Dental hygiene device

Abstract

A dental device is disclosed, wherein the dental device includes a base portion, a maneuverable head portion, and a plurality of bristles for improved dental cleaning and minimization of physical movement associated with dental cleaning.

Description

CLAIM OF PRIORITY[0001]The present application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61 / 036,982 filed Mar. 16, 2008 and the entirety of the contents of this application being hereby expressly incorporated by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]This invention relates to oral hygiene products and more particularly to oral hygiene devices for improved dental cleansing and oral health management.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]It is well established that improved levels of oral hygiene require consistent and thorough cleansing of the teeth and gums. Failure to maintain adequate dental hygiene practices can result in plaque build-up, tooth decay and loss, gum deterioration, periodontal disease and a myriad of additional dental health issues. Recent research further suggests that poor oral hygiene can allow deleterious bacteria to enter the bloodstream causing additional health issues in other parts of the body. Oral health may also serve as an ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0012]In yet another aspect, the present invention contemplates a method for improving oral hygiene comprising: providing a dental cleaning device having a base portion, a power source and a head portion, wherein the head portion includes one or more dental trays housing bristles; activating a means within the dental cleaning device so that the head portion of the dental cleaning device collapses for simplified insertion into a mouth; allowing the head portion of the dental cleaning device to adjust and move within the mouth so that the head portion and one or more dental trays align with the contours of the mouth and teeth; activating the power source so that one or more of the bristles and one or more trays are engaged in repetitive motion; de-activating the power source so that any movement of one or more of the bristles and one or more trays ceases; activating the means within the dental cleaning device so that the head portion of the dental cleaning device collapses for simplified removal from the mouth.

Problems solved by technology

Failure to maintain adequate dental hygiene practices can result in plaque build-up, tooth decay and loss, gum deterioration, periodontal disease and a myriad of additional dental health issues.

Recent research further suggests that poor oral hygiene can allow deleterious bacteria to enter the bloodstream causing additional health issues in other parts of the body.

Despite the well-known utility associated with a standard toothbrush, the basic design of a standard toothbrush often results in inadequate cleaning.

Individuals also often fail to make the mental effort to identify and recall what areas of the mouth have been adequately brushed and what areas have not.

As a result, many spots within in the mouth are difficult to access with a standard toothbrush and over time these area collect unwanted bacteria.

Further, a standard toothbrush may not be ideal for any individuals who do not have maximum control and dexterity of their hands and arms, such as small children, senior citizens, handicapped individuals or anyone having compromised movement of their hands and arms.

These individuals may have a substantial number of spots within their mouth that are nearly impossible to access based upon their physical limitations.

The combination of these physical limitations and the functional limitations of the standard toothbrush put these individuals at an increased risk for severe dental health issues.

While these improvements may aid in the ability to access areas of the mouth that were previously inaccessible, they still require a significant investment of time and effort.

Moreover, they still require substantial mobility of the hands and arms for proper use, such that these improvements often fail to enhance the cleansing capabilities of those having the physical limitations discussed above.

However, such brushes are often difficult to use and fail to sufficiently conform to the contours of each individual mouth, resulting in areas of the mouth that are not effectively cleansed.

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