Application nozzle for applying a dental active substance into a patient's oral cavity, and active substance application device having such an application nozzle

Abstract

According to the present invention, an application nozzle (16, 16') for discharging a dental active substance into a patient's oral cavity extends flat in the longitudinal direction from an attachment region (36) to a free treating end (38) and tapers in cross section in the direction towards the treating end (38), and at least two media channels (34) extending independently of one another from the attachment region (36) to the free treating end (38) are integrated into the nozzle body (22).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an application nozzle for applying a dental active substance into a patient's oral cavity. The present invention further relates to an active substance application device comprising such an application nozzle. [Background technology]

[0002] In various situations during dental treatment or during pre- or post-treatment procedures, it is necessary to accurately and precisely place dental agents, such as rinsing agents, disinfectants, medications, or the like, into a patient's mouth. This may involve dental treatment or therapeutic treatment, for example, as part of pre-treatment or aftercare, such as as part of periodontal treatment. It is generally desirable to provide a simple applicator that facilitates accurate application of a product into a patient's mouth. In view of this fact, preventive or therapeutic treatment should also be possible in addition to therapeutic treatment. Furthermore, the component intended for the actual application into the patient's mouth, i.e., the so-called applicator nozzle, should be simple and inexpensive to manufacture, and thus suitable for mass production. Furthermore, such an application system should be easy to use and highly reliable for users without medical training, especially in the context of self-treatment, for example, as simple as a toothbrush.

[0003] Furthermore, it is desirable to be able to create a particularly high rinsing effect, especially in affected areas such as dental pockets, in order to remove impurities such as food residues or pellicle or their excretions with a high efficiency and correspondingly keep the spread of bacteria or germs to a very low level, especially in the field of dental treatment or pre-treatment or aftercare. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] The present invention is therefore based on the task of providing an application nozzle for applying a dental active ingredient into a patient's oral cavity that takes these circumstances into account. Furthermore, an active substance application device that is particularly suitable for use by an individual is also described.

[0005] With regard to the application nozzle, this task is solved according to the invention by means of a nozzle body to which are integrated at least two medium channels which run independently of each other from the connection area to the treatment free end, which is considered to be independently inventive.

[0006] In one embodiment, which can be considered as independently inventive, the medium channels each open into an application opening on the outlet side. In another embodiment of the application nozzle, which can be considered as independently inventive, the above task is solved according to the invention by means of a nozzle body to which are integrated at least two medium channels which extend independently from one another from a connection region to a mixing point and converge at the mixing point, which mixing point is connected on the outlet side via another medium channel to the application opening provided at the treatment free end.

[0007] In particular, a mixing point and / or an additional media channel opening into the application opening is also integrated into the nozzle body.

[0008] Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject matter of the subclaims. Further and / or alternative advantageous embodiments of the invention, as well as further embodiments which may be regarded as independent inventions, will become apparent from the description of the figures.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, the application nozzle is therefore intended to provide two (or more) supply channels, which are kept separated from each other on the medium side, through which different active ingredients can be applied independently of each other without mixing in a common spatial area near the free treating end. The present invention is based on the idea that such a design allows not only the active ingredients themselves but also the reaction between two active ingredients to be used in a targeted manner at localized locations in the oral cavity, such as tooth pockets. This means that not only the active ingredients themselves but also the reaction process between the active ingredients and any reaction products released in this process can be used for therapeutic purposes and for a predetermined purpose.

[0010] For example, according to an aspect of the present invention considered to be independently inventive, active substances or active components are combined directly at the application site, where they react with each other to form a foam, which can then be used to expel and remove impurities, food residues, and the like. This concept is therefore suitable for use in targeted treatment and cleaning programs for teeth, where, for example, tooth pockets are also treated and cleaned. For example, according to an aspect of the present invention considered to be independently inventive, the active substances or active components can be, on the one hand, bicarbonate, preferably sodium bicarbonate or potassium bicarbonate, and, on the other hand, an acid, preferably a carboxylic acid (e.g., citric acid or lactic acid). The active substances or active components are then applied together, come into contact with each other at the application site, and react to form a foam (e.g., CO2 generation). This effect can be particularly beneficial, for example, for cleaning or rinsing purposes.

[0011] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, in order to be able to utilize the reaction effect between two or more active substances or active components particularly reliably and even precisely in a selected application area, such as a tooth pocket, the outlet openings or application openings assigned to the two media channels are advantageously arranged as close to each other as possible, so that the intended mixing of the components is reliably achieved in the spatial area selected by the user by positioning the treatment tip.Accordingly, in an advantageous embodiment, the application openings assigned to the two media channels are spaced apart from each other by at least 0.01 mm and at most 10 mm, preferably at least 0.1 mm and / or at most 2 mm, and in a particularly advantageous embodiment by at most 0.1 mm to 0.6 mm.

[0012] According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, which is considered inventive in its own right, two (or more) feed channels, spaced apart from one another on the medium side, are provided through the application nozzle, through which different active ingredients can be dispensed separately from one another without mixing into a common spatial area, i.e., a mixing point integrated into the nozzle body. This allows the active ingredients to be mixed under controlled and adjustable boundary conditions. This allows targeted use to be triggered by a mixture, such as a reaction between the active ingredients. Specifically, it may be possible to specifically trigger a reaction starting from a liquid active ingredient, accompanied by gas generation and a corresponding significant increase in pressure. For example, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the active ingredient may be, on the one hand, a bicarbonate, preferably potassium bicarbonate, sodium bicarbonate, or calcium bicarbonate, particularly preferably sodium bicarbonate, and, on the other hand, an acid / carboxylic acid (e.g., malic acid, citric acid, lactic acid, etc.), each of which is preferably in aqueous solution and at a concentration suitable for the intended handling. These active ingredients are then fed together to a mixing point, where they come into contact with one another and react to form foam (CO2 generation). As a result of this foam-generating reaction, very high pressures can be generated at the mixing point without significant external influence, resulting in the medium emerging from the mixing point as a directed jet from the application opening of the nozzle body at relatively high pressures. This effect can be particularly effectively utilized, for example, for cleaning or flushing purposes, where the generation of a directed jet under high pressure is particularly useful.

[0013] Within this aspect, the invention is therefore based on the idea that a directed pressurized medium jet should be provided to enable the desired, particularly high cleaning or flushing effect. This is made possible by the above-mentioned design, which allows for a particularly simple "standalone" design without the need for external intervention, thereby specifically triggering a reaction between two active substances at a localized location within the nozzle body. This means that not only the active ingredients themselves, but also the reaction process between the active ingredients and any reaction products released during this process, can be used for therapeutic purposes and purposes. In particular, by appropriately shaping the geometry of the chamber and / or the geometry of the medium channel, and possibly by providing additional components such as valve flaps, it is possible to specifically specify the pressure ratio or other parameters within the resulting medium jet according to one aspect of the invention.

[0014] Such a concept is therefore suitable for use in targeted treatment and cleaning programs for teeth, e.g. where tooth pockets are also treated and cleaned.

[0015] Advantageously, the mixing point is designed as a mixing chamber, towards which the medium channel extends and into which it opens. The mixing chamber can be specifically adapted to suit the desired reaction dynamics, in particular by choosing an appropriate geometry or volume, and advantageously the mixing chamber has a maximum dimension of 1000 mm 3 , preferably up to 500 mm 3 , particularly preferably up to 100 mm 3 It has a volume of

[0016] Considering the intended use of the application nozzle in the field of dental treatment or disease prevention, a design particularly suited to this purpose is advantageously selected to enable the manufacture and thus mass production of very large quantities of such application nozzles, thereby enabling a functionally reliable application concept to be realized even when using relatively inexpensive materials. Taking this into account, a foil material is preferably provided as the base material for the manufacture of the nozzle base body, which can be constructed by laminating or welding multiple foil layers onto each other to form a suitable composite body, which can also accommodate a storage container and / or a medium channel. Thus, in this advantageous embodiment, which is considered independently inventive, the base body or nozzle body, in which the medium channels, each opening on the outlet side into the application opening, are arranged, is formed by a layered body constructed from multiple films as a laminate or as a welded joint.

[0017] Media transport channels, which open at the outlet side into the mixing chamber of the composite body and serve to transport the active ingredient to be administered to the intended delivery point within this composite body, can be provided by recesses made in the respective films. The use of film-based techniques with subsequent lamination or welding allows particularly great flexibility in the design and insertion of such media channels, since the free or empty spaces required for them within the composite body can be created in a variety of ways and with a variety of geometric shapes by appropriate shaping within the respective films. Shaping is advantageously carried out by punching, laser processing, or embossing, as being particularly preferred, but can also alternatively be achieved by milling or etching (in the case of wet-chemically meltable film materials). The foil in which the cutout is made can preferably be attached to a carrier foil, which can then be provided as part of a foil stack or can be removed after the cutout is made. During embossing, or particularly during hot embossing, bi-extruded films may also be used, into which media channels are inserted using, for example, a hot stamp or a hot roller.

[0018] The medium channels and / or mixing chambers may in particular be produced by utilizing laminating, welding or embossing techniques, such as producing a central film with corresponding cutouts and then laminating or welding the central film together on the top and bottom sides with continuous films, thereby forming a composite body in the form of a film sandwich, or by laminating or welding two symmetrical embossings on top of each other.

[0019] Advantageously, polyamide is provided as the base material for the film or film segments, although alternatively, other suitable film materials, such as PVC, PP, or PE, or even combinations of different film materials, may also be considered suitable. According to one aspect of the present invention, the selection of the material is particularly related to the fact that the application nozzle should be suitable for use by skilled medical personnel, for example in connection with dental treatment, but also for use by unskilled individuals, particularly in the context of self-treatment. Particularly preferably, the film material is selected based on its material properties, in particular its stiffness or strength, so that the laminate or composite body formed from the film segments is not excessively stiff and thereby largely eliminates damage in the oral cavity.

[0020] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, which can be considered independently inventive, the nozzle body is constructed from at least three film layers, each with different material properties and adapted to meet a variety of functional specifications. Specifically, according to one aspect of the present invention, a central film layer disposed between two adjacent film layers can be formed from a film material that is harder than the two adjacent film layers, specifically from a film material having a different Shore hardness or elastic modulus. This means that the central film layer can define the contour or spatial shape of the nozzle body as a support structure, while the relatively soft outer film layers can be designed to be flexible and deformable, thereby significantly reducing the risk of injury, for example, when the oral mucosa comes into contact with the nozzle body. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, when the nozzle body, hose, and storage container are integrated, only the stiffer middle film is attached to the nozzle body.

[0021] According to one aspect of the present invention, the nozzle body is composed of at least three foil layers, each of which has an integrated light guide or light guide foil. This structure can be used for lateral detection of teeth or soft tissue, according to a method that is considered independently inventive. Specifically, white light is intended to be introduced into the foil package and, thus, into the application area, for example, in a tooth pocket, through a centrally located light guide. The white light is then reflected and returned to the externally located light guide. When light is reflected by tooth or implant material, the proportion of red in the reflected light is lower than when it is reflected by soft tissue. Therefore, by comparing the red content in the reflected light, it is possible to determine which side of the nozzle body faces the tooth or implant and which side faces the soft tissue. This knowledge can be used to supply the media channels located on both sides of the central foil as needed. By determining the brightness difference, a distinction can also be made between teeth and implants, with a relatively brighter reflected light being assigned to the tooth and a relatively dimmer light being assigned to the implant.

[0022] According to another aspect of the invention, which is considered independently inventive, the outer layer films of the film packet are advantageously colored, with the first outer film being white and the second outer film being red. This embodiment serves to assist the user in correctly aligning the application nozzle so that, when used correctly, the red outer foil points toward the soft tissue or gums and the white outer foil points toward the teeth. In an advantageous further development of such an embodiment, only the white side, i.e., the side aligned toward the teeth, has an application opening. This ensures, for example, that a disinfectant or therapeutic agent is applied only to the teeth and not to the soft tissue.

[0023] According to one aspect of the invention, the media channels are formed by respective recesses in the central film, each of which is laterally bounded by a respective lateral edge. Furthermore, each media channel is bounded at its top and bottom by a correspondingly laminated or welded continuous base or cover film. In order to ensure and reliably provide each media channel with a relatively large free cross-section, suitable for the passage of a larger amount of active substance, by means of correspondingly wider recesses in the middle or central film, in an advantageous embodiment, which is considered inventive in itself, multiple media channels are provided with integrated spacers.

[0024] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, also considered independently inventive, the application nozzle is designed based on its geometric configuration and dimensions for its intended use in precisely delivering an active ingredient to the patient's mouth area or for rinsing in the mouth area. It is also advantageously considered that application into interdental spaces or pockets of the patient's teeth, particularly during dental treatment, may also be intended. According to one aspect of the invention, an application nozzle particularly suitable for this purpose has a nozzle body constructed as a laminate of foil strips having a total thickness of 0.3 to 2 mm, preferably 0.5 to 1.5 mm, and particularly preferably 0.7 to 1.2 mm. Correspondingly, the film strips forming the laminate each advantageously have a film thickness of 50 to 500 μm, preferably 80 to 350 μm, and particularly preferably 100 to 250 μm.

[0025] Alternatively or additionally, according to one aspect of the present invention, the shape of the application nozzle is particularly advantageously adapted for the above-mentioned applications, i.e., for precise application of active ingredients for rinsing in the oral cavity and / or for general dental treatment. For this purpose, the nozzle body can extend longitudinally from the connection side toward the free treatment end, where the nozzle body tapers in cross section toward the treatment end. This therefore generally simulates the contour of the treatment tip, making it particularly easy to handle in the relatively cramped conditions inside the oral cavity. Thus, according to one aspect of the present invention, the design of the application nozzle can be realized as a substantially flat component. This does not mean that the application nozzle can or should be two-dimensional; rather, it means that the application nozzle or the base body forming the application nozzle should be a body that extends substantially along its bottom or base surface but still has a constant thickness in the third spatial direction. However, this also means that, when viewed in cross section, the lateral extent of the base body at its bottom surface is significantly greater than its thickness in the direction perpendicular thereto. In the present application, this means that, for example, by aligning the bottom surface of the base body substantially parallel to the outer surface of the tooth, the free or treating end of this base body can be relatively easily inserted into the tooth pocket referred to above.

[0026] In particular, the base body can have a sword-like or blade-like shape, especially in the area of the treating end, which allows easy access to both tooth pockets and interdental spaces, while laterally radiating application openings ensure that undercuts on the tooth surface, e.g., due to recessed segments in the interdental area, can be treated more easily and reliably with the medium.

[0027] Preferably, the application openings, and thus the "double nozzle" formed by them, are arranged in the outlet area of the nozzle body, which is located in the treatment end area. Regarding the outlet direction from each application opening, this can be designed for the medium to flow from the application opening substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the nozzle body, or even for an oblique or lateral outlet. The opening area of each medium channel can be aligned to be straight, or it can be curved or angled. Furthermore, the nozzle body preferably has a contour shaped to be triangular in plan view, which can also be designed as a curved triangle for optimized application.

[0028] In addition to the cutouts that form the media channels, it is also possible to insert embossments that function as media channels.

[0029] According to another aspect of the present invention, which is considered inventive in itself, the application nozzle is specifically designed for use in the context of dental treatment, where reliable rinsing, simplifying the user's experience, can be particularly important in difficult-to-access zones such as tooth pockets. To facilitate this, in addition to the application medium channel serving as the application medium channel, which opens into the application opening at its outlet side, at least one other medium channel designed as a suction channel is advantageously provided. The application medium channel in this case can be used to deliver rinsing medium, for example, into tooth pockets, where particles, food residues, or dirt expelled as a result of rinsing can be removed by the suction channel. This can be particularly useful during dental treatment, where the suction channel according to one aspect of the present invention can be connected to a saliva ejector, a suction device on the patient's chair, a surgical suction unit, or another external suction device.

[0030] According to another aspect, which is considered independently inventive, the application nozzle also has, in addition to the medium channel, a pressure channel integrated into the nozzle body and connected to the mixing point. Specifically, the pressure channel can be connected or connectable to an external pressure source, such as a pump, so that the mixing point can be additionally pressurized in a targeted manner to assist in the pressure buildup during application of the medium. The pressurized medium can be air, water, or a mixture thereof, possibly further mixed with powder or particles. The pressurization can advantageously be pulsed or intermittent, so that a specifically intended application of the medium can be produced as needed.

[0031] In another advantageous development, the application nozzle described above is designed as a disposable or single-use product and is therefore intended for only one use.

[0032] In a manner considered independently inventive, a nozzle body, otherwise largely identical in design to the nozzle body described above, may also be designed as an intermediate piece instead of an application nozzle, in which the introduction of the medium into the patient's oral cavity occurs not through an application opening located at the treatment end of the nozzle body, but through a separate delivery component, such as a hose package or treatment snorkel. In such an embodiment, the actual application component may be appropriately connected to the outlet area of the nozzle body, where the treatment medium, subjected to pressure generated at the mixing point or, in particular, in the mixing chamber, may be guided to the intended application site in the patient's mouth via a corresponding pressure line provided in the application component. Accordingly, appropriate additional medium channels may be provided in the dispensing component for other media carried in the nozzle body, such as separate media that are brought into contact with each other only at the dispensing point in the patient's oral cavity.

[0033] With regard to the active ingredient application device, the mentioned task is solved using an application nozzle of one of the designs described above, in which each of the two media channels opening into the outlet opening or into the mixing chamber is connected on the media side to a separately assigned active ingredient chamber.

[0034] This design allows for the uses envisioned by the present invention, in which the active ingredients held in the active ingredient chambers can be applied separately and independently of one another through application openings in their intended locations according to one embodiment of the present invention and mixed there alone, or can be delivered to a mixing chamber for mixing according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment can be provided as a cartridge with a nozzle for manual squeezing, such as a handheld device similar to an electric toothbrush, or even as a separate device with a hose to a handpiece / mouthpiece, possibly also having a light source.

[0035] The active ingredient application device can have an application nozzle as a separate, independent component connected to the active ingredient chamber via a suitable connection point. These active ingredient application devices can be mounted in a fixed position or can be already connected to the application nozzle as a separate component during manufacturing, so that the application nozzle can be delivered to the user as a pre-assembled system together with the already connected active ingredient chamber. This allows, for example, the delivery of pre-dosed portions of the active ingredient to the user, whereby any specifications from the hygiene field, such as the necessary disinfection or sterilization measures, can be easily complied with by utilizing conventional concepts for this, such as corresponding outer packaging. The application nozzle can be designed as a replaceable, disposable part, where, for use, a new, unused nozzle is first connected to the actual device.

[0036] However, according to one aspect of the present invention, the active ingredient applicator can also have an integrated design, meaning that the active ingredient chamber is integrated into the base body together with the nozzle body and, if necessary, the connecting hose. In such a design, the "application nozzle" forms the end section of this common base body facing the treatment end and is therefore not a physically separate component. Designing the common base body as a multilayer film body or laminate of the above-mentioned design is considered particularly advantageous in this design. By appropriately shaping the film layers or film pieces, both the media channel and the active ingredient chamber, as well as the connecting elements, if necessary, can be integrated into the body, and an appropriate spatial configuration can be selected by utilizing the film properties and resulting flexibility as needed. Specifically, the applicator can be designed as an ampoule, where the flexible properties of the respective films and the active ingredient chamber formed by these films make it suitable for squeezing by the patient at home. The applicator can be provided to patients at home or to dentists in a manner similar to toothbrushes with ampoules.

[0037] According to another aspect of the present invention, which is also considered independently inventive, the application nozzle can also be designed to administer pre-dosed or fractional amounts of an active ingredient. To this end, according to one aspect of the present invention, each active ingredient chamber is advantageously designed to have an internal volume adapted to fit the patient dose to be administered. In this way, the active ingredient chamber can contain a predetermined dose of an active ingredient, such as chlorhexidine for disinfection or a cleaning solution. In this case, the patient can apply the active ingredient themselves at home, where this design of the application nozzle allows, on the one hand, accurate placement in the oral cavity and, on the other hand, accurate dosing of the active ingredient can be ensured by the fractional supply within the nozzle body. The active ingredient stored in or introduced into the active ingredient chamber can then be applied by pressing the foil composite body, possibly taking advantage of the material-related deformability of the composite body, whereby the active ingredient is forced through the respective media channel and the associated application opening.

[0038] Advantageously, the active ingredient chamber is blocked from the associated media channel by a sealing or closure element, thereby preventing unintended leakage of the active ingredient. The sealing element is advantageously designed so that it is torn, split, or otherwise destroyed when pressure is applied to the active ingredient chamber, or so that it is separated from the application nozzle. Preferably, the film element is laminated or welded, and is made very thin by embossing, thereby providing weak points that form separation points / areas or tear points / areas to open the media channel. As a result of the application of pressure or separation, the media channel is released for the active ingredient, allowing the active ingredient to be applied.

[0039] Furthermore, the above-mentioned designs can generally further improve the logistics for providing active ingredients, primarily because they allow for self-administration by the patient of some active ingredients or drugs.

[0040] In a particularly preferred embodiment, which is also considered independently inventive, bicarbonate, preferably potassium bicarbonate, sodium bicarbonate, or calcium bicarbonate, particularly preferably sodium bicarbonate, is provided as the active ingredient in one of the active ingredient chambers mentioned above. Using an application nozzle prepared and pre-filled in this way, a patient or user can independently monitor and track the success of treatment, for example, during the course of so-called periodontal treatment or its aftercare. When carbonate is applied to a lesioned tooth pocket using the application nozzle and inflammation is present in the tooth pocket, the carbonate interacts with the acidic environment of the pocket due to inflammation to form foam. Meanwhile, the effect of this foam generation in the pocket can be used as an indicator for the user, since foam generation occurs only if the environment is acidic and, therefore, if inflammation is present in the pocket. As a result, foam generation provides the user with haptic or tactile feedback, as well as visual feedback, regarding the presence of inflammation and, therefore, the progress of treatment success. In addition, foam generation within the pocket additionally leads to successful flushing, thus favoring the aftercare of the treatment.

[0041] This concept, i.e., the provision of carbonate or bicarbonate as an active ingredient in an active ingredient chamber connected to an application opening via a media channel, and the active ingredient application device constructed in this manner, are considered independently inventive, even in embodiments having only one media channel and / or only one active ingredient chamber, i.e., without the provision of a separate active ingredient, preferably in combination with the above-mentioned aspects relating to the spatial and / or functional form of the application device components (but not exclusively). According to an aspect of the invention considered independently inventive, such a diagnosis of the presence of inflammation can also be made by inserting a paper tip, cotton tip, or liquid-collecting silicone element, etc., into a tooth pocket to collect a sample and placing the sample in an aqueous solution containing Na or K bicarbonate. This is a simple approach to providing an indicator for the detection of inflammation, suitable for use by the patient at home.

[0042] According to the above-mentioned embodiment of the present invention, two or more active ingredient chambers are provided, each connected to at least one application opening via an associated media channel. According to one embodiment of the present invention, these chambers can contain different active ingredients, which trigger a desired effect by combining with or interacting with each other. When activated by the user, the active ingredients are applied together and mix at the application site, thereby triggering the expected interaction at the application site. For example, two active ingredient chambers can be provided, one containing bicarbonate and the other containing acid / carboxylic acid (e.g., malic acid, citric acid, lactic acid, etc.), preferably in aqueous solutions with concentrations suitable for the intended use. They are then applied together and come into contact with each other at the application site, reacting to form a foam. This effect can be particularly useful, for example, for cleaning or rinsing purposes.

[0043] One of the active ingredient chambers may be filled with an active ingredient, in particular disodium hydrogen phosphate, sodium dihydrogen phosphate, and / or sodium monohydrogen phosphate, each of which may optionally also be in the dihydrate form. Alternatively or in addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, an emollient, such as sodium docusate, and / or an antibacterial substance may also be included, such as clove oil, CHX, or HO.

[0044] The advantages achieved with the present invention reside specifically in the fact that providing two or more active ingredients in separately held active ingredient chambers, which are discharged via separate media channels into a common spatial area where they mix, allows targeted and localized utilization of the reaction dynamics of the active ingredients and / or their reaction products, such as the gas bubbles formed. Special treatments or therapeutic procedures can be performed in otherwise difficult-to-access dental pockets, even by users or patients themselves, without prior medical training. The design of the application nozzle as a film composite or laminate further means that suitable application nozzles can be provided cost-effectively in large quantities using relatively simple means, with high flexibility in terms of spatial design. This further enables or at least supports a wide range of treatments, from therapeutic applications by skilled practitioners to preventative or therapeutic procedures that can be performed by users or patients themselves.

[0045] It should also be noted that home users do not have access to a sterile medium, particularly gas. In contrast, dentists have access to sterile air or sterile water for rinsing the dental pocket. The relatively small amounts of the mixture of at least two sterile active substances provided herein produce a very large volume of sterile gas as a reaction product, so that it is directly present at the appropriate site, i.e., already in the dental pocket, thereby enabling sterile rinsing in the dental pocket even for individual users. This is particularly important when the patient rinsing the dental pocket themselves. Furthermore, the concept according to the present invention can provide sterile gas for rinsing directly at the point of use.

[0046] In addition to detecting inflamed pockets, the introduction of bicarbonate solution into the tooth pockets increases the pH within the pockets. Specifically, the tooth structure and surrounding hard and soft tissues react inflammatoryly to the decreased pH within the tooth pockets caused by bacterial pelage. As a result, the environment within the tooth pockets, the tooth structure, and / or the surrounding hard and soft tissues can be made more favorable and achieve a higher pH to support tissue regeneration.

[0047] The reaction of a bicarbonate salt dissolved in water, such as potassium bicarbonate and / or sodium bicarbonate, with an acid (e.g., malic acid, citric acid, or lactic acid dissolved in water) or between the H+ ions of the acid results in the production of gaseous carbon dioxide (CO2), water (HO), and the sodium salt of the acid anion (in this example, sodium malate—Na2C4H4O5, sodium citrate—Na3C6H5O7, or sodium lactate—NaC3H5O3). The fact that this chemical reaction does not produce any toxic or medically problematic substances other than producing gaseous carbon dioxide for scavenging and foam generation is considered particularly advantageous and independent of the materials provided herein.

[0048] Ammonium bicarbonate itself is a possible alternative, but ammonium bicarbonate has a long history of being a health hazard. Reaction with acids or carboxylic acids also creates health hazards. When reacting with acids or carboxylic acids, water (H2O), beneficial and desirable carbon dioxide (CO2), and harmful and toxic ammonia (NH3) are produced.

[0049] Therefore, the only practical alternative to sodium bicarbonate is calcium bicarbonate, which is only found in water.

[0050] This type of flushing can of course also be used in many other medical applications on the human or animal body due to the high sterility of the gas produced.

[0051] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0052] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view showing teeth within the mouth bones of a patient; [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an active ingredient application device of multi-component design. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an application nozzle of the active ingredient application device according to FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a single-piece active ingredient application device. [Figure 5] 4 is a cross-sectional view of the application nozzle of the active ingredient application device according to FIG. 2 or FIG. 3, showing the treatment end in perspective view. [Figure 6] 4A to 4C are perspective views of the base segment of the application nozzle according to FIG. 3 in successive manufacturing steps. [Figure 7] FIG. 5 shows a basic segment of the active ingredient application device according to FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a partially enlarged view of FIG. [Figure 9]FIG. 5 shows a basic segment of the active ingredient application device according to FIG. 4 with an alternative channel geometry in the area of the mixing point. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a partially enlarged view of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 5 shows a basic segment of the active ingredient application device according to FIG. 4 with another alternative channel geometry in the area of the mixing point. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a partially enlarged view of FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 5 shows a basic segment of the active ingredient application device according to FIG. 4 with another alternative channel geometry in the area of the mixing point. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a partially enlarged view of FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 5 shows a basic segment of the active ingredient application device according to FIG. 4 with another alternative channel geometry in the area of the mixing point. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a partially enlarged view of FIG. [Figure 17] 5A-5C are perspective views in various partial cross-section showing variants of the active ingredient application device according to FIG. 4; [Figure 18] 5A and 5B are perspective views in various partial cross sections showing another variant of the active ingredient application device according to FIG. 4; [Figure 19] 5A to 5C are perspective views of another variant of the active ingredient application device according to FIG. 4 in successive manufacturing steps. [Figure 20] 10A-10C are perspective views showing the intermediate piece in successive manufacturing steps. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 shows the intermediate piece shown in FIG. 20 with the medium line connected thereto. [Figure 22] Various diagrams showing the double syringe system. [Figure 23] A diagram showing the hose package. [Figure 24] 10A-10C show alternative embodiments of the active ingredient application device. [Figure 25] FIG. 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the bottom area of two active ingredient application devices. [Figure 26] FIG. 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing a coating nozzle. [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an alternative application nozzle. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the application nozzle shown in FIG. 27. [Figure 29] FIG. 25 shows an active ingredient application device according to FIG. 24 with an associated sealing system. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 is an enlarged view showing the closure area of the active ingredient application device according to FIG. 29. [Figure 31] FIG. 1 shows an active ingredient application device having an angled application nozzle. [Figure 32] FIG. 10 shows another alternative design of an active ingredient application device. [Figure 33] FIG. 10 shows another alternative design of an active ingredient application device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0053] Identical parts are given the same reference numerals in all figures.

[0054] In FIG. 1 , a tooth 1 in a patient's jawbone 2 is shown diagrammatically in longitudinal cross section. This tooth 1, which serves merely as an example for illustrating the mode of operation of the present invention, is shown in an example embodiment after periodontal treatment has been performed, in which a relatively deep tooth pocket 6 has formed near the neck 4. This tooth pocket 6 is inflamed as a result of periodontal disease due to bacterial or germ invasion into the tissue area, particularly in the area of the neck 4 and the surrounding soft tissue 8. Therefore, after the actual periodontal treatment procedure, a follow-up treatment is performed as a form of aftercare, which can be performed by the patient themselves at home, for example, daily. In this treatment, a dental agent, such as a disinfectant or irrigant, is applied in the patient's mouth into the tooth pocket 6 and thus into the lesion in the surrounding soft tissue to kill any present bacteria or germs.

[0055] For this purpose, an active ingredient application device 10, 10' is provided, shown in the vicinity of a tooth pocket 6 in Fig. 1 and enlarged in side view in Fig. 2, which is provided to enable the patient to carry out the respective treatment themselves at home and to precisely apply the intended active ingredient in the oral cavity. It should be noted that the structure and mode of operation of the active ingredient application device 10, 10' are described here by way of example only with reference to the application of an active ingredient into a tooth pocket 6, but that there are of course many other possible uses for the targeted application of an active ingredient to localized inflammation in areas of the oral cavity, for example in the context of (non-therapeutic) dental treatment or cleaning to clean interdental spaces, and these fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0056] The active ingredient application device 10 shown in FIG. 2 is designed as a mobile multi-component system in this embodiment. It comprises a hand or handle piece 12 designed in the form of a housing, which has at its free or distal end 14 an application nozzle 16 as the actual treatment head or treatment element. In this embodiment, the hand or handle piece 12 is designed for single use only and is therefore disposable in relation to hygiene and treatment considerations. The application nozzle 16 is connected to a supply container 19 located in the handle 12 via a connecting element, which in this embodiment is a piece of tubing 18 guided within a protective sheath 17, in which the intended active ingredient is stored. The hose section 18, integral with the protective sleeve 17, leaves the housing formed by the handle 12 via a feed through that can be shut off using a hose valve 11.

[0057] Furthermore, a system, e.g., a mechanical, pneumatic, or hydraulic system 23, for actuating the active ingredient container for automatic dispensing of the active ingredient, by means of which the active ingredient can be delivered, as well as a control unit 20 and a power supply unit 21, e.g., a battery or a rechargeable battery, are arranged in the handle 12. The mechanical system can, for example, be a pressure plunger acting on the active ingredient container, or it can be of a design similar to a double syringe system, a double cannula system, or a double cartridge system. In principle, the active ingredient applicator 10 is similar in type and design to an electric toothbrush, and its active (electrical) components are also integrated in the handle, which forms the outer housing. In this embodiment, the application nozzle 16 is attached to the fixing piece 15. Alternatively, the active ingredient application device 10 may be designed as a stationary application system, for example in a dentist's office, in which case the handle may, for example, be designed in multiple parts and have a mouthpiece, which carries the application nozzle 16 and which is connected to a supply system 19 in which the active ingredient is stored.

[0058] 3 in an enlarged perspective view in a version in which, on the inlet side, four access nozzles 30 are connected to a medium channel extending through its nozzle body 22. Alternatively, of course, a different number of such access nozzles 30 may be provided, for example one, two or more. The application nozzle 16 may, for example, be connected to a hose package 18 via these access nozzles 30.

[0059] An alternative, single-piece version of the active ingredient applicator 10' is shown in perspective view in FIG. 4. In this embodiment, the applicator nozzle 16 is an integral part of the active ingredient applicator 10' and is molded onto it. For their intended preferred use in the field of dental treatment or as a self-administered therapeutic agent, the applicator nozzle 16 of both embodiments according to FIGS. 2, 3, and 4 is specifically designed for high functionality with a very simple construction, so that it can be produced in large quantities while limiting manufacturing costs. For this purpose, the applicator nozzle 16 has, as an essential functional component, a nozzle body 22 in which multiple media channels 34 for the active ingredient to be applied are arranged, each of which may open into an applicator opening 32 on the outlet side.

[0060] As can be clearly seen from the perspective views of Figures 3 and 4, the nozzle body 22 is designed as a body extending longitudinally from a connection area 36 towards the free treatment end 38. In the single-piece design shown in Figure 4, the connection area 36 is located inside the applicator body, whereas in the design shown in Figure 3, which is for a multi-piece variant, the connection area 36 functionally corresponds to the connection side of the applicator nozzle 16. In the present embodiment, this connection side comprises suitable means for mechanically fixing the nozzle body 22 to the handle 12 and is connected to the hose piece 18, whereas in the alternatively provided independent embodiment according to Figure 4, such a connection is not necessary.

[0061] When shaping the nozzle body 22, particular consideration is given to the fact that the user should position the treatment end 38 very precisely, even in very narrow spaces in the oral cavity, in order to enable precise local application of the active substance. To make this possible, the spatial shape of the nozzle body 22 is appropriately selected, taking into account the fact that tooth pockets 6 are usually formed in the form of gaps extending along the tooth surface.

[0062] To take this into account, according to one aspect of the present invention, the nozzle body 22 of the application nozzle 16 is designed as an essentially flat component in the form of a flat spatial body. Thus, the application nozzle 16 or the base body 22 forming the application nozzle 16 is designed as a body extending essentially along its bottom or base surface, with the thickness of this body in cross section remaining significantly smaller than its lateral extent at the bottom. In the present application, this means that, for example, by aligning the bottom surface of the nozzle body 22 so that it is essentially parallel to the outer surface of the tooth 1, the free end or treatment end 38 of the nozzle body 22 can be inserted relatively easily into the tooth pocket 6.

[0063] Furthermore, the cross section of the base body 22 tapers in the direction of the treating end 38. The free or treating end 38 of the base body 22 therefore essentially has a relatively narrow or even tapered flat profile, which results in particularly easy insertion into the tooth pocket 6. In the present embodiment, this results in the base body 22 having a profile shaped to be triangular in plan view, as can be seen, for example, in the perspective views according to Figures 3 and 4.

[0064] To enable precise application of the active ingredients into the tooth pockets 6, the nozzle body 22 is provided with application openings 32 for each active ingredient in an outflow area 40 arranged in the area of the treating end 38, each of the application openings 32 being connected to one of the medium channels 34. This allows the application of each active ingredient specifically in the area of the treating end 38 of the application nozzle 16 and thus directly into the respective tooth pockets 6, if necessary. Furthermore, the multiple application openings 32 are arranged with an outflow direction aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis, as can be seen, for example, in the perspective views of Figures 3 and 4. In this way, the entire spatial area of the tooth pocket 6 around the treating end 38 of the nozzle body 22 can be flooded with the active substance in a simple manner.

[0065] With regard to the guidance of the media channel 34 in the nozzle body 22, the present invention basically provides two preferred design concepts, each of which is considered to be independently inventive.

[0066] According to the first of these design concepts, in both the embodiments according to Figures 2 and 4, the active ingredient application device 10, 10' is designed in accordance with one aspect of the present invention for the concept that, by appropriate design of the application nozzle 16 in each case, two or more active ingredients can be applied separately and separately from one another to the application site and mixed and reacted at the application site, so that the reaction itself and / or the reaction products can amplify the effect at the application site. For this purpose, at least two medium channels 34 are integrated into the nozzle body 22, and the medium channels 34 extend independently from each other from the connection area 36 toward the free treatment end 38 and each open into an application opening 32 on the outlet side. The application openings 32 associated with the two medium channels 34 are each spaced approximately 1 mm apart in the example embodiment shown, so that the active ingredients can be applied sufficiently close to one another at the application site, thereby enabling the desired localized mixing.

[0067] 2 and 4, the active ingredient application device 10, 10' is designed in accordance with one aspect of the present invention for the purpose of enabling, in each case, by a suitable configuration of the application nozzle 16, two or more active ingredients to be fed separately and distinctly from one another to the nozzle body 22 and mixed and potentially reacted with one another at the mixing point 42. Furthermore, another medium channel 34 extends from the mixing point 42 to the free treatment end 38, so that the mixed medium is applied to the application site. For this purpose, at least two medium channels 34 are integrated into the nozzle body 22, extending independently from one another from the connection area 36 to the mixing point 42, and another medium channel 34 extending toward the free treatment end 38 and opening on the outlet side into the application opening 32. Additionally, for example, according to the first design concept described above, additional medium channels 34 may also be provided, extending directly from the connection area 36 to the free treatment end 38, so that additional medium may also be delivered directly through the nozzle body 22 to the free treatment end 38. The application openings 32 associated with these medium channels 34 are each spaced approximately 1 mm apart in the illustrated embodiment, so that the active ingredients may be applied sufficiently close to each other at the application site, thereby allowing the desired localized mixing.

[0068] In both design concepts, each media channel 34 extending from the connection area 36 is connected on the input side, e.g. via a respective access nozzle 30, to a separately allocated active ingredient chamber 44 on the media side. According to one aspect of the invention, each active ingredient chamber 44 has an internal volume adapted to fit the patient dose to be administered, so that no further medication is required for the user.

[0069] In the active ingredient applicator 10 according to Fig. 2, the active ingredient chambers 44 are integrated into a supply container, and a media channel 34 individually assigned to each active ingredient chamber 44 is routed in the hose section 18 to the connection area 36. When the active ingredient chambers 44 are pressurized in this embodiment, the active ingredient contained therein is transported via the media channel 34 and the application nozzle 16 to the outflow area 40, where the active ingredient is dispensed through the application opening 32. In contrast, the active ingredient chambers 44 in the active ingredient applicator 10' according to Fig. 4 are integrated into a common base body 46 with the nozzle body 22.

[0070] In the illustrated embodiment example, according to an aspect that is considered independently inventive, two active ingredient chambers 44 are provided in each case, with different active ingredients suitable for the desired effect being provided in the two active ingredient chambers 44, which in combination or by interacting with each other to trigger the desired effect. For example, two active ingredient chambers 44 may be provided, with one active ingredient chamber 44 being provided with a carbonate, and in particular a bicarbonate, and the other active ingredient chamber 44 being provided with an acid (e.g., citric acid). The carbonate and acid are then discharged together and come into contact with each other at mixing point 42, where they react to form gas and foam. This allows gas under relatively high pressure to be formed in mixing point 42, which is then discharged at treatment end 38 via medium channel 34 downstream of mixing point 42. This effect can be particularly advantageously utilized, for example, for cleaning or flushing purposes, where gas escaping under high pressure achieves a particularly good cleaning effect.

[0071] Alternatively or additionally, a predetermined dose of an active ingredient, such as, for example, chlorhexidine or a cleaning solution for disinfection, can be contained in such an active ingredient chamber 44, which is closed with a sealing or closure element after filling of the adjacent medium channel 34. Thus, the patient can perform the application himself at home, where, on the one hand, the design of the application nozzle 16 allows for precise placement in the oral cavity, and, on the other hand, the portioned supply in the nozzle body can ensure precise dosing of the active ingredient.

[0072] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the invention, in addition to the medium channels 34 serving as application medium channels and opening on the outlet side into the application opening 32, at least one of the medium channels 34 can be designed as a suction channel in the nozzle body 22. Such an embodiment comes into consideration in particular in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 with four access nozzles 30 and correspondingly four medium channels extending in the nozzle body 22.

[0073] Regarding the desired low-cost design suitable for high dosages, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the nozzle body 22 is designed as a laminate body constructed from multiple films 50, as can be particularly clearly seen in the representation of the treatment end 38 in the perspective view of FIG. 5a and the cross-sectional view of FIG. 5b. In FIG. 5a, the treatment end 38 is shown in a perspective view, and it can be clearly seen that the application opening 32 is arranged substantially directly downstream, and that a laterally aligned application opening 32' is also provided, for example, for dispensing a medium for a separate flush or as an aspiration opening. In the cross-sectional view of FIG. 5b, the underlying layered structure can be clearly seen. Each medium channel 34 is formed in the film layer 52 of the laminate by a recess made in the respective film layer. This design of the application nozzle 16 or its nozzle body 22 as a film composite body or laminate allows suitable application nozzles 16 to be provided in large quantities at low cost by relatively simple means with high flexibility in spatial design.

[0074] According to one aspect of the present invention, this basic design has the great advantage that the media channels 34 can be introduced into each film layer 52 in a relatively simple manner, particularly with high flexibility in terms of channel routing and geometric shape, by conventional film processing methods such as etching, embossing, or laser processing. This allows particularly high flexibility to be achieved by simple means in terms of geometric and functional design, as well as in terms of the layout of the media channels 34 within the film stack. The application nozzle 16 or its nozzle body 22 is formed into a laminate or layer stack by multiple film pieces 50 arranged on top of each other and glued, welded, or otherwise connected to each other at their contact surfaces. The film pieces 50 each have a film thickness d of approximately 150 to 250 μm, and therefore preferably in the range of 50 to 500 μm. Therefore, the application nozzle 16 or its nozzle body 22, constructed as a stack of film strips 50, has an overall thickness D of approximately 0.7 to 1.2 mm, preferably in the range of 0.3 to 2 mm, so as to allow the desired insertion into the tooth pocket 6 without support.

[0075] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the single-piece coating nozzle 16 shown in FIG. 4 has this configuration as a film layer or composite body or laminate for the entire nozzle body 22 forming the coating nozzle 16. In this example embodiment, the coating nozzle 16 is further constructed from foil layers 52, 54, 56 that differ in terms of their material selection and parameters, with the central middle foil layer 56 of a first foil material being covered on both sides by side or outer foil layers 52, 54 of another foil material. The film layer 56 and the film layers 52, 54 differ in their material properties and are functionally adapted to meet various specifications. In this example embodiment, the central film layer 56 according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a relatively hard film material, i.e., specifically, has a relatively high Shore hardness or modulus of elasticity, while the outer film layers 52, 54 are conversely softer. Thus, the central film layer 56 can define the contour or spatial shape of the nozzle body 22 as a supporting structure, while the relatively soft outer film layers 52, 54 can be designed to be flexible and deformable, thereby significantly reducing the risk of injury, for example, when the nozzle body 22 comes into contact with the oral mucosa.

[0076] In the present example, the application nozzle 16 shown in Figure 3 is constructed entirely from such a film composite. This design becomes clear from the layer-by-layer representation of the structure in Figure 6.

[0077] The structure of the film layer package is shown as a series in FIG. 6, where, starting from the lowest first film layer 54, the further film layers 54, 56 are added in sequence. Accordingly, FIG. 6a shows the lowest or first film layer 54, as viewed from above, already adapted to fit the desired shape of the nozzle body 22. Starting from the connection area 36, the width tapers toward the treatment end 38. The film strip 54, which has already been pre-cut in this way at its outer contour, further comprises an embossed groove 58 that forms the medium channel 34. In the example embodiment shown, this medium channel 34 opens into an application opening 32' aligned laterally with respect to the base surface of the nozzle body 22 and is therefore particularly suitable as a channel for a rinse-off medium, for example.

[0078] Another film 50, which also forms a film layer 54, is then applied to this lower film layer 54, for example as a layered structure, and laminated on top. The film stack thus obtained is shown in FIG. 6b. It therefore comprises two superimposed film layers 54. The last applied film layer 54 covers the media channel 34 formed by the groove 58 introduced previously into the lower film layer 54, thus closing it from above. In the connection area 36, the upper film layer 54 further comprises a recess 60, which defines a mounting point for the subsequent attachment of the access nozzle 30.

[0079] The next film layer 56 is then added to the resulting layer stack, as shown in Figure 6c. The film layer 56 forms the central film layer 56 and is made of a relatively hard film material, i.e., in particular, a material with a relatively high Shore hardness or modulus of elasticity, while the other foil layers 54 are softer. The film layer 56 can therefore assume the function of a support layer or a molding layer, thereby providing a certain rigidity and mechanical stability to the entire package.

[0080] In FIG. 6c, it can be clearly seen that the film layer 56 is made of multiple parts and is formed by a large number of foils 50. The foil pieces 50 are arranged at a certain distance from each other, leaving openings 62 between them. These openings 62 form part of the media channels 34 integrated into the nozzle body 22, which can be designed with a high degree of freedom due to the possibility of processing the foil (laser, punching). In the example of the embodiment according to FIG. 6c, it can be clearly seen that, starting from the provided connection area 36, four media channels 34 extend into the nozzle body 22 in the example shown here. Two of the media channels 34, the central ones 34, are separated from each other and guided completely through the nozzle body 22 to the treatment distal end 38, so that two separate treatment media can be applied independently using these channels 34. In contrast, the two outer media channels 34 pass through the film layer 56 only up to the transition point 64, where they connect to the continuing media channel 34 in the adjacent film layer 54. One of these two media channels 34 is connected, for example, to the media channel 34 in the first film layer 54 already described above.

[0081] After the central film layer 56 is added to the formed film stack, an access nozzle 30 for connecting an external media channel or feed line is inserted into the recess 60, as shown in Figure 6d. Two further film layers 54 are then added, as shown in Figures 6e and 6f, similar to and symmetrical to the film layer 54 shown in Figures 6a and 6b, to complete the application nozzle 16. Thus, in the example embodiment shown, the application nozzle 16 is designed as a stack of five layers of film.

[0082] Analogous to this construction method, according to one embodiment of the present invention, this construction method can also be provided for the single-piece active ingredient application device 10' shown in FIG. 4, which is constructed as a layered film or composite body or as a laminate over the entire base body 46 forming the active ingredient application device 10'. The active ingredient application device 10' is thus constructed entirely from such a film composite, and the active ingredient chamber 44 is directly integrated into the film layer 54 by utilizing the deformability of the film layer 54. This construction method is clear from the illustration in FIG. 7, in which the active ingredient application device 10' is shown in its "lower half" of its circumference, i.e., as an assembly of the lower film layer 54, which forms the active ingredient chamber 44 upon formation, and the central film layer 56. As already explained, the film layer 56 is suitably shaped, for example by laser machining or etching, to form the media channel 34. On the other hand, the outer film layer 54 is suitably enlarged in the rear area to form the active ingredient chamber 44 therein.

[0083] The intended design of the application nozzle 16 and the intended manufacturing process, particularly laser cutting or punching contours for the media channels 34, allow for great flexibility in the design and configuration of the cavities, cavity volumes, or media volumes provided in the layer package or laminate. The active ingredients held in each active ingredient chamber 44 can then be dispensed by utilizing the material-related deformability of the film composite body to press the composite body, whereby the active ingredients are forced through the respective media channels 34 and associated application openings 32. Although polyamide is provided as the base material for the film layers 52, 54, 56 or film pieces 50, alternatively, other suitable film materials such as PP or PE, or even combinations of different film materials, may also be deemed suitable.

[0084] In the following, several aspects of the present invention that are considered to be independently inventive will be further described. These aspects are primarily directed to channel guides or other elements in the region of the middle or central film layer 56. These aspects will therefore be described with reference to a representation similar to Figure 7, i.e., with reference to the embodiment of the single-piece active ingredient application device 10' shown in Figure 4, although these aspects can of course also be used for the variant of the application nozzle 16 shown in Figure 3.

[0085] Thus, according to one aspect of the present invention, in the sense of the first of the design concepts mentioned above, as can be clearly seen from the representation in Figure 7a and in particular from the enlarged representation in Figure 8a, it is realized to arrange two medium channels 34 as channels kept separated from each other on the medium side and opening into two application openings 32 in the region of the treatment end 38 in a film composite in the film layer 56, the two application openings 32 being arranged close together but separated and at a certain distance from each other.

[0086] On the other hand, according to another aspect of the invention, which is considered to be independently inventive, it is intended to provide a mixing point 42 for two different active substances within the film composite, as can be clearly seen from the representation in Figure 7b and in particular from the enlarged representation in Figure 8b. For this purpose, in this variant, two media channels 34 are designed within the film layer 56 as feed channels which are kept separate from each other on the media side and which are united at the mixing point 42.

[0087] For example, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the active ingredient can be, on the one hand, a bicarbonate, preferably potassium bicarbonate, sodium bicarbonate, or calcium bicarbonate, particularly preferably sodium bicarbonate, or, on the other hand, an acid / carboxylic acid (e.g., malic acid, citric acid, lactic acid, etc.), each of which is preferably in aqueous solution and at a concentration suitable for the intended handling. According to a first design concept, the carbonate and acid are separated and discharged to the area of the space requiring treatment. According to a second design concept, the carbonate and acid are delivered together to the mixing point 42, where they come into contact with each other and react to form foam (CO2 generation). As a result of this reaction accompanied by foam generation, very high pressures can be generated at the mixing point 42 without significant external influence, resulting in the medium emerging from the mixing point 42 as a directed jet from the application opening 32 downstream of the nozzle body 22 at a relatively high pressure. This effect can be particularly advantageously utilized, for example, for cleaning and rinsing purposes, where the generation of a directed jet under high pressure is particularly useful.

[0088] 9 and 10 show a partial enlargement of the base segment of an active ingredient application device 10' having an alternative channel geometry and channel orientation in the area of the mixing point 42. FIG.

[0089] Another aspect of the invention, which is considered to be independently inventive, is shown by the representation of a base segment in FIG. 11 and its enlarged representation in FIG. 12. In this embodiment, two media channels 34 are also integrated into the film layer 56, the two media channels 34 being united at the mixing point 42. However, here, valve flaps 70 are connected into the media channels 34 just before their point of contact with the mixing point 42. In this example embodiment, these valve flaps 70 are film pieces 50 molded into the film layer 56, and the valve flaps 70 essentially close the respective media channels upstream of the mixing point 42 as spring or leaf valves, but can be displaced by the media pressure in the respective media channels 34, thereby opening the channels. However, this is not possible in the opposite direction, since when the pressure in the area of the mixing point 42 increases, the valve flaps 70 are pressed up to their valve seats at the edges of the respective media channels 34, thereby firmly closing the respective media channels. Such a valve configuration, in embodiments considered to be independently inventive, precludes backflow of the medium mixture formed at the mixing point 42 into the delivery medium channel 34, so that the formed gas escapes only in the direction towards the treatment end 38, i.e., through the application opening 32, particularly during the intended pressure buildup after mixing of the active ingredients.

[0090] Another variant of the invention, which is also considered to be independently inventive, is shown by the representation of a base segment in Figure 13 and its enlarged representation in Figure 14. In this variant, a valve flap 70 is also incorporated into the film layer 56, according to the functionality described above. However, in this variant, the geometry is designed such that a mixing chamber 72 is formed in the region of the mixing point 42. This provides a sufficient volume for the expected gas generation and, in particular, for the intended mixing of the active ingredients.

[0091] In another embodiment shown in FIG. 15 (enlarged in FIG. 16), which is otherwise identical in construction to the above-described variant, an additional spring element 74 is provided in an embodiment that is considered to be independently inventive, which spring element 74 acts against the valve flaps 70 and strengthens their restoring force or contact pressure against their valve seats.

[0092] In the following, some aspects that are considered inventive regarding the configuration of the active ingredient chamber 44 of the active ingredient application device 10' according to Fig. 4 will be explained in more detail. For this purpose, a part or half of a perspective view similar to Fig. 4 is shown partially, without showing in detail the path of the channels in the central film layer 56. However, the above description of the channel guides can also be fully realized in the following example.

[0093] The active ingredient application device 10' shown in Figure 17, a perspective view of different part sections, has two active ingredient chambers 44 arranged on either side of and separated from the central film layer 56. This means that different active ingredients can be easily stored in the two active ingredient chambers 44. Furthermore, in Figure 17a, it can be clearly seen that, by appropriate shaping, a mixing chamber 72 is formed in the area of the uppermost film layer 54 shown. By the shaping shown in the film material, particularly in embodiments that are considered to be independently inventive, the volume of the mixing chamber 72 can be adapted to suit the intended purpose and to suit the expected requirements for the intended gas generation and the associated pressure buildup; in this example embodiment, the mixing chamber is about 100 mm 3 Designed for a volume of

[0094] 18, the active ingredient application device 10', which is otherwise identical in construction, has active ingredient chambers 44 with different internal volumes, which makes it possible, for example, to store the active ingredient in the active ingredient chamber 44 in an amount appropriately selected and adapted with respect to the intended reaction. Furthermore, in this variant, the mixing chamber 72 is formed by correspondingly shaping the uppermost film layer 54 to have an appropriately selected volume.

[0095] Another variant of the active ingredient applicator 10', which is considered to be independently inventive, is shown in Fig. 19 in a sequence in which, starting with a first, lowermost film layer 54, further film layers 54, 56 are added in sequence. Thus, Fig. 19a shows the lowermost or first film layer 54, as can be seen in plan view, already adapted to fit the desired shape of the nozzle body 22 in its treatment area. Furthermore, the active ingredient chamber 44 is already incorporated into this film layer 54, according to the embodiment described above. The foil strip 54 further comprises an embossed groove 58, which forms the media channel 34 and extends only over a partial area to the distal or treatment end 38 of the applicator.

[0096] Another film 50, which also forms a film layer 54, is then added to and laminated on top of the lower film layer 54, for example, during layer-by-layer assembly. The resulting film stack is shown in FIG. 19b. It therefore comprises two superimposed film layers 54. The last-added film layer 54 is introduced into the lower film layer 54 to cover the media channel 34 formed by the groove 58, essentially closing the media channel 34 at the top. In its place, in the transition region 76 that largely overlaps the end region of the media channel 34 guided in the lower film layer 54, the upper film layer comprises a valve flap 78, which may be formed, for example, by introducing an opening line 80, for example, by laser machining or punching. The valve flap 78 allows the media guided in the media channel 34 in the lower film layer 54 to pass upward, i.e., into the next upper film layer 56.

[0097] A valve flap 78 is added to the resulting layer package as shown in Figure 19c and is designed according to the above criteria as the central film layer 56. The film layer 56 can therefore assume the function of a support layer or a shaping layer, thereby providing a certain rigidity and mechanical stability to the whole package.

[0098] In Figure 19c it can be clearly seen that the central film layer 56 comprises a recess in the area above the above-mentioned valve flap 78, thereby forming the mixing chamber 72. Then, to complete the active ingredient application device 10', two further film layers 54 are added as shown in Figures 19d and 19e, similar to and symmetrical to the film layer 54 shown in Figures 19a and 19b. Thus, in the example embodiment shown, the active ingredient application device 10' is designed as a stack of five layers of film, suitable for mixing the active ingredient chambers 44 located on either side of the central film layer 56 within the mixing chamber 72 in the central film layer 56.

[0099] Alternatively, in a manner that is considered to be independently inventive, the nozzle body 22 may also be designed as an intermediate piece 90 instead of the application nozzle 16, in a design otherwise largely identical to the nozzle body described above, in which the introduction of the medium into the patient's oral cavity occurs not via the application opening 32 arranged at the treatment end of the nozzle body 22, but via a separate application part 92, such as a hose package or a treatment snorkel. In such an embodiment, an actual delivery part 92 may be suitably connected to the outlet area of the nozzle body 22, in which the treatment medium, subjected to pressure generated at the mixing point 42 or in particular in the mixing chamber 72, may be guided to the intended delivery location in the patient's oral cavity via a corresponding pressure line 94 provided in the delivery part 92. Accordingly, suitable separate medium channels 34 may be provided in the delivery part 92 for separate media guided within the nozzle body 22, such as separate media that are brought into contact with each other only at the dispensing point in the patient's oral cavity.

[0100] As can be clearly seen in Figures 20g and 20h, the mixing chamber 72 can also be created in one of the upper film layers 54 in this embodiment, being formed in the outermost film layer 54 by appropriate molding and defining its volume.

[0101] Such an intermediate piece 90, which is considered to be independently inventive, is shown in Fig. 20 in a series of manufacturing steps. Any of the components and elements described above may be provided in the design of the intermediate piece 90. On the other hand, an intermediate piece 90 connected to the corresponding medium lines on the input and output sides is shown in Fig. 21.

[0102] On the input side, the intermediate piece 90 can be connected via a medium supply line 96 to a suitable container for each active ingredient to be provided, which may be, for example, a conventional cartridge or even an active ingredient container of the type described above. However, in a manner that is considered independently inventive, a double syringe system 100 for introducing an active ingredient may also be provided, as shown in Fig. 22 in a perspective view (Fig. 22a), a longitudinal section (Fig. 22b), and a partial section (Fig. 22c). In a conventional embodiment, the double syringe system 100 comprises two syringe bodies 102 operatively connected in parallel, each forming an active ingredient chamber, within which a syringe plunger 104 is guided. The tip plungers 104 are each driven by an actuating plunger 106, which are connected to each other in the illustrated embodiment. Thus, during operation, which may be performed manually or even automatically in the corresponding supply system, the active ingredients held in the syringe bodies 102 are simultaneously expelled through the respective connecting nozzles 108 and supplied to the intermediate piece 90 via the connected medium supply line 96.

[0103] On the output side, the intermediate piece 90 is connected to the output component 92 as mentioned above. This can be designed as a hose package 110, as shown by way of example in FIG. 23. The hose package 110 includes multiple active ingredient hoses 112, two in this example, each of which opens into an application opening 114 at its end. Thus, each active ingredient can be delivered directly and precisely to the desired application site. Furthermore, the hose package 110 further includes a pressure hose 116 connected to the mixing chamber 72 of the intermediate piece 90 on the inlet side. Thus, once gas is generated in the mixing chamber 72 as a reaction product under high pressure by selectively mixing two starting materials according to one embodiment of the present invention, this gas can be discharged through the pressure hose 116 and added via its outlet opening 118.

[0104] As can be clearly seen from the enlarged view of Figure 23b, the outlet opening 118 for the generated pressurized gas is designed for a lateral outflow direction, so that, for example, cleaning can be carried out during dental treatment, specifically in the lateral direction.

[0105] Thus, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the intermediate piece 90 can be connected on the inlet side to a double syringe 100 of the type shown, a double cartridge syringe, or any other suitable active ingredient chamber. Depending on the design requirements or use, the intermediate piece 90 can have a valve, specifically the valve flaps 70 and 78 described above, a mixing or reaction chamber 72 of the type described above, or a combination thereof. Therefore, the intermediate piece 90 is suitable for providing flushing and / or pressure outlets, as needed. On the input side, the intermediate piece 90 can have a suitable number of medium inputs, specifically two or four inputs, depending on the individual design. The intermediate piece 90 can be located specifically between the ampoule / ampoule system and the application part. The intermediate piece 90 can have, for example, a pure combination of two medium channels (e.g., an aqueous solution of a carboxylic acid and an aqueous solution of a bicarbonate). In this regard, the intermediate piece 90 functions as a simple Y-piece and accommodates at least one outlet. A desirable and effective feature is non-directional pressure relief for flushing.

[0106] Alternatively, the intermediate piece 90 may function to combine media flowing directly or indirectly into the mixing or reaction chamber 72, where the intermediate piece 90 comprises at least one media outlet. The desired effective function in this case is directed pressure relief, preferably for cleaning and rinsing of contaminated surfaces.

[0107] Both of the above functions of the intermediate piece can be designed with or without a check valve. In a particularly preferred design of the intermediate piece, the above mentioned advantageous functions and designs can be provided in combination.

[0108] Furthermore, the intermediate piece 90 can be supplied with at least two ampoules in the embodiment according to the design mentioned above, the at least two ampoules being integrated in the intermediate piece 90 on the media side, but in other embodiments these useful functions can also be provided by the at least two ampoules separately.

[0109] The intermediate piece 90 may also be a single piece with the ampoule component and / or the applicator component.

[0110] An alternative embodiment of an active ingredient application device 10" is shown in Fig. 24, both in plan view (24a) and in longitudinal section (Fig. 24b). Analogous to the embodiment according to Fig. 4, the active ingredient application device 10" has a base body 46', to which two active ingredient chambers 44 are integrated. These are connected on the medium side via a piece of tubing 18, which may be relatively long taking into account the intended treatment method, to an application nozzle 16' arranged at its distal end 14 and formed by a nozzle body 22. At least two medium channels 34, which provide for the connection of the active ingredient chambers 44 on the medium side to application openings 32 on the application nozzle 16', are arranged to be integrated into the nozzle body 22, as described above, and run from there inside the hose piece 18 to the active ingredient chambers 44. The active ingredient application device 10'' shown here can be designed as a single part, similar to the above-mentioned examples, and can therefore be intended to be used directly or even to fill the active ingredient application device 10 according to Fig. 2. Alternatively, the active ingredient application device 10'' can also be designed as a multi-part device, in which, for example, a hose segment 18 can be connected via suitable connections to a separately designed application nozzle 16' and / or a separately designed supply container 19.

[0111] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the active ingredient chambers 44 in the above example may be formed by molding within the respective film layers 52, 54, 56. The filling of the active ingredient may then be carried out, for example, by injecting the active ingredient between the pre-laminated film layers 52, 54, 56, which may be further deformed during the process, thereby forming the actual active ingredient chamber 44. The film layers 52, 54, 56 may then be appropriately welded and / or sealed, i.e., after the active ingredient filling is complete. The bottom area of each active ingredient chamber 44 with its respective fill opening 122 appropriately welded or sealed is shown in longitudinal cross section in FIG. 25.

[0112] The application nozzle 16' of the active ingredient application device 10'' according to Fig. 24 is shown in an enlarged longitudinal section in Fig. 26. The application nozzle 16' initially widens in cross section towards the distal end 14 in the connection area 124 for the hose package 18, until it is integrated into the actual nozzle body 22, where, according to an embodiment of the invention, the application nozzle 16' again tapers towards the distal end 14. The integrated media channel 34 is guided completely through the segment shown.

[0113] 27 shows a variant of the application nozzle 16" in longitudinal section, which in addition to the two medium channels 34 also comprises a number of suction channels 126 as further medium channels. Similar to the medium channels 34, these suction channels 126 are guided through both the nozzle body 22 and the hose segment 18 connected thereto, and open into laterally arranged suction openings 128 in the region of the treatment end 38. According to one aspect of the invention, as can be clearly seen from the representation in FIG. 27 and even from the enlarged representation in FIG. 28, the suction channels 126 are designed to have a larger internal diameter than the medium channels 34, and likewise, the suction openings 126 are designed to be larger than the application openings 32. This takes into account the fact that even with the introduction of a relatively small amount of active ingredient in the anticipated treatment method, it is possible and must be possible to achieve the requirement for a relatively large amount of suction for the reaction products formed, and also for debris, food residues, and other cleaning products resulting from rinsing or washing due to the intended reaction of the active ingredients with each other at the point of use. However, in a variant not shown here, the suction part can also be arranged further away from the application opening 32 or the nozzle body 22. Advantageously, the suction device is designed as a kind of bell made of a soft material, which in this case makes it possible to close the tooth pocket 8 from the outside after the application nozzle 16 has been inserted into the tooth pocket 8 in order to make it possible to suck out the components to be wiped from the tooth pocket 8 in a particularly efficient manner.

[0114] According to another aspect, which can be considered independently inventive, a sealing or closure element 130 closes the active ingredient chamber 44 in the direction facing the associated medium channel 32, or even closes the respective medium channel 34 in the direction facing outward, thereby preventing unintended leakage of the active ingredient. In Fig. 29, such a closure element 10 is shown in longitudinal section (Fig. 29a), plan view (Fig. 29b), and side view (Fig. 29c) for the example of an active ingredient application device 10'' according to Fig. 24, although this embodiment is of course also suitable for other variants of the active ingredient application device 10, 10'. In this case, a tearable closure element 132 is formed on the treatment end 38 of the nozzle body 22, which appropriately closes the outlet end of the medium channel 34 and possibly the suction channel 126, i.e., specifically, the application opening 32 or the suction opening 128. 30, the closure element 132 is molded over the outlet region of the nozzle body 22 via a predetermined disruption point 134, which in this embodiment is a suitable weakened portion in the base material. The closure element 132 can be pulled apart at this predetermined disruption point 134, exposing the application opening 32 and possibly the suction opening 128, and making the media channel 34 or the suction channel 126 accessible.

[0115] In particular, as shown in Figure 30a, it can be seen that the medium channel 30 is closed when the closure element is attached. Figure 30b shows a side view of the predetermined disruption point 134, where the material thickness in the area of the predetermined disruption point 134 is significantly reduced in the form of a notch 136. The closed medium channel 34 extends beyond the predetermined disruption point 134. When the closure element 132 is separated from the active ingredient application device 10''' according to Figure 24 by pulling or tearing, two application openings 32 are formed in the medium channel 34 of the application nozzle 16. In particular, it is advantageous that a previously sterilized application nozzle 16''' can remain sterile even after the medium channel 34 has been opened.

[0116] The above examples relate to active ingredient applicators with a substantially straight application nozzle 16. However, this may alternatively be designed to be angled or curved laterally for ease of handling, if desired. This is shown as an example for an active ingredient applicator 10'' in Figure 31.

[0117] According to an aspect considered to be independently inventive, providing bicarbonate as an active ingredient in an active ingredient chamber 44 connected to the application opening 32 via a medium channel 34 can, in principle, also be realized in the context of only one active ingredient chamber 44. An active ingredient application device 140 constructed in this way, having an active ingredient chamber 44 provided therein with bicarbonate, is shown in Fig. 32 in a partial view (Fig. 32a) and in a perspective view (Fig. 32b), where the application nozzle is aligned so as to be straight, and in Fig. 33 in a partial view (Fig. 33a) and in a perspective view (Fig. 33b), where the application nozzle is aligned so as to be curved in the transverse direction. [Explanation of symbols]

[0118] 1 tooth 2. Jawbone 4 Cervical 6 Tooth pocket 8 Soft tissue 10, 10', 10'' Active ingredient applicator 11 Hose valve 12 Handle 14 End 15 Fixed piece 16, 16' application nozzle 17 Protective cover 18 Hose Section 19 Supply container 20 Control Unit 21 Power Supply Unit 22 Nozzle body 23 Mechanical, pneumatic or hydraulic systems 30 Access Exit 32 Application opening 34 Media Channels 36 Connection side 38 Treatment end 40 Spill Area 42 Mixed Points 44 Active ingredient chamber 46, 46' base body 48 Rock Elements 50 foil pieces 52, 54, 56 film layers 58 Groove 60 recess 62 recess 64 Intersection Points 70 Valve flap 72 Mixing Chamber 74 Spring Elements 76 Transition Area 78 Valve flap 80 Penetration Line 90 Intermediate piece 92 Coating parts 94 Pressure Line 96 Medium supply line 100 Double Syringe System 102 Syringe Barrel 104 Syringe plunger 106 Actuating plunger 108 Connection piece 110 Horse Package 112 Active ingredient tube 114 Application opening 116 Pressure Hose 118 Exit opening 120 floor area 122 Filling opening 124 connection area 126 Suction duct 128 Suction opening 130 End element 132 Locking Elements 134 Predetermined Separation Point 136 Notch 140 Active ingredient application device d film thickness D Overall thickness

Claims

1. 1. An application nozzle (16, 16'), in particular for applying a dental active substance into a patient's oral cavity, having a nozzle body (22) extending longitudinally from a connection area (36) toward a treatment free end (38), wherein at least two media channels (34) extending independently of one another from the connection area (36) toward the treatment free end are integrated into the nozzle body (22), and the nozzle body (22) is formed as a laminate made of a plurality of foils (50).

2. 2. The application nozzle (16, 16') according to claim 1, wherein the medium channels (34) of the application nozzle (16, 16') each open into an application opening (32) on the outlet side.

3. 3. The application nozzle (16, 16') according to claim 2, wherein the application openings (32) assigned to the two medium channels (34) are spaced apart from each other by a minimum of 0.01 mm and a maximum of 10 mm, preferably a minimum of 0.1 mm and / or a maximum of 2 mm.

4. 4. The application nozzle (16, 16') of claim 3, wherein the application opening (32) is located in an outlet region (40) of the nozzle body located in the region of the treating end (38).

5. 4. The application nozzle (16, 16') according to claim 3, wherein the at least two medium channels (34) of the application nozzle (16, 16') extend independently of one another from the connection region (36) to a mixing point (42) connecting the at least two medium channels (34) on the medium side, and the mixing point (42) is connected on the outlet side via another medium channel (34) to an application opening (32) provided in an outflow region (40) arranged in the region of the treatment end (38).

6. 6. The application nozzle (16, 16') according to claim 5, wherein the mixing point (42) of the application nozzle (16, 16') is designed as a mixing chamber (72), and the medium channel (34) extends towards the mixing chamber (72) and opens into the mixing chamber (72).

7. The mixing chamber (42) of the application nozzle (16, 16') has a maximum length of 1000 mm ３ , preferably up to 500 mm ３ , particularly preferably up to 100 mm ３ The application nozzle (16, 16') according to claim 6, having a volume of

8. 6. The application nozzle (16, 16') according to claim 5, wherein in addition to the medium channel (34), a pressure channel is also provided which is integrated into the nozzle body (22) and connected to the mixing point (42).

9. 2. The application nozzle (16, 16') of claim 1, wherein the nozzle body (22) of the application nozzle (16, 16') extends flat in the direction of the free treating end (38) and has a tapered cross section.

10. 2. The coating nozzle (16, 16') of claim 1, wherein the nozzle body (22) of the coating nozzle (16, 16') is formed as a laminate made of multiple films (50).

11. 11. The application nozzle (16, 16') of claim 10, wherein the media channels (34) in the film layers (52, 54, 56) of the stack are formed by recesses introduced into the film (50) of the respective layer.

12. The application nozzle (16, 16') of claim 10, wherein the media channel (34) of the application nozzle (16, 16') comprises an integrated spacer.

13. 11. The coating nozzle (16, 16') of claim 10, wherein the nozzle body (22) of the coating nozzle (16, 16') is constructed from at least three foil layers (52, 54, 56), and a central foil layer (56) disposed between two adjacent foil layers (52, 54) is formed from a harder foil material than the two adjacent foil layers (52, 54).

14. 11. The coating nozzle (16, 16') of claim 10, wherein the nozzle body (22) of the coating nozzle (16, 16') is constructed from at least three foil layers (52, 54, 56), and a light guide plate is integrated into each of the at least three foil layers (52, 54, 56).

15. 2. The application nozzle (16, 16') of claim 1, wherein in addition to the medium channel (34), a suction channel integrated into the nozzle body (22) is also provided.

16. 2. The coating nozzle (16, 16') according to claim 1, wherein the nozzle body (22) of the coating nozzle (16, 16') has a contour shaped to be triangular in plan view.

17. 2. The application nozzle (16, 16') according to claim 1, which is designed as a disposable product.

18. An active substance application device (10, 10', 10'') for applying a dental active substance into a patient's oral cavity, having an application nozzle (16, 16') according to any one of claims 1 to 17, in which in each claim case the media channel (34) is connected on the media side to an individually associated active substance chamber (44) in each claim case.

19. 19. An active substance application device (10, 10', 10'') according to claim 18, wherein the active substance chamber (44) is integrated into a common base body (46, 46') with the nozzle body (22).

20. 19. An active ingredient application device (10, 10', 10'') according to claim 18, wherein each active ingredient chamber (44) has an internal volume adapted to fit the patient dose to be administered.

21. 1. An active substance application device (10, 10', 10'') for applying a dental active substance, in particular in the oral cavity of a patient, comprising an application nozzle (16, 16') in accordance with any one of claims 1 to 17, said application nozzle (16, 16') having a nozzle body (22) extending longitudinally from a connection area (36) towards a free treatment end (38), wherein at least two medium channels (34) extending independently of one another from said connection area (36) towards said free treatment end (38) are integrated into said nozzle body (22), each of said medium channels (34) being formed in a circular groove (26) and each of said medium channels (34) extending longitudinally from said connection area (36) towards said free treatment end (38). In the claimed cases, one medium channel (34) is integrated on the medium side with an individually associated active substance chamber (44) in each claim case and extends towards the treatment free end, and in particular in any one of claims 1 to 17, one medium channel (34) is connected on the medium side to an individually associated active substance chamber (44) in each claim case, and one of the active substance chambers (44) is filled with bicarbonate.

22. 22. An active ingredient application device (10, 10', 10'') according to claim 21, wherein one of the active ingredient chambers (44) is filled with an acid, in particular with malic acid, citric acid or lactic acid.

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