Spraying device for dental three-way injector

Abstract

A spray device for a dental three-way syringe enables controllable and aerosolized application of various dental solutions by utilizing a system that utilizes the existing compressed air flow in the syringe. The device allows for precise and direct application of dental solutions in both intraoral and extraoral regions while maintaining the original functionality of a three-way syringe with respect to the application of water and air. Additionally, the device includes an interchangeable container system that allows for the sequential use of different dental solutions without interrupting the clinical procedure to replace the instrument.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical dental devices, and more specifically to a spray device that connects to a conventional dental three-way syringe to enable the controlled application of solutions for professional purposes. Specifically, this invention belongs to the field of accessories and dispensing systems for dental products that complement existing instruments in dental equipment, providing new functionality for the application of therapeutic, disinfectant, anesthetic, and other types of solutions in routine dental practice. Background Technology

[0002] In modern dental practice, the three-way injector constitutes a fundamental tool found in all dental treatment machines and treatment rooms. This well-known and widely used device is characterized by its ability to deliver air, water, or a mixture of both via an ergonomically designed handheld component connected to the pneumatic and hydraulic systems of the treatment machine.

[0003] A typical three-way injector usually consists of a body, typically made of metal, that houses two separate conduits: one for water and the other for compressed air. These conduits converge at a tip or end nozzle to allow the fluid to flow out. Control of the air and water flow is achieved via two separate buttons located on the injector body, which can be actuated individually or simultaneously, depending on operational needs. These buttons actuate the valves of the corresponding separate conduits.

[0004] The device's ergonomic design allows for one-handed operation, enabling dentists to selectively control the flow of water, air, or both while holding another tool.

[0005] Modern dental treatment machines are equipped with pumps and compressors to provide pressurized fluid, which is guided through flexible tubing to a three-way syringe.

[0006] As for the nozzle of the three-way syringe, since it is the part that comes into contact with the patient's mouth, it is designed to be detachable from the body so that it can be sterilized.

[0007] Naturally, like most dental instruments and tools, the components of a three-way syringe (especially the nozzle) are made of surgical-grade stainless steel or other alloys suitable for medical use.

[0008] The nozzle mainly consists of two concentric conduits: a central conduit and an outer conduit. The central conduit allows water to pass through, while the outer conduit allows compressed air to pass through. This configuration enables water to be atomized when both valves are actuated, thus allowing flow through both conduits.

[0009] Current three-way injectors allow nozzles to be connected via threaded or press-fit connections.

[0010] This device is a highly versatile and useful tool used for a wide range of typical procedures in dental practice. For example, its most common uses include tasks such as cleaning and washing tooth surfaces to remove debris, or cleaning the surgical area during cavity preparation; drying tooth surfaces before cementation procedures; and / or removing debris during tooth preparation. Furthermore, it is very useful for examinations, such as performing thermal stimulation pulp vitality tests by applying cold air; observing the subgingival margin by drying; or identifying fissures or cracks by selective drying. It is also essential in surgical procedures, such as for rinsing the alveolar socket after tooth extraction; or for cooling during osteotomy; and other functions.

[0011] In routine dental practice, it is often necessary to apply various solutions for specialized purposes, such as local anesthetics, disinfectants, fluorides, bleaching solutions, desensitizing agents, and other specific chemical products. However, current three-way syringe configurations limit their function to applying air and water, requiring additional instruments or devices to administer other solutions.

[0012] Traditionally, dental solutions are applied manually, with one of the most common methods using cotton balls. This involves soaking the cotton ball in the desired solution and then using tweezers to move it to the application site. While this technique is simple, it has significant drawbacks in terms of precision and control, as the amount of solution applied depends entirely on the saturation of the cotton and the pressure applied by the practitioner during application.

[0013] Another widely used method involves the use of disposable microapplicators, which consist of small brush-like applicators that allow for the delivery of small amounts of solution. While these devices are more precise than cotton balls, they require multiple refills to cover large areas, which prolongs the application time and can lead to uneven product application. Furthermore, cotton balls and microapplicators have significant limitations in reaching hard-to-reach areas within the oral cavity.

[0014] In certain cases of local anesthetic solutions and other specific products, manufacturers often provide their own applicator devices, typically in the form of a dip swab or a specialized applicator tip. This diversity of application systems forces practitioners to maintain and handle various devices during clinical procedures, which not only increases operational complexity but also increases the risk of cross-contamination during device changes.

[0015] For the application of large volumes of solutions, such as disinfectants or rinsing solutions, conventional disposable syringes are typically used. However, these syringes are designed to apply liquids in a stream and do not allow for atomization or finely controlled application of the product. This is particularly problematic when a uniform distribution of the solution over a large area of ​​surface is required or when minimizing the risk of chemical splashes is sought.

[0016] The main drawback of the current method is the inability to achieve the atomization and controlled application of the solution, similar to the atomization and controlled application of a solution obtained with water in a conventional three-way syringe. This limitation is particularly relevant when a uniform distribution of the product on the tooth surface or soft tissue is required, or when minimizing excessive product that may irritate surrounding tissues is sought.

[0017] The lack of a standardized and efficient system for applying these solutions not only affects the accuracy and control of procedures but also negatively impacts the economics of materials. Inaccurate measurement of solution dosage often leads to product waste, which increases operating costs and can have environmental sustainability implications, especially considering the use of disposable equipment.

[0018] Additionally, current methods require practitioners to frequently interrupt procedures to reload or change the applicator, which not only prolongs the procedure time but can also impair operator focus and treatment continuity. This becomes particularly problematic in procedures requiring the sequential application of different solutions, as each product change necessitates a change of the applicator. Summary of the Invention

[0019] One object of the present invention is to provide a spray device for a dental tee syringe for applying solutions for professional purposes, thereby addressing problems in the prior art. More specifically, an object of the present invention is to provide a device that can be coupled to a conventional dental tee syringe, which enables controlled and atomized application of various dental solutions by utilizing a system of existing compressed air flow within the syringe.

[0020] Another object of the present invention is to provide a device that allows for precise and direct application of dental solutions in intraoral and extraoral regions while maintaining the original function of a three-way syringe for the application of water and air.

[0021] Another object of the present invention is to provide an interchangeable container system that allows for the sequential use of different dental solutions without interrupting clinical procedures to change instruments.

[0022] Another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that optimizes the consumption of dental solutions through a controllable metering system, thereby reducing product waste and improving efficiency in professional practice. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of the main body of a spray device for a dental three-way syringe according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 1B This is a front view of the main body of a spray device for a dental three-way syringe according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 1C This is a side view of the main body of a spray device for a dental three-way syringe according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2A This is a perspective view of the atomizing nozzle of an atomizing device for a dental tee syringe according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 2B This is a cross-sectional view of the atomizing nozzle of a spray device for a dental tee syringe according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 2C This is a detailed view of the tip of the cross-section of the atomizing nozzle of the spray device for a dental tee injector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 3A This is a perspective view of a spray device for a dental tee injector, according to an embodiment of the present invention, mounted on the dental tee injector.

[0030] Figure 3B This is a side view of a spray device for a dental tee injector, according to an embodiment of the present invention, mounted on the dental tee injector.

[0031] Figure 4A This is a perspective view of a spray device for a dental tee syringe according to an embodiment of the present invention, mounted on the dental tee syringe and equipped with an interchangeable dental solution container.

[0032] Figure 4B A side view of a spray device for a dental tee syringe according to an embodiment of the present invention, mounted on the dental tee syringe and equipped with an interchangeable dental solution container.

[0033] Figure 4C The rear sectional view is of a spray device for a dental tee syringe according to an embodiment of the present invention, mounted on the dental tee syringe and equipped with an interchangeable dental solution container. Detailed Implementation

[0034] According to the present invention, a spray device for a dental three-way syringe is provided, the spray device mainly comprising a body (100) connectable to a conventional three-way syringe (300), an atomizing nozzle (200), and an interchangeable container system (400).

[0035] The main body (100) of the device is configured to be securely and sealed to the end of a conventional three-way injector (300).

[0036] The body (100) is preferably made of surgical-grade stainless steel or anodized aluminum, chosen for their biocompatibility and corrosion resistance, making them suitable for medical practice. Internally, the body houses a catheter system that includes a third passage in addition to the air and water passages corresponding to those derived from a conventional three-way syringe (300). Thus, an additional catheter is introduced through which dental solutions such as local anesthetics, disinfectants, fluoridators, bleaching solutions, and desensitizing agents can be dispensed. The body (100) contains an arrangement of concentric channels, with a central catheter intended for water; an intermediate catheter intended for compressed air; and an outer catheter intended for dental solutions. Specifically, the outer catheter for dental solutions is arranged such that the intermediate catheter for compressed air creates a Venturi suction effect.

[0037] like Figures 1A to 1C As shown, the connection system (101) between the body (100) and the three-way injector (300) includes a sealing connection mechanism that ensures the stability of the device during use. The connection (101) is achieved in the same manner as those standard conventional nozzles commonly used in three-way injectors. Depending on the type and model of the three-way injector used, the connection can be press-fitted or via a threaded fitting (101), for example, as... Figures 1A to 1C In the illustrated embodiment, the system includes a sealing element, preferably an O-ring made of a resilient material, suitably positioned to prevent leakage and maintain a tight fit at the connection point. The coupling mechanism (101) is designed to precisely align the device's conduit with the original air and water passages of the three-way injector (300), thereby ensuring that the original function of the device remains unaffected. In this way, the attachable device does not restrict the use of the three-way injector (300) (which can still continue to function normally in its original way), but rather provides additional functionality at the practitioner's discretion.

[0038] In other words, a conventional nozzle includes two concentric conduits: a central conduit for water passage and an outer conduit for air passage. The spray nozzle (200) of this invention includes a central conduit (201) for water passage, an intermediate conduit (202) for air passage, and an outer conduit (203) for dental solution passage. These concentrically arranged conduits are connected to the channels of the body (100), as shown below. Figure 2B and Figure 2C This was observed in detail. Naturally, from a size perspective, such as... Figure 2A As shown, the nozzle (200) of the present invention has a larger diameter configuration compared to a conventional three-way syringe nozzle that typically has only two passages.

[0039] Similarly, regarding the length of the tube (210) and the angle (220) of the nozzle (200), they are consistent with the standard tip of a conventional three-way syringe (300), which has set a standard for typical dental instruments. In this way, the additional advantages of this device are incorporated into a tool that is completely familiar to dental practitioners. Nevertheless, due to its interchangeability, other nozzles (200) with different tube lengths (210), angles (220), and geometries are also perfectly compatible. Thus, by removing the nozzle (200) to be stored or sterilized and installing the new nozzle in place, as... Figure 1C The tip orifice (104) shown allows for the installation of a new nozzle onto the body (100), thus completing the replacement. The body (100) includes a quick-installation mechanism by which the nozzle (200) is precisely engaged in one position when introduced through the tip orifice (104). For this purpose, the nozzle includes a groove (205) on the tube (210) that locks against a corresponding protrusion provided inside the tip orifice (104). To remove the nozzle (200) for replacement, sufficient force is applied to overcome the resistance of the protrusion against the groove (205), and it is sufficient to simply pull them back. This configuration allows for perfect alignment of the body's guide tube with the nozzle's orifice. Figure 2A As shown, the nozzle includes: an orifice (211) which is the inlet of the water channel; an orifice (212) which is the inlet of the compressed air channel; and an orifice (213) which is the inlet of the dental solution channel.

[0040] For this particular device, the diameter of the central conduit (201) for water is similar to that of a conventional nozzle, as its primary function is to maintain the original water flow of the three-way injector. Furthermore, the intermediate conduit (202) for compressed air has a larger diameter, allowing the air to completely surround the water flow, thereby producing a uniform spray when combined with the liquid.

[0041] Finally, the third conduit (203) designed for the dental solution has a specially calculated diameter to facilitate aspiration via the Venturi effect generated by the compressed air flow. The concentric arrangement of this third conduit (203) relative to the other two conduits is fundamental, as it is positioned to allow the dental solution to mix with air at a precise moment at the outlet (204), which maximizes atomization and reduces the risk of splashing.

[0042] The geometry of these channels and their convergence points allow for optimal particle size in the atomization, ensuring uniform and complete coverage of the treated surface. In this way, the application of dental solutions becomes easier and more effective than with conventional applicators, as the atomized spray allows for better reach and coverage of areas that are difficult to access with ordinary syringes or cotton balls.

[0043] like Figures 1A to 1CAs shown, the dental spray device of the present invention incorporates an ergonomic trigger (103) on its body (100), which is specifically designed to optimize the control and precision of dental solution application, thereby providing practitioners with the necessary adjustable dosage for each clinical procedure. The trigger (103) is strategically positioned on the device body (100), allowing the operator to manipulate it with the same hand holding the three-way syringe (300) without needing to interrupt or change hand position during treatment, such as from... Figures 3A to 3B That's understandable. This ensures a continuous workflow in instrument handling, improves operational efficiency, and reduces the time required for each procedure.

[0044] The ergonomic design of the trigger (103) has been developed to naturally adapt to the practitioner's index finger, enabling it to be actuated with minimal pressure while maintaining reliable and precise control of the solution flow in an intuitive and simple manner.

[0045] From a technical perspective, the trigger (103) operates via a valve mechanism (113) integrated within the device body (100). This is in Figure 4C The valve (113) is described in detail below. It is configured to apply the solution in the container (401) to the application catheter (203) in a precise and controllable manner. The valve (113) is a flow control valve such that the pressure applied to the trigger (103) determines the opening of the valve (113), thereby regulating the amount of solution released and allowing dental practitioners to adjust the flow rate in real time according to the amount required for each application.

[0046] The metering mechanism allows for a constant and controlled outflow of solution, thus avoiding splashing or overfeeding that could irritate surrounding tissues in the oral cavity. Furthermore, the system is designed so that solution release immediately stops upon triggering the release trigger (103), preventing not only product waste but also eliminating the risk of dripping when the device is not in use.

[0047] This ergonomic trigger (103) design is particularly advantageous in dental procedures that require the uniform and constant application of solutions on wide or delicate surfaces, such as the oral mucosa, where uniform distribution is crucial for treatment effectiveness. For example, during the application of desensitizing or anesthetic solutions, practitioners can adjust the exact amount of product to avoid over- or under-application, which significantly improves the patient experience by reducing the likelihood of postoperative discomfort or sensitivity.

[0048] This arrangement is particularly practical because it allows practitioners to comfortably manipulate the three-way syringe (300) without altering their habitual grip. While the conventional air (301) and water (302) controls of the three-way syringe remain operable by the thumb to allow selective actuation of one, the other, or both simultaneously, the flow of the dental solution to be dispensed is controlled by the index finger, thus allowing for all flow combinations without limitation.

[0049] In itself, the interchangeable container system (400) constitutes another practical and innovative aspect. This interchangeable container system primarily comprises a container (401) integrated with the body (100) via an adapter conduit (402), which connects to an inlet (102) disposed on the body (100) to achieve the aforementioned purpose, such as... Figures 4A to 4C As shown in detail below. The adapter conduit (402) is configured to receive a specially designed container (401) containing various dental solutions. The container (401) is provided with a threaded connection mechanism (411), or optionally with a quick-connect bayonet cam-type connector, which allows for installation and removal by simple twisting while ensuring an airtight seal during use. The container (401) can be either disposable, pre-filled with a specific product by the manufacturer, or refillable, allowing practitioners to use their own solutions. This provides additional advantages as it imparts great versatility and significantly expands the possibilities for utilization and application, while reducing waste from disposing of empty containers.

[0050] As previously described, the dental spray device of the present invention utilizes a suction mechanism based on the Venturi effect to draw dental solution from a container (401) and atomize it to the outlet (204) of a nozzle (200), thereby allowing for atomized and controlled application. In this way, the need for an additional pumping system is eliminated, thus simplifying the device design and improving its operability. To achieve the desired suction effect, the contents of the container (401) must be maintained at atmospheric pressure. For this reason, the container (401) includes a vent valve (403) at the end opposite the threaded connector (411) for connection to the body (100). This vent valve (403) balances the internal and external pressures of the container (401), thereby preventing container collapse due to Venturi suction.

[0051] Once the container (401) is placed in the adapter conduit (402) and in fluid communication with the interior of the device body (100), the vent valve (403) can be released simply by pulling it to place it in the open position. This configuration of the vent valve (403) (which is initially presented as closed but can be opened for its use) presents two distinct advantages. First, it serves as a means of ensuring tamper-evident protection when the container (401) is presented as a disposable pre-filled container. Additionally, the ability to present the vent valve (403) as initially closed prevents premature oxidation of air-sensitive solutions. In this way, the proper preservation of the substances contained within the container is ensured during its transport or storage.

[0052] Naturally, pressing the vent valve (403) toward the container (401) again will close it, thus preventing free gas exchange when the container (401) is not in use. That is, the vent valve (403) can be operated to alternate between a closed position and an open position, in which the vent valve prevents gas from passing through, and in the open position, the vent valve allows gas to freely circulate into and out of the container (401).

[0053] In the spray device of the present invention, a compressed air flow originating from a three-way syringe (300) is directed to a narrow section of an internal conduit in the body (100), thereby creating a low-pressure zone that draws dental solution from the container. This phenomenon allows the air flow to draw liquid from the container as it passes through this low-pressure zone, deliver it to the nozzle, and mix it into an atomized and uniform flow.

[0054] The suction generated by the Venturi effect allows for the atomized dispersion of the solution, which is essential for procedures requiring uniform coverage of the tooth surface or mucosa. This finely atomized spray is particularly suitable for applying desensitizing agents, local anesthetics, and other products that require uniform and controlled distribution to ensure their effectiveness without irritating surrounding tissues.

[0055] The advantage of this mechanism is that it utilizes the compressed air present in the three-way syringe (300), thus achieving aspiration without the need for additional moving parts or electric pumps, which reduces equipment wear, maintenance costs, and the risk of failure. This design allows dental practitioners to control the amount of solution dispensed by simply manipulating the airflow controller (301) and the metering trigger (103), thereby maintaining efficient and uninterrupted operation.

[0056] All components of the device that come into contact with the dental solution are made of inert and biocompatible materials that are corrosion-resistant and compatible with the sterilization and disinfection processes commonly used in dental practice. Surgical-grade stainless steel or anodized aluminum is preferably used. In particular, the nozzle (200) is designed to be easily removable, allowing it to be sterilized for different patients according to standard biosafety protocols.

[0057] Furthermore, some components of the spray device (such as, for example, the ergonomic trigger (103) or the adapter conduit (402) of the container (401)) are customizable. In this way, they can be replaced with components with different finishes and / or colors, which not only gives the accessories a unique aesthetic appeal in addition to allowing visual recognition of different tools approaching each other.

Claims

1. A spray device for a dental three-way syringe, characterized in that, The atomizing device includes a body (100) configured to connect to a conventional three-way injector (300); an atomizing nozzle (200) connected to the body (100); and an interchangeable container system (400) containing a dental solution; wherein the body (100) accommodates an arrangement of concentric channels, wherein a central conduit is intended for water; an intermediate conduit for compressed air; and an outer conduit for the dental solution; wherein the outer conduit for the dental solution is arranged such that the intermediate conduit for the compressed air produces a Venturi suction effect; wherein the body (100) further includes a sealing coupling mechanism. (101) The sealing connection mechanism is configured to connect with a conventional three-way injector (300) while maintaining alignment of the compressed air and water conduits; wherein the nozzle (200) includes a central conduit (201) for water passage, an intermediate conduit (202) for air passage, and an external conduit (203) for dental solution passage, the conduits being concentrically arranged and connected to the channels of the body (100); and wherein the interchangeable container system (400) includes a container (401) integrated with the body (100) via an adapter conduit (402) connected to an inlet (105) disposed on the body (100).

2. The spraying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The body (100) includes an ergonomic trigger (103) that controls a valve (113) disposed within the body (100) that allows or interrupts the dosage and flow of the dental solution dispensed through the third conduit (203).

3. The spraying device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The valve (113) is a flow control valve, such that the pressure applied to the trigger (103) determines the opening degree of the valve (113).

4. The spraying device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The body (100) is made of a biocompatible material resistant to sterilization treatment, such as surgical-grade stainless steel or anodized aluminum.

5. The spraying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The atomizing nozzle (200) is detachable and made of a biocompatible material resistant to sterilization treatment, such as surgical-grade stainless steel or anodized aluminum.

6. The spraying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The interchangeable container system (400) includes: a container (401) having a connection mechanism (411) for connection with the adapter conduit (402); and a vent valve (403) for balancing the internal and external pressures of the container (401).

7. The spraying device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The connecting mechanism (411) of the container (401) includes a threaded joint.

8. The spraying device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The connecting mechanism (411) of the container (401) includes a quick-connect bayonet cam type connector.

9. The spraying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The vent valve (403) is operable to alternate between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the vent valve prevents gas from passing through, and in the open position, the vent valve allows gas to freely circulate into and out of the interior of the container (401).

10. The spraying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The coupling mechanism (101) connecting the body (100) to the three-way syringe (300) includes a threaded joint with an O-ring seal made of elastic material, which maintains a tight seal at the connection point.

11. The spraying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connection mechanism (101) between the body (100) and the three-way syringe (300) includes a press-fit joint with an O-ring seal made of elastic material, which maintains a tight seal at the connection point.

12. The spraying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The nozzle (200) includes a groove (205) on the tube (210) that locks against a corresponding protrusion disposed inside the tip orifice (104).

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