Handpiece, system and method for connecting a handpiece with a supply system

Abstract

The invention provides a handpiece (1) for treating teeth by means of a jet of abrasive powder mixed with air. The handpiece (1) is an elongated member extending along a handpiece axis (C). The handpiece (1) comprises a tubular connector (10) extending along the handpiece axis (C). The connector (10) is configured to be connected to a supply system (3) at a first axial side of the connector (10). Furthermore, the connector (10) has at least two ports at a second axial side of the connector (10), a first port (12) configured to be connected to a first supply line (11) of a nozzle device (2) and a second port (22) configured to be connected to a second supply line (21) of the nozzle device (2). The first port (12) and the second port (22) are arranged offset from each other along the handpiece axis (C). In addition, the connector (10) is a one-piece element, preferably a monolithic element, and made of metal.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a handpiece and system for treating teeth by means of a jet of abrasive powder mixed with air, and to a method for connecting such a handpiece with a supply system. BACKGROUND

[0002] Air polishing techniques are used in the dental field to remove stains and colorations from teeth and to remove the biofilm of the teeth. This powder jet technique uses a low abrasive powder. The powder jet is surrounded by a water spray to capture the dust produced during the treatment and to avoid misting. This technique is largely dependent on the nozzle used.

[0003] The difficulty of this system is to obtain a handpiece connection device that allows a high pressure (for example 4 bar) air-powder jet to be delivered smoothly to the handpiece with water. One problem is that the powder jet is also abrasive to the internal components of the device. Furthermore, it is desirable to prevent water from entering the air-powder passage during handpiece disconnection and reconnection, as this moisture would interfere with the powder / air flow.

[0004] In addition, the handpiece is sterilized between each treatment, thus subjecting the material and the handpiece assembly to high strains. This strain can be caused by a thermal cycle of 134°C and up to eight cycles per day. Therefore, high-end plastic materials or metal materials are used to withstand these stresses.

[0005] US2003180684 A1 discloses a structure in which the air-powder connection is well separated from the water connection to avoid mixing of water with powder.

[0006] The prior art partially solves this fitting problem, however, the assembly still has a low resistance to the strains generated in the thermal cycles used for sterilization.

[0007] That is, the outer plastic part provides the stability of the handpiece and, over time, the thermal strains make the outer plastic part brittle, which can lead to the plastic part breaking if the handpiece falls on the floor, or even after only a few sterilization cycles (for example more than 100). However, the plastic structure is desirable for user comfort, as the plastic isolates the user's hand from the heated water line, for example, as required for patient comfort. SUMMARY

[0008] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a handpiece that is not affected by the strains caused by sterilization cycles, while providing all the comfort needs for the user and the patient, a system comprising said handpiece, and a method for connecting or disconnecting said handpiece with a supply system.

[0009] This object is achieved by the handpiece according to the application, the system comprising the handpiece, and the method for connecting or disconnecting the handpiece.

[0010] According to an aspect of the application, a handpiece for treating teeth by means of a jet of abrasive powder mixed with air is provided, the handpiece being an elongated member extending along a handpiece axis, the handpiece comprising: a tubular connector extending along the handpiece axis, wherein the connector is configured to be connected to a supply system at a first axial side of the connector, wherein the connector has at least two ports at a second axial side of the connector, a first port configured to be connected to a first supply line of a nozzle device, a second port configured to be connected to a second supply line of the nozzle device, wherein the first port and the second port are arranged offset from each other along the handpiece axis, wherein the tubular connector is a one-piece element, preferably a monolithic element, and wherein the tubular connector is made of metal.

[0011] According to another aspect of the application, the dental powder for treating teeth is sodium bicarbonate, glycine, calcium carbonate, aluminum hydroxide, erythritol, hydroxyapatite or trehalose. The handpiece has a greater extension along the handpiece axis than along any other direction. The handpiece has a substantially cylindrical shape extending along the handpiece axis. The handpiece axis is the axis of the cylindrical shape. Thus, it is advantageous that the handpiece is tangible for the user. The handpiece is a hollow body defining an accommodation space within the handpiece. Thus, the user's hand holding the handpiece is well separated from the lines present within the handpiece. Furthermore, the handpiece is a separate element, which can be connected to the nozzle device at a first distal handpiece side and to the supply system at a second proximal handpiece side. That is, in the case of the three elements being connected to each other, the supply system and the nozzle device are in communication via the handpiece. The handpiece has a smaller diameter at the distal handpiece side than at the proximal handpiece side. Thus, the handpiece has a center of gravity located closer to the proximal handpiece side. Thus, the operability of the handpiece is improved.

[0012] According to an aspect of the present invention, the nozzle device is an elongated member. The nozzle device is attachable or attached to the handpiece at the distal handpiece side. The nozzle device has a first proximal nozzle device side and an opposite second distal nozzle device side. The nozzle device is attached to the first distal handpiece side by the first proximal nozzle device side. The nozzle device has a first supply line configured to deliver powder mixed with air and a second supply line configured to deliver water. At least a portion of the first supply line protrudes from the first proximal nozzle device side of the nozzle device. The nozzle device is configured to discharge the powder mixed with air and the water onto the teeth of a patient to be treated. Within the nozzle device, the first supply line and the second supply line merge into one discharge line. The discharge line is configured to discharge the powder mixed with air and the water to the second distal nozzle device side. The nozzle device is configured as a disposable product. Alternatively, the nozzle device is an element that can be used multiple times. In this case, the nozzle device is configured to be sterilized multiple times without being damaged. Thus, the nozzle device is made of metal.

[0013] According to another aspect of the present invention, the tubular connector is accommodated within the handpiece. The connector has an elongated body. The connector comprises an axis (e.g. a central axis or a rotational axis) aligned with the handpiece axis, even if the handpiece is generally not symmetrical with respect to such an axis. In other words, the connector is positioned centrally within the interior of the handpiece (i.e. within the accommodation space of the handpiece). The first and second axial sides of the connector are located at opposite sides of the connector. The connector is arranged within the handpiece such that the first axial side of the connector is closer to the second proximal handpiece side than the second axial side of the connector, the second axial side of the connector extending towards the distal side of the handpiece. The connector has a smaller outer diameter at its second axial side than the outer diameter of the first axial side of the connector. In other words, the connector has a tapered shape towards its second axial side. Thus, the space within the handpiece is used efficiently.

[0014] According to another aspect of the present invention, the connector is configured as a one-piece member in order to have a high robustness. Furthermore, the connector is made, for example, from a solid, unprocessed body by drilling. Thus, for example, the connector is not composed of more than one member and, thus, has no welds or any other connections. Thus, the connector has a high robustness against thermal strains. The connector is made of stainless steel. The connector is a receptacle for receiving the supply system or a part of the supply system. In addition, the connector also receives the first and / or second supply line via the first and / or second port. Furthermore, the connector has a stepped outer surface such that the connector can be held sufficiently within the handpiece.

[0015] According to another aspect of the present application, the supply system is reversibly connectable to or reversibly connected to the handpiece. The supply system is connectable to the second proximal handpiece side. The supply system is a source of high pressure (e.g. 4 bar) air mixed with powder and water, wherein the powder-air mixture and the water are supplied separately from each other. The supply system comprises a line connector which is inserted into the connector such that the supply system is connected to the connector. That is, the connector serves as a receptacle for the line connector. The supply system or a part of the supply system is held within the connector by means of a threaded socket, a snap mechanism or other suitable means. The supply system comprises an integrated powder container as a source of powder supplied to the handpiece.

[0016] According to another aspect of the present application, the ports are through-holes extending through the material of the connector. The ports are configured to receive a part of the nozzle device. In other words, the nozzle device is at least partially inserted into the first port and / or the second port. Furthermore, the first port and the second port comprise a sealing element configured to seal the first port and the second port in case the nozzle device is connected to the handpiece. In the connector, the first port and the second port are arranged at different positions with respect to the handpiece axis. Thus, it can be avoided that water enters into the first port by mistake or that powder enters into the second port by mistake. The supply system is accordingly adapted such that the first port and the second port are in communication with the respective supply line in a separated manner. The second port comprises a passage route extending at least partially through the connector, i.e. through the material of the connector. In other words, the second port has a longer passage length compared to the first port. Thus, the separated positions of the first port and the second port are achieved without the need for additional supply lines which are located outside of the connector and parallel to the connector.

[0017] According to another aspect of the present application, the present application combines the advantages of a separate supply of powder-air mixture and water to the nozzle device compared to the prior art, thereby avoiding that water and powder-air mix within the handpiece - which would lead to a clogging of the supply lines. This separation is achieved by providing a specific configuration of the connector comprising a first port and a second port located at different positions. Furthermore, the handpiece of the present application is not affected by thermal strains due to the sterilization process which is performed several times a day. This advantage is achieved by providing a connector which is a one-piece element and which is subjected to a high thermal load and alternating thermal loads. Thus, the handpiece is very robust, since the connector is not easily damaged even if the handpiece is dropped onto the floor, even after several thousand sterilization cycles.

[0018] Preferably, the connector comprises a discharge opening at a circumferential surface of the connector, wherein the discharge opening is configured to connect an interior of the connector with an exterior of the connector.

[0019] According to another aspect of the application, the circumferential surface of the connector is a lateral area or lateral surface of the connector. The discharge opening is a through hole extending through the material of the connector. The discharge opening forms a passage having a central axis extending orthogonally to the handpiece axis. Alternatively, the passage has a central axis that is inclined with respect to the handpiece axis. The discharge opening is formed by milling one side of the connector until a through hole is formed. In this case, the connector has a substantially tubular form, except for the surroundings of the discharge opening, wherein the connector has a flat surface. Alternatively, a plurality of discharge openings is provided within the connector. The discharge openings are arranged in a ring-like manner distributed evenly around the outer circumference of the connector.

[0020] According to another aspect of the application, the discharge opening provides an effect of preventing water from entering into the first port. In more detail, when the supply system is disconnected from the handpiece, i.e. from the connector, water can accumulate within the connector. During disconnection of the supply system, i.e. by pulling the supply system or a part thereof out of the connector, some water is sucked in by the so-called piston effect. The piston effect is enhanced in case a sealing element is provided at the supply system and / or at the connector. In other words, if the supply system is disconnected from the handpiece, water can be sucked out of the second port and / or the second supply line. This water accumulates within the connector and creates droplets. The connector as a one-piece element enhances the piston effect, because the one-piece connector is hermetically sealed. If the supply system is reconnected to the handpiece, i.e. reinserted into the connector, the water will be further pushed into the connector and into the first port. Thus, the water can come into contact with the powder. This can cause the powder beam to undesirably clog the nozzle device.

[0021] In this regard, according to another aspect of the application, the discharge opening generally provides two advantageous effects. First, the discharge opening provides the effect that, in case the supply system is inserted into the connector, the pressure inside the connector does not rise. That is, by providing the discharge opening, air that is pushed into the connector due to the insertion of the supply system into the connector is discharged through the discharge opening without increasing the pressure within the connector. Thus, water present inside the connector is less likely to enter into the first port. Furthermore, if a droplet itself is further pushed into the connector by the supply system, the droplet is discharged through the discharge opening before entering into the first port. Thus, water within the connector is less likely to be pushed towards or into the first port.

[0022] Secondly, the discharge opening functions as a vent. In more detail, if the supply system is disconnected from the handpiece (i.e. the supply system or a part of the supply system is pulled out of the connector), a negative or low pressure is avoided within the connector. That is, if the supply system is pulled out, ambient air enters the connector through the discharge opening to compensate for the negative pressure. Thus, the extraction of water from the second port and / or the supply system is avoided. In other words, the stroke of the piston effect is significantly reduced. Due to the staggered arrangement of the first port and the second port (i.e. the offset arrangement of the first port and the second port along the handpiece axis), it is ensured that the second port is in communication with the discharge opening immediately in case of disconnection of the second port from the supply system.

[0023] The problem of the above-mentioned piston effect mainly occurs in the case of using a one-piece component as the connector. In the prior art, in which the connector is composed of several separate parts, due to manufacturing tolerances, air and water can be transported through small openings or gaps and thus such a problem does not occur in the prior art.

[0024] Preferably, the discharge opening is formed in the connector adjacent to the first port.

[0025] According to another aspect of the present application, the discharge opening is located in the vicinity of the first port. The location of the discharge opening in the vicinity of the first port further ensures that water is discharged through the discharge opening before entering the first port. Thus, the negative effects of the piston effect can be more reliably avoided. Furthermore, after disconnection of the supply system from the second port, the second port is immediately in communication with the discharge opening to compensate for the negative pressure within the connector. The discharge opening is located at the same position relative to the handpiece axis as the first port.

[0026] According to another aspect of the present application, the passage area of the discharge opening is in the range of 0.8 to 1.2 times the average inner diameter of the connector. Such a ratio provides the most effective configuration for avoiding the entry of water into the first supply line. The discharge opening extends almost to the second port along the handpiece axis. Thus, the best sealing performance is achieved while suppressing the piston effect when the supply system is disconnected.

[0027] Preferably, the connector is configured to transport air and / or water through the discharge opening.

[0028] According to another aspect of the present application, as described above, air is introduced and discharged through the discharge opening. Furthermore, water is discharged through the discharge opening. Therefore, the discharge opening is formed such that the resistance (i.e. flow resistance) of water and / or air passing through the discharge opening is as small as possible. Therefore, the discharge opening has, for example, a chamfered edge. Furthermore, the opening is configured to be particularly advantageous for the flow. Therefore, the discharge opening has at least one fin arranged at the edge of the opening in order to guide the medium. Thus, eddies are avoided and air and / or water is smoothly transported through the discharge opening.

[0029] Preferably, the discharge opening has a larger passage area compared to the passage area of the first port.

[0030] According to another aspect of the present application, by providing a discharge opening having a larger passage area compared to the passage area of the first port, water and / or air is more easily discharged through the discharge opening compared to being introduced into the first port. This can further ensure that no water will be inserted into the first port. In other words, the above-mentioned feature provides the effect that the flow resistance of water through the discharge opening is smaller compared to the flow resistance of water through the first port. Since water always seeks the easiest way, water is reliably discharged through the discharge opening.

[0031] Preferably, the handpiece comprises a plastic housing at least partially surrounding the connector.

[0032] According to another aspect of the present application, the shell is formed to provide increased grip to the user's hand. Thus, the operability of the handpiece is improved. Furthermore, the shell provides an isolating effect, since the heat of the hot water flowing through the line within the handpiece in operation is not directly transferred to the user's hand. Thus, the comfort of the user using the handpiece is improved. According to the present embodiment, the shell is not used for stability purposes and is thus not necessary for the durability of the handpiece. On the other hand, the shell is only used for comfort and operability purposes, so that the shell is designed accordingly. In other words, the shell is not subject to any mechanical load, so that the shell does not tend to become brittle even after several thousand sterilization cycles. Thus, the degree of freedom in the design of the shell is increased. The shell is an elongated member extending at least partially along the handpiece axis. In addition, the shell has an opening at each axial side of the shell (i.e. one opening at the distal handpiece side and one opening at the second proximal handpiece side). Furthermore, the shell has a tapered shape, so that the shell has a smaller inner diameter at the distal handpiece side than at the second proximal handpiece side. The shell is configured such that the connector cannot pass through the shell (i.e. the shell has a corresponding diameter). That is, at least the inner diameter of the shell at the distal handpiece side is smaller than the outer diameter of the connector. Thus, the outer periphery of the connector is in contact with the inner periphery of the shell at a predetermined position of the shell. Thus, by specifically forming the shell, the connector is positioned in a specific position within the shell.

[0033] According to another aspect of the present application, the nozzle device is attached to the connector (details are provided below). Thus, the nozzle device is provided at the distal handpiece side of the shell. In addition, the nozzle device has an outer diameter which is larger than the inner diameter of the shell, so that the shell cannot be pulled or pushed onto the nozzle device. Thus, by attaching the nozzle device to the connector, the shell is mechanically sandwiched between the connector (i.e. the outer periphery of the connector which is in contact with the shell) and the nozzle device. That is, the holding force exerted by the connector on the shell is exerted uniformly on the shell in the radial direction of the connector. Thus, a local weakening of the shell is avoided.

[0034] Preferably, the handpiece component comprises a connector fixation portion provided at the first axial side of the connector, wherein the connector fixation portion holds the connector within the handpiece, so that the plastic shell is fixed to be sandwiched between the nozzle device and the connector fixation portion when the nozzle device is attached to the handpiece. That is, in this case, the connector does not have to be in direct contact with the shell.

[0035] According to another aspect of the application, the connector fixation portion supports the connector within the handpiece by means of a clamping. The connector fixation component is provided at the same side of the supply system insertion into the connector, i.e. the second proximal handpiece side. The connector fixation portion comprises a resilient portion which surrounds at least a portion of the connector and exerts a pressing force onto the outer surface of the connector. By this pressing force, the connector is held in place within the handpiece. Thus, the connector is supported by the connector fixation portion such that it is centrally positioned within the handpiece. Furthermore, the connector fixation portion comprises a ring-shaped element which forms an axial end of the handpiece at the same side of the supply system insertion into the connector, i.e. the second proximal handpiece side. The ring-shaped element forms a part of the housing of the handpiece. Furthermore, the ring-shaped element comprises an abutment surface which is substantially orthogonal to the handpiece axis and which abuts against the housing. In other words, the abutment surface faces towards the distal handpiece side. The ring-shaped element has the same outer diameter as the housing at its tip which is located at the second proximal handpiece side. Thus, the abutment surface prevents the housing from falling off the handpiece. In case a nozzle device is attached to the handpiece, the housing is clamped between the connector fixation portion, i.e. the abutment surface, and the nozzle device which also comprises an abutment surface for the housing to abut against. Thus, the housing is held in place by being clamped between the two abutment surfaces, i.e. the abutment surface of the nozzle device and the abutment surface of the connector fixation portion, without any further mechanical fixation means. Furthermore, the holding force exerted onto the housing is a force acting in the axial direction of the housing. Thus, the stability of the housing is further improved. Accordingly, the handpiece shows an increased robustness against thermal strains. Furthermore, the housing is easily detachable or replaceable when the nozzle device is detached from the handpiece and exchanged with respect to each other. For example, each user has his or her own specifically formed housing which is, for example, adapted to the fingers of the specific user. Furthermore, the housing is detached from the handpiece before the sterilization cycle is started. In this case, the housing is treated in another way which is more suitable for plastic housings compared to being exposed to multiple cycles including the application of higher thermal strains.

[0036] Preferably, the connector is configured to receive a coaxial supply line of the supply system such that the first port and the second port can supply powder mixed with air and water, respectively, individually.

[0037] According to another aspect of the application, the supply system comprises a coaxial supply line which is configured to supply both a mixture of powder and air and water individually. For example, the coaxial supply line is implemented as a line connector. Thus, the supply system has enough flexibility in order to provide a convenient handling for the user. The coaxial supply line has discharge ports corresponding to the first port and the second port of the connector. Furthermore, the coaxial supply line comprises sealing means, e.g. a sealing ring, for sealing both ports when mounted inside the connector.

[0038] Preferably, the connector comprises a threaded socket for fixing the first supply line and / or the second supply line of the nozzle device to the handpiece.

[0039] According to another aspect of the present application, the threaded socket is provided at the second axial side of the connector. The nozzle device is fixed to the connector by means of the threaded socket. Thus, the nozzle device and the connector can be rotated relative to each other.

[0040] Preferably, the connector has a stepped inner contour.

[0041] According to another aspect of the present application, the second port is provided at the stepped surface. That is, the stepped surface faces the second proximal handpiece side. That is, the stepped surface, at which the second port is provided, is orthogonal to the handpiece axis. Furthermore, the stepped surface has a substantially annular shape and serves as an abutment surface for inserting the supply system into the connector. In addition, the stepped surface serves to seal the area of the first port and the area of the second port from each other. Thus, the first port and the second port are supplied separately from the supply system.

[0042] Preferably, the connector comprises an RFID tag arranged on an outer surface of the connector, in particular in case the connector is not a single block made of metal.

[0043] According to another aspect of the present application, the RFID tag serves to identify a specific kind of the handpiece. That is, there are multiple different handpieces depending on the treatment to be performed by the handpiece or for different users. This information is obtained via the RFID tag. Providing the RFID tag on the outside of the connector ensures that the RFID tag is close to the outer surface of the handpiece and thus easily detected via a corresponding detection system.

[0044] Preferably, the first port is arranged centrally in the connector, and wherein the second port is arranged eccentrically in the connector.

[0045] According to another aspect of the present application, the first port serves to transport a mixture of powder as a highly abrasive mixture with air. Thus, any curvature or curve increases the abrasion of the corresponding area within the supply line. Thus, according to an aspect of the present embodiment, the mixture of powder with air is guided substantially linearly via the first port by the supply system and the handpiece into the first supply line of the nozzle device without any significant change in the flow direction. Thus, the abrasion of the supply line is significantly reduced. On the other hand, water is much less abrasive and thus can be redirected multiple times without any significant disadvantage in terms of wear of the delivery line. Thus, the second port is arranged eccentrically without any significant disadvantage in terms of wear.

[0046] Preferably, the first port is configured such that, when the nozzle device is attached to the handpiece, the first supply line protrudes into the connector along the handpiece axis.

[0047] According to another aspect of the present invention, the first supply line extends through the first port to protrude into the interior space of the connector. Thus, the opening or inlet to the first supply line is arranged within the connector spaced apart from the end of the connector at the second axial side of the connector. As a result of the protrusion into the interior space of the connector, the risk of water being inserted into the first port is further reduced. In more detail, if the portion of the supply line inserted into the connector pushes water droplets in front of this portion further into the connector, the liquid droplets pass the inlet of the first supply line without entering into the first supply line, but accumulate behind the opening of the first supply line. Thus, no water is inserted into the first supply line. The first port is positioned on the handpiece axis. The amount of the first supply line protruding into the connector is 0.8 to 1.2 times the average diameter of the connector. Further, the first port comprises sealing means for sealing the first port in case the first supply line extends through the first port. Such sealing means is a sealing ring.

[0048] According to another aspect of the present invention, a system for treating teeth by means of a jet of abrasive powder mixed with air and water is provided, the system comprising: a handpiece as described above; a nozzle device attachable to the handpiece, the nozzle device comprising a first supply line for delivering the powder mixed with air to a nozzle discharge line, and a second supply line for delivering water to the nozzle discharge line, wherein the first supply line is in communication with the first port and the second supply line is in communication with the second port; and a supply system comprising a line connector connectable to the connector of the handpiece.

[0049] The features and advantages defined above in relation to the handpiece also apply to the system of the present invention.

[0050] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for connecting or disconnecting a handpiece is provided, the method comprising: providing a handpiece as described above; connecting a nozzle device comprising a first supply line for delivering the powder mixed with air to a nozzle discharge line, and a second supply line for delivering water to the nozzle discharge line, to the handpiece such that the first supply line is in communication with the first port and the second supply line is in communication with the second port; and connecting the handpiece to a supply system by inserting a line connector of the supply system into the connector of the handpiece, or disconnecting the handpiece from the supply system by pulling the line connector of the supply system out of the connector of the handpiece.

[0051] According to another aspect of the application, during insertion of the wire connector into the connector, air and / or water present within the connector is pushed out of the connector through the discharge opening. Thus, water is prevented from entering into the first port. In addition, during pulling of the wire connector, air is introduced into the connector through the discharge opening, so that no water is sucked out of the second port and / or the supply system by the piston effect. Thus, water accumulation within the connector is prevented.

[0052] The advantages and features described in connection with the device also apply to the method, and the advantages and features described in connection with the method also apply to the device.

[0053] Without explicitly described, the individual embodiments or individual aspects and features of the individual embodiments can be combined or exchanged with one another without limiting or extending the scope of the described invention, as long as such a combination or exchange is meaningful and in the sense of the invention. Where applicable, the advantages described in connection with one aspect of the invention are also advantages of other aspects of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0054] In the drawings:

[0055] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a handpiece according to an embodiment of the application,

[0056] Figure 2 is a visualization of a part of a supply system according to the application, which can be connected to the handpiece,

[0057] Figure 3 is a visualization of a connector according to an embodiment of the application,

[0058] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a handpiece according to an embodiment of the application,

[0059] Figure 5 is a visualization of a connector according to an embodiment of the application, and

[0060] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a handpiece according to an embodiment of the application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a handpiece 1 according to the application. Furthermore, Figure 1In the depicted nozzle arrangement 2, the nozzle arrangement 2 is attached to the handpiece 1 and the supply system 3 is separate from the handpiece 1. The nozzle arrangement 2 is attached to the handpiece 1 in a removable manner. Furthermore, the handpiece 1 comprises an integrated connector 10 arranged within the handpiece 1. The handpiece 1 is an elongated body extending along a handpiece axis C of the handpiece 1. The connector 10 is a tubular element having a hollow interior space. In addition, the connector 10 comprises a first port 12 and a second port 22 opening into the interior space of the connector 10. The first port 12 and the second port 22 connect the interior space of the connector 10 with the outside of the connector 10. In Figure 1 In the partially connected state depicted in the figure, the first port 12 is in communication with the first supply line 11 through which an air-powder mixture can be supplied to the nozzle arrangement 2. In more detail, the first supply line 11 extends through the first port 12 and protrudes into the connector 10. The second port 22 is in communication with the second supply line 21 through which water can be supplied to the nozzle arrangement 2. In the present embodiment, the first supply line 11 and the second supply line 21 are part of the nozzle arrangement 2. Furthermore, the second port 22 comprises a connector supply line which extends through the material of the connector 10. In more detail, the connector supply line extends parallel to the handpiece axis C. That is, the connector supply line is located downstream of the second port 22 and upstream of the second supply line with respect to the direction of water flow in operation of the handpiece 1. The second port 22 is arranged eccentrically within the connector 10. On the other hand, the first port 12 is arranged within the connector 10 in a manner centered on the handpiece axis C.

[0062] In addition, the connector 10 has a stepped shape, i.e. the connector 10 has a step on its outer surface and its inner surface. The second port 22 opens at the inner stepped surface. The second port 22 is flush with the stepped surface. The stepped surface is arranged orthogonally to the handpiece axis C. The first supply line 11 protrudes from the second axial side of the connector 10 into the interior space of the connector 10. That is, the first port, i.e. the opening of the first supply line through which the air-powder mixture enters, is arranged within the connector 10 in a manner spaced apart from the axial end of the connector 10.

[0063] The handpiece 1 further comprises a housing 13 made of plastic surrounding the connector 10. The housing 13 comprises a gripping portion for the hand of the user. The gripping portion is configured to provide sufficient grip so that the user can hold and operate the handpiece firmly. Furthermore, the housing 13 is configured to thermally isolate the hand of the user. That is, in order to improve the comfort of the patient, hot water is used in the treatment and, thus, this hot water is supplied through the handpiece. Therefore, the connector has a higher temperature due to the hot water flowing through it. Thus, the housing 13 protects the hand of the user from the hot connector 10.

[0064] In the present embodiment, the connector 10 is a one-piece element, i.e. the connector 10 is made of one solid piece. In other words, the connector 10 of the present embodiment is not composed of several separate components. Thus, several parts are joined together without the need of a connection. Therefore, the connector 10 is robust and resistant to thermal loads (e.g. generated during a sterilization cycle). The one-piece connector 10 of the present embodiment is made of stainless steel.

[0065] Figure 2 In the present embodiment, this portion is a line connector comprising discharge ports for powder mixed with air and water, which correspond to the first and second ports 12, 22 when the line connector is inserted into the handpiece 1, i.e. into the connector 10. The line connector has a flexible connection to the rest of the supply system 3 so that the user can freely operate the handpiece when the supply system is connected to the handpiece.

[0066] Figure 3 In the present embodiment, the connector 10 is a one-piece element, i.e. the connector 10 is made of one solid piece. In other words, the connector 10 of the present embodiment is not composed of several separate components. Thus, several parts are joined together without the need of a connection. Therefore, the connector 10 is robust and resistant to thermal loads (e.g. generated during a sterilization cycle). The one-piece connector 10 of the present embodiment is made of stainless steel. Figure 3 In the present embodiment, the stepped outer surface of the connector is visible. Figure 3 The left portion of the connector 10 corresponds to the first axial side portion of the connector 10, and Figure 3 The right portion of the connector 10 corresponds to the second axial side portion of the connector 10. In the present embodiment, the outer and inner contours of the connector 10 are manufactured using a lathe. Furthermore, each step of the connector 10 has a different outer diameter. Thus, the connector 10 is optimally fitted to the housing 13.

[0067] Figure 4The diagram depicts a cross-sectional view of a handpiece 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The handpiece 1 of this embodiment differs from the handpiece 1 of the previously described embodiment in that the connector 10 includes a discharge opening 15. The discharge opening 15 is formed in the circumferential surface of the connector 10 at the location where the first port 12 is arranged (i.e., the opening of the first supply line 11). The discharge opening 15 is created by removing a portion of the peripheral wall of the connector 10. In this embodiment, the first supply line 11 protrudes into the connector 10 through the first port 12. The discharge opening 15 has an extension along the axis C of the handpiece, which is larger than the extension of the discharge opening 15 in the circumferential direction of the connector 10. That is, the discharge opening 15 has a rectangular shape in the plan view. The discharge opening 15 is arranged such that the tip of the first supply line 11 extending into the connector 10 is substantially centrally positioned relative to the discharge opening. Furthermore, a portion of the connector supply line arranged within the connector 10 downstream of the second port 22 is arranged on the opposite side of the discharge opening 15 relative to the axis C of the handpiece.

[0068] Furthermore, the handheld component 1 of the present invention includes a threaded assembly 30 for securing the nozzle device 2 to the handheld component 1.

[0069] Additionally, the handheld component 1 includes a receiving portion for receiving at least a portion of the nozzle device 2. The receiving portion has a funnel shape and a larger diameter at the distal end of the handheld component. Therefore, the first supply line 11 of the nozzle device 2 is easily guided toward the first port 12 of the connector 10 during insertion. Furthermore, water is supplied through the receiving portion to the nozzle discharge line 4 of the nozzle device 2. That is, the second port 22 and the second supply line 21 of the nozzle device are in communication with the receiving portion.

[0070] Figure 5 This is a view of a connector 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The connector 10 includes a discharge opening 15. Figure 5 As can be seen, the rounded outer surface of connector 10 is removed, resulting in a planar portion on the outer surface of connector 10. For example, this form can be easily achieved by a milling machine.

[0071] exist Figure 6 Another embodiment of the invention is described in the figure. In this embodiment, the handheld component 1 and... Figure 4 The difference between the embodiments described herein and the embodiments described herein is that the receiving portion is omitted. On the other hand, in this embodiment, if the nozzle device 2 is connected to the handheld component 1, the second supply line 21 is directly connected to the connector supply line of the connector 10. Therefore, the volume of water contained within the handheld component 1 during operation is reduced. Consequently, the handheld component is lighter, and therefore operability is improved.

[0072] The above described embodiments can be combined with each other as a whole or only individual features can be combined to form new embodiments.

[0073] Reference signs

[0074] 1 handpiece

[0075] 2 nozzle device

[0076] 3 supply system

[0077] 4 nozzle discharge line

[0078] 10 connector

[0079] 11 first supply line

[0080] 12 first port

[0081] 13 housing

[0082] 15 discharge opening

[0083] 17 abutment face of the nozzle device

[0084] 21 second supply line

[0085] 22 second port

[0086] 30 screw assembly

Claims

1. A handpiece (1) for treating teeth by means of a jet of abrasive powder mixed with air, said handpiece (1) being an elongated member extending along a handpiece axis (C), said handpiece (1) comprising: A tubular connector (10) extends along the axis (C) of the handpiece. The connector (10) is configured to be connected to the supply system (3) at a first axial side of the connector (10). The connector (10) has at least two ports on its second axial side, the first port (12) being configured to connect to a first supply line (11) of the nozzle device (2), and the second port (22) being configured to connect to a second supply line (21) of the nozzle device (2). The first port (12) and the second port (22) are arranged to be offset from each other along the axis (C) of the handheld component. The connector (10) is an integral component. The connector (10) is made of metal. The connector (10) includes a discharge opening (15) located on its circumferential surface, wherein the discharge opening (15) is configured to connect the interior of the connector (10) to the exterior of the connector (10), and The discharge opening is located at the same position as the first port relative to the axis of the handheld component.

2. The handpiece (1) according to claim 1, wherein The discharge opening (15) is formed in the connector (10) adjacent to the first port (12).

3. The handpiece (1) according to claim 1, wherein The connector (10) is configured to deliver air and / or water through the discharge opening (15).

4. The handpiece (1) according to claim 1, wherein The discharge opening (15) has a larger passage area compared to the passage area of ​​the first port (12).

5. The handpiece (1) according to claim 1, wherein The handheld component (1) includes a plastic housing (13) that at least partially surrounds the connector (10).

6. The handpiece (1) according to claim 5, wherein The handheld component (1) includes a connector fixing portion disposed at a first axial side of the connector (10), wherein the connector fixing portion holds the connector (10) within the handheld component (1) such that the plastic housing (13) is clamped between the nozzle device (2) and the connector fixing portion when the nozzle device (2) is attached to the handheld component (1).

7. The handpiece (1) according to claim 1, wherein The connector (10) is configured to receive the coaxial supply line of the supply system (3) so that the first port (12) and the second port (22) can be supplied separately with powder mixed with air and water, respectively.

8. The handpiece (1) according to claim 1, wherein The connector (10) includes a threaded socket for securing a first supply line (11) and / or a second supply line (21) of the nozzle device (2) to the handpiece (1).

9. The handpiece (1) according to claim 1, wherein The connector (10) has a stepped inner contour.

10. The handpiece (1) according to claim 1, wherein The connector (10) includes an RFID tag disposed on the outer surface of the connector (10).

11. The handpiece (1) according to claim 1, wherein The first port (12) is arranged centrally in the connector (10), and wherein the second port (22) is arranged eccentrically in the connector (10).

12. The handpiece (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein The first port (12) is configured such that the first supply line (11) protrudes into the connector (10) along the handpiece axis (C) when the nozzle device (2) is attached to the handpiece (1).

13. A system for treating teeth by means of a jet of abrasive powder mixed with air and water, the system comprising: a handpiece (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, a nozzle device (2) attachable to the handpiece (1), the nozzle device (2) comprising a first supply line (11) for delivering powder mixed with air to a nozzle discharge line (4) and a second supply line (21) for delivering water to the nozzle discharge line (4), wherein the first supply line (11) communicates with the first port (12) and the second supply line (21) communicates with the second port (22), and a supply system (3) comprising a line connector connectable to the connector (10) of the handpiece (1).

14. A method for connecting or disconnecting a handpiece (1), the method comprising: providing a handpiece (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, connecting a nozzle device (2) to the handpiece (1), the nozzle device (2) comprising a first supply line (11) for delivering powder mixed with air to a nozzle discharge line (4) and a second supply line (21) for delivering water to the nozzle discharge line (4), such that the first supply line (11) communicates with the first port (12) and the second supply line (21) communicates with the second port (22), and connecting the handpiece (1) to a supply system (3) by inserting a line connector of the supply system (3) into the connector (10) of the handpiece (1), or disconnecting the handpiece (1) from a supply system (3) by pulling a line connector of the supply system (3) out of the connector (10) of the handpiece (1).

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