ORAL CARE INSTRUMENT

Abstract

The present invention relates to an oral care instrument (600) comprising a body (500) including a head (502) and a handle (501) extending along a longitudinal axis. The body is made of a first material, and the handle comprises two or more recesses (506), at least two of which are through recesses, wherein said recesses are filled with an additional material different from the first material and having a Shore hardness lower than that of the first material. The through recesses extend substantially over the entire portion of the handle. The claimed handle provides design flexibility according to user needs. Figure 2

Description

Title of the invention: ORAL CARE INSTRUMENT Scope of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to an oral care instrument, in particular a handle for an oral care instrument. More specifically, the present invention relates to a handle for a toothbrush with improved ergonomics. Context of the invention

[0002] The handle of an oral care instrument plays an important role in attracting consumers. In the past, there have been innovations related to the use of different materials in the handle area to improve grip or achieve aesthetic improvements. Some of these innovations have used elastomeric materials in the thumb area, while others have proposed core and sheath structures.

[0003] US patent US20030070259A1 describes a personal care product with a core and sheath structure, in which the sheath has a greater hardness than the core and surrounds the core. The sheath material provides the desired abrasion resistance, tactile characteristics, and adhesion to the underlying handle.

[0004] US patent 6687940B1 describes a toothbrush in which the handle is divided into two parts extending along the length of the toothbrush. The two parts, joined together, surround a cavity. The cavity is filled with objects such as snowflakes, figurines, or other toys to provide an aesthetically pleasing effect.

[0005] US20210145159 A1 describes an oral care instrument having a first hard plastic component comprising a front surface having a perimetric portion and a central portion which is surrounded by the perimetric portion, the central portion being hollowed out relative to the perimetric portion; and a second hard plastic component positioned on the central portion of the first hard plastic component and being surrounded by the perimetric portion of the first hard plastic component, the second hard plastic component comprising an external surface comprising a plurality of grooves which are elongated in a direction of the longitudinal axis.

[0006] Some users prefer brushes with a high degree of aesthetic appeal, while others require a good grip and a softer handle feel. Users also hold oral care instruments in different positions on the handles. Some hold it from one part Some people hold the handle near their head or the area with hair, while others hold it at the opposite end. Furthermore, the elderly, children, and people with disabilities may only hold the handles in a way that allows them to get the most out of the oral care instruments. It is therefore important to design an oral care instrument handle that provides a soft feel and a good grip along a significant portion of the handle.

[0007] The handle also has an impact on the proper cleaning of gingival surfaces and interdental spaces, and it is therefore important that the handle of an oral care instrument be not only attractive but also structurally rigid. Structural rigidity is also important to prevent deformation during handling (i.e., before actual use) or the need to replace oral care instruments, especially toothbrushes, sooner than recommended, simply because of deformations in the handle. This, in turn, reduces plastic waste in the environment.

[0008] Thus, there remains a need for an oral care instrument which has a simple and cost-effective handle design, provides the flexibility for design according to a multitude of user needs. Summary of the invention

[0009] According to one aspect, an oral care instrument is proposed having a front face, a rear face and one or more lateral faces, a proximal end and a distal end, said instrument comprising: a body comprising a head at the distal end, and a handle ending at the proximal end, extending along a longitudinal axis, said handle having a sleeve part and a neck part between the sleeve part and the head, said handle having a surface area Sn and a volume Vn; said body made from a first material, said handle comprising at least two or more recesses, of which at least two are through recesses, in which said recesses are filled with an additional material having a Shore hardness lower than that of the first material and said Shore hardness is in the range of 15 to 40 Shore A; said additional material in the at least two recesses considered together occupying an exposed area (Sth) and a volume (Vth), wherein the at least two through recesses extend through a significant portion of the handle such that the exposed area represents at least 8% of the surface area (Sn) of the handle and the volume represents at least 25% of the volume (Vn) of the handle.

[0010] Optionally, the at least two through recesses are positioned on the handle so that the extra material in one through recess does not cut the extra material in another through recess.

[0011] Optionally, the at least two through recesses pass between the front face and the rear face so that the additional material is exposed on both the front and rear faces of the handle.

[0012] Optionally, the exposed surface represents at least 10% of the surface of the handle, preferably 12%.

[0013] Optionally, the volume represents at least 30% of the volume of the handle, preferably 35%.

[0014] Optionally, the additional material in the at least two through recesses considered together occupies a length on any one of the faces and said length represents at least 40% of the length of the handle on the face in question.

[0015] Optionally, at least one through-recess is present in a proximal section and the additional material in the through-recess in the proximal section has a length which represents at least 60% of the length of the proximal section of the handle.

[0016] Optionally, the through recess in the proximal section is at least 10 mm away from the proximal end.

[0017] Optionally, the Shore hardness of the additional material is in the range of 15 to 30 Shore A.

[0018] Optionally, the recess is elliptical or semi-elliptical with the major or semi-major axis extending along the longitudinal axis and the minor axis being transverse to the longitudinal axis.

[0019] Optionally, the handle includes at least one through recess in the collar section.

[0020] Optionally, the handle includes three through recesses, each in the proximal section, the central section and the neck section of the handle.

[0021] Optionally, the first material is polypropylene, and the additional material is a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0022] Optionally, whatever it may be, the additional material present on the handle is only in the recesses, preferably only in the two or more through recesses.

[0023] The invention also relates to an oral care instrument having a front face, a rear face and one or more lateral faces, a proximal end and a distal end, said instrument comprising a body including: a head at the distal end and a handle ending at the proximal end, extending along a longitudinal axis, said handle having a handle portion and a neck portion between the handle portion and the head, said handle having a length Ln on any one of the faces and a volume Vn; said body made of a first material, said handle comprising two or more recesses, of which at least two recesses are through recesses, said through-holes are filled with an additional material having a Shore hardness lower than that of the first material and said Shore hardness being in the range of 15 to 40 Shore A, said additional material (508) in the through-holes considered together occupying at the same time a length (Lth) on said face and a volume (Vth), in which the at least two through cutouts extend through a significant portion of the neck such that the length (Lth) represents at least 40% of the length of the neck and the volume (Vth) represents at least 25% of the volume of the neck.

[0024] The oral care instrument according to the invention features a simple design that allows the use of two or more different materials and offers design flexibility to meet user needs, i.e., an attractive and / or soft feel. The handle is structurally rigid and provides enhanced tactile feedback over a significant portion of the handle. Brief description of the figures

[0025] Figure 1 is a perspective front view of an oral care instrument, a toothbrush, according to one or more aspects of an illustrative embodiment.

[0026] Fig. 2 is a front view of the oral care instrument of Fig. 1.

[0027] Fig. 3 is a rear view of the oral care instrument of Fig. 1.

[0028] Figure 4 shows a view of the left side of the oral care instrument. of the [Fig.l].

[0029] The [Fig.5] is a longitudinal sectional view taken from view AA according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Fig. 6 represents an exploded perspective view of the oral care instrument according to one embodiment of the invention. Detailed description of the invention

[0031] As used herein, the term "comprising" encompasses the terms "consisting essentially of" and "consisting of." When the term "comprising" is used, the listed options or components need not be exhaustive. Unless otherwise stated, numeric ranges expressed in the format "from x to y" are to be understood as including x and y. When specifying a range of values ​​or quantities, any particular higher value or quantity may be associated with any particular lower value or quantity. Except in the examples or where explicitly stated otherwise, all numbers are to be understood as modified by the term "approximately." As used herein, the indefinite article "a" or "an" and its corresponding definite article "the" mean at least one, or one or more, unless otherwise stated.The various features of the present invention referred to in the individual sections above apply, where appropriate, to the other sections mutatis mutandis. Therefore, features specified in one section may be combined with features specified in other sections, if necessary. The section headings are added solely for convenience and are not intended to limit disclosure in any way. The invention is not limited to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings. Consequently, features mentioned in the claims, if followed by reference numbers, are included solely to enhance the intelligibility of the claims and do not in any way limit their scope.The examples are provided to illustrate the invention and are not intended to limit the invention to those examples.

[0032] The invention relates to an oral care instrument (600) having a front face (510), a rear face (512) and one or more lateral faces, a proximal end (504) and a distal end (503), said instrument comprising: a body (500) including a head (502) at the distal end (503), a handle (501) terminating at the proximal end (504), extending along a longitudinal axis (AA), said handle having a handle portion (501a) and a neck portion (501b) between the handle portion (501a) and the head (502), said body (500) made of a first material (507), said handle (501) including two or more recesses (506), of which at least two are through recesses, said through recesses (506) are filled with an additional material (508), having a Shore hardness lower than that of the first material (507), and said Shore hardness being in the range of 15 to 40 Shore A,said additional material (508) in the at least two through recesses considered together occupying an exposed area (Sth) and a volume (Vth), , in which the at least two through recesses (506) extend through a significant portion of the handle (501) such that the exposed area (Sth) represents at least 8% of the area (Sn) of the handle (501) and the volume (Vth) represents at least 25% of the volume (Vn) of the handle (501).

[0033] Preferably, the exposed surface (Sth) of the additional material in the through recesses represents at least 10% of the surface (Sn) of the handle (501), more preferably 12%.

[0034] In another preferred aspect, the volume (Vth) represents at least 30% of the volume (Vn) of the handle (501), preferably 35%.

[0035] Preferably, the handle (501) includes at least two recesses (506) which are through recesses.

[0036] In one aspect, an oral care instrument (600) is proposed having a front face (510), a rear face (512) and one or more lateral faces (516, 517), a proximal end (504) and a distal end (503), said instrument (600) comprising a body (500) comprising: a head (502) at the distal end (503), and a handle (501) ending at the proximal end (504), extending along a longitudinal axis (AA), said sleeve having a sleeve part (501a) and a neck part (501b) between the sleeve part (501a) and the head (502), said sleeve having a length, Ln on any face and a volume Vn; said body (500) made with a first material (507), said handle (501) comprises two or more recesses (506), of which at least two are through recesses, said through-holes (506) are filled with an additional material (508) having a Shore hardness lower than that of the first material (507) and said Shore hardness being in the range of 15 to 40 Shore A, said additional material (508) in the through-holes considered together occupying a length (Lth) on said face and a volume (Vth), in which the at least two through recesses (506) extend through a significant portion of the handle (501), such that the length (Lth) represents at least 40% of the length (Ln) of the handle (501) and the volume (Vth) represents at least 25% of the volume (Vn) of the handle (501).

[0037] An oral care instrument means and includes all oral care instruments. Preferably, the instrument may be a manual toothbrush, an electric toothbrush, a tongue scraper, or an interdental brush. Depending on the purpose and application of the oral care instrument, the head may be changed, and may be, for example, a brush head with bristles or a tongue scraper. Any type of head useful as an oral care instrument can be attached to the handle of the present invention. Any arrangement of cleaning elements or bristles, regardless of how they are designated, useful with oral care instruments, can be used with the present invention. Furthermore, any type of bristle (or filament) material can be used. The bristles can be attached directly to the head or to a head plate (not shown in the figures). In one aspect, the oral care instrument according to the invention has a replaceable head. When replaceable, the head is usually connected to the handle by means of a neck portion.

[0038] With reference to [Fig. 1], a perspective view of an oral care instrument, in particular a toothbrush (600), is illustrated according to one aspect of the invention. The toothbrush (600) generally comprises a body (500) which includes a handle (501) (which includes a handle portion (501a) and a neck portion (501b)) and a head (502). The toothbrush (600) has a distal end (503) and a proximal end (504). The distal end (503) is the end that is connected to the head (502), and the proximal end (504) is the end where the handle (501) of the oral care instrument terminates, and is opposite the distal end (503). The handle (501) has a handle portion (501a) towards the proximal end and a neck portion (501b) towards the distal end fixed to the head (502). The head (502) includes a set of tooth-cleaning elements (shown as a block in the [Fig.[l] under reference number (502a)) attached directly or via a head plate. While the cleaning element assembly shown in [Fig. 1] is suitable for use with a toothbrush, any cleaning element may be used, such as those used for cleaning soft oral tissues, like the tongue, gums, palate, or cheeks. The cleaning element assembly may be connected to the head (502) in any way known in the art. For example, tufting or staple-free technology (AFT). In a preferred aspect, the bristles may be mounted on the blocks or tuft sections by extending through suitable openings in the tuft blocks or in a head plate with suitable tuft openings, and then the head plate may be connected to the toothbrush head, which is formed as a single unit with the handle.

[0039] In a preferred aspect, the head, the handle portion, and the neck portion are formed together as a single unit to create the body (500) using a technique known in the art, preferably by injection molding. In other aspects, the parts of the toothbrush can also be manufactured separately as individual components and can be joined at a later manufacturing stage using a known technique, including, but not limited to, the Thermal welding, ultrasonic welding, press-fit assembly, coupling sleeve, bonding, or fastening. In addition, other manufacturing techniques may be used instead of and / or in addition to injection molding to create the handle (501) and / or head (502) (or its components), such as milling and / or machining.

[0040] The toothbrush (600) extends from a proximal end (504) to a distal end (503) along a longitudinal axis (AA). The longitudinal axis (AA) is a reference line that is generally coextensive with the three-dimensional centerline of the handle (501) and the head (502). The axis (AA) may be linear or non-linear. The toothbrush (600) may further include a first transverse axis BB that intersects the front face (510) and the rear face (512). The toothbrush (600) may further include a second transverse axis CC that intersects the left lateral face (516) and the right lateral face (517). The first transverse axis BB extends in a direction substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis AA. The second transverse axis CC extends in a direction substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis AA. The first transverse axis BB is approximately orthogonal to the second transverse axis CC.

[0041] Figures 2 and 3 respectively represent the front view and the rear view of the oral care instrument according to the illustrative embodiment of [Fig.1].

[0042] As observed in Figures 2 to 3, the oral care instrument according to the invention has a front face (510) and a rear face (512) positioned opposite the front face, and one or more side faces (left side face (516); right side face (517)). The front face (510) of the oral care instrument is generally the face with the head portion toward which the bristle area of ​​the instrument is directed. The front face is also generally the handle face, on which the thumb is placed during use. The rear face (512) is therefore the opposite face. The rear face of the head may or may not have tongue-cleaning elements. The side faces (516, 517) are the faces that are visible when viewed from the side, that is, the faces appearing between the front and rear faces.There are usually two lateral faces, but there may be more depending on the handle design. Generally, but without limitation, the face is a flat surface. Furthermore, the lateral face may not be perfectly flat in all cases. The lateral faces, in the case of the present invention, are considered to be a face visible from above when the oral care instrument (or the handle) is viewed from the side. The front, rear, and lateral faces of the oral care instrument are also, respectively, the front, rear, and lateral faces of the body (500), the head (502), and the handle (501).

[0043] In [Fig.2], the front face (510) represents the body (500) with a handle (501) (comprising the sleeve portion (501a) and the neck portion (501b)) made of a first material (507). The sleeve (501) has at least two recesses that are through recesses (506) filled with an additional material (508). The sleeve also has a third recess (506) in the central section forming a thumb rest (511) filled with an additional material (508).

[0044] As observed in [Fig. 2], the handle (501) of the toothbrush (600) can, without restriction, be conceptually divided into sections along axis AA, having a proximal section (525), a central section (535), and a neck section (545). The proximal section (525) is generally the section held by the palm of a user. The central section (535) forms the section where the handle (501) is generally held by the thumb and includes a thumb rest (511). The neck section (545) forms the section in the neck region (501b) that connects to the head (502). The proximal section extends from the end of the central section to the proximal end (504) of the instrument (600).

[0045] The proximal section (525), the central section (535), and the neck section (545) according to the invention can be of any specification or size; for example, the head (502) can be smaller or larger in cross-section compared to the neck section (545). While the figures represent only an exemplary embodiment, the size of the head or any of the proximal, central, or neck sections does not constitute a limitation with respect to the invention. The neck section (525) can be aligned at an angle or be straight when considered with respect to the central section (535) or the proximal section (525). Figure 3 shows the rear view of the toothbrush with at least two through recesses (506) filled with the additional material (508).The recess (506) forming the thumb rest on the rear face shown under reference number (513) is also filled with the additional material (508). Furthermore, the head (502) in the rear view may also include additional structures for oral cleaning, such as a soft tissue cleaning device. Such soft tissue cleaning devices are typically made from TPE and include one or more projections, such as spikes and / or ridges, to grip and massage oral soft tissue, such as the tongue. One such tongue scraper (515) is shown in [Fig. 3].

[0046] Fig. 4 represents a left view of the toothbrush of Fig. 1 representing the side view of the body (500) made with the first material (507) and the additional material (508) poured into two or more recesses, at least two of which are through recesses.

[0047] The oral care instrument (600) has a front surface (518) and a rear surface (519) opposite the front surface (518). The instrument (600) also has a left lateral surface (520) and a right lateral surface (521) opposite the left lateral surface (520). The front surface, rear surface, right lateral surface, and left lateral surface collectively form the external surface of the instrument (600). The external surface may also be referred to as an "exposed external surface" of the instrument. The instrument may include a total surface area (S0).

[0048] In the context of the present invention, the instrument surface (S0) is the area of ​​the external surface or "exposed external surface" of the instrument (600) comprising the handle (501) and the head (502) (excluding the tooth-cleaning elements (502a), the tongue-cleaning elements (515), and the head plate, where applicable) when the additional material (508) is poured into one or more of the recesses (506). The instrument surface (S0) thus includes the area covered by both the first material and the additional material when they are poured into two or more of the recesses in the body (500). The instrument surface (S0), when the recesses are filled with the additional material, may differ from the area of ​​the external surface of the body (500) when it is not filled with the additional material.

[0049] The instrument surface (S0) may include a head surface (Sh) and a handle surface (Sn). In the context of the present invention, the handle surface (501) (Sn) is the area of ​​the external surface or "exposed external surface" of the handle (501) (not the head) when the additional material (508) is poured into one or more recesses (506). The handle surface (Sn) thus includes the area covered by both the first material and the additional material when they are poured into two or more recesses in the body (500). (Sn) can usually be calculated along the length (Ln) of the handle on all front, rear, and side surfaces.

[0050] Furthermore, the proximal section (525) of the handle (501) may include a surface Sx, the central section (535) may include a surface (Sy), and the neck section (545) may include a surface (Sz). The surface (S0) is usually a combination of Sx, Sy, Sz, and Sh (head surface), while the handle surface (Sn) is a combination of Sx, Sy, and Sz.

[0051] As mentioned above, for S0, Sx, Sy, Sz, and Sh, the additional material is poured into the recesses (506), taking into account the front surface, the rear surface, and the side surfaces. The calculation does not, however, include the cleaning elements, the head plate, or any of the tongue cleaning elements, when present.

[0052] In the context of the present invention, the total surface area of ​​the additional material (508) is calculated by measuring the exposed or external surface area (Sf) of the additional material (508) on the front, rear, right side, or left side surfaces of the instrument (600), as applicable. In the embodiments shown in the figures without limitation, the surface area (Sf) of the additional material is the area of ​​the external surface or the "exposed external surface" of the additional material (508). When the additional material is present on more than one surface, such a surface area is calculated by adding the areas of these surfaces.

[0053] In the context of the present invention, the surface area (S4) of the first material (507) is calculated by measuring the surface area of ​​the external surface or the exposed external surface of the first material (507) on the front, rear, right side or left side surfaces of the instrument or a combination thereof, where applicable (but excluding the teeth cleaning elements, the tongue cleaning element or the head plate, where applicable), when the additional material is poured into two or more recesses.

[0054] In one aspect of the invention, S0 ranges from 9000 to 14000 mm², preferably from 10000 to 13000 mm². In another aspect, the surface area Sx of the proximal section (525) of the handle (501) ranges from 5500 to 8500 mm², preferably from 6300 to 7700 mm². According to yet another aspect, the surface area Sy of the central section (535) of the handle (501) ranges from 1800 to 2900 mm², preferably from 2100 to 2600 mm². According to yet another aspect, the surface area Sz of the neck section (545) of the handle (501) ranges from 1300 to 2100 mm², preferably from 1500 to 1900 mm². According to another aspect, the surface area Sh of the head (502) ranges from 700 to 1500 mm2, preferably from 900 to 1200 mm2. In one aspect, Sn ranges from 8500 to 13500 mm2, preferably from 9000 to 11500 mm2.

[0055] In one aspect, the additional material (508) in the through-holes considered together occupies an exposed surface area (Sth) and a volume (Vth). According to the invention, the at least two through-holes (506) extend through a significant portion of the handle (501) such that the exposed surface area (Sth) of the additional material in the through-holes represents at least 8% of the surface area (Sn) of the handle (501) and the volume (Vth) represents at least 25% of the volume (Vn) of the handle (501). Preferably, the exposed surface area (Sth) represents at least 10% of the surface area (Sn) of the handle (501), and even more preferably 12%. Preferably, the volume (Vth) represents at least 30% of the volume (Vn) of the handle (501), and even more preferably 35%.

[0056] In the context of the invention, the exposed surface (Sth) is the exposed surface or the external surface of the additional material that is present inside the recesses through. Sth is calculated for the additional material exposed on the surfaces, when the through recesses are filled with the additional material.

[0057] In the context of the present invention, the term "significant portion" of the handle implies that the at least two through-holes together occupy a considerable part of the handle. In this regard, it should be noted that it is not necessary for the two hole to be of identical size and dimensions. One through-hole may be larger, in terms of dimensions, than another hole and / or be the same in size. Preferably, the size of the through-hole in the proximal section may be larger than the size of the through-hole in other parts of the handle.

[0058] In one aspect, the additional material (508) may include an exposed surface in different sections of the handle (501). Surface S1 corresponds to the exposed surface of the additional material (508) in the proximal section (525). S2 corresponds to the exposed surface of the additional material (508) in the central section (535). S3 corresponds to the exposed surface of the additional material (508) in the neck section (545). Generally, the total exposed surface Sf may be a combination of S1, S2, and S3.

[0059] In one aspect of the invention, SI ranges from 950 to 1500 mm², preferably from 1050 to 1300 mm². In another aspect, S2 ranges from 450 to 650 mm², preferably from 480 to 600 mm². Yet another aspect, S3 ranges from 170 to 250 mm², preferably from 190 to 200 mm².

[0060] In one aspect according to the invention, a significant proportion of the Sn surface of the handle (501) comprises the additional material (508).

[0061] In one aspect, the exposed surface (Sth) ranges from 10% to 50% of the surface (Sn) of the handle, preferably from 12% to 45%.

[0062] In one aspect, Sf (the total exposed surface area of ​​the additional material) represents at least 10% of Sn (the total surface area of ​​the handle), preferably at least 15%, and even more preferably at least 18%. In another aspect, Sf represents from 10% to 40% of Sn, and even more preferably from 15% to 30% of Sn.

[0063] In a preferred aspect according to the invention, the additional material covers a significant portion of the proximal section. In one aspect, S1 represents at least 10% of Sx, preferably at least 12%, and even more preferably at least 15%. In another aspect, SI represents from 10 to 40% of Sx, and even more preferably from 15 to 25% of Sx.

[0064] In a preferred aspect, the surface area of ​​the additional material in the proximal section (SI) represents at least 50% of the total additional material (Sf) in the handle, more preferably at least 55% of Sf, in a preferred manner between all at least 60% of Sf. In one aspect, SI represents from 50 to 76% of Sf, preferably from 55 to 68% of Sf.

[0065] In a preferred aspect, the surface area of ​​the additional material (SI) in the proximal section represents at least 8% of the overall surface area (Sn) of the handle. In one aspect, SI represents from 8 to 17% of Sn, more preferably from 10 to 15% of Sn.

[0066] In another aspect, the surface S3 (i.e., the surface of the additional material in the neck section) is not greater than 6% of Sn (i.e., the surface of the handle), preferably not greater than 4% of Sn, and most preferably not greater than 2%. In one aspect, S2 represents from 0 to 6% of Sn, again preferably from 1 to 4% of Sn, and most preferably from 2 to 4% of Sn.

[0067] In another aspect, the surface S3 (i.e., the surface of the additional material in the neck section) represents at least 1% of Sn (i.e., the surface of the handle), preferably at least 2%. Preferably, the additional material (508) in the neck section (545) begins at the central section (535) and extends towards the head (502). This allows less additional material to enter the oral cavity during brush use by a consumer, thus reducing the risk of microbial contamination. This ensures the strength of the handle, particularly the neck portion, while maintaining a softer feel along the entire handle. Preferably, the head does not include any additional material.

[0068] None of the surface area calculations in the context of this application include the surfaces of the tooth-cleaning elements (502a), the tongue-cleaning elements (515), and the head plate, if applicable. The surface area may be measured according to acceptable measurement standards. One way is to calculate using commercially available CAD software.

[0069] Figure 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the toothbrush of Figure 2, taken from view AA of Figure 2 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 shows an exploded perspective view of the oral care instrument according to an embodiment of the invention. As observed from the embodiment in the figure, the handle comprises at least one through-recess (562) in the proximal section (525) and one through-recess (560) in the neck section (545), each comprising the additional material (508). In addition, the body may also comprise a recess (561) in the central section which ultimately forms the thumb rest (511, 513).

[0070] As can be seen from Figures 5 and 6, the additional material (508) in any of the through recesses (506) is surrounded by the first material (507) on the front face (510), the rear face (512), the side faces (516, 517) so that the additional material (508) does not pass from one through recess (506) to another through recess (506) on any of the faces.

[0071] Preferably, at least two through recesses (506) are positioned on the handle (501) so that the additional material (508) in one through recess (506) does not intersect with the additional material (508) in another through recess (506).

[0072] The additional material in any of the through recesses is preferably not connected by a channel with the additional material in another through recess. Preferably, the additional material (508) is only inside the through recesses (506).

[0073] The at least two independent through-holes allow at least two access passages for the flow of material during the manufacturing process.

[0074] In one aspect, the additional material (508) present on the handle is only in the recesses (506). Preferably, the additional material (508) is not overmolded onto the first material (507).

[0075] The through-holes (506) can be defined by hole walls (522) that form an enclosed perimeter defining the open passage extending between the front and rear surfaces (510, 512) of the body (500). The through-holes (506) can be defined by hole walls (522) that form an enclosed perimeter defining the open passage extending between the front surface (518) and the rear surface (519). As can be seen in [Fig. 5], the additional material (508) extends into and through the through-holes (506) while being exposed on the opposite surfaces of the handle (501). In a preferred aspect, each of the through-holes has the additional material formed as a three-dimensional monolithic body and poured into at least two independent through-holes in the body.Preferably, the three-dimensional monolithic body in any of the through-hollows is surrounded by the perimeter walls of the first material (507) on at least four sides.

[0076] As observed from Figures 5 and 6, at least two through recesses extend through the axis AA, BB, CC so that they cover a significant part of the handle.

[0077] According to one aspect, the instrument (600) may comprise a volume V0. The volume V0 corresponds to the total volume of the instrument (including the first material and the second material). The volume V0 of the instrument may comprise a head volume (Vh) and a handle volume (Vn). In addition, the proximal section (525) of the handle (501) may comprise a volume Vx, the central section (535) may comprise a volume Vy, and the neck section (545) may comprise a volume Vz, respectively. The VO volume is usually a combination of Vx, Vy, Vz and Vh (head volume) and the neck volume Vn is usually a combination of Vx, Vy and Vz.

[0078] In the context of the invention, VO, Vx, Vy, Vz and Vh are all calculated when the additional material is poured into the recesses (506). The calculation does not, however, include the cleaning elements, the head plate or the tongue cleaning elements, when present.

[0079] In one aspect of the invention, V0 ranges from 13,990 to 21,000 mm³, preferably from 16,000 to 20,000 mm³. In another aspect, the volume Vx of the proximal section (525) of the handle (501) ranges from 9,700 to 14,650 mm³, preferably from 11,000 to 13,500 mm³. According to another aspect, the volume Vy of the central section (535) of the handle (501) ranges from 2,400 to 3,700 mm³, preferably from 2,759 to 3,500 mm³. According to yet another aspect, the volume Vz of the neck section (545) of the handle (501) ranges from 1,400 to 2,200 mm³, preferably from 1,600 to 2,000 mm³. According to another aspect, the volume Vh of the head (502) ranges from 300 to 600 mm3, preferably from 400 to 550 mm3. According to one aspect, Vn ranges from 13000 to 20000 mm3, preferably from 15000 to 18500 mm3.

[0080] In one aspect, the additional material (508) may also comprise volumes VI, V2, and V3 in different sections of the handle. Volume VI corresponds to the volume of the additional material (508) in the proximal section (525). V2 corresponds to the volume of the additional material (508) in the central section (535). V3 corresponds to the volume of the additional material (508) in the neck section (545). The additional material (508) may also comprise a total volume Vf, which is a combination of VI, V2, and V3. The additional material (508) poured into the through recesses may, taken as a whole, comprise a volume Vth.

[0081] In one aspect of the invention, VI ranges from 4500 to 7000 mm3, preferably from 5200 to 6500 mm3. In another aspect, V2 ranges from 1100 to 1700 mm3, preferably from 1200 to 1600 mm3. Yet another aspect, V3 ranges from 420 to 650 mm3, preferably from 480 to 590 mm3.

[0082] In one aspect, Vf (total volume of the additional material) represents at least 30% of Vn (volume of the handle) and represents from 30% to 75% of Vn, more preferably from 35% to 60% of Vn. More preferably, Vf represents at least 35% of Vn, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 41%, most preferably at least 42%, most preferably at least 43%, most preferably at least 44%, most preferably at least 45%.

[0083] According to the invention, the at least two through recesses extend through a significant portion of the handle so that the additional material in the less than two through recesses considered together occupies a volume (Vth) which represents at least 30% of the volume of the handle, Vn, preferably at least 35%, even more preferably at least 37%.

[0084] In a preferred aspect according to the invention, the additional material covers a significant portion of the proximal section. In one aspect, V1 represents at least 35% of Vx, and from 35% to 55% of Vx, more preferably 40% to 50%. In a preferred aspect, the volume V1 represents at least 60% of the total additional material Vf in the handle, more preferably at least 70%. In one aspect, V1 represents from 60% to 85% of Vf, more preferably 65% ​​to 80% of Vf. Preferably, the additional material in the proximal section is only within the through recess.

[0085] Furthermore, the volume of the additional material in the neck section (V3) does not represent more than 15% of the total additional material Vf. In one aspect, V3 represents from 0 to 15% of Vf, more preferably from 5% to 10% of Vf.

[0086] Preferably, the additional material (508) in the neck section (545) begins from the central section (535) extending towards the head (502). This allows less additional material to enter the oral cavity when the brush is used by a consumer, thus reducing the risk of microbial contamination while allowing a soft feel when holding the handle.

[0087] In another aspect, the volume V3 (i.e., the volume of the additional material in the neck section) does not exceed 10% of Vn (i.e., the volume of the handle). In one aspect, V3 represents from 0 to 10% of Vn, or more preferably from 2 to 6% of Vn. Preferably, the additional material in the neck section is only within the through-cutout.

[0088] In a preferred aspect, the additional material (508) is not only present on the surface, but also on the majority of the core of the handle covering a significant volume of the handle (501).

[0089] As observed in [Fig. 2], the toothbrush (600) may also include a length L0. The length L0 corresponds to the overall length of the toothbrush (including the first material and the second material), when measured along the axis AA, from the distal end (503) to the proximal end (504). The length L0 of the toothbrush may include a head length (Lh) and a handle length (Ln). In addition, the proximal section (525) of the handle (501) may include a length Lx, the middle section (535) may include a length Ly, and the neck section (545) may include a length Lz. The length L0 is usually a combination of Lx, Ly, Lz, and Lh (head length), and the handle length Ln is a combination of Lx, Ly, and Lz.

[0090] In one aspect of the invention, LO ranges from 130 to 230 mm, preferably from 160 to 200 mm. In another aspect, the length Lx of the proximal section (525) of the handle (501) ranges from 65 to 105 mm, preferably from 75 to 95 mm. According to another aspect, the length Ly of the central section (535) of the handle (501) ranges from 18 mm to 28 mm, preferably from 20 mm to 26 mm. According to another aspect, the length Lz of the neck section (545) of the handle (501) ranges from 34 mm to 54 mm, preferably from 40 mm to 50 mm. According to another aspect, the length Lh of the head (502) ranges from 24 to 36 mm, preferably from 27 to 33 mm. In one aspect, Ln ranges from 120 to 180 mm, preferably from 140 to 170 mm. The proximal section can generally form about 45 to 65% of the sleeve length Ln from the proximal end, again preferably about 50 to 60% of the sleeve length.

[0091] As shown in [Fig. 2], the additional material (508) may comprise lengths L1, L2, and L3 in different sections of the handle. Length L1 corresponds to the minimum length of the exposed external surface of the additional material (508) in the proximal section (525) on any of the front, rear, or side faces, when measured along axis AA. Similarly, L2 corresponds to the minimum length of the exposed external surface of the additional material (508) in the central section (535) on any of the front, rear, or side faces, when measured along axis AA. L3 corresponds to the minimum length of the exposed external surface of the additional material (508) in the neck section (545) on any of the front, rear, or side faces, when measured along axis AA.The additional material (508) may also include a total length Lf, which is a combination of L1, L2, and L3 on any one of the instrument's faces. Lth corresponds to the minimum length of the exposed external surface of the additional material poured into the two or more through recesses on any one of the faces. For simplicity, the lengths have only been shown in [Fig. 2], but the corresponding parts in the rear face (shown in [Fig. 3]) also have lengths.

[0092] In one aspect of the invention, L1 ranges from 50 mm to 80 mm, preferably from 55 mm to 70 mm. In another aspect, L2 ranges from 18 mm to 28 mm, preferably from 20 mm to 26 mm. In yet another aspect, L3 ranges from 12 mm to 19 mm, preferably from 14 mm to 18 mm.

[0093] For ease of calculation, the lengths L0, Lx, Ly, Lz, Lh, Ll, L2, L3 and Lf are calculated on any one of the faces or surfaces, for example the length can be calculated on the front surface (518) or the front face (510) of the instrument. However, the calculations can be performed, in a similar way, on any of the faces (front face, back face or side faces).

[0094] In one aspect according to the invention, the major part of the length of the front surface (518) and / or the rear surface (519) of the handle (501) comprises the additional material.

[0095] In one aspect, the additional material (508) in the at least two through recesses (506) considered together occupies a length (Lth) on any one of the faces (510, 512, 516, 517), and said Lth represents at least 40% of the length (Ln) of the handle (501) on that face. Preferably, Lth represents at least 45%, and even more preferably at least 47% of Ln. In another aspect, Lth represents from 40% to 80% of Ln, and even more preferably from 40% to 70% of Ln, and even more preferably from 45% to 60%.

[0096] In one aspect, Lf (total length of the additional material on any one of the faces) represents at least 50% of Ln (total length of the handle), more preferably at least 55%, more preferably at least 60%. In another aspect, Lf represents from 50 to 80% of Ln, more preferably from 55 to 70% of Ln.

[0097] Preferably, Lf represents at least 50% of Ln on both the front and rear faces of the handle. In other words, the length of the additional material covers a large proportion of the handle's length on both the front and rear faces. Even more preferably, Lf represents at least 60% on both the front and rear faces.

[0098] In a preferred aspect according to the invention, at least one through-recess (506) is present in a proximal section (525), and the additional material (508) in the proximal section (525) has a length (L1) that represents at least 54% of the length (Lx) of the proximal section (525) of the handle (501), preferably 60%, and even more preferably 65%. In another aspect, L1 represents from 54% to 82% of Lx, and even more preferably from 60% to 75%. In a preferred aspect, the additional material in the proximal section is solely within a through-recess.

[0099] In a preferred aspect, the length Ll represents at least 48% of the total additional material Lf in the handle. In another aspect, Ll represents from 48% to 73% of Lf, and even more preferably from 50% to 70% of Lf. Even more preferably, there is only one through-cut in the proximal section.

[0100] In a preferred aspect, the length Ll (length of the additional material in the proximal section) represents at least 30% of the overall length Ln of the handle, more preferably 35%. In another aspect, Ll represents 30 to 50% of Ln, more preferably 35 to 45% of Ln.

[0101] Furthermore, the length of the additional material in the neck section (L3) is not greater than 19% of the total length of the additional material Lf. In a In aspect, L3 represents from 0 to 19% of Lf, preferably from 5% to 16% of Lf. Preferably, the additional material (508) in the neck section (545) starts from the central section (535) towards the head (502).

[0102] In another aspect, the length L3 (i.e., the length of the additional material in the collar section) is not greater than 12% of Ln (i.e., the length of the sleeve). In one aspect, L3 represents 8 to 12% of Ln, more preferably 9 to 11% of Ln.

[0103] In one aspect, Lf is identical to Lth. In another aspect, Sf is identical to Sth. In yet another aspect, Vf is identical to Vth. In yet another aspect, Sf, Lf, and Vf are respectively identical to Sth, Lth, and Vth. In other words, the handle comprises the additional material only within the two or more through recesses.

[0104] While shown in elliptical form in the figure, the handle of the oral care instrument according to the present invention can have a wide variety of shapes and designs. It can be oval, round, flat, elliptical, or elongated.

[0105] Hollows The invention contemplates any combination of features of the recess (506), such as its number, type, shape, and size, within the same handle. According to the invention, at least two recesses are through recesses. A recess (506) may also be referred to by alternative terms such as hollow structures, hollow regions, a slot, or a hole.

[0106] As for the recess options, the recess can be a blind or through recess. In a through recess, it extends or passes through between opposite faces. In a blind recess, it usually extends from one face to a blind wall. Through recesses can also imply that when not filled with additional material, a user can see through the faces of the handle. Usually, in such a case, when poured, the additional material is exposed or visible on opposite faces of the brush, i.e., the front or back faces or the left and right side faces. In one aspect, the additional material can be covered with another material and is not directly exposed or visible.A blind cutout means that the additional material is exposed or visible only on one face of the handle (the front, back, or side). A blind cutout in the handle can also be present on both faces of the handle in the same location, exposing the additional material on both the front and back faces, without requiring a through cutout. Another structural element made with the first material or a different material. can also be provided in the through recess extending along the axis (AA) to give structural rigidity to the handle.

[0107] As for the recess options, the one or more recesses may be equal in size or not. Preferably, the recesses are not equal in size, with smaller recesses in the part of the handle that has a smaller width or thickness.

[0108] The recess can be of any shape, for example, square, rectangular, oval, circular, or elliptical. Preferably, the recess is elliptical with gradually tapering ends. The recess can have a uniform shape along the length of an imaginary longitudinal axis (AA), or it can be non-uniform or asymmetrical. In one aspect, the instrument according to the present invention has recesses extending along the handle, such that the recesses extend in the direction of the longitudinal axis, adapted in terms of dimension, according to its position on the handle, to a circumference of the handle. In a preferred aspect, the recesses are elliptical or semi-elliptical with a major or semi-major axis extending along the longitudinal axis and a minor axis that is transverse to the longitudinal axis.

[0109] In one aspect, a recess in the sleeve portion extends partially into the collar portion. Even more preferably, the recess begins in the sleeve portion (501a) that is above the thumb rest and extends partially into the collar portion (501b). The recess in the collar portion may be a blind or through recess. The recess in the collar portion may be filled with the same or different additional material as the additional material in the sleeve portion.

[0110] In one aspect, the at least two through-cutouts pass between the front and rear faces of the instrument. In a preferred aspect, the instrument includes two through-cutouts that pass between the front and rear faces of the instrument so that the additional material is exposed on both faces. In another preferred aspect, the neck includes at least three cutouts (506), of which at least two are through-cutouts. Again preferably, the instrument includes three through-cutouts. Preferably, the neck includes at least one through-cutout (506) in the neck section (545). Again preferably, the neck (501) includes three through-cutouts (506), one in the proximal section (525), the central section (535), and the neck section (545) of the neck (501). In yet another preferred aspect, the additional material (508) present on the neck is only in the cutouts (506).

[0111] In one preferred aspect, each of the through-holes is independent and the additional material in one through-hole does not extend or connect to another through-hole. In another preferred aspect, any one of the through-holes is independent of any other through-hole, and they are not connected.

[0112] First material The first material (507) is selected from any of the materials suitable for making the handle of an oral care instrument, in particular a toothbrush. The first material is selected from conventional hard plastics such as polypropylene or other rigid or semi-rigid plastics, wood, bamboo, ceramics, glass, metals, and composite materials suitable for making handles of oral care instruments. Preferably, the first material is selected from polypropylene and its various grades. The first material is transparent or opaque and comes in a wide variety of colors and surface finishes such as glossy, matte, patterned, etc. The handle is made of a first material or a combination of two or more different types of the first material.

[0113] Preferably, the first material is harder than the additional material. The first material has greater rigidity than the additional material. The first material has a Shore hardness in any of the ranges for manufacturing the handle of an oral care instrument. Preferably, the first material has a Shore hardness in the range of 50 to 90 Shore D.

[0114] Preferably, the first material is polypropylene. In one aspect, the first material has a surface area that represents at least 40% of the surface area of ​​the instrument, preferably 45%, and even more preferably at least 60%. Preferably, the first material is polypropylene, and covers at least 60% of the surface area of ​​the instrument.

[0115] In one aspect, the first material has a surface that represents from 40% to 85% of the surface of the instrument, preferably from about 45% to 80%, more preferably from about 60% to 80% of the surface of the instrument.

[0116] Additional material The additional material (508) has a Shore hardness lower than that of the first material (507). The additional material is selected from conventional hard plastics or rigid or semi-rigid plastics, deformable materials such as liquids, gels, or particulate substances, a range of thermoplastic elastomers or polymers, rubber, silicone, flexible polymer compounds, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the additional material is selected from thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) and their various grades. TPE is also sometimes referred to as thermoplastic rubbers (TPRs).

[0117] In one aspect, the thermoplastic elastomer is selected from thermoplastic vulcanized resins (polyolefin rubber blends), polyetheramides, polyesters, styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene (SEBS) block copolymers, styrene butadiene styrene (SBS) block copolymers, partially or fully hydrogenated styrene butadiene styrene block copolymers, styrene isoprene styrene block copolymers, polyurethanes, polyolefin elastomers, polyolefin plastomers, styrene-based polyolefin elastomers and mixtures thereof.

[0118] In one aspect, the additional material has a Shore hardness in the range of 5 to 60 Shore A. Preferably, the additional material has a Shore hardness in the range of 15 to 40 Shore A, more preferably in the range of 15 to 30 Shore A. The Shore hardness can be measured using a durometer using standard methods.

[0119] The additional material is opaque, transparent, or translucent and has various types of surface finishes. The additional material may have grooves, depressions, any disturbance, ridges, or any other formation on it that may improve its appearance or performance.

[0120] In one aspect of the invention, any recess (blind or through) comprising the additional material is at least 10 mm opposite the proximal end (504) of the handle so as not to attract fungal growth. In another aspect, the additional material is from approximately 10 to approximately 60 mm opposite the proximal end (504), preferably from approximately 15 mm to approximately 50 mm, and even more preferably from approximately 20 mm to approximately 40 mm. Preferably, any one of the recesses in the proximal section is a through recess.

[0121] The invention envisages the use of at least one or more of a different type of additional material, with a different Shore hardness, in the handle (501). Consequently, different recesses (506) in the handle (501) can be filled with different additional materials (508).

[0122] In one aspect, the additional material (508) has a surface area that represents at least 10% of the surface area of ​​the instrument (600), preferably, the additional material (508) has a surface area that represents at least 15% of the surface area of ​​the instrument (S0) (600).

[0123] Preferably, the additional material is a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0124] Thumb rest In one aspect, at least one recess (506) in the handle forms a thumb rest (511, 513) intended to support a user's thumb for a good grip. This recess may be a through recess or a blind recess. Preferably, such a thumb rest is oval or elliptical, but may have any shape. The thumb rest is usually located in the central section. For example, when oval or elliptical, the minor axis of the thumb rest is transverse to the longitudinal axis (AA), and such a minor axis represents 0-20%. from the central point, when measured along the length of the longitudinal axis of the handle.

[0125] When present, the thumb rest is filled with the additional material (508) which is the same as, or different from, the additional material (508) used in the other recesses. Preferably, the Shore hardness of the additional material (508) used in the thumb rest is different from the Shore hardness of the additional material (508) used in the other recesses of the handle. The thumb rest is preferably made of an additional material (508) having a Shore A hardness ranging from 10 to 50, preferably from 15 to 40.

[0126] The thumb rest may be unlimited in the plane of the handle or may bulge relative to the surface of the handle when viewed laterally or from the side view. As seen from [Fig. 4], the thumb rest (511) on the front face (510) of the handle is bulged in this view. When bulged, the thumb rest has a maximum height that varies from 3 to 8 mm above the surface of the handle when measured at its center point. Preferably, the thumb rest includes a grip-enhancing feature, as shown in Figures 1 to 4. As those skilled in the art can understand, any pattern or surface feature on the thumb rest is within the scope of the claimed invention, and the pattern shown in the figures is not limiting.

[0127] In one embodiment of the invention, the thumb rest is located on the front or rear face, or on both faces, of the handle. When located on the rear face, such as (513) (in [Fig. 3]), it may have similar or different shapes and / or grip-enhancing features. Also, when located on the rear face of the handle, although the thumb cannot strictly rest on it during use, it may therefore be referred to by alternative terms. As observed in [Fig. 3], the thumb rest (513), on the rear surface, is smaller than the thumb rest (511) on the front surface and does not bulge. However, alternative arrangements of the thumb rest are envisaged in the invention.

[0128] The thumb rest is made of an opaque, translucent or transparent material. Preferably, the thumb rest is made of an opaque material.

[0129] Preferably, the thermoplastic elastomer (508) in the thumb rest (511, 513) has a Shore hardness lower than that of the thermoplastic elastomer (508) which fills the other recesses in the handle.

[0130] Handle manufacturing process All parts of the oral care instrument, in particular a toothbrush according to the invention, are manufactured as a unit together from the same material or manufactured separately from different materials.

[0131] Preferably, the handle parts are manufactured separately from different materials, using different forming or molding techniques suitable for manufacturing toothbrush handles. One such process is injection molding. The separate handle parts are assembled by an injection molding technique or different processes such as ultrasonic welding and / or fusion. Preferably, the handle of the oral care instrument according to the invention comprises more than one type of material. Even more preferably, it comprises three different types of materials: a first material and two additional different materials.

[0132] Example The toothbrush according to one embodiment of the invention is described below. Such an embodiment does not limit the scope of the invention.

[0133] The overall length of the toothbrush (LO) (600) is between approximately 130 mm and 230 mm, preferably between 160 mm and 200 mm. The body (500) is made of polypropylene (PP) (507), and the through-holes are filled with a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) (508). In the embodiment described here, the polypropylene homopolymer is commercially distributed by Sinopec Yangzi Petrochemical Ltd., and the additional material is a thermoplastic elastomer from Yangzhou Mingdu Plastics Co., Ltd. The body comprises a head, a neck portion, and a handle portion. The handle (501) is generally elongated along the AA axis and has an elliptical shape. The TPE poured into the holes also takes on a similar elliptical shape along the circumference of the handle.As observed in Figures 1 to 4, the toothbrush has two through-cuts, one through-cut (506) in the proximal section and one through-cut (506) in the neck section. A cut is also formed in the central section which forms a thumb rest (511 and 513). This can be a blind cut or a through-cut.

[0134] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the recess in the proximal section, which is below the central section (thumb rest 511, 513), is longer than the recess above the thumb rest. The recess below the thumb rest extending towards the proximal section has its greatest length in the range of 50 to 80 mm, preferably 55 to 70 mm, when measured along the longitudinal direction of the toothbrush. As observed in the figure, the greatest length of the recess may, however, not coincide with the AA axis. The recess above the thumb rest generally has a length in the range of 5 mm to 30 mm, preferably 10 mm to 25 mm. The width of the recesses is adapted in each case, in the respective position of the recesses, to the circumference of the body (500). In this embodiment, the head, the neck part, the part of The handles are formed as a single unit, with recesses created by injection molding. The TPE is then poured into these recesses using the same injection molding process. The TPE covers a large portion of the instrument's surface area (calculated by adding the surface area of ​​the polypropylene and the TPE, as seen on the external surface of the body, but excluding the teeth cleaning elements, tongue cleaning elements, and headplate), providing a good grip across the entire handle. Furthermore, PP accounts for approximately 40 to 70% of the total handle weight (the total handle weight being calculated by weighing both PP and TPE, but excluding cleaning elements), while TPE accounts for approximately 30 to 60% of the total handle weight.

[0135] The instrument according to the invention offers users a softer feel and a good grip due to the presence of TPE over a large surface area of ​​the handle. Furthermore, since this TPE is contained within the recesses, it avoids unnecessary exposure of the TPE to the environment and prevents mold growth. However, the presence of the through-recesses and the TPE poured inside them provides sufficient rigidity to the handle. The handle according to the invention is aesthetically pleasing, ergonomically superior, simpler to manufacture, and offers greater flexibility in using materials and design to suit user needs.

Claims

Demands

1. Oral care instrument (600) having a front face (510), a rear face (512) and one or more side faces (516, 517), a proximal end (504) and a distal end (503), said instrument (600) comprising a body (500) comprising: a head (502) at the distal end (503), and a handle (501) terminating at the proximal end (504), extending along a longitudinal axis (AA), said handle having a handle portion (501a) and a neck portion (501b) between the handle portion (501a) and the head (502), said handle having a surface area Sn and a volume Vn;said body (500) made with a first material (507), said handle (501) comprising two or more recesses (506), of which at least two recesses are through recesses, said through recesses (506) being filled with an additional material (508) having a Shore hardness lower than that of the first material (507) and said Shore hardness being in the range of 15 to 40 Shore A, said additional material (508) in the at least two through recesses considered together occupying an exposed area (Sth) and a volume (Vth), in which the at least two through recesses (506) extend through a significant portion of the handle (501) such that the exposed area (Sth) represents at least 8% of the area (Sn) of the handle (501) and the volume (Vth) represents at least 25% of the volume (Vn) of the handle (501).

2. Instrument according to claim 1, wherein the at least two through recesses (506) are positioned on the handle (501) so that the additional material (508) in one through recess (506) does not cut the additional material (508) in another through recess (506).

3. Instrument according to claims 1 or 2, wherein the at least two through recesses (506) pass between the front face (510) and the rear face (512) so that the additional material (508) is exposed on both the front face (510) and the rear face (512) of the handle (501).

4. Instrument according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the exposed surface (Sth) represents at least 10% of the surface (Sn) of the handle (501), preferably 12%.

5. Instrument according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the volume (Vth) represents at least 30% of the volume (Vn) of the handle (501), preferably 35%.

6. Instrument according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the additional material (508) in the at least two through recesses (506) considered together occupies a length (Lth) on any one of the faces (510, 512, 516, 517) and said length (Lth) represents at least 40% of the length of the handle (Ln) of the handle (501) on the face in question.

7. Instrument according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one through recess (506) is present in a proximal section (525) and the additional material (508) in the through recess (506) in the proximal section (525) has a length (Ll), which represents at least 60% of the length (Lx) of the proximal section (525) of the handle (501).

8. Instrument according to claim 7, wherein the through recess (506) in the proximal section (525) is at least 10 mm away from the proximal end (504).

9. Instrument according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the Shore hardness of the additional material (508) is in the range of 15 to 30 Shore A.

10. Instrument according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the recess (506) is elliptical or semi-elliptical with the major or semi-major axis extending along the longitudinal axis (AA) and the minor axis being transverse to the longitudinal axis (AA).

11. Instrument according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the neck comprises at least one through recess (506) in the neck section (545).

12. Instrument according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the handle (501) comprises three through recesses (506), each in the proximal section (525), the central section (535) and the neck section (545) of the handle (501).

13. Instrument according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first material (507) is polypropylene, and the additional material (508) is a thermoplastic elastomer.

14. Instrument according to any one of the preceding claims, the additional material (508) present on the neck is only in the recesses (506), preferably only in the two or more through recesses.

15. Oral care instrument (600) having a front face (510), a rear face (512) and one or more side faces (516, 517), a proximal end (504) and a distal end (503), said instrument (600) comprising a body (500) comprising: a head (502) at the distal end (503) and a handle (501) terminating at the proximal end (504), extending along a longitudinal axis (AA), said handle having a handle portion (501a) and a neck portion (501b) between the handle portion (501a) and the head (502), said handle having a length Ln on any one of the faces and a volume Vn;said body (500) made with a first material (507), said handle (501) comprising two or more recesses (506), of which at least two recesses are through recesses, said through recesses (506) are filled with an additional material (508) having a Shore hardness lower than that of the first material (507) and said Shore hardness being in the range of 15 to 40 Shore A, said additional material (508) in the through recesses considered together occupies a length (Lth) on said face and a volume (Vth), in which the at least two through recesses (506) extend through a significant portion of the handle (501) such that the length (Lth) represents at least 40% of the length (Ln) of the handle (501) and the volume (Vth) represents at least 25% of the volume (Vn) of the handle (501).;