U.S. patent application number 12/883289 was filed with the patent office on 2011-03-24 for tooth shade indicator apparatus and method for evaluating tooth shade.
Invention is credited to Steven J. Brattesani.
Application Number | 20110067190 12/883289 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43755301 |
Filed Date | 2011-03-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110067190 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Brattesani; Steven J. |
March 24, 2011 |
TOOTH SHADE INDICATOR APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR EVALUATING TOOTH
SHADE
Abstract
An apparatus for monitoring tooth whitening treatments and
status is shown in the form of a toothbrush with at least one panel
with a scale of whiteness indicators. Whiteness indicia can be a
removable or permanent insert disposed in a slot in the head, body
or handle of a transparent toothbrush or an inlay in the surface of
the brush. Other information such as appointment times, dentist
information, instructions and images can be placed on the inserts.
Comparison of the indicia with the teeth allows the user to
evaluate the progress of treatments.
Inventors: |
Brattesani; Steven J.; (San
Francisco, CA) |
Family ID: |
43755301 |
Appl. No.: |
12/883289 |
Filed: |
September 16, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61243525 |
Sep 17, 2009 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
15/106 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A46B 15/0055 20130101;
A61C 19/066 20130101; A46B 15/0002 20130101; A61C 19/10 20130101;
A61C 17/34 20130101; A46B 17/08 20130101; A46B 17/00 20130101; A46B
2200/1066 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
15/106 |
International
Class: |
A46B 15/00 20060101
A46B015/00; A46B 9/04 20060101 A46B009/04 |
Claims
1. A tooth shade indicator apparatus, comprising: a brush body with
a brush head with bristles; and a tooth shade indicator coupled to
said brush body; wherein a user's tooth color can be visually
compared with said tooth shade indicator.
2. An apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein said tooth shade
indicator includes at least one color from a VITA, IVOCLAR, or
other cosmetic dental color scale.
3. An apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein said tooth shade
indicator comprises disks of different shades inlaid in the brush
body and brush head.
4. An apparatus as recited in claim 1, further comprising an insert
configured to slide within a slot within said brush head, wherein
said tooth shade indicator is mounted to said insert.
5. An apparatus as recited in claim 1, further comprising an insert
configured to slide within a slot within said brush body, wherein
said tooth shade indicator is mounted to said insert.
6. An apparatus as recited in claim 5, further comprising a second
insert configured to slide within a slot within said brush head of
said brush body, wherein said tooth shade indicator is mounted to
said second insert and treatment information is printed on said
first insert.
7. An apparatus as recited in claim 1, further comprising a light
source coupled to said brush body configured to illuminate teeth of
a user when comparing said shade indicator with the teeth of a
user.
8. An apparatus as recited in claim 1, further comprising a light
source coupled to said brush body configured to illuminate said
shade indicator.
9. An apparatus as recited in claim 1, further comprising: an
insert configured to slide within a slot within said brush body,
said insert having an end cap and a panel with a top surface and a
bottom surface; wherein information is applied to said top and
bottom surfaces; and wherein the tooth shade indicator comprises
disks of different shades inlaid in the brush head.
10. A tooth shade indicator apparatus, comprising: an indicator
body; a detachable head configured to reversibly couple with said
indicator body; and a tooth shade indicator coupled to said
detachable head; wherein a user's tooth color can be visually
compared with said tooth shade indicator.
11. An apparatus as recited in claim 10, wherein said tooth shade
indicator comprises disks of different shades inlaid in the
detachable head.
12. An apparatus as recited in claim 10, wherein said tooth shade
indicator comprises rings of different shades inlaid in the
detachable head.
13. An apparatus as recited in claim 10, further comprising an
insert configured to slide within a slot within said brush body,
said insert comprising a handle and a panel with top and bottom
surfaces; and wherein information is applied to said top and bottom
surfaces of said panel.
14. An apparatus as recited in claim 13, further comprising: a
tooth shade indicator applied to a top surface of said panel and
information applied to said bottom surface of said panel; and
wherein said tooth shade indicator comprises the color of the
detachable head.
15. An apparatus as recited in claim 10, said indicator body
further comprising an electric toothbrush motor configured to
rapidly alternate directions of rotation of a brush on said
detachable head.
16. A tooth shade indicator apparatus, comprising: an indicator
body with an indicator head that has the color of a cosmetically
desirable tooth shade of white; an insert sized to fit within a
socket in said indicator body, said insert having an outer surface;
and a tooth shade indicator coupled to said outer surface of said
insert; wherein a user's tooth color can be visually compared with
said indicator head color to evaluate treatment progress and said
tooth shade indicator to determine a tooth shade.
17. An apparatus as recited in claim 16, further comprising
information regarding a dental treatment applied to the outer
surface of said insert in addition to the tooth shade
indicator.
18. An apparatus as recited in claim 16, further comprising a light
source coupled to said indicator body configured to illuminate
teeth of a user when comparing said shade indicator with the teeth
of a user.
19. An apparatus as recited in claim 16, wherein said indicator
body further comprises a fastener configured to secure said insert
within said socket and a plurality of windows; wherein said outer
surface of said insert is visible from the exterior of the
indicator body when secured within said socket.
20. An apparatus as recited in claim 16, further comprising: a
second insert sized to fit within a second socket in said indicator
body or said indicator head, said second insert having an outer
surface with information regarding a dental treatment applied to
the outer surface of said second insert.
21. A tooth shade indicator apparatus, comprising: a toothbrush
head with bristles; and a tooth shade indicator associated with
said toothbrush head.
22. An apparatus as recited in claim 21, wherein said tooth shade
indicator includes at least one color from a VITA, IVOCLAR, or
other cosmetic dental color scale.
23. An apparatus as recited in claim 22, wherein said tooth shade
indicator comprises the color at least a portion of said toothbrush
head.
24. An apparatus as recited in claim 22, wherein said tooth shade
indicator is inlaid in said toothbrush head.
25. An apparatus as recited in claim 22, wherein said tooth shade
indicator comprises disks of different shades inlaid in said
toothbrush head.
26. An apparatus as recited in claim 22, further comprising an
insert configured to slide within a slot within said toothbrush
head, wherein said tooth shade indicator is coupled to said
insert.
27. An apparatus as recited in claim 26, further comprising a
second insert configured to slide within said slot within said slot
in said toothbrush head, wherein said tooth shade indicator is
coupled to said second insert and treatment information is printed
on said first insert.
28. A tooth shade indicator apparatus, comprising: a toothbrush
body; and a tooth shade indicator associated with said toothbrush
body.
29. An apparatus as recited in claim 28, wherein said tooth shade
indicator includes at least one color from a VITA, IVOCLAR, or
other cosmetic dental color scale.
30. An apparatus as recited in claim 29, wherein said tooth shade
indicator comprises the color at least a portion of said toothbrush
body.
31. An apparatus as recited in claim 29, wherein said tooth shade
indicator is inlaid in said toothbrush body.
32. An apparatus as recited in claim 29, wherein said tooth shade
indicator comprises disks of different shades inlaid in said
toothbrush body.
33. An apparatus as recited in claim 29, further comprising an
insert configured to slide within said slot within said toothbrush
body, wherein said tooth shade indicator is coupled to said
insert.
34. An apparatus as recited in claim 33, further comprising a
second insert configured to slide within a slot within said
toothbrush body, wherein said tooth shade indicator is coupled to
said second insert and treatment information is printed on said
first insert.
35. An apparatus as recited in claim 28, further comprising a light
source coupled to said brush body configured to illuminate teeth of
a user when comparing said shade indicator with the teeth of a
user.
36. An apparatus as recited in claim 28, further comprising a light
source coupled to said brush body configured to illuminate said
shade indicator.
37. An apparatus as recited in claim 28, further comprising: an
insert configured to slide within a slot within said brush body,
said insert having an end cap and a panel with a top surface and a
bottom surface; wherein information is applied to said top and
bottom surfaces; and wherein the tooth shade indicator comprises
disks of different shades inlaid in the brush head.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. provisional
application Ser. No. 61/243,525 filed on Sep. 17, 2009,
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not Applicable
INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT
DISC
[0003] Not Applicable
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] 1. Field of the Invention
[0005] This invention pertains generally to scales and gauges, and
more particularly to toothbrushes with tooth whiteness indicia.
[0006] 2. Description of Related Art
[0007] The desire for straight white teeth has created a large
market for whitening preparations and dental practitioners. Teeth
are an important part of ones cosmetic appearance. Tooth
discoloration may result from the presence of substances that are
found in food, beverages, medicines, tobacco, blood and salivary
fluid. Traumatic injuries may also destroy associated nerves
causing the injured tooth to darken. Such discoloration is likely
to remain on the teeth without external intervention.
[0008] The tooth structures that can have a stained appearance are
enamel, dentin, and the acquired tooth surface pellicle. The enamel
of the tooth is primarily formed from inorganic material in the
form of hydroxyapatite crystals and normally contains a small
percentage of organic material in the form of collagen.
[0009] Dentin, in the other hand, is composed of about 20% protein
including collagen and the rest consisting of inorganic material,
predominantly hydroxyapatite crystals, similar to that found in the
enamel. The acquired pellicle consists of a proteinaceous layer
that forms on the surface of the tooth enamel that can be removed
with intensive tooth cleaning. The pellicle readily reforms after a
period of time after brushing. Artificial dental structures such as
crowns or dentures can also be stained if the pellicle adheres to
the surface or by exposure to compounds that react with the
artificial structure.
[0010] Staining of the overlying pellicle can result from exposure
to compounds such as tannins and other polyphenolic compounds that
can become trapped and tightly bound to the pellicle layer on the
surface of the teeth. Removal of the pellicle through mechanical
tooth cleaning will usually remove staining of the pellicle.
[0011] Tooth staining can also occur when the enamel or dentin is
penetrated by staining compounds from external exposures or from
sources within the tooth. For example, acid etching can occur on
the surface of a tooth or artificial dental structure from exposure
to tomatoes or acidic fruit juices and the like that roughen the
surface of the tooth and change the color of the tooth. These types
of stains cannot be removed by simple mechanical methods of tooth
cleaning. Chemical preparations that are capable of penetrating
into the structure of the tooth are required to eliminate the
stains. Staining of the enamel or dentin is generally more
intractable and difficult to remove than staining of the pellicle.
However, some intrinsic staining that occurs with teeth or
artificial dental appliances cannot be removed with mechanical or
chemical means and can only be removed cosmetically by covering the
tooth with a bonded veneer or crown.
[0012] Accordingly, compositions for removing stains or increasing
whiteness generally fall into two categories. The first category
contains gels, pastes, or liquids, mouth abrasive rubs, chews,
rinses and toothpastes that are mechanically agitated at the
surface of the stained tooth in order to abrasively erode the
stained pellicle. The second category includes gels, pastes, or
liquids that use a chemical process while in contact with the
surface of the tooth for a specified period of time to accomplish
the tooth-whitening effect. The chemical process is typically
oxidative or enzymatic.
[0013] Among the many chemical strategies that are available for
removing or destroying tooth stains, the most effective
compositions contain an oxidizing agent, such as hydrogen peroxide,
carbinide or peroxols. These active compounds are used to attack
the staining molecules in the tooth to render them colorless,
water-soluble, or both.
[0014] Chemical tooth whitening treatments generally fall into two
categories: (1) tooth treatments applied and supervised by a dental
professional; and (2) home tooth whitening kits with materials that
are applied by a non-professional user.
[0015] Professional tooth bleaching normally takes place in the
dentist's office and usually involves one to several visits to the
dentist's office. However, these treatments can take place at any
location. Professional whitening treatments may also involve laser
light exposures, heat lamps, high intensity light or ultraviolet
light activated systems that are applied by the dentist. Mixed A
and B basecoat solution systems may also be professionally
applied.
[0016] One of the more popular approaches to whitening the teeth of
a patient applied outside of the office involves the construction
of a custom dental bleaching tray for the patient from an
impression made of the patient's teeth by the dental professional.
An oxidizing gel is used with the appliance that is worn
intermittently by the patient over a period of about 2 weeks to
about 6 months, depending upon the severity of tooth staining.
Other gel systems are applied to tooth surfaces from a period of
hours to days. These preparations can be reapplied by the
individual patient as staining reappears on the teeth over time as
directed by the dentist.
[0017] There are also many commercial kits for use by
non-professionals that are available on the retail market to
persons interested in whitening their teeth. These commercial
products typically provide a kit that includes a generic appliance
that fits over the teeth of the user and a container of bleaching
gel. One major problem encountered with the generic appliance is
that there is a poor fit with the teeth leaving gaps between the
teeth and the appliance as compared with an appliance fitted by a
dentist. The poorer fit results in the need for more gel to insure
that the tooth surfaces are appropriately covered. Other approaches
include the use of tapes or strips and brush on pastes that are
applied to the front surfaces of the teeth.
[0018] The application to the teeth of whitening compositions known
in the art may have a number of known adverse side effects.
Bleaching compositions can cause tooth sensitivities, for example.
The soft tissues of the patient, such as the lips, tongue and
gingival tissues should be isolated from the oxidizing agent to
avoid exposure and irritation and damage. The penetration of
whitening agents through the enamel and dentin to the pulpal
chamber risks damage to the pulpal tissue with some
compositions.
[0019] Prolonged exposure of the teeth to some whitening
compositions can result in demineralization and solubilization of
calcium in the enamel layers of the teeth. Ingestion of oxidant
gels that leach from the dental appliance can be hazardous to the
patient if not administered with care. Free radicals may have an
affiliation with some oral cancers. In addition, irregular or
inconsistent bleaching can occur that leaves lines or spots on the
teeth or differences in shade between different teeth.
[0020] Tooth "brightness" can be measured in a number of different
scales. One scale that is commonly accepted is the VITA Shade
Guide. A total of 16 tooth shades constitute the entire range of
colors between very light (B1) to very dark (C4) in the VITA Guide.
It has been shown that the satisfaction of the patient with a tooth
whitening procedure increases with the number of tooth shade
changes that are achieved. A minimum change of about 4 to 5 VITA
shades is usually desirable, but the extent of color change is
subjective on the part of the patient. Other reference scales may
have a fewer or greater number of increments than the VITA
guide.
[0021] Dental professionals may also have guides or machines that
evaluate film of the teeth of the patient or monitor the color of
the teeth directly. For example, another scheme provides an array
of color samples on a stick for comparison with teeth. This system
uses a uniform color scale such as the CIELAB psychometric color
system.
[0022] There is a need for monitoring of tooth color an indicator
of the success of a long term treatment scheme so that over
treatments with home professional or non-professional kits can be
avoided. In addition, changes from the optimum shades can be
indentified, indicating the need for a new course of whitening
treatments.
[0023] The present invention satisfies these needs, as well as
others, by providing an apparatus and method for quickly and
accurately obtaining color comparisons and endpoint
evaluations.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0024] The present invention pertains to an apparatus which can be
used to monitor the progress of tooth whitening procedures and to
remind the patient or user to brush their teeth. Although a
toothbrush is used as an illustration, other items such as a wand,
tongue scraper, oral irrigator, gum stimulator and the like can be
used to house a whitening guide according to the invention.
[0025] In one embodiment, a toothbrush is provided with a whiteness
scale that is disposed in a transparent handle of the brush. The
user can monitor the success of whitening treatments by comparing
the scale to their teeth. Whitening treatments are preferably
performed by a dentist. However, a home treatment performed by the
user with the use of a whitening kit that contains the toothbrush
with whiteness indicia, information and treatment materials is also
contemplated.
[0026] In another embodiment, a panel insert with a whiteness scale
is placed in a slot in the handle, body or head of the toothbrush
is provided. The scale can be selected to show the beginning point
of the treatments and successive improvements to a shade goal. The
opposite side of the insert from the scale may also include
instructions for use, warnings, information regarding the dentist,
the name of the patient, time and date of the next appointment with
the dentist, images and other information directed to the user.
[0027] The slots containing the inserts are preferably sealed so
that liquid and bacteria do not collect in the slots. More than one
slot and insert can be present in the toothbrush to convey
information to the user. In another embodiment, the panel insert
can be removed by the user and replaced within the slots in the
brush. The inserts that can be removed are preferably made of
durable material such as plastic, porcelain or coated metal. The
panel inserts may be visible through a transparent brush or through
windows in the body or handle of the brush.
[0028] In a further embodiment, whiteness indicia in the form of
colored pieces are inlaid in the surface of the head or body of the
brush. The color inlays can also be placed in a detachable head
such as an electric toothbrush head. The inlays are compared with
the teeth in the mirror to monitor progress.
[0029] An aspect of the invention is to provide a toothbrush with
whiteness indicia to evaluate and monitor the status of the teeth
or the progress of treatments.
[0030] Another aspect of the invention is to provide a whiteness
guide that is readily accessible, easy to use and promotes good
dental hygiene.
[0031] Further aspects of the invention will be brought out in the
following portions of the specification, wherein the detailed
description is for the purpose of fully disclosing preferred
embodiments of the invention without placing limitations
thereon.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)
[0032] The invention will be more fully understood by reference to
the following drawings which are for illustrative purposes
only:
[0033] FIG. 1 is a top view of a toothbrush with whiteness indicia
permanently fixed in the handle according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0034] FIG. 2 is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.
[0035] FIG. 3A is a side view of a toothbrush with a transverse
slot containing an insert with whiteness indicia according to a
second embodiment of the invention.
[0036] FIG. 3B and FIG. 3C are top views of the toothbrush
embodiment of FIG. 3A with the insert outside of and within the
handle respectively.
[0037] FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B are side views of another toothbrush
embodiment with an insert disposed along the central axis of the
brush and with the insert removed from the brush respectively.
[0038] FIG. 4C and FIG. 4E are top views of the toothbrush of FIG.
4A with the insert removed and in place in a slot along the central
axis of the brush.
[0039] FIG. 5A is a bottom view of a toothbrush with whiteness
indicia disposed in a slot in the head of the toothbrush in another
embodiment of the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 5B and FIG. 5C are side and top views of the toothbrush
embodiment of FIG. 5A with the whiteness indicia inserts outside of
the slot within the head of the brush.
[0041] FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B are back side views of an alternative
embodiment of the invention with a handle insert in the inserted
and removed conditions respectively.
[0042] FIG. 7A is an exploded bottom view of an alternative
embodiment of a toothbrush with a detachable brush head with inlaid
whiteness indicia and handle with an informational insert.
[0043] FIG. 7B is a bottom view of an alternative detachable head
shown in FIG. 7A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0044] By way of example and not of limitation, the apparatus of
the present invention generally comprises a toothbrush with a scale
with a range of tooth colors that can be compared with the teeth of
the user by bringing the scale in proximity with the teeth and
viewed while the user is looking in the mirror. The user can then
exercise appropriate judgment regarding continued use of whitening
agents and whether additional treatment by a professional is
warranted. Additionally, some diseases may have symptoms that have
an effect on the color of the tooth or on oral health. A dental
professional can screen patients for problems when the color change
guide alerts the patient and has brought them back to the dentist
for an examination due to the change in tooth shade.
[0045] Although a toothbrush is used as an illustration, other
items such as a wand, tongue scraper, oral irrigator or dental
floss holder or toothpaste cap or tube can be used to house a
whitening guide according to the invention.
[0046] Turning now to FIG. 1 through FIG. 7A, several embodiments
of the invention 10 are generally shown to illustrate the
invention. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a
toothbrush 10 is depicted with whiteness indicia permanently
affixed in the handle. The toothbrush 10, has a toothbrush head 12
with a neck 14 and body 16 that includes a handle. The handle or
body 16 of the brush is preferably transparent to permit the view
of the color scale 18 that has a range of increments, for example,
ranging from 1 to 10 or from 10 to 1 as seen in FIG. 1.
[0047] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the scale 18 is a thin
panel with a top surface 20 and a bottom surface 22. The scale of
colors or whiteness indicia has individual elements that are tooth
shaped in this embodiment. In another embodiment, the tooth shaped
indicia are three dimensional. However, the whiteness indicia of
panel 18 can be any desired size and shape. The background surface
20 of panel 18 can also be transparent or opaque.
[0048] In one preferred embodiment, the bottom surface 22 of the
panel contains information directed to the specific user of the
brush. Such information may include instructions for use, warnings,
the date of the next appointment or the name and address of the
dentist. Advertising could also be placed on the bottom side 22 of
the scale panel 18.
[0049] The plane of the scale panel 18 is facing perpendicular to
the bristles of the brush in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. However, the plane
of the panel 18 can be placed at any suitable angle with respect to
the brush head 12 to permit easy viewing of the scale 18 aligned
with the teeth.
[0050] One preferred scale for panel 18 is a 3D Master shade system
that is based on the CIELAB psychometric color system. In this
system there are three constituents that together constitute a
"shade". They are an L-Value (lightness level), a-Chroma (color
saturation) and b-Hue (amount of red or yellow). All of the shades
included in the 3D Master shade system fall within the following
values of these three constituents: 65<L<87, 0.3<a<9
and 5.5<b<30. Although this scale is preferred, many
different scales could be used as whiteness indicia.
[0051] Turning now to FIG. 3A through FIG. 3C, an alternative
embodiment 30 is shown. In this embodiment, the transparent
toothbrush body 32 has a transverse slot 34 that is configured to
receive a panel 36 that has a color scale 38 as shown in FIG. 3B
and FIG. 3C. The slot 34 can be located at any point within the
body 32 of the toothbrush 30. Although one slot 34 and one panel 36
are shown in FIG. 3A through FIG. 3C, more than one slot and more
than one panel can be put in the handle of the brush 30.
[0052] Different panels 36 with different scales 38 or other
indicia of brightness can be placed in the slot 34 over time. The
panel 36 can have a color scale 38 on one side or both sides of the
panel.
[0053] In another embodiment, the body 32 is opaque and has windows
over the panels 36 so that the surface of the panel can be viewed
through the window when the panel is installed in place. An
opposing window can also be present so that both sides of the panel
36 can be viewed from the exterior.
[0054] The panel 36 is preferably secured in slot 34 with a sealant
so that water or toothpaste or other fluids will not be retained in
the slot as a location for the growth of bacteria or as a
collection point for other organic or inorganic materials. The
sealant disposed in slot 34, as seen in FIG. 3C, can provide a
temporary reversible seal such as with silicone or it can be a
permanent seal such as fast curing epoxy.
[0055] The panel 36 shown in FIG. 3B, has a color or whiteness
scale 38 on one side of the panel so that the indicia can be
compared with the teeth. The indicia can include the starting color
and one or more incremental goal shades to a final shade at the
opposite end to allow monitoring of progress with each
treatment.
[0056] The side of panel 36 that is opposite the side with the
scale can also have a scale to effectively increase the length of
the scale. In another embodiment, appointment dates, dentist office
information, instructions, advertisements, graphics or other
printed information may be placed surface of the panel. If more
than one slot and panel are used, a variety of information can be
provided by the dentist to the patient or general information if
the brush is part of a home whitening kit.
[0057] A second alternative embodiment 40 is shown in FIG. 4A
through FIG. 4D. In this embodiment, a toothbrush 40, is provided
with a body 42 with a brush head 44 and a transparent handle 46. In
the embodiment shown, there is a longitudinal slot 48 in the handle
46 of body 44 of the toothbrush 40 that mates with an insert member
50. Member 50 has a grip 52 and a panel 54 that slides in the slot
48. The panel 54 of sliding insert member 50 is generally planar
and has a scale 52 on one or both sides of the panel 54.
[0058] The back side of the insert member 50 can have the name,
address and telephone number of the dentist or other marketing
information as well as the date and time of the next appointment of
the patient as a reminder. The insert panel 54 could also have the
name of the patient or a color so that the brush can be easily
identified as that of the patient.
[0059] A variety of different scales 56 can be used and
interchanged with different members 50. In one embodiment, the
panel 54 of insert member 50 is cylindrical and the indicia 56
scale consists of rings of different shades of white. The slot 48
in handle 46 is tubular to receive the ringed cylinder of panel 54
of insert member 50 in this embodiment.
[0060] In one embodiment, the insert member 50 is secured to the
handle 46 with a fastening scheme such as interlocking threads,
slip and click or a bayonet mount to make the slot 48 and insert 50
water tight and bacteria free. Grip 52 may also have a seal.
[0061] The insert member 50 with panel 54 are preferably made of
durable materials such as plastic, porcelain, coated metal etc.
that can withstand multiple removals and insertions into the slot
48 as well as cleanings and information applications. The insert
member 50 may also be transferred to a new brush and may have a
useful life that is longer than the brush.
[0062] A third embodiment 60 is shown in FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B and FIG.
5C. The toothbrush in this illustration a toothbrush body 62 with a
brush head 64 and a brush handle 66. The brush handle 66 can be a
transparent solid handle that includes a laminated strip that has
information such as the name and address of the dentist,
instructions for use, or other material. In another embodiment, the
brush handle 66 has an insert such as insert member 50 shown in
FIG. 4B or panel 36 shown in FIG. 3B that contains information such
as appointment information, name and address of the dentist,
instructions for use or other desired information directed to the
user.
[0063] The brush head 64 has a slot 68, as shown in FIG. 5B and
FIG. 5C, that has an opening at the top or the side of the brush
head 64. The slot 68 is configured to receive a panel 70 with a
whiteness scale 72. In one embodiment, the panel 70 is permanently
fixed within the head 64. The panel can include several different
whiteness indicators 72 to allow the user to evaluate the progress
of treatments or to recognize a change in color of the teeth over
time from a selected ideal shade.
[0064] The panels 36, 50 and 70 shown in each of the embodiments
described above are preferably color stable over time, formed of
durable material and are resistant to bacteria. The panels or chips
may also be laminated. The chips or panels are preferably opaque
with whiteness indicia on the surface to give a true color when the
indicator is placed next to the teeth. In one embodiment, the
replaceable guide panels have a seal to keep out liquids and to
stop the formation of bacterial colonies. The chips may also be
permanently placed by the dentist in the brush or wand so that the
guide will not be lost or used improperly by the patient.
[0065] In one embodiment, the panels 30, 50 or 70 are made from
sintered porcelains such as feldspathic porcelain, leucite
reinforced feldspathic porcelain, alumina-based porcelain,
magnesia-based porcelain or zirconia-based porcelain. In another
embodiment, the panels are made from glass-ceramics, including
mica-based glass-ceramics, hydroxyapatite-based glass-ceramics or
lithia-based glass-ceramics. The panels may also be constructed
from thermoplastic polymers such as Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA),
Polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PS), High impact polystyrene
(HIPS), Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), Polyethylene
terephthalate (PET), Polyester (PES), Polyamide (PA), Poly(vinyl
chloride) (PVC), Polyurethane (PU), Polycarbonate (PC),
Polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), Polyethylene (PE),
Polycarbonate/Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (PC/ABS),
Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) (Polyetherketone), Polyetherimide
(PEI), Polysulfone (PES), or Styrene-acrylonitrile (SAN). In a
further embodiment, the panels are formed from thermoset polymers
such as Polyimide (PI), Phenolics (PF) or (phenol formaldehydes),
Urea-formaldehyde, (UF), Melamine formaldehyde (MF). In another
embodiment, the panels are manufactured from dental polymers
including Bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate (BISMA), Urethane
dimethacrylate (UDMA), Triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA),
or Ethoxylated bisphenol-A dimethacrylate (BisEMA).
[0066] Although the forgoing materials are preferred, the list is
not exhaustive of the materials that may be suitable for use for
panel inserts or coatings for panel inserts. These materials may
also be suitable for use with the tooth brush body as well.
[0067] In each of the embodiments shown herein, the brush or guide
may have one or more lights 74 to enhance the color differences
between the tooth and the scale as shown in FIG. 5B and FIG. 5C.
The light 74 may also be of a selected wavelength for illumination
of the teeth for comparison. The light 74 of the brush is directed
to the surface of the teeth while the whiteness guide is brought in
proximity to the teeth for comparison. In another embodiment, the
graded elements of the guide are illuminated with a light shown
from either the back or the front surfaces of the guide to produce
a consistent color for comparison with the teeth regardless of the
amount of ambient light that is available. The light or lights are
preferably inexpensive and low voltage such as a light emitting
diode. Battery and actuator are preferably mounted to or enclosed
in the handle.
[0068] Turning now to FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B, a fourth embodiment of
the invention is shown to further illustrate the invention. In this
embodiment, a toothbrush 80 is provided that has a body 82 with a
brush head 84 and handle 86. The back of the brush head 84 has one
or more inlaid disks 88 that are colored and are of a selected
shade for comparison with the teeth of a patient. The color of the
inlaid disks 88 may be selected as the colors existing at the
beginning of the treatment and the desired shade at the end of the
course of treatments. The disks 88 can be compared with the teeth
of the patient at various times to determine the progress of the
treatments. Although two circular inlaid disks 88 are shown as an
illustration, it will be understood that more that two disks can be
used and that the shape and position of the indicia on the head can
vary.
[0069] The end of handle 86 is hollow and open and has one or more
windows 90 that allow one to view what is in the interior of the
hollow portion of the handle 86. Two windows 90 placed on opposite
sides of the toothbrush handle 86 are preferred. The windows 90 may
be open or have a transparent covering for the opening to seal the
interior.
[0070] An insert 94 that has end cap 96 and panel 98 is provided
that is sized to fit in the open end 92 of the handle 86 of the
toothbrush body 82. Upon insertion of the insert 94, the sides of
panel 98 are visible through the windows 90 of the handle. The
panel 98 can have dentist, appointment information and the like or
additional whiteness indicia and the shades of disks 88 represent
the starting and ending shades, in one embodiment.
[0071] The insert 94 has a system for securing and fastening the
insert with the handle 86. In the embodiment shown, the end cap 96
has a notch 100 with a central raised knob that fits within a
corresponding hole in tab 102 at the end of the handle 86. The
system for securing the insert 94 to the handle 86 may include
threads or a bayonet mount or similar systems.
[0072] A fifth embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 7A and
FIG. 7B. In this embodiment, the brush 110 has a handle 112 with a
detachable brush head 114. The distal opening 116 of brush head 114
engages the coupling pin 118 of the handle 112 reversibly securing
the two pieces together. Other means for coupling the brush head
114 element with the body of the brush 112 element can also be
used.
[0073] The brush head 114 has one or more inlaid color shade disks
120 as indicia of whiteness for comparison with the teeth of the
user. An alternative embodiment of the detachable brush head 114 is
shown in FIG. 7B to illustrate the different types of inlaid color
chips 120 that can be used. In another embodiment, the whiteness
indicia consist of colored rings around the neck of the brush head
114. The brush head 114 also has standard bristles 128 or some
other useful device such as a gum stimulator.
[0074] In another embodiment, the brush body or brush head 114 is
made of material that is the same shade of white that the patient
has determined to be cosmetically desirable and has set as the
treatment goal. In this embodiment, the toothbrush is compared with
the teeth so that the progress of the dental whitening treatments
can be evaluated toward the goal color of the brush.
[0075] The handle 112 is preferably transparent at the end opposite
of the coupling pin 118 and has a socket that can receive an insert
122. The insert has a panel 126 and an end cap 124 in the
embodiment shown in FIG. 7A. The panel 126 of insert 122 can have
appointment information, name of the dentist or patient,
instructions, warnings, supplemental whiteness indicia or some
other information that is relevant to the user. The insert 122
could also be a series of rings of different whiteness shades to
show progression. The insert 122 may be replaced by the dentist at
the next visit, or given to the patient for replacement of the
prior insert or may be installed permanently in the body of the
handle.
[0076] In another embodiment, the handle 112 comprises a standard
electric toothbrush configured to couple with the brush head 114.
The end 116 of brush head 114 may include a socket that fits the
pin 118 or may engage the pin with friction. The indicia 120 would
be compared with the teeth between brushings.
[0077] In another embodiment, the brush and guide are part of a kit
provided by the dentist to the patient that may include: a brush
with the guide, dental floss, and an instruction booklet. The guide
chip is selected by the dentist for the specific patient and
permanently placed in the slot in the brush or wand.
[0078] In a further embodiment, the brush may have a first insert
at the brush head and a second insert at the handle or neck of the
brush. The brush could have two different color scales or a single
scale in one slot and an insert with the patient identification,
dentist identification, appointment date and time or some marketing
material.
[0079] In yet another embodiment, the color indicia is applied to
the brush body in the form of rings. The rings are of the different
characteristic whiteness shades and described herein.
[0080] It is preferred that the selection of the shade indicia be a
decision by dentist and the patient after an examination by the
dentist. However, the panels or disk shades could be pre-selected
for typical ranges and the brushes made part of a home treatment
kit with whitening products and oral health products such as dental
floss. A dental examination is preferred to ensure the suitability
of the teeth of the patient for whitening treatments, define
achievable whitening goals and to chart a course of treatment.
Existing health conditions of the patient that may result in
discoloration of the teeth can also be identified by the dentist
the manifestation of those conditions on the teeth can be monitored
by the patient with the monitoring of the shades of the teeth. A
dramatic change in tooth color can be an indicator of an
intensifying medical condition and alert the patient to consult a
health care provider.
[0081] After the initial evaluation, the dentist will typically
select a panel insert with a range of progressively lighter shades
from a beginning shade to a goal. The panel insert may also include
the date of the next appointment or other information that is
affixed to the side of the panel opposite the color guide and
disposed in the corresponding slot in the brush body. The opening
of the slot containing the insert may be sealed with a sealant or
the end cap glued into place. Alternatively, the panel insert may
be reversibly secured and withdrawn from the slot in the brush body
for use by the patient. The insert can have new information applied
and transferred to another toothbrush body at the next
appointment.
[0082] The indicia may also be colored disks that are selected and
placed into the brush head or body and secured with adhesive.
Alternatively, brushes with inlays of different shades can be
pre-assembled. New toothbrushes or brushes with detachable heads
with color shades for that particular time frame can be given to
the patient at the end of the examination or treatment session.
[0083] In use, the patient or user of the guide can evaluate the
success of a dental whitening procedure or monitor the progress of
home applied whitening schemes. The user can compare the existing
shade of the teeth with the goal or standard and can make an
informed decision about going back to the dentist for additional
treatments or if a particular treatment was unsuccessful and
further evaluation is needed by the dentist. The patient can also
determine when it is time to have additional whitening as the tooth
surfaces change colors over time and use. Dramatic changes in tooth
color that indicate an associated health problem can also be
identified potentially leading to early diagnosis and
treatment.
[0084] Accordingly, the invention can be embodied in various ways
which include, but are not limited to, the following:
[0085] 1. A tooth shade indicator apparatus, comprising: a brush
body with a brush head with bristles; and a tooth shade indicator
coupled to said brush body; wherein a user's tooth color can be
visually compared with said tooth shade indicator.
[0086] 2. An apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein said tooth
shade indicator includes at least one color from a VITA, IVOCLAR,
or other cosmetic dental color scale.
[0087] 3. An apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein said tooth
shade indicator comprises disks of different shades inlaid in the
brush body and brush head.
[0088] 4. An apparatus as recited in claim 1, further comprising an
insert configured to slide within a slot within said brush head,
wherein said tooth shade indicator is mounted to said insert.
[0089] 5. An apparatus as recited in claim 1, further comprising an
insert configured to slide within a slot within said brush body,
wherein said tooth shade indicator is mounted to said insert.
[0090] 6. An apparatus as recited in claim 5, further comprising a
second insert configured to slide within a slot within said brush
head of said brush body, wherein said tooth shade indicator is
mounted to said second insert and treatment information is printed
on said first insert.
[0091] 7. An apparatus as recited in claim 1, further comprising a
light source coupled to said brush body configured to illuminate
teeth of a user when comparing said tooth shade indicator with the
teeth of a user.
[0092] 8. An apparatus as recited in claim 1, further comprising a
light source coupled to said brush body configured to illuminate
said shade indicator.
[0093] 9. An apparatus as recited in claim 1, further comprising:
an insert configured to slide within a slot within said brush body,
said insert having an end cap and a panel with a top surface and a
bottom surface; wherein information is applied to said top and
bottom surfaces; and wherein the tooth shade indicator comprises
disks of different shades inlaid in the brush head.
[0094] 10. A tooth shade indicator apparatus, comprising: an
indicator body; a detachable head configured to reversibly couple
with said indicator body; and a tooth shade indicator coupled to
said detachable head; wherein a user's tooth color can be visually
compared with said tooth shade indicator.
[0095] 11. An apparatus as recited in claim 10, wherein said tooth
shade indicator comprises disks of different shades inlaid in the
detachable head.
[0096] 12. An apparatus as recited in claim 10, wherein said tooth
shade indicator comprises rings of different shades inlaid in the
detachable head.
[0097] 13. An apparatus as recited in claim 10, further comprising
an insert configured to slide within a slot within said brush body,
said insert comprising a handle and a panel with top and bottom
surfaces; and wherein information is applied to said top and bottom
surfaces of said panel.
[0098] 14. An apparatus as recited in claim 13, further comprising
a tooth shade indicator applied to a top surface of said panel and
information applied to said bottom surface of said panel; and
wherein said tooth shade indicator comprises the color of the
detachable head.
[0099] 15. An apparatus as recited in claim 10, said indicator body
further comprising an electric toothbrush motor configured to
rapidly alternate directions of rotation of a brush on said
detachable head.
[0100] 16. A tooth shade indicator apparatus, comprising: an
indicator body with an indicator head that has the color of a
cosmetically desirable tooth shade of white; an insert sized to fit
within a socket in said indicator body, said insert having an outer
surface; and a tooth shade indicator coupled to said outer surface
of said insert; wherein a user's tooth color can be visually
compared with said indicator head color to evaluate treatment
progress and said tooth shade indicator to determine a tooth
shade.
[0101] 17. An apparatus as recited in claim 16, further comprising
information regarding a dental treatment applied to the outer
surface of said insert in addition to the tooth shade
indicator.
[0102] 18. An apparatus as recited in claim 16, further comprising
a light source coupled to said indicator body configured to
illuminate teeth of a user when comparing said shade indicator with
the teeth of a user.
[0103] 19. An apparatus as recited in claim 16, wherein said
indicator body further comprises a fastener configured to secure
said insert within said socket and a plurality of windows; wherein
said outer surface of said insert is visible from the exterior of
the indicator body when secured within said socket.
[0104] 20. An apparatus as recited in claim 16, further comprising:
a second insert sized to fit within a second socket in said
indicator body or said indicator head, said second insert having an
outer surface with information regarding a dental treatment applied
to the outer surface of said second insert.
[0105] 21. A tooth shade indicator apparatus, comprising: a
toothbrush head with bristles; and a tooth shade indicator
associated with said toothbrush head.
[0106] 22. An apparatus as recited in claim 21, wherein said tooth
shade indicator includes at least one color from a VITA, IVOCLAR,
or other cosmetic dental color scale.
[0107] 23. An apparatus as recited in claim 22, wherein said tooth
shade indicator comprises the color at least a portion of said
toothbrush head.
[0108] 24. An apparatus as recited in claim 22, wherein said tooth
shade indicator is inlaid in said toothbrush head.
[0109] 25. An apparatus as recited in claim 22, wherein said tooth
shade indicator comprises disks of different shades inlaid in said
toothbrush head.
[0110] 26. An apparatus as recited in claim 22, further comprising
an insert configured to slide within a slot within said toothbrush
head, wherein said tooth shade indicator is coupled to said
insert.
[0111] 27. An apparatus as recited in claim 26, further comprising
a second insert configured to slide within said slot within said
slot in said toothbrush head, wherein said tooth shade indicator is
coupled to said second insert and treatment information is printed
on said first insert.
[0112] 28. A tooth shade indicator apparatus, comprising: a
toothbrush body; and a tooth shade indicator associated with said
toothbrush body.
[0113] 29. An apparatus as recited in claim 28, wherein said tooth
shade indicator includes at least one color from a VITA, IVOCLAR,
or other cosmetic dental color scale.
[0114] 30. An apparatus as recited in claim 29, wherein said tooth
shade indicator comprises the color at least a portion of said
toothbrush body.
[0115] 31. An apparatus as recited in claim 29, wherein said tooth
shade indicator is inlaid in said toothbrush body.
[0116] 32. An apparatus as recited in claim 29, wherein said tooth
shade indicator comprises disks of different shades inlaid in said
toothbrush body.
[0117] 33. An apparatus as recited in claim 29, further comprising
an insert configured to slide within said slot within said
toothbrush body, wherein said tooth shade indicator is coupled to
said insert.
[0118] 34. An apparatus as recited in claim 33, further comprising
a second insert configured to slide within a slot within said
toothbrush body, wherein said tooth shade indicator is coupled to
said second insert and treatment information is printed on said
first insert.
[0119] 35. An apparatus as recited in claim 28, further comprising
a light source coupled to said brush body configured to illuminate
teeth of a user when comparing said shade indicator with the teeth
of a user.
[0120] 36. An apparatus as recited in claim 28, further comprising
a light source coupled to said brush body configured to illuminate
said shade indicator.
[0121] 37. An apparatus as recited in claim 28, further comprising:
an insert configured to slide within a slot within said brush body,
said insert having an end cap and a panel with a top surface and a
bottom surface; wherein information is applied to said top and
bottom surfaces; and wherein the tooth shade indicator comprises
disks of different shades inlaid in the brush head.
[0122] It will further appreciated that any of the aforementioned
embodiments or inventive concepts can be can be packaged with other
instruments and devices, can be shaped into any desired shape or
style, and can be part of an overall treatment or marketing
system.
[0123] For example, the invention can be a component of a bleaching
system, which would not only allow the invention to be used for
treatment evaluation but to potentially increase sales of bleach,
advertise services, or encourage patients to see the dentist more
often for evaluation or treatment.
[0124] Furthermore, the invention could be configured so that it
slides into or otherwise couples to a floss box, bleach material
dispenser, stand or other device.
[0125] Embodiments of the invention may include a slot or other
receptacle into which one or more tooth shade indicators can be
inserted by sliding or otherwise. Written stickers, labels,
materials with a writable surface, lights, identification tags, id
tags, marketing information, or even novelty products such as those
bearing Disney, Star Wars, Barbie, etc. optionally can be inserted
as well. All of these items can optionally be removable by the
patient or optionally locked into the device by a dental
professional or other person. Even nail polish, lipstick or other
color samples optionally could be inserted.
[0126] Embodiments of the invention may include manual versions,
electric versions, or hybrids. The entire toothbrush, any part
thereof, or a tooth shade indicator associated with any part of the
toothbrush optionally can be a desired color, multiple colors in a
graduated shading pattern indicating stages of whitening or color
change, or include the existing color of a patient's tooth or teeth
for comparison. Colors are preferably selected from VITA, IVOCLAR,
or other cosmetic dental color scales used in the profession.
[0127] Furthermore, is will be appreciated that the use of the
invention as a whitening evaluation gauge, advertising media, or
the like, could encourage more frequent dental visits and
potentially allow for early detection of dental disease such as
periodontal disease, caries, etc., protect a person from dental
disease becoming worse, or even save a person's life by early
detection of oral cancer or other systemic diseases manifested in
the oral cavity.
[0128] Although the description above contains many details, these
should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention but
as merely providing illustrations of some of the presently
preferred embodiments of this invention. Therefore, it will be
appreciated that the scope of the present invention fully
encompasses other embodiments which may become obvious to those
skilled in the art, and that the scope of the present invention is
accordingly to be limited by nothing other than the appended
claims, in which reference to an element in the singular is not
intended to mean "one and only one" unless explicitly so stated,
but rather "one or more." All structural, chemical, and functional
equivalents to the elements of the above-described preferred
embodiment that are known to those of ordinary skill in the art are
expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be
encompassed by the present claims. Moreover, it is not necessary
for a device or method to address each and every problem sought to
be solved by the present invention, for it to be encompassed by the
present claims. Furthermore, no element, component, or method step
in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public
regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is
explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element herein is to be
construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph,
unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase "means
for."
* * * * *