Method of designing and manufacturing customized dental care for specific user

Abstract

Various embodiments described herein include methods, devices, and systems for customizing dental care. In one aspect, a personalized dental care device includes a first customized mouthpiece including a top cleaning tray and a bottom cleaning tray, each cleaning tray being customized based at least in part on an electronic 3D dental model of a respective user's mouth. The personalized dental care device includes one or more power mechanisms configured to couple with the first custom mouthpiece and to transmit energy to at least one cleaning tray of the first custom mouthpiece. The personalized dental care device is configured to operate in a plurality of modes. Each respective mode of the plurality of modes is associated with a different method for providing oral care.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to U.S. Patent Serial No. 17 / 842,770, filed on June 16, 2022, entitled “Methods of Designing and Fabricating Customized Dental Care for Particular Users.” Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to dental care, including but not limited to 3D printing devices and systems for customized dental care unique to each of a plurality of users. Background Art

[0004] Toothbrushes are typically used for traditional teeth cleaning. Such toothbrushes typically have tufts of bristles on the brush head, which the user brings into contact with the user's teeth and gums and moves around the user's mouth to sequentially clean different areas of the user's teeth. The effectiveness of using a toothbrush to clean teeth depends largely on the technique and duration of brushing, which many users find difficult to master or apply consistently.

[0005] In addition, most toothbrushes have bristles arranged on the toothbrush head that are arranged to engage the user's teeth at an optimal angle. For example, the Biss brushing method describes an optimal brushing technique in which the toothbrush head vibrates while contacting the teeth at an angle of approximately 45°. However, in this method, the manual back-and-forth movement performed by the user may cause gum and tooth enamel abrasion and is therefore discouraged. For many users, especially children and the elderly, it is difficult to brush all tooth surfaces using this optimal technique.

[0006] As mentioned above, conventional toothbrushes are designed to clean one side of one or more adjacent teeth at any given moment. For example, the brush head of a manual or electric toothbrush has a width on the order of the width of a single adult tooth. Therefore, a person using such a device typically requires many minutes to adequately clean all of his / her teeth. For example, the American Dental Association recommends brushing a person's teeth for two to three minutes (e.g., thirty seconds per quadrant) using a manual toothbrush. Some toothbrushes even include a timer that generates an alarm (e.g., a vibration pattern) to inform the user that it is time for him / her to move from brushing one quadrant of his / her mouth to brushing another quadrant.

[0007] Unfortunately, many people brush their teeth for much less than the recommended length of time. For example, without a timer, users often overestimate how long they brush their teeth. Or the user may be in a hurry. And even if the user uses a timer (e.g., a toothbrush with a quadrant timer), the user still may not brush each tooth surface within a quadrant as evenly as the other tooth surfaces within the quadrant.

[0008] In addition, people may under-brush or over-brush and thereby abrade their gums. For example, people may under-brush by not following the recommended brushing process or time spent on each tooth, and people may over-brush by applying severe pressure or abrasive action to the gums.

[0009] In addition, it may be difficult for a user to clean certain areas of his / her teeth using a conventional toothbrush. For example, it may be difficult for a user to properly engage the brush head of a conventional manual or electric toothbrush with the back of the molars on the same side of the hand that the user is holding the toothbrush. In addition, a user with a sensitive mouth / throat may avoid brushing the back of his / her molars to avoid activating his / her gag reflex. Therefore, even a person who brushes his / her teeth regularly may not be able to clean the teeth properly.

[0010] In addition, many users who clean their teeth use a manual or electric toothbrush with an oral care agent such as toothpaste applied to the brush head of the toothbrush. However, there has been a need for an oral care agent (e.g., toothpaste) dispenser that is easy to operate and dispenses an oral care agent customized for each individual user.

[0011] Toothpaste is typically packaged in a flexible capped tube, and the user typically applies the toothpaste to the head of a toothbrush by uncapping the tube, squeezing the tube to dispense the toothpaste, and then recapping the tube. Unfortunately, dispensing toothpaste from a tube can be inconvenient or problematic. For example, if the user does not recapp the tube tightly, the toothpaste may be exposed to agents such as contaminants and bacteria that can degrade one or more components of the toothpaste. Furthermore, because it may be difficult or even impossible for the user to squeeze all of the toothpaste from the tube, at least a portion of the toothpaste in the tube is often wasted; considering that millions of tubes of toothpaste are sold worldwide each year, the total amount of toothpaste wasted in this manner can be significant.

[0012] Furthermore, it may be difficult for the user to precisely control the amount of toothpaste that the user squeezes onto the brush head of the toothbrush, e.g., if the user dispenses too little toothpaste, the user may not be able to adequately clean all of his / her teeth no matter how "hard" or how long the user brushes; and if the user dispenses too much toothpaste, the user may cause an excessive degree of wear on their tooth enamel. Additionally, it may become more difficult to squeeze toothpaste out of the tube as the tube empties. Furthermore, because recapping a tube of toothpaste typically requires two hands, a toothbrush (with toothpaste on the toothbrush head) that is placed on the counter while the user recappes the tube may tip over and cause a mess.

[0013] Another problem with using off-the-shelf toothpaste is that, regardless of how it is packaged, the toothpaste is typically not customized or personalized to a particular user's preferences and clinical needs (e.g., a fluoride toothpaste with a specified amount of fluoride). For example, if a user prefers the flavor of one toothpaste brand and the whitening power of another toothpaste brand, his / her choices are limited to selecting one of these brands, or trying to combine the toothpaste onto the brush head of his / her toothbrush, which may not result in the preferred flavor or properties.

[0014] Therefore, a need has arisen for an oral care agent dispenser configured to address the above-mentioned shortcomings.For example, a need has arisen for an oral care agent dispenser configured to dispense a precise amount of a customized oral care agent in a "hands-free" manner.

[0015] Additionally, information about the user's brushing history and their dentition is not analyzed to predict oral care possibilities, such as problems and solutions regarding the user's gum health and smile design. Summary of the invention

[0016] In view of these shortcomings, there is a need for a dental care system that accurately and precisely cleans and maintains a user's teeth and gums (i.e., dental health) without causing discomfort to the user and without requiring a complex or cumbersome dental cleaning regimen. Such a system optionally supplements or replaces conventional systems, devices, and methods for maintaining a user's dental health.

[0017] Accordingly, some embodiments described herein include a dental cleaning device with a customized shape, and the customized shape has a customized cleaning end. For example, the length, shape, rigidity and material of the cleaning end (sometimes referred to as cleaning protrusions herein) are customized for the dentition (e.g., jaw, mouth and tooth geometry) of a specific user. According to some embodiments, the vibration cleaning pattern (sometimes referred to as drive profile herein) is also customized for each user, to produce excellent cleaning for each tooth and tooth surface, thereby producing excellent full-mouth cleaning. In some embodiments, the dental care device is customized for the jaw and tooth geometry of each user. In some embodiments, the cleaning end has a shape and / or rigidity that is partially customized based on the vibration pattern for each user.

[0018] In some embodiments, the dental care device is configured to operate at a customizable range of vibration frequencies to ensure proper cleaning by using multiple motors to generate different kinds of motion that, when put together in sequence, ensure proper full mouth cleaning. In some embodiments, the vibration frequencies include one or more frequencies in the sonic range and / or one or more frequencies in the ultrasonic range.

[0019] In some embodiments, the dental care device is configured to collect personalized data to guide a personalized treatment plan. In some embodiments, the personalized treatment plan includes a plurality of different frequencies selected based on the user's dental information. In some embodiments, the dental care device is configured to utilize a personalized toothpaste selected based on the user's dental information. In some embodiments, the dental care device is configured to send feedback to the user's dental care provider (e.g., to confirm that the user is complying with the prescribed treatment plan, or for future diagnosis, prescription and / or surgery). In some embodiments, information about the user's dentition and usage information and feedback information from the dental care device are automatically mined via AI (artificial intelligence) and ML (machine learning) to identify and / or predict dental problems and propose corresponding dental procedures. For example, problems such as gum recession are identified and procedures are proposed to improve the smile and / or overall smile and facial features.

[0020] Some embodiments include a dental cleaning device customized for a specific user. In some embodiments, the dental care device includes: (1) a support plate having: (a) a first portion configured to be inserted into the mouth; and (b) an attachment mechanism configured to attach the dental care device to a drive assembly; and (2) an elastomeric (elastic polymer) portion surrounding the first portion of the plate, the elastomeric portion including a plurality of cleaning tips and having a shape determined based on the dental details of a specific user. For example, the elastomeric portion is configured to match the geometry of the teeth and jaws of a specific user. In some embodiments, the elastomeric portion is customized for a specific user based on the dental information of the specific user. In some embodiments, the elastomer is made of biocompatible silicone. In some embodiments, the elastomeric portion is integrally formed. In some embodiments, there are sensors attached to the dental care device to detect various dental physiological parameters, such as breath analysis, bacteria detection, and the like.

[0021] Accordingly, some embodiments include a customized oral care agent dispenser based on the user's dental information. In some embodiments, the customized oral care agent is based on one or more of the following: user age, periodontal condition, enamel health, sensitivity, health status, etc. In some embodiments, the user receives toothpaste through a subscription model. In some embodiments, the oral care agent is prescribed by a dentist. In some embodiments, the customized oral care agent is dispensed via an oral care agent dispenser device. In some embodiments, the ingredients of the customized oral care agent are inserted separately into the dispenser device. In some embodiments, the ingredients are contained in a replaceable capsule. In some embodiments, the dispenser device is hands-free (e.g., a sensor is used to automatically dispense the oral care agent when the toothbrush is in place).

[0022] In some embodiments, the dispenser is configured to dispense the correct amount of oral care agent formulated according to the user's dental information, thereby preventing the supply of more or less oral care agent (e.g., dentifrice) than required to clean the user's teeth and gums.

[0023] In some embodiments, one or more properties of the customized oral care agent are customized for a specific user, such as flavor, color, fluoride content, tartar control ingredients, whitening agents, sensitivity reducing ingredients, stain removing ingredients, and mouthwash ingredients.

[0024] Some embodiments include an oral care agent dispenser device having: (1) a plurality of chambers, each chamber configured to receive a cartridge containing a different oral care ingredient from a plurality of oral care ingredients; (2) a memory configured to store an oral care formula including one or more of the plurality of oral care ingredients; and (3) a dispenser located above a dispensing area, the dispenser configured to dispense one or more of the plurality of oral care ingredients based on oral care formula information. In some embodiments, the dispenser device dispenses prescription material by communicating with a HIPPA-compliant software module that authorizes dispensing based on an identification of a user (e.g., via a unique ID from the dental care device).

[0025] Some embodiments include a method of manufacturing a personalized toothbrush device. The method includes obtaining a model of a specific user's teeth, and determining a configuration of a set of cleaning elements for the toothbrush device based on the model of the specific user's teeth. The method also includes integrally forming a cleaner body with a set of cleaning elements, wherein (i) the cleaner body includes an upper mouthpiece and a lower mouthpiece shaped to receive the specific user's teeth, and (ii) the set of cleaning elements has a configuration determined based on the model of the specific user's teeth.

[0026] Some embodiments include a method of manufacturing a personalized toothbrush device that is customized for a particular user and not for other users. The method includes, for each user among a plurality of users, obtaining an electronic 3D dental model of the mouth of the corresponding user and determining a configuration of a mouthpiece of the personalized toothbrush device. The method includes 3D printing a mouthpiece of the personalized toothbrush device, the mouthpiece having a top cleaning tray, a bottom cleaning tray, and a set of cleaning elements, each of which is customized based at least in part on the electronic 3D dental model of the mouth of the corresponding user. Each personalized toothbrush device 3D printed for each corresponding user among the plurality of users is different from the personalized toothbrush device of each other user.

[0027] Some embodiments include a personalized dental care device. The personalized dental care device includes a first customized mouthpiece, the first customized mouthpiece including a top cleaning tray and a bottom cleaning tray, each cleaning tray being customized based at least in part on an electronic 3D dental model of a corresponding user's mouth. The personalized dental care device includes one or more power mechanisms configured to couple with the first customized mouthpiece and transmit energy to at least one cleaning tray of the first customized mouthpiece. The personalized dental care device is configured to operate in multiple modes. Each corresponding mode in the multiple modes is associated with a different method for providing oral care.

[0028] Thus, methods are provided for devices and systems for customizing and improving dental health, thereby increasing the effectiveness, efficiency, and user satisfaction of such devices and systems. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] For a better understanding of the various embodiments described, reference will be made to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts throughout the several views.

[0030] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram illustrating a representative dental care device according to some embodiments.

[0031] Figure 1B is a schematic three-dimensional view illustrating a representative dental care device according to some embodiments.

[0032] Figure 2 is a schematic three-dimensional view illustrating a representative dental cleaning kit according to some embodiments.

[0033] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of the present invention according to some embodiments Figure 2 Schematic diagram of a portion of a dental cleaning kit.

[0034] Figure 4 is a partial three-dimensional view illustrating a representative customized dental care device according to some embodiments.

[0035] Figure 5 is a schematic three-dimensional view illustrating a user performing dental cleaning using a dental care device according to some embodiments.

[0036] Figure 6 is a schematic three-dimensional view illustrating an integrally formed bristle sheet blank for forming a cleaner tray according to some embodiments.

[0037] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B is a schematic three-dimensional view illustrating a representative dental care device according to some embodiments. Fig. 7A The dental care device is shown in an operating mode, and Figure 7B The dental care device is shown in a stowed mode.

[0038] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B is a schematic front view of a representative dental care kit including a dental care device according to some embodiments. Fig. 8A The kit is shown in docked charging mode; Figure 8B A mouth attachment forming part of a dental care kit is shown separately; Figure 8C A front view of a dental care device is shown; Fig.8D A side view of a dental care device is shown.

[0039] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a representative dental care system according to some embodiments.

[0040] Fig. 10A is a block diagram illustrating a representative dental care device according to some embodiments.

[0041] Fig. 10B is a diagram illustrating a method for Fig. 10A A graphical view of a representative drive profile for use with a dental care device.

[0042] Fig.11 is a block diagram illustrating a representative dispenser device according to some embodiments.

[0043] FIG. 12A to FIG. 12B is a block diagram illustrating a representative server system in accordance with some embodiments.

[0044] Fig.13A is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of the present invention according to some embodiments Fig. 10A A table of example frequencies for various representative operating modes of a dental care device.

[0045] FIG. 13B to FIG. 13G is a schematic diagram illustrating representative vibration patterns of a representative dental care device according to some embodiments.

[0046] FIG. 14A to FIG. 14B is an exploded schematic diagram of a representative dental care device according to some embodiments.

[0047] FIG. 15A to FIG. 15D is a schematic diagram of a representative dental care device according to some embodiments.

[0048] Fig.16A is a schematic diagram of a representative cleaning tip for a representative dental care device, according to some embodiments.

[0049] Fig. 16B is a device that engages a user's teeth during operation of the dental care device according to some embodiments. Fig.16A Schematic diagram of the cleaning tip.

[0050] Fig.17 is an exploded schematic diagram illustrating a representative dental mold system according to some embodiments.

[0051] FIG. 18A to FIG. 18B is a schematic diagram illustrating a representative dental insert mold according to some embodiments.

[0052] FIG. 19A to FIG. 19C is a schematic diagram illustrating a representative mouthpiece assembly according to some embodiments.

[0053] Fig. 20A is a perspective view of a representative dispenser device according to some embodiments.

[0054] Fig. 20B According to some embodiments Fig. 20A A three-dimensional view of a dispenser device with its cover open.

[0055] FIG. 21A to FIG. 21B According to some embodiments Fig. 20A A stereoscopic view of a dispenser device of the type shown in FIG. 1 , wherein a dental care device is arranged below a dispensing port of the dispenser device.

[0056] Fig. 22 is a flow chart illustrating a method for making a representative teeth cleaning device according to some embodiments.

[0057] Fig.23 is a flow chart illustrating a method for operating a representative dental care device according to some embodiments.

[0058] Fig.24 is a flow chart illustrating a method for operating a representative dispenser apparatus according to some embodiments.

[0059] Fig.25A A high level overview of a manufacturing process for designing and manufacturing a tooth cleaning device is shown according to some embodiments.

[0060] Fig.25B Shows the use of Fig.25B A representative tooth cleaning device manufactured by the manufacturing process of .

[0061] Fig.26 A process for designing an insert for use in manufacturing a representative teeth cleaning device is shown in accordance with some embodiments.

[0062] Fig.27A shows a scan of a user's teeth before treatment, and Fig.27B A processed scan of the user's teeth is shown.

[0063] Fig.28A An example of a scan of a user's teeth oriented for a mouth assembly is shown.

[0064] Fig.28B A digital representation of a mouthpiece assembly according to some embodiments is shown.

[0065] FIG. 29A to FIG. 29C Different sets of cleaning tips for a mouthpiece assembly according to some embodiments are shown in numerical representation.

[0066] Fig.30 It shows how the length of the cleaning tip can be modeled and modified in a digital representation of a nozzle assembly according to some embodiments.

[0067] Fig.31Shown is how the length of a cleaning tip may be honed in a digital representation of a nozzle assembly according to some embodiments.

[0068] Fig.32 A digital representation of a mold insert according to some embodiments is shown.

[0069] Fig.33 According to some embodiments Fig.32 3D printed model of the mold insert.

[0070] Fig.34 , FIG. 35A to FIG. 35B and FIG. 36A to FIG. 36C are close-up views of various cleaning elements according to some embodiments.

[0071] FIG. 37A to FIG. 37J Exemplary customization of a cleaning tray for a personalized toothbrush apparatus is shown.

[0072] FIG. 38A to FIG. 38H Exemplary customization of cleaning elements for a personalized toothbrush apparatus is shown.

[0073] FIG. 39A to FIG. 39B Exemplary vibration patterns for a personalized toothbrush apparatus are shown.

[0074] Fig.39C Exemplary customization of the mouthpiece of a personalized toothbrush apparatus to promote a desired vibration pattern is shown.

[0075] Fig.40 is a flow chart of a method of selecting a configuration of a set of cleaning elements to obtain a desired vibrating motion pattern.

[0076] Fig.41 Exemplary hardware for customizing and manufacturing a personalized toothbrush apparatus is shown.

[0077] FIG. 42A to FIG. 42B Exemplary hardware for a mouthpiece is shown, including an emitter for enhancing oral care by emitting light or heat.

[0078] FIG. 43A to FIG. 43B Exemplary hardware is shown for connecting the docking station with the toothbrush apparatus and / or drive mechanism to provide additional inputs such as light or heat.

[0079] FIG. 44A to FIG. 44C Exemplary hardware for providing gum care to a user's gums is shown.

[0080] Fig.45 An exemplary oral care kit is shown that includes interchangeable mouthpieces, each mouthpiece providing a different kind of oral care customized for a particular user.

[0081] FIG. 46A to FIG. 46BAn exemplary customization is shown that allows chemicals to move from a top tray to a bottom tray of a mouthpiece without user intervention.

[0082] Like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0083] Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following detailed description, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various embodiments described. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the various embodiments described may be practiced without these specific details. In other examples, well-known methods, procedures, components, circuits, and networks are not described in detail to prevent unnecessary obscurity of the various aspects of the embodiments.

[0084] As is apparent to those skilled in the art, many modifications and variations may be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The specific embodiments described herein are provided by way of example only, and the present disclosure is limited only by the terms of the appended claims and the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

[0085] In the following description, “substantially,” “approximately,” and “substantially” mean that a quantity (e.g., a length) can vary by up to ±20% (e.g., ± two feet) from a given value (e.g., ten feet), and that the difference between two quantities or other items can be up to ±20% of the larger of those quantities.

[0086] The disclosed embodiments include a dental care device for personal dental care, the device comprising: (1) a cleaner body defining a cleaning chamber, the shape of the cleaning chamber being determined according to the geometry of the user's dentition and jaw for receiving a set of teeth of the user; and (b) an electric drive mechanism mechanically connected to the cleaner body and configured to apply a drive motion to the cleaner body while the set of teeth is received in the cleaning chamber to cause cleaning of the teeth.

[0087] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a method of personal dental care, the method comprising: (1) placing a set of teeth of a user in a cleaning chamber provided by a cleaner body for the set of teeth; and (2) when the set of teeth is received in the cleaning chamber, applying motion to the cleaner body manually or through operation of a motorized mechanism, thereby causing cleaning of the set of teeth contained in the cleaner body.

[0088] In certain embodiments, the cleaner body is customized for the user. In certain embodiments, the shape of the cleaning chamber is only complementary to the teeth and jaws of a specific user. Therefore, the shape of the cleaning chamber is optionally unique.

[0089] In some embodiments, the cleaning chamber is shaped to accommodate a set of teeth on a particular dental arch of a user. In some embodiments, the cleaning chamber is shaped to accommodate all teeth on the user's upper jaw or all teeth on the user's lower jaw. For ease of description, the entire set of teeth on any particular dental arch is referred to herein as an arch set.

[0090] In some embodiments, the cleaner body is an arched tray, which is optionally formed based on a dental impression or scan of a corresponding dental arch of an associated user. In some embodiments, the cleaner tray is a molded part of a polymer plastic material. In some embodiments, a manufacturing method includes obtaining a tray mold having an impression of a corresponding dental arch of a particular user, and forming a cleaner tray based on the tray mold.

[0091] In some embodiments, the device includes a pair of complementary cleaner trays (sometimes also referred to herein as mouthpieces), each cleaner tray being configured to receive a respective one of the user's dental arch sets. In this case, each cleaner tray may be an attachment configured to be removably and replaceably connected to a drive mechanism to allow the cleaner tray to be used individually on the respective dental arch set. In other embodiments, the cleaner body may define oppositely outwardly facing cleaning chambers for the two dental arches, such that the two dental arches may be cleaned simultaneously by being received in a unified cleaner body.

[0092] The cleaning chamber is optionally shaped so that substantially every tooth received in the cleaning chamber is surrounded on both sides by opposing side walls of the cleaning chamber, so that both the outer major face and the inner major face of each tooth are received in the cleaning chamber, and the side walls of the cleaning chamber provided by the cleaner tray extend at least a majority of the height of the tooth toward the base of the tooth. In some embodiments, the side walls extend to or beyond the gum line of the user. In some embodiments, the cleaning chamber is shaped to match the jaw size of the user for both the maxillary and mandibular circumferences and the angle of curvature.

[0093] In some embodiments, the device includes a cleaning element (e.g., a cleaning end), which is located on the cleaner body and projects into the cleaning chamber for contact engagement with teeth when the device is used. In some embodiments, the cleaning element includes a plurality of filamentous elements, such as bristles or sponge-like filaments, which project into the cleaning chamber from the chamber wall provided by the cleaner tray and defining the cleaning chamber. In some embodiments, the cleaning element includes a projection or other irregularities on the chamber wall. Such a projection is optionally formed integrally with the cleaner tray so that the cleaner tray and these projections are provided by a single component of an overall structure. In the following description, the described variant of the arrangement of the cleaning element on the cleaner body will be understood to be similar to (instead of or in addition to) the arrangement of the projection on the chamber wall and applied.

[0094] In some embodiments, the cleaning elements have a substantially regular arrangement in the cleaning chamber so that the number of cleaning elements per unit surface area on the chamber wall is always substantially equal. However, in some embodiments, the cleaning elements are arranged on the cleaner body to have a greater density (e.g., a greater number of cleaning elements per unit surface area) in some areas of the chamber wall than in other areas. In some embodiments, a higher density of cleaning elements is provided in areas where more intense cleaning is desired. For example, the cleaning elements can be more densely concentrated toward the end of the dental arch group, which corresponds to the most caries-prone area of ​​the mouth. In some embodiments, the cleaning elements are arranged to be more densely concentrated in the gingival wedge-shaped gap between adjacent teeth and / or at the bottom of the teeth.

[0095] Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning elements are arranged so that the physical properties of the cleaning elements vary for different areas of the cleaning chamber. For example, softer or more flexible cleaning elements are optionally provided at locations on the chamber wall corresponding to or adjacent to the user's gum line, thereby reducing the possibility of irritating the gums. Alternatively, harder or less flexible bristles are provided at locations corresponding to potential problem areas (such as toward the rear-most teeth and / or corresponding to the gingival ridges).

[0096] In some embodiments, the arrangement of cleaning elements on the cleaner tray is customized. For example, the arrangement of cleaning elements (in positioning and / or in physical properties) is optionally specific and unique to a particular associated user. Some embodiments include: (1) performing or obtaining a dental scan of a particular user's corresponding dental arch set, (2) identifying potential problem areas based on the dental scan, and (3) arranging bristles in the cleaning chamber based on the identified problem areas. In some embodiments, a greater density of cleaning elements is provided for potential problem areas and / or cleaning elements whose physical properties are selected to result in more effective dental cleaning due to powered contact engagement with the teeth.

[0097] In some embodiments, the drive mechanism comprises a vibration mechanism for inducing driven vibration and / or reciprocating motion of the cleaner tray. In some embodiments, the drive mechanism is configured to induce subsonic oscillations of the cleaner body, for example, at a frequency below 20 Hertz (Hz).

[0098] The vibration speed of a toothbrush is usually measured in movements per minute, with conventional electric toothbrushes vibrating at a rate of several thousand to roughly between 10,000 and 12,000 movements per minute. Toothbrushes are so-called sonic because their vibration speed or frequency (as opposed to the sound of the motor) falls within the average range used by humans in verbal communication. The voice of a typical adult male will have a fundamental frequency of from 85 to 180 Hz (10,200 to 21,000 movements per minute), and the voice of a typical adult female will have a fundamental frequency of from 165 to 255 Hz (19,800 to 30,600 movements per minute).

[0099] In contrast, ultrasonic toothbrushes work by generating ultrasonic waves, which can have frequencies starting at 20,000 Hz (2,400,000 movements per minute). However, the most common frequencies of existing ultrasonic toothbrushes are in the range of approximately 1.6 MHz, which translates to 96,000,000 waves or 192,000,000 movements per minute. As described below, in some embodiments, the devices of the present disclosure are configured primarily for sonic cleaning, in other embodiments primarily for ultrasonic cleaning, and in yet other embodiments are configured for cleaning by both sonic and ultrasonic action.

[0100] In some embodiments, the vibration mechanism is configured to cause sonic vibrations of the cleaner tray (or mouthpiece assembly 12). In some embodiments, the cleaning by sonic vibrations relies on the sweeping motion of the cleaning element with a relatively high amplitude (relative to ultrasonic motion, which will be discussed below). In some embodiments, this sonic vibration is in the frequency range between 20 Hz and 20 kHz, corresponding to 12,000-24,000 oscillations or cycles per minute. In some embodiments, sonic cleaning relies on the sweeping motion of the cleaning element to clean the teeth by scrubbing engagement. In some embodiments, the vibrations of the cleaner body caused are similar or analogous to the vibrations produced in a conventional brush head.

[0101] In some embodiments, instead or in addition, the vibration mechanism is configured to cause ultrasonic vibration of the cleaner tray (or mouthpiece assembly 12). Ultrasonic motion is typically at a lower amplitude than that of sonic motion. In some embodiments, the frequency of such ultrasonic vibration is higher than 20kHz (approximately 2.4 million movements per minute), for example, about 1.6MHz (approximately 192 million movements per minute). In some embodiments, ultrasonic cleaning operates by generating ultrasonic waves that disrupt bacterial chains that make up dental plaque and move or weaken their attachment to tooth enamel.

[0102] In some examples and embodiments, the induced mouth (e.g., Figure 1B This vibration of the cleaner tray 125 also stirs the natural cleaning fluid (such as saliva) around the teeth. Due to the rapid motion vibration of the cleaner tray, tiny bubbles are generated, which push out plaque that may be just below the gum line. These fluids not only push away plaque, they also dilute and move the acids produced by bacteria. In some examples and embodiments, this fluid movement and plaque removal occurs without the cleaning elements of the cleaner tray contacting the enamel surface.

[0103] In some embodiments, the induced vibrations of the cleaner body of the present disclosure are similar or analogous to the ultrasonic vibrations produced by the brush heads of available conventional toothbrushes.

[0104] In some embodiments, the vibrations induced in the cleaner body are a combination of ultrasonic and sonic motions. In embodiments where the device is configured to induce a combination of ultrasonic and sonic oscillations or vibrations in the cleaner body, sonic vibrations are optionally provided to produce a sweeping action to remove particles and bacterial residues that were previously broken up or weakened by ultrasonic action.

[0105] In some embodiments, the dental care device is configured to perform dental cleaning at least in part through a fluid dynamic interaction between the user's teeth and / or gums and a liquid contained in a cleaning chamber. As discussed above, in some instances, this high-speed brushing action generates pressure waves and shear forces in the liquid surrounding the teeth, thereby causing or promoting tooth cleaning (e.g., where the teeth are in physical contact with the cleaning elements of the device). In some instances and embodiments, this fluid dynamic cleaning mechanism further operates by generating microbubbles that forcefully impact the tooth surface, thereby causing plaque and / or other undesirable substances to be removed from the tooth enamel.

[0106] In some embodiments, the device is configured for manual manipulation or agitation and thus operates without a motorized drive mechanism. In such embodiments, the device optionally includes a handle connected to the cleaner tray and configured for manual control by a user to insert the cleaner tray into the mouth and perform manual brushing.

[0107] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a dental care device 10 according to some embodiments. The device 10 includes a stand 18 (eg, a computer interface and battery charging stand) and a teeth cleaning device 14 configured to clean a user's teeth in a reduced amount of time compared to conventional teeth cleaning devices without causing discomfort to the user.

[0108] According to some embodiments, the bracket 18 is configured to be communicatively coupled to a computer (not shown) via a connector 22 (e.g., a universal serial bus (USB) port), and / or electrically coupled to an energy source, such as an electrical outlet (not shown). In some embodiments, the bracket 18 provides an interface through which a computer can be used to charge the battery of the cleaning device 14 and / or configure the cleaning device. For example, software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware can be uploaded from a computer to the cleaning device 14, for example to select and configure the operating features of the cleaning device. As another example, the bracket 18 can be connected to an AC adapter to charge the battery of the cleaning device 14 (e.g., without being connected to a computer). In some embodiments, the bracket 18 includes a user interface 20 that enables a user to adjust one or more settings or preferences and / or enables device data to be presented to the user.

[0109] According to some embodiments, the cleaning device 14 includes an electronics housing 16, an optional connector 15, and a mouthpiece assembly 12. In some embodiments, as described in more detail below, the electronics housing 16 houses electronic circuitry, one or more rechargeable batteries, and one or more actuators (e.g., motors) configured to drive the mouthpiece assembly 12. In some embodiments, the electronic circuitry is configured to charge the one or more batteries when the cleaning device 14 is disposed in the support 18. In some embodiments, the electronic circuitry is configured to manage power on the electronics housing 16, control operation of the one or more actuators, and / or communicate with the support 18. In some embodiments, the electronic circuitry is configured to communicate with a computer, wireless router, or other device so that the electronic circuitry can send and receive information to / from one or more remote devices (such as a cloud or other server) via the Internet. In some embodiments, the electronic circuitry may be configured via software, firmware, or both software and firmware, and may be communicated via any suitable communication protocol (such as or ) and communicates via a wired connection or a wireless link via any suitable circuit or hardware (such as an RFID tag or circuit). In some embodiments, cleaning device 14 includes a user interface (e.g., on electronics enclosure 16). In some embodiments, the user interface includes a screen (e.g., a touch screen), one or more buttons or affordances, one or more microphones, and / or one or more speakers.

[0110] In some embodiments, the coupler 15 is configured to couple the nozzle assembly 12 to the electronics enclosure 16 so that one or more motors in the electronics enclosure drive the movement of the nozzle assembly (e.g., energize the nozzle assembly). In some embodiments, the coupler is integral with either or both of the electronics enclosure 16 and the nozzle assembly 12. In some embodiments, the coupler 15 is formed of any suitable material and can have any suitable shape and size. In some embodiments, the coupler 15 is configured to allow the nozzle assembly 12 to be removed and replaced, for example, so that multiple nozzle assemblies can be selectively used with the electronics enclosure 16.

[0111] In some embodiments, as described in more detail below, the mouthpiece assembly 12, which is optionally custom designed for a user, is configured to be inserted into the user's mouth to quickly and simultaneously clean all of the user's teeth.

[0112] In operation, the one or more actuators within the electronics housing 16 drive the mouthpiece assembly 12 so that the mouthpiece assembly cleans all of the user's teeth as well or better and in a significantly shorter time than a conventional manual or electric toothbrush. For example, the actuator and mouthpiece assembly 12 are configured to comprehensively, completely (e.g., to remove at least 99% of the plaque accumulated on the user's teeth), and evenly clean the user's teeth in a time ranging from approximately five seconds to approximately thirty seconds (e.g., in twenty seconds or less). Thus, even at the high end of this time range (thirty seconds), the teeth cleaning device 14 not only cleans the user's teeth as well or significantly better than conventional manual and electric toothbrushes, but also reduces the time to clean the user's teeth by approximately 75% compared to the two minutes (or more) of cleaning time recommended for conventional toothbrushes.

[0113] Figure 1B1 is a schematic three-dimensional view of a dental care device in the example form of a full-arch dental care device 100 according to some embodiments. The dental care device 100 includes a cleaner body in the example form of a cleaner tray 125 for receiving a user's upper arch set of teeth (e.g., a complete set of teeth on the user's upper jaw), and a housing 110 to which the cleaner tray 125 is connected so that the cleaner tray 125 is driven to move during use. As will be described in more detail below, the housing 110 houses an electric motor and a self-contained power source (in the example form of a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium-ion battery) for causing driven oscillation of the cleaner tray 125 when activated by a user-operable button 115.

[0114] The cleaner tray 125 is a generally arcuate element defining a cleaning chamber 127 that is complementary to the upper dental arch set of a particular user. The cleaning elements are arranged within the cleaning chamber 127 for physical contact engagement with the teeth and / or gums when the set of teeth of the user is inserted into the cleaning chamber 127. Figure 1B In the example of FIG. 1 , the cleaning element includes a plurality of cleaning tips 140 .

[0115] Figure 1B The cleaning chamber 127 in the embodiment of the present invention is generally U-shaped in plan view (corresponding to the U-shape of the corresponding dental arch) and is generally U-shaped in cross-section (corresponding approximately to the lateral width of the corresponding tooth). Thus, the cleaning chamber 127 has an inner sidewall 145 and substantially parallel opposing outer sidewalls 150, the inner sidewall being intended to be positioned face-to-face adjacent to and substantially parallel to the inwardly facing major surface of the corresponding tooth, and the outer sidewall being intended to be positioned face-to-face adjacent to and substantially parallel to the outwardly facing major surface of the corresponding tooth. In this exemplary embodiment, the height of the sidewalls 145, 150 from the base of the cleaning chamber 127 is slightly greater than the height of the teeth, so that the sidewalls 145, 150 extend beyond the gum line of the user when in use.

[0116] According to some embodiments, the cleaning chamber 127 is personalized, being customized for use only by a specific associated user, because the cleaning chamber 127 is formed based on the dental impression of the specific user and is therefore substantially complementary in shape to the corresponding dental arch of the specific user. This customization of the shape of the cleaning chamber 127 facilitates proper alignment of the cleaning head 140 with the corresponding set of teeth, while also ensuring that the cleaner tray 125 fits comfortably in the user's mouth.

[0117] The cleaning head 140 is arranged on the cleaner tray 125, protruding into the cleaning room in a cantilevered manner. In some embodiments, as will be discussed in more detail later, the physical properties and / or distribution density of the cleaning head 140 vary from one part of the cleaning room 127 to another part. In some embodiments, the cleaning head 140 (or the corresponding cleaning element) has a substantially regular distribution throughout the cleaning room 127.

[0118] According to some embodiments, the cleaner tray 125 is rigidly connected to the housing 110 by an attachment rod 130; enabling the transmission of vibratory or oscillatory motion from the motor in the housing 110 to the cleaner tray 125. Thus, the housing 110 can be used as a handle by which the dental care device 100 is gripped to insert the cleaner tray 125 into the mouth and to hold the cleaner tray 125 in place during brushing.

[0119] In some embodiments, the vibration mechanism incorporated in the housing 110 is configured to drive the movement of the cleaner tray 125 to clean the teeth at least in part by ultrasonic action. For example, the dental care device 100 is configured to generate ultrasound to remove dental plaque and / or render plaque bacteria harmless. In this example, the ultrasonic cleaning action includes reciprocating or oscillating movement of the cleaner tray 125 at a frequency of about 1.6 MHz. In some embodiments, the movement cycle includes linear back and forth movement and / or circular or elliptical movement.

[0120] In some embodiments, instead or in addition, the dental care device 100 is configured for sonic cleaning, for example, where the vibration mechanism is configured to generate at least some vibrations of the cleaner tray in the audible range. In some embodiments, the frequency range of such driven motion is in the range of 200 to 400 Hz, translating to 12,000-24,000 cycles per minute.

[0121] In some embodiments, the dental care device 100 provides a user-controlled switch between sonic cleaning and ultrasonic cleaning, for example, by operating the button 115. In some embodiments, the control circuit of the dental care device 100 is configured to allow cycling with different modes (e.g., based on repeated pressing of the button 115). In some embodiments, these different modes include ultrasonic mode, sonic mode, and off mode. In some embodiments, the dental care device 100 is preprogrammed to automatically perform a cleaning cycle (e.g., a cleaning cycle including both ultrasonic vibration and sonic vibration), wherein the vibration is generated in a predetermined order. In this case, for example, a few seconds of ultrasonic vibration can be used to generate ultrasonic waves to break up bacterial chains that constitute dental plaque and eliminate or weaken the method by which they are attached to the tooth surface.

[0122] The fluid dynamics caused by the pushed motion of the cleaner tray 125 destroys dental plaque at traditionally difficult-to-reach areas, such as between teeth and below the gum line. Therefore, the cleaning performed by using the dental care device 100 is not only used to clean the main outer surfaces of the teeth, but also effectively performs the tooth picking operation by removing foreign matter from the spaces between adjacent teeth. In some embodiments, the fluid dynamic cleaning effect operates at a distance of up to 4 mm from the contact point between the cleaning end 140 and the teeth. Thereafter, sonic vibrations are optionally generated to physically clean and remove weakened or loosened materials. In some embodiments, the vibration mechanism is configured so that the amplitude of the sonic motion will typically be greater than the amplitude of the motion generated during ultrasonic cleaning.

[0123] In operation, users can use Figure 1B The assembled dental care device 100 is shown to clean the teeth of the upper dental arch and may be subsequently (or previously) attached using a similar attachment 120B ( Figure 3 ) to clean the teeth of the lower dental arch. In some embodiments, each of these operations includes: grasping the dental care device 100 by the housing 110; inserting the cleaner tray 125 into the mouth; gently biting down the cleaner tray 125 so that the teeth are tightly inserted into the cleaning chamber 127; and then activating the driven sonic and / or ultrasonic vibrations of the cleaning chamber 127 by operating the button 115. It has been found that effective dental cleaning is achieved in a brushing period as short as about 5 seconds for each dental arch.

[0124] In some embodiments, the user is directed to keep the cleaner tray 125 substantially stationary in the mouth during the driven vibration of the cleaner tray 125. However, in other embodiments, the cleaner tray 125 may be moved around in the mouth during the vibration. In one example, the cleaning process for each dental arch includes a five-second sequence in which the user moves the cleaner tray 125: forward for one second, backward for one second, downward for one second, upward for one second, and to the other side for one second. It has been found that this scrubbing motion is very effective, in part, due to the large number of brushing strokes per minute being produced simultaneously across the entire dental arch.

[0125] In some embodiments, the dental care device 100 is configured to be used without any toothpaste or specific oral care agent. In some embodiments, conventional toothpaste is applied to the teeth or cleaning chamber 127 prior to use. In some embodiments, the dental care device 100 is configured to be used with a dental paste or oral care agent specifically configured for use with the cleaner tray 125. In some embodiments, such an oral care agent is configured to promote a hydrodynamic cleaning action when applied to the teeth or cleaning chamber 127 prior to the teeth being received in the cleaner tray 125, as described herein.

[0126] It should be understood that due to the generally U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the cleaning chamber 127, the oral care agent will be retained within the cleaning chamber 127 during cleaning. In some embodiments, the oral care agent is substantially free of abrasives to protect tooth enamel. In some embodiments, the oral care agent has a higher viscosity than traditional toothpaste. In some embodiments, the oral care agent is a very high viscosity fluid that is selected to facilitate the transmission of sonic and / or ultrasonic waves caused by the vibration of the tray and therefore its effectiveness. In some embodiments, the oral care agent is an all-natural product.

[0127] exist Figure 2 , reference numeral 200 generally indicates a toothbrush kit 200, which includes a handle housing 110, a charging base or stand 212, and three attachments configured to be removably and replaceably connected to the housing 110. The attachments in this exemplary embodiment include the upper dental arch attachment 120 described above, a similar lower dental arch attachment 120B, and a conventional toothbrush attachment 207, which is connected to its attachment rod 130 in an inverted orientation relative to the upper dental arch attachment 120, and the conventional toothbrush attachment is shown as being connected to the housing 110. Note that the attachments 120, 120B each include a corresponding cleaner tray 125, to which the corresponding attachment rod 130 is rigidly connected. Therefore, the removability and replaceability of the attachment 120 are achieved by this engageable connection between the rod 130 and the housing 110. In some embodiments, the rod 130 is rigidly connected to a rigid frame of the cleaner tray 120, which is a molded component supported by an internal frame thereof, and the vibratory motion is transmitted from the rod 130 through the internal frame.

[0128] According to some embodiments, the stand provides a charging socket 224 for receiving and supporting the housing 110 in an upright orientation while electrically connecting the battery inside the housing 110 to a mains power source to recharge the battery. The stand 212 further provides two separate supports 236 for holding unused attachments 120 in an upright orientation with the corresponding cleaner tray 125 off the support surface.

[0129] Figure 3 Another view showing the bracket 212 holding the upper arch attachment 120 and the lower arch attachment 120B in a storage position for selective use. Some embodiments of the kit 200 further include an attachment for cleaning the cleaner tray(s) 125 by removing foreign matter from the cleaning chamber 127. In some embodiments, the cleaning attachment is configured for ultrasonic cleaning of the trays.

[0130] In some embodiments, a dental cleaning device according to the present disclosure is provided and used for dental cleaning without driven shaking of the cleaner tray 125. A partial view of such a manual toothbrush 400 is shown in Figure 4 and includes a cleaner tray 125, such as described above, attached to a rigid elongated handle 404 that functions similarly to a conventional manual toothbrush handle. Figure 5 As can be noted in the figure (which shows dental cleaning use of another embodiment of the dental care device 100 according to the present disclosure by a user 500), the handle 404 of the manual toothbrush 400 is attached to the cleaner tray 125 at or near the apex of the dental arch defined by the cleaner tray 125. In some embodiments, the same applies to the attachment of the corresponding attachment rod 130 to the cleaner tray 125.

[0131] When the cleaner tray 125 receives a corresponding set of teeth, the handle 404 (or, in other embodiments, the attachment rod 130) is arranged so that the toothbrush 400 is more or less aligned with the midline of the user's face. In other embodiments, the handle 404 or the attachment rod 130 is slightly offset from the axis of symmetry of the cleaner tray 125.

[0132] To perform manual dental cleaning using the toothbrush 400, the cleaner tray 125 is inserted into the mouth, manipulated via the handle 404, and the user gently bites down on the cleaner tray 125 to ensure a complementary fit between the corresponding set of teeth and the cleaning chamber 127. Thereafter, the cleaner tray is moved back and forth via the handle 404 to cause a sweeping motion of the cleaning tip 140 over the teeth and gums. Thereafter, the opposing set of teeth may be similarly cleaned using a separate device (or attachment 120) for that dental arch. Note that Figure 2 and Figure 3 The illustrated pair of attachments may be configured for manual or automated use such that a user may grasp a respective attachment 120 by a respective attachment stem 130 to clean a respective dental arch.

[0133] In the above-described embodiment, each cleaner tray forms a distinct unit for cleaning a single one of the two dental arches of the user. However, in other embodiments, a unified cleaner body is provided that defines respective cleaning chambers 127 for both the upper and lower dental arches (e.g., FIG. 15A to FIG. 15D In such an embodiment, the user would simultaneously insert the lower and upper dental arches into respective cleaning chambers provided by a single cleaner body such that subsequent vibration, oscillation, or manual shaking of the cleaner body causes simultaneous cleaning action of both the upper and lower dental arches.

[0134] The present disclosure also extends to methods for promoting a user's personal dental health by providing the user with a customized dental care device 100 as described above. In some embodiments, the customized cleaner tray 125 is formed at least in part based on a dental scan performed at a facility such as a dentist's office. In some embodiments, the dentist performs a 3D scan to obtain digital impressions of the teeth, the gingival wedge (e.g., the space between the teeth for picking teeth), and / or the gums. These impressions are converted into customized and personalized brushing trays for both the upper and lower dental arches (e.g., via a molding process and / or a 3D printing process).

[0135] The 3D scanning operation calculates the shape, curvature, and anatomical structure of each tooth. In some embodiments, the 3D scan also records the interdental space (e.g., the pick area or gingival wedge area of ​​the corresponding tooth). In some embodiments, the cleaning chamber 127 is then formed based on a slightly enlarged model, or at an offset spacing relative to the original impression to provide space for the cleaning elements between the chamber wall and the teeth. In some embodiments, the scanned impression is enlarged by an offset of 1-3 mm, depending in part on the preference of the individual patient.

[0136] In some embodiments, the offset space is then covered with a cleaning head, which can be angled to accurately clean each surface of the tooth. Although in some embodiments, these cleaning heads are arranged to protrude substantially vertically from the chamber wall in large quantities, in other embodiments, these cleaning heads have different angles of incidence relative to the chamber wall, wherein their angles are at least partially determined for optimal cleaning efficiency. In some embodiments, the cleaning head arrangement at the corresponding gingival wedge-shaped gap is configured to facilitate the cleaning head to enter the corresponding gingival wedge-shaped gap, for example, by providing a cleaning head angled for obtaining the best or improved brushing action in the gingival wedge-shaped gap. As described elsewhere, the interdental area can be cleaned via wave action in some cases.

[0137] The customer service provided in order to facilitate customized dental care optionally includes providing the user with the option of selecting a specific cleaner tray 125 and a cleaning tip arrangement from a plurality of different available options based on user preferences. For example, a user with a strong gag reflex can select a smaller offset so that the body of the cleaner tray can be smaller and more closely fitted on its teeth. On the other hand, a person who prefers to move the brush in the mouth with greater wiggle room (e.g., to add mechanical brushing together with sonic and / or ultrasonic brushing) can select a larger offset. In some embodiments, the manufacture of the cleaner tray includes injecting a prefabricated sheet of a polymer plastic material into a mold shaped according to the jaw and tooth geometry of a dental patient.

[0138] In some embodiments, the preformed sheet has bristle-like filaments injected into or integrally formed with the sheet to provide fibers or cleaning elements in the cleaning chamber 127. An example of a preformed bristle sheet 600 is shown in FIG. Figure 6 In some embodiments, the manufacturing of the cleaner tray 125 includes a 3D printing operation of a prefabricated bristle sheet based on the above-described 3D scan.

[0139] In some instances and embodiments, the cleaner tray 125 is formed based on the mark provided by the user. For example, the user who cannot visit the dental scanning facility or wishes to limit the cost can choose to form a dental mark at home. Some embodiments include delivering the blank mold that will be used when forming the cleaner tray 125 to the user upon request, such as by postal or courier service. Then, the user can form a dental mark in the mold by biting into the mold, and then return the mold carrying the dental mark. This mold is then used at the central manufacturing facility to produce customized cleaning trays 125 in a similar or similar manner as described above with reference to 3D scanning. The customized cleaner tray 125 is then returned to the user (for example, by postal, courier service, or personal pickup) for personal use. In some embodiments, the manufacture of the cleaner tray 125 includes a 3D printing process.

[0140] Some embodiments include continuing to send replacement cleaner trays 125 to the user on a regular or periodic basis based on the original mold or 3D scan. Such regular cycles of cleaner tray replacement can be based on the rate of degradation of the cleaner tray 125 in use. In some embodiments, replacement cleaner trays 125 are automatically (e.g., without a specific user request) sent to the user at intervals of, for example, three months. Some embodiments include obtaining new dental impressions or 3D scans of the user at intervals on an ongoing basis and producing subsequent cleaner trays 125 based on the most recent 3D scan or dental impression.

[0141] As previously discussed with respect to Figures 1 to Figure 3 As mentioned, in some embodiments, the arrangement and / or configuration of the cleaning elements 140 in the cleaner tray 125 can be changed for different locations in the cleaning chamber 127, for example, by changing the positioning and / or distribution density of the cleaning elements 140. In some embodiments, this change is general and applicable to multiple (e.g., all) users. In some embodiments, this change is customized based on individual user needs.

[0142] General variations optionally include providing a higher density or stiffness of cleaning tips in areas of general or typical concern. Thus, in some embodiments, the cleaning elements 140 are arranged in the cleaning chamber 127 such that the cleaning elements are more densely arranged and / or individually more rigid toward the end of the dental arch (corresponding to the posterior teeth), while a softer and / or less dense arrangement is provided adjacent to the gum line.

[0143] In some embodiments, individualized changes in cleaning element positioning and / or characteristics are based on areas of concern or weaknesses identified in the user's corresponding dental arch. In some embodiments, areas of a particular user's teeth that are identified as actual or potential problem areas (e.g., areas that suffer from caries or early indicators of caries, or areas that are identified as particularly difficult to clean) have increased cleaning element stiffness or density over corresponding areas of the cleaning chamber 127.

[0144] In some embodiments, a method for facilitating personal dental cleaning includes performing a dental scan of the user, identifying actual or potential problem areas based on the dental scan, and customizing the spatial arrangement and / or distribution of different types of cleaning elements (or cleaning elements with different physical properties) in the cleaning chamber 127 based on the identified problem areas.

[0145] In some embodiments, the cleaning elements are integrally formed with the material providing the body of the cleaner tray 125. In some embodiments, the cleaner tray 125 has a unitary construction in which the cleaning elements are provided by protrusions or other cleaning structures formed on the inner surface of the cleaning chamber 127. In some embodiments, the manufacture of the cleaner tray 125 includes forming the cleaner tray from a single mold in a molding operation without pre-positioning the cleaning elements in the mold chamber or subsequently attaching the cleaning elements to the molded body of the cleaner tray 125.

[0146] In some embodiments, the mold is formed with a connection structure for connecting a separate cleaning element. In some embodiments, the body of the cleaner tray 125 is formed with an arrangement of connection sockets, and the separate cleaning elements of polymer plastic material can be connected to these connection sockets by snap-fit ​​engagement. In some embodiments, a group of relatively soft sponge-like polymer plastic cleaning elements are connected to the molded base or body of the cleaner tray in a socket-plug mode. In some embodiments, the cleaning elements are closely packed together into a grid so that the closely spaced, slightly concave end faces of the cleaning elements form an engagement surface together, which is used to engage in contact with the teeth and to promote fluid dynamic tooth cleaning action.

[0147] In some embodiments, the cleaning elements are arranged on the cleaner tray 125 so that they do not contact tooth enamel during cleaning. It should be understood that such an arrangement can be provided for situations where the dental care device 100 is configured for ultrasonic cleaning, wherein the cleaning elements are configured to facilitate ultrasonic hydrodynamic cleaning without physically scrubbing the teeth and / or gums.

[0148] Now go to FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B , which shows a dental care device 700 according to some embodiments. The function of the cleaner tray 725 forming part of the device 700 is substantially similar to that previously described with reference to FIGS. Figure 3 Described. FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B In some embodiments, the vibration mechanism is enclosed in a knob-shaped handle 740 that is attached to the apex of the cleaner tray 725 at or near the apex (e.g., within 1 cm, 2 cm, or 5 cm). In some embodiments, the power source for the vibration mechanism is carried in the base unit 750, and the vibration mechanism is connected to the power source via a power cord 760 that connects the handle 740 to the base unit 750.

[0149] According to some embodiments, the base unit 750 further defines a complementary docking chamber 770 for the cleaner tray 725. According to some embodiments, when the cleaner tray 725 is received in the docking chamber 770 (see Figure 7B ), the cleaning chamber 127 of the cleaner tray 725 is completely located within the docking chamber 770, hidden from view and not exposed to the atmosphere. In this stowed mode, the device 700 forms a compact portable unit, wherein the cleaning tray 725 is sealed within the base unit 750, and the handle 740 protrudes upward from the base unit 750 for easy access by the user.

[0150] According to some embodiments, the base unit 750 is not only configured to house the cleaner tray 725 so that it is protected from exposure between brushing, but is also configured to actively disinfect the cleaner tray 725 during docking. In some embodiments, the base unit 750 is provided with an ultraviolet (UV) cleaning arrangement that illuminates the cleaner tray 725 in general, and the cleaning chamber 127 in particular, when the cleaner tray 725 is inserted into the docking chamber 770. In some embodiments, the base unit 750 is configured to achieve cleaning of the cleaner tray 725 during docking by exposing the cleaning chamber 127 to a disinfecting liquid. In some embodiments, the cleaner tray 127 forms a liquid-tight seal with the base unit 750 to safely contain the disinfecting liquid and allow the device 700 to be used as a travel accessory.

[0151] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8DA dental care kit 800 is shown according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, a dental care device 810 forming part of the kit 800 is provided as described with reference to FIGS. Figure 3 The same or similar manner as described works.

[0152] According to some embodiments, the dental care device 810 has a housing 815 that houses a vibrating mechanism in the form of an electric motor and a coupled rechargeable battery. Fig. 8A As shown, the housing 815 has a base that can be received in a complementary mating charging receptacle defined by the docking station 820. In some embodiments, when the dental care device 810 is docked on the docking station 820, an electrical connection is automatically made between the rechargeable battery and the mains power source to which the docking station 820 is connected, thereby recharging the battery.

[0153] According to some embodiments, the dental care device 810 includes a reversible mouthpiece attachment 835 (see Figure 8B ), the reversible mouthpiece attachment is in storage mode ( Fig. 8A ) or in operating mode ( FIG. 8C to FIG. 8D ) can be connected to the upper end of the housing 810. Fig. 8A In the storage mode shown, the cleaner body 825, which forms part of the attachment 835, is located inside the housing 810 so that the cleaner body 825 is hidden from view and not exposed to the atmosphere.

[0154] According to some embodiments, in this configuration, the handle 840 of the attachment 810 serves as a cover for the housing 810. As described with reference to FIG7 , the housing 810 provides a sterilizing mechanism (e.g., a UV cleaning system) for sterilizing the cleaner body 825 when the device 810 is in storage mode. In storage mode, the dental care device 810 forms a self-contained, sealed unit suitable for use as a travel accessory.

[0155] In some embodiments, the cleaner body 825 is configured to clean both dental arches of a user simultaneously. Fig.8D , the cleaner body 825 thus defines a pair of oppositely outwardly facing cleaning chambers 127, each of which is complementary in shape to a corresponding dental arch of the particular user for which the device 800 is customized. Thus, in use, the user can insert the cleaner body 825 between their dental arches, bite down on the cleaner body 825 to receive each dental arch in its corresponding chamber 127, and can then clean both dental arches simultaneously by activating the vibration mechanism. According to some embodiments, FIG. 8A to FIG. 8DThe cleaning chamber 127 in the embodiment does not include a filamentous cleaning element for contacting and engaging with the teeth, but is instead configured to achieve dental cleaning primarily through fluid dynamics. In some embodiments, the cleaner body 825 includes, for example, FIG. 15A to FIG. 15D Clean tip shown in .

[0156] However, in operating mode ( Figure 8C ), the orientation of the attachment 835 is reversed so that the handle 840 is securely connected to the upper end of the housing 810, and according to some embodiments, the cleaner body 825 protrudes away from the housing 810. Note that the selectively detachable attachment of the attachment 835 to the housing 810 allows the operating force or oscillation force from the motor in the housing 810 to be transmitted to the cleaner body 825.

[0157] The benefit of the described embodiment is that it provides faster and more effective personal dental cleaning than is the case with conventional toothbrushes. In some cases, the entire mouth can be cleaned in as little as 5-10 seconds while achieving more consistent and thorough cleaning results than with conventional toothbrushes. This is in part because all surfaces of the teeth of the corresponding dental arch are brushed simultaneously based on the vibrating or reciprocating motion imparted to the cleaner tray 125 and therefore common to all cleaning elements.

[0158] It is also beneficial that the cleaner tray 125 can reach all parts of the dental arch with equal ease and effectiveness, regardless of the user's skill or dexterity. For example, many users cannot reach the rear-facing surfaces behind the molars and the area where the tongue covers the teeth, or cannot reach them consistently. These and other problems associated with user-controlled brushing styles are more serious for children and the elderly, who generally do not have sufficient manual dexterity to implement correct brushing techniques using conventional toothbrushes. These problems are greatly reduced by the described methods and devices.

[0159] Yet another benefit of some of the described embodiments is that all gingival embrasures in the associated dental arch are flossed simultaneously and simultaneously with cleaning of other tooth and gum surfaces (e.g., by operation of fluid action induced by tray vibrations within a specific frequency range, as described), and there is no need to sequentially pass a filament or other cleaning element through the gingival embrasures of different teeth, as is the case with conventional flossing. Likewise, simultaneous full-arch flossing without forceful insertion of dental floss or toothpicks into gingival embrasures promotes tooth enamel and gum health by preventing abrasive contact with these surfaces.

[0160] Another benefit is that the arrangement of cleaning elements in the cleaning chamber 127 can be configured to avoid or prevent the harmful effects from bad brushing habits. For example, conventional brushing can be harmful to the health of tooth enamel and gums, particularly through wear and tear that can be caused by overbrushing. Most users also cannot maintain the correct angle of a conventional toothbrush head.

[0161] As described above, in some embodiments, the cleaner tray 125 is formed so that no bristles come into contact with the gums during brushing. In some embodiments, as previously described, dental cleaning by using the device is performed without abrasive contact with tooth enamel, thereby protecting tooth enamel from wear caused by brushing and scraping.

[0162] Furthermore, customization of the cleaner tray 125 provides for a user-specific cleaning mechanism, thereby providing the ability to accommodate the unique dental conditions of any particular user.

[0163] One aspect of the exemplary embodiments described above includes a toothbrush (dental care) device including a cleaner body defining a cleaning chamber shaped to receive a set of teeth of a user. The device optionally includes an electric drive mechanism mechanically coupled to the cleaner body and configured to apply a driven motion to the cleaner body during reception of the set of teeth in the cleaning chamber to cause cleaning of the set of teeth.

[0164] In some embodiments, the cleaner body is personalized for a specific user, wherein the cleaning chamber substantially corresponds to the dental impression of a corresponding set of teeth. In some embodiments, the cleaner body is configured to receive a specific dental arch group of the user, which is a set of teeth on the corresponding dental arch of the user. In some embodiments, the cleaner body defines a pair of cleaning chambers facing outwards in opposite directions. In this case, each cleaning chamber is optionally shaped and configured to receive the corresponding dental arch group of the user, so as to allow the cleaner body to receive all teeth of the user simultaneously. In some embodiments, the cleaner body is removably and replaceably coupled to the electric drive mechanism.

[0165] In some embodiments, the cleaning chamber is shaped to substantially enclose each tooth received in the cleaning chamber between opposing side walls of the cleaning chamber. In some embodiments, the opposing side walls defining the cleaning chamber are shaped and configured to extend over the respective gum lines of the set of teeth when the set of teeth is fully received in the cleaning chamber.

[0166] In some embodiments, such dental care device further comprises cleaning elements, which are carried by the cleaner body and protrude into the cleaning chamber for contact engagement with the teeth received in the same chamber. In some embodiments, the cleaning elements comprise elongated filamentary elements protruding into the cleaning chamber. In some embodiments, the cleaning elements comprise projections on the chamber walls defining the cleaning chamber. In some embodiments, the projections are integrally constructed with the cleaner body.

[0167] In some embodiments, the arrangement and configuration of the cleaning elements are non-uniform for different areas of the chamber wall defining the cleaning chamber. In some embodiments, the cleaning elements are arranged and configured to achieve a relatively more powerful cleaning action in one or more focus areas. In some embodiments, the one or more focus areas include areas corresponding to the gingival wedge-shaped gaps between adjacent teeth. Alternatively or additionally, the one or more focus areas optionally include areas corresponding to the ends of the dental arches.

[0168] In some embodiments, the changes in the arrangement and configuration of the cleaning elements include a higher density concentration of the cleaning elements in one or more focus areas. Alternatively or additionally, the changes in the arrangement and configuration of the cleaning elements optionally include differences between one or more physical properties of the individual cleaning elements in the one or more focus areas on the one hand and the corresponding physical properties of the individual cleaning elements in other areas on the other hand.

[0169] In some embodiments, the arrangement and configuration of the cleaning elements are customized for a particular user such that at least one of the one or more focus areas corresponds in position to an identified dental problem area corresponding to the particular user.

[0170] In some embodiments, the electric drive mechanism includes a vibrating mechanism for causing driven vibrations of the cleaner body. In some embodiments, the vibrating mechanism is configured to cause sonic and / or subsonic oscillations of the cleaner body. Instead of or in addition, the vibrating mechanism is configured to cause ultrasonic vibrations of the cleaner body. In some embodiments, the vibrating mechanism is configured to enable dental cleaning to be performed via the cleaner body using both sonic cleaning and ultrasonic cleaning.

[0171] Fig. 9is a schematic diagram illustrating a dental care system 900 according to some embodiments. The dental care system 900 includes a dental care device 10, an oral care agent dispenser device 904, a user device 906 (e.g., a smart phone, a tablet computer, a personal computer, etc.), a server system 910, a third-party dental supplier 916, and a third-party dental care provider 918, which are communicatively coupled to each other via one or more networks 908 (e.g., one or more LANs, WANs, and / or the Internet). In some embodiments, the dental care device 10 is directly coupled to the dispenser device 904 and / or the user device 906 (e.g., via a Bluetooth protocol). As will be described below with respect to FIG. 12A to FIG. 12B Discussed in more detail, according to some embodiments, the server system 910 includes a device database 912 and an account database 914 .

[0172] Fig. 10A 1 is a block diagram illustrating a dental care device 10 according to some embodiments. In some implementations, the dental care device 10 includes one or more processors (e.g., CPU, ASIC, FPGA, microprocessor, etc.) 1002, one or more communication interfaces 1026, memory 1030, mouthpiece assembly 12, energy assembly 1020, drive assembly 1016, (multiple) user interfaces 1006, (multiple) sensors 1004, and one or more communication buses 1001 for interconnecting these components (sometimes referred to as chipsets). In some implementations, (multiple) user interfaces 1006 include one or more output devices capable of presenting media content, including one or more LEDs 1010, one or more speakers 1014, and / or one or more visual displays. In some implementations, (multiple) user interfaces 1006 also include one or more input devices, including user interface components that facilitate user input, such as a voice command input unit or microphone 1012, a touch screen display, a touch-sensitive input pad, a gesture capture camera, or other input buttons or controls 1008. Optionally, the dental care device 10 includes a position detection component, such as a GPS (Global Positioning Satellite) or other geo-location receiver, for determining the location of the dental care device 10 .

[0173] Sensors 1004 include, for example, one or more respiratory sensors, thermal radiation sensors, bacteria detection sensors, ambient temperature sensors, humidity sensors, IR sensors, presence sensors (e.g., using RFID sensors), ambient light sensors, motion detectors, accelerometers and / or gyroscopes.

[0174] The communication interface(s) 1026 enable the dental care device 10 to communicate with other devices. In some implementations, the communication interface(s) 1026 are capable of communicating data using any of a variety of custom or standard wireless protocols (e.g., IEEE 802.15.4, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, 6LoWPAN, Thread, Z-Wave, Bluetooth Smart, ISA100.11a, WirelessHART, MiWi, etc.), custom or standard wired protocols (e.g., Ethernet, HomePlug, etc.), and / or any other suitable communication protocols including those not yet developed as of the filing date of this document. In some embodiments, the communication interface(s) 1026 include one or more antennas 1028 configured to communicate data using any of a variety of custom or standard protocols (e.g., the protocols listed above). In some embodiments, the communication interface(s) 1026 include an identity component 1029 configured to transmit (e.g., broadcast) an identifier of the dental care device 10 and / or an identifier of a user of the dental care device 10. In some embodiments, the identity component 1029 includes circuitry, memory, and / or software configured for wireless communication (eg, using Bluetooth or Internet of Things (IoT) protocols). In some embodiments, the identity component 1029 stores a unique identifier of the dental care device 10 .

[0175] According to some embodiments, energy assembly 1020 includes one or more batteries 1022, and optionally one or more charging components 1024. In some embodiments, charging component(s) 1024 include one or more components for implementing inductive charging.

[0176] According to some embodiments, the drive assembly 1016 includes one or more actuators 1018. In some embodiments, the one or more actuators 1018 include one or more piezoelectric actuators and / or one or more electric motors (e.g., magnetic motors, biased weight motors). In some embodiments, the drive assembly 1016 is configured to generate vibrations in the mouthpiece 12.

[0177] Memory 1030 includes high-speed random access memory, such as DRAM, SRAM, DDR RAM, or other random access solid-state memory devices; and optionally, includes non-volatile memory, such as one or more magnetic disk storage devices, one or more optical disk storage devices, one or more flash memory devices, or one or more other non-volatile solid-state storage devices. Memory 1030, or alternatively non-volatile memory within memory 1030, includes non-transitory computer-readable storage media. In some implementations, memory 1030, or non-transitory computer-readable storage media of memory 1030, stores the following programs, modules, and data structures, or a subset or superset thereof:

[0178] Operational logic 1032, including processes for handling various basic system services and for performing hardware-related tasks;

[0179] A communication module 1034 for connecting to and communicating with other network devices (e.g., routers providing Internet connectivity, networked storage devices, network routing devices, server systems 910, distributor devices 904, etc.) that are connected to one or more networks 908 via one or more communication interfaces 1026 (wired or wireless);

[0180] An interface module 1036 for detecting one or more user inputs or interactions and interpreting the detected inputs or interactions, and for providing and displaying a user interface in which settings, captured data, and / or other data may be configured and / or viewed;

[0181] A drive module 1038 for operating the drive component 1016, for example, according to one or more drive profiles 1048;

[0182] A user module 1039 for managing user information, such as user preferences, user settings, user dental information, user identifiers, user driven profiles, user assigned profiles, etc. (e.g., a HIPPA compliant module); and

[0183] Database 1040, which stores data associated with the dental care device, including but not limited to:

[0184] o A user database 1042 that stores information related to user accounts of dental care devices, such as user settings 1044 (e.g., user interface settings and display preferences), user dental information, cached login credentials, device identifiers (e.g., MAC address and UUID), authentication tokens and tags, cryptographic keys, etc.; and

[0185] o Device information 1046, which stores information related to the dental care device 10 and optionally associated devices such as the dispenser device 904 and the user device 906, including one or more drive profiles 1048 associated with the user(s) of the dental care device.

[0186] Each of the elements specified above can be stored in one or more memory devices in the previously mentioned memory devices, and corresponds to an instruction set for performing the functions described above. The modules or programs (e.g., instruction sets) specified above do not need to be implemented as separate software programs, processes or modules, and therefore in various implementations, various subsets of these modules can be combined or otherwise rearranged. In some implementations, memory 1030 optionally stores a subset of the modules and data structures specified above. In addition, memory 1030 optionally stores additional modules and data structures not described above, such as a charging module configured to operate energy component 1020.

[0187] In some embodiments, Fig. 10A One or more of the components shown are located within a bracket (or mount) of the dental care device 10. For example, one or more components are disposed within the bracket 18 ( Figure 1A In some embodiments, one or more elements of the user interface(s) 1006 are positioned on a support (e.g., Figure 1A In some embodiments, Fig. 10A One or more of the components shown in are located within a housing of the dental care device 10 (eg, within the base unit 750 or the housing 815 ).

[0188] Fig. 10B is a diagram illustrating a method for communicating with Fig. 10A 1048-1 and 1048-2 illustrate two example profiles (e.g., constructed for two different people based on the dental details of each user). In some embodiments, the frequency and timing of the drive profile 1048 are adjusted for each user based on the user's dental health, tooth geometry, age, etc. In some embodiments, the frequency includes one or more sonic frequencies and / or one or more ultrasonic frequencies.

[0189] Fig.11is a block diagram illustrating an oral care agent dispenser device 904 according to some embodiments. In some implementations, the dispenser device 904 includes one or more processors (e.g., CPU, ASIC, FPGA, microprocessor, etc.) 1102, one or more communication interfaces 1126, memory 1130, energy component 1120, drive component 1116, (multiple) user interfaces 1106, (multiple) sensors 1104, and one or more communication buses 1101 for interconnecting these components (sometimes referred to as chipsets). In some implementations, (multiple) user interfaces 1106 include one or more output devices capable of presenting media content, including one or more LEDs 1110, one or more speakers 1114, and / or one or more visual displays. In some implementations, (multiple) user interfaces 1106 also include one or more input devices, including user interface components that facilitate user input, such as a voice command input unit or microphone 1112, a touch screen display, a touch-sensitive input pad, a gesture capture camera, or other input buttons or controls 1108. Optionally, the dispenser device 904 includes a location detection component, such as a GPS (Global Positioning Satellite) or other geo-location receiver, for determining the location of the dispenser device 904 (eg, for ordering oral care ingredients).

[0190] Sensors 1104 include, for example, thermal radiation sensors, ambient temperature sensors, humidity sensors, IR sensors, presence sensors (e.g., using RFID sensors, barcode readers, passive infrared (PIR) sensors), ambient light sensors, motion detectors, accelerometers, and / or gyroscopes.

[0191] The communication interface(s) 1126 enable the dispenser device 904 to communicate with other devices (e.g., the dental care device 10). In some implementations, the communication interface(s) 1126 are capable of communicating data using any of a variety of custom or standard wireless protocols (e.g., IEEE 802.15.4, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, 6LoWPAN, Thread, Z-Wave, Bluetooth Smart, ISA100.11a, WirelessHART, MiWi, etc.), custom or standard wired protocols (e.g., Ethernet, HomePlug, etc.), and / or any other suitable communication protocols including those not yet developed as of the filing date of this document. In some embodiments, the communication interface(s) 1126 include one or more antennas 1128 configured for data communication using any of a variety of custom or standard protocols (e.g., the protocols listed above). In some embodiments, the communication interface(s) 1126 include an identity component 1129 configured to transmit (e.g., broadcast) an identifier of the dispenser device 904 and / or an identifier of a user of the dispenser device. In some embodiments, the identity component 1129 includes circuitry, memory, and / or software configured for wireless communication (eg, using Bluetooth or Internet of Things (IoT) protocols). In some embodiments, the identity component 1129 stores a unique identifier of the dispenser device 904 .

[0192] According to some embodiments, the energy assembly 1120 optionally includes one or more batteries 1022, and one or more charging components 1024 (eg, for coupling to an AC adapter). In some embodiments, the charging component(s) 1024 include one or more components for inductively charging the dental care device.

[0193] According to some embodiments, the drive assembly 1116 includes one or more actuators 1118. In some embodiments, the one or more actuators 1118 include one or more piezoelectric actuators and / or one or more electric motors. In some embodiments, the drive assembly 1116 is configured to combine and dispense toothpaste or oral care ingredients (e.g., according to a dispensing profile 1148).

[0194] Memory 1130 includes high-speed random access memory, such as DRAM, SRAM, DDR RAM, or other random access solid-state memory devices; and optionally, includes non-volatile memory, such as one or more magnetic disk storage devices, one or more optical disk storage devices, one or more flash memory devices, or one or more other non-volatile solid-state storage devices. Memory 1130, or alternatively non-volatile memory within memory 1130, includes non-transitory computer-readable storage media. In some implementations, memory 1130, or non-transitory computer-readable storage media of memory 1130, stores the following programs, modules, and data structures, or a subset or superset thereof:

[0195] Operational logic 1132, including processes for handling various basic system services and for performing hardware-related tasks;

[0196] A communication module 1134 for connecting to and communicating with other network devices (e.g., a router providing an Internet connection, a networked storage device, a network routing device, a server system 910, a dental care device 10, a dental care device 100, etc.) that are connected to one or more networks 908 via the communication interface(s) 1126 (wired or wireless);

[0197] An interface module 1136 for detecting one or more user inputs or interactions and interpreting the detected inputs or interactions, and for providing and displaying a user interface in which settings, captured data, and / or other data may be configured and / or viewed;

[0198] An allocation module 1138 for operating the drive component 1116, for example, according to one or more allocation profiles 1148;

[0199] A user module 1139 for managing user information, such as user preferences, user settings, user dental information, user identifiers, user driven profiles, user assigned profiles, etc. (e.g., a HIPPA compliant module); and

[0200] Database 1140, which stores data associated with the dental care device, including but not limited to:

[0201] o A user database 1142 that stores information related to user accounts of dental care devices, such as user settings 1144 (e.g., user interface settings and display preferences), user dental information, cached login credentials, device identifiers (e.g., MAC address and UUID), authentication tokens and tags, cryptographic keys, etc.; and

[0202] o Device information 1146, which stores information related to the dispenser device 904 and optionally associated devices such as the dental care device 10, the dental care device 100, and the user device 906, including one or more dispensing profiles 1148 associated with the user(s) of the dispenser device.

[0203] Each of the elements specified above can be stored in one or more memory devices in the previously mentioned memory devices, and corresponds to an instruction set for performing the functions described above. The modules or programs (e.g., instruction sets) specified above do not need to be implemented as separate software programs, processes or modules, and therefore in various implementations, various subsets of these modules can be combined or otherwise rearranged. In some implementations, memory 1130 optionally stores a subset of the modules and data structures specified above. In addition, memory 1130 optionally stores additional modules and data structures not described above, such as a charging module configured to operate energy component 1120.

[0204] FIG. 12A to FIG. 12B 1 is a block diagram illustrating a server system 910 according to some embodiments. In some implementations, the server system 910 includes one or more processors (e.g., CPU, ASIC, FPGA, microprocessor, etc.) 1102, one or more network interfaces 1204, memory 1208, and one or more communication buses 1206 for interconnecting these components (sometimes referred to as chipsets). In some implementations, the server system 910 includes one or more (multiple) user interfaces including one or more output devices and / or one or more input devices.

[0205] The network interface(s) 1204 enable the server system 910 to communicate with other devices (e.g., the dental care device 10 and / or the dispenser device 904). In some implementations, the network interface(s) 1204 are capable of communicating data using any of a variety of custom or standard wireless protocols (e.g., IEEE 802.15.4, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, 6LoWPAN, Thread, Z-Wave, Bluetooth Smart, ISA100.11a, WirelessHART, MiWi, etc.), custom or standard wired protocols (e.g., Ethernet, HomePlug, etc.), and / or any other suitable communication protocols, including those not yet developed as of the filing date of this document.

[0206] Memory 1208 includes high-speed random access memory, such as DRAM, SRAM, DDR RAM, or other random access solid-state memory devices; and optionally, includes non-volatile memory, such as one or more magnetic disk storage devices, one or more optical disk storage devices, one or more flash memory devices, or one or more other non-volatile solid-state storage devices. Memory 1208, or alternatively non-volatile memory within memory 1208, includes non-transitory computer-readable storage media. In some implementations, memory 1208, or non-transitory computer-readable storage media of memory 1208, stores the following programs, modules, and data structures, or a subset or superset thereof:

[0207] Operating system 1210, including processes for handling various basic system services and for performing hardware-related tasks;

[0208] A network communication module 1212 for connecting the server system 910 to other systems and devices (e.g., client devices, dental care devices, dispenser devices, electronic devices, and systems connected to one or more networks 908) via one or more network interfaces 1204 (wired or wireless);

[0209] a device management module 1214 for managing a plurality of dental care devices (e.g., dental care devices 10 and / or dental care devices 100), dispenser devices 904, and / or other user devices (e.g., associated mobile devices), including sending, receiving, and processing data from these devices;

[0210] A third party management module 1214 for managing associated third parties, such as third party dental care providers 918 and third party dental suppliers 916, including sending, receiving and processing data from third party devices;

[0211] A user module 1213 for managing user information, such as user preferences, user settings, user dental information, user identifiers, user driven profiles, user assigned profiles, etc. (e.g., a HIPPA compliant module); and

[0212] Database 1216, including but not limited to:

[0213] o Account information 1218 for storing account information for user accounts, including user profiles 1220, user account information, information and settings for linked devices and electronic devices (e.g., device identification), device-specific secrets, relevant user and hardware characteristics (e.g., service tier, device model, storage capacity, processing power, etc.), user interface settings, dental health information, dental provider information, etc.;

[0214] o Device information 1222 for storing data associated with each electronic device (e.g., each dental care device 10) for each user account, and a data processing model associated with the data, processed data results, and other relevant metadata (e.g., name of the data result, location of the electronic device, duration, settings of the electronic device, etc.), wherein (optionally) all or a portion of the data and / or processing associated with the dental care device is securely stored, and / or for storing device information associated with one or more dental care devices, such as device identifiers and device-specific secrets, regardless of whether the corresponding device has been associated with any user account; and

[0215] o Inventory information 1224 for storing inventory information of associated dental care devices, dispenser devices, oral care ingredients, manufacturing information, and / or molds.

[0216] Each of the elements specified above can be stored in one or more memory devices in the previously mentioned memory devices, and corresponds to an instruction set for performing the functions described above. The modules or programs (e.g., instruction sets) specified above do not need to be implemented as separate software programs, processes or modules, and therefore in various implementations, various subsets of these modules can be combined or otherwise rearranged. In some implementations, memory 1208 optionally stores a subset of the modules and data structures specified above. In addition, memory 1208 optionally stores additional modules and data structures not described above.

[0217] Fig. 12B Various data structures used by the server system 910 in some embodiments are illustrated, including a user profile 1220-j and a device profile 1222-k. The user profile 1220-j corresponds to a user 'j' associated with the dental system 900, such as a user of the dental care device 10, a user of the dental care device 100, a user of the dispenser device 904, etc. In some embodiments, the user profile 1220-j includes user preferences 1226, user settings 1228, user dental information 1230, driver profile information 1232, associated device information 1234, and associated oral care agent information 1236, and associated dental professional information 1238. In some embodiments, the user profile 1220-j includes only a subset of the above data. In some embodiments, the user profile 1220-j includes additional user information not shown, such as information about other users associated with user 'j'.

[0218] The user preferences 1226 include explicit user preferences entered by the user and implicit and / or inferred user preferences determined by the dental system 900 (e.g., the server system 910 and / or the dental care device 10). In some embodiments, the inferred user preferences are based on historical user activity and / or historical activity of other users. The user settings 1228 include information about settings set by user 'j', such as notification settings, device settings, etc. In some embodiments, the user settings 1228 include device settings for a device associated with user 'j'. In some embodiments, the user dental information 1230 includes one or more dental images (e.g., x-rays or visual images), dental records, geometric information of the teeth and / or jaws of user 'j'. In some embodiments, the drive profile information 1232 includes frequency and timing information for operation of the dental care device of user 'j' (e.g., depicting Fig. 10B 1048).

[0219] The associated device information 1234 includes information about devices associated with user 'j', such as dental care devices, dispenser devices, and / or mobile devices (e.g., mobile devices on which associated dental applications are installed). In some embodiments, the associated device information 1234 includes a link, pointer, or reference to the corresponding device profile 1222. The associated oral care agent information 1236 includes information about oral care agents associated with user 'j', such as oral care agent formulas for user 'j'. The associated dental professional information 1238 includes information about dental professionals (e.g., dentists and dental hygienists) associated with user 'j'.

[0220] The device profile 1222-k corresponds to a device 'k' associated with the dental system 900, such as a dental care device, a dispenser device, a mobile device, etc. In some embodiments, the device profile 1222-k includes device settings 1240, associated device information 1242, associated user information 1244, and associated driver profile(s) 1246. In some embodiments, the device profile 1222-k includes only a subset of the above data. In some embodiments, the device profile 1222-k includes additional device information not shown, such as information about whether the device is currently active.

[0221] The device settings 1240 include information about the current settings of the device 'k', such as operating mode information, etc. In some embodiments, the device settings 1240 are user-specific and are set by the corresponding user of the device 'k'. The associated device information 1242 includes information about other devices associated with the device 'k', such as other devices assigned to the same user as the device 'k'. In some embodiments, the associated device information 1242 includes a link, pointer or reference to a corresponding device profile 1222 corresponding to the associated device.

[0222] The associated user information 1244 includes information about users associated with the device, such as users who operate the device, receive notifications from the device, users registered with the device, etc. In some embodiments, the associated user information 1244 includes a link, pointer, or reference to the user profile 1220 corresponding to the associated user. The associated driver profile(s) 1246 includes information about driver profiles associated with the device 'k' and / or users of the device.

[0223] Fig.13A is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of the present invention according to some embodiments Fig. 10A A table of example frequencies for various representative operating modes of a dental care device. Fig.13A In the example, 300 Hz corresponds to the flapping in-phase mode, 400 Hz corresponds to the flapping out-of-phase mode, 500 Hz corresponds to the sweeping mode, and 1100 Hz corresponds to the torsion mode. FIG. 13B to FIG. 13G Describe the various modes in more detail.

[0224] FIG. 13B to FIG. 13G is a schematic diagram illustrating representative vibration modes of a representative dental care device (e.g., dental care device 10) according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, such as the mouthpiece assembly 12 ( Figure 1A ) and a structural plate (sometimes also referred to as a chassis) 44 are configured to have one or more characteristic vibration modes, sometimes referred to as resonant modes, that occur at corresponding natural frequencies of the structure. For example, the structure can be configured to have characteristic modes that occur at natural frequencies f1, f2, f3, ..., fn, respectively, where f1 is the fundamental frequency of the fundamental (e.g., lowest frequency) characteristic mode, and f2-fn are the frequencies of corresponding higher-order characteristic modes; although f2-fn can be harmonics of f1, they do not have to be.

[0225] When excited at such a natural frequency by a vibration source, such as a drive assembly 1016 (e.g., a motor with an unbalanced weight attached to its main shaft), the structure vibrates in a predictable pattern. In some embodiments, the structure is configured to vibrate in a corresponding desired pattern at each of one or more selected natural frequencies. Each pattern depends on the physical properties of the structure. Examples of such physical properties include the size of the structure, the shape of the structure, the material from which the structure is formed, the mass distribution of the structure, and the stiffness of the structure. In some embodiments, different profiles operate at different frequencies and / or amplitudes. In some cases and embodiments, different frequencies change the location and amount of motion as the motion approaches a resonance point. In some embodiments, the drive frequency changes during a cleaning cycle according to a preset drive profile.

[0226] In some embodiments, one or more of such physical characteristics of the chassis 44 are selected to configure the chassis, and therefore the mouthpiece assembly 12, to vibrate in a corresponding desired pattern at each of one or more selected frequencies, wherein each characteristic vibration mode corresponds to a corresponding cleaning mode of the tooth cleaning device 14, e.g. Fig.13A shown.

[0227] refer to Fig. 13B , when the chassis 44 is operating in a first characteristic mode 50 corresponding to a frequency f1, the chassis arms 46 and 48 oscillate, e.g., flap up and down in phase, in response to a first excitation frequency (e.g., from one or more actuators in the electronics enclosure 16), and thus apply an in-phase up-and-down flapping motion to the upper nozzle 40 and the lower nozzle 42. As used herein, "in phase" means that the front edges 51 and 53 of the chassis arms 46 and 48, respectively, have approximately the same z-axis coordinate at any given moment. In some embodiments, the frequency f1 is in the approximate range of 90 to 400 Hz, and the excitation frequency generated by the one or more motors is approximately equal to f1. When the excitation frequency is not equal to f1, then the arms 46 and 48 of the chassis 44, and therefore the nozzle assembly 12, can flap up and down at the excitation frequency.

[0228] refer to Fig. 13C, when the chassis 44 is operated in a second characteristic mode 52 corresponding to frequency f2, the arms 46 and 48 oscillate, e.g., flap up and down out of phase, in response to a second excitation frequency from the one or more motors in the electronics enclosure 16, and thus apply an out-of-phase up and down flapping motion to the upper nozzle 40 and the lower nozzle 42. As used herein, "out of phase" means that the leading edges 51 and 53 of the arms 46 and 48 have approximately the same value but different signs at any given time. For example, at time 't', the leading edge 51 of the arm 46 may have a z-coordinate of approximately +1, and the leading edge 53 of the arm 48 may have a z-coordinate of approximately -1. In some embodiments, the frequency f2 is in the approximate range of 180 to 500 Hz and may be a harmonic of f1 (although this is not required), and the excitation frequency generated by the one or more motors is approximately equal to f2. When the excitation frequency is not equal to f2, then the arms 46 and 48 of the chassis 44, and therefore the nozzle assembly 12, may flap up and down at the excitation frequency.

[0229] refer to Fig.13D , when chassis 44 operates in a third characteristic mode 54 occurring at frequency f3, arms 46 and 48 sweep out of phase toward and away from each other in the x-dimension in response to a third excitation frequency from the one or more motors in electronics enclosure 16, and thus apply out of phase sweeping motions to upper nozzle 40 and lower nozzle 42. Out of phase, in this example, means that corresponding points on the inner edges 56 and 58 of arms 46 and 48 have approximately the same displacement in the x-dimension at any given time, but have different signs. For example, at time 't', a point on edge 56 has a displacement of approximately +1 in the x-dimension, and a corresponding point on edge 58 has a displacement of approximately -1 in the x-dimension. Corresponding points on the outer edges 60 and 62 of chassis arms 44 and 46 are likewise out of phase. In some embodiments, frequency f3 is in the approximate range of 270 to 600 Hz and may be a harmonic of f1 (although this is not required), and the excitation frequency produced by the one or more motors is approximately equal to f3. When the excitation frequency is not equal to f3, then the arms 46 and 48 of the chassis 44, and therefore the nozzle assembly 12, may sweep back and forth at the excitation frequency.

[0230] refer to Fig.13E, when chassis 44 operates in a fourth characteristic mode 64 corresponding to frequency f4, chassis arms 46 and 48 sweep in phase with each other in the x-dimension in response to a fourth excitation frequency from the one or more motors in electronics enclosure 16, and thus apply an in-phase sweeping motion to upper nozzle 40 and lower nozzle 42. In this example, in-phase means that corresponding points on the inner edges 56 and 58 of arms 44 and 46 have approximately the same displacement of the same sign in the x-dimension at any given time. For example, at time 't', a point on edge 56 has a displacement of approximately +1 in the x-dimension, and a corresponding point on edge 58 also has a displacement of approximately +1 in the x-dimension. Corresponding points on the outer edges 60 and 62 of chassis arms 46 and 48 are likewise in phase. In some embodiments, frequency f4 is in the approximate range of 360 to 700 Hz and may be a harmonic of f1 (although this is not required), and the excitation frequency generated by the one or more motors is approximately equal to f4. When the excitation frequency is not equal to f4, then the arms 46 and 48 of the chassis 44, and therefore the nozzle assembly 12, may sweep back and forth at the excitation frequency.

[0231] refer to Fig.13F , when chassis 44 operates in fifth eigenmode 66 corresponding to frequency f5, arms 46 and 48 twist in phase about respective axes 68 and 70 in response to a fifth excitation frequency from the one or more motors in electronics enclosure 16, and thus impart in-phase torsional motion to upper and lower nozzles 40 and 42. In this example, in phase means that the z-coordinates of corresponding points at inner edges 56 and 58 of arms 46 and 48 have approximately the same value and the same sign at any given moment. For example, at time 't', a point at edge 56 has a z-coordinate of approximately +1, and a corresponding point at edge 58 also has a z-coordinate of approximately +1. Corresponding points at outer edges 60 and 62 of chassis arms 46 and 48 are likewise in phase. In some embodiments, frequency f5 is in the approximate range of 810 to 1200 Hz and may be a harmonic of f1 (although this is not required), and the excitation frequency produced by the one or more motors is approximately equal to fs. If the excitation frequency is not equal to fs, the arms 46 and 48 of the chassis 44, and therefore the mouthpiece assembly 12, may twist at the excitation frequency.

[0232] refer to Figure 13G, when chassis 44 operates in a sixth eigenmode 72 corresponding to frequency f6, chassis arms 46 and 48 twist out of phase about respective axes 68 and 70 in response to a sixth excitation frequency from the one or more motors in electronics enclosure 16, and thus apply out of phase torsional motion to upper and lower nozzles 40 and 42. Out of phase, in this example, means that the z-coordinates of corresponding points at inner edges 56 and 58 of chassis arms 46 and 48 have approximately the same value and different signs at any given time. For example, at time 't', a point at edge 56 has a z-coordinate of approximately +1, and a corresponding point at edge 58 has a z-coordinate of approximately -1. Corresponding points at outer edges 60 and 62 of chassis arms 46 and 48 are likewise out of phase. In some embodiments, frequency f6 is in the approximate range of 900 to 1300 Hz and may be a harmonic of f1 (although this is not required), and the excitation frequency produced by the one or more motors is approximately equal to f6. When the excitation frequency is not equal to f6, then the arms 46 and 48 of the chassis 44, and therefore the mouthpiece assembly 12, may twist at the excitation frequency.

[0233] refer to FIG. 13A to FIG. 13G In some embodiments, the teeth cleaning device 14 is configured such that the electronic circuit causes the chassis 44, and therefore the mouthpiece assembly 12, to clean through a plurality of cleaning modes by varying the excitation frequency generated by the one or more motors in the electronics housing 16 at respective configurable times relative to the start-up time, e.g., according to the drive profile 1048. In some embodiments, the electronics housing 16 includes a button or other input device that enables a user to manually select a cleaning mode, or manually step through a sequence for which the teeth cleaning device 14 is configured.

[0234] In some embodiments, the device 14 is capable of FIG. 13A to FIG. 13G The invention also provides a method for operating the nozzle assembly 12 in one or more cleaning modes described herein (e.g., the center of the nozzle assembly 12 is vibrating rather than the end). In some cases, the natural frequency range of one or more of these modes may be different from that described. In some embodiments, the above modes are ordered differently with respect to the natural frequencies (e.g., the torsional mode has a lower natural frequency than the sweeping or flapping mode).

[0235] In some embodiments, the mouthpiece assembly 12 is configured to take into account the physical properties (e.g., mass) of the elastic polymer so that the cleaning pattern has the desired characteristics. In some embodiments, the chassis 44 is configured to have a pattern customized for a specific person. In some embodiments, the chassis 44 is formed via an automated process, such as by using a computer-aided design tool. In some embodiments, the electronic circuitry (e.g., drive assembly 1016) in the electronics enclosure 16 is configured to drive one or more motors to cause multiple characteristic patterns simultaneously.

[0236] Although reference FIG. 13A to FIG. 13G The natural frequency range of the characteristic modes is described as being within the sonic frequency range (e.g., <20 KHz), but in some embodiments, one or more of these characteristic modes have a corresponding fundamental frequency within the ultrasonic frequency range (e.g., >20 KHz), or have one or more frequency components (e.g., fundamental and harmonics) within the sonic frequency range and one or more other frequency components within the ultrasonic frequency range. Having at least one characteristic mode having at least one frequency component within the ultrasonic frequency range can facilitate the removal of plaque from teeth and other parts of the oral cavity, as described above.

[0237] In some embodiments, the characteristic patterns, the excitation frequencies of the characteristic patterns, and the sequence of characteristic patterns experienced by the tooth cleaning device 14 are customized to the user (eg, according to a customized drive profile).

[0238] For example, the user can use the teeth cleaning device 14 with the initial mode and sequence settings for a period of time (e.g., three months) and go to the dentist for inspection, and if the dentist believes that the cleaning efficacy of the teeth cleaning device can be improved for this person, the dentist can modify the settings. The user and the dentist can repeat this process of checking and modifying the settings for multiple times, the number of times the dentist or user believes is necessary to maximize the cleaning efficacy of the teeth cleaning device 14 to this person. Alternatively, the process of checking and modifying the settings can occur via the Internet / cloud. For example, instead of visiting the dentist, the user can take a photo of his / her mouth and teeth with the teeth cleaning device 14 or with another device (e.g., a smart phone), and upload the photo to the dentist, who can modify the settings of the teeth cleaning device via the Internet / cloud. Alternatively, the user or the teeth cleaning device 14 can capture information that is different from or in addition to the photo information, wherein this other information indicates the cleaning efficacy of the teeth cleaning device, and the user or the teeth cleaning device can provide this information to the user's dentist via the Internet / cloud. In the case where the tooth cleaning device 14 automatically provides this information to the dentist (e.g., via a wireless router in the user's home), then this process of reviewing and modifying the settings can be transparent to that person. Yet another parameter that the dentist can modify is the formula of the customized toothpaste or other oral care agent that the user uses when cleaning his / her teeth with the tooth cleaning device 14.

[0239] In some embodiments, the properties (eg, density, thickness, shape) of arms 46 and 48 of chassis 44 are configured to induce localized complex modal structures that in turn produce localized variations in vibration amplitude and velocity during one or more eigenmodes.

[0240] FIG. 14A to FIG. 14Bare partially exploded front and rear views, respectively, of a dental care device, such as the dental care device 10, according to some embodiments. Fig.14A According to some embodiments, electronics enclosure 16 includes a cylindrical chamber 30 for receiving and housing a drive assembly (eg, drive assembly 1016). In some embodiments, the drive assembly is mounted directly to a printed circuit board on which the electronic circuitry is mounted.

[0241] In some embodiments, the drive assembly includes one or more vibration motors configured to move the mouthpiece assembly 12 according to one or more vibration (characteristic) cleaning modes. For example, the spindle of each motor can be equipped with a corresponding unbalanced (e.g., unevenly distributed radially, circumferentially, or both radially and circumferentially relative to the spindle) weight that causes the motor to vibrate sinusoidally at a frequency related to the angular velocity wt of the spindle rotation according to the following equation:

[0242] (1) R(t) = Asin(wt)

[0243] Equation 1 – Angular Velocity

[0244] Where R(t) is the radial displacement of the spindle as a function of time at a fixed angular position about the spindle. By setting the angular velocity of the motor, the electronic circuitry within the electronics enclosure 16 can set the frequency of R(t), and thus can select one or more characteristic modes of operation of the mouthpiece assembly 20. Thus, the tooth cleaning device 14 is configured to have unique characteristics that exploit the dynamics of a vibrating machine.

[0245] Still reference Fig.14A , alternative embodiments of the electronics enclosure 16 are contemplated. For example, the electronics enclosure 16 may be configured to house fewer than or more than two motors. Furthermore, where the electronics enclosure 16 houses two or more motors, each motor may have any suitable respective orientation relative to any other motor, even if such suitable respective orientation is not a parallel orientation. For example, the main axis of one motor may be at an angle to the main axis of another motor, wherein the angle is less than 180°.

[0246] In addition, at least one of these motors can have a different size than one or more of the other motors. In addition, in at least one cleaning mode, at least one of these motors can operate at a different speed than one or more of the other motors.

[0247] See also FIG. 14A to FIG. 14B, the mouthpiece assembly 12 includes an upper mouthpiece 40, a lower mouthpiece 42 and a chassis 44, to which the upper mouthpiece and the lower mouthpiece are attached or otherwise fixed. The upper mouthpiece 40 is designed to clean the upper group or upper row of the user's teeth. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece 40 is made of any suitable material, such as a flexible material, like medical / dental grade silicone or an elastic polymer. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece 40 is designed to be customized with the upper teeth and upper jaw of the person. According to some embodiments, the upper mouthpiece 40 has a rear surface of a specific shape, which is configured to be attached to the upper side of the chassis 44 in any suitable manner (such as by an adhesive or a fastener). In some embodiments, the mouthpiece assembly 12 is configured to perform gum massage of both the upper and lower gums (e.g., on the inner and outer gum lines - to the middle and distal). In some cases, gum massage increases circulation in the gums, and thus improves the gum health of the user.

[0248] In some embodiments, the lower mouthpiece 42 is designed to clean the lower group or row of the user's teeth. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece 42 is made of any suitable material, such as a flexible material, like silicone or an elastic polymer. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece 42 is designed to be custom-fitted with a person's lower teeth and jaw. According to some embodiments, the lower mouthpiece 42 has a specifically shaped rear surface that is configured to be attached to the underside of the chassis 44 in any suitable manner, such as by an adhesive or fastener.

[0249] According to some embodiments, chassis 44 includes two arms 46 and 48 and is coupled to one or more motors housed in electronics enclosure 16 in a manner that allows the one or more motors, when activated, to induce one or more characteristic modes in the chassis and, therefore, one or more cleaning modes in mouthpiece assembly 12. In some embodiments, chassis 44 is made of any suitable material, such as a polymer, plastic, or metal, and can have any suitable shape and size.

[0250] In some embodiments, the teeth cleaning device 14 is configured as a single integral unit so that the components of the teeth cleaning device (e.g., the mouthpiece assembly 12) are not independently replaceable. Therefore, when the device 14 is worn, the user replaces the entire device. For example, the single integral unit teeth cleaning device 14 can be designed to be replaced approximately every 3-6 months.

[0251] In some embodiments, the tooth cleaning device 14 is configured so that one or more of its components are independently replaceable. For example, the device 14 can be configured so that the mouthpiece assembly 12 is replaceable. Alternatively, the device 14 can be configured so that the upper mouthpiece 40 and the lower mouthpiece 42 are independently replaceable. For example, the mouthpiece assembly 12, or the upper mouthpiece and the lower mouthpiece can each be designed to be replaced approximately every 3-6 months.

[0252] In some embodiments, the tooth cleaning device 14 is configured to indicate to the user that it is time to replace the device or one or more components of the device (e.g., the upper mouthpiece 40 and the lower mouthpiece 42). In some embodiments, the electronic circuit in the electronic device housing 16 counts the number of times the tooth cleaning device 14 is activated for use by a particular person, compares the count value with a count threshold, and generates a replacement time indicator (e.g., sound, light, special vibration pattern, an indicator uploaded to the user's smartphone via the cloud) in response to the count value being equal to or exceeding the threshold. In some embodiments, the electronic circuit is configured to generate a replacement time warning (e.g., sound, light, special vibration pattern, an indicator uploaded to the user's smartphone via the cloud) in response to the difference between the count value and the count threshold being less than or equal to the difference threshold. In some embodiments, the electronic circuit is configured to generate a cloud order for replacing the mouthpiece 40 or 42 or replacing the mouthpiece assembly 12 (e.g., via a smart phone or a mobile device communicatively linked to the device 14), so that the user has received the replacement before the mouthpiece 40 or 42 or the mouthpiece assembly 12 is about to be replaced. In some embodiments, at least one of the upper mouthpiece 40 and the lower mouthpiece 42 is configured to exhibit a particular wear pattern (e.g., change color) to notify the user that it is time to replace the device 14 or one or more of its components. In some embodiments, the device 14 is configured to use any other suitable technology to determine when to replace the device or its components and indicate that time to a person.

[0253] In some embodiments, the chassis 44 has a wider or narrower width than the mouthpieces 40 and 42. In some embodiments, the upper mouthpiece 40 and the lower mouthpiece 42 are formed as an integral mouthpiece unit having a recess configured to receive the chassis so that the mouthpiece unit can be slid onto the chassis.

[0254] FIG. 15A to FIG. 15D is a schematic diagram of a representative dental care device according to some embodiments. According to some embodiments, the upper mouthpiece 40 includes cleaning tips 80 that are configured to contact the user's teeth and remove material (e.g., plaque, tartar, food particles, food debris, stains, bacteria, viruses) from the user's tooth surfaces during operation of the tooth cleaning device 14 (e.g., when the one or more motors in the electronics housing 16 drive the mouthpiece assembly 12 in a cleaning mode).

[0255] According to some embodiments, lower mouth 42 also comprises cleaning end 80. According to some embodiments, cleaning end 80 protrudes from the inner wall of mouth 40 and 42, and is integrated with corresponding mouth. In certain embodiments, cleaning end 80 is formed by any suitable material, such as silicone or elastic polymer. In certain embodiments, one or more cleaning ends in the cleaning end are attached to or otherwise fixed to corresponding mouth. For example, a hole can be formed on the wall of the mouth, and cleaning end 80 can be installed in the hole. Cleaning end 80 can be similar to the traditional bristles of a traditional toothbrush, but as described below, cleaning end can be significantly different from traditional bristles.

[0256] Each cleaning end 80 can have any size, shape and other characteristics that are suitable for cleaning teeth.In certain embodiments, cleaning end 80 is customized to configure for specific user's dentition (for example, tooth and jaw geometry).In certain embodiments, the cleaning end 80 of a position has a size different from the cleaning end of another position or a different shape, and / or the cleaning end of a position is configured to vibrate or otherwise move differently from the cleaning end of another position during cleaning mode.In certain embodiments, one or more cleaning ends in the cleaning end 80 have a shape that includes paddle-shaped, circular, tubular, fin-shaped, cone-shaped, trapezoidal and pyramidal.Cleaning end 80 is solid or partially hollow alternatively.For example, cleaning end 80 can be a solid protrusion or a hollow protrusion on the surface of corresponding mouth in mouth 40 and 42.

[0257] In some embodiments, the surface of the cleaning end 80 is an extension of the surface of the corresponding mouthpiece in the mouthpieces 40 and 42. In some embodiments, the cleaning endpiece 80 configured to extend between two user teeth is elongated, and different cleaning ends are configured to vibrate at different speeds and amplitudes according to tooth type and tooth surface. In some embodiments, the cleaning endpiece 80, and other characteristics (e.g., local stiffness) of the mouthpieces 40 and 42, and the characteristic mode of the tooth cleaning device 14 are configured to provide a vibration pattern that achieves excellent cleaning of each tooth of the user.

[0258] According to some embodiments, the operation of the teeth cleaning device 14 is described below. First, the user grasps the electronics housing 16 with his / her hand or fingertips and inserts the mouthpiece assembly 12 into his / her mouth, with the upper mouthpiece 40 facing upward and the lower mouthpiece 42 facing downward. Before inserting the mouthpiece assembly 12 into his / her mouth, the user optionally dispenses toothpaste or another oral care agent into the groove formed by the upper mouthpiece 40 and the lower mouthpiece 42. Next, the user gently bites down on the mouthpiece assembly 12 to bring the upper mouthpiece 40 and the lower mouthpiece 42 together with his / her upper and lower groups of teeth, respectively. The user then activates the teeth cleaning device 14, for example, by pressing a button on the electronics housing 16. After activating the device 14, the user can continue to hold the electronics housing 16, or can release the electronics housing so that the user holds the device in place with only his / her mouth.

[0259] In this example, in response to the user activating the teeth cleaning device 14, the electronic circuit in the electronics housing 16 activates the one or more motors in the electronics housing and causes the motors to excite the mouthpiece assembly 12 at a frequency f1, which causes the mouthpiece assembly to move according to the first cleaning mode. Next, after a set time that can be optionally configured (e.g., by programming the time into the teeth cleaning device electronic circuit), the electronic circuit in the electronics housing 16 causes the one or more motors in the electronics housing 16 to excite the mouthpiece assembly 12 at a frequency f2, which causes the mouthpiece assembly to move according to the second cleaning mode.

[0260] In this example, the electronic circuit in the electronics housing 16 continues to step through the cleaning modes (if there are more than two cleaning modes) until it cycles through all of the cleaning modes in one cycle, which cleaning modes can be programmed into the electronic circuit of the teeth cleaning device. The electronic circuit in the electronics housing 16 then automatically deactivates the teeth cleaning device 14, causing the device to stop moving. The user then recognizes the cessation of movement of the teeth cleaning device 14 as the end of the cleaning cycle and removes the device from his / her mouth. The device effectively automatically cleans the dentition without any direct user intervention.

[0261] In some embodiments, the electronics housing 16 is made long enough to enable a user to grasp it with his / her hand as the user grasps a conventional toothbrush handle. In some embodiments, the electronic circuitry in the electronics housing 16 activates a particular cleaning mode more than once during a cleaning cycle. In some embodiments, the electronic circuitry in the electronics housing 16 activates the cleaning modes in an order other than from the lowest mode frequency to the highest mode frequency.

[0262] In some embodiments, a healthcare professional prescribes a customized cleaning cycle for a user (e.g., the number, type, sequence, and duration of cleaning modes, time delays between successive cleaning modes, and total cycle time) based on, for example, the person's dental characteristics and / or preferences. Examples of such characteristics include the contours of the user's teeth, the user's diet, the user's mouth chemistry, the user's dental history, and the user's health history. In addition, while described as protruding only from the inner walls of the upper and lower mouthpieces 40, 42, the cleaning tip 80 may protrude from one or more outer walls of one or both of the mouthpieces.

[0263] In some embodiments, at least some of the cleaning tips 80 are configured to clean or stimulate (e.g., massage) other parts of the user's mouth, such as gums, tongue, and cheeks. In some embodiments, the teeth cleaning device 14 is configured to provide water or another liquid (e.g., mouthwash) from one or more cleaning tips 80.

[0264] Fig.16A is a close-up view of the cleaning tip 80 of the upper nozzle 40 according to some embodiments. Fig. 16B 80 is a close-up view of the cleaning tip 80 engaging the user's teeth 90 according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the cleaning tip 80 is configured to have different lengths so that as a group, the cleaning tip follows the contour of the user's teeth 90. Compared with a cleaning tip with uniform size, the cleaning tip 80 of this customized length can provide faster and generally better cleaning. In some embodiments, the cleaning tip 80 near the space between the user's teeth is configured to have a long enough length to extend between the teeth and clean between the teeth. In some embodiments, the cleaning tip 80 near the user's gum line (e.g., where the gums end and the teeth emerge) is configured to have a long enough length to extend below the gum line and clean below the gum line.

[0265] In some embodiments, characteristics other than length of cleaning tip 80 are customized for a particular person. Examples of such characteristics include width, height, shape, rigidity, the material from which the cleaning tip is made, and the spacing between adjacent cleaning tips.

[0266] According to some embodiments, the manufacture of the cleaning device 14 is now described. First, an electronic three-dimensional (3D) representation of the user's teeth (and optionally other parts of the user's mouth, such as the gums, cheeks, and tongue) is generated. In some embodiments, the user, a dentist, or other dental professional scans the user's teeth with a 3D scanner. In some embodiments, the user, a dentist, or other dental professional takes an impression of the user's teeth and sends the impression to a facility that scans the impression to generate a corresponding electronic 3D representation of the user's teeth. In some embodiments, the user takes an impression using a do-it-yourself impression kit and sends the impression to a facility that scans the impression to generate a corresponding electronic 3D representation of the user's teeth.

[0267] Next, the 3D representation of the user's teeth is provided to a computer whose circuitry is configured to analyze the representation and, in response to the analysis, generate a 3D representation of the mouth 40 and 42 (or optionally the entire mouth assembly 12). For example, the computer may be a cloud server to which a person uploads the 3D representation of the user's teeth in a suitable format.

[0268] Then, the computer circuit configured to execute the software is configured by the firmware, or configured by the firmware and executes the software, analyzes the 3D representation, and generates a 3D representation of at least the upper nozzle 40 and the lower nozzle 42 and optionally the entire nozzle assembly 12 (e.g., the combination of the nozzle and the chassis 44) in response to the analysis. For example, the computer circuit can determine the shape and other characteristics (e.g., local thickness, local stiffness, local density) of the upper nozzle 40 and the lower nozzle 42, the characteristics of the chassis 44 (e.g., local stiffness, local width, local thickness, local density), the length, other dimensions and other characteristics (e.g., local shape, local thickness, local stiffness, local density) of the cleaning tip 80 in response to the analysis. In this example, "local" means that the value of a corresponding quantity (e.g., stiffness) at one location of an article (e.g., a cleaning tip) can be different from the value of the same quantity at another location of the same article. For example, the cleaning tip 80 may be thinner at a location closer to its base (eg, where the cleaning tip meets the rest of the corresponding nozzle 40 or 42), and may be thicker at a location further from its base.

[0269] Next, the computer circuit optionally displays or otherwise presents a 3D representation of the mouthpieces 40 and 42 (and optionally the entire mouthpiece assembly 12) to enable the dentist or other dental professional to modify the 3D representation. For example, the dentist can add one or more additional cleaning tips 80 to the mouthpiece area corresponding to the user's tooth area that has experienced a large amount of plaque accumulation in the past. Additional details for generating a 3D representation of at least the upper mouthpiece 40 and the lower mouthpiece 42 will be discussed in further detail below with reference to Figures 25 to 27D.

[0270] The computer circuitry then converts the 3D representation of the nozzles 40 and 42 (and optionally the entire nozzle assembly 12) into a file suitable for a machine configured to form the nozzle (or the entire nozzle assembly). An example of such a machine is a 3D printer, which may be located in a manufacturing facility or in a user's home. Another example of such a machine is an injection molding machine. Alternatively, the 3D printer may print a mold from which the nozzle may be cast using conventional techniques such as injection molding, liquid silicone rubber molding, or similar casting methods.

[0271] In some embodiments, a nozzle (or an entire nozzle assembly) is 3D printed using a powder bed fusion process. In some embodiments, the powder bed fusion process is a multi-jet fusion (MJF) process, similar to that described in US2018 / 027602A1 (incorporated herein in its entirety). In some embodiments, the powder bed fusion process is a selective laser sintering (SLS) process, a selective laser melting (SLM) process, or an electron beam melting (EBM) process. Powder bed fusion processes (like MJF) allow for complex designs and high levels of detail, which are ideal for manufacturing a nozzle (or an entire nozzle assembly). For example, powder bed fusion allows for complex designs, which means that the entire nozzle assembly (e.g., including a cleaning tray and a cleaning element) is 3D printed as a single unit. High levels of detail also allow 3D printing of high-fidelity cleaning elements, which are not achievable with traditional manufacturing methods (e.g., injection molding, machining, etc.), or are costly when each nozzle assembly design is unique for each user. Powder bed fusion is superior to other 3D printing processes because the powder material provides support for the mouthpiece (and bristles) during printing without the need for complex brackets or other external supports. Through trial and error using a variety of 3D printing techniques, the inventors discovered that powder bed printing provides unexpected results that enable cleaning elements less than 0.5 mm in diameter, and even less than 0.2 mm in diameter, to be obtained.

[0272] In some embodiments, the powder bed fusion process uses a biocompatible material as the powder material. In some embodiments, the biocompatible material is a biocompatible thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0273] Next, the machine forms the mouthpieces 40 and 42 (or optionally the entire mouthpiece assembly 12) so that in some embodiments, the formed mouthpieces 40 and 42 are personalized / customized to the user's teeth, one or more other parts of the user's mouth, and / or the user's jaw structure. In the case where the machine is remote from the user, the formed mouthpiece or mouthpiece assembly is sent to the user, for example, via the post.

[0274] In some embodiments, based on analysis of the 3D representation of the user's teeth, the computer circuit and / or dental professional determines a customized cleaning cycle (e.g., a drive profile and / or a dispensing profile) for that person. In some embodiments, the dental care device 10 is configured to operate according to this cycle via, for example, an Internet connection.

[0275] In some embodiments, based on analysis of scans, usage, and other user / device data, the software automatically predicts and recommends dental procedures relevant to the user. For example, if the user undergoes tooth straightening or crowns or veneers, the software predicts a decline in gum health and / or predicts improvements in smile and facial features.

[0276] In some embodiments, the cleaning heads have uniform lengths and other characteristics, for example, in a lower cost version of the tooth cleaning device 14. In some embodiments, each group of cleaning heads 80 is designed to provide optimal cleaning for the group during a corresponding characteristic mode in the above-mentioned characteristic modes. For example, for a specific tooth, such as a molar, there may be a corresponding group of cleaning heads 80 for each characteristic mode, and the cleaning heads of each group may be distributed, for example, in a uniform manner with the cleaning heads of other groups, so that all areas of the molars experience appropriate cleaning during each characteristic mode. In some embodiments, as described above, the upper mouthpiece 40 and the cleaning heads 80 associated with the upper mouthpiece are formed as a single integral unit (e.g., a monolithic structure), as are the lower mouthpiece 40 and the cleaning heads 80 associated with the lower mouthpiece; alternatively, the entire mouthpiece assembly 12 (upper mouthpiece 40 and lower mouthpiece 42 and cleaning heads 80) is formed as a single integral unit.

[0277] In some embodiments, the computer circuit is configured to determine when a part of the tooth cleaning device 14 (e.g., upper mouthpiece 40, lower mouthpiece 42) is scheduled to be replaced or updated, is expiring, or has expired, and is optionally configured to automatically reorder the part (e.g., via an online reorder portal), alert the user, and / or alert the dental care provider or supplier. In some embodiments, when a part needs to be updated (e.g., the mouthpiece needs to be modified by a dentist), an application on a cloud or other computer server is configured to take steps (e.g., contact the user's dentist) to generate an updated part.

[0278] Fig.171 is an exploded schematic diagram illustrating a dental mold system 1702 according to some embodiments. The dental mold system 1702 is configured to produce (e.g., manufacture) at least a portion of a dental care device 10 (e.g., a mouthpiece assembly 12). The dental mold system 1702 includes a dental mold plate 1704, a dental mold insert mold 1706, and a structural plate 1708 (e.g., a chassis 44). In some embodiments, the dental mold plate 1704 is constructed of metal. In some embodiments, a dental mold plate 1704 is selected for a particular user based on the geometry of the jaws and / or teeth of the user. For example, a smaller dental mold plate 1704 is selected for a child and a larger plate is selected for an adult. In some embodiments, a dental mold plate 1704 is selected based on the size of the structural plate 1708 and / or the dental mold insert 1706 (e.g., a larger structural plate 1708 requires a larger set of dental mold plates 1704). In some embodiments, the dental mold plate 1704 is configured to secure the dental mold insert 1706 in place around the structural plate 1708 so as to mold the mouth around the structural plate 1708. According to some embodiments, the dental mold plate 1704 includes one or more apertures 1710 for injecting a molding substance (e.g., an elastomeric polymer) into the dental mold insert. In some embodiments, the dental mold system 1702 includes one or more fasteners for securing the plates to each other during manufacture of a portion of the dental care device 10.

[0279] In some embodiments, a dental insert mold 1706 is manufactured (e.g., 3D printed or machined) based on the user's dental information (e.g., the geometry of the user's jaws and teeth). In some embodiments, the dental insert mold is made of plastic, metal, or polymer. In some embodiments, the dental insert mold includes a plurality of orifices for forming a cleaning tip 80 of a mouthpiece assembly. The design and manufacture of the dental mold insert 1706 will be discussed in further detail below with reference to FIGS. 25 to 27D.

[0280] In some embodiments, the structural plate 1708 is selected for a particular user based on the geometry of the user's jaw and / or teeth. For example, a smaller structural plate 1708 is selected for a child and a larger plate is selected for an adult. According to some embodiments, the structural plate 1708 includes a connector 1712 configured to couple the structural plate 1708 to a Fig. 10A One or more of the components shown in (e.g., drive component 1016, energy component 1020, memory 1030, etc.).

[0281] FIG. 18A to FIG. 18B is a schematic diagram illustrating a dental insert mold 1706 according to some embodiments. Fig.18A A front perspective view of a dental insert mold 1706 is shown. Fig.18AAs shown, according to some embodiments, the dental insert mold 1706 includes a plurality of orifices 1720 for forming the cleaning tip 80 of the dental care device 10. In some embodiments, each dental insert mold 1706 is customized for a specific person, for example, manufactured according to the user's dental information. The customized dental insert mold 1706 enables the manufacture of a customized mouthpiece assembly, thereby manufacturing a customized dental care device 10. In some embodiments, the dental insert mold 1706 includes one or more orifices for attaching the dental insert mold to the mold plate 1704. In some embodiments, the dental insert mold 1706 includes one or more orifices for injecting a molding material (such as an elastic polymer).

[0282] Fig.18B A cross-sectional view of a dental insert mold 1706 enclosing a mouthpiece assembly is shown according to some embodiments. Fig.18B The mouthpiece assembly in the embodiment includes a structural plate 1708 enclosed in a polymer 1802, the structural plate having a plurality of cleaning tips 80. In some embodiments, the cleaning tips 80 each have a size and shape configured according to the user's dental information (such as the shape and positioning of the user's teeth, the sensitivity of the user's gums, the dental health of the user's teeth and gums, etc.).

[0283] FIG. 19A to FIG. 19C is a schematic diagram illustrating a mouthpiece assembly 1902 according to some embodiments. Fig.19A A front perspective view of the mouthpiece assembly 1902 is shown, Fig.19B A top-down view is shown, and Fig.19C A cross-sectional view thereof is shown. The mouthpiece assembly 1902 includes a connector 1712 configured to couple the assembly 1902 to a Fig. 10A The nozzle assembly 1902 further includes a covering layer 1904 (eg, an elastic polymer covering layer) surrounding the structural plate 1708, and the covering layer 1904 includes a plurality of cleaning tips 80.

[0284] Accordingly, in some embodiments, a dental care device for cleaning teeth customized for a specific user includes: (1) a structural plate (e.g., plate 1708) configured to be inserted into the user's mouth, wherein the structural plate includes an attachment tab configured to connect the dental care device to an external drive assembly; and (2) an upper (elastic polymer) cleaning portion above the structural plate and a lower cleaning portion below the structural plate, the upper cleaning portion and the lower cleaning portion each including a plurality of cleaning ends (e.g., cleaning end 80), wherein the upper cleaning portion and the lower cleaning portion are customized according to the dental details of the specific user.

[0285] In some embodiments, the upper cleaning portion and the lower cleaning portion are configured to match the geometry of the teeth and jaws of a particular user. In some embodiments, the upper portion and the lower portion are made of an elastic polymer (e.g., an elastomer) and are customized for a particular user based on the dental information of the particular user. In some embodiments, the elastomer is made of biocompatible silicone.

[0286] In some embodiments, at least one characteristic of the plurality of cleaning tips is based on a dental detail of a particular user (e.g., the stiffness or shape of a single cleaning tip and / or a clustered tip). In some embodiments, the length of the cleaning tip ranges from 0.5 mm to 6 mm. In some embodiments, the cleaning tip has a fin shape, a cylindrical shape with a rounded end, a rectangular shape, etc. In some embodiments, the cleaning tip is tapered. In some embodiments, the dental detail is a tooth profile, and the customization is to conform to the tooth profile.

[0287] In some embodiments, the dental care device further includes an operating component including a drive assembly (eg, Fig. 10A In some embodiments, the dental care device further comprises one or more indicators (e.g., one or more LEDs) configured to indicate a status of the device (e.g., cleaning required, charging required, replacement required, operational update available, etc.).

[0288] In some embodiments, the drive assembly further includes one or more sensors configured to collect dental information of a specific user (e.g., Fig. 10A (multiple) sensors 1004). In some embodiments, the one or more sensors are configured to obtain respiratory data for analysis. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors are used to determine the number of devices used.

[0289] In some embodiments, the drive assembly is configured to generate a vibratory motion of the elastomeric portion. In some embodiments, the vibratory motion is configured to improve the dental health of the user (e.g., cleaning teeth, removing plaque, massaging gums, etc.). In some embodiments, generating the vibratory motion includes adjusting the current and / or voltage supplied to one or more motors of the device.

[0290] In some embodiments, the drive assembly further includes a memory (e.g., Fig. 10A1030); and the control circuit is configured to generate a vibration motion according to a drive profile (e.g., drive profile 1048) stored in the memory.

[0291] In some embodiments, the drive profile is based on dental information of a particular user. In some embodiments, the drive profile is based on user preferences and dental health.

[0292] In some embodiments, the driving profile includes driving frequency and duration information, e.g. Fig. 10B In some embodiments, the drive profile is based on one or more characteristics of the cleaning tips. In some embodiments, the drive profile is based on one or more characteristics of the oral care agent assigned to a particular user. In some embodiments, the drive profile includes a customized sequence of vibration frequencies adapted to ensure proper cleaning. In some embodiments, the vibration frequencies include one or more sonic frequencies and / or one or more ultrasonic frequencies (e.g., as described above with respect to FIG. 13A to FIG. 13G described).

[0293] In some embodiments, the drive assembly further includes a communication circuit (e.g., communication interface(s) 1026); and the communication circuit is configured to receive dental information for a specific user (e.g., receiving a drive profile, user preferences, dental health information, etc. from a mobile app). In some embodiments, the communication circuit includes one or more wireless antennas (e.g., antenna(s) 1028) configured to utilize one or more communication protocols (e.g., WiFi, Bluetooth, etc.). In some embodiments, the communication circuit includes one or more communication ports (e.g., USB port).

[0294] In some embodiments, the communication circuit is configured to transmit operating data of the dental care device to a remote computer system (e.g., Fig. 9 In some embodiments, the control circuit collects operation / feedback information to customize the shape and / or drive profile of the elastic body for a specific user. In some embodiments, the operation data is transmitted to a dentist or dental agent of the specific user.

[0295] In some embodiments, the dental care device is configured so that different vibration frequencies cause different regions of the elastomeric portion to vibrate. For example, only a first region vibrates in response to a first frequency, and only a second region vibrates in response to a second frequency.

[0296] In some embodiments, the structural plate is configured to provide structural support to the elastomeric portion (eg, having less flexibility (harder) than the elastomeric portion). In some embodiments, the upper and lower portions are configured to extend around the surface of a particular user's teeth.

[0297] Fig. 20A is a perspective view of an oral care agent (e.g., toothpaste) dispenser 904 according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the dispenser 904 is a smart device that is programmable or otherwise configurable to mix a customized oral care agent formulation from one or more ingredients and dispense a customized amount of the customized oral care agent in a hands-free manner. Fig. 20B According to some embodiments Fig. 20A A three-dimensional view of a dispenser device with its cover open.

[0298] refer to FIG. 20A to FIG. 20B In addition to the cover 2006, the dispenser 904 also includes a user interface 2004 (e.g., an electronic device interface), a chamber 2016 having a box slot 2018, and an ingredient box 2020 arranged in the box slot. The dispenser 904 further includes electronic circuits, such as Fig.11 As shown, it is used to control the operation and functions of the dispenser.

[0299] Electronic device interface 2004 optionally includes display 2005 and one or more buttons 2007. In some embodiments, display 2005 is configured to display menus, and buttons 2007 are configured to enable users to navigate menus and select one or more menu options or items. For example, if multiple people (e.g., multiple family members) use dispenser 904, the user can use one or more of buttons 2007 to navigate the menu and select his / her name (or other identifier) ​​from the menu to configure the dispenser to dispense the customized formula and customized amount of oral care agent that he / she previously entered. In some embodiments, the user is enabled to use one or more of buttons 2007 to navigate the menu to input / program customized oral care agent formula and / or customized dispensing amount. In some embodiments, the user is enabled to use (multiple) buttons 2007 to determine the state of dispenser 904, such as whether any of the ingredient boxes 2020 are used up or need to be replaced, or whether any component of the dispenser fails.

[0300] The cartridge slot 2018 of the chamber 2016 is configured to hold an ingredient cartridge 2020 and dispense ingredients from the ingredient cartridge. In some embodiments, the cartridge slot and ingredient cartridge are similar to the toner cartridge slot and toner cartridge of a color printer, which mixes toners from one or more cartridges in programmed amounts to create a palette of colors and prints these colors on a print medium (e.g., paper). In some embodiments, the dispenser 904 is configured to combine ingredients from one or more ingredient cartridges 2020 in programmed amounts to obtain one or more customized oral care agent formulas, and dispense the one or more customized oral care agents onto the brush heads of the toothbrushes (typically one customized oral care agent per brush head).

[0301] In some embodiments, the cartridge slots 2018 each include a pump mechanism configured to pump ingredients from a corresponding cartridge in the cartridges 2020 into a mixing chamber ( FIG. 20A to FIG. 20B In some embodiments, the pump mechanism of each box slot 2018 is configured to extract the ingredients from the corresponding box in the box 2020, and produce a single flow of the combined ingredients together with the pump mechanism of the other working box slots in the box slot, wherein each box slot adjusts the flow rate at which the ingredients flow out of the associated box according to the oral care agent formula. In some embodiments, the pump mechanism of each box slot 2018 is configured to extract most (if not all) ingredients from the corresponding ingredient box, so that there is little or no waste of ingredients. In some embodiments, each box slot 2018 includes a needle or other device, which is configured to penetrate the corresponding ingredient box and form a conduit, and the corresponding pump mechanism extracts the ingredients from the box through the conduit.

[0302] Ingredient box 2020 is configured to hold corresponding oral care agent ingredients, and is connected with box groove 2018 in a removable manner so that pump mechanism (or other suitable mechanisms) can extract corresponding ingredients from box. In certain embodiments, the size or shape of box groove are different so that only the ingredient box 2020 of a specific type can be inserted in specific box groove 2018. In certain embodiments, these box grooves are keyed to the ingredient box 2020 of a specific type, so that the position of tracking ingredients and prevent using inappropriate ingredients in a specific recipe. In certain embodiments, box groove and box are configured to enable the user to replace box when their ingredients are used up respectively. The example of the ingredient that ingredient box 2020 can hold is respectively tooth whitening agent (box 2020-2), mouthwash or mouthwash (box 2020-5), flavoring (box 2020-6 and 2020-3), fluoride compound (box 2020-1) and oral care agent base (box 2020-4).

[0303] In some embodiments, the dispenser 904 includes more or less than six cartridge slots 2018. In some embodiments, the cartridges 2020 contain ingredients other than those described above (e.g., anesthetic compounds for sensitive teeth). In some embodiments, the dispenser 904 does not include every ingredient for every customized oral care agent it produces.

[0304] FIG. 21A to FIG. 21B According to some embodiments Fig. 20A A stereoscopic view of a dispenser device of the type shown in FIG. 1 , wherein a dental care device is arranged below a dispensing port of the dispenser device. Fig.21A A conventional toothbrush 2104 is shown with its brush head 2106 below the dispensing port 2102 of the dispenser 904, according to some embodiments. Fig. 21B The dental care device 10 according to some embodiments is shown with its mouthpiece assembly 12 below the dispensing port 2102 of the dispenser 904. In some embodiments, the dispenser 904 includes a sensor (e.g., Fig.11 The mouthpiece assembly 12 may include a sensor (s) 1104 configured to detect when the mouthpiece assembly 12 is in a proper position to receive an oral care agent. Examples of such sensors include optical sensors and cameras.

[0305] In some embodiments, the dispenser 904 includes a sensor (e.g., Fig.11 The sensor 1104 is configured to detect when the brush head 2106 of the toothbrush 2104 (or the brush head of any other toothbrush) is in a proper position to receive an oral care agent. Examples of such sensors include optical sensors, PIR sensors, cameras, etc.

[0306] In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to generate a sensor signal in response to detecting that the brush head 2106 is in the proper position, and send the sensor signal to electronic circuitry (eg, processor(s) 1102 ) onboard the oral care dispenser 904 .

[0307] In some embodiments, the electronic circuit is configured to cause the dispenser 904 to produce and dispense a customized amount of a customized oral care agent (e.g., according to a dispensing profile 1148) onto the brush head 2106 of the toothbrush 2104 in response to receiving a sensor signal. In some embodiments, the electronic circuit is configured to first activate the ingredient pumping mechanisms associated with one or more of the cartridge slots 2018, which pump ingredients from the corresponding cartridges 2020 when activated. In some embodiments, the electronic circuit is configured to then cause the mixing mechanism or other mechanism of the oral care agent dispenser 10 to produce a set amount of oral care agent according to a set formula (e.g., dispensing profile 1148). In some embodiments, the electronic circuit is then configured to cause the dispensing mechanism or other mechanism of the dispenser 904 to dispense the set / customized amount of the customized oral care agent from the dispensing port 2102 onto the brush head 2106. In some embodiments, the oral care agent formula and the amount of the oral care agent to be dispensed can be programmed by the user and / or a dental professional.

[0308] In some embodiments, the electronic circuit is configured to cause the dispenser 904 to produce a customized amount of a customized oral care agent and dispense it to the mouthpiece assembly 12 in response to receiving a sensor signal. In some embodiments, the electronic circuit is configured to first activate the ingredient pumping mechanisms associated with one or more of the cartridge slots 2018, which, when activated, extract the corresponding ingredients from the corresponding cartridge 2020. In some embodiments, the electronic circuit is configured to then cause the mixing mechanism or other mechanism of the dispenser 904 to produce a set amount of oral care agent according to a set formula. In some embodiments, the electronic circuit is then configured to cause the dispensing mechanism or other mechanism of the dispenser 904 to dispense the set / customized amount of the customized oral care agent from the dispensing port 2102 to the slot of the mouthpiece assembly 12.

[0309] In some embodiments, after the oral care agent dispenser 904 dispenses the oral care agent into the mouthpiece assembly 12, the user can flip the dental care device 10 and cause the dispenser to dispense the customized amount of the customized oral care agent into the opposite side of the mouthpiece. In some embodiments, the dispenser 904 is configured to dispense different amounts or different oral care agent formulations onto opposite sides of the mouthpiece.

[0310] In some embodiments, the electronic circuitry of the dispenser 904 includes a communication circuit configured to communicate with a device remote from the dispenser by wire or wireless communication. The device communicates with a smartphone via a cellular or WiFi link, and data, such as program data, configuration data, and data indicating the status of the dispenser, can be uploaded and downloaded via the smartphone.

[0311] In some embodiments, by using communication circuits, when the amount of ingredients in a particular ingredient box is below a threshold level, the electronic circuit automatically notifies a supply server (e.g., a cloud server), and the server can have a replacement box sent to the user in a timely manner to avoid the installed box being emptied before the replacement box arrives.

[0312] In some embodiments, a dentist or other dental professional can determine a customized oral care agent formula based on the user's dental history and other factors (e.g., health, tooth structure, flavor preferences), and provide the formula to the oral care agent dispenser 904 in a manner that is transparent to the person. For example, the dentist or other dental professional can upload the formula to a cloud server, which can generate configuration data from the formula, and can upload the configuration data to the dispenser 904 via the Internet, a smart phone or wireless router, and the communication circuit of the dispenser. The dispenser 904 can then execute the configuration data (if it is in the form of executable instructions), or can otherwise configure itself according to the configuration data. In some embodiments, in response to the user identifying himself / herself (e.g., by selecting his / her name or identifier via a menu and button on the dispenser) and appropriately placing his / her toothbrush or dental care device under the dispensing port 2102, the dispenser 904 produces the oral care agent according to the customized amount and customized formula, and dispenses the customized amount of oral care agent onto the brush head 2106 or the mouthpiece assembly 12.

[0313] In some embodiments, the dispenser 904 is configured to dispense the oral care agent simultaneously into both sides of the mouthpiece assembly 12. In some embodiments, the dispenser 904 is configured to dispense a standard (non-customized) toothpaste.

[0314] According to some embodiments, the dispenser 904 operates as follows. In some embodiments, upon power-up, the oral care dispenser 904's own electronic circuitry performs a startup routine. In some embodiments, as part of the startup routine, the dispenser 904 checks its status, determines whether any of its components are not functioning properly, and determines whether any of the boxes in the box 2020 are low enough to warrant ordering a replacement box (e.g., below a threshold amount or weight). In some embodiments, if the electronic circuitry determines that any component is not functioning properly or that any replacement box needs to be ordered, the circuitry uploads this information or reorders to a cloud server via a wired or wireless link and a device such as a router or smart phone.

[0315] In some embodiments, if the cloud server has any configuration files for the dispenser 904 (eg, corresponding to an oral care agent formulation, software, or firmware update), the cloud server notifies the dispenser to download the configuration files.

[0316] In some embodiments, if the electronic circuit determines that any one of the cartridges 2020 needs to be replaced, the user opens the cover 2006 and replaces the one or more cartridges. For example, the electronic circuit can cause the display 2005 to display a message indicating which cartridge or cartridges 2020 are to be replaced.

[0317] In some embodiments, the user uses buttons 2007 to navigate a menu on the display 2005 to select the function that the user wants the dispenser 904 to perform. For example, the user can enter an oral care agent recipe, or can enter or select his / her name or another identifier to configure the dispenser 904 to dispense an amount of an oral care agent with a recipe customized for him / her.

[0318] In some embodiments, the user places the brush head 2106 of the toothbrush 2104 or the mouthpiece assembly 12 of the dental care device 10 under the dispenser 2102. In some embodiments, in response to the sensor detecting that the brush head 2106 or the mouthpiece assembly 12 is in the proper position, the dispenser 904 activates the pump assembly (and the mixing assembly, if included in the dispenser) to produce and dispense a customized amount of an oral care agent with a customized formula, wherein the customized amount and the customized formula correspond to the person. If the dispenser 904 does not activate the pump assembly, the user may need to reposition the brush head 2106 or the mouthpiece assembly 12 until the user is notified that the position is proper (e.g., hears the dispenser 904 dispensing the oral care agent).

[0319] In some embodiments, after the dispenser 904 stops dispensing the oral care agent, the user removes the brush head 2106 or mouthpiece assembly 12 from under the dispenser and cleans his / her teeth.

[0320] Accordingly, in some embodiments, an oral care agent dispenser device (e.g., dispenser 904) includes: (1) a plurality of chambers (e.g., box slots 2018), each chamber being configured to receive a box (e.g., box 2020) containing a different oral care agent ingredient from a plurality of oral care agent ingredients; (2) a memory (e.g., memory 1130) configured to store an oral care agent formula comprising one or more of the plurality of oral care agent ingredients (e.g., dispensing profile 1148); and (3) a dispenser located above an oral care agent dispensing area, the dispenser being configured to dispense one or more of the plurality of oral care agent ingredients according to the oral care agent formula.

[0321] In certain embodiments, the keyway of each box makes it only be assembled in its corresponding chamber (box groove).In certain embodiments, each box is configured for disposable use, and distributor is configured to eject the used box into the garbage tray.In certain embodiments, these boxes are configured to be refillable.In certain embodiments, each box has a foil seal at one end, and the foil seal is configured to make when inserted in the distributor, the foil seal breaks (for example, pierced).In certain embodiments, each box includes a syringe, and the distributor device is configured to make the plunger of the syringe move downwards with the increment of setting to discharge the oral care agent (for example, via actuator 1118).In certain embodiments, the distributor device utilizes a gear-driven servomotor to drive the plunger on the syringe side.In certain embodiments, each syringe is pressurized and sealed, and the distributor adopts a pump with a valve to push the syringe plunger downwards.In certain embodiments, the box includes a flexible tube equipped with corresponding oral care agent ingredients, and the distributor is configured to adopt a roller to extrude ingredients from the tube.In certain embodiments, the distributor device includes a tortuous path mixer for mixing ingredients before distribution.

[0322] In some embodiments, the plurality of oral care agent ingredients include one or more whitening agents, one or more anesthetic agents, one or more flavoring agents, one or more fluoride compounds, breath freshener components, tartar control components, polishing particles, etc. In some embodiments, the oral care agent formulation is assigned (e.g., prescribed) to a specific user. In some embodiments, the memory stores a plurality of oral care agent formulations, each formulation for a different user (e.g., a different member of a family).

[0323] In some embodiments, the dispenser device further includes a communication circuit (e.g., communication interface(s) 1126) configured to receive oral care agent formula information (e.g., oral care agent formula information) of one or more users from a remote source. In some embodiments, the oral care agent formula information is a dentist-prescribed formula of one or more of the plurality of oral care agent ingredients.

[0324] In some embodiments, the dispenser device is configured to dispense only prescription-approved substances, such as prescription fluoride treatments, after identifying a user and / or a dental care device.

[0325] In some embodiments, the dispenser includes at least one actuator (e.g., actuator(s) 1118). In some embodiments, one or more dispensing components include one or more motors. In some embodiments, the dispenser includes a separate pump for each ingredient. In some embodiments, the dispenser includes a single pump for use with all ingredients. In some embodiments, the dispenser includes a liquid reservoir (e.g., a water reservoir) configured to rinse undeposited oral care agent after use. In some embodiments, the dispenser includes a liquid reservoir configured to be mixed with an oral care agent ingredient as part of an oral care agent formulation (e.g., to adjust viscosity).

[0326] In some embodiments, the dispenser further includes a control circuit (e.g., processor(s) 1102) configured to selectively activate the dispenser. In some embodiments, the dispenser is configured to combine corresponding portions of one or more of the plurality of oral care agent ingredients into a dispensed oral care agent according to the oral care agent formulation information; and the control circuit is further configured to dispense an amount of the dispensed oral care agent according to user profile information (e.g., dispensing profile 1148) stored in the memory. For example, the profile information includes information about one or more user preferences and / or user dental prescription information.

[0327] In some embodiments, the dispenser further includes a user interface 2004, which is configured to present information to the user and receive user commands. In some embodiments, the user interface includes one or more physical buttons (e.g., button(s) 1108), microphones (e.g., microphone(s) 1112), speakers (e.g., speaker(s) 1114), a display, a touch screen, etc.

[0328] In some embodiments, the control circuit is configured to selectively activate the dispenser in response to a user command received via a user interface. In some embodiments, the control circuit is configured to identify the user issuing the command before activating the dispensing component (e.g., to dispense a customized oral care agent to the user). In some embodiments, the dispenser device identifies the user via an entered password, voice recognition, dental care device recognition, etc.

[0329] In some embodiments, the user interface is further configured to receive one or more user preferences from a particular user. For example, receive one or more flavor and / or consistency preferences.

[0330] In some embodiments, the dispenser further includes one or more sensors (e.g., sensor(s) 1104) configured to determine whether a dental cleaning device is present. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors include one or more passive infrared (PIR) sensors, barcode readers, near field communication (NFC) circuits, etc. In some embodiments, determining the presence of a dental cleaning device includes determining that the dental cleaning device is positioned to receive the oral care agent (e.g., such as FIG. 21A to FIG. 21B In some embodiments, the dispenser includes an NFC and / or barcode reader to read the unique identifier in the toothbrush and dispense the corresponding oral care formulation.

[0331] In some embodiments, the control circuit is configured to automatically dispense one or more of the plurality of oral care ingredients in response to determining that a dental cleaning device is present in the dispensing area (eg, the cleaning device is positioned below the dispenser output).

[0332] In some embodiments, the oral care agent dispenser device is configured to determine if one or more of the plurality of oral care agent ingredients is below a threshold amount (e.g., will be depleted in 5, 7, or 15 days). In some embodiments, the device counts the number of uses to determine if an ingredient is below a threshold amount (low). In some embodiments, the device uses one or more sensors (e.g., via weight or line of sight) to determine if an ingredient is low.

[0333] In some embodiments, the control circuit is further configured to generate a notification for a specific oral care ingredient based on determining that the specific oral care ingredient is below a threshold amount. For example, the control circuit is configured to generate a notification to a user via a user interface or a communication circuit; and / or generate a notification to a dental provider via a communication circuit.

[0334] In some embodiments, the control circuit is further configured to request more of a particular oral care ingredient based on determining that the particular oral care ingredient is below a threshold amount (e.g., by using the communication circuit). In some embodiments, the control circuit automatically orders more of the ingredient from the dental provider (without a specific request from the user). In some embodiments, the dispenser is configured to communicate wirelessly with a user device (e.g., user device 906) to let the user know that an ingredient is running low.

[0335] In some embodiments, the communication circuit is further configured to communicatively couple the oral care agent dispenser device to a dental cleaning device (e.g., dental care device 10). In some embodiments, the oral care agent formulation information is based in part on a drive profile received from the dental cleaning device. In some embodiments, the drive profile is based in part on the oral care agent formulation information. In some embodiments, the dispenser 904, the dental care device 10, or the server system 910 determines the drive profile of the dental care device 10 based in part on the oral care agent formulation information. In some embodiments, the dispenser 904, the dental care device 10, or the server system 910 determines the oral care agent formulation information based in part on a drive profile of a user of the dental care device 10.

[0336] In some embodiments, in response to detecting that the mouthpiece assembly 12 is in a proper position below the dispenser, the dispenser dispenses the oral care agent according to the shape of the mouthpiece (e.g., a U-shape). In some embodiments, the dispenser dispenses the oral care agent from the top and bottom. In some embodiments, the dispenser moves along a detected brush head or mouthpiece in a predetermined path. In some embodiments, the dispenser includes two nozzles, wherein when the mouthpiece is in a proper position to receive the oral care agent, one nozzle is positioned below the mouthpiece and the other nozzle is positioned above the mouthpiece. In some embodiments, when the mouthpiece is in a proper position to receive the oral care agent, the dispenser includes a nozzle positioned on the right side of the mouthpiece and / or a nozzle positioned on the left side of the mouthpiece.

[0337] In some embodiments, the dispenser device includes components (e.g., a storage compartment and / or a mount) configured to store the dental care device 10. In some embodiments, the dispenser device is configured as a base unit 750 ( FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B ) and / or housing 815 ( FIG. 8A to FIG. 8D ) operation. In some embodiments, the dispenser device is configured to have a base unit 750 ( FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B ) and / or housing 815 ( FIG. 8A to FIG. 8D ). In some embodiments, the dispenser device is configured to charge the dental care device 10 while the dental care device is stored (e.g., via inductive charging, an electrical port (e.g., a USB port), or an AC adapter). In some embodiments, the dispenser device is configured to clean and / or disinfect the dental care device 10 (e.g., using ultraviolet light and / or a cleaning solution).

[0338] Fig. 222200 is a flowchart illustrating a method 2200 for manufacturing a representative tooth cleaning device according to some embodiments. A structural plate (e.g., structural plate 1708) is provided (2202) having an attachment tab (e.g., connector 1712) configured to be attached to a control component (e.g., an external drive mechanism). In some embodiments, the structural plate is formed (2204) of a plastic material. In some embodiments, the plate is injection molded from a plastic material that is more ridged than an elastomer. In some embodiments, a structural plate is selected (2206) from a set of prefabricated structural plates based on the dental details of a particular user. In some embodiments, the set of prefabricated structural plates (e.g., 5 or 10 plates) is configured to cover a wide range of jaw sizes and shapes (e.g., from children to adults). In some embodiments, the dental details of a particular user include information about the position and shape of the teeth of the particular user (e.g., obtained via a 3D scan of the user's mouth). In some embodiments, the structural plate has a generally U-shaped or Y-shaped shape. In some embodiments, the structural plate has a jaw shape. Other details of manufacturing a representative tooth cleaning device are provided below with reference to FIGS. 25 to 27D. Moreover, additional details regarding the design of the attachment tab (eg, connector 1712) are provided in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17 / 192,645, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0339] A mold is provided (2208). In some embodiments, a mold is selected (2210) from a set of prefabricated molds based on the dental details of a particular user. In some embodiments, a mold is selected based on a provided structural plate (e.g., based on a size or shape of the structural plate). In some embodiments, the mold includes (2212) a plurality of dental mold plates (e.g., Fig.17 Plate 1704).

[0340] An upper mold insert and a lower mold insert (e.g., mold insert 1706) customized according to the dental details of a specific user are provided (2214). In some embodiments, the mold insert is manufactured via a 3D printing process. In some embodiments, multiple customized dental care devices are manufactured for a specific user using the same mold insert. In some embodiments, the mold insert is manufactured (2216) based on the dental details of a specific user (e.g., the geometry of the user's teeth and jaws, the dental health of the user's teeth and gums, and the user's dental history). In some embodiments, the mold insert includes (2218) a plurality of orifices (e.g., orifice 1720) that are configured to enable a (customized) cleaning tip to be formed on the tooth cleaning device via a molding process. The design and manufacture of the upper mold insert and the lower mold insert will be discussed in further detail below with reference to FIGS. 25 to 27D.

[0341] The structural plate is placed (2220) into the mold between the upper mold insert and the lower mold insert. The elastomer is injected (e.g., pressure injected or vacuum injected) into the mold to form an intermediate molded device (2222). The intermediate molded device is removed from the mold (2224). The upper mold insert and the lower mold insert are removed from the tooth cleaning device (2226) to form a tooth cleaning device (e.g., a tooth cleaning device) including an upper cleaning portion and a lower cleaning portion. Fig.19A In some embodiments, the upper cleaning portion and the lower cleaning portion include a single continuous elastomeric coating (e.g., coating 1904). For example, the elastomeric coating is configured to extend around the arms of the support plate without any seams and around the surface of the user's teeth during use.

[0342] In some embodiments, the upper cleaning portion and the lower cleaning portion include a plurality of cleaning tips (e.g., cleaning tips 80) formed by openings (sometimes referred to herein as cavities) in the upper and lower mold inserts. In some embodiments, these openings are configured according to the user's dental information.

[0343] Fig.23 2300 is a flowchart illustrating a method 2300 for operating a representative dental care device according to some embodiments. A server system (e.g., server system 910) transmits (2302) drive profile information (e.g., drive profile information 1232) to a dental care device (e.g., dental care device 10 or dental care device 100). In some embodiments, the server system transmits the information via (multiple) network interfaces 1204 in conjunction with a network communication module 1212. In some embodiments, the drive profile information is provided by a dental health professional. In some embodiments, the drive profile information is generated at the server system based on the dental details of the user of the dental care device. In some embodiments, the drive profile information includes frequency and timing information for operating the dental care device to clean the user's teeth. In some embodiments, the drive profile information includes voltage and / or current information (e.g., to produce a desired frequency and timing) for operating a drive assembly 1016 of the dental care device.

[0344] The dental care device receives 2304 the drive profile information from the server system. In some embodiments, the dental care device receives the information via the communication interface(s) 1026 operating in conjunction with the communication module 1034. In some embodiments, the dental care device stores the drive profile information in the memory 1030. In some embodiments, the dental care device updates one or more drive profiles 1048 stored in the memory 1030 using the drive profile information.

[0345] The dental care device receives (2306) an activation command from the user. In some embodiments, the activation command includes a voice command or selecting an activation affordance (e.g., a physical button) on the dental care device. In some embodiments, the activation command includes an implicit activation command (e.g., the dental care device determines that it is inserted into the user's mouth).

[0346] The dental care device operates (2308) according to the drive profile information to clean the user's teeth. In some embodiments, the dental care device vibrates at a plurality of sonic and / or ultrasonic frequencies (eg, according to the drive profile 1048).

[0347] The dental care device collects (2310) operational data and / or user data. In some embodiments, the operational data includes information about how often a user operates the dental care device. In some embodiments, the operational data includes information obtained from one or more sensors of the dental care device (e.g., one or more breath analyzers). In some embodiments, the user data includes one or more user settings and / or preferences. In some embodiments, the user data includes dental information provided to the dental care device by the user. In some embodiments, the dental care device modifies one or more drive profiles of the user based on the collected information.

[0348] The dental care device transmits (2312) the collected data to the server system. In some embodiments, the dental care device transmits the collected data via the communication interface(s) 1026 operating in conjunction with the communication module 1034. The server system receives (2314) the collected data from the dental care device. In some embodiments, the server system receives the collected data via the network interface(s) 1204 in conjunction with the network communication module 1212.

[0349] The server system modifies (2316) the user's drive profile (or drive profile information) based on the collected data. In some embodiments, the server system modifies one or more frequency, amplitude, timing, voltage, or current parameters of the drive profile based on the collected data. In some embodiments, the server system requests updated dental information from the user (or the user's dental care provider) based on the collected data. For example, the collected data indicates that the user has recently experienced pain or discomfort while using a dental care device, thereby indicating that the user's dental health or condition has changed. Based on this indication, the server system requests updated dental information so that it can adjust the drive profile (or order a new dental care device mouthpiece) based on the updated information. In some embodiments, the server system requests an updated mouthpiece for the dental care device based on the collected information.

[0350] The server system transmits (2318) the modified drive profile information (e.g., drive profile information 1232) to the dental care device. In some embodiments, the server system transmits the modified information via the network interface(s) 1204 in conjunction with the network communication module 1212. The dental care device receives (2320) the modified drive profile information from the server system. In some embodiments, the dental care device receives the information via the communication interface(s) 1026 operating in conjunction with the communication module 1034.

[0351] In some embodiments, the dental care device stores the modified drive profile information in the memory 1030 (eg, instead of or in addition to previously received drive profile information). In some embodiments, the dental care device updates one or more drive profiles 1048 stored in the memory 1030 with the modified drive profile information.

[0352] Fig.24 2400 is a flowchart illustrating a method 2400 for operating a representative dispenser device according to some embodiments. A server system (e.g., server system 910) transmits (2402) dispensing profile information to a dispenser device (e.g., oral care dispenser device 904). In some embodiments, the server system transmits the information via (multiple) network interfaces 1204 in conjunction with a network communication module 1212. In some embodiments, the dispensing profile information is provided by a dental health professional. In some embodiments, the dispensing profile information is generated at the server system based on dental details of a user of the dispenser device and optionally preferences (e.g., dental details provided by the user and / or one or more dental health professionals). In some embodiments, the drive profile information includes information on ingredients and amounts for combining and dispensing oral care ingredients. In some embodiments, the dispensing profile information includes voltage and / or current information for operating a drive assembly 1116 of the dispenser device (e.g., to produce a desired amount of each oral care ingredient).

[0353] The distributor device receives ( 2404 ) the distribution profile information. In some embodiments, the distributor device receives the information via the communication interface(s) 1126 operating in conjunction with the communication module 1134 .

[0354] The dispenser device determines (2406) that a dental care device (e.g., dental care device 10 or dental care device 100) is in a proper position to receive an oral care agent from the dispenser device. In some embodiments, the dispenser device determines that the dental care device is in a proper position based on one or more sensors 1104 of the dispenser device. In some embodiments, the dispenser device determines that the dental care device is in a proper position based on one or more inputs to the user interface(s) 1106. In some embodiments, the dental care device notifies the dispenser device that it is in a proper position to receive the dispensed oral care agent.

[0355] The dental care device optionally transmits (2410) a device identifier to the dispenser device. In some embodiments, the device identifier is transmitted via a barcode on the dental care device and a barcode scanner on the dispenser device. In some embodiments, the device identifier is transmitted via an NFC protocol. In some embodiments, the device identifier is transmitted via a radio frequency identification (RFID) protocol. In some embodiments, a user of the dental care device submits the identifier to the dispenser device (e.g., via voice input, a password entered via user interface(s) 1106, etc.).

[0356] The dispenser device receives the device (or user) identifier and identifies (2412) a dispensing profile based on the identifier. In some embodiments, the dispenser device stores a plurality of dispensing profiles (e.g., dispensing profile 1148), and each dispensing profile corresponds to a unique identifier. In some embodiments, the dispenser device matches the identifier with an identifier in a dispensing profile. In some embodiments, the dispenser device stores a plurality of dispensing profiles for a single user, and selects one of the plurality of dispensing profiles based on additional information (e.g., time of day, day of week, user selection, user preference, dental information of the user, type of dental care device provided to receive the oral care agent, etc.).

[0357] The dispenser device dispenses (2414) the oral care agent ingredients according to the identified dispensing profile. In some embodiments, the dispensing profile identifies a plurality of oral care agent ingredients to be dispensed and a corresponding amount of each oral care agent ingredient to be dispensed. In some embodiments, the dispenser device mixes the oral care agent ingredients prior to dispensing. In some embodiments, the dispenser device determines a shape of the dental care device (e.g., based on the identifier) ​​and dispenses the ingredients in a shape corresponding to the shape of the dental care device.

[0358] The dispenser device collects (2418) operational data and / or user data. In some embodiments, the operational data includes information about how often the user operates the dispenser device (and / or which dental care device the user is using with the dispenser device). In some embodiments, the operational data includes information obtained from one or more sensors of the dispenser device (e.g., a sensor for determining the amount of ingredient remaining). In some embodiments, the user data includes one or more user settings and / or preferences. In some embodiments, the user data includes dental information provided to the dispenser device by the user. In some embodiments, the dispenser device modifies one or more dispensing profiles of the user based on the collected information.

[0359] The distributor device transmits 2420 the collected data to the server system. In some embodiments, the distributor device transmits the collected data via communication interface(s) 1126 operating in conjunction with communication module 1134. The server system receives 2422 the collected data from the distributor device. In some embodiments, the server system receives the collected data via network interface(s) 1204 in conjunction with network communication module 1212.

[0360] The server system updates (2424) the user's dispensing profile (or dispensing profile information) based on the collected data. In some embodiments, the server system modifies one or more ingredients, amounts, voltage, or current parameters of the dispensing profile based on the collected data. In some embodiments, the server system requests updated dental information from the user (or the user's dental care provider) based on the collected data. For example, the collected data indicates that the user has recently experienced yellowing of the teeth, thereby indicating that the user's dental health or condition has changed. Based on this indication, the server system requests updated dental information so that it can adjust the dispensing profile, order new oral care agent ingredients, and / or order new dental care device mouthpieces based on the updated information. In some embodiments, the server system requests an updated mouthpiece for the dental care device based on the collected information.

[0361] In some embodiments, the server system transmits the updated distribution profile information to the distributor device. In some embodiments, the server system transmits the modified information via network interface(s) 1204 in conjunction with network communication module 1212. The distributor device receives the modified distribution profile information from the server system. In some embodiments, the distributor device receives the information via communication interface(s) 1126 operating in conjunction with communication module 1134.

[0362] In some embodiments, the allocator device stores the modified distribution profile information in memory 1130 (eg, in place of or in addition to previously received distribution profile information). In some embodiments, the allocator device updates one or more distribution profiles 1148 stored in memory 1130 with the modified distribution profile information.

[0363] Fig.25A A high-level overview of a manufacturing process 2500 for designing and manufacturing a tooth cleaning device according to some embodiments is shown. The manufacturing process 2500 includes five main steps: (i) designing inserts 2502, (ii) 3D printing these inserts 2504, (iii) inspecting the printed inserts 2506, (iv) molding the mouthpiece 2508, and (v) inspecting the completed part 2510 (i.e., the tooth cleaning device 2550). The following discussion focuses primarily on step 2502 and step 2504 (but other steps (e.g., step 2506) may also be involved). For example, reference is made to step 2502 and step 2504 above. Fig. 22 Steps 2508 and 2510 are discussed in detail and therefore will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity. Note that the following discussion expands upon the above description regarding the design and manufacture of teeth cleaning devices.

[0364] Fig.25B A representative tooth cleaning device 2550 is shown using the manufacturing process 2500. Fig.25B As shown, a representative teeth cleaning device 2550 includes a mouthpiece assembly 2552 , which is an example of a mouthpiece assembly 12 , and an attachment feature 2554 , which is an example of a connector 15 . Fig.25B Also included is a drive assembly 2560, which is an example of drive assembly 1016. Drive assembly 2560 is configured to couple with representative teeth cleaning device 2550 via attachment feature 2554 and generate vibrations to cause at least a portion of mouthpiece assembly 2552 to vibrate to clean the user's teeth when the mouthpiece assembly is positioned in the user's mouth. Manufacturing process 2500 primarily covers process steps for designing and manufacturing mouthpiece assembly 2552.

[0365] Fig.26 Provides how to perform the following steps in step 2502: Fig.25A More details on designing these inserts. Specifically, Fig.26 A process 2600 for designing an insert for use in manufacturing a representative tooth cleaning device is shown in accordance with some embodiments. FIG. 27A to FIG. 33 It is to support Fig.26because they provide additional insights into how to make 3D representations of the upper and lower mouthpieces (e.g., 3D representations of the upper mouthpiece 40 and the lower mouthpiece 42) and how to derive inserts (e.g., dental mold insert 1706) from the 3D representations of the upper and lower mouthpieces. In general, the process 2600 for designing inserts includes obtaining a scan of a user's teeth (2601), processing the scan (2602), orienting the upper and lower mouthpieces relative to the user's teeth and mouth generally based on the processed scan of the user's teeth (2604), modeling the cleaning tips of the upper and lower mouthpieces (2606), removing a portion of the cleaning tips based on the user's tooth geometry from the scan of the user's teeth (2608), honing and trimming the cleaning tips as needed (2610), modeling the inserts based on the finished designs of the upper and lower mouthpieces (including the cleaning tips) (2612), and outputting the inserts for printing (e.g., on a 3D printer). Each step is described in detail in the following paragraphs.

[0366] Process 2600 begins by obtaining a dental scan (or some other 3D representation) of a user's teeth (2601). Next, the scan of the user's teeth is processed (2602). Fig.16A and Fig. 16B As explained, obtaining a dental scan can involve a user, a dentist, or other dental professional using a 3D scanner (e.g., a laser scanner) to scan the user's teeth. Alternatively, the user, a dentist, or other dental professional takes an impression of the user's teeth and then sends the impression to a facility that scans the impression to generate a corresponding electronic 3D representation of the user's teeth. A dental scan of a user's teeth is generally referred to herein as a dental model of the user's teeth, a dental detail of the user's teeth, or simply a scan of the user's teeth.

[0367] Regardless of how the scan / 3D representation of the user's teeth is obtained in step 2601, step 2602 includes processing the scan. The scan is processed to ensure that the scan can be used in subsequent design and manufacturing steps. Like step 2601, processing the dental scan can involve the user, dentist or other dental professional interacting with computer software to process the scan. Alternatively, the computer program analyzes the scan of the user's teeth and processes the scan of the user's teeth as needed (without human intervention).

[0368] Fig.27A shows a user's dental scan before processing (ie, a raw scan is shown), while Fig.27B The user's dental scan after processing is shown (i.e., the processed scan is shown). Fig.27A In the , the original scan of the user's teeth provides a very detailed representation of the user's teeth, while Fig.27BThe processed scan of the user's teeth in step 2602 provides a smoothed representation of the user's teeth (relative to the original scan). In some embodiments, processing the scan (or other 3D representation) of the user's teeth includes removing extraneous surfaces from the original scan of the user's teeth. Alternatively, or in addition, processing the scan (or other 3D representation) of the user's teeth may include filling in surfaces of the user's teeth in the scan to create a solid model. Removing extraneous surfaces from the original scan and / or filling in surfaces of the user's teeth in the original scan has several benefits, including that the file size of the resulting 3D representation can be reduced by up to 95%, which significantly reduces computer processing requirements while also maintaining a sufficient level of detail to create the upper and lower mouths (e.g., the processing in step 2602 does not compromise key geometry and other features required to create the upper and lower mouths). Please note

[0369] In some embodiments, processing a scan (or other 3D representation) of a user's teeth includes offsetting the tooth geometry in the scan by a predetermined distance (e.g., between 0.1 mm and 1 mm, preferably 0.7 mm). In some instances, offsetting the tooth geometry in the scan causes the user's teeth to be slightly smaller in the processed scan than the actual size of the user's teeth. The offset is performed so that a cleaning tip (discussed below) achieves a positive contact pressure on the facial and lingual surfaces of the user's teeth (i.e., the cleaning tip is designed at least in part based on the offset tooth geometry in the processed scan). Note that offsetting the tooth geometry in the scan can involve offsetting the upper tooth geometry in the scan by a first amount and offsetting the lower tooth geometry in the scan by a second amount, the second amount being different from the first amount. Furthermore, offsetting the tooth geometry in the scan can involve using different offsets for different types of teeth or different sections of the mouth.

[0370] Back to Fig.26 , process 2600 also includes orienting the scan of the user's teeth within the mouth (2604), as shown in reference Fig.28A and 28B In some embodiments, orienting the scan involves a user, dentist, or other dental professional manually interacting with a computer program to orient the scan of the user's teeth and mouth into a desired configuration. In some other embodiments, orienting the scan involves a computer program analyzing the scan of the user's teeth and positioning the scan of the user's teeth and mouth (without human intervention) into a desired configuration. Fig.28A An example of a scan of a user's teeth oriented for a mouthpiece assembly 2800 is shown. As shown, the mouthpiece assembly 2800 includes an upper mouthpiece 2810 and a lower mouthpiece 2812.

[0371] In some embodiments, one or more features of the mouthpiece assembly 2800 (which is a 3D representation of the mouthpiece assembly 2552) are determined by the orientation in step 2604. For example and with reference to Fig.28B , the top edge 2802 of the upper mouthpiece 2810 is set according to the user's upper gum line, which is obtained from the scan of the user's teeth. Note that once the scan is properly oriented (again, in step 2604), the height of the top edge 2802 of the mouthpiece assembly 2800 is set. Similarly, the top edge of the lower mouthpiece 2812 (not shown) is set according to the user's lower gum line, which is obtained from the scan of the user's teeth.

[0372] In another example and still referring to Fig.28B , the bite points of the mouth assembly 2800 are added according to the layout of the user's teeth. Specifically, the layout of the user's canines and lower front teeth, which are also determined from the scan of the user's teeth, is used to determine the appropriate location of the bite points in the mouth assembly 2800. For example, bite points 2804 and 2806 (which are raised areas on the bite surface 2808 of the upper mouth 2810) are located at specific locations on the bite surface 2808 of the upper mouth 2810 and form points for the user to bite down (for example, when the representative teeth cleaning device is completed and is being used by the user). The lower mouth 2812 also includes one or more bite points. The raised surfaces of the bite points help the user obtain a proper bite on the upper and lower mouths, so that the optimal positioning and depth of the user's teeth within the mouth assembly 2800 is achieved (for example, so that the cleaning head of the representative teeth cleaning device is properly positioned relative to the tooth surface). In other words, the bite points are specifically located on the top and bottom bite surfaces to allow the mouthpiece assembly 2800 to move when the user bites down on the bite points. This movement allows the mouthpiece assembly 2800 to be properly positioned in the user's mouth. In addition to helping to properly position the mouthpiece assembly 2800, the bite points also help balance the weight of the drive assembly and reduce the tendency of the device to tilt downward during use.

[0373] Note that one or more features of the upper mouthpiece 2810 may be different from one or more features of the lower mouthpiece 2812. For example, the one or more bite points 2804 and 2806 on the upper mouthpiece 2810 may have a first configuration, while the one or more bite points on the lower mouthpiece 2812 may have a second configuration that is different from the first configuration. Example bite points 2912, 2914, and 2916 on the lower mouthpiece 2812 are shown in Fig.29CAs shown, the lower mouthpiece 2812 includes three bite points 2912, 2914 and 2916, which are thin, raised areas shaped for the user's lower front teeth. In other examples, the top edge 2802 of the upper mouthpiece 2810 can have a first configuration, and the bottom edge of the lower mouthpiece 2812 can have a second configuration different from the first configuration. In fact, because the representative tooth cleaning device is completely personalized for the teeth (and usually also for the mouth) of a specific user, the lower mouthpiece 2812 and the upper mouthpiece 2810 can have many different structural characteristics (and potentially some common structural characteristics) based on the differences (and potential similarities) between the teeth, gums, etc. at the top and bottom of the user's ring.

[0374] In some embodiments, the width of the biting surface of the lower and upper mouthpieces 2812, 2810 varies according to the surface area of ​​the user's teeth. For example, the biting surface is wider toward the ends of the lower and upper mouthpieces 2812, 2810 to accommodate the molars, while the biting surface is thinner toward the middle of the lower and upper mouthpieces 2812, 2810 because the front teeth are generally thin.

[0375] Also like Fig.28B As shown, a first vertical groove 2807 is defined on the facial side wall of the upper mouthpiece 2810, and a second vertical groove 2809 is defined on the lingual side wall of the upper mouthpiece 2810. Although not shown, the lower mouthpiece 2812 can have the same groove arrangement. In some embodiments (such as Fig.28B As shown), the grooves 2807, 2809 are positioned along the centerline of the upper mouthpiece 2810 and are configured to increase the movement of the facial side walls and lingual side walls of the upper mouthpiece 2810 (and the lower mouthpiece 2812), thereby improving the overall comfort of the mouthpiece assembly 2800.

[0376] refer to Fig.26 The process 2600 also includes patterning the cleaning tip in the 3D representation of the nozzle assembly (2606), as shown in reference FIG. 29A to FIG. 29C As shown (similarly, FIG. 29A to FIG. 29C Mouthpiece assembly 2800 is shown as a 3D representation of mouthpiece assembly 2550. In some embodiments, patterning the cleaning tip involves manual interaction between a user, dentist, or other dental professional and a computer program to create the desired pattern. In other embodiments, the computer program analyzes a scan of the user's teeth (as processed and oriented) and generates (with minimal to no human intervention) a pattern / configuration of the cleaning tip based on the analysis.

[0377] Specifically, Fig.29A A first cleaning tip 2902 is shown integrally formed with and extending from an outer wall 2901 of the nozzle assembly 2800. Fig.29BA second cleaning tip 2904 is shown integrally formed with and extending from the inner wall 2903 of the mouthpiece assembly 2800, and Fig.29C A third cleaning tip 2906 is shown integrally formed with and extending from the engaging surface 2808 of the mouthpiece assembly 2800. Note that the engaging surface of the upper mouthpiece 2810 is shown in FIG. Fig.29A and 29B , and the occlusal surface of the lower mouth 2812 is shown in Fig.29C In. Both the upper nozzle 2810 and the lower nozzle 2812 include different instances of the first cleaning end 2902, the second cleaning end 2904, and the third cleaning end 2906. In some embodiments (at this stage of the design process), the first cleaning end 2902, the second cleaning end 2904, and the third cleaning end 2906 on the lower nozzle 2812 match the first cleaning end 2902, the second cleaning end 2904, and the third cleaning end 2906 on the upper nozzle 2810 (at least during this stage of the design process). In some other embodiments, the first cleaning end 2902, the second cleaning end 2904, and / or the third cleaning end 2906 on the lower nozzle 2812 are different from the first cleaning end 2902, the second cleaning end 2904, and the third cleaning end 2906 on the upper nozzle 2810 (again, at least during this stage of the design process).

[0378] Regardless of whether they are located on the upper or lower mouthpiece 2810, 2812, the first cleaning end 2902 is configured to clean the facial surface of the user's teeth, the second cleaning end 2904 is configured to clean the lingual surface of the user's teeth, and the third cleaning end 2906 is configured to clean the occlusal surface of the user's teeth. FIG. 29A to FIG. 29C The cleaning heads shown in are patterned individually according to the specific characteristics of the user's teeth obtained from the dental model of the user's teeth. In other words, the layout (i.e., distribution density, spatial arrangement) of each group of cleaning heads is personalized for the specific surface of the user's teeth, and therefore, each group of cleaning heads can be different in the mouthpiece assembly 2800.

[0379] In terms of physical properties, in some embodiments, the cleaning tip is made of the same material as the nozzle assembly 2800, while in other embodiments, the cleaning tip is made of a different material than the nozzle assembly 2800. In some embodiments, the cleaning tip has a diameter at the base of between approximately 1 mm and 2 mm (preferably approximately 1.4 mm), with a 1 degree taper from the base to the tip. The tapered design of the cleaning tip facilitates the removal of the molded part (e.g., the nozzle assembly 2552) from the printed insert, which is discussed in steps 2508 and 2510 (i.e., without the tapered design, the cleaning tip tends to stick in the orifice of the printed insert after the injection molding operation).

[0380] In some embodiments, the first cleaning tip 2902 and the second cleaning tip 2904 are angled relative to the biting surfaces of the upper and lower mouthpieces, respectively. Fig.29A and 29B , the first cleaning end head 2902 and the second cleaning end head 2904 on the upper mouth 2810 are angled upward (away from the occlusal surface 2808), while the first cleaning end head 2902 and the second cleaning end head 2904 on the lower mouth 2812 are angled downward (again, away from the occlusal surface of the lower mouth 2812). The size of the angle between the cleaning end head and the corresponding occlusal surface can depend on the scanning of the user's teeth, because the use of this angle is for plaque removal at the user's gum line. As an example, the angle can be between 5 and 25 degrees (preferably 15 degrees). Note that some of the first cleaning end head 2902 and the second cleaning end head 2904 may not be angled (for example, those ends will not interact with the gum line).

[0381] In some embodiments, the first cleaning end 2902, the second cleaning end 2904 and the third cleaning end 2906 are arranged in a first pattern. For example, the first cleaning end 2902, the second cleaning end 2904 and the third cleaning end 2906 can be arranged in a diamond pattern so that the cleaning ends are closely stacked together (for example, the cleaning ends of the first cleaning end 2902 can have a center-to-center spacing of approximately 1mm, 1.5mm, 2mm, 2.5mm or 3mm). In some other embodiments, the first cleaning end 2902 and the second cleaning end 2904 are arranged in a first pattern, and the third cleaning end 2906 is arranged in a second pattern different from the first pattern (or some other combination of patterns between different cleaning ends). Note that in some embodiments, the first cleaning end 2902, the second cleaning end 2904 and the third cleaning end 2906 are all arranged differently (for example, one group uses a diamond pattern, and another group uses some different pattern).

[0382] Back to Fig.26 , process 2600 also includes cutting the cleaning tip (2608) in the 3D representation of the mouth assembly 2800 according to the dental model of the user's teeth, as shown in reference Fig.30 As used herein, "cutting" refers to removing a portion of a modeled cleaning tip from the 3D representation of the mouthpiece assembly 2800. In some embodiments, cutting the cleaning tip involves a user, dentist, or other dental professional manually interacting with a computer program to cut the cleaning tip in a desired manner / configuration. In other embodiments, the computer program analyzes a dental model of the user's teeth and cuts (without human intervention) the patterned cleaning tip (from step 2606) in a desired manner / configuration.

[0383] Fig.30 It is shown how the length of the first cleaning tip 2902 and the second cleaning tip 2904 (originally designed in step 2606) can be modified and customized according to the user's tooth geometry obtained from the dental model of the user's teeth. As discussed above with reference to step 2602, processing a scan (or other 3D representation) of the user's teeth can include offsetting the tooth geometry in the scan by a predetermined distance (e.g., between 0.1 mm and 1 mm, preferably 0.7 mm). Accordingly, in such an instance, cutting the cleaning tip can also include cutting the tip with a corresponding offset (e.g., between -0.1 mm and -1 mm, preferably -0.7 mm). In some embodiments, cutting is performed using a subtractive process, wherein the cleaning tip is initially designed to be too long (in step 2606), and then the scan of the user's teeth is subtracted from these initially designed cleaning tips (in step 2608) to achieve the desired length and geometry of the cleaning tip. In other embodiments, cutting the cleaning tip does not include cutting the tip with a corresponding offset such that the cleaning tip is longer than the distance to the user's teeth by the offset (e.g., between 0.1 mm and -1 mm, preferably 0.7 mm). The offset length accounts for manufacturing tolerances to ensure that the cleaning tip reaches user requirements. In some embodiments, cutting the cleaning tip includes cutting the tip with an offset that is less than the scanned offset. This addresses potential user discomfort if the cleaning tip is too long while still partially addressing manufacturing tolerances.

[0384] For ease of explanation, the third cleaning tip 2906 is not shown. Fig.30 2608, however, step 2608 may also include cutting the third cleaning tip 2906 in the 3D representation of the mouth assembly 2800 according to a scan of the user's teeth. In some embodiments, cutting the third cleaning tip 2906 includes cutting the tip with the same offset as the offset used for the first cleaning tip and the second cleaning tip. In other embodiments, cutting the third cleaning tip 2906 includes not cutting the tip with an offset, or with a unique offset different from the offset used for the first cleaning tip and the second cleaning tip. Cutting the third cleaning tip 2906 also includes cutting the tip 2906 with a nominal tooth geometry (i.e., cutting according to the rise, fall and contour of the user's teeth along his or her occlusal surface). Cutting the third cleaning tip 2906 may also include the same subtractive process discussed above.

[0385] In some embodiments, reference Fig.26, process 2600 also includes removing any foreign bodies, undercuts, and crossed cleaning tips from the 3D representation of the mouthpiece assembly 2800. In some embodiments, this is performed by a user, dentist, or other dental professional manually interacting with a computer program to perform the cleaning. In other embodiments, the computer program analyzes the cut cleaning tip and makes necessary adjustments to the cut cleaning tip based on the analysis (without human intervention).

[0386] At the bottom, process 2600 includes step 2610 for honing the design of the cleaning tips on upper nozzle 2810 and lower nozzle 2812 for manufacturing. Fig.30 In step 2608, some of the first cleaning tips 2902 extend too far away from the inner surface of the upper mouthpiece 2810, while some other tips do not clean the cut in step 2608 (which may be at least partially due to the pure reliance on the scan of the user's teeth). Accordingly, step 2610 corrects these minor defects (manually or without human intervention) so that future operations such as steps 2504 and 2508 can be performed properly.

[0387] Notice, Fig.31 A semi-complete 3D representation of the mouthpiece assembly 2800 is shown (for ease of illustration, the third cleaning tip is not shown). Fig.31 The 3D representation of the nozzle assembly 2800 shown in (with an attached third cleaning tip) is used as a model for designing inserts 3202, 3204, which will be discussed below with reference to steps 2612 and 2614.

[0388] refer to Fig.26 The process 2600 then models / designs the insert based on the 3D representation of the mouthpiece assembly 2800 (2612), an example of which is shown in FIG. Fig.32 In some embodiments, a user, dentist or other dental professional manually interacts with a computer program to perform modeling. In other embodiments, a computer program analyzes a 3D representation of the mouth assembly 2800 and generates (without human intervention) an insert based on the analysis.

[0389] like Fig.32As shown, step 2612 generates a 3D representation of the upper insert 3202 and the lower insert 3204. In essence, the upper insert 3202 has a first geometry that is complementary to the geometry of the upper nozzle 2810 (including the cleaning tip therein), and the lower insert 3204 has a second geometry that is complementary to the geometry of the lower nozzle 2812 (including the cleaning tip therein). In other words, the upper insert 3202 is the reverse or negative of the upper nozzle 2810, and the lower insert 3204 is the reverse or negative of the lower nozzle 2812. The upper insert 3202 and the lower insert 3204 are examples of mold inserts 1706-1 and 1706-2, which are referenced Fig.18A and Fig.18B Like mold insert 1706, upper insert 3202 and lower insert 3204 include a plurality of orifices 3206 that are configured to form the cleaning tip designed during steps 2606, 2608, and 2610 via a molding process. Upper insert 3202 and lower insert 3204 also have structures necessary for forming other structures of the mouthpiece (e.g., bite points 2804 and 2806, bite surface 2808, outer wall 2901, inner wall 2903, etc.).

[0390] In some embodiments, modeling the insert based on the 3D representation of the nozzle assembly 2800 includes adding one or more additional features to the insert. For example, the overall shape of the upper insert 3202 and the lower insert 3204 are selected based on the molds (e.g., molds 1704-1 and 1704-2) used during the injection molding process (e.g., step 2508). Additionally, designing the insert can involve adding offsets around the insert to allow the insert to fit easily within the mold (i.e., adding some tolerance to the design of the insert). In some embodiments, support structures are incorporated into the design of the insert to give each insert more structure during printing and post-processing steps so that the insert maintains its desired shape. Examples of these support structures are shown in FIG. Fig.33 3300 and support structure 3302). In some embodiments, the upper insert 3202 and the lower insert 3204 are designed to include support posts 3208, which are used to hold the structural plate 1708 in the mold during the injection molding operation. In some embodiments, the upper insert 3202 and the lower insert 3204 are designed to include identification information 3210, which is used for internal cataloging, inventory tracking processes, and customer identification. In some embodiments, the upper insert 3202 and the lower insert 3204 are designed to include one or more markings for verifying whether warping has occurred.

[0391] Return to reference Fig.25A The manufacturing process 2500 also includes completing step 2502 (the steps of which are referred to above) Fig.26 A to Fig.33 Detailed description) after 3D printing the upper insert 3202 and the lower insert 3204 (2504), as described above with reference Fig. 22 After 3D printing the upper insert 3202 and the lower insert 3204, the manufacturing process 2500 can also include inspecting the printed parts and performing one or more post-processing operations (e.g., removing extraneous features from the printing process). Thereafter, the manufacturing process 2500 includes using the printed inserts to mold a tooth cleaning device (e.g., representative tooth cleaning device 2550) (2508), and inspecting the tooth cleaning device (2510). Fig.17 and Fig. 22 (and other figures) discuss the molding process in more detail.

[0392] Figures 34 to 36C 3202 and 3204. The structure used to create the cleaning elements in the upper insert 3202 and the lower insert 3204 includes a structure for imparting the final cleaning elements with the cleaning elements described below. Figures 34 to 36C Patterned features discussed. In some embodiments, the patterning of different cleaning elements is produced using natural results of the manufacturing process. For example, in a 3D printing process, rib-like features can be naturally produced as each successive layer is added, so that the width of each rib is the layer height.

[0393] Fig.34 Exemplary cleaning tips 3400 are shown, which include rib features 3402 extending perpendicular to the length of the cleaning tips 3400. In some embodiments, each cleaning tip in the exemplary tooth cleaning device 2550 has a rib feature 3402. Alternatively, in other embodiments, some cleaning tips in the exemplary tooth cleaning device 2550 have rib features 3402, while some other cleaning tips in the tooth cleaning device 2550 do not include any rib features, or they include some other rib features (such as those discussed below). The rib features 3402 are used to enhance the cleaning ability of the cleaning tip 3400.

[0394] Fig.35A and Fig.35BExemplary cleaning tips 3500 are shown that include rib features 3502 extending parallel to the length of the cleaning tips 3500. In some embodiments, each cleaning tip in the exemplary tooth cleaning device 2550 has a rib feature 3502. Alternatively, in other embodiments, some cleaning tips in the exemplary tooth cleaning device 2550 have rib features 3502, while some other cleaning tips in the tooth cleaning device 2550 do not include any rib features, or they include some other rib features (such as those described above with reference to FIG. Fig.34 Or the following reference FIG. 36A to FIG. 36C Those discussed above). The rib features 3502 are used to enhance the cleaning ability of the cleaning tip 3500.

[0395] FIG. 36A to FIG. 36C Exemplary cleaning tips 3600 are shown that include rib features 3602 that are angled relative to the length of the cleaning tip 3600. FIG. 36A to FIG. 36C ), the rib feature 3602 is a fan-shaped shape. In other embodiments, the rib feature 3602 is a diagonal line. In some embodiments, each cleaning tip in the exemplary tooth cleaning device 2550 has a rib feature 3602. Alternatively, in other embodiments, some cleaning tips in the exemplary tooth cleaning device 2550 have rib features 3602, while some other cleaning tips in the tooth cleaning device 2550 do not include any rib features, or they include some other rib features (such as reference Fig.34 or reference Fig.35A and 35B The rib features 3602 are used to enhance the cleaning ability of the cleaning tip 3600.

[0396] FIG. 37A to FIG. 37H An exemplary customization of a cleaning tray for a personalized toothbrush device's mouthpiece 3700 is shown. For ease of explanation, individual customizations will be described below, but in some embodiments, multiple customizations are optionally combined.

[0397] In some embodiments, possible customization of the cleaning tray for the mouth 3700 is customization based at least in part on a first physical characteristic of a particular user's mouth. Some examples of the first physical characteristic of a particular user's mouth include: the length of the dental arch of the particular user's mouth, the width of the dental arch of the particular user's mouth, the occlusal classification of the particular user's mouth (e.g., overbite, underbite, etc.), the dental alignment of the particular user's teeth, the presence of dental braces in the particular user's mouth, the presence of one or more third molars (e.g., wisdom teeth) in the particular user's mouth, the width of the particular user's teeth, and the gum line of the particular user's mouth.

[0398] In some embodiments, possible customization of the cleaning tray of the mouthpiece 3700 based at least in part on the first physical characteristic of a particular user's mouth includes: customizing the length of the top cleaning tray and / or the bottom cleaning tray, customizing the width of the top cleaning tray and / or the bottom cleaning tray, customizing the distance between the outer boundary wall and the inner boundary wall of the top cleaning tray and / or the bottom cleaning tray, customizing the offset between the top cleaning tray and the bottom cleaning tray (e.g., the offset when vertically aligned), customizing the thickness of the outer boundary wall and / or the inner boundary wall of the top cleaning tray and / or the bottom cleaning tray, customizing the density of the outer boundary wall or the inner boundary wall of the top cleaning tray or the bottom cleaning tray, customizing the internal structure of the top cleaning tray or the bottom cleaning tray, and / or adding one or more bite points to the top cleaning tray or the bottom cleaning tray (e.g., as described above with reference to Fig.28B and as discussed in further detail below).

[0399] Fig.37A A general cleaning tray of a mouthpiece 3700 of a toothbrush device is shown without any customization. The cleaning tray includes an inner boundary wall 3702 and an outer boundary wall 3704. Reference lines 3706, 3708, 3710, and 3712 provide reference points for the size of the cleaning tray. In some embodiments, the length (e.g., as shown by arrow "L") and / or the width (e.g., as shown by arrow "W") of the cleaning tray is customized for a specific user. Fig.37B A cleaning tray is shown for a mouthpiece 3700 after customization, where both the width and length of the mouthpiece have been increased (eg, to match a particular dental arch of a particular user).

[0400] Fig.37C The cleaning tray is shown without any customized nozzle 3700 and reference lines 3722 and 3724 that provide reference points for the distance between the inner boundary wall 3702 and the outer boundary wall 3704. In some embodiments, the distance between the inner boundary wall 3702 and the outer boundary wall 3704 of the cleaning tray is customized for a particular user (e.g., by increasing or decreasing the distance 3726 between the inner boundary wall 3702 and the outer boundary wall 3704, as indicated by the double arrow 3726). Fig.37D A cleaning tray for the mouthpiece 3700 is shown after customization of the distance between the inner boundary wall 3702 and the outer boundary wall 3704, wherein the distance between the inner boundary wall 3702 and the outer boundary wall 3704 has been reduced corresponding to the double arrow 3726 ( Fig.37C In some embodiments, the distance between the inner boundary wall 3702 and the outer boundary wall 3704 is different for different areas of the cleaning tray. For example, this distance may decrease in the area corresponding to the double arrow 3726, but increase in the area corresponding to the double arrow 3728 (in FIG. Fig.37C ).

[0401] Fig.37E The alignment of the top cleaning tray 3728 and the bottom cleaning tray 3730 of the mouth of a personalized toothbrush device is shown before any customization. Reference line 3732 shows that the top tray 3728 is vertically aligned with the bottom tray 3730 before any customization. Fig.37F A customized mouthpiece of a personalized toothbrush device is shown in which the top tray 3728 and the bottom tray 3730 are offset. This tray offset can be adapted to accommodate a specific bite of a specific user (e.g., to accommodate a user with a malocclusion). For example, Fig.37F The mouth of exemplifies a possible customization for a user with a Class II malocclusion (sometimes referred to as a distal malocclusion, retrusive jaw, overbite, or overbite). In other embodiments, the trays may be aligned to accommodate other types of malocclusions, such as Class I (neutral malocclusion) or Class III malocclusion (prognathism / anterior crossbite / reverse overbite / crossbite).

[0402] Figure 37G The shape of the mouthpiece of the personalized toothbrush device can also be customized, for example, based on the gum line of a specific user. The outer boundary wall 3704 can be customized to have a shape that follows the face-side gum line of the mouth of the specific user, which helps prevent the outer boundary wall 3704 from causing discomfort to the user (e.g., because the outer boundary wall 3704 is too high and presses into the upper and lower parts of the mouth of the specific user during use). Fig.37H Similar customization is shown for the inner boundary wall 3702. For example, the inner boundary wall 3702 can be customized to have a shape that follows the lingual gum line of a particular user's mouth.

[0403] Fig.37I Customization of the occlusal surface 3734 of the mouthpiece 3700 is shown (e.g., the "bottom" surface of the upper cleaning tray 3728, or the "bottom" surface of the lower cleaning tray 3730). The density distribution of the material separating the occlusal surface 3734 can be customized, as shown by the customized density distribution 3736. Fig.37J A similar customization is shown, but with customized lattice structure 3738 instead Fig.37I Although shown as separate figures, in some embodiments, the customized density distribution 3736 and the customized lattice structure 3738 are optionally combined. In some embodiments, one or more other surfaces (e.g., the inner boundary wall 3702 and / or the outer boundary wall 3704) are similarly customized with a customized distribution density and / or lattice structure. In some embodiments, the customized density distribution 3736 and / or the customized lattice structure 3738 are localized to specific areas of the mouth (e.g., specific areas of the occlusal surface 3734). These localized areas can be used to form bite points located at specific locations on the occlusal surface 3734 (e.g., as previously described in reference Fig.28B The bite point discussed herein). Such a bite point allows a particular user to obtain a proper bite on the mouthpiece 3700 so that the particular user's teeth are optimally positioned within the mouthpiece 3700 (e.g., so that the cleaning tip of a representative tooth cleaning device is properly positioned relative to the tooth surface). In some embodiments, the bite point has a lower density than the surrounding area (e.g., to allow the user's teeth to partially sink into the occlusal surface 3734 in the correct position). In some embodiments, the bite point includes a lattice structure, while the surrounding area has a solid construction (e.g., without any gaps in the internal structure).

[0404] Customizing one or more surfaces of the mouthpiece 3700 with a customized density distribution and / or lattice structure allows the mouthpiece 3700 to be customized for comfort (e.g., customizing the occlusal surface 3734 to be less dense to provide additional comfort when a particular user bites down on the occlusal surface 3734) and / or performance characteristics (e.g., customizing the density distribution 3736 to achieve a desired vibratory motion when the mouthpiece 3700 is coupled to an external drive mechanism). The customized density distribution and / or lattice structure also allows for reduced material usage during manufacturing (e.g., to reduce manufacturing costs).

[0405] Figures 37K and 37L show exemplary customization for treatment and / or diagnostic purposes. Figure 37K shows a dispenser 3740, which is located on or in the outer boundary wall 3704. In some embodiments, the dispenser is alternatively or additionally located on or in the inner boundary wall 3702. In some embodiments, dispenser 3740 dispenses oral care agents (e.g., toothpaste) and is positioned at or in the position of the inner boundary wall 3702 and / or outer boundary wall 3704 based on the specific needs of the user. For example, in some embodiments, the oral care agent is a gum care agent that solves a specific gum problem of a specific user. In such an embodiment, dispenser 3740 is positioned at a specific position of the gum problem of a specific user. In some embodiments, the oral care agent is a cleaning agent (e.g., toothpaste), and dispenser 3740 is positioned to provide optimal coverage of the teeth of a specific user.

[0406] FIG. 37L shows a sensor 3742 located on or in the outer boundary wall 3704. In some embodiments, the sensor 3742 is alternatively or additionally located on or in the inner boundary wall 3702. In some embodiments, the sensor 3742 is configured to detect microorganisms in the oral cavity of a specific user (e.g., microorganisms indicating certain tooth or gum diseases, microorganisms indicating tooth decay, etc.). The sensor 3742 allows for preventive medicine and early detection of oral health problems. In some embodiments, the sensor 3742 is positioned at a specific location where they are most likely to detect the microorganism in question. In some embodiments, the sensor 3742 is positioned at a specific location based on a specific risk factor for a specific user (e.g., a sensitive area of ​​a specific user's mouth that can receive less brushing or lighter brushing, a genetic susceptibility to gum disease, etc.).

[0407] FIG. 38A to FIG. 38H A possible customization of a set of cleaning elements for a personalized toothbrush device's mouthpiece 3700 is shown. For ease of explanation, individual customizations are described below, but in some embodiments, multiple different customizations are combined.

[0408] In some embodiments, the possible customization of the set of cleaning elements for the mouthpiece 3700 is based at least in part on a second physical characteristic of the particular user's mouth. Some examples of the second physical characteristic of the particular user's mouth include: the shape, size, position, and spacing of the dental surfaces of the teeth of the particular user's mouth; the interproximal distance of the particular user's mouth (i.e., the distance between the particular user's teeth); one or more missing teeth in the particular user's mouth; the gum condition of the particular user's mouth; the enamel condition of one or more teeth in the particular user's mouth; the presence of a dental appliance in the particular user's mouth; the presence of one or more third molars in the particular user's mouth, the presence of dental hardware (e.g., inlays, onlays, crowns, veneers, bridges, implants, etc.) in the particular user's mouth; the width of the particular user's teeth; and the gum health of the particular user's mouth. In some embodiments, the second physical characteristic is a combination of the physical characteristics of the particular user's mouth (e.g., the size and position of the dental surfaces of the teeth of the particular user's mouth) and the planned customization (e.g., the size of the upper cleaning tray and / or the lower cleaning tray). For example, the set of cleaning elements can be customized to take into account the distance from the outer boundary wall of the top or bottom customized cleaning tray to the dental surfaces of the mouth of a particular user and / or the distance from the inner boundary wall of the top or bottom customized cleaning tray to the dental surfaces of the mouth of a particular user.

[0409] In some embodiments, possible customization of the set of cleaning elements of the mouthpiece 3700 based at least in part on the second physical characteristic of the particular user's mouth includes: customizing the length of the cleaning elements in the set of cleaning elements (e.g., to ensure that the cleaning elements reach the surface of the particular user's teeth, and / or including an "interference distance" at which the length of the cleaning elements extends beyond the surface of the particular user's teeth), customizing the spacing between the cleaning elements in the set of cleaning elements, customizing the diameter of each cleaning element in the set of cleaning elements, customizing the taper of each cleaning element in the set of cleaning elements, customizing the angle of each cleaning element in the set of cleaning elements relative to the surface of the top and bottom customized cleaning trays and / or the surface of the particular user's teeth, customizing the density of each cleaning element in the set of cleaning elements, customizing the surface texture (or pattern) of each cleaning element in the set of cleaning elements (e.g., as described in reference Figures 34 to 36C as discussed), customizing the cross-section of each cleaning element in the set of cleaning elements, customizing the spatial distribution of the set of customized cleaning elements, and / or customizing the material composition of the set of customized cleaning elements.

[0410] In some embodiments, each cleaning element in the set of cleaning elements is individually customized based on the mouth of a specific user (e.g., one or more of the above-mentioned second physical characteristics). In some embodiments, each cleaning element in the set of cleaning elements is individually customized by selecting the value of the physical property of the cleaning element. In some embodiments, this individual customization includes selecting the corresponding value of the physical property of each corresponding cleaning element in the set of cleaning elements so that the corresponding cleaning element in the set of cleaning elements contacts the corresponding teeth of the mouth of a specific user with a predetermined amount of contact force (e.g., 0-12 Newtons). In some embodiments, the predetermined amount of contact force is selected based on efficacy (e.g., to ensure that the set of cleaning elements can effectively clean the user's teeth), comfort (e.g., similar to a soft and firm toothbrush), and / or the needs and requirements of a specific user. In some embodiments, this individual customization includes selecting the corresponding value of the physical property of each corresponding cleaning element in the set of cleaning elements so that the corresponding cleaning element in the set of cleaning elements contacts the corresponding teeth of the mouth of a specific user with a predetermined amount of overlap with the surface of the mouth of a specific user. In some embodiments, the predetermined amount of contact force and / or the predetermined amount of overlap is achieved by customizing the amount of interference distance. In some embodiments, each cleaning element has the same interference distance. In some embodiments, the interference distance is customized for each cleaning element or subset of cleaning elements (eg, cleaning elements corresponding to sensitive areas of a particular user's mouth may have a smaller interference distance than cleaning elements corresponding to other areas of the particular user's mouth).

[0411] In some embodiments, the physical property is the taper of the corresponding cleaning element, the diameter of the corresponding cleaning element, the angle of the corresponding cleaning element relative to the surface of the top customized cleaning tray and the bottom customized cleaning tray, or the cross-section of the corresponding cleaning element. In some embodiments, multiple physical properties are customized for each cleaning element in the set of cleaning elements.

[0412] For example, if a particular user has sensitive or receding gums, a lower predetermined amount of contact force may be desired so as not to damage or impair the gums of the particular user. To achieve this goal, the customization of a set of cleaning elements corresponding to the sensitive areas of the gums of a particular user may be characterized by a shorter cleaning element (e.g., a cleaning element with a lower interference distance) and / or a mixture of cleaning elements with a smaller diameter, thereby generating a lower predetermined amount of contact force. Alternatively, if a particular user has a high level of plaque accumulation on a particular tooth in the mouth of a particular user, it may be desirable to brush those particular teeth more vigorously. To achieve this goal, the customization of a set of cleaning elements corresponding to the area with a high level of plaque accumulation may be characterized by a longer cleaning element (e.g., a cleaning element with a larger interference distance) and / or a cleaning element with a larger diameter, thereby generating a higher predetermined amount of contact force. Other possible customizations to achieve this goal include using different materials (e.g., materials with different densities) or 3D printing cleaning elements of different densities (e.g., but from the same material).

[0413] Fig.38A A top-down view of the mouth of a personalized toothbrush device is shown, which includes a set of customized cleaning elements, including corresponding cleaning elements 3802. This set of customized cleaning elements includes cleaning elements in the molar region 3804 and cleaning elements in the incisor region 3806. As described above, each cleaning element (or a subset of cleaning elements) in this set of cleaning elements can be customized individually. For example, each cleaning element in the molar region 3804 has a customized length and angle (one of the surfaces of the teeth of the mouth 3700 and / or a specific user), and the distribution density of these cleaning elements is customized (for example, to match the shape of the molars of a specific user). In some embodiments, customization includes the presence (or absence) of cleaning elements. For example, in the molar region 3804, one or more cleaning elements are present on the occlusal surface 3734 of the cleaning tray of the mouth 3700 (for example, because the molars are wide and have a large occlusal surface with multiple cusps). In contrast, on the occlusal surface of the cleaning tray in the incisor region 3806, cleaning elements may not exist (for example, because the incisors are narrow). In some embodiments, the presence or absence of cleaning elements can be based on missing teeth (eg, due to accident, injury, age, etc.) and / or extra teeth (eg, third molars / wisdom teeth).

[0414] Fig.38B The graph is shown along axis 3808 (eg Fig.38A 3810 and a portion of the lower teeth 3812. The plurality of cleaning elements for the upper cleaning tray 3728 have been customized (e.g., with respect to length, position, and distribution density) based on the upper teeth 3810. The plurality of cleaning elements for the lower cleaning tray 3730 have been customized based on the lower teeth 3812 and are therefore not a mirror image of the cleaning elements for the upper cleaning tray 3728.

[0415] Fig.38C The potential customization for the length of the respective cleaning element 3802 is shown, where the length of the respective cleaning element 3802 can be adjusted to be longer or shorter (e.g., as Fig.38C indicated by the double arrows in the figure). Fig.38D The corresponding cleaning element 3802 is shown after the length has been customized.

[0416] Fig.38E 38 shows potential customization of the amount of taper for the respective cleaning elements 3802, where the amount of taper can be increased or decreased (e.g., as Fig.38E , indicated by the two sets of arrows in the figure). Fig.38F The corresponding cleaning element 3802 is shown after the amount of taper has been customized.

[0417] Figure 38G The potential customization of the diameter of the respective cleaning elements 3802 is shown, where the diameter of the cleaning elements can be increased or decreased (e.g., as shown in FIG. Fig.38F In some embodiments, customizing the diameter of a respective cleaning element includes customizing the diameter along the entire length of the respective cleaning element 3802 by the same amount, as compared to customizing the amount of taper. Figure 38H The respective cleaning element 3802 is shown after the diameter has been customized. In some embodiments, the customized diameter of the respective cleaning element varies in a non-linear manner along the length of the respective cleaning element (eg, as opposed to a linear variation in diameter to achieve a taper of the respective cleaning element).

[0418] In some embodiments, customizing each cleaning element in the set of cleaning elements includes customizing one or more seed elements. A seed element is a cleaning element that determines the configuration (e.g., spatial distribution, customization, etc.) of the remaining cleaning elements in the set of cleaning elements (or subset). In some embodiments, the spatial distribution and / or customization of the seed element (e.g., length, density, diameter, taper, angle relative to the surface of the top or bottom customized cleaning tray, and / or shape) is manually configured (e.g., by a dental professional), and the configuration of the remaining cleaning elements of the personalized toothbrush device is automatically determined (e.g., so that the dental professional does not need to manually select the spatial arrangement and / or physical properties of each of the hundreds of thousands of cleaning elements). In some embodiments, automatically determining the configuration of the remaining cleaning elements includes automatically determining the customization of the remaining cleaning elements (e.g., the spatial arrangement of the remaining cleaning elements is a preset pattern, and each cleaning element of the enterprise cleaning element is automatically customized to have an appropriate length to ensure that each cleaning element contacts the user's teeth with a desired contact force and / or overlap amount). In some embodiments, automatically determining the customization of the remaining cleaning elements includes automatically determining the customization of the remaining cleaning elements based at least in part on the customization of one or more seed elements (e.g., if one or more seed elements are customized to have a specific length, including a specific interference distance, the remaining cleaning elements can be automatically customized to have the same interference distance, for example, by automatically customizing a combination of the lengths, angles, and positions of the remaining cleaning elements). In some embodiments, automatically determining the customization of the remaining cleaning elements includes automatically determining the customization of corresponding cleaning elements of the remaining cleaning elements based at least in part on the customization of adjacent cleaning elements (e.g., corresponding cleaning elements of the remaining cleaning elements can be automatically customized to have angles similar to those of adjacent cleaning elements so as to prevent the cleaning elements from physically interfering with the movement of nearby cleaning elements, and the lengths, diameters, tapers, and / or densities of the corresponding cleaning elements are automatically customized to ensure that the corresponding cleaning elements contact the corresponding teeth of the particular user's mouth with a desired contact force and / or overlap).

[0419] In some embodiments, the configuration of the remaining cleaning elements of the personalized toothbrush device is determined by interpolation. In some embodiments, the configuration of the remaining cleaning elements of the personalized toothbrush device is determined at least in part based on previously generated configurations of multiple groups of cleaning elements (e.g., the configuration of the remaining cleaning elements is determined in part based on machine learning (e.g., based on a data set of previously generated configurations of multiple groups of cleaning elements)). In some embodiments, interpolation and / or machine learning prioritize cleaning efficiency (e.g., by minimizing the number of cleaning elements used to fully clean a particular user's teeth), coverage (e.g., by creating the densest possible grouping of cleaning elements), and / or manufacturability (e.g., by maximizing the fullest degree of efficiency and / or coverage allowed by manufacturing constraints).

[0420] Figures 39A to 39B As shown from the rear (e.g., along Fig.38A 8 (axis 3808 in the figure). The "Direction" column shows the direction of movement of the relevant part of the mouthpiece 3700. The "Extreme 1" and "Extreme 2" columns show the two opposite extremes of the mouthpiece 3700 during the movement of the relevant part of the mouthpiece 3700. For ease of explanation, the directions "up", "down", "left", "right", "front" and "back" are used with reference to a specific user (for example, "up" means toward the roof of the mouth of the specific user's mouth, "down" means toward the bottom of the mouth of the user's mouth, "left" means toward the left side of the specific user, "right" means toward the right side of the specific user, "front" means toward the front of the user's mouth, and "back" means toward the back of the user's mouth).

[0421] The mouthpiece 3700 can be configured to vibrate at various frequencies to produce different types of motion (e.g., by being connected to an external drive mechanism driven at different speeds). Although the types of motion shown in the various vibration modes of FIG. 39 may be the same between multiple users, the frequencies and specific desired vibration modes of achieving these motion modes will differ depending on the mouthpiece of a specific user. For example, different users will have mouthpieces with different customizations (e.g., length, width, height, shape, density, etc.), which affect the motion of the mouthpiece, and for each specific user, the specific dental needs of the specific user are different (e.g., a user with a history of high plaque accumulation may need the mouthpiece 3700 to move more violently on all or part of the mouthpiece 3700, while a user with sensitive teeth or gums may need the mouthpiece 3700 to move less violently). In some embodiments, a customized vibration profile is created for each specific user and programmed into a personalized toothbrush device (e.g., as previously described with reference to the dental care device 100), thereby providing a further unique customization of oral care for a specific user of the personalized toothbrush device.

[0422] like Fig.39A As shown, Mode 1 includes up and down movement of the rear end of the mouthpiece (e.g., the portion of the mouthpiece corresponding to the rearmost teeth of a particular user). In Mode 1, the rear end of the mouthpiece moves in unison (e.g., both ends move up together and move down together). As the rear end of the mouthpiece moves up and down, the front end of the mouthpiece (e.g., the portion of the mouthpiece corresponding to the front teeth of a particular user) remains primarily stationary.

[0423] Mode 2 involves the same up and down motion as Mode 1, but the rear end of the mouthpiece moves in an alternating manner (eg, as one end moves up, the other end moves down).

[0424] Mode 3 includes movement along the mid-plane of the muzzle. Mode 3 includes movement of the rear ends toward each other (e.g., the left end of the muzzle moves to the right, while the right end of the muzzle moves to the left) and movement of the rear ends away from each other (e.g., the left end of the muzzle moves to the left, while the right end of the muzzle moves to the right).

[0425] Mode 4 includes a rotational motion in which the rear end twists along the centerline of the mouthpiece (e.g., a line extending from the rear of a particular user's mouth toward the front of the particular user's mouth). Mode 4 includes alternating directions of rotation (e.g., first clockwise and then counterclockwise relative to the centerline of the mouthpiece), and each end of the mouthpiece rotates in the opposite direction to the other end (e.g., when the left end rotates clockwise, the right end rotates counterclockwise).

[0426] Mode 5 involves a rotational motion similar to Mode 4, but the rear ends of the mouthpieces rotate in unison (eg, both rotate clockwise together, then counterclockwise together).

[0427] refer to Fig.39B , Mode 6 includes movement along the mid-plane of the mouth similar to Mode 3, but the rear end of the mouth moves in unison (e.g., both ends move to the right, then both ends move to the left).

[0428] Mode 7 includes movement of the lingual center portion of the mouth (e.g., the portion of the mouth 3700 that includes the inner boundary wall 3702). The lingual center portion of the mouth moves up and down (e.g., while other portions of the mouth (such as the outer boundary wall) remain primarily stationary).

[0429] Mode 8 includes rotational motion similar to Mode 5, but this vibration mode includes a second harmonic. The Mode 8 label shows the rotational motion from the back of the mouth, while the Mode 8 (Top) label shows two top-down views of the mouth. It is noteworthy that the outer boundary wall has two peaks in Mode 8 (as shown by the top-down view of the Mode 8 (Top) label), rather than just one peak (e.g., as in Mode 5). Similarly, Mode 9 includes rotational motion similar to Mode 4, but this vibration mode includes a second harmonic.

[0430] Fig.39C A mouthpiece 3700 is shown with a customized cutout 3902 in the surface of the mouthpiece 3700. In some embodiments, the customized cutout 3902 is used to achieve a desired vibration mode (e.g., Fig.39B 8 and 9 in Figure 1). Although Fig.39CSpecific customized cutouts 3902 are shown, but in other embodiments, the physical structure of the mouthpiece 3700 can be further customized to achieve a desired vibration pattern (e.g., through additional cutouts, by changing the size and / or shape of one or more cutouts, through other structural elements (such as notches, etc.)).

[0431] Fig.40 4000 is a flow chart describing a method 4000 of making a customized or personalized toothbrush device 3700. Although the present description is for a single user or patient, the same method is applicable to each of a plurality of users or patients. The method begins by obtaining (4002) an electronic 3D dental model of the mouth of a respective user of the plurality of users. For example, the dental model may be obtained by digitally scanning the mouth of the user at the user's dentist's office.

[0432] A 3D model of the personalized toothbrush device is then generated (4004), as described above. Also as discussed in detail above, the personalized toothbrush device is specific to the teeth and mouth of a particular user and provides the user's teeth and gums with an ideal amount of pressure, coverage, and overall cleaning. This is particularly important for tray-type toothbrush devices, which cannot typically be adjusted during use as is the case with conventional toothbrushes, where the user can move the toothbrush head to a certain position and hold it there for a period of time, or adjust the toothbrush head to be closer or farther from the tooth surface to adjust the cleaning pressure. This in-use adjustment, while beneficial for patient and knowledgeable users who pay attention when brushing their teeth, is also the biggest drawback of conventional toothbrushes because it typically results in improper brushing because it is not continued long enough and targeted at all teeth and gums.

[0433] In some embodiments, the 3D model of the personalized toothbrush device is customized by determining (4006) a spatial arrangement of a set of seed elements (e.g., less than all) that are personalized for the user, optionally based on the electronic 3D dental model of the particular user's mouth. Thereafter, the system automatically determines (4008) a configuration of a set of cleaning elements of the personalized toothbrush device (e.g., as described above with reference to FIG. 1 ) based on the spatial arrangement of the set of seed elements. Figure 38G For example, a technician may generate one or more cleaning elements in the 3D model of the personalized toothbrush device, and the computer system will automatically generate the remaining cleaning elements in the 3D model of the personalized toothbrush device, as described above.

[0434] In some embodiments, the method further includes simulating (4010) the vibration pattern of the customized 3D model of the personalized toothbrush device (e.g., including the configuration for this group of cleaning elements). In some embodiments, the method further includes determining (4012) whether the toothbrush cleaning device meets certain performance indicators when in use based on the simulation of the vibration pattern. For example, when used, the toothbrush cleaning device should be within the minimum or acceptable threshold for cleaning all desired areas in the user's mouth. In some embodiments, when any area of ​​the user's teeth, gums, and / or any gap space between teeth and / or gums is exposed to at least one friction or cleaning motion of at least one cleaning element, the performance indicator or minimum threshold is met. In other embodiments, the performance indicator or minimum threshold is that any area of ​​the user's teeth, gums, and / or any gap space between teeth and / or gums is exposed to a predetermined number (e.g., 2) of friction or cleaning motions of a predetermined number (e.g., 5 times) of cleaning elements.

[0435] In some embodiments, based on determining (4014) that the vibration pattern does not meet the performance criteria, the method repeats (4016) steps 4008-4012 with a different configuration of the personalized toothbrush device (e.g., by changing the number, position, length, etc. of cleaning elements) and / or with a different vibration pattern until the simulated vibration motion pattern meets the performance criteria. Based on determining (4018) that the vibration motion pattern meets the performance criteria, the method selects (4020) a final configuration and / or a final vibration pattern of the personalized toothbrush device.

[0436] In some embodiments, the simulated vibration pattern is compared to a target vibration pattern (e.g., a reference FIG. 39A to FIG. 39B Achieving a target vibration motion pattern is important for ensuring that the set of cleaning elements contacts the teeth of a particular user frequently enough to achieve an optimal cleaning experience. For example, although some combinations of the physical properties of the set of cleaning elements can achieve a desired contact force and / or overlap amount, those customizations may result in the set of cleaning elements contacting the user's teeth infrequently when the personalized toothbrush device is used (e.g., because the cleaning elements are customized to have a higher density to achieve the desired contact force, and due to the stiffness of the cleaning elements, the higher density causes the cleaning elements to move slowly). Therefore, different variations of these possible customizations are simulated in order to find the optimal configuration that brings the best cleaning experience to a particular user. In some embodiments, based on determining that the simulated vibration mode does not meet the performance criteria (e.g., the simulated vibration mode does not substantially match the target vibration motion pattern), the virtual model and / or vibration mode of the mouthpiece 3700 is further customized. For example, the physical properties of the upper cleaning tray and the lower cleaning tray (e.g., the inner boundary wall 3702, the outer boundary wall 3704, and / or the occlusal surface 3734, as described above with reference to FIG. 37A to FIG. 37HThe invention also provides a method for modifying the 3D model of the mouthpiece 3700 and / or the physical characteristics of the set of cleaning elements (e.g., length, density, diameter, taper, angle relative to the surface of the top or bottom customized cleaning tray, or the shape of one or more cleaning elements). Alternatively or additionally, the output frequency of the electric drive mechanism of the personalized toothbrush device is modified. In some embodiments, the electric drive mechanism is configured to cycle through multiple output frequencies. After modifying the 3D model of the mouthpiece 3700, the computer uses the updated 3D model of the mouthpiece 3700 to simulate the new vibration motion pattern. This method can be repeated until the requirements are met (e.g., all surfaces or teeth and / or gums are fully cleaned and / or stimulated).

[0437] In some embodiments, the method includes manufacturing (4022) a personalized toothbrush device (e.g., via the 3D printing process described above) with a selected configuration (which will use the selected vibration pattern in use). In some embodiments, multiple different vibration patterns can be selected for the same personalized toothbrush device. In some embodiments, the selected configuration of the 3D model of the personalized toothbrush device is sent to a third party for manufacturing. In some embodiments, the selected vibration pattern (or patterns) is loaded onto an electric drive mechanism of the personalized toothbrush device (e.g., located locally at the factory, transmitted to a user device at their home, etc.).

[0438] The method ends by performing (4024) a post-processing step to further customize the personalized toothbrush device. For example, in some embodiments, the post-processing step includes coating the outer surface of the personalized toothbrush device with biocompatible silicone (or other biocompatible agent) (e.g., for comfort). In some embodiments, the post-processing step includes optimizing the personalized toothbrush device for a specific use case (e.g., for ultrasonic cleaning). In other embodiments, post-processing removes some small amount of material to make the toothbrush device smooth or exquisite. For example, acetone smoothing can be used. In these embodiments, the toothbrush device is printed slightly larger to accommodate the removal of some material.

[0439] Fig.41 Hardware 4100 for performing the above method 4000 is shown. The hardware 4100 includes a scanning device 4102 for obtaining an electronic 3D dental model of the mouth of a corresponding user. The scanning device 4102 sends the 3D dental model of the mouth of the corresponding user to a modeling computer 4104. The modeling computer 4104 includes an editing module 4108, and the editing module 4108 includes a cleaning tray module 4110 (e.g., for customizing an upper cleaning tray and / or a lower cleaning tray, as previously described with reference to FIG. 4). FIG. 37A to FIG. 37I ), cleaning element module 4112 (eg, for manually editing one or more seed elements with various customizations, such as those described above with reference to FIG. 38A to FIG. 38H4102 ), and an electric drive mechanism module 4114 (e.g., for configuring the output frequency of the electric drive mechanism to be connected to the mouthpiece of the personalized toothbrush device). In some embodiments, the modeling computer 4104 also includes an auto-population module 4116 (e.g., for automatically determining the configuration of the remaining cleaning elements based on a set of seed elements, as previously described). In some embodiments, the auto-population module 4116 includes an interpolation module 4118, a machine learning module 4120, and / or a custom algorithm module 4122. Various auto-population modules 4116 provide various options for automatically configuring a set of cleaning elements. For example, while the interpolation module 4118 and the machine learning module 4120 can be used to maximize the cleaning efficiency of the cleaning elements, the custom algorithm 4122 module can be used to perform preference-based automation (e.g., to simulate a "soft" or "firm" toothbrush via various customizations of a set of cleaning elements). The hardware 4100 also includes a 3D printer 4124. In some embodiments, the scanning device 4102, the modeling computer 4104, and the 3D printer 4124 are locally connected. In other embodiments, one or more elements of the hardware 4100 are remotely connected to other hardware elements. For example, the scanning device 4102 can be located in a dentist's office, and the scanning device 4102 and the modeling computer 4014 can be located in the dentist's office so that the dentist can scan the mouth of a particular user and customize the design and configuration of the mouthpiece of the personalized toothbrush device in the dentist's office. The modeling computer 4014 can transmit the customized design and configuration of the mouthpiece (e.g., as 3D printing instructions) to an off-site 3D printer (e.g., to a 3D printer in a factory or other manufacturing facility) for 3D printing.

[0440] FIG. 42A to FIG. 46B Exemplary hardware of a personalized dental care device that can operate in a variety of different modes is shown. In some embodiments, each corresponding mode of operation is associated with a corresponding method of providing oral care (e.g., ultrasonic cleaning, gum care, teeth whitening, rinsing, etc.). In some embodiments, the personalized dental care device includes a separate customized mouthpiece (e.g., a teeth cleaning mouthpiece, a gum care mouthpiece, a teeth whitening mouthpiece, rinsing, etc.) for each corresponding method of providing oral care. Alternatively, the separate customized mouthpiece can be configured by the user or user-configurable to achieve a variety of different oral care treatments. In some embodiments, each mouthpiece is configured to be connected to one or more power mechanisms (e.g., a drive mechanism and / or a docking station), and the one or more power mechanisms transmit energy (e.g., vibration motion, light, heat, etc.) to the mouthpiece (or the cleaning tray of the mouthpiece).

[0441] FIG. 42A to FIG. 42B An exemplary transmitter for providing oral care to a particular user is shown. Fig.42A4200. The nozzle 4200 includes a first side wall 4202, a second side wall 4204 and a third side wall 4206. Fig.42B Region 4208 of the first side wall 4204 of the nozzle 4200 is shown in more detail.

[0442] Fig.42B An enlarged view of area 4208 of mouth 4200 is shown. Fig.42B As shown, the nozzle 4200 includes emitters 4210 incorporated into the first side wall 4202 of the nozzle 4200. For simplicity, these emitters 4206 are shown in the first side wall 4202 of the nozzle 4200, but in some embodiments, additional emitters are included in one or more other surfaces of the nozzle 4200 (e.g., the second side wall 4204, the third side wall 4206, and / or any other suitable surface of the nozzle 4200).

[0443] In some embodiments, the emitter 4210 is configured to whiten the user's teeth. In some embodiments, the emitter 4210 emits UV light, halogen light, and / or LED lighting to promote whitening of the user's teeth. In some embodiments, the emitter 4210 is configured based on the teeth of a particular user. For example, each respective emitter can be located at a respective position in the first side wall 4202 corresponding to the teeth of a particular user (e.g., based on a 3D dental scan of the user's teeth). In some embodiments, the emitter 4210 is optionally further configured to apply water or a chemical (e.g., a rinse, mouthwash, or whitening gel) to the user's teeth. In some embodiments, the chemical is supplied by a drive mechanism for the mouthpiece 4200, or by another external source (such as a docking station configured to attach to the drive mechanism or the mouthpiece 4200) (as described below with reference to FIG. 43A to FIG. 43B Detailed description further below).

[0444] In some embodiments, the emitter 4210 is configured to emit heat instead of or in addition to light (e.g., as described above). In such embodiments, the emitted heat can be used to help disinfect the mouthpiece 4200 by drying the mouthpiece after use. In some embodiments, the emitter 4210 emits light (e.g., UV light) to help disinfect the mouthpiece 4200 (e.g., in addition to and / or simultaneously with the emitted heat).

[0445] In some embodiments, the mouthpiece 4200 includes the emitter 4210 and does not include a plurality of customized cleaning elements. In such embodiments, a separate mouthpiece (e.g., with a plurality of customized cleaning elements) is used to clean the user's teeth, while the mouthpiece 4200 is specifically used to whiten the user's teeth. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece 4200 includes a plurality of cleaning elements in addition to the emitter 4204, so that a single mouthpiece can be used to clean the user's teeth and / or whiten the user's teeth.

[0446] FIG. 43A to FIG. 43B An exemplary docking station configured to supply one or more inputs to a personalized toothbrush device is shown. The docking station 4300 includes a cable 4302 configured to connect to one or more portions of the personalized toothbrush device. Fig.43A As shown, cable 4302 is connected to mouthpiece 4200. In some embodiments, docking station 4300 includes additional cables in addition to cable 4302. Cable 4302 and additional cables can each be configured to provide different inputs (e.g., light, heat, chemicals) for providing oral care to a particular user. For example, cable 4302 is configured to transfer light input from docking station 4300 to mouthpiece 4300, while a separate cable is configured to transfer chemicals (e.g., whitening gel) to mouthpiece 4300. The cable can also enable data transmission to and from the mouthpiece.

[0447] In some embodiments, Fig.43B As shown, cable 4302 is connected to drive mechanism 4304 instead of nozzle 4200. For example, cable 4302 can be configured to provide power to drive mechanism 4304 and / or charge drive mechanism 4304 (e.g., so that drive mechanism 4304 can operate while charging). In some embodiments, to reduce the number of connection points and / or reduce the risk of cable entanglement, any additional cables can also be connected to drive mechanism 4304 instead of nozzle 4200. In such embodiments, any light, heat, and / or chemicals transmitted along cable 4302 and / or additional cables pass through drive mechanism 4304 to nozzle 4200. In some embodiments, at least one cable connects docking station 4300 and drive mechanism 4304, and at least one cable connects docking station 4300 and nozzle 4200.

[0448] In some embodiments, the length of the cable 4302 is customized for a particular user (e.g., based on the particular user's height). For example, the length of the cable 4302 can be customized based on the user's standing height, and other external factors can optionally be considered, such as the size of the docking station 4300 and / or the height of the user's bathroom countertop. In another example, the length of the cable 4302 is customized based on the user's sitting height, such as when the user is sitting at a table with the docking station 4300 placed. This allows the user to perform other tasks while the mouthpiece 4200 is in use (e.g., whitening the user's teeth).

[0449] In some embodiments, cable 4302 is detachable. In such an embodiment, the user can have multiple cables for docking station 4300, and such cables can be customized to have different lengths and / or for different purposes. For example, the user can have a cable for providing toothpaste to mouthpiece 4200, and the cable has a longer length so that the user can use it when standing in the user's bathroom. The user can have a second cable for providing light (for whitening the user's teeth) to mouthpiece 4200, and the second cable has a shorter length for use when the user is sitting. This allows the user to perform other tasks (e.g., outside the bathroom) because teeth whitening may take longer than brushing teeth (e.g., teeth whitening may take 30 to 90 minutes to be effective). Customizing the length of cable 4302 for a specific user reduces the mess of mouthpiece 4200 when in use, and reduces the risk of accidents (e.g., knocking over other nearby items, or excessive cables contacting water in the bathroom).

[0450] In some embodiments, the personalized toothbrush device need not include the cable 4302. For example, when the drive mechanism 4304 is configured to couple with the mouthpiece 4200, the drive mechanism 4304 can be configured to supply light, heat, and / or chemical input directly to the mouthpiece 4200 when coupled (e.g., without the need for an additional cable). In such an embodiment, the personalized toothbrush device is typically used without a cable, but the cable 4302 can be attachable (e.g., as described above, between the docking station 4300 and the mouthpiece 4200) as an additional option for supplying light, health, and / or chemical input (e.g., as a backup option, so that the personalized toothbrush device can remain fully functional even when the drive mechanism 4304 is running at low power and / or chemicals).

[0451] FIG. 44A to FIG. 44C Hardware is shown for a mouthpiece 4200 configured to provide gum care to a particular user. Fig.44AAn area 4208 of a first side wall 4204 of a mouthpiece 4200 is shown. In some embodiments, the first side wall 4204 includes a gum area 4400 and a cleaning area 4402. The gum area 4400 corresponds to the gum area of ​​a particular user's mouth, while the cleaning area 4402 corresponds to the teeth of a particular user's mouth. The cleaning area 4402 includes a plurality of cleaning elements (not shown for simplicity), which are customized as described in the above different embodiments. In some embodiments, the gum area 4400 includes a plurality of gum massage elements, which are optionally customized according to the gums of a particular user (e.g., having a length determined by the contour of the gums of a particular user). In some embodiments, the shape of the gum area 4400 is customized according to the teeth and gums of a particular user, so that the boundary 4406 between the gum area 4400 and the cleaning area 4402 follows the contour of the user's gum line. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece 4200 does not include the cleaning area 4402 and the associated plurality of cleaning elements. In such an embodiment, a separate mouthpiece (e.g., having multiple customized cleaning elements) is used to clean the user's teeth, while mouthpiece 4200 is specifically used to provide gum care to the user's gums.

[0452] Fig.44B An exemplary gum massaging element 4404 is shown. For comparison, Fig.44C Cleaning element 4406 is shown. In some embodiments, gum massage element 4404 has different features compared to cleaning element 4406. For example, gum massage element 4404 can be larger (e.g., in diameter) than cleaning element 4406. This allows gum massage element 4404 to better transmit vibrations from a drive mechanism (e.g., drive mechanism 4304 described above). In contrast, cleaning element 4406 has a smaller diameter, which allows cleaning element 4406 to move back and forth to clean the user's teeth. In some embodiments, gum massage element 4404 has a significantly smaller length compared to cleaning element 4406 and can alternatively form a bump or other small protrusion. In such an embodiment, gum massage element 4404 is not configured to move a considerable amount, but is configured to transmit the vibratory motion directly to the user's gums.

[0453] The gum massaging element 4404 can also have a more rounded end (e.g., without edges, ridges, or other surface features) to reduce gum irritation when the mouthpiece 4200 is in use, while the cleaning element 4406 can have edges, ridges, or other surface features (e.g., as described in other embodiments above) to facilitate removal of plaque from the user's teeth.

[0454] Fig.45An exemplary oral care kit including a plurality of different mouthpieces is shown, each mouthpiece being used to provide a different type of oral care for a particular user. The drive mechanism 4304 and the docking station 4300 are optionally connected to each other (e.g., as described above with reference to Fig.43B The oral care kit includes a teeth cleaning mouthpiece 4500, a gum care mouthpiece 4502, and a teeth whitening mouthpiece 4504. Each of the three mouthpieces is configured to be connected to at least one of the drive mechanism 4304 and the docking station 4300. In some embodiments, one or more of the teeth cleaning mouthpiece 4500, the gum care mouthpiece 4502, and the teeth whitening mouthpiece 4504 are customized similar to the above-mentioned mouthpiece 4200.

[0455] In some embodiments, the oral care kit includes an orthodontic mouthpiece for promoting tooth movement and / or alignment. In some embodiments, the orthodontic mouthpiece is customized for a specific user (e.g., with similar customization as described above for mouthpiece 4200). In some embodiments, the orthodontic mouthpiece is customized based on the jaw structure of a specific user (e.g., the size, contour and / or position of the bones of a specific user) to promote the transmission of vibration energy from the drive mechanism 4304 to the user (e.g., the user's alveolar bone). In some embodiments, the orthodontic mouthpiece is customized based on the desired alignment of the user's teeth. In some embodiments, the oral care kit includes a plurality of orthodontic mouthpieces, each of which has a different configuration and is configured to provide incremental adjustment to the user's teeth over time (e.g., the plurality of orthodontic mouthpieces are used sequentially, and as the alignment of the user's teeth is gradually adjusted, the user changes from one orthodontic mouthpiece to the next orthodontic mouthpiece).

[0456] In some embodiments, the drive mechanism 4304 is configured to provide a customized vibration motion (e.g., with a customized vibration motion frequency and / or amplitude). In some embodiments, the drive mechanism 4304 is configured to provide a high frequency vibration (e.g., greater than or equal to 90 Hz, or greater than or equal to 120 Hz). In some embodiments, the vibration motion promotes tooth movement, promotes tooth alignment, reduces orthodontic pain, and / or reduces some risks associated with orthodontic treatment (e.g., root resorption). In some embodiments, the customized vibration motion induces a biochemical effect in the user's cells (e.g., cells in the user's periodontal membrane). In some embodiments, the customized vibration motion promotes the regulation of bone density (e.g., the vibration motion is used to increase bone density after tooth alignment, thereby assisting in post-orthodontic stability and retention). In some embodiments, the vibration motion is customized by a dental professional (e.g., a dentist and / or orthodontist). In some embodiments, the vibration motion is customized based on the expected frequency and / or duration of use of the orthodontic mouthpiece (e.g., a dental professional customizes the frequency and / or duration of use based on the dental needs of a specific user, and customizes the vibration motion according to the frequency and / or duration).

[0457] In some embodiments, the orthodontic mouthpiece includes one or more sensors for detecting the alignment of the user's teeth. For example, pressure sensors in one or more surfaces of the orthodontic mouthpiece are used to determine whether the user's teeth have been sufficiently moved (e.g., the pressure detected at the surface of the orthodontic mouthpiece that contacts one or more teeth of the user is below a threshold). In some embodiments, a component of the oral care kit (e.g., or a paired peripheral device, such as the user's smartphone) transmits sensor data to a dental professional (e.g., an orthodontist), and / or automatically requests a new orthodontic mouthpiece (e.g., the next of a plurality of orthodontic mouthpieces configured to incrementally adjust the alignment of the user's teeth). In some embodiments, the vibration energy is customized based on specific characteristics of the user (e.g., the measured intensity of the biochemical response to the vibration motion, and / or the user's genetics).

[0458] Using different mouthpieces for different aspects of user dental care can improve the efficacy of the device and improve the comfort of the user when using each mouthpiece. For example, compared with the teeth cleaning mouthpiece 4500, the gum care mouthpiece 4502 can be driven at a slower rate or frequency, thereby reducing the risk of irritating the user's gums. On the contrary, the teeth cleaning mouthpiece 4500 can be driven at a faster rate or higher frequency to achieve the best movement of the cleaning element when cleaning the user's teeth. The teeth whitening mouthpiece 4504 reduces the need for excessive cavities (e.g., accommodating the transmitter 4210 therein) in the surface of the teeth cleaning mouthpiece 4500 and the gum care mouthpiece 4502. This allows the teeth cleaning mouthpiece 4500 to maximize the bristle density on the sidewall, which can bring better efficacy in cleaning the user's teeth and / or providing gum care. Moreover, eliminating unnecessary cavities in the teeth cleaning mouthpiece 4500 and the gum care mouthpiece 4502 makes the mouthpiece easier to clean, and removes areas where water may gather and / or promote bacterial growth.

[0459] The separate mouthpieces for different aspects of user dental care also simplify the manufacturing process without the need for complex structures and / or hybrid features. Similarly, each specific mouthpiece can be replaced as needed without affecting other mouthpieces. For example, since the teeth cleaning mouthpiece 4500 will be used every day, and the cleaning elements of the teeth cleaning mouthpiece 4500 are subjected to high levels of wear and tear due to large-scale motion and repeated contact with the user's teeth, the teeth cleaning mouthpiece 4500 may be replaced more frequently than the gum care mouthpiece 4502 and the teeth whitening mouthpiece 4504. If a single mouthpiece is used to clean the user's teeth, provide gum care and whiten the user's teeth, then when the cleaning elements are worn out, even if the gum massage feature and / or the transmitter do not need to be replaced, this mouthpiece must be replaced. Eliminating unnecessary mouthpiece replacement reduces the user's cost, and also reduces the unnecessary waste generated by discarding the mouthpiece piece before all the features of the mouthpiece are worn out.

[0460] FIG. 46A to FIG. 46B An exemplary spout is shown having customizations that allow chemicals to move from a top tray to a bottom tray of the spout without user intervention. Fig.46A A top-down view of the mouth 4200 is shown, including the orifice 4602, and Fig.46BA side view of the spout 4200 and the orifice 4602 is shown. The orifice 4602 has openings in the top tray 4604 and the bottom tray 4606 and extends through the third side wall 4206. In some embodiments, a chemical (e.g., toothpaste or whitening gel) is applied to the top tray 4604 and travels through the orifice 4602 to the bottom tray 4606. Such an orifice allows the chemical to be easily applied without also applying the chemical to the bottom tray 4206. This also reduces the risk of spilling the chemical when, for example, a user tips the spout 4200 over in order to apply the chemical to the bottom tray 4606.

[0461] In some embodiments, the orifice 4206 is customized according to the teeth and gums of a particular user. For example, the position of the orifice 4206 can be located in an area corresponding to the user's teeth to ensure that all teeth receive a sufficient amount of chemicals. In another example, the orifice 4206 can be located in a problem area (e.g., an area of ​​concern identified via a 3D dental scan of the user's teeth and gums), such as an area where the user has historically had a large amount of plaque accumulation, to ensure that the problem area receives a sufficient amount of chemicals. In yet another example, the orifice 4206 can have a customized position based on aesthetic preferences. The user and / or dental professional can identify areas of the user's teeth that have discoloration (e.g., due to plaque accumulation, stains caused by diet and / or substance use, trauma, underlying health conditions, and / or aging), and the orifice 4206 is customized to ensure that enough whitening gel reaches these areas.

[0462] Although some of the various figures illustrate multiple logical stages in a particular order, non-sequentially dependent stages may be reordered, and other stages may be combined or decomposed. Although some reorderings or other groupings are specifically mentioned, other reorderings or groupings are obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art, and thus the orderings and groupings presented herein are not an exhaustive list of alternatives. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the stages may be implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or any combination thereof.

[0463] It should also be understood that, although in some cases, the terms "first", "second" are used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are merely used to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the various embodiments described, the first current can be referred to as the second current, and similarly, the second current can be referred to as the first current. Both the first current and the second current are currents, but unless explicitly stated, they are not the same condition.

[0464] The terms used in the description of the various embodiments described herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments, and are not intended to be restrictive. As used in the description of the various embodiments described and the appended claims, the singular forms "one", "a kind of" and "the / said" are intended to also include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the term "and / or" used herein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more items in the associated enumeration items. It will be further understood that when used in this specification, the terms "comprising", "comprising", "including" and / or "comprising" indicate the existence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or their groups.

[0465] As used herein, the term “if” is alternatively interpreted to mean “when” or “after” or “in response to determining that” or “in response to detecting that” or “in accordance with determining that”, depending on the context. Similarly, the phrases “if it is determined” or “if [a stated condition or event] is detected” are alternatively interpreted to mean “after determining that” or “in response to determining that” or “after detecting [a stated condition or event]” or “in response to detecting [a stated condition or event]” or “in accordance with determining that [a stated condition or event] is detected”, depending on the context.

[0466] For the purpose of explanation, the foregoing description has been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, the above illustrative discussion is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the claims to the precise forms disclosed. In view of the above teachings, many modifications and variations are possible. These embodiments are selected in order to best explain the principles on which the claims are based and their practical application, so as to enable others skilled in the art to best utilize these embodiments with various modifications suitable for the specific use intended.

Claims

1. A personalized dental care device, comprising: a first customized mouthpiece, the first customized mouthpiece comprising a top cleaning tray and a bottom cleaning tray, each cleaning tray being customized based at least in part on an electronic 3D dental model of a corresponding user's mouth; as well as one or more power mechanisms configured to couple with the first custom nozzle and transmit energy to at least one cleaning tray of the first custom nozzle, Wherein the personalized dental care device is configured to operate in a plurality of modes, wherein each respective mode of the plurality of modes is associated with a different method for providing oral care.

2. The personalized dental care device of claim 1, wherein: The electronic 3D dental model of the respective user's mouth is obtained via a 3D dental scan of the respective user's mouth.

3. The personalized dental care device of claim 1, wherein: The first customized mouth further includes a set of cleaning elements therein, the set of cleaning elements being customized based at least in part on the electronic 3D dental model of the corresponding user's mouth.

4. The personalized dental care device of claim 1, wherein: A first mode of the plurality of modes includes a first method for cleaning the teeth of the respective user; A second mode of the plurality of modes includes a second method for providing gum care; and A third mode of the plurality of modes includes a third method for whitening teeth of the corresponding user.

5. The personalized dental care device of claim 1, wherein: At least one of the one or more motive mechanisms is configured to transmit a vibratory motion to the first customized mouthpiece, wherein when the personalized dental care device is operated in a first mode of the plurality of modes, the vibratory motion is associated with a first corresponding method for providing oral care; and At least one of the one or more power mechanisms is configured to transmit at least one other type of energy input to the first customized mouthpiece in addition to vibrational motion, wherein when the personalized dental care device is operated in a second mode of the multiple modes that is different from the first mode, the at least one other type of energy input is associated with a second corresponding method for providing oral care.

6. The personalized dental care device of claim 5, wherein: The at least one other type of energy input is heat input or light input.

7. The personalized dental care device of claim 5, wherein: A second mode of the plurality of modes includes a method for whitening teeth of the corresponding user; and The at least one other type of energy input is configured to facilitate whitening of the teeth of the respective user.

8. The personalized dental care device of claim 1, wherein: The one or more powered mechanisms include a docking station configured to receive the first customized mouthpiece of the personalized dental care device; and The docking station is configured to transfer at least one of heat input and light input to the first customized nozzle.

9. The personalized dental care device of claim 8, wherein: The docking station is configured to sterilize the first customized nozzle using at least one of heat input and light input.

10. The personalized dental care device of claim 9, wherein: The docking station is configured to transmit heat input and / or light input to the first customized nozzle via a fiber optic cable.

11. The personalized dental care device of claim 10, wherein: The length of the optical fiber cable is customized according to the height of the corresponding user.

12. The personalized dental care device of claim 8, further comprising: a second customized mouthpiece, the second customized mouthpiece being primarily configured to whiten the teeth of the corresponding user when the personalized dental care device is operated in a ninth mode; a third customized mouthpiece configured primarily to facilitate gum care of the gums of the corresponding user when the personalized dental care device is operated in a tenth mode different from the ninth mode; And among them: The second customized nozzle and the third customized nozzle are each configured to be coupled to at least one of the one or more powered mechanisms; and The second customized mouthpiece and the third customized mouthpiece are each customized based at least in part on the electronic 3D dental model of the respective user's mouth.

13. The personalized dental care device of claim 1, wherein: The first customized nozzle includes one or more openings between the top cleaning tray and the bottom cleaning tray; and The one or more openings are configured to facilitate transfer of at least a portion of a first cleaning solution from a corresponding one of the top cleaning tray and the bottom cleaning tray to the other one of the top cleaning tray and the bottom cleaning tray.

14. The personalized dental care device of claim 1, wherein: When the first customized mouthpiece is connected to at least one of the one or more power mechanisms and when the first customized mouthpiece is receiving vibration motion from at least one of the one or more power mechanisms, the first customized mouthpiece is configured to whiten the teeth of the corresponding user and / or provide gum care for the gums of the corresponding user.

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