Dental packages and methods of providing dental

Abstract

An apparatus for providing a dental material, the apparatus comprising a compartment formed by a first interconnection layer and a second interconnection layer, and a recess in the first layer adjacent to the compartment. The second layer partially overlaps the recess. The device includes a compartment for receiving the applicator and a flexible mechanism located in the compartment to move the device in an articulated manner along a fold line. The device facilitates the use of dental material in a convenient manner and may be relatively inexpensive to manufacture.

Description

[0001] This disclosure relates to an apparatus for delivering dental materials. Specifically, this disclosure relates to an apparatus and kit that enable the storage of a dental composition within the apparatus and the convenient delivery of the dental composition to a user. This disclosure further relates to a method of delivering a dental composition using such an apparatus or kit. Background Technology

[0002] Over the years, various packaging methods have been proposed for containing and storing liquid and semi-liquid dental components and dental compositions. Examples of common packaging include cartridges, syringes, or blister packs. Such packaging is typically designed to provide easily dispensed compositions, easily mixed compositions, or components individually for subsequent mixing. Several single-use packages also exist to provide an appropriate amount of composition for a single treatment.

[0003] For example, US6105761 discloses an apparatus for storing and dispensing substances, comprising a container formed by two sheets interconnected by a heat seal. These sheets form a compartment for receiving liquid and a pouch-like structure for receiving a brush. In the region between the compartment and the pouch-like structure, the connection between the sheets includes a predefined break zone (which can be released by pressure applied to the compartment) to force liquid from the compartment into the pouch-like structure and wet the tip of a brush disposed within the pouch-like structure.

[0004] DE10009622 discloses an apparatus for storing and dispensing substances, comprising a container formed of two plates interconnected by a heat seal and mating to form a compartment for receiving liquid and a bag-like structure for receiving a brush. The apparatus is designed such that liquid stored in the compartment can be forced into the bag-like structure and from the bag-like structure to a membrane on which the liquid can be mixed.

[0005] EP2231058 describes a device for providing dental material, the device comprising a compartment formed by a first interconnecting layer and a second interconnecting layer, and a groove in the first layer adjacent to the compartment. The second layer at least partially overlaps the groove. The device further includes a pouch-like structure for receiving an applicator.

[0006] Examples of certain dental or orthodontic products that are commercially available from 3M Company, headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota include 3M ™ Adper ™ Prompt ™ L-Pop adhesive, 3M ™ Transbond ™ L-Pop adhesive, 3M™ Clinpro L-pop blister packs, 3M ™ Unitek ™ Transbond ™ and Transbond ™ Plus self-etching primer, 3M ™ L-Pop primer and adhesive, 3M ™ Adper ™ L-Pop Easy-to-Use Self-Etching Adhesive, 3M ™ L-Pop Single-Adhesive General Purpose Adhesive, 3M ™ L-Pop Scotchbond ™ General and Universal ™ Plus adhesive unit dosage.

[0007] There remains a need for packaging suitable for providing dental compositions for various applications. Specifically, suitable packaging for providing relatively small quantities of the compositions is desired. Furthermore, there is a need for packaging suitable for healthcare applications, such as dentistry, and for meeting associated hygiene requirements. There is also a general need for relatively inexpensive packaging to manufacture and use. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The first aspect of this disclosure relates to a device for providing dental materials. The device includes: The dental material comprises a compartment and an adjacent recess, with an openable seal disposed between the compartment and the recess. A pouch-like structure for receiving an applicator, the pouch-like structure comprising a container partially closed by a cap, wherein the cap includes at least one flexible mechanism, wherein each flexible mechanism is a hinge, notch, pivot, crease, score line, weakened portion, stress concentration line, fragile portion, perforation, bendable element, thinner portion, portion with lower strength modulus, or predetermined groove, void, or gap.

[0009] Preferably, the openable seal is adapted to form a path for guiding material from the compartment into the recess when opened. The openable seal is typically formed of interconnecting layers adapted in the region of the seal to separate when at least one component of the dental material is forced between the layers.

[0010] In one embodiment, the device includes an open pouch-like structure for receiving an applicator. The applicator can be a brush, sponge, scraper, swab, or any other applicator suitable for applying dental materials or components thereof.

[0011] In specific embodiments, the first and second layers are made of multilayer films. In some embodiments, the first and second layers comprise a polymer layer and a metal layer (e.g., aluminum or steel). In other embodiments, the first and second layers are each polymer layers. In specific embodiments, the first and second layers are made of multilayer films having a polyethylene outer layer. At least one of the first and second layers may comprise a multilayer foil comprising an aluminum layer. Therefore, the material can generally be inexpensive but provides a relatively impermeable barrier.

[0012] In another embodiment, the device disclosed herein comprises a dental restorative agent, a dental primer, a cavity liner, a dental cement, a pulp material, a dental varnish, a tooth desensitizer, a tooth coating, an orthodontic adhesive, an orthodontic primer, or an orthodontic cement, or at least one component thereof. The device disclosed herein can also be used to store and dispense any quantity of liquid or semi-liquid compositions, such as flavorings, oils, skin care compositions, etc.

[0013] In another embodiment, the device may be provided with a gripping area. The user can conveniently hold the device in this gripping area during use, such as during mixing or removing components from the groove. The gripping area may be formed by extensions of one or both of a first and second layer. For example, tabs or flaps may be formed from the layers of the device. The gripping area may be structured, for example, it may include linear protrusions.

[0014] The second aspect relates to a method for providing dental materials. This method includes the following steps: A device is provided, comprising: a compartment containing dental material and a recess in fluid communication with the compartment, wherein a first openable seal is disposed between the compartment and the recess; and a pouch-like structure for receiving an applicator, the pouch-like structure comprising a container partially closed by a cap, wherein the cap includes at least one flexible mechanism. The device is hinged at the flexible mechanism; Open the first openable seal; The compartment is compressed to distribute the dental material onto the substrate.

[0015] On the other hand, a method of providing dental materials includes the following steps: A device is provided, comprising: a compartment containing dental material and a recess in fluid communication with the compartment, wherein a first openable seal is disposed between the compartment and the recess; and a pouch-like structure for receiving an applicator, the pouch-like structure comprising a container partially closed by a cap, wherein the cap includes at least one flexible mechanism. Open the first openable seal; c. The compartment is squeezed to dispense the dental material into the groove.

[0016] The method may include using a transparent area to evaluate the mixing quality of a mixture of components stored in the device. The method may also include comparing the color of the mixture of components stored in the device with a reference color area on the device.

[0017] The method disclosed herein may further include a step of mixing the components in the groove. The components may be transferred to the groove with or without pre-mixing in the compartment. In both cases, the user may mix or further mix the components to a desired extent. The method may also include adding components from a source other than the device, such that the user may mix the added components with the transferred composition in the groove.

[0018] A third aspect of this disclosure relates to a kit of components. The kit includes devices according to any embodiment of this disclosure, and individual dental products selected from crowns, bridges, restorations, implants, adhesives, instruments, sealants, dental cleaning agents, oral washes, orthodontic brackets, and bands. The kit may further include instructions for using the devices according to any embodiment of this disclosure. Preferably, the kit includes multiple devices according to any embodiment of this disclosure. Each of the multiple devices may include components exhibiting different properties, such that a range of dental products can be provided in the kit. For example, the kit may include multiple devices containing components of different hues.

[0019] The advantages of the device disclosed herein are that it facilitates the variable preparation of materials supplied by the device for different applications and provides numerous options for easily dispensing said materials. Therefore, the device can be used for a wide variety of applications. The device further preferably allows the user to adjust the composition and the method of dispensing the composition according to personal preference. The device is also generally inexpensive to manufacture. As another advantage, the device is generally easy to use, for example, because it allows for single-handed operation. Further advantageously, the device provides a relatively long shelf life for the contained materials.

[0020] In this application, terms such as “a,” “an,” and “the” are not intended to refer only to a singular entity, but rather to include general categories whose specific examples may be used to illustrate the point. The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” are used interchangeably with the term “at least one.” The phrases “at least one of…” and “including at least one of…” followed by a list refer to any one of the items in the list and any combination of two or more items in the list.

[0021] As used herein, the term "or" is generally used in its usual sense, including "and / or," unless otherwise expressly stated. The term "and / or" means one or all of the listed elements or any combination of two or more of the listed elements.

[0022] Similarly, in this document, it is assumed that all numbers are modified by the term “about,” and preferably by the term “precisely.” As used herein in conjunction with the quantity being measured, the term “about” refers to a variation in the quantity that would be expected by a technician performing the measurement and at a level of care commensurate with the purpose of the measurement and the precision of the measuring equipment used. Also in this document, numerical ranges expressed by endpoints include all numbers within that range as well as the endpoints (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5, etc.).

[0023] As used herein as modifiers of properties or attributes, unless otherwise specifically defined, the term "generally" means that the property or attribute will be easily recognized by a person skilled in the art but does not require absolute precision or perfect matching (e.g., within + / - 20% for quantifiable properties). Unless otherwise specifically defined, the term "substantially" means highly approximate (e.g., within + / - 10% for quantifiable properties), but again does not require absolute precision or perfect matching. Terms such as identical, equal, consistent, constant, and rigorous are understood to mean within the usual tolerances or measurement errors applicable to the specific situation, without requiring absolute precision or perfect matching.

[0024] The foregoing overview of this disclosure is not intended to describe every embodiment or every specific implementation of this disclosure. The following description illustrates exemplary embodiments in more detail. Throughout the application, guidance is provided by a list of examples that may be used in various combinations. In each case, the drawn list is intended only as a representative group and should not be construed as an exclusive list. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a top view of an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A bottom view of the device; Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 Side sectional view of line 3-3; Figure 4 It is along Figure 1 The end view of line 4-4; Figure 5 It is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of the base and cover of an embodiment of a device comprising multiple layers; Figure 6This is a cross-sectional view along line 2-2 of the device in use according to an embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 7 This is a perspective view illustrating the use of an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figures 8a, 8b, 8c and 8d are photographs of different stages of use of the apparatus according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 9 The photograph shows the use of a prior art device lacking the flexible mechanism disclosed herein; Figure 10 This is a perspective side view of an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figures 11a and 11b are bottom views of an apparatus according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] While the foregoing figures illustrate several embodiments of this disclosure, other embodiments are contemplated as indicated in the description. In all instances, this disclosure is presented by way of example and not limitation. It should be understood that those skilled in the art can devise many other modifications and embodiments that fall within the scope and spirit of the principles of this invention.

[0027] Detailed description of the attached figures

[0028] Figure 1 This is a top view of apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 2 This is a relative bottom view. The device 1 includes a compartment 7 for containing dental material (typically a flowable dental composition), a recess 3 for receiving the material, and an applicator 11 preferably held in a pouch-like structure 10. The applicator 11 is typically used to assist in opening the seal between the compartment and the recess to mix the material or components in the compartment, pick up the material from the recess, agitate the material in the recess, and / or evaluate the properties of the material (such as its viscosity).

[0029] The device may also have two or more compartments for storing two or more materials separately. However, for clarity, Figure 1 The example illustrates a device with only one compartment.

[0030] Material stored in the device can be transferred from compartment 7 to recess 3 for further processing or use, or it can be dispensed directly from the compartment onto a desired surface. Because the recess is only partially covered (or otherwise open), the user can observe the properties of the components within it. Recess 3 can be used to receive additional components, which can be stored in a separate compartment of the device. Figure 1The material may be obtained from another source (e.g., from a bottle), as shown in the diagram. For example, the material received in the groove 3 can be mixed to form a composition using an applicator 11. Alternatively, the material can be used without intentional pre-mixing. In the latter case, the components may be transferred from the compartment of the device into the groove, but generally remain unmixed. Thus, the groove may include areas that can receive the initial components. However, the components may merge, blend, or mix in areas where they come into contact with each other. Such blended component areas may consist of components in different ratios. In this case, the applicator can be used to pick up material from any area. For example, if the device contains components of different shades, various shades can be obtained from those different areas.

[0031] The flowable composition (preferably a flowable dental or orthodontic composition 80) is contained in compartment 7 (see Figure 6 Examples of flowable dental compositions 80 may include adhesives, flowable composites, cements, liners, sealants, caries indicators, desensitizers, and caries-inhibiting liquids. Examples of flowable orthodontic compositions also include adhesives, etchants, primers, and adhesion composites.

[0032] Dentists, orthodontists, hygienists, or any other professional assisting a dentist / orthodontist / hygienist (i.e., practitioners) can use the device disclosed herein to specifically prepare dental materials according to the particular condition in a patient's oral cavity. The device allows for the use, for example, of components in the initial composition (because they are stored in the device) as mixtures of components in different mixing ratios, or in combination with components added from sources outside the device. For example, a practitioner can prepare dental materials with a color similar to the color of the natural teeth to be treated. The practitioner can also control the consistency of the material. For example, for smaller restorations or preparations where it is useful for the material to flow into fissures and openings, a practitioner can use a lower viscosity material, while for applications where the material is used to fill larger cavities, etc., a higher viscosity material can be used.

[0033] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The apparatus 1 of this disclosure is shown. Figure 1 and Figure 2 Some details of the instructions are in Figure 3 (This image is) Figure 1 The device is further shown in the sectional view along line 3-3. Figure 4 Further details are illustrated in the figure. Figure 1The end of a cross-sectional view of the opposite side of device 1. Device 1 has a base 2 (corresponding to the "first layer") in which a protrusion 4 and a recess 3 (also in the form of a protrusion) are arranged. The base 2 extends partially together with a cover 6 (corresponding to the "second layer"). The cover 6 completely spans the protrusion 4 to form a compartment 7, but only partially spans the recess 3. The cover 6 terminates at an edge 12 that forms a partial flange over the recess 3. For example, the recess 3 remains partially open, making it visible and accessible to the user. The base 2 of device 1 may have one or more additional protrusions to form two or more compartments, as indicated above. The first compartment 7 is formed by a portion of the base 2 having a first concave surface 16 and a portion of the cover 6 having a generally flat surface 17 opposite to the first concave surface 16. Similarly, the recess 3 is formed by a portion of the base 2 having a second concave surface 18. Each concave surface 16, 17 is viewed from a side view relative to a horizontal axis A extending along the length of device 1. However, describing the base and cover as “concave” or “convex” does not preclude the possibility that the layers may change their curvature characteristics, especially in the edge areas. The protrusions 4 (and therefore the compartments 7) are arranged along a longitudinal axis 5 that is substantially parallel to the length dimension “L” of the device 1.

[0034] The compartment 7 and the recess 3 are preferably formed such that they are circular (circular or elliptical, etc.), but may also be angular (square, rectangular, or triangular, etc. with rounded or sharp edges) if appropriate. The volume of the first compartment is typically in the range of about 0.01 ml to about 3 ml, or more specifically between about 0.03 ml and about 1.5 ml.

[0035] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The illustrated device further includes a pouch-like structure 10 for receiving the applicator 11. In this example, the pouch-like structure 10 is formed by a container 13 in the base 2, and the container 13 is closed by a cap 6. This pouch-like structure can also be formed in other ways, for example, by providing only an area in which the base 2 and the cap 6 are generally not connected, allowing the applicator to be inserted, thereby displacing the unconnected portion and forming the pouch-like structure. Alternatively, the pouch-like structure can be formed by forming the container in the cap or in both the cap and the base. The container 13 is spaced apart from the compartment 7 and the recess 3 along the width dimension “W” of the device 1 and is arranged along an axis 15 substantially parallel to the axis of the protrusion 5. In the depicted embodiment, the length of the container is equal to or greater than the combination of the diameter of the recess 3 and the length of the compartment 7, but this is not strictly necessary.

[0036] like Figure 5As best depicted herein, applicator 11 includes an applicator head 20 mounted on an end of handle 22. Handle 22 may include an optional gripping assist portion 23. Applicator 11 may further include an elongated neck 24 coupling the head 20 to handle 22. Neck 24 may include a tapered shape as the head 20 approaches from handle 22. At least the head 20 and a portion of the handle 22 are typically retained within a pouch-like container 13. Container 13 is typically closed or sealed at one end 14.

[0037] The base 2 and the cover 6 are interconnected, for example, by heat sealing, cold sealing, or ultrasonic welding, such that the compartment 7 is sealed (preferably hermetically sealed) in its initial state. Therefore, the device 1 is suitable for storing materials for relatively long periods, for example, by encapsulating the materials in the compartment 7 to resist environmental conditions (such as air or moisture) that may cause changes in the materials. Interconnections can typically include indirect interconnections, meaning that something exists between the base and the cover. For example, the base 2 and the cover 6 can be interconnected using a primer, adhesive, bonding agent, or other suitable material.

[0038] Exemplary sealing area 8 in Figure 1 The dotted line indicates the location. Sealing area 8 preferably provides a permanent seal, and channel area 9 preferably provides an openable seal. The terms "permanent" and "openable" preferably refer to the bond strength between base 2 and cap 6. Preferably, the openable seal (channel area 9) is adapted to be opened by applying finger pressure to the compartment, while the permanent seal (sealing area 8) remains sealed. Finger pressure is typically in the range of 5N to 70N, preferably in the range of 9N to 50N. The combination of sealing area 8 and channel area 9 preferably provides an airtight seal for compartment 7. The openable seal further preferably allows compartment 7 to be opened for use of the device.

[0039] There are various methods to provide a seal that is permanent in one area and openable in another. Preferably, such (permanent / openable) differential seals are provided by sealing the base and cap with different sealing parameters. For example, the base 2 and cap 6 can be made of layers of material that can be heat-sealed together. To provide a permanent seal, this layer can be heat-sealed, for example, at a higher sealing temperature and / or a longer sealing time relative to an openable seal. Thus, the area heat-sealed for a longer time and / or at a longer temperature achieves a higher bond strength than the area heat-sealed for a shorter time and / or at a lower temperature. However, the base 2 and cap 6 in the different sealing areas can also be interconnected using different types of adhesives, resulting in different bond strengths with one or both interconnected portions. Different adhesive types can also have different cohesive properties, such that the adhesive used for the openable seal breaks when a certain force is applied, while the other adhesive withstands that force. Alternatively, the connection between the first base 2 and the second layer 6 can be made, for example, by cold sealing and / or ultrasonic welding using an ultrasonic generator.

[0040] The base 2 and cover 6 may be composed of generally flexible sheet-like layers of material. Each layer may be a single layer or multiple layers, including multiple sublayers. Each of the base 2 and cover 6 is preferably a laminated foil, which is typically made of both a plastic layer and a metal foil. The two are sealed to each other in a peelable manner. Concave protrusions and grooves may be drawn deep within the material layer used for the base 2, and therefore may also be flexible or deformable. These layers may form a diffusion or permeation barrier between the compartment and the environment, for example, to prevent components of the components stored in the compartment from escaping through the layer by permeation. This may, for example, make it possible to store components including fairly volatile components (such as some solvents) for relatively long periods of time. In other embodiments, the base 2 and cover 6 are cold-formed to provide the design described above. For example, cold forming may involve placing the layers 2, 6 containing the metal foil in a mold and extruding the two layers together into a shape formed by the mold, while the metal in the mold is at room temperature or below the recrystallization temperature of the metal foil, to form the desired shape or structure within the layers.

[0041] Figure 5A representative sealing portion of a device 1 having a base 2 and a cover 6 is illustrated, each encompassing multiple material sublayers. As illustrated, both the base 2 and the cover 6 have three sublayers. The cover 6 has a top layer 46, and the base 2 has a bottom layer 56. The two layers 46 and 56 may be made of a transparent material. Examples of suitable materials for the transparent material in layers 46 and 56 include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide (PA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVA), acrylonitrile, COC (cyclic olefin copolymer), and PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride). The cover 6 includes a foil layer 48 adjacent to the top layer 46. The base 2 has a foil layer 58. The intermediate foil layers 48 and 58 are metal foils, preferably aluminum. The cover 6 may include a film or sealing layer 50, and the base 2 also includes a film or sealing layer 60. Examples of suitable films or sealing layers 50 and 52 include polymer films and / or adhesive films. Examples of suitable sealing layers include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide (PA), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVA).

[0042] Figure 5 The multilayer structure can be achieved by laminating, calendering, or laminating various layers, including single layers, and, if suitable, by vapor deposition, for example, using metals (such as aluminum). Furthermore, depending on the application and desired deformability, layers 2 and 6 are stretched or unstretched before activation of device 1. These layers can be selected from plastic layers, metal foils, and ceramic sheets. Suitable plastic layers are, for example, PE, PP, PET, PA, PBT, PVC, EVA, and PVDF. Suitable metal foils are, for example, aluminum (Al), tin (Sn), gold (Au), silver (Ag), and iron (Fe) based, such as steel. Suitable ceramic sheets should be understood to mean layers having, for example, layers containing SiOx or AlOx.

[0043] Figure 6 The device is shown when used in a typical manner to transfer components stored in compartment 7 into recess 3. The protrusion 4 is pressed by the user, thereby generating sufficient pressure in compartment 7 to facilitate the transfer of components from the base 2 and cover 6 into the channel area 9 (e.g., Figure 1The separation of the portion 2 and the cover 6 (as shown) allows the openable seal to open. The channel region 9 is confined by the sealing region 8, such that the base 2 and the cover 6 form a flow channel 9' between the compartment 7 and the recess when separated. Further deformation of the protrusion 4 forces the composition 80 from the compartment 7 through the flow channel 9' into the recess 3. The user can initially mix or knead the composition before opening the seal. For example, the user can deform the protrusions in different areas without applying a force that would open the seal, thereby agitating the composition within the compartment 7. This may be advantageous when used with components that, for example, tend to separate during storage.

[0044] Figure 7 The potential uses of applicator 11 are illustrated. As shown, the applicator can be used to agitate the material in the groove to, for example, mix a component stored in the device with another component (in this example, the other component is supplied from a bottle (shown)), but it can also be stored in another compartment of the device (not shown). By agitating the material in the groove, the user can also evaluate the properties of the material, such as viscosity, color, or mixing quality.

[0045] return Figure 2 and Figure 4 The device 1 can also be used to dispense dental materials (e.g., flowable composition 80) directly from compartment 7 without residing in recess 3. For this purpose, container 13 includes a flexible mechanism 30 that establishes a hinge or articulation axis 31. The flexible mechanism 30 is disposed on a section of cap 6 near edge 12 and extends along with a small portion of recess 3 and channel region 9. The articulation axis 31 established by the flexible mechanism 30 is substantially parallel to the edge 12 of cap 6 that hangs over recess 3 and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 15 of container 13. The flexible mechanism 30 allows and facilitates bending of the device about articulation axis 31 to expose channel region 9 and, in some embodiments, breaks the openable seal separating compartment 7 from recess 3 to create a functional flow channel 9'. Once the flow channel 9' is open, the device 1 can be manipulated, typically by finger pressure on compartment 7, to dispense dental compositions onto target surfaces (e.g., gloves or teeth).

[0046] Suitable flexible mechanisms for achieving the hinge between base 2 and cap 6 include hinges, notches, pivots, creases, score lines, weakened portions, stress concentration lines, fragile portions, perforations, flexible elements, thinner portions, portions with lower strength modulus, or predetermined slots, gaps, or openings. In the depicted embodiments and in some currently preferred embodiments, the flexible mechanism is a notch or crease. The notch or crease has a generally V-shaped or U-shaped cross-section, wherein the apex of the V or U forms the bottom 32 of the notch or crease. The depth of the notch or crease is not critical, but is generally shallow enough to allow the applicator 11 to be retained in the pouch structure 10 after the flexible mechanism is formed in cap 6. An exemplary notch or crease is 5% to 50% of the height of the applicator container 13 (measured from the outer surface 13a of the cap), preferably 10% to 30% of that height. As another beneficial effect, the notch or crease can assist in retaining the applicator 11 in the pouch structure by applying slight pressure to the handle 20.

[0047] In the currently preferred embodiment, the flexible mechanism 30 is confined to the area of ​​container 13 because the structural features defining the flexible mechanism are not found elsewhere on the base 2 or the lid 6. Surprisingly, despite the limited area occupied, the flexible mechanism 30 on container 13 alone is sufficient to reduce the beam strength of the base 2 and the lid 6 and allow the entire device 1 to bend / fold around the hinge axis 31. In other words, the device 1 can be folded or otherwise hinged over its entire or substantially its entire width dimension W, wherein the bending line remains substantially parallel to the lid edge 12. To further facilitate the hinge of the device 1, the lid 6 and the base 2 may be unsealed or otherwise not connected in the area parallel to or adjacent to the hinge axis 31.

[0048] Figures 8a, 8b, 8c, and 8d illustrate the device 1 at different stages of use when utilizing the flexible mechanism. Figure 8a shows the device 1 in its initial stage, with the applicator removed from the container 13 and slightly bent about the hinge axis 31. Figure 8b depicts a further bend of the device 1 about the hinge axis 31 provided by the flexible mechanism 30. As previously mentioned, the bend creates a fold line 38 across the width W of the device 1, which is substantially parallel to the hinge axis and / or the edge 12 of the cap 6. As the device bends further as depicted in Figure 8c, the groove 3 shifts from the channel region 9 and rotates near the top surface 2a of the base 2. In some embodiments, this additional bend opens the sealing region 8, but this is not strictly necessary. With the groove 3 realigned, the user can manipulate the compartment 7 to open or further open the flow channel 9' and dispense the composition 80 onto the target surface 90 (here, a medical glove (Figure 8d)). Optionally (but not shown), the user can completely remove the portion of the device including the groove along the fold line 38.

[0049] The edge 12 overlapping the groove 3 may also protrude to help prevent the composition 80 from flowing on top of the cap 6 and / or the base 2. The overlapping edge 12 may further be provided with a scraper-like blade for scraping off excess material from the target surface 90 or any subsequent surface on which the composition 80 is placed.

[0050] In the absence of a flexible mechanism and a defined hinge axis, devices manufactured in other ways according to this disclosure tend to bend along a fold line that cuts through the channel region at an acute or obtuse angle relative to the long axis of the device. This tendency is depicted in... Figure 9 The photograph shows the device 1 at the top of the image. The base 2 and the container lack any flexible mechanism. Attempts to fold such a device 1 at the container 13 result in a fold line 38 intersecting the compartment 7 and traversing the channel region at an obtuse angle relative to the device axis. The fold line, which is substantially not perpendicular to the compartment axis 5, makes the formation of the flow channel more challenging and may interfere with the dispensing of the composition within the compartment 7.

[0051] The apparatus disclosed herein may include more than one flexible mechanism to assist in dispensing the composition into the compartment and retaining the applicator in the pouch structure. Figure 10 An exemplary device of this kind is depicted in a side view. Device 100 has a base 102 in which protrusions 104 and recesses 103 (also in the form of protrusions) are arranged. Device 100 further has a pouch-like structure 110 for receiving an applicator 111. In this example, the pouch-like structure 110 is formed by a container 113 in the base 102, and the container 113 is closed by a cap 106. The considerations of the elements of device 1, with necessary modifications, apply to their corresponding elements in device 100, and are discussed in detail above.

[0052] Container 113 includes a first flexible mechanism 130 and a second flexible mechanism 134. The first and second flexible mechanisms may be identical (e.g., both are notches or creases) or they may be different. The first flexible mechanism 130 is disposed adjacent to the edge 112 of the lid 106 and defines a first hinge axis. Similar to hinge axis 31, the first hinge axis is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 114 of container 113 and substantially parallel to the lid edge 112. The first flexible mechanism 130 is primarily used for folding device 100 in a manner similar to that depicted in Figures 8a to 8d.

[0053] A second flexible mechanism 133 is disposed on the cap 106, closer to the closed end 114 of the container 113. The second flexible mechanism 133 creates a second hinge axis substantially parallel to the first hinge axis. The second hinge axis then extends through the compartment 107. When the applicator 111 is received in the pouch structure 110, the flexible mechanism forms a protrusion that engages with the applicator head 122 at the position where the applicator head transitions into the handle 120. The engagement between the flexible mechanism 133 and the applicator 111 prevents the applicator 111 from being accidentally removed from the pouch structure 110 and assists the user in manipulating the compartment to expel the dental composition through the channel area 109.

[0054] Figures 11a and 11b depict a variation of the device 100 including a third flexible mechanism 135. The third flexible mechanism 135 may have the same form as or different from either or both of the first flexible mechanism 130 or the second flexible mechanism 133. In the depicted and currently preferred embodiments, the first flexible mechanism 130, the second flexible mechanism 133, and the third flexible mechanism 135 are each a notch or crease. The third flexible mechanism 135 may be used to form a stop for the applicator head 122 (Figure 11a) so that the applicator 111 does not damage the end 115 of the receiver 113, or to provide additional gripping force on the applicator neck 124 (Figure 11b). Regardless of its position on the cap, the hinge axis of the third flexible mechanism 135 is substantially parallel to the hinge axis 131 and generally intersects a portion of the compartment 107.

[0055] The device disclosed herein can be formed to have a transparent area. Such a transparent area makes the contents of the device visible to the user. Therefore, the user can evaluate, for example, the mixing quality of the contents by using the transparent area. The base can be opaque, in which case the contents of the device can be evaluated against the background of the base. The base can also be configured to provide a specific background behind one or both of the transparent areas of the cover. The base can further be transparent, at least in the area behind the transparent areas of the cover. Therefore, transmitted light can be used to evaluate the contents of the device.

[0056] Two embodiments illustrate how the transparent area can be integrated into the device of this disclosure. In one case, the transparent area and the cover can be obtained from separate components with different properties. The cover can be made of a foil comprising an opaque aluminum layer. An area can be removed from the foil and resealed through the transparent area. For example, the transparent area can circumferentially overlap the removed area, and the overlapping areas can be heat-sealed together. On the other hand, the transparent area can be part of the cover. For example, the cover can be color-printed or coated with aluminum, and the printing or coating can be recessed to form the transparent area. For example, the device of this disclosure can have a color reference area representing a specific hue. Thus, a user can control the hue of the material by mixing components of different hues and comparing the color of the reference area with the color of the mixture.

[0057] The device disclosed herein can be used with a variety of applicators, such as brushes, scrapers, and swabs.

[0058] All patents, patent documents, and patent applications cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety, as if each were individually incorporated by reference. Although specific embodiments of this disclosure have been shown and described herein, it should be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of many possible specific arrangements that can be designed in accordance with the principles of this disclosure. Many other arrangements, varying in nature, can be designed by those skilled in the art based on these principles without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure should not be limited to the structures set forth in this application, but only to the structures described in the language of the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An apparatus for providing dental material, the apparatus comprising: a compartment containing the dental material and a recess adjacent to the compartment, an openable seal being arranged between the compartment and the recess; a pouch structure for receiving an applicator, the pouch structure comprising a container partially enclosed by a lid, wherein the lid comprises at least one flexible mechanism, wherein each flexible mechanism is a hinge, a notch, a pivot, a crease, a score line, a weakened portion, a stress concentrator, a frangible portion, a perforation, a bendable element, a thinner portion, a portion having a lower modulus of strength, or a predetermined slot, void, or gap.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein each flexible mechanism is a notch or a crease.

3. The device of claim 1, comprising an applicator held within the pouch structure.

4. The device of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the compartment is formed from a first layer and a second layer that are interconnected, wherein the second layer defines the lid and comprises a terminal edge that extends over a portion of the recess and forms a portion of the pouch structure.

5. The device of claim 4, wherein the first layer comprises a polymeric layer, a metallic layer, or a combination thereof, and wherein the second layer comprises a polymeric layer, a metallic layer, or a combination thereof.

6. The device of claim 5, wherein the first layer comprises a polymeric layer that is coextensive with a metallic layer, and the second layer comprises a polymeric layer that is coextensive with a metallic layer.

7. The device of claim 6, wherein the metallic layer comprises aluminum.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein a first flexible mechanism of the one or more flexible mechanisms is confined to the lid.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the first flexible mechanism is located on a section of the lid that is coextensive with a portion of the recess.

10. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a flexible mechanism crease is elongated, an axis of the crease being perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of a container of the applicator.

11. The device of claim 1, wherein the lid comprises a terminal edge that overhangs a portion of the recess, and wherein the first flexible mechanism is positioned parallel to the terminal edge.

12. The device of claim 1, further comprising a flow passage formed between the compartment and the recess when a first seal is opened.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein the first flexible mechanism is located on a section of the lid that is coextensive with a portion of the flow passage.

14. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one flexible mechanism comprises a first flexible mechanism and a second flexible mechanism that are also confined to the lid of the pouch structure.

15. The device of claim 14, wherein the second flexible mechanism is located on a section of the lid.

16. The device of claim 15, further comprising an applicator located within the pouch structure, wherein the second flexible mechanism in the lid forms a protrusion that engages a surface of the applicator.

17. The device of claim 1, wherein the pocket extends along a first longitudinal axis that is substantially parallel to a second longitudinal axis of the compartment.

18. The device of claim 17, wherein the openable seal is formed by interconnecting layers that are adapted to separate in the area of the seal when at least one component of the dental material is forced between the layers.

19. The device of any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one component of a dental restorative, a dental primer, a dental liner, a dental cement, a dental pulp material, a dental coating, a dental desensitizer, a dental varnish, an orthodontic adhesive, an orthodontic primer, or an orthodontic cement.

20. A method of providing a dental material, the method comprising the steps of: providing a device comprising a compartment containing a dental material and a recess in fluid communication with the compartment, wherein a first openable seal is disposed between the compartment and the recess; a pocket for receiving an applicator, the pocket comprising a container partially enclosed by a lid, wherein the lid comprises at least one flexible mechanism; articulating the device at the flexible mechanism; opening the first openable seal; squeezing the compartment to dispense the dental material onto a substrate.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the recess is coupled to the compartment via a flow channel formed when the first openable seal is opened, and wherein the compartment is squeezed to dispense the dental material through the flow channel.

22. The method of the preceding claims, wherein articulating the device causes opening of the first openable seal.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the compartment is formed by a first sheet layer and a second sheet layer that are interconnected.

24. The method of claim 23, further comprising spreading at least a portion of the dental material on the substrate using a portion of the second layer.

25. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the openable seal is formed by interconnecting layers that are adapted to separate in the area of the seal when at least one component of the dental material is forced between the layers.

26. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a first flexible mechanism of the one or more flexible mechanisms is constrained to the lid.

27. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device further comprises a second flexible mechanism on a section of the lid.

28. The method of claim 28, the device further comprising an applicator within the pocket, wherein the second flexible mechanism in the lid forms a protrusion that engages a surface of the applicator.

29. A method of providing a dental material, the method comprising the steps of: Providing a device comprising a compartment containing a dental material and a recess in fluid communication with the compartment, wherein a first openable seal is arranged between the compartment and the recess; a pocket for receiving an applicator, the pocket comprising a container partially closed by a lid, wherein the lid comprises at least one flexible mechanism; Opening the first openable seal; Squeezing the compartment to dispense the dental material into the recess.

30. The method of claim 29, further comprising separating the recess from the device.

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