Sacrificial-Electrode Oral Device for ACP Tooth Remineralization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ACP formulations are inefficient in depositing calcium phosphate within porous tooth structures due to high viscosity and reliance on diffusion, and external electric fields can cause discomfort and poor compliance.
Innovation Solution
An oral treatment device with a first electrode proximal to the tooth and a second electrode with a sacrificial material, separated from the first electrode, applies a potential difference to stimulate calcium phosphate deposition through electrochemical reactions, enhancing pH locally and facilitating ion transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If ACP formulation is applied using conventional gel-based products, then the formulation can be applied to the tooth surface, but the high viscosity prevents hydrodynamic movement into porous tooth structures and most ACP precipitates in the bulk gel before reaching the tooth interface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical diffusion-based delivery system with an electrochemical system. By applying a low voltage electrical potential across the gel, electrochemical reactions generate ion gradients that actively transport calcium and phosphate ions through the porous tooth structures, overcoming the limitations of passive diffusion and viscosity-related transport barriers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the ACP formulation by adjusting pH, ionic strength, and composition to optimize ion mobility and deposition. The formulation is designed to remain stable in the gel but release ions efficiently when exposed to the electrochemical field, transforming the delivery mechanism from bulk precipitation to controlled ion transport.
2Productivity
If external electric fields are applied for remineralization treatment, then calcium phosphate deposition can be stimulated, but patient discomfort increases and compliance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating the electrochemical reactions at the tooth-gel interface rather than applying a broad external electric field. The gel acts as a localized reactor where electrochemical ions are generated precisely where needed, minimizing spread of electrical stimulation to surrounding tissues and reducing patient discomfort while maintaining effective remineralization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the gel formulation as an intermediary medium between the electrical stimulus and the tooth structure. The gel contains the ACP particles and facilitates localized electrochemical reactions, acting as a buffer that translates electrical energy into chemical deposition without requiring direct skin contact with strong electric fields, thereby reducing discomfort and improving compliance.
3Reliability
If ACP particles are deposited on the tooth surface, then porosities can be blocked and sensitivity reduced, but the bulk gel is washed away along with most ACP particles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning ACP particles within the gel formulation before application to the tooth. The gel serves as a carrier that delivers ACP particles to the tooth interface and facilitates their deposition through electrochemical ion transport, ensuring particles are already in place to block porosities and reduce sensitivity without being washed away.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Promotes efficient and user-friendly deposition of calcium phosphate within tooth surfaces, reducing discomfort and improving remineralization efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
stimulating deposition of calcium phosphate from an amorphous calcium phosphate formulation in contact with a tooth in an oral cavity
Implementation Method 2
applying a potential difference across the first electrode and the second electrode causing an increase in pH at the first electrode though the formation of hydroxide anions
Data Source
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AI summary
An oral treatment device (10) for stimulating deposition of calcium phosphate from an amorphous calcium phosphate formulation in contact with a tooth (1) in an oral cavity is disclosed. The device comprises a first electrode (12) and a second electrode (14) spatially separated from the first electrode, wherein both the first electrode and the second electrode are arranged to contact the amorphous calcium phosphate formulation when the first electrode is arranged proximal to the tooth during use of the device; and the second electrode comprises a sacrificial material at least on its surface. Also disclosed is a kit of parts comprising the oral treatment device (10) and an ACP formulation and a method (100) for remineralizing a tooth using an amorphous calcium phosphate formulation.