Intraoral light irradiation device

Abstract

Provided is an intraoral light irradiation device that provides a good wearing feeling and is capable of accurately irradiating, with light, the alveolar mucosas and the gums of teeth subjected to orthodontics. An intraoral light irradiation device (1) comprises: a mouthpiece (2) formed into a U-shape; and a light source (4) disposed on the mouthpiece (2) and provided with a plurality of light emitters (3) that irradiate the gums of a wearer with light. The mouthpiece (2) has an occlusion tray (5) that is formed into a U-shape, a front flange (6) that faces the outer surface of the gums of the wearer, and a rear flange (7) that faces the inner surface of the gums of the wearer. The front flange (6) and the rear flange (7) are light-transmissive. The light source (4) is disposed so as to be able to apply light from the inner peripheral surface of the front flange (6) and the outer peripheral surface of the rear flange (7). Protruding parts (11) which each protrude from the occlusion tray (5) in the extending direction of the front flange (6) are formed at ends of the front flange (6).

Description

Intraoral light irradiation device

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

[0002] Orthodontics is performed by elastically compressing the orthodontic teeth that require correction. Within 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 shock to the teeth. When the orthodontic teeth are elastically compressed in a specific direction, the periodontal ligament on the compressed side is compressed, while the periodontal ligament on the opposite side is stretched. The compressed periodontal ligament generates stress on the alveolar bone, which becomes an inflammatory stimulus, causing the release of inflammatory stimulants and the appearance and activation of osteoclasts that dissolve the alveolar bone, dissolving the alveolar bone (bone resorption). The stretched alveolar membrane allows the appearance of osteoblasts that create teeth and form new alveolar bone. When the orthodontic teeth are continuously compressed elastically, the alveolar bone is repeatedly dissolved and formed, gradually moving in the direction of the pressure.

[0003] In conventional orthodontics, orthodontic appliances are attached to the crowns of orthodontic teeth to apply elastic pressure, but this can temporarily exert a large amount of force. In addition, orthodontic appliances can increase the risk of tooth decay and stomatitis, and since they apply force directly to the orthodontic teeth, they can also damage the tooth roots, placing a strain on the teeth and surrounding tissues over 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 alveolar bone resorption and regeneration.

[0005] Special Publication No. 2016-538028

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

[0007] Furthermore, it is necessary to accurately irradiate the attached gingiva and the alveolar mucosa above or below it, even among the gums of orthodontic teeth.In particular, it is necessary to accurately irradiate the attached gingiva and the alveolar mucosa above or below it, regardless of the position of the orthodontic teeth, such as molars, wisdom teeth, or front 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 onto the attached gums and alveolar mucosa of orthodontic teeth.

[0009] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the intraoral light irradiation device according to the present technology is an intraoral light treatment device that includes a mouthpiece that is attached to the oral cavity and is formed in 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 onto the wearer's gums from the light emitters. The mouthpiece includes an occlusion tray that is formed in a U-shape according to the wearer's dentition, a front flange that stands upright from one side edge of the occlusion tray along the one side edge and faces the outer surfaces of the wearer's gums, and a rear flange that stands upright from the other side edge of the occlusion tray along the other side edge and faces the inner surfaces 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 the inner surface of the front flange and the outer surface of the rear flange, and a protrusion that projects from the occlusion tray in the extension direction of the front flange is formed at an end of the front flange.

[0010] Furthermore, the intraoral light irradiation device according to the present technology is an intraoral phototherapy device that is worn in the oral cavity and has a mouthpiece that is U-shaped according to the wearer's dentition, and a light source with a light emitter disposed within the mouthpiece, and irradiates light from the light emitter to the wearer's gums. The mouthpiece has a bite tray that is U-shaped according to the wearer's dentition, a front flange that stands upright from one side edge of the bite tray along the one side edge and faces the outer surface of the wearer's gums, and a rear flange that stands upright from the other side edge of the bite 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 the inner surface of the front flange and the outer surface of the rear flange, and the front flange has a slit extending from the top surface downward in which the wearer's frenulum or mandibular frenulum is positioned.

[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 onto the gums and alveolar mucosa of orthodontic teeth.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an intraoral light emitting device to which the present technology is applied. FIG. 2 is a front view showing the intraoral light emitting device. FIG. 3 is a left side view showing the intraoral light emitting device. FIG. 4 is a bottom view showing the intraoral light emitting device. FIG. 5 is a right side view showing the intraoral light emitting device. FIG. 6 is a rear view showing the intraoral light emitting device. FIG. 7A is a perspective view showing an intraoral light emitting device configured such that a light source is not provided on the protruding portion. FIG. 7B is a perspective view showing an intraoral light emitting device configured such that a light source is also provided on the protruding portion. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the light source and the gums when the intraoral light emitting device is worn. FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a modified intraoral light emitting device. FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the intraoral light emitting device from above and behind. 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. FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram showing an example configuration of the controller. FIG. 13 is a functional block diagram showing an example configuration of the intraoral light emitting device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 14 is a diagram showing a state in which the intraoral light emitting device is attached to the upper teeth in use. Fig. 15 is a diagram showing a state in which the intraoral light emitting device is attached to the upper teeth in use.

[0013] An intraoral light irradiation device to which the present technology is applied will be described in detail below 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 gist of the present technology. Furthermore, the drawings are schematic, and the ratios of the dimensions may differ from the actual ones. Specific dimensions should be determined with reference to the following explanation. It should also be noted that the drawings may include portions in which the dimensional relationships and ratios differ.

[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 portion, and (B) shows a configuration in which a light source is also provided on the protruding portion. 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 arranged 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 extending from one side edge of the occlusion tray 5 along the same edge and facing the outer surface of the wearer's gums, and a rear flange 7 extending from the other side edge of the occlusion tray 5 along the same edge and facing 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 circumferential surface 6a of the front flange 6 and the outer circumferential surface 7a of the rear flange 7 are optically transparent, and the light source 4 has a light emitter 3 disposed thereon so as to irradiate light from the inner circumferential surface 6a of the front flange 6 and the outer circumferential surface 7a of the rear flange 7. This allows light to be irradiated from the light emitter 3 onto the outer and inner surfaces of the wearer's gums. In this specification, the outer circumferential 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 circumferential surfaces of the front flange 6 and the rear flange 7 refer to the surfaces on the opposite side of the outer circumferential surfaces, that face the tongue, and are inner surfaces of the oral cavity.

[0018] 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 or lower teeth. When the intraoral light irradiation device 1 is attached along the upper or lower teeth, the light emitter 3 faces the attached gums and alveolar mucosa of the orthodontic tooth and irradiates the attached gums and alveolar mucosa with a predetermined amount of light. In the figure, 40 indicates the gums (gingiva), 41 indicates the free gums, 42 indicates the attached gums, 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 that protrudes from the end 5a of the bite tray 5. When the mouthpiece 2 is placed 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. This allows the mouthpiece 2 to be snugly placed in the oral cavity and can be held stably with light force without having to bite down too hard. Furthermore, the end 6b of the front flange 6, which is placed between the inside of the cheek and the dentition, protrudes, while the end 7b of the posterior flange 7, which is placed between the dentition and the base of the tongue, does not protrude as much as the front flange 6, thereby suppressing the gag reflex and preventing a loss of comfort when wearing the mouthpiece.

[0020] The configuration of the intraoral light irradiating 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 occlusion tray 5, a front flange 6 erected along one edge of the outer periphery of the occlusion tray 5, and a rear flange 7 erected along the other edge of the inner periphery of the occlusion tray 5. As a result, when the mouthpiece 2 is placed in the oral cavity, the dentition is inserted between the front flange 6 and the rear flange 7. Furthermore, 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 is substantially U-shaped in plan view to correspond 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 is equipped with the light source 4 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 gums and the alveolar mucosa above or below it. The rear flange 7 is provided with the light source 4 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 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 and have appropriate flexibility, so that they can be fitted to conform to the shape of the oral cavity.

[0026] [Protrusions] Protrusions 11 are formed on both end portions 6b of the front flange 6, projecting beyond the end portions 5a of the occlusion tray 5 in the direction of extension of the front flange 6. When the mouthpiece 2 is fitted into 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 into 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 into 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 of the front flange 6. This allows the protruding portion 11, inserted deep into the oral cavity, to closely fit the shape of the oral cavity, fitting the front flange 6 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 stably holding the mouthpiece 2. This also allows the front flange 6 to face the attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa of the gums. In other words, the dental crowns of the mouthpiece 2 are positioned on the bottom side of the occlusion tray 5, and the attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa are positioned on the upper edge 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 located as close to the upper edge of the front flange 6 as possible, allowing light to be accurately irradiated onto the attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa. Furthermore, the protruding portion 11 is not formed over the entire length of the front flange 6 in the vertical direction, but rather protrudes from the upper edge to about two-thirds of the way 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 located in 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 comfortable fit.

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

[0031] As shown in FIG. 7(B) , the mouthpiece 2 preferably has a light emitter 3 of the light source 4 also provided on the protruding portion 11. The front flange 6 and rear flange 7 are formed to face the molars (second molars) or wisdom teeth (third molars, third wisdom teeth) and are designed to allow light to be irradiated from the light emitter 3 to those areas. However, it is anticipated that some wearers may have molars or wisdom teeth located outside the front flange 6 and rear flange 7. In this case, too, by forming the protruding portion 11 on the upper edge of the front flange 6, the protruding portion 11 faces the attached gums and alveolar mucosa of the molars or wisdom teeth. Furthermore, by providing the light emitter 3 on the protruding portion 11, light can be irradiated to the attached gums and alveolar mucosa above or below 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 does not have any protrusions that protrude 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 wearing comfort is not impaired. Note that protrusions may be formed on both ends 7b of the rear flange 7 by reducing the protruding length or protruding area, as long as the wearing comfort 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 occlusion tray 5. The gag reflex can be suppressed by positioning the end 7b of the rear flange 7 further back than the end 5a of the occlusion 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 occlusion tray 5 without providing the protrusion 11.

[0034] [Slit] A front slit 12 is formed in the center of the front flange 6 facing the center of the dentition, extending from the upper edge downward (toward the occlusion tray 5). When the mouthpiece 2 is attached to the oral cavity, the superior labial frenulum or inferior labial frenulum is inserted through the front slit 12. 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 upper or lower 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, making it impossible to attach the front flange 6 to the upper part of the oral cavity, i.e., the uppermost or lower part of the underside of the upper lip, i.e., the lowermost part of the underside of the lower lip, or, since the interference between the upper edge of the front flange 6 and the upper or lower labial frenulum causes pain and discomfort, the height of the front flange 6 cannot be increased, making it difficult to fully face the attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa.

[0036] Therefore, by providing a front slit 12 in the front flange 6, the front flange 6 can be attached to the top of the back of the upper lip or the bottom of the back of the lower lip without interfering with the upper edge of the front flange 6 and the frenulum of the upper lip or the frenulum of the lower lip, and the front flange 6 can be placed against 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 through 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 lingual frenulum and palatine raphe.

[0038] That is, the lingual frenulum extends near the center of the dental arch under the tongue, and the palatine raphe extends on the palate toward the center of the dental arch. Therefore, if the posterior slit 13 is not provided in the center of the posterior flange 7 facing the center of the dental arch, the upper edge of the posterior flange 7 will interfere with the lingual frenulum or palatine raphe, making it impossible to attach the posterior flange 7 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. Alternatively, the interference between the upper edge of the posterior flange 7 and the lingual frenulum or palatine raphe will cause pain and discomfort, making it impossible to increase the height of the posterior flange 7 and making it difficult to fully face the attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa.

[0039] Therefore, by providing a rear slit 13 in the rear flange 7, the upper edge of the rear flange 7 does not interfere with the lingual frenulum or palatine raphe, and the appliance can be attached to the top surface of the palate or the lowest part of the tongue, allowing the rear flange 7 to face the alveolar mucosa.

[0040] [Material] The material of 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 light source 4. Specifically, the material of mouthpiece 2 can be a resin that conforms to the shape of the oral cavity and has appropriate hardness and softness, such as, but not limited to, an olefin-based resin, a polyester-based resin, a urethane resin such as polyurethane, a polyimide-based resin, a silicone-based resin, a styrene-based resin, an acrylic-based resin, a polyamide-based resin, and a carbonate-based 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 polycarboxylic 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 together through amide bonds. Examples of 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 hardnesses.

[0047] The mouthpiece 2 is obtained by molding the material described above integrally with the light source 4. The injection conditions for the material are set according to the size and shape of the mouthpiece 2, and the entire mouthpiece 2 is usually molded using a single mold. The size of the mouthpiece 2 need only be such that it has a shape suitable for fitting to the dentition of an average person. If the wearer is an adult, the mouthpiece 2 is manufactured as an adult mouthpiece 2 having a size and shape that corresponds to the dentition of an average adult, and if the wearer is a child, the mouthpiece 2 is manufactured as a child mouthpiece 2 having a size and shape that corresponds to the dentition of an average child.

[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 onto the attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa using the light emitters 3, stimulating the alveolar bone, causing inflammation in the alveolar bone and activating osteoclasts on the surface of the alveolar bone, thereby causing bone resorption in the alveolar bone. Light irradiation can also suppress bleeding and relieve discomfort and pain.

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

[0050] The substrate 10 is provided with light emitters 3 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 and behind. As shown in FIG. 10 , a connection terminal 17 is formed in the center of the substrate 10 provided on the front flange 6, facing the center of the dentition. Each light emitter 3 on the substrate 10 provided on the front flange 6 is connected to the connection terminal 17 via internal wiring. Each light emitter 3 on the substrate 10 provided on the rear flange 7 is connected to the connection terminal 17 in the center facing the center of the dentition via internal wiring passing through the occlusion tray 5. The connection terminal 17 is connected to a controller 16 via an electric cable 15 extending 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 to control light irradiation by the light emitter 3 (e.g., irradiation ON / OFF, irradiation area, 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 by the transparent or translucent resin that constitutes the mouthpiece 2, as the light source 4 is integrally molded 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 when the mouthpiece 2 is in use or cleaned.

[0054] A plurality of light emitters 3 are mounted from one end to the other along the longitudinal direction of the substrate 10, and are arranged in a grid 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 no areas are left unirradiated by light.

[0055] As described above, the light emitter 3 is also preferably formed on the protruding portion 11 of the front flange 6, which is located on the buccal side of the retromolar region. This allows light to be reliably irradiated onto 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, such that the entire light source 4 on the front flange 6 and / or the entire light source 4 on the rear flange 7 is irradiated. Furthermore, the area to be irradiated by each light source on the front flange 6 and the rear flange 7 may be uniformly irradiated with the entire light emitter 3, or may be selectable, such as half on the front teeth side or half on the back teeth side. The light irradiation pattern may also be set appropriately, and the light emitters 3 may be uniformly lit with the same irradiance or may be flashed. Furthermore, 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 detection unit 30 such as a thermistor that detects the temperature of the light source 4. This makes it possible to control the light emission to stop 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 the 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 an example configuration 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 memory or storage a mode in which the irradiation site, irradiation time, wavelength of irradiated light, irradiance, absorbed energy, etc. are preset, as well as the 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, turning irradiation on and off, and selecting a mode.

[0059] The controller 16 is further detachably connected to a power supply unit 18 via a power cable. The power supply unit 18 can be a power supply device (adapter) connected to a household outlet, a mobile battery that houses rechargeable or disposable batteries, or the like. By separating the mouthpiece 2 from the controller 16 and the power supply unit 18 and connecting them via a cable, the weight of the mouthpiece 2 when worn is limited to the weight of the mouthpiece 2 itself, preventing misalignment of the mouthpiece 2, reducing the burden on the wearer who holds the mouthpiece 2 in the oral cavity, and further improving operability. Furthermore, the mouthpiece 2 being detachable from the power cable 15 makes it easy to clean 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 can also 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 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 operating status and operation history of the intraoral light irradiation device 1, schedule management, remaining light irradiation time, remaining battery power, etc.; an alarm unit 25 for notifying the end of a specified light irradiation or an error state by an alarm, light emission, vibration, etc.; and a communication unit 26 for connecting to an external server 31 via the Internet and updating the control program and schedule stored in the control unit 21 and transmitting the operation history saved in the control unit 21.

[0062] 13 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the intraoral light irradiating 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 for irradiation modes and the operation history of the intraoral light irradiating device 1 with a memory 29 or a storage 34. The microprocessor 28 also stores setting information of the setting unit 22 in the memory 29 or the storage 34, and controls irradiation according to the settings stored in the memory 29 or the 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 stop light irradiation when the light emitter 3 heats up to a predetermined temperature or higher, protecting the wearer and the mouthpiece 2.

[0064] Furthermore, the microprocessor 28 receives the output of the detection circuit 35, which 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] [Method of Use] Next, we will explain how to use the intraoral light irradiation device 1. The intraoral light irradiation device 1 is used by a user undergoing orthodontic treatment at predetermined intervals, for example, once to several times a day, for a predetermined time each time or per day (in the example described below, approximately four minutes per day for each orthodontic treatment site).

[0066] When using the intraoral light irradiation device 1 on 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 Figures 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 of the upper lip without the frenulum 46 interfering with the front flange 6. Furthermore, 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 palatal raphe 47 interfering with the posterior flange 7. This allows the light sources 4 attached to the front flange 6 and rear flange 7 to face the attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa.

[0067] Furthermore, when the mouthpiece 2 is placed 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 between the gums of the upper dentition and the upper lip and cheek, allowing the mouthpiece 2 to be held securely with light force without having to bite down too hard.

[0068] Furthermore, when the light emitter 3 is arranged up to the protrusion 11, combined with the effects of the front slit 12 and rear slit 13 described above, light can be reliably irradiated onto 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 on the lower dentition, the mouthpiece 2 is attached with the U-shaped groove formed by the front flange 6, the posterior flange 7, and the occlusion 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 underside of the lower lip 48 without the frenulum 48 interfering with the front flange 6. Furthermore, by providing a posterior slit 13 in the posterior flange 7, the mouthpiece 2 can be attached to the lowest part of the sublingual area without the lingual frenulum 49 interfering with the posterior flange 7. This allows the light sources 4 attached to the front flange 6 and the posterior flange 7 to face the alveolar mucosa.

[0070] Furthermore, when the mouthpiece 2 is placed 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, allowing the mouthpiece 2 to be fitted snugly between the gums of the lower dentition and the lower lip and cheek, allowing the mouthpiece 2 to be held securely with light force without having to bite down too hard.

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

[0072] The wavelength (nm), irradiance (Radiation Flux: W / m2), irradiation site, and irradiation time of the light are not particularly limited, and are appropriately set so that the stimulation given to the light irradiated site becomes an inflammatory stimulus that can activate osteoclasts, while not causing damage to teeth, gums, periodontal ligament, alveolar bone, etc.

[0073] Specifically, the wavelength (nm) of the light may be set, for example, within a range of 850 nm ±10% (765 to 935 nm). The irradiance (Radiation Flux) of each light emitter 3 may be set, for example, within a range of 68.64 mW / cm ±10% (61.78 to 75.50 mW / cm). The irradiation area may be selectable from a mode in which only the light source 4 on the front flange 6 is irradiated (Mode 1), a mode in which only the light source 4 on the rear flange 7 is irradiated (Mode 2), and a mode in which both the light sources 4 on the front flange 6 and the rear flange 7 are irradiated (Mode 3). The irradiation time may be set, for example, within a range of 240 seconds ±10% (210 to 265 seconds). The absorbed energy (Energy Absorb: J) of 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 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 in the range of 26.0 mA ± 10% (23.4 to 28.6 mA), for example.

[0074] For example, if 54 LEDs are provided as light emitters 3 on the front flange 6 and 26 LEDs are provided as light emitters 3 on the rear flange 7, and the irradiance of each light emitter 3 is 68.64 mW / cm², the apparent irradiance from the front flange 6 is 3706.56 mW / cm², and the apparent irradiance from the rear flange 7 is 1784.64 mW / cm². 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 the numerical ranges of the wavelength (nm), irradiance (mW / cm²), and absorbed energy (J) described above are merely examples, and values ​​outside the above numerical ranges may be set as long as the effects of the present invention are achieved. Furthermore, as described above, the selection of each mode can be performed 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 determined 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 the rear flange 7 can be determined by multiplying the irradiance of each light emitter by the number of light emitters. The absorbed energy (W·sec) of light irradiated from the front flange 6 and the rear flange 7 can be determined by multiplying the total amount of irradiance (W) by the irradiation time (sec).

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

[0077] 1 Intraoral light irradiation device, 2 Mouthpiece, 3 Light emitter, 4 Light source, 5 Occlusion tray, 5a End, 6 Front flange, 6a Inner peripheral surface, 6b End, 7 Rear flange, 7a Outer peripheral surface, 7b End, 11 Protrusion, 12 Front slit, 13 Rear slit, 15 Electrical cable, 16 Controller, 17 Connection terminal portion, 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. An intraoral phototherapy device comprising: a mouthpiece which is worn in the oral cavity and which is formed into a U-shape in accordance with the wearer's dentition; and a light source which is disposed on the mouthpiece and which is provided with a plurality of light emitters, said mouthpiece comprising: an occlusal tray which is formed into a U-shape in accordance with the wearer's dentition; a front flange which is erected along one edge of the occlusal tray from said one edge and which faces the outer surface of the wearer's gums; and a rear flange which is erected along the other edge of the occlusal tray from said other edge and which faces the inner surface of the wearer's gums, said front flange and rear flange being optically transparent, said light source being disposed so as to be able to irradiate light from the inner surface of the front flange and the outer surface of the rear flange, and an end of the front flange being formed with a protrusion which projects from the occlusal tray in the extension direction of the front flange.

2. An intraoral phototherapy device as described in claim 1, wherein the end of the front flange is formed in an arc shape when viewed from the side.

3. An intraoral light treatment device as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the end of the rear flange is formed flush with the end of the occlusion tray.

4. An intraoral phototherapy device as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the light source is also arranged on the protruding portion.

5. An intraoral phototherapy device comprising: a mouthpiece which is worn in the oral cavity and which is formed into a U-shape in accordance with the wearer's dentition; and a light source which has a light emitter disposed within the mouthpiece, and which irradiates light from the light emitter to the wearer's gums, wherein the mouthpiece comprises: an occlusal tray which is formed into a U-shape in accordance with the wearer's dentition; a front flange which is erected from one side edge of the occlusal tray along said one edge and faces the outer surface of the wearer's gums; and a rear flange which is erected from the other side edge of the occlusal tray along said other edge and faces the inner surface of the wearer's gums, wherein the front flange and the rear flange are optically transparent, and the light source is disposed so as to be able to irradiate light from the inner surface of the front flange and the outer surface of the rear flange, and wherein the front flange has a slit extending from the top downward where the frenulum of the upper lip or the frenulum of the lower lip of the wearer is positioned.

6. An intraoral phototherapy device as described in claim 5, wherein the rear flange has a slit extending downward from the upper surface thereof in which the wearer's lingual frenulum is positioned.

7. An intraoral phototherapy device according to claim 1 or 5, further comprising a controller capable of controlling the light source, the controller being detachably connected to the mouthpiece via a cable.

8. An intraoral phototherapy device according to claim 7, further comprising an external power supply unit for driving the light source, the external power supply unit being detachably connected to the controller via a cable.

9. The intraoral phototherapy device according to claim 7, wherein a power source for driving the light source is built into the mouthpiece or the controller.

10. An intraoral phototherapy device comprising: a mouthpiece which is worn in the oral cavity and which is formed into a U-shape in accordance with the wearer's dentition; and a light source which has a light emitter disposed within the mouthpiece, and which irradiates light from the light emitter to the wearer's gums, wherein the mouthpiece comprises: an occlusal tray which is formed into a U-shape in accordance with the wearer's dentition; a front flange which stands upright from one side edge of the occlusal tray along said one edge and faces the outer surface of the wearer's gums; and a rear flange which stands upright from the other side edge of the occlusal tray along said other edge and faces the inner surface of the wearer's gums, wherein the front flange and the rear flange are optically transparent, and the light source is disposed so as to be able to irradiate light from the inner surface of the front flange and the outer surface of the rear flange, and an end of the rear flange is set back further than the end of the occlusal tray.

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