Toothpaste dispenser, combination of the dispenser and a cleaning tooth U-shaped mouthpiece, system comprising a storage station with the dispenser and a tooth cleaner, use of the dispenser and method using the dispenser

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dentifrice dispenser for dispensing dentifrice onto a J- or U-shaped oral piece configured to simultaneously surround and clean a plurality of tooth positions with the dispensed dentifrice and with cleaning elements disposed on or in the oral piece. The dispenser includes a dispenser duct work having an inlet and a collection channel. The collection channel includes a plurality of outlet openings configured for dispensing dentifrice. The duct work is configured for conveying dentifrice from the inlet to the outlet openings. The outlet openings are distributed along a J- or U-shaped curved configuration and open toward and / or along the curved configuration, the curved configuration matching at least a portion of a dental arch, such that the outlet openings can simultaneously dispense dentifrice along the curved configuration at a plurality of positions corresponding to the plurality of outlet openings.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of J-shaped or U-shaped dental instruments, which simultaneously surround and clean multiple tooth locations using cleaning elements disposed on the dental instrument. Cleaning can be performed by brushing with bristles as the cleaning element. To surround the upper and / or lower tooth locations, the dental instrument (the field to which this invention pertains) defines upper and / or lower grooves having a J-shaped length direction or a corresponding U-shaped length direction. Cleaning elements of the dental instrument can be disposed within the grooves for cleaning the tooth locations.

[0002] These J-shaped or U-shaped dental instruments (the field to which this invention relates) are specifically designed for routine dental care, which requires the application of dental floss to the dental instrument. The dental floss is typically applied as foam from a toothpaste tube or from a container holding liquid dental floss through an opening onto the dental instrument.

[0003] More specifically, the present invention relates to a dental dispensing device for dispensing dental cleaning agent onto a J-shaped or U-shaped dental instrument configured to simultaneously surround and utilize the dispensed dental cleaning agent and to clean multiple tooth locations using cleaning elements disposed on the dental instrument (e.g., in a slot on the dental instrument).

[0004] The dispenser according to the invention can be used, for example, for J-shaped or U-shaped oral pieces known in the applicant’s following earlier patent applications: for example, WO-2018 / 199760, WO-2020 / 017963, and unpublished NL patent applications NL-2025996, NL-2025997 and NL-2025996. Background Technology

[0005] According to the prior art, the dental cleaning agent is dispensed through an outlet opening (e.g., the dental cleaning agent can be a paste dispensed from a toothpaste tube), while the outlet opening and the oral cavity piece move relative to each other to distribute the dental cleaning agent along the J-shaped or U-shaped length of the oral cavity piece.

[0006] According to the present invention and generally: a dental cleaning agent is an agent used with a dental cleaner, such as a toothbrush, for the daily care of teeth, whether present or absent. Dental cleaning agents are typically supplied in the form of paste, powder, gel, liquid, or foam. According to the present invention, a tooth position is the position of a tooth in the dentition, wherein the tooth may be present (e.g., in the form of a natural or artificial tooth or a partially natural and partially artificial tooth) or absent.

[0007] One object of the present invention is to provide an alternative dental detergent dispenser for dispensing dental detergent onto a J-shaped or U-shaped dental instrument configured to simultaneously surround and utilize the dispensed dental detergent and to clean multiple tooth locations using cleaning elements disposed on the dental instrument. Another object of the present invention is to provide a dental detergent dispenser that is easy to use and separate from the dental instrument. Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a dental detergent dispenser that provides good dental detergent distribution on the dental instrument.

[0008] Regarding U-shaped oral devices, according to US-2013 / 0260332, an oral device is known to provide a network of tubes or conduits through which a pressurized cleaning solution spray is directed to a target location in the user's mouth. This network of tubes or conduits is incorporated into the oral device and permanently attached / secured to it by clamping the network between the inner and outer layers of the oral device. US-2019 / 0000559 discloses a similar oral device called an oral insert for providing personalized oral rinsing. Fluid openings integrated into the oral device are positioned based on the individual oral cavity or dental structure of the user's teeth to provide a customized fluid flow through the user's teeth. The fluid supply and fluid openings integrated into the oral device are incompatible with oral devices configured for brushing teeth because integrating the brushing element and fluid supply into a single oral device increases the size of the oral device, while the available space in the mouth for the oral device is limited. Therefore, US-2019 / 0000559 provides a first oral component for flossing via fluid and a second oral component for brushing. Summary of the Invention

[0009] C1: One or more of the above objectives are achieved according to a first aspect of the invention by providing a dental cleaner dispenser for dispensing dental cleaner onto a J-shaped or U-shaped oral cavity, the J-shaped or U-shaped oral cavity being configured to simultaneously surround and utilize the dispensed dental cleaner and clean a plurality of tooth locations with cleaning elements disposed on the oral cavity.

[0010] The distributor includes a distributor pipework component with an inlet and a collection channel;

[0011] The collection channel includes multiple outlet openings configured for dispensing dental cleaning agents;

[0012] The distributor piping is configured to deliver dental cleaning agent from the inlet to multiple outlet openings;

[0013] The outlet openings are distributed along a J-shaped or U-shaped curved configuration and open toward and / or along the curved configuration, which matches at least a portion of a dental arch including molars, premolars, canines, and incisors (which may include one or two lateral incisors and two central incisors), such that the outlet openings can simultaneously dispense dental cleaning agent at multiple locations along the curved configuration (and therefore along the oral cavity), with multiple locations corresponding to multiple outlet openings; and

[0014] The dispenser is configured to allow the dental piece to be removed from the collection channel after the dental cleaning agent has been dispensed onto it.

[0015] The collection channel according to the invention is a separate collection channel, that is, a collection channel partially separate from the oral cavity component. On one hand, there is the oral cavity component, and on the other hand, there is the collection channel with multiple outlet openings; therefore, they are separate components. In other words, the collection channel and its outlet openings are not integrated into the oral cavity component. Dental cleaning agent is dispensed onto the oral cavity component, which is outside the user's mouth. The oral cavity component is then removed from the collection channel, allowing the oral cavity component (without the collection channel) to be inserted into the user's mouth for cleaning of the teeth with the aid of dental cleaning agent.

[0016] According to another embodiment, the cleaning element may be disposed in a slot in the oral cavity. The cleaning element may include, for example, one or more bristles, bristle tufts, a friction pad, and a liquid nozzle for spraying or atomizing liquid (such as water or cleaning fluid) onto the tooth location (e.g., teeth and / or gums missing one or more teeth).

[0017] The cleaning agent delivered from the inlet of the distributor pipe fitting to the multiple outlets of the distributor pipe fitting can be pressurized to facilitate its delivery from the inlet of the distributor pipe fitting to the multiple outlets of the distributor pipe fitting.

[0018] The J-shape or U-shape of the dental component corresponds to at least a portion of the user's dental arch.

[0019] Dispensing agent is delivered at multiple locations along the oral cavity piece by distributing multiple outlet openings of individual collection channels along a J-shaped or corresponding U-shaped curved configuration that matches the J-shape or corresponding U-shape of the oral cavity piece; or in other words, by distributing multiple outlet openings of individual collection channels along a J-shaped or corresponding U-shaped curved configuration that matches at least a portion of the user's dental arch. No relative movement of the outlets relative to the oral cavity piece is required during dispensing. During dispensing, they can remain immobile relative to each other. The distribution of the outlets along the curved configuration is essentially a predetermined distribution that ensures sufficient dispensing agent is provided to all portions of the oral cavity piece, so that all teeth surrounded by the oral cavity piece are effectively treated with dispensing agent during cleaning.

[0020] C2-3: According to another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the outlet openings are arranged on opposite sides of the plane defined by the curved configuration. In a dental component having an upper slot for treating the upper dental arch and a lower slot for treating the lower dental arch, this configuration allows both slots to provide dental cleaning agent simultaneously at one time. According to another embodiment of this embodiment, a first set of outlet openings may be arranged on one side of the plane and a second set of outlets may be arranged on the other side of the plane, and transverse to the plane, with the first and second sets being spaced apart from each other. According to yet another embodiment of this embodiment, the outlet openings are arranged in mirror pairs relative to the plane defined by the curved configuration.

[0021] C4: According to yet another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the curved configuration is U-shaped. This embodiment allows for the efficient distribution of dental cleaning agents, particularly onto the U-shaped dental prosthesis.

[0022] Specifically regarding U-shaped dental components, it should be noted that the size of the dental arch can vary among users. Not only does age (e.g., child, early adolescence, middle adolescence, late adolescence, young adult, adult) play a role, but there are also individual differences. One of these varying dimensions is the width of the dental arch, i.e., the (horizontal) distance between the (vertical) legs of the U. Another varying dimension (which depends particularly on the stage of tooth development) is the length of the dental arch as viewed along the U-shape. For example, starting from approximately middle adolescence, the size of the dental arch (especially the width of the U-shape) can be categorized as small, medium, and large, but more refined subdivisions are possible and can include some or all age groups. Therefore, the dimensions of dental components, such as width and length, can also vary.

[0023] C5: In order to be usable for U-shaped oral fittings of different sizes, according to another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the collection channel of the dispenser having a U-shaped curved configuration is configured as follows:

[0024] - To adapt the U-shaped curved configuration to the U-shaped oral cavity component, more specifically, the dimensions of the oral cavity component, such as width and / or length.

[0025] and / or

[0026] - To adapt the U-shaped oral cavity component to a U-shaped curved configuration.

[0027] The U-shaped bend configuration is a U-shaped bend configuration with multiple outlet openings distributed along it.

[0028] C6: According to another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, adapting the U-shaped curved configuration to a U-shaped oral cavity can be accomplished by adjusting the mutual positioning of a plurality of outlet openings so that the U-shaped curved configuration (along which the outlet openings are arranged) conforms to the (dimensions) of the U-shaped oral cavity. Adjustment of the mutual positioning of the plurality of outlet openings allows for adjustment taking into account variations in the width of the oral cavity, variations in the length of the oral cavity, or variations in both the width and length of the oral cavity. For example, this can be achieved using one or more sensors configured to sense the dimensions of the oral cavity (e.g., width and / or length) and connected to a controller that controls one or more actuators to adjust the mutual positioning of the plurality of outlet openings corresponding to the sensed dimensions. These one or more sensors can be configured to sense actual dimensions, or can be configured to sense (e.g., read) markings (such as physical markings, e.g., barcodes, QR codes, colors, or color codes) set on the oral cavity; or to read chips, such as RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) or PCBs (Printed Circuit Boards), that represent the dimensions of the oral cavity.

[0029] C7: In addition to adapting the U-shaped curved configuration to the U-shaped oral cavity, or as an alternative to adapting the U-shaped curved configuration to the U-shaped oral cavity, the collection channel can be configured to adjust the U-shaped oral cavity relative to the U-shaped curved configuration along which the outlet opening is arranged. When the oral cavity is a U-shaped oral cavity having two legs connected by a central portion, this can be accomplished, for example, when the collection channel includes a W-shaped receiving platform having two adjacent receiving seats separated by a central member, wherein the platform is configured to receive the legs of the U-shaped oral cavity in the receiving seats when the legs of the oral cavity are inserted into the receiving seats in the insertion direction, wherein each receiving seat has an outer side wall and an inner side wall, the inner side wall being defined by the central member, wherein the central member widens in the insertion direction, and wherein the outer side walls taper relative to each other in the insertion direction. When the legs of the oral cavity are inserted into the receiving seats, the central portion of the oral cavity is considered to bridge the central member of the platform. The U-shaped curved configuration along which the outlet opening is arranged can have a fixed or adjustable configuration relative to the W-shaped platform in this embodiment. The dimensions of the W-shaped receiving stage, more specifically the dimensions of the receiving seat and the central member, can be predefined according to another embodiment and can be selected, for example, such that the oral cavity with a predefined average width dimension will not deform when its legs are pushed into the receiving seat. The free ends of the legs of the oral cavity with the predefined average width dimension will fit snugly in the receiving seat without any spacing transverse to the length direction of the legs. When received in the receiving seat, the central member can, for example, but not necessarily, fit snugly in the space defined by the legs of the U-shaped oral cavity with a predetermined average width. When an oral cavity with a width smaller than the predefined average width is inserted into the receiving stage, the widening of the central member ensures that the legs of the smaller-width oral cavity are separated to conform to the width of the predefined average width oral cavity. When an oral cavity with a width greater than the predefined average width is inserted into the receiving stage, the taper of the outer walls relative to each other ensures that the legs of the larger-width oral cavity are considered to be squeezed together to conform to the width of the predefined average width oral cavity.

[0030] C8: According to another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the dispenser further includes a dental cleaning agent container and a supply section for dental cleaning agent, the supply section connecting the dental cleaning agent container to an inlet and being configured to deliver dental cleaning agent from the dental cleaning agent container to the inlet.

[0031] C9-10: According to another embodiment of the dispenser including a dental cleaning agent container, the dispenser according to the first aspect of the invention may further include an actuation mechanism configured to control the delivery of dental cleaning agent from the container to the inlet via a supply section. The actuation mechanism may include a release mechanism and a control button connected to or associated with the release mechanism. If the container is pre-pressurized, the release mechanism may be a valve arranged in the supply section that opens when the control button is actuated to allow pressurized dental cleaning agent to be delivered to the inlet. If the container is not pre-pressurized, the actuation mechanism may also be configured to pressurize dental cleaning agent to be delivered or conveyed through a conduit. For this purpose, the release mechanism may, for example, be configured to pressurize at least a portion of the dental cleaning agent to deliver it from the container to the inlet. The dental cleaning agent may be pressurized, for example, by an electrically driven pump that starts when the control button is actuated, or by a mechanically driven pump that is driven by the movement of the control button when the control button is pressed to move a certain distance. In the case of an electric pump, the control button may, for example, be a sensor or an electrical switch. In the case of a mechanically driven pump operated via a movement control button, a device conceivable for use in various foam and liquid dispensers for dispensing, for example, soap. The pump, such as the aforementioned electrically driven pump, mechanically driven pump, or any other pump, can be part of the supply unit. Regarding the pump, it should be noted that when configured to operate in a pipe or conduit, it will have a suction side and a pressure side, with the suction side on one side of the container and the pressure side on the working part of the conduit. Furthermore, it should be noted that pressurization can also be achieved by increasing the pressure in the dental detergent container, for example, by an electrically driven or mechanically driven pump.

[0032] C11: According to yet another embodiment of the dispenser including a dental cleaning agent container, the container is a replaceable dental cleaning agent cartridge. This allows an empty container to be replaced with a new container filled with dental cleaning agent.

[0033] C12: According to yet another embodiment of a dispenser including a toothpaste container, the container contains toothpaste.

[0034] C13: According to yet another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the dental cleaning agent may contain one or more of the following:

[0035] - Fluorides;

[0036] -0.1 g to 0.15 g, for example 0.1125 g to 0.1375 g or about 0.125 g of abrasive, wherein the abrasive may contain one or more of aluminum hydroxide, dicalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, silica and hydroxyapatite, or a combination of one or more of these;

[0037] -15% to 80% by weight, for example, 20% to 40% by weight or 45% to 70% by weight of water.

[0038] C14-16: According to yet another embodiment of a dispenser including a dental floss container, the container is sized to hold multiple doses of dental floss (e.g., 20 to 150 doses), and wherein an actuation mechanism is configured to deliver a predetermined dose of dental floss upon actuation. In another embodiment of this embodiment according to the first aspect of the invention, a dose of dental floss may contain 0.2 mg to 1.25 mg of fluoride, for example, 0.20 mg to 0.40 mg of fluoride or 0.25 mg to 0.375 mg of fluoride, for example, about 0.335 mg to 0.34 mg of fluoride. The container may, for example, be sized to hold multiple doses, sufficient for one person for a week, a month, three months, or even a year. According to yet another embodiment, the container may be configured to dispense a predetermined dose or a dose determined by a controller based on input received from a sensor or user interface.

[0039] C17: According to yet another embodiment of the dispenser containing a fluoride-containing dental cleaning agent, according to a first aspect of the invention, the fluoride may include one or more of sodium fluoride, stannous fluoride, and monofluorophosphate, or a combination of one or more of these.

[0040] C18: According to yet another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the dispenser may further include a dose adjuster configured to adjust the dose of the dental cleaning agent to be dispensed. This may, for example, allow the dose to be adjusted taking into account the size of the dental piece. Smaller dental pieces may require a smaller dose compared to larger ones.

[0041] C19: According to yet another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the dispenser may further include an indicator and at least one status sensor configured to sense the fill level of the container and / or the usage level of the oral cavity piece; wherein the indicator is connected to the status sensor and configured to generate an indication signal representing the level sensed by the sensor or an indication signal indicating a time when the level sensed by the sensor is below or correspondingly above a predetermined value. The sensor for sensing the fill level and the associated indicator may notify the user when the oral cavity piece is empty or nearly empty. The sensor for sensing the usage level and the associated indicator may notify the user when the oral cavity piece is empty or becomes too old to be used further.

[0042] C20: According to a second aspect of the invention, the invention provides an assembly comprising a dispenser according to a first aspect of the invention and a J-shaped or U-shaped oral cavity member configured to simultaneously surround and utilize dental cleaning agent dispensed by the dispenser and to clean a plurality of tooth locations using cleaning elements disposed on the oral cavity member. To surround the plurality of tooth locations, the oral cavity member may include one or more slots in which cleaning elements are disposed. The cleaning elements may, for example, include one or more bristles, bristle tufts, friction pads, and liquid nozzles for spraying or atomizing liquids (such as water or cleaning fluid) onto the teeth.

[0043] C21: According to a third aspect of the present invention, the present invention provides a system comprising:

[0044] - A dental cleaner, comprising the J-shaped or U-shaped oral cavity element, the J-shaped or U-shaped oral cavity element being configured to simultaneously surround and clean multiple tooth locations using cleaning elements disposed on or within the oral cavity element, and

[0045] - A storage station for storing J-shaped or U-shaped dental instruments not used for cleaning teeth.

[0046] The storage stations include:

[0047] - Dispenser according to the first aspect of the invention, and

[0048] - Holder;

[0049] The retainer is configured to i) hold the J-shaped or U-shaped oral cavity piece in a storage position such that the oral cavity piece is aligned in the storage position along the J-shaped or U-shaped curved configuration such that the dental cleaning agent dispensed through the outlet opening of the dispenser will engage the oral cavity piece at a position distributed along the curved configuration, and ii) allow the oral cavity piece to be removed from the retainer after the dental cleaning agent has been dispensed onto the oral cavity piece.

[0050] Such a system allows the user to place the U-shaped / J-shaped mouthpiece in the retainer while applying dental cleaning solution. Therefore, the user does not need to use their hands to hold the mouthpiece in the correct position relative to the multiple outlets; this is done by the retainer. This not only makes it easier to use but also ensures that the mouthpiece is always in the correct position relative to the collection channel (outlet openings) when dental cleaning solution is dispensed. Furthermore, such a system allows the U-shaped / J-shaped mouthpiece to be stored in the retainer after use, stored in the retainer when not in use, and dispensed precisely before being removed from the collection channel / retainer and subsequently inserted into the user's mouth for cleaning multiple tooth positions.

[0051] According to another embodiment, the retainer can be configured such that when the oral piece is in the storage position, the collection channel engages the oral piece (e.g., the bristles of the oral piece), or alternatively, the collection channel is spaced apart from the oral piece (to avoid direct contact between the collection channel and the oral piece) and its outlet opening points toward the surface of the oral piece configured to surround the tooth position.

[0052] C22: According to another embodiment of the third aspect of the invention, the dental cleaner further includes a handle on which an oral component is mounted, and wherein a retainer is a handle retainer configured to receive the handle such that the oral component mounted on the handle is held in a storage position. This allows the dental cleaner to be stored in a storage station along with its handle while mounted on it.

[0053] C23: According to yet another embodiment of the third aspect of the invention, the dental cleaner includes a rechargeable battery, and a storage station includes a battery charger configured to make charging contact with the battery when the oral cavity is in the storage position. This allows the battery of the dental cleaner to be charged while the oral cavity is in the storage position. This ensures that the battery is always charged when the user needs the oral cavity to clean their teeth.

[0054] C24: According to yet another embodiment of the third aspect of the invention, the storage station further includes a cleaning device configured to clean the oralpiece when it is in the storage position. The user can then store the oralpiece in the storage station after use without thoroughly cleaning it, and the oralpiece will be cleaned by the storage station to make it clean for future use. After use, the user can rinse their oralpiece under a tap without worrying about thorough cleaning. It is also conceivable that the user does not need to rinse their oralpiece under a tap, and the oralpiece can be placed directly in the storage station after use. Such a cleaning device can, for example, be configured to treat the oralpiece using liquid and / or gas jets, and / or to purify the oralpiece. Purification of the oralpiece can, for example, include sterilization of the oralpiece, and / or disinfection of the oralpiece, and / or antibacterial treatment of the oralpiece. Purification can, for example, utilize UV ​​radiation.

[0055] C25: According to yet another embodiment of the system having the cleaning device, the cleaning device according to a third aspect of the invention may include:

[0056] - A reservoir for cleaning fluid, the outlet opening of the dispenser is arranged in the reservoir, and the reservoir is configured to receive the oral cavity piece in a storage position; and

[0057] -A cleaning fluid supply section used to supply cleaning fluid to the reservoir;

[0058] The cleaning device is configured to clean the oral cavity using cleaning fluid supplied to the reservoir.

[0059] A dental prosthesis can be inserted into a reservoir for cleaning. The reservoir may, for example, have an opening on the top side allowing insertion of the dental prosthesis, but it is also conceivable to have a reservoir with a closable or sealable inlet for insertion and removal of the dental prosthesis from the reservoir, which closes and optionally seals during the cleaning process. During the cleaning process, the reservoir may, for example, be filled with a bath of cleaning fluid and / or the reservoir may serve as a housing to prevent spillage of the cleaning fluid, which may be injected, for example, by pressure, such as in the form of one or more jets. The cleaning fluid may be tap water, and in one example, the cleaning fluid supply includes a hose that can be attached to a faucet. The cleaning fluid can be discharged from the reservoir by emptying it into a pool. According to another embodiment, a drain pipe may be attached to the reservoir and in fluid communication with the internal space of the reservoir. Such a drain pipe may, for example, include a drain end that freely discharges into a pool.

[0060] According to another embodiment of the system with a cleaning device, and according to a third aspect of the invention, the cleaning fluid supply unit may include a distributor conduit or at least a portion thereof for supplying cleaning fluid to a reservoir through an outlet opening. When the distributor conduit is used to supply cleaning fluid to the reservoir, the distributor conduit is also cleaned by the cleaning fluid passing through it. However, it is also conceivable that the cleaning fluid supply unit alternatively or additionally includes a cleaning fluid conduit separate from the distributor conduit, having its own opening to an outlet in the reservoir (i.e., an outlet distinct from multiple outlet openings).

[0061] C26-27: According to another embodiment of the system having the cleaning device with a reservoir, and according to another embodiment of the third aspect of the invention, the cleaning device may further include a reservoir containing cleaning fluid, the reservoir being operatively connected to or operable to a liquid supply unit for conveying cleaning fluid from the reservoir to the reservoir. According to another embodiment of this embodiment, the reservoir may be a replaceable cleaning cartridge. According to yet another embodiment of this invention, a drain pipe in the form of a return pipe may connect the reservoir and the reservoir for discharging cleaning fluid from the reservoir back into the reservoir. For such an embodiment with a return pipe, according to another embodiment, the reservoir may be provided with a screen to remove dirt particles from the cleaning fluid returned to the reservoir.

[0062] C28-29: In order to subject the oral cavity element in the reservoir to a mechanical cleaning action that helps remove dirt particles and debris from the oral cavity element, according to another embodiment of the third aspect of the invention, the liquid supply unit may be configured to introduce pressurized jets of one or more cleaning liquids into the reservoir, the jets being directed onto the oral cavity element. When the dental cleaner is provided with a drive system configured to reciprocate a cleaning element, such as bristles, when the oral cavity element is in the storage position in the reservoir in contact with the cleaning liquid, the cleaning device may alternatively or additionally be configured to contact the oral cavity element in the reservoir with the cleaning liquid and operate the drive system to reciprocate the cleaning element.

[0063] C30: According to yet another embodiment of the third aspect of the invention, the system may further include a dose regulator configured to adjust the dose of the dental cleaning agent to be dispensed in response to a user action or in response to the oral cavity piece disposed in a storage location. This may, for example, allow the dose to be adjusted taking into account the size of the oral cavity piece. Smaller oral cavity pieces may require a smaller dose compared to larger ones.

[0064] C31: According to a fourth aspect of the invention, the invention provides the use of a dispenser according to the first aspect of the invention or the use of a system according to the third aspect of the invention for simultaneously applying dental cleaning agent to multiple locations of a J-shaped or U-shaped dental piece before inserting the dental piece into a user's mouth, the dental piece being configured to simultaneously surround and treat a plurality of tooth locations. A collection channel is a separate component from the dental piece, such that after dental cleaning agent has been dispensed onto the dental piece, while the dental piece is outside the user's mouth, the dental piece can be removed from the collection channel and subsequently inserted into the user's mouth.

[0065] C32: According to a fifth aspect of the invention, the invention provides a method for applying dental cleaning agent to a J-shaped or U-shaped oral cavity piece configured to simultaneously surround and treat a plurality of tooth locations, wherein the method uses a dispenser according to a first aspect of the invention or a system according to a third aspect of the invention to simultaneously apply dental cleaning agent to multiple locations on the oral cavity piece. A collection channel is a separate component from the oral cavity piece, such that after dental cleaning agent has been dispensed onto the oral cavity piece, when the oral cavity piece is outside the user's mouth, the oral cavity piece can be removed from the collection channel and subsequently inserted into the user's mouth. Attached Figure Description

[0066] The invention will be further explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. In these drawings:

[0067] Figure 1A and Figure 1B The dental arch is shown schematically. Figure 1AThe teeth of the lower and upper dental arches are shown in a plan view. Figure 1B An example of an upper dental arch with tooth positions is shown.

[0068] Figure 2 An example of a U-shaped oral cavity component is shown in a three-dimensional view.

[0069] Figure 3 An example of a J-shaped oral cavity component is shown in a three-dimensional view.

[0070] Figure 4 A first embodiment of the dental cleaner dispenser according to the invention is shown very schematically and in perspective view.

[0071] Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C A second embodiment of the dental cleaner dispenser according to the invention is shown very schematically and in perspective view. Figure 5A The toothpaste dispenser itself is shown very schematically. Figure 5B The diagram schematically illustrates the arrangement of the outlet openings on opposite sides of the plane defined by the curved configuration, and... Figure 5C It is shown in a very illustrative way. Figure 5A Dental cleaning agent dispenser and U-shaped oral cavity component.

[0072] Figures 6 to 10 Examples of possible configurations for multiple outlets and configurations for collection channels and collection channel sections are shown in a very schematic manner.

[0073] Figure 11 A third embodiment of the dental cleaner dispenser according to the invention is shown schematically and in perspective view.

[0074] Figure 12 A fourth embodiment of the dental cleaner dispenser according to the invention is shown very schematically and in a side view.

[0075] Figure 13 A first embodiment of the system according to the invention is shown very schematically and in a side view.

[0076] Figure 14 A second embodiment of the system according to the invention is shown very schematically and in a side view.

[0077] Figure 15 A second embodiment of the system according to the invention is shown very schematically and in a side view.

[0078] Figure 16A , Figure 16B and Figure 16CA highly schematic illustration shows one embodiment where the collection channel allows a U-shaped curved configuration to be adapted to a U-shaped oral cavity component; Figure 16A A top view is shown. Figure 16B The initial state before adjustment is shown in cross-section, and Figure 16C With Figure 16B The cross-section is similar to the cross-section shown, indicating the conditioned state after adjustment.

[0079] Figure 17A , Figure 17B , Figure 17C and Figure 17D The illustration schematically shows one embodiment where the collection channel allows the U-shaped oral cavity element to be adapted to a U-shaped curved configuration. Figure 17A The collection channel is shown in top view. Figure 17B The following is illustrated in the case of small oral cavity components. Figure 17A The same diagram, Figure 17C The following is illustrated in the case of the oral cavity component. Figure 17A The same diagram, and Figure 17D The case of large oral cavity components is shown. Figure 17A Same diagram.

[0080] Figure 18A and Figure 18B It is shown in a very illustrative way. Figure 17A , Figure 17B , Figure 17C and Figure 17D Another implementation scheme for the collection channel, Figure 18A The collection channel is shown in top view, and Figure 18B Instructions Figure 18A The direction of the outlet opening is shown in the figure. Detailed Implementation

[0081] Figure 1A The upper dental arch 1 and lower dental arch 2 are shown schematically in plan view. Each arch typically has 16 tooth positions, where the teeth are named according to a nomenclature known to each dentist. Using this nomenclature, Figure 1A It is shown that:

[0082] The upper right third molar 3U and the lower right third molar 3L are also known as wisdom teeth;

[0083] The upper right second molar 4U and the lower right second molar 4L;

[0084] The upper right first molar 5U and the lower right first molar 5L;

[0085] Upper right second premolar 6U and lower right second premolar 6L;

[0086] The upper right first premolar 7U and the lower right first premolar 7L;

[0087] Upper right canine 8U and lower right canine 8L;

[0088] Upper right incisor 9U and lower right incisor 9L;

[0089] Upper right central incisor 10U and lower right central incisor 10L;

[0090] Left upper central incisor 11U and left lower central incisor 11L;

[0091] Left upper incisor 12U and left lower incisor 12L;

[0092] Upper left canine 13U and lower left canine 13L;

[0093] Left upper first premolar 14U and left lower first premolar 14L;

[0094] Left upper second premolar 15U and left lower second premolar 15L;

[0095] Left upper first molar 16U and left lower first molar 16L;

[0096] Left upper second molar 17U and left lower second molar 17L; and

[0097] The upper left third molar 18U and the lower left third molar 18L are also known as wisdom teeth.

[0098] Furthermore, according to commonly used nomenclature, canines 8U, 8L, 13U, 13L, lateral incisors 9U, 9L, 12U, 12L, and central incisors 10U, 10L, 11U, 11L are referred to as anterior teeth. Figure 1A The molars 3U, 3L, 4U, 4L, 5U, 5L, 16U, 16L, 17U, 17L, 18U, 18L and the premolars 6U, 6L, 7U, 7L, 14U, 14L, 15U, 15L are referred to as posterior teeth. Figure 1A It is shown in white.

[0099] Figure 1B A portion of the upper dental arch 1 with tooth positions 4 to 16 is shown schematically in a three-dimensional view. Each tooth position is indicated by a vertical dashed line. Each tooth position typically includes the corresponding tooth named according to the nomenclature listed above. Tooth position 7 is, for example, the position of the right maxillary first premolar 7U. Figure 1B The position of the upper left second molar is not shown, nor are the positions of the wisdom tooth, upper right third molar, and upper left third molar.

[0100] Figure 1BA system of three mutually orthogonal axes, including the x-axis (X), y-axis (Y), and z-axis (Z), is also shown. The z-axis (Z) is a curved axis along the contours of dental arches 1 and 2. The x-axis (X) and y-axis (Y) are perpendicular to each other and define an xy-plane, which is substantially flat and perpendicular to dental arches 1 and 2, i.e., each xy-plane intersecting the z-axis at a point perpendicular to the curved z-axis (Z). The z-axis (Z) defines the length direction of the curve. The z-axis (Z) and y-axis (Y) define a curved zy-plane, which, when viewed along the z-axis, has an arc shape similar to the shape of a dental arch. Furthermore, the z-axis (Z) and x-axis (X) define a zx-plane, and the x-axis (X) and y-axis (Y) define an xy-plane.

[0101] Referring to the terms "J-shaped or U-shaped length direction" and "U-shaped section" as used in this document, "J-shaped or U-shaped length direction" is related to... Figure 1B The Z-axis correlation of the U-shaped section and the "U-shaped cross-section" Figure 1B It is related to the xy plane.

[0102] Figure 2 A perspective view illustrating an example of a U-shaped oral cavity member 20 according to the present invention.

[0103] Figure 2 The dental component 20 has an upper portion 21 for processing the upper dental arch 1 and a lower portion 23 for processing the lower dental arch 2. The upper portion 21 has an upper groove system 22, which has substantially parallel to... Figure 1B The upper groove system 22, with its curved length axis Z, is configured to simultaneously surround multiple tooth positions (or teeth) of the upper dental arch 1. The lower part 23 has a lower groove system 24, which also has a U-shaped curved length axis Z. Figure 1B The U-shaped curved length axis of the z-axis. This lower groove system 24 with the curved length axis is configured to simultaneously surround multiple tooth positions (or teeth) of the lower dental arch 2. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the lower slot system 21 and the upper slot system 23 can each form a continuous slot. However, each slot system may also include multiple slot segments aligned along the bending length axis of the slot system to provide a discontinuous slot system.

[0104] Each of the slot systems 21 and 23 is provided with a brushing element 25. According to the invention, these brushing elements can be of any type suitable for brushing teeth. For example... Figure 2 As shown, these brushing elements are bristles arranged in clusters 25 protruding from the wall of the trough into the trough. Furthermore, other brushing elements, such as ribs or textured surface structures, are fully contemplated within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims. However, it should be noted that brushing elements may also be absent.

[0105] Figure 2The present invention illustrates a so-called U-shaped full oral cavity piece 20. However, the oral cavity piece can also be a so-called U-shaped half oral cavity piece (not shown). In the U-shaped half oral cavity piece, the upper part 21 (or lower part 23) of the oral cavity piece 20 is missing, and the remaining part can be used to subsequently process the upper and lower dental arches by removing the oral cavity piece from the mouth after one of the dental arches has been processed, rotating it about a horizontal axis, and then inserting it back into the mouth to process the other dental arch.

[0106] Figure 3 The invention illustrates a J-shaped oral cavity component 30. This J-shaped oral cavity component 30 is related to... Figure 2 The U-shaped oral cavity component 20 is basically the same, except that it is J-shaped instead of U-shaped. The J-shaped oral cavity component has an upper part 31 with an upper groove system 32 and a lower part 33 with a lower groove system 34. Similar to... Figure 2 Similarly, both tank systems 32 and 34 are equipped with a scrubbing element 25. Figure 2 Similarly, these brushing components may not exist.

[0107] The J-shaped dental instrument shown is a so-called J-shaped full dental instrument, which can simultaneously treat all tooth positions on the right side of the user's upper and lower dental arches or on the left side of the user's upper and lower dental arches. After one side (right or left) has been completed, the user removes the dental instrument from their mouth and rotates it 180 degrees around the central axis 19 (see also...). Figure 1A ), and put the oral piece back into the mouth for the other side (left or right).

[0108] For cleaning action, a drive system (not shown) is provided. This drive system is configured to reciprocate the brushing elements or walls of the upper and lower groove systems. Where brushing elements are already disposed on the walls of the upper and lower groove systems, these brushing elements will also reciprocate when the walls of the groove systems are reciprocated. The drive system can be of any type known in the prior art. The drive system may, for example, include one or more pressure chambers arranged in or within the upper 21, 31 and lower 23, 33 of the oral cavity 20 or corresponding 30, said pressure chambers alternately pressurizing and depressurizing. Such drive systems have been described in detail in the applicant's earlier applications, such as WO-2018 / 199760, WO-2020 / 017963, and the unpublished Dutch patent applications NL-2025996, NL-2025997, and NL-2025996. Furthermore, other drive systems known in the prior art related to U-shaped and J-shaped toothbrushes can be used.

[0109] According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a method for dispensing dental cleaning agents into a U-shaped oral cavity, such as... Figure 2 Oral components 20 or J-shaped oral components, such as Figure 3 The dental cleaning agent dispenser on the oral cavity component 30.

[0110] Figure 4 A first embodiment of a dental spray dispenser 40 according to the present invention is shown schematically. The dental spray dispenser 40 includes an inlet 41 and a U-shaped collection channel 43 (in... Figure 4 The distributor pipe components 41, 42, and 43 (shown in gray) are shown in gray. The collection channel 43 includes multiple outlet openings 44. The multiple outlet openings 44 can be any number of outlet openings, from two or three outlet openings 44 to many outlet openings, such as twenty-five or even more. Figure 4 In the example, nine outlet openings 44 are shown. These outlet openings are configured for dispensing dental cleaning agent, as schematically shown with 45. Dispenser piping components may optionally be included in an intermediate pipe 42 between the inlet 41 and the collection channel 43. Dispenser piping components 41, 42, and 43 are configured to deliver dental cleaning agent from the inlet 41 to the multiple outlet openings 44. The outlet openings 44 are arranged along a U-shaped bend configuration 46 and open toward the bend configuration 46. Due to their distribution along the U-shaped bend configuration 46 and opening toward the bend configuration 46, the outlet openings 44 can simultaneously dispense dental cleaning agent at multiple locations along the bend configuration 46. In this way, the user only needs to place their oral cavity along the collection channel, and once the dental cleaning agent is supplied to the inlet 41 as indicated by arrow 47, the upper or lower slot system can provide dental cleaning agent 45 all at once without moving any dispenser outlets along the oral cavity to distribute the dental cleaning agent across the entire oral cavity. In the case of a so-called U-shaped semi-oral cavity, using Figure 4 The toothpaste dispenser 40 dispenses enough in one go. Figure 2 In the case of the so-called U-shaped full-mouth component 20 shown, using Figure 4 The dispenser 40, two dispensing actions will be sufficient. Between dispensing actions, it will be necessary to flip the oral cavity piece 20 and the dental cleaning agent dispenser 40 relative to each other.

[0111] In this embodiment and other embodiments of the dental cleaner dispenser for a U-shaped dental component, the curved configuration at least matches the portion of the dental arch extending from the left (upper or lower) molar to the right (upper or lower) molar. In the dental cleaner dispenser for a U-shaped dental component, the curved configuration may, for example, match the portion of the dental arch extending from the right first molar to the left first molar. In another example, in the dental cleaner dispenser for a U-shaped dental component, the curved configuration may match the portion of the dental arch extending from the right second molar to the left second molar.

[0112] Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5CA second embodiment of the dental cleaning agent dispenser 50 according to the invention is shown schematically. Figure 5A The toothpaste dispenser itself is shown very schematically. Figure 5B The diagram schematically illustrates the arrangement of the outlet openings on opposite sides of the plane defined by the curved configuration, and... Figure 5C It is shown in a very illustrative way as follows Figure 5A The dental cleaning dispenser shown in the figure has a U-shaped oral cavity element (e.g. Figure 2 The oral cavity component 20) is arranged in the collection channel of the dental cleaning agent dispenser.

[0113] use Figure 5A The dental cleaning agent dispenser 50 can dispense dental cleaning agent "in one go" into a so-called U-shaped full-mouth component such as Figure 2 On the oral cavity component 20. For this purpose, it can be said that the collection channel of the oral cavity component 50 has extended a second collection channel portion 49, the second collection channel portion 49 having a plurality of outlet openings 44 distributed along a curved configuration and facing the curved configuration opening. The oral cavity component 50 has a first collection channel portion 43 similar to the oral cavity component 40, the first collection channel portion 43 having a plurality of (e.g., nine) outlet openings 44. The dental cleaning agent supplied (see arrow 47) to the inlet 41 passes through an optional intermediate tube 42 to the first collection channel portion 43. The second collection channel portion 49 is also connected to the inlet 41. Figure 5A As shown, this can be achieved, for example, via an optional intermediate pipe 48, which connects the second manifold portion 49 to the inlet via the first manifold portion 43. However, other methods of providing a fluid connection between the inlet 41 and the second manifold portion 49 are also conceivable. For example, an intermediate pipe 42 can be directly connected to an intermediate pipe 48, or the inlet 42 can be disposed in an intermediate pipe 48 such that the intermediate pipe 48 acts as a diverter, diverting the dental cleaning agent supplied (arrow 47) to the inlet between the second manifold portion 49 and the first manifold portion 43.

[0114] Reference Figure 5B The diagram shows the flow of dental cleaning agent through the outlet opening 44, with arrows indicating the direction of flow. The outlet opening 44 of the second collection channel 49 is positioned above the plane 51 defined by the curved configuration 46, and the outlet opening 44 of the first collection channel 43 is positioned below the plane 51 defined by the curved configuration 46. The outlet opening 44 of the second collection channel 49 opens toward the curved configuration 46, and the outlet opening 44 of the first collection channel 43 also opens toward the curved configuration 46.

[0115] As in Figure 5B As can be seen, the outlet opening 44 is arranged in a mirror pair with respect to the plane 51 defined by the curved configuration 46. This also applies to... Figure 5AThe outlet opening 44 is shown in the figure. The outlet opening 44 is arranged in a mirror pair relative to the plane 51, which is practical for obtaining similar detergent distribution on both sides of a J-shaped full mouth part / U-shaped full mouth part, but the outlet openings can also be arranged in a non-mirror pair or not in a pair at all.

[0116] Figure 5B Only three outlet openings 44 for the second collection channel section 49 and three outlet openings 44 for the first collection channel section 43 are shown. For U-shaped dental components, three outlet openings per collection channel section is approximately the minimum number of outlet openings. Having more outlet openings 44 per collection channel section, such as four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or more outlet openings 44, results in better toothpaste distribution.

[0117] like Figure 5A As shown, the second collection channel portion 49 and the first collection channel portion 43 are arranged at a distance H from each other. To allow the insertion of a dental prosthesis between the second collection channel portion 49 and the first collection channel portion 43, this distance H will be approximately equal to or greater than... Figure 2 The height h of the oral cavity component is shown. A distance H greater than the height h facilitates insertion.

[0118] Figure 5C The oral cavity piece inserted between the second collection channel portion 49 and the first collection channel portion 43 is shown very schematically, for example... Figure 2 The oral cavity component 20. As indicated by reference numeral 52 and slightly grayed out, dental cleaning agent 52 has been applied to the upper oral cavity component 21 and the lower oral cavity component 23. In this example, the dental cleaning agent has been applied to the groove system of the upper oral cavity component 21 and the groove system of the lower oral cavity component 23. The dental cleaning agent may also be located more on the top of the opening side of the groove system. After the dental cleaning agent has been dispensed onto the oral cavity component, the oral cavity component can be withdrawn from the collection channel components 43, 49 in the direction indicated by arrow 53. Other methods of releasing the oral cavity component from the collection channel are also possible, for example, the collection channel component can be withdrawn in the opposite direction to arrow 53, or the collection channel component can be twisted open by rotating one relative to the other, or one of the collection channels can be slid away from the oral cavity component relative to the other, etc.

[0119] If passed Figure 5C As seen in the examples, but also applicable to all other embodiments of the invention, the dental cleaning agent dispensed onto and / or into the dental component is dispensed onto a surface of the dental component configured to surround the location of the tooth to be treated. In this embodiment, the surface is the inner wall surface of a groove, which is U-shaped or J-shaped in the length direction and has at least a partially U-shaped and / or V-shaped cross-section transverse to the length direction of the U-shape / J-shape. (As in...) Figure 5CAs can be seen further, but also applicable to all embodiments of the invention with bristles, the outlet of the collection channel can be configured to dispense dental cleaning agent onto and / or between the bristles disposed in the groove.

[0120] Figures 6 to 10 Examples of possible configurations of multiple outlets and configurations of collection channels and collection channel sections are shown in a very schematic manner.

[0121] Figure 6 A very schematic illustration is shown for J-shaped oral cavity components (e.g.) Figure 3 The collection channel of the dental cleaning agent dispenser 60 (oral component 30). Similar to Figure 4 The dispenser 60's collection channel 63 can be a collection channel including a portion of the collection channel portion on one side of the J-shaped dental component 30 for dispensing dental cleaning agent at once. However, similar to Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 5C The dispenser 60's collection channel 63 can also be the first collection channel 63 of two cooperating collection channel sections used to simultaneously dispense dental cleaning agent on two opposite sides of the J-shaped dental component 30. Figure 6 Only two outlet openings 44 for the collection channel section 63 are shown. For J-shaped dental components, two outlet openings per collection channel section is approximately the minimum number of outlet openings. Having more outlet openings 44 per collection channel section, such as three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or more outlet openings 44 per collection channel section, results in better dispensing agent distribution.

[0122] Figure 7 The diagrams are shown very schematically as i) Figure 4 Dental cleaner dispenser 40 and ii) Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 5C A variant of the dental cleaning agent dispenser 50, a collection channel 43, wherein each collection channel 43 has 11 outlet openings 44.

[0123] Figure 8 It is shown in a very illustrative way. Figure 4 Collection channel 43 or Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 5CThe multiple outlet openings of the collection channels 43, 49 allow for the serial feeding of dental floss. Dental floss 47 supplied to inlet 41 (not shown) is passed into tube 54 (referred to as series tube 54), which has multiple outlets 44', 44"', 44"', the passage dimensions of which increase relative to each other in the direction of dental floss passage through the series tube. Although this variant is shown with respect to a dental floss dispenser for U-shaped dental fittings, it will be apparent that this variant can also be applied to a dental floss dispenser for J-shaped dental fittings.

[0124] Figure 9 It is shown in a very illustrative way. Figure 4 Collection channel 43 or Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 5C The multiple outlet openings of the collection channels 43, 49 allow for parallel feeding of dental cleaning agent. The dental cleaning agent 47 supplied to inlet 41 is transferred to multiple parallel pipes 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, each leading to an outlet 44 of multiple outlets. Although this variant is shown with respect to a dental cleaning agent dispenser for a U-shaped dental prosthesis, it will be apparent that this variant can also be applied to a dental cleaning agent dispenser for a J-shaped dental prosthesis.

[0125] Figure 10 It is shown in a very illustrative way. Figure 4 Collection channel 43 or Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 5C How at least some of the multiple outlet openings of the collection channel sections 43, 49 can open along the curved configuration 46. Figure 10 In the diagram, arrow 47 indicates that the dental cleaning agent is supplied to inlet 41, and lines 45 and 57 indicate the direction in which the dispensed dental cleaning agent is distributed on and within the oral cavity 20. Arrow 55 indicates that the dental cleaning agent is dispensed through outlet 44, which opens in the direction of the curved configuration 46 (not shown). In this example, outlet 44, indicated by arrow 55, is approximately parallel to the curved configuration opening. Arrow 56 indicates that the dental cleaning agent is dispensed through outlet 44, which opens toward the curved configuration 46. In this example, outlet 44, indicated by arrow 56, is approximately transverse to the curved configuration opening. Figure 10 As indicated by line 57 and arrow 56, the dental cleaning agent dispensed through outlet 44 is transverse to and along the curved configuration 46. Although this variant is shown with respect to a dental cleaning agent dispenser for a U-shaped oral cavity, it will be apparent that this variant can also be applied to a dental cleaning agent dispenser for a J-shaped oral cavity. Furthermore, although this variant is shown with respect to a U-shaped full oral cavity, it will be apparent that this variant can also be applied to a U-shaped half oral cavity (or a J-shaped half oral cavity).

[0126] Figure 11Another embodiment of a distributor according to a further extension of the invention is shown. The collection channel 84 is essentially the same as... Figure 5A The same as shown in the diagram. The portion between the inlet 41 of the pipe fitting and the first collection channel 43 and the second collection channel 49 differs slightly. However, it should be noted that this portion of the pipe fitting can also be the same as... Figure 5A The same as, or the same as, shown in the figure. Figure 11 or Figure 5A The differences have already been shown.

[0127] exist Figure 11 In the middle, the portion between the inlet 41 of the pipeline working part and the first collection channel and the second collection channel includes a first distribution pipe 86 that distributes the dental cleaner received at the inlet 41 to the left and right sides, and two second distribution pipes 87 that distribute the dental cleaner received from the pipe 86 to the first collection channel 43 and the second collection channel 49.

[0128] In addition to the previously described implementation scheme Figure 11 The embodiment also includes a dental cleaning agent container 80 and a supply unit 81 connecting the dental cleaning agent container 80 to the inlet 41. The dental cleaning agent container 80 contains dental cleaning agent 85. According to another embodiment, the dental cleaning agent container can be a replaceable dental cleaning agent cartridge.

[0129] like Figure 11 As shown, according to another embodiment, the supply unit 81 may include an actuation mechanism 82. The actuation mechanism may include a control button 88 connected to a release mechanism 89 disposed inside the actuation mechanism 82.

[0130] When container 80 is pressurized, the release mechanism 89 can simply be a valve that opens when the control button (arrow A) is activated to allow pressurized dental cleaning agent to pass through. This valve can be configured to allow dental cleaning agent to pass through as long as it remains open by activating the control button, or it can be configured to allow a predetermined or pre-selected dose of dental cleaning agent to pass through each time the control button is activated.

[0131] If the container is not pressurized, the release mechanism may include a pump or other pressurizing device configured to pressurize a quantity (e.g., a predetermined dose) of the dental cleaning agent to supply it to inlet 41 and outlet 44. The pump or other pressurizing device may be electrically or mechanically driven.

[0132] Figure 12 The implementation is illustrated schematically. Figure 11 Examples of content shown very schematically in the text.

[0133] Figure 12A dental cleaning agent dispenser 90 in the form of a handheld device is shown. The dispenser includes a dental cleaning agent container 80 with dental cleaning agent 85. A dispenser head 85 is disposed on top of the container 80. The dispenser head 85 includes:

[0134] -The first collection channel section or the lower collection channel section 43 may correspond to the first collection channel section 43 of one of the aforementioned embodiments;

[0135] - The second collection channel section or the upper collection channel section 49 may correspond to the second collection channel section 43 of one of the aforementioned embodiments;

[0136] - For receiving U-shaped full-mouth components (e.g.) Figure 2 The oral cavity component 20) is a receiving seat defined between the lower collection channel portion 43 and the upper collection channel portion 49;

[0137] -Lower chamber 94;

[0138] -Upper Room 95;

[0139] -Feed channel 96;

[0140] - Piston 91, which separates the lower chamber 94 and the upper chamber 95 from each other, and can reciprocate in the vertical direction;

[0141] -Straw 97, which protrudes from the lower chamber 94 into the container 80;

[0142] - A one-way valve 92 is disposed between the lower chamber 94 and the suction pipe 97 and is configured to allow fluid to pass in the upward direction and prevent fluid from passing in the downward direction;

[0143] - A one-way valve 93, which is arranged and configured to allow fluid to pass from the upper chamber 95 to the lower chamber 94 and to prevent fluid from passing from the lower chamber 94 to the upper chamber 95; and

[0144] - Control button 88, which can move downward against the force of a return spring (not shown) and can move upward via the return spring (not shown), and is connected to piston 91 so that piston 91 moves as a result of the movement of the control button.

[0145] Pushing control button 85 downwards in the direction of arrow A causes piston 91 to move downwards. As piston 91 moves downwards, the fluid present in lower chamber 94 is pressurized because check valve 92 prevents fluid from escaping. Check valve 93 opens due to the increased pressure in lower chamber 94, allowing fluid in lower chamber 94 to be transferred to upper chamber 95 through check valve 93. When piston 91 has reached its lowest point, upper chamber 95 is filled with one dose of dental cleaning agent that has been transferred from lower chamber 94 to upper chamber 95. After releasing control button 88, a return spring (not shown) returns button 88 and piston 91 to their highest position. This creates a negative pressure in lower chamber 94, which opens check valve 92 and allows dental cleaning agent 85 to be drawn into lower chamber 94 through straw 97. This refills lower chamber 94 with dental cleaning agent, preparing dental cleaning agent dispenser 90 for the next dispensing action. The return spring returns control button and piston to their highest position. Figure 12 The highest position shown will also pressurize the dental cleaning agent in the upper chamber 95, forcing the agent into the feed channel 96 and into the upper collection channel 49 and lower collection channel 43, so that it can be dispensed through the outlet 44 onto and / or into the dental device 20 arranged in the receiving seat. The user can then remove the dental device from the receiving seat and begin cleaning multiple tooth positions with the dental device.

[0146] As mentioned above Figure 12 The actuation mechanism for controlling the transfer of fluid from the container to the inlet is unknown for dental floss, but is known for fluids like soap in themselves. It is also known that many variations of such an actuation mechanism can be used in the dental floss dispenser according to the invention. For example, it is conceivable to configure the mechanism such that the lower chamber is the chamber for feeding pressurized dental floss into the feed channel, and the upper chamber is the chamber for drawing dental floss from the container. This can be achieved by connecting the lower chamber to the feed channel 96 and the upper chamber to the suction conduit 97 via a one-way valve 92, and by reversing the one-way valve 93. A push on the control button without causing it to move back will then cause dispensing. In another variation, it is conceivable to promote foaming of the dental floss by adding air to the dental floss in the chamber connected to the feed channel. According to another variation, the upper collection channel 49 and / or the lower collection channel 43 can be configured to move relative to each other when the control button is moved up or down. This allows for, for example, a wider seat to facilitate insertion of oral components, and for becoming smaller or smaller during the dispensing of dental cleaning agents.

[0147] like Figure 12 As shown, the oral cavity component 20 is mounted on the handle 101, and together with the handle 101 forms a dental cleaner 100, such as a toothbrush.

[0148] Figure 13A first embodiment of the system 200 according to the present invention is illustrated schematically as an example. System 200 includes:

[0149] - Tooth cleaner 100, which has a U-shaped oral cavity component, for example Figure 2 Oral component 20; and

[0150] - Storage station 220, which is used to store at least oral cavity piece 20 or more complete dental cleaner 100 when not used for cleaning teeth.

[0151] The storage station includes a dental cleaning agent dispenser and a retainer 215 according to a first aspect of the invention. In this embodiment, the retainer 215 is exemplified as a recess 216 in the base 212 of the storage station 220. The retainer 215 is configured such that when the dental cleaner 100 is in its storage position stored in the storage station 220, the oral cavity member 20 is aligned along a curved configuration 46, such that when the dental cleaner 100 is in its storage position stored in the storage station 220, the dental cleaning agent exits from the outlet openings 44 of the first collection channel portion 43 and the second collection channel portion 49 (in... Figure 13 When the oral cavity cleaner (not visible in the center) is dispensed onto and / or into the oral cavity component 20, the dispensed cleaner adheres to the oral cavity component at a location distributed along the curved configuration and associated with the corresponding outlet opening 44. Figure 13 In this example, the recess 216 serves as a handle retainer, receiving the free end 103 of the handle 102 in a uniquely shaped closure. This uniquely shaped closure ensures that the free end 103 can only be received in the recess 216 in a single, predetermined manner, which in turn ensures that the oral cavity is aligned along the curved configuration 46. For example, the uniquely shaped closure can be achieved when the free end 103 has a radial aperture therein receiving a protrusion 217 projecting from the base 212.

[0152] According to another embodiment of system 200, dental cleaner 100 may include rechargeable battery 102, and storage station 220 may include battery charger 211 configured to charge battery 102 when dental cleaner is stored in storage station.

[0153] According to a first aspect of the invention, a dental cleaning agent dispenser is integrated into a storage station. In this example, the dental cleaning agent container is a replaceable cylinder 201 with a nozzle 202 for receiving an end 204 of a supply unit 205 that extends from a base 212 to an inlet 41.

[0154] exist Figure 13In one embodiment, the supply unit 205 includes, for example, an electric pump 206 for pumping dental cleaning agent from cartridge 201 to the inlet 41 of a manifold under pressure. This electric pump can be controlled by a controller 208 connected to pump 206 via 210. The controller receives its input from a user interface, for example, a touchscreen 207 connected to the controller via 209. The touchscreen 207 has control buttons in the form of touch sensors that sense the user's finger contact. The touchscreen can also be configured to receive additional input regarding the dosage of dental cleaning agent to be dispensed or regarding the size or type of dental component. Depending on the dosage of dental cleaning agent to be dispensed, the controller 208 can utilize this additional input to operate the pump for a longer or shorter duration and / or at a lower or higher pressure.

[0155] Figure 14 A second embodiment of the system 300 according to the present invention is illustrated schematically as an example. Besides... Figure 13 In addition to system 200, system 300 is also provided with a cleaning device, which includes:

[0156] -A replaceable cartridge 233 for cleaning fluid to be dispensed after cleaning of the oral cavity 20; and

[0157] -Reservoir 240; and

[0158] - Cleaning fluid supply unit 244 for supplying cleaning fluid to reservoir 240.

[0159] exist Figure 14 In one embodiment, the retainer 205 is a clamp surrounding the handle 101 of the dental cleaner 100, such that the oral cavity is held in a reservoir aligned with a curved configuration (not shown).

[0160] In system 300, the cleaning fluid supply section 244, from the cleaning fluid reservoir 233 to the storage tank 240, is separate from the supply of dental cleaning agent to the collection channel. The cleaning fluid supply section includes a valve that can be operated between an open and closed state under the control of a controller 208 connected to valve 237 via 232. The cleaning fluid supply section also includes an electric pump 236 operated by the controller 208. When the controller 208 opens the valve, the pump 236 is also operated to pump cleaning fluid into the storage tank. The cleaning fluid can be injected into the storage tank as a jet directed to the oral cavity 20, causing the oral cavity to undergo a jet cleaning action, also known as a mechanical cleaning action, due to the jet impacting the oral cavity. Alternatively or additionally, the storage tank can be filled with cleaning fluid, and the mechanical cleaning action can be triggered by a drive system that operates the cleaning elements of the oral cavity to cause vibration of the oral cavity components. During and / or after cleaning the oral cavity, the cleaning fluid can be discharged from the reservoir 240 back to the cleaning fluid reservoir via a return pipe 234 provided with a pump 235 operated by the controller 208.

[0161] System 300 allows the oral cavity device to be thoroughly cleaned after use, making it ready for the next use in a clean state. When the user wishes to reuse the oral cavity device, they will operate the user interface 207 to perform a dispensing action, and then remove the oral cavity device from the reservoir. Operating the user interface 207 to perform the dispensing action will activate the controller:

[0162] - If valve 237 is not already closed, then close it.

[0163] - If the reservoir has not been emptied of cleaning fluid, empty the reservoir by operating pump 235, and

[0164] -Then valve 241 will be opened and pump 239 will be operated to deliver the dental cleaning agent from dental cleaning agent cartridge 201 to the collection channel, thereby dispensing the dental cleaning agent onto or into the oral cavity through multiple outlets.

[0165] After the dispensing process is completed, the user can remove the oral cavity device from the reservoir to clean their teeth.

[0166] Figure 15 A third embodiment of the system 400 according to the present invention is illustrated as an example. Figure 15 System 400 and Figure 14The fundamental difference between system 300 and system 400 is that, in system 400, the supply of cleaning fluid to the reservoir and the supply of dental cleaning agent to multiple outlets are not separated. In fact, the supply of cleaning fluid utilizes a manifold channel and its multiple outlets for dispensing dental cleaning agent. When cleaning the oral cavity after use, the cleaning fluid is transferred to the reservoir through the manifold channel and its multiple outlets. This also removes dental cleaning agent residue from the piping components, preventing them from becoming dirty or clogged. To achieve this, a switching valve 243 can be used to switch between a first state and a second state, where the first state connects the piping components to the dental cleaning agent cartridge 201, and the second state connects the piping components to the cleaning fluid cartridge. Controller 208 is further configured to operate pump 242 to dispense a dose of dental cleaning agent when switching valve 243 is in the first state, and to supply cleaning fluid to the reservoir when valve 243 is in the second state.

[0167] Figure 16A An example of a collection channel section 43 having multiple collection channel sub-components 43a, 43b, 43c is shown schematically. Each of these collection channel sub-components may have one or more outlet openings 44. Figure 16A In the example shown, there are three collection channel sub-components, each with two outlet openings. However, it should be understood that the collection channel section 43 may also include more or fewer collection channel sub-components, and each collection channel sub-component may also include more or fewer outlet openings. The collection channel section 43 is configured such that the U-shaped bend configuration of the collection channel (along which the outlet openings 44 are arranged) is adjustable or adapted to fit the U-shaped oral cavity. As indicated by arrow D, for this purpose, the collection channel sub-components of the collection channel section can move relative to each other in a plane parallel to the plane defined by the U-shaped bend configuration. This mobility of the collection channel sub-components can, for example, be independent of each other. In the case of the first collection channel section 43 and the second collection channel section 49, the second collection channel section can be configured to be the same as or similar to the first collection channel section. The second collection channel section 49 may, for example, have a different number of collection channel sub-components than the number of collection channel sub-components of the first collection channel section 43, and / or the number of outlet openings of the collection channel sub-components of the second collection channel section 49 may be different from the number of outlet openings of the collection channel sub-components of the second collection channel section 43.

[0168] Figure 16B and Figure 16C As an example, another embodiment based on the above is shown, illustrating how the assembled channel sub-components can move relative to each other to adjust the U-shaped bend configuration along which the outlet opening 44 is arranged.

[0169] Figure 16B and Figure 16CA U-shaped full-mouth component 20 is shown, which has a shape inconsistent with the U-shaped curved configuration along which the outlet opening is arranged (see [reference]). Figure 16B The first collecting channel 43 and the second collecting channel 49 gradually taper toward the oral cavity 20. When the oral cavity sub-component is moved relative to the oral cavity 20 according to arrow C, the tapered shape of the collecting channel sub-component engages the sidewall of the groove in the oral cavity and is subsequently guided in a direction parallel to the plane of the curved configuration of the outlet opening (arrow D) to a position aligned with the groove of the oral cavity (see [link]). Figure 16C The direction of arrow D will depend on... Figure 16B The initial state of misalignment.

[0170] Figure 17A , Figure 17B , Figure 17C , Figure 17D A collection channel 510 is schematically shown, configured to adjust a U-shaped oral cavity to adapt to a U-shaped bend in the outlet opening 44 of the collection channel 43 or collection channel section 43 and collection channel section 49 along which it is arranged. According to another embodiment, such adjustment can be achieved using a collection channel including a W-shaped receiving stage 511.

[0171] Reference Figure 17A The W-shaped receiving platform 510 has two adjacent receiving seats 512, 513 and a central member 514 disposed therebetween. Each receiving seat has an outer side wall 515 and an inner side wall 516 defined by the central member 514. Viewed in the insertion direction K, the central member 514 widens; or in other words, viewed in the direction opposite to the insertion direction, the inner side walls 516 taper relative to each other. Furthermore, viewed in the insertion direction, they taper relative to each other. The collection channel 510 also includes a first collection channel portion 43 and a second collection channel portion 49. Figure 17A In the figure, the first collection channel section 43 is located above the second collection channel section 49 and overlaps with the second collection channel section 49.

[0172] Reference Figure 17B This schematically illustrates how the W-shaped receiving stage widens the oral cavity 20a when the legs of the relatively small oral cavity 20a are inserted into the W-shaped receiving stage 510 along the insertion direction K. The inner side of the legs of the oral cavity 20a will contact the inner sidewall 516, thereby causing the legs of the oral cavity 20a to extend.

[0173] Reference Figure 17CThis schematically illustrates how a W-shaped receiving stage receives a medium-sized oral cavity piece 20b without causing any deformation of the oral cavity piece. In cases where the legs of the oral cavity piece 20b may not be properly aligned with the W-shaped receiving stage, the outer sidewall 515 and inner sidewall 516 will correct the misalignment when the legs of the oral cavity piece 20b are inserted into the receiving seats 512, 513 in the direction of arrow K. This misalignment correction will also be achieved in the case of a relatively small oral cavity piece 20a that is misaligned upon insertion. A similar situation applies. Figure 17D A relatively large dental component.

[0174] Reference Figure 17D This schematically illustrates how the W-shaped receiving stage 510 reduces the size of the oral cavity 20c when the legs of the relatively large oral cavity 20c are inserted into the W-shaped receiving stage 510 along the insertion direction K. The outer sides of the legs of the oral cavity 20c will contact the outer wall 515, thereby causing the legs of the oral cavity 20c to be compressed.

[0175] Figure 18A It shows Figure 17A , Figure 17B , Figure 17C , Figure 17D Another variation involves adjusting the collection channel to accommodate oral pieces with legs of different lengths when viewed in the insertion direction K. For this purpose, the W-shaped receiving stage 511 is configured to be movable in the insertion direction K. This mobility of the receiving stage 511 can be resisted, for example, by one or more springs 522, which act as reset springs that return the receiving stage to its initial position in the direction opposite to arrow K after the oral piece has been removed. Figure 18A As shown, the bottom of each receiving base 512, 513 may be provided with an outlet opening 44b that opens in the direction opposite to arrow K. This is due to Figure 18B The four arrows further indicate that they point to the free ends of the legs of the oral cavity member. The collection channel 520 may also additionally include a stop 523 configured to engage the oral cavity member and prevent further insertion, such that the central outlet opening 44c is aligned with the incisor portion of the oral cavity member. Optionally, an additional outlet opening (not shown) may be arranged between the central outlet opening 44c and the outlet opening 44b along a fixed or adjustable curved configuration.

[0176] For reference Figure 17A , Figure 17B , Figure 17C , Figure 17D or Figure 18A and Figure 18B The described implementation scheme can be compared with, for example, as shown in the reference. Figure 16A , Figure 16B and Figure 16C The described implementation plan is combined.

[0177] Embodiments of the present invention may also be described as expressed in one or more of the following terms:

[0178] [1] A dental dispensing device for dispensing dental cleaning agent onto a J-shaped or U-shaped oral cavity, the J-shaped or U-shaped oral cavity being configured to simultaneously surround and utilize the dispensed dental cleaning agent and utilize cleaning elements disposed on or in the oral cavity to clean a plurality of tooth locations.

[0179] The distributor includes a distributor pipework component having an inlet and a collection channel;

[0180] The collection channel includes a plurality of outlet openings configured for dispensing dental cleaning agent;

[0181] The dispenser piping element is configured to deliver dental cleaning agent from the inlet to the plurality of outlet openings; and

[0182] The outlet openings are distributed along a J-shaped or U-shaped curved configuration and open toward and / or along the curved configuration, which matches at least a portion of a dental arch including molars, premolars, canines, and incisors such as lateral and central incisors, such that the outlet openings can simultaneously dispense dental cleaning agent at multiple locations along the curved configuration, the multiple locations corresponding to the multiple outlet openings.

[0183] 2] The dispenser according to Clause 1, wherein the outlet opening is arranged on the opposite side of the plane defined by the curved configuration.

[0184] 3] The dispenser according to Clause 2, wherein the outlet opening is arranged in a mirror pair with respect to the plane defined by the curved configuration.

[0185] 4] The dispenser according to one of the preceding clauses, wherein the curved configuration is U-shaped.

[0186] 5] The distributor according to Clause 4, wherein the collection channel is configured to:

[0187] – To adapt the U-shaped curved configuration to the U-shaped oral cavity component.

[0188] and / or

[0189] – To adapt the U-shaped oral cavity to the U-shaped curved configuration.

[0190] 6] The dispenser according to Clause 5, wherein the plurality of outlet openings are mutually positioned, wherein the collection channel is configured to adjust the mutual positioning of the plurality of outlet openings so that the U-shaped bend configuration conforms to the U-shaped oral cavity.

[0191] 7] The dispenser according to any one of clauses 4 to 6,

[0192] The oral cavity component is a U-shaped oral cavity component having two legs connected by a central portion;

[0193] The aforementioned collection channel includes a W-shaped receiving station having two adjacent receiving seats separated by a central member;

[0194] The platform is configured to receive the legs of the U-shaped oral cavity in the receiving seat when the legs of the oral cavity are inserted into the receiving seat in the insertion direction;

[0195] Each receiver has an outer side wall and an inner side wall, the inner side wall being defined by the central member;

[0196] Wherein, viewed in the insertion direction, the central member widens; and

[0197] In the insertion direction, the outer walls are tapering relative to each other.

[0198] 8] The dispenser according to any one of the preceding clauses further includes a container for a dental cleaning agent and a supply unit connecting the dental cleaning agent container to the inlet to deliver the dental cleaning agent from the dental cleaning agent container to the inlet.

[0199] 9] The dispenser according to Clause 8 further includes an actuation mechanism configured to control the delivery of the dental cleaning agent through the supply section from the container to the inlet.

[0200] 10] The dispenser according to Clause 9, wherein the actuation mechanism is further configured to pressurize the dental cleaner to be passed through the pipe workpiece.

[0201] 11] The dispenser according to any one of clauses 8 to 10, wherein the container is a replaceable toothpaste cartridge.

[0202] 12] The dispenser according to any one of clauses 8 to 11, wherein the container contains dental cleaning agent.

[0203] 13] The dispenser according to Clause 12, wherein the dental cleaning agent comprises one or more of the following:

[0204] - Fluorides;

[0205] - Each dose of dental cleaning agent contains 0.1 g to 0.15 g, for example 0.1125 g to 0.1275 g or about 0.125 g of abrasive, wherein the abrasive may contain one or more of aluminum hydroxide, dicalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, silica and hydroxyapatite, or a combination of one or more of these.

[0206] -15% to 80% by weight, for example, 20% to 40% by weight or 45% to 70% by weight of water.

[0207] 14] A dispenser according to any one of clauses 8 to 13, wherein the container size is set for holding multiple doses of dental floss, such as 20 to 150 doses of dental floss, and wherein the actuation mechanism is configured to deliver a predetermined dose of dental floss when the actuation mechanism is actuated.

[0208] 15] The dispenser according to Clause 14, wherein the container is configured to dispense a predetermined dose or a dose determined by a controller based on input received from a sensor or user interface.

[0209] 16] The dispenser according to Clause 14 or 15, wherein one dose contains 0.2 mg to 1.25 mg of fluoride, such as 0.20 mg to 0.40 mg of fluoride or 0.25 mg to 0.375 mg of fluoride, such as about 0.335 mg to 0.34 mg of fluoride.

[0210] 17] The dispenser according to Clause 13 or 16, wherein the fluoride comprises one or more of sodium fluoride, stannous fluoride and monofluorophosphate, or a combination of one or more of these.

[0211] 18] The dispenser according to any of the preceding clauses further includes a dose adjuster configured to adjust the dose of the dental cleaning agent to be dispensed.

[0212] 19] A dispenser according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the dispenser includes an indicator and at least one status sensor configured to sense:

[0213] - The degree of filling of the container,

[0214] and / or

[0215] - The extent of use of the oral cavity components; and

[0216] The indicator is connected to the state sensor and configured to generate an indication signal representing the degree sensed by the sensor or an indication signal representing the time during which the degree sensed by the sensor is below or above a predetermined value.

[0217] 20] An assembly comprising a dispenser according to any one of the preceding clauses and a J-shaped or U-shaped oral cavity, the J-shaped or U-shaped oral cavity being configured to simultaneously surround and utilize dental cleaning agent dispensed by the dispenser and utilize cleaning elements disposed on or in the oral cavity to clean a plurality of tooth locations.

[0218] 21] A system comprising:

[0219] - A dental cleaner, comprising the J-shaped or U-shaped oral cavity element configured to simultaneously surround and clean a plurality of tooth locations using cleaning elements disposed on or within the oral cavity element, and

[0220] - A storage station for storing the J-shaped or U-shaped dental instrument when not used for cleaning teeth.

[0221] The storage station mentioned above includes:

[0222] - The dispenser as described in one of the foregoing clauses, and

[0223] - Holder;

[0224] The retainer is configured to hold the J-shaped or U-shaped oral piece in a storage position such that the oral piece is aligned in the storage position along the J-shaped or U-shaped curved configuration, such that the dental cleaning agent dispensed through the outlet opening of the dispenser will engage the oral piece at a location distributed along the curved configuration.

[0225] 22] The system according to Clause 21, wherein the dental cleaner further includes a handle on which the oral component is mounted, wherein the retainer is a handle retainer configured to receive the handle such that the oral component mounted on the handle is held in the storage position.

[0226] 23] The system according to clause 21 or 22, wherein the dental cleaner includes a rechargeable battery, and wherein the storage station includes a battery charger configured to make charging contact with the battery when the oral cavity is in the storage position.

[0227] 24] The system according to any one of clauses 21 to 23, wherein the storage station further includes a cleaning device configured to clean the oral cavity when the oral cavity is in the storage position.

[0228] 25] The system as described in Clause 24,

[0229] The cleaning device includes:

[0230] - A reservoir for cleaning fluid, wherein the outlet opening of the dispenser is disposed in the reservoir, and the reservoir is configured to receive the oral cavity piece in the storage location; and

[0231] -A cleaning fluid supply section for supplying cleaning fluid to the reservoir;

[0232] The cleaning device is configured to clean the oral cavity using a cleaning solution supplied to the reservoir.

[0233] 26] The system as described in Clause 25,

[0234] The cleaning device further includes a reservoir containing cleaning fluid, the reservoir being operatively connected to or capable of being connected to a liquid supply unit for conveying cleaning fluid from the reservoir to the liquid reservoir.

[0235] 27] The system according to Clause 26, wherein the reservoir is a replaceable cleaning cartridge.

[0236] 28] The system described in any one of the clauses 25 to 27,

[0237] The liquid supply unit is configured to introduce one or more pressurized jets of cleaning fluid into the reservoir, the jets being directed onto the oral cavity.

[0238] 29] The system according to any one of clauses 24 to 28,

[0239] The dental cleaner is provided with a drive system configured to cause the cleaning elements, such as bristles, to undergo reciprocating movement.

[0240] The cleaning device is configured to bring the oral cavity element in the reservoir into contact with the cleaning fluid, and is configured to operate the drive system to cause the brushing element to undergo reciprocating movement when the oral cavity element is in contact with the cleaning fluid in the storage position in the reservoir.

[0241]

[30] The system according to any one of clauses 21 to 29 further includes a dose adjuster configured to adjust the dose of the dental cleaning agent to be dispensed in response to a user action or in response to the oral cavity piece disposed in the storage location.

[0242] 31] For use of a dispenser according to any one of Clauses 1 to 19 or for use of a system according to any one of Clauses 21 to 30, for simultaneously applying dental cleaning agent to multiple locations on a J-shaped or U-shaped dental instrument, the J-shaped or U-shaped dental instrument being configured to simultaneously surround and treat a plurality of tooth locations.

[0243] 32] A method for applying a dental cleaning agent to a J-shaped or U-shaped dental instrument configured to simultaneously surround and treat a plurality of tooth locations, wherein the method uses a dispenser according to any one of clauses 1 to 19 or a system according to any one of clauses 21 to 30 to simultaneously apply the dental cleaning agent to a plurality of locations on the dental instrument.

Claims

1. A dentifrice dispenser for dispensing dentifrice onto a U-shaped mouthpiece, the U-shaped mouthpiece being configured to simultaneously enclose and clean a plurality of tooth positions with the dispensed dentifrice and with cleaning elements provided on or in the mouthpiece, wherein the dispenser comprises a dispenser duct work having an inlet and a collection channel; wherein the collection channel comprises a plurality of outlet openings configured for dispensing dentifrice; wherein the dispenser duct work is configured for conveying dentifrice from the inlet to the plurality of outlet openings; wherein the outlet openings are distributed along a U-shaped curved configuration and open towards and / or along the curved configuration, the curved configuration matching at least a portion of a dental arch comprising molars, premolars, canines and incisors, such that the outlet openings enable simultaneous dispensing of dentifrice along the curved configuration on a plurality of positions corresponding to the plurality of outlet openings; wherein the dispenser is configured to allow withdrawal of the mouthpiece from the collection channel after dispensing of dentifrice onto the mouthpiece; and wherein the mouthpiece is a U-shaped mouthpiece having two leg portions connected by a central portion, wherein the collection channel comprises a W-shaped receiving station having two adjacent receiving seats separated by a central member, wherein the receiving station is configured to receive the leg portions of the U-shaped mouthpiece in the receiving seats when the leg portions of the mouthpiece are inserted in the receiving seats in an insertion direction, wherein each receiving seat has an outer side wall and an inner side wall, the inner side wall being defined by the central member, wherein the central member widens as seen from the insertion direction, and wherein the outer side walls are tapered relative to each other as seen from the insertion direction.

2. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the outlet openings are arranged on opposite sides of a plane defined by the curved configuration.

3. The dispenser according to claim 2, wherein the outlet openings are arranged in mirror pairs relative to the plane defined by the curved configuration.

4. The dispenser according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the curved configuration is U-shaped.

5. The dispenser according to claim 4, wherein the collection channel is configured to: - adapt the U-shaped curved configuration to the U-shaped mouthpiece, and / or - adapt the U-shaped mouthpiece to the U-shaped curved configuration.

6. The dispenser according to claim 5, wherein the collection channel is configured to adjust the positioning of the plurality of outlet openings to conform the U-shaped curved configuration to the U-shaped mouthpiece.

7. The dispenser according to claim 5, further comprising a container for dentifrice and a feed connecting the dentifrice container with the inlet for conveying dentifrice from the dentifrice container to the inlet.

8. The dispenser according to claim 7, further comprising an actuation mechanism configured for controlling the conveying of dentifrice from the container via the feed into the inlet.

9. The dispenser according to claim 8, wherein the actuation mechanism is further configured to pressurize the dentifrice to be passed through the duct work.

10. The dispenser according to claim 7, wherein the container is a replaceable dentifrice cartridge.

11. The dispenser according to claim 7, wherein the container contains a dentifrice.

12. The dispenser according to claim 11, wherein the dentifrice contains one or more of: - fluoride; - 0.1 to 0.15 grams of abrasive per dose of dentifrice, wherein the abrasive contains one or more of aluminum hydroxide, dicalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, silica, and hydroxyapatite, or a combination containing one or more of these; - 15 to 80 weight percent water.

13. The dispenser according to claim 8, wherein the container is sized to contain multiple doses of dentifrice, and wherein the actuation mechanism is configured to deliver one predetermined dose of dentifrice upon actuation of the actuation mechanism.

14. The dispenser according to claim 13, wherein the container is configured to dispense a predetermined dose or a dose determined by a controller based on input received from a sensor or a user interface.

15. The dispenser according to claim 13, wherein one dose contains 0.2 to 1.25 mg of fluoride.

16. The dispenser according to claim 12, wherein the fluoride comprises one or more of sodium fluoride, stannous fluoride, and monofluorophosphate, or a combination containing one or more of these.

17. The dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising a dose adjuster configured to adjust the dose of dentifrice to be dispensed.

18. The dispenser according to claim 7, wherein the dispenser comprises an indicator and at least one status sensor configured to sense: - the fill level of the container, and / or - the usage level of the oral piece; and wherein the indicator is connected to the status sensor and is configured to produce an indication signal representative of the level sensed by the status sensor or an indication signal indicating the time when the level sensed by the status sensor is below or above a predetermined value.

19. An oral care assembly comprising a dispenser according to one of the preceding claims and a U-shaped oral piece configured to simultaneously surround and clean a plurality of tooth locations with dentifrice dispensed by the dispenser and with cleaning elements provided on or in the oral piece.

20. An oral care system comprising: - a tooth cleaner comprising a U-shaped oral piece configured to simultaneously surround and clean a plurality of tooth locations with cleaning elements provided on or in the oral piece, and - a storage station for storing the U-shaped oral piece when not used for cleaning teeth, wherein the storage station comprises: - a dispenser according to one of the preceding claims, and - a holder; wherein the holder is configured to: - for retaining the U-shaped mouthpiece in a storage position such that the mouthpiece is aligned in the storage position along the U-shaped curved configuration so that dentifrice dispensed through the outlet opening of the dispenser will engage the mouthpiece at a location distributed along the curved configuration, and - for allowing the mouthpiece to be removed from the retainer after dentifrice has been dispensed onto the mouthpiece.

21. The oral care system according to claim 20, wherein the tooth cleaner further comprises a handle having the mouthpiece mounted thereon, wherein the retainer is a handle retainer configured for receiving the handle such that the mouthpiece mounted on the handle is retained in the storage position.

22. The oral care system according to claim 20, wherein the tooth cleaner comprises a rechargeable battery, and wherein the storage station comprises a battery charger configured to be in charging contact with the battery when the mouthpiece is in the storage position.

23. The oral care system according to claim 20, wherein the storage station further comprises a cleaning device configured for cleaning the mouthpiece when the mouthpiece is in the storage position.

24. The oral care system according to claim 23, wherein the cleaning device comprises: - a reservoir for cleaning liquid, the outlet opening of the dispenser being arranged in the reservoir, and the reservoir being configured for receiving the mouthpiece in the storage position; and - a cleaning liquid supply for supplying cleaning liquid into the reservoir; wherein the cleaning device is configured for cleaning the mouthpiece with cleaning liquid supplied into the reservoir.

25. The oral care system according to claim 24, wherein the cleaning device further comprises a reservoir having cleaning liquid, the reservoir being operatively connected or connectable with the cleaning liquid supply for delivering the cleaning liquid supplied from the reservoir into the reservoir.

26. The oral care system according to claim 25, wherein the reservoir is a replaceable cleaning cartridge.

27. The oral care system according to one of claims 24 to 26, wherein the cleaning liquid supply is configured for introducing one or more pressurized jets of cleaning liquid into the reservoir, the jets being directed onto the mouthpiece.

28. The oral care system according to claim 24, wherein the tooth cleaner is provided with a drive system configured for subjecting a cleaning element to a reciprocating movement, wherein the cleaning device is configured to bring the mouthpiece in the reservoir into contact with the cleaning liquid supply, and to operate the drive system to subject the cleaning element to the reciprocating movement when the mouthpiece is in the storage position in the reservoir in contact with cleaning liquid. ​ 29. The oral care system of claim 20, further comprising a dose adjuster configured to adjust a dose of dentifrice to be dispensed in response to a user action or in response to the oral implement being disposed in the storage location.

30. Use of a dispenser according to any one of claims 1 to 18 or an oral care system according to any one of claims 20 to 29 for simultaneously applying dentifrice to multiple locations on a U-shaped oral implement configured to simultaneously surround and treat a plurality of tooth locations.

31. A method for applying dentifrice to a U-shaped oral implement configured to simultaneously surround and treat a plurality of tooth locations, wherein the method uses a dispenser according to any one of claims 1 to 18 or an oral care system according to any one of claims 20 to 29 to simultaneously apply the dentifrice to multiple locations on the oral implement.

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