Non-enzymatic Catalyst Oxygen Generation for Dental Calculus Removal

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for removing dental calculus, which rely on mechanical scaling, are time-consuming, labor-intensive for dental professionals, and painful for patients, also leading to physical strain and repetitive movement ailments for hygienists.

Innovation Solution

A kit comprising a hydrogen peroxide component and a non-enzymatic hydrogen peroxide decomposition catalyst, applied simultaneously or sequentially to generate oxygen gas, softening and loosening calculus for easier removal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If mechanical scaling is used to remove calculus, then calculus removal is achieved, but the procedure becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecalculus removal efficiencyVSAvoidprocedure time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical scaling system with a chemical system. Hydrogen peroxide decomposition catalysts (chemical agents) are applied to generate oxygen gas that penetrates and loosens calculus deposits, eliminating the need for mechanical scraping by dental professionals. This chemical approach significantly reduces procedure time and labor intensity while maintaining effective calculus removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical-chemical parameters of the calculus by applying hydrogen peroxide and catalysts that generate oxygen gas. This chemical reaction alters the calculus structure, making it softer and easier to remove. The parameter change from hard mineralized deposit to softened material enables faster removal without intensive mechanical effort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If mechanical scaling is used to remove calculus, then calculus removal is achieved, but patient discomfort and pain increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecalculus removal efficiencyVSAvoidpatient pain
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the painful mechanical scraping action with a gentle chemical process. The hydrogen peroxide and catalyst combination chemically softens the calculus, allowing it to be removed without the painful scraping sensation patients experience during traditional mechanical scaling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces oxygen gas as an intermediary substance that mediates between the chemical agents (hydrogen peroxide and catalyst) and the calculus. The oxygen bubbles penetrate and lift the calculus deposits, providing a painless removal mechanism that eliminates direct mechanical contact with sensitive gum tissues.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If mechanical scaling is used to remove calculus, then calculus removal is achieved, but physical burden on hygienists increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecalculus removal efficiencyVSAvoidphysical strain on hygienist
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the force-intensive mechanical scaling procedure with a chemical reaction system. Dental professionals no longer need to apply repeated scraping forces with scalers, eliminating the cumulative physical strain on hands, wrists, and shoulders that leads to repetitive movement ailments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables the calculus to remove itself through chemical action. The hydrogen peroxide and catalyst system automatically softens and loosens the deposits without requiring continuous manual intervention or force application by the hygienist, significantly reducing physical burden.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Productivity

If mechanical scaling is used to remove calculus, then calculus removal is achieved, but a significant amount of time is allocated to the procedure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecalculus removal efficiencyVSAvoidprophylaxis procedure time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary chemical action by applying hydrogen peroxide and catalyst before any removal step. This pre-treatment softens and loosens the calculus deposits, making them easier to remove quickly. The preliminary chemical preparation eliminates the need for prolonged mechanical scraping, significantly reducing overall procedure time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces time-consuming mechanical scaling with a rapid chemical reaction process. The hydrogen peroxide decomposition and oxygen generation occur quickly, softening calculus in minutes rather than the extended period required for mechanical removal, thereby freeing up significant procedural time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentEP3528772B1Methods and kits for removing calculus using a non-enzymatic, hydrogen peroxide decomposition catalyst
Publication Date: 2024.06.19 SOLVENTUM INTELLECTUAL PROPERTIES CO
  • EP3528772B1 patent drawing
  • EP3528772B1 patent drawing
  • EP3528772B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and kits for removing calculus from a tooth, wherein the method can include applying a component A to the tooth, wherein component A comprises a hydrogen peroxide or a precursor thereto; applying a component B to the tooth, wherein component B comprises a non-enzymatic, hydrogen peroxide decomposition catalyst for generating oxygen gas; wherein components A and B are applied simultaneously or sequentially to the tooth, thereby generating oxygen gas to soften and/or loosen at least part of the calculus on the tooth; and removing at least a part of the calculus from the tooth.