Intraoral and orofacial dental light therapy device

Abstract

Intraoral dental and orofacial light therapy device Intraoral light therapy device 100 comprising a connecting member 13 and an arcuate intraoral body 1 having a concave inner region and a convex outer region and comprising an electronic card supporting light-emitting diodes LEDS, a frame supporting the electronic card and a transparent covering 4.

Description

Title of the invention: Intraoral device for intraoral and orofacial dental light therapy

[0001] The invention relates to the field of light therapy, in particular that of photobiomodulation.

[0002] The invention relates to an intraoral device for dental light therapy. It relates to the treatment of the intraoral and orofacial area, oral tissues and the cervicofacial region. The invention relates in particular to a device intended for photobiomodulation treatment.

[0003] Light therapy, particularly photobiomodulation (PBM), is used in dentistry to directly stimulate host cells, reduce inflammation, relieve pain and / or facilitate healing, enhance bone reconstruction, tooth movement, antibacterial action, in a wide range of hard and soft oral tissues and covering a number of key dental specialties, including endodontics, periodontics, orthodontics, implantology and maxillofacial surgery.

[0004] PBM can be used effectively in all dental specialties to better manage treatment duration, make procedures often perceived as painful by patients more acceptable, and to reduce or even eliminate pharmaceutical prescriptions such as analgesics or anti-inflammatories that often have side effects. PBM has also proven effective in the management of chronic pain and non-healing bone and soft tissue lesions in the maxillofacial or cervicofacial region.

[0005] Existing light therapy devices, particularly PBM, generally treat the target area from outside the oral cavity. The light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are therefore quite far from the cells to be treated. This positioning results in a loss of effectiveness of the LEDs because their light beams must first pass through the epidermis before reaching the cells to be treated. The Grotthus-Draper law teaches that only light radiation absorbed by a system, i.e. each targeted cell, can initiate a photochemical reaction and therefore produce a therapeutic effect. Furthermore, intraoral tests have been carried out with prior art devices which have proven insufficiently effective.

[0006] The invention improves the situation by proposing a more effective device for implementing light therapy treatments, in particular PBM, interdental and orofacial of oral tissues, in particular a photobiomodulation treatment.

[0007] The Applicant has noted the importance of homogeneous illumination of the cells in order to increase the effectiveness of the treatment and to avoid a localized overdose saturating the chromophores.

[0008] In particular, the invention aims to treat the cells as closely as possible for better efficiency.

[0009] The invention provides an intraoral light therapy device comprising a connecting member and an arcuate intraoral body having a concave inner region and a convex outer region. The intraoral body comprises an electronic card supporting light-emitting diodes (LEDS), a frame supporting the electronic card and a transparent coating. The frame has a spur shape with a spur rod, the spur rod forming a projection opposite the concave inner region along an X axis, the spur rod being hollow, the connecting member being mounted in the spur rod, X, Y and Z axes forming an orthogonal reference frame. The electronic card is fixed on the frame. The electronic card comprises a main part fixed on the frame in the concave inner region, two first strips fixed on the frame and opposite the spur rod,and at least one second strip fixed to the frame in the concave inner region, the main part having a first face oriented towards the concave inner region of the intraoral body carrying LEDs oriented towards the concave inner region and a second face oriented away from the concave inner region, the main part having two rounded ends of a shape matching ends of the frame, the second face being in contact with the frame, the first two strips being arranged and fixed on an edge of the ends of the frame, forming part of the convex outer region and carrying LEDs oriented away from the spur rod, and the at least one second strip being elongated and carrying LEDs oriented away from the convex outer region. The coating is flexible and is made of silicone, preferably medical silicone, transparent to light at least between 380 and 1500 nm,covering the electronic card and the frame. The invention makes it possible to carry out a homogeneous intraoral light therapeutic treatment as close as possible to the cells to be treated. The LEDs make it possible to treat the cells of the jaw. The LEDs are arranged so as to emit light from the intraoral body into the oral cavity.

[0010] For the purposes of the invention, the term therapeutic treatment means a preventive as well as a curative treatment of a condition of the oral tissues.

[0011] By flexible material or device is meant a material or device capable of reversibly deforming. Flexibility characterizes the property of elasticity. The flexibility of the device of the invention results from the combination of the properties (elasticity and thickness of the material) of its frame, the electronic card and the coating material. A person skilled in the art knows how to combine the materials of the frame, the electronic card and the coating and their thickness in such a way that the device has sufficient rigidity for its handling and positioning in the mouth, and sufficient flexibility for the patient's comfort.

[0012] For the purposes of the invention, the term "transparent coating" means a coating that allows at least 90% of the radiation emitted by the LEDs to pass through, preferably 90 to 99% of the radiation emitted by the LEDs. Transparency is a characteristic of the material constituting the coating and it depends on its thickness at a given point. Those skilled in the art know how to adapt the thickness of the coating according to the material chosen so that it has the desired transparency with respect to the LEDs which are positioned on the electronic card.

[0013] In one embodiment, the intraoral body has a T-shaped section with a T-foot in the XY plane and in the concave interior region to allow dental gripping. Gripping of the device is facilitated. This feature allows dental gripping of the device. It also allows positioning of DELS in an advanced position inside the oral cavity.

[0014] In one embodiment, the frame is a single piece. The mechanical strength is improved and manufacturing is facilitated. Advantageously, the device has substantially constant flexibility at all points, making it possible to reduce the occurrence of areas with high curvature.

[0015] In one embodiment, the intraoral device is symmetrical with respect to the XZ plane and with respect to the XY plane.

[0016] In one embodiment, the electronic card is fixed to the frame by adhesion. Manufacturing is improved. Mounting of the electronic card is facilitated.

[0017] In one embodiment, the LEDs are oriented toward the inside of the arch of the intraoral device.

[0018] In one embodiment, the ends of the upper branch and the lower branch being rounded together form an angle of between 120 and 180° around an axis in an XY plane. The rounded shape of the ends of the device allows these ends to be housed at the bottom of the space between the cheeks and the jaws.

[0019] In one embodiment, the frame comprises at least two arcuate branches, an upper branch and / or a lower branch and at least one intermediate branch, the intermediate branch carrying the spur rod, the upper branch, the lower branch and the intermediate branch meeting at ends opposite the spur rod, the upper branch and the lower branch having a first curvature around the Z axis, the intermediate branch having a second curvature around the Z axis, greater than the first curvature, the main part being fixed on the upper and lower branches, the first bands being fixed on the ends of the lower and upper branches, and the second strip being fixed on the intermediate branch. The frame is lighter than a solid frame, the electronic card is supported on its periphery and its strips. The electronic card is positioned precisely. The fact that the frame is cut contributes to the flexibility of this frame and therefore to the flexibility of the entire device.

[0020] In one embodiment, said ends of the frame have an excess thickness along an axis of the XY plane relative to the thickness of the intermediate branch, said excess thickness being directed away from the concave inner region, the intermediate branch is attached to each end of the lower and upper branches by an arcuate end tab and the intermediate branch is attached to the spur rod by at least one tab, in particular two S-shaped tabs. The attachment of the intermediate branch to the spur rod provides rigidity to the frame. The excess thickness makes it possible to support a strip of the frame with LEDs over the thickness of said ends. The arcuate shape of the tabs reduces the risk of breakage of the electronic card.

[0021] In one embodiment, the electronic card and the frame have a central upper notch and a central lower notch. The notches prevent contact with the lip brake.

[0022] In one embodiment, the spur rod has a face in contact with the second face of the electronic card, the at least one tab attaching the intermediate branch to the spur rod projects from said face, passes through the electronic card and supports the intermediate branch. The spur rod allows the electronic card to be positioned by contact during assembly and provides rigidity to the device in a YZ plane.

[0023] In one embodiment, the LEDs comprise blue LEDs, red LEDs, and infrared LEDs. The diversity of wavelengths of the LEDs allows for a variety of treatments, including treating a large number of dental and intraoral pathologies while ensuring antibacterial efficacy.

[0024] In one embodiment, each blue LED emitting a blue light beam intersects at least one blue light beam from a neighboring blue LED, each red LED emitting a red light beam intersects at least one red light beam from a neighboring red LED, and each infrared LED emitting an infrared light beam intersects at least one infrared light beam from a neighboring infrared LED. The arrangement of the LEDs promotes homogeneous irradiance of the entire oral cavity which makes it possible to treat the cells in a homogeneous manner.

[0025] In one embodiment, the red LEDs have a wavelength between 625 and 740 nm.

[0026] In one embodiment, the blue LEDs have a wavelength of between 380 and 500 nm, preferably between 415 and 425 nm.

[0027] In one embodiment, the infrared LEDs have a wavelength between 705 and 1500 nm, preferably between 830 and 850 nm.

[0028] In one embodiment, an oral light therapy kit comprises an intraoral light therapy device and a control box comprising at least one control member powered by a power supply, a communication member linked to the control member to communicate with a remote graphical control interface, said graphical control interface controlling the control member from a communication device. The kit allows the patient to carry out a light therapy treatment, in particular PBM, autonomously.

[0029] In one embodiment, an oral light therapy kit further comprises a mask comprising light therapy LEDs. The kit allows for specific treatment to be performed at the healthcare professional.

[0030] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on examining the detailed description below, and the appended drawings, in which:

[0031] [Fig.l] is a rear perspective view of the frame and the electronic card according to an embodiment of an intraoral device of the invention, in the absence of a coating.

[0032] [Fig.2] is a side perspective view of the frame and electronic board of one embodiment of an intraoral device.

[0033] [Fig.3] is a top perspective view of an intraoral device frame, according to one aspect of the invention.

[0034] [Fig.4] is a top elevation view of an electronic device circuit board in trabuccal, according to one aspect of the invention.

[0035] [Fig.5] is a perspective and sectional view of an intraoral device, provided with its coating, according to one aspect of the invention.

[0036] [Fig.6] is a schematic view of an intraoral device kit, according to one aspect of the invention.

[0037] [Fig.7] is a perspective view of an intraoral patient device kit, according to one aspect of the invention.

[0038] [Fig.8] is a block diagram of the intraoral device according to one aspect of the invention.

[0039] [Fig.9] is a block diagram of the intraoral device according to one aspect of the invention.

[0040] [Fig. 10] is a flowchart of implementation steps.

[0041] The attached drawings may not only serve to complete the invention, but also contribute to its definition, where appropriate.

[0042] The figures represent an intraoral light therapy device, in particular PBM, according to one aspect of the invention.

[0043] Light therapy, in particular PBM, of the mouth aims, in particular, at stimulating regeneration and revascularization cells, accelerating implant osteointegration, accelerating and optimizing tooth movement, anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous effects, antibacterial control, rejuvenation of the oral mucosa by tissue regeneration, stimulation of the immune system, improvement of microvascularization, increase in cell membrane transport, increase in cellular energy production, relaxation of muscle tension or myorelaxation, acceleration of gingival and bone healing, reduction of cellular oxidation, reduction of post-extraction pain, stimulation of DNA and RNA synthesis, mitochondrial activation, activation of fibroblasts in myofibroblasts.Light therapy, especially PBM, of the mouth allows cellular detoxification by deactivating free radicals induced by chemistry and radiotherapy. For example, it can act against mucus caused by radiotherapy (head cancers, neck and bone marrow transplants) or mucus caused by chemotherapy (especially 5-fluorouracyl). Light therapy, especially PBM, of the mouth targets both hard and soft tissues depending on the treatment chosen.

[0044] Thus, PBM applied to moderate periodontitis and after conventional initial treatment results in a decrease in gingival inflammation. In apical surgery, PBM can reduce postoperative pain. In bone surgery, studies show the effects of low-energy stimulation on osteoblasts and fibroblasts to achieve better bone regeneration. In soft tissue surgery, studies demonstrate the reduction of postoperative pain and improved healing with PBM. In implantology, PBM improves and accelerates osseointegration of the implant. In orthodontics, PBM improves the tolerance of appliances intended to correct dental implantation by reducing tissue inflammation and pain.

[0045] An example is given in Xavier Payet's thesis: "Application of photobiomodulation in orthognathic surgery: implementation of a protocol", defended on September 10, 2019, HAL Id: dumas-02505853. The intraoral device presented in this thesis does not allow a treatment to be applied homogeneously to the entire oral cavity.

[0046] However, the applicant realized that there was a need in terms of control of the dose threshold or fluence. The objective of this control is to ensure both effective treatment and thermal comfort for the patient. However, thermal comfort requires low emission power to reduce heat release caused by operating losses while the search for a light dose threshold may tend to increase light emission in certain directions. Better efficiency of the emitted radiation helps to avoid unnecessary thermal discomfort.

[0047] The light therapy devices of the prior art are designed for implementation by a healthcare professional in a medical office. An effective light therapy treatment comprises several sessions. The patient must therefore travel regularly to the said healthcare professional. This has a high cost and represents a significant constraint for patients.

[0048] Prior art light therapy devices treat the maxillary region in general, and are therefore poorly targeted on the area to be treated. This results in high energy consumption compared to their effectiveness.

[0049] The Applicant has developed a light therapy device, in particular a PBM device, with light-emitting diodes (LEDS) configured for insertion into the mouth, implementation by the briefly instructed patient, and directionality towards cells to be treated. The directionality makes it possible to better target the cells to be treated. Compared to existing intraoral devices, better access to the entire oral cavity is obtained.

[0050] The Applicant proposes two light therapy kits, in particular PBM kits. The first kit is used by the healthcare professional on the patient. The first kit comprises the intraoral light therapy device as well as a light therapy mask and a control box. The second kit is intended for the patient. The second kit comprises the intraoral light therapy device and a control box. The second kit allows the patient to carry out light therapy sessions independently, without a healthcare professional, the settings having been made beforehand by the healthcare professional or a technician.

[0051] The intraoral device may be powered by a self-contained battery, or may be connected by a wire to an electrical power source. Advantageously, the device comprises an electrical power source to operate wirelessly, making it easy to transport and use. Its use does not require immobilizing a professional chair.

[0052] In the following, the term "irradiance" refers to the power density. It is the power of electromagnetic radiation per unit area (mW / cm2). The irradiance is a function of the power of the LEDs, adjustable or fixed, and the area of ​​the impact surface.

[0053] The term "fluence" or "dose" refers to the integral of the irradiance over a given time interval. It is the energy per unit area (J / cm2). The fluence is a function of the power of the light beam and the irradiation time.

[0054] In the remainder of the description, an orthogonal XYZ reference frame is used. The X axis is anteroposterior, the Y axis is transverse and the Z axis is longitudinal relative to a patient using the intraoral device. The XY plane corresponds to the median plane between the two jaws of a human mouth in the closed position, i.e. the transverse plane. The vertical axis is denoted Z. The XZ plane corresponds to the plane of symmetry of the human jaw, i.e. the sagittal plane. The YZ plane is a frontal plane. The intraoral light therapy intraoral device 100 comprises an intraoral body 1 in the shape of an arc. The intraoral body 1 substantially matches the shape of the patient's jaws. The intraoral body 1 has a concave inner region and a convex outer region. The convex outer region is intended to be positioned between the jaws and the cheeks and in contact with the cheeks.The concave inner region is intended to be positioned between the jaws and cheeks and in contact with the jaws. The intraoral body I has a T-shaped cross-section on an arc of a circle so that the foot of the T is clamped between the patient's teeth and ensures a stable position during use, and the bar of the T is positioned in front of the teeth and mostly covered by the lips. The patient can hold the intraoral body 1 between his teeth. A row of LEDs is positioned on the end of the bar of the T, the beams being oriented towards the inside of the oral cavity.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the intraoral body 1 of the intraoral light therapy intraoral device is custom-molded to fit each patient. The operation of forming the intraoral body 1 is carried out by a healthcare professional in the presence of the patient.

[0056] In one embodiment, the device has a standard shape which is suitable for the majority of mouth shapes and can be available in several sizes (child, adolescent, adult).

[0057] The intraoral body 1 comprises a frame 2, an electronic card 3 and a coating 4 transparent to blue, red and infrared lights. The electronic card 3 is fixed on the frame 2. The coating 4 covers the frame 2 and the electronic card 3. The coating 4 is flexible. The coating 4 is made of silicone, advantageously of food or medical silicone. The coating 4 has sufficient flexibility for the comfort of the teeth. The medical soft silicone is biocompatible. The coating 4 is waterproof. The coating 4 is continuous. According to one embodiment, the coating 4 is heat deformable by plastic deformation. The coating 4 can thus be adapted to the shape of a patient's teeth. The coating 4 has a thickness of 0.5 to 5 mm. During its use and maintenance, the device is in contact with liquid materials (saliva, cleaning and disinfection products).The electronic card 3 is inside the intraoral body 1 of the . device, protected by the coating 4 against possible liquid material. A portion of the coating 4 projects towards the convex inner region of the intraoral body 1 in the XY plane. The projecting coating portion supports the gripping force of the teeth and has a structural role for the gripping of the intraoral body 1 by the patient's teeth. The projecting coating portion forms a gripping portion. The coating 4 has a T-shaped outer section. The coating 4 has an outer gripping surface.

[0058] The coating 4 allows light beams between 380 nm and 1500 nm to pass through. Advantageously, the coating allows at least 90% of the intensity of the light beams between 380 nm and 1500 nm to pass through. Even more advantageously, the coating allows 90% to 99% of the intensity of the light beams between 380 nm and 1500 nm to pass through.

[0059] In this embodiment, the frame 2 is in the form of a molded part or obtained by additive manufacturing. The frame 2 is made of synthetic material, for example plastic, in particular acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS), polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC) or polyamide, in particular polyamide 6 (PA6). The frame 2 also has an arc shape. The frame 2 extends over a height of 10 to 30 mm. Such dimensions are intended for a human being. The dimensions are adapted in the case of care provided to an animal. The frame 2 extends over an arc angle of less than 180°. The frame 2 is flexible. The arc angle can therefore be adjusted, in particular in spacing between ends 18 of said frame 2.

[0060] In the embodiment shown, the frame 2 is in one piece. The frame 2 has a non-constant curvature, in particular higher in the center and lower at the ends 18.

[0061] In the embodiment shown, the frame 2 has a maximum height in the center and decreasing towards the ends 18.

[0062] In the embodiment shown, the frame 2 is symmetrical with central symmetry of axis X.

[0063] In the embodiment shown, the frame 2 has a spur shape with three arched branches. The frame 2 comprises an upper branch 5, a lower branch 6 and an intermediate branch 7. The intermediate branch 7 carries a spur rod 8 using at least one fixing lug 17. The upper branch 5, the lower branch 6 and the intermediate branch 7 are symmetrical with respect to a plane XZ. The upper branch 5, the lower branch 6 and the intermediate branch 7 may be symmetrical with respect to a plane XY.

[0064] The upper branch 5, the lower branch 6 and the intermediate branch 7 meet at their ends 18 which are also the ends of the frame 2. The upper branch 5, the lower branch 6 and the intermediate branch 7 are, here, distant from each other by moving away from said ends 18. The upper branch 5, the lower branch 6 and the intermediate branch 7 have, here, a rectangular section.

[0065] In another embodiment, the upper branch is absent. The frame comprises the lower branch 6, the intermediate branch 7 and the spur rod 8.

[0066] In another embodiment, the lower branch is absent. The frame comprises the upper branch 5, the intermediate branch 7 and the spur rod 8.

[0067] In another embodiment, the upper branch 5 and the lower branch 6 are joined while being distant from the intermediate branch 7 by moving away from said ends 18. In another embodiment, the upper branch 5, the lower branch 6 and the intermediate branch 7 are joined, in particular with an overall T-shaped section. In another embodiment, the section of the frame is H-shaped with an additional inner branch. In another embodiment, the section of the intermediate branch 7 is T-shaped with a foot directed outwards.

[0068] The upper and lower branches 5, 6 form a lateral rounding 9 at their ends 18. Said rounding 9 occupies an angle of the order of 120 to 180°. Said rounding 9 is symmetrical along a plane of symmetry XY. Each rounding 9 is located in a plane intersecting or parallel to the plane XZ. The ends 18 forming the rounding 9 are tangent to a plane oriented along the Z axis. The ends 18 forming the rounding 9 have an angle of 0 to 20° relative to the X axis. Said rounding 9 may have an excess thickness 10 along an axis of the XY plane. Said excess thickness 10 is oriented towards the outside of the body. The upper and lower branches 5, 6 have a first curvature 11. The intermediate branch 7 has a second curvature 12 greater than the first curvature 11 of the upper and lower branches 5, 6. The spur rod 8 passes between the upper branch 5 and the lower branch 6. The excess thickness 10 is located in the convex outer region.The overthicknesses 10 are located near the ends 18.

[0069] The spur rod 8 projects outwardly from the intraoral body 1 along the X axis. The spur rod 8 is hollow. A connection member 13 is mounted in the spur rod 8. The spur rod 8 has a face 14 in contact with the electronic card 3. The spur rod 8 is straight. The spur rod 8 connects to the center of the intermediate branch 7.

[0070] In the embodiment shown, the intermediate branch 7 comprises two intermediate half-branches 15, symmetrical with respect to the XZ plane. The intermediate half-branches 15 are connected to the upper and lower branches 5, 6 by arcuate end tabs 16 connected to the ends 18 of the lower and upper branches 6, 7. The intermediate half-branches 15 are connected to the spur rod 8 by two S-shaped tabs 17. The S-shape consists of two arcs of opposite curvatures. One end of each arc is tangent to one end of the other arc. The legs 17 connecting the intermediate branch 7 and the spur rod 8 pass through the electronic card 3.

[0071] In the case of a single-piece intermediate branch 7, the intermediate branch 7 is connected to the spur rod 8 by at least one lug 17.

[0072] The intermediate branch 7 is offset towards the inside of the intraoral body 1 relative to the lower and upper branches 6, 7, leaving a space 19 filled by the transparent silicone coating 4. The intermediate branch 7 is part of a projecting area for gripping the device between the patient's teeth.

[0073] The electronic card 3 is made of flexible material. The electronic card 3 can thus be manufactured flat and then shaped on the frame 2. The electronic card 3 has a constant thickness. The electronic card 3 is manufactured flat and then adapted to the frame 2 by deformation. The electronic card 3 is mounted on the frame 2 by shape matching for part and adhesion. The electronic card 3 is embedded in the coating 4 which also contributes to the mechanical stability of the electronic card 3. A main part 20 of the electronic card 3 is fixed on the lower and upper branches 6, 7 of the frame 2. Two first strips 21 of the electronic card 3 are fixed on the ends 18 of the lower and upper branches 6, 7. The first strips 21 are of constant width. Two second strips 23 of the electronic card 3 are fixed on the intermediate branch 7. The second strips 23 are of constant width.

[0074] The electronic card 3 supports LEDs 24. Said LEDs 24 emit light beams having wavelengths between 380 and 1500 nm.

[0075] The main part 20 of the electronic card 3 follows the first curvature 11 around the Z axis. The main part 20 has a first face 25, oriented towards the inside of the body. The first face 25 carries a first group of LEDs 24. The main part 20 of the electronic card 3 has a second face 26, oriented opposite the concave inner region. The second face 26 carries the connection member 13. The second face 26 is in contact with the armature 2 at the level of the upper 5 and lower 6 branches and on the face of the spur rod 8. The main part 20 of the electronic card 3 has two rounded ends 27. Said rounded ends 27 are of a shape matching the ends 18 of the branches of the armature 2.

[0076] The electronic card 3 comprises the first two strips 21 arranged and fixed on a periphery or edge 48 of the rounded ends 18 of the frame 2. The first two strips 21 are connected to the main part 20 mechanically and electrically in their middles. The first two strips 21 are arranged and fixed in grooves 22 present on the edge 48 of the frame 2. The grooves 22 present on the edge 48 are provided in the excess thickness 10. The first strips 21 carry a second group of LEDs 24. The excess thickness 10 is part of the convex outer region.

[0077] The second strips 23 of the electronic card 3 are positioned projecting towards the inside of the intraoral body 1 relative to the main part 20, leaving a space 19 filled by the transparent coating 4. The second strips 23 have a curvature equal to the second curvature 12 of the frame 2 in the XY plane. The second strips 23 are fixed on the intermediate branch 7 opposite the convex outer region. The second strips 23 belong to the concave inner region. The second strips 23 carry a third group of LEDs 24. In the embodiment shown, the three groups constitute all of the LEDs 24.

[0078] In another embodiment, other strips of the electronic card 3 carrying LEDs are fixed on the intermediate branch 7 and directed away from the concave inner region. In another embodiment, other strips of the electronic card 3 carrying LEDs are fixed on the intermediate branch 7 and directed upwards. In another embodiment, other strips of the electronic card 3 carrying LEDs are fixed on the intermediate branch 7 and directed downwards.

[0079] The second strips 23 are fixed on the intermediate branch 7 opposite the convex outer region

[0080] The electronic card 3 is manufactured flat, cut flat, then shaped on the frame 2 and fixed to the frame 2. The flat electronic card 28, cf [Fig.4], has a rectangular envelope 29. Within the rectangular envelope 29, the flat electronic card 28 has an ellipsoidal part 30 and two parallel strips 31 intended to form the first strips 21. By ellipsoidal part 30, we mean a part with a shape close to an ellipse and more elongated, cf [Fig.4]. The parallel strips 31 form the short sides 32 of the rectangular envelope 29. The ellipsoidal part 30 has a short axis 33 parallel to the parallel strips 31. The electronic card 3 is symmetrical with respect to the short axis. The ellipsoidal part 30 has a major axis 34 perpendicular to the parallel strips 31. The electronic card 3 is symmetrical with respect to the major axis 34.

[0081] The two parallel strips 31 are spaced from the vertices 35 of the ellipsoidal part 30 along the major axis 34. Two pairs of cutouts 36 are provided in the ellipsoidal part 30. The pairs of cutouts 36 are symmetrical with respect to the Y axis. The pairs of cutouts 36 are symmetrical with respect to the Z axis. Each cutout is made along a straight line segment opening near the vertices 35 of the ellipsoidal part 30 along the major axis 34. The cutouts 36 of the pairs of cutouts are parallel, defining two aligned strips 38. The aligned strips 38 are distant from the center of the ellipsoidal part 30. The aligned strips 38 are perpendicular cular to the parallel strips 31. One of the aligned strips 38 is connected to one of the parallel strips 31 forming a T. The other of the aligned strips 38 is connected to the other of the parallel strips 31 forming a T. The aligned strips 38 are intended to form the second strips 23.

[0082] Notches 40 are provided at the vertices 35 of the ellipsoidal part 30 along the minor axis. The notches 40 have the shape of an arc of a circle to match the shape of the lip brake. Notches 44 are provided on the frame.

[0083] Holes 41 are provided in the ellipsoidal part 30 for electrical tests during production.

[0084] The arrangement of the LEDs 24 is first exposed with the electronic card 3 flat.

[0085] At least one row of blue light-emitting diodes LEDS 241 forming part of the LEDS 24 is arranged on the electronic board 3. Here, the blue LEDS 241 are arranged on the aligned strips 38. The blue LEDS 241 are part of the third group of LEDS 24. The blue LEDS 241 are, here, arranged in pairs. In a pair, two blue LEDS 241 are spaced 3 to 6 mm apart. The pairs of blue LEDS 241 are separated by a distance of 8 to 12 mm.

[0086] At least one row of red LEDs 242 forming part of the LEDs 24 is arranged on the electronic card 3. In the embodiment shown, a row of red LEDs 242 is arranged on each of the parallel strips 31. Two parallel rows of red LEDs 242 are thus formed, forming part of the second group of LEDs 24. Furthermore, red LEDs 242 are arranged on the periphery of the ellipsoidal part 30 of the electronic card 3, forming part of the first group of LEDs 24. An ellipsoid 49 of red LEDs 242 is thus formed. Said red LEDs 242 of the ellipsoid 49 of red LEDs 242 are mounted at a distance from the edge of the ellipsoidal part 30. The distance from the edge of the ellipsoidal part 30 may be between 1 and 3 mm.

[0087] At least one row of infrared LEDs 243 forming part of the LEDs 24 is arranged on the electronic card 3. In the embodiment shown, a row of infrared LEDs 243 is arranged on each of the parallel strips 31. Two parallel rows of infrared LEDs 243 are thus formed, forming part of the second group of LEDs 24. Furthermore, infrared LEDs 243 are arranged on the periphery of the ellipsoidal part 30 of the electronic card 3 forming part of the first group of LEDs 24. An ellipsoid 49 of infrared LEDs 243 is thus formed. Said infrared LEDs 243 of the ellipsoid 49 of infrared LEDs 243 are mounted at a distance from the edge of the ellipsoidal part 30. The distance from the edge of the ellipsoidal part 30 can be between 1 and 3 mm.

[0088] The red LEDs 242 and infrared LEDs 243 are mounted in pairs on the electronic board tronics 3. The red 242 and infrared 243 LEDs are offset by 3 to 6 mm from each other within a pair. The pairs of red 242 and infrared 243 LEDs are separated by a distance of 8 to 12 mm. Two parallel lines of red 242 and infrared 243 LEDs are thus formed. An ellipsoid 49 of red 242 and infrared 243 LEDs is thus formed.

[0089] An additional pair of red and infrared LEDs 242, 243 is arranged in line with the notches 40, i.e. in the center of the ellipsoidal part 30 along the Y axis. The additional pair of red and infrared LEDs 242, 243 is part of the first group of LEDs 24.

[0090] In addition, blue LEDs 241, arranged in squares 51, are mounted in a central portion 52 of the electronic card 3. Three squares 51 of central LEDs 24 are formed. The blue LEDs 241 in squares 51 are part of the first group of LEDs 24.

[0091] The LEDs 24 emit from the same face of the flat electronic card 28, visible in [Fig.4]. LED housings 24 are provided in the flat electronic card 28 from said face. In a manner not visible in the figures, the electronic card 3 comprises power supply conductors for the LEDs 24.

[0092] The device comprises the connection member 13. The connection member 13 is electrically connected to the power supply conductors of the LEDs 24, in particular by the face of the electronic card 3 opposite the face carrying the LEDs 24. The connection member 13 is mechanically fixed to the electronic card 3. The connection member 13 can be mechanically fixed to the frame 2. The connection member 13 passes through and is mounted in the hollow spur rod 8. The connection member 13 is supported and protected by the hollow spur rod 8. The connection member 13 is designed to cooperate by contact with a control box 58, see [Fig. 6]. The connection member 13 is uncovered while the electronic card 3 is covered with the coating 4. The control box 58 can be removably mounted on the intraoral device.

[0093] The electronic card 3 is fixed on the frame 2, for example by gluing. The LEDs 24 of the first and third groups are oriented towards the concave interior region of the intraoral device. The LEDs 24 of the second group are oriented opposite the spur rod 8. The ellipsoidal part 30 is in contact on an inner face of the upper branch 5 and the lower branch 6 of the armature 2. The edge 53 of the ellipsoidal part 30 is flush with the outer edge of the upper branch 5 and the lower branch 6 of the armature 2. The aligned strips 38 of the electronic card 3 are fixed on the inner face of the intermediate branch 7 of the armature 2 forming the second strips 23. The parallel strips 31 are fixed on the edge of the rounded portions 9 of the armature 2 forming the first strips 21. The edge of the rounded portions 9 of the armature 2 belongs to the convex outer region.

[0094] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1, 2 and 5, a double-sided adhesive 75 can be placed on the electronic card 3 on the second face 26 opposite the first face 25 carrying the LEDs 24. The assembly of the intraoral device comprises the following steps: gluing the ellipsoidal part 30 of the electronic card 3 on the lower and upper branches 6, 5 of the frame 2, gluing the aligned strips 38 on the intermediate branch 7 of the frame 2, and gluing the parallel strips 31 on the edge of the rounded sections 9.

[0095] The device has a T-shaped section. The section is transverse, i.e. along a radial plane. The section comprises a T-foot 74 arranged in the XY plane. The T-foot 74 is located in the concave inner region to allow dental gripping by the patient's teeth. The teeth are then in contact with the coating 4 forming the outer surface of the device.

[0096] The blue LEDs 241 emit blue light beams. The wavelength of the blue light beams is between 380 and 500 nm. Preferably, the wavelength of the blue light beams is between 415 and 425 nm.

[0097] The red LEDs 242 emit red light beams. The wavelength of the red light beams is between 625 and 740 nm. Preferably, the wavelength of the red light beams is 630, 660, 670 or 690 nm.

[0098] The infrared LEDs 243 emit infrared light beams. The wavelength of the infrared light beams is between 705 and 1500 nm. Preferably, the wavelength of the infrared light beams is between 730 and 852 nm, for example between 830 and 850 nm.

[0099] In another embodiment, the LEDs 24 of a row of the ellipsoidal part 30 are arranged in a staggered manner, thus covering a larger treatment area.

[0100] For each row of LEDs 24, the irradiation by the beams on a treatment surface is substantially homogeneous. At a given distance from the rows of LEDs 24, the irradiance on the treated area is substantially equal at all points on the surface to be treated.

[0101] Advantageously, each blue LED 241 emits a blue light beam intersecting at least one blue light beam from a neighboring blue LED 241.

[0102] Advantageously, each red LED 242 in a row emits a red light beam intersecting at least one red light beam from a neighboring red LED 242.

[0103] Advantageously, each infrared LED 243 of a row emits an infrared light beam intersecting at least one infrared light beam from a neighboring infrared LED 243.

[0104] The overlapping of light beams of the same wavelength range makes it possible to optimize the homogeneity of the treatment over the entire intraoral area.

[0105] The intraoral and orofacial light therapy device according to the invention, in particular the PBM device, is intended to be used both by the healthcare professional, with his intervention, and autonomously by the patient. The intraoral device is adapted with a light therapy mask 56 and with a control box 58 or 58 bis.

[0106] In operation, the LEDs emit light outside the intraoral body. The beams pass through the coating 4. The beams reach the cells to be treated. The outside of the jaws can be reached by the beams coming from the LEDs positioned on the main part 20 of the electronic card 3. The rear end of the jaws under the temporomandibular joint can be reached by the beams coming from the LEDs positioned on the first two strips 21 of the electronic card 3, on the edge 48 of the frame 2. The inside of the mouth between the jaws can be reached by the beams coming from the LEDs positioned on the second two strips 23 of the electronic card 3.

[0107] A first kit 55 shown in [Fig.6] and whose operation is shown in [Fig.8], comprises an intraoral light therapy device 100, the light therapy mask 56 and the control box 58. Said control box 58 comprises an electrical energy source 61, a control member 60 and a connection 67 with the intraoral device 100 and with the light therapy mask 56. Said control box 58 comprises a communication member 72 linked to the control member 60. The communication member 72 is configured to communicate with a remote graphical control interface from a communication device 63 or a graphical control interface arranged at the front of the box 58 (touch screen or button).

[0108] A second kit 57 shown in [Fig.7] and whose operation is shown in [Fig.9], comprises the intraoral light therapy device 100 and the control box 58 bis. The intraoral device comprises the intraoral body 1, the spur rod 8 and the connection member 13. Said control box 58 bis comprises an electrical energy source 61, a control member 60 and a connection 67 with the intraoral device 100. Said control box 58 bis comprises a communication member 72 linked to the control member 60. The communication member 72 is configured to communicate with a remote graphical control interface from a communication device 63 or a graphical control interface arranged at the front of the box 58 bis such as a touch screen or a button.

[0109] The power supply is provided from the mains 75 or from a battery 66 portable, see figures 8, 9. The first and second kits 55, 57 operate wirelessly or with a wire. Preferably, the first and second kits 55, 57 are electrically autonomous.

[0110] The control box 58 or 58 bis is equipped with control buttons, connected to the control member 60, which offer a choice of treatments to be applied.

[0111] The control boxes 58 and 58 bis are used to power and control the LEDs 24. An ON / OFF button 64, [Fig.8], is used to turn the boxes on and off. A power source 61 comprising a battery 66 is used to supply the energy necessary for operation. The control boxes 58 and 58 bis comprise a microcontroller 62. The power source 61 powers the microcontroller 62. The microcontroller 62 is controlled by a cellular application 63 in Bluetooth or wired connection with the box by the communication device 72. The microcontroller 62 controls the operation of the LEDs 24 through the driver 69.

[0112] The light therapy kits whose operation is illustrated in [Fig.8] and [Fig.9] comprise a connector 67 for connecting the kit to the outside and a control member 60 composed of: a power management 68, a driver 69 of the LEDs 24, a logic power supply 70 and a microcontroller 62. The connector 67 is connected to the power management 68. The power management 68 directly powers the driver 69 of the LEDs 24. The power management 68 powers the microcontroller 62.

[0113] The connector 67 and the microcontroller 62 are connected by switches having a closed state and an open state. The closed and open states of the switches are controlled by buttons 64 present on the control boxes 58 and 58 bis. The closed and open states of the switches are also controlled by a mobile application 63 or by wire. The microcontroller 62 sends a command to the driver 69 of LEDs 24.

[0114] The LED 24 driver 69 provides a regulated power supply to the LEDs 24. The LED 24 driver 69 varies the voltage within the electronic circuit, which allows the current to remain constant in the LEDs 24. The driver 69 may be programmable to control the current dynamically and statically.

[0115] The microcontroller 62 ensures the control of the driver 69 of LEDs 24 and the reception of instructions coming from the communication device 72 for the management of the LEDs 24. The microcontroller 62 comprises a measured temperature input and a measured supply voltage input. The microcontroller 62 receives a measurement of the temperature and receives a measurement of the supply voltage.

[0116] Outside the control member 60, there are provided a battery 66, a charger 65 supplying the battery 66 and a mobile application 63. The charger 65 can be connected to the connector 67 of the kit. A communication member makes it possible to connect the mobile application 63 to the kit. The mobile application 63 has a role of control interface. The purpose of the mobile application 63 is to select a dental treatment adapted to the characteristics of the patient (age, pathology to be treated, morphotype, for example skin phototype). The mobile application 63 makes it possible to configure the kit according to each patient.

[0117] A first step of the therapy comprises a session with the healthcare professional with the first kit 55 which comprises the light therapy mask 56, see [Fig. 10]. The intraoral device 100 is connected beforehand to the control box 58 of the light therapy mask 56. The healthcare professional introduces the intraoral device 100 into the patient's mouth and performs the treatment.

[0118] The healthcare professional is able to determine the dose to be administered according to the age, morphology and needs of the patient, in particular according to the extent of the dental and / or surgical intervention, the level of inflammation observed or foreseeable, the presence of hematomas and their extent.

[0119] According to one variant, the intraoral light therapy device is formed - in the sense of a definitive shaping for the intended use - at the healthcare professional. According to this variant, the intraoral body 1 is heated so that the silicone coating becomes deformable. The patient bites into it to deform the body. The silicone then conforms to the patient's teeth. According to another variant, the intraoral light therapy device 100 is supplied in the form of a ready-to-use device, of standardized size, where appropriate several device sizes exist to allow a choice depending on the patient's morphotype.

[0120] The device is calibrated and configured. Measurements are taken to adjust the dose to be applied based on the distance from the LEDs to the cells to be treated.

[0121] The treatment to be applied to the patient is determined by the healthcare professional via a mobile application. The practitioner chooses the treatment, enters the patient's characteristics (morphology, skin color, etc.), performs the calibration, chooses the dose, duration, frequency of the treatment and records the treatment(s) to be applied by the patient. The device is connected to the cell phone / smartphone / external device / control box by Bluetooth or wired connection. In another embodiment, another communication technology may be used.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the treatment is applied continuously, according to another embodiment, the treatment is applied in a sequenced manner.

[0123] Advantageously, the patient carries out light therapy sessions at home using the second kit, in particular photobiomodulation sessions. The patient connects the intraoral device to the electronic box. He chooses the treatment, preprogrammed in the electronic box, inserts the intraoral device into his mouth and carries out one or more light therapy sessions, depending on the pre- descriptions from the healthcare professional.

[0124] The duration of each treatment session can be adapted by the professional depending on the pathology and the patient, advantageously from 5 to 15 minutes.

[0125] The treatment dose can be adapted by the professional according to the pathology and the patient, advantageously from 4 to 40 J. In the case of a photobiomodulation treatment, the treatment dose is advantageously from 4 to 10 J. In the case of a dynamic phototherapy treatment, the treatment dose is advantageously from 30 to 40 J. In particular, the treatment dose is adapted according to the photosensitizing product associated with the treatment.

[0126] The frequency of treatment can be adapted by the professional depending on the pathology and the patient.

[0127] Advantageously, the device according to the invention records, or communicates to a recording device, the treatments (dose, duration, frequency) which have actually been implemented by the patient so that, when the latter returns for consultation, the health professional can evaluate the evolution of the patient's condition with regard to the latter's assiduity in implementing the treatment.

[0128] The device according to the invention is advantageously implemented in a light therapy method, more particularly dental, intraoral and orofacial light photobiomodulation.

[0129] The device according to the invention can advantageously be implemented in a method of regenerating cells of the oral cavity, in particular bone cells, cells of soft tissues such as muscles, ligaments, epithelium.

[0130] The device according to the invention can advantageously be implemented in a method of preventing and / or reducing and / or treating inflammation.

[0131] The device according to the invention can advantageously be implemented in a method making it possible to prevent and / or delay and / or decrease and / or reduce and / or treat the inflammatory phenomenon of one or more tissues of the oral cavity.

[0132] The device according to the invention can advantageously be implemented in a treatment method following at least one operation consisting of cutting and / or dissecting and / or suturing soft tissue of the oral cavity.

[0133] The device according to the invention can advantageously be implemented in a treatment method following at least one of the operations consisting of remodeling and / or removing and / or resecting and / or transecting and / or excavating and / or modifying and / or manipulating and / or decorticating and / or perforating the bone.

[0134] The device according to the invention can advantageously be implemented in a treatment method following at least one dental operation such as an extraction, implant placement, bone surgery, infectious surgery, or maxillofacial surgery.

[0135] According to one embodiment of the invention, the photobiomodulation treatment is applied in conjunction with wearing an orthodontic appliance.

[0136] According to one embodiment of the invention, the treatment is a photodynamic therapy (PDT) treatment of the oral cavity, such as for example a treatment of jaw cancer, a treatment of gingivitis, a treatment for reducing dental plaque.

[0137] According to this embodiment, the light treatment is applied in conjunction with a photosensitizing product. The wavelength is then adapted according to the photosensitizing product.

Claims

Claims

1. Intraoral light therapy device (100), characterized in that it comprises a connection member (13) and an arcuate intraoral body (1) having a concave inner region and a convex outer region, the intraoral body (1) comprising an electronic card (3) supporting light-emitting diodes LEDS (24), a frame (2) supporting the electronic card (3) and a transparent covering (4), in which: - the frame (2) has a spur shape with a spur rod (8), the spur rod (8) forming a projection opposite the concave inner region along an axis X, the spur rod (8) being hollow, the connection member (13) being mounted in the spur rod (8), axes X, Y and Z forming an orthogonal reference; - the electronic card (3) is fixed on the frame (2), the electronic card (3) comprising a main part (20) fixed on the frame (2) in the concave inner region, two first strips (21) fixed on the frame (2) and opposite the spur rod (8), and at least one second strip (23) fixed on the frame (2) in the concave inner region, the main part (20) having a first face (25) oriented towards the concave inner region of the intraoral body (1) carrying LEDs (24) oriented towards the concave inner region and a second face (26) oriented opposite the concave inner region, the main part (20) having two rounded ends (27) of a shape matching ends (18) of the frame (2), the second face (26) being in contact with the frame (2), the two first strips (21) being arranged and fixed on a slice (48) of the ends (18) of the frame (2),forming part of the convex outer region and carrying LEDs (24) oriented opposite to the spur rod (8), and the at least one second strip (23) being elongated and carrying LEDs (24) oriented opposite to the convex outer region;, - the coating (4) is flexible and made of silicone, transparent to light at least between 380 and 1500 nm, covering the electronic card (3) and the frame (2).

2. An intraoral light therapy device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the intraoral body (1) has a T-shaped section with a T-foot (74) in the XY plane and in the interior region concave.

3. An intraoral light therapy device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the frame (2) is a single piece.

4. An intraoral light therapy device (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein the electronic card (3) is fixed to the frame (2) by adhesion.

5. An intraoral light therapy device (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein the frame (2) comprises at least two arcuate branches, an upper branch (5) and / or a lower branch (6) and at least one intermediate branch (7), the intermediate branch (7) carrying the spur rod (8), the upper branch (5), the lower branch (6) and the intermediate branch (7) joining at ends (18) opposite the spur rod (8), the upper branch (5) and the lower branch (6) having a first curvature (11) around the Z axis, the intermediate branch (7) having a second curvature (12) around the Z axis, greater than the first curvature (11), the main part (20) being fixed on the upper (5) and lower (6) branches, the first bands (21) being fixed on the ends (18) of the lower (5) and upper branches (6),and the second strip (23) being fixed on the intermediate branch (7).,

6. Intraoral light therapy device (100) according to claim 5, wherein said ends (18) of the frame (2) have an excess thickness (10) along an axis of the XY plane relative to the thickness of the intermediate branch (7), said excess thickness (10) being directed away from the concave inner region, the intermediate branch (7) is attached to each end (18) of the lower (5) and upper (6) branches by an arcuate end tab (16) and the intermediate branch (7) is attached to the spur rod (8) by at least one tab, in particular two S-shaped tabs (17).

7. Intraoral light therapy device (100) according to claim 6, wherein the spur rod (8) has a face (14) in contact with the second face (26) of the electronic card (3), the at least one tab attaching the intermediate branch (7) to the spur rod (8) projects from said face (14), passes through the electronic card (3) and supports the intermediate branch (7).

8. An intraoral light therapy device (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein the LEDs (24) include blue LEDs (241), red LEDs (242) and infrared LEDs (243).

9. An intraoral light therapy device (100) according to claim 8, wherein each blue LED (241) emitting a blue light beam intersects at least one blue light beam of a neighboring blue LED (241), each red LED (242) emitting a red light beam intersects at least one red light beam of a neighboring red LED (242), and each infrared LED (243) emitting an infrared light beam intersects at least one infrared light beam of a neighboring infrared LED (243).

10. Intraoral light therapy device (100) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the red LEDs (242) have a wavelength between 625 and 740 nm, the blue LEDs (241) have a wavelength between 380 and 500 nm, preferably between 415 and 425 nm, the infrared LEDs (242) have a wavelength between 705 and 1500 nm, preferably between 830 and 850 nm.

11. Oral light therapy kit, comprising an intraoral light therapy device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims and a control box (58, 58a) comprising at least one control member (60) powered by a power supply, a communication member (72) linked to the control member (60) for communicating with a remote graphical control interface, said graphical control interface controlling the control member (60) from a communication device.

12. An oral light therapy kit according to claim 11 further comprising a mask (56) comprising light therapy LEDs.

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