Tooth cleaning method and cleaning system

Abstract

A method for cleaning teeth with a tooth cleaning device for removing dental plaque, the following models: - A tooth model representing the tooth structure of the user, - A cleaning model for each said user, showing the tooth model having a certain dental plaque state, and the cleaning model is used as a basis for determining cleaning instructions for a tooth cleaning process, - A predicted cleaning model, showing a tooth model having a predicted cleaning state to be achieved after executing a specific cleaning procedure defined by the cleaning model, - An actual cleaning model that is actually achieved after executing a specific cleaning operation defined by the cleaning model, and the actual cleaning model is measured by a corresponding sensor, - A deviation of cleaning determined by comparing the predicted cleaning model with the actual cleaning model, are used, and the following steps: a) Determining the cleaning model and the predicted cleaning model, b) Executing a cleaning process defined by the cleaning model, c) Determining the actual cleaning model, d) Deriving the deviation of cleaning from the actual cleaning model and the predicted cleaning model, e) Using the actual cleaning model as a new cleaning model, determining a predicted cleaning model based on the new cleaning model, and adjusting cleaning rules based on the deviation of cleaning, f) Repeating steps b) to e) until a predetermined end criterion is reached, A method in which a control loop is executed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for cleaning teeth using a cleaning device and a cleaning system.

Background Art

[0002] Similar to daily cleaning, toothbrushing is essential for keeping the human body clean. However, this technology has not changed significantly over the past few centuries.

[0003] Most users use a simple analog manual toothbrush or an electric toothbrush. The electric toothbrush is designed like a manual toothbrush but has a motor-driven movable head that causes the head to vibrate.

[0004] However, there is no difference between these two systems with regard to the basic method of brushing teeth.

[0005] Toothbrushes with a U-shaped design that can brush all teeth simultaneously are known. This process is also called 3D cleaning.

[0006] U.S. Patent No. 2020 / 0179089A1 discloses an oral hygiene monitoring system that monitors the movement and orientation of oral hygiene devices such as a toothbrush in use. This is done by one or more cameras that monitor the movement of the toothbrush from outside the body of the person brushing their teeth. The cameras can also be placed on the oral hygiene device itself and can be used to detect the quality of the teeth.

[0007] U.S. Patent No. 2020 / 0201266A1 discloses a household cleaning appliance. This cleaning appliance can be used for various purposes such as cleaning the floor of a building, shaving a person's beard, and cleaning teeth. This cleaning appliance may have a neural network that can distinguish various characteristics of the image of the object to be cleaned, such as the color of the teeth, so as to affect the cleaning process.

[0008] U.S. Patent No. 2020 / 0121428A1 discloses a tooth cleaning device having a rail curved in a U-shape so as to surround a dental arch. Tooth cleaning elements, such as bristles, are provided inside the rail so that all teeth of the dental arch can be cleaned simultaneously with this device. This tooth cleaning device can be embodied to execute an individual cleaning plan for a specific person's dental arch.

[0009] U.S. Patent No. 2021 / 0393026A1 describes an oral hygiene system which is a type of intelligent toothbrush and has an optical sensor for optically scanning the oral cavity. The sensor data can be analyzed by a machine learning system such as a neural network.

[0010] U.S. Patent No. 2012 / 0171657 A1 discloses a cleaning system such as an electric toothbrush, which is connected to a display device, and information and instructions regarding how to use the cleaning device are displayed on the display device for the user.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0011]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Patent Document 4

Patent Document 5

Patent Document 6

Patent Document 7

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0012] An object of the present invention is to thoroughly and quickly clean teeth.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0013] One or more objects are achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims.

[0014] Advantageous and preferred embodiments are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0015] A method for cleaning teeth by a tooth cleaning device for removing dental plaque (Zahnverschmutzungen) is as follows: - A tooth model representing the tooth structure of the user, - Each of the cleaning models of the user, which shows the tooth model having a certain dental plaque state and is used as a basis for determining a cleaning instruction for a certain tooth cleaning process, - A predicted cleaning model, which shows a tooth model having a predicted cleaning state to be achieved after executing a specific cleaning procedure defined by the cleaning model, - An actual cleaning model that is actually achieved after executing a specific cleaning operation defined by the cleaning model, and the actual cleaning model is measured by a corresponding sensor, - A cleaning deviation (Reinigungsabweichung) determined by comparing the predicted cleaning model with the actual cleaning model, is used, a) Steps of determining the cleaning model and the predicted cleaning model, b) Steps of executing a cleaning process defined by the cleaning model, c) Steps of determining the actual cleaning model, d) deriving a deviation of the cleaning from the actual cleaning model and the predicted cleaning model; e) using the actual cleaning model as a new cleaning model, determining the predicted cleaning model based on the new cleaning model, and adjusting a cleaning rule based on the deviation of the cleaning; f) repeating steps b) to e) until a predetermined end criterion is reached; are executed.

[0016] Many users brush their teeth regularly. However, only a few users consciously brush their teeth or concentrate on the brushing process. Users often look at their smartphones, watch TV, or do minor tasks while brushing their teeth. Some even brush their teeth while taking a shower. When users are not focused on brushing, it becomes relatively difficult to brush their teeth as recommended by dentists. This recommendation includes, for example, thoroughly brushing the necks of molars and the insides of lower incisors. Users usually do not pay attention to the amount of dental plaque and perform their daily brushing actions in the same way every time. Variations in brushing methods are mostly caused by external factors such as stress, fatigue, or distraction. For example, users who are pressed for time have less thorough tooth cleaning than those who are fully focused on brushing. As a result, teeth are often not cleaned sufficiently, increasing the risk of tooth decay and other dental diseases.

[0017] An advantage of the present invention is that the state of a user's dental plaque is determined independently of the user, and based on the state of the dental plaque, cleaning corresponding to the state of the dental plaque is performed. Thereby, the user does not need to concentrate on the actual cleaning process and can receive thorough tooth cleaning.

[0018] The position of each individual tooth of the user, the user's actions during the cleaning process, the frequency of the cleaning process, and the diet all affect the quality of the cleaning process by the cleaning device. Recording all of these parameters and taking them into account for cleaning process instructions is very time-consuming or even impossible. For example, if the user is a smoker, the time of smoking must be recorded to consider the stain from tobacco. As described above, depending on the position of specific teeth, the success rate of cleaning by the preset cleaning device may be minimized.

[0019] To solve these problems, as described above, the success of the cleaning process is periodically checked in the control loop and compared with the expected cleaning success. That is, each time a new cleaning model is created, the cleaning model is continuously adapted to the actual situation and the user's actions. As a result, at the start of the control loop, the cleaning models may be very similar for all users, but as the control loop progresses, that is, as the number of executed cycles increases, the user's cleaning model becomes more individualized compared to the cleaning models of other users.

[0020] The cleaning device can be embodied such that the U-shaped portion of the cleaning device is inserted into the user's oral cavity. The U-shaped portion of the cleaning device has a nozzle arrangement and is disposed over the teeth. The nozzles are disposed above each tooth surface. The nozzles inject a cleaning fluid onto the teeth to remove dental plaque. The cleaning instructions include parameters for operating the cleaning device, such as the cleaning duration, the pressure, intensity, and / or direction of fluid injection.

[0021] The cleaning device can also be embodied with an automatic or semi-automatic brushing device instead of or in combination with the nozzle arrangement. The brushing device can also be disposed on the U-shaped portion of the cleaning device disposed above the teeth. The brush can be actuated by vibration, rotation, or other translational and / or rotational movements to clean the teeth.

[0022] In principle, any cleaning device can be used in this method, and the cleaning instructions need to be adjusted accordingly. For example, in the case of an electric toothbrush, the vibration speed and / or vibration amplitude can be determined according to the cleaning instructions.

[0023] It is also conceivable to use a simple manual toothbrush. In that case, the cleaning instructions include instructions for using the manual toothbrush, and this use is, for example, displayed to the user as a corresponding notification on a smartphone such as "Please clean the lower back molars more intensively!" or "Please polish the upper left canine tooth for 10 seconds!".

[0024] The term "tooth" mainly refers to the dentition of natural teeth, but the cleaning device also cleans artificial teeth or artificial tooth surfaces that exist as dentures instead of natural teeth or tooth surfaces. Teeth including artificial teeth are in the user's oral cavity.

[0025] Here and hereinafter, it is assumed that there are 32 teeth. The procedures described here are also effective when the number of teeth is different. There may be cases where teeth are missing (especially wisdom teeth are absent), or there may be cases where there are too many teeth in cases of hyperdontia.

[0026] The model is a data model that describes data processed in relation to tooth cleaning and also defines the relationships between the data. The tooth model representing the user's tooth structure assigns the user's teeth to corresponding data. The tooth model defines the spatial arrangement of the teeth. In the simplest model, this can be numbers from 1 to 32. Preferably, the FDI dental notation system is selected.

[0027] The cleaning model is based on the tooth model and uses the tooth model to indicate the tartar state of the teeth.

[0028] This can be done, for example, by associating tartar with specific teeth and defining the percentage of the surface area of the tooth surface covered with biofilm or tartar.

[0029] However, it is also conceivable that dental plaque is shown in the form of a dental plaque map of teeth, the dental plaque map represents the surface of the assigned teeth, and this map indicates where on the surface of the teeth biofilm or dental plaque is present.

[0030] The cleaning instruction for the cleaning process is determined based on a cleaning model in a predetermined method. For example, if 75% of a tooth is covered with biofilm, this tooth can be assigned to be cleaned at a specific intensity for a specific time.

[0031] The predicted cleaning model is preferably calculated before the cleaning process, but can also be calculated independently of the cleaning process. The predicted cleaning model can be output to the user, but it is particularly important to check to what extent the prediction and the actual use match compared with the actual cleaning model.

[0032] Such a deviation may be caused, for example, by incorrect use by the user.

[0033] The deviation in cleaning can also occur due to tooth displacement that deviates from the standard. In order to consider such tooth displacement during cleaning, the control loop is executed as described above.

[0034] For example, if a tooth is slightly concave compared to adjacent teeth, the cleaning element cannot easily reach the corresponding tooth surface. In this case, even though the dental plaque on the affected tooth is not thicker than the dental plaque on the surrounding teeth, it is necessary to correspondingly increase the cleaning time or set a stronger cleaning intensity for the cleaning element of the affected tooth.

[0035] Normally, since there are several cleaning processes until a new cleaning model is determined, individual deviations accumulate in each cleaning process, and the deviation in cleaning after the first cleaning process is negligibly small, but after 14 cleaning processes, it has a great impact on the quality of cleaning.

[0036] By selecting one or more specific cleaning processes, a certain cleaning effect can be expected. By calculating the predicted cleaning model and comparing it with the actual cleaning model, the efficiency of one or more cleaning processes can be evaluated. Thereby, it can be determined whether the selection of one or more cleaning processes has been successful. Since the cleaning instruction is adjusted based on the deviation of cleaning between the actual cleaning model and the predicted cleaning model, the efficiency of the one or more cleaning processes implemented is considered in future cleaning processes and an optimal selection is made. Such an efficiency test for individual cleaning processes is not known in the prior art described at the beginning.

[0037] Preferably, the detection device is inserted into the oral cavity to detect the posture of the teeth, the position of the teeth, and / or the generation of dental plaque such as biofilm.

[0038] Thereby, based on the data measured by the detection device, a tooth model and / or a cleaning model can be generated.

[0039] In various embodiments, the adjustment of the cleaning instruction through several cleaning deviations follows the following rules: - Areas of the teeth where it is detected that the cleaning is insufficient are cleaned more powerfully, for example, with more pressure or for a longer time. - The direction of the nozzles of the cleaning device is adjusted so that areas of the teeth where it is detected that the cleaning is insufficient are targeted by the cleaning jets, and / or - When there is excessive dental plaque, the cleaning fluid is adjusted to use a cleaning fluid containing more particles, and / or - When inflammation is detected, the cleaning fluid is adjusted to contain an anti-inflammatory agent. It is executed according to one of the above.

[0040] Such adjustment increases the success rate of the cleaning process without the user having to actively set it.

[0041] Preferably, in the tendency module, a cleaning tendency is generated from a plurality of cleaning deviations, and the user receives an instruction according to the cleaning tendency.

[0042] Furthermore, in this method, the cleaning model is created by a setting module, the predicted cleaning model is created by an analysis module, the actual cleaning model is created by an evaluation module, the cleaning deviation is created by a feedback module, and these modules and the tendency module can be embodied to constitute respective software modules that can be executed on a computing system having a processor and a memory.

[0043] Individual models are partly composed of different modules, and since these individual modules interact with each other, these modules can be arranged arbitrarily. For example, the modules can be implemented on a common computing system or on a plurality of individual computing systems, in which case the models are exchanged between the modules.

[0044] In some embodiments, the setting module, the evaluation module, the analysis module, the feedback module, and the tendency module can each be executed on at least one device among the detection device, the cleaning device, a base station, a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, and / or a central server.

[0045] The device on which at least one module is executed has a computing system.

[0046] Such a computing system can be embodied, for example, as a microprocessor, a minicomputer or a microcomputer, a central server, a mobile computing unit (smartphone, laptop), or a PC.

[0047] According to a modification example, the frequency of the tooth cleaning process is considered.

[0048] For example, it is necessary to determine whether the user cleans their teeth with the cleaning device only once a week or three times a day with the cleaning device. The user may also need to consider whether they clean their teeth with other cleaning tools, such as a conventional toothbrush, during cleaning with the cleaning device.

[0049] However, in the case of a product liability claim, the frequency of use can also be used to prove the lack of regularity of use.

[0050] Preferably, the number of cleaning processes is considered when generating the predicted cleaning model in order to compare it with the actual cleaning model.

[0051] Alternatively, a predicted cleaning model is generated for each cleaning process.

[0052] It is necessary to distinguish whether the user creates a new cleaning model only once every two weeks and cleans their teeth twice a day, or generates a cleaning model once a day. The lower the frequency of generating the cleaning model, the greater the deviation from cleaning.

[0053] A cleaning system for cleaning teeth by removing dental plaque includes a cleaning device and a detection device, and is specifically embodied to execute the above-described method.

[0054] Preferably, the detection device has a detection capsule containing a detection fluid, and the cleaning device contains a cleaning fluid.

[0055] The detection fluid includes a substance that adheres particularly well to biofilms and fluoresces at a second wavelength when irradiated at a specific wavelength.

[0056] The cleaning fluid includes particles capable of removing biofilms.

[0057] Preferably, there are different cleaning capsules, each having a different cleaning fluid (e.g., particles and / or anti-inflammatory agents at different concentrations).

[0058] The selection of a particular cleaning capsule can be time-controlled, for example, by using a type 1 (intensive cleaning) cleaning capsule for the first 10 applications and a type 2 (standard) cleaning capsule for the next applications.

[0059] The selection of the cleaning capsule can also be controlled by corresponding cleaning instructions. Depending on the requirements, a particular cleaning fluid requires a particular cleaning capsule.

[0060] Alternatively, the cleaning fluid and / or the detection fluid can be manually placed in the oral cavity. For example, a predetermined amount of the cleaning fluid and / or the detection fluid is taken into the oral cavity by the user without swallowing and spread in the oral cavity by mouth movements.

[0061] According to a modification example, the detection capsule and / or the cleaning capsule have a marker, and the marker contains one or more pieces of information.

[0062] This data can preferably be added later, for example, in the distribution path or by the user himself.

[0063] The marker contains the following information: - Particle content (for example, for selecting a cleaning program), - Flavor (the display color is adjusted according to the flavor, for example, red for cherry, blue for peppermint, etc.), - Liquid composition (for example, indicating that the device needs to be shaken before use in the case of a composition causing precipitation), - Expiration date, - Cleaning fluid and / or detection fluid (for example, to prevent them from mixing), - Whether a disinfectant is included, - Serial number (for example, to prevent reuse of already used capsules or to detect refilled capsules. When used multiple times or to detect counterfeits, compatibility such as whether the capsule fits the device can also be confirmed), - Supplier and distribution route of the capsule (traceable from manufacturing through the distribution route to the customer), - Lead time from sale to use, - Time at the cooling / reheating / storage station (enabling tracking of the applied reheating time), - Information about the purchaser (whether the purchaser is the user or someone else is using the device), - User name, for example, for a personal greeting, - User's language, - Home address including the user's country and time zone, - User's email address, - User's phone number, - Preferences for the background (image, color gradient) of the display, - User ability in beginner / intermediate / advanced levels (for ease of use and advanced user settings), - Calibration data of gestures from previous devices, is included.

[0064] In some embodiments, the marker is an RFID tag, particularly an NFC tag.

[0065] As another option, the marker may have a barcode, QR code, color code, or other printed marker.

[0066] Preferably, the detection device and / or the cleaning device also have a marker, particularly an NFC tag, as described above.

[0067] This marker is for the following information: - User name, for example, for a personal greeting, - The language of the user, - The home address including the user's country and time zone, - The user's email address, - The user's phone number, - Preferences for the background (image, color gradient) of the display, - The user's ability at beginner / intermediate / advanced levels (for ease of use and advanced user settings options), and / or - Calibration data for gestures from a previous device, may include one or more of the following.

[0068] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0069]

Figure 1

Figure 2a

Figure 2b

Figure 3

Figure 4

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0070] The cleaning system 1 has a cleaning device 2, a detection device 3, a base station 4, an interface 5 for a data terminal 5 such as a smartphone 5, and a central server 6, each having a computing system 7. Each computing system 7 is composed of a processor and a memory in sequence.

[0071] Such a detection device 3 is described in detail, for example, in the unpublished German patent application No. 10 2022 102 045.2, and the entire patent application is incorporated herein by reference. The detection device 3 is designed to generate a cleaning model 14.

[0072] In principle, the detection device 3 is designed such that the U-shaped part of the detection device 3 is inserted into the user's oral cavity. The U-shaped part of the detection device 3 has a sensor array.

[0073] The U-shaped part is placed on the teeth so that all tooth surfaces are detected by the sensors.

[0074] To better visualize the biofilm, a detection fluid is placed in the oral cavity before the detection process. The detection fluid interacts with the biofilm and causes the biofilm to emit light at different predetermined wavelengths under the influence of light of a predetermined wavelength.

[0075] The detection fluid is placed in a detection capsule that can be inserted into the detection device 3. Then, the detection device takes out the detection fluid and delivers it to the teeth.

[0076] For this purpose, the detection device 3 is composed of a handpiece, and this handpiece may have a display on the side facing away from the user. On the side facing the user, there is a mouthpiece that guides the sensor unit inserted into the oral cavity onto the teeth.

[0077] The mouthpiece has at least one camera unit equipped with a camera.

[0078] The dimensions of only the camera unit are, for example, 1x1x2.7 mm, and the diameter of the entire sensor unit including the protective glass, PCB (printed circuit board), filter, and camera holder is 8 mm, and the height is 3.8 mm. With these dimensions, the unit can be easily inserted into the oral cavity.

[0079] To improve the signal-to-noise ratio, it is preferable to directly place an optical long-pass filter in front of the camera. This filter ideally has a cut-off wavelength of about 510 nm and cuts signals below this value. Furthermore, to limit the wavelength spectrum of the LED, a band-pass filter or a short-pass filter can be placed in front of the LED illuminating the area to be detected.

[0080] The cleaning device 2 is described in detail in the unpublished German patent application No. 10 2020 134 154.7, and the entire content of this patent application is incorporated by reference.

[0081] In principle, the cleaning device 2 is designed such that the U-shaped part of the cleaning device 2 is inserted into the user's oral cavity. The U-shaped part of the cleaning device 2 has a nozzle arrangement and is placed on the teeth. The nozzles are arranged on the surface of each tooth.

[0082] The nozzles of the nozzle arrangement feed the cleaning fluid to the teeth so that the dental biofilm is removed.

[0083] In this exemplary embodiment, the cleaning fluid is a cleaning liquid and may contain particles to accelerate the removal process.

[0084] The cleaning fluid is accommodated in a cleaning capsule that can be inserted into the cleaning device. Then, the cleaning device 2 takes out the cleaning fluid and feeds it to the teeth.

[0085] To prevent the cleaning fluid from entering the oral cavity in a disorderly manner, a sealing element in the shape of a sealing lip is provided on the nozzle arrangement, i.e., on the nozzle row. The sealing lip seals the area around the nozzle arrangement so as to create a fluid cushion like an air cushion, but is different in that the fluid does not leak out.

[0086] Thus, in this simplified embodiment (Figs. 2a and 2b), a nozzle housing having a nozzle opening is shown very schematically, and the nozzle housing is shown here in a rectangular cross-section by a simplified method.

[0087] The corresponding sealing element is provided on the outer surface of the nozzle housing on the outlet side facing the surface to be cleaned, in the region of the outer edge. The sealing element can also be embodied as a single circumferential sealing element and, since it has rubber elasticity, it can adapt to the shape of the surface to be cleaned and ensure a specific internal pressure of the fluid in the sealed space.

[0088] In particular, the sealing element can be embodied as a circumferential sealing element or a circumferential sealing lip extending in a direction away from the outlet-side surface of the nozzle housing. In this case, the sealing element or the sealing lip can be embodied to have a certain rigidity so that the basic shape of the sealed space is formed and held.

[0089] Furthermore, the sealing element or the sealing lip can be made hollow, for example, so that it can be inflated with a cleaning fluid, whereby the sealing element realizes the shape it should have during operation only after being inflated with, for example, a cleaning fluid or another fluid supplied separately.

[0090] In one simple embodiment, particularly for cleaning the molar region, the nozzle housing has, for example, five nozzle openings arranged vertically side by side (on the side of the jaw) or facing the side surfaces of the teeth, and four nozzle openings arranged adjacent to each other at the base facing the crowns of the teeth, and corresponding sealing elements for sealing the corresponding sealed spaces.

[0091] In the incisor region, in such an embodiment, not only the shape of the sealing element is different, but also the angles at which the nozzle housing and the base nozzle housing are arranged can be different in order to adapt to the incisor region. If the nozzle openings of the nozzle housings arranged opposite to each other ensure a sufficient flow rate to the incisors, it is also possible to design the base nozzle housing without providing nozzles in the incisor region.

[0092] In order not to fill the sealed space with fluid without discharging the fluid again in a controlled manner, in one embodiment, reverse suction according to the present invention is provided. In the simplest case, the fluid is discharged from the nozzle or nozzle opening into the sealed space and then sucked back from the nozzle opening. In order not to require the sealed space to be filled only with one or more nozzles before the actual cleaning operation starts, an inlet can be provided for each of one or more nozzles or all nozzles.

[0093] Since the cleaning fluid may particularly contain particles, the cleaning performance is also determined by the particles and the particle flow. Since the particles are denser than the surrounding fluid, when the fluid hits the surface, the fluid moves tangentially away from the surface, but the particles hit the surface and damage the biofilm or dental plaque, contributing to its removal.

[0094] The cleaning capsule and the detection capsule each have an NFC tag containing some information. The NFC tag can be read by individual devices. The stored information includes, in particular: - The type of fluid contained, - The flavor of the fluid, - The expiration date, and - The serial number, is included.

[0095] The computer system 7 of each device stores various executable software modules. The detection device 3 is provided with a setting module 8, an evaluation module 9, and an analysis module 10. The smartphone 5 is provided with a feedback module 11, and the central server 6 is provided with a trend module 12.

[0096] Each module is embodied so as to be able to communicate with each other via wireless communication such as WLAN, Bluetooth, 433 MHz band, Zigbee, Z-Wave.

[0097] In this exemplary embodiment, the cleaning model 14 is configured by the setting module 8, the predicted cleaning model 15 is configured by the analysis module 10, the actual cleaning model 16 is configured by the evaluation module 9, the cleaning deviation 17 is configured by the feedback module 11, and the cleaning trend 18 is configured by the trend module 12.

[0098] In principle, each module can also be executed on other devices. For example, it is conceivable that the base station 4 executes the feedback module 11 instead of the smartphone 5. Further, the base station 4 can be embodied so as to be able to execute some modules or all modules. The detection device 3 and the cleaning device 2 transmit and receive data accordingly as appropriate.

[0099] The tooth model 13 used here corresponds to the dental notation system of the FDI (Federation Dentaire Internationale). In this system, the teeth are divided into four quadrants. Quadrant 1 is the right upper jaw, quadrant 2 is the left upper jaw, quadrant 3 is the left lower jaw, and quadrant 4 is the right lower jaw. Each quadrant indicates the tens digit of the tooth number in the tooth model 13. For example, the teeth in quadrant 1 are teeth numbered 11 - 18, and the teeth in quadrant 4 are teeth numbered 41 - 48. The units digit is determined by the position of the tooth in each quadrant. The first two incisors are numbered 1 and 2, the canine tooth is numbered 3, the first and second premolars are numbered 4 and 5, the first and second molars are numbered 6 and 7, and the wisdom tooth is numbered 8. For example, the canine tooth in the left upper jaw is numbered 23.

[0100] In this exemplary embodiment, the cleaning model 14 is added to the tooth model 13 having a plaque value representing the plaque coverage rate of the teeth as a percentage of each tooth with respect to the total surface area. For example, if half of the tooth surface area is covered with biofilm, the plaque value is 50%. The cleaning model 14 has such a percentage value for each entry of each tooth from the tooth model 13. For example, if the wisdom tooth in the right lower jaw is 32% covered with biofilm, the entry is "48: 32%".

[0101] This plaque value is preferably determined for each tooth by the detection device 3 and assigned to the cleaning model 14. In principle, it is also possible to determine plaque values for a plurality of adjacent teeth.

[0102] Also, in order to consider the inner, outer, and optionally the occlusal surfaces of the teeth, it is conceivable to determine a plurality of plaque values for one tooth.

[0103] The cleaning device 2 equipped with the computing system 7a receives the user's cleaning model 14 and generates a cleaning instruction based on this cleaning model 14.

[0104] This cleaning instruction is an instruction regarding the time and intensity of the nozzle acting on the teeth. Basically, the more severe the dental plaque, as determined by the dental plaque value, the longer and stronger the tooth cleaning will be, which is achieved by increasing the cleaning duration and / or the pump capacity. The relationship between the cleaning time and / or the pump capacity and the dental plaque value can be linear, exponential, or quadratic.

[0105] The cleaning instructions for each dental plaque value can be stored in a database or a table, or can also be provided by a function.

[0106] For example, if the entry of cleaning model 14 is "14:73%", this means that the right upper first premolar is covered with 73% biofilm. The cleaning device 2 compares this with the stored table and determines that when the right upper first premolar is covered with 70 - 80% biofilm, the corresponding nozzle operates at 90% of the maximum intensity for 1 - 2 seconds.

[0107] Then, the user's teeth are cleaned in one cleaning process according to all the cleaning instructions.

[0108] Based on the cleaning instructions sent by the cleaning device 2, the detection device 3 executed by the analysis module 10 calculates a predicted cleaning model 15 that has the same format as the cleaning model 14 in this exemplary embodiment. That is, for one tooth with the entry "14:73%" in the cleaning model 14, the corresponding predicted cleaning model 15 will be "14:3%". That is, the detection device calculates that the dental plaque coverage rate decreases from 73% to 3%.

[0109] Also, the detection device 3 determines the actual cleaning model 16 after the cleaning process. The actual cleaning model 16 is determined in the same way as the cleaning model 14. Also, the data structure of the cleaning model 16 is the same as that of the cleaning model 14. The smartphone 5 having the computing system 7b on which the feedback module 11 is executed receives the predicted cleaning model 15 and the actual cleaning model 16 from the detection device 3, compares them, and determines the cleaning deviation 17. For example, if the actual cleaning model 16 is determined such that the entry for the tooth is "14:13%", since the difference between the predicted value and the target value for tooth 14 is 10%, the cleaning dissociation 17 becomes "14:10%".

[0110] The actual cleaning model 16 and the cleaning model 14 are transmitted from the detection device 3 to the central server 6, which is executed by the computing system 7c on which the trend module 12 is executed, and as a result, the cleaning trend 18 is determined. The cleaning trend 18 is transmitted from the central server 6 to the smartphone 5, and for example, when the cleaning trend indicates that the user is not using the cleaning device 2 correctly, potential errors can be notified to the user. The cleaning trend 18 can also adjust the cleaning instruction of the cleaning device 2.

[0111] The procedure for tooth surface cleaning by the tooth surface cleaning device is shown below (see Figure 4).

[0112] The procedure starts from step S1.

[0113] In the next step (S2), the cleaning model 14 and the predicted cleaning model 15 are determined.

[0114] For this purpose, the detection device 3 is inserted into the user's oral cavity, and the detection device 3 detects the amount of dental plaque adhering to the user's individual teeth.

[0115] The setting module 8 of the detection device 3 generates the cleaning model 14 by adding a predetermined tooth model 13 to the detection result.

[0116] How the tooth model 13 and the cleaning model 14 look is as detailed above.

[0117] The cleaning model 14 is sent to the cleaning device 2. The cleaning device 2 generates a cleaning instruction using the cleaning model 14 and sends the cleaning instruction back to the detection device 3.

[0118] The detection device 3 generates an expected cleaning model 15 based on the cleaning model 14 and the cleaning instruction.

[0119] In the simplest case, it is possible to read from a stored table what the expected cleaning model 15 will be for the cleaning model 14 given a predetermined cleaning instruction. As described above, an entry in the cleaning model 14 is, for example, "14:73%". This means that the anterior premolars of the upper right jaw are covered with 73% biofilm. The cleaning device 2 compares this with the stored table and determines that when the anterior premolars of the upper right jaw are covered with 70 - 80% biofilm, the corresponding nozzles need to be operated at 90% of the maximum intensity for 1.5 seconds.

[0120] Next, the cleaning process is executed (step S3).

[0121] For this purpose, the cleaning device 2 is inserted into the user's oral cavity, and the nozzles clean the teeth according to the cleaning instruction.

[0122] Subsequently, step S4 of determining the actual cleaning model 16 is performed.

[0123] Similar to the cleaning model 14, the actual cleaning model 16 is determined by the detection device 3. The actual cleaning model 16 can be determined in exactly the same way as the cleaning model 14. Also, the data structure of the cleaning model 16 is the same as that of the cleaning model 14.

[0124] In the next step (S5), the cleaning deviation 17 is derived. For this purpose, the detection device 3 transmits the predicted cleaning model 15 and the actual cleaning model 16 to the feedback module 11 of the smartphone 5.

[0125] The feedback module 11 checks how different the actual cleaning model 16 is from the predicted cleaning model 15. In the example described above for the actual cleaning model 16 and the predicted cleaning model 15, the difference is 10% (see above).

[0126] This 10% corresponds to the cleaning deviation value for the corresponding tooth. The cleaning deviation 17 has the same data structure as the cleaning model 14, the predicted cleaning model 15, and the actual cleaning model 16. However, the percentage in this case indicates the difference between the predicted cleaning model 15 and the actual cleaning model 16.

[0127] Also, when the cleaning is better than predicted, the cleaning deviation value can be negative.

[0128] Next, in step S6, the actual cleaning model 16 is used as the new cleaning model 14, a new predicted cleaning model 15 is determined (equivalent to step S2), and the cleaning instruction is adjusted.

[0129] However, the cleaning instruction is preferably adjusted only when the cleaning deviation 17 exceeds a predetermined threshold value. This can be, for example, 5%.

[0130] Also, as a criterion for adjusting the cleaning instruction, it is also conceivable to select only the amount of cleaning deviation 17 that exceeds a predetermined threshold value. For example, when the tooth cleaning is better than calculated, the cleaning deviation 17 can also be negative. Even in that case, it makes sense to adjust the cleaning instruction because it is possible to save time and apply less pressure to the teeth and gums via the nozzle, and thus it may be possible to protect the user's gums.

[0131] From the feedback module 11 of the smartphone 5, corresponding instructions are sent to the cleaning device 2, and the cleaning instructions can be adjusted.

[0132] The new cleaning model 14 is sent to the detection device 3, and the detection device 3 receives the corrected cleaning instructions from the cleaning device 2.

[0133] In the next step S7, it is checked whether there is an end condition.

[0134] The end condition exists, for example, when the user discards the cleaning system 1 or when it has not been used for a predetermined period such as one year. Also, when the user of the cleaning system changes, for example, when the device is resold, such an end condition may be considered to exist.

[0135] If there is no stop condition, the procedure is repeated and starts from step S2.

[0136] If there is a stop condition, the procedure ends at step S8.

[0137] Another option is to determine the cleaning trend 18 in the trend module 12 on the central server 6. In this case, each cleaning model 14 and each actual cleaning model 16 are sent from the detection device 3 to the central server 6. The trend module 12 of the central server 6 determines the cleaning trend 18 from the individual cleaning models 14 and the actual cleaning models 16 by checking the degree of cleaning of each tooth over time.

[0138] In normal use, the overall cleaning success rate compared to the state before the first use increases over time with the regular use of the cleaning device 2. That is, it can be assumed that the biofilm is gradually removed from the user's teeth and the teeth become cleaner.

[0139] However, it is possible that individual teeth or the dentition, or all of the user's teeth, may not become cleaner, or may even become more covered with dental plaque. This strongly indicates that the user is using the cleaning device 2 incorrectly. For example, it is possible that the user is not placing the cleaning device 2 completely on the teeth.

[0140] If the cleaning trend 18 does not have the desired curve, this may also indicate that there is a defect in the cleaning device 2 and / or that individual components need to be replaced because defects have occurred or wear has taken place after intensive use.

[0141] Next, the central server 6 sends a corresponding notification to the smartphone 5 to notify the user. In this case, the user is prompted to use the cleaning device 2 correctly according to the instructions or, if necessary, to replace the individual elements.

[0142] The cleaning trend 18 can also provide information regarding the method of adjusting the cleaning instructions. In this case, it is not necessarily the case that the user is notified from the smartphone 5. Instead, the central server 6 sends the corresponding instructions to the smartphone 5, and the smartphone 5 forwards it to the cleaning device 2 to adjust the cleaning instructions.

[0143] Preferably, in the step before generating the cleaning model 14 and / or the actual cleaning model 16, the NFC tag of the detection capsule is read by the detection device 3, and the information stored therein is stored as the metadata of the corresponding model.

[0144] Also, it is beneficial if the NFC tag of the cleaning capsule is read by the cleaning device 2 before the cleaning process and transmitted to the detection device 3. Alternatively, the data can be sent to the smartphone 5 for further processing.

[0145] As another option, the cleaning device 2 and / or the detection device 3 may have sensors that enable conclusions to be drawn about the state of these devices. For example, the sensor may be an acceleration sensor that measures the acceleration value due to the vibration of the device and analyzes its change over time. The measured data is sent to the central server 6 where it is analyzed. In the case of an acceleration sensor, for example, it can be determined that the frequency spectrum and / or amplitude of the acceleration is changing. The central server 6 can send a corresponding message to the smartphone 15 to inform the user of the necessary procedures.

[0146] The acceleration sensor can also be used to detect whether the device has suddenly stopped measuring the acceleration due to gravity and has entered a free-fall state. Based on the length of this phase, the falling height can be determined, and an improper warranty claim can be rejected, or a message indicating that the device needs to be repaired can be sent to the user.

[0147] In another embodiment, the images taken by the detection device 3 are analyzed using a self-learning system.

[0148] The contrast of the biofilm becomes very high due to the detection fluid used and the selected wavelength filter. The biofilm has a high signal-to-noise ratio, which means it is difficult to detect other objects such as the tooth surface. It is difficult to distinguish the areas not covered by the biofilm from each other. The main difficulty here is to distinguish the teeth from the surrounding tissues such as the gums, lips, and other characteristic parts in the mouth.

[0149] By using pattern recognition with artificial intelligence, slight differences in brightness can be analyzed to distinguish between teeth and non-tooth objects.

[0150] Preferably, the trained pattern recognition is used here.

[0151] For this purpose, the captured image is manually analyzed by manually marking the area of the image assigned to the tooth. This analysis is preferably input into a self-learning system, including a neural network, for learning, along with other information such as the position of the camera and / or the position of the tooth.

[0152] When the self-learning system is supplied with sufficient images with corresponding additional data and markings for learning, the system can independently mark new images of the tooth so that the area of the tooth can be distinguished from the area outside the tooth.

[0153] According to a modification example, one or more devices of the cleaning system can be unlocked by a biometric procedure.

Explanation of Signs

[0154] 1 Cleaning system 2 Cleaning device 3 Detection device 4 Base station 5 Smartphone 6 Central server 7 Computing system 8 Setting module 9 Evaluation module 10 Analysis module 11 Feedback module 12 Trend module 13 Tooth model 14 Cleaning model 15 Predicted cleaning model 16 Actual cleaning model 17 Deviation of cleaning 18 Cleaning trend

Claims

1. A method of cleaning teeth using a dental cleaning device for removing plaque, the following model: - A tooth model representing the structure of the user's teeth. - A cleaning model for each of the aforementioned users, which represents a model of the tooth having a certain plaque state, and the cleaning model is used as the basis for determining cleaning instructions for the cleaning process of a particular tooth, - Predicted cleaning model, which shows a model of a tooth having a predicted cleaning state that should be achieved after performing a specific cleaning procedure defined by the cleaning model, - An actual cleaning model that is actually realized after performing a specific cleaning operation defined by the cleaning model, wherein the actual cleaning model is measured by a corresponding sensor, - Deviation from cleaning determined by comparing the predicted cleaning model with the actual cleaning model, Use the following steps: a) A step of determining the cleaning model and the predicted cleaning model, b) A step of performing a cleaning process defined by the cleaning model, c) The step of determining the actual cleaning model, d) A step of deriving the deviation from the cleaning from the actual cleaning model and the predicted cleaning model, e) Using the actual cleaning model as a new cleaning model, determining a predicted cleaning model based on the new cleaning model, and adjusting the cleaning rules based on the deviations from the cleaning; f) Repeat steps b) to e) until a predetermined termination criterion is reached. The method by which the control loop is executed, including the following.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the detection device is inserted into the oral cavity to detect the posture of the teeth, the position of the teeth, and / or the presence of plaque.

3. Adjustments to the aforementioned cleaning instructions through several cleaning deviations are governed by the following rules: - Areas of teeth where insufficient cleaning is detected will be cleaned more vigorously. - The direction of the nozzle of the tooth cleaning device is adjusted so that areas of the teeth where insufficient cleaning is detected are more targeted by the cleaning jet, and / or, - If there is an excess of plaque, the cleaning fluid is adjusted to use a cleaning fluid containing more particles, and / or - If inflammation is detected, the cleaning fluid is adjusted to contain an anti-inflammatory agent. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it is carried out according to one of the following.

4. The method according to claim 2, wherein a cleaning trend (CT) is generated from a plurality of cleaning deviations (CD) in a trend module, and the user receives instructions according to the cleaning trend.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that the cleaning model is created by a configuration module, the predicted cleaning model is created by an analysis module, the actual cleaning model is created by an evaluation module, the cleaning deviation is created by a feedback module, and these modules and the trend module constitute software modules that can be executed on at least one computing system having a processor and memory.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the setting module, the evaluation module, the analysis module, the feedback module, and the trend module can each be run on at least one of the following devices: the detection device, the cleaning device, the base station, the mobile terminal, and / or the central server.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that the setting module is executed on the detection device, the evaluation module is executed on the detection device, the analysis module is executed on the detection device, the feedback module is executed on the mobile terminal, and the trend module is executed on the central server.

8. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the frequency of the teeth cleaning process is taken into consideration.

9. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the number of cleaning processes is taken into consideration when generating the predicted cleaning model for comparison with the actual cleaning model.

10. A cleaning system for cleaning teeth by removing plaque, comprising a cleaning device and a detection device, and embodied to perform the method according to claim 1 or 2.

11. The cleaning system according to claim 10, characterized in that the detection device has a detection capsule containing a detection fluid, and the cleaning device has a cleaning capsule containing a cleaning fluid.

12. The cleaning system according to claim 11, characterized in that the detection capsule and / or the cleaning capsule has a marker, and the marker contains one or more pieces of information.

13. The cleaning system according to claim 12, characterized in that the marker is an RFID tag.

Images