will understand that the shown bristle pattern includes multiple bristles, such as more than 100 bristles, more than 500 bristles, more than 1000 bristles, more than 5000 bristles or more than 10000 bristles (e.g., 15000 bristles or more).

[0080] As Figures 1I - 1J shown, the multiple bristles of the brush head 100 can be arranged in a bristle pattern that includes a first bristle region 102, and the first bristle region 102 includes a first central occlusal surface cleaning region 120 extending from the distal portion 180 and a first annular portion 122 at least partially surrounding the first central occlusal surface cleaning region 120. The first annular portion 122 can be configured to at least overlap the buccal and lingual surfaces of the first tooth in use. The first central occlusal surface cleaning region 120 can include a first bristle core 103, as Figure 1A shown in -D, 1F and 1H-1M. AsFigure 1A As shown in -D and 1F-1M, the first annular portion 122 may include a first outer bristle layer 107 that at least partially surrounds the first bristle core 103. As observed in a cross-sectional side plane defined by the bristle direction and the longitudinal direction, the first bristle core 103 may have a first contact surface (e.g., a first non-concave core contact surface 131) (see, for example Figure 1K ).

[0081] As shown, the bristle pattern may include a second bristle area 104 disposed near the first bristle area 102. The second bristle area 104 may have a second central occlusal cleaning area 140 extending from a proximal portion 110 and a second annular portion 124 that at least partially surrounds the second central occlusal cleaning area 140 ( Figures 1I - 1J ). The second annular portion 124 may be configured to at least overlap the buccal and lingual surfaces of the second tooth in use, where the first tooth is distal to the second tooth. The second central occlusal cleaning area 140 may include a second bristle core 105. The second annular portion 124 may include a second outer bristle layer 109 that at least partially surrounds the second bristle core 105. As shown, the second bristle core 105 has a second contact surface 151 (e.g., a second non-concave core contact surface), as observed in a cross-sectional side plane (see Figure 1K ).

[0082] The various embodiments disclosed herein are described with respect to the surfaces defined by the bristles. For example, the distal ends 181 of the bristles of the first bristle core 103 and the second bristle core 105 may at least partially define a brushing surface 150 that includes, for example, respective first and second core contact surfaces. The brushing surface 150 may also be at least partially defined by the distal ends 181 of the bristles in the first outer bristle layer 107 and the second outer bristle layer 109, which includes a first concave outer contact surface 171 and a second concave outer contact surface 191. However, it should be understood that the description of such surfaces is an approximation of the geometry presented by the distal ends 181 of the bristles, and in various arrangements, the bristle lengths within local regions may be non-uniform such that the actual surfaces defined by the distal ends of the bristles may be non-uniform or substantially non-uniform. Thus, those skilled in the art will understand that the description of such surfaces is for approximating the overall profile of the bristle pattern described herein.

[0083] In the illustrated embodiment, the first annular portion 122 and the second annular portion 124 (e.g., the first outer bristle layer 107 and the second outer bristle layer 109) partially surround the first bristle core 103 and the second bristle core 105 such that there may be a gap 123 between the transition region 106 and the first outer bristle layer 107 and the second outer bristle layer 109 ( Figure 1F)。The first annular portion 122 and the second annular portion 124 may extend around most of the peripheries of the respective first bristle core 103 and second bristle core 105. In some embodiments, the first annular portion 122 and the second annular portion 124 may extend around the entirety of the respective first bristle core 103 and second bristle core 105. For example, the first annular portion 122 and the second annular portion 124 may extend around the bristle axis z at an angle within a range of 180 degrees to 360 degrees, within a range of 180 degrees to 300 degrees, or within a range of 210 degrees to 270 degrees. For example, the first annular portion 122 and the second annular portion 124 may extend around the bristle axis z at an angle of at least 180 degrees, at least 210 degrees, at least 270 degrees, or at least 300 degrees.

[0084] As Figures 1A - 1D , as shown in FIGS. 1E and 1H - 1M, the bristle pattern may include a transition region 106 between the first bristle region 102 and the second bristle region 104. As viewed in the top surface defined by the longitudinal direction x and the transverse direction y, the first bristle region 102 may have a first convex outer boundary 127, and the second bristle region 104 has a second convex outer boundary 129 (see Figure 1F ). As shown, the transition region 106 may include an inflection point 141 between the first convex outer boundary 127 and the second convex outer boundary 129.

[0085] For example Figure 1C and 1I , as shown in FIGS. 1E and 1H - 1M, the plurality of bristles may include a first peak 132, a second peak 134, and a third peak 136. The first peak 132 is disposed in the first outer bristle layer 107 near the distal portion 180 of the base 108, the second peak 134 is disposed in the transition region 106, and the third peak 136 is disposed in the second outer bristle layer 109 near the proximal end 110 of the base 108. As Figure 1CAs shown, multiple bristles can have a first valley 133 disposed between a first peak 132 and a second peak 134 in a first outer bristle layer 107, and a second valley 135 disposed between a second peak 136 and a third peak 136 in a second outer bristle layer 109. Advantageously, the first peak 132, the second peak 134, and the third peak 136 can be shaped to clean the interdental spaces between adjacent teeth. The first valley 133 and the second valley 135 can include a concave surface that is shaped to conform to at least the convex buccal and / or lingual surfaces of the user's teeth. By shaping the peaks and valleys to conform to the surfaces of the user's teeth, the cleaning efficacy can be significantly improved. Although various embodiments describe the surfaces of the bristle pattern as being shaped to or conforming to the corresponding surfaces of the teeth (e.g., occlusal surface, buccal surface, lingual surface), any part or surface of the bristle patterns described herein can be used to clean any suitable tooth surface. In fact, those skilled in the art will understand that the flexibility of the bristles can enable the bristles to bend or deflect into the recesses or crevices in the teeth.

[0086] As Figure 1I and 1J shown, the first outer bristle layer 107 can include a brushing surface 150 that is at least partially defined by the distal ends 181 of multiple bristles in the first outer bristle layer 107 and that defines, for example, a first concave outer contact surface 171 and a second concave outer contact surface 191. As Figure 1C and 1K shown, as viewed in a cross-sectional side plane, the first outer bristle layer 107 can have a first concave outer contact surface 171, and as viewed in a cross-sectional side plane, the second outer bristle layer 109 can have a second concave outer contact surface 191. Referring to Figure 1I , the brushing surface 150 can have a first curvature (R1, e.g., the radius of curvature in some embodiments) near the distal portion 180, a second curvature (R2, e.g., the radius of curvature in some embodiments) at an inner region 170 between the distal portion 180 and the transition region 106, and the second curvature R2 is greater than (shallower than) the first curvature R1. The curvature of the brushing surface 150 at the transition region 106 and the proximal portion 110 can also be steeper than the curvature of the first valley 133 and the second valley 135 in the inner region 170. Thus, the first curvature R1 can be steeper or more inclined than the second curvature R2. The inner region 170 can include a first valley 133 between a first peak 132 at the distal portion 110 and a second peak 134 at the transition region 106. As Figure 1IAs shown, a first brushing angle θ between the brushing surface 150 and the longitudinal direction x at the distal region is greater than a second brushing angle between the brushing surface 150 and the longitudinal direction x at the internal region 170. The steeper angles of the brushing surface 150 at the distal portion 180, the transition region 106, and the proximal portion 110 can be shaped to conform to the steeper convex angles of the interdental surfaces of the user's teeth. The shallower angle of the internal region 170 can be shaped to conform to a shallower or flatter convex surface of the buccal and / or lingual surfaces of the user's teeth. By matching the curvatures (R1, R2) to the sides of the user's teeth, the cleaning efficacy can be further enhanced.

[0087] In some embodiments, the occlusal cleaning surfaces of the first bristle core 103 and the second bristle core 105 can be shaped to clean at least the occlusal surfaces of the user's teeth. For example, the first non-concave core contact surface 131 of the first bristle core 103 can include one or more bristles that are shorter in the bristle direction z than the bristles at the first peak 132 and the second peak 134, but longer than the bristles at the first valley 133. The second non-concave core contact surface 151 of the second bristle core 105 can include one or more bristles that are shorter in the bristle direction z than the bristles at the second peak 134 and the third peak 136, but longer than the bristles at the second valley 135. By using bristles that are longer than the bristles in the first valley 133 and the second valley 135, the bristle cores 103 and 105 can enter the concave recesses and crevices of the occlusal surfaces of the user's teeth. Additionally, such a bristle pattern for the cores can enable the bristle cores 103 and 105 to contact the sides of the teeth (e.g., the buccal and lingual surfaces of the teeth). In some embodiments, the first non-concave core contact surface 131 and the second non-concave core contact surface 151 can be planar. In other embodiments, the first non-concave core contact surface 131 and the second non-concave core contact surface 151 can be convex in order to extend into the concave occlusal surfaces of the teeth. As Figure 1C shown, the peaks 132, 134, and 136 can extend a first vertical height a above their respective valleys 133 and 135, and the first bristle core 103 and the second bristle core 105 can extend a second vertical height b above the valleys 133 and 135. The vertical heights a and b can be any suitable heights to match the tooth structure of the patient or the average population.

[0088] As Figure 1F and 1KAs shown, a first gap 153 may be provided between the first bristle core 103 and the first outer bristle layer 107. A second gap 155 may be provided between the second bristle core 105 and the second outer bristle layer 109. The first gap 153 and the second gap 155 may be greater than the maximum spacing between two adjacent bristles among the plurality of bristles. The first gap 153 and the second gap 155 may be greater than the average spacing between two adjacent bristles among the plurality of bristles. As shown, there may be no bristles in the first gap 153 and the second gap 155. However, in other embodiments, the first gap 153 and the second gap 155 may be substantially the same as the maximum or average spacing between two adjacent bristles, such that the gaps between the first core 103 and the second core 105 and their respective first outer bristle layers 107 and 109 may not be greater than the maximum or average gap between adjacent bristles. In the illustrated embodiment, as viewed in the top surface, the first bristle core 103 and the second bristle core 105 are substantially annular.

[0089] As viewed in Figure 1F the top surface of, the first bristle region 102 may have a first concave inner boundary 142, and the second bristle region 104 may have a second concave inner boundary 144. In the illustrated embodiment, the first convex outer boundary 127 is continuous with the second concave inner boundary 144, and the second convex outer boundary 129 is continuous with the first concave inner boundary 142.

[0090] Advantageously, as explained herein, the bristle pattern may be sized and shaped to match the structure of a particular user's teeth, and / or to match the structure of average human teeth (e.g., average adult teeth). Effectively cleaning the teeth located distally, such as the molars in the back of the user's mouth, can be particularly challenging. Thus, in various embodiments, the bristle pattern may be sized and shaped to generally conform to the plurality of (e.g., two) most distal teeth of the user (or average adult). For example, in some embodiments, the bristle pattern may be sized and shaped to conform to two most distal molars of a human user. In other embodiments, the bristle pattern may be sized and shaped to conform to any selected plurality of (e.g., any selected pair of) teeth of the user.

[0091] As Figure 1CAs shown, the first bristle region 102 may have a first length L1 along the longitudinal direction x, and the second bristle region 104 may have a second length L2 along the longitudinal direction x. The first length L1 may be measured from the first peak 132 of the transition region 106 to the second peak 134, and the second length L2 may be measured from the second peak 134 to the third peak 136. Generally, the outermost teeth may be wider than the adjacent proximal teeth. Thus, to better conform to the lingual and / or buccal surfaces of the two outermost teeth, the first length L1 (e.g., corresponding to the width of the outermost teeth) may be greater than the second length L2 (e.g., corresponding to the adjacent proximal teeth). For example, in various embodiments, the first length L1 may be in the range of 3 mm to 15 mm, in the range of 6 mm to 15 mm, or in the range of 8 mm to 12 mm. The second length L2 may be in the range of 3 mm to 15 mm, in the range of 6 mm to 15 mm, or in the range of 8 mm to 12 mm.

[0092] Similarly, as Figure 1F shown, the first bristle region 102 and the second bristle region 104 may have a width W1. The width W1 may be selected to correspond to the approximate height of the user's two outermost teeth. In some embodiments, the widths W1 of the first bristle region 102 and the second bristle region 104 may be substantially the same. In other embodiments, the widths W1 of the first bristle region 102 and the second bristle region 104 may be different. For example, the width W1 of at least one of the first bristle region 102 and the second bristle region 104 may be in the range of 4 mm to 16 mm, in the range of 6 mm to 15 mm, or in the range of 8 mm to 12 mm.

[0093] In addition, the widths W2 of the first bristle core 103 and the second bristle core 105 may be selected to fit the occlusal surfaces of the user's teeth. For example, the width W2 of at least one of the first bristle core 103 and the second bristle core 105 may be in the range of 1 mm to 6 mm, in the range of 2.5 mm to 5 mm, and in the range of 1 mm to 3 mm (e.g., for a toothbrush head for children), or in the range of 4.5 mm to 6 mm (e.g., for a toothbrush for an average adult). It should be understood that the examples described herein consider setting the shape and size of the bristle pattern to conform to the two outermost teeth of a specific user or average human teeth. In other embodiments, the bristle pattern may be selected based on other teeth of the user or population.

[0094] Turning to Figure 1L and 1M , in some embodiments, at least a portion of the brushing surface 150 may include continuously varying surface normals N. Unless otherwise specified, Figure 1L and 1M the components of may be combined with Figures 1A - 1KThe similar components described are the same or substantially similar. As Figure 1M shown, the first concave outer contact surface 171 and the second concave outer contact surface 191 of the brushing surface 150 may be arranged in at least a partially annular pattern around an inner region including the bristle cores 103 and 105. The brushing surface 150 may be at least partially inclined inwardly towards the inner region such that the normal N of the brushing surface 150 includes a direction component pointing inwardly towards the bristle cores 103 and 105. As shown, when the brushing surface 150 extends around the inner region, the surface normal N may vary continuously along the surface, for example in a racetrack pattern. At least 50% of the total surface area of the first concave outer contact surface 171 and the second concave outer contact surface 191 may include surface normals N that are not parallel to the bristle direction z. For example, at least 75%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95% or at least 99% of the total surface area of the first concave outer contact surface 171 and the second concave outer contact surface 191 may include surface normals N that are not parallel to the bristle direction z. In various embodiments, 75% to 95% or 75% to 90% of the total surface area of the first concave outer contact surface 171 and the second concave outer contact surface 191 may include surface normals N that are not parallel to the bristle direction z. In various embodiments, most of the total surface area of the first concave outer contact surface 171 and the second concave outer contact surface 191 may be arranged to be not parallel to the top surface defined by the transverse direction y and the longitudinal direction x. For example, at least 75%, at least 90% or at least 95% of the total surface area of the first concave outer contact surface 171 and the second concave outer contact surface 191 may be arranged to be not parallel to the top surface.

[0095] Advantageously, the curvature of the brushing surface 150 may match the user's anatomy. For example, the inwardly curved surfaces of the first concave outer contact surface 171 and the second concave outer contact surface 191 may be shaped to overlap and cover the sides of the teeth, such as the buccal and lingual surfaces of the teeth, which can improve the cleaning efficacy. Additionally, as explained above in connection with Figure 1I the curvature R1 (e.g., radius of curvature) of the brushing surface 150 at or near the distal portion 180, the transition region 106 and the proximal portion 110 may be less (e.g., steeper) than the curvature R2 (e.g., radius of curvature) of the brushing surface 150 at or near the inner region 170 including the first valley 133 and the second valley 135. The steeper curvature near the distal region 180, the transition region 104 and the proximal region 110 may be shaped to conform to the steeper convexity of the interdental spaces of the teeth.

[0096] Furthermore, in Figure 1MIn the illustrated embodiment, the curvature of the bristles can vary along the longitudinal direction x (also referred to as the mesial-distal direction) and the transverse direction y (also referred to as the occlusal-gingival direction). For example, as Figure 1F shown, the outer boundary 121 as shown in the top view can have different curvatures (e.g., different convex curvatures) along the longitudinal direction x and the transverse direction y. Additionally, as Figure 1M shown, the brushing surface 150 can additionally or alternatively have different curvatures (e.g., different concave curvatures) along the longitudinal direction x or the transverse direction y. The different curvatures along the longitudinal direction x and the transverse direction y can advantageously enable the bristle pattern to conform to the tooth anatomy. It should be understood that although Figures 1A - 1M shows two bristle regions 102 and 104, in other embodiments, as Figure 1P shown, only a single bristle region 302 (e.g., a circular or annular region) can be provided in the toothbrush head 300. For example, in Figure 1P the outer bristle layer 307 (e.g., a single outer bristle layer) can be disposed around the bristle core 305 (e.g., a single bristle core). Similar to Figures 1L - 1M the outer boundary shown in the top view can have different curvatures (e.g., different convex curvatures) along the longitudinal direction x and along the transverse direction y. Additionally, as explained above, the brushing surface 150 can additionally or alternatively have different curvatures (e.g., different concave curvatures) along the longitudinal direction x and along the transverse direction y.

[0097] Figures 1N - 1O shows another example of the bristle pattern of the brush head 200 according to various embodiments. Unless otherwise specified, Figures 1N - 1O the features of the bristle pattern may be the same as or substantially similar to those of the similar components in Figures 1A - 1M For example, the bristle pattern of the brush head 200 can include a first bristle region 202 having a first bristle core 203 and a first outer bristle layer 207 at least partially disposed around the first bristle core 203. As observed in a cross-sectional side plane defined by the bristle direction and the longitudinal direction, the first bristle core 203 can have a first core contact surface. The bristle pattern can include a second bristle region 204 disposed near the first bristle region 202. The second bristle region 204 can have a second bristle core 205 and a second outer bristle layer 209 at least partially disposed around the second bristle core 205. As observed in the cross-sectional side plane, the second bristle core 205 can have a second core contact surface. A transition region 206 can be disposed between the first bristle region 202 and the second bristle region 204. Similar to, for example, Figure 1FIn an embodiment, as viewed in the top surface defined by the longitudinal and transverse directions, the first bristle region 202 may have a first convex outer boundary 227, the second bristle region 204 may have a second convex outer boundary 229, and the transition region 206 may include an inflection point 241 between the first convex outer boundary 227 and the second convex outer boundary 229.

[0098] However, different from Figures 1A - 1M the embodiment, in Figures 1N - 1O , the brushing surface 250 may be substantially planar. For example, the brushing surfaces 250 of the first outer bristle layer 207 and the second outer bristle layer 209 may be substantially planar. The first core 203 and the second core 205 may also be substantially planar. Compared with traditional toothbrushes, the transition region 206 having the inflection point 241 may advantageously enable a user to clean the gaps between adjacent teeth and along the gum line.

[0099] According to various embodiments, each bristle outer layer and bristle core may also be implemented with different sizes (e.g., all thick bristles or bristles of variable thickness, etc.), materials (e.g., polymers such as nylon, polybutylene terephthalate or PBT, etc.) and shapes (e.g., tapered ends, flat ends, etc.). Unless otherwise specified, Figures 2A - 2C the features of Figures 1A - 1K may be the same as or substantially similar to those of similar reference components in Figures 2A - 2C As shown, another embodiment of the bristle pattern on the brush head 400 according to the present disclosure may have first and second outer bristle layers, each outer bristle layer formed by a plurality of annular bristles. The bristle pattern may include bristles of different shapes, for example, tapered bristles at least along the boundary of the bristle pattern. Figures 2A - 2C The bristle pattern shown may include one or more features, components, and / or details, any combination of any other features, components, and / or details of any other embodiment of the devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein.

[0100] In addition, it may be advantageous to create a variety of different sizes and shapes of bristle patterns to accommodate users with different tooth structures. In some embodiments, after consulting with the user or obtaining data on the user's tooth structure, the bristle pattern may be specifically determined for the user. Another embodiment includes a method of taking an image of the user's teeth and determining the shape and geometry of the bristle pattern that can most effectively clean the user's teeth. The bristle pattern may be implemented on a replaceable brush head so that it can be replaced regularly to maintain the firmness and effectiveness of the bristles. The replaceable brush head may also be configured to be compatible with various manual or electric toothbrush handles.

[0101] In various embodiments, a user or clinician may obtain data regarding the structure of one or more teeth of the user. For example, a clinician may capture image data of the user's teeth (e.g., x-ray image data). In other embodiments, the user may use a visible image camera (e.g., in a mobile phone) to image the teeth. Based on the image data, the structure of one or more teeth of the user may be extracted. As explained above, in some embodiments, it may be beneficial to determine the size of the bristle pattern based on the two most distal teeth of the user, in which case, image data of the two most distal teeth may be obtained. In other embodiments, other teeth may be additionally or alternatively imaged.

[0102] Based on the received or obtained data regarding the structure of one or more teeth, a bristle pattern for one or more teeth of the user may be determined. For example, the dimensions of the user's teeth may be measured, including the size and shape of, for example, the lingual, buccal, occlusal, and interproximal surfaces. Based on the measurements and profile of the user's tooth structure, a bristle pattern may be designed specifically for the user's teeth. For example, the lengths L1 and L2 and the widths W1 and W2 may be selected at least in part based on the user's tooth structure. The brushing angle, the height of the peaks and valleys, and any and all other parameters of the bristle pattern described herein may be selected based on data of the user's tooth structure. The curvature of the brushing surface may be designed to conform to the geometry of the user's teeth (or the geometry of the teeth of an average person in the population). In various embodiments, the curvature of the first and second outer contact surfaces of the first and second outer bristle layers may be selected based on the determined tooth structure. Additionally or alternatively, the curvature of the first and second core contact surfaces (e.g., the first and second occlusal cleaning regions) may be selected based on the determined tooth structure.

[0103] In various embodiments, the bristle pattern may be determined by selecting a bristle pattern from a plurality of predetermined bristle pattern designs. In other embodiments, a unique bristle pattern may be designed and selected for each user. The user may use the toothbrush for a period of time and, when the bristles are worn, order a replacement toothbrush or toothbrush head, in which case, the method may produce a replacement toothbrush head with a bristle pattern. In some cases, the user's tooth structure may change over time, e.g., due to dental procedures or tooth degradation. In some embodiments, the user's oral cavity may be imaged again to obtain updated data regarding one or more teeth of the user. The method may determine a new bristle pattern for the user at least in part based on the obtained updated data regarding the user.

[0104] In various embodiments, the analysis of the tooth structure and / or the determination of the bristle pattern can be performed by computer code stored on any suitable type of non-transitory computer-readable medium (such as a computer memory), which, when executed by a process, analyzes the tooth structure, determines the bristle pattern, and any other steps described in the methods disclosed herein. The processor and / or memory can be part of any suitable computer system. The computer memory can include physical computer memory, which includes hard disk drives, solid-state memory, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), optical discs, volatile or non-volatile memory, combinations thereof, and the like. These methods can also be transmitted or received as data signals on various computer-readable media, including wireless and / or wire-based media. The results of the disclosed processes or process steps can be persistently or otherwise stored in any type of non-transitory tangible computer storage, and / or can be communicated via computer-readable transmission media.

[0105] Accordingly, the various embodiments disclosed herein are advantageously capable of implementing a user-specific bristle pattern for a toothbrush head, which can improve the cleaning efficacy.

[0106] II. Toothbrush Design for Teeth with Braces

[0107] Another aspect of the present disclosure is that the first and second bristle regions can be configured to fit teeth with braces attached. Unless otherwise specified, Figures 3A - 3D the features may be the same as or substantially similar to Figures 1A - 2C similar reference components in Figures 3A - 3D shows an embodiment of a bristle pattern for teeth with braces according to the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 3A , the bristle pattern of the braces of the brush head 500 can similarly include a first bristle region 502 and a second bristle region 504, each having a bristle outer bristle layer 507 / 509 and a bristle core 503 / 505. In certain embodiments, the bristle pattern of the braces can also include a brace receiving recess 501 positioned along the longitudinal direction x across the first bristle region 502 and the second bristle region 504. Similar to the above embodiments, the bristle pattern for teeth with braces can also be implemented with bristles of different sizes, shapes, and materials. Figure 3B shows an embodiment of implementing the bristle pattern of the braces with bristles of different shapes and sizes.

[0108] The brace receiving recess can have a length along the longitudinal direction x, a width along the transverse direction y, and a depth along the bristle direction z. Additionally, the shape of the brace receiving recess can vary according to the shape, type, or size of the braces worn by the user. For example, the brace receiving recess can be sized and shaped to receive the wire of a wired brace for cleaning around the wire and brackets. AsFigure 3C As shown, the brace receiving recess 601 of the brush head 600 may have a rectangular profile when viewed in the front plane. As Figure 3D shown, the brace receiving recess 701 of the brush head 700 may also have a triangular profile with curved sides when viewed in the front plane. Any one or all of the length, width, depth, and shape of the brace receiving recess may be changed and customized according to the shape, type, or size of the brace worn by the user. The brace receiving recess may include any suitable profile representing incisions or notches in the bristle pattern. For example, the brace receiving recess may include linear recesses, wedges, etc. In various embodiments, the width, depth, and / or shape of the recess may be selected based on the user's teeth and orthodontic structure.

[0109] The bristle patterns for braces disclosed above may include one or more features, components, and / or details, in any combination with any other features, components, and / or details of any other embodiments of the devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein.

[0110] III. Embodiments of Tongue Cleaner

[0111] Various embodiments disclosed herein relate to a tongue cleaner for cleaning a user's tongue. As Figures 4A - 4B shown, a tongue cleaner 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include a tongue cleaner head base 1108 attachable to a tongue cleaner handle 1190. The tongue cleaner 1000 may also include tongue cleaning bristles 1010 disposed on a first side 1100 of the tongue cleaner head base 1108. The tongue cleaning bristles 1010 may include one or more bristle regions, and one or more bristle regions may be arranged according to a bristle pattern. In some embodiments, the tongue cleaning bristles 1010 may have a bristle pattern that includes, for example, a first bristle region 1002, a second bristle region 1004, a third bristle region 1006, and a fourth bristle region 1008, each bristle region being spaced apart from each other, as Figure 4A shown. The tongue cleaning bristles 1010 may provide a gentle cleaning effect on the tongue. The tongue cleaning bristles 1010 may include any suitable material, including, for example, TPR of a desired hardness.

[0112] The tongue cleaner 1000 may also include tongue cleaning bumps 1202 and / or one or more tongue cleaning scrapers (e.g., a first tongue cleaning scraper 1241, a second tongue cleaning scraper 1242, and a third tongue cleaning scraper 1243) to remove keratin from the tongue. The tongue cleaning bumps 1202 and / or one or more tongue cleaning scrapers may remove dead cells, bacteria, and debris from the tongue with a greater intensity than the tongue cleaning bristles 1010. As Figure 4BAs shown, in some embodiments, the tongue cleaning bumps 1202 and the tongue cleaning blade can be disposed on the second side 1200 of the tongue cleaner head base 1108, opposite to the first side 1100. The first tongue cleaning blade 1241 and the third tongue cleaning blade 1243 can be respectively disposed near the distal end 1180 and the proximal end 1110 of the tongue cleaner head base 1108. The tongue cleaner 1000 can further include a flat area 1206 disposed between the first, second, and third tongue cleaning blades 1241, 1242, and 1243, and the flat area 1206 is configured to accommodate the scraped dead cells and debris.

[0113] Figures 5A - 5D Other embodiments of the tongue cleaner are shown. The tongue cleaner 2000 / 3000 can include tongue cleaning bristles on the first side of the tongue cleaner head base 2100 and one or more tongue cleaning blades on the second side 2200 of the tongue cleaner head 2008 opposite to the first side 2100. The tongue cleaning bristles can include one or more tongue cleaning bristle areas, for example, as Figure 5B shown by a bristle area 2002 or as Figure 5A shown by the first bristle area 2002 and the second bristle area 2004. In some embodiments, the tongue cleaning bristle area 2002 can be substantially annular (see Figure 5B ). In some embodiments, the first tongue cleaning bristle area 2002 can be substantially annular, the second tongue cleaning bristle area 2004 can be disposed beside the first tongue cleaning bristle area 2002, and is substantially semi-annular (see Figure 5A ). On the second side 2200, in some embodiments, the tongue cleaning blade can include a tongue cleaning blade 2241 near the distal end 2180 of the tongue cleaner head base 2008 (see Figure 5C ). In other embodiments, the tongue cleaning blade can include a first tongue cleaning blade 2242 near the distal end 2180 of the tongue cleaner head base 2008, and a second tongue cleaning blade 2442 near the transition area 2006, and the transition area 2006 corresponds to the area between the first tongue cleaning bristle area 2002 and the second tongue cleaning bristle area 2004 (see Figure 5D ).

[0114] Figures 4A - 5D The stiffness of the tongue cleaning blade can be greater than that of the bristles. For example, the bristles may deform or bend during use when cleaning the user's tongue, while the tongue cleaning blade may not bend during use when cleaning the user's tongue. In addition, in various embodiments, the width of the tongue cleaning blade extending along the base can be greater than the vertical height of the blade extending from the base. In contrast, the vertical height of the bristles extending from the base can be greater than the width of a single bristle.

[0115] Advantageously, Figures 4A - 5D the various components of the tongue cleaner can be made of stainless steel, which can beneficially improve the user's oral health and reduce wear of the tongue cleaner. For example, any one or all of the tongue cleaner head base, bumps, tongue cleaning blade, and handle can be made of stainless steel. In various embodiments, at least the base comprises stainless steel. In some embodiments, the blade can comprise a polymer or plastic material. In some embodiments, the blade can also comprise stainless steel. In some embodiments, the bumps can additionally comprise stainless steel. Advantageously, using stainless steel for the base (and in various embodiments, other components) can reduce bad breath. For example, the stainless steel material can bind to sulfur, thereby reducing the unpleasant odor in the user's mouth.

[0116] The tongue cleaner disclosed above can include one or more features, components, and / or details in any combination with any other features, components, and / or details of any other embodiments of the devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein.

[0117] IV. Finger Brush Design

[0118] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a finger toothbrush that includes a finger cot instead of a handle and is used as a finger brush, for example, for cleaning the teeth and / or gums of a baby or a child. Figures 6A - 6D Various embodiments of the finger toothbrush are shown. Referring to Figure 6A , the finger brush 4000 according to the present disclosure can include a brush head base 4008 disposed on a finger cot 4030 configured to be worn on a finger. The finger brush 4000 can also include bristles 4010 disposed on the brush head base 4008. In some embodiments, the finger brush 4000 can include a bite block 4040 attached to or disposed within the brush head base 4008 and configured to prevent the teeth from biting into the brush head base 3008 (see Figure 6A ). In some embodiments, the finger brush 5000 / 6000 / 7000 can also include a finger cot bite block 5050 / 6050 / 7050 disposed on or within a portion of the finger cot 5030 / 6030 / 7030 to prevent the teeth from biting into the finger cot and hurting the finger within the finger cot. Thus, in some embodiments, the bite block 5050 can be coupled to or disposed within a pocket of the finger cot 5030 on the side opposite the brush head base 5008 (e.g., Figure 6B ). In other embodiments, the bite block 6050 can be coupled to or disposed within a pocket of the finger cot 6030 in an annular shape surrounding the inside of the finger cot 6030 such that the bite block 6050 extends around the user's finger (e.g., Figure 6C)。In some embodiments, as Figure 6D shown, the bite block 7050 can be coupled to or disposed within the distal portion of the finger cot 7030. For example, the bite block 7050 can be positioned such that at least a portion of the bite block 7050 is disposed at the distal end of the brush head base 7008. According to various embodiments, the bite block can include any material rigid enough to withstand a biting force. For example, in some embodiments, the bite block can include a metal (such as steel, aluminum, etc.), plastic or polymer, ceramic, silicone, etc. The bite block can be formed of a material different from that of the finger cot. In some embodiments, the bite block can also be formed of the same material as the finger cot but with a greater thickness to provide cushioning against biting by an infant or child. In various embodiments, the bite block can be more rigid and / or have a higher elastic modulus than the finger cot. The finger brush with the bite block can relieve pain associated with biting by an infant or child.

[0119] The finger brush disclosed above can include one or more features, components, and / or details in any combination with any other features, components, and / or details of any other embodiments of the devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein.

[0120] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, the words "comprise," "comprising," "include," "including," etc. shall be construed in an inclusive sense rather than an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is, in the sense of "including, but not limited to." The term "coupled" as commonly used herein refers to two or more elements that can be directly connected or connected through one or more intermediate elements. Similarly, the term "connected" as commonly used herein refers to two or more elements that can be directly connected or connected through one or more intermediate elements. In addition, the terms "herein," "above," "below," and words of similar import used in this application shall refer to the entire application rather than any particular part of this application. Further, as used herein, when a first element is described as being "on" or "over" a second element, the first element can be directly on or over the second element such that the first and second elements are in direct contact, or the first element can be indirectly on or over the second element such that one or more elements intervene between the first and second elements. Where context permits, the singular or plural words used in the above detailed description may also respectively include the plural or singular. The word "or" referring to a list of two or more items covers all of the following interpretations of that word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.

[0121] Moreover, unless otherwise specifically stated, or understood in the context of use, conditional language used herein, such as "can", "could", "might", "may", "e.g.", "for example", "such as", etc., is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements, and / or states. Thus, such conditional language generally does not imply that one or more embodiments necessarily require the features, elements, and / or states in any way.

[0122] Although certain embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented only as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. In fact, the novel devices, methods, and systems described herein can be embodied in a variety of other forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made to the forms of the methods and systems described herein without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. For example, although the features of the bristle pattern are presented in a given arrangement, alternative embodiments can perform similar functions with different arrangements and / or geometries, and some features can be deleted, moved, added, subdivided, combined, and / or modified. Each of these features can be implemented in a variety of different ways. Any suitable combination of the elements and actions of the various embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments. The appended claims and their equivalents are intended to cover forms or modifications that fall within the scope and spirit of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A toothbrush head, which comprises: a base having a width in a transverse direction of the toothbrush head and a length in a longitudinal direction of the toothbrush head, the longitudinal direction not being parallel to the transverse direction, the base having a proximal portion and a distal portion opposite the proximal portion in the longitudinal direction; and a plurality of bristles extending from the base in a bristle direction of the toothbrush head, the bristle direction not being parallel to the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction, the plurality of bristles being arranged in a bristle pattern, the bristle pattern comprising: a first bristle region having a first bristle core and a first outer bristle layer at least partially surrounding the first bristle core, as observed in a cross-sectional side plane defined by the bristle direction and the longitudinal direction, the first bristle core having a first core contact surface; a second bristle region disposed near the first bristle region, the second bristle region having a second bristle core and a second outer bristle layer at least partially surrounding the second bristle core, as observed in the cross-sectional side plane, the second bristle core having a second core contact surface; and a transition region between the first bristle region and the second bristle region, wherein, as observed in a top surface defined by the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction, the first bristle region has a first convex outer boundary, the second bristle region has a second convex outer boundary, and the transition region includes an inflection point between the first convex outer boundary and the second convex outer boundary.

2. The toothbrush head according to claim 1, wherein the first core contact surface is non-concave, and wherein the second core contact surface is also non-concave.

3. The toothbrush head according to claim 1, wherein respective brushing surfaces of the first outer bristle layer and the second outer bristle layer are substantially planar.

4. The toothbrush head according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of bristles includes a first peak, a second peak, and a third peak, the first peak being disposed in the first outer bristle layer near the distal portion of the base, the second peak being disposed in the transition region, and the third peak being disposed in the second outer bristle layer near the proximal portion of the base.

5. The toothbrush head according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of bristles has a first valley in the first outer bristle layer and a second valley in the second outer bristle layer, the first valley being disposed between the first peak and the second peak, and the second valley being disposed between the second peak and the third peak.

6. The toothbrush head according to claim 5, wherein the first core contact surface includes one or more bristles that are shorter in the bristle direction than the bristles at the first peak and the second peak, but longer than the bristles at the first valley, and the second core contact surface includes one or more bristles that are shorter in the bristle direction than the bristles at the second peak and the third peak, but longer than the bristles at the second valley.

7. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, as observed in the cross-sectional side plane, the first outer bristle layer has a first concave outer contact surface, and, as observed in the cross-sectional side plane, the second outer bristle layer has a second concave outer contact surface.

8. The toothbrush head according to claim 7, wherein the first concave outer contact surface and the second concave outer contact surface include continuously varying surface normals.

9. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 7 to 8, wherein the first concave outer contact surface and the second concave outer contact surface are inclined inwardly towards the respective first bristle core and second bristle core.

10. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein at least 75% of the total surface area of the first concave outer contact surface and the second concave outer contact surface includes surface normals that are not parallel to the bristle direction.

11. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein at least 75% of the total surface area of the first concave outer contact surface and the second concave outer contact surface is not parallel to the top surface.

12. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, as observed in the top surface, the first bristle core is substantially annular, and, as observed in the top surface, the second bristle core is substantially annular.

13. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first bristle region includes a brushing surface that includes the first core contact surface and is at least partially defined by the distal ends of the plurality of bristles in the first outer bristle layer, the brushing surface having a first curvature in the distal region and a second curvature in the internal region between the distal region and the transition region, the second curvature being greater than the first curvature.

14. The toothbrush head according to claim 13, wherein the internal region includes a valley between a first peak at the distal region and a second peak at the transition region.

15. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 13 to 14, wherein a first brushing angle between the brushing surface and the longitudinal direction at the distal region is greater than a second brushing angle between the brushing surface and the longitudinal direction at the internal region.

16. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 1 to 15, further comprising a first gap between the first bristle core and the first outer bristle layer, the first gap being greater than the maximum spacing between two adjacent bristles among the plurality of bristles.

17. The toothbrush head according to claim 16, further comprising a second gap between the second bristle core and the second outer bristle layer, the second gap being greater than the maximum spacing between two adjacent bristles among the plurality of bristles.

18. The toothbrush head according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the first gap and the second gap are free of bristles.

19. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein, As viewed in the top surface, the first bristle area has a first concave inner boundary, and the second bristle area has a second concave inner boundary.

20. The toothbrush head according to claim 19, wherein the first convex outer boundary is continuous with the second concave inner boundary, and wherein the second convex outer boundary is continuous with the first concave inner boundary.

21. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the first bristle area has a first length along the longitudinal direction, and the second bristle area has a second length along the longitudinal direction, the first length being greater than the second length.

22. The toothbrush head according to claim 21, wherein the first length is in the range of 3 mm to 15 mm, and wherein the second length is in the range of 3 mm to 15 mm.

23. The toothbrush head according to claim 22, wherein the width of at least one of the first bristle area and the second bristle area is in the range of 4 mm to 16 mm.

24. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the width of at least one of the first bristle core and the second bristle core is in the range of 1 mm to 6 mm.

25. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the bristle pattern includes a brace receiving recess extending in the longitudinal direction.

26. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein at least one of the first core contact surface and the second core contact surface is substantially planar.

27. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein at least one of the first core contact surface and the second core contact surface is convex.

28. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the first convex outer boundary has a first curvature in the longitudinal direction and a second curvature different from the first curvature in the transverse direction.

29. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the brushing surface of the first bristle area has a first curvature in the longitudinal direction and a second curvature different from the first curvature in the transverse direction.

30. A toothbrush head, which comprises: a base having a width in the transverse direction of the toothbrush head and a length in the longitudinal direction of the toothbrush head, the longitudinal direction not being parallel to the transverse direction, the base having a proximal portion and a distal portion opposite the proximal portion along the longitudinal direction; and a plurality of bristles extending from the base in the bristle direction of the toothbrush head, the bristle direction not being parallel to the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction, the plurality of bristles being arranged in a bristle pattern, the bristle pattern including: a first central occlusal surface cleaning area extending from the distal portion; a first annular portion at least partially surrounding the first central occlusal surface cleaning area, the first annular portion being configured to at least overlap the buccal and lingual surfaces of a first tooth in use; a second central occlusal surface cleaning area extending from the proximal portion; A second annular portion that at least partially surrounds the second central occlusal cleaning area, the second annular portion being configured to at least overlap the buccal and lingual surfaces of the second tooth in use, the first tooth being distal to the second tooth.

31. The toothbrush head according to claim 30, wherein the first annular portion includes a first outer bristle layer, and the second annular portion includes a second outer bristle layer, the plurality of bristles including a first peak in the first outer bristle layer, a second peak in a transition area between the first outer bristle layer and the second outer bristle layer, and a third peak in the second outer bristle layer.

32. The toothbrush head according to claim 31, wherein the plurality of bristles includes a first valley between the first peak and the second peak and a second valley between the second peak and the third peak.

33. The toothbrush head according to claim 31 or 32, wherein the transition area includes an inflection point between the first bristle area and the second bristle area.

34. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein the first annular portion and the second annular portion are connected at the second peak.

35. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 30 to 34, wherein the first central occlusal cleaning area includes a first bristle core having a first non-concave core contact surface, and the second central occlusal cleaning area includes a second bristle core having a second non-concave core contact surface.

36. The toothbrush head according to claim 35, further comprising a first gap between the first bristle core and the first outer bristle layer, the first gap being greater than the maximum spacing between two adjacent bristles among the plurality of bristles.

37. The toothbrush head according to claim 36, further comprising a second gap between the second bristle core and the second outer bristle layer, the second gap being greater than the maximum spacing between two adjacent bristles among the plurality of bristles.

38. The toothbrush head according to claim 36 or 37, wherein there are no bristles in the first gap and the second gap.

39. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 30 to 38, wherein, as viewed in the top view, the first annular portion has a first convex outer boundary and a first concave inner boundary, and the second annular portion has a second convex outer boundary and a second concave inner boundary.

40. The toothbrush head according to claim 39, wherein the first convex outer boundary is continuous with the second concave inner boundary, and wherein the second convex outer boundary is continuous with the first concave inner boundary.

41. The toothbrush head according to any one of claims 30 to 40, wherein the first central occlusal cleaning area and the second central occlusal cleaning area are substantially planar.

42. A toothbrush head, which comprises: a base having a width in a transverse direction of the toothbrush head and a length in a longitudinal direction of the toothbrush head, the longitudinal direction not being parallel to the transverse direction, the base having a proximal portion and a distal portion opposite the proximal portion along the longitudinal direction; and A plurality of bristles extending from the base in a bristle direction of the toothbrush head, the bristle direction not being parallel to the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction, the plurality of bristles being arranged in a bristle pattern, the bristle pattern comprising: A first bristle region having a first bristle core and a first outer bristle layer at least partially surrounding the first bristle core, the first outer bristle layer being shaped to clean at least a convex side surface of at least a first tooth, the first bristle core being shaped to clean at least an occlusal surface of the first tooth; A second bristle region having a second bristle core and a second outer bristle layer at least partially surrounding the second bristle core, the second outer bristle layer being shaped to clean at least a convex side surface of at least a second tooth, the second bristle core being shaped to clean at least an occlusal surface of the second tooth; and A transition region between the first bristle region and the second bristle region, wherein the plurality of bristles have a first peak in the first bristle region near the distal portion of the base, a second peak in the transition region, and a third peak in the second bristle region near the proximal portion of the base.

43. The toothbrush head according to claim 42, wherein the transition region includes an inflection point between the first bristle region and the second bristle region.

44. A toothbrush head, which comprises: A base having a width in a transverse direction of the toothbrush head and a length in a longitudinal direction of the toothbrush head, the longitudinal direction not being parallel to the transverse direction, the base having a proximal portion and a distal portion opposite the proximal portion in the longitudinal direction; and A plurality of bristles extending from the base in a bristle direction of the toothbrush head, the bristle direction not being parallel to the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction, the plurality of bristles being arranged in a bristle pattern, the bristle pattern comprising: A first bristle region having an outer boundary and a first outer bristle layer extending inwardly from the outer boundary of the first bristle region toward a central portion of the first bristle region, the outer boundary of the first bristle region having a first distal peak, a transverse valley, and a second proximal peak for contacting a surface of a first tooth in use; and A second bristle region disposed near the first bristle region, the second bristle region having an outer boundary and a second outer bristle layer extending inwardly from the outer boundary of the second bristle region toward a central portion of the second bristle region, the outer boundary of the second bristle region configured to overlap at least the buccal and lingual sides of a second tooth near the first tooth in use, wherein the second proximal peak of the first outer bristle layer is disposed at a transition region between the first bristle region and the second bristle region.

45. The toothbrush head according to claim 44, wherein the bristle pattern further comprises a first bristle core and a second bristle core, the first outer bristle layer at least partially surrounding the first bristle core, and the second outer bristle layer at least partially surrounding the second bristle core.

46. A toothbrush head, which comprises: A base having a width in a lateral direction of the toothbrush head and a length in a longitudinal direction of the toothbrush head, the lateral direction not being parallel to the transverse direction, the base having a proximal portion and a distal portion opposite the proximal portion in the longitudinal direction; and A plurality of bristles extending from the base in a bristle direction of the toothbrush head, the bristle direction not being parallel to the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction, the plurality of bristles being arranged in a bristle pattern including a bristle area having a bristle core and an outer bristle layer at least partially surrounding the bristle core, wherein, as viewed in a top surface defined by the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction, the bristle area has an outer boundary having a first curvature in the longitudinal direction and a second curvature different from the first curvature in the transverse direction, and wherein a distal end of the bristle area at least partially defines a brushing surface having a third curvature in the longitudinal direction and a fourth curvature different from the third curvature in the transverse direction.

47. The toothbrush head according to claim 46, wherein the first curvature and the second curvature include convex curvatures.

48. The toothbrush head according to claim 46 or 47, wherein the third curvature and the fourth curvature include concave curvatures 49. A method of manufacturing a user-specific toothbrush head, the method comprising: Receiving data regarding the structure of one or more teeth of the user; Determining at least partially based on the received data regarding the structure the bristle pattern of the one or more teeth of the user; and Manufacturing a toothbrush head having the bristle pattern.

50. The method according to claim 49, wherein receiving data regarding the structure of the one or more teeth of the user includes receiving or capturing an image of the one or more teeth of the user.

51. The method according to claim 49 or 50, wherein receiving data regarding the structure of the one or more teeth of the user includes obtaining dimensional information of the one or more teeth of the user.

52. The method according to any one of claims 49 to 51, wherein determining the bristle pattern includes selecting a bristle pattern from a plurality of predetermined bristle pattern designs.

53. The method according to any one of claims 49 to 52, further comprising manufacturing a replacement toothbrush head having the bristle pattern.

54. The method according to any one of claims 49 to 53, further comprising obtaining updated data regarding the one or more teeth of the user and determining at least partially based on the obtained updated data regarding the user a new bristle pattern of the user.

55. The method according to any one of claims 49 to 54, wherein receiving data regarding the structure of the one or more teeth of the user includes receiving the dimensions of the most distal teeth of the user.

56. The method according to claim 55, wherein receiving data regarding the structure of the one or more teeth of the user includes receiving the dimensions of the two most distal teeth of the user.

57. The method according to claim 56, wherein obtaining data on the structure of one or more teeth of the user includes receiving the dimensions of two molars of the user.

58. The method according to any one of claims 49 to 57, wherein manufacturing the toothbrush head includes manufacturing the toothbrush head according to any one of claims 1 to 45.

59. A method of manufacturing a user-specific toothbrush head, the method including manufacturing a toothbrush head having a bristle pattern that is at least partially based on data on the structure of one or more teeth of the user.

60. The method according to claim 59, further including receiving data on the structure of the one or more teeth, and determining the bristle pattern of the one or more teeth of the user at least partially based on the received data on the structure.

61. A tongue cleaning device, which comprises: a base; a plurality of bristles extending non-parallelly from a first side of the base; and a first cleaning scraper extending non-parallelly from a second side of the base opposite to the first side.

62. The tongue cleaning device according to claim 61, further including a plurality of bumps provided on the second side.

63. The tongue cleaning device according to claim 61 or 62, further including a handle, the base being provided at a distal portion of the handle.

64. The tongue cleaning device according to any one of claims 61 to 63, wherein at least one of the base and the cleaning scraper includes stainless steel.

65. The tongue cleaning device according to claim 64, wherein the base includes stainless steel.

66. The tongue cleaning device according to claim 65, wherein the cleaning scraper includes a polymer material.

67. The tongue cleaning device according to any one of claims 62 to 66, wherein the plurality of bumps includes stainless steel.

68. The tongue cleaning device according to any one of claims 61 to 67, further including a second tongue cleaning scraper on the second side, the second tongue cleaning scraper being spaced apart from the first tongue cleaning scraper.

69. A tongue cleaning device, which comprises: a base formed of stainless steel; and at least one tongue cleaning protrusion extending from the base, the tongue cleaning protrusion including at least one of the following: a cleaning scraper and a plurality of bumps.

70. The tongue cleaning device according to claim 69, wherein the at least one tongue cleaning protrusion includes the cleaning scraper and the plurality of bumps.

71. The tongue cleaning device according to claim 70, wherein the cleaning scraper includes a polymer material.

72. The tongue cleaning device according to claim 70 or 71, wherein the plurality of bumps includes stainless steel.

73. The tongue cleaning device according to any one of claims 70 to 72, wherein the cleaning scraper and the plurality of bumps are provided on a first side of the base, and a plurality of bristles extend from a second side of the base opposite to the first side.

74. A finger toothbrush, which comprises: a finger cap sized and shaped to receive a user's finger; A brush head base, which is connected to the finger cot; Multiple bristles, which extend non-parallelly from the brush head base; and A bite block connected to the finger cot or the brush head base.

75. The finger toothbrush according to claim 74, wherein the bite block comprises a material having a higher modulus of elasticity than the finger cot.

76. The finger toothbrush according to any one of claims 74 to 75, wherein the bite block is connected to the brush head base.

77. The finger toothbrush according to any one of claims 74 to 75, wherein the bite block is connected to the side of the finger cot opposite to the brush head base.

78. The finger toothbrush according to any one of claims 74 to 75, wherein the bite block is arranged in a ring shape along one side of the finger cot.

79. The finger toothbrush according to any one of claims 74 to 75, wherein the bite block is arranged in the distal portion of the finger cot.

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