Measuring cells for oral care devices

Abstract

The present invention discloses a measuring element (100, 500, 600, 700) for an oral care device. The measuring element comprises at least one elongated ridge element (102) and at least a first sensing area (104), wherein the at least one elongated ridge element (102) is used to engage an interdental area or adjacent teeth in an oral cavity, and the at least first sensing area (104) is used to obtain data from gum tissue in the oral cavity. The present invention also discloses an oral care device (10) and an accessory (1000) for an oral care device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to oral care and, in particular, to measuring elements for oral care devices. Background Art

[0002] Within a person's mouth, the gingiva (i.e., gum tissue) may hold valuable information about that person's health, particularly their oral health. For example, gingivitis, which manifests as inflammation of the gums, can lead to irreversible periodontitis (also known as gum disease) if not treated early. Therefore, it is important to detect gingivitis as soon as possible after onset. Gingivitis primarily originates in the interdental spaces (i.e., the spaces between the teeth in the mouth) because these areas are often difficult to clean away oral biofilm. Therefore, examinations of the gums to detect signs of gingivitis are often performed on the interdental gingiva (also known as the dental papilla).

[0003] The size of teeth varies both within a single person's mouth and between people. For example, the front teeth are usually relatively long and have relatively flat surfaces, while the back teeth are usually relatively wide and have more rounded surfaces. In addition, the orientation of teeth and the spacing between adjacent teeth can vary greatly from person to person. Therefore, the gingival papilla between two adjacent teeth can also have a wide variety of shapes and sizes.

[0004] Devices may be used to detect gingivitis in a person's mouth. If a sensing portion of the device is positioned at a particular location relative to a gingival surface, for example, by gently contacting a sensor of the device to the gingival surface, such a device may be able to detect gingivitis. However, contact between the device and the gingival surface may result in changes in physiological parameters, for example, due to blood draining from the gingival tissue. On the other hand, if there is a gap between the sensor and the gingival tissue, the sensing performance may be degraded due to reflection, propagation, etc. of light from the device. Therefore, maintaining an optimal position and orientation of such a sensing device within the oral cavity may present a significant challenge to the user, and incorrect positioning may result in a failure to detect gingivitis.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a device that can be more easily positioned and oriented within the oral cavity to allow for such precise sensing of gingival tissue. Summary of the invention

[0006] To address at least some of the above problems, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a device that can be used to perform measurements within a person's oral cavity and can be positioned and oriented in an easy and intuitive manner. The structure of the device disclosed herein allows a user to appropriately position the sensing portion of the device relative to the gums within their oral cavity so that measurements can be taken at the intended location without the user having to see the exact location of the measuring device in their mouth.

[0007] According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a measuring element for an oral care device, the measuring element comprising an elongated ridge element and a first sensing area, the elongated ridge element being used to engage an interdental area in an oral cavity, the first sensing area being located at a first end portion of the elongated ridge element for acquiring data from gum tissue in the oral cavity.

[0008] Including the elongated ridge element as part of the measuring element allows the measuring element to be "inserted" into a desired location to take measurements (e.g., acquire data) from gum tissue between two adjacent teeth in the oral cavity. If the elongated ridge element is aligned with the interproximal region between the adjacent teeth (the interproximal region is also typically elongated in shape), the ridge element will fall into place, and a user positioning the measuring element within the oral cavity may be able to determine when the measuring element is in place for taking measurements (e.g., by the sound of the ridge element clicking into place, or by the limitation of further lateral movement of the measuring element once the ridge element has engaged the interproximal region).

[0009] In some embodiments, the measuring element may include a first protrusion extending from a first end portion of the elongated ridge element. The first sensing region may be located in a wall of the first protrusion.

[0010] In some embodiments, the measuring element may include a second sensing region located in a second end portion of the elongated ridge element for acquiring data from gingival tissue within the oral cavity.

[0011] In some embodiments, the measuring element may include a second protrusion extending from the second end portion of the elongated ridge element. The second sensing region may be located in a wall of the second protrusion.

[0012] Each sensing region may include multiple sensor windows. In some embodiments, the multiple sensor windows may be positioned at different heights from the base of the elongated ridge element. In some embodiments, the multiple sensor windows may be directed at different angles relative to the base of the elongated ridge element.

[0013] In some embodiments, the elongated ridge elements may include generally triangular prism-shaped elements.

[0014] In some embodiments, the elongated ridge element includes a central recessed portion such that the height of the elongated ridge element at the center thereof is less than the height of the elongated ridge element at the ends thereof.

[0015] In some embodiments, the measuring element may further include a cleaning element positioned within the elongated ridge element.

[0016] The measuring element may further comprise a surface from which the elongated ridge-like element extends.

[0017] In some embodiments, the first sensing region may be configured to receive radiation to be delivered to the optical sensor.

[0018] In some embodiments, the measuring element may comprise, or form part of at least one of: a toothbrush head, an interdental irrigation attachment, and a tongue cleaning attachment.

[0019] According to a second aspect, the present invention provides an oral care device comprising a handle portion and a measuring element as disclosed herein.

[0020] According to a third aspect, the present invention provides an attachment for an oral care device, the attachment comprising a measuring element as disclosed herein and a connecting portion for connecting the attachment to a body portion of the oral care device.

[0021] According to a fourth aspect, the present invention provides an oral care device comprising a handle portion and an accessory as disclosed herein.

[0022] According to a fifth aspect, the present invention provides a mouthpiece comprising an arch for at least partially mounting on a dental arch of a subject and a measuring element as disclosed herein, the arch being located on a surface of the arch for engaging an interproximal region of the dental arch of the subject.

[0023] These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] For a better understanding of the invention, and in order to show more clearly how it may function, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0025] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of an example of a measuring element according to various embodiments;

[0026] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic plan view of a measuring element;

[0027] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of yet another example of a measuring element according to various embodiments;

[0028] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A schematic plan view of a measuring element;

[0029] Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view of yet another example of a measuring element according to various embodiments;

[0030] Figure 6is a schematic plan view of yet another example of a measuring element according to various embodiments;

[0031] Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of yet another example of a measuring element according to various embodiments;

[0032] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A schematic side view of a measuring element;

[0033] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of an example of an oral care device according to various embodiments;

[0034] Fig.10 is a perspective view of an example of an attachment for an oral care device according to various embodiments;

[0035] Fig.11 is a schematic diagram of yet another example of an oral care device according to various embodiments; and

[0036] Fig.12 is a perspective view of an example of a mouthpiece according to various embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Embodiments disclosed herein relate to devices that can be used to perform measurements on gum tissue within the oral cavity of a subject. Examples herein refer to use by a person (i.e., a human user). However, such devices may alternatively be used to perform measurements on gum tissue within the oral cavity of a different subject (such as, an animal). Gum tissue, also known as gingival tissue or gums, is tissue found in the area around the root of a tooth that helps keep the tooth in place. Gum tissue is also found between teeth.

[0038] The measuring elements disclosed herein are indicated as being suitable for use in oral care devices. It is contemplated that such measuring elements may be incorporated into existing oral care devices such as electric toothbrushes, oral rinsing devices, or tongue cleaning devices. However, it is likewise contemplated that such measuring elements may be incorporated into devices whose primary purpose is to perform measurements on gingival tissue within the oral cavity. As will become apparent, it is also contemplated that such measuring elements may be supplemented with additional oral care components, such that a measuring device incorporating such measuring elements may additionally be used to perform oral care tasks such as interdental cleaning.

[0039] The inventors of the presently disclosed embodiments have recognized that in order to accurately measure gingival tissue within the oral cavity, the measuring device should be positioned and oriented in a particular manner, and that such positioning and orientation may be difficult for the user to achieve even with the use of a mirror. Therefore, the embodiments presented herein provide a measuring element having a structure that allows for easy and intuitive positioning of the measuring element relative to the gingival tissue from which data is to be acquired.

[0040] With reference to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1 and Figure 2 A simplified perspective view and a simplified plan view of an example of a measuring element 100 for an oral care device are shown, respectively. The measuring element 100 includes at least one elongated ridged element 102 for engaging an interdental area within the oral cavity. The interdental area (also known as the interdental space) is the volume or space between adjacent teeth in the human mouth. The elongated ridged element 102 is shaped so that a portion of the ridged element can enter the interdental area when the measuring element 100 is properly positioned (e.g., so that the longitudinal axis of the ridged element is aligned with the interdental space or the interface between two adjacent teeth, and so that the elongated ridged element is in contact with the two adjacent teeth). The measuring element 100 also includes at least a first sensing area 104. In Figure 1 In the illustrated device, a first sensing region 104 is located in a first end portion of the elongated ridge element 102 for acquiring data from gum tissue within the oral cavity.

[0041] The elongated ridge element 102 allows the measuring element 100 to maintain a stable orientation between two adjacent teeth (i.e., in the interdental area) while taking measurements. According to embodiments disclosed herein, the elongated ridge element 102 may include a generally triangular prism-shaped element as shown. In some embodiments, the ends of the triangular prism-shaped element may be inclined relative to its base, for example, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown. The triangular prism-shaped element has a ridge at its vertex, which can be at least partially accommodated in the interdental space between adjacent teeth. In other embodiments, the elongated ridged element 102 can be shaped differently. For example, the ridged element 102 can have some other prismatic structure. In some embodiments, the edges of the elongated ridged element 102 can be curved or chamfered to improve the user's comfort when pressing the measuring element 100 against a surface in the oral cavity. In addition, the curved edges may help prevent damage to oral tissue.

[0042] By having the first sensing region 104 located in the first end portion 102a of the ridged element 102, the sensing region will be properly positioned to acquire data from the gum tissue when the ridged element is in the intended position. Therefore, the user of the measuring element 100 does not need to be too concerned about the position of the sensing region 104, because once the ridged element 102 is clamped between two teeth, the sensing region 104 will be properly positioned, facing the gums in the interproximal area.

[0043] The first sensing region 104 may include a sensor 105 positioned on a surface of the elongated ridged element 102 or at least partially within the elongated ridged element 102. In some embodiments, the sensor 105 may be located, for example, on or in an end wall 102a or end face of the ridged element 102. In other embodiments, the sensing region 104 may include a window or aperture through which sensing may be performed. For example, Figure 1 The first sensing region 104 shown may include a sensor window. A sensor 105 configured to receive a signal (e.g., a reflected light signal) from the target gum may be located within the elongated ridge element 102, or elsewhere within the measurement element 100, or within an associated oral care device. In such examples, a conduit such as an optical waveguide (e.g., an optical fiber) may deliver the acquired signal from the sensing region 104 (e.g., the sensor window) to the sensor.

[0044] Thus, in some embodiments, the first sensing region 104 may be configured to receive radiation to be delivered to the optical sensor 105. The optical sensor may be located, for example, within the measuring element 100 or elsewhere, such as within the body of the associated oral cleaning device 10, such as Fig. 9 In other embodiments, other types of sensors may be used. For example, the first sensing region 104 may include one or more of the following types of sensors: a proximity sensor, an electrical impedance sensor, a radio frequency (RF) sensor, a terahertz sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or a microphone.

[0045] Figure 1 and Figure 2 Also shown is a portion of a neck 106, which may be provided to enable the measuring element 100 to be mounted to the body of the oral care device 10, such as, for example. Fig. 9 As shown.

[0046] Figure 3 and Figure 4 A simplified perspective view and a simplified plan view, respectively, are shown of yet another example of a measuring element 100 for an oral care device. Figure 3 and Figure 4The illustrated measuring element 100 includes an elongated ridged element 102 and a first sensing region 104, and further includes a second sensing region 204 located in a second end portion 102b of the elongated ridged element 102 for acquiring data from gingival tissue within the oral cavity. The second sensing region 204 can be the same or similar to the first sensing region 104, and as discussed above with reference to the first sensing region, the second sensing region 204 can include a window or aperture through which sensing can be performed. Signals received through such windows can be delivered (e.g., via an optical waveguide) to a sensor 105 located within the ridged element 102 or elsewhere within the measuring element or an associated oral care device 10, such as Fig. 9 In some embodiments, the signals received via the first sensing region 104 and the second sensing region 204 may be delivered to the same sensor.

[0047] By providing a second sensing region 204 in the measuring element 100, a user can use the same measuring element to perform measurements on (i.e., obtain data from) the gums in both the roof of the mouth and the floor of the mouth. Figure 3 In the orientation shown, the measuring element 100 can be used to capture data from the gums in the interproximal region between the teeth in a person's upper row of teeth (i.e., in the upper dental arch) using the first sensing area 104, and to capture data from the gums in the interproximal region between the teeth in a person's lower row of teeth (i.e., in the lower dental arch) using the second sensing area 204.

[0048] Figure 5 Yet another example of a measuring element 500 for an oral care device is shown. Figure 5 The measurement element 500 shown includes an elongated ridge element 102. In some embodiments, such as in Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the measuring element 500 may further include a first protrusion 502 extending from a first end portion of the elongated ridge element 102. The first sensing region 104 may be located in a wall of the first protrusion 502. In some embodiments, such as in Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the measuring element 500 may further include a second protrusion 504 extending from a second end portion of the elongated ridge element 102. The second sensing region 204 may be located in a wall of the second protrusion 504. The protrusions 502, 504 may be considered to be part of the elongated ridge element 102. For example, the protrusions 502, 504 themselves may be considered to include an end portion of the elongated ridge element 102.

[0049] although Figure 5The measuring element 500 is shown as including two protrusions (i.e., a first protrusion 502 and a second protrusion 504), but in other embodiments, the measuring element may include only one protrusion (e.g., the first protrusion 502). Since most teeth in a person's mouth are curved, a straight elongated ridge element 102 (e.g., a straight elongated ridge element 102 without protrusions 502, 504) is not required. Figures 1 to 4 The ridged element 100 of the illustrated measuring element 100 may rock or pivot when positioned in the interproximal region between two teeth, especially if the teeth are particularly curved. By including protrusions 502, 504 at both ends of the ridged element 102, a more secure positioning of the measuring element in the interproximal region may be achieved. A single protrusion may improve the stability of the measuring element when resting against the teeth, while two protrusions may improve stability to a greater extent.

[0050] The protrusions 502, 504 may take any form suitable for accommodating the sensing area. In some embodiments, one or more of the protrusions 502, 504 may include a partial pyramidal protrusion or a partial conical protrusion. Figure 5 An example with a partially pyramidal protrusion is shown in FIG. In other embodiments, the protrusion may have a different shape or configuration. For example, a pyramidal protrusion or a conical protrusion may be used. In general, a protrusion with a generally pointed apex may allow the measuring element 100, 500 to be more stably positioned in the interdental area. The edges of the protrusion may be rounded or chamfered to avoid damaging tissue in the oral cavity and to improve user comfort. Similarly, the apex and / or edges of the protrusion may be rounded in a similar manner.

[0051] exist Figures 1 to 4 In the illustrated embodiment, each sensing region 104, 204 includes a single sensor 105 or sensor window located within the end portion of the elongated ridge element 102. In other embodiments, each sensing region 104, 204 may include multiple sensors, sensing elements, or sensor windows. Figure 5In the illustrated measurement element 500, each sensing region 104, 204 includes three sensor windows (i.e., a first sensor window 506, a second sensor window 508, and a third sensor window 510) that are arranged at different heights on the side of the end wall of the protrusion 502, 504. More generally, each sensing region 104, 204 may include a plurality of sensor windows. The plurality of sensor windows may be positioned at different heights from the base of the elongated ridge element 102. An advantage of arranging the plurality of sensor windows 506, 508, 510 at a plurality of different heights relative to the base of the elongated ridge element 102 is that when the measurement element 500 is properly positioned within the oral cavity (e.g., such that the apex of the ridge element and / or the apex of each protrusion 502, 504 engages in the interproximal region), at least one of the sensor windows may be in a suitable position to receive a signal (e.g., a reflected light signal) from the gums.

[0052] In an embodiment including multiple sensor windows at each sensing region 104, 204 (e.g., Figure 5 In the embodiment shown in the figure, one or more of the sensor windows 506, 508, 510 can be aimed at a different direction than the other sensor windows. For example, one or more of the sensor windows 506, 508, 510 can point at a different angle relative to the base of the elongated ridge element 102 than another of the sensor windows point at. More generally, each sensing region 104, 204 can include multiple sensor windows. The multiple sensor windows can point at different angles relative to the base of the elongated ridge element 102. Figure 5 In the example shown, the differences in pointing angles are shown by the arrows labeled A, B, and C. For example, first sensor window 506 is aimed or pointed in the direction indicated by arrow A, second sensor window 508 is aimed or pointed in the direction indicated by arrow B, and third sensor window 510 is aimed or pointed in the direction indicated by arrow C. By arranging the sensor windows in this manner, the likelihood that at least one of the sensor windows is properly oriented and / or aligned relative to the gums when measurement element 500 is positioned in the oral cavity is increased.

[0053] In some embodiments, each sensor window 506, 508, 510 can be used to direct a signal (e.g., a light signal) out of the measuring element 500 and receive a reflected signal through the same sensor window. In other embodiments, a signal can be directed out of one of the sensor windows and a reflected signal can be received through another of the sensor windows. In some embodiments, a signal can be directed out of all sensor windows in a sensing area and each of the sensor windows can also receive a reflected signal.

[0054] It should be understood that each sensor window 506, 508, 510 can have a different size and / or shape. However, in some embodiments, all sensor windows can have the same size and / or shape.

[0055] In some embodiments, the measuring element can be used in conjunction with a cleaning element, such as an oral cleaning element. For example, in some embodiments, the measuring element can include a cleaning element, while in other embodiments, a cleaning element (e.g., a cleaning element of an oral cleaning device) can be incorporated into the measuring element disclosed herein. In some examples, the measuring element can include a cleaning element located within the elongated ridge element 102. Figure 5 An example of such a cleaning element incorporated into an elongated ridge element 102 is shown in the illustrated embodiment. Figure 5 102, the cleaning element 512 comprises an aperture or opening in the elongated ridge element 102. In these embodiments, the aperture is formed in the apex of the ridge element; however, it should be understood that such cleaning elements can be positioned in the measuring element and / or elsewhere in the ridge element. In this example, the cleaning element aperture 512 is configured to direct a gas (e.g., air), a liquid (e.g., water), or a combination of a gas and a liquid from a source located within the ridge element, the measuring element, or an associated oral cleaning device toward a target in the user's mouth. For example, a combination of water and air can be passed through the aperture 512 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 102). Figure 5 500) is ejected into the interdental area to provide a cleaning effect between the teeth. In other embodiments, the cleaning element 512 may include bristles or a tuft of bristles, for example, to engage with and clean the interdental area when the measuring element 500 is in place in the oral cavity. In other embodiments, another type of cleaning element may be incorporated into the measuring element 500.

[0056] Although cleaning elements 512 are only shown in measurement element 500, it should be understood that such cleaning elements may be incorporated into any of the embodiments discussed herein.

[0057] Figure 6 Another arrangement of a measuring device 600 is shown, which has ridge elements 102 at the outer ends, wherein a sensing region 104 located between the ridge elements protrudes beyond the ridge elements. This arrangement enables the ridge elements 102 to be positioned on adjacent teeth, such that the sensing region 104 protrudes into the interproximal region between two teeth. Figure 6The sensing region 104 shown includes a single sensor 105 or sensor window, and the sensing region 104 is located between two or more elongated ridge elements 102. However, the sensing region 104 may include multiple sensors, sensing elements, or sensor windows. An advantage of arranging the sensing region 104 at different heights relative to the base of the elongated ridge elements 102 is that when the sensing region 104 is properly positioned within the oral cavity (e.g., with the sensor 105 engaged in the interdental area), it may be in a suitable position to receive a signal (e.g., a reflected light signal) from the gums.

[0058] Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of another example of a measuring element 700 for an oral care device. The measuring element 700 is similar to Figure 5 Measuring element 500 is shown. However, measuring element 700 includes a number of additional features.

[0059] In the embodiments discussed above, the elongated ridged element comprises a linear ridge (i.e., the apex of the ridged element 102). In other words, in the embodiments discussed above, the height of the ridge of the ridged element 102 above its base is substantially constant along its length. However, in some embodiments, the elongated ridged element may comprise a central recessed portion such that the height of the elongated ridged element at its center is less than the height of the elongated ridged element at its ends. Figure 7 Such an arrangement is shown in the exemplary embodiment of the measuring element 700 in FIG. The measuring element 700 includes an elongated ridged element 702 having a first protrusion 502 and a second protrusion 504 at its ends. However, in this arrangement, the ridge of the elongated ridged element 702 moves down (e.g., decreases in height) between the first protrusion and the second protrusion, thereby forming a central recessed portion 704.

[0060] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Schematic side view of measurement element 700 is shown. From this side view, it can be clearly seen that the central recessed portion 704 is between the first protrusion 502 and the second protrusion 504. Although in the illustrated embodiment, the central recessed portion 704 is curved, in other embodiments, the elongated ridge element may include a stepped portion, wherein the height of the elongated ridge element decreases in the central region. Including the central recessed portion 704 in the elongated ridge element 702 (particularly the elongated ridge element formed with a curved ridge) (e.g., as Figure 7 and Figure 8 The advantage of the measuring element 704 is that it can be moved more easily over relatively short teeth (e.g., lower incisors) and can be moved more easily in the mouth and over ridges on the teeth. It should be understood that the central recess portion 704 can be incorporated into any measuring element discussed herein.

[0061] In some embodiments, the measuring element may include a surface from which the elongated ridged element 702 extends. For example, the measuring element 700 includes a surround 706 that provides a surface on which the elongated ridged element and the protrusions of the measuring element may be formed or mounted. In some embodiments, the elongated ridged element 702, the protrusions 502, 504, and the surround 706 may be formed as a single integral unit, while in other embodiments, the elongated ridged element and the protrusions may form separate components to be mounted to the surround. In some embodiments, the surround 706 may be generally circular in shape, while in other embodiments, the surround may be shaped differently, for example, shaped as an oval. The surround 706 may help the user properly position and orient the measuring element within the oral cavity because the surround may prevent or limit rotation of the measuring element when the surround engages the teeth. A smaller surround 706 (e.g., an oval surround) may assist the user in properly positioning the measuring element in a particularly curved area of ​​the oral cavity (e.g., near the canines). It should be understood that any measurement element disclosed herein may include a surround, such as surround 706, such that the elongated ridge elements extend from a surface of the surround. In addition, it should be understood that any feature or combination of features disclosed herein may be incorporated into any disclosed embodiment.

[0062] In some embodiments, the enclosure 706 may include other components, such as oral cleaning elements 512, such as Figure 5 For example, the enclosure 706 may include one or more bristles or a tuft of bristles, one or more interdental irrigation elements (not shown) for directing gas and / or water into the interdental area. Figure 7 and Figure 8 ), and / or one or more tongue cleaning elements. Thus, the measuring element can be considered to include an oral cleaning element.

[0063] Thus, in some embodiments, the measuring element may comprise or form part of at least one of: a toothbrush head, an interdental rinse head or attachment, and a tongue cleaning head or attachment. As used herein, the term "attachment" is taken to mean a part of an oral cleaning device, e.g., a part that can be removed from and reattached to the body of the oral cleaning device.

[0064] According to a second aspect, the present invention provides an oral care device 10 . Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of an example of an oral care device 10 according to various embodiments. As described herein, the oral care device 10 includes a handle portion 12 and a measuring element 100, 500, 700. In some embodiments, the oral care device 10 can be considered an oral measurement device having at least one sensing region 104, 204, such that its primary function is to perform measurements on the gums within the oral cavity. Fig. 9In the illustrated embodiment, the oral care device 10 includes a handle portion 12, a measuring element 100, 500, 700, and a neck portion 106 connecting the measuring element to the handle portion. Fig. 9 In the illustrated arrangement, the sensor 105 for the measuring element 100, 500, 700 is shown as being in the handle portion 12. It will be appreciated that the sensor 105 may be located in the measuring element 100, 500, 700, in the handle 12, or elsewhere. It will also be appreciated that in other embodiments, the measuring element 100, 500, 700 may form part of the handle portion 12, or may be directly connected to the handle portion 12 (i.e., without a neck portion). The oral care device 10 may include other features, such as electronic components, a power button, etc., but for clarity, these features are not described in detail. Fig. 9 Omitted in .

[0065] According to a third aspect, the present invention provides an attachment for an oral care device 10 . Fig.10 1 is a perspective view of an example of an accessory for an oral care device 10 according to various embodiments. The accessory 1000 includes a measuring element 100, 500, 700 and a connecting portion 1004 for connecting the accessory to the handle portion 12 of the oral care device, such as Fig.11 The connecting portion 1004 may include any suitable connecting mechanism for attaching the accessory 1000 to the handle 12 of the oral care device 10. Such connecting mechanisms will be known to those skilled in the art.

[0066] Fig.11 1 is a schematic diagram of yet another example of an oral care device 10 according to various embodiments. The oral care device 10 includes a handle portion 12 and an accessory 1000. The accessory can include the accessory 1000 discussed above. The accessory 1000 can be connected or attached to the handle portion 12 using a connecting portion 1004, for example, which can interact with a complementary connecting mechanism of the handle portion 12.

[0067] According to another aspect, the present invention provides a mouthpiece. Fig.12is a perspective view of an example of a mouthpiece 1200 according to various embodiments. Mouthpiece 1200 includes an arch 1210 for at least partially mounting on a dental arch of a subject, and a measuring element 1202. Measuring element 1202 is located on an inner surface of arch 1210 for engaging an interdental region of the dental arch of the subject. Measuring element 1202 may include a measuring element as described herein (e.g., measuring elements 100, 500, 700). In some embodiments, mouthpiece 1200 may include a single measuring element 1202. However, in another embodiment, mouthpiece 1200 may include a plurality of measuring elements 1202 spaced apart around arch 1210. Each measuring element 1202 may be arranged to engage an interdental region between a different adjacent pair of teeth. Fig.12 In the illustrated embodiment, the mouthpiece 1200 includes three measuring elements 1202. However, it will be appreciated that more or fewer measuring elements may be included. The mouthpiece may be worn by a user, and gum-related data may be acquired through each measuring element when the measuring element is properly positioned.

[0068] Variations of the disclosed embodiments may be understood and implemented by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention after studying the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "one" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit may implement the functions of a plurality of items recited in the claims. The indisputable fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not mean that a combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously. The computer program may be stored / distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or solid-state medium supplied with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunication systems. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be understood as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A measuring element for an oral care device (10), the measuring element comprising: at least one elongated ridge element (102) configured to engage an interproximal region within an oral cavity by aligning a longitudinal axis of the ridge element with the interproximal region; as well as A first sensing area (104), the first sensing area (104) is located in the longitudinal end portion (102a) of the first chamfer of the at least one slender ridge element, and the first sensing area (104) is configured to face the gingival tissue in the interproximal area and obtain data from the gingival tissue when the ridge element is aligned with the interproximal area.

2. The measuring element according to claim 1, further comprising: a first protrusion (502) extending from a longitudinal end portion of the first chamfer of the at least one elongated ridge element; The first sensing area (104) is located in the wall of the first protrusion.

3. The measuring element according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: A second sensing region (204) is located in a second chamfered longitudinal end portion (102b) of the at least one elongated ridge element (102) for acquiring data from gum tissue in the oral cavity.

4. The measuring element according to claim 3, further comprising: a second protrusion (504) extending from a longitudinal end portion of the second chamfer of the at least one elongated ridge element (102); The second sensing area (204) is located in the wall of the second protrusion.

5. The measuring element according to claim 1, wherein the first sensing region (104) comprises a plurality of sensor windows (506, 508, 510); and The plurality of sensor windows is at least one of the following: a) are positioned at different heights from the base of the at least one elongated ridge-like element (102); and b) directed at different angles to each other with respect to the base of said at least one elongated ridge-like element.

6. The measurement element of claim 1, wherein the at least one elongated ridge element (102) comprises a generally triangular prism-shaped element.

7. The measuring element according to claim 1, wherein the at least one elongated ridge element (102) comprises a central recessed portion (704) such that a height of the at least one elongated ridge element at its center is less than a height of the at least one elongated ridge element at its ends.

8. The measuring element according to claim 1, further comprising: A cleaning element (512) is positioned within the at least one elongated ridge element (102).

9. The measurement element of claim 1, further comprising a surface (706), the at least one elongated ridge element extending from the surface (706).

10. The measuring element according to claim 1, wherein the first sensing region (104) is configured to receive radiation to be delivered to an optical sensor.

11. A measuring element for an oral care device (10), comprising: at least two elongated ridge elements (102) configured to engage adjacent teeth within the oral cavity; as well as A first sensing region (104), the first sensing region (104) having at least one sensor (105), the at least one sensor (105) being located at a midpoint protruding from between the at least two elongated ridge elements, the first sensing region (104) being configured to acquire data from gum tissue within the oral cavity.

12. An oral care device (10), comprising: A handle portion (12); as well as A measuring cell according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. A mouthpiece (1200), the mouthpiece (1200) comprising: an arch (1210) adapted to be at least partially mounted on a dental arch of a subject; as well as A measuring element according to any one of claims 1 to 11, said measuring element being located on a surface of said arch for engaging an interdental region of said dental arch of said subject.

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