Oral installation and halitosis measuring system

Abstract

The oral cavity mount (1A) can be installed in the oral cavity (M) of a subject (P). The oral cavity mount (1A) includes a partition (10A) and a gap-forming part (11A). The partition (10A) divides the oral cavity (M) into a first part (M1) where the subject of halitosis measurement is located and a second part (M2) which communicates with the pharynx (6) of the subject (P). The gap-forming part (11A) is connected to the partition (10A) and forms a gap (G) between it and the subject of measurement. Since the partition (10A) includes the first part (M1) where the oral cavity (M) is divided into the first part (M1) where the teeth (2) and gums (3) are located and the second part (M2) which communicates with the pharynx (6) of the subject (P), halitosis can be accurately detected.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to oral implants and halitosis measurement systems. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a halitosis measuring device with an oral air chamber. This device utilizes the subject's oral vestibule to seal the opening of the oral air chamber, thereby creating a space of a certain volume within the oral cavity to store halitosis gas. The device measures halitosis using the stored gas.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2-98337 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0007] However, in the halitosis measuring device disclosed in Patent Document 1, the space for storing halitosis gas in the oral cavity is connected to the subject's pharynx. Therefore, the subject's exhaled breath is easily included in the stored halitosis gas. Since the subject's exhaled breath reduces the concentration of odor substances that cause halitosis and are emitted in the oral cavity, the detection accuracy of halitosis caused in the oral cavity may be reduced.

[0008] The present invention was made under the above-mentioned actual circumstances, and its purpose is to provide an oral cavity mounting device and a halitosis measurement system that can improve the detection accuracy of halitosis caused in the oral cavity.

[0009] Solution for solving the problem

[0010] To achieve the above objectives, the oral implant of the first aspect of the present invention can be installed in the oral cavity of a subject, wherein...

[0011] The dental implant includes:

[0012] A partition that divides the oral cavity into a portion where the subject of halitosis measurement resides and a portion communicating with the subject's pharynx; and

[0013] A gap-forming part is connected to the partition and forms a gap between it and the measuring object.

[0014] In this case, the gap-forming part may also enter between the measuring object and the part of the oral cavity that abuts against the measuring object to form the gap.

[0015] Alternatively, the gap forming portion may have a recess for forming the gap.

[0016] It can also include:

[0017] An exhaust tube that discharges gas in contact with the object being measured from the gap to the outside of the oral cavity; and

[0018] An inlet section introduces gas from the oral cavity into the gap.

[0019] Alternatively, the dental implant may include:

[0020] An exhaust tube that discharges gas in contact with the object being measured from the gap to the outside of the oral cavity; and

[0021] An internal flow path, which opens relative to the object being measured, forms the gap and communicates with the discharge pipe.

[0022] Alternatively, the dental implant may be composed of elastic components.

[0023] The internal flow path is designed to remain unobstructed when the subject bites into it.

[0024] Alternatively, the gap-forming portion may be configured to seal the gap when removed from the oral cavity.

[0025] Alternatively, the measurement object may include at least one of the outer and inner sides of the subject's dentition and gingiva.

[0026] Alternatively, the measurement object may include the boundary between the dentition and the gingiva.

[0027] Furthermore, the halitosis measurement system of the second aspect of the present invention includes:

[0028] The oral mounting component of the first aspect of the present invention; and

[0029] An odor sensor that detects odor substances that constitute halitosis based on the gas that comes into contact with the object being measured in the oral cavity mount.

[0030] Alternatively, the halitosis measurement system may include a pump that draws gas from the oral cavity mount into contact with the object being measured and delivers it to the odor sensor.

[0031] Alternatively, the odor sensor may be located inside the oral cavity mount.

[0032] Alternatively, the pump and the odor sensor may be located inside the oral cavity mount.

[0033] Alternatively, the pump and the odor sensor may be located outside the oral cavity.

[0034] Furthermore, the halitosis measurement system of the third aspect of the present invention includes:

[0035] The oral mounting component of the first aspect of the present invention;

[0036] A pump that draws gas from the oral cavity assembly into contact with the object being measured;

[0037] A recovery unit that recovers the gas drawn in by the pump; and

[0038] An odor sensor that detects odor substances that constitute bad breath based on the gas recovered by the recovery unit.

[0039] Alternatively, the halitosis measurement system may include an information generation unit that generates suggested information for the subject based on odor substances detected by the odor sensor.

[0040] The effects of the invention

[0041] According to the present invention, since the separation portion includes the portion of the examinee's oral cavity that is the measurement object for halitosis and the portion that communicates with the pharynx, the detection accuracy of halitosis caused in the oral cavity can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0042] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of the oral cavity mounting component according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 1B It is Figure 1A A perspective view along the IB-IB line when the dental implant is installed in the oral cavity.

[0044] Figure 1C yes Figure 1A A magnified view of part B.

[0045] Figure 2 It means to Figure 1A A sagittal sectional view of the oral cavity fitting installed in the patient's oral cavity.

[0046] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A horizontal sectional view along line III-III.

[0047] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the halitosis measurement system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 5 It means to use Figure 4 The flowchart shows the halitosis measurement process performed by the halitosis measurement system.

[0049] Figure 6This is a sagittal cross-sectional view showing the installation of the oral cavity fitting according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention in the oral cavity of a subject.

[0050] Figure 7A yes Figure 6 A three-dimensional view of the dental implant.

[0051] Figure 7B It is Figure 7A A perspective view along line VIIB-VIIB showing the dental implant installed in the oral cavity.

[0052] Figure 7C yes Figure 7A A magnified view of part E.

[0053] Figure 8A This is a perspective view of the oral cavity mounting component according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 8B It is Figure 8A A cross-sectional view of the dental fitting installed in the oral cavity.

[0055] Figure 9A It is in the state of being bitten by the examinee. Figure 8A A sectional view of the dental implant.

[0056] Figure 9B yes Figure 9A A three-dimensional view of the dental implant in its current state.

[0057] Figure 10 This is a sagittal cross-sectional view showing the installation of the oral cavity mount of Embodiment 3 of the present invention in the oral cavity of a subject.

[0058] Figure 11 It means Figure 10 A diagram showing a modified example of an oral cavity mounting component.

[0059] Figure 12 This is a sagittal sectional view showing the installation of an oral implant with a built-in odor sensor in the patient's oral cavity.

[0060] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of an oral cavity mount configured to seal the gap when removed from the oral cavity.

[0061] Figure 14A This is a diagram representing the first variation of the halitosis measurement system.

[0062] Figure 14B This is a diagram representing the second variation of the halitosis measurement system. Detailed Implementation

[0063] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same or equivalent parts are labeled with the same reference numerals.

[0064] Implementation Method 1

[0065] First, Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described. First, the structure of the oral cavity mounting component of this embodiment will be described.

[0066] like Figure 1A As shown, the oral cavity fitting 1A of this embodiment is a mouthguard type, and its overall shape is a letter U or a letter V.

[0067] like Figure 1B , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the oral cavity mount 1A can be installed in the oral cavity M of the subject P to measure halitosis. In this embodiment, the subject P is set as a human, and the measurement object of halitosis in the oral cavity M is the outer side of the dental arch 2 and the gingiva (gum) 3. The measurement object includes the boundary portion between the outer side of the dental arch 2 and the gingiva 3. This boundary portion is, for example, a part that is prone to halitosis due to periodontal disease, etc. Here, as Figure 2 As shown, the lip 4 side of the subject P in the oral cavity M is defined as the outer side, and the pharyngeal 6 side is defined as the inner side.

[0068] like Figure 1A , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the dental implant 1A includes a partition portion 10A and a gap-forming portion 11A. The dental implant 1A is composed of an elastic member. Such an elastic member may be polyurethane rubber, silicone rubber, etc.

[0069] like Figure 2 As shown, the partition 10A divides the oral cavity M into a first part M1, which contains the measurement object of halitosis, namely the dental arch 2 and the gingiva 3, and a second part M2, which communicates with the pharynx 6 of the subject P. The gap forming part 11A is connected to the partition 10A and forms a gap G on the outside of the measurement object, namely the dental arch 2 and the gingiva 3.

[0070] The gas in the pore G comes into contact with the boundary between the outer side of the dentition 2 and the gingiva 3. The pore forming part 11A has an exhaust pipe 11a that connects the pore G and the outside of the oral cavity M. The gas in the pore G is taken out from the exhaust pipe 11a as a sample containing odor substances that constitute halitosis.

[0071] Because the gap G formed in part 1 M1 is separated from part 2 M2 by the partition 10A, the subject P's exhaled air does not easily enter the gap G. Therefore, the gas flow in the gap G is slower, and the gas easily contains odor substances emanating from the dental arch 2 and gingiva 3. Thus, the gas in the gap G can be extracted from the discharge tube 11a at a high concentration of odor substances. Furthermore, the actual measurement is performed with the subject P's mouth closed. Therefore, the discharge tube 11a is only in communication with the external oral cavity M.

[0072] A more detailed description of the structure of the dental implant 1A is provided. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the partition 10A is located inside the dentition 2 and gingiva 3, curving along the dentition 2 and gingiva 3. Thus, the first part M1 becomes the part including the dentition 2 and gingiva 3 formed between it and the partition 10A, and the second part M2 becomes the part where the tongue 5 is located and communicates with the pharynx 6.

[0073] like Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 2 As shown, the gap forming portion 11A has a clamping portion 12. The clamping portion 12 is connected to the partition portion 10A and extends from the partition portion 10A toward the lip 4, that is, outward. Figure 1B , Figure 2 As shown, the clamped part 12 is clamped between the upper tooth row 2a and the lower tooth row 2b of the subject P.

[0074] like Figure 1A and Figure 2 As shown, the gap forming portion 11A has a wall portion 13. The wall portion 13 is connected to the clamped portion 12 and is configured to face the separating portion 10A across the clamped portion 12. Figure 3 As shown, the wall portion 13 is positioned on the outer side of the dentition 2 and the gingiva 3, curving along the outer side of the dentition 2 and the gingiva 3. (As shown...) Figure 2 As shown, the wall portion 13 enters between the dentition 2 and gingiva 3 and lip 4, which are the objects of measurement. The lip 4 corresponds to the part of the oral cavity M that abuts against the object of measurement.

[0075] like Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, a recess 11b forming a gap G is provided in the wall portion 13. For example... Figure 1A As shown, the recess 11b is provided on the side opposite to the partition 10A. When the clamping part 12 is clamped between the upper tooth row 2a and the lower tooth row 2b of the subject P, the recess 11b extends along the boundary between the tooth row 2 and the gingiva 3. Figure 1B , Figure 2As shown, a gap G is formed between the oral cavity mounting member 1A and the outer boundary of the tooth row 2 and the gingiva 3 using the recess 11b. Thus, in this embodiment, the gap forming portion 11A enters between the tooth row 2 and the gingiva 3 and the lip 4, and the gap G is formed by the recess 11b.

[0076] As described above, the gap forming section 11A is provided with the aforementioned discharge pipe 11a, which connects the gap G and the outside of the oral cavity M. The discharge pipe 11a discharges the gas that is in contact with the measurement object, namely the tooth row 2 and the gingiva 3, from the gap G to the outside of the oral cavity M.

[0077] like Figure 1C As shown, the void forming section 11A is provided with a groove 11c serving as an inlet. The groove 11c connects the void G formed by the recess 11b to the outside (specifically, between the gingiva 3 and the lip 4). When the gas in the void G is discharged via the discharge pipe 11a, the gas in the oral cavity M is introduced into the void G via the groove 11c. This suppresses the rapid decompression within the void G.

[0078] like Figure 4 As shown, the halitosis measurement system 100 includes, in addition to the oral cavity mounting component 1A, a pump 20, an odor sensor 21, and an information processing device 22 as an information generation unit.

[0079] Pump 20 draws gas from the oral cavity mount 1A into contact with the object being measured. The suction force of pump 20 is sufficient to slowly draw gas from the gap G. Specifically, pump 20 is connected to the discharge pipe 11a of oral cavity mount 1A, and draws gas from the gap G into contact with the surfaces of the tooth row 2 and gingiva 3 via the discharge pipe 11a. A nozzle 20a is connected to pump 20, and the gas drawn by pump 20 is ejected from nozzle 20a.

[0080] Odor sensor 21 is positioned at the nozzle 20a where gas drawn by pump 20 is expelled. Odor sensor 21 detects one or more odor substances that constitute halitosis based on the gas drawn by pump 20 and expelled from nozzle 20a. The detected odor substances are those that contribute to halitosis, such as volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) like hydrogen sulfide and methanethiol. Odor sensor 21 can detect a variety of different odor substances. Odor sensor 21 converts the information (qualitative or quantitative) of the detected odor substances into an electrical signal and outputs it.

[0081] Thus, in this embodiment, the pump 20 and the odor sensor 21 are disposed outside the oral cavity M.

[0082] The information processing device 22 is an information processing terminal such as a smartphone or personal computer. The information processing device 22 includes hardware resources such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), hard disk, touch panel, and other human-computer interfaces, input / output interfaces, and communication interfaces. The information processing device 22 achieves its functions by having the CPU execute software programs, that is, by having hardware resources cooperate with software.

[0083] The information processing device 22 generates and outputs suggestion information for the subject P based on the odor substances detected by the odor sensor 21. As described above, various different odor substances are detected in the odor sensor 21. The information processing device 22 determines the odor composed of the various odor substances based on the detection type of the detected odor substances. Furthermore, the information processing device 22 identifies the type of odor determined, such as whether it is the smell of something eaten or an odor caused by substances that cause periodontal disease.

[0084] The suggested information includes information related to the intensity of halitosis and strategies to reduce it. In other words, the suggested information helps the subject P understand what actions are best to take regarding halitosis when they see it. Examples of suggested information include: "No halitosis, no problem. Please continue brushing your teeth properly," "The smell of garlic is strong, please brush your teeth as soon as possible," and "There is a possibility of periodontal disease. Please see a dentist."

[0085] Next, the operation of the halitosis measurement system 100 of this embodiment, that is, the process of halitosis measurement, will be explained.

[0086] like Figure 5 As shown, firstly, the oral cavity mount 1A is installed in the oral cavity M of the subject P (step S1). In this case, the subject P inserts the oral cavity mount 1A, which consists of a partition 10A and a gap-forming part 11A, into the oral cavity M, and as shown... Figure 1B The upper tooth row 2a and lower tooth row 2b are used to bite and clamp the part 12, causing the end of the discharge tube 11a to protrude from between the upper and lower lips 4 toward the outside of the oral cavity M.

[0087] In this state, the discharge pipe 11a of the oral cavity device 1A is connected to the pump 20 via a hose (step S2), the odor sensor 21 is configured to detect the odor substances contained in the gas ejected from the nozzle 20a of the pump 20 (step S3), and the odor sensor 21 is connected to the information processing device 22 to enable data communication (step S4). These steps S2, S3, and S4 can also be reversed in order.

[0088] In this state, the halitosis measurement system 100 measures halitosis (step S5). Furthermore, during the measurement process, the subject P closes their lips 4 beforehand, except for the discharge tube 11a. Here, as... Figure 3 As indicated by the middle arrow, when pump 20 is driven, gas is discharged from the gap G of oral cavity mounting 1A through discharge pipe 11a and delivered to odor sensor 21. Odor sensor 21 detects the odor contained in the delivered gas. The detection result of odor substances obtained by odor sensor 21 is sent to information processing device 22.

[0089] Next, the information processing device 22 generates and displays suggestion information based on the detection results of odor substances obtained by the odor sensor 21 (step S6). The information processing device 22 determines the odor of the gas based on the types of various odor substances detected by the odor sensor 21, and generates and displays suggestion information based on the determined odor. Alternatively, the suggestion information may only display the type and intensity of halitosis.

[0090] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the dental implant 1A measures the entire tooth row 2. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. A portion of the tooth row 2 may also be used as the measurement object.

[0091] Implementation Method 2

[0092] Next, Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described.

[0093] like Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment 2, the oral fitting 1B does not measure the outer side of the dentition 2 and gingiva 3 of the examinee P, but rather the inner side. In this embodiment, the boundary between the inner side of the dentition 2 and gingiva 3 is included as the measurement object.

[0094] like Figure 7A As shown, the oral cavity mount 1B of this embodiment is a mouthguard type, and its overall shape is a U-shape or V-shape that matches the tooth shape of the subject P. The oral cavity mount 1B of this embodiment includes a partition portion 10B and a gap forming portion 11B. The oral cavity mount 1B is also composed of elastic members, just like in Embodiment 1 described above.

[0095] like Figure 7B As shown, the partition 10B and the gap-forming portion 11B curve along the inner side of the tooth row 2 and the gingiva 3. In this embodiment, the partition 10B is arranged at a certain interval from the tooth row 2 and the gingiva 3, and the gap-forming portion 11B is arranged between the partition 10B and the tooth row 2 and the gingiva 3.

[0096] like Figure 6As shown, the partition 10B divides the oral cavity M into a first part M1, where the measurement object of halitosis, namely the teeth 2 and gums 3, is located, and a second part M2, which communicates with the pharynx 6 of the subject P. Figure 7A As shown, the gap forming portion 11B is connected to the partition portion 10B. Together, the gap forming portion 11B and the partition portion 10B form a gap G that exposes the inner boundary between the tooth row 2 and the gingiva 3.

[0097] More specifically, such as Figure 7B As shown, the gap forming portion 11B includes a protrusion 15 and a wall portion 13. The protrusion 15 extends from the partition portion 10B toward the tooth row 2 and the gingiva 3, and the wall portion 13 is arranged along a portion of the tooth row 2, namely the upper tooth row 2a and the lower tooth row 2b, in a manner opposite to the partition portion 10B with respect to the protrusion 15.

[0098] A recess 11b is formed by the protrusion 15 and the wall portion 13. This recess 11b creates a gap G between the oral cavity mount 1B and the inner surfaces of the teeth 2 and gingiva 3. An exhaust pipe 11a is provided in the gap forming portion 11B to facilitate the extraction of gas in contact with the teeth 2 and gingiva 3 to the outside of the oral cavity M. The gas in the gap G contacts the boundary between the teeth 2 and gingiva 3. The gas in the gap G in contact with the teeth 2 and gingiva 3 is discharged from the exhaust pipe 11a to the outside of the oral cavity M as a sample containing odor substances that constitute halitosis.

[0099] The partition 10B is provided with a groove 10a serving as an inlet. For example... Figure 7C As shown, the groove 10a connects the gap G formed by the recess 11b to the outside (the second part M2 in this embodiment). Furthermore, in Figure 7B In the partition 10B, the edge of the groove 10a does not contact the hard cap or similar material inside the oral cavity M, but it does contact the hard cap when the mouth is closed. When gas in the gap G is discharged through the discharge pipe 11a, gas in the second part M2 flows into the recess 11b through the groove 10a, suppressing the rapid decompression within the gap G. The gas flow at this time is smaller than the gas flow caused by exhalation when the partition 10B is not present.

[0100] The halitosis measurement process of the halitosis measurement system 100 in this embodiment is the same as... Figure 4 The process is the same as that of the halitosis measurement system 100 of Embodiment 1 shown above. When the pump 20 is driven, as... Figure 6As indicated by the arrow, gas is discharged from the gap G of the oral cavity mount 1B through the discharge pipe 11a and ejected from the nozzle 20a. The odor sensor 21 detects the odor substances contained in the gas ejected from the nozzle 20a. The information processing device 22 determines the odor of the gas based on the types of various odor substances detected by the odor sensor 21, and generates and displays suggested information based on the determined odor.

[0101] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the dental implant 1B measures the entire tooth row 2. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. A portion of the tooth row 2 may also be used as the measurement object.

[0102] Implementation Method 3

[0103] Next, Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described.

[0104] The oral fittings 1A and 1B of embodiments 1 and 2 described above are mouthguards shaped to match the dental arch 2 and gingiva 3 of the subject P. However, since the shapes of the dental arch 2 and gingiva 3 vary depending on the subject P, the oral fittings 1A and 1B of the above embodiments need to be manufactured for each subject P. Therefore, as... Figure 8A , Figure 8B , Figure 9A and Figure 9B As shown, the oral cavity mounting component 1C of this embodiment is generally rectangular, so that it can be used in common between subjects P.

[0105] In the oral fitting 1C of this embodiment, the outer and inner sides of the dentition 2 and gingiva 3 of the subject P are the measurement objects.

[0106] The oral implant 1C, like embodiments 1 and 2 described above, is composed of an elastic member. As such an elastic member, polyamide rubber or silicone rubber can be used, for example, as described above.

[0107] A more detailed description of the structure of the dental implant 1C is provided. For example... Figure 8A and Figure 10 As shown, the oral cavity mounting component 1C includes a partition portion 10C and a gap-forming portion 11C. (As indicated...) Figure 10 As shown, the separator 10C divides the oral cavity M into a first part M1, where the subject of halitosis measurement is located, and a second part M2, which communicates with the pharynx 6 of the subject P. Since the separator 10C does not conform to the shape of the oral cavity M of the subject P, the first part M1 and the second part M2 are not completely obscured. However, due to the presence of the separator 10C, the gap between the first part M1 and the second part M2 can be narrowed to suppress airflow.

[0108] The oral cavity fitting 1C of this embodiment includes an internal flow path 30 and an exhaust pipe 11a for discharging gas in contact with the tooth row 2 and gingiva 3 from the gap G to the outside of the oral cavity M. The internal flow path 30 includes an opening 11d. Four openings 11d are provided, which are respectively disposed opposite to the outer and inner sides of the upper tooth row 2a and gingiva 3, and the outer and inner sides of the lower tooth row 2b and gingiva 3.

[0109] The internal flow path 30 forms a gap G between itself and the tooth row 2 and gingiva 3, which are the objects of measurement. Furthermore, the internal flow path 30 is connected to the discharge pipe 11a. Therefore, gas in contact with the tooth row 2 and gingiva 3 flows from the gap G into the internal flow path 30 and is then discharged from the discharge pipe 11a.

[0110] The oral mount 1C tapers at its central portion along its length (from the pharynx 6 towards the lip 4). This tapered portion of the oral mount 1C is the clamping part 14 held by the patient P using the upper tooth row 2a and lower tooth row 2b. When using the oral mount 1C, the patient P... Figure 8B The clamping part 14 is shown to engage. When the upper teeth 2a and lower teeth 2b of the subject P engage, the clamping part 14 flattens and strains, as shown. Figure 9A and Figure 9B As shown, the entire oral cavity mounting component 1C is deformed.

[0111] like Figure 10 As shown, when the oral cavity mount 1C deforms, the opening 11d of the internal flow path 30 is closer to the dentition 2 and gingiva 3, which are the objects of measurement. Furthermore, in order to ensure that the internal flow path 30 is in the occlusal position of the subject P, it also... Figure 9A The diagram shows an open circuit, as shown below. Figure 8B The cross-section of the portion of the internal flow path 30 corresponding to the clamped portion 14 is larger than that of the other portions.

[0112] The operation of the halitosis measurement system 100 of this embodiment will be explained. For example... Figure 10 As shown, the gas in contact with the outer and inner sides of the upper dental arch 2a, lower dental arch 2b, and gingiva 3 flows into the internal flow path 30 from their respective openings 11d, and as... Figure 4 The gas is discharged from the exhaust pipe 11a. The gas discharged from the exhaust pipe 11a is ejected from the nozzle 20a, where the odor sensor 21 detects odor substances that cause halitosis. The information processing device 22 determines the odor of the gas based on the types of various odor substances detected by the odor sensor 21, and generates and displays suggested information based on the determined odor.

[0113] Alternatively, dental fitting 1C can also be... Figure 11 The shape shown. (As shown) Figure 11 As shown, in the oral cavity mounting component 1C, the partition 10C is configured to be with Figure 10The shape shown is wider in both the vertical and horizontal directions. This allows for more reliable suppression of airflow between part M1 and part M2.

[0114] Furthermore, the oral cavity mounting component 1C is rectangular, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, it can also be spherical, ellipsoidal, or rugby ball-shaped.

[0115] As detailed above, the oral cavity mounts 1A, 1B, and 1C of the above embodiments, since they include a first part M1 that divides the oral cavity M into a first part M1 containing the teeth 2 and the gums 3 and a second part M2 that communicates with the pharynx 6 of the subject P, can improve the detection accuracy of halitosis caused in the oral cavity M.

[0116] More specifically, by using oral mounting components 1A, 1B, and 1C, the flow of gas caused by exhalation that comes into contact with the teeth 2 and gums 3 can be suppressed by the partitions 10A, 10B, and 10C. Therefore, the decrease in the concentration of odor substances emanating from the teeth 2 and gums 3 can be prevented, thereby improving the detection accuracy of halitosis caused within the oral cavity M.

[0117] The oral cavity fittings 1A to 1C described above can detect odor substances that cause halitosis within the oral cavity M. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether the cause of halitosis is located within or outside the oral cavity M.

[0118] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, the oral cavity installer 1C is inserted between the teeth 2 and gums 3 and the lips 4 or tongue 5, forming a gap G relative to the teeth 2 and gums 3. Thus, by forming the gap G to facilitate gas contact with the teeth 2 and gums 3, odor substances causing halitosis can be effectively removed from the teeth 2 and gums 3.

[0119] Furthermore, the oral fittings 1A and 1B in embodiments 1 and 2 described above are mouthguard-type. The mouthguard type requires a structure that matches the shape of each subject's individual dentition 2 and gingiva 3, while also having high airtightness in the gaps G, enabling the detection of odor substances at high concentrations. On the other hand, the oral fitting 1C in embodiment 3 described above is a cuboid block type. While the space separated by the partition 10C has lower airtightness, it does not require manufacturing for each subject P.

[0120] Such a gap G can be formed by a recess like the gap forming portions 11A and 11B, or by an internal flow path 30 like the gap forming portion 11C, the opening 11d of which is opposite to the tooth row 2 and the gingiva 3.

[0121] Furthermore, in the oral fitting 1A of Embodiment 1 described above, the outer sides of the dental arch 2 and gingiva 3 are used as the measurement objects, while in the oral fitting 1B of Embodiment 2 described above, the inner sides of the dental arch 2 and gingiva 3 are used as the measurement objects. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Oral fittings that combine oral fittings 1A and oral fittings 1B to enable measurement of both the outer and inner sides of the dental arch 2 and gingiva 3 can also be used.

[0122] Furthermore, in the oral cavity mounting components 1A, 1B, and 1C of the above embodiments, when the gas in the gap G is discharged through the discharge pipe 11a, the pressure reduction of the gap G is suppressed by providing grooves 11c and 10a that connect the gap G to other parts of the oral cavity M.

[0123] Furthermore, the oral cavity fitting 1C is made of an elastic member and is configured such that the internal flow path 30 for gas passage is not closed. This allows gas in contact with the teeth 2 and gingiva 3 to be reliably removed from the discharge tube 11a.

[0124] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the cross-section of the internal flow path 30 of the clamping portion 14 where the subject P bites is large, thereby preventing the internal flow path 30 from being closed when the subject P bites. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The hardness of the component forming the internal flow path 30 in the portion where the subject P bites can be changed to a hardness that prevents the internal flow path 30 from being closed under the action of a person's biting force. For example, the inner wall of the internal flow path 30 can be made of a metal component.

[0125] Furthermore, in embodiment 3 described above, the odor sensor 21 is located outside the oral cavity M of the subject P. However, it can also be as follows: Figure 12 The odor sensor 21 is shown to be disposed inside the oral cavity mount 1D. The oral cavity mount 1D includes a partition 10D and a gap forming part 11D. The partition 10D is the same as the partition 10C in Embodiment 3 described above. The gap forming part 11D has an opening 11d, which is open on the side facing the inner side of the upper tooth row 2a and the gingiva 3, and also on the side facing the inner side of the lower tooth row 2b and the gingiva 3. Gas in contact with the inner side of the upper tooth row 2a and the gingiva 3 or the inner side of the lower tooth row 2b and the gingiva 3 enters into the internal flow path 30 through the opening 11d. The odor sensor 21 detects the odor substances contained in the gas entering the internal flow path 30. The detection result of the odor sensor 21 is sent to the information processing device 22.

[0126] In this case, the odor sensor 21 can be a device manufactured using MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) technology.

[0127] Alternatively, it can also be done in Figure 12 The oral cavity mount 1D shown is internally equipped with both a pump 20 and an odor sensor 21. The pump 20 can also be a device manufactured using MEMS technology.

[0128] In addition, it can also be like Figure 13 As shown in the oral cavity mounting piece 1E, the gap forming part 11E is configured to seal the gap G when removed from the oral cavity M. Figure 13 The oral cavity mount 1E shown has a partition 10E and a gap forming part 11E. A valve part 30a is provided at the opening 11d of the internal flow path 30 of the gap forming part 11E. This valve part 30a is open when the pump 20 is drawing in, and the opening 11d is blocked when the pump 20 stops drawing in. In this way, for example, gas and saliva of the subject P can be collected in the internal flow path 30, and the odor substances emitted from the collected gas and saliva can be detected afterwards. Alternatively, a cap that blocks the opening 11d can be used to block the internal flow path 30 instead of the valve part 30a.

[0129] In addition, the oral cavity mounting component 1A of Embodiment 1 or the oral cavity mounting component 1B of Embodiment 2 can also be configured to seal the gap G when removed from the oral cavity M.

[0130] In addition, it can also be like Figure 14A As shown, the halitosis measurement system 100 includes a recovery unit 40 for recovering gas that comes into contact with the teeth 2 and gums 3 from the oral cavity mount 1A. Utilizing Figure 14A The halitosis measurement system 100 shown, after recovering the gas to the recovery unit 40, such as Figure 14B As shown, the odor sensor 21 is installed in the recovery unit 40 removed from the self-pump 20, and can detect odor substances that constitute halitosis based on the gas recovered by the recovery unit 40.

[0131] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, both the upper dental row 2a and the lower dental row 2b are used as the measurement objects for halitosis. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Either the upper dental row 2a or the lower dental row 2b may be used as the measurement object for halitosis.

[0132] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the measurement object was described as the region including the boundary between the dentition 2 and the gingiva 3. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Other parts of the oral cavity M, such as the tongue 5, may also be used as measurement objects.

[0133] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the case where the subject P is a human has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Animals other than humans can also be used as the subject P. This is particularly suitable for mammals such as dogs and cats. However, its application to animals other than mammals is not excluded.

[0134] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the gas in contact with the tooth row 2 and the gum 3 is taken out through a single discharge tube 11a without distinction to measure the odor. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the discharge tube 11a can be distinguished according to the upper tooth row 2a and the lower tooth row 2b, and the gas can be taken out separately according to the part being measured to measure the odor individually. In addition, the internal flow path 30 and the discharge tube 11a can be distinguished for each of the four openings 11d of the oral cavity fitting 1C to detect odor substances separately. In this way, the parts of the oral cavity M that cause halitosis can be determined more precisely.

[0135] The shapes of the dental implants 1A to 1E are not limited to those described in embodiments 1 to 3. For example, the dental implant 1C of embodiment 3 can be made flatter. Furthermore, the dental implant can have a larger internal space to serve as an internal flow path.

[0136] This invention can be implemented in various ways and with different modifications without departing from its broad spirit and scope. Furthermore, the embodiments described above are illustrative and do not limit the scope of the invention. That is, the scope of the invention is defined by the claims, not the embodiments. Moreover, various modifications implemented within the scope of the claims and their equivalents are considered to be within the scope of this invention.

[0137] Furthermore, this application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-130580, filed on July 31, 2020, and incorporates the entire description, claims, and drawings of Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-130580 into this specification by reference.

[0138] Industrial availability

[0139] This invention can be applied to the detection of halitosis caused in the oral cavity.

[0140] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0141] 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, Oral fittings; 2, Tooth row; 2a, Upper tooth row; 2b, Lower tooth row; 3, Gingives; 4, Lips; 5, Tongue; 6, Pharynx; 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, Separator; 10a, Groove; 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, Void forming part; 11a, Discharge tube; 11b, Recess; 11c, Groove Part; 11d, Opening; 12, Clamped part; 13, Wall; 14, Clamped part; 15, Protrusion; 20, Pump; 20a, Nozzle; 21, Odor sensor; 22, Information processing device; 30, Internal flow path; 30a, Valve; 40, Recovery part; 100, Halitosis measurement system; G, Gap; M, Oral cavity; M1, Part 1; M2, Part 2; P, Subject.

Claims

1. An oral implant for installation in the oral cavity of a patient, wherein, The dental implant includes: A partition that divides the oral cavity into the portion where the subject of halitosis measurement is located and the portion that communicates with the subject's pharynx; A gap-forming portion, which is connected to the partition portion and forms a gap therebetween with the object being measured; and The exhaust tube discharges the gas that has come into contact with the object being measured from the gap to the outside of the oral cavity. The void forming portion is provided with: The recess, which forms the aforementioned gap; and The groove introduces gas from the oral cavity into the gap.

2. The dental implant according to claim 1, wherein, The gap-forming part enters between the measuring object and the part of the oral cavity that abuts against the measuring object, forming the gap.

3. An oral implant for installation in the oral cavity of a patient, wherein, The dental implant includes: A partition that divides the oral cavity into a portion where the subject of halitosis measurement resides and a portion communicating with the subject's pharynx; and A gap-forming section is connected to the partition section and forms a gap between it and the measuring object. The gap-forming part is configured to seal the gap when removed from the oral cavity.

4. The dental implant according to claim 3, wherein, The gap forming portion is provided with a recess for forming the gap.

5. The dental implant according to claim 3, wherein, The dental implant includes: An exhaust tube that discharges gas in contact with the object being measured from the gap to the outside of the oral cavity; and An internal flow path, which opens relative to the object being measured, forms the gap and communicates with the discharge pipe.

6. The dental implant according to claim 5, wherein, The dental implant is made of elastic components. The internal flow path is designed to remain unobstructed when the subject bites into it.

7. The dental implant according to claim 1 or 3, wherein, The measurement object includes at least one of the outer and inner sides of the subject's dentition and gingiva.

8. The dental implant according to claim 7, wherein, The measurement object includes the boundary between the dentition and the gingiva.

9. A halitosis measurement system, wherein, This halitosis measurement system includes: The oral implant as described in claim 1 or 3; and An odor sensor that detects odor substances that constitute halitosis based on the gas that comes into contact with the object being measured in the oral cavity mount.

10. The halitosis measurement system according to claim 9, wherein, The halitosis measurement system includes a pump that draws gas from the oral cavity mount into contact with the object being measured and delivers it to the odor sensor.

11. The halitosis measurement system according to claim 9, wherein, The odor sensor is located inside the oral cavity mount.

12. The halitosis measurement system according to claim 10, wherein, The pump and the odor sensor are located inside the oral cavity mount.

13. The halitosis measurement system according to claim 10, wherein, The pump and the odor sensor are located outside the oral cavity.

14. A halitosis measurement system, wherein, This halitosis measurement system includes: The oral fitting as described in claim 1 or 3; A pump that draws gas from the oral cavity assembly into contact with the object being measured; A recovery unit that recovers the gas drawn in by the pump; and An odor sensor that detects odor substances that constitute bad breath based on the gas recovered by the recovery unit.

15. The halitosis measurement system according to any one of claims 9 to 14, wherein, The halitosis measurement system includes an information generation unit that generates suggested information for the subject based on odor substances detected by the odor sensor.

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