Intraoral light irradiation device

Abstract

To provide an intraoral light irradiating device which has a comfortable fit and can accurately irradiate light to the gums and alveolar mucosa of orthodontic teeth. [Solution] The intraoral light irradiation device 1 has a mouthpiece 2 formed in a U-shape, and a light source 4 arranged on the mouthpiece 2 and equipped with multiple light emitters 3 that irradiate light onto the wearer's gums. The mouthpiece 2 has a U-shaped occlusal tray 5, a front flange 6 facing the outer surface of the wearer's gums, and a rear flange 7 facing the inner surface of the wearer's gums, the front flange 6 and the rear flange 7 being optically transparent, the light source 4 is arranged so as to be able to irradiate light from the inner surface of the front flange 6 and the outer surface of the rear flange 7, and a protrusion 11 is formed at the end of the front flange 6, extending from the occlusal tray 5 in the extension direction of the front flange 6.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present technology relates to an intraoral light irradiation device used in orthodontic treatment. [Background technology]

[0002] Orthodontics is performed by elastically pressing the orthodontic teeth that need to be corrected. Inside the gums that support the teeth is the alveolar bone, which also supports the teeth, and between the alveolar bone and the root of the tooth (dental root) is the periodontal ligament. The periodontal ligament is a buffer membrane with a cushioning effect that absorbs shocks on the teeth. When the orthodontic teeth are elastically pressed in a specific direction, the periodontal ligament on the pressed side is compressed, and the periodontal ligament on the opposite side is stretched. The compressed periodontal ligament generates stress on the alveolar bone, which becomes an inflammatory stimulus, and inflammatory stimulants are released, causing osteoclasts that dissolve the alveolar bone to appear and become activated, dissolving the alveolar bone (bone resorption). The stretched alveolar membrane causes osteoblasts that create teeth to appear and form new alveolar bone. When the orthodontic teeth are continuously pressed elastically, the alveolar bone is repeatedly dissolved and formed, and the teeth gradually move in the direction of the pressure.

[0003] In conventional orthodontics, the crowns of the orthodontic teeth are elastically pressed by orthodontic appliances, but this can temporarily apply a large amount of force. In addition, orthodontic appliances can make the patient more susceptible to cavities and stomatitis, and can damage the tooth roots because they apply force directly to the orthodontic teeth, placing a strain on the teeth and surrounding tissues for a long period of time.

[0004] Therefore, a method of enhancing bone resorption and bone regeneration by light irradiation has been proposed as a method of increasing the speed of tooth movement without damaging teeth and periodontal tissues. Light irradiation is known to be effective in treating bone diseases and biostimulating bone and soft tissues, and can effectively contribute to accelerating the resorption and regeneration of alveolar bone. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2016-538028 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] As a light irradiation device for orthodontic treatment, a mouthpiece-type intraoral light irradiation device is known (see Patent Document 1). When a user wears the mouthpiece in the oral cavity, the mouthpiece is required to have an improved fit, such as suppressing the gag reflex. In particular, when the mouthpiece is worn deep in the oral cavity to perform orthodontic treatment for molars or wisdom teeth, a shape that takes fit into consideration is required.

[0007] In addition, it is necessary to accurately irradiate the attached gingiva and the upper or lower alveolar mucosa of the orthodontic teeth, particularly the attached gingiva and the upper or lower alveolar mucosa of the orthodontic teeth, regardless of the position of the orthodontic teeth, such as molars, wisdom teeth, or anterior teeth.

[0008] Therefore, the present technology aims to provide a mouthpiece-type intraoral light irradiation device that has a comfortable fit and can accurately irradiate light to the attached gums and alveolar mucosa of orthodontic teeth. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, an intraoral light irradiation device according to the present technology is an intraoral light treatment device that includes a mouthpiece that is attached to an oral cavity and formed into a U-shape according to the wearer's dentition, and a light source that is disposed in the mouthpiece and has a plurality of light emitters, and irradiates light from the light emitters to the wearer's gums, the mouthpiece includes an occlusion tray that is formed into a U-shape according to the wearer's dentition, a front flange that is erected from one side edge of the occlusion tray along the one side edge and faces the outer surface of the wearer's gums, and a rear flange that is erected from the other side edge of the occlusion tray along the other side edge and faces the inner surface of the wearer's gums, the front flange and the rear flange are optically transparent, the light source is disposed so as to be able to irradiate light from an inner peripheral surface of the front flange and an outer peripheral surface of the rear flange, and a protrusion that protrudes from the occlusion tray in an extension direction of the front flange is formed at an end of the front flange. The protruding portion protrudes from the upper edge of the front flange to about 2 / 3 of the vertical direction. This is what is being done.

[0010] Moreover, an intraoral light irradiation device according to the present technology is an intraoral light treatment device that is worn in the oral cavity and has a mouthpiece formed in a U-shape according to the wearer's dentition, and a light source having a light emitter disposed within the mouthpiece, and irradiates light from the light emitter to the wearer's gums, the mouthpiece having a bite tray formed in a U-shape according to the wearer's dentition, a front flange erected along one side edge of the bite tray from the one side edge and facing the outer surface of the wearer's gums, and a rear flange erected along the other side edge of the bite tray from the other side edge and facing the inner surface of the wearer's gums, the front flange and the rear flange being optically transparent, the light source being disposed so as to be able to irradiate light from an inner peripheral surface of the front flange and an outer peripheral surface of the rear flange, the front flange being: From the upper edge to the bite tray side A slit is formed The front slit is provided in the center of the front flange facing the center of the tooth row, and the rear flange has a rear slit formed from the upper edge to the bite tray side, and the rear slit is provided in the center of the rear flange facing the center of the tooth row. This is what is being done. Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to the present technology, it is possible to provide an intraoral light irradiation device that has a comfortable fit and can accurately irradiate light to the gums and alveolar mucosa of orthodontic teeth. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an intraoral light emitting device to which the present technology is applied. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the intraoral light emitting device. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a left side view showing the intraoral light emitting device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a bottom view showing the intraoral light emitting device. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a right side view showing the intraoral light emitting device. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a rear view showing the intraoral light emitting device. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing an intraoral light emitting device, in which (A) shows a configuration in which a light source is not provided on the protruding portion, and (B) shows a configuration in which a light source is also provided on the protruding portion. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the light source and the gums when the intraoral light irradiation device is attached. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a modified example of the intraoral light emitting device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the intraoral light emitting device from above on the rear side. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a state in which the mouthpiece and the controller are connected via an electric cable, and a power supply unit connected to the controller via an electric cable. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the controller. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of an intraoral light irradiating device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the intraoral light irradiation device in use, attached to the upper dentition. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the intraoral light emitting device in use, attached to the upper dentition. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Hereinafter, the intraoral light irradiation device to which the present technology is applied will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the present technology is not limited to the following embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the present technology. In addition, the drawings are schematic, and the ratios of each dimension may differ from the actual ones. Specific dimensions should be determined with reference to the following explanation. It should be noted that the drawings also include parts with different dimensional relationships and ratios.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an intraoral light emitting device 1 to which the present technology is applied. FIG. 2 is a front view showing the intraoral light emitting device 1. FIG. 3 is a left side view showing the intraoral light emitting device 1. FIG. 4 is a bottom view showing the intraoral light emitting device 1. FIG. 5 is a right side view showing the intraoral light emitting device 1. FIG. 6 is a rear view showing the intraoral light emitting device 1. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the intraoral light emitting device 1, where (A) shows a configuration in which a light source is not provided on the protruding part, and (B) shows a configuration in which a light source is also provided on the protruding part. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the light source and the gums when the intraoral light emitting device 1 is worn.

[0015] The intraoral light irradiation device 1 has a mouthpiece 2 that is worn in the oral cavity and is formed in a U-shape according to the wearer's dentition, and a light source 4 that is disposed on the mouthpiece 2 and has a plurality of light emitters 3 arranged thereon.

[0016] The mouthpiece 2 has an occlusion tray 5 formed in a U-shape according to the wearer's dentition, a front flange 6 erected along one side edge of the occlusion tray 5 to face the outer surface of the wearer's gums, and a rear flange 7 erected along the other side edge of the occlusion tray 5 to face the inner surface of the wearer's gums. In this specification, the outer surface of the gums refers to the surface facing the cheeks and lips, and the inner surface of the gums refers to the surface opposite the outer surface of the gums and facing the tongue.

[0017] In the mouthpiece 2, at least the inner peripheral surface 6a of the front flange 6 and the outer peripheral surface 7a of the rear flange 7 are optically transparent, and the light source 4 is provided with a light emitter 3 arranged to irradiate light from the inner peripheral surface 6a of the front flange 6 and the outer peripheral surface 7a of the rear flange 7. This allows light to be irradiated from the light emitter 3 to the outer and inner surfaces of the wearer's gums. In this specification, the outer peripheral surfaces of the front flange 6 and the rear flange 7 refer to the surfaces on the outside of the oral cavity that face the cheeks and lips, and the inner peripheral surfaces of the front flange 6 and the rear flange 7 refer to the surfaces on the opposite side of the outer peripheral surfaces and that face the tongue, on the inside of the oral cavity.

[0018] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the light source and the gums when the intraoral light irradiation device 1 is attached to the upper dentition. When the intraoral light irradiation device 1 is attached along the upper or lower dentition, the light emitter 3 faces the attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa of the orthodontic tooth, and irradiates the attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa with a predetermined light. In the figure, 40 indicates the gums (gingiva), 41 indicates the free gingiva, 42 indicates the attached gingiva, 43 indicates the alveolar mucosa, and 44 indicates the alveolar bone.

[0019] The front flange 6 has a protruding portion 11 at its end 6b, which protrudes from the end 5a of the bite tray 5. When the mouthpiece 2 is attached to the oral cavity, the protruding portion 11 is inserted deep into the oral cavity and positioned on the cheek side of the retromolar part. This allows the mouthpiece 2 to be fitted snugly in the oral cavity, and the mouthpiece 2 can be stably held with light force without biting down hard. In addition, the end 6b of the front flange 6, which is attached between the inside of the cheek and the dentition, protrudes, and the end 7b of the rear flange 7, which is attached between the dentition and the base side of the tongue, does not protrude as much as the front flange 6, thereby suppressing the gag reflex and not impairing the fit.

[0020] The configuration of the intraoral light emitting device 1 will be described in detail below.

[0021] [Mouthpiece] The mouthpiece 2 is used by being placed over the wearer's upper or lower dentition, and includes an occlusal tray 5, a front flange 6 erected along one side edge of the outer periphery of the occlusal tray 5, and a rear flange 7 erected along the other side edge of the inner periphery of the occlusal tray 5. Thus, when the mouthpiece 2 is placed in the oral cavity, the dentition is inserted between the front flange 6 and the rear flange 7. The mouthpiece 2 can be used by being placed over either the upper or lower dentition.

[0022] The occlusion tray 5 is a portion on which the wearer can bite when holding the mouthpiece 2 in the oral cavity, and has a substantially U-shape in plan view corresponding to the shape of the wearer's dentition.

[0023] When the mouthpiece 2 is attached to the oral cavity, the front flange 6 faces the outer surface of the gums, particularly the attached gums and the alveolar mucosa above or below it. The front flange 6 has the light source 4 disposed therein and is optically transparent, allowing light to be emitted from the light emitter 3 of the light source 4 to the attached gums on the outer surface of the gums and the alveolar mucosa above or below it.

[0024] When the mouthpiece 2 is attached to the oral cavity, the rear flange 7 faces the inner surface of the gums, particularly the attached gingiva and the alveolar mucosa above or below it. The rear flange 7 has the light source 4 disposed therein and is optically transparent, allowing light to be irradiated from the light emitter 3 of the light source 4 to the attached gingiva on the inner surface of the gums and the alveolar mucosa above or below it.

[0025] The occlusion tray 5, the front flange 6, and the rear flange 7 maintain their shape while having a suitable degree of flexibility, and can be fitted to conform to the shape of the oral cavity.

[0026] [Protrusion] At both ends 6b of the front flange 6, protrusions 11 are formed which protrude from the ends 5a of the occlusion tray 5 in the extending direction of the front flange 6. When the mouthpiece 2 is fitted in the oral cavity, the protrusions 11 are positioned on the buccal side of the retromolar region, and are arc-shaped in side view, with the tip end also being arc-shaped in plan view. Therefore, even if the protrusions 11 come into contact with the buccal mucosa, the fit is not impaired.

[0027] Furthermore, when the mouthpiece 2 is fitted in the oral cavity, the protruding portion 11 is inserted deep into the oral cavity and positioned on the buccal side of the retromolar region, allowing the mouthpiece 2 to be fitted snugly in the oral cavity and held stably with light force without having to bite down too hard.

[0028] The protruding portion 11 is formed to protrude from the upper edge side of the front flange 6. As a result, the protruding portion 11 inserted deep into the oral cavity closely adheres to the shape of the oral cavity, and the front flange 6 is attached to the upper part of the oral cavity, i.e., the uppermost part behind the upper lip, or the lower part, i.e., the lowermost part behind the lower lip, and the mouthpiece 2 can be stably held. This also allows the front flange 6 to face the attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa of the gums. That is, the dental crown of the mouthpiece 2 is positioned on the bottom side of the bite tray 5, and the attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa are positioned on the upper edge side of the front flange 6.

[0029] 3, 5, 6, and 7, by continuously projecting the protruding portion 11 from the upper edge of the front flange 6, the light source 4 can be formed as close to the upper edge of the front flange 6 as possible, and light can be accurately irradiated to the attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa. Moreover, the front flange 6 does not have the protruding portion 11 formed over the entire area in the vertical direction of the front flange 6, but protrudes from the upper edge to about 2 / 3 in the vertical direction, and the lower part where the dental crown is located is flush with the end portion 5a of the occlusion tray 5. This allows the light source 4 to be disposed at a position where it accurately irradiates the attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa, while preventing the protruding portion 11 from becoming too large, and maintaining a good fit.

[0030] As long as the irradiation position of the light source 4 is not impaired, the protrusion 11 may protrude from a position slightly lower than the upper edge of the front flange 6. As long as the wearing comfort is not significantly impaired, the protrusion 11 may protrude below the front flange 6.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 7(B), the mouthpiece 2 is preferably provided with the light emitter 3 of the light source 4 also in the protruding portion 11. The front flange 6 and the rear flange 7 are formed to face the molars (second molars) and wisdom teeth (third molars, wisdom teeth) and are designed to be able to irradiate light from the light emitter 3 to the relevant areas, but it is assumed that some wearers have molars or wisdom teeth in positions that are outside the front flange 6 and the rear flange 7. In this case, too, by forming the protruding portion 11 on the upper edge side of the front flange 6, the protruding portion 11 faces the attached gums and alveolar mucosa of the molars or wisdom teeth. And, by providing the light emitter 3 in the protruding portion 11, it is possible to irradiate light to the attached gums and alveolar mucosa of the upper or lower parts of the molars or wisdom teeth.

[0032] The end 7b of the rear flange 7 is formed flush with the end 5a of the occlusion tray 5, and is not provided with a protruding portion that protrudes in the extension direction. Since the rear flange 7 is attached between the inside of the dentition and the base of the tongue, by not protruding as much as the front flange 6, the gag reflex is suppressed and the fit is not impaired. Note that protruding portions may be formed on both ends 7b of the rear flange 7 by reducing the protruding length or protruding area, to the extent that the fit is not impaired.

[0033] 9, the end 7b of the rear flange 7 may be shortened and not extended to the end 5a of the bite tray 5. The gag reflex can be suppressed by setting the end 7b of the rear flange 7 back from the end 5a of the bite tray 5. In this case, it is preferable to form a protrusion 11 on the front flange 6, but if the main purpose is to suppress the gag reflex, the end 6b of the front flange 6 may be formed flush with the end 5a of the bite tray 5 without providing the protrusion 11.

[0034] [slit] A front slit 12 is formed from the upper edge downward (toward the occlusion tray 5) in the center of the front flange 6 facing the center of the dentition. The superior labial frenulum or inferior labial frenulum is inserted into the front slit 12 when the mouthpiece 2 is attached to the oral cavity. This allows the front flange 6 to be attached to the upper or lower part of the oral cavity facing the alveolar mucosa without interference between the front flange 6 and the superior labial frenulum or the inferior labial frenulum.

[0035] That is, the upper or lower labial frenulum extends to the attached gingiva on the alveolar mucosa near the center of the dentition on the underside of the upper lip and the underside of the lower lip. Therefore, if the front slit 12 is not provided in the center of the front flange 6 facing the center of the dentition, the upper edge of the front flange 6 and the upper or lower labial frenulum will interfere with each other, and the front flange 6 cannot be attached to the upper part of the oral cavity, i.e., the uppermost or lower part on the underside of the upper lip, i.e., the lowermost part on the underside of the lower lip, or the interference between the upper edge of the front flange 6 and the upper or lower labial frenulum will cause pain or discomfort, and the height of the front flange 6 cannot be increased, making it difficult to fully face the attached gingiva or alveolar mucosa.

[0036] Therefore, by providing a front slit 12 in the front flange 6, the front flange 6 can be attached to the topmost part of the back of the upper lip or the bottommost part of the back of the lower lip without interference between the upper edge of the front flange 6 and the frenulum of the upper lip or the frenulum of the lower lip, allowing the front flange 6 to face the alveolar mucosa.

[0037] Furthermore, a rear slit 13 is formed from the upper edge downward (toward the occlusion tray 5) in the center of the rear flange 7 facing the center of the dentition. The lingual frenulum and palatine raphe are inserted into the rear slit 13 when the mouthpiece 2 is attached to the oral cavity. This allows the rear flange 7 to be attached to the upper or lower part of the oral cavity facing the alveolar mucosa without interference between the rear flange 7 and the lingual frenulum or palatine raphe.

[0038] That is, the lingual frenulum extends near the center of the dentition under the tongue, and the palatine raphe extends on the palate to the center of the dentition. Therefore, if the posterior slit 13 is not provided in the center of the posterior flange 7 facing the center of the dentition, the upper edge of the posterior flange 7 will interfere with the lingual frenulum or palatine raphe, and the posterior flange 7 will not be able to be attached to the upper part of the oral cavity, i.e., the top or bottom of the palate, i.e., the lowest part under the tongue, or the interference between the upper edge of the posterior flange 7 and the lingual frenulum or palatine raphe will cause pain or discomfort, and the height of the posterior flange 7 cannot be increased, making it difficult to adequately face the attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa.

[0039] Therefore, by providing a rear slit 13 in the rear flange 7, it can be attached to the top surface of the palate or the lowest part under the tongue without interference between the upper edge of the rear flange 7 and the lingual frenulum or palatine raphe, and the rear flange 7 can be placed against the alveolar mucosa.

[0040] [Material] The material of the mouthpiece 2 is the same as that of mouthpieces conventionally used in the fields of sports and medicine, and is formed from a flexible transparent or translucent resin material that can be irradiated with light from the light source 4. Specifically, the material of the mouthpiece 2 can be a resin that fits the shape of the oral cavity and has appropriate hardness and softness, such as, but not limited to, an olefin resin, a polyester resin, a urethane resin such as polyurethane, a polyimide resin, a silicone resin, a styrene resin, an acrylic resin, a polyamide resin, and a carbonate resin.

[0041] As the olefin-based resin, polyethylene (PE), polyethylene-based resin, polypropylene (PP), polypropylene-based resin, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), etc. are preferred, and polyethylene (PE), polyethylene-based resin, polypropylene (PP), polypropylene-based resin, etc. are more preferred.

[0042] The polyester resin is a polycondensation product of a polyvalent carboxylic acid (such as a dicarboxylic acid) and a polyalcohol (such as a diol). Examples of the polyester resin include polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0043] The urethane resin is a polycondensation product of a compound having an isocyanate group and a compound having a hydroxyl group. Examples of the urethane resin include thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0044] Polyamide resins are (co)polymers formed by bonding a large number of monomers through amide bonds. Examples of the polyamide resins include nylon, para-amide, and meta-amide.

[0045] The acrylic rubber resin is a (co)polymer containing acrylic rubber as a main component. Examples of the acrylic resin include a block copolymer of methyl methacrylate and butyl acrylate.

[0046] The occlusion tray 5, the anterior flange 6 and the posterior flange 7 may be made of different materials to have different hardness.

[0047] The mouthpiece 2 is obtained by molding the above-mentioned material together with the light source 4. The injection conditions of the material are set according to the size and shape of the mouthpiece 2, and usually the entire mouthpiece 2 is molded using one mold. The size of the mouthpiece 2 need only be such that it has a shape suitable for fitting to the average human dentition. When the wearer is an adult, the mouthpiece 2 is manufactured as an adult mouthpiece 2 having a size and shape that corresponds to the average adult dentition, and when the wearer is a child, the mouthpiece 2 is manufactured as a child mouthpiece 2 having a size and shape that corresponds to the average child's dentition.

[0048] [light source] Next, the light source 4 disposed in the mouthpiece 2 will be described. The light source 4 includes a substrate 10 and a plurality of light emitters 3 disposed on the substrate 10. The intraoral light irradiation device 1 irradiates light to the attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa with the light emitters 3, and stimulates the alveolar bone, thereby causing inflammation in the alveolar bone and activating osteoclasts on the surface of the alveolar bone, thereby causing bone resorption in the alveolar bone. In addition, the light irradiation can suppress bleeding and also relieve discomfort and pain.

[0049] The substrate 10 is not particularly limited as long as it is a flexible substrate that has flexibility and can mount the light emitter 3, and for example, a known flexible substrate using a base film of polyimide (PI), liquid crystal polymer (LCP), or the like can be used. The substrate 10 is disposed along the side surfaces of the front flange 6 and the rear flange 7 of the mouthpiece 2, and is disposed in a substantially rectangular plate shape according to the shapes of the front flange 6 and the rear flange 7, and is curved in a U-shape. The substrate 10 is disposed up to the ends of the front flange 6 and the rear flange 7, but is preferably disposed up to the protruding portion 11 of the front flange 6.

[0050] The substrate 10 has light emitters 3 disposed thereon so as to emit light from the inner peripheral surface of the front flange 6 and the outer peripheral surface of the rear flange 7. This allows the light source 4 to face between the front flange 6 and the rear flange 7, and light can be irradiated onto both the attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa of the orthodontic tooth.

[0051] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the intraoral light irradiation device 1 from above on the back side. As shown in FIG. 10, the board 10 provided on the front flange 6 has a connection terminal portion 17 formed at the center facing the center of the dentition. Each light emitter 3 of the board 10 provided on the front flange 6 is connected to the connection terminal portion 17 via internal wiring. Each light emitter 3 of the board 10 provided on the rear flange 7 is connected to the connection terminal portion 17 at the center facing the center of the dentition via internal wiring passing through the occlusion tray 5. The connection terminal portion 17 is connected to the controller 16 via the electric cable 15 led out from the outer surface of the center of the front flange 6 of the mouthpiece 2. The light source 4 is controlled by the controller 16 connected to the end of the electric cable 15 in terms of light irradiation by the light emitter 3 (illumination ON and OFF, irradiation site, irradiation mode (time, irradiance, irradiation amount, etc.)).

[0052] 2, the lead-out portion 19 from which the electric cable 15 is led out is provided slightly below the upper edge of the outer surface of the front flange 6. This is because, as described above, the front slit 12 is provided in the center of the front flange 6, and the electric cable 15 is led out from below the lower end of the front slit 12.

[0053] [Light emitter] The light emitter 3 is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include, but are not limited to, light emitting diodes (LEDs), organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs), semiconductor laser diodes (LDs), polymer light emitting diodes (PLEDs), light emitting polymers (LEPs), optical fiber bundles, and combinations thereof. The light emitter 3 is covered with a transparent or translucent resin constituting the mouthpiece 2 by integrally molding the light source 4 with the mouthpiece 2. Therefore, the light source 4 is capable of irradiating light into the oral cavity, and is protected by the resin material even when the mouthpiece 2 is in use or cleaned.

[0054] A plurality of light emitters 3 are mounted from one end to the other end along the longitudinal direction of the substrate 10, and are arranged in a lattice pattern, for example, in three rows, with 18 to 20 light emitters 3 in each row. The arrangement pattern and number of light emitters 3 are not limited to this. Each light emitter 3 may be arranged close to adjacent light emitters 3 so that there are no areas where light does not reach.

[0055] As described above, the light emitter 3 is also preferably formed on the protruding portion 11 of the front flange 6 located on the buccal side of the retromolar portion. This ensures that light can be irradiated to the attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa above or below the molar or wisdom tooth even if the molar or wisdom tooth is located outside the front flange 6 or rear flange 7.

[0056] The area to be irradiated with light may be selectable by settings so that the entire light source 4 of the front flange 6 and / or the entire light source 4 of the rear flange 7 is irradiated. In addition, the area to be irradiated with each light source of the front flange 6 and the rear flange 7 may be selected so that the entire light emitter 3 is irradiated uniformly, or the half on the front teeth side or the half on the back teeth side, etc. The light irradiation pattern may also be appropriately set, and the light emitter 3 may be lit uniformly with the same irradiance or may be blinking. In addition, the irradiation position, irradiance, and irradiation pattern may be set to vary over time.

[0057] [Thermistor] The substrate 10 may be provided with a temperature detector 30 such as a thermistor that detects the temperature of the light source 4. This makes it possible to control the light emission to be stopped when the light emitter 3 heats up to a predetermined temperature or higher, thereby protecting the wearer and the mouthpiece 2.

[0058] [controller] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a state in which the mouthpiece 2 and the controller 16 are connected via an electric cable 15, and a power supply unit 18 connected to the controller 16 via the electric cable 15. The controller 16 is detachably connected to the mouthpiece 2 via the electric cable 15. FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram showing one configuration example of the controller 16. As shown in FIG. 12, the controller 16 includes a control unit 21 that controls the irradiation site, irradiation time, irradiation wavelength, irradiance, etc. of the light emitter 3 based on a program, and stores in a memory or storage a mode in which the irradiation site, irradiation time, wavelength of the irradiated light, irradiance, and absorbed energy are set in advance, and an operation history of the intraoral light irradiation device 1, and an operation unit 23 that includes operation buttons for turning the power on and off and turning the irradiation on and off and selecting a mode.

[0059] The controller 16 is further detachably connected to the power supply unit 18 via a power cable. The power supply unit 18 may be a power supply device (adapter) connected to a household outlet, or a mobile battery that accommodates rechargeable or disposable batteries. In this way, by separating the mouthpiece 2 from the controller 16 and the power supply unit 18 and connecting them with a cable, the weight of the mouthpiece 2 when worn is only the weight of the mouthpiece 2 itself, which prevents the mouthpiece 2 from shifting out of position, reduces the burden on the wearer who holds the mouthpiece 2 in the oral cavity, and improves operability. In addition, the mouthpiece 2 is detachably connected to the power cable 15, which makes it easy to wash only the mouthpiece 2 after use.

[0060] The secondary battery may be built into the controller 16 or the mouthpiece 2. The secondary battery built into the controller 16 or the mouthpiece 2 can be charged by connecting the controller 16 or the mouthpiece 2 to a power supply device connected to a household outlet via a power cable. The secondary battery built into the mouthpiece 2 may be charged by storing the mouthpiece 2 in a mouthpiece case (not shown). In this case, the mouthpiece case is connected to a power supply device (adapter) connected to a household outlet via a power cable, or has a built-in power supply device and is connected to a household outlet via a power cable.

[0061] The controller 16 may also be provided with a setting unit 22 for manually setting the irradiation area, irradiation time, irradiation wavelength, irradiance, absorbed energy, etc., a display unit 24 such as an LCD panel for displaying the operation status and operation history of the intraoral light irradiation device 1, schedule management, remaining time of light irradiation, remaining battery power, etc., an alarm unit 25 for notifying the end of a specified light irradiation, an error state, etc. by an alarm, light emission, vibration, etc., and a communication unit 26 that connects to an external server 31 via the Internet and updates the control program and schedule stored in the control unit 21, transmits the operation history saved in the control unit 21, etc.

[0062] 13 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of the intraoral light emitting device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The control unit 21 has a microprocessor 28. The microprocessor 28 communicates information such as programs such as irradiation modes and operation history of the intraoral light emitting device 1 with the memory 29 or storage 34. The microprocessor 28 also stores setting information of the setting unit 22 in the memory 29 or storage 34, and controls irradiation according to the settings stored in the memory 29 or storage 34.

[0063] The microprocessor 28 operates in response to the operation of a power switch 32 that turns the power on and off and an operation switch 33 that starts and stops irradiation. The microprocessor 28 also stops light irradiation in response to a signal from a temperature detection unit 30 such as a thermistor. This allows control to be performed so that when the light emitter 3 heats up to a predetermined temperature or higher, the light irradiation is stopped to protect the wearer and the mouthpiece 2.

[0064] Furthermore, the microprocessor 28 receives the output of a detection circuit 35 that detects the output voltage when the power supply unit 18 is configured as a mobile battery, determines the amount of charge, and controls the display unit 24 and the notification unit 25 to inform the user.

[0065] [How to use] Next, we will explain the method of using the intraoral light irradiation device 1. The intraoral light irradiation device 1 is used by a user undergoing orthodontic treatment at a predetermined interval, for example, once to several times a day, for a predetermined time each time or each day (about 4 minutes a day for each orthodontic site in the example described below).

[0066] When the intraoral light irradiation device 1 is used for the upper dentition, the mouthpiece 2 is attached with the U-shaped groove formed by the front flange 6, rear flange 7, and bite tray 5 facing the upper dentition, as shown in Figs. 14 and 15. At this time, by providing a front slit 12 in the front flange 6, the mouthpiece 2 can be attached up to the top of the back side of the upper lip without the upper lip frenulum 46 interfering with the front flange 6. Also, by providing a rear slit 13 in the rear flange 7, the mouthpiece 2 can be attached up to the top surface of the palate without the palatine raphe 47 interfering with the rear flange 7. This allows the light source 4 provided on the front flange 6 and rear flange 7 to face the attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa.

[0067] Furthermore, when the mouthpiece 2 is fitted in the mouth, the protruding portion 11 is inserted deep into the mouth and positioned on the cheek side of the retromolar region, so that the mouthpiece 2 fits snugly between the gums of the upper dentition and the upper lip and cheek, allowing the mouthpiece 2 to be held stably with light force without biting down too hard.

[0068] Furthermore, when the light emitter 3 is arranged up to the protrusion 11, combined with the effects of the front slits 12 and rear slits 13 described above, light can be reliably irradiated to the attached gums and alveolar mucosa of the molars and wisdom teeth in the upper dentition.

[0069] When using the intraoral light irradiation device 1 for the lower dentition, the mouthpiece 2 is attached with the U-shaped groove formed by the front flange 6, rear flange 7, and bite tray 5 facing the lower dentition. At this time, by providing a front slit 12 in the front flange 6, the mouthpiece 2 can be attached to the lowest part of the back of the lower lip 48 without the lower labial frenulum 48 interfering with the front flange 6. Also, by providing a rear slit 13 in the rear flange 7, the mouthpiece 2 can be attached to the lowest part under the tongue without the lingual frenulum 49 interfering with the rear flange 7. This allows the light source 4 provided on the front flange 6 and rear flange 7 to face the alveolar mucosa.

[0070] Furthermore, when the mouthpiece 2 is fitted in the oral cavity, the protruding portion 11 is inserted deep into the oral cavity and positioned on the cheek side of the retromolar region, so that the mouthpiece 2 fits snugly between the gums of the lower dentition and the lower lip and cheek, allowing the mouthpiece 2 to be held stably with light force without biting down too hard.

[0071] Furthermore, when the light emitter 3 is arranged up to the protrusion 11, combined with the effects of the front slits 12 and rear slits 13 described above, light can be reliably irradiated to the attached gums and alveolar mucosa of the molars in the lower dentition and wisdom teeth.

[0072] Wavelength of light (nm), Radiation Flux (W / m 2 ), the irradiation site, and the irradiation time are not particularly limited, and are appropriately set so that the stimulation given to the light irradiated site becomes an inflammatory stimulation and activates osteoclasts, while not causing damage to teeth, gums, periodontal ligament, alveolar bone, etc.

[0073] Specifically, the wavelength (nm) of the light may be set within the range of, for example, 850 nm ± 10% (765 to 935 nm). The irradiance (radiation flux) of each light emitter 3 is, for example, 68.64 mW / cm 2 ±10% (61.78~75.50mW / cm 2 ) range. The irradiation area may be selectable from a mode (mode 1) in which only the light source 4 of the front flange 6 is irradiated, a mode (mode 2) in which only the light source 4 of the rear flange 7 is irradiated, and a mode (mode 3) in which both the light sources 4 of the front flange 6 and the rear flange 7 are irradiated. The irradiation time may be set, for example, in the range of 240 seconds ± 10% (210 to 265 seconds). In addition, the absorbed energy (Energy Absorb: J) of the light irradiated from the front flange 6 may be set in the range of 889.6 J ± 10% (800.6 to 978.6 J), and the absorbed energy (Energy Absorb: J) of the light irradiated from the rear flange 7 may be set in the range of 428.3 J ± 10% (385.5 to 471.1 J). The operating current can also be designed appropriately, and may be set, for example, in the range of 26.0 mA ± 10% (23.4 to 28.6 mA).

[0074] For example, 54 LEDs are provided as the light emitters 3 on the front flange 6, and 26 LEDs are provided as the light emitters 3 on the rear flange 7, and the irradiance of each light emitter 3 is set to 68.64 mW / cm 2 In this case, the apparent irradiance from the front flange 6 is 3706.56 mW / cm 2 The irradiance from the rear flange 7 is 1784.64 mW / cm 2 With this setting, when irradiation is performed for 240 seconds, the absorbed energy (Energy Absorb: J) of the light irradiated from the front flange 6 is 889.6 J, and the absorbed energy (Energy Absorb: J) of the light irradiated from the rear flange 7 is 428.3 J. Note that, with the above wavelength (nm) and irradiance (mW / cm 2The numerical ranges of the power (W) and absorbed energy (J) are merely examples, and may be set to values ​​outside the above numerical ranges as long as the effects of the present invention are achieved. As described above, each mode can be selected by the controller 16. The settings of the intraoral light irradiating device 1 are not limited to those described above.

[0075] The irradiance can be calculated by measuring the radiant flux of light incident per unit area using an irradiance meter after irradiating from the light emitter 3. The total amount of irradiance from the front flange 6 and rear flange 7 can be calculated by multiplying the irradiance of each light emitter by the number of light emitters. The absorbed energy (W sec) of the light irradiated from the front flange 6 and rear flange 7 can be calculated by multiplying the total amount of irradiance (W) by the irradiation time (sec).

[0076] When a mode is selected by the controller 16 and then an operation to start irradiation is performed, light irradiation is performed according to the mode. After the light irradiation is completed, the mouthpiece 2 can be removed from the oral cavity and washed. [Explanation of symbols]

[0077] 1 Intraoral light irradiation device, 2 Mouthpiece, 3 Light emitter, 4 Light source, 5 Occlusal tray, 5a End, 6 Front flange, 6a Inner surface, 6b End, 7 Rear flange, 7a Outer surface, 7b End, 11 Protrusion, 12 Front slit, 13 Rear slit, 15 Electric cable, 16 Controller, 17 Connection terminal, 18 Power supply unit, 19 Lead-out portion, 21 Control portion, 22 Setting portion, 23 Operation portion, 24 Display portion, 25 Notification portion, 26 Communication portion, 28 Microprocessor, 29 Memory, 30 Temperature detection portion, 31 Server, 32 Power switch, 33 Operation switch, 34 Storage, 35 Detection circuit

Claims

1. A mouthpiece that is attached to the oral cavity and formed into a U-shape according to the wearer's dentition; a light source disposed in the mouthpiece and having a plurality of light emitters; In the intraoral phototherapy device, light is irradiated from the light emitter to the gums of a wearer, The mouthpiece comprises: An occlusion tray formed in a U-shape according to the wearer's dentition; a front flange extending from one side edge of the bite tray along the one side edge and facing an outer surface of the wearer's gums; a rear flange extending from the other side edge of the occlusion tray along the other side edge and facing the inner surface of the wearer's gums; the front flange and the rear flange are optically transparent, and the light source is disposed so as to be capable of irradiating light from an inner peripheral surface of the front flange and an outer peripheral surface of the rear flange; A protruding portion is formed at an end of the front flange, the protruding portion protruding from the bite tray in an extension direction of the front flange, The protrusion protrudes from the upper edge of the front flange to about 2 / 3 of the way in the vertical direction.

2. The intraoral phototherapy device according to claim 1 , wherein the end of the front flange is formed in an arc shape in a side view.

3. The intraoral phototherapy device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein an end of the rear flange is formed flush with an end of the occlusion tray.

4. The intraoral phototherapy device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the light source is also disposed on the protruding portion.

5. A mouthpiece that is attached to the oral cavity and formed into a U-shape according to the wearer's dentition; a light source having a light emitter disposed within the mouthpiece; In the intraoral phototherapy device, light is irradiated from the light emitter to the gums of a wearer, The mouthpiece comprises: An occlusion tray formed in a U-shape according to the wearer's dentition; a front flange extending from one side edge of the bite tray along the one side edge and facing an outer surface of the wearer's gums; a rear flange extending from the other side edge of the occlusion tray along the other side edge and facing the inner surface of the wearer's gums; the front flange and the rear flange are optically transparent, and the light source is disposed so as to be capable of irradiating light from an inner peripheral surface of the front flange and an outer peripheral surface of the rear flange; The front flange has a front slit formed from an upper edge toward the occlusion tray, and the front slit is provided in a center portion of the front flange facing a center of the dentition; An intraoral light treatment device, wherein the rear flange has a rear slit formed from the upper edge toward the occlusion tray, and the rear slit is provided in the center of the rear flange facing the center of the dentition.

6. A controller capable of controlling the light source, The intraoral phototherapy device according to claim 1 or 5, wherein the controller is detachably connected to the mouthpiece via a cable.

7. an external power supply unit for driving the light source; The intraoral phototherapy device according to claim 6, wherein the external power supply unit is detachably connected to the controller via a cable.

8. The intraoral phototherapy device according to claim 6, wherein a power source for driving the light source is built into the mouthpiece or the controller.

9. A mouthpiece that is attached to the oral cavity and formed into a U-shape according to the wearer's dentition; a light source having a light emitter disposed within the mouthpiece; In the intraoral phototherapy device, light is irradiated from the light emitter to the gums of a wearer, The mouthpiece comprises: An occlusion tray formed in a U-shape according to the wearer's dentition; a front flange extending from one side edge of the bite tray along the one side edge and facing an outer surface of the wearer's gums; a rear flange extending from the other side edge of the occlusion tray along the other side edge and facing the inner surface of the wearer's gums; the front flange and the rear flange are optically transparent, and the light source is disposed so as to be capable of irradiating light from an inner peripheral surface of the front flange and an outer peripheral surface of the rear flange; An intraoral phototherapy device, wherein the end of the rear flange is recessed in the extension direction from the end of the occlusion tray.

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