Toothbrush and toothbrush manufacturing method

Abstract

The invention provides a toothbrush capable of realizing sufficient cleaning performance of each part in the oral cavity and high fitting performance of a support body to the dentition. The toothbrush is provided with a holding part and a connecting body connected with the holding part. The connecting body is provided with: a brush part which is a first molded body; and a support body that is a second molded body different from the first molded body and that supports the brush portion in a circumferential direction centered on an axis extending in the engagement direction. The brush portion includes: a base portion; a monofilament extending from the base portion; and a coupling part provided on the base part and coupled to the support body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a toothbrush and a method for manufacturing a toothbrush.

[0002] This application claims priority based on Special Application No. 2022-106249 filed in Japan on June 30, 2022, Special Application No. 2022-106010 filed in Japan on June 30, 2022, Special Application No. 2022-204420 filed in Japan on December 21, 2022, and Special Application No. 2022-209653 filed in Japan on December 27, 2022, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0003] As a toothbrush that cleans the entire tooth row at once, a toothbrush that is electrically driven in a mouthpiece type is disclosed in Patent Document 1. The electric toothbrush disclosed in Patent Document 1 comprises: a mouthpiece that is arranged on a support body so that the mouthpiece, as a cleaning element of a brush portion, is engaged with substantially all teeth simultaneously in at least one of the upper jaw and the lower jaw of a user; and an electric drive unit that is detachably fixed to the mouthpiece and has at least one vibrating element for vibrating motion.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2019-520919

[0007] Technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0008] In the toothbrush disclosed in Patent Document 1, due to the positional relationship of the brush portion relative to the support body, the mold is moved in an inverted state to forcibly demold (forcefully pull out) the molded product. Therefore, in consideration of the ease of pulling out from the mold, the brush portion has to be made as soft and simple as possible. As a result, the stiffness of the bristles is reduced, the height difference profile that can be designed is limited, and the cleaning force cannot be fully exerted.

[0009] In addition, the brush portion cannot be optimized for each part of the oral cavity, and the advantage of the mouthpiece type that the entire oral cavity can be brushed at once cannot be fully utilized.

[0010] Furthermore, the support body is made of the same raw material as the brush part, and is as soft as possible. Therefore, if the support body is bitten during use, the support body is likely to expand excessively. As a result, there is a problem that the fit to the teeth is impaired.

[0011] In addition, the toothbrush disclosed in Patent Document 1 is a toothbrush type in which the brush part and the support body are integrally formed of soft resin. Therefore, compared with a general toothbrush with a long brush part having bristles, there are the following problems: the diameter of the tip of the brush is thick and it is difficult to reach between teeth or periodontal pockets, the density of the bristles is sparser than that of the bristles and the contact area with teeth or gums is reduced, and the bending direction tends to become constant and it is difficult to obtain a real brushing feeling. Therefore, for users who expect the texture and cleaning effect of a general toothbrush, there is a tendency for the real cleaning feeling to be evaluated as low.

[0012] In addition, due to the integral molding, the brush arrangement design is restricted by the positional relationship of the brush part in the mouthpiece, so it is difficult to arrange the arrangement that matches the characteristics of each part. Therefore, it is impossible to clean multiple parts at the same time and using a method suitable for each part, and the cleaning performance such as the plaque removal rate is reduced.

[0013] Furthermore, in the toothbrush disclosed in Patent Document 1, the support body includes: a U-shaped portion supporting the brush portion on the side close to the grip portion, a U-shaped portion supporting the brush portion on the side away from the grip portion, and a connecting portion connecting these two portions. The connecting portion connects the two U-shaped portions as a whole throughout the circumferential direction as the length direction, so that the two U-shaped portions have a structure with a constant distance and vibrate as a whole.

[0014] That is, in the toothbrush disclosed in Patent Document 1, the brush portion located outside the teeth and the brush portion located inside the teeth operate in an integrated manner, so that the fit to the outer and inner teeth rows having different circumferences and shapes is impaired, and the cleaning feel is reduced.

[0015] In addition, the present invention cannot cope with the difference in the size of the teeth in the depth direction connecting the buccal side and the lingual side, such as between men and women or between adults and children, and there is a problem that the fit to the teeth is impaired.

[0016] These problems are not limited to structures where the mouthpiece is driven electrically, but are common to toothbrushes that clean the entire tooth row at the same time. Summary of the invention

[0017] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and a first object of the present invention is to provide a toothbrush and a method for manufacturing the toothbrush that can achieve sufficient cleaning performance of various parts in the oral cavity and high adhesion of the support body to the teeth.

[0018] In addition, a second object of the present invention is to provide a toothbrush and a method for manufacturing a toothbrush with improved cleaning feel and cleaning performance.

[0019] In addition, a third object of the present invention is to provide a toothbrush that can achieve high fit to teeth and a high brushing feel.

[0020] In addition, a fourth object of the present invention is to provide a toothbrush that improves the fit to teeth.

[0021] Technical means to solve technical problems

[0022] The present invention has the following aspects.

[0023] [1] A toothbrush comprising a grip portion and a connection body connected to the grip portion, the connection body comprising: a brush portion, the brush portion being a first formed body; and a support body, the support body being a second formed body different from the first formed body and supporting the brush portion along a circumferential direction centered on an axis extending in an occlusal direction, the brush portion comprising: a base portion; a monofilament extending from the base portion; and a coupling portion, the coupling portion being provided on the base portion and coupled to the support body.

[0024] [2] The toothbrush according to [1], wherein a plurality of the brush parts are arranged in at least one of the circumferential direction, the occlusal direction, and a depth direction orthogonal to the circumferential direction and the occlusal direction.

[0025] [3] The toothbrush according to [2], wherein the base portion of at least one of the brush portions is curved along the circumferential direction.

[0026] [4] A toothbrush according to [2] or [3], wherein at least one of the brush parts is formed of a soft resin having a Shore A hardness of 40 or more and a Shore D hardness of 70 or less, and the thickness of the base part in the depth direction is 1 mm or more and 5 mm or less.

[0027] [5] A toothbrush according to any one of [2] to [4], wherein the brush portion is separately arranged on the outside and the inside in the depth direction, and the brush portion on the outside and the brush portion on the inside respectively have a central area and an end area, the central area includes the center of the circumference in the support body, and the end area is located at the end of the circumference in the support body, and in the end area, the distance between the monofilament with the shortest hair length in the outer brush portion and the monofilament with the shortest hair length in the inner brush portion is greater than the distance between the monofilament with the shortest hair length in the outer brush portion and the monofilament with the shortest hair length in the inner brush portion in the central area.

[0028] [6] A toothbrush according to any one of [1] to [5], wherein the monofilament extends from the brush surface of the base portion, and a straight line distance connecting both ends of the brush surface in the circumferential direction is 5 mm or more.

[0029] [7] The toothbrush according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein the support body is formed of a resin harder than the brush portion.

[0030] [8] The toothbrush according to any one of [1] to [7], wherein the brush portion has a portion where the arrangement pitch of the roots of the plurality of monofilaments arranged in the circumferential direction is different from the arrangement pitch of the tips of the bristles.

[0031] [9] A toothbrush according to any one of [1] to [8], comprising an elastic member having a higher hardness than the brush portion and the support body and elastically deforming the support body to bend the support body along the circumferential direction.

[0032]

[10] The toothbrush according to any one of [1] to [9], wherein the grip portion has an electric drive unit including a vibration element, and the connection body vibrates when driven by the vibration element.

[0033]

[11] A method for manufacturing a toothbrush, the toothbrush comprising a gripping portion and a connecting body connected to the gripping portion, the connecting body comprising: a brush portion, the brush portion being a first formed body; and a supporting body, the supporting body being a second formed body different from the first formed body and supporting the brush portion along a circumferential direction centered on an axis extending in an occlusal direction, the brush portion comprising: a base portion; a monofilament, the monofilament extending from the base portion; and a connecting portion, the connecting portion being disposed on the base portion and connected to the supporting body, the method comprising: preparing the brush portion; preparing the supporting body; and connecting the brush portion to the supporting body at the connecting portion.

[0034]

[12] A toothbrush comprising: a grip portion; and a connecting body connected to the grip portion, the connecting body comprising: a brush portion having a bundle of bristles arranged on a base portion; and a supporting body formed of a material different from that of the base portion, covering at least a portion of the base portion, and supporting the brush portion along a circumferential direction centered on an axis extending in the occlusal direction.

[0035]

[13] A toothbrush according to

[12] , wherein a plurality of the brush parts are arranged in at least one of the circumferential direction and the depth direction orthogonal to the circumferential direction and the occlusal direction.

[0036]

[14] A toothbrush according to

[13] , wherein the brush parts are separately arranged on the outside and inside of the depth direction, and the brush parts on the outside and the inside respectively have a central area and an end area, the central area includes the center of the circumference in the support body, and the end area is located at the end of the circumference in the support body, and in the end area, the distance between the bristle bundle with the shortest hair length in the brush part on the outside and the bristle bundle with the shortest hair length in the brush part on the inside is greater than the distance between the bristle bundle with the shortest hair length in the brush part on the outside and the bristle bundle with the shortest hair length in the brush part on the inside in the central area.

[0037]

[15] A toothbrush according to any one of

[12] to

[14] , wherein a plurality of bristle bundles are arranged in the circumferential direction to form a row of bristle bundles, and are arranged in a plurality of rows in the occlusal direction, and the tips of the bristles of at least one of the bristle bundles located at the end of the row of bristles in the occlusal direction are inclined toward the end side relative to the root.

[0038]

[16] A toothbrush according to any one of

[12] to

[15] , wherein the brush portion has a portion where the arrangement pitch of the roots of the plurality of bristle bundles arranged in the circumferential direction is different from the arrangement pitch of the bristle tips.

[0039]

[17] A toothbrush according to

[14] , wherein when the length of the base portion in the brush portion located on the outer side of the central area in the occlusal direction is set to WA1, the length of the base portion in the brush portion located on the outer side of the end area in the occlusal direction is set to WA3, the length of the base portion in the brush portion located on the inner side of the central area in the occlusal direction is set to WB1, and the length of the base portion in the brush portion located on the inner side of the end area in the occlusal direction is set to WB3, the relationships WA1>WA3 and WB1>WB3 are satisfied respectively.

[0040]

[18] A toothbrush according to any one of

[12] to

[17] , wherein the grip portion has an electric drive unit including a vibration element, and the connection body vibrates when driven by the vibration element.

[0041]

[19] A method for manufacturing a toothbrush, the toothbrush comprising a gripping portion and a connecting body connected to the gripping portion, the connecting body comprising: a brush portion having a bundle of bristles arranged on a base portion; and a supporting body formed of a material different from that of the base portion, covering at least a portion of the base portion, and supporting the brush portion along a circumferential direction centered on an axis extending in the occlusal direction, the method comprising the following: preparing the brush portion; preparing the supporting body; and combining the brush portion with the supporting body.

[0042]

[20] A toothbrush comprising: a grip; and a connecting body connected to the grip on one side of a depth direction orthogonal to a bite direction, the connecting body comprising: a first brush body, the first brush body being located on one side of the depth direction relative to the grip; and a second brush body, the second brush body being located between the grip and the first brush body in the depth direction and being arranged separately from the first brush body, the first brush body comprising: a first support body, the first support body being formed in a U-shape along a circumferential direction centered on an axis extending in the occlusal direction and being open to one side of the depth direction; and a first brush portion, the first brush portion extending from the first support body to the other side of the depth direction, the second brush body comprising: a second support body, the second support body being formed in a U-shape along the circumferential direction and being open to one side of the depth direction; and a second brush portion extending from the second support body to one side of the depth direction, the first support body and the second support body being able to independently move relative to each other in both the depth direction and the circumferential direction.

[0043]

[21] A toothbrush according to

[20] , wherein the first support body and the second support body located at relative positions in the depth direction have different shape characteristics including dimensions in the depth direction, or different material characteristics including hardness.

[0044]

[22] A toothbrush according to

[21] , wherein the dimension of the first support body in the depth direction is greater than 1.5 mm and less than 7 mm, the dimension of the second support body in the depth direction is greater than 1.5 mm and less than 6 mm, and the dimension of the circumferential end of the first support body in the depth direction is greater than the dimension of the circumferential end of the second support body in the depth direction.

[0045]

[23] A toothbrush according to any one of

[20] to

[22] , wherein the ratio of the length of the area separated from the second support body in the depth direction to the circumferential length of the first support body is greater than 20% and less than 70%.

[0046]

[24] A toothbrush according to any one of

[20] to

[23] , wherein at least one of a first hard plate and a second hard plate is provided, wherein the first hard plate is formed of a resin harder than the first support body and is provided on the first support body along the circumferential direction, and the second hard plate is formed of a resin harder than the second support body and is provided on the second support body along the circumferential direction.

[0047]

[25] A toothbrush according to

[24] , wherein when a load toward one side of the depth direction is applied to the first support body, the first hard plate applies tension to the first support body toward the other side of the depth direction, and when a load toward the other side of the depth direction is applied to the second support body, the second hard plate applies tension to one side of the depth direction to the second support body.

[0048]

[26] A toothbrush according to any one of

[20] to

[25] , comprising a connecting portion connecting the first support body and the second support body in the depth direction, wherein the connecting portion is an elastic body that elastically deforms in the depth direction according to deformation in the occlusal direction.

[0049]

[27] A toothbrush according to any one of

[20] to

[26] , wherein the toothbrush has a connecting portion connecting the first support body and the second support body in the depth direction, and when the connecting portion is compressed in the occlusal direction, at least a portion of the first support body and the second support body approaches the center of the connecting portion in the depth direction.

[0050]

[28] A toothbrush comprising: a grip; and a connecting body connected to the grip on one side in a depth direction orthogonal to a bite direction, the connecting body comprising: a first brush body located on one side in the depth direction relative to the grip; and a second brush body located between the grip and the first brush in the depth direction and arranged separately from the first brush, the first brush body comprising: a first supporting body extending in a circumferential direction around an axis extending in the bite direction. The toothbrush is formed into a U-shape opening to one side in the depth direction; and a first brush portion extending from the first support body to the other side in the depth direction, the second brush body comprising: a second support body formed into a U-shape opening to one side in the depth direction along the circumferential direction; and a second brush portion extending from the second support body to one side in the depth direction, the toothbrush having an adjustment portion capable of adjusting the distance in the depth direction between the first support body and the second support body in a no-load state.

[0051]

[29] The toothbrush according to

[28] , wherein the first support body and the second support body have regions separated in the depth direction.

[0052]

[30] A toothbrush according to

[28] or

[29] , wherein the adjustment portion is provided at least at a central position in the circumferential direction of the first support body and the second support body.

[0053]

[31] A toothbrush according to any one of

[28] to

[30] , wherein at least one of a first hard plate and a second hard plate is provided, wherein the first hard plate is formed of a resin harder than the first support body and is provided on the first support body along the circumferential direction, and the second hard plate is formed of a resin harder than the second support body and is provided on the second support body along the circumferential direction.

[0054]

[32] A toothbrush according to any one of

[28] to

[31] , wherein the adjustment portion is capable of causing the distance between the first support body and the second support body to continuously change according to a load on the adjustment portion in the depth direction.

[0055]

[33] A toothbrush according to any one of

[28] to

[32] , wherein the adjustment portion has a third brush portion on at least one of the one side and the other side of the occlusal direction.

[0056] Effects of the Invention

[0057] In the present invention, sufficient cleaning performance of various parts in the oral cavity and a high degree of cleaning realism due to the high fit of the support body to the teeth can be achieved.

[0058] In addition, the present invention can provide a toothbrush and a method for manufacturing a toothbrush with improved cleaning feel and cleaning performance.

[0059] In addition, it is possible to provide a toothbrush that can achieve high fit to teeth and a high brushing feel.

[0060] In addition, it is possible to provide a toothbrush that improves the fit to teeth. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0061] Figure 1 It is a figure which shows embodiment of this invention, and is a front view of the toothbrush 1 of 1st Embodiment.

[0062] Figure 2 It is an external perspective view of the brush part 30 in the first embodiment of the mouthpiece part 20 .

[0063] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 CC section view in.

[0064] Figure 4 This is a diagram of the inner upper brush portion 31A as viewed from above.

[0065] Figure 5 It is a side view of the inner upper brush portion 31B as seen from the right side.

[0066] Figure 6 This is a diagram of the outer upper brush portion 32A as viewed from above.

[0067] Figure 7 This is a side view of the outer upper brush portion 32B and the outer upper brush portion 32C as viewed from the inside.

[0068] Figure 8 It is an external perspective view of the support body 50 in the first embodiment of the mouthpiece portion 20 .

[0069] Fig. 9 It is a perspective cross-sectional view of the support body 50 in the first embodiment of the mouthpiece portion 20 .

[0070] Fig.10 It is a side view showing a modified example of the connecting portion.

[0071] Fig.11 It is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the connecting portion.

[0072] Fig.12 It is a plan view schematically showing a mouthpiece portion 20 according to the second embodiment.

[0073] Fig.13 It is a plan view schematically showing a mouthpiece portion 20 according to the third embodiment.

[0074] Fig.14 It is a side view schematically showing the mouthpiece portion 20 before the elastic members 81 and 82 are attached.

[0075] Fig.15 It is a plan view schematically showing a mouthpiece portion 20 according to a fourth embodiment.

[0076] Fig.16 It is a side view schematically showing the mouthpiece portion 20 before the elastic members 81 and 82 are attached.

[0077] Fig.17 1 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present invention, and is a front view of a toothbrush 101 according to a second embodiment.

[0078] Fig.18 This is a diagram of the brush portion 130 in the mouthpiece portion 120 as viewed from above.

[0079] Fig.19 yes Fig.17 CC section view in.

[0080] Fig. 20 This is a diagram of the inner upper brush portion 131A as viewed from above.

[0081] Fig.21 This is a diagram of the outer upper brush portion 132A as viewed from above.

[0082] Fig. 22 It is an external perspective view of a support body 150 in a fifth embodiment of a mouthpiece portion 120 .

[0083] Fig.23 It is a perspective cross-sectional view of a support body 150 in a fifth embodiment of a mouthpiece portion 120 .

[0084] Fig.24 It is a perspective view showing a modified example of the mouthpiece portion 120 .

[0085] Fig.25 1 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present invention, and is a front view of a toothbrush 201 according to a third embodiment.

[0086] Fig.26 It is an external perspective view of the mouthpiece part 220 in the sixth embodiment.

[0087] Fig. 27 yes Fig.26 BB section view in.

[0088] Fig.28 yes Fig.25 CC section view in.

[0089] Fig.29 This is a front view of the first brush body 230 , the second brush body 260 , and the connecting portion 280 , except for the first brush portion 241 , the second brush portion 271 , and the connecting portion with the grip portion 210 .

[0090] Fig.30 yes Fig.26 DD section view in.

[0091] Fig.31 It is a front view of a mouthpiece portion 220 according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] Fig.32 It is a front view of a mouthpiece portion 220 according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] Fig.33 It is a front view of a mouthpiece portion 220 according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] Fig.34 It is a front view of a mouthpiece portion 220 according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] Fig.35 It is a front view of a mouthpiece portion 220 according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] Fig.36 yes Fig.26 The BB cross-sectional view in FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece portion 220 according to the twelfth embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] Fig.37 yes Fig.26 The schematic diagram of the BB cross section in FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece portion 220 involved in the thirteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0098] Fig.38 yes Fig.26 The schematic diagram of the BB cross section in FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece portion 220 involved in the thirteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] Fig.39 yes Fig.26 The schematic diagram of the BB cross section in FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece portion 220 involved in the thirteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] Fig.40 yes Fig.26 The schematic diagram of the BB cross section in FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece portion 220 involved in the fourteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0101] Fig.41 yes Fig.26 The schematic diagram of the BB cross section in FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece portion 220 involved in the fourteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] Fig.42 yes Fig.26 The schematic diagram of the BB cross section in FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece portion 220 involved in the fourteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] Fig.43 yes Fig.26 The schematic diagram of the BB cross section in FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece portion 220 involved in the fourteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0104] Fig.44 This is a side view of the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266 constituting the mouthpiece 220 according to the fifteenth embodiment of the present invention, as seen from the left side.

[0105] Fig.45 1 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present invention, and is a front view of a toothbrush 301 according to a fourth embodiment.

[0106] Fig.46This is a perspective view of the external appearance of the mouthpiece portion 320 according to the sixteenth embodiment.

[0107] Fig.47 yes Fig.46 BB section view in.

[0108] Fig.48 yes Fig.45 CC section view in.

[0109] Fig.49 This is a front view of the first brush body 330 , the second brush body 360 , and the connecting portion 380 , from which the first brush portion 341 , the second brush portion 371 , and the connecting portion with the grip portion 310 are removed.

[0110] Fig.50 It is a front view of a state where the fitting protrusion 351 and the fitting cylinder 356 are separated in the depth direction.

[0111] Fig.51 It is a front view of a state where the fitting protrusion 351 is inserted into the fitting cylinder 356 .

[0112] Fig.52 It is a front view of a mouthpiece portion 320 according to a seventeenth embodiment.

[0113] Fig.53 It is a front view of a state in which the fitting protrusion 351 and the fitting cylindrical portion 356 according to the eighteenth embodiment of the mouthpiece portion 320 are separated in the depth direction.

[0114] Fig.54 It is a partial front view of an adjustment unit 350 according to a nineteenth embodiment of the mouthpiece unit 320 .

[0115] Fig.55 It is a partial front view of the adjustment part 350 which concerns on the twentieth embodiment of the mouthpiece part 320. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0116] Below, refer to Figures 1 to 16 Embodiments of a toothbrush and a toothbrush manufacturing method according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0117] In addition, the following embodiments represent one mode of the present invention, do not limit the present invention, and can be arbitrarily changed within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. In addition, in the following drawings, in order to easily understand each structure, the actual structure is different from the scale, quantity, etc. in each structure.

[0118] In the coordinate system shown in each figure, the Z-axis direction is a direction parallel to the direction in which the axis J extends in the occlusal direction, and is set as the up-down direction. The θ direction is a circumferential direction centered on the axis J, and is set as a direction along the tooth row. The circumferential direction in this embodiment includes not only the direction along the arc centered on the axis J, but also the direction along the tangent of the arc. The Y-axis direction is a direction orthogonal to the θ direction and the Z-axis direction, and is set as the depth direction in the oral cavity. In the following description, the direction parallel to the Z-axis direction is referred to as the "occlusal direction". In addition, the maxillary side as the positive side of the Z-axis direction is referred to as the "upper side", and the mandibular side as the negative side of the Z-axis direction is referred to as the "lower side". The positive side of the θ direction is referred to as the "left side", and the negative side of the θ direction is referred to as the "right side". The lingual side as the positive side of the depth direction is referred to as the "inner side", and the buccal side as the negative side of the depth direction is referred to as the "outer side".

[0119] [First embodiment of a toothbrush]

[0120] Figure 1 It is a front view of the toothbrush 1 of the first embodiment.

[0121] The toothbrush 1 is a mouthpiece type toothbrush, and includes a grip portion 10 and a connection body 20. Hereinafter, the connection body 20 is referred to as a mouthpiece portion 20.

[0122] The connection body 20 is given vibration via the grip portion 10 .

[0123] The shaft 14 protrudes from the grip portion 10 and is connected to the mouthpiece portion 20 .

[0124] Alternatively, the shaft 14 protruding from the mouthpiece 20 may be connected to the grip 10 .

[0125] The connection body 20 is given vibration from the grip portion 10 via the shaft 14 .

[0126] The present invention can be applied to any one of a structure in which a brushing action is manually applied to the brace part 20 in the up-down, left-right, front-back and combination directions from the grip part 10, a structure in which vibration is manually applied, and a structure in which vibration is electrically applied to the brace part 20 from the grip part 10.

[0127] In the present embodiment, a mode in which the grip portion 10 is provided with an electric drive unit and vibration generated by driving the electric drive unit is imparted to the mouthpiece portion 20 is described.

[0128] The electric drive unit has a power supply unit 11, a vibration element 12, and a control unit 13. The control unit 13 drives the vibration element 12 by the power of the power supply unit 11. The power supply unit 11 is composed of, for example, a rechargeable battery, a battery, etc. The vibration element 12 is composed of, for example, a piezoelectric element, an electromagnetic acoustic transducer, an unbalanced motor, etc. The vibration generated by the vibration element 12 is a vibration that repeatedly flips the rotation direction at a constant predetermined rotation angle in the rotation direction centered on the axis extending in the depth direction.

[0129] The shaft 14 connected to the electric drive unit in the grip 10 repeatedly reverses the rotation direction and vibrates. The shaft 14 is vibrated by driving the vibration element 12, so that the mouthpiece 20 repeatedly reverses the rotation direction and vibrates.

[0130] [First Embodiment of the Mouthpiece 20]

[0131] The mouthpiece portion 20 includes a brush portion 30 and a support body 50 .

[0132] Figure 2 It is an external perspective view of the brush part 30 in the first embodiment of the mouthpiece part 20 . Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the brush portion 30 as viewed from the inner side in the depth direction.

[0133] like Figure 2 As shown, the brush portion 30 is separately arranged on the outside and inside of the depth direction. The brush portion 30 includes an inner brush portion 31 and an outer brush portion 32. The inner brush portion 31 is located on the inside of the depth direction. The inner brush portion 31 includes inner upper brush portions 31A, 31B, 31C and inner lower brush portions 31D, 31E, 31F. The inner upper brush portions 31A, 31B, 31C are located on the upper side and are arranged opposite to the tooth surfaces on the lingual side of the tooth row on the maxillary side along the circumferential direction. The inner upper brush portions 31A, 31B, 31C are arranged in a U-shape with the inner upper brush portion 31A as the center and the inner upper brush portions 31B, 31C are arranged at intervals on both sides of the circumferential direction.

[0134] The inner lower brush portions 31D, 31E, and 31F are located on the lower side opposite to the inner upper brush portions 31A, 31B, and 31C, respectively, and are arranged opposite to the tooth surface on the lingual side of the tooth row on the mandibular side. The inner lower brush portions 31D, 31E, and 31F are arranged in a U-shape with the inner lower brush portion 31D as the center and the inner lower brush portions 31E and 31F spaced apart on both sides in the circumferential direction.

[0135] In the inner brush portion 31, the inner upper brush portion 31B and the inner upper brush portion 31C are line symmetrical in the left-right direction, so the description of the inner upper brush portion 31C may be omitted. In addition, the inner lower brush portions 31D, 31E, and 31F are line symmetrical with the inner upper brush portions 31A, 31B, and 31C in the occlusal direction, so the description of the inner lower brush portions 31D, 31E, and 31F may be omitted.

[0136] The inner upper brush portion 31A is arranged at the central position in the circumferential direction. When viewed from the upper side, the inner upper brush portion 31A has a portion that is curved along the circumferential direction in a direction that bulges outward. Both sides of the circumferential direction of the inner upper brush portion 31A are curved along the circumferential direction. The inner upper brush portion 31A is mainly arranged opposite to the tooth surface on the lingual side of the multiple incisors on the maxillary side. Therefore, the brush portion 30 is arranged in multiple directions in the circumferential direction, the occlusal direction, and the depth direction.

[0137] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 CC section view in.

[0138] like Figure 3 As shown, the inner upper brush portion 31A has a base portion 41 , a monofilament 42 , and a bonding portion 43 .

[0139] The base portion 41 has a rectangular cross section. Figure 4 31A is a diagram showing the inner upper brush portion 31A as viewed from above. Figure 4 As shown, when viewed from above, the base portion 41 has portions on both sides in the circumferential direction that are curved in the circumferential direction in a direction convex outward.

[0140] This embodiment is a toothbrush 1 that uses a brush portion 30 arranged along the teeth and aims to move the brush portion 30 manually or electrically. Therefore, by bending the base portion 41, the monofilament 42 can be moved along the lingual side of the teeth, which can improve cleaning performance and fit. In addition, the installation area of ​​the brush portion 30 can be maximized, which can help improve vibration efficiency and cleaning power in the case of electric use.

[0141] The provisions regarding the numerical values ​​exemplifying the inner upper brush portion 31A shown in the following description are applicable to both the inner brush portion 31 and the outer brush portion 32 in the brush portion 30 unless otherwise specified.

[0142] When the circumferential length of the base portion 41 is 15 mm or more, it is preferably curved along the circumferential direction. When the length of the base portion 41 is less than 15 mm, the advantage of curving the base portion 41 itself decreases, so it is sufficient to configure a plurality of base portions 41 extending in a straight line along the curved contour.

[0143] If the length of the base portion 41 exceeds 150 mm, it is too large for the size of the oral cavity, and operability and fitting properties are reduced. Therefore, it is preferably 150 mm or less.

[0144] When the curvature radius of the mouthpiece part 20 is 5 mm or more and 50 mm or less, it is preferable to curve the base part 41 .

[0145] When the radius of curvature of the mouthpiece portion 20 is less than 5 mm, fitting into the support body 50 becomes difficult, and the distance between the bristle tips of the monofilaments 42 changes excessively, which may cause interference between the bristle tips or become sparse. Therefore, it is preferable to configure a plurality of brush portions 30 along the curved contour of the base portion 41.

[0146] When the curvature radius of the mouthpiece part 20 exceeds 50 mm, it can be regarded as a straight line shape.

[0147] The length L of the base portion 41 is defined by the straight line distance connecting the two ends of the brush surface 41a in the circumferential direction. The length L of the base portion 41 is preferably 5 mm or more, and more preferably 15 mm or more. By setting the length L of the base portion 41 to be 5 mm or more, it is easy to feel the fit, and in the case of electric power, the vibration is difficult to attenuate, so it is easy to transmit to the end, which can improve the cleaning performance. It is preferred to include a brush portion 30 whose length L of the base portion 41 is more than twice the size of the base portion 41 in the occlusal direction, that is, the width.

[0148] By setting the length L with priority over the width of the base portion 41 , the texture and fit of the teeth and area units (incisors, molars, etc.) can be unified.

[0149] The base portion 41 is detachably fitted into a fitting recess 61A (described later in detail) in the inner support body 51 from the outside. The base portion 41 is coupled to the inner support body 51 by fitting the upper surface and the lower surface forming the coupling portion 43 into the fitting recess 61A. By detachably fitting the base portion 41 into the fitting recess 61A, the inner upper brush portion 31A can be replaced relative to the inner support body 51. Therefore, the user can replace the brush portion 30 according to preference and situation, change the specifications, and meet various needs.

[0150] The thickness of the base portion 41 as a dimension in the depth direction is preferably 1 mm or more, and more preferably 2 mm or more. The thickness of the base portion 41 as a dimension in the depth direction is preferably 5 mm or less, and more preferably 4 mm or less. The upper limit and lower limit of the thickness of the base portion 41 as a dimension in the depth direction can be arbitrarily combined.

[0151] In addition, when the bonding force between the base portion 41 and the inner support body 51 can be ensured, the thickness of the base portion 41 is preferably 0.3 to 1.2 mm.

[0152] By setting the thickness of the base portion 41 in the depth direction to be greater than or equal to 1 mm and less than or equal to 5 mm, the base portion 41 can be stably fitted into the fitting recess 61A and coupled.

[0153] When the bonding force between the base 41 and the inner support 51 can be ensured, the base 41 has a thickness of 0.3 to 1.2 mm, so that the volume does not become too large, which can also help prevent drooling and help improve the operability and fit.

[0154] The thickness of the base portion 41 in the depth direction is preferably 50% to 90% of the depth dimension, i.e., thickness, of the inner support body 51. The thickness of the inner support body 51 in the depth direction is the sum of the depth of the fitting recess 61A and the thickness of the thin-walled portion located inside the fitting recess 61A.

[0155] By setting the thickness of the base 41 in the depth direction to be 50% or more and 90% or less of the thickness of the inner support 51 in the depth direction, the base 41 is stably fixed to the inner support 51, and in the case of electric driving, the thickness is sufficient for efficient transmission of vibration. In addition, the volume does not become too large, which can also help prevent drooling and help improve operability and fit.

[0156] The monofilament 42 extends outward from the brush surface 41a facing outward in the base portion 41. When viewed from the upper side, the brush surface 41a has a portion that is curved along the circumferential direction in a direction that bulges outward. The monofilament 42 includes a monofilament 42A extending outward from the upper end of the brush surface 41a, a monofilament 42B extending outward from a position below the monofilament 42A, and a monofilament 42C extending outward from a position below the monofilament 42B.

[0157] When the position where the upper and lower teeth occlude in the occlusal direction is defined as the occlusal plane K, in a side view observed in parallel with the occlusal plane K, the inclination angle of the monofilament 42 relative to the occlusal plane K becomes smaller the closer to the occlusal plane K, and becomes larger the farther away from the occlusal plane K. Specifically, the inclination angle of the monofilament 42A close to the gum side and farthest from the occlusal plane K is larger than the inclination angles of the monofilament 42B and the monofilament 42C. The inclination angle of the monofilament 42C closest to the occlusal plane K is smaller than the inclination angles of the monofilament 42A and the monofilament 42B.

[0158] When the mouthpiece 20 is held in the mouthpiece, the mouth is slightly opened. In addition, the size of the tooth surface in the occlusal direction is often larger than the arrangement pitch in the occlusal direction at the root of the monofilaments 42A and 42C. Therefore, if the inclination angles of the monofilaments 42A to 42C are set to be the same, it is difficult for the top ends of the monofilaments 42A to 42C to cover the entire tooth surface in the occlusal direction. In this embodiment, the inclination angles are gradually increased from the monofilament 42C to the monofilament 42A. Therefore, even when the mouth is slightly opened, the monofilament 42C can be attached to the top side of the tooth on the lingual side, and the monofilament 42A can be attached to the gum side on the lingual side.

[0159] The circumferential arrangement spacing of the monofilaments 42A and 42B, and the monofilaments 42B and 42C adjacent in the occlusal direction are staggered by, for example, half a spacing. That is, when viewed in the direction opposite to the brush surface 41a, the monofilaments 42A, 42B, and 42C are arranged in a staggered manner. By arranging the monofilaments 42A, 42B, and 42C in a staggered manner, the gaps between the monofilaments 42 can be reduced, and the fit and cleaning performance on the tooth surface can be improved.

[0160] like Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , when viewed from the upper side, the monofilaments 42 protrude and extend radially outward from the brush surface 41a. The inner upper brush portion 31A constituting the brush portion 30 has a portion where the arrangement pitch of the roots of the monofilaments 42 is different from the arrangement pitch of the hair tips at the bent portion of the base portion 41. Specifically, the arrangement pitch P2 of the hair tips of the monofilaments 42 is greater than the arrangement pitch P1 of the roots.

[0161] By making the arrangement pitch of the monofilaments 42 different at the root and the tip, the balance between rigidity and flexure can be adjusted, and the cleaning power is improved. For example, by reducing the arrangement pitch of the monofilaments 42 at the root, the rigidity of the hair can be ensured, and by increasing the arrangement pitch of the tip, the ability to enter the gap between the teeth can be ensured, thereby improving the cleaning function.

[0162] When the arrangement pitch P2 of the hair tip portions is larger than the arrangement pitch P1 of the root portions, the value represented by P2 / P1 is preferably 1.05 or more and 2.00 or less.

[0163] By setting the value represented by P2 / P1 to 1.05 or more and 2.00 or less, an arc along the teeth row on the lingual side surface can be formed at the tip of the monofilament 42, thereby improving the fit. Since the pitch at the root is closer than that at the tip, the bristle rigidity can be ensured.

[0164] Furthermore, making the arrangement pitch different between the tip and the root and adjusting P2 / P1 within the above range are not uniquely determined by the curvature of the base 41, and may be implemented in a region where the base 41 is linear, for example.

[0165] The inner upper brush portion 31B is located on the right side of the inner upper brush portion 31A in the circumferential direction and extends to the end in the circumferential direction. The end of the inner upper brush portion 31B on the side close to the inner upper brush portion 31A is a shape extending the curved shape of the inner upper brush portion 31A. The -θ side of the inner upper brush portion 31B is a straight line shape that becomes a tangent to the curved shape.

[0166] The inner upper brush portion 31B is mainly arranged to face the tooth surfaces on the lingual side of the canine teeth and molars (premolars and molars) on the maxillary side.

[0167] Figure 5 It is a side view of the inner upper brush portion 31B as seen from the right side.

[0168] like Figure 5 As shown, the upper surface of the inner upper brush portion 31B is inclined downward toward the -θ side. That is, the width of the inner upper brush portion 31B, which is a dimension in the bite direction, becomes thinner from the +θ side toward the -θ side.

[0169] The monofilaments 42A and 42B of the monofilaments 42 are arranged in a direction that goes downward as they go toward the -θ side, along the inclination of the upper surface of the inner upper brush portion 31B. The monofilaments 42C of the monofilaments 42 are arranged halfway in the θ direction as the width of the inner upper brush portion 31B becomes thinner on the -θ side. Therefore, the monofilaments 42 are arranged in three rows in the occlusal direction on the +θ side, and in two rows in the occlusal direction on the -θ side.

[0170] like Figure 3 As shown, the base portion 41 of the inner lower brush portion 31D is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 61D (described later in detail) in the inner support body 51 from the outside. The base portion 41 is engaged with the inner support body 51 by engaging the upper surface and the lower surface forming the engagement portion 43 in the engagement recess 61D. The inner lower brush portion 31D can be replaced relative to the inner support body 51 by detachably engaging the base portion 41 in the engagement recess 61D. Therefore, the user can replace the brush portion 30 according to preference and situation, change the specifications, and meet various needs.

[0171] The inner lower brush portion 31D is vertically symmetrical with respect to the inner upper brush portion 31A in the occlusal direction with respect to the occlusal surface K as the center.

[0172] The monofilament 42A on the inner lower brush portion 31D extends outward from the lower end of the brush surface 41a. The monofilament 42B extends outward from the upper position of the monofilament 42A. The monofilament 42C extends outward from the upper position of the monofilament 42B. The inclination angle of the monofilament 42A close to the gum side and farthest from the occlusal surface K relative to the occlusal surface K is greater than the inclination angles of the monofilament 42B and the monofilament 42C relative to the occlusal surface K. The inclination angle of the monofilament 42C closest to the occlusal surface K relative to the occlusal surface K is smaller than the inclination angles of the monofilament 42A and the monofilament 42B.

[0173] The outer brush portion 32 is located on the outer side in the depth direction.

[0174] The outer brush portion 32 includes outer upper brush portions 32A, 32B, 32C, 32D, 32E and outer lower brush portions 32F, 32G, 32H, 32J, 32K. The outer upper brush portions 32A, 32B, 32C, 32D, 32E are located on the upper side and are arranged opposite to the tooth surface on the buccal side of the dentition on the maxillary side along the circumferential direction. The outer upper brush portions 32A, 32B, 32C, 32D, 32E are arranged in sequence at intervals on the right side in the circumferential direction, and the outer upper brush portions 32D, 32E are arranged in sequence at intervals on the left side in the circumferential direction, and are arranged in a U-shape as a whole.

[0175] The outer lower brush portions 32F, 32G, 32H, 32J, and 32K are located on the lower side opposite to the outer upper brush portions 32A, 32B, 32C, 32D, and 32E, respectively, and are arranged opposite to the tooth surface on the buccal side of the dentition on the mandibular side. The outer lower brush portions 32F, 32G, 32H, 32J, and 32K are arranged in sequence at intervals on the right side in the circumferential direction, and the outer lower brush portions 32J and 32K are arranged in sequence at intervals on the left side in the circumferential direction, with the outer lower brush portions 32F as the center, and are arranged in sequence at intervals on the left side in the circumferential direction, and are arranged in a U shape as a whole.

[0176] In the outer brush portion 32, the outer upper brush portion 32B and the outer upper brush portion 32D are line symmetrical in the left-right direction, and the outer upper brush portion 32C and the outer upper brush portion 32E are line symmetrical in the left-right direction, so the description of the outer upper brush portions 32D and 32E may be omitted.

[0177] In addition, the outer lower brush parts 32F, 32G, 32H, 32J, and 32K are respectively line symmetrical with the outer upper brush parts 32A, 32B, 32C, 32D, and 32E in the occlusal direction, so the description of the outer lower brush parts 32F, 32G, 32H, 32J, and 32K is sometimes omitted.

[0178] The outer upper brush portion 32A is arranged at the central position in the circumferential direction. When viewed from the upper side, the outer upper brush portion 32A has a portion that is curved along the circumferential direction in a direction that bulges outward. Both sides of the circumferential direction of the outer upper brush portion 32A are curved along the circumferential direction. The outer upper brush portion 32A is mainly arranged opposite to the tooth surface on the buccal side of the plurality of incisors on the maxillary side.

[0179] like Figure 3 As shown, the outer upper brush portion 32A has a base portion 71 , a monofilament 72 , and a coupling portion 73 .

[0180] The base portion 71 has a rectangular cross section. Figure 6 This is a diagram of the outer upper brush portion 32A as viewed from above. Figure 6 As shown, when viewed from above, the base portion 71 has portions on both sides in the circumferential direction that are curved in the circumferential direction in a direction convex outward.

[0181] By bending the base portion 71, the monofilament 72 can be arranged along the buccal side of the teeth, thereby improving cleaning performance and fit. In addition, the installation area can be maximized, which can contribute to improving vibration efficiency and cleaning power in the case of electric power.

[0182] The base portion 71 is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 62A (described in detail later) in the outer support body 52 from the inside. The base portion 71 is engaged with the outer support body 52 by engaging the upper surface and the lower surface forming the engagement portion 73 in the engagement recess 62A. The outer upper brush portion 32A can be replaced relative to the outer support body 52 by detachably engaging the base portion 71 in the engagement recess 62A.

[0183] The monofilament 72 extends inward from the brush surface 71a facing inward in the base portion 71. Therefore, the monofilament 72 is opposite to the monofilament 42. When viewed from the upper side, the brush surface 71a has a portion that is curved along the circumferential direction in a direction that bulges outward. Figure 3 As shown, the monofilament 72 includes a monofilament 72A extending outward from the upper end of the brush surface 71a, a monofilament 72B extending outward from a position below the monofilament 72A, and a monofilament 72C extending outward from a position below the monofilament 72B.

[0184] When viewed from the side parallel to the occlusal plane K, the inclination angle of the monofilament 72 relative to the occlusal plane K becomes smaller the closer to the occlusal plane K, and becomes larger the farther away from the occlusal plane K. Specifically, the inclination angle of the monofilament 72A close to the gum side and farthest from the occlusal plane K is larger than the inclination angles of the monofilament 72B and the monofilament 72C. The inclination angle of the monofilament 72C closest to the occlusal plane K is smaller than the inclination angles of the monofilament 72A and the monofilament 72B.

[0185] In this embodiment, the inclination angle increases from the monofilament 72C to the monofilament 72A, so even when the mouth is slightly open, the monofilament 72C can be attached to the buccal tooth top side and the monofilament 72A can be attached to the buccal gum side.

[0186] The circumferential arrangement pitches of the monofilaments 72A and 72B, and the monofilaments 72B and 72C adjacent in the occlusal direction are staggered by, for example, half a pitch. That is, when viewed in the direction opposite to the brush surface 71a, the monofilaments 72A, 72B, and 72C are arranged in a staggered manner. By arranging the monofilaments 72A, 72B, and 72C in a staggered manner, the gaps between the monofilaments 72 can be reduced, and the fit and cleaning performance on the tooth surface can be improved.

[0187] like Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , when viewed from the upper side, the monofilaments 72 protrude and extend radially inward from the brush surface 71a. The outer upper brush portion 32A constituting the brush portion 30 has a portion where the arrangement pitch of the root portion of the monofilaments 72 is different from the arrangement pitch of the bristle tip portion at the portion where the base portion 71 is bent. Specifically, the arrangement pitch P4 of the bristle tip portion of the monofilaments 72 is smaller than the arrangement pitch P3 of the root portion.

[0188] By making the arrangement pitch of the monofilaments 72 different between the root portion and the tip portion, the balance between rigidity and flexibility can be adjusted, thereby improving the cleaning power.

[0189] When the arrangement pitch P4 of the hair tip portion is smaller than the arrangement pitch P3 of the root portion, the value represented by P4 / P3 is preferably 0.3 or more and 0.9 or less. By setting the value represented by P4 / P3 to 0.3 or more and 0.9 or less, for example, by increasing the arrangement pitch of the root portion in the monofilament 72, the monofilaments can be sparsely arranged to ensure operability, and by reducing the arrangement pitch of the hair tip portion, an arc shape along the tooth row on the buccal side can be formed to improve fit.

[0190] Furthermore, making the arrangement pitch different between the tip and the root and adjusting P4 / P3 within the above range are not uniquely determined by the curvature of the base 71, and may be implemented in a region where the base 71 is linear, for example.

[0191] Back to Figure 2 , the outer upper brush portion 32B is located on the right side in the circumferential direction compared to the outer upper brush portion 32A. The outer upper brush portion 32C is located on the right side in the circumferential direction compared to the outer upper brush portion 32B. The circumferential end of the outer upper brush portion 32C on the side (+θ side) close to the outer upper brush portion 32B is a shape that extends the curved shape of the outer upper brush portion 32A. The -θ side of the outer upper brush portion 32C is a straight line shape that becomes a tangent to the above-mentioned curved shape. The outer upper brush portion 32C is mainly arranged opposite to the tooth surface on the buccal side of multiple molars (premolars, molars) on the maxillary side.

[0192] When viewed from above, the outer upper brush portion 32B is a straight line connecting the end of the outer upper brush portion 32A on the -θ side and the end of the outer upper brush portion 32C on the +θ side. The outer upper brush portion 32B has a short circumferential dimension, and as described above, the advantage of bending the outer upper brush portion 32B is reduced, so it is formed in a straight line.

[0193] Figure 7 32B and 32C are viewed from the inside. Figure 7 As shown, the upper surfaces of the outer upper brush portion 32B and the outer upper brush portion 32C are inclined toward the lower side as they go toward the -θ side. That is, the width of the outer upper brush portion 32B and the outer upper brush portion 32C, which is the dimension in the occlusal direction, becomes thinner as they go from the +θ side toward the -θ side. The inclinations of the upper surfaces of the outer upper brush portion 32B and the outer upper brush portion 32C are on the same straight line.

[0194] The monofilaments 72 in the outer upper brush portion 32B and the outer upper brush portion 32C are arranged along the inclination of the upper surface. The width of the outer upper brush portion 32B and the outer upper brush portion 32C is thicker than the width of the inner upper brush portion 31B described above, so the monofilaments 72A, 72B, and 72C are arranged in three rows over the entire circumferential length.

[0195] like Figure 3 As shown, the base portion 71 of the outer lower brush portion 32F is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 62F (described in detail later) in the outer support body 52 from the inside. The base portion 71 is engaged with the outer support body 52 by engaging the upper surface and the lower surface forming the engagement portion 73 in the engagement recess 62F. The outer lower brush portion 32F can be replaced relative to the outer support body 52 by detachably engaging the base portion 71 in the engagement recess 62F.

[0196] The outer lower brush portion 32F is vertically symmetrical with respect to the outer upper brush portion 32A in the occlusal direction with the occlusal surface K as the center.

[0197] The monofilament 72A on the outer lower brush portion 32F extends inward from the lower end portion of the brush surface 71a. The monofilament 72B extends inward from the upper position of the monofilament 72A. The monofilament 72C extends inward from the upper position of the monofilament 72B. The inclination angle of the monofilament 72A, which is close to the gum side and farthest from the occlusal surface K, relative to the occlusal surface K is greater than the inclination angles of the monofilament 72B and the monofilament 72C relative to the occlusal surface K. The inclination angle of the monofilament 72C, which is closest to the occlusal surface K, relative to the occlusal surface K is smaller than the inclination angles of the monofilament 72A and the monofilament 72B.

[0198] The distance between the bristle tips of the monofilaments 42 of the inner brush portion 31 and the monofilaments 72 of the outer brush portion 32 described above differs depending on the position in the circumferential direction.

[0199] The outer brush portion 32 and the inner brush portion 31 each have a central region including the center in the circumferential direction of the support body 50 and an end region located at an end in the circumferential direction of the support body 50. An intermediate region is provided between the central region and the end region.

[0200] The central region is mainly the area opposite the incisors.

[0201] The terminal region is mainly the region opposite from the premolars to the molars.

[0202] The middle region is mainly the area opposite from the canines to the premolars.

[0203] like Figure 1 As shown, in the outer brush portion 32, the central area is set as the first area A1, the middle area is set as the second area A2, and the end area is set as the third area A3.

[0204] In the inner brush portion 31 , a central region is referred to as a first region B1 , a middle region is referred to as a second region B2 , and an end region is referred to as a third region B3 .

[0205] The distance between the hair tips of the first region A1 and the first region B1 is defined as D1, the distance between the hair tips of the second region A2 and the second region B2 is defined as D2, and the distance between the hair tips of the third region A3 and the third region B3 is defined as D3.

[0206] The distance D1 between bristle tips is the distance between the shortest monofilament 72 of the outer brush portion 32 in the first region A1 and the shortest monofilament 42 of the inner brush portion 31 in the first region B1.

[0207] The distance D2 between bristle tips is the distance between the shortest monofilament 72 of the outer brush portion 32 in the second region A2 and the shortest monofilament 42 of the inner brush portion 31 in the second region B2.

[0208] The distance D3 between bristle tips is the distance between the shortest monofilament 72 of the outer brush portion 32 in the third region A3 and the shortest monofilament 42 of the inner brush portion 31 in the third region B3.

[0209] The shortest distance between bristle tips is a value measured as the shortest distance between bristle tips in the depth direction between the inner and outer bristle tips located on the same plane perpendicular to the circumferential direction (i.e., a plane extending in the depth direction) with the inner support body 51 as a reference.

[0210] The distance between the hair tips is a value measured when observing in the occlusal direction (for example, from the upper side). That is, the positions of the hairs of both parties in the occlusal direction measured as the distance between the hair tips may be different. In addition, when the hairs with the shortest distance relative to the depth direction are not on the same plane perpendicular to the circumferential direction, the plane is set as an imaginary space with a thickness of ±0.5 mm in the circumferential direction, and if the hairs enter the imaginary space, they are set on the same plane. In other words, the hairs with the shortest distance relative to the depth direction are set on the same plane if the circumferential separation distance is within 1.0 mm.

[0211] By dividing the brush portion 30 into a plurality of areas with different distances between bristle tips corresponding to the parts in the oral cavity, it is possible to make specifications suitable for cleaning each part (improved bristle rigidity, setting of a height difference profile matching the shape of the teeth), so that each part in the oral cavity can be fully cleaned.

[0212] The distances D1 and D3 between the hair tips satisfy the relationship of D3>D1.

[0213] That is, the distance D3 between the hair tips in the region mainly facing the molars including the premolars to the molars is larger than the distance D1 between the hair tips in the region mainly facing the incisors.

[0214] By setting the distance between bristle tips to match the size of the teeth based on the location, such as when the distance between the incisors is small due to the thinness of the incisors and the distance between the teeth is large due to the thickness of the molars, the fit to the dentition and the cleaning power can be improved.

[0215] It is preferred that the distances D1, D2, and D3 between the hair tips satisfy the relationship of D3>D2>D1.

[0216] That is, the gap between the outer brush portion 32 and the inner brush portion 31 in the depth direction is larger in the second region A2, B2 than in the first region A1, B1, and is larger in the third region A3, B3 than in the second region A2, B2.

[0217] The vibration generated by the electric drive unit is based on the rotation of the shaft 14, and the amplitude becomes larger in the third areas A3 and B3 having a large rotation radius around the shaft 14. The optimum space between the bristles (movable area) can be set based on this vibration characteristic.

[0218] When the length from the circumferential center to the end of the support body 50 is set to 100%, if the area from the circumferential center to 40% is set as the first area A1, B1, the area from the circumferential center to 40% to 65% is set as the second area A2, B2, and the area from the circumferential center to 65% to 100% is set as the third area A3, B3, then the distances D1, D2, and D3 between the hair tips preferably satisfy the relationship of D1<D2<D3.

[0219] The monofilament 72 preferably has a cap stiffness that satisfies the relationship of first region A1<second region A2<third region A3. The monofilament 42 preferably has a cap stiffness that satisfies the relationship of first region B1<second region B2<third region B3.

[0220] By satisfying the above relationship, even for the molars which have little chance of contacting the monofilaments 42 and 72, a sufficient cleaning force can be ensured.

[0221] The thickness of the monofilament 72 preferably satisfies the relationship of first region A1 < second region A2 < third region A3. The thickness of the monofilament 42 preferably satisfies the relationship of first region B1 < second region B2 < third region B3.

[0222] By satisfying the above relationship, even for the molars which have little chance of contacting the monofilaments 42 and 72, a sufficient cleaning force can be ensured.

[0223] The longest hair length of the monofilament 72 preferably satisfies the relationship of first region A1<second region A2<third region A3. The longest hair length of the monofilament 42 preferably satisfies the relationship of first region B1<second region B2<third region B3.

[0224] By satisfying the above relationship, it is possible to ensure penetration and cleaning power into the molars deep between teeth.

[0225] The brush portion 30 has monofilaments 42, 72 with different hair lengths and height differences (hair length height differences) arranged in the circumferential direction. The configuration profile of the hair length height difference is different at least between the second area A2 and the third area A3, and between the second area B2 and the third area B3. The size of the maximum hair length height difference preferably satisfies the relationship of the second area A2 < the third area A3 and the relationship of the second area B2 < the third area B3. In addition, when the configuration profile of the hair length height difference is repeated with a certain period, the period preferably satisfies the relationship of the second area A2 < the third area A3 and the relationship of the second area B2 < the third area B3. For example, if the longest monofilament 42, 72 is set to [long] and the shortest monofilament 42, 72 is set to [short], the following configuration profile is set: [short short long long] is repeated in the second areas A2, B2, and [short short long long] is repeated in the third areas A3, B3.

[0226] By satisfying the above relationship, it is possible to ensure penetration and cleaning power of the molars deep between teeth, and it is possible to change the cycle of the arrangement profile according to the size of the teeth, thereby further improving the fit.

[0227] The total number of the monofilaments 42 and 72 in each brush portion 30 is preferably 10 to 150.

[0228] When the total number of monofilaments 42, 72 is less than 10, the scraping force is insufficient and the cleaning function is reduced. When the total number of monofilaments 42, 72 exceeds 150, the monofilaments 42, 72 are densely packed and difficult to bend, so the adhesion is reduced and the cleaning function is reduced.

[0229] By setting the total number of monofilaments 42 and 72 to 10 to 150, the cleaning function and the adhesion can be improved.

[0230] The total number of the monofilaments 72 in the outer brush portion 32 is preferably 300 to 1800. The total number of the monofilaments 42 in the inner brush portion 31 is preferably 200 to 1400.

[0231] Since the area of ​​the outer brush portion 32 facing the tooth row is large, the tooth row can be covered in a wide range by setting the total number of monofilaments 72 to the above range.

[0232] It is preferable that the total number of the monofilaments 72 in the second area A2 and the third area A3 on one of the left and right sides is greater than the total number of the monofilaments 72 in the first area A1.

[0233] In addition, it is preferable that the total number of the monofilaments 42 in the second area B2 and the third area B3 on one side of the left or right side is greater than the total number of the monofilaments 42 in the first area B1.

[0234] By satisfying the above relationship, even for the molars which have little chance of contacting the monofilaments 42 and 72, a sufficient cleaning force can be ensured.

[0235] As described above, the brush portion 30 is composed of a plurality of inner brush portions 31 and outer brush portions 32 in the depth direction. In the occlusal direction, the inner brush portion 31 is composed of a plurality of inner upper brush portions 31A, 31B, 31C and inner lower brush portions 31D, 31E, 31F, and the outer brush portion 32 is composed of a plurality of outer upper brush portions 32A, 32B, 32C, 32D, 32E and outer lower brush portions 32F, 32G, 32H, 32J, 32K. The brush portion 30 is composed of a plurality of inner brush portions 31 and outer brush portions in the circumferential direction.

[0236] Since the brush part 30 is composed of a plurality of parts, it is possible to set the specifications suitable for oral cleaning according to the parts in the oral cavity (improvement of bristle rigidity, setting of height difference profile matching the shape of the tooth row, etc.), thereby fully cleaning various parts in the oral cavity. In particular, in this embodiment, the brush part 30 is composed of a plurality of parts in the depth direction, the occlusal direction, and the circumferential direction, so that the cleaning part can be optimized more precisely according to each part.

[0237] The number of rows of the monofilaments 42 and 72 in the intermeshing direction may be 2 or less.

[0238] When the number of rows of the monofilaments 42 and 72 is 2 or less, the width of the brush portion 30 in the intermeshing direction is preferably 2 mm or more and 5 mm or less.

[0239] When the number of rows of the monofilaments 42 , 72 is 2 or more, the width of the brush portion 30 in the intermeshing direction is preferably 2 mm or more and 20 mm or less. The maximum width of the brush portion 30 is defined by the width of the support body 50 .

[0240] When the number of rows of the monofilaments 42 and 72 is 2 or less, the number of the brush portions 30 in the occlusal direction increases, thereby enabling more precise arrangement according to the position in the oral cavity.

[0241] When the number of rows of the monofilaments 42 and 72 is 2 or more, the width of the brush portion 30 increases, and the rigidity in the width direction increases, so that the brush portion 30 becomes difficult to bend.

[0242] Therefore, it is possible to improve the cleaning force of the brush portion 30. In addition, when the mouthpiece portion 20 is electric, even if the length of the brush portion 30 in the circumferential direction is increased, it is possible to suppress the attenuation of vibration.

[0243] When a plurality of brush portions 30 are provided, the number thereof is preferably 3 or more in the circumferential direction. When a plurality of brush portions 30 are provided, the number thereof is preferably 9 or less in the circumferential direction, and more preferably 7 or less. The upper limit and the lower limit when a plurality of brush portions 30 are provided in the circumferential direction can be arbitrarily combined.

[0244] When a plurality of brush parts 30 are provided, one or more are preferred, and two or more are more preferred. When a plurality of brush parts 30 are provided, four or less are preferred, and three or less are more preferred.

[0245] The upper limit value and the lower limit value when a plurality of brush portions 30 are provided in the occlusal direction can be arbitrarily combined.

[0246] Thus, the circumferential direction is roughly divided into three regions: the front, right, and left. If further subdivided, it is considered to be divided into five regions: the front, right, left, the middle between the front and right, and the middle between the front and left. Specifications can be designed corresponding to each region. Regarding the width direction, it is considered to be roughly divided into upper and lower jaws, and specifications can be designed corresponding to the upper and lower jaws.

[0247] In this way, by setting an upper limit on the number of brushes 30, it is possible to prevent each brush 30 and the surrounding support body 50 from moving independently and disorderly, thereby avoiding a sense of incongruity. In addition, when the mouthpiece 20 is electric, vibration is difficult to attenuate and is easily transmitted, which can improve the cleaning function.

[0248] The circumferential length of the brush portion 30 is preferably 5 mm or more and 150 mm or less. A length of 5 mm corresponds to one of the front teeth of a child. A length of 150 mm corresponds to the entire length of the outer side of the support body 50 in the circumferential direction.

[0249] When the length of the brush portion 30 in the circumferential direction is 5 mm or more, it is possible to obtain a fit as fine as that of a single incisor tooth of a child.

[0250] If the circumferential length of the brush portion 30 is 150 mm or less, when the mouthpiece portion 20 is manually moved, the excess area that is separated from the teeth is reduced, and the three-dimensional hindrance in the oral cavity is reduced, thereby ensuring operability.

[0251] In addition, when the dental mouthpiece 20 is electric, it is possible to reduce vibration attenuation and make it fit the entire dentition.

[0252] The brush portion 30 is a first molded body integrally formed of a soft resin. More specifically, the inner brush portion 31 is a first molded body integrally formed of a base portion 41, a monofilament 42, and a connecting portion 43. The outer brush portion 32 is a first molded body integrally formed of a base portion 71, a monofilament 72, and a connecting portion 73.

[0253] The brush portion 30 is a first molded body and is a component different from the support body 50. This can alleviate the constraints of the hardness and contour of the brush portion 30, and can be made into specifications suitable for oral cleaning for each part of the oral cavity (improved bristle rigidity, setting of a height difference contour matching the shape of the teeth, etc.), thereby being able to fully clean each part of the oral cavity.

[0254] In addition, since the brush portion 30 is formed of a soft resin, it can be easily elastically deformed. Therefore, even if the brush portion 30 is curved in the circumferential direction, it can be prevented from being forcibly pulled out during the forming by bending it after being formed into a straight shape. Moreover, the tips of the monofilaments 42 and 72 can also follow the shape of the jaw, and high fit can be obtained. In the case where the mouthpiece portion 20 is electric, the vibration caused by the electric power can also be easily transmitted, which can improve the cleaning function.

[0255] As the soft resin constituting the brush portion 30 , various elastomers can be used, and examples thereof include polyurethane and silicone.

[0256] Polyurethane tends to have higher tensile strength and mechanical wear resistance than other elastomers such as styrene-based and polyester-based elastomers. Therefore, by using polyurethane as a soft resin, it is difficult to break even if it is made thin, and mechanical strength and long-term use can be achieved.

[0257] Silicone is particularly resistant to heat and chemicals, and can reduce quality deterioration in the presence of boiling sterilization and toothpaste.

[0258] At least one of the brush parts 30 is preferably formed of a soft resin having a Shore A hardness of 40 or more, and more preferably formed of a soft resin having a Shore A hardness of 70 or more.

[0259] At least one of the brush parts 30 is preferably formed of a soft resin having a Shore D hardness of 70 or less, and more preferably formed of a soft resin having a Shore D hardness of 66 or less. The upper limit and lower limit of the hardness of the soft resin forming at least one of the brush parts 30 can be arbitrarily combined.

[0260] “Shore A hardness” refers to the durometer A hardness of plastics measured in accordance with JIS K 7215 or JIS K 6253. “Shore D hardness” refers to the hardness of durometer type D specified in JIS K6253.

[0261] When the hardness of the soft resin is less than the above lower limit, insufficient scraping force occurs, and when the mouthpiece 20 is electric, insufficient vibration transmission occurs, and the cleaning function is reduced.

[0262] When the hardness of the soft resin exceeds the above upper limit, the monofilaments 42 and 72 and the base portions 41 and 71 become difficult to bend, and the adhesion is reduced, thereby reducing the cleaning function.

[0263] In the present embodiment, the brush portion 30 is the first molded body, and forced pulling out during molding can be avoided, so a resin with higher hardness can be used compared to the case where the brush portion 30 and the support body 50 are integrally molded. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the cleaning function can be improved by setting the monofilaments 42 and 72 to a hardness sufficient to remove dental plaque.

[0264] In order to minimize the occupied volume in the oral cavity, a shorter bristle length than that of a general integrally molded toothbrush is preferred. In this embodiment, by setting an upper limit on the hardness of the brush portion 30, the monofilaments 42 and 72 can be flexibly moved despite the relatively short bristle length.

[0265] Figure 8 and Fig. 9 It is an external perspective view of the support body 50 in the first embodiment of the mouthpiece portion 20 . Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the support body 50 as viewed from the inner side in the depth direction. Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 The EE cross-sectional view in FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the support body 50 viewed from the outside in the depth direction. Figure 8 In the figure, the shaft 14 is omitted.

[0266] The support body 50 supports the brush portion 30 along the circumferential direction.

[0267] like Figure 8 and Fig. 9As shown, the support body 50 includes an inner support body 51 , an outer support body 52 , and a connecting portion 53 .

[0268] The inner support body 51 is formed in a U-shape when viewed from above.

[0269] The inner support body 51 includes an upper wall portion 54 located at the upper end and extending in the circumferential direction, a lower wall portion 55 located at the lower end and extending in the circumferential direction, an intermediate wall portion 56 located between the upper wall portion 54 and the lower wall portion 55 in the occlusal direction and extending in the circumferential direction, and connecting wall portions 57, 58, and 59 extending in the occlusal direction and connecting the upper wall portion 54 and the lower wall portion 55 via the intermediate wall portion 56. The upper wall portion 54, the lower wall portion 55, and the intermediate wall portion 56 are arranged throughout the circumferential direction. The connecting wall portion 57 and the connecting wall portion 58 are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. The connecting wall portion 59 is formed at both ends in the circumferential direction.

[0270] The inner support body 51 has fitting recesses 61A, 61B, 61C located on the upper side and fitting recesses 61D, 61E, 61F located on the lower side. The fitting recesses 61A, 61B, 61C and the fitting recesses 61D, 61E, 61F are formed by being recessed inward from the outer surface of the inner support body 51 in the depth direction.

[0271] In the inner support body 51, since the fitting recess 61B and the fitting recess 61C are line symmetrical in the left-right direction, the description of the fitting recess 61C may be omitted or simplified. In addition, since the fitting recesses 61D, 61E, and 61F are line symmetrical with the fitting recesses 61A, 61B, and 61C in the occlusal direction, the description of the fitting recesses 61D, 61E, and 61F may be omitted or simplified.

[0272] like Figure 3 As shown, the base portion 41 of the inner upper brush portion 31A is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 61A from the outside. In the engagement recess 61A, the upper wall portion 54 and the intermediate wall portion 56 are engaged with the coupling portion 43 of the inner upper brush portion 31A in the occlusal direction, and the connecting wall portion 57 and the connecting wall portion 58 are engaged with both ends of the base portion 41 in the circumferential direction, thereby the inner upper brush portion 31A is detachably engaged.

[0273] The base portion 41 of the inner upper brush portion 31B is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 61B from the outside. In the engagement recess 61B, the upper wall portion 54 and the intermediate wall portion 56 are engaged with the coupling portion 43 of the inner upper brush portion 31B in the occlusal direction, and the connecting wall portion 57 and the connecting wall portion 59 are engaged with both ends of the base portion 41 in the circumferential direction, thereby the inner upper brush portion 31B is detachably engaged.

[0274] The base portion 41 of the inner lower brush portion 31D is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 61D from the outside. In the engagement recess 61D, the upper wall portion 55 and the intermediate wall portion 56 are engaged with the coupling portion 43 of the inner lower brush portion 31D in the occlusal direction, and the connecting wall portion 57 and the connecting wall portion 58 are engaged with both ends of the base portion 41 in the circumferential direction, thereby the inner lower brush portion 31D is detachably engaged.

[0275] The base 41 of the inner upper brush 31C is detachably fitted in the fitting recess 61C from the outside. The base 41 of the inner lower brush 31E is detachably fitted in the fitting recess 61E from the outside. The base 41 of the inner lower brush 31F is detachably fitted in the fitting recess 61F from the outside.

[0276] The outer support body 52 is formed in a U-shape when viewed from above.

[0277] The outer support body 52 includes an upper wall portion 64 located at the upper end and extending in the circumferential direction, a lower wall portion 65 located at the lower end and extending in the circumferential direction, an intermediate wall portion 66 located between the upper wall portion 64 and the lower wall portion 65 in the occlusal direction and extending in the circumferential direction, and connecting wall portions 67, 68, 69, 70, and 52A extending in the occlusal direction and connecting the upper wall portion 64 and the lower wall portion 65 via the intermediate wall portion 66. The upper wall portion 64, the lower wall portion 65, and the intermediate wall portion 66 are arranged throughout the circumferential direction. The connecting wall portion 67 and the connecting wall portion 68 are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. The connecting wall portion 69 and the connecting wall portion 70 are respectively arranged on the outer sides of the connecting wall portion 67 and the connecting wall portion 68 in the circumferential direction. The connecting wall portion 52A is formed at both ends in the circumferential direction. The position of the intermediate wall portion 66 in the occlusal direction is the same as that of the intermediate wall portion 56.

[0278] The outer support body 52 has fitting recesses 62A, 62B, 62C, 62D, 62E located on the upper side and fitting recesses 62F, 62G, 62H, 62J, 62K located on the lower side. The fitting recesses 62A, 62B, 62C, 62D, 62E and the fitting recesses 62F, 62G, 62H, 62J, 62K are formed by being recessed outward from the inner surface of the outer support body 52 in the depth direction.

[0279] In the outer support body 52, the fitting recess 62B and the fitting recess 62D are line-symmetrical in the left-right direction, and the fitting recess 62C and the fitting recess 62E are line-symmetrical in the left-right direction, so the description of the fitting recess 62D and the fitting recess 62E may be omitted or simplified. In addition, the fitting recesses 62F, 62G, 62H, 62J, and 62K are line-symmetrical with the fitting recesses 62A, 62B, 62C, 62D, and 62E in the occlusal direction, respectively, so the description of the fitting recesses 62F, 62G, 62H, 62J, and 62K may be omitted or simplified.

[0280] like Figure 3 As shown, the base portion 71 of the outer upper brush portion 32A is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 62A from the inside. In the engagement recess 62A, the upper wall portion 64 and the intermediate wall portion 66 are engaged with the engagement portion 73 of the outer upper brush portion 32A in the occlusal direction, and the connecting wall portion 67 and the connecting wall portion 68 are engaged with both ends of the base portion 71 in the circumferential direction, thereby the outer upper brush portion 32A is detachably engaged.

[0281] The base portion 71 of the outer upper brush portion 32B is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 62B from the inside. In the engagement recess 62B, the upper wall portion 64 and the intermediate wall portion 66 are engaged with the engagement portion 73 of the outer upper brush portion 32B in the occlusal direction, and the connecting wall portion 67 and the connecting wall portion 69 are engaged with both ends of the base portion 71 in the circumferential direction, thereby the outer upper brush portion 32B is detachably engaged.

[0282] The base portion 71 of the outer upper brush portion 32C is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 62C from the inside. In the engagement recess 62C, the upper wall portion 64 and the intermediate wall portion 66 are engaged with the engagement portion 73 of the outer upper brush portion 32C in the occlusal direction, and the connecting wall portion 69 and the connecting wall portion 52A are engaged with both ends of the base portion 71 in the circumferential direction, thereby detachably engaging the outer upper brush portion 32C.

[0283] The base portion 71 of the outer lower brush portion 32F is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 62F from the inside. In the engagement recess 62F, the lower wall portion 65 and the intermediate wall portion 66 are engaged with the engagement portion 73 of the outer lower brush portion 32F in the occlusal direction, and the connecting wall portion 67 and the connecting wall portion 68 are engaged with both ends of the base portion 71 in the circumferential direction, thereby detachably engaging the outer lower brush portion 32F.

[0284] The base portion 71 of the outer upper brush portion 32D is detachably fitted in the fitting recess 62D from the inside. The base portion 71 of the outer upper brush portion 32E is detachably fitted in the fitting recess 62E from the inside. The base portion 71 of the outer lower brush portion 32G is detachably fitted in the fitting recess 62G from the inside. The base portion 71 of the outer lower brush portion 32H is detachably fitted in the fitting recess 62H from the inside. The base portion 71 of the outer lower brush portion 32J is detachably fitted in the fitting recess 62J from the inside. The base portion 71 of the outer lower brush portion 32K is detachably fitted in the fitting recess 62K from the inside.

[0285] The thickness of the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 in the depth direction is preferably 1.5 mm or more and 6 mm or less.

[0286] By setting the thickness of the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 in the depth direction to be greater than 1.5 mm and less than 6 mm, the base parts 41, 71 are stably fixed to the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 to a sufficient thickness. In addition, the volume will not become too large, which also helps to prevent drooling and improves operability.

[0287] In addition, the thickness of the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 in the depth direction is the thickness at the position where the interlocking recesses 61A, 61B, 61C, 61D, 61E, 61F and the interlocking recesses 62A, 62B, 62C, 62D, 62E, 62F, 62G, 62H, 62J, 62K are not provided.

[0288] The connecting portion 53 connects the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 in the depth direction. The connecting portion 53 connects the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 at both ends in the circumferential direction. The connecting portion 53 of the present embodiment constitutes the support body 50 as a second molded body in which the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 are integrally molded. In addition, the connecting portion 53 may be a structure that is not integrally molded with the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 but is manufactured separately and combined with the support body 50 in the same manner as the brush portion 30, or a structure that is fixed to the support body 50 by an adhesive or the like.

[0289] The connection portion 53 includes a connection plate 53A and a monofilament 53B.

[0290] The connecting plate 53A is a plate-shaped plate perpendicular to the meshing direction and extends to the lower end in the circumferential direction. The inner end of the connecting plate 53A is connected to the intermediate wall portion 56 of the inner support body 51. The outer end of the connecting plate 53A is connected to the intermediate wall portion 66 of the outer support body 52.

[0291] The monofilament 53B protrudes from the upper and lower surfaces of the connecting plate 53A in the occlusal direction. The monofilament 53B has a mountain-shaped hair length profile with a peak at the middle point in the depth direction. The monofilament 53B has a mountain-shaped hair length profile that fits the occlusal surface of the teeth, thereby improving the cleaning power.

[0292] The monofilament 53B is disposed at a position facing the molars, for example.

[0293] Since the monofilaments 53B are arranged at positions facing the molars and protrude upward and downward, the occlusal surfaces of the molars that are difficult for the brush portion 30 to reach can be effectively cleaned.

[0294] As described above, the support body 50 is a second molded body in which the inner support body 51 , the outer support body 52 , and the connecting portion 53 are integrally molded.

[0295] Since the support body 50 is a second molded body formed as a component different from the brush portion 30 as the first molded body, it is not restricted by the brush portion 30, and the support body 50 can be expanded with an appropriate degree of ease that is neither too tight nor too loose. Therefore, the fit of the support body 50 to the teeth is improved.

[0296] The support body 50 is a second molded body integrally molded of a resin having a harder hardness than the brush portion 30 .

[0297] By making the support body 50 harder than the brush part 30, the shape of the support body 50 can be stabilized, and it can be fully fitted to the teeth to ensure cleaning power. In addition, by making the support body 50 harder than the brush part 30, the brush part 30 can be firmly fixed. In addition, when the mouthpiece part 20 is electric, vibration is also easily transmitted.

[0298] As the resin constituting the support body 50 , a soft resin having a Shore A hardness of 75 or more and a Shore D hardness of 75 or less can be cited.

[0299] When the hardness of the support body 50 is lower than the above lower limit, the shape of the support body 50 cannot be stabilized, and the fit to the teeth and the cleaning force are also reduced. In addition, vibration is difficult to transmit, and it is difficult to fix the brush part 30. Moreover, when the mouthpiece part 20 is electric, vibration is also difficult to transmit.

[0300] When the hardness of the support body 50 exceeds the above upper limit, the followability to the teeth during brushing is impaired. In addition, it is difficult to take the support body 50 out and put it in the oral cavity.

[0301] The support body 50 preferably has a Shore A hardness higher by 5 or more than that of the brush portion 30 .

[0302] Thereby, the above-mentioned effect can be promoted.

[0303] As the soft resin constituting the support body 50 , various elastomers can be used, and examples thereof include the above-mentioned polyurethane and silicone.

[0304] The area separated in the outline of the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 constituting the support body 50 is preferably 20% or more, more preferably 30% or more. The area separated in the outline of the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 constituting the support body 50 is preferably 70% or less, more preferably 60% or less. The upper limit and lower limit of the area separated in the outline of the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 constituting the support body 50 can be arbitrarily combined.

[0305] If the separated region is within the above-mentioned range, the shape of the support body 50 can be stabilized, and the support body 50 can be sufficiently fitted to the tooth row to ensure cleaning power.

[0306] The portion where the inner supporting body 51 and the outer supporting body 52 are connected is preferably the central portion in the circumferential direction or the occlusal surface of the molar.

[0307] Thus, when the mouthpiece 20 is moved, the positional relationship between the inner side and the outer side does not deviate excessively, and the followability to the dentition is improved. Moreover, when the occlusal surface of the molars is connected, the occlusion of the molars can be brushed. In addition, when the mouthpiece 20 is electric, vibration is easily transmitted, and the cleaning force is improved.

[0308] The manufacturing method of the toothbrush 1 of the above structure includes the following contents: preparing a brush portion 30 in the toothbrush 1; preparing a supporting body 50 in the toothbrush 1; and combining the brush portion 30 with the supporting body 50 in a combining portion 43, 73, wherein the toothbrush 1 has a grip portion 10 and a brace portion 20 connected to the grip portion 10, and the brace portion 20 has the brush portion 30 as a first formed body and the supporting body 50 as a second formed body different from the first formed body, and the supporting body 50 supports the brush portion 30 along a circumferential direction centered on an axis J extending in the occlusal direction, and the brush portion 30 has: a base portion 41, 71; a monofilament 42, 72 extending from the base portion 41, 71; and a combining portion 43, 73 arranged on the base portion 41, 71 and combined with the supporting body 50.

[0309] The preparation of the brush portion 30 includes the following contents: the inner upper brush portions 31A, 31B, 31C and the inner lower brush portions 31D, 31E, 31F constituting the inner brush portion 31 are respectively formed by injection molding or the like. Also, the preparation of the brush portion 30 includes the following contents: the outer upper brush portions 32A, 32B, 32C, 32D, 32E and the outer lower brush portions 32F, 32G, 32H, 32J, 32K constituting the outer brush portion 32 are respectively formed by injection molding or the like.

[0310] The preparation of the support body 50 includes the following contents: the inner support body 51, the outer support body 52, and the connecting portion 53 are integrally formed by injection molding or the like. When the toothed sleeve portion 20 is electric, when the shaft 14 is insert-molded, the preparation of the support body 50 includes the following contents: the inner support body 51, the outer support body 52, the connecting portion 53, and the shaft 14 are molded by injection molding or the like.

[0311] In the case where the brace portion 20 is electric, when the shaft 14 is fixed after the inner support body 51, the outer support body 52 and the connecting portion 53 are integrally formed, preparing the support body 50 includes the following: integrally forming the inner support body 51, the outer support body 52 and the connecting portion 53 by injection molding, etc.; and fixing the shaft 14.

[0312] Combining the brush portion 30 with the support body 50 includes the following: combining the base portion 41 of each prepared brush portion 30 by fitting it into the fitting recesses 61A, 61B, 61C and the fitting recesses 61D, 61E, 61F in the inner support body 51 of the prepared support body 50; and combining the base portion 71 of each prepared brush portion 30 by fitting it into the fitting recesses 62A, 62B, 62C, 62D, 62E and the fitting recesses 62F, 62G, 62H, 62J, 62K in the outer support body 52.

[0313] By combining and supporting the brush portion 30 on the support body 50, Figure 1 The manufacturing brush portion 30 is shown to be arranged along the circumferential direction of the dental mouthpiece portion 20 in a U-shape.

[0314] The connection between the brush portion 30 and the support body 50 is not limited to the side surfaces of the base portions 41 , 71 .

[0315] Fig.10 It is a side view showing a modified example of the connecting portion.

[0316] like Fig.10 As shown, the brush portion 30 may have a structure including the shaft-shaped coupling portion 43A, 73A on the surface of the base portion 41, 71 facing the support body 50.

[0317] When this structure is adopted, it is sufficient to provide the support body 50 with recessed portions into which the coupling portions 43A and 73A are inserted and fitted.

[0318] In addition, if Fig.11 As shown, a rolling-in type of connection method may be adopted in which the periphery of the base portion 41, 71 is provided with a curved connection portion 43B, 73B, and a recess 63 is provided on the support body 50 for rolling the connection portion 43B, 73B from the outer peripheral side of the base portion 41, 71.

[0319] The mechanical connection between the brush portion 30 and the support body 50 may be a claw type such as a snap-fit ​​type or a screw type other than the above.

[0320] In addition, in addition to mechanical bonding, the brush portion 30 and the support body 50 may be bonded together by a reduced pressure adsorption method based on a suction cup or attraction, a thermal bonding method using a heater or ultrasonic heat welding, an external force method using the adsorption force of a magnet, or a chemical bonding using the contraction of the support body 50, van der Waals force, or electrostatics.

[0321] When the mouthpiece part 20 is electric, the toothbrush 1 is manufactured by coupling the shaft 14 of the manufactured mouthpiece part 20 to the grip part 10 .

[0322] As described above, in the toothbrush 1 of the present embodiment, the brush portion 30 is the first molded body, and the support body 50 is the second molded body, so each is not restricted by the other and can be set to the specifications of the optimal shape, raw materials, etc. Therefore, in the toothbrush 1 of the present embodiment, it is possible to achieve sufficient cleaning performance of various parts in the oral cavity and high adhesion of the support body 50 to the teeth.

[0323] [Second Embodiment of the Mouthpiece 20]

[0324] Next, refer to Fig.12 A second embodiment of the mouthpiece portion 20 will be described.

[0325] In this figure, Figures 1 to 11 The same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0326] Fig.12 It is a top view of the dental mouthpiece portion 20 schematically shown as viewed from the upper side.

[0327] In the first embodiment, a structure in which a plurality of inner brush portions 31 and outer brush portions 32 are provided is exemplified. Fig.12 As shown, a single inner brush portion 31 having a whole circumferential length is combined with the inner support body 51 , and a single outer brush portion 32 having a whole circumferential length is combined with the outer support body 52 .

[0328] The inner brush portion 31 and the outer brush portion 32 may be formed along the curvature of the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 , respectively, or may be formed in a flat shape.

[0329] When the inner brush portion 31 and the outer brush portion 32 are formed in a planar shape, they may be joined by fitting into the fitting recesses while being bent along the curves of the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 .

[0330] The other structures are the same as those of the first embodiment described above.

[0331] In this embodiment, in addition to obtaining the same functions and effects as those of the first embodiment, the number of parts can be reduced, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost and facilitating the joining operation.

[0332] [Third Embodiment of the Mouthpiece 20]

[0333] Next, refer to Fig.13 and Fig.14 A third embodiment of the mouthpiece portion 20 will be described.

[0334] In these figures, Figures 1 to 11The same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0335] Fig.13 It is a top view of the dental mouthpiece portion 20 schematically shown as viewed from the upper side.

[0336] The mouthpiece 20 of the present embodiment includes an elastic member 81 that elastically deforms the inner support body 51 to bend it in the circumferential direction, and an elastic member 82 that elastically deforms the outer support body 52 to bend it in the circumferential direction.

[0337] The elastic members 81 and 82 are formed of leaf springs, wires, etc. that are bent and extended in the circumferential direction. The elastic members 81 and 82 have a hardness higher than that of the inner brush portion 31 and the outer brush portion 32 that constitute the brush portion 30 and the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 that constitute the support body 50. The raw materials of the elastic members 81 and 82 are preferably silicon, polyurethane, acrylic, copper plate, stainless steel, etc., and raw materials other than stainless steel are more preferred in terms of adhesion and recycling. In addition, by using the above raw materials, strength and appropriate tension can be obtained.

[0338] The circumferential length of the elastic members 81 and 82 may be the same as the circumferential length of the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 , or may be the length of the region where the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 are bent.

[0339] The elastic member 81 is attached to the inner side of the inner support body 51. The elastic member 82 is attached to the outer side of the outer support body 52. ​​It is preferable that the exposed surfaces of the elastic members 81 and 82 are coated with silicon.

[0340] Since the surfaces of the elastic members 81 and 82 are not exposed, there is no discomfort or sense of incongruity.

[0341] Fig.14 It is a side view schematically showing the mouthpiece portion 20 before the elastic members 81 and 82 are attached.

[0342] like Fig.14 As shown, the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 are formed into a flat surface. The inner brush portion 31 and the outer brush portion 32 are respectively connected to the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 of the flat surface.

[0343] Since the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 are formed into a planar shape, the structure of the mold for forming can be simplified, the manufacturing cost can be reduced, and the joining operation can be facilitated.

[0344] The inner support body 51 connected with the inner brush part 31 is elastically deformed and bent in the circumferential direction by the elastic force when the elastic member 81 is attached. By applying tension toward the outside to the bent inner support body 51, the fit and cleaning force to the lingual teeth are improved.

[0345] The outer support body 52 connected with the outer brush part 32 is elastically deformed and curved along the circumferential direction by the elastic force when the elastic member 82 is attached. By applying inward tension to the curved outer support body 52, the fit and cleaning force to the buccal teeth are improved.

[0346] In this embodiment, in addition to obtaining the same functions and effects as those of the first embodiment, the U-shape and angle of the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 can be adjusted independently without being linked. Therefore, in this embodiment, the angle of the U-shape corresponding to each part of the dentition and teeth can be set to a specification suitable for oral cleaning for each part, and each part in the oral cavity can be fully cleaned. In addition, the fit to the dentition can be improved.

[0347] The thickness of the elastic members 81 and 82 is preferably not less than 0.5 mm and not more than 3.0 mm.

[0348] The elastic members 81 and 82 have sufficient strength when the thickness is equal to or greater than the lower limit, and become compact when the thickness is equal to or less than the upper limit, thereby achieving the above-mentioned effects while ensuring operability.

[0349] [Fourth Embodiment of the Mouthpiece 20]

[0350] Next, refer to Fig.15 and Fig.16 A fifth embodiment of the mouthpiece portion 20 will be described.

[0351] In these figures, Fig.12 The same components as those of the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0352] Fig.15 It is a top view of the dental mouthpiece portion 20 schematically shown as viewed from the upper side.

[0353] The mouthpiece 20 of this embodiment includes, similarly to the third embodiment, an elastic member 81 that elastically deforms the inner support body 51 to bend it in the circumferential direction, and an elastic member 82 that elastically deforms the outer support body 52 to bend it in the circumferential direction.

[0354] Fig.16 It is a side view schematically showing the mouthpiece portion 20 before the elastic members 81 and 82 are attached.

[0355] like Fig.16 As shown, the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 are formed into a flat surface. The inner brush portion 31 and the outer brush portion 32 are respectively connected to the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 of the flat surface.

[0356] The other structures are the same as those of the first embodiment described above.

[0357] In this embodiment, in addition to obtaining the same functions and effects as the above-mentioned second embodiment, since the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 are formed into a flat shape, the mold structure for forming can be simplified, the manufacturing cost can be reduced, and the joining operation can be facilitated.

[0358] The preferred embodiment of the toothbrush and the toothbrush manufacturing method according to the first embodiment has been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the present invention is certainly not limited to this example. The shapes and combinations of the components shown in the above examples are examples, and various changes can be made based on design requirements, etc. within the scope of the present invention.

[0359] For example, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 are continuous in the circumferential direction, but the present invention is not limited to this structure. For example, the structure in which the portion supporting the brush portion 30 is intermittently arranged in the circumferential direction may be adopted. In the case of adopting this structure, for example, the following structure may be adopted: the connecting portion 53 is arranged along the entire circumferential direction, the inner support body 51 is intermittently arranged inside the connecting portion 53, and the outer support body 52 is intermittently arranged outside the connecting portion 53.

[0360] In addition, the mouthpiece portion 20 may be provided over the entire circumference, or may be provided only in one of the left and right regions, for example, and the connection portion 53 may also be provided only in this region.

[0361] In addition, similarly to the connecting plate 53A described in the above embodiment, a flat protrusion may be provided from at least one of the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52 toward the other. The protrusion may connect the inner support body 51 and the outer support body 52.

[0362] By providing the protruding portion, the occlusal surfaces of the teeth can be wiped, and the cleaning power is improved.

[0363] The thickness of the protrusion is preferably 0.5 to 3.0 mm.

[0364] [Second embodiment of the toothbrush]

[0365] Below, refer to Figures 17 to 24 Embodiments of the toothbrush and the toothbrush manufacturing method according to the second embodiment will be described.

[0366] Fig.17 It is a front view of the toothbrush 101 of the second embodiment.

[0367] The toothbrush 101 is a mouthpiece type toothbrush, and includes a grip portion 110 and a connection body 120. Hereinafter, the connection body 120 is referred to as a mouthpiece portion 120.

[0368] The connection body 120 is given vibration via the grip portion 110 .

[0369] The shaft 114 protrudes from the grip portion 110 and is connected to the mouthpiece portion 120 .

[0370] Alternatively, the shaft 114 protruding from the mouthpiece portion 120 may be connected to the grip portion 110 .

[0371] The connection body 120 is given vibration from the grip portion 110 via the shaft 114 .

[0372] The present invention can be applied to any one of a structure in which a brushing action is manually applied to the braces part 120 in the up-down, left-right, front-back and combination directions from the gripping part 110, a structure in which vibration is manually applied, and a structure in which vibration is electrically applied to the braces part 120 from the gripping part 110.

[0373] In the present embodiment, a mode in which the grip portion 110 is provided with an electric drive unit and vibration generated by driving the electric drive unit is imparted to the connection body 120 is described.

[0374] The electric drive unit includes a power supply unit 111, a vibration element 112, and a control unit 13. The control unit 13 drives the vibration element 112 by means of the power of the power supply unit 111. The power supply unit 111 is composed of, for example, a rechargeable battery, a battery, etc. The vibration element 112 is composed of, for example, a piezoelectric element, an electromagnetic acoustic transducer, an unbalanced motor, etc. The vibration generated by the vibration element 112 is a vibration that repeatedly reverses the rotation direction at a constant predetermined rotation angle in the rotation direction centered on the axis extending in the depth direction.

[0375] The shaft 114 connected to the electric drive unit in the grip 110 repeatedly reverses the rotation direction and vibrates. The shaft 114 is vibrated by driving the vibration element 112, so that the mouthpiece 120 repeatedly reverses the rotation direction and vibrates.

[0376] The mouthpiece portion 120 includes a brush portion 130 and a support body 150 .

[0377] Fig.18 This is a diagram of the brush portion 130 in the mouthpiece portion 120 as viewed from above.

[0378] like Fig.18As shown, the brush portion 130 is separately arranged on the outside and inside of the depth direction. The brush portion 130 includes an inner brush portion 131 and an outer brush portion 132. The inner brush portion 131 is located on the inside of the depth direction. The inner brush portion 131 includes inner upper brush portions 131A, 131B, and 131C. The inner upper brush portions 131A, 131B, and 131C are located on the upper side and are arranged opposite to the tooth surfaces on the lingual side of the tooth row on the maxillary side along the circumferential direction. The inner upper brush portions 131A, 131B, and 131C are arranged in a U-shape with the inner upper brush portion 131A as the center and the inner upper brush portions 131B and 131C are arranged at intervals on both sides of the circumferential direction.

[0379] In the inner brush portion 131 , the inner upper brush portion 131B and the inner upper brush portion 131C are line-symmetrical in the left-right direction, and therefore, the description of the inner upper brush portion 131C may be omitted.

[0380] In addition, the inner brush portion 131 has inner lower brush portions 131D, 131E, and 131F located at the lower side. The inner lower brush portions 131D, 131E, and 131F are line-symmetrical with the inner upper brush portions 131A, 131B, and 131C in the occlusal direction, and overlap with the inner upper brush portions 131A, 131B, and 131C when viewed from the upper side. Fig.18 , the symbols of the inner lower brush portions 131D, 131E, and 131F are added to the symbols of the inner upper brush portions 131A, 131B, and 131C in parentheses.

[0381] The inner lower brush portions 131D, 131E, and 131F are arranged to face the lingual tooth surface in the mandibular tooth row along the circumferential direction. The inner lower brush portions 131D, 131E, and 131F are arranged in a U shape with the inner lower brush portion 131D as the center and the inner lower brush portions 131E and 131F spaced apart on both sides in the circumferential direction.

[0382] As described above, the inner lower brush portions 131D, 131E, and 131F are line-symmetrical with the inner upper brush portions 131A, 131B, and 131C in the occlusal direction, and therefore the description of the inner lower brush portions 131D, 131E, and 131F may be omitted.

[0383] The inner upper brush portion 131A is arranged at a central position in the circumferential direction. When viewed from the upper side, the inner upper brush portion 131A has a portion that is curved along the circumferential direction in a direction that bulges outward. Both sides of the circumferential direction of the inner upper brush portion 131A are curved along the circumferential direction. The inner upper brush portion 131A is curved according to the curved shape of the support body 150. The inner upper brush portion 131A is mainly arranged opposite to the tooth surface on the lingual side of the multiple incisors on the maxillary side. Therefore, a plurality of brush portions 130 are arranged in the circumferential direction, the occlusal direction, and the depth direction, respectively.

[0384] When a plurality of inner brush portions 131 and outer brush portions 132 are arranged in the circumferential direction, the number is preferably 3 or more and 9 or less, and more preferably 3 or more and 7 or less.

[0385] When a plurality of inner brush portions 131 and outer brush portions 132 are arranged in the occlusal direction, the number is preferably one or more and four or less, and more preferably two or more and three or less.

[0386] By separately disposing a plurality of inner brush parts 131 and outer brush parts 132, it is possible to achieve specifications that allow the bristles to contact the teeth on both the buccal and lingual sides of the teeth. In addition, the curvature of the inner brush parts 131 and the outer brush parts 132 is gentle, so the bristles are easy to plant and the cleaning feeling is improved. Moreover, different characteristics can be given to each inner brush part 131 and the outer brush part 132, so the cleaning performance is improved.

[0387] Fig.19 yes Fig.17 CC section view in.

[0388] like Fig.19 As shown, the inner upper brush portion 131A has a base portion 141 , a bristle bundle 142 , and a coupling portion 143 .

[0389] The base portion 141 has a rectangular cross-section. Fig. 20 This is a diagram of the inner upper brush portion 131A as viewed from above. Fig. 20 As shown, when viewed from the upper side, the base portion 141 has portions on both sides in the circumferential direction that are bent along the circumferential direction in a direction convex outward.

[0390] This embodiment is a toothbrush 101 for the purpose of using a brush portion 130 arranged along the teeth and moving the brush portion 130 manually or electrically. Therefore, by bending the base portion 141, the monofilament 42 can be moved along the lingual side of the teeth, which can improve cleaning performance and fit. In addition, the installation area of ​​the brush portion 130 can be maximized, which can help improve vibration efficiency and cleaning power in the case of electric use.

[0391] The provisions regarding the numerical values ​​exemplifying the inner upper brush portion 131A shown in the following description are applicable to both the inner brush portion 131 and the outer brush portion 132 in the brush portion 130 unless otherwise specified.

[0392] The length of the base portion 141 in the circumferential direction is preferably 5 mm or more. The length of the base portion 141 in the circumferential direction is preferably shorter than the entire length of the support body 150 in the circumferential direction (eg, 130 mm).

[0393] like Fig. 20As shown, the length L of the base portion 141 is defined by the straight line distance connecting the two ends of the circumferential direction of the brush surface 141a. The length L of the base portion 141 is preferably 5 mm or more, and more preferably 15 mm or more. By setting the length L of the base portion 141 to be 5 mm or more, it is easy to feel the fit, and in the case of electric vibration, it is difficult to attenuate, so it is easy to transmit to the end, which can improve the cleaning performance.

[0394] When the base portion 141 is curved in the circumferential direction, by providing the base portion 141 with a curvature radius along the curve of the tooth row, it is possible to provide an appropriate sense of linkage without hindering the linkage with the movement of the support body 150 .

[0395] The curvature radius of the base portion 141 is preferably not less than 3 mm and not more than 80 mm.

[0396] By setting the curvature radius of the base portion 141 to the above range, the base portion 141 can move along the tooth row without difficulty when moving in the circumferential direction, and can appropriately cooperate with the movement of the support body 150 .

[0397] The base portion 141 is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 161A (described later in detail) in the inner support body 151 from the outside. The base portion 141 is engaged with the inner support body 151 by engaging the upper surface and the lower surface forming the engagement portion 143 in the engagement recess 161A. The inner upper brush portion 131A can be replaced relative to the inner support body 151 by detachably engaging the base portion 141 in the engagement recess 161A. Therefore, the user can replace the brush portion 130 according to preference and situation, change the specifications, and meet various needs.

[0398] The thickness of the base portion 141 as a dimension in the depth direction is preferably 6 mm or less, and more preferably 4 mm or less. The thickness of the base portion 141 as a dimension in the depth direction is preferably 1 mm or more. The upper limit and lower limit of the thickness of the base portion 141 as a dimension in the depth direction can be arbitrarily combined.

[0399] By setting the thickness of the base 141 in the depth direction to 6 mm or less, the pressure caused by the thickness of the support 150 in the oral cavity can be suppressed, and it is also easy to enter the narrow space in the oral cavity such as the molars. As a result, it becomes an easy-to-brush specification, so the cleaning feeling and cleaning performance are improved.

[0400] On the other hand, if the thickness of the base portion 141 is excessively thin, the strength of the hair implantation is reduced, and vibration transmission is weakened when the electric motor is used.

[0401] The width of the base portion 141 , which is a dimension in the meshing direction, will be described later.

[0402] It is preferred that the base portion 141 has a slit, a neck, or a change in thickness.

[0403] In particular, the base portion 141 having a relatively long length can obtain an appropriate linkage feeling by ensuring the flexibility of the base portion 141 itself through the presence of a slit or a neck or a change in thickness.

[0404] The hair bundle 142 extends outward from the brush surface 141a facing outward in the base portion 141. The brush surface 141a is inclined inward as it goes upward. The brush surface 141a is formed with hair implantation holes 141b. If the position where the upper and lower teeth occlude in the occlusal direction is set as the occlusal surface K, the hair implantation holes 141b extend obliquely relative to the occlusal surface K. The hair implantation holes 141b are inclined inward as they go outward. The hair implantation holes 141b are arranged in a plurality of spaces (in the occlusal direction) in the occlusal direction. Fig.19 Although not shown in the figure, the hair implantation holes 141b are arranged in a plurality of rows at intervals in the circumferential direction. Therefore, the rows of hair implantation holes 141b arranged in the circumferential direction are arranged in a plurality of rows in the occlusal direction (in the Fig.19 2 columns in the middle).

[0405] The hair bundle 142 is implanted in the hair implantation hole 141b. The hair bundle 142 is implanted by the following methods: a flat wire method of folding the hair bundle of the brush in half and inserting the flat wire sandwiched between the hair bundles into the hair implantation hole 141b, a welding method including heating and ultrasonic welding, a method of using the part clamped and fixed from both sides of the bristles as the base part 141, or a method of fixing the base part 141 to set it as the brush part 130.

[0406] In the flat wire type of hair implantation, the brush portion 130 can be produced with an ultra-high density, so the hair rigidity can be ensured and the cleaning performance can be improved.

[0407] In addition, by including a brush portion in which the bristle bundles 142 are provided over the entire 360° circumference of the outer peripheral surface of the base portion 141 during the planting process, a wide range of changes can be realized, and cleaning performance can be improved.

[0408] Since the hair bundles 142 are formed of bristles, the cleaning feeling can be improved. In addition, since the hair bundles 142 are planted on the base portion 141, the arrangement and post-processing become easier than when the hair bundles 142 are directly planted on the support body 150, so the cleaning performance can be improved. Moreover, by arranging the hair bundles 142 along the curve of the base portion 141, the hair bundles 142 can be abutted along the teeth on the tongue side, which can further improve the cleaning performance.

[0409] The hair bundles 142 implanted in the hair implantation holes 141b in the inner upper brush portion 13A extend obliquely in the direction toward the upper side as they go outward. Therefore, the hair tips of the hair bundle row in which a plurality of hair bundles 142 are arranged in the circumferential direction are inclined toward the upper end side of the base portion 141 relative to the root. The hair tips of the hair bundles 142 in the hair bundle row located at the upper end of the hair bundle row arranged in the occlusal direction protrude upward compared to the upper surface of the base portion 141. As a result, a wider range in the occlusal direction can be cleaned, and the gums on the lingual side located farther from the occlusal surface K can be fully cleaned.

[0410] The arrangement pitch of the circumferential hair bundles 142 in the hair bundle rows adjacent in the occlusal direction is preferably configured to be staggered by, for example, half a pitch. In this case, when viewed in the direction relative to the brush surface 141a, the hair bundles 142 are arranged in a staggered manner, thereby reducing the gaps between the hair bundles 142 and improving the fit and cleaning performance on the lingual tooth surface.

[0411] When viewed from the upper side, the bristle bundle 142 protrudes and extends radially outward from the brush surface 141a. Fig. 20 As shown, the inner upper brush portion 131A constituting the brush portion 130 has a portion where the root arrangement pitch of the hair bundle 142 is different from the hair tip arrangement pitch at the curved portion of the base portion 141. Specifically, the hair tip arrangement pitch P2 of the hair bundle 142 is greater than the root arrangement pitch P1.

[0412] By making the arrangement pitches of the hair bundles 142 different at the root and the tip, the balance between rigidity and flexure can be adjusted, and the cleaning power is improved. For example, by reducing the arrangement pitch of the root of the hair bundles 142, the rigidity of the hair can be ensured, and by increasing the arrangement pitch of the tip, the ability to enter the gap between the teeth can be ensured, thereby improving the cleaning function.

[0413] In addition, the bristle bundles 142 can be brought into contact with the teeth so as to cover all of the teeth from both the front and back sides, thereby improving the cleaning feel.

[0414] exist Fig. 20 In the figure, a structure is illustrated in which the arrangement pitch P2 of the tips of the hairs is larger than the arrangement pitch P1 of the roots at the curved portion of the base portion 141. However, regardless of whether the base portion 141 has a curved shape or not, the above-mentioned effect can be obtained by arbitrarily adjusting the hair implantation angle relative to the depth direction to give a difference in the spacing between the roots and tips of the hairs of the hair bundles 142, while preventing interference between the hairs of the brush portion 130.

[0415] Back to Fig.18The inner upper brush portion 131B is located on the right side of the inner upper brush portion 131A in the circumferential direction and extends to the end in the circumferential direction. The end of the inner upper brush portion 131B on the side close to the inner upper brush portion 131A is a shape extending the curved shape of the inner upper brush portion 131A. The -θ side of the inner upper brush portion 131B is a straight line shape that becomes a tangent to the above-mentioned curved shape.

[0416] The inner upper brush portion 131B is mainly arranged to face the tooth surfaces on the lingual side of the canine teeth and molars (premolars and molars) on the maxillary side.

[0417] like Fig.19 As shown, the base portion 141 of the inner lower brush portion 131D is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 61D (described later in detail) in the inner support body 151 from the outside. The base portion 141 is engaged with the inner support body 151 by engaging the upper surface and the lower surface of the engagement portion 143 in the engagement recess 61D. The base portion 141 is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 61D, so that the inner lower brush portion 131D can be replaced relative to the inner support body 151. Therefore, the user can replace the brush portion 130 according to preference and situation, change the specifications, and meet various needs.

[0418] The inner lower brush portion 131D is vertically symmetrical with respect to the inner upper brush portion 131A in the occlusal direction with the occlusal surface K as the center.

[0419] The hair bundles 142 in the inner lower brush portion 131D extend outward from the brush surface 141a. The brush surface 141a is inclined inwardly as it goes downward. The hair implantation holes 141b extend obliquely with respect to the occlusal surface K. The hair implantation holes 141b are inclined inwardly as it goes outward.

[0420] The hair bundles 142 implanted in the hair implantation holes 141b of the inner lower brush portion 131D extend obliquely in the direction toward the lower side as they go outward. Therefore, the hair tips of the hair bundle row in which a plurality of hair bundles 142 are arranged in the circumferential direction are inclined toward the end side of the lower side of the base portion 71 relative to the root. The hair tips of the hair bundles 142 in the hair bundle row located at the end of the lower side in the hair bundle row arranged in the occlusal direction protrude downwardly compared to the lower surface of the base portion 141. As a result, a wider range in the occlusal direction can be cleaned, and the gums and the like at a position far from the occlusal surface K can be fully cleaned.

[0421] The outer brush portion 132 is located on the outer side in the depth direction.

[0422] The outer brush portion 132 includes outer upper brush portions 132A, 132B, 132C, 132D, and 132E. The outer upper brush portions 132A, 132B, 132C, 132D, and 132E are located on the upper side and are arranged opposite to the tooth surface on the buccal side of the maxillary side dentition along the circumferential direction. The outer upper brush portions 132A, 132B, 132C, 132D, and 132E are arranged in sequence with the outer upper brush portion 132A as the center and the outer upper brush portions 132B and 132C are arranged in sequence at intervals on the right side in the circumferential direction, and the outer upper brush portions 132D and 132E are arranged in sequence at intervals on the left side in the circumferential direction, and are arranged in a U-shape as a whole.

[0423] In the outer brush portion 132, the outer upper brush portion 132B and the outer upper brush portion 132D are line symmetrical in the left-right direction, and the outer upper brush portion 132C and the outer upper brush portion 132E are line symmetrical in the left-right direction, so the description of the outer upper brush portions 132D and 132E is sometimes omitted.

[0424] In addition, the outer brush portion 132 includes outer lower brush portions 132F, 132G, 132H, 132J, and 132K. The outer lower brush portions 132F, 132G, 132H, 132J, and 132K are line-symmetrical with the outer upper brush portions 132A, 132B, 132C, 132D, and 132E in the occlusal direction, and overlap with the outer upper brush portions 132A, 132B, 132C, 132D, and 132E, respectively, when viewed from the upper side. Fig.18 , the symbols of the outer lower brush portions 132F, 132G, 132H, 132J, and 132K are added to the symbols of the outer upper brush portions 132A, 132B, 132C, 132D, and 132E in parentheses.

[0425] The outer lower brushes 132F, 132G, 132H, 132J, and 132K are arranged opposite to the tooth surface on the buccal side of the tooth row on the mandibular side along the circumferential direction. The outer lower brushes 132F, 132G, 132H, 132J, and 132K are arranged in sequence with the outer lower brush 132F as the center and the outer lower brushes 132G and 132H are arranged in sequence at intervals on the right side in the circumferential direction, and the outer lower brushes 132J and 132K are arranged in sequence at intervals on the left side in the circumferential direction, and are arranged in a U-shape as a whole.

[0426] The outer lower brush portions 132F, 132G, 132H, 132J, and 132K are respectively linearly symmetrical with the outer upper brush portions 132A, 132B, 132C, 132D, and 132E in the occlusal direction, so the description of the outer lower brush portions 132F, 132G, 132H, 132J, and 132K is sometimes omitted.

[0427] The outer upper brush portion 132A is arranged at the central position in the circumferential direction. When viewed from the upper side, the outer upper brush portion 132A has a portion that is curved along the circumferential direction in a direction that bulges outward. Both sides of the circumferential direction of the outer upper brush portion 132A are curved along the circumferential direction. The outer upper brush portion 132A is mainly arranged opposite to the tooth surface on the buccal side of the plurality of incisors on the maxillary side.

[0428] like Fig.19 As shown, the outer upper brush portion 132A has a base portion 171 , a bristle bundle 172 and a coupling portion 173 .

[0429] The base portion 171 has a rectangular cross-section. Fig.21 This is a diagram of the outer upper brush portion 132A as viewed from above. Fig.21 As shown, when viewed from the upper side, the base portion 171 has portions on both sides in the circumferential direction that are bent along the circumferential direction in a direction convex outward.

[0430] By bending the base portion 171, the hair bundle 172 can be arranged along the tongue side of the teeth, thereby improving cleaning performance and fit. In addition, the installation area can be maximized, which can help improve vibration efficiency and cleaning power.

[0431] When the base portion 171 is curved in the circumferential direction, by providing the base portion 171 with a curvature radius along the curve of the tooth row, it is possible to provide an appropriate sense of linkage without hindering the linkage with the movement of the support body 150 .

[0432] The curvature radius of the base portion 171 is preferably not less than 10 mm and not more than 80 mm.

[0433] By setting the curvature radius of the base portion 171 to the above range, the base portion 171 can be easily moved along the tooth row when moving in the circumferential direction, and can be appropriately linked with the movement of the support body 150 .

[0434] The base portion 171 is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 162A (described in detail later) in the outer support body 152 from the inside. The base portion 171 is engaged with the outer support body 152 by engaging the upper surface and the lower surface forming the engagement portion 173 in the engagement recess 162A. The outer upper brush portion 132A can be replaced relative to the outer support body 152 by detachably engaging the base portion 171 in the engagement recess 162A.

[0435] The hair bundle 172 extends inward from the brush surface 171a facing inward in the base portion 171. The brush surface 171a in the outer upper brush portion 132A is inclined toward the outer side as it goes upward. The hair implantation hole 171b is formed in the brush surface 171a. The hair implantation hole 171b extends obliquely relative to the occlusal surface K. The hair implantation hole 171b is inclined toward the upper side as it goes inward. The hair implantation hole 171b is arranged with a plurality of ( Fig.19 Although not shown in the figure, the hair implantation holes 171b are arranged in a plurality of rows at intervals in the circumferential direction. Therefore, the rows of hair implantation holes 141b arranged in the circumferential direction are arranged in a plurality of rows in the occlusal direction (in the Fig.19 3 columns in the middle).

[0436] The hair bundle 172 is implanted in the hair implantation hole 171b. The implantation method of the hair bundle 172 is the same as the hair bundle 142 described above. By forming the hair bundle 172 with bristles, the cleaning feeling can be improved. In addition, by implanting the hair bundle 172 in the base portion 171, it is easier to arrange and post-process the hair bundle 172 than when the hair bundle 172 is directly implanted in the support body 150, so that the cleaning performance can be improved. Moreover, by arranging the hair bundle 172 along the curvature of the base portion 171, the hair bundle 172 can be abutted along the teeth on the cheek side, which can further improve the cleaning performance.

[0437] The hair bundles 172 implanted in the hair implantation holes 171b in the outer upper brush portion 132A extend obliquely in the direction toward the upper side as they go inward. Therefore, the hair tips of the hair bundle row in which a plurality of hair bundles 172 are arranged in the circumferential direction are inclined toward the upper end side of the base portion 171 relative to the root. The hair tips of the hair bundles 142 in the hair bundle row located at the upper end of the hair bundle row arranged in the occlusal direction protrude upward compared to the upper surface of the base portion 171. As a result, a wider range in the occlusal direction can be cleaned, and the gums on the buccal side located farther from the occlusal surface K can be fully cleaned.

[0438] The arrangement pitch of the circumferential hair bundles 172 in the hair bundle rows adjacent in the occlusal direction is preferably configured to be staggered by, for example, half a pitch. In this case, when viewed in the direction relative to the brush surface 171a, the hair bundles 172 are configured in a staggered manner, thereby reducing the gaps between the hair bundles 172 and improving the fit and cleaning properties of the buccal tooth surface.

[0439] When viewed from the upper side, the bristle bundle 172 protrudes and extends radially inward from the brush surface 171a. Fig.21 As shown, the outer upper brush portion 132A constituting the brush portion 130 has a portion where the root arrangement pitch of the hair bundle 172 is different from the hair tip arrangement pitch at the bent portion of the base portion 171. Specifically, the hair tip arrangement pitch P4 in the hair bundle 172 is smaller than the root arrangement pitch P3.

[0440] By making the arrangement pitches of the hair bundles 172 different at the root and the tip, the balance between the rigidity and the flexing ease can be adjusted, and the cleaning power can be improved. For example, by reducing the arrangement pitch of the root of the hair bundles 172, the rigidity of the hair can be ensured, and by increasing the arrangement pitch of the tip, the ability to enter the gap between the teeth can be ensured, thereby improving the cleaning function.

[0441] In addition, the bristle bundles 172 can be brought into contact with the teeth so as to cover all of the teeth from both the front and back sides, thereby improving the cleaning feel.

[0442] In addition, although a structure in which the arrangement pitch of the bristle bundles 172 in the brush portion 130 is different between the bristle tip and the root is illustrated, a structure in which the arrangement pitch of the bristle bundles 172 in the brush portions 130 at positions separated in the circumferential direction (the pitch of the bristle bundles in the first brush portion and the bristle bundles in the second brush portion) is different between the bristle tip and the root may also be employed.

[0443] In addition, by suppressing the interference between the bristle bundles 172 of the brush portion 130 separated in the circumferential direction (especially the curved portion of the outer brush portion 132) and adjusting the implantation angle of the bristle bundles 172 to adjust the arrangement spacing between the bristle tips and roots, the cleaning feel and cleaning performance are improved.

[0444] exist Fig.21 In the figure, a structure is illustrated in which the arrangement pitch P4 of the tips of the hairs at the curved portion of the base portion 171 is smaller than the arrangement pitch P3 of the roots. However, regardless of whether the base portion 171 has a curved shape or not, the above-mentioned effect can be obtained by arbitrarily adjusting the hair implantation angle relative to the depth direction to give a difference in the spacing between the base and the tips of the hairs of the hair bundles 172, while preventing interference between the hairs of the brush portion 130.

[0445] Back to Fig.18 , the outer upper brush portion 132B is located on the right side in the circumferential direction compared to the outer upper brush portion 132A. The outer upper brush portion 132C is located on the right side in the circumferential direction compared to the outer upper brush portion 132B. The circumferential end of the outer upper brush portion 132C on the side (+θ side) close to the outer upper brush portion 132B is a shape extending the curved shape of the outer upper brush portion 132A. The -θ side of the outer upper brush portion 132C is a straight line shape that becomes a tangent to the above-mentioned curved shape. The outer upper brush portion 132C is mainly arranged opposite to the tooth surface on the buccal side of multiple molars (premolars, molars) on the maxillary side.

[0446] When viewed from above, the outer upper brush portion 132B is a straight line connecting the end of the outer upper brush portion 132A on the -θ side and the end of the outer upper brush portion 132c on the +θ side. The outer upper brush portion 132B has a short circumferential dimension, which reduces the advantage of bending, and is therefore formed in a straight line.

[0447] like Fig.19As shown, the base portion 171 of the outer lower brush portion 132F is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 162F (described in detail later) in the outer support body 152 from the inside. The base portion 171 is engaged with the outer support body 152 by engaging the upper surface and the lower surface forming the engagement portion 173 in the engagement recess 162F. The outer lower brush portion 132F can be replaced relative to the outer support body 152 by detachably engaging the base portion 171 in the engagement recess 162F.

[0448] The outer lower brush portion 132F is vertically symmetrical with respect to the outer upper brush portion 132A in the occlusal direction with the occlusal surface K as the center.

[0449] The hair bundles 172 in the outer lower brush portion 132F extend inward from the brush surface 171a. The brush surface 171a is inclined toward the outer side as it goes downward. The hair implantation holes 171b extend obliquely with respect to the occlusal surface K. The hair implantation holes 171b are inclined toward the lower side as it goes inward.

[0450] The hair bundles 172 implanted in the hair implantation holes 171b of the outer lower brush portion 132F extend obliquely in the downward direction as they go inward. Therefore, the hair tips of the hair bundle row in which a plurality of hair bundles 172 are arranged in the circumferential direction are inclined toward the end side of the lower side of the base portion 171 relative to the root. The hair tips of the hair bundles 172 in the hair bundle row located at the end of the hair bundle row arranged in the occlusal direction protrude downward compared to the lower surface of the base portion 171. As a result, a wider range in the occlusal direction can be cleaned, and the gums and the like at a position far from the occlusal surface K can be fully cleaned.

[0451] The hair bundle 172 is implanted in the same manner as the hair bundle 142 .

[0452] The shortest distance between the bristle bundles 142 of the inner brush portion 131 and the bristle bundles 172 of the outer brush portion 132 , that is, the distance between bristle tips, differs depending on the position in the circumferential direction.

[0453] The outer brush portion 132 and the inner brush portion 131 each have a central region including the center in the circumferential direction of the support body 150 and an end region located at an end in the circumferential direction of the support body 150. An intermediate region is provided between the central region and the end region.

[0454] The central region is mainly the area opposite the incisors.

[0455] The terminal region is mainly the region opposite from the premolars to the molars.

[0456] The middle region is mainly the area opposite from the canines to the premolars.

[0457] like Fig.17As shown, in the outer brush portion 132 , the central area is set as the first area A1 , the middle area is set as the second area A2 , and the end area is set as the third area A3 .

[0458] In the inner brush portion 131 , a central region is referred to as a first region B1 , a middle region is referred to as a second region B2 , and an end region is referred to as a third region B3 .

[0459] The distance between the hair tips of the first region A1 and the first region B1 is defined as D1, the distance between the hair tips of the second region A2 and the second region B2 is defined as D2, and the distance between the hair tips of the third region A3 and the third region B3 is defined as D3.

[0460] The distance D1 between bristle tips is the distance between the bristle bundle 172 with the shortest bristle length of the outer brush portion 132 in the first area A1 and the bristle bundle 142 with the shortest bristle length of the inner brush portion 131 in the first area B1.

[0461] The distance D2 between bristle tips is the distance between the bristle bundle 172 with the shortest bristle length of the outer brush portion 132 in the second area A2 and the bristle bundle 142 with the shortest bristle length of the inner brush portion 131 in the second area B2.

[0462] The distance D3 between bristle tips is the distance between the bristle bundle with the shortest bristle length of the outer brush portion 132 in the third area A3 and the bristle bundle 142 with the shortest bristle length of the inner brush portion 131 in the third area B3.

[0463] The shortest distance between bristle tips is a value measured as the shortest distance between bristle tips in the depth direction between the inner and outer bristle tips located on the same plane perpendicular to the circumferential direction (i.e., a plane extending in the depth direction) with the inner support body 151 as a reference.

[0464] The distance between the hair tips is a value measured when observing in the occlusal direction (for example, from the upper side). That is, the positions of the hairs of both parties in the occlusal direction measured as the distance between the hair tips may be different. In addition, when the hairs with the shortest distance relative to the depth direction are not on the same plane perpendicular to the circumferential direction, the plane is set as an imaginary space with a thickness of ±0.5 mm in the circumferential direction, and if the hairs enter the imaginary space, they are set on the same plane. In other words, the hairs with the shortest distance relative to the depth direction are considered to be on the same plane if the circumferential separation distance is within 1.0 mm.

[0465] By configuring the brushes 130 in a number corresponding to the parts in the oral cavity, it is possible to achieve specifications suitable for cleaning each part (improved bristle rigidity, setting of a height difference profile matching the shape of the teeth), so that each part in the oral cavity can be fully cleaned.

[0466] The distances D1 and D3 between the hair tips satisfy the relationship of D3>D1.

[0467] That is, the distance D3 between the hair tips in the region mainly facing the molars including the premolars to the molars is larger than the distance D1 between the hair tips in the region mainly facing the incisors.

[0468] Since the incisors are thin, the distance between the teeth is short, and since the molars are thick, the distance between the teeth is long, by setting the distance between the bristle tips to match the size of the teeth based on the location, the fit to the dentition and the cleaning power can be improved.

[0469] It is preferred that the distances D1, D2, and D3 between the hair tips satisfy the relationship of D3>D2>D1.

[0470] That is, the gap between the outer brush portion 132 and the inner brush portion 131 in the depth direction is larger in the second region A2, B2 than in the first region A1, B1, and is larger in the third region A3, B3 than in the second region A2, B2.

[0471] When the length from the circumferential center to the end of the support body 150 is set to 100%, if the area from the circumferential center to 40% is set as the first area A1, B1, the area from the circumferential center to 40% to 65% is set as the second area A2, B2, and the area from the circumferential center to 65% to 100% is set as the third area A3, B3, then the distances D1, D2, and D3 between the hair tips preferably satisfy the relationship of D1<D2<D3.

[0472] Furthermore, the vibration of the mouthpiece 120 when it is powered is based on the rotational motion of the shaft 114, and the amplitude of the third area A3, B3 with a large rotation radius centered on the shaft 114 becomes larger. The space between the bristles (movable area) can be set optimally according to the vibration characteristics, and the cleaning feeling and cleaning performance are improved.

[0473] The distance D1 between bristle tips is preferably 0.5 to 4.0 mm.

[0474] The distance D2 between bristle tips is preferably 2.0 to 9.0 mm.

[0475] The distance D3 between bristle tips is preferably 4.0 to 12.0 mm.

[0476] The length of the base portion 171 in the outer brush portion 132 in the first area A1 in the occlusal direction is WA1. The length of the base portion 171 in the outer brush portion 132 in the second area A2 in the occlusal direction is WA2. The length of the base portion 171 in the outer brush portion 132 in the third area A3 in the occlusal direction is WA3.

[0477] The length of the base portion 141 in the inner brush portion 131 located in the first area B1 in the occlusal direction is WB1. The length of the base portion 141 in the inner brush portion 131 located in the second area B2 in the occlusal direction is WB2. The length of the base portion 141 in the inner brush portion 131 located in the third area B3 in the occlusal direction is WB3.

[0478] It is preferable that the relationships of WA1>WA2>WA3 and WB1>WB2>WB3 are satisfied respectively.

[0479] Since the tooth surface area of ​​the incisors is wider in the occlusal direction than that of the molars, it is necessary to increase the length WA1 in the first region A1 and the length WB1 in the first region B1 facing the incisors.

[0480] In addition, molars are thicker in the depth direction than incisors, and the space in the oral cavity around the molars is limited. Therefore, by reducing the length WA3 of the occlusal direction of the base 171 and the length WB3 of the occlusal direction of the base 141, the pressure in the oral cavity and the risk of reflex vomiting can be reduced. Therefore, the cleaning feeling and cleaning efficiency are improved.

[0481] As the relationship between the lengths of the outer brush portion 132 and the inner brush portion 131 in the meshing direction, it is preferable that WA1>WB1, WA2>WB2, and WA3>WB3.

[0482] The length WA1 is preferably 5 to 10 mm.

[0483] The length WA2 is preferably 4 to 9 mm.

[0484] The length WA3 is preferably 2 to 9 mm.

[0485] The length WB1 is preferably 4 to 9 mm.

[0486] The length WB2 is preferably 3 to 8 mm.

[0487] The length WB3 is preferably 2 to 8 mm.

[0488] The length of the base portion 141 and the base portion 171 in the meshing direction is preferably 25 mm or less.

[0489] By setting the length in the occlusal direction to 25 mm or less, the outer brush portion 132 and the inner brush portion 131 will not become too large, and the discomfort in the oral cavity can be reduced.

[0490] The length of the base portion 141 and the base portion 171 in the occlusal direction is preferably less than 50 mm in total for the base portions 141 and 171 of the upper and lower jaws. When the base portions 141 and 171 are divided into the upper and lower jaws respectively, the length of the upper jaw portion (lower jaw portion) is preferably less than 25 mm.

[0491] When the bristle bundles 142 and 172 are arranged at a position away from the occlusal surface K in order to improve the cleaning feeling, if the brush surfaces 141a and 171a are orthogonal to the depth direction and the bristle holes 141b and 171b are arranged to extend along the normal direction of the brush surfaces 141a and 171a, the brush surfaces 141a and 171a become longer in the occlusal direction, the base parts 141 and 171 become larger, and the usability is reduced.

[0492] On the other hand, the brush surfaces 141a and 171a are orthogonal to the depth direction and the hair-implanting holes 141b and 171b are inclined relative to the normal direction of the brush surfaces 141a and 171a, so that the hair tips of the hair bundles 142 and 172 are located away from the occlusal surface K according to the inclination angle of the hair-implanting holes 141b and 171b. In this case, the maximum size of the hair-implanting holes 141b and 171b in the brush surfaces 141a and 171a is larger than the diameter of the hair-implanting holes 141b and 171b. For example, if the diameter of the hair-implanting holes 141b and 171b is d and the inclination angle of the hair-implanting holes 141b and 171b relative to the normal direction of the brush surfaces 141a and 171a is θ1, the maximum size S of the hair-implanting holes 141b and 171b in the brush surfaces 141a and 171a becomes a value represented by d / cos(θ1), which is larger than the diameter d. In the base parts 141 and 171 having the hair implantation holes 141b and 171b, a minimum wall thickness is specified to ensure strength. Therefore, if the hair implantation holes 141b and 171b are inclined relative to the normal direction of the brush surfaces 141a and 171a, the maximum dimension S becomes larger, thereby lengthening the dimension of the base parts 141 and 171 in the occlusal direction.

[0493] In the present embodiment, the normal direction of the brush surfaces 141a and 171a is inclined relative to the depth direction, and the hair implantation holes 141b and 171b are inclined relative to the normal direction of the brush surfaces 141a and 171a, so that the inclination angle θ1 is reduced, thereby reducing the maximum size S. As a result, compared with the case where the brush surfaces 141a and 171a are orthogonal to the depth direction, the size of the base parts 141 and 171 in the occlusal direction can be suppressed, and the position of the hair tips of the hair bundles 142 and 172 can be set to a position away from the occlusal surface K.

[0494] One or more mixed bristle types may be used as the bristles constituting the bristle bundles 142 and 172. In addition, two or more bristle types may be used in the same brush portion 130 and in the same area.

[0495] By using a brush having bristles of a type suitable for each area, cleaning performance can be improved.

[0496] Furthermore, since the brush portion 130 is detachable, it can be replaced with a brush portion 130 having a type of bristles that suits the user's preference, thereby improving the cleaning feel and cleaning performance.

[0497] The bristle diameter in the first areas A1 and B1 is preferably 3 to 6 mil.

[0498] The bristle diameter in the second areas A2 and B2 is preferably 3 to 5 mil.

[0499] The bristle diameter in the third areas A3 and B3 is preferably 4 to 8 mil.

[0500] By using a brush having a bristle diameter suitable for each region for each region, the cleaning performance can be improved. In addition, since the brush portion 130 can be designed with a hardness that the user likes, the cleaning performance can be improved.

[0501] The number of bristles is so arranged that the first area A1>the second area A2>the third area A3 is satisfied. Also, the number of bristles is so arranged that the first area B1>the second area B2>the third area B3 is satisfied.

[0502] In the first region A1 and the first region B1 where the tooth surface has a relatively large area, a large number of bristles are planted so that the bristles are in contact with the entire tooth surface, thereby improving the cleaning feel and cleaning performance.

[0503] In the third area A3 and the third area B3, by reducing the number of implanted hair roots, the pressure caused by the contact between the bristles and the gums and oral mucosa in the narrow oral cavity on the molar side can be reduced and reflex vomiting can be suppressed, thereby improving the cleaning feel.

[0504] The number of bristles in the first area A1 is preferably 150 to 500.

[0505] The number of bristles in the second area A2 is preferably 150 to 500.

[0506] The number of bristles in the third area A3 is preferably 70 to 250.

[0507] The number of bristles in the first region B1 is preferably 100 to 500.

[0508] The number of bristles in the second area B2 is preferably 100 to 500.

[0509] The number of bristles in the third area B3 is preferably 50 to 250.

[0510] When the number of bristles in each area is less than the preferred range, the brush 130 feels sparse, and the cleaning feel is reduced. In addition, when the number of bristles is greater than the preferred range, the brush 130 becomes too dense, and when the mouthpiece 120 is moved, the bristle bundles 142 and 172 cannot be properly bent, and the smooth movement of the mouthpiece 120 is hindered.

[0511] By setting the number of bristles within the above-described preferred range, the bristle bundles 142 and 172 are appropriately bent, and the cleaning feel can be improved.

[0512] The number of bristles is merely an example, and the upper limit may be exceeded. For example, when using non-flat wire-type large holes, the number of bristles is preferably in the range of 4,000 to 200,000.

[0513] The longest bristles planted in the third area A3 are preferably longer than the longest bristles planted in the first area A1 and the second area A2 with respect to a portion or the entire surface.

[0514] The longest bristles implanted in the third area B3 are preferably longer than the longest bristles implanted in the first area B1 and the second area B2 with respect to a portion or the entire surface.

[0515] By satisfying the above relationship, it is possible to ensure penetration and cleaning power of the molars deep between teeth, and it is possible to change the cycle of the arrangement profile according to the size of the teeth, thereby further improving the fit.

[0516] In the first area A1 and the first area B1, bristles with a maximum bristle length of 2 to 7 mm are implanted in a single bristle length or a plurality of bristle lengths.

[0517] In the third area A3, bristles with a maximum length of 3 to 8 mm are implanted in a single bristle length or multiple bristle lengths.

[0518] The difference in hair length between the longest hair length of the bristles planted in the third area A3 and the shortest hair length of the bristles planted in the first area A1 and the second area A2 is preferably 1 to 6 mm.

[0519] In addition, at least in the third region A3 and the third region B3, the hair length has a height difference in the region. The height difference of the hair length is preferably 1 to 5 mm.

[0520] Fig. 22 and Fig.23 It is an external perspective view of a support body 150 in a fifth embodiment of a mouthpiece portion 120 . Fig. 22 This is a perspective view of the support body 150 as viewed from the inner side in the depth direction. Fig.23 yes Fig. 22The EE cross-sectional view in FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the support body 150 viewed from the outside in the depth direction. Fig. 22 In the figure, the shaft 114 is omitted.

[0521] The support body 150 supports the brush portion 130 along the circumferential direction.

[0522] like Fig. 22 and Fig.23 As shown, the support body 150 includes an inner support body 151 , an outer support body 152 , and a connecting portion 153 .

[0523] The inner support body 151 is formed in a U-shape when viewed from above.

[0524] The inner support body 151 includes an upper wall portion 154 located at the upper end and extending in the circumferential direction, a lower wall portion 155 located at the lower end and extending in the circumferential direction, an intermediate wall portion 156 located between the upper wall portion 154 and the lower wall portion 155 in the occlusal direction and extending in the circumferential direction, and connecting wall portions 157, 158, and 159 extending in the occlusal direction and connecting the upper wall portion 154 and the lower wall portion 155 via the intermediate wall portion 156. The upper wall portion 154, the lower wall portion 155, and the intermediate wall portion 156 are arranged over the entire circumferential direction. The connecting wall portion 157 and the connecting wall portion 158 are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. The connecting wall portion 159 is formed at both ends in the circumferential direction.

[0525] The inner support body 151 has fitting recesses 161A, 161B, 161C located on the upper side and fitting recesses 161D, 161E, 161F located on the lower side. The fitting recesses 161A, 161B, 161C and the fitting recesses 161D, 161E, 161F are formed by being recessed inward from the outer surface of the inner support body 151 in the depth direction.

[0526] In the inner support body 151, since the fitting recess 161B and the fitting recess 161C are line symmetrical in the left-right direction, the description of the fitting recess 161C may be omitted or simplified. In addition, since the fitting recesses 161D, 161E, and 161F are line symmetrical with the fitting recesses 161A, 161B, and 161C in the occlusal direction, the description of the fitting recesses 161D, 161E, and 161F may be omitted or simplified.

[0527] like Fig.19 As shown, the base portion 141 of the inner upper brush portion 131A is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 161A from the outside. In the engagement recess 161A, the upper wall portion 154 and the intermediate wall portion 156 are engaged with the coupling portion 143 of the inner upper brush portion 131A in the occlusal direction, and the connecting wall portion 157 and the connecting wall portion 158 are engaged with both ends of the base portion 141 in the circumferential direction, thereby the inner upper brush portion 131A is detachably engaged.

[0528] The base portion 141 of the inner upper brush portion 131B is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 161B from the outside. In the engagement recess 161B, the upper wall portion 154 and the intermediate wall portion 156 are engaged with the coupling portion 143 of the inner upper brush portion 131B in the occlusal direction, and the connecting wall portion 157 and the connecting wall portion 159 are engaged with both ends of the base portion 141 in the circumferential direction, thereby the inner upper brush portion 131B is detachably engaged.

[0529] The base portion 141 of the inner lower brush portion 131D is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 161D from the outside. In the engagement recess 161D, the upper wall portion 155 and the intermediate wall portion 156 are engaged with the coupling portion 143 of the inner lower brush portion 131D in the occlusal direction, and the connecting wall portion 157 and the connecting wall portion 158 are engaged with both ends of the base portion 141 in the circumferential direction, thereby the inner lower brush portion 131D is detachably engaged.

[0530] The base 141 of the inner upper brush 131C is detachably fitted in the fitting recess 161C from the outside. The base 141 of the inner lower brush 131E is detachably fitted in the fitting recess 161E from the outside. The base 141 of the inner lower brush 131F is detachably fitted in the fitting recess 161F from the outside.

[0531] The outer support body 152 is formed in a U-shape when viewed from above.

[0532] The outer support body 152 includes an upper wall portion 164 located at the upper end and extending in the circumferential direction, a lower wall portion 165 located at the lower end and extending in the circumferential direction, an intermediate wall portion 166 located between the upper wall portion 164 and the lower wall portion 165 in the occlusal direction and extending in the circumferential direction, and connecting wall portions 167, 168, 169, 170, 152A extending in the occlusal direction and connecting the upper wall portion 164 and the lower wall portion 165 via the intermediate wall portion 166. The upper wall portion 164, the lower wall portion 165, and the intermediate wall portion 166 are arranged throughout the circumferential direction. The connecting wall portion 167 and the connecting wall portion 168 are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. The connecting wall portion 169 and the connecting wall portion 170 are respectively arranged on the outer sides of the connecting wall portion 167 and the connecting wall portion 168 in the circumferential direction. The connecting wall portion 152A is formed at both ends in the circumferential direction. The position of the intermediate wall portion 166 in the meshing direction is the same as that of the intermediate wall portion 156 .

[0533] The outer support body 152 has fitting recesses 162A, 162B, 162C, 162D, 162E located on the upper side and fitting recesses 162F, 162G, 162H, 162J, 162K located on the lower side. The fitting recesses 162A, 162B, 162C, 162D, 162E and the fitting recesses 162F, 162G, 162H, 162J, 162K are formed by being recessed outward from the inner surface of the outer support body 152 in the depth direction.

[0534] In the outer support body 152, the fitting recess 162B and the fitting recess 162D are linearly symmetrical in the left-right direction, and the fitting recess 162C and the fitting recess 162E are linearly symmetrical in the left-right direction, so the description of the fitting recess 162D and the fitting recess 162E may be omitted or simplified. In addition, the fitting recesses 162F, 162G, 162H, 162J, and 162K are linearly symmetrical with the fitting recesses 162A, 162B, 162C, 162D, and 162E in the occlusal direction, so the description of the fitting recesses 162F, 162G, 162H, 162J, and 162K may be omitted or simplified.

[0535] like Fig.19 As shown, the base portion 171 of the outer upper brush portion 132A is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 162A from the inside. In the engagement recess 162A, the upper wall portion 164 and the intermediate wall portion 166 are engaged with the engagement portion 173 of the outer upper brush portion 132A in the occlusal direction, and the connecting wall portion 167 and the connecting wall portion 168 are engaged with both ends of the base portion 171 in the circumferential direction, thereby the outer upper brush portion 132A is detachably engaged.

[0536] The base portion 171 of the outer upper brush portion 132B is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 162B from the inside. In the engagement recess 162B, the upper wall portion 164 and the intermediate wall portion 166 are engaged with the engagement portion 173 of the outer upper brush portion 132B in the occlusal direction, and the connecting wall portion 167 and the connecting wall portion 169 are engaged with both ends of the base portion 171 in the circumferential direction, thereby the outer upper brush portion 132B is detachably engaged.

[0537] The base portion 171 of the outer upper brush portion 132C is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 162C from the inside. In the engagement recess 162C, the upper wall portion 164 and the intermediate wall portion 166 are engaged with the engagement portion 173 of the outer upper brush portion 132C in the occlusal direction, and the connecting wall portion 169 and the connecting wall portion 152A are engaged with both ends of the base portion 171 in the circumferential direction, thereby the outer upper brush portion 132C is detachably engaged.

[0538] The base portion 171 of the outer lower brush portion 132F is detachably engaged with the engagement recess 162F from the inside. In the engagement recess 162F, the lower wall portion 165 and the intermediate wall portion 166 are engaged with the engagement portion 173 of the outer lower brush portion 132F in the occlusal direction, and the connecting wall portion 167 and the connecting wall portion 168 are engaged with both ends of the base portion 171 in the circumferential direction, thereby the outer lower brush portion 132F is detachably engaged.

[0539] The base portion 171 of the outer upper brush portion 132D is removably fitted in the fitting recess 162D from the inside. The base portion 171 of the outer upper brush portion 132E is removably fitted in the fitting recess 162E from the inside. The base portion 171 of the outer lower brush portion 132G is removably fitted in the fitting recess 162G from the inside. The base portion 171 of the outer lower brush portion 132H is removably fitted in the fitting recess 162H from the inside. The base portion 171 of the outer lower brush portion 132J is removably fitted in the fitting recess 162J from the inside. The base portion 171 of the outer lower brush portion 132K is removably fitted in the fitting recess 162K from the inside.

[0540] The connecting portion 153 connects the inner support body 151 and the outer support body 152 in the depth direction. The connecting portion 153 connects the inner support body 151 and the outer support body 152 at both ends in the circumferential direction. The connecting portion 153 of the present embodiment constitutes the support body 150 as a molded body in which the inner support body 151 and the outer support body 152 are integrally formed. In addition, the connecting portion 153 may be a structure that is not integrally formed with the inner support body 151 and the outer support body 152 but is manufactured separately and combined with the support body 150 in the same manner as the brush portion 130, or a structure that is fixed to the support body 150 by an adhesive or the like.

[0541] The connection part 153 has a connection plate 153A and bristle bundles 153B.

[0542] The connecting plate 153A is a plate-shaped plate perpendicular to the meshing direction and extends to the lower end in the circumferential direction. The inner end of the connecting plate 153A is connected to the intermediate wall 156 of the inner support body 151. The outer end of the connecting plate 153A is connected to the intermediate wall 166 of the outer support body 152.

[0543] The hair bundles 153B protrude and extend in the occlusal direction from the upper and lower surfaces of the connecting plate 153A, respectively. The hair bundles 153B are arranged, for example, at positions facing the molars.

[0544] Since the bristle bundles 153B are arranged at positions facing the molars and protrude upward and downward, the occlusal surfaces of the molars that are difficult for the brush part 130 to reach can be effectively cleaned.

[0545] As described above, the support body 150 is a molded body in which the inner support body 151 , the outer support body 152 , and the connecting portion 153 are integrally molded.

[0546] Since the support body 150 is formed as a component different from the brush part 130, it is not restricted by the brush part 130, and the support body 150 can be expanded with an appropriate degree of ease that is neither too tight nor too loose. Therefore, the support body 150 is more suitable for the teeth.

[0547] The support body 150 is formed of a material different from that of the base parts 141 and 171 in the brush part 130. The support body 150 is formed of a resin having a lower hardness than the base parts 141 and 171.

[0548] Therefore, at least a portion of the base portions 141 and 171 is covered by the support body 150 formed of a different material.

[0549] Since at least a portion of the base 141 , 171 is covered by the support 150 which is softer than the base 141 , 171 , the risk of damaging the gums and oral mucosa due to contact between the mouthpiece 120 and the oral mucosa can be reduced, and the cleaning feel can be improved.

[0550] Furthermore, since the brush portion 130 on which the bristle bundles 142 and 172 are planted is coupled to the support body 150 , it is not necessary to plant the bristle bundles directly on the support body 150 , and thus it is possible to improve the manufacturability and the cleaning performance.

[0551] The hardness difference between the material constituting the base 141, 171 and the material constituting the support 150 is preferably 200 MPa or more in bending elastic modulus, more preferably 500 MPa or more in bending elastic modulus. The hardness difference between the material constituting the base 141, 171 and the material constituting the support 150 is preferably 2800 MPa or less in bending elastic modulus, more preferably 1500 MPa or less in bending elastic modulus. The upper limit and lower limit of the material constituting the base 141, 171 and the material constituting the support 150 can be arbitrarily combined.

[0552] When the hardness difference is lower than the above lower limit, if the objects are hard, there is a possibility of damage during embedding, and if the objects are soft, the fitting is easy to be separated, which may hinder the proper fitting. In addition, in order to ensure the strength of the hair implantation, the base parts 141 and 171 need to be relatively hard, and in order to improve the fit to the teeth when the crown part 120 is moved, the support body 150 needs to be relatively soft. If the hardness difference is lower than the above lower limit, the above-mentioned effects cannot be exerted.

[0553] If the hardness difference of the materials is within the above range, the base parts 141 and 171 and the support body 150 formed of different materials can move with an appropriate sense of linkage.

[0554] In the present embodiment, by setting the hardness difference of the material to the above-mentioned range, different components can be moved with an appropriate sense of linkage, and the cleaning feeling can be improved.

[0555] As for the hardness of the material constituting the base parts 141 and 171, it is preferable that the bending elastic modulus is 800 MPa or more and the bending elastic modulus is 3000 MPa or less.

[0556] When the hardness of the material constituting the base 141, 171 is less than the bending elastic modulus of 800 MPa, cracks are easily generated during hair implantation, making it difficult to implant hair bundles 142, 172. In addition, when the hair implantation is moved in conjunction with the support body 150, sufficient hair implantation strength cannot be ensured, and vibration transmission when used in an electric manner may also be reduced.

[0557] If the hardness of the material constituting the base 141 or 171 exceeds the bending elastic modulus of 3000 MPa, the oral cavity may be damaged. Also, when the mouthpiece 120 is moved or fitted into the support 150 , the support 150 may be damaged.

[0558] By setting the hardness of the material constituting the base parts 141 and 171 to a bending modulus of 800 MPa or more and 3000 MPa or less, the possibility of damaging the oral cavity can be suppressed and sufficient hair implantation strength for moving in conjunction with the support body 150 can be ensured.

[0559] The hardness of the material constituting the support body 150 is preferably 50 MPa or more and 1000 MPa or less.

[0560] When the hardness of the material constituting the support body 150 is less than 50 MPa, there is a possibility that the base parts 141 and 171 cannot be fully supported. When the hardness of the material constituting the support body 150 exceeds 1000 MPa, there is a possibility that the contact feeling when contacting the cheek mucosa and the tongue is reduced. In addition, the pressure in the oral cavity is strong, which may cause reflex vomiting. Moreover, when the brace part 120 is moved, there is a possibility that the shape cannot follow and the fit to the teeth cannot be ensured.

[0561] By setting the hardness of the material constituting the support body 150 to be not less than 50 MPa and not more than 100 MPa, the base parts 141 and 171 can be sufficiently supported, and softness with a good contact feeling when contacting the cheek mucosa or the tongue can be ensured.

[0562] The area separated in the outline of the inner support body 151 and the outer support body 152 constituting the support body 150 is preferably 20% or more, more preferably 30% or more. The area separated in the outline of the inner support body 151 and the outer support body 152 constituting the support body 150 is preferably 70% or less, more preferably 60% or less. The upper limit and lower limit of the area separated in the outline of the inner support body 151 and the outer support body 152 constituting the support body 150 can be arbitrarily combined.

[0563] If the separated region is within the above-mentioned range, the shape of the support body 150 can be stabilized, and the support body 150 can be sufficiently fitted to the tooth row to ensure cleaning power.

[0564] In addition, since the connection portion between the inner support body 151 and the outer support body 152 is a part, the area where the bristles can be implanted can be increased, and the cleaning power can be improved.

[0565] The portion where the inner supporting body 151 and the outer supporting body 152 are connected is preferably the central portion in the circumferential direction or the occlusal surface of the molar.

[0566] Thus, when the mouthpiece 120 is electric, vibration is easily transmitted, and the cleaning force is improved. In addition, when the occlusal surface of the molars is connected, the occlusion of the molars can be brushed.

[0567] The manufacturing method of the toothbrush 101 of the above structure includes the following contents: preparing a brush part 130 in the toothbrush 101; preparing a supporting body 150 in the toothbrush 101; and combining the brush part 130 with the supporting body 150, wherein the toothbrush 101 has a gripping part 110 and a braces part 120 connected to the gripping part 110, and the braces part 120 has: a brush part 130, the brush part 130 having bristle bundles 142, 172 arranged on a base part 141, 171; and a supporting body 150, the supporting body 150 is formed of a material different from the base part 141, 171, covers at least a portion of the base part 141, 171, and supports the brush part 130 along a circumferential direction centered on an axis extending in the occlusal direction.

[0568] The preparation of the brush section 130 includes the following contents: the inner upper brush sections 131A, 131B, 131C and the inner lower brush sections 131D, 131E, 131F are prepared respectively, and the inner brush section 131 has a bristle bundle 142 provided on the base section 141. The preparation of the brush section 130 includes the following contents: the outer upper brush sections 132A, 132B, 132C, 132D, 132E and the outer lower brush sections 132F, 132G, 132H, 132J, 132K are prepared respectively, and the outer brush section 132 has a bristle bundle 172 provided on the base section 171. Further, preparing the brush portion 130 includes planting the bristle bundles 142 in the bristle planting holes 141 b of the base portion 141 and planting the bristle bundles 172 in the bristle planting holes 171 b of the base portion 171 .

[0569] The preparation of the support body 150 includes the following contents: the inner support body 151, the outer support body 152, and the connecting portion 153 are integrally formed by injection molding or the like. When the toothed sleeve portion 120 is electric, when the shaft 114 is insert-molded, the preparation of the support body 150 includes the following contents: the inner support body 151, the outer support body 152, the connecting portion 153, and the shaft 114 are molded by injection molding or the like.

[0570] In the case where the brace portion 120 is electric, when the shaft 114 is fixed after the inner support body 151, the outer support body 152 and the connecting portion 153 are integrally formed, preparing the support body 150 includes the following: integrally forming the inner support body 151, the outer support body 152 and the connecting portion 153 by injection molding, etc.; and fixing the shaft 114.

[0571] Combining the brush portion 130 with the support body 150 includes the following contents: combining the base portion 141 of each prepared brush portion 130 by fitting it into the fitting recesses 161A, 161B, 161C and the fitting recesses 161D, 161E, 161F in the inner support body 151 of the prepared support body 150; and combining the base portion 171 of each prepared brush portion 130 by fitting it into the fitting recesses 162A, 162B, 162C, 162D, 162E and the fitting recesses 162F, 162G, 162H, 162J, 162K in the outer support body 152.

[0572] By combining and supporting the brush portion 130 on the support body 150, Fig.17 The manufacturing brush portion 130 is shown to be arranged along the circumferential direction of the mouthpiece portion 120 in a U-shape.

[0573] As described above, in the toothbrush 101 of the present embodiment, the brush portion 130 formed of different materials and having the bristle bundles 142 and 172 is combined with the support body 150 to form the mouthpiece portion 120, so that each can be set to the optimal shape, raw material and other specifications without being restricted by the other. Therefore, in the toothbrush 101 of the present embodiment, the cleaning performance of each part in the oral cavity can be improved and the support body 150 can be highly adhered to the teeth to achieve an improvement in the cleaning feeling.

[0574] The preferred embodiment of the toothbrush and the toothbrush manufacturing method according to the second embodiment has been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the present invention is certainly not limited to this example. The shapes and combinations of the components shown in the above examples are examples, and various changes can be made based on design requirements, etc. within the scope of the present invention.

[0575] For example, in the above embodiment, the inner support body 151 and the outer support body 152 are continuous in the circumferential direction, but the present invention is not limited to this structure. For example, the structure in which the portion supporting the brush portion 130 is intermittently arranged in the circumferential direction may be adopted. In the case of adopting this structure, for example, the following structure may be adopted: the connecting portion 153 is arranged along the entire circumferential direction, the inner support body 151 is intermittently arranged inside the connecting portion 153, and the outer support body 152 is intermittently arranged outside the connecting portion 153.

[0576] In addition, the mouthpiece portion 120 may be provided in the entire circumferential direction, or may be provided in only one region, for example, on the left or right, and the connection portion 153 may also be provided only in this region.

[0577] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the structure in which the connection portion 153 connecting the inner supporting body 151 and the outer supporting body 152 is arranged at the end portion in the circumferential direction is exemplified, but the present invention is not limited to this structure.

[0578] For example, Fig.24 As shown in FIG. 1 , the connecting portion 153 may connect the inner support body 151 and the outer support body 152 at the center of the circumferential direction. Fig.24 In FIG. 1 , the brush portion 130 and the support body 150 are simply shown, and the illustration of the bristle bundles is also omitted.

[0579] In addition, similarly to the connecting plate 153A described in the above embodiment, a flat protrusion may be provided from at least one of the inner support body 151 and the outer support body 152 toward the other. The protrusion may connect the inner support body 151 and the outer support body 152.

[0580] By providing the protruding portion, the occlusal surfaces of the teeth can be wiped, and the cleaning power is improved.

[0581] The thickness of the protrusion is preferably 0.5 to 3.0 mm.

[0582] [Third Embodiment of Toothbrush]

[0583] Below, refer to Figures 25 to 44 Embodiments of a toothbrush and a toothbrush manufacturing method according to a third embodiment will be described.

[0584] Fig.25 It is a front view of the toothbrush 201 of the third embodiment.

[0585] like Fig.25 As shown, the toothbrush 201 is a mouthpiece type toothbrush, and includes a grip portion 210 and a connection body 220. Hereinafter, the connection body 220 is referred to as the mouthpiece portion 220.

[0586] The mouthpiece part 220 is given vibration via the grip part 210 .

[0587] The shaft 214 protrudes from the grip portion 210 and is connected to the mouthpiece portion 220 .

[0588] Alternatively, the shaft 214 protruding from the mouthpiece portion 220 may be connected to the grip portion 210 .

[0589] The mouthpiece part 220 is given vibration from the grip part 210 via the shaft 214 .

[0590] The present invention can be applied to any one of a structure in which a brushing action is manually imparted to the braces part 220 in the up-down, left-right, front-back and combination directions from the holding part 210; a structure in which vibration is manually imparted; and a structure in which vibration is electrically imparted to the braces part 220 from the holding part 210.

[0591] In the present embodiment, a mode in which the grip portion 210 is provided with an electric drive unit and vibration generated by driving the electric drive unit is imparted to the mouthpiece portion 220 is described.

[0592] The electric drive unit includes a power supply unit 211, a vibration element 212, and a control unit 213. The control unit 213 drives the vibration element 212 by means of the power of the power supply unit 211. The power supply unit 211 is composed of, for example, a rechargeable battery, a battery, etc. The vibration element 212 is composed of, for example, a piezoelectric element, an electromagnetic acoustic transducer, an unbalanced motor, etc. The vibration generated by the vibration element 212 is a vibration that repeatedly reverses the rotation direction at a constant predetermined rotation angle in the rotation direction centered on the axis extending in the depth direction.

[0593] The shaft 214 connected to the electric drive unit in the grip 210 repeatedly reverses the rotation direction and vibrates. The shaft 214 is vibrated by driving the vibration element 212, so that the mouthpiece 220 repeatedly reverses the rotation direction and vibrates.

[0594] [Sixth Embodiment of the Mouthpiece 220]

[0595] The mouthpiece part 220 includes a first brush body 230, a second brush body 260, and a connecting part 280. The first brush body 230 is located on the inner side of the grip part 210 in the depth direction. The second brush body 260 is located between the grip part 210 and the first brush body 230 in the depth direction and is arranged separately from the first brush body 230. The second brush body 260 is arranged with a gap S between the first brush body 230.

[0596] When the mouthpiece 220 is installed in the oral cavity, the first brush body 230 is located on the lingual side, which is the inner side, of the teeth. When the mouthpiece 220 is installed in the oral cavity, the second brush body 260 is located on the buccal side, which is the outer side, of the teeth.

[0597] The first brush body 230 includes a first support body 231 and a first brush portion 241. The first support body 231 supports the base end side of the first brush portion 241. When viewed from above, the first support body 231 is formed in a U-shape (horseshoe shape) along the circumferential direction centered on the axis J. The first support body 231 opens inward.

[0598] The second brush body 260 includes a second support body 261 and a second brush portion 271. The second support body 261 supports the base end side of the second brush portion 271. When viewed from above, the second support body 261 is formed in a U-shape (horseshoe shape) along the circumferential direction centered on the axis J. The second support body 261 opens inward.

[0599] The range in which the first brush body 230 and the second brush body 260 are opposite to the tooth row is not limited to the entire tooth row, but may be a structure that is opposite to only a part of the incisors (central incisors, lateral incisors), canines, and molars (first premolars, second premolars, first molars, second molars).

[0600] Fig.26 This is a perspective view of the appearance of the mouthpiece portion 220 as viewed from the inner side in the depth direction.

[0601] Fig. 27 yes Fig.26 BB section view in.

[0602] like Fig.26 and Fig. 27As shown, the dimension of the first support body 231 in the occlusal direction is the largest on the outer side in the depth direction and gradually decreases as it goes inward. The outer side in the depth direction of the upper end of the first support body 231 is located at the uppermost side and gradually tilts toward the lower side as it goes inward. The outer side in the depth direction of the lower end of the first support body 231 is located at the lowermost side and gradually tilts toward the upper side as it goes inward.

[0603] The size of the second support body 261 in the occlusal direction is the largest on the outer side in the depth direction and gradually decreases as it goes inward. The outer side in the depth direction of the upper end of the second support body 261 is located at the uppermost side and gradually tilts toward the lower side as it goes inward. The outer side in the depth direction of the lower end of the second support body 261 is located at the lowermost side and gradually tilts toward the upper side as it goes inward.

[0604] The maximum dimension of the second support body 261 at the outer side in the depth direction in the occlusal direction is larger than the maximum dimension of the first support body 231 at the outer side in the depth direction in the occlusal direction. The minimum dimension of the second support body 261 at the inner side in the depth direction in the occlusal direction is larger than the minimum dimension of the first support body 231 at the inner side in the depth direction in the occlusal direction. The dimension of the second support body 261 in the occlusal direction is larger than the dimension of the first support body 231 in the occlusal direction throughout the depth direction.

[0605] Fig.28 yes Fig.25 CC section view in.

[0606] like Fig.28 As shown, the first brush portion 241 is provided at intervals in the up-down direction on the first support body 231. The first brush portion 241 is provided on the upper end side and the lower end side of the first support body 231, respectively. The first brush portion 241 extends from the brush surface 231a on the outer side in the depth direction of the first support body 231 to the outer side in the depth direction. When viewed from the upper side, the brush surface 231a has a portion that is curved along the circumferential direction in a direction that bulges outward.

[0607] This embodiment is a toothbrush 201 for the purpose of using a first brush portion 241 arranged along the teeth and moving the first brush portion 241 manually or electrically. Therefore, by bending the brush surface 231a, the first brush portion 241 can be moved along the tongue side of the teeth, which can improve cleaning and adhesion. In addition, the installation area of ​​the first brush portion 241 can be maximized, which can help improve vibration efficiency and cleaning power in the case of electric use.

[0608] The first brush portion 241 includes first brush portions 241A, 241B, 241C and first brush portions 241D, 241E, 241F. The first brush portions 241A, 241B, 241C and first brush portions 241D, 241E, 241F extend outward from the brush surface 231a in the depth direction. The first brush portion 241A extends outward from the upper end portion of the brush surface 231a. The first brush portion 241B extends outward from a lower position of the first brush portion 241A. The first brush portion 241C extends outward from a lower position of the first brush portion 241B. The first brush portion 241D extends outward from a lower end portion of the brush surface 231a. The first brush portion 241E extends outward from an upper position of the first brush portion 241D. The first brush portion 241F extends outward from an upper position of the first brush portion 241E. As Fig.25 and Fig.26 As shown, a plurality of first brush portions 241 including first brush portions 241A, 241B, and 241C and first brush portions 241D, 241E, and 241F are provided at intervals throughout the entire circumference.

[0609] When the position where the upper and lower teeth occlude in the occlusal direction is defined as the occlusal plane K, the inclination angle of the first brush portion 241 with respect to the occlusal plane K becomes smaller as it approaches the occlusal plane K, and becomes larger as it moves away from the occlusal plane K, when viewed from the side in parallel with the occlusal plane K. Specifically, the inclination angles of the first brush portions 241A and 241D that are close to the gum side and farthest from the occlusal plane K are larger than the inclination angles of the first brush portions 241B and 241E and the first brush portions 241C and 241F. The inclination angles of the first brush portions 241C and 241F that are closest to the occlusal plane K are smaller than the inclination angles of the first brush portions 241A and 241D and the first brush portions 241B and 241E.

[0610] When holding the mouthpiece 220, the mouth is slightly opened. In addition, the size of the tooth surface in the occlusal direction is often larger than the arrangement pitch in the occlusal direction at the root of the first brush portion 241A and the first brush portion 241C, and the arrangement pitch in the occlusal direction at the root of the first brush portion 241D and the first brush portion 241F. Therefore, if the inclination angles of the first brush portions 241A to 241C and 241D to 241F are set to be the same, it is difficult for the top ends of the first brush portions 241A to 241C and 241D to 241F to cover the entire tooth surface in the occlusal direction.

[0611] In the present embodiment, the inclination angle increases successively from the first brush portion 241C to the first brush portion 241A and from the first brush portion 241F to the first brush portion 241D. Therefore, even when the mouth is slightly opened, the first brush portions 241C and 241F can be fitted against the tooth top side on the tongue side, and the first brush portions 241A and 241D can be fitted against the gum side on the tongue side.

[0612] The circumferential arrangement pitches of the first brush parts 241A and 241B, the first brush parts 241B and 241C, the first brush parts 241D and 241E, and the first brush parts 241E and 241F adjacent to each other in the occlusal direction are staggered by, for example, half a pitch. That is, when viewed from the direction opposite to the brush surface 231a, the first brush parts 241A, 241B, 241C and the first brush parts 241D, 241E, 241F are respectively arranged in a staggered shape. By arranging the first brush parts 241A, 241B, 241C and the first brush parts 241D, 241E, 241F in a staggered shape, the gaps between the first brush parts 241 can be reduced, and the fit and cleaning properties to the tooth surface can be improved.

[0613] The second brush portion 271 is provided at intervals in the up-down direction on the second support body 261. The second brush portion 271 is provided on the upper end side and the lower end side of the second support body 261, respectively. The second brush portion 271 extends from the brush surface 261a on the inner side in the depth direction of the second support body 261 to the inner side in the depth direction. When viewed from the upper side, the brush surface 261a has a portion that is curved along the circumferential direction in a direction that bulges outward.

[0614] This embodiment is a toothbrush 201 for the purpose of using a second brush portion 271 arranged along the teeth and moving the second brush portion 271 manually or electrically. Therefore, by bending the brush surface 261a, the second brush portion 271 can be moved along the buccal side of the teeth, which can improve cleaning and fit. In addition, the installation area of ​​the second brush portion 271 can be maximized, which can help improve vibration efficiency and cleaning power in the case of electric use.

[0615] The second brush portion 271 includes second brush portions 271A, 271B, 271C, 271D and second brush portions 271E, 271F, 271G, 271H. The second brush portions 271A, 271B, 271C, 271D and the second brush portions 271E, 271F, 271G, 271H extend from the brush surface 261a to the inner side in the depth direction. The second brush portion 271A extends outward from the upper end portion of the brush surface 261a. The second brush portion 271B extends inward from the lower side of the second brush portion 271A. The second brush portion 271C extends inward from the lower side of the second brush portion 271B. The second brush portion 271D extends inward from the lower side of the second brush portion 271C.

[0616] The second brush portion 271E extends inward from the lower end of the brush surface 261a. The second brush portion 271F extends inward from the upper side of the second brush portion 271E. The second brush portion 271G extends inward from the upper side of the second brush portion 271F. The second brush portion 271H extends inward from the upper side of the second brush portion 271G.

[0617] like Fig.25 and Fig.26 As shown, a plurality of second brush portions 271 including second brush portions 271A, 271B, 271C, 271D and second brush portions 271E, 271F, 271G, and 271H are provided at intervals throughout the entire circumference.

[0618] When viewed from the side parallel to the occlusal plane K, the inclination angle of the second brush portion 271 relative to the occlusal plane K becomes smaller as it approaches the occlusal plane K, and becomes larger as it moves away from the occlusal plane K. Specifically, the inclination angles of the second brush portions 271A and 271E, which are close to the gum side and farthest from the occlusal plane K, are larger than the inclination angles of the second brush portions 271B to 271D, 271F to 271H. The inclination angles of the second brush portions 271C, 271D, 271G, and 271H, which are close to the occlusal plane K, are smaller than the inclination angles of the second brush portions 271A and 271B and the second brush portions 271E and 271F. As an example, the inclination angles of the second brush portions 271C and 271D are the same, and the inclination angles of the second brush portions 271G and 271H are the same. The inclination angle of the second brush portion 271D may be smaller than the inclination angle of the second brush portion 271C, and the inclination angle of the second brush portion 271H may be smaller than the inclination angle of the second brush portion 271G.

[0619] When holding the mouthpiece 220, the mouth is slightly opened. In addition, the size of the tooth surface in the occlusal direction is often larger than the arrangement pitch in the occlusal direction at the root of the second brush portion 271A and the second brush portion 271D and the arrangement pitch in the occlusal direction at the root of the second brush portion 271E and the second brush portion 271H. Therefore, if the inclination angles of the second brush portions 271A to 271D and 271E to 271H are set to be the same, it is difficult for the top ends of the second brush portions 271A to 271D and 271E to 271H to cover the entire tooth surface in the occlusal direction.

[0620] In the present embodiment, the inclination angle increases successively from the second brush portion 271C to the second brush portion 271A and from the second brush portion 271G to the second brush portion 271E. Therefore, even when the mouth is slightly opened, the second brush portions 271C, 271D, 271G, and 271H can be fitted against the tooth top side on the lingual side, and the second brush portions 271A and 271E can be fitted against the gum side on the lingual side.

[0621] The circumferential arrangement pitches of the second brush portions 271A and 271B, the second brush portions 271B and 271C, the second brush portions 271C and 271D, the second brush portions 271E and 271F, the second brush portions 271F and 271G, and the second brush portions 271G and 271H adjacent to each other in the occlusal direction are staggered by, for example, half a pitch. That is, when viewed in the direction opposite to the brush surface 261a, the second brush portions 271A, 271B, 271C, 271D and the second brush portions 271E, 271F, 271G, and 271H are respectively arranged in a staggered manner. By arranging the second brush portions 271A, 271B, 271C, 271D and the second brush portions 271E, 271F, 271G, 271H in a staggered manner, it is possible to reduce gaps between the second brush portions 271, thereby improving the adhesion and cleaning performance to the tooth surface.

[0622] Fig.29 This is a front view of the first brush body 230 , the second brush body 260 , and the connecting portion 280 , except for the first brush portion 241 , the second brush portion 271 , and the connecting portion with the grip portion 210 .

[0623] like Fig.29 As shown, the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 are opposite to each other in the depth direction with a gap S between them, except for the connection area based on the connection part 280. That is, the first brush part 241 and the second brush part 271 are opposite to each other in the depth direction with a gap S between them. When the mouthpiece part 220 is installed in the oral cavity and used in contact with the teeth, the first support body 231 in the first brush body 230 and the second support body 261 in the second brush body 260 can also independently move relative to each other in both the depth direction and the θ direction, including the deformation characteristics.

[0624] By making the first support body 231 in the first brush body 230 and the second support body 261 in the second brush body 260 independently relatively movable in at least one of the depth direction and the circumferential direction, when the first brush body 230 and the second brush body 260 are moved during brushing, they are not restricted by each other and can move freely and fit the teeth. In addition, the first support body 231 in the first brush body 230 and the second support body 261 in the second brush body 260 can follow the shape of the teeth and the brushing action, and improve the cleaning force by fitting the buccal side and the lingual side of the teeth respectively.

[0625] More specifically, the first support 231 and the second support 261 have different shape characteristics or material characteristics. The shape characteristics include the dimension in the depth direction, the dimension in the circumferential direction, the dimension in the bite direction, etc. The material characteristics include hardness, bending elastic modulus, etc.

[0626] The first support 231 and the second support 261 of this embodiment have different hardness as a material property. It is preferable that the hardness of the first support 231 is greater than the hardness of the second support 261. As the hardness of the first support 231, it is more preferable to form it from a soft resin having a Shore A hardness of 50 or more and a Shore D hardness of 75 or less. As the hardness of the second support 261, it is more preferable to form it from a soft resin having a Shore A hardness of 40 or more and a Shore D hardness of 70 or less.

[0627] “Shore A hardness” refers to the durometer A hardness of plastics measured in accordance with JIS K 7215 or JIS K 6253. “Shore D hardness” refers to the hardness of durometer type D specified in JIS K6253.

[0628] The curvature of the outer side in the depth direction of the teeth changes greatly, and there is also a steric obstacle caused by the buccal mucosa. Therefore, the second support body 261 located on the outer side is softer than the first support body 231 so that it can be easily moved relative to the first support body 231 in the depth direction, thereby deforming the second support body 261 to improve the followability of the second brush part 271 to the teeth. On the other hand, the curvature of the inner side in the depth direction of the teeth changes less and there is less steric obstacle. Therefore, by making the first support body 231 located on the inner side harder than the second support body 261, the followability of the first brush part 241 in the first support body 231 to the teeth can be improved.

[0629] In addition, the resistance associated with the movement in the θ direction of the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 also differs depending on the presence or absence of the above-mentioned three-dimensional obstacle and the amount of change in curvature. In this embodiment, by making the second support body 261 located on the outside where the resistance associated with the movement is large softer than the first support body 231, the second support body 261 can easily move relative to the first support body 231 in the θ direction and deform, and the followability of the second brush part 271 to the tooth row can be improved.

[0630] Therefore, by setting the hardness to the above-mentioned range and making the hardness of the first support body 231 greater than the hardness of the second support body 261, the independence of the movements of the first support body 231 in the first brush body 230 and the second support body 261 in the second brush body 260 is improved, and the first brush part 241 and the second brush part 271 can follow the shape of the teeth and the brushing action, and the cleaning force is improved by respectively fitting to the buccal side and the lingual side of the teeth.

[0631] Moreover, regarding the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271, it is also more preferable that the hardness is within the above-mentioned range. When the hardness of the soft resin is less than the above-mentioned lower limit, insufficient scraping force occurs and insufficient vibration transmission occurs when the crown portion 220 is electric, thereby reducing the cleaning function.

[0632] When the hardness of the soft resin exceeds the above upper limit, the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 are difficult to bend, and the adhesion is reduced, thereby reducing the cleaning function.

[0633] As the soft resin constituting the first brush body 230 and the second brush body 260 , various elastomers can be used, and examples thereof include polyurethane and silicone.

[0634] Polyurethane tends to have higher tensile strength and mechanical wear resistance than other elastomers such as styrene-based and polyester-based elastomers. Therefore, by using polyurethane as a soft resin, it is difficult to break even if it is made thin, and mechanical strength and long-term use can be achieved.

[0635] Silicone is particularly resistant to heat and chemicals, and can reduce quality degradation in the presence of boiling sterilization or toothpaste.

[0636] In the present embodiment, the first brush body 230 and the second brush body 260 have different dimensions in the depth direction between the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 facing each other in the depth direction at the same position in the θ direction.

[0637] The dimension L1 of the first support body 231 in the depth direction is preferably 1.5 mm or more and 7 mm or less. The dimension L2 of the second support body 261 in the depth direction is preferably 1.5 mm or more and 6 mm or less. The end of the dimension L1 in the depth direction of the first support body 231 in the θ direction is larger than the dimension L2 of the second support body 261 in the depth direction.

[0638] That is, at the end in the θ direction, the dimension L2 of the second support body 261 in the depth direction is smaller (thinner) than the dimension L1 of the first support body 231 in the depth direction.

[0639] The first support 231 and the second support 261 are sufficiently small in the depth direction, so the first support 231 and the second support 261 can move in accordance with the shape of the teeth and the brushing action, thereby improving the fit and cleaning power of the first brush 241 and the second brush 271 to the teeth.

[0640] Moreover, by making the dimension L2 of the second support body 261 located on the outside thinner than the dimension L1 of the first support body 231 located on the inside, each support body can have different movements and fit the buccal and lingual sides of the dentition respectively, thereby improving the cleaning force. Specifically, the second support body 261 on the outside, which has a large change in curvature and a three-dimensional obstacle caused by the buccal mucosa, is made thinner and softer than the first support body 231, thereby improving the followability to the dentition. On the other hand, the first support body 231 on the inside, which has a small change in curvature, is made thicker than the second support body 261 on the outside to suppress flexibility, thereby improving the followability.

[0641] In addition, it is preferable that the depth dimensions of the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 gradually decrease from the center toward the end in the θ direction, that is, from the incisor side toward the molar side.

[0642] When the mouthpiece 220 is moved left and right, the risk of both the first brush body 230 and the second brush body 260 being separated from the dentition is high on the molar side. In response to this, by gradually reducing the depth dimensions of the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 from the incisor side toward the molar side, the flexibility of the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 on the molar side is improved, and the tracking performance of the first brush part 241 and the second brush part 271 on the dentition can be improved.

[0643] like Fig.25 and Fig.26 As shown, the connection part 280 is perpendicular to the occlusal direction and extends in the circumferential direction. When viewed from the upper side, the connection part 280 is a rectangular plate.

[0644] Fig.30 yes Fig.26 DD section view in.

[0645] like Fig.30 As shown, the connecting portion 280 connects the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 in the depth direction. The connecting portion 280 connects the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 at the ends in the circumferential direction. The connecting portion 280 connects the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 at the center position in the bite direction. The connecting portion 280 has a third brush portion 281.

[0646] The third brush portion 281 has a mountain-shaped bristle length profile having a peak at the midpoint in the depth direction. The bristle length profile of the third brush portion 281 can be appropriately changed / selected to be an arch shape, a dome shape, etc. according to the purpose. By making the third brush portion 281 have a mountain-shaped bristle length profile, it becomes a profile that fits the occlusal surface of each tooth, thereby improving the cleaning force. The third brush portion 281 is, for example, arranged at a position opposite to the molars. Since the third brush portion 281 is arranged at a position opposite to the molars and protrudes upward and downward, it can effectively clean the occlusal surface of the molars that is difficult for the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 to reach.

[0647] The first support 231 and the second support 261 are not separated in the depth direction in the region connected by the connecting portion 280, and are separated in the depth direction in the region not connected by the connecting portion 280. A gap S is formed in the region where the first support 231 and the second support 261 are separated.

[0648] If Fig.29As shown, the length of the θ direction relative to the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 in the depth direction is set to L11, and the length of the area separating the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 in the depth direction is set to L12, then the ratio of the length L12 in the length L11 is preferably greater than 20% and less than 70%, and more preferably greater than 30% and less than 60%.

[0649] By forming a gap S as a separation area between the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 in the depth direction, one of the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 can move following the shape of the tooth row and the brushing action without being constrained by the other, and the fit and cleaning force of the first brush part 241 and the second brush part 271 to the tooth row can be improved. When the ratio of the length L12 to the length L11 is less than 20%, the area connected by the connecting part 280 is relatively large, so the vibration is excessively absorbed by the connecting part 280. In addition, since the separation area is small, one of the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 is easily constrained by the other, and it is difficult to move following the shape of the tooth row and the brushing action.

[0650] On the other hand, when the ratio of the length L12 to the length L11 exceeds 70%, the area where the connection portion 280 exists becomes relatively small, and it is difficult to bridge the vibration from the outer second support body 261 to the inner first support body 231 via the connection portion 280, or from the inner first support body 231 to the outer second support body 261 via the connection portion 280. Fig.25 In the embodiment, the vibration source exists on the outer second support body 261 side, and the vibration is transmitted from the outer second support body 261 to the inner first support body 231.

[0651] As a result, the vibration and brushing action transmitted from the first support body 231 to the second support body 261 become insufficient.

[0652] By setting the ratio of the length L12 to the length L11 to be 20% or more and 70% or less, it is possible to suppress the reduction in vibration and brushing action and improve the cleaning force.

[0653] The connection position where the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 are connected by the connection part 280 which becomes the non-separation area of ​​the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 in the depth direction is preferably on the molar side. By arranging the non-separation area on the molar side, it is possible to avoid excessive difference in the behavior of the first support body 231 and the second support body 261. In addition, by arranging the connection part 280 on the molar side, it is possible to play a role of brushing the occlusal surface.

[0654] In addition, when the area from the position of the incisors to the molars in the first support body 231 and the second support body 261, that is, the area from the center to the end in the θ direction is set to 100%, the connection position where the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 are connected by the connecting portion 280 which becomes the non-separation area is preferably a position more than 30% away from the vibration source.

[0655] If the area from the vibration source to the connection position between the first support 231 and the second support 261 is less than 30% of the area from the center to the end in the θ direction, the vibration may not be sufficiently transmitted to the end in the θ direction.

[0656] By setting the distance from the vibration source to the connection position between the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 to be 30% or more of the region from the center to the end in the θ direction, the vibration can be sufficiently transmitted to the end in the θ direction.

[0657] The connecting portion 280 connecting the first support 231 and the second support 261 is preferably formed to include a material harder than the first support 231 and the second support 261 at least in part.

[0658] Therefore, the vibration transmitted between the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 is difficult to attenuate.

[0659] As described above, in the toothbrush 201 of this embodiment, the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 can independently move relative to each other in both the depth direction and the θ direction. Therefore, when the first brush body 230 and the second brush body 260 are moved during brushing, they can move freely without being restricted by each other.

[0660] Therefore, in the toothbrush 201 of the present embodiment, the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 are respectively in close contact with the teeth with high close contact properties, thereby improving the cleaning force and providing a high cleaning feeling.

[0661] [Seventh Embodiment of the Mouthpiece 220]

[0662] Next, refer to Fig.31 A seventh embodiment of the mouthpiece unit 220 will be described.

[0663] In this figure, Figures 25 to 30 The same components as those of the sixth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0664] Fig.31 FIG. 2 is a front view of a mouthpiece portion 220 according to the seventh embodiment. Fig.31In the figure, the first brush portion 241, the second brush portion 271, and the connection portion with the grip portion 210 are omitted.

[0665] like Fig.31 As shown, when viewed from above, bent portions 232 are provided at both ends of the first support body 231 in the θ direction, each of which is bent with the inflection point 230 a as a starting point so as to bend outward in the depth direction.

[0666] When viewed from above, bent portions 262 are provided at both ends of the second support body 261 in the θ direction. The bent portions 262 are bent with the inflection points 260 a as starting points so as to bend inward in the depth direction.

[0667] The curved portion 232 and the curved portion 262 are curved in directions approaching each other in the depth direction as they go outward in the θ direction.

[0668] The other structures are the same as those of the sixth embodiment described above.

[0669] In the mouthpiece portion 220 of the present embodiment, in addition to obtaining the same functions and effects as those of the sixth embodiment described above, since different actions are performed on the molar located at the end portion in the θ direction in such a manner that the curved portion 232 rolls into the distal surface of the tooth from the inside and the curved portion 262 rolls into the distal surface of the tooth from the outside, the followability and cleaning force of the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 on the molar can be further improved.

[0670] [Eighth Embodiment of the Mouthpiece 220]

[0671] Next, refer to Fig.32 An eighth embodiment of the mouthpiece unit 220 will be described.

[0672] In this figure, Figures 25 to 30 The same components as those of the sixth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0673] Fig.32 FIG. 2 is a front view of a mouthpiece portion 220 according to an eighth embodiment. Fig.32 In the figure, the first brush portion 241, the second brush portion 271, and the connection portion with the grip portion 210 are omitted.

[0674] like Fig.32 As shown, when viewed from the upper side, the brush surface 231a facing the gap S in the first support body 231 is formed with a plurality of ( Fig.32 As an example, there are four V-shaped cutouts 233. The cutouts 233 are arranged at intervals in the θ direction. The cutouts 233 are arranged line-symmetrically in the θ direction.

[0675] When viewed from the upper side, the brush surface 261a facing the gap S in the second support body 261 is formed with a plurality of ( Fig.32 As an example, there are four V-shaped cutouts 263. The cutouts 263 are arranged at intervals in the θ direction. The cutouts 263 are arranged line-symmetrically in the θ direction.

[0676] The other structures are the same as those of the sixth embodiment described above.

[0677] In the mouthpiece part 220 having the above structure, since the plurality of cutouts 233 are formed in the brush surface 231 a of the first support body 231 , the first support body 231 is more likely to bend outward than inward in the depth direction.

[0678] On the other hand, in the second support body 261, since the plurality of cutout portions 263 are formed on the brush surface 261a, the second support body 261 is more likely to bend inwardly than outwardly in the depth direction.

[0679] Therefore, in the braces portion 220 of the present embodiment, in addition to being able to obtain the same functions and effects as those of the sixth embodiment described above, the followability of the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 to the tooth row can be improved by changing the distance in the depth direction between the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 from a wider state to a narrow state.

[0680] [Ninth Embodiment of the Mouthpiece 220]

[0681] Next, refer to Fig.33 A ninth embodiment of the mouthpiece unit 220 will be described.

[0682] In this figure, Figures 25 to 30 The same components as those of the sixth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0683] Fig.33 FIG. 2 is a front view of a mouthpiece portion 220 according to a ninth embodiment. Fig.33 In the figure, the first brush portion 241, the second brush portion 271, and the connection portion with the grip portion 210 are omitted.

[0684] like Fig.33 As shown, when viewed from the upper side, a plurality of (at Fig.33 As an example, there are four V-shaped cutouts 234. The cutouts 234 are arranged at intervals in the θ direction. The cutouts 234 are arranged line-symmetrically in the θ direction.

[0685] When viewed from above, a plurality of (at Fig.33 As an example, there are four V-shaped cutouts 264. The cutouts 264 are arranged at intervals in the θ direction. The cutouts 264 are arranged line-symmetrically in the θ direction.

[0686] The other structures are the same as those of the sixth embodiment described above.

[0687] In the mouthpiece part 220 having the above structure, since the plurality of cutouts 234 are formed on the surface 231 b of the first support body 231 , the first support body 231 is more likely to bend inwardly than outwardly in the depth direction.

[0688] On the other hand, in the second support body 261, since the plurality of cutout portions 264 are formed on the surface 261b, the second support body 261 is more likely to bend outward than inward in the depth direction.

[0689] Therefore, in the braces portion 220 of the present embodiment, in addition to being able to obtain the same functions and effects as those of the sixth embodiment described above, the followability of the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 to the tooth row can be improved by changing the distance in the depth direction between the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 from a narrow state to a wider state.

[0690] In the eighth embodiment of the above-mentioned mouthpiece portion 220, a structure in which the cutout portion 233 is formed on the brush surface 231a is illustrated, and in the ninth embodiment, a structure in which the cutout portion 234 is formed on the surface 231b on the opposite side of the brush surface 231a is illustrated, but it is not limited to this structure.

[0691] For example, the following structure may be adopted: for the molar side, a cutout portion 233 is formed on the brush surface 231a, and a cutout portion 234 is formed on the surface 231b on the opposite side of the brush surface 231a at a portion corresponding to the angle in the θ direction near tooth No. 3, so that the cutout portion 233 formed on the brush surface 231a and the cutout portion 234 formed on the surface 231b on the opposite side of the brush surface 231a are appropriately mixed.

[0692] [Tenth Embodiment of the Mouthpiece Section 220]

[0693] Next, refer to Fig.34 A tenth embodiment of the mouthpiece unit 220 will be described.

[0694] In this figure, Fig.32 The same components as those of the eighth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0695] Fig.34FIG. 2 is a front view of a dental mouthpiece 220 according to the tenth embodiment. Fig.34 In the figure, the first brush portion 241, the second brush portion 271, and the connection portion with the grip portion 210 are omitted.

[0696] like Fig.34 As shown, when viewed from the upper side, the brush surface 231a facing the gap S in the first support body 231 is formed with a plurality of ( Fig.34 As an example, there are six semicircular cutouts 235. The cutouts 235 are arranged at intervals in the θ direction. The cutouts 235 are arranged line-symmetrically in the θ direction.

[0697] When viewed from the upper side, the brush surface 261a facing the gap S in the second support body 261 is formed with a plurality of ( Fig.34 As an example, there are six semicircular cutouts 265. The cutouts 265 are arranged at intervals in the θ direction. The cutouts 265 are arranged line-symmetrically in the θ direction.

[0698] The other structures are the same as those of the eighth embodiment described above.

[0699] In the mouthpiece portion 220 of the present embodiment, in addition to being able to obtain the same functions and effects as those of the eighth embodiment described above, the curved surface in the semicircular cutout portions 235 and 265 can be along a curved surface of the tooth, which can further improve the tracking performance of the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 with respect to the tooth row.

[0700] Furthermore, in order to improve the cleaning performance, the cutouts 235 and 265 may be filled with materials having different hardnesses.

[0701] [Eleventh Embodiment of the Mouthpiece 220]

[0702] Next, refer to Fig.35 An eleventh embodiment of the mouthpiece unit 220 will be described.

[0703] In this figure, Figures 25 to 30 The same components as those of the sixth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0704] Fig.35 FIG. 2 is a front view of a mouthpiece portion 220 according to the eleventh embodiment. Fig.35 In the figure, the first brush portion 241, the second brush portion 271, and the connection portion with the grip portion 210 are omitted.

[0705] like Fig.35As shown, the mouthpiece portion 220 involved in this embodiment has at least one of the first hard plate 236 provided on the first brush body 230 and the second hard plate 266 provided on the second brush body 260. The mouthpiece portion 220 involved in this embodiment has both the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266, but it can also be a structure in which only one of them is provided.

[0706] The first hard plate 236 is provided along the θ direction on the first support body 231 in the first brush body 230. The first hard plate 236 is embedded in the first support body 231. The first hard plate 236 is formed of a resin harder than the first brush body 230. When a load toward the inner side, which is one side in the depth direction, is applied to the first support body 231, the first hard plate 236 applies a tension toward the outer side, which is the other side in the depth direction, to the first support body 231.

[0707] Thus, the first support body 231 is maintained in a basic U-shape and is assisted to follow the shape of the teeth, so that the fit and cleaning force of the first brush part 241 are improved and the first support body 231 can be easily inserted into the oral cavity.

[0708] When the shape of the first hard plate 236 embedded in the first support body 231 is the same as the shape of the unloaded first support body 231, the first hard plate 236 maintains the basic U-shape of the first support body 231, and applies an elastic restoring force toward the outer side in the depth direction when a force is applied to the first support body 231 and elastically deforms toward the inner side in the depth direction.

[0709] On the other hand, when the unloaded first hard plate 236 has a larger curvature radius than the shape of the first hard plate 236 embedded in the first support body 231, the first support body 231 is given tension toward the outside in the depth direction due to the elastic restoring force of the first hard plate 236. Therefore, the first support body 231 is difficult to bend toward the inside in the depth direction, and is easy to bend toward the outside in the depth direction. That is, the bending characteristics of the first support body 231 with respect to the depth direction are anisotropic.

[0710] The curvature radius of the unloaded first hard plate 236 is preferably not less than 15 mm and not more than 40 mm.

[0711] The second hard plate 266 is provided along the θ direction on the second support body 261 in the second brush body 260. The second hard plate 266 is embedded in the second support body 261. The second hard plate 266 is formed of a resin harder than the second brush body 260. When a load toward the outside, which is the other side in the depth direction, is applied to the second support body 261, the second hard plate 266 applies a tension toward the inside, which is one side in the depth direction, to the second support body 261.

[0712] Thus, the second support body 261 is assisted to follow the shape of the teeth while maintaining the basic U-shape, so that the fit and cleaning force of the second brush part 271 are improved, and the second support body 261 can be easily inserted into the oral cavity.

[0713] When the shape of the second hard plate 266 embedded in the second support body 261 is the same as the shape of the unloaded second support body 261, the second hard plate 266 maintains the basic U-shape of the second support body 261, and when elastic deformation occurs toward the outside in the depth direction due to force applied to the second support body 261, an elastic restoring force is applied toward the inside in the depth direction.

[0714] On the other hand, when the unloaded second hard plate 266 has a smaller curvature radius than the shape of the second hard plate 266 embedded in the second support body 261, the second support body 261 is given tension toward the inner side in the depth direction due to the elastic restoring force of the second hard plate 266. Therefore, the second support body 261 is difficult to bend toward the outer side in the depth direction and is easy to bend toward the inner side in the depth direction.

[0715] The curvature radius of the unloaded second hard plate 266 is preferably not less than 20 mm and not more than 60 mm.

[0716] The hardness of the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266 is preferably not less than 50 Shore A hardness and not more than 75 Shore D hardness. In addition, the hardness of the first hard plate 236 is preferably greater than the hardness of the second hard plate 266 .

[0717] By setting the hardness of the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266 to a Shore A hardness of 50 or more, vibration can be efficiently transmitted. By setting the hardness of the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266 to a Shore D hardness of 75 or less, the followability of the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 to the tooth row can be improved.

[0718] As described above, the curvature of the outer side in the depth direction of the teeth changes greatly, and there is also a steric obstacle caused by the buccal mucosa. Therefore, the second hard plate 266 located on the outer side is made softer than the first hard plate 236, so that the second brush body 260 can be easily moved relative to the first brush body 230 in the depth direction, thereby deforming the second support body 261 and improving the followability of the second brush part 271 to the teeth. On the other hand, the curvature of the inner side in the depth direction of the teeth changes less, and there is less steric obstacle. Therefore, the first hard plate 236 located on the inner side is made harder than the second hard plate 266, thereby improving the followability of the first brush part 241 in the first brush body 230 to the teeth.

[0719] The dimension of the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266 in the depth direction is preferably 0.5 mm or more and 2.0 mm or less. The dimension of the first hard plate 236 in the depth direction is preferably larger than the dimension of the second hard plate 266 in the depth direction. By setting the dimension of the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266 in the depth direction to 0.5 mm or more, vibration can be efficiently transmitted. By setting the dimension of the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266 in the depth direction to 2.0 mm or less, the tracking performance of the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 to the tooth row can be improved.

[0720] In addition, when the area from the position of the incisors to the molars in the first support body 231 and the second support body 261, that is, the area from the center to the end in the θ direction is set to 100%, it is preferred that the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266 exist in an area greater than 15% and less than 95% from the center in the θ direction.

[0721] By making the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266 exist in an area of ​​more than 15% from the center in the θ direction, when a load toward the inner side in the depth direction is applied to the first support body 231, tension toward the outer side in the depth direction can be applied to the first support body 231, and when a load toward the outer side in the depth direction is applied to the second support body 261, tension toward the inner side in the depth direction can be applied to the second support body 261.

[0722] By providing the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266 in an area of ​​95% or less from the center in the θ direction, the device can be used without giving an uncomfortable feeling of pressure or vibration to the teeth.

[0723] It is preferred that the dimensions of the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266 in the depth direction gradually decrease from the incisor side to the molar side, that is, from the center in the θ direction to the end. When the mouthpiece 220 is moved left and right, the risk of both the first brush body 230 and the second brush body 260 being separated from the tooth row is high on the molar side. In response to this, by gradually decreasing the dimensions of the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266 in the depth direction from the incisor side to the molar side, the flexibility of the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266 on the molar side is improved, and the tracking performance of the first brush part 241 and the second brush part 271 on the tooth row can be improved.

[0724] In addition, it is also preferable that the dimensions of the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266 in the occlusal direction gradually decrease from the incisor side to the molar side, that is, from the center to the end in the θ direction.

[0725] Thereby, the same effect as the case where the dimensions of the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266 in the depth direction are gradually reduced from the incisor side toward the molar side can be obtained.

[0726] Preferably, Fig.31 Similarly to the bending portions 232 and 262 shown as the seventh embodiment, plate bending portions that are bent with the inflection point as the starting point and are bent toward the outer side in the depth direction are provided at both ends of the θ direction in the first hard plate 236, and plate bending portions that are bent with the inflection point as the starting point and are bent toward the inner side in the depth direction are provided at both ends of the θ direction in the second hard plate 266.

[0727] As a result, the following shape is obtained: the molars at the ends located in the θ direction perform different actions in such a way that the plate bending portion of the first hard plate 236 is rolled into the distal surface of the tooth from the inside, and the plate bending portion of the second hard plate 266 is rolled into the distal surface of the tooth from the outside, which can further improve the followability and cleaning force of the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 on the molars.

[0728] Preferably, Fig.34 Similar to the cutouts 235 and 265 shown as the tenth embodiment, a semicircular plate cutout is provided on the outer surface of the first hard plate 236 in the depth direction, and a semicircular plate cutout is provided on the inner surface of the second hard plate 266 in the depth direction.

[0729] Thus, the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 located in the plate cutout portion can follow one curved surface of the tooth, and the followability of the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 to the tooth row can be further improved.

[0730] [Twelfth Embodiment of the Mouthpiece 220]

[0731] Next, refer to Fig.36 A twelfth embodiment of the mouthpiece part 220 will be described.

[0732] In this figure, Figures 25 to 30 The same components as those of the sixth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0733] Fig.36 yes Fig.26 The BB cross-sectional view in FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece portion 220 according to the twelfth embodiment of the present invention. Fig.36 FIG. 2 shows the behavior of the connecting portion 280 when it is compressed in the occlusal direction. Fig.36 In FIG. 2 , the third brush portion 281 is omitted from illustration.

[0734] The connection part 280 of this embodiment is formed of an elastic body such as rubber as an example. The connection part 280 elastically deforms in the depth direction according to the deformation in the bite direction.

[0735] The other structures are the same as those of the sixth embodiment described above.

[0736] like Fig.36 As shown by the solid arrow in FIG. 1 , when the connecting portion 280 is compressed in the occlusal direction, the connecting portion 280 is elastically deformed in a direction extending in the depth direction at least. When the compression of the connecting portion 280 in the occlusal direction is reduced, as shown in FIG. Fig.36 As shown by the double-dashed arrow in , the elastic restoring force is used as a force to apply at least a force in the direction of contraction in the depth direction. That is, when the compression in the occlusal direction is reduced, a force in the direction of the outer side in the depth direction and the first brush part 241 is in contact with the inner side of the tooth row is applied to the first support body 231. In addition, when the compression in the occlusal direction is reduced, a force in the direction of the inner side in the depth direction and the second brush part 271 is in contact with the outer side of the tooth row is applied to the second support body 261.

[0737] Thus, in the dental mouthpiece 220 of the present embodiment, the fit of the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 to the teeth and the cleaning force can be improved.

[0738] [Thirteenth Embodiment of the Mouthpiece 220]

[0739] Next, refer to Figure 37 to Figure 39 A thirteenth embodiment of the mouthpiece unit 220 will be described.

[0740] In these figures, Figures 25 to 30 The same components as those of the sixth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0741] Fig.37 and Fig.38 yes Fig.26 The schematic diagram of the BB section in FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece portion 220 involved in the thirteenth embodiment of the present invention. Fig.37 and Fig.38 In FIG. 2 , the third brush portion 281 is omitted from illustration.

[0742] like Fig.37 As shown, the connection part 280 of this embodiment has a gap 282. The cross section of the gap 282 is rectangular, and is formed inside the connection part 280 in the occlusal direction. The gap 282 is arranged at the center of the connection part 280 in the depth direction. The dimension of the gap 282 in the depth direction is shorter than the dimension of the connection part 280 in the depth direction. The gap 282 penetrates the connection part 280 in the θ direction.

[0743] The other structures are the same as those of the sixth embodiment described above.

[0744] In the connection portion 280, Fig.38When compressed in the meshing direction as indicated by the solid arrow in , at least a portion of the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 approaches toward the center of the connection portion 280 in the depth direction.

[0745] More specifically, when the connecting portion 280 is compressed in the occlusal direction, Fig.38 As the connecting portion 280 on the upper side of the gap 282 deforms downward, as shown by the double-dash arrow, the portion of the first support body 231 that is above the connecting portion 280 tilts outward in the depth direction, and the portion of the second support body 261 that is above the connecting portion 280 tilts inward in the depth direction.

[0746] In addition, when the connecting portion 280 is compressed along the bite direction, as the connecting portion 280 on the lower side of the gap 282 deforms upward, as shown by the double-dash arrow, the portion of the first support body 231 that is lower than the connecting portion 280 tilts toward the outside in the depth direction, and the portion of the second support body 261 that is lower than the connecting portion 280 tilts toward the inside in the depth direction.

[0747] Thus, the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 located on the upper side compared to the connecting portion 280 approach each other toward the center of the depth direction of the connecting portion 280, and the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 located on the lower side compared to the connecting portion 280 approach each other toward the center of the depth direction of the connecting portion 280, thereby improving the fit to the teeth and the cleaning force.

[0748] In addition, Fig.39 In the embodiment, a first hard plate 236 is embedded in the first support body 231, and a second hard plate 266 is embedded in the second support body 261. When the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 are compressed along the occlusal direction, the upper and lower sides are not inclined in the depth direction, and thus they approach horizontally toward the center of the depth direction of the connecting portion 280 as shown by the arrow.

[0749] This can improve the fit and cleaning power of the connected tooth rows.

[0750] [Fourteenth Embodiment of the Mouthpiece 220]

[0751] Next, refer to Figure 40 to Figure 43 A fourteenth embodiment of the mouthpiece unit 220 will be described.

[0752] In these figures, Figures 25 to 30 The same components as those of the sixth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0753] Fig.40 and Fig.41 yes Fig.26The schematic diagram of the BB section in FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece portion 220 involved in the fourteenth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 40 to Figure 43 In FIG. 2 , the third brush portion 281 is omitted from illustration.

[0754] like Fig.40 As shown in FIG. 1 , the connection part 280 of this embodiment has a groove part 283. The groove part 283 is formed at the same position in the depth direction on the upper surface and the lower surface of the connection part 280. The groove part 283 is arranged at intervals on both sides of the center of the connection part 280 in the depth direction on the upper surface and the lower surface of the connection part 280 (in the middle of the groove part 283). Fig.40 The groove 283 is V-shaped in cross section and opens on the surface of the connection part 280. The groove 283 extends in the θ direction and is formed over the entire θ direction of the connection part 280.

[0755] The other structures are the same as those of the sixth embodiment described above.

[0756] The connecting portion 280 has a plurality of grooves 283 formed on both sides of the occlusal direction and at the same position in the depth direction, and is therefore divided into three blocks B in the depth direction by the grooves 283. The bending strength of the region where the grooves 283 are formed in the connecting portion 280 is small, and therefore each block B can be deformed relative to an adjacent block B around an axis extending in the θ direction with the bottom of the groove 283 as the center.

[0757] In this embodiment, if Fig.41 As shown, when the tooth row size of the mandible in the depth direction is larger than the tooth row size of the maxilla in occlusion, the blocks B on both sides in the depth direction are deformed upward relative to the central block B.

[0758] At this time, the lower sides of the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 are separated from each other, and thus the upper sides of the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 are close to each other.

[0759] Thus, in particular, the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 located above the connection portion 280 can improve the fit to the teeth and the cleaning force.

[0760] Fig.42 Relative to Fig.40 The connecting portion 280 shown is provided with a gap 282. The gap 282 has a rectangular cross section and is formed at the center of the connecting portion 280 in the occlusal direction. The length of the gap 282 in the depth direction is substantially the same as the length of the connecting portion 280 in the depth direction.

[0761] By providing the gap 282, the three blocks B are separated into six blocks, namely, three blocks B on the upper side and three blocks B on the lower side.

[0762] Fig.42When the connecting portion 280 is compressed along the occlusal direction, as shown in FIG. Fig.43 As shown, the blocks B located at the upper and lower sides of the center in the depth direction are deformed toward the direction of sinking into the gap 282. As the block B located in the center sinks into the gap 282, the blocks B located at both sides in the depth direction are inclined toward the center in the depth direction at the upper and lower sides.

[0763] As a result, the three blocks B located on the upper side are bent into a curve convex to the lower side, and the three blocks B located on the lower side are bent into a curve convex to the upper side. The maximum dimensions of the three blocks B bent into a curve in the upper and lower sides are shortened. In addition, the three blocks B located on the upper side and the three blocks B located on the lower side are linearly symmetrical in the vertical direction.

[0764] Therefore, the first brush part 241 and the second brush part 271 are close to each other in the depth direction without being inclined. Thus, the first brush part 241 and the second brush part 271 can improve the adhesion and cleaning power to the teeth.

[0765] [Fifteenth Embodiment of the Mouthpiece 220]

[0766] Next, refer to Fig.44 A fifteenth embodiment of the mouthpiece unit 220 will be described.

[0767] In this figure, Fig.35 The same components as those of the eleventh embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0768] Fig.44 2 is a side view of the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266 as viewed from the left side. The first hard plate 236 of the embodiment has a recess 237. The recess 237 is provided with a plurality of recesses (in the θ direction) spaced apart from each other. Fig.44 The recessed portion 237 penetrates the first hard plate 236 in the depth direction.

[0769] The second hard plate 266 of this embodiment has a recess 267. The recess 267 is provided with a plurality of recesses (in the θ direction) spaced apart from each other. Fig.44 The recessed portion 267 penetrates the second hard plate 266 in the depth direction.

[0770] The recessed portion 237 and the recessed portion 267 are provided at positions where the dimension in the θ direction, the dimension in the occlusal direction, and the dimension in the depth direction change or at positions of inflection points.

[0771] Therefore, in the braces portion 220 of the present embodiment, in addition to being able to obtain the same functions and effects as those of the above-mentioned eleventh embodiment, since the bending strength of the positions where the recesses 237 and the recesses 267 of the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266 are provided changes, the fit of the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271, the cleaning force including the occlusal surface, and the vibration transmission can also be adjusted according to the position of the teeth.

[0772] In addition, the recesses 237 and 267 are not limited to structures that penetrate the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266 in the depth direction, but may also be structures that penetrate in the occlusal direction, or may be structures that are provided with both recesses that penetrate in the depth direction and recesses that penetrate in the occlusal direction.

[0773] In addition, in addition to the structure that penetrates the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266, the recesses 237 and 267 can also be a structure that is thin-walled in a non-penetrating manner or a structure formed by a material with a hardness different from that of the first hard plate 236 and the second hard plate 266.

[0774] Furthermore, in the case of a structure formed of materials having different hardnesses, the recess may not be necessary.

[0775] The preferred embodiment of the toothbrush of the third embodiment has been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the present invention is certainly not limited to this example. The shapes and combinations of the components shown in the above examples are examples, and various changes can be made based on design requirements within the scope of the present invention.

[0776] For example, in the above-mentioned embodiment, a structure in which the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 are arranged throughout the entire θ direction relative to the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 is illustrated, but it is not limited to this structure. For example, it may also be a structure in which the first brush portion 241 and the second brush portion 271 are intermittently arranged in the θ direction.

[0777] In addition, the dental mouthpiece part 220 may be provided in a region only on one of the left and right sides, for example, instead of being provided over the entire circumference.

[0778] In addition, in the above embodiment, a structure in which a gap S is provided between the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 in the depth direction is exemplified, but the present invention is not limited to this structure. A structure in which a raw material that enables the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 to independently move relative to each other in both the depth direction and the θ direction and enable the tooth row to engage may also be provided between the first support body 231 and the second support body 261 in the depth direction.

[0779] In the above embodiment, the first brush part 241 and the second brush part 271 may be monofilaments formed integrally with the first support body 231 and the second support body 261, respectively, or may be bundles of bristles provided on the first support body 231 and the second support body 261, respectively.

[0780] [Fourth embodiment of the toothbrush]

[0781] Below, refer to Figure 45 to Figure 55 A mode for implementing the toothbrush of the fourth embodiment will be described.

[0782] Fig.45 It is a front view of the toothbrush 301.

[0783] like Fig.45 As shown, the toothbrush 301 is a mouthpiece type toothbrush, and includes a grip portion 310 and a connection body 320. Hereinafter, the connection body 320 is referred to as the mouthpiece portion 320.

[0784] The mouthpiece part 320 is given vibration via the grip part 310 .

[0785] The shaft 314 protrudes from the grip portion 310 and is connected to the mouthpiece portion 320 .

[0786] Alternatively, the shaft 314 protruding from the mouthpiece portion 320 may be connected to the grip portion 310 .

[0787] The mouthpiece part 320 is given vibration from the grip part 310 via the shaft 314 .

[0788] The present invention can be applied to any one of a structure in which a brushing action is manually applied to the braces part 320 in the up-down, left-right, front-back and combination directions from the holding part 310, a structure in which vibration is manually applied, and a structure in which vibration is electrically applied to the braces part 320 from the holding part 310.

[0789] In the present embodiment, a mode in which the grip portion 310 is provided with an electric drive unit and vibration generated by driving the electric drive unit is imparted to the mouthpiece portion 320 is described.

[0790] The electric drive unit includes a power supply unit 311, a vibration element 312, and a control unit 313. The control unit 313 drives the vibration element 312 by the power of the power supply unit 311. The power supply unit 311 is composed of, for example, a rechargeable battery, a battery, etc. The vibration element 312 is composed of, for example, a piezoelectric element, an electromagnetic acoustic transducer, an unbalanced motor, etc. The vibration generated by the vibration element 312 is a vibration that repeatedly flips the rotation direction at a constant predetermined rotation angle in the rotation direction centered on the axis extending in the depth direction.

[0791] The shaft 314 connected to the electric drive unit in the grip 310 repeatedly reverses the rotation direction and vibrates. The shaft 314 is vibrated by driving the vibration element 312, so that the mouthpiece 320 repeatedly reverses the rotation direction and vibrates.

[0792] [Sixteenth Embodiment of the Mouthpiece 320]

[0793] The mouthpiece part 320 includes a first brush body 330, a second brush body 360, an adjustment part 350, and a connection part 380. The first brush body 330 is located on the inner side of the grip part 310 in the depth direction. The second brush body 360 is located between the grip part 310 and the first brush body 330 in the depth direction and is arranged separately from the first brush body 330. The second brush body 360 is arranged with a gap S between the first brush body 330. The gap S is a space that passes through the mouthpiece part 320 in the occlusal direction.

[0794] When the mouthpiece 320 is installed in the oral cavity, the first brush body 330 is located on the lingual side, which is the inner side, of the teeth. When the mouthpiece 320 is installed in the oral cavity, the second brush body 360 is located on the buccal side, which is the outer side, of the teeth.

[0795] The first brush body 330 includes a first support body 331 and a first brush portion 341. The first support body 331 supports the base end side of the first brush portion 341. When viewed from above, the first support body 331 is formed in a U-shape (horseshoe shape) along the circumferential direction centered on the axis J. The first support body 331 opens inward.

[0796] The second brush body 360 includes a second support body 361 and a second brush portion 371. The second support body 361 supports the base end side of the second brush portion 371. When viewed from above, the second support body 361 is formed in a U-shape (horseshoe shape) along the circumferential direction centered on the axis J. The second support body 361 opens inward.

[0797] The range in which the first brush body 330 and the second brush body 360 are opposite to the tooth row is not limited to the entire tooth row, but may be a structure that is opposite to only a part of the incisors (central incisors, lateral incisors), canines, and molars (first premolars, second premolars, first molars, second molars).

[0798] Fig.46 This is a perspective view of the appearance of the mouthpiece portion 320 as viewed from the inner side in the depth direction.

[0799] Fig.47 yes Fig.46 BB section view in.

[0800] like Fig.46 and Fig.47As shown, the dimension of the first support body 331 in the occlusal direction is the largest on the outer side in the depth direction and gradually decreases as it goes inward. The outer side in the depth direction of the upper end of the first support body 331 is located at the uppermost side and gradually tilts toward the lower side as it goes inward. The outer side in the depth direction of the lower end of the first support body 331 is located at the lowermost side and gradually tilts toward the upper side as it goes inward.

[0801] The size of the second support body 361 in the occlusal direction is the largest on the outer side in the depth direction and gradually decreases as it goes inward. The outer side in the depth direction of the upper end of the second support body 361 is located at the uppermost side and gradually tilts toward the lower side as it goes inward. The outer side in the depth direction of the lower end of the second support body 361 is located at the lowermost side and gradually tilts toward the upper side as it goes inward.

[0802] The maximum dimension of the second support body 361 on the outside in the depth direction in the occlusal direction is larger than the maximum dimension of the first support body 331 on the outside in the depth direction in the occlusal direction. The minimum dimension of the second support body 361 on the inside in the depth direction in the occlusal direction is larger than the minimum dimension of the first support body 331 on the inside in the depth direction in the occlusal direction. The dimension of the second support body 361 in the occlusal direction is larger than the dimension of the first support body 331 in the occlusal direction throughout the depth direction.

[0803] Fig.48 yes Fig.45 CC section view in.

[0804] like Fig.48 As shown, the first brush portion 341 is provided at intervals in the up-down direction on the first support body 331. The first brush portion 341 is provided at the upper end side and the lower end side of the first support body 331, respectively. The first brush portion 341 extends from the brush surface 331a on the outer side in the depth direction of the first support body 331 to the outer side in the depth direction. When viewed from the upper side, the brush surface 331a has a portion that is curved along the circumferential direction in a direction that bulges outward.

[0805] This embodiment is a toothbrush 301 for the purpose of using a first brush portion 341 arranged along the teeth and moving the first brush portion 341 manually or electrically. Therefore, by bending the brush surface 331a, the first brush portion 341 can be moved along the tongue side of the teeth, which can improve cleaning and adhesion. In addition, the installation area of ​​the first brush portion 341 can be maximized, which can help improve vibration efficiency and cleaning power in the case of electric use.

[0806] The first brush portion 341 includes first brush portions 341A, 341B, 341C and first brush portions 341D, 341E, 341F. The first brush portions 341A, 341B, 341C and first brush portions 341D, 341E, 341F extend outward from the brush surface 331a in the depth direction. The first brush portion 341A extends outward from the upper end portion of the brush surface 331a. The first brush portion 341B extends outward from a lower position of the first brush portion 341A. The first brush portion 341C extends outward from a lower position of the first brush portion 341B. The first brush portion 341D extends outward from a lower end portion of the brush surface 331a. The first brush portion 341E extends outward from an upper position of the first brush portion 341D. The first brush portion 341F extends outward from an upper position of the first brush portion 341E. As Fig.45 and Fig.46 As shown, a plurality of first brush portions 341 including first brush portions 341A, 341B, and 341C and first brush portions 341D, 341E, and 341F are provided at intervals throughout the entire circumference.

[0807] When the position where the teeth occlude in the upper and lower directions of the occlusal direction is defined as the occlusal plane K, the inclination angle of the first brush portion 341 with respect to the occlusal plane K becomes smaller as it approaches the occlusal plane K, and becomes larger as it moves away from the occlusal plane K, when viewed from the side in parallel with the occlusal plane K. Specifically, the inclination angle of the first brush portions 341A and 341D, which are close to the gum side and farthest from the occlusal plane K, is larger than the inclination angle of the first brush portions 341B and 341E and the first brush portions 341C and 341F. The inclination angle of the first brush portions 341C and 341F, which are closest to the occlusal plane K, is smaller than the inclination angle of the first brush portions 341A and 341D and the first brush portions 341B and 341E.

[0808] When the mouthpiece 320 is held in the mouth, the mouth is slightly opened. In addition, the size of the tooth surface in the occlusal direction is often larger than the arrangement pitch in the occlusal direction at the root of the first brush portion 341A and the first brush portion 341C, and the arrangement pitch in the occlusal direction at the root of the first brush portion 341D and the first brush portion 341F. Therefore, if the inclination angles of the first brush portions 341A to 341C and 341D to 341F are set to be the same, it is difficult for the top ends of the first brush portions 341A to 341C and 341D to 341F to cover the entire tooth surface in the occlusal direction.

[0809] In the present embodiment, the inclination angle increases successively from the first brush portion 341C to the first brush portion 341A and from the first brush portion 341F to the first brush portion 341D. Therefore, even when the mouth is slightly opened, the first brush portions 341C and 341F can be fitted against the tooth top side on the lingual side, and the first brush portions 341A and 341D can be fitted against the gum side on the lingual side.

[0810] The circumferential arrangement pitches of the first brush parts 341A and 341B, the first brush parts 341B and 341C, the first brush parts 341D and 341E, and the first brush parts 341E and 341F adjacent in the occlusal direction are staggered by, for example, half a pitch. That is, when viewed in a direction opposite to the brush surface 331a, the first brush parts 341A, 341B, 341C and the first brush parts 341D, 341E, 341F are respectively arranged in a staggered shape. By arranging the first brush parts 341A, 341B, 341C and the first brush parts 341D, 341E, 341F in a staggered shape, the gaps between the first brush parts 341 can be reduced, and the fit and cleaning properties on the tooth surface can be improved.

[0811] The second brush portion 371 is provided at intervals in the up-down direction on the second support body 361. The second brush portion 371 is provided on the upper end side and the lower end side of the second support body 361. The second brush portion 371 extends from the brush surface 61a on the inner side in the depth direction of the second support body 361 to the inner side in the depth direction. When viewed from the upper side, the brush surface 61a has a portion that is curved along the circumferential direction in a direction that bulges outward.

[0812] This embodiment is a toothbrush 301 for the purpose of using a second brush portion 371 arranged along the teeth and moving the second brush portion 371 manually or electrically. Therefore, by bending the brush surface 61a, the second brush portion 371 can be moved along the buccal side of the teeth, which can improve cleaning and fit. In addition, the installation area of ​​the second brush portion 371 can be maximized, which can help improve vibration efficiency and cleaning power in the case of electric use.

[0813] The second brush portion 371 includes second brush portions 371A, 371B, 371C, 371D and second brush portions 371E, 371F, 371G, 371H. The second brush portions 371A, 371B, 371C, 371D and the second brush portions 371E, 371F, 371G, 371H extend from the brush surface 361a to the inner side in the depth direction. The second brush portion 371A extends outward from the upper end portion of the brush surface 361a. The second brush portion 371B extends inward from the lower side of the second brush portion 371A. The second brush portion 371C extends inward from the lower side of the second brush portion 371B. The second brush portion 371D extends inward from the lower side of the second brush portion 371C.

[0814] The second brush portion 371E extends inward from the lower end of the brush surface 361a. The second brush portion 371F extends inward from the upper side of the second brush portion 371E. The second brush portion 371G extends inward from the upper side of the second brush portion 371F. The second brush portion 371H extends inward from the upper side of the second brush portion 371G.

[0815] like Fig.45 and Fig.46 As shown, a plurality of second brush portions 371 including second brush portions 371A, 371B, 371C, 371D and second brush portions 371E, 371F, 371G, and 371H are provided at intervals throughout the entire circumference.

[0816] When viewed from the side parallel to the occlusal plane K, the inclination angle of the second brush portion 371 with respect to the occlusal plane K becomes smaller as it approaches the occlusal plane K, and becomes larger as it moves away from the occlusal plane K. Specifically, the inclination angles of the second brush portions 371A and 371E, which are close to the gum side and farthest from the occlusal plane K, are larger than the inclination angles of the second brush portions 371B to 371D, 371F to 371H. The inclination angles of the second brush portions 371C, 371D, 371G, and 371H, which are close to the occlusal plane K, are smaller than the inclination angles of the second brush portions 371A and 371B and the second brush portions 371E and 371F. As an example, the inclination angles of the second brush portions 371C and 371D are the same, and the inclination angles of the second brush portions 371G and 371H are the same. The second brush portion 371D may have an inclination angle smaller than that of the second brush portion 371C, and the second brush portion 371H may have an inclination angle smaller than that of the second brush portion 371G.

[0817] When the mouthpiece 320 is held in the mouth, the mouth is slightly opened. In addition, the size of the tooth surface in the occlusal direction is often larger than the arrangement pitch in the occlusal direction at the root of the second brush portion 371A and the second brush portion 371D, and the arrangement pitch in the occlusal direction at the root of the second brush portion 371E and the second brush portion 371H. Therefore, if the inclination angles of the second brush portions 371A to 371D and 371E to 371H are set to be the same, it is difficult for the top ends of the second brush portions 371A to 371D and 371E to 371H to cover the entire tooth surface in the occlusal direction.

[0818] In the present embodiment, the inclination angle increases successively from the second brush portion 371C to the second brush portion 371A and from the second brush portion 371G to the second brush portion 371E. Therefore, even when the mouth is slightly opened, the second brush portions 371C, 371D, 371G, and 371H can be fitted against the tooth top side on the lingual side, and the second brush portions 371A and 371E can be fitted against the gum side on the lingual side.

[0819] The circumferential arrangement pitches of the second brush portions 371A and 371B, the second brush portions 371B and 371C, the second brush portions 371C and 371D, the second brush portions 371E and 371F, the second brush portions 371F and 371G, and the second brush portions 371G and 371H adjacent to each other in the occlusal direction are staggered by, for example, half a pitch. That is, when viewed in the direction opposite to the brush surface 361a, the second brush portions 371A, 371B, 371C, 371D and the second brush portions 371E, 371F, 371G, 371H are respectively arranged in a staggered manner. By arranging the second brush portions 371A, 371B, 371C, 371D and the second brush portions 371E, 371F, 371G, 371H in a staggered manner, it is possible to reduce gaps between the second brush portions 371, thereby improving the adhesion and cleaning performance to the tooth surface.

[0820] Fig.49 This is a front view of the first brush body 330 , the second brush body 360 , and the connecting portion 380 , from which the first brush portion 341 , the second brush portion 371 , and the connecting portion with the grip portion 310 are removed.

[0821] The adjustment unit 350 can adjust the distance in the depth direction between the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 in the unloaded state. The unloaded state of the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 refers to a state in which no load such as the load from the teeth and cheeks in the oral cavity is applied except for gravity and the load during the distance adjustment operation performed by the user.

[0822] like Fig.49 As shown, the adjustment portion 350 includes a fitting protrusion 351 and a fitting cylinder 356. The fitting protrusion 351 is provided on the first support body 331. The fitting protrusion 351 protrudes outward from the first support body 331 and is located in the gap S. The fitting cylinder 356 is provided at a position opposite to the fitting protrusion 351 in the depth direction in the second support body 361. The fitting cylinder 356 protrudes inward from the second support body 361 and is located in the gap S.

[0823] Fig.50 It is a front view of a state where the fitting protrusion 351 and the fitting cylinder 356 are separated in the depth direction.

[0824] like Fig.50As shown, the interlocking protrusion 351 has a pair of interlocking pieces 352. The pair of interlocking pieces 352 extend in parallel toward the outside at intervals in the circumferential direction. The pair of interlocking pieces 352 can be elastically deformed in the circumferential direction to separate and approach each other. The pair of interlocking pieces 352 respectively have a protrusion 353 and an inclined surface 354. The protrusion 353 protrudes from the interlocking piece 352 to the outside in the circumferential direction. The protrusion 353 becomes thinner toward the top end side. The inclined surface 354 is located at the top end of the outside of the interlocking piece 352. The inclined surface 354 is connected to the top end of the protrusion 353 as it moves from the position of the outer end of the interlocking piece 352 in the depth direction toward the inner side in the depth direction toward the circumferential outside and is connected to the top end of the protrusion 353.

[0825] The fitting cylinder 356 is a square cylinder extending inward from the second support body 361. The circumferential distance W3 of the inner surface 357 of the fitting cylinder 356 is smaller than the distance W1 between the top ends of the pair of protrusions 353, and larger than the distance W2 between the outer ends of the pair of inclined surfaces 354 in the depth direction.

[0826] Fig.51 It is a front view of a state where the fitting protrusion 351 is inserted into the fitting cylinder 356 .

[0827] like Fig.51 As shown, the fitting protrusion 351 can be inserted into the fitting cylinder 356 from the inner side in the depth direction. When the fitting protrusion 351 is inserted into the fitting cylinder 356, the inclined surface 354 contacts the inner end of the inner surface 357 in the depth direction, so that Fig.51 As shown by the middle arrow, the pair of engaging pieces 352 are elastically deformed in the direction of approaching each other in the circumferential direction, and the engaging protrusion 351 is inserted into the inside of the engaging cylinder 356 in a state where the protrusion 353 contacts and engages with the inner surface 357 from the inner side in the circumferential direction. The elastic restoring force of the engaging piece 352 elastically deformed and inserted into the inside of the engaging cylinder 356 acts as a force that presses the inner surface 357 of the engaging cylinder 356 toward the outer side in the circumferential direction via the protrusion 353.

[0828] As a result, when the fitting protrusion 351 inserted into the fitting cylinder 356 moves relative to the fitting cylinder 356 in the depth direction, the friction between the protrusion 353 and the inner surface 357 becomes a resistance. Therefore, the relative positional relationship between the fitting protrusion 351 and the fitting cylinder 356 in the depth direction is maintained in a state where a force (load) exceeding the friction between the protrusion 353 and the inner surface 357 is not applied. Fig.47 and Fig.48 As shown, the fitting protrusion 351 is fitted with the inner surface 357 of the fitting cylinder 356 in the meshing direction, and is held so as to be movable in the depth direction.

[0829] Therefore, the relative positional relationship between the fitting protrusion 351 and the fitting cylinder 356 in the depth direction can be adjusted by applying a force (load) exceeding the friction force between the protrusion 353 and the inner surface 357 to move the fitting protrusion 351 relative to the fitting cylinder 356.

[0830] Thereby, the distance in the depth direction between the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 in the no-load state can be adjusted.

[0831] In addition, the fitting protrusion 351 and the fitting cylinder 356 can slide in the depth direction in a state where the protrusion 353 is in contact with the inner surface 357, so that the distance in the depth direction between the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 can be continuously changed according to the load during the distance adjustment operation in the depth direction of the adjustment unit 350. Therefore, the distance in the depth direction between the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 in the no-load state can be adjusted to an arbitrary value.

[0832] Therefore, by adjusting the distance in the depth direction between the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 in accordance with the difference in the depth direction size such as between men and women or between adults and children, it is possible to improve the fit to the teeth.

[0833] In addition, in the present embodiment, since the distance between the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 in the depth direction can be continuously changed according to the load, in addition to the distance adjustment operation, when the brace part 320 is installed in the oral cavity, the distance will also change due to the load associated with brushing, thereby further improving the fit to the teeth.

[0834] like Fig.47 and Fig.48 As shown, the adjustment part 350 preferably has a third brush part 358 on at least one of the upper side and the lower side in the occlusal direction. In this embodiment, the third brush part 358 is provided on both the upper side and the lower side in the occlusal direction in the adjustment part 350. The third brush part 358 is provided on the upper side and the lower side of the fitting cylinder part 356, respectively.

[0835] The third brush portion 358 has a mountain-shaped bristle length profile having a peak at the middle point in the depth direction. By making the third brush portion 358 have a mountain-shaped bristle length profile, it becomes a profile that fits the occlusal surface of each tooth, thereby improving the cleaning force. The third brush portion 358 is, for example, arranged at a position opposite to the incisors. Since the third brush portion 358 is arranged at a position opposite to the incisors and protrudes upward and downward, it is possible to effectively clean the occlusal surface of the incisors that is difficult for the first brush portion 341 and the second brush portion 371 to reach.

[0836] One or more adjustment parts 350 can be provided at any position in the circumferential direction, but are preferably arranged at least at the central position in the circumferential direction between the first support body 331 and the second support body 361. Fig.49 As shown, the circumferential center position indicates an area within ±10% of the maximum width H of the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 based on the circumferential center. The maximum width H is the maximum dimension of the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 in the tangential direction at the circumferential center when viewed from the front.

[0837] The first support body 331 and the second support body 361 extend circumferentially with different circumferential curvatures. Therefore, by configuring the adjustment portion 350 at the circumferential center position of the first support body 331 and the second support body 361, when the distance in the depth direction between the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 at the center position is adjusted, the distance in the depth direction different from the distance adjusted at the center position can be adjusted according to the circumferential position.

[0838] When the adjustment part 350 is arranged at the central position in the circumferential direction, the shaft 314 that imparts vibration to the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 is located in the same area as the adjustment part 350, and the vibration transmitted to the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 is difficult to attenuate, thereby improving the cleaning force. When the adjustment part 350 is arranged at the central position in the circumferential direction, from the viewpoint of enhancing the above-mentioned effect, it is preferred that the shaft 314 reaches the first support body 331.

[0839] The distance in the depth direction between the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 obtained by the adjustment portion 350 is preferably 4 mm or more and 18 mm or less when the adjustment portion 350 is arranged at the circumferential center position of the position of the incisors.

[0840] When the distance adjustment amount by the adjustment part 350 is less than 4 mm, there is a possibility that the teeth come into contact and the device cannot be moved. When the distance adjustment amount by the adjustment part 350 exceeds 18 mm, there is a possibility that the first support body 331 hits the tongue and the second support body 361 hits the lips, thereby impairing operability.

[0841] By setting the distance adjustment amount by the adjustment unit 350 to 4 mm or more and 18 mm or less, the brush can be adjusted to fit the teeth regardless of its length.

[0842] The distance in the depth direction between the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 obtained by the adjustment unit 350 is preferably 7 mm or more and 21 mm or less when the adjustment unit 350 is arranged between the incisors and the molars or at the position of the molars.

[0843] When the distance adjustment amount by the adjustment part 350 is less than 7 mm, there is a possibility that the teeth come into contact and the device cannot be moved. When the distance adjustment amount by the adjustment part 350 exceeds 21 mm, there is a possibility that the first support body 331 hits the tongue and the second support body 361 hits the lips, thereby impairing operability.

[0844] By setting the distance adjustment amount by the adjustment unit 350 to 7 mm or more and 21 mm or less, the brush can be adjusted to fit closely to the teeth regardless of its length.

[0845] As described above, by providing a sufficient distance adjustment amount for each of the locations where the adjustment portion 350 is arranged, the adjustment portion 350 can be adapted to any oral cavity size and improve fit.

[0846] The first support 331 and the second support 361 of this embodiment have different hardness as a material property. It is preferable that the hardness of the first support 331 is greater than the hardness of the second support 361. As the hardness of the first support 331, it is more preferable to form it from a soft resin having a Shore A hardness of 50 or more and a Shore D hardness of 75 or less. As the hardness of the second support 361, it is more preferable to form it from a soft resin having a Shore A hardness of 40 or more and a Shore D hardness of 70 or less.

[0847] “Shore A hardness” refers to the durometer A hardness of plastics measured in accordance with JIS K 7215 or JIS K 6253. “Shore D hardness” refers to the hardness of durometer type D specified in JIS K6253.

[0848] The curvature of the outer side in the depth direction of the dentition changes greatly, and there is also a steric obstacle caused by the buccal mucosa. Therefore, the second support body 361 located on the outer side is made softer than the first support body 331 so that it can be easily moved relative to the first support body 331 in the depth direction, thereby deforming the second support body 361 to improve the followability of the second brush part 371 to the dentition. On the other hand, the curvature of the inner side in the depth direction of the dentition changes less, and there is less steric obstacle. Therefore, by making the first support body 331 located on the inner side harder than the second support body 361, the followability of the first brush part 341 in the first support body 331 to the dentition can be improved.

[0849] In addition, the resistance associated with the movement in the θ direction of the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 also differs depending on the presence or absence of the above-mentioned three-dimensional obstacle and the amount of change in curvature. In this embodiment, by making the second support body 361 located on the outside where the resistance associated with the movement is large softer than the first support body 331, the second support body 361 can easily move relative to the first support body 331 in the θ direction and deform, and the followability of the second brush part 371 to the tooth row can be improved.

[0850] Therefore, by setting the hardness to the above-mentioned range and making the hardness of the first support body 331 greater than the hardness of the second support body 361, the independence of the movements of the first support body 331 in the first brush body 330 and the second support body 361 in the second brush body 360 is improved, and the first brush part 341 and the second brush part 371 can follow the shape of the teeth and the brushing action, and the cleaning force is improved by respectively fitting to the buccal side and the lingual side of the teeth.

[0851] Moreover, regarding the first brush portion 341 and the second brush portion 371, it is also more preferable that the hardness is within the above-mentioned range. When the hardness of the soft resin is less than the above-mentioned lower limit, insufficient scraping force occurs and insufficient vibration transmission occurs when the crown portion 320 is electric, thereby reducing the cleaning function.

[0852] When the hardness of the soft resin exceeds the above upper limit, the first brush portion 341 and the second brush portion 371 are difficult to bend, and the adhesion is reduced, thereby reducing the cleaning function.

[0853] As the soft resin constituting the first brush body 330 and the second brush body 360 , various elastomers can be used, and examples thereof include polyurethane and silicone.

[0854] Polyurethane tends to have higher tensile strength and mechanical wear resistance than other elastomers such as styrene-based and polyester-based elastomers. Therefore, by using polyurethane as a soft resin, it is difficult to break even if it is made thin, and mechanical strength and long-term use can be achieved.

[0855] Silicone is particularly resistant to heat and chemicals, and can reduce quality degradation in the presence of boiling sterilization or toothpaste.

[0856] In the present embodiment, the first brush body 330 and the second brush body 360 have different sizes in the depth direction between the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 facing each other in the depth direction at the same position in the θ direction.

[0857] The dimension L1 of the first support body 331 in the depth direction is preferably 1.5 mm or more and 7 mm or less. The dimension L2 of the second support body 361 in the depth direction is preferably 1.5 mm or more and 6 mm or less. The end of the dimension L1 in the depth direction of the first support body 331 in the θ direction is larger than the dimension L2 of the depth direction of the end of the second support body 361.

[0858] That is, at the end in the θ direction, the dimension L2 of the second support body 361 in the depth direction is smaller (thinner) than the dimension L1 of the first support body 331 in the depth direction.

[0859] The first support 331 and the second support 361 are sufficiently small in the depth direction, so the first support 331 and the second support 361 can move in accordance with the shape of the teeth and the brushing action, thereby improving the fit and cleaning power of the first brush 341 and the second brush 371 to the teeth.

[0860] Moreover, by making the dimension L2 of the second support body 361 located on the outside thinner than the dimension L1 of the first support body 331 located on the inside, each support body can have different movements and fit the buccal and lingual sides of the dentition respectively, thereby improving the cleaning force. Specifically, the second support body 361 on the outside, which has a large change in curvature and a three-dimensional obstacle caused by the buccal mucosa, is made thinner and softer than the first support body 331, thereby improving the followability to the dentition. On the other hand, the first support body 331 on the inside, which has a small change in curvature, is made thicker than the second support body 361 on the outside to suppress flexibility, thereby improving the followability.

[0861] like Fig.45 , Fig.46 and Fig.49 As shown, the connection part 380 is perpendicular to the occlusal direction and extends in the circumferential direction. When viewed from the upper side, the connection part 380 is a rectangular plate.

[0862] The connection part 380 connects the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 in the depth direction. The connection part 380 connects the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 at the ends in the circumferential direction. The connection part 380 connects the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 at the center position in the occlusal direction.

[0863] like Fig.46 As shown, the connecting portion 380 has a fourth brush portion 381 .

[0864] The fourth brush portion 381 has a mountain-shaped bristle length profile having a peak at the midpoint in the depth direction. The fourth brush portion 381 has a mountain-shaped bristle length profile that is in close contact with the occlusal surfaces of the teeth, thereby improving the cleaning force. The fourth brush portion 381 is, for example, disposed at a position opposite to the molars. Since the fourth brush portion 381 is disposed at a position opposite to the molars and protrudes upward and downward, the occlusal surfaces of the molars that are difficult for the first brush portion 341 and the second brush portion 371 to reach can be effectively cleaned.

[0865] In the length of the θ direction relative to each other in the depth direction, the area connected by the connecting portion 380 of the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 is not separated in the depth direction, and the area not connected by the connecting portion 380 is separated in the depth direction. In other words, the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 have areas separated in the depth direction. A gap S is formed in the area where the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 are separated.

[0866] By forming a gap S as a separation area between the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 in the depth direction, the movement (position adjustment) of the adjustment unit 350 will not be hindered, and the distance adjustment is easy for the user. Moreover, the distance between the separation areas can change following the movement of the adjustment unit 350, thereby further improving the fit. In addition, one of the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 can move following the shape of the tooth row and the brushing action without being constrained by the other party, which can improve the fit and cleaning power of the first brush part 341 and the second brush part 371 to the tooth row. In addition, the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 can vibrate independently, respectively, so that the fit to the tooth row and the cleaning power can be improved respectively. Moreover, since the operation in the left and right directions can be performed with the mouth closed, drooling can be prevented.

[0867] Regarding the gap S, which is the area where the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 are separated in the depth direction, if Fig.49 As shown, the length of the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 in the relative θ direction in the depth direction is set to L11, and the length of the area separating the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 in the depth direction is set to L12, then the ratio of the length L12 in the length L11 is preferably greater than 30% and less than 70%.

[0868] When the ratio of the length L12 in the length L11 is less than 30%, when the distance in the depth direction between the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 is adjusted using the adjustment unit 350, at least one of the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 is difficult to follow and move, so the distance adjustment function is reduced. When the ratio of the length L12 in the length L11 exceeds 70%, the area where the adjustment unit 350 exists becomes smaller, and the area affected by the distance adjustment performed by the adjustment unit 350 is limited in the circumferential direction, and the distance adjustment function is reduced. In addition, the transmission rate of vibration between the first support body 331 and the second support body 361 becomes insufficient.

[0869] As for the circumferential positional relationship between the adjustment portion 350 and the connecting portion 380, in addition to the structure in which the adjustment portion 350 is arranged at the central position in the circumference and the connecting portion 380 is arranged at both ends in the circumference as described above, it is also possible to select a structure in which the connecting portion 380 is not arranged at both ends in the circumference and the adjustment portion 350 is arranged at the central position in the circumference, a structure in which the connecting portion 380 is arranged at the central position in the circumference and the adjustment portion 350 is arranged at both ends in the circumference, and a structure in which the connecting portion 380 is not arranged and the adjustment portion 350 is arranged at the central position in the circumference and at both ends in the circumference.

[0870] In the case of a structure in which the adjustment portion 350 is arranged at the central position in the circumferential direction and the connecting portion 380 is arranged at both ends in the circumferential direction, the co...

Claims

1. A toothbrush, characterized in that: have: a grip portion; and a connecting body connected to the gripping portion, The connecting body has: a brush portion, the brush portion being a first formed body; and a support body which is a second formed body different from the first formed body and supports the brush portion along a circumferential direction centered on an axis extending in the occlusal direction, The brush portion has: Base part; a monofilament extending from the base portion; and A combining portion is disposed on the base portion and combined with the supporting body.

2. The toothbrush according to claim 1, characterized in that A plurality of the brush portions are arranged in at least one direction among the circumferential direction, the occlusal direction, and a depth direction orthogonal to the circumferential direction and the occlusal direction.

3. The toothbrush according to claim 2, characterized in that The base portion of at least one of the brush portions is bent along the circumferential direction.

4. The toothbrush according to claim 2, characterized in that At least one of the brush parts is formed of a soft resin having a Shore A hardness of 40 or more and a Shore D hardness of 70 or less, The thickness of the base portion in the depth direction is greater than or equal to 1 mm and less than or equal to 5 mm.

5. The toothbrush according to claim 2, characterized in that The brushes are separately arranged on the outside and inside of the depth direction, The outer brush portion and the inner brush portion each have a central region and an end region, wherein the central region includes the center of the support body in the circumferential direction and the end region is located at an end of the support body in the circumferential direction. In the end area, the distance between the monofilament with the shortest hair length in the outer brush part and the monofilament with the shortest hair length in the inner brush part is greater than the distance between the monofilament with the shortest hair length in the outer brush part and the monofilament with the shortest hair length in the inner brush part in the central area.

6. The toothbrush according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that The monofilament extends from the brush surface of the base portion, A straight line distance connecting both ends of the brush surface in the circumferential direction is 5 mm or more.

7. The toothbrush according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that The support body is formed of a resin harder than the brush portion.

8. The toothbrush according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that The brush portion includes a portion where the arrangement pitch of the root portions and the arrangement pitch of the bristle tips of the plurality of monofilaments arranged in the circumferential direction are different.

9. The toothbrush according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that An elastic member is provided. The elastic member has a higher hardness than the brush portion and the support body and elastically deforms the support body to bend the support body along the circumferential direction.

10. The toothbrush according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that The grip portion has an electric drive unit including a vibration element, The connection body is vibrated by being driven by the vibration element.

11. A method for manufacturing a toothbrush, characterized in that: The toothbrush comprises a grip portion and a connecting body connected to the grip portion. The connecting body comprises: a brush portion which is a first molded body; and a support body which is a second molded body different from the first molded body and supports the brush portion along a circumferential direction centered on an axis extending in a bite direction, The brush portion includes: a base portion; a monofilament extending from the base portion; and a coupling portion provided on the base portion and coupled to the support body. The toothbrush manufacturing method comprises the following contents: preparing the brush portion; preparing the support; and The brush portion is coupled to the support body at the coupling portion.

12. A toothbrush, characterized in that: have: a grip portion; and a connecting body connected to the gripping portion, The connecting body has: a brush portion having a bristle bundle disposed on a base portion; and A support body is formed of a material different from that of the base portion, covers at least a portion of the base portion, and supports the brush portion along a circumferential direction centered on an axis extending in the occlusal direction.

13. The toothbrush according to claim 12, characterized in that A plurality of the brush portions are arranged in at least one direction of the circumferential direction and a depth direction perpendicular to the circumferential direction and the biting direction.

14. The toothbrush according to claim 13, characterized in that The brushes are separately arranged on the outside and inside of the depth direction, The outer brush portion and the inner brush portion each have a central region and an end region, wherein the central region includes the center of the support body in the circumferential direction and the end region is located at an end of the support body in the circumferential direction. In the end area, the distance between the bristle bundle with the shortest hair length in the outer brush portion and the bristle bundle with the shortest hair length in the inner brush portion is greater than the distance between the bristle bundle with the shortest hair length in the outer brush portion and the bristle bundle with the shortest hair length in the inner brush portion in the central area.

15. The toothbrush according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that The plurality of hair bundles arranged in the circumferential direction are arranged in a plurality of rows in the occlusal direction. The bristle tips of the bristle bundles in at least one of the bristle bundle rows located at the end in the interlocking direction are inclined toward the end with respect to the root portions.

16. The toothbrush according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that The brush portion includes a portion where an arrangement pitch of the root portions and an arrangement pitch of the bristle tips of the plurality of bristle bundles arranged in the circumferential direction are different.

17. The toothbrush according to claim 14, characterized in that When the length of the base portion in the outer side of the central region in the bite direction is WA1, the length of the base portion in the outer side of the end region in the bite direction is WA3, the length of the base portion in the inner side of the central region in the bite direction is WB1, and the length of the base portion in the inner side of the end region in the bite direction is WB3, The relationships of WA1>WA3 and WB1>WB3 are satisfied respectively.

18. The toothbrush according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that The grip portion has an electric drive unit including a vibration element, The connection body is vibrated by being driven by the vibration element.

19. A method for manufacturing a toothbrush, characterized in that: The toothbrush comprises a grip portion and a connecting body connected to the grip portion. The connecting body comprises: a brush portion having a bristle bundle provided on a base portion; and a support body formed of a material different from that of the base portion, covering at least a portion of the base portion, and supporting the brush portion along a circumferential direction centered on an axis extending in the occlusal direction. The toothbrush manufacturing method comprises the following contents: preparing the brush portion; preparing the support; and The brush portion is coupled to the support body.

20. A toothbrush, characterized in that: have: a grip portion; and a connecting body connected to the gripping portion at one side in a depth direction perpendicular to the occlusal direction, The connecting body has: a first brush body, the first brush body being located on one side of the holding portion in the depth direction; as well as a second brush body, the second brush body being located between the grip portion and the first brush body in the depth direction and being arranged to be separated from the first brush body, The first brush body comprises: a first support body formed in a U-shape along a circumferential direction centered on an axis extending in the occlusal direction and opening toward one side in the depth direction; as well as a first brush portion extending from the first support body to the other side in the depth direction; The second brush body has: a second support body formed in a U-shape along the circumferential direction and opening toward one side in the depth direction; as well as a second brush portion extending from the second support body to one side in the depth direction, The first support body and the second support body are independently movable relative to each other in two directions, the depth direction and the circumferential direction.

21. The toothbrush according to claim 20, characterized in that The first support body and the second support body located at positions facing each other in the depth direction have different shape characteristics including a dimension in the depth direction, or different material characteristics including hardness.

22. The toothbrush according to claim 21, characterized in that The dimension of the first support body in the depth direction is not less than 1.5 mm and not more than 7 mm, The dimension of the second support in the depth direction is not less than 1.5 mm and not more than 6 mm, A dimension of an end portion in the circumferential direction of the first support body in the depth direction is larger than a dimension of an end portion in the circumferential direction of the second support body in the depth direction.

23. The toothbrush according to any one of claims 20 to 22, characterized in that A ratio of a length of a region separated from the second support body in the depth direction to a length of the first support body in the circumferential direction is 20% or more and 70% or less.

24. The toothbrush according to any one of claims 20 to 22, characterized in that At least one of a first hard plate and a second hard plate is provided. The first hard plate is formed of a resin harder than the first support body and is provided on the first support body along the circumferential direction. The second hard plate is formed of a resin harder than the second support body and is provided on the second support body along the circumferential direction.

25. The toothbrush according to claim 24, characterized in that When a load is applied to the first support body in one direction in the depth direction, the first hard plate applies tension to the first support body in the other direction in the depth direction. When a load toward the other side in the depth direction is applied to the second support body, the second hard plate applies tension toward one side in the depth direction to the second support body.

26. The toothbrush according to any one of claims 20 to 22, characterized in that having a connecting portion connecting the first supporting body and the second supporting body in the depth direction, The connecting portion is an elastic body that elastically deforms in the depth direction according to deformation in the occlusal direction.

27. The toothbrush according to any one of claims 20 to 22, characterized in that having a connecting portion connecting the first supporting body and the second supporting body in the depth direction, When the connection portion is compressed in the occlusal direction, at least a portion of the first support body and the second support body approaches toward a center of the connection portion in the depth direction.

28. A toothbrush, characterized in that: have: a grip portion; and a connecting body connected to the gripping portion at one side in a depth direction perpendicular to the occlusal direction, The connecting body has: a first brush body, the first brush body being located on one side of the holding portion in the depth direction; as well as a second brush body, the second brush body being located between the grip portion and the first brush body in the depth direction and being arranged to be separated from the first brush body, The first brush body comprises: a first support body formed in a U-shape opened toward one side in the depth direction along a circumferential direction centered on an axis extending in the occlusal direction; as well as a first brush portion extending from the first support body to the other side in the depth direction; The second brush body has: a second support body formed in a U-shape along the circumferential direction and opening toward one side in the depth direction; as well as a second brush portion extending from the second support body to one side in the depth direction, The toothbrush includes an adjustment unit capable of adjusting a distance in the depth direction between the first support body and the second support body in a no-load state.

29. The toothbrush according to claim 28, characterized in that The first support body and the second support body have regions separated from each other in the depth direction.

30. The toothbrush according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that The adjustment portion is provided at least at a center position in the circumferential direction of the first support body and the second support body.

31. The toothbrush according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that At least one of a first hard plate and a second hard plate is provided, wherein The first hard plate is formed of a resin harder than the first support body and is provided on the first support body along the circumferential direction. The second hard plate is formed of a resin harder than the second support body, and is provided on the second support body along the circumferential direction.

32. The toothbrush according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that The adjustment unit can continuously change the distance between the first support body and the second support body according to a load in the depth direction of the adjustment unit.

33. The toothbrush according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that The adjustment portion includes a third brush portion on at least one of the one side and the other side in the occluding direction.

Images