Toothbrush

Abstract

Provided is a toothbrush that is smooth to use and that can sufficiently clean molars. A connecting body has a first brush body, a second brush body disposed apart from the first brush body with respect to a holding portion, and a connecting portion disposed between the first brush body and the second brush body, the first brush body has a first support body and a first brush portion extending from the first support body to the other side in a depth direction, the second brush body has a second support body and a second brush portion extending from the second support body to one side in the depth direction, the connecting portion is formed in a U shape along a circumferential direction, at least a portion of the connecting portion links the first support body and the second support body in the depth direction, and a small-resistance region is provided, at least a portion of the small-resistance region is disposed at a position away from both ends of the connecting body in the circumferential direction and is disposed in the depth direction, and a resistance when an external force is applied to an end portion in the circumferential direction of the connecting body in the depth direction is smaller than both sides in the circumferential direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a toothbrush. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a toothbrush with an electric drive, which is capable of cleaning the entire tooth row in one go. The electric toothbrush disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a toothbrush cover and an electric drive unit that serves as a grip. The toothbrush cover is disposed on a support body in such a way that it substantially engages with all the teeth simultaneously on at least one of the user's upper and lower jaws as a cleaning element of the brush head. The electric drive unit is fixed to the toothbrush cover in a detachable manner and has at least one vibrating element for vibrating motion.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2019-520919.

[0006] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] The brush part of the braces is located on the support body. By moving it left and right while biting down on the braces, one can brush the molars. However, due to the difference in curvature between the support body and the tooth arch, the support body may collide with the molars, hindering the brushing motion. In this case, the molars may not be thoroughly cleaned.

[0008] In addition, when brushing molars by moving the braces from side to side, for example, the bristles on the buccal side are pressed firmly against the teeth, but the bristle tips on the lingual side are away from the teeth, thus creating a problem where the bristle tips cannot be used to clean thoroughly. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The present invention was completed with the above points in mind, and its purpose is to provide a toothbrush that allows for smooth brushing action and can thoroughly clean the molars.

[0010] Technical means for solving technical problems

[0011] The present invention has the following aspects. [1]

[0013] A toothbrush that has:

[0014] The gripping part; and

[0015] A connector that is connected to the gripping portion on one side in a depth direction orthogonal to the biting direction.

[0016] The connector has:

[0017] The first brush body is located on one side of the depth direction compared to the grip portion;

[0018] A second brush body, located in the depth direction between the grip and the first brush body, and disposed separately from the first brush body; and

[0019] A connecting portion is disposed between the first brush body and the second brush body in the depth direction.

[0020] The first brush body has:

[0021] A first support body, the first support body being formed in a U-shape circumferentially along an axis extending in the engagement direction; and

[0022] A first brush portion extends from the first support body to the other side in the depth direction.

[0023] The second brush body has:

[0024] A second support body, which is formed in a U-shape along the circumferential direction; and

[0025] The second brush portion extends from the second support body to one side in the depth direction.

[0026] The connecting portion is formed in a U-shape along the circumferential direction, and at least a portion of the connecting portion connects the first support body and the second support body in the depth direction.

[0027] The connecting portion is provided with a small resistance region. At least a portion of the small resistance region is arranged in the circumferential direction at a position away from both ends of the connecting body and along the depth direction. When an external force is applied to the circumferential end of the connecting body along the depth direction, the resistance of the small resistance region is smaller than that on both sides of the circumferential direction. [2]

[0029] The toothbrush described above [1], wherein,

[0030] The first support and a portion of the second support rotate relative to each other about a second axis, which is located at the end of the small resistance region in the depth direction and extends along the engagement direction. [3]

[0032] The toothbrushes described in [1] or [2] above, wherein,

[0033] One end of the small resistance region in the depth direction is located at the first end of the connector in the depth direction.

[0034] The perimeter of the first end side of the connector in the depth direction changes due to the external force. [4]

[0036] The toothbrushes described above [3], among which,

[0037] The small resistance area has a gap that penetrates the connector along the interlocking direction and extends continuously along the depth direction, and opens through the first support or the second support. [5]

[0039] The toothbrushes described above [4], of which,

[0040] The small resistance area is located at the opening of the second support. [6]

[0042] The toothbrush described in any one of [1] to [5] above, wherein,

[0043] The small resistance region has the following characteristics:

[0044] A first region, which extends continuously along the depth direction; and

[0045] A second region extends continuously along the circumferential direction from one end of the first region toward the circumferential end.

[0046] The small resistance area extends through the connector along the interlocking direction. [7]

[0048] The toothbrush described above [6], of which,

[0049] The end of the first region side in the small resistance region is located closer to the first support body in the depth direction than to the second support body.

[0050] The second region in the small resistance region is located closer to the second support in the depth direction than to the first support. [8]

[0052] The toothbrushes described in [6] or [7] above, wherein,

[0053] The end of the first region side in the small resistance region is disposed separately from the end of the connector in the depth direction.

[0054] The end of the second region side in the small resistance region opens through the circumferential end of the connector.

[0055] The effects of the invention

[0056] In this invention, a toothbrush that provides a smooth brushing motion and effectively cleans the molars is provided. Attached Figure Description

[0057] Figure 1 This is a front view of the toothbrush according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the braces in the first embodiment.

[0059] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 BB section view in the middle.

[0060] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 CC section view in the image.

[0061] Figure 5 This is a front view of the first brush body, the second brush body, and the third brush body, excluding the connecting parts to the first brush section, the second brush section, and the grip section.

[0062] Figure 6 This is a front view showing a modified example 1 of the toothbrush according to the first embodiment.

[0063] Figure 7 This is a front view of a modified example 2 of the toothbrush according to the first embodiment.

[0064] Figure 8 This is a front view of a modified example 3 of the toothbrush according to the first embodiment.

[0065] Figure 9 This is a front view of a modified example 4 of the toothbrush according to the first embodiment.

[0066] Figure 10 This is a front view of a modified example 5 of the toothbrush according to the first embodiment.

[0067] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example 6 of the dental brace portion according to the first embodiment, namely... Figure 10 DD section view in the image.

[0068] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example 7 of the dental brace portion according to the first embodiment, namely... Figure 10 DD section view in the image.

[0069] Figure 13 This is a front view showing a modified example 8 of the dental brace portion according to the first embodiment.

[0070] Figure 14 This is a front view showing a modified example 9 of the dental brace portion according to the first embodiment.

[0071] Figure 15 This is a view showing a modified example 9 of the dental brace portion according to the first embodiment. Figure 14 The E-direction view in the image.

[0072] Figure 16 This is a front view of the dental brace portion according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Figure 17 This is a front view showing a modified example 10 of the dental brace portion according to the second embodiment.

[0074] Figure 18 This is a front view showing a modified example 11 of the dental brace portion according to the second embodiment.

[0075] Symbol Explanation

[0076] 1…toothbrush, 10…grip, 20…dental headgear (connector), 30…first brush body, 31…first support, 31d…first end, 41…first brush part, 60…second brush body, 61…second support, 61d…first end, 71…second brush part, 80…third brush body, 81…connector, 91…third brush part, F, F1, F2…external force, J2…second axis, S, S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6, S7, S8…small resistance area. Detailed Implementation

[0077] The following is for reference Figures 1 to 18 The embodiments of the toothbrush of the present invention will be described.

[0078] Furthermore, the following embodiments illustrate one aspect of the present invention and are not intended to limit the invention; modifications can be made freely within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. Additionally, in the following drawings, for ease of understanding of the structures, the scale, quantity, etc., of each structure differ from the actual structure.

[0079] In the coordinate system shown in the figures, the Z-axis is the occlusal direction, which is a vertical direction parallel to the direction extending from axis J. The θ-axis is the circumferential direction centered on axis J, along the dental arch. In this embodiment, the circumferential direction includes not only the direction along the arc centered on axis J, but also the direction along the tangent of that arc. The Y-axis is the direction orthogonal to the θ-axis and Z-axis, representing the depth direction within the oral cavity. In the following description, the direction parallel to the Z-axis is referred to as the "occlusal direction." Furthermore, the positive side of the Z-axis direction, i.e., the maxillary side, is called the "upper side," and the negative side of the Z-axis direction, i.e., the mandibular side, is called the "lower side." The positive side of the θ-axis direction is called the "left side," and the negative side of the θ-axis direction is called the "right side." The positive side of the depth direction, i.e., the lingual side, is called the "medial side," and the negative side of the depth direction, i.e., the buccal side, is called the "lateral side." "Medial side" corresponds to "one side of the depth direction." "Later side" corresponds to "the other side of the depth direction."

[0080] Figure 1 This is the main view of toothbrush 1.

[0081] like Figure 1 As shown, toothbrush 1 is a toothbrush with a handle 10 and a connecting body 20. Hereinafter, the connecting body 20 will be referred to as the toothbrush handle 20.

[0082] The brace part 20 is vibrated via the grip part 10.

[0083] The shaft 14 protrudes from the grip portion 10 and is connected to the dental brace portion 20.

[0084] Alternatively, it can be a structure in which the shaft 14 protruding from the brace part 20 is connected to the grip part 10.

[0085] The brace part 20 is vibrated from the grip part 10 via the shaft 14.

[0086] The present invention can also be applied to any of the following structures: a structure that manually applies brushing motions up and down, left and right, forward and backward, and combinations thereof to the braces 20 from the gripping part 10; a structure that manually applies vibration; and a structure that electrically applies vibration to the braces 20 from the gripping part 10.

[0087] In this embodiment, an electric drive unit is provided in the gripping part 10 and the vibration generated by the drive of the electric drive unit is applied to the brace part 20.

[0088] The electric drive unit includes a power supply unit 11, a vibration element 12, and a control unit 13. The control unit 13 uses electricity from the power supply unit 11 to drive the vibration element 12. The power supply unit 11 is, for example, composed of a rechargeable battery or a dry cell battery. The vibration element 12 is, for example, composed of a piezoelectric element, an electromagnetic acoustic transducer, or an eccentric motor. The vibration generated by the vibration element 12 is a repetitive, reversed-direction vibration centered on an axis extending along the depth direction at a predetermined rotation angle.

[0089] In the gripping part 10, the shaft 14, which is connected to the electric drive unit, vibrates by repeatedly reversing the direction of rotation. Driven by the vibration element 12, the shaft 14 vibrates, thereby causing the dental brace part 20 to vibrate by repeatedly reversing the direction of rotation.

[0090] [First Embodiment of Braces 20]

[0091] The brace portion 20 has a first brush body 30, a second brush body 60, and a third brush body 80. The first brush body 30 is located inside the grip portion 10 in the depth direction. The second brush body 60 is located between the grip portion 10 and the first brush body 30 in the depth direction and is separately configured relative to the first brush body 30. The second brush body 60 is connected to the grip portion 10.

[0092] When the brace part 20 is inserted into the oral cavity, the first brush body 30 is located on the inner side (lingual side) relative to the teeth. When the brace part 20 is inserted into the oral cavity, the second brush body 60 is located on the outer side (buccal side) relative to the teeth.

[0093] The first brush body 30 has a first support body 31 and a first brush portion 41. The first support body 31 supports the base end side of the first brush portion 41. Viewed from above, the first support body 31 is formed in a U-shape (horseshoe shape) along the circumferential direction centered on axis J. The first support body 31 is an U-shape with an inner opening.

[0094] The second brush body 60 has a second support body 61 and a second brush portion 71. The second support body 61 supports the base end side of the second brush portion 71. Viewed from above, the second support body 61 is formed in a U-shape (horseshoe shape) along the circumferential direction centered on axis J. The second support body 61 is an U-shape with an inner opening.

[0095] The range of the first brush body 30 and the second brush body 60 relative to the tooth row is not limited to the entire tooth row, but may also be a structure relative to only a part of the anterior teeth (central incisors, lateral incisors), canines, and molars (first premolars, second premolars, first molars, second molars).

[0096] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional view of the appearance of the braces section 20 as viewed from the inside in the depth direction.

[0097] Figure 3yes Figure 2 BB cross-sectional view.

[0098] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the first support 31 has the largest dimension in the engagement direction on the outer side in the depth direction, and gradually decreases towards the inner side. The upper end of the first support 31 is located at the uppermost side on the outer side in the depth direction, and gradually slopes towards the lower side as it slopes towards the inner side. The lower end of the first support 31 is located at the lowermost side on the outer side in the depth direction, and gradually slopes towards the upper side as it slopes towards the inner side.

[0099] The second support 61 has the largest dimension in the engagement direction on the outer side in the depth direction, and gradually decreases towards the inner side. The upper end of the second support 61 is located at the uppermost side on the outer side in the depth direction, and gradually slopes towards the lower side as it slopes towards the inner side. The lower end of the second support 61 is located at the lowermost side on the outer side in the depth direction, and gradually slopes towards the upper side as it slopes towards the inner side.

[0100] The maximum dimension of the second support 61 on the outer side of the depth direction in the biting direction is greater than the maximum dimension of the first support 31 on the inner side of the depth direction in the biting direction. The minimum dimension of the second support 61 on the outer side of the depth direction in the biting direction is greater than the minimum dimension of the first support 31 on the inner side of the depth direction in the biting direction. The dimension of the second support 61 in the biting direction is greater than the dimension of the first support 31 in the biting direction throughout the entire depth direction.

[0101] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 CC section view.

[0102] like Figure 4 As shown, the first brush portion 41 is disposed on the first support body 31 at intervals. The first brush portion 41 is disposed on the upper end side and the lower end side of the first support body 31. The first brush portion 41 extends outward from the brush surface 31a in the depth direction in the first support body 31. The brush surface 31a has a portion that is circumferentially curved in an outward direction when viewed from above.

[0103] This embodiment is a toothbrush 1 designed for use with a first brush portion 41 arranged along the tooth row and operated manually or electrically. Therefore, by making the brush surface 31a curved, the first brush portion 41 can be aligned along the lingual side of the tooth row, improving cleaning performance and conformity. In addition, maximizing the area of ​​the first brush portion 41 helps to improve vibration efficiency and cleaning force when operated electrically.

[0104] The first brush portion 41 includes first brush portions 41A, 41B, 41C, and first brush portions 41D, 41E, and 41F. First brush portions 41A, 41B, 41C, and first brush portions 41D, 41E, and 41F extend outwards in the depth direction from the brush surface 31a. First brush portion 41A extends outwards from the upper end of the brush surface 31a. First brush portion 41B extends outwards from a position lower than first brush portion 41A. First brush portion 41C extends outwards from a position lower than first brush portion 41B. First brush portion 41D extends outwards from the lower end of the brush surface 31a. First brush portion 41E extends outwards from a position higher than first brush portion 41D. First brush portion 41F extends outwards from a position higher than first brush portion 41E. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, a plurality of first brush sections 41, including first brush sections 41A, 41B, 41C and first brush sections 41D, 41E, 41F, are provided at intervals along the entire circumference.

[0105] If we define the position of the upper and lower teeth occlusion in the occlusal direction as the occlusal surface K, then in a side view observed parallel to the occlusal surface K, the inclination angle of the first brush portion 41 relative to the occlusal surface K is smaller the closer it is to the occlusal surface K, and larger the further it is from the occlusal surface K. Specifically, the inclination angles of the first brush portions 41A and 41D, which are closest to the gingiva and furthest from the occlusal surface K, are larger than those of the first brush portions 41B and 41E, and the first brush portions 41C and 41F. The inclination angles of the first brush portions 41C and 41F, which are closest to the occlusal surface K, are larger than those of the first brush portions 41A, 41D, 41B, and 41E.

[0106] When biting down on the brace part 20, the mouth will open slightly. In addition, the dimensions of the tooth surface in the biting direction are mostly larger than the spacing between the first brush parts 41A and 41C in the biting direction at the roots, and the spacing between the first brush parts 41D and 41F in the biting direction at the roots. Therefore, if the tilt angles of the first brush parts 41A-41C and 41D-41F are set to be the same, the tips of the first brush parts 41A-41C and 41D-41F will hardly cover the entire tooth surface in the biting direction.

[0107] In this embodiment, the tilt angle increases sequentially from the first brush portion 41C to the first brush portion 41A and from the first brush portion 41F to the first brush portion 41D. Therefore, even when the mouth is slightly open, the first brush portions 41C and 41F can be made to fit against the lingual cusp side, and the first brush portions 41A and 41D can be made to fit against the lingual gingival side.

[0108] In the meshing direction, the circumferential spacing of adjacent first brush portions 41A and 41B, first brush portion 41B and first brush portion 41C, first brush portion 41D and first brush portion 41E, and first brush portion 41E and first brush portion 41F is staggered by, for example, half a spacing. That is, when viewed from the direction opposite to the brush surface 31a, the first brush portions 41A, 41B, 41C and the first brush portions 41D, 41E, 41F are arranged in an alternating pattern. By arranging the first brush portions 41A, 41B, 41C and the first brush portions 41D, 41E, 41F in an alternating pattern, the gap between the first brush portions 41 can be reduced, and the contact with the tooth surface and the cleaning performance can be improved.

[0109] The second brush portion 71 is disposed on the second support body 61 at intervals. The second brush portion 71 is disposed on the upper end side and the lower end side of the second support body 61. The second brush portion 71 extends from the brush surface 61a inside the depth direction of the second support body 61 inward. The brush surface 61a has a portion that is circumferentially curved in an outward direction when viewed from above.

[0110] This embodiment is a toothbrush 1 designed for use with a second brush portion 71 arranged along the tooth row and operated manually or electrically. Therefore, by making the brush surface 61a curved, the second brush portion 71 can be aligned along the buccal side of the tooth row, improving cleaning performance and conformity. In addition, maximizing the area of ​​the second brush portion 71 helps to improve vibration efficiency and cleaning force when operated electrically.

[0111] The second brush portion 71 includes second brush portions 71A, 71B, 71C, 71D and second brush portions 71E, 71F, 71G, 71H. Second brush portions 71A, 71B, 71C, 71D and second brush portions 71E, 71F, 71G, 71H extend inward from the brush surface 61a in the depth direction. Second brush portion 71A extends inward from the upper end of the brush surface 61a. Second brush portion 71B extends inward from a position lower than second brush portion 71A. Second brush portion 71C extends inward from a position lower than second brush portion 71B. Second brush portion 71D extends inward from a position lower than second brush portion 71C.

[0112] The second brush portion 71E extends inward from the lower end of the brush surface 61a. The second brush portion 71F extends inward from a position higher than the second brush portion 71E. The second brush portion 71G extends inward from a position higher than the second brush portion 71F. The second brush portion 71H extends inward from a position higher than the second brush portion 71G.

[0113] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, a plurality of second brush sections 71, including second brush sections 71A, 71B, 71C, 71D and second brush sections 71E, 71F, 71G, 71H, are provided at intervals along the entire circumference.

[0114] In a side view observed parallel to the occlusal surface K, the inclination angle of the second brush portion 71 relative to the occlusal surface K is smaller the closer it is to the occlusal surface K and larger the further it is from the occlusal surface K. Specifically, the inclination angles of the second brush portions 71A and 71E, which are closest to the gingiva and furthest from the occlusal surface K, are larger than those of the second brush portions 71B-71D and 71F-71H. The inclination angles of the second brush portions 71C, 71D, 71G, and 71H, which are closest to the occlusal surface K, are smaller than those of the second brush portions 71A and 71B and the second brush portions 71E and 71F. As an example, the inclination angles of the second brush portions 71C and 71D are the same, and the inclination angles of the second brush portions 71G and 71H are the same. Alternatively, the inclination angle of the second brush portion 71D may be smaller than that of the second brush portion 71C, and the inclination angle of the second brush portion 71H may be smaller than that of the second brush portion 71G.

[0115] When biting down on the brace portion 20, the mouth will open slightly. Furthermore, the dimensions of the tooth surface in the biting direction are generally larger than the spacing between the second brush portions 71A and 71D at their roots, and the spacing between the second brush portions 71E and 71H at their roots. Therefore, if the tilt angles of the second brush portions 71A-71D and 71E-71H are set to be the same, the tips of the second brush portions 71A-71D and 71E-71H will find it difficult to cover the entire tooth surface in the biting direction.

[0116] In this embodiment, the tilt angle increases sequentially from the second brush portion 71C to the second brush portion 71A and from the second brush portion 71G to the second brush portion 71E. Therefore, even when the mouth is slightly open, the second brush portions 71C, 71D, 71G, and 71H can be made to fit against the cusp side of the lingual tooth, and the second brush portions 71A and 71E can be made to fit against the gingival side of the lingual tooth.

[0117] The circumferential spacing of adjacent second brush portions 71A and 71B, 71B and 71C, 71C and 71D, 71E and 71F, 71F and 71G, and 71G and 71H in the meshing direction is staggered by, for example, half a spacing. That is, when viewed from the direction opposite to the brush surface 61a, the second brush portions 71A, 71B, 71C, 71D and the second brush portions 71E, 71F, 71G, 71H are arranged in an alternating pattern. By arranging the second brush portions 71A, 71B, 71C, 71D and the second brush portions 71E, 71F, 71G, 71H in an alternating pattern, the gap between the second brush portions 71 can be reduced, and the contact with the tooth surface and the cleaning performance can be improved.

[0118] The third brush body 80 is disposed between the first brush body 30 and the second brush body 60 in the depth direction. The third brush body 80 has a connecting portion 81 and a third brush portion 91. The connecting portion 81 is disposed between the first brush body 30 and the second brush body 60 in the depth direction and is formed in a U-shape along the circumferential direction. The connecting portion 81 is plate-shaped and orthogonal to the engagement direction. At least a portion of the connecting portion 81 connects the first support body 31 and the second support body 61 in the depth direction.

[0119] Figure 5 This is a front view of the dental crown section 20 with the first brush section 41, the second brush section 71, and the third brush section 91 removed. Figure 5 In the subsequent accompanying drawings, the first brush part 41, the second brush part 71, and the third brush part 91 are sometimes appropriately removed.

[0120] like Figure 1 and Figure 5 As shown, the dental brace portion 20 of this embodiment is provided with a small resistance region S. At least a portion of the small resistance region S is disposed circumferentially away from both ends of the dental brace portion 20. The small resistance region S is disposed centrally relative to both ends of the dental brace portion 20 in the circumferential direction. The small resistance region S extends continuously in the depth direction. The inner end of the small resistance region S in the depth direction is located at the connecting portion 81, which is located further outward in the depth direction than the first support 31. One end of the small resistance region S in the depth direction is located at the first end 61d, which is located outside the second support 61. That is, one end of the small resistance region S in the depth direction penetrates the second support 61 outward in the depth direction. The small resistance region S is a gap that penetrates the dental brace portion 20 in the occlusal direction. Therefore, the small resistance region S, which penetrates the second support 61 outward in the depth direction, opens outward in the second support 61.

[0121] like Figure 5As shown, when an external force F in the depth direction is applied to the circumferential end of the brace portion 20, the resistance of the small resistance region S is smaller than the resistance on both sides of the circumferential direction. The small resistance region S is formed by a gap penetrating the brace portion 20 along the occlusal direction. That is, when an external force F is applied, the resistance of the small resistance region S is zero, and therefore less than the resistance of the connecting portion 81 and the second support 61 on both sides of the circumferential direction. Therefore, when an external force F is applied to the brace portion 20, a portion of the first support 31 and the second support 61 rotates about the second axis J2 located at the end inside the small resistance region S in the depth direction and extending along the occlusal direction, thereby moving relative to each other with light load elastic deformation. In addition, the small resistance region S is a gap, so the difference in resistance when an external force F is applied is larger than that of the connecting portion 81 on both sides of the circumferential direction, and the above-mentioned elastic deformation can be easily generated with light load.

[0122] Specifically, when the brace portion 20 is bitten down and moved circumferentially (left and right) along the tooth row, for example, if the circumferential left end of the second support 61 interferes (collides) with the molar T from the anterior tooth side, an external force F1 is applied to the circumferential end of the second support 61 in the depth direction outward. By applying the external force F1 to the circumferential end of the second support 61, the portion of the brace portion 20 that is closer to the circumferential end side than the small resistance area S, as shown by the double-dotted line, rotates clockwise around the second axis J2, thereby elastically deforming in a roughly linear manner and moving relative to the portion that is closer to the circumferential center side than the small resistance area S.

[0123] Therefore, the second support 61 reduces interference with the molar T by moving outward in the depth direction, and the first support 31 approaches the molar T by moving outward in the depth direction. Thus, when the dental brace 20 moves left and right, it will not interfere with the molar T and will not be hindered, allowing for smooth brushing and thorough cleaning of the molars.

[0124] Similarly, when the brace portion 20 is bitten down and moved circumferentially (left and right) along the tooth row, for example, when the right circumferential end of the first support 31 interferes (collides) with the molar T from the anterior tooth side, an external force F2 is applied to the circumferential end of the first support 31 inward toward the depth direction. By applying the external force F2 to the circumferential end of the first support 31, the portion of the brace portion 20 that is closer to the circumferential end side than the small resistance area S, as shown by the double-dotted line, rotates clockwise around the second axis J2, thereby elastically deforming and moving relative to the portion that is closer to the circumferential center side than the small resistance area S.

[0125] Thus, the first support 31 reduces interference with the molar T by moving inward in the depth direction, and the second support 61 approaches the molar T by moving inward in the depth direction. Therefore, when the dental brace 20 moves left and right, it will not interfere with the molar T and will not be hindered. The brushing action can be performed smoothly while maintaining an appropriate distance between the bristle tips of the first brush part 41 and the second brush part 71 and the teeth, and the molars can be thoroughly cleaned.

[0126] The perimeter of the first end 61d side in the depth direction of the brace portion 20 changes due to the external force F. On the left side in the circumferential direction, the perimeter L1 of the second support 61 at the first end 61d side in the depth direction, from the circumferential center to the end, changes due to the external force F1. In the brace portion 20, by rotating the portion of the small resistance region S, which has a smaller resistance force, closer to the circumferential end side, the opening width of the small resistance region S is narrowed. As a result, the perimeter L2 of the second support 61 at the first end 61d side in the depth direction, from the circumferential center to the end, is shorter than the perimeter L1 before rotation.

[0127] On the right side of the circumference, the circumference L1 of the first end 61d side of the second support 61 in the depth direction, from the circumferential center to the end, changes due to the external force F2. In the dental brace portion 20, by rotating the portion of the small resistance region S, which has a smaller resistance force, closer to the circumferential end side, the opening width of the small resistance region S is widened. As a result, the circumference L3 of the first end 61d side of the second support 61 in the depth direction, from the circumferential center to the end, is longer than the circumference L1 before rotation.

[0128] The length of the small resistance region S in the depth direction can be 5 mm or more and 15 mm or less. The opening width at the first end 61d of the small resistance region S can be 2 mm or more and 7 mm or less.

[0129] The change in circumference is defined as a change of 3% or more, or 2 mm or more, in circumference before and after the aforementioned elastic deformation. Furthermore, when moving circumferentially (left or right) along the tooth row while the brace part 20 is bitten, the elastic deformation (rotation) generated at the end side closer to the circumferential direction than the small resistance region S occurs only at the end side of the circumferential direction. Therefore, the aforementioned circumferences L1, L2, and L3 are defined as the lengths from the center of the circumferential direction to the end.

[0130] like Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, the third brush portion 91 extends from the connecting portion 81 to both sides in the occlusal direction. The third brush portion 91 has a bristle profile with a mountain-shaped peak at the midpoint in the depth direction. The third brush portion 91, by having a mountain-shaped bristle profile, becomes a profile that conforms to the occlusal surface between the teeth, thereby improving cleaning force. The third brush portion 91 is preferably positioned, for example, opposite the molars. Since the third brush portion 91 is positioned opposite the molars and protrudes upward and downward, it can effectively clean the occlusal surface of the molars that is difficult for the first brush portion 41 and the second brush portion 71 to reach.

[0131] As an example, the first support 31 and the second support 61 in this embodiment can be structured with different hardnesses due to material properties. Preferably, the hardness of the first support 31 is greater than that of the second support 61. More preferably, the first support 31 is made of a soft resin with a Shore A hardness of 50 or higher and a Shore D hardness of 75 or lower. More preferably, the second support 61 is made of a soft resin with a Shore A hardness of 40 or higher and a Shore D hardness of 70 or lower.

[0132] "Shore A hardness" refers to the hardness of plastics measured using a Type A durometer according to JIS K 7215 or JIS K 6253. "Shore D hardness" is the hardness measured using a Type D durometer as specified in JIS K 6253.

[0133] On the outer side of the tooth row in the depth direction, when the brace portion 20 is moved left and right, the difference between the curvature of the brace portion 20 and the curvature of the tooth row is larger on the outer side, and there is also three-dimensional obstruction caused by the buccal mucosa. Therefore, by making the second support 61 located on the outer side more flexible than the first support 31, it is easier for the second support 61 to move relative to the first support 31 in the depth direction. This allows the second support 61 to deform and improves the following of the second brush portion 71 toward the tooth row. On the other hand, on the inner side of the tooth row in the depth direction, the change in curvature is smaller and there is less three-dimensional obstruction. Therefore, by making the first support 31 located on the inner side more rigid than the second support 61, the following of the first brush portion 41 in the first support 31 toward the tooth row can be improved.

[0134] Furthermore, the first brush part 41 and the second brush part 71 are preferably in the above-mentioned hardness range. If the hardness of the soft resin is lower than the lower limit value mentioned above, the scraping force is insufficient. If the dental brace part 20 is electric, the transmission of vibration will be insufficient, and the cleaning performance will be reduced.

[0135] When the hardness of the soft resin exceeds the aforementioned upper limit, the first brush part 41 and the second brush part 71 become difficult to bend, resulting in decreased adhesion and reduced cleaning performance.

[0136] As the soft resin constituting the first brush body 30, the second brush body 60 and the third brush body 80, various elastomers can be used, but polyurethane and silicone can be listed as examples.

[0137] Compared with other elastomers such as styrene-based and polyester-based elastomers, polyurethane tends to have high tensile strength and high mechanical abrasion resistance. Therefore, by using polyurethane as a soft resin, even thin-walled polyurethane is not easy to break, which can ensure mechanical strength and long-term use.

[0138] Silicone has exceptionally high heat and chemical resistance, which can reduce quality degradation during boiling sterilization and in the presence of toothpaste.

[0139] As explained above, in the dental brace portion 20 of this embodiment, the small resistance region S at the circumferential end is smaller than that at the two sides in the circumferential direction when an external force is applied in the depth direction. It is provided along the depth direction at both ends of the dental brace portion 20 away from the circumferential direction. Therefore, when the dental brace portion 20 is moved left and right, it will not interfere with the molar T and be hindered, so that the brushing action can be performed smoothly and the molar can be thoroughly cleaned.

[0140] [Modification 1 of the first embodiment of the braces part 20]

[0141] Figure 6 This is a front view showing a modified example 1 of the dental brace portion 20 according to the first embodiment.

[0142] In this figure, for and Figures 1 to 5 Elements that are identical to those in the first embodiment shown are labeled with the same symbols and their descriptions are omitted.

[0143] In the first embodiment described above, the structure has one end located on the outer side in the depth direction, which is located on the outer side of the second support 61, specifically the first end 61d. Figure 6 As shown, in Modified Example 1, the inner end of the small resistance region S1 of the brace portion 20 in the depth direction is located at the first end 31d inside the first support body 31. The small resistance region S1 penetrates the first support body 31 in the depth direction. The small resistance region S1 is a gap that penetrates the brace portion 20 along the occlusal direction. Therefore, the small resistance region S1, which penetrates the first support body 31 in the depth direction at one end, opens inward in the first support body 31.

[0144] In the modified example 1, the brace portion 20 is subjected to an external force F1 applied to the left end of the second support 61 in the circumferential direction. As shown by the double-dotted line, the portion of the brace portion 20 that is closer to the circumferential end side than the small resistance region S1 rotates clockwise around the second axis J2, thereby elastically deforming in a roughly straight line and moving relative to the portion that is closer to the circumferential center side than the small resistance region S1.

[0145] In the modified example 1, the brace portion 20 is elastically deformed by applying an external force F2 to the circumferential end of the first support 31, as shown by the double-dotted line, to the portion of the brace portion 20 that is closer to the circumferential end side than the small resistance region S1, which has a smaller resistance than the small resistance region S1. This causes the portion to move relative to the portion that is closer to the circumferential center side than the small resistance region S1.

[0146] Therefore, the brace portion 20 of Modified Example 1 can achieve the same effect as the embodiment described above. On the other hand, as described above, when the brace portion 20 moves left and right, the difference between the curvature of the brace portion 20 and the curvature of the tooth row is larger on the outer side. Therefore, it is preferable that the second support 61 elastically deforms outward in the depth direction. In this case, the opening width of the small resistance region S1 of the brace portion 20 in Modified Example 1 becomes wider, and thus the first brush portion 41 becomes sparser. Therefore, from the viewpoint of the density of the brush portion, the structure of the first embodiment described above, in which the small resistance region S opens outward in the second support 61, is preferred.

[0147] Additionally, as part 20 of the braces, it can also be Figure 7 As shown in variation example 2, multiple (in) are provided on the left and right sides in the circumferential direction respectively. Figure 7 The structure of the two small resistance regions S can also be... Figure 8 As in Modification 3, the structure has small resistance areas S and S1 on the left and right sides in the circumferential direction, respectively. In Modifications 2 and 3, the brace portion 20 is more elastically deformable, allowing for smoother brushing and thorough cleaning of the molars.

[0148] Furthermore, the small resistance regions S and S1 that extend through the brace portion 20 along the occlusal direction are not limited to structures formed by gaps with a large opening width, but can also be incision shapes that extend linearly with a small width.

[0149] [Modification 4 of the first embodiment of the braces part 20]

[0150] Figure 9 This is a front view of a modified example 4 of the dental brace portion 20 according to the first embodiment.

[0151] In this figure, for and Figures 1 to 5 Elements that are identical to those in the first embodiment shown are labeled with the same symbols and their descriptions are omitted.

[0152] In the above embodiment, the small resistance region S is formed by a gap extending through the brace portion 20 in the occlusal direction. In Modification 4, the small resistance region S2 is formed by a soft material extending through the brace portion 20 in the occlusal direction. As the soft material, any material whose resistance to external force applied along the depth direction at the circumferential end of the brace portion 20 is smaller than that of the connecting portion 81 can be used. Examples of soft materials include soft elastomers and silicones with a hardness lower than that of the soft resin constituting the connecting portion 81.

[0153] In the dental brace portion 20 of Modified Example 4, when an external force F in the depth direction is applied to the circumferential end of the dental brace portion 20, the small resistance region S2, which has relatively low resistance, elastically deforms circumferentially. Consequently, the dental brace portion 20, which is closer to the circumferential end side than the small resistance region S2, rotates about the second axis J2, thereby moving relative to it through elastic deformation under light load. Therefore, the dental brace portion 20 of Modified Example 4 can achieve the same effect as the embodiment described above.

[0154] [Modification 5 of the first embodiment of the braces part 20]

[0155] Figure 10 This is a front view of a modified example 5 of the dental brace portion 20 according to the first embodiment.

[0156] In this figure, for and Figures 1 to 5 Elements that are identical to those in the first embodiment shown are labeled with the same symbols and their descriptions are omitted.

[0157] In the above embodiment, the small resistance region S is formed by a gap that extends through the brace portion 20 in the occlusal direction and opens in the depth direction into the first support 31 or the second support 61. In the modified example 5, the small resistance region S3 is formed by a gap that extends through the connecting portion 81 without openings at both ends in the depth direction.

[0158] In the dental brace portion 20 of Modified Example 5, when an external force F in the depth direction is applied to the circumferential end of the dental brace portion 20, the small resistance region S3, which has relatively low resistance, elastically deforms circumferentially. Consequently, the portion of the dental brace portion 20 closer to the circumferential end than the small resistance region S3 rotates about the second axis J2 on the side towards which the external force F is applied, undergoing elastic deformation and relative movement under a relatively small load. Therefore, the dental brace portion 20 of Modified Example 5 achieves the same effect as the embodiment described above.

[0159] [Modification 6 of the first embodiment of the braces part 20]

[0160] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example 6 of the dental brace portion 20 according to the first embodiment. Figure 10 The DD section view in the figure. In this figure, for the... Figure 10Elements that are identical to those in Variation 5 of the first embodiment shown are labeled with the same symbols and their descriptions are omitted.

[0161] In Modification 5, the low-resistance region S3 is formed by the void in the through-connection 81. In Modification 6, the low-resistance region S4 is formed by a thin film. Figure 11 As shown, in the small resistance region S4, recesses 81a are provided on both sides of the meshing direction in the connecting portion 81. The small resistance region S4 is formed by a thin film between the recesses 81a on both sides of the meshing direction. Alternatively, the film can be formed by recesses 81a provided on one side of the meshing direction instead of both sides.

[0162] In the brace portion 20 of Modified Example 6, when an external force F in the depth direction is applied to the circumferential end of the brace portion 20, the small resistance region S4, which is thinner and has lower resistance than the connecting portions 81 on both sides of the small resistance region S4, elastically deforms along the circumferential direction. Therefore, the brace portion 20, located closer to the circumferential end than the small resistance region S4, undergoes light-load elastic deformation and relative movement by rotating around a second axis J2 centered on the side towards which the external force F is applied. Thus, the brace portion 20 of Modified Example 6 achieves the same effect as the embodiment described above.

[0163] In addition, such as Figure 12 As shown in Modification 7, a structure can also be formed by creating a cavity 81b inside the connecting portion 81, thereby providing a small resistance region S5 through thin films formed on both sides in the interlocking direction. Furthermore, the small resistance region extends continuously along the depth direction... Figure 11 Unlike the variation shown in Example 6, it can also be as follows: Figure 13 As shown in variation 8, multiple (in) are provided at intervals in the depth direction. Figure 13 The structure consists of three recesses, forming a small resistance region S6 through multiple thin films formed along the depth direction.

[0164] [Modification 9 of the first embodiment of the braces part 20]

[0165] Figure 14 This is a front view showing a modified example 9 of the dental brace portion 20 according to the first embodiment. Figure 15 yes Figure 14 The E-direction view in these figures. For the view with... Figure 11 Elements that are identical to those in the first embodiment of variant 6 shown are labeled with the same symbols and their descriptions are omitted.

[0166] In variation 6, the small resistance region is composed of a plate-shaped thin film orthogonal to the interlocking direction. For example... Figure 14 and Figure 15As shown, in modified example 9, the thin film of the small resistance region S7 is formed as a wrinkle that alternates between the upward direction toward the interlocking direction and the downward direction as it faces the circumferential end. The small resistance region S7, which is formed as a wrinkle along the circumferential direction, can elastically deform and expand and contract in the circumferential direction.

[0167] In the dental brace portion 20 of Modified Example 9, when an external force F in the depth direction is applied to the circumferential end of the dental brace portion 20, the resistance of the small resistance region S7, which expands and contracts elastically along the circumferential direction, is smaller than that of the connecting portions 81 on both sides of the circumferential direction. Therefore, the dental brace portion 20, which is closer to the circumferential end side than the small resistance region S7, undergoes light-load elastic deformation and relative movement by rotating around the second axis J2. Thus, the dental brace portion 20 of Modified Example 9 can achieve the same effect as the embodiment described above.

[0168] [Second Embodiment of Braces 20]

[0169] Next, refer to Figure 16 The second embodiment of the brace part 20 will be described.

[0170] In this figure, for and Figures 1 to 8 Elements that are identical to those in the first embodiment shown are labeled with the same symbols and their descriptions are omitted.

[0171] Figure 16 This is a front view of the dental brace portion 20 according to the second embodiment.

[0172] like Figure 16 As shown, the brace portion 20 of this embodiment has a small resistance region S8. The small resistance region S8 has a first region S81 and a second region S82. The small resistance region S8 is formed by a gap that extends through the brace portion 20 along the occlusal direction.

[0173] The first region S81 has an end portion in the connecting portion 81 located closer to the first support 31 in the depth direction than to the second support 61 (the position on the circumferential central side), and extends continuously outward in the depth direction. Starting from the circumferential central side, the first region S81 curves into an arc shape in the direction towards the circumferential end portion as it extends outward in the depth direction (one end side). The end portion of the first region S81 near the first support 31 is positioned away from the outer end portion of the first support 31.

[0174] The boundary between the first region S81 and the second region S82 is the location where the components of the depth direction, excluding the circumferential direction, begin to superimpose from the extension direction of the small resistance region S8.

[0175] The boundary between the first region S81 and the second region S82 is preferably located at a distance of 15 mm or more and 25 mm or less from the circumferential end. Therefore, when an external force is applied, the first support 31 can deform sufficiently without excessive deflection, maintaining stability by suppressing the overall wobbling of the brush portion 20.

[0176] The widths of the first region S81 and the second region S82 are preferably 1 mm or more and 3 mm or less. Therefore, when an external force F2 is applied, the first support 31 can deform sufficiently while maintaining stability. Furthermore, the width of the gaps (first region S81 and second region S82) is not excessive, thus allowing for the placement of more third brush sections 91 at the connecting portion 81, thereby improving cleaning force.

[0177] The widths of the first region S81 and the second region S82 may not be constant, but are preferably constant. If the widths of the first region S81 and the second region S82 are not constant, uneven deflection may lead to a sense of disharmony. By making the widths of the first region S81 and the second region S82 constant, smooth deformation is possible.

[0178] The second region S82 extends continuously circumferentially from one end of the first region S81 toward its circumferential end. The second region S82 is located closer to the second support 61 in the depth direction than to the first support 31. Preferably, the second region S82 is located at a distance of 2 mm to 4 mm from the second support 61. Therefore, when an external force F1 is applied, the second support 61 can deform sufficiently while maintaining stability. Furthermore, the gap (second region S82) exists near the second support 61 (without intruding into the connecting portion 81), thereby allowing for the placement of more third brush portions 91 at the connecting portion 81, which improves cleaning force.

[0179] The end of the second region S82, opposite to the side of the first region S81, opens along the circumferential end of the connecting portion 81. Therefore, the portion of the brace portion 20 that is closer to the circumferential end than the circumferential center side of the first region S81 is divided in the depth direction by the small resistance region S8 into a region containing the first support 31 and a region containing the second support 61.

[0180] When the brace portion 20 of the above-described structure is bitten down, and the brace portion 20 is moved circumferentially (left and right) along the tooth row, for example, when the circumferential left end of the second support 61 interferes (collides) with the molar T from the anterior tooth side, an external force F1 is applied to the circumferential end of the second support 61 in the outward direction toward the depth direction. By applying the external force F1 to the circumferential end of the second support 61, the area of ​​the brace portion 20 containing the second support 61, which is divided by the small resistance area S8, as shown by the double-dotted line, is elastically deformed in a generally linear manner with a light load by rotating clockwise about the third axis J3. This causes relative movement to the portion closer to the circumferential central side than the small resistance area S8. The third axis J3, when viewed from the occlusal direction, is located before the distance between the small resistance area S8 and the second support 61 becomes abruptly longer and extends along the occlusal direction.

[0181] Therefore, the second support 61 mitigates interference with the molar T by moving outward in the depth direction. Specifically, the second region S82 is located close to the second support 61, thus shortening the distance between the second region S82 and the second support 61, allowing the second support 61 to easily flex outward in the depth direction. Consequently, when the dental brace 20 is moved approximately, it does not interfere with the molar T, allowing for smooth brushing and thorough cleaning of the molars.

[0182] Similarly, when the braces 20 is moved circumferentially (left-right) along the tooth row while the braces are biting down, for example, if the right circumferential end of the first support 31 interferes (collides) with the molar T from the anterior tooth side, an external force F2 is applied to the circumferential end of the first support 31 toward the inner side in the depth direction. By applying the external force F2 to the circumferential end of the first support 31, the region of the braces 20 including the first support 31, which is divided by the small resistance region S8 as shown by the double-dotted line, is elastically deformed under a light load by rotating clockwise around the fourth axis J4. This causes the region to move relative to the portion closer to the circumferential center than the small resistance region S8. The fourth axis J4 is located at the end of the first region S81 in the depth direction and extends along the occlusal direction.

[0183] Therefore, the first support 31 mitigates interference with the molar T by moving inward in the depth direction. In particular, the circumferentially central end of the first region S81 is located close to the first support 31 in the depth direction, so the first support 31 can easily flex inward in the depth direction from this end. In addition, the first support 31 is connected to the connecting part 81, so it can be linked with the connecting part 81, which moves with the occlusal surface, so the first support 31 also moves with the occlusal surface. Therefore, by the first support 31, the second support 61, and the connecting part 81 moving with the tooth row, the movement of the brace part 20 from left to right is not hindered by interference with the molar T, allowing for smooth brushing and thorough cleaning of the molars.

[0184] The connecting portion 81 preferably has an opening groove 32 between its circumferential end and the first support body 31. By providing the opening groove 32, when the first support body 31 is subjected to an external force F2, the first support body 31 facing the opening groove 32 is more likely to flex, which can further reduce the interference with the molar T and improve the above-mentioned effect.

[0185] [Modification 10 of the second embodiment of the brace part 20]

[0186] Figure 17 This is a front view of a modified example 10 of the dental brace portion 20 according to the second embodiment.

[0187] In this figure, for and Figure 16 Elements that are identical to those in the second embodiment shown are labeled with the same symbols and their descriptions are omitted.

[0188] In the small resistance region S8 of the second embodiment described above, the structure is as follows: the first region S81 takes the position of the connecting part 81 near the circumferential center side of the first support 31 in the depth direction as the end, and extends continuously outward in the depth direction; the second region S82 extends continuously in the circumferential direction from one end of the first region S81 near the second support 61 and towards the circumferential end.

[0189] like Figure 17 As shown, in the small resistance region S8 of Modified Example 10, the first region S81 extends continuously in an arc-shaped manner, with the end of the connecting portion 81 located near the circumferential center of the second support 61 in the depth direction. The second region S82 extends continuously in the circumferential direction from one end of the first region S81, near the first support 31. Other structures are the same as in the second embodiment described above.

[0190] When the brace portion 20 of the modified example 10 is bitten and moved circumferentially (i.e., left-right) along the tooth row, for example, if the circumferential left end of the second support 61 interferes (collides) with the molar T from the anterior tooth side, an external force F1 is applied to the circumferential end of the second support 61 in the outer direction toward the depth. By applying the external force F1 to the circumferential end of the second support 61, the region of the brace portion 20 containing the second support 61, which is divided by the small resistance region S8, as shown by the double-dotted line, is rotated clockwise around the fourth axis J4 and elastically deformed under light load. This causes relative movement to the portion closer to the circumferential central side than the small resistance region S8. The fourth axis J4 is located at the end inside the depth direction of the first region S81 and extends along the occlusal direction.

[0191] Therefore, the second support 61 mitigates interference with the molar T by moving outward in the depth direction. In particular, the circumferentially central end of the first region S81 is located close to the second support 61 in the depth direction, so the second support 61 can easily flex inward in the depth direction from this end. In addition, the second support 61 is connected to the connecting portion 81, so it can be linked with the connecting portion 81, which moves with the occlusal surface, so the second support 61 also moves with the occlusal surface. Therefore, by the first support 31, the second support 61, and the connecting portion 81 moving with the tooth row, there is no interference with the molar T when the brace portion 20 moves left and right, allowing for smooth brushing and thorough cleaning of the molars.

[0192] Similarly, when the braces 20 is moved circumferentially (left-right) along the tooth row while the braces are biting down, for example, if the right circumferential end of the first support 31 interferes (collides) with the molar T from the anterior tooth side, an external force F2 is applied to the circumferential end of the first support 31 inward toward the depth direction. By applying the external force F2 to the circumferential end of the first support 31, the area of ​​the braces 20 including the first support 31, which is divided by the small resistance area S8, as shown by the double-dotted line, is elastically deformed in a generally linear manner with a light load by rotating clockwise around the third axis J3. This causes relative movement to the portion closer to the circumferential central side than the small resistance area S8, which is located before the distance between the small resistance area S8 and the first support 31 increases sharply when viewed from the occlusal direction, and extends along the occlusal direction.

[0193] Therefore, the first support 31 reduces interference with the molar T by moving inward in the depth direction. In particular, the second region S82 is located close to the first support 31, thus shortening the distance between the second region S82 and the first support 31, allowing the first support 31 to easily bend outward in the depth direction. Therefore, when the dental brace 20 moves left and right, it will not interfere with the molar T and will not be obstructed, allowing for smooth brushing and thorough cleaning of the molars.

[0194] The connecting portion 81 preferably has an opening groove 62 between itself and the second support 61 at the circumferential end. By providing the opening groove 62, when the second support 61 is subjected to an external force F1, the second support 61 facing the opening groove 62 is more likely to bend, which can further reduce the interference with the molar T and improve the above-mentioned effect.

[0195] Furthermore, in the dental brace portion 20 according to the second embodiment, such as Figure 18 As shown in Modification 11, the structure could also be a closed structure where the circumferential end of the second region S82 of the small resistance region S8 extends circumferentially through the circumferential end of the connecting portion 81 but is not open. In the dental brace portion 20 of Modification 11, the same function and effect as in the second embodiment described above can also be obtained.

[0196] In modified example 11, the above-described opening grooves 32 and 62 are also preferred. As a result, when the first support 31 is subjected to an external force F2, the first support 31 facing the opening groove 32 is more likely to flex, and when the second support 61 is subjected to an external force F1, the second support 61 facing the opening groove 62 is more likely to flex, thus further mitigating interference with the molar T and improving the above-described effect.

[0197] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the present invention is not limited to these examples. The various shapes and combinations of the constituent components shown in the above examples are just examples, and various modifications can be made based on design requirements, etc., without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0198] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, a structure is illustrated in which the first brush portion 41 and the second brush portion 71 are arranged throughout the entire circumference relative to the first support body 31 and the second support body 61, but the embodiment is not limited to this structure. For example, a structure in which the first brush portion 41 and the second brush portion 71 are arranged intermittently in the θ direction is also possible.

[0199] In addition, the braces 20 can be a structure that covers the entire circumference, or it can be a structure that is only provided in the left or right side.

[0200] In addition, the first brush portion 41 and the second brush portion 71 described in the above embodiments may be brush bristles integrally formed with the first support body 31 and the second support body 61, or they may be bristle bundles respectively disposed on the first support body 31 and the second support body 61.

[0201] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, a structure in which the third brush portion 91 is provided in the connecting portion 81 of the third brush body 80 is illustrated, but the invention is not limited to this structure. The present invention may also have a structure in which the third brush portion 91 is not provided in the connecting portion 81.

[0202] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, a structure is illustrated where the toothbrush 1 has an electric drive unit in the grip portion 10, but the toothbrush 1 is not limited to this structure. The toothbrush 1 may also have a structure in which the electric drive unit is not provided in the grip portion 10, and the user manually applies vibration to the brace portion 20 through the grip portion 10.

Claims

1. A toothbrush, characterized in that, have: The gripping part; and A connector that is connected to the gripping portion on one side in a depth direction orthogonal to the biting direction. The connector has: The first brush body is located on one side of the depth direction compared to the grip portion; A second brush body is located between the grip portion and the first brush body in the depth direction and is disposed separately from the first brush body; as well as A connecting portion is disposed between the first brush body and the second brush body in the depth direction. The first brush body has: A first support body, the first support body being formed in a U-shape circumferentially along an axis extending in the engagement direction; and A first brush portion extends from the first support body to the other side in the depth direction. The second brush body has: A second support body, which is formed in a U-shape along the circumferential direction; as well as The second brush portion extends from the second support body to one side in the depth direction. The connecting portion is formed in a U-shape along the circumferential direction, and at least a portion of the connecting portion connects the first support body and the second support body in the depth direction. The connecting portion is provided with a small resistance region. At least a portion of the small resistance region is arranged in the circumferential direction at a position away from both ends of the connecting body and along the depth direction. When an external force is applied to the circumferential end of the connecting body along the depth direction, the resistance of the small resistance region is smaller than that on both sides of the circumferential direction.

2. The toothbrush according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first support and a portion of the second support rotate relative to each other about a second axis, which is located at the end of the small resistance region in the depth direction and extends along the engagement direction.

3. The toothbrush according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, One end of the small resistance region in the depth direction is located at the first end of the connector in the depth direction. The perimeter of the first end side of the connector in the depth direction changes due to the external force.

4. The toothbrush according to claim 3, characterized in that, The small resistance area has a gap that penetrates the connector along the interlocking direction and extends continuously along the depth direction, and opens through the first support or the second support.

5. The toothbrush according to claim 4, characterized in that, The small resistance area is located at the opening of the second support.

6. The toothbrush according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The small resistance region has the following characteristics: A first region, which extends continuously along the depth direction; as well as A second region extends continuously along the circumferential direction from one end of the first region toward the circumferential end. The small resistance area extends through the connector along the interlocking direction.

7. The toothbrush according to claim 6, characterized in that, The end of the first region side in the small resistance region is located closer to the first support than to the second support in the depth direction. The second region in the small resistance region is located closer to the second support in the depth direction than to the first support.

8. The toothbrush according to claim 6, characterized in that, The end of the first region side in the small resistance region is disposed separately from the end of the connector in the depth direction. The end of the second region side in the small resistance region opens through the circumferential end of the connector.

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