Intra-oral device

Abstract

The intraoral device includes a body comprising a first light strip disposed on the upper part of the inner wall, a second light strip disposed on the lower part of the inner wall, a third light strip disposed on the lower part of the inner wall, and a fourth light strip disposed on the lower part of the outer wall. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth light strips includes a light source, each light source being configured to emit light with a wavelength of 441 nm to 459 nm and an intensity of 98 mW / cm² to 102 mW / cm². Furthermore, each light source has a height of no more than 0.8 mm and a viewing angle of at least 125 degrees. The intraoral device includes: a battery supported on the body and configured to power the light source; and a start switch configured to control the current from the battery to the light source.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 518,207, filed August 8, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to intraoral devices, methods of manufacturing, and methods of using. In particular, this disclosure relates to intraoral devices comprising multiple light sources configured to kill bacteria. Background Technology

[0004] Intraoral devices can be used to clean and whiten teeth (e.g., by killing oral bacteria). During manufacturing, an intraoral device can be formed from a frame, multiple light sources, and a molded component covering the light sources and frame. Users can insert the intraoral device into their mouths. Users can also trigger the intraoral device to emit light within their mouths. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one aspect, an intraoral device is disclosed. An example intraoral device includes a body comprising an inner wall, an outer wall, and an occlusal surface extending between the inner wall and the outer wall. The inner wall, outer wall, and occlusal surface define an upper channel and a lower channel. The inner wall further includes an upper portion and a lower portion. The outer wall further includes an upper portion and a lower portion. The intraoral device also includes a first light strip disposed on the upper portion of the inner wall, a second light strip disposed on the lower portion of the inner wall, a third light strip disposed on the lower portion of the inner wall, and a fourth light strip disposed on the lower portion of the outer wall. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth light strips includes a light source, and each light source is configured to emit light with a wavelength of 441 nm to 459 nm and an intensity of 98 mW / cm² to 102 mW / cm². Furthermore, each light source has a height of no more than 0.8 mm and a viewing angle of at least 125 degrees. The example intraoral device further includes: a battery supported on the body and configured to power the light source; and a start switch configured to control the current from the battery to the light source.

[0006] In another aspect, a method of manufacturing an intraoral device is disclosed. The method may include: providing a frame defining an inner wall, an outer wall, and a first occlusal surface extending between a portion of the inner wall and a portion of the outer wall. The inner wall, outer wall, and occlusal surface define an upper channel and a lower channel. The inner wall includes an upper inner wall portion and a lower inner wall portion. The outer wall includes an upper outer wall portion and a lower outer wall portion. The method further includes: attaching a first light strip to the upper inner wall portion; attaching a second light strip to the upper outer wall portion; attaching a third light strip to the lower inner wall portion; and attaching a fourth light strip to the lower outer wall portion. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth light strips includes a light source, and each light source is configured to emit light with a wavelength of 441 nm to 459 nm and an intensity of 98 mW / cm² to 102 mW / cm². The method further includes: forming a body by overmolding the frame, the first light strip, the second light strip, the third light strip, and the fourth light strip. The body further defines a second engagement surface portion. The method further includes: connecting a battery to the body, the battery being electrically connected to the light source and a starter switch.

[0007] In some aspects, an intraoral device is disclosed. An exemplary intraoral device may include: a body comprising: an inner wall including an upper inner wall portion and a lower inner wall portion; an outer wall including an upper outer wall portion and a lower outer wall portion; an occlusal surface extending at least partially between the inner wall and the outer wall, the upper inner wall portion defining a distal end and a middle portion, the middle portion of the upper inner wall portion at an angle relative to the occlusal surface being different from the angle of the distal end of the upper inner wall portion relative to the occlusal surface; and the lower inner wall portion defining a distal end and a middle portion, the middle portion of the lower inner wall portion at an angle relative to the occlusal surface being different from the angle of the distal end of the lower inner wall portion relative to the occlusal surface; wherein the angle of the middle portion of the lower inner wall portion is different from the angle of the upper inner wall portion. The angle of the middle portion; wherein the inner wall, the outer wall, and the interlocking surface define an upper channel and a lower channel; a first light strip disposed on the upper portion of the inner wall; a second light strip disposed on the upper portion of the outer wall; a third light strip disposed on the lower portion of the inner wall; a fourth light strip disposed on the lower portion of the outer wall, each of the first, second, third, and fourth light strips comprising a light source, each light source being configured to emit light with a wavelength of 441 nm to 459 nm and an intensity of 98 mW / cm² to 102 mW / cm², each light source having a height of no more than 0.8 mm, and each light source having a viewing angle of at least 125 degrees.

[0008] In another aspect, a method of operating an intraoral device is disclosed. The method includes: providing a body comprising: an inner wall including an upper inner wall portion and a lower inner wall portion; an outer wall including an upper outer wall portion and a lower outer wall portion; and an occlusal surface extending at least partially between the inner wall and the outer wall. The inner wall, the outer wall, and the occlusal surface define an upper channel and a lower channel. The body further includes a first light strip disposed on the upper inner wall portion, a second light strip disposed on the lower inner wall portion, a third light strip disposed on the lower inner wall portion, and a fourth light strip disposed on the lower outer wall portion. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth light strips includes a light source, and each light source is configured to emit light with a wavelength of 441 nm to 459 nm and an intensity of 98 mW / cm² to 102 mW / cm². Furthermore, each light source has a height of no more than 0.8 mm and a viewing angle of at least 125 degrees. The method further includes: inserting the body into the user's mouth; pressing a starter switch configured to start the illumination of the light source when pressed; determining, using a timing circuit, that a predetermined time has elapsed; and stopping the illumination of the light source in response to determining that the predetermined time has elapsed. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 A top perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an intraoral device including a body and a handle is shown.

[0010] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The bottom right perspective view of the intraoral device shown.

[0011] Figure 3 Showing the result after removing the handle, Figure 1 A perspective view of the main body of the intraoral device shown.

[0012] Figure 4 It shows the result after removing the exterior. Figure 1 A perspective view of the main body of the intraoral device shown.

[0013] Figure 5A It shows Figure 4 The top view of the frame of the body shown.

[0014] Figure 5B It shows Figure 4 The bottom view of the frame of the body shown.

[0015] Figure 6 It shows Figure 4 The top view of the body shown.

[0016] Figure 7 It shows Figure 4 The bottom view of the body shown.

[0017] Figure 8 It shows along Figure 6 The line 8-8 is cut off. Figure 4 The rear cross-sectional view of the body shown.

[0018] Figure 9 It shows along Figure 6 The line 9-9 is cut off. Figure 4 Another rear cross-sectional view of the body shown.

[0019] Figure 10 It shows along Figure 6 The line in the middle is 10-10. Figure 4 The cross-sectional view of the body shown.

[0020] Figure 11 It shows Figure 1 An exploded view of the intraoral device shown.

[0021] Figure 12 The arrangement is schematically shown in Figure 1 An exemplary light strip within the body of an intraoral device.

[0022] Figure 13 The arrangement is schematically shown in Figure 1 A top view of the light strip within the intraoral device.

[0023] Figure 14 schematically shown Figure 1 The circuitry of the intraoral device shown.

[0024] Figure 15 A method for manufacturing an intraoral device is shown.

[0025] Figure 16 A method of using an intraoral device is shown.

[0026] Figure 17A It shows Figure 1 A top view of the prototype of the intraoral device.

[0027] Figure 17B It shows Figure 17A The bottom view of the prototype.

[0028] Figure 18 It shows Figure 17A An exemplary light strip of the prototype.

[0029] Figure 19 A graph illustrating the effect of different wavelengths on the number of bacterial cells is shown.

[0030] Figure 20 A graph illustrating the effect of light energy levels relative to the number of pathogens is shown.

[0031] Figure 21 A graph illustrating the efficiency of several exemplary LEDs relative to the applied current is shown.

[0032] Figure 22 A table illustrating the characteristics of several exemplary LEDs is shown.

[0033] Figures 23 to 28 A graph illustrating the intensity output of different combinations of LED spacing and current is shown.

[0034] Figure 29 A table illustrating the relationship between LED spacing and several performance characteristics is shown.

[0035] Figure 30 A graph illustrating the intensity output of the LED strip relative to the gap distance between the light strip and the sensor is shown.

[0036] Figure 31 A graph illustrating the intensity output of an LED strip arranged on a curved outer surface is shown.

[0037] Figure 32 Explanation is shown Figure 31 The graph shown illustrates the intensity output of the LED strip after adjusting the resistance.

[0038] Figure 33 A graph illustrating the intensity output of an LED strip arranged on a curved inner surface is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0039] Before explaining any embodiments of this disclosure in detail, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited in its application to the construction details and component arrangements set forth in the following description or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. This disclosure can have other embodiments and can be practiced or implemented in various ways.

[0040] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The images show a top perspective view and a bottom perspective view of an exemplary intraoral device 100. The intraoral device 100 can be configured to emit light into a user's mouth. The emitted light can be used to clean and / or whiten the user's teeth. Generally, the intraoral device 100 may include a body 104 and a handle 108.

[0041] In typical use, the body 104 is placed inside the user's mouth, while the handle 108 remains outside the user's mouth. In the illustrated embodiment, the top 105 and bottom 106 of the intraoral device 100 are asymmetrical. Because the body 104 is asymmetrical, it is arranged for use in a single orientation.

[0042] refer to Figures 1 to 3 The body 104 includes an outer layer 198 (e.g., a covering layer), a frame 202, multiple light sources 140, and in some cases, a snap-on switch 124 (see [link to article]). Figure 1 The frame 202 supports the light source 140 and (if included) the bite switch 124. The outer casing 198 encloses the frame 202, the light source 140, and (if included) the bite switch 124. The body 104 can surround the user's teeth and output light toward the user's teeth.

[0043] Figures 4 to 5B Various views of frame 202 are shown. Frame 202 includes an inner frame wall 232, an outer frame wall 236, and a support wall 240 connecting the inner frame wall 232 to the outer frame wall 236. As shown, an aperture 242 may extend through the inner frame wall 232, and an aperture 243 may extend through the outer frame wall 236. Frame 202 may be formed of a first material, which is typically rigid. In the illustrated embodiment, the first material may be medical-grade acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS). In other cases, other suitable medical-grade materials may be used. The apertures 242 and 243 reduce the weight of frame 202.

[0044] like Figure 5A and 5B As shown, the frame 202 is generally U-shaped and therefore includes a central portion 202a, a first side portion 202b, and a second side portion 202c. The central portion 202a is generally arc-shaped. The first side portion 202b and the second side portion 202c extend from two opposite sides of the central portion 202a to the distal ends 202d and 202e.

[0045] The support wall 240 extends only a portion of the frame 202, creating gaps 202f and 202g between the inner frame wall 232 and the outer frame wall 236. In this embodiment, the support wall 240 extends along the central portion 202a, while the gaps 202f and 202g are located between the inner frame wall 232 and the outer frame wall 236, extending from the central portion 202a to their respective distal ends 202d and 202e. In other embodiments, the support wall 240 may extend along the entire frame 202 or along a large portion of the frame 202. The support wall 240 includes an upper support wall 240a (see...). Figure 5A ) and lower support wall 240b (see Figure 5B ).

[0046] As shown in the figure, the inner frame wall 232 includes a protrusion 234 extending toward the outer frame wall 236, and the outer frame wall 236 includes a protrusion 238 extending toward the inner frame wall 232. The protrusions 234 and 238 are located or adjacent to the distal end 202d of the first side portion 202b and the distal end 202e of the second side portion 202c, respectively. The protrusions 234 and 238 are positioned at approximately the same vertical height as the support wall 240 relative to the inner frame wall 232 and the outer frame wall 236. Once the body 104 is formed, the protrusions 234 and 238 provide additional support for the body 104. In other embodiments, the protrusions 234 and 238 may be located at other locations along the inner frame wall 232 and the outer frame wall 236, or may be omitted.

[0047] The upper support wall 240a defines a generally horizontal plane P1. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper surfaces of the protrusions 234 and 238 also lie within this horizontal plane P1. The lower support wall 240b defines a generally horizontal plane P2. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower surfaces of the protrusions 234 and 238 also lie within this horizontal plane P2. As shown, planes P1 and P2 are generally parallel to each other. In other embodiments, planes P1 and P2 may be oriented at a non-parallel angle relative to each other.

[0048] In some cases, such as Figure 4 As shown, the engagement switch 124 is supported on the upper support wall 240a. In other cases, the engagement switch 124 may be supported on the lower support wall 240b. In yet another case, one or more engagement switches 124 may be supported by the surface of one or more protrusions 234, 238. In some embodiments, there is no engagement switch 124.

[0049] The inner frame wall 232 includes an upper inner frame wall 232a and a lower inner frame wall 232b, and the outer frame wall 236 includes an upper outer frame wall 236a and a lower outer frame wall 236b. The upper inner frame wall 232a and the upper outer frame wall 236a are located above the upper support wall 240a, and the lower inner frame wall 232b and the lower outer frame wall 236b are located above the lower support wall 240b.

[0050] refer to Figures 8 to 10The upper outer frame wall 236a includes an in-plane surface that defines a plane P3. The lower outer frame wall 236b includes an in-plane surface that extends within plane P3. Plane P3 is perpendicular to horizontal planes P1 and P2, respectively defined by the upper support wall 240a and the lower support wall 240b. Therefore, as shown, except for the difference in height between the upper and lower outer frame walls 236a and 236b, the upper outer frame wall 236a is substantially symmetrical to the lower outer frame wall 236b about horizontal planes P1 and P2. In other embodiments, plane P3 of the in-plane surfaces of the upper and lower outer frame walls 236a and 236b may form an angle relative to their respective planes P1 and P2. In yet another embodiment, the in-plane surfaces of the upper outer frame wall 236a and the lower outer frame wall 236b may not extend in the same plane, but in different planes, which may be oriented at a vertical or inclined angle relative to their respective planes P1 and P2.

[0051] The upper internal frame wall 232a includes an inner surface. The inner surface of the upper internal frame wall 232a gradually transitions from a generally planar shape located at or near the distal ends 202d, 202e to a non-planar or arcuate shape at the central portion. The inner surface of the upper internal frame wall 232a defines a plane P4. In the location where the upper internal frame wall 232a is generally planar (e.g., ...), Figure 8 As shown), plane P4 roughly coincides with the inner surface. At the location where the upper inner frame wall 232a is approximately curved (e.g., Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown), plane P4 is tangent to it.

[0052] At each location along the upper internal frame wall 232a, plane P4 is positioned at an angle θ1 relative to the horizontal plane P1 of the upper support wall 240a. For example... Figures 8 to 10 As shown, the angle θ1 of the plane P4 on the inner surface of the upper inner frame wall 232a increases from the central portion 202a towards the distal ends 202d and 202f. In the illustrated embodiment, the angle θ1 at the central portion is 150 degrees, and the angle θ1 at the distal ends 202d and 202e is 94 degrees. In other embodiments, the angle θ1 at the central portion can be in the range of 90 to 180 degrees, and the angle θ1 at the distal ends 202d and 202e can also be in the range of 90 to 180 degrees. In other embodiments, the angle θ1 at the central portion can be in the range of 140 to 160 degrees, and the angle θ1 at the distal ends 202d and 202e can be in the range of 90 to 100 degrees.

[0053] The lower internal frame wall 232b includes an inner surface. The inner surface of the lower internal frame wall 232b gradually transitions from a generally planar shape located at or near the distal ends 202d, 202e to a non-planar or arcuate shape at the central portion 202a. The inner surface of the lower internal frame wall 232b defines a plane P5. In the location where the lower internal frame wall 232b is generally planar (e.g., ...), Figure 8 As shown), plane P5 roughly coincides with the inner surface. In the lower part of the inner frame wall 232b, it is in a roughly arc-shaped position (e.g., Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown), plane P5 is tangent to it.

[0054] At each location along the lower internal frame wall 232b, plane P5 is positioned at an angle θ2 relative to the horizontal plane P2 of the lower support wall 240b. For example... Figures 8 to 10 As shown, the angle θ2 of the plane P5 on the inner surface of the lower inner frame wall 232b increases from the central portion 202a towards the distal ends 202d and 202f. In the illustrated embodiment, the angle θ2 at the central portion is 120 degrees, and the angle θ2 at the distal ends 202d and 202e is 94 degrees. In other embodiments, the angle θ2 at the central portion can be in the range of 90 to 180 degrees, and the angle θ2 at the distal ends 202d and 202e can also be in the range of 90 to 180 degrees. In other embodiments, the angle θ2 at the central portion can be in the range of 110 to 130 degrees, and the angle θ2 at the distal ends 202d and 202e can be in the range of 90 to 100 degrees.

[0055] At each location, the angle θ2 corresponding to plane P5 of the lower inner frame wall 232b can be greater than or equal to the angle θ1 corresponding to plane P4 of the upper inner frame wall 232a. In the illustrated embodiment, the angles θ1 and θ2 of the inner surfaces of the upper inner frame wall 232a and the lower inner frame wall 232b are different at the central portion 202a. In the illustrated embodiment, the angles θ1 and θ2 of the inner surfaces of the upper inner frame wall 232a and the lower inner frame wall 232b are the same near the distal ends 202d and 202e. Therefore, as shown, the upper inner frame wall 232a is generally asymmetrical with the lower inner frame wall 232b around the horizontal planes P1 and P2. Typically, the angles θ1 and θ2 of the inner surfaces of the upper inner frame wall 232a and the lower inner frame wall 232b are different at the central portion 202a. The angles θ1 and θ2 of the inner surfaces of the upper inner frame wall 232a and the lower inner frame wall 232b may be different or the same near the distal ends 202d and 202e.

[0056] Furthermore, as shown in the figure, the curvature of the upper inner frame wall 232a is greater than the curvature of the upper outer frame wall 236a. Similarly, the curvature of the lower inner frame wall 232b is greater than the curvature of the lower outer frame wall 236b. That is, the radius of the upper inner frame wall 232a is smaller than the radius of the upper outer frame wall 236a, and the radius of the lower inner frame wall 232b is smaller than the radius of the lower outer frame wall 236b.

[0057] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The body 104 includes a first light strip 130, a second light strip 132, a third light strip 134, and a fourth light strip 136, each light strip including some of the multiple light sources 140. The first light strip 130 is connected to the upper inner frame wall 232a, the second light strip 132 is connected to the upper outer frame wall 236a, the third light strip 134 is connected to the lower inner frame wall 232b, and the fourth light strip 136 is connected to the lower outer frame wall 236b.

[0058] Light strips 130-136 are configured to power a light source 140 disposed on any of the first light strip 130, the second light strip 132, the third light strip 134, or the fourth light strip 136. Each of the first light strip 130, the second light strip 132, the third light strip 134, and the fourth light strip 136 includes a light source 140.

[0059] In an exemplary embodiment, the light source 140 is a light-emitting diode (LED). In the illustrated embodiment, the LEDs 140 of the first light strip 130 and the third light strip 134 are vertically aligned, and the LEDs 140 of the second light strip 132 and the fourth light strip 136 are vertically aligned. In other embodiments, the LEDs 140 of the first light strip 130 may be staggered relative to the LEDs 140 of the third light strip 134, and the LEDs 140 of the second light strip 132 may be staggered relative to the LEDs 140 of the fourth light strip 136. For example, each LED 140 of the first light strip 130 may be located between adjacent LEDs of the third light strip 134, and each LED 140 of the second light strip 132 may be located between adjacent LEDs of the fourth light strip 136. In one example, each LED 140 of the first light strip 130 may be located midway between adjacent LEDs of the third light strip 134, and each LED 140 of the second light strip 132 may be located midway between adjacent LEDs of the fourth light strip 136. Therefore, each LED 140 in the first light strip 130 can be positioned 2.5 mm from each of two adjacent LEDs in the third light strip 134, and each LED 140 in the second light strip 132 can be positioned 2.5 mm from each of two adjacent LEDs in the fourth light strip 136. Other configurations are also under consideration.

[0060] As shown in the figure, after assembly, the light strips 130, 132, 134, and 136 are respectively adapted to the corresponding shapes of the surfaces of the corresponding walls 232a, 232b, 236a, and 236b, so that the light source 140 is configured to emit light away from the corresponding walls 232a, 232b, 236a, and 236b and toward the channel 248.

[0061] like Figure 18 As shown, the corresponding light strips 132 and 136 have a generally rectangular shape before assembly, and thus can conform to the in-plane surfaces of the corresponding outer frame walls 236a and 236b. Similarly, the corresponding light strips 130 and 134 have a generally U-shaped shape before assembly, and thus can conform to the inner surfaces of the corresponding inner frame walls 232a and 232b.

[0062] The first light band 130 includes a concave portion with radius R1, while the third light band 134 includes a concave portion with radius R2, which is greater than R1. The concave portions of the first light band 130 and the third light band 134 (e.g., radii R1, R2) are larger than the concave portions of the second light band 132 and the fourth light band 136, so that the light bands 130, 132, 134, and 136 are conformable to the corresponding walls 232a, 232b, 236a, and 236b.

[0063] like Figures 8 to 10 As shown, the LEDs 140 of the second light strip 132 and the fourth light strip 136 each have an inner surface through which light is emitted. The inner surface of each LED 140 defines a plane that is substantially parallel to the planar inner surfaces of the corresponding upper outer frame wall 236a and lower outer frame wall 236b to which it is connected. Therefore, the plane of the inner surface of each LED 140 is perpendicular to the horizontal planes P1 and P2 defined by the upper and lower surfaces of the support wall 240a.

[0064] The inner surface of each LED 140 in the first light strip 130 defines a plane parallel to plane P4 of the upper inner frame wall 232a. Therefore, each LED is also positioned relative to the upper inner frame wall 232a at an angle θ1. The inner surface of each LED 140 in the third light strip 134 defines a plane parallel to plane P5 of the lower inner frame wall 232b. Therefore, each LED is also positioned relative to the lower inner frame wall 232b at an angle θ2.

[0065] Further details regarding light source 140 are described below.

[0066] The outer 198 of the body 104 encloses the frame 202 and the light strips 130, 132, 134, and 136. When the engagement switch 124 is present, the outer 198 also encloses the engagement switch 124. The outer 198 is generally conformable to the shape of the frame 202. Light emitted from the light source 140 is configured to pass through the outer 198 for emission, as described below.

[0067] The outer layer 198 is constructed of a second material, which is generally less rigid than the frame 202. For example, the second material may be a medical-grade thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). In other embodiments, the second material may be another medical-grade material. In some cases, the second material is transparent, allowing light emitted from the light source 140 to pass through the outer layer 198.

[0068] The body 104 is similar to the frame 202, including an inner wall 112, an outer wall 116, and an occlusal surface 120.

[0069] Continue to refer to Figures 6 to 7 The occlusal surface 120 defines an upper occlusal surface 120a and a lower occlusal surface 120b. The upper occlusal surface 120a and the lower occlusal surface 120b are configured to support the user's teeth. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the upper occlusal surface 120a and the lower occlusal surface 120b is relatively flat. The upper occlusal surface 120a is defined in a horizontal plane P6 (see...). Figure 8 In (-10), the horizontal plane P6 is parallel to the horizontal plane P1 of the upper support wall 240a of the frame 202. Similarly, the lower engagement surface 120b is defined in the horizontal plane P7 (see Figure 8 Within –10), the horizontal plane P7 is parallel to the horizontal plane P2 of the lower support wall 240b of the frame 202. In some embodiments, the horizontal plane P6 may coincide with the horizontal plane P1 of the upper support wall 240a, and the horizontal plane P7 may coincide with the horizontal plane P2 of the lower support wall 240b. In other embodiments, the occlusal surface 120 may include a variable structure to accommodate different tooth configurations and sizes.

[0070] refer to Figure 6 The body 104 includes an upper inner wall 112a and an upper outer wall 116a disposed above the upper engagement surface 120a. The opposing sides of the upper inner wall 112a and the upper outer wall 116a are adjacent to the upper engagement surface 120a and define an upper channel 128a. The upper inner wall 112a is adapted to the shape of the upper inner frame wall 232a, and the upper outer wall 116a is adapted to the shape of the upper outer frame wall 236a.

[0071] refer to Figure 7The body 104 may define a lower inner wall 112b and a lower outer wall 116b disposed below the lower engagement surface 120b. The opposing sides of the lower inner wall 112b and the lower outer wall 116b are adjacent to the lower engagement surface 120b and define a lower channel 128b. The lower inner wall 112b is adapted to the shape of the lower inner frame wall 232b, and the lower outer wall 116b is adapted to the shape of the lower outer frame wall 236b.

[0072] Similar to frame 202, body 104 is generally U-shaped in top view and includes a central portion 127a, a first side portion 127b, and a second side portion 127c. The central portion 127a is arc-shaped. The first side portion 127b and the second side portion 127c extend from two opposite sides of the central portion 127a to the distal ends 127e and 127f.

[0073] When the body 104 is inserted into the user's mouth, the upper channel 128a and the lower channel 128b at least partially receive the user's teeth. More specifically, the upper channel 128a at least partially covers the user's upper teeth, and the lower channel 128b at least partially covers the user's lower teeth.

[0074] The outer wall 116 is configured to partially surround the outer side of the user's teeth, such that the light sources 140 of the second light strip 132 and the fourth light strip 136 output light toward the outside of the user's teeth. Figures 8 to 10 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment, the outer wall 116, similar to the outer wall 236 of the frame 202, extends vertically away from the upper engagement surface 120a and the lower engagement surface 120b. More specifically, the upper outer wall 116a has an in-plane surface (facing the upper channel 128a) perpendicular to the horizontal plane P6 of the upper engagement surface 120a. Similarly, the lower outer wall 116b has an in-plane surface (facing the lower channel 128b) perpendicular to the horizontal plane P7 of the lower engagement surface 120b. Furthermore, as shown, except for the difference in height between the upper and lower outer walls 116a and 116b, the upper outer wall 116a is substantially symmetrical to the lower outer wall 116b around the horizontal planes P6 and P7. In other embodiments, the in-plane surfaces of the outer walls 116 may extend at an angle relative to their respective planes P6 and P7.

[0075] The inner wall 112 is configured to partially surround the interior of the user's teeth, such that the light sources 140 of the first light strip 130 and the third light strip 134 output light toward the interior of the user's teeth.

[0076] The upper inner wall 112a includes an inner surface facing the upper channel 128a. The inner surface of the upper inner wall 112a gradually transitions from a generally planar shape located at or near the distal ends 127d, 127e to a non-planar or arcuate shape in the central portion 127a. In the location where the upper inner wall 112a is generally planar (e.g., ...), Figure 8 As shown), this plane substantially coincides with the inner surface. In the location where the upper inner wall 112a is approximately arc-shaped (e.g., Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown in the figure, the plane is tangent to it.

[0077] At each location, the plane of the upper inner wall 112a is parallel to the corresponding plane P4 of the upper inner frame wall 232a. Therefore, at each location along the upper inner wall 112a, the plane of the upper inner wall 112a, like the corresponding plane P4, is positioned at an angle θ1 relative to the horizontal plane P6 of the upper engagement surface 120a, because the horizontal plane P6 is parallel to the horizontal plane P1 of the upper support wall 240a. Figures 8 to 10 As shown, the angle θ1 of the plane of the inner surface of the upper inner wall 112a increases from the central part 127a toward the distal ends 127d and 127e.

[0078] The lower inner wall 112b includes an inner surface facing the lower channel 128b. The inner surface of the lower inner wall 112b transitions from a generally planar shape located at or near the distal ends 127d, 127e to a non-planar or arcuate shape in the central portion 127a. In the location where the lower inner wall 112b is generally planar (e.g., ...), Figure 8 As shown), this plane substantially coincides with the inner surface. In the location where the lower inner wall 112b is approximately arc-shaped (e.g., Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown in the figure, the plane is tangent to it.

[0079] At each location, the plane of the lower inner wall 112b is parallel to the corresponding plane P5 of the lower inner frame wall 232b. Therefore, at each location along the lower inner wall 112b, the plane of the lower inner wall 112b, like the corresponding plane P5, is positioned at an angle θ2 relative to the horizontal plane P7 of the lower engagement surface 120b, because the horizontal plane P7 is parallel to the horizontal plane P2 of the lower support wall 240b. Figures 8 to 10 As shown, the angle θ2 of the plane of the inner surface of the lower inner wall 112b increases from the central part 127a toward the distal ends 127d and 127e.

[0080] At each location, the angle θ2 corresponding to the plane of the lower inner wall 112b can be greater than or equal to the angle θ1 corresponding to the plane of the upper inner wall 112a. In the illustrated embodiment, the angles θ1 and θ2 of the inner surfaces of the upper inner wall 112a and the lower inner wall 112b are different at the central portion 127a, while the angles θ1 and θ2 of the inner surfaces of the upper inner wall 112a and the lower inner wall 112b are the same near the distal ends 127d and 127e. Therefore, as shown, the upper inner wall 112a is generally asymmetrical with respect to the lower inner wall 112b around the horizontal planes P6 and P7. The angles θ1 and θ2 of the inner surfaces of the upper inner wall 112a and the lower inner wall 112b can be different or the same at the central portion 127a. The angles θ1 and θ2 of the inner surfaces of the upper inner wall 112a and the lower inner wall 112b can be different or the same near the distal ends 127d and 127e.

[0081] Furthermore, as shown in the figure, the curvature of the upper inner wall 112a is greater than the curvature of the upper outer wall 116a. Similarly, the curvature of the lower inner wall 112b is greater than the curvature of the lower outer wall 116b. That is, the radius of the upper inner wall 112a is smaller than the radius of the upper outer wall 116a, and the radius of the lower inner wall 112b is smaller than the radius of the lower outer wall 116b.

[0082] In other embodiments, walls 112a, 112b, 116a, 116b may have other configurations while still supporting frame 202 and its light source 140. For example, in other embodiments, walls 112a, 112b, 116a, 116b may be arranged in different ways relative to frame 202. In one example, the orientation angle of one or more surfaces of walls 112a, 112b, 116a, 116b may differ from the orientation angle of the corresponding walls 232a, 232b, 236a, 236b of frame 202.

[0083] In some embodiments, the occlusal surface may define one or more openings that allow saliva to flow through the body 104. For example, the occlusal surface may define at least two openings 122 (see...). Figures 6 to 7 These openings 122 extend between the upper occlusal surface 120a and the lower occlusal surface 120b. These openings 122 can be used for the user's canines and / or to allow saliva to pass through.

[0084] An exemplary bite switch 124 may include one or more sensors configured to determine whether the body 104 is located in the user's mouth. The bite switch 124 may be contacted via the upper occlusal surface 120a or the lower occlusal surface 120b of the body 104. As discussed in further detail below, signals from the bite switch 124 may be used to control multiple light sources on the braces.

[0085] As shown in the figure, light strips 130, 132, 134, 136 and their supported LEDs 140 can be spaced apart from the corresponding upper engagement surfaces 120a and lower engagement surfaces 120b. The light strips 132, 136 and their light sources 140 corresponding to the outer wall 116 can be positioned further away from the corresponding engagement surfaces 120a and 120b compared to the light strips 130, 134 and their light sources 140 corresponding to the inner wall 112. In other words, the first light strip 130 can be arranged closer to the engagement surface 120 than the second light strip 132, and the third light strip 134 can be arranged closer to the engagement surface 120 than the fourth light strip 136. In other embodiments, the light strips 130, 132, 134, 136 can be spaced apart from the corresponding upper engagement surfaces 120a and lower engagement surfaces 120b by the same distance.

[0086] In an exemplary embodiment, the light strips 130–136 are disposed within the body 104 (supported by the frame 202). In other embodiments, the light strips 130–136 may be disposed on the surface of the body 104, and particularly on the exterior of the body 104.

[0087] Light source 140 is configured to emit light toward the user's teeth. In the illustrated embodiment, the height of the light source is 0.7 mm. In some embodiments, the height of the exemplary light source may be from 0.4 mm to 1.2 mm. In various embodiments, the height of the exemplary light source is no greater than 0.8 mm. In various embodiments, the height of the exemplary light source is no greater than 0.7 mm; no greater than 0.6 mm; or no greater than 0.5 mm. In various embodiments, the height of the exemplary light source is at least 0.4 mm; at least 0.5 mm; at least 0.6 mm; at least 0.7 mm; or at least 0.8 mm.

[0088] The exemplary light source is configured to provide an energy density greater than 6 joules per square centimeter (J / cm²). In various embodiments, the exemplary light source 140 is configured to provide an energy density of not less than 16 J / cm² and not more than 54 J / cm²; not less than 18 J / cm² and not more than 48 J / cm²; not less than 24 J / cm² and not more than 45 J / cm²; or not less than 36 J / cm² and not more than 54 J / cm². In various embodiments, the exemplary light source 140 is configured to provide an energy density of not less than 18 J / cm²; not less than 24 J / cm²; not less than 30 J / cm²; not less than 36 J / cm²; not less than 42 J / cm²; not less than 48 J / cm²; or not less than 54 J / cm². In various embodiments, the exemplary light source 140 is configured to provide an energy density of no more than 54 J / cm²; no more than 48 J / cm²; no more than 42 J / cm²; no more than 36 J / cm²; no more than 30 J / cm²; no more than 24 J / cm²; or no more than 16 J / cm².

[0089] In various embodiments, the exemplary light source 140 is configured to emit light with a wavelength not less than 441 nm and not greater than 459 nm; not less than 443 nm and not greater than 457 nm; not less than 445 nm and not greater than 455 nm; not less than 447 nm and not greater than 453 nm; or not less than 449 nm and not greater than 451 nm. In various embodiments, the light source 140 is configured to emit light with a wavelength not greater than 459 nm; not greater than 457 nm; not greater than 455 nm; not greater than 453 nm; not greater than 451 nm; not greater than 449 nm; not greater than 447 nm; not greater than 445 nm; not greater than 443 nm; or not greater than 441 nm. In various embodiments, the light source 140 is configured to emit light with a wavelength not less than 459 nm; not less than 457 nm; not less than 455 nm; not less than 453 nm; not less than 451 nm; not less than 449 nm; not less than 447 nm; not less than 445 nm; not less than 443 nm; or not less than 441 nm.

[0090] In various embodiments, the exemplary light source 140 is configured to emit light with an intensity of not less than 95 mW / cm² and not more than 105 mW / cm²; not less than 97 mW / cm² and not more than 103 mW / cm²; or not less than 99 mW / cm² and not more than 101 mW / cm². In various embodiments, the light source 140 is configured to emit light with an intensity of not more than 105 mW / cm²; not more than 103 mW / cm²; not more than 101 mW / cm²; not more than 99 mW / cm²; or not more than 97 mW / cm². In various embodiments, the light source 140 is configured to emit light with an intensity of not less than 95 mW / cm²; not less than 97 mW / cm²; not less than 99 mW / cm²; not less than 101 mW / cm²; or not less than 103 mW / cm².

[0091] In various embodiments, the exemplary light source 140 is configured to emit light at an angle between 125 degrees and 132 degrees. In various embodiments, the exemplary light source 140 is configured to emit light at an angle not less than 125 degrees; not less than 127 degrees; not less than 129 degrees; or not less than 130 degrees. In various embodiments, the exemplary light source 140 is configured to emit light at an angle not greater than 132 degrees; not greater than 131 degrees; not greater than 130 degrees; not greater than 129 degrees; not greater than 128 degrees; or not greater than 127 degrees.

[0092] In some embodiments, the forward voltage of each light source is no greater than 3 volts. In various embodiments, exemplary light source 140 is configured to have a forward voltage of no less than 2.0 volts or no less than 1.8 volts. In various embodiments, exemplary light source 140 is configured to have a forward voltage of no more than 3.1 volts; no more than 3.2 volts; no more than 3.3 volts; or no more than 3.4 volts.

[0093] In various embodiments, the exemplary light source 140 is configured to have a drive current of not less than 10mA and not more than 30mA; not less than 12mA and not more than 28mA; not less than 14mA and not more than 26mA; not less than 16mA and not more than 24mA; or not less than 18mA and not more than 22mA. In various embodiments, the exemplary light source 140 is configured to have a drive current of not less than 10mA; not less than 12mA; not less than 14mA; not less than 16mA; not less than 18mA; not less than 24mA; or not less than 28mA. In various embodiments, the exemplary light source 140 is configured to have a drive current of not more than 30mA; not more than 28mA; not more than 26mA; not more than 24mA; not more than 22mA; not more than 18mA; or not more than 14mA.

[0094] As previously described, light source 140 is arranged on light strips 130–136, which may be arranged within body 104. Therefore, the light emitted by light source 140 will pass through a portion of body 104 before reaching the user's tooth surface. (Reference) Figure 12 In an exemplary embodiment, the offset distance D between the light source 140 and the outer surface of the body 104 can be between 1.75 mm and 2.25 mm. This specific offset distance D is based on the specifications of the light source 140 and can be varied accordingly depending on the light source used.

[0095] refer to Figure 13 The light sources can be uniformly arranged along the first light band 130. The light sources can be uniformly arranged along the second light band 132. The light sources can be uniformly arranged along the third light band 134. The light sources can be uniformly arranged along the fourth light band 136.

[0096] The gap distance D1 between the light sources arranged on any of the plurality of light strips 130 to 136 is the horizontal distance between the two opposite edges of adjacent light sources 140. In other words, the gap distance D1 measures the gap between adjacent light sources. In some embodiments, the gap distance D1 of each of the first light strip 130, the second light strip 132, the third light strip 134, and the fourth light strip 136 is the same.

[0097] In some cases, the first light strip 130 and the third light strip 134 on the inner wall 112 have fewer LEDs than the second light strip 132 and the fourth light strip 136 on the outer wall 116. For example, the first light strip 130 and the third light strip 134 on the inner wall 112 each have ten LEDs, while the second light strip 132 and the fourth light strip 136 on the outer wall 116 each have fourteen LEDs. The number of LEDs in each of the first light strip 130, the second light strip 132, the third light strip 134, and the fourth light strip 136 is related to the gap distance D1 between adjacent LEDs. In other words, the larger the gap distance D1 between adjacent LEDs, the fewer LEDs each light strip 130, 132, 134, and 136 has, and the smaller the gap distance D1 between adjacent LEDs, the more LEDs each light strip 130, 132, 134, and 136 has.

[0098] In various embodiments, the exemplary gap distance D1 between each light source 140 is not less than 3 mm and less than 7 mm; or not less than 4 mm and not greater than 6 mm. In various embodiments, the exemplary gap distance D1 between each light source 140 is not less than 3 mm; not less than 4 mm; not less than 5 mm; not less than 6 mm; or not less than 7 mm. In various embodiments, the exemplary gap distance D1 between each light source 140 is not greater than 7 mm; not greater than 6 mm; not greater than 5 mm; or not greater than 4 mm.

[0099] refer to Figure 11 The handle 108 can be configured to house electronic components for operating multiple light sources in the body 104. The handle 108 includes a handle housing 148 and an end cap 152. After assembly, the body 104 is connected to a circuit board 154. After assembly, the circuit board 154 is connected to a battery 158.

[0100] In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 108 includes a charging port 162 and a power button 166. An LED indicator may surround the power button 166. In other embodiments, the handle 108 may incorporate fewer or more components and have different structures.

[0101] In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 108 is attached to the body 104 via a fastener 170. In other embodiments, the handle 108 may be constructed and attached to the body 104 in different ways (e.g., friction fit, adhesive, etc.).

[0102] The handle housing 148 is configured to house the circuit board 154 and battery 158 outside the body 104, such that the circuit board 154 and battery 158 are positioned outside the user's mouth. The handle housing 148 may be a waterproof or splash-proof structure. In other embodiments, the handle may take different forms or shapes.

[0103] End cap 152 is configured for removably attaching to handle housing 148 such that handle housing 148 and end cap 152 together surround and protect circuit board 154 and battery 158. In an exemplary embodiment, end cap 152 is friction-fitted to handle housing 148. In other embodiments, end cap 152 may include fasteners or other means to removably attach end cap 152 to handle housing 148.

[0104] Figure 14 Exemplary electrical components and the electrical connections between them are schematically illustrated. Circuit board 154 is configured to control multiple light sources and regulate the power of battery 158. Figure 14 In the illustrated embodiment, circuit board 154 includes timing circuitry 174, power MOSFET 178, linear voltage regulator 182, and battery charging integrated circuit (“IC”) 186. In other embodiments, circuit board 154 may contain fewer or more components to accommodate fewer or more functionalities, form factors, and power efficiency.

[0105] Battery 158 is configured to power multiple light sources. Various types of batteries can be used. For example, battery 158 may employ a lithium-polymer chemistry to power the multiple light sources. In an exemplary embodiment, battery 158 comprises a single cell. In other embodiments, battery 158 may employ different chemistry systems and have different shapes or capacities.

[0106] The capacity of the battery 158 can range from 350mAh to 700mAh, and the nominal voltage is approximately 3.7 volts.

[0107] Charging port 162 is configured to receive external power to charge battery 158. In some embodiments, charging port 162 may be compatible with various charging architectures (such as micro-USB, USB-C, USB-A, etc.).

[0108] The power button 166 can be electrically connected to various electrical components. For example, the power button 166 can be electrically connected to the battery 158 and the timing circuit 174.

[0109] The indicator is configured to notify the user when a predetermined amount of time has elapsed. In some embodiments, the indicator may also notify the user of an error, provide information about the battery status (e.g., battery level), and allow the user to adjust the timing operationally. In other embodiments, the handle 108 may use a buzzer or display screen as an indicator to replace or supplement the LED indicator. The indicator may be configured to provide light of multiple colors, such as red, yellow, green, etc.

[0110] The timing circuit 174 is configured to determine that a predetermined time period has elapsed. In some embodiments, after determining that a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the initiation of the current, the timing circuit 174 sends a signal to an indicator to notify the user to remove the intraoral device 100. In some embodiments, the timing circuit may directly turn off the light source 140 after determining that the predetermined time period has elapsed.

[0111] In some cases, light source 140 may be part of light source assembly 141. Therefore, each of the light strips 130, 132, 134, and 136 described above may include multiple light source assemblies 141. Light source assembly 141 may receive power from linear voltage regulator 182. As shown, light source assembly 141 includes light source 140 (shown as an LED) and resistor 143. In some embodiments, each LED 140 is paired with a resistor 143, which is used to set the current of the LED 140 (and thereby set its illuminance). By selecting the resistor 143 used for each LED 140 in the dental braces, the intensity of light on the oral cavity surface can be finely controlled and balanced to ensure consistency.

[0112] In some embodiments, the resistance of the exemplary resistor 143 may be between 2.7 ohms and 5.5 ohms, and in other embodiments, its resistance may be between 3.0 ohms and 5.5 ohms. In various embodiments, resistor 143 may have a resistance of not less than 2.7 ohms; not less than 3.0 ohms; not less than 3.2 ohms; not less than 3.8 ohms; not less than 4.4 ohms; or not less than 5.0 ohms. In various embodiments, resistor 143 may have a resistance of not greater than 5.5 ohms; not greater than 5.0 ohms; not greater than 4.5 ohms; not greater than 4.0 ohms; or not greater than 3.5 ohms.

[0113] In some cases, resistors 143 with various resistances can be used. For example, the light strip may include a combination of resistors 143 with resistances between 4.8 ohms and 5.2 ohms and resistors 143 with resistances between 2.7 ohms and 3.5 ohms. In another example, the light strip may include a combination of resistors 143 with resistances between 4.8 ohms and 5.2 ohms and resistors 143 with resistances between 3.0 ohms and 3.5 ohms. Other resistors and combinations are also under consideration.

[0114] In some cases, the resistor 143 associated with the LED in the middle 127 of the inner wall 112 (e.g., the upper inner wall 112a) has a lower resistance than the resistor 143 corresponding to the LED outside the middle 127 of the inner wall 112 (e.g., the upper inner wall 112a).

[0115] The illumination of light source 140 can be for various time periods, as long as the energy level is less than 110 mW / cm². In various embodiments, light source 140 can be illuminated for a period of not less than 60 seconds and not more than 180 seconds; not less than 90 seconds and not more than 180 seconds; or not less than 120 seconds and not more than 180 seconds. In various embodiments, light source 140 can be illuminated for a period of not less than 60 seconds; not less than 90 seconds; not less than 120 seconds; not less than 150 seconds; or not less than 180 seconds. In various embodiments, light source 140 can be illuminated for a period of not more than 180 seconds; not more than 150 seconds; not more than 120 seconds; not more than 90 seconds; or not more than 60 seconds.

[0116] The power MOSFET 178 is configured to control the charging and discharging of the battery 158. In some embodiments, the power MOSFET 178 can be user-operated to activate or deactivate the light source 140.

[0117] Linear voltage regulator 182 is configured to regulate the voltage output of battery 158, thereby controlling the current supplied to light source 140. In some embodiments, linear voltage regulator 182 may be absent.

[0118] The battery charging integrated circuit (IC) 186 is configured to control the power flowing from the charging port 162 to the battery 158. For example, the battery charging IC 186 can reduce the input power from the charging port 162 based on the charging voltage of the battery 158.

[0119] Figure 15 An exemplary method 200 for manufacturing an intraoral device 100 is shown. The intraoral device 100 may be manufactured using other manufacturing methods, and the manufacturing method 200 may be used to manufacture other intraoral devices.

[0120] Exemplary method 200 begins with a first operation 204 to provide a frame 202. Subsequently, in operation 208, the frame 202 is coupled to a first light strip 130, in operation 212 to a second light strip 132, in operation 216 to a third light strip 134, and in operation 220 to a fourth light strip 136. After the frame 202 is coupled to the plurality of light strips 130–136, operation 224 includes forming a body 104 by overmolding, i.e., overmolding the frame 202, the first light strip 130, the second light strip 132, the third light strip 134, and the fourth light strip 136 using the material of the outer layer 198. In an exemplary embodiment of manufacturing method 200, each of the first light strip 130, the second light strip 132, the third light strip 134, and the fourth light strip 136 included in the manufacturing process 200 is identical to the corresponding light strip described in the intraoral device 100. The frame 202 is overmolded to form the engagement surfaces 120a and 120b as disclosed above. Therefore, the plurality of light sources 140 can have the same characteristics as described above.

[0121] In some cases, operation 206 may include coupling the engagement switch 124 to the frame 202 along the support wall 240. In some embodiments, the engagement switch 124 may be coupled along the upper support wall 240a and / or along the lower support wall 240b.

[0122] After the body 104 is formed, it is connected to a battery in operation 228. A handle 108 is configured to connect a battery 158 to the plurality of light sources 140 within the body 104. The battery 158 is configured to power the plurality of light sources 140. In an exemplary embodiment, the battery 158 may include characteristics and features similar to those of the battery 158 of the intraoral device 100.

[0123] Figure 16An exemplary method 300 for operating an intraoral device is shown. The exemplary method 300 includes: providing a body 104 (operation 304), inserting the body 104 into a user's mouth (operation 308), receiving a signal from an actuator switch (operation 312) to illuminate a light source 140 in the body 104, determining that a predetermined time has elapsed (operation 316), and providing an indication of the elapsed time (operation 320).

[0124] When the body 104 is inserted into the user's mouth during operation 308, the user's teeth enter the channels 128a and 128b in the upper part 105 and lower part 106 of the body.

[0125] The user can select the power button 166 (also known as the starter switch), which activates the main power supply to the device. The power button 166 can be selected again after the body 104 is inside the user's mouth. Upon the second selection of the power button 166, a signal is sent to the timing circuit 174 and the plurality of light sources 140, causing the light sources 140 to illuminate.

[0126] In some embodiments, as described above, the device may include a bite switch 124 in the bite surfaces 120a, 120b. When the bite switch 124 is pressed during operation 316, the bite switch 124 sends a signal to the timing circuit 174 and the plurality of light sources 140, thereby illuminating the light sources 140.

[0127] Upon receiving a signal from the starter device (e.g., from the power button or from the engagement switch 124) (operation 316), the timing circuit 174 begins a countdown from a predetermined time period. After the predetermined time period ends (its duration as described above), the timing circuit 174 can send a signal to the indicator. After the predetermined time period has elapsed (its duration as described above), the timing circuit 174 can turn off the illumination of the light source 140.

[0128] Experimental Example

[0129] use Figure 17A and Figure 17B The prototype of the body 104 shown underwent various experiments, including... Figure 18 Exemplary light bands 130, 132, 134, and 138 are shown. The results are described below.

[0130] Irradiation with light emitted by an LED with a wavelength range of approximately 450 nm to 505 nm at an intensity of 70 mW / cm² for 3 minutes showed that it inhibited the growth of Porphyromonas gingivalis (a type of bacteria). P. gingivalis Prevotella intermedia ( P. intermedius ), Fusobacterium nucleatum ( F. nucleatum ) and Aggregates with Actinobacillus ( A. actinomycetemcomitansThe cultures of [organism name] were tested. In the experiment, the bacterial suspension was adjusted to 1 × 10 [units]. 8 Cells / mL, and 20 µL aliquots of this bacterial suspension were added to each well of a 96-well plate. The bacterial suspension was mixed with 80 µL of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and then irradiated with light of different wavelengths. A light-emitting diode (LED) provided illumination at an intensity of 70 mW / cm² for 3 minutes. Control samples were not irradiated. After irradiation, the test solutions were serially diluted and inoculated onto agar plates and incubated anaerobically for one week. The colony-forming units (CFU) of each sample were then determined per milliliter (per mL).

[0131] Figure 19 The results show the CFU per milliliter of bacterial cells after irradiation for 3 minutes at wavelengths of 450 nm, 470 nm, 490 nm, and 505 nm. Figure 19 As shown, compared to 470nm, 490nm and 505nm, 450nm blue light showed a reduction in the number of bacterial cells by one to five logarithmic orders.

[0132] After determining the target wavelength, the antibacterial effect of light emitted at wavelengths of 450 nm and 470 nm was further tested within an energy output range of 6 J / cm² to 54 J / cm². The energy output was varied by adjusting the intensity of the emitted light and the duration of light application.

[0133] like Figure 20 As shown, light at a wavelength of 450 nm did not exhibit a significant antibacterial effect at 6 J / cm². Therefore, a concentration greater than 6 J / cm² is required to kill pathogens at 450 nm. At the exemplary energy levels tested, light emitted at 18 J / cm² or higher was effective in killing pathogens. In other words, providing light at an intensity of 100 mW / cm² for 3 minutes is an effective amount of energy for reducing the number of bacterial cells.

[0134] While higher energy levels typically result in greater bacterial cell reduction, achieving these high energy levels becomes less efficient due to resistive losses in the circuitry, increased forward voltage of the LED, and other corresponding limitations in the battery. For example, a typical lithium-polymer battery cell can provide a nominal voltage of 3.7 volts. If the forward voltage of the LED exceeds 3.7 volts, multiple battery cells or additional circuitry (such as a boost converter) may be required to power the LED. Furthermore, at higher current draws, multiple battery cells may be needed to provide the required power output. When the forward voltage of each light source in the intraoral device is below 3V, the drive current is less than 30mA.

[0135] Figure 21An exemplary graph is shown illustrating the efficiency of several exemplary LEDs relative to the applied current. As shown in Figure 508, the Luxeon 2835 outperforms the other tested LEDs. In some embodiments, the peak efficiency of the exemplary light source can be 0.9 milliwatts per square meter of input-output.

[0136] Figure 22 An exemplary table is shown, illustrating the viewing angle, intensity per milliwatt of input, drive current, rectangular area, and height of several LEDs. Each of these specifications can be a factor to consider when selecting an LED.

[0137] Viewing angle (measured in degrees) is a measure of the width of light diffusion from an LED. A larger viewing angle allows each LED to provide more coverage, thus allowing fewer LEDs to be used, which in turn results in a reduction in the overall power required to achieve a similar effect.

[0138] Intensity (expressed as milliwatts per square centimeter [mW / cm²]) is a measure of efficiency. Higher efficiency means less electrical energy is lost as heat.

[0139] The drive current (in mA) is the amount of current required to draw light for the output. The drive current, along with the forward voltage, can be used to estimate the amount of power an LED uses over time.

[0140] The rectangular area or size of the LED (in mm²) represents the area covered by the LED or light source 140 on the wall of the intraoral device 100. The height (in mm), as previously stated... Figure 7 H1, as shown, represents the distance the LED or light source extends from the light strip toward the outer surface of the body.

[0141] The height of the LED affects the overall thickness of the body 104 because the LED is covered by the elastomer wall. A thicker body may take up more space in the user's mouth and may therefore be uncomfortable. In addition, a thicker body may require additional materials.

[0142] Figures 23 to 28 Exemplary graphs illustrate the intensity output of LED strips containing different combinations of LED spacing D1 and supplied with different currents, to determine the effect of multiple LEDs on the output of the LED strip. The intensity of several LED strips is measured along their length at an offset distance D of 2 mm. For each LED strip, the LEDs are uniformly distributed along a flat surface with gap distances D1 of 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, and 7 mm (as defined by the edge-to-edge gap D1 between LEDs). Each LED is supplied with a current of 30 mA and 50 mA.

[0143] In general, the closer the spacing between LEDs, the greater the overall intensity of the emitted light. For example... Figure 29 As shown in the exemplary table, the larger spacing between LEDs allows for the use of fewer LEDs. However, according to Figure 28 The 7mm gap D1 between LEDs on the LED strip results in uneven intensity output along the LED strip. Therefore, a 5mm gap D1 is determined to be the effective spacing between LEDs, which provides consistent intensity output.

[0144] After determining the effect of the gap distance D1 between LEDs on the LED strip, the effect of different gap distances D1 was tested by measuring the intensity of the LED strip along the strip. The LED strip tested was a strip with a gap distance D1 of 5mm. Figure 30 As shown, generally, the closer the LED strip is to the sensor, the greater the intensity measured along the LED strip. It is worth noting that at a gap distance D1 of 1 mm, the intensity measured along the LED strip is not uniform.

[0145] After determining the specifications of the light strip on a flat surface, it was tested on simulated structures of curved inner and outer walls of an intraoral device. The experiment measured the intensity of the LED strip with a 5mm gap distance D1 at an offset distance D of 2mm, as previously determined for the flat strip. However, the measured intensity differed significantly from the results for the planar strip. (Reference) Figure 31 The exemplary graph shows that the light intensity emitted by the LED strip formed along the curved outer surface is relatively non-uniform. In fact, the intensity varies by a difference of 40 mW / cm² between the highest and lowest recorded intensities, and the intensity measured in areas far from the center of curvature is generally higher than that measured in areas closer to the center of curvature. Furthermore, intensities below 100 mW / cm² were measured at some locations, a value previously determined to be the target minimum intensity.

[0146] To increase the light intensity emitted by the LED strip, the number of LEDs can be increased along the section of the LED strip with lower emission intensity. Additionally, or alternatively, the amount of current supplied to the LEDs can be increased. Figure 32 As shown in the exemplary diagram, one way to increase the current supplied and thus the intensity of the LED strip is to reduce the resistance of the LED.

[0147] To test the effect of different resistances on different parts of the LED strip, in one test, the resistor for the LED located near the center of curvature (e.g., corresponding to the middle 127 of the inner wall 112) was reduced from 5 ohms to 3.3 ohms, while in another test, a combination of 3.3 ohms and 2.7 ohms was used. This combination of 3.3 ohms and 2.7 ohms resistors specifically included: a 3.3-ohm resistor for the center LED, and 2.7-ohm resistors on two opposite sides of the center LED. For example, this combination specifically included: two center LEDs (measured at 3.3 ohms); and two 2.7-ohm resistors, one on one side of the two center LEDs and the other on the opposite side. By reducing the resistance of specific LEDs, more current can be directed to specific areas of the light strip without adding additional components or changing the orientation of the LEDs on the light strip. With this configuration, Figure 32 The light strip tested in the middle can output light with an intensity greater than 100mW / cm².

[0148] For reference Figure 33 The exemplary diagram shows that the light intensity emitted by the LED strip arranged on the curved inner surface is more consistent than that of the unadjusted LED strip arranged on the curved outer surface. Since the intensity output remains consistently above 100 mW / cm², the resistance of each LED is not adjusted.

[0149] Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to certain preferred embodiments, variations and modifications are still possible within the scope and spirit of one or more independent aspects of the invention as described.

[0150] For the sake of completeness, the following embodiments are provided.

[0151] Example 1. An intraoral device comprising: a body including an inner wall, an outer wall, and an occlusal surface extending between the inner wall and the outer wall, wherein the inner wall, the outer wall, and the occlusal surface define an upper channel and a lower channel; the inner wall including an upper portion and a lower portion; the outer wall including an upper portion and a lower portion; a first light strip supported by the upper portion of the inner wall; a second light strip supported by the upper portion of the outer wall; a third light strip supported by the lower portion of the inner wall; and a fourth light strip. The fourth light strip is supported by the lower part of the outer wall; each of the first light strip, the second light strip, the third light strip, and the fourth light strip includes a light source, each light source being configured to emit light with a wavelength of 441 nm to 459 nm and an intensity of 98 mW / cm² to 102 mW / cm²; each light source having a height of no more than 0.8 mm; and each light source having a viewing angle of at least 125 degrees; and a battery, the battery being supported on the body, the battery being configured to power the light source.

[0152] Example 2. According to the intraoral device of Example 1, wherein the upper portion of the inner wall supports a first light source located at or near the first end, such that the light-emitting surface of the first light source defines a plane oriented at a first angle relative to the horizontal plane of the occlusal surface; and wherein the upper portion of the inner wall supports a second light source located at the central portion, such that the light-emitting surface of the second light source defines a plane oriented at a second angle relative to the horizontal plane of the occlusal surface, the first angle being greater than the second angle.

[0153] Example 3. An intraoral device according to Example 2, wherein the horizontal plane is a first horizontal plane, wherein the lower portion of the inner wall supports a third light source located at or near the first end, such that the light-emitting surface of the third light source defines a plane oriented at a third angle relative to a second horizontal plane of the occlusal surface; and wherein the lower portion of the inner wall supports a fourth light source located at the central portion, such that the light-emitting surface of the fourth light source defines a plane oriented at a fourth angle relative to the second horizontal plane of the occlusal surface, the third angle being greater than the fourth angle and the second angle being less than the fourth angle; and wherein the outer wall supports a fifth light source, such that the light-emitting surface of the fifth light source defines a plane oriented at a substantially perpendicular angle relative to the first and second horizontal planes of the occlusal surface.

[0154] Example 4. An intraoral device according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein each light source includes a resistor; and wherein at least a portion of the resistors of the first light strip and the second light strip disposed on the central portion of the inner wall have a lower resistance than the resistor of the light source at the distal end adjacent to the inner wall.

[0155] Example 5. An intraoral device according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein each light source is spaced from the adjacent light source by a horizontal distance greater than 3 mm and less than 7 mm.

[0156] Example 6. An intraoral device according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, further comprising: a timing circuit electrically connected to an actuator device, the timing circuit being configured to send a signal after a timing period has elapsed; and an indicator configured to notify a user that a time period has elapsed in response to the signal from the timing circuit.

[0157] Example 7. An intraoral device according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein each of the first light strip, the second light strip, the third light strip, and the fourth light strip is disposed within the body, and wherein each of the light sources is offset from the outer surface of the body by 1.75 mm to 2.25 mm.

[0158] Example 8. An intraoral device according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the first light strip is arranged closer to the occlusal surface than the second light strip, and wherein the third light strip is arranged closer to the occlusal surface than the fourth light strip.

[0159] Example 9. An intraoral device according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the intensity-watt ratio defined by the ratio of the power output of each light source to the power output of the battery is not less than 0.8 mW / cm² output / mW input, and is at most 1.0 mW / cm² output / mW input.

[0160] Example 10. An intraoral device according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the battery is a single-cell lithium polymer battery having a capacity between 350 mAh and 700 mAh, and wherein the battery supplies power to the light source for at least 14 minutes before needing to be charged.

[0161] Example 11. An intraoral device according to any one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the forward voltage of each light source is less than 3V and the driving current of each light source is less than 30mA.

[0162] Example 12. An intraoral device according to any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the occlusal surface defines at least two openings extending between the upper channel and the lower channel.

[0163] Example 13. A method of manufacturing an intraoral device, the method comprising: providing a frame defining an inner wall, an outer wall, and a first occlusal surface extending between a portion of the inner wall and a portion of the outer wall, wherein the inner wall, the outer wall, and the occlusal surface define an upper channel and a lower channel, the inner wall including an upper inner wall portion and a lower inner wall portion, and the outer wall including an upper outer wall portion and a lower outer wall portion; attaching a first light strip to the upper inner wall portion; attaching a second light strip to the upper outer wall portion; attaching a third light strip to the lower inner wall portion; attaching a fourth light strip to the lower outer wall portion; the first light strip, the... Each of the second, third, and fourth light strips includes a light source, and each light source is configured to emit light with a wavelength of 441 nm to 459 nm and an intensity of 98 mW / cm² to 102 mW / cm²; a body is formed by overmolding the frame, the first light strip, the second light strip, the third light strip, and the fourth light strip, the body further defining a second engagement surface portion; and a battery is connected to the body, the battery being electrically connected to the light source and a starter switch, the battery being further configured to supply power to the light source.

[0164] Example 14. The method according to Example 13, wherein each light source has a height of no more than 0.8 mm and a viewing angle of at least 125 degrees.

[0165] Example 15. The method according to Example 13 or Example 14, wherein the frame is formed of a first material and the body is formed of a second material, and wherein the first material is more rigid than the second material.

[0166] Example 16. The method according to Example 15, wherein the second material is transparent.

[0167] Example 17. A method according to any of Examples 13 to 16, wherein the upper portion of the inner wall supports a first light source located at or near the first end, such that the light-emitting surface of the first light source defines a plane oriented at a first angle relative to a first horizontal plane of the occlusal surface; wherein the upper portion of the inner wall supports a second light source located at the central portion, such that the light-emitting surface of the second light source defines a plane oriented at a second angle relative to the first horizontal plane of the occlusal surface, the first angle being greater than the second angle; wherein the lower portion of the inner wall supports a third light source located at or near the first end, such that the light-emitting surface of the third light source defines a plane oriented at a third angle relative to a second horizontal plane of the occlusal surface; and wherein the lower portion of the inner wall supports a fourth light source located at the central portion, such that the light-emitting surface of the fourth light source defines a plane oriented at a fourth angle relative to the second horizontal plane of the occlusal surface, the third angle being greater than the fourth angle, and the second angle being less than the fourth angle; and wherein the outer wall supports a fifth light source, such that the light-emitting surface of the fifth light source defines a plane oriented at a substantially perpendicular angle relative to the first horizontal plane and the second horizontal plane of the occlusal surface.

[0168] Example 18. An intraoral device comprising: a body, the body including: an inner wall including an upper inner wall portion and a lower inner wall portion; an outer wall including an upper outer wall portion and a lower outer wall portion; an occlusal surface extending at least partially between the inner wall and the outer wall, the upper inner wall portion defining a distal end and a middle portion, the middle portion of the upper inner wall portion at an angle relative to the occlusal surface being different from the angle of the distal end of the upper inner wall portion relative to the occlusal surface; and the lower inner wall portion defining a distal end and a middle portion, the middle portion of the lower inner wall portion at an angle relative to the occlusal surface being different from the angle of the distal end of the lower inner wall portion relative to the occlusal surface; wherein the angle of the middle portion of the lower inner wall portion is different from the angle of the distal end of the upper inner wall portion. The angle of the middle portion; wherein the inner wall, the outer wall, and the interlocking surface define an upper channel and a lower channel; a first light strip disposed on the upper portion of the inner wall; a second light strip disposed on the upper portion of the outer wall; a third light strip disposed on the lower portion of the inner wall; a fourth light strip disposed on the lower portion of the outer wall, each of the first, second, third, and fourth light strips comprising a light source, each light source being configured to emit light with a wavelength of 441 nm to 459 nm and an intensity of 98 mW / cm² to 102 mW / cm², each light source having a height not exceeding 0.8 mm, and each light source having a viewing angle of at least 125 degrees.

[0169] Example 19. The intraoral device according to Example 18, wherein the angle of the middle portion of the upper part of the inner wall is between 140° and 160°; wherein the angle of the middle portion of the lower part of the inner wall is between 110° and 130°.

[0170] Example 20. An intraoral device according to Example 18 or Example 19, wherein the radius of curvature of the first light strip is smaller than the radius of curvature of the third light strip.

[0171] Example 21. A method of operating an intraoral device, the method comprising: providing a body comprising: an inner wall including an upper inner wall portion and a lower inner wall portion; an outer wall including an upper outer wall portion and a lower outer wall portion; an occlusal surface extending at least partially between the inner wall and the outer wall, wherein the inner wall, the outer wall, and the occlusal surface define an upper channel and a lower channel; a first light strip disposed on the upper inner wall portion; a second light strip disposed on the upper outer wall portion; a third light strip disposed on the lower inner wall portion; and a fourth light strip disposed on the lower outer wall portion. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth light bands includes a light source, each light source being configured to emit light with a wavelength of 441 nm to 459 nm and an intensity of 98 mW / cm² to 102 mW / cm², each light source having a height of no more than 0.8 mm and a viewing angle of at least 125 degrees; illumination of the light source is caused upon receiving a signal from a starter switch; a timing circuit determines that a predetermined time has elapsed; and illumination of the light source is stopped in response to determining that the predetermined time has elapsed.

[0172] Example 22. According to the method of Example 21, wherein the upper portion of the inner wall supports a first light source located at or near the first end, such that the light-emitting surface of the first light source defines a plane oriented at a first angle relative to the occlusal surface; and wherein the upper portion of the inner wall supports a second light source located at the central portion, such that the light-emitting surface of the second light source defines a plane oriented at a second angle relative to the occlusal surface, the first angle being greater than the second angle.

Claims

1. An intraoral device, comprising: The body includes an inner wall, an outer wall, and an engagement surface extending between the inner wall and the outer wall. The inner wall, the outer wall, and the engagement surface define an upper channel and a lower channel; The inner wall includes an upper part and a lower part; The outer wall includes an upper part and a lower part; A first light strip, the first light strip being supported by the upper part of the inner wall; The second light strip is supported by the upper part of the outer wall; The third light strip is supported by the lower part of the inner wall; The fourth light strip is supported by the lower part of the outer wall; Each of the first light band, the second light band, the third light band, and the fourth light band includes a light source. Each light source is configured to emit light with a wavelength of 441 nm to 459 nm and an intensity of 98 mW / cm² to 102 mW / cm². Each light source has a height of no more than 0.8 mm; and Each light source has a viewing angle of at least 125 degrees; and A battery, which is supported on the body, is configured to supply power to the light source.

2. The intraoral device of claim 1, wherein the upper portion of the inner wall supports a first light source located at or near the first end, such that the light-emitting surface of the first light source defines a plane oriented at a first angle relative to the horizontal plane of the occlusal surface; and The upper portion of the inner wall supports a second light source located at the center, such that the surface through which the second light source emits light defines a plane oriented at a second angle relative to the horizontal plane of the engagement surface, the first angle being greater than the second angle.

3. The intraoral device according to claim 2, wherein the horizontal plane is a first horizontal plane. The lower portion of the inner wall supports a third light source located at or near the first end, such that the surface of the third light source through which light is emitted defines a plane oriented at a third angle relative to a second horizontal plane of the engagement surface; and The lower portion of the inner wall supports a fourth light source located at the center, such that the surface through which the fourth light source emits light defines a plane oriented at a fourth angle relative to the second horizontal plane of the engagement surface, wherein the third angle is greater than the fourth angle, and the second angle is less than the fourth angle; and The outer wall supports a fifth light source such that the surface through which the fifth light source emits light defines a plane oriented at a substantially perpendicular angle to the first and second horizontal planes of the mating surface.

4. The intraoral device of claim 1, wherein each light source includes a resistor; and At least a portion of the resistors in the first and second light strips disposed on the central portion of the inner wall have a lower resistance than the resistors of the light source located at the distal end adjacent to the inner wall.

5. The intraoral device according to claim 1, wherein each light source is spaced from the adjacent light source by a horizontal distance greater than 3 mm and less than 7 mm.

6. The intraoral device according to claim 1, further comprising: A timing circuit, electrically connected to a starter device, configured to send a signal after a timing period has elapsed; as well as An indicator configured to notify the user that a time period has elapsed in response to the signal from the timing circuit.

7. The intraoral device according to claim 1, wherein each of the first light strip, the second light strip, the third light strip and the fourth light strip is disposed within the body, and wherein each of the light sources is offset from the outer surface of the body by 1.75 mm to 2.25 mm.

8. The intraoral device of claim 1, wherein the first light strip is arranged closer to the occlusal surface than the second light strip, and wherein the third light strip is arranged closer to the occlusal surface than the fourth light strip.

9. The intraoral device according to claim 1, wherein the intensity-watt ratio defined by the ratio of the power output of each light source to the power output of the battery is not less than 0.8 mW / cm² output / mW input, and is at most 1.0 mW / cm² output / mW input.

10. The intraoral device of claim 9, wherein the battery is a single-cell lithium polymer battery having a capacity between 350 mAh and 700 mAh, and wherein the battery supplies power to the light source for at least 14 minutes before needing to be charged.

11. The intraoral device of claim 1, wherein the forward voltage of each light source is less than 3V, and wherein the driving current of each light source is less than 30mA.

12. The intraoral device of claim 1, wherein the occlusal surface defines at least two openings extending between the upper channel and the lower channel.

13. A method of manufacturing an intraoral device, the method comprising: A frame is provided that defines an inner wall, an outer wall, and a first engaging surface portion extending between a portion of the inner wall and a portion of the outer wall. The inner wall, the outer wall, and the engagement surface define an upper channel and a lower channel. The inner wall includes an upper part and a lower part, and The outer wall includes an upper part and a lower part; Connect the first light strip to the upper part of the inner wall; Connect the second light strip to the upper part of the outer wall; Connect the third light strip to the lower part of the inner wall; Connect the fourth light strip to the lower part of the outer wall; Each of the first light band, the second light band, the third light band, and the fourth light band includes a light source, and each light source is configured to emit light with a wavelength of 441 nm to 459 nm and an intensity of 98 mW / cm² to 102 mW / cm². A body is formed by overmolding the frame, the first light strip, the second light strip, the third light strip, and the fourth light strip, the body further defining a second engagement surface portion; and A battery is connected to the body, the battery is electrically connected to the light source and the starter switch, and the battery is further configured to supply power to the light source.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein each light source has a height of no more than 0.8 mm and a viewing angle of at least 125 degrees.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the frame is formed of a first material and the body is formed of a second material, and wherein the first material is more rigid than the second material.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the second material is transparent.

17. The method of claim 13, wherein the upper portion of the inner wall supports a first light source located at or near the first end, such that the light-emitting surface of the first light source defines a plane oriented at a first angle relative to a first horizontal plane of the engagement surface; The upper part of the inner wall supports a second light source located at the central part, such that the surface of the second light source through which light is emitted defines a plane oriented at a second angle relative to the first horizontal plane of the engagement surface, the first angle being greater than the second angle; The lower portion of the inner wall supports a third light source located at or near the first end, such that the surface of the third light source through which light is emitted defines a plane oriented at a third angle relative to a second horizontal plane of the engagement surface; and The lower part of the inner wall supports a fourth light source located at the central part, such that the surface of the fourth light source through which light is emitted defines a plane oriented at a fourth angle relative to the second horizontal plane of the engagement surface, wherein the third angle is greater than the fourth angle and the second angle is less than the fourth angle. and The outer wall supports a fifth light source such that the surface through which the fifth light source emits light defines a plane oriented at a substantially perpendicular angle to the first and second horizontal planes of the mating surface.

18. An intraoral device comprising: The body, the body comprising: The inner wall includes an upper part and a lower part; The outer wall includes an upper part and a lower part; An occlusal surface, said occlusal surface extending at least partially between the inner wall and the outer wall. The upper portion of the inner wall defines a distal end and a middle portion, the angle of the middle portion of the upper portion of the inner wall relative to the occlusal surface being different from the angle of the distal end of the upper portion of the inner wall relative to the occlusal surface; and The lower portion of the inner wall defines a distal end and a middle portion, and the angle of the middle portion of the lower portion of the inner wall relative to the occlusal surface is different from the angle of the distal end of the lower portion of the inner wall relative to the occlusal surface; The angle of the middle portion of the lower part of the inner wall is different from the angle of the middle portion of the upper part of the inner wall; The inner wall, the outer wall, and the engagement surface define an upper channel and a lower channel; The first light strip is arranged on the upper part of the inner wall; The second light strip is arranged on the upper part of the outer wall; The third light strip is arranged on the lower part of the inner wall; The fourth light strip is arranged on the lower part of the outer wall. Each of the first light band, the second light band, the third light band, and the fourth light band includes a light source. Each light source is configured to emit light with wavelengths from 441 nm to 459 nm and intensities from 98 mW / cm² to 102 mW / cm². Each light source has a height of no more than 0.8 mm, and Each light source has a viewing angle of at least 125 degrees.

19. The intraoral device of claim 18, wherein the angle of the middle portion of the upper part of the inner wall is between 140° and 160°; The angle of the middle portion of the lower part of the inner wall is between 110° and 130°.

20. The intraoral device of claim 19, wherein the radius of curvature of the first light strip is smaller than the radius of curvature of the third light strip.

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