阅读说明：本技术 利用夹带流体的口腔护理清洁系统 (Oral care cleaning system utilizing entrained fluid ) 是由 B·多沃德 T·弗利 J·麦克多诺 D·米克萨 徐真 D·沙尔马 于 2018-05-16 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明提供了口腔护理系统(10),其包括：器具(50),该器具包括第一多个喷嘴和第二多个喷嘴,该器具被构造成保持在使用者的口中,其中第一多个喷嘴和第二多个喷嘴与使用者口腔的一个或多个表面流体连通；气体源；液体源；和流体控制器(40),该流体控制器用于将夹带流体引导至器具。本发明还公开了使用本发明的系统清洁口腔的一个或多个表面或者另外向口腔的一个或多个表面提供口腔护理有益效果的方法。(The present invention provides an oral care system (10) comprising: an appliance (50) comprising a first plurality of nozzles and a second plurality of nozzles, the appliance configured to be held in the mouth of a user, wherein the first and second plurality of nozzles are in fluid communication with one or more surfaces of the mouth of the user; a gas source; a source of liquid; and a fluid controller (40) for directing the entrained fluid to the appliance. Methods of cleaning or otherwise providing oral care benefits to one or more surfaces of the oral cavity using the system of the present invention are also disclosed.)

1. An oral care system comprising:

a. an appliance comprising a first plurality of nozzles and a second plurality of nozzles, the appliance configured to be held in a mouth of a user, wherein the first and second plurality of nozzles are in fluid communication with one or more surfaces of the mouth of the user;

b. a source of gas comprising a source of gas,

c. a liquid source, wherein the liquid source and the gas source can be separate sources or one source that can combine into a gas and a liquid; and

d. a fluid controller for directing fluid to and removing fluid from the appliance; wherein the system is configured to generate a series of entrained fluid pulses from the one or more liquid and gas sources; directing such pulses through a first plurality of said nozzles in said appliance to said one or more surfaces of said user's mouth; and removing fluid from the appliance to the fluid controller through a second plurality of nozzles.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the gas source and the liquid source comprise a single source of gas and liquid that is directed to the fluid controller and pulsed to produce the series of entrained fluid pulses directed to the appliance.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the gas source and the liquid source are separate sources, and the system is configured such that liquid from the liquid source is entrained within gas from the gas source to form liquid-entrained gas that is subsequently introduced to the fluid controller and pulsed from the fluid controller to the mouthpiece.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the gas source and the liquid source are separate sources, and such system is configured such that gas from the gas source is pulsed from the fluid controller to the first plurality of nozzles in the mouthpiece, and such that liquid from the liquid source flows or pulses into the gas pulsed from the fluid controller to form a gas-entrained fluid between the fluid controller and the nozzles.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the liquid is pulsed into the gas pulsed from the fluid controller at a frequency ratio (liquid/gas) of greater than zero to about 50.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the frequency ratio (liquid/gas) is greater than zero to about 15.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the gas source provides gas at a pressure of about 1psi to about 100 psi.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the gas source provides gas at a pressure of about 5psi to about 20 psi.

9. The system of claim 4, wherein the system provides a pulse of fluid of about 0.001ml to about 0.10ml per nozzle pulse.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the fluid controller is operative to alternately: (i) directing an entrained fluid through the first plurality of nozzles of the mouthpiece while simultaneously applying a negative pressure to the second plurality of nozzles to remove fluid from the mouthpiece; and (ii) directing an entrained fluid through the second plurality of nozzles of the mouthpiece while simultaneously applying a negative pressure to the first plurality of nozzles to remove fluid from the mouthpiece.

11. A method of providing an oral care benefit to one or more surfaces of the oral cavity comprising holding an implement of the system of claim 1 in the mouth of a user and operating the device to direct entrained fluid to and remove fluid from the implement.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the entrained fluid comprises mouthwash.

13. The method of claim 12 wherein the mouthwash comprises water and one or more essential oils selected from the group consisting of menthol, thymol, eucalyptol, methyl salicylate, and combinations of two or more thereof.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the mouthwash comprises ethanol.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the mouthwash is free of ethanol.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an oral care system suitable for home use to provide a benefit to the oral cavity of a mammal.

Background

In addition to regular professional dental examinations, daily oral hygiene is generally considered as an effective precaution against the onset, development and/or worsening of periodontal disease, gingivitis and/or caries. Unfortunately, however, even the minimally prudent person who is engaged in full brushing and flossing is often unable to reach, loosen and remove food particles, plaque or biofilm deep in the gums and/or between teeth. Most people perform professional dental cleaning every half year to remove stubborn deposits.

For many years, products have been designed which facilitate simple household cleaning of teeth, but to date there has not been a single device which is simple to use and which simultaneously cleans all surfaces of the teeth and/or the gingival or subgingival region. Conventional toothbrushes are widely used, but require a great deal of effort to function, and furthermore, conventional toothbrushes do not adequately clean the interproximal areas of the teeth. Currently, cleaning the area between teeth requires the use of dental floss, a toothpick, or some such other additional device besides a toothbrush.

Powered toothbrushes have gained a great deal of popularity, and while reducing the effort expended in using the toothbrush, are still insufficient to ensure proper interproximal tooth cleaning. It is known to clean the interproximal areas between the teeth with a mouth rinse. However, such devices have a single jet which must be directed at the exact interproximal areas involved to remove debris. Thus, these pump-type cleaners are generally of significant value only when combined with teeth having dental appliances that often trap larger food particles. It will be appreciated that if both debris and plaque are to be removed from teeth, a combination of multiple devices must now be used, which is extremely time consuming and inconvenient.

Furthermore, in order for such practices and devices to function, a high degree of technical and/or usage instruction compliance by the consumer is required. Differences in time, cleaning/treatment protocols, techniques, etc. from user to user will affect the cleaning of the teeth.

The present invention ameliorates one or more of the above-identified deficiencies of existing oral hygiene devices and methods, or at least provides the market with an alternative technology over known technologies, and may also be used to improve deleterious conditions or improve the aesthetics of the oral cavity.

Disclosure of Invention

In one aspect, the present invention provides an oral care system comprising: an appliance comprising a first plurality of nozzles and a second plurality of nozzles, the appliance configured to be held in the mouth of a user, wherein the first and second plurality of nozzles are in fluid communication with one or more surfaces of the oral cavity of the user; a gas source; a liquid source, wherein the liquid source and the gas source can be separate sources or one source of liquid that can be combined into gas and liquid; and a fluid controller for directing fluid to and removing fluid from the appliance; wherein the system is configured to generate a series of entrained fluid pulses from one or more of the liquid source and the gas source; directing such pulses through a first plurality of nozzles in the appliance to one or more surfaces of a user's mouth; and removing fluid from the appliance through the second plurality of nozzles to the fluid controller.

According to another aspect, the present invention provides an oral care system comprising: an appliance comprising a first plurality of nozzles and a second plurality of nozzles, the appliance configured to be held in the mouth of a user, wherein the first and second plurality of nozzles are in fluid communication with one or more surfaces of the oral cavity of the user; a gas source; a source of liquid; and a fluid controller for directing fluid to the appliance; and such systems are configured such that gas from the gas source is pulsed from the fluid controller to a first plurality of nozzles in the appliance, and liquid from the liquid source is pulsed into the gas pulsed from the fluid controller at a frequency ratio (liquid/gas) of greater than zero to about 50 to form entrained fluid between the fluid controller and the nozzles.

Other aspects of the invention relate to methods of cleaning or otherwise providing oral care benefits to one or more surfaces of the oral cavity using the systems of the invention.

Drawings

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a first embodiment of a system according to the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a second embodiment of a system according to the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a third embodiment of a system according to the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a fourth embodiment of a system according to the present invention;

FIG. 5a is a schematic view of an embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller for use in a first embodiment of a system according to the present invention, wherein the flow controller is in a first position;

FIG. 5b is a schematic view of the reciprocating flow controller of FIG. 5a in a second position;

FIG. 6a is a schematic view of an embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller for use in a second embodiment of a system according to the present invention, wherein the flow controller is in a first position;

FIG. 6b is a schematic view of the reciprocating flow controller of FIG. 6a in a second position;

FIG. 7a is a schematic view of an embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller for use in a third embodiment of a system according to the present invention, wherein the flow controller is in a first position;

FIG. 7b is a schematic view of the reciprocating flow controller of FIG. 7a in a second position;

FIG. 8a is a schematic view of an embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller for use in a fourth embodiment of a system according to the present invention, wherein the flow controller is in a first position;

FIG. 8b is a schematic view of the reciprocating flow controller of FIG. 8a in a second position;

FIG. 9 is a top front perspective view of a first embodiment of an application tray for use with the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a top rear view of the embodiment of the application tray of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a bottom rear view of the embodiment of the application tray of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the application tray of FIG. 9;

FIG. 13 is a top front perspective view of a second embodiment of an application tray for use with the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a bottom rear perspective view of the embodiment of the application tray of FIG. 13;

fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a mammalian tooth in the gums of the oral cavity.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a first embodiment of an appliance for use in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a second embodiment of an appliance for use in accordance with the present invention; and is

Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a third embodiment of an appliance for use in accordance with the present invention.

Detailed Description

Applicants have recognized that entrained fluids can be used in accordance with the systems and methods of the present invention to achieve significant benefits in the oral cavity. In accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention, applicants have discovered that an entrained fluid can be used in a system comprising: (a) an appliance having a first plurality of nozzles and a second plurality of nozzles, the appliance configured to be held in the mouth, wherein the nozzles are in fluid communication with one or more surfaces of the oral cavity, and (b) a fluid controller to obtain a benefit by directing an entrained fluid through the first plurality of nozzles and into the oral cavity and removing liquid from the oral cavity through the second plurality of nozzles. In certain embodiments, such systems may also be used to reciprocate the entrained fluid back and forth across the surface of the oral cavity. For example, the fluid controller may be operable to alternately: (i) directing the entrained fluid through a first plurality of nozzles of the appliance while simultaneously applying a vacuum to a second plurality of nozzles to remove the fluid from the appliance; and (ii) directing the entrained fluid through a second plurality of nozzles of the appliance while simultaneously applying a vacuum to the first plurality of nozzles to remove the fluid from the appliance.

According to certain other embodiments, applicants have demonstrated unexpectedly superior benefits associated with pulsing an entraining fluid through at least one nozzle onto an oral surface using certain system parameters (such as liquid/gas pulse frequency ratio). These and other embodiments and the benefits associated therewith are further described below.

Entrained fluid

As used herein, the term "entrained fluid" broadly refers to both liquid entrained with gas and gas entrained with liquid. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, "gas-entrained liquid" refers to gas and liquid that mix such that small particles of gas are dispersed in the liquid, and "liquid-entrained gas" refers to gas and liquid that mix such that small particles of liquid are dispersed in the gas. In certain embodiments, the systems and methods of the present invention use a gas that entrains liquid. In certain other embodiments, the systems and methods of the present invention use a liquid that entrains gas.

According to certain embodiments, the present invention includes systems configured to produce an entrained fluid from a gas source and a liquid source, where the gas source and the liquid source may be separate sources or may be combined to form a single fluid source of gas and liquid. The sources of gas and/or liquid in the present invention may each comprise a reservoir, tank, or other container suitable for holding gas and/or liquid, or may comprise a closable gas or liquid conduit, line, hose, or other closable continuous source of gas and/or liquid. In certain embodiments, the gas source and the liquid source are combined to form a single source of gas and liquid, including, for example, pressurized tanks of gas and liquid. In certain other embodiments, the gas source and the liquid source are separate individual sources of gas and liquid selected from a reservoir, a tank, and the like.

As illustrated and described in further detail below, according to certain embodiments of the invention, a gas or liquid may be entrained within the other to form an entrained fluid that is subsequently introduced to the fluid controller and pulsed from the fluid controller to an appliance comprising a nozzle in fluid communication with the oral cavity. For example, the entrained fluid may be dispensed from a combined source of gas and liquid to a fluid controller that subsequently dispenses the entrained fluid to the appliance.

Alternatively, gas and liquid provided from separate sources within the system may be combined according to the invention to form an entrained fluid, which is then introduced to the appliance.

According to other embodiments, as described further below, the gas and liquid may be combined to form an entrained fluid within the appliance. For example, gas from a gas source may be pulsed into the appliance while liquid from a liquid source is drained or pulsed into the appliance. When gas and liquid are combined in the appliance, an entrained fluid is formed.

Any of a variety of suitable gases and liquids may be used to produce entrained fluids for use in accordance with the present invention. Examples of suitable gases include, but are not limited to, air, nitrogen, argon, carbon dioxide, oxygen, nitrous oxide, nitric oxide, mixtures of two or more thereof, and the like. In certain embodiments, the gas comprises air. In certain embodiments, the gas comprises nitrogen.

Any liquid suitable for generating an entrained fluid for use in the oral cavity can be used in the present invention. In certain embodiments, the liquid will be or will comprise water. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises from about 60% to about 99.99% water, including from about 70% to about 95% water, from about 80% to 95% water, from about 60% to about 90% water, from about 60% to about 80% water, or from about 60% to about 75% water. In certain embodiments, the liquid may be a composition comprising an alcohol. In the liquids of the invention it is possible to use compounds of the formula R₄Any of a variety of alcohols represented by-OH, wherein R₄Is an alkyl group having 2 to 6 carbon atoms. Suitable compounds of formula R₄Examples of-OH alcohols include ethanol; n-propanol, isopropanol; butanol; amyl alcohol;hexanols, combinations of two or more thereof, and the like. In certain embodiments, the alcohol is or comprises ethanol. In some embodiments, the alcohol may be present in the liquid composition in an amount of at least about 10.0% v/v of the total composition, or from about 10% to about 35% v/v of the total composition, or from about 15% to about 30% v/v of the total composition, and may be from about 20% to about 25% v/v of the total composition. In other embodiments, the liquid composition may comprise a reduced level of alcohol. The term "reduced level" of alcohol refers to an R of about 10% v/v or less, optionally about 5% v/v or less, optionally about 1% v/v or less, optionally about 0.1% v/v or less, by volume of the total composition₄-amount of OH alcohol. In certain embodiments, the compositions of the present invention do not contain R₄-OH alcohol.

In certain embodiments, the liquid can be a composition comprising at least one ingredient or agent effective to provide a benefit to be achieved and in an amount effective to provide the benefit when in contact with the surfaces of the oral cavity. For example, the liquid may comprise, but is not limited to, an ingredient selected from the group consisting of an antimicrobial agent, a whitening agent, a cleaning agent, a mineralizing agent, a desensitizing agent, and combinations of two or more thereof.

Examples of suitable antimicrobial agents that may be employed include, but are not limited to, essential oils (including, but not limited to, menthol, thymol, eucalyptol, methyl salicylate, and combinations of two or more thereof), cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), chlorhexidine, hexetidine, chitosan, triclosan, domiphen bromide, stannous fluoride, soluble pyrophosphate salts, metal oxides (including, but not limited to, zinc oxide), peppermint oil, sage oil, sanguinaria, dicalcium dihydrate, aloe vera, polyols, proteases, lipases, amylases, metal salts (including, but not limited to, zinc citrate), and combinations of two or more thereof, and the like.

Examples of suitable whitening agents include, but are not limited to, hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide, other agents capable of generating hydrogen peroxide when applied to teeth, abrasives such as silica, sodium bicarbonate, alumina, apatite, bioglass, and combinations of two or more thereof. In certain embodiments, the liquid composition comprises silica.

Any of a variety of additional surfactants can be used in the liquid compositions of the present invention. Suitable surfactants can include anionic, nonionic, cationic, amphoteric, zwitterionic surfactants, and combinations of two or more thereof. Examples of suitable surfactants are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 7,417,020 to Fevola et al, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In certain embodiments, the compositions of the present invention comprise a nonionic surfactant. One skilled in the art will recognize that any of a variety of one or more nonionic surfactants include, but are not limited to, compounds produced by the condensation of alkylene oxide groups (hydrophilic in nature) with organic hydrophobic compounds of aliphatic or alkyl-aromatic nature. Examples of suitable nonionic surfactants include, but are not limited to: an alkyl polyglycoside; alkylglucamines, block copolymers such as ethylene oxide and propylene oxide copolymers (e.g., poloxamers); ethoxylated hydrogenated castor oil, commercially available, for example, under the trade name CRODURET (croda inc., Edison, NJ); alkyl polyethylene oxides, such as polysorbates, and/or; a fatty alcohol ethoxylate; polyethylene oxide condensates of alkyl phenols; products obtained by condensation of ethylene oxide with the reaction products of propylene oxide and ethylenediamine; ethylene oxide condensates of aliphatic alcohols; long chain tertiary amine oxides; long chain tertiary phosphine oxides; long chain dialkyl sulfoxides; and mixtures thereof.

Exemplary nonionic surfactants are selected from the group known as poly (oxyethylene) -poly (oxypropylene) block copolymers. Such copolymers are known commercially as poloxamers and are prepared in a wide range of structures and molecular weights with varying contents of ethylene oxide. These nonionic poloxamers are non-toxic and are acceptable as direct food additives. They are stable and readily dispersible in aqueous systems and are compatible with a variety of formulations and other ingredients of oral preparations. These surfactants should have an HLB (hydrophilic-lipophilic balance) of between about 10 and about 30, and preferably between about 10 and about 25. For example, nonionic surfactants useful in the present invention include poloxamers identified as poloxamers 105, 108, 124, 184, 185, 188, 215, 217, 234, 235, 237, 238, 284, 288, 333, 334, 335, 338, 407, and combinations of two or more thereof. In certain preferred embodiments, the composition comprises poloxamer 407.

In certain embodiments, the compositions claimed herein comprise less than about 9% nonionic surfactant, less than 5%, or less than 1.5%, or less than 1%, or less than 0.8, less than 0.5%, less than 0.4%, or less than 0.3% nonionic surfactant. In certain embodiments, the compositions of the present invention are free of nonionic surfactants.

In certain embodiments, the compositions of the present invention further comprise at least one alkyl sulfate surfactant. In certain embodiments, suitable alkyl sulfate surfactants include, but are not limited to, sulfated C neutralized with a suitable alkaline salt such as sodium carbonate or sodium hydroxide and mixtures thereof₈To C₁₈Alcohols of even carbon chain length, optionally sulphated C₁₀To C₁₆Alcohols of even carbon chain length, such that the alkyl sulfate surfactant has an even number C₈To C₁₈Optionally C₁₀To C₁₆Chain length. In certain embodiments, the alkyl sulfate is selected from the group consisting of: sodium lauryl sulfate, cetyl sulfate, and mixtures thereof. In certain embodiments, a commercially available mixture of alkyl sulfates is used. In certain embodiments, the alkyl sulfate surfactant is present in the composition from about 0.001% to about 6.0% w/v, or optionally from about 0.1% to about 0.5% w/v of the composition.

Another suitable surfactant is a surfactant selected from the group consisting of sarcosinate surfactants, isethionate surfactants and taurate surfactants. Preferred for use herein are alkali metal or ammonium salts of these surfactants, such as the sodium and potassium salts of: lauroyl sarcosinate, myristoyl sarcosinate, palmitoyl sarcosinate, stearoyl sarcosinate, and oleoyl sarcosinate. Sarcosinate surfactants may be present in the compositions of the invention from about 0.1% to about 2.5%, or from about 0.5% to about 2%, by weight of the total composition.

Zwitterionic synthetic surfactants useful herein include derivatives of aliphatic quaternary ammonium, phosphonium, and sulfonium compounds, in which the aliphatic radicals can be straight or branched chain, and wherein one of the aliphatic substituents contains from about 8 to 18 carbon atoms and one contains an anionic water-solubilizing group, e.g., carboxy, sulfonate, sulfate, phosphate, or phosphonate.

Amphoteric surfactants useful in the present invention include, but are not limited to, derivatives of aliphatic secondary and tertiary amines in which the aliphatic radical can be straight or branched chain and wherein one of the aliphatic substituents contains from about 8 to about 18 carbon atoms and one contains an anionic water solubilizing group, e.g., carboxylate, sulfonate, sulfate, phosphate, or phosphonate. Examples of suitable amphoteric surfactants include, but are not limited to, alkyl imino-dipropionate, alkyl amphoglycinate (mono-or di-glycinate), alkyl amphopropionate (mono-or di-propionate), alkyl amphoacetate (mono-or di-acetate), N-alkyl [ 3-aminopropionic acid, alkyl polyaminocarboxylate, phosphorylated imidazoline, alkyl betaine, alkylamidobetaine, alkylamidopropylbetaine, alkyl sulfobetaine, alkylamidosulfobetaine, and mixtures thereof. In certain embodiments, the amphoteric surfactant is selected from the group consisting of alkylamidopropyl betaines, amphoacetates such as sodium auroamphoacetate, and mixtures thereof. Mixtures of any of the above surfactants may also be employed. A more detailed discussion of anionic, nonionic and amphoteric surfactants can be found in U.S. patent 7,087,650 to Lennon; U.S. patent 7,084,104 to Martin et al; U.S. patent 5,190,747 to Sekiguchi et al; and U.S. patent 4,051,234 to Gieske et al, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In certain embodiments, the claimed compositions comprise less than about 9% amphoteric surfactant, less than 5%, or less than 1.5%, or less than 1%, or less than 0.8%, less than 0.5%, less than 0.4%, or less than 0.3% amphoteric surfactant. In certain embodiments, the compositions of the present invention are free of amphoteric surfactants.

Additional surfactants may be added with the alkyl sulfate surfactant to aid in the solubilization of the essential oil, provided that such surfactants do not affect the bioavailability of the essential oil. Suitable examples include additional anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, and mixtures thereof. However, in certain embodiments, the total surfactant concentration (including alkyl sulfate surfactants alone or in combination with other surfactants) of the mouth rinses used in the present invention should not exceed or be about 9% or less by weight of the composition, optionally the total surfactant concentration should be about 5% or less, optionally about 1% or less, optionally about 0.5% or less w/w% of active surfactant.

In certain embodiments, sugar alcohols (humectants) are also added to the oral compositions of the present invention. The one or more sugar alcohol solvents may be selected from those polyhydroxy-functional compounds conventionally used in oral products and ingestible products. In certain embodiments, the one or more sugar alcohols should be one or more non-metabolic and non-fermentable sugar alcohols. In particular embodiments, sugar alcohols include, but are not limited to, sorbitol, glycerol, xylitol, mannitol, maltitol, inositol, allitol, altritol, dulcitol, galactitol, glucitol, hexitol, iditol, pentitol, ribitol, erythritol, and mixtures thereof. Optionally, the sugar alcohol is selected from the group consisting of sorbitol and xylitol or mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the sugar alcohol is sorbitol. In certain embodiments, the total amount of sugar alcohol(s) added to effectively aid in the dispersion or dissolution of the mouthwash or other ingredient should not exceed about 50% w/, of the total composition. Alternatively, the total amount of sugar alcohols should not exceed about 30% w/v of the total composition. Alternatively, the total amount of sugar alcohols should not exceed 25% w/v of the total composition. The amount of sugar alcohol may be from about 1.0% to about 24% w/v, or from about 1.5% to about 22% w/v, or from about 2.5% to about 20% w/v of the total composition.

In certain embodiments, a polyol solvent is added to the composition. The polyol solvent comprises a polyol or polyhydric alcohol selected from the group consisting of polyhydroxyalkanes (such as propylene glycol, glycerol, butylene glycol, hexylene glycol, 1, 3-propanediol); polyhydroxyalkyl esters (dipropylene glycol, ethoxydiglycol); polyalkylene glycols (such as polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol) and mixtures thereof. In certain embodiments, the polyol solvent may be present in an amount of from 0% to about 40% w/v, or from about 0.5% to about 20% w/v, or from about 1.0% to about 10% w/v of the composition.

For better taste, sweeteners such as aspartame, sodium saccharin (saccharin), sucralose, stevia, acesulfame potassium, and the like, may be added in amounts of about 0.0001% w/v to about 1.0% w/v. In certain preferred embodiments, the sweetener comprises sucralose.

In certain embodiments, the compositions further comprise flavors or fragrances to modify or amplify the taste of the composition, or to reduce or mask the sharp "irritation" or "burning" of ingredients such as thymol. Suitable flavoring agents that may be incorporated include, but are not limited to, flavor oils such as anise oil, anethole, benzyl alcohol, spearmint oil, citrus oils, vanillin, and the like. Other flavors such as citrus oils, vanillin, and the like can be incorporated to provide further taste variation. In these embodiments, the flavor oil may be added to the composition in an amount of about 0.001% to about 5% w/v, or about 0.01% to about 0.3% w/v of the total composition. The particular flavor or fragrance employed, as well as other taste-enhancing ingredients, will vary depending upon the particular taste and mouthfeel desired. Those skilled in the art can select and customize these types of ingredients to provide the desired results.

In certain embodiments, acceptably approved food dyes may be used to provide a pleasing color to the compositions of the present invention. These may be selected from, but are not limited to, a range of acceptable food dyes. Dyes suitable for this purpose include FD & C yellow No. 5, FD & C yellow No. 10, FD & C blue No. 1, and FD & C green No. 3. These materials are added in conventional amounts, typically each in an amount of from about 0.00001% w/v to about 0.0008% w/v, or from about 0.000035% w/v to about 0.0005% w/v of the composition.

Other conventional ingredients may be used in the liquid or mouthwash compositions of the present invention, including those known and used in the art. Examples of such ingredients include thickeners, suspending agents, and emollients. Thickening and suspending agents useful in the compositions of the present invention can be found in U.S. patent 5,328,682 to Pullen et al, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. In certain embodiments, these agents are incorporated in an amount of about 0.1% w/v to about 0.6% w/v, or about 0.5% w/v of the composition.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, the liquid used in the present invention is a mouthwash comprising water and one or more essential oils selected from the group consisting of menthol, thymol, eucalyptol, methyl salicylate, and combinations of two or more thereof. In certain embodiments, the mouthwash comprises water and all four essential oils menthol, thymol, eucalyptol, and methyl salicylate. In certain embodiments, the mouthwash further comprises at least one surfactant. In certain embodiments, the mouthwash further comprises ethanol. In certain embodiments, the mouthwash is free of ethanol.

In certain embodiments, more than one liquid may be used in the systems and methods of the present invention. For example, a cleaning solution can be applied to the oral cavity followed by a second solution containing, for example, a whitening or antimicrobial agent. The solution may also include multiple agents to achieve more than one beneficial effect by a single administration. For example, the solution may contain both a cleaning agent and an agent for ameliorating a hazardous condition, as discussed further below. In addition, a single solution may be effective to provide more than one beneficial effect to the oral cavity. For example, the solution may contain a single agent that both cleans the oral cavity and acts as an antibacterial agent or both cleans the oral cavity and whitens the teeth.

Implement

Any suitable article configured to be held in the mouth of a user may be used as the implement herein, the article having at least one nozzle in fluid communication with one or more surfaces of the mouth of the user. In certain embodiments, when in use, the appliance is for receiving fluid from a fluid controller, the fluid being directed through at least one nozzle therein to the oral cavity of a user.

In certain embodiments, the article comprises a first plurality of nozzles and a second plurality of nozzles and is configured to be held in the mouth of a user, wherein the first plurality of nozzles and the second plurality of nozzles are in fluid communication with one or more surfaces of the oral cavity of the user. When in use, the appliance is used to receive fluid from the fluid controller onto the oral surface through the first plurality of nozzles, which fluid may then be removed from the oral cavity through the second plurality of nozzles. The appliance may also be configured such that fluid may be directed from the fluid controller through the second plurality of nozzles onto the oral surface and fluid may be removed from the oral cavity through the first plurality of nozzles.

In certain embodiments, the appliance comprises a mouthpiece. Any suitable mouthpiece may be used that includes at least one nozzle and is configured to be held in the mouth to introduce a fluid into the oral cavity in accordance with the present invention. In certain embodiments, the mouthpiece includes a first manifold in fluid communication with the at least one nozzle such that fluid from the fluid controller may be directed into the first manifold and from the first manifold through the at least one nozzle onto the oral surface. In such embodiments, the mouthpiece may further include a first port in fluid communication with the first manifold, the fluid from the fluid controller being directed through the first port to the first manifold. A number of mouthpiece embodiments will be described later in this disclosure.

In certain embodiments, the oral article comprises a first manifold and a second manifold in fluid communication with the first plurality of nozzles and the second plurality of nozzles, respectively, such that fluid from the fluid controller can be directed into the first manifold and from the first manifold through the first plurality of nozzles onto the oral surface and/or fluid can be removed from the oral cavity through the first plurality of nozzles and through the first manifold. Likewise, fluid can be directed from the fluid communication device through the second manifold and the second plurality of nozzles to the oral cavity and/or from the oral cavity through the second plurality of nozzles and then removed through the second manifold. The mouthpiece may also include first and second ports in fluid communication with the first and second manifolds, respectively.

The mouthpiece may be constructed from multiple pieces. The mouthpiece includes a chamber for holding the entrained fluid adjacent to the plurality of surfaces, i.e., a Fluid Contact Chamber (FCC). By "adjacent" is meant a fluid contacting surface. The FCC is defined by a space bounded by the front and rear interior walls of the appliance and a wall or membrane (in certain embodiments, an optional rear gingival sealing membrane) extending between and integral with the front and rear interior walls of the appliance. The front and rear inner walls and the wall extending therebetween collectively form the FCC. The general shape of the FCC is "U" or "n" depending on the orientation of the appliance, which follows the tooth to provide uniform and optimized contact by the fluid. The FCC may be flexible or rigid, depending on the particular appliance. The front and rear inner walls of the FCC each include a plurality of openings or slots or nozzles through which the entrained fluid is directed to contact a plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity.

The FCC design can be optimized for maximum efficiency as it relates to size, shape, thickness, material, space formed around the teeth/gums, and the nozzle design and placement as it relates to the mouth and teeth in combination with the manifold and gingival-edge seal to provide comfort and minimize gag reflex for the user. The above combination provides effective contact of the entrained fluid with the tooth and gum area.

The FCC provides a controlled, isolated or semi-isolated environment, i.e., the FCC, to contact the teeth and/or gum areas with entrained fluid, and preferably removes spent fluid, as well as debris, plaque, etc., from the FCC. The FCC also allows for increased fluid flow and pressure without flooding the individual nozzles when a larger flow is required to provide, for example, adequate cleaning. The FCC also allows for reduced fluid quantities and flow rates when needed because only the region within the FCC is in contact with the entrained fluid, rather than the entire mouth. The FCC also allows for control of the delivery and contact time of the fluid over, through, and around the teeth and gum area, allowing for increased concentration of the fluid on the area contacted by the fluid, thereby providing more effective entrained fluid control and delivery.

The device may incorporate a switching mechanism that allows operation only when it is in the correct position in the mouth. In some embodiments, the appliance may include upper and lower portions to provide substantially simultaneous contact of the entrained fluid with multiple surfaces of the oral cavity.

The number and location of the openings (also referred to herein as nozzles) contained within the interior wall of the appliance through which the entrained fluid is directed will vary and be determined according to the circumstances and circumstances of use, the particular user, and the benefit to be achieved. The cross-sectional geometry of the opening may be circular, elliptical, trapezoidal, or any other geometry that provides effective contact of the fluid with the oral surfaces. The location and number of openings can be designed to direct jets of entrained fluid in a variety of spray patterns to effectively provide the desired benefits. In certain embodiments, the opening diameter may be about 0.1 to about 3mm, or about 0.35mm to about 0.8mm, or about 0.5mm to provide effective cleaning and average spray velocity and coverage. The number of nozzles for simultaneous injection may be 1 to 500, or 100-300. The horizontal spacing or distance between the nozzles may be 0.5mm to 25mm, or 1mm to 10mm, or 3 mm. The average jet velocity is from about 0.5m/s to about 100m/s, or from about 1m/s to about 50 m/s. The nozzle coverage is about 1mm²To about 20mm²Or about 1mm²To about 10mm²Or about 1mm²To about 5mm²Within the range of (1). The volume of each pulse from each nozzle is from about 0.1 microliters to about 5ml, or from about 0.1 microliters to about 1ml, or from about 5 microliters to about 100 microliters.

Optimal opening placement and orientation/angle allows coverage of substantially all tooth surfaces in the area, including but not limited to interdentally, top, sides, back, and pocket surfaces, if the oral cavity is to be contacted by entrained fluid. In alternative embodiments, the openings may have different sizes and different shapes to provide different cleaning, coverage and spray patterns to adjust speed, density and fan shape (full cone, fan, partial, cone, orifice), or due to formulation considerations. The nozzles can also be designed to be tubular and/or extend from the FCC membrane to provide a directed spray, or act as a sprinkler-like mechanism to provide extended coverage over the entire tooth, similar to a hose sprinkler system. The nozzles are preferably integral with the inner wall of the FCC membrane and may be incorporated into the inner wall (insert molded and formed into the membrane by machining, injection molding, etc.) by any of a variety of assembly or forming techniques known in the art.

The FCC may be an elastomeric material such as Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), or silicone to allow for internal wall motion and provide greater spray coverage area with minimized force, thereby reducing volume flow requirements to achieve optimal performance while providing a softer and more flexible material to protect teeth when in direct contact with teeth. Flexible films may also provide acceptable fit for a wide range of users due to their ability to conform to the teeth. Alternatively, the FCC may be made of rigid or semi-rigid materials, such as, but not limited to, thermoplastics.

In alternative embodiments, the FCC may also include abrasive elements such as filaments, textures, polishing elements, additives (silica, etc.), and other geometric elements that may be used for other cleaning and/or treatment requirements and that ensure a minimum distance between the teeth and the FCC for, but not limited to, treatment, cleaning, and positioning.

The FCC may be formed via a variety of processes such as, but not limited to, machining, injection molding, blow molding, extrusion, compression molding, and/or vacuum forming. It may also be formed in conjunction with the manifold, but incorporating the manifold tubes within the FCC and/or overmolded onto the manifold to provide a unitary construction with minimal assembly.

In one embodiment, the FCC may be manufactured separately and then assembled to the manifold using any of a variety of assembly and sealing techniques, including adhesives, epoxies, silicones, heat sealing, ultrasonic welding, and hot glue. The FCC is designed in such a way that when assembled with the manifold it effectively and efficiently forms the preferred bifidotube design without any additional components.

In certain embodiments, the FCC may also be designed or used to form a gingival sealing region. In certain embodiments, a vacuum is applied within the FCC, which improves the engagement of the mouthpiece to form a reliable seal with the gums in the oral cavity. In other embodiments, pressure is applied outside the FCC, within the mouth, which improves the engagement of the appliance to form a reliable seal with the gums in the mouth. In other embodiments, denture-like adhesive may be applied around the mouthpiece during initial use to provide a customized and reusable resilient seal when inserted into the oral cavity of a particular user. The mouthpiece will then become resiliently rigid to conform to the gum and provide a secure seal thereto and for subsequent application. In another embodiment, the seal may be applied and/or replaced or discarded after each use.

The mouthpiece further comprises: a first manifold for containing entrained fluid and for providing fluid to the FCC through the opening of the front inner wall; and a second manifold for containing entrained fluid and for providing fluid to the chamber through the opening of the rear inner wall. This design offers a number of different options depending on the operation to be performed. For example, in a cleaning operation, it may be preferred to deliver a jet of entrained fluid entering the FCC from a first manifold directly onto the teeth from one side of the FCC, and then to draw/draw fluid around the teeth from the other side of the FCC into a second manifold to provide controlled interdental, gingival and surface cleaning. Such flow from the FCC side may be repeated multiple times in a pulsed action, then counter-current to deliver an entrained fluid jet from the second manifold and draw/suck fluid through the back side of the tooth into the first manifold for a period of time and/or multiple cycles. Such fluid action creates repeatable and reversible turbulence, providing a reciprocating motion of the fluid around the oral surface. For example, the fluid controller may be operable to alternately: (i) directing the entrained fluid through a first plurality of nozzles of the appliance while simultaneously applying a vacuum to a second plurality of nozzles to remove the fluid from the appliance; and (ii) directing the entrained fluid through a second plurality of nozzles of the appliance while simultaneously applying a vacuum to the first plurality of nozzles to remove the fluid from the appliance. The terms "reciprocating movement of one or more fluids" and "reciprocating movement of one or more fluids" are used interchangeably herein. As used herein, both terms mean that the flow direction of the one or more entrained fluids alternates back and forth over the surface of the oral cavity of the mammal from a first flow direction to a second flow direction opposite the first flow direction.

In alternative embodiments, the manifold may have a single manifold design that provides both pushing and pulling of entrained fluid through the same set of jets, or the manifold may be segmented for multiple manifolds to provide greater control over fluid delivery and removal for cleaning and fluid handling. In a multi-manifold, it may also be designed to have dedicated delivery and removal manifolds. The manifold may also be designed to be integrated and/or within the FCC.

The material used for the manifold will be a semi-rigid thermoplastic that will provide the necessary rigidity to not collapse or rupture during controlled flow of fluid, but also provide some flexibility when fitted into the mouth of the user. To minimize manufacturing complexity, part count, and mold cost, dual manifolds are formed when assembled with the FCC. The manifold may also be multi-component to provide a softer external "feel" to the teeth/gums using a low durometer elastomeric material such as, but not limited to, a compatible thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). The manifold may be formed via a variety of methods such as, but not limited to, machining, injection molding, blow molding, compression molding, or vacuum forming.

As shown, the appliance further comprises a first port for delivering fluid to/from the first manifold and a second port for delivering fluid to/from the second manifold, and means for providing an effective seal with the guide means within the oral cavity, i.e. a gingival seal. In certain embodiments, the first and second ports can be used to deliver fluid to and from the first and second manifolds and attach the appliance to a member for providing fluid to the appliance.

As described above and in more detail below, in certain embodiments, the systems of the present invention are configured such that two sources of liquid and/or gas are combined to form an entrained fluid between the fluid controller and the nozzle, e.g., before or within one or more manifolds and/or ports of the appliance. In certain such embodiments, the appliance comprises a manifold and/or port configured to (a) receive a pulse of gas from the fluid controller, the gas directed to the at least one nozzle, and (b) allow the independent liquid to combine with the pulse within the manifold and/or port to form an entrained fluid directed to the at least one nozzle.

Fluid controller

Any fluid controller suitable for directing fluid to at least one nozzle of an appliance according to the present invention may be used herein. Generally, the fluid controller will include one or more inlets, channels and/or conduits, etc., through which fluid may be received and delivered to achieve the desired functionality claimed by the present invention, such as receiving fluid from a fluid source; and/or at least one nozzle directing fluid to the appliance; and/or removing fluid from the appliance. In certain embodiments, the fluid controller may include or otherwise be controlled by logic circuitry and/or mechanical control circuitry. In certain embodiments, the fluid controller may include or otherwise be powered by a power source, such as, but not limited to, power provided through a plug, a battery (whether rechargeable or disposable), and the like.

In certain embodiments, the fluid controller comprises a reciprocating flow controller. Generally, reciprocating flow controllers are designed to alternate the flow of fluid to different portions of the appliance to allow fluid to flow back and forth across one or more surfaces of the oral cavity in the appliance. For example, in certain embodiments, a reciprocating flow controller may have a first position that directs fluid to a first manifold and into an inlet chamber in a first direction through at least a first nozzle of an appliance and a second position that directs fluid to a second manifold and into an inlet chamber in a second direction through at least a second nozzle of an appliance. The reciprocating flow controller may alternate between these two positions to alternate the flow of fluid in the appliance and thereby reciprocate the fluid within the appliance over the entire surface of the oral cavity. Multiple reciprocating flow controller implementations will be described later in this disclosure.

Device/system

In certain embodiments, the devices of the present invention may comprise means for attaching or connecting the device to a reservoir for containing a liquid, gas, or liquid/gas blend. The reservoir is removably attachable to the device. In this case, the reservoir and the device may comprise means for attaching to each other. After the treatment is completed, the reservoir may be discarded and replaced with a different reservoir, or it may be refilled and used again. In other embodiments, the device will include a reservoir integral with the device. In embodiments where the device may be attached to the base unit, the reservoir may be refilled with a supply reservoir forming part of the base unit, as described herein, whether integral with the device or removably attached to the device. When a base unit is employed, the device and base unit will comprise means for attaching one to the other.

The device will include a power supply for powering one or more components of the device. The power source may be contained within the device (e.g., in the handle of the device), such as a battery, whether rechargeable or disposable. When a base unit is employed, the base may include a power source. In other embodiments, the base unit may include a charger for recharging batteries contained within the device. In another embodiment, a compressed gas, such as in the form of a pressurized cartridge, may be used as a power source for powering one or more components of the device. The cartridge may be disposable after one or more uses, or may be re-pressurized for subsequent use.

In certain embodiments, the devices of the present invention comprise an implement as a non-removable portion of the device. In other embodiments, the appliance is removably attached to the device via one or more connectors. In such embodiments, multiple users may attach and use their own independent implements with the device.

As used herein, "means for transporting a liquid" includes structures through which a liquid, gas, or entrained fluid may travel or be transported throughout a system according to the present invention, and includes, but is not limited to, channels, ducts, tubes, ports, inlets, channels, lumens, pipes, and manifolds. Such means for delivering fluid may be used in devices for providing a reciprocating motion of the entrained fluid and means for directing the entrained fluid onto and around the oral surface. Such a delivery member also provides fluid to the guide member from a reservoir for containing gas, liquid, or entrained fluid, as well as gas, liquid, and/or entrained fluid to the reciprocating member, whether or not the reservoir is contained within a hand held device containing the reciprocating member or base unit. The transport member also provides liquid and gas from the base unit to a reservoir housed within the hand held device. Described herein are methods, devices, and systems that can be used to provide a beneficial effect to the oral cavity of a mammal (e.g., a human).

These methods require contacting various surfaces of the oral cavity with an entrained fluid that is effective to provide the desired benefits to the oral cavity. In such methods, the reciprocation of one or more entrained fluids over various surfaces of the oral cavity is provided under conditions effective to provide a desired benefit to the oral cavity. Contacting the plurality of surfaces by the entrained fluid may occur substantially simultaneously. By "substantially simultaneously" it is meant that, although not all of the multiple surfaces of the oral cavity necessarily contact the entrained fluid at the same time, most of the surfaces are in contact at the same time or in a short time to provide an overall effect similar to when all of the surfaces are in contact at the same time.

The conditions that provide the desired benefit in the oral cavity can vary depending on the particular environment, situation, and effect to be achieved. The different variables are interdependent in that they create a specific entrained fluid velocity. In some embodiments, the speed requirements may depend on the formulation. For example, as the viscosity of the formulation, additives (e.g., abrasives, shear thinning agents, etc.), and general flow characteristics are varied, the velocity requirements of the jet can be varied to produce the same level of efficacy. To provide appropriate conditions for achieving a particular benefit to be achieved, factors that may be considered include, but are not limited to: the velocity and/or flow rate and/or pressure of the entrained fluid stream, the pulse of the entrained fluid, the spray geometry or spray pattern of the entrained fluid, the temperature of the entrained fluid, and the frequency of the reciprocation of the fluid. In some embodiments, the fluid flow rate (total of all nozzles/simultaneous pulses) may be from about 0.1 microliters to about 15ml, or from about 0.1 microliters to about 5 ml.

Once having the benefit of this disclosure, one skilled in the art will recognize that various factors may be controlled and selected depending on the particular situation and desired benefit to be achieved.

In addition to improving oral hygiene in the oral cavity, typically by cleaning (e.g., removing or destroying) plaque deposits, food particles, biofilm, and the like, the present invention can be used to improve the harmful conditions in the oral cavity and improve the aesthetic appearance of the oral cavity, such as whitening teeth. Harmful conditions may include, but are not limited to, dental caries, gingivitis, inflammation, symptoms associated with periodontal disease, halitosis, dental hypersensitivity, and fungal infection. The liquid itself may take a variety of forms provided that it has flow characteristics suitable for use in the apparatus and method of the present invention. For example, the liquid may be selected from the group consisting of a solution, an emulsion, and a dispersion. In certain embodiments, the liquid may comprise particles (e.g., abrasive) dispersed in a liquid phase (e.g., aqueous phase). In such a case, the abrasive will be substantially uniformly dispersed in the aqueous phase for application to the surfaces of the oral cavity. In other embodiments, oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsions may be used. In such a case, the liquid will comprise a discontinuous oil phase substantially homogeneously dispersed in the continuous aqueous phase or a discontinuous aqueous phase substantially homogeneously dispersed in the continuous oil phase, as the case may be. In other embodiments, the liquid may be a solution in which the agent is dissolved in the carrier, or in which the carrier itself may be considered an agent for providing the desired beneficial effect, for example, an alcohol or alcohol/water mixture typically having other agents dissolved therein.

Disclosed herein are systems suitable for home use and suitable for directing pulses of entrained fluid onto multiple surfaces of teeth and/or gingival areas, such as systems comprising oral care devices, e.g., tooth cleaning apparatuses, and methods of using such systems. In certain embodiments, the surfaces of the oral cavity are contacted by the fluid substantially simultaneously. As used herein, references to the gingival region include, but are not limited to, references to subgingival pockets. Suitable entrained fluids are directed onto multiple surfaces of the teeth and/or gum region substantially simultaneously in a reciprocating action under conditions effective to provide overall improvement in cleaning and/or aesthetics of the oral cavity, and/or improvement in deleterious conditions of the teeth and/or gum region, thereby providing overall improvement in oral hygiene of the teeth and/or gum region. For example, one such device utilizes a suitable cleaning entrained fluid to clean the teeth and/or gum area and remove plaque by reciprocating the entrained fluid back and forth over the front and back surfaces of the teeth and interproximal areas, thereby creating a cleaning cycle while minimizing the amount of cleaning fluid used.

The system of the present invention includes a device for providing entrained fluid pulse reciprocation, the device including means for controlling fluid reciprocation. The control member includes a member for delivering entrained fluid to or from a member for directing entrained fluid onto a plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity. In certain embodiments, the means for providing reciprocation of the entrained fluid comprises a plurality of inlets for receiving and discharging the fluid, a plurality of channels or conduits through which the fluid is conveyed, and means for changing the direction of flow of the fluid to provide reciprocation of the fluid. The control means may be controlled by logic circuitry and/or mechanical control circuitry.

In certain embodiments, the means for providing reciprocating motion may comprise means for attaching or connecting the device to a reservoir for containing a liquid, gas, or liquid/gas blend. The reservoir is removably attachable to the device. In this case, the reservoir and the device may comprise means for attaching to each other. After the treatment is completed, the reservoir may be discarded and replaced with a different reservoir, or it may be refilled and used again. In other embodiments, the reciprocating device will comprise a reservoir integral with the device. In embodiments where the device may be attached to the base unit, the reservoir may be refilled with a supply reservoir forming part of the base unit, as described herein, whether integral with the device or removably attached to the device. When a base unit is employed, the device and base unit will comprise means for attaching one to the other.

The apparatus will include a power source for driving the means for reciprocating the entrained fluid. The power source may be contained within the device (e.g., in the handle of the device), such as a battery, whether rechargeable or disposable. When a base unit is employed, the base may include means for providing power to the device. In other embodiments, the base unit may comprise means for recharging a rechargeable battery contained within the device. In another embodiment, a compressed gas, such as in the form of a pressurized cartridge, may be used as a power source for powering one or more components of the device. The cartridge may be disposable after one or more uses, or may be re-pressurized for subsequent use.

The device for providing entrained fluid reciprocation will include a means for attaching the device to a means for directing the entrained fluid onto a plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity, for example an implement such as an applicator, dental tray, or mouthpiece. In certain embodiments, the directing means provides substantially simultaneous contact of the fluid with multiple surfaces of the oral cavity. The attachment member may provide for removable attachment of the applicator to the device. In such embodiments, multiple users may use their own implements with a single device that includes a reciprocating member. In other embodiments, the attachment member may provide a non-removable attachment to the appliance, whereby the appliance is an integral part of the device. As mentioned above, the means for providing the reciprocating motion may be housed within a housing which also houses other device components in order to provide a hand-held device adapted to provide entrained liquid to the guide member, as described below.

Fig. 1 is a schematic view of a first embodiment of a system according to the present invention. The figure shows a system 10 in which the components include: a fluid supply reservoir 20, a reciprocating flow controller 40, means for directing fluid onto various surfaces of the oral cavity (implement 50), and tubes 22, 42, and 44 for transporting fluid throughout the system.

The tube 22 transports fluid from the reservoir 20 to the reciprocating flow controller 40. The pipes 42 and 44 carry fluid from the reciprocating flow controller 40 to the appliance 50. Tube 42 delivers fluid to a first side 52 of the appliance 50, while tube 44 delivers fluid to a second side 54 of the appliance 50.

In this embodiment, the fluid supply reservoir 20 contains an entrained fluid. The fluid may be delivered to the reciprocating flow controller 40 under sufficient pressure and further delivered to the appliance 50. In other embodiments, a pump, such as a plunger pump or a rotary pump, may be positioned between the fluid supply reservoir 20 and the reciprocating flow controller 40 to provide sufficient pressure to deliver fluid to the reciprocating flow controller 40, and further to the appliance 50.

The fluid supply reservoir 20 may be made of glass, plastic or metal. The fluid supply reservoir 20 may be integral with the system 10 and may be refillable. In some embodiments, the fluid supply reservoir 20 may be a replaceable fluid supply, such as a single-use or multi-use cartridge that is removably connected to the system 10.

In some embodiments, the fluid supply reservoir 20 and/or tubes 22, 42, and 44 may include a heat source for preheating the fluid prior to introduction into the appliance 50 for application to the oral surface. The temperature should be maintained within a range effective to provide efficacy and comfort to the user during use.

The appliance 50, discussed in detail below, may be integral with the reciprocating flow controller 40 or removably connected thereto via the tubes 42, 44 and additional attachment members (not shown). It may have an internal easy-to-clean filter for trapping food particles. When positioned within the oral cavity (e.g., around the teeth and gums), the appliance 50 can form an effective fit or seal against the gums and include means for directing fluid against the surfaces of the oral cavity (e.g., the surfaces of the teeth).

Entrained fluid in the fluid supply reservoir 20 flows through the tube 22 to the reciprocating flow controller 40. There may be a one-way flow valve in the tube 22 to prevent back pressure from flowing fluid from the controller 40 back to the reservoir 20. Entrained fluid flows from the reciprocating flow controller 40 to the appliance 50 through the tube 42 or 44, depending on the flow direction setting of the flow controller 40.

During a cleaning operation, the system 10 generates a series of pulses of entrained fluid in the appliance 50. In some embodiments, the flow controller 40 generates a series of entrained fluid pulses. In other embodiments, the entrained fluid pulses are generated by a controller positioned in either tube 22, 42, or 44.

The actions of system 10 may be controlled by logic circuitry that may include: a program for initiating a reciprocating cycle; a program for performing a reciprocating cycle, i.e., a program that causes fluid to reciprocate around the teeth thereby providing a beneficial effect to the oral cavity (e.g., cleaning the teeth); a procedure for emptying the appliance 50 at the end of the reciprocating cycle; and a self-cleaning cycle for cleaning the system in use or at a preset time or an automatic cleaning time.

Although not shown, a panel having a series of switches and indicator lights may also be incorporated into the system 10. The switches may include, but are not limited to, on/off, running a reciprocating program, emptying the system 10, and cleaning the system 10. Indicator or display lights include, but are not limited to, on, charging, reciprocating program running, system emptying, cleaning result or feedback, and self-cleaning cycle running. In embodiments where the fluid is preheated prior to being directed into the appliance 50, a display light may be used to indicate that the fluid is at an appropriate temperature for use.

One method of cleaning teeth using the system 10 is as follows. In a first step, the user positions the appliance 50 in the oral cavity around the teeth and gum area. In using the system according to the invention, the user presses the start button to start the cleaning process. The cleaning process is as follows:

1. the system 10 is activated to begin dispensing a pulse of entrained fluid from the reservoir 20 to the appliance 50 via the tube 22, the reciprocating flow controller 40, and the tube 42. The entrained fluid is used to clean the teeth and gum area from the first side 52 of the appliance 50.

2. The reciprocating flow controller 40 is then activated to change the fluid flow from tube 42 to tube 44. The entrained fluid pulses are used to clean the teeth and gum region from the second side 54 of the appliance 50.

3. Steps 1 and 2 are repeated in order to reciprocate the cleaning fluid as the entrained fluid pulses are used to clean the teeth and gum area from the first side 52 and subsequently the second side 54 of the appliance 50, respectively.

4. The described reciprocation cycle continues until the desired time for cleaning is over or the desired number of cycles is completed.

It should be noted that there may be a delay between steps 1 and 2 (in either or both directions) allowing for a dwell time during which the fluid is allowed to contact the teeth without flowing.

In this embodiment, the entrained fluid disperses into the oral cavity upon contact with the tooth and gum surfaces. In other embodiments, the liquid portion of the entrained fluid may be directed back to the reservoir 20 via a tube for reuse in current or future cleaning procedures, or directly discarded.

Fig. 2 is a schematic view of a second embodiment of a system according to the present invention. The figure shows a system 100 in which the components include: a liquid supply reservoir 120, a gas supply reservoir 130, a reciprocating flow controller 140, an appliance 150, a vacuum pump 180, and tubes 122, 132, 142, 144, 182, and 184 for transporting fluids throughout the system.

A pipe 132 conveys gas from the gas reservoir 130 to a reciprocating flow controller 140. Tube 122 transports liquid from liquid reservoir 120 to tube 132. The tubes 142 and 144 transport the entrained fluid from the reciprocating flow controller 140 to the appliance 150. Tube 142 delivers fluid to a first side 152 of the implement 150, while tube 144 delivers fluid to a second side 152 of the implement 150.

In this embodiment, prior to the reciprocating flow controller 140, entrained fluid is generated at the intersection of the tubes 122 and 132. The gas reservoir 130 may deliver entrained fluid under sufficient pressure to the reciprocating flow controller 140 and further to the appliance 150. In some embodiments, the liquid reservoir 120 may deliver liquid to the junction of the tubes 122 and 132 under sufficient pressure (such as head pressure). In other embodiments, a pump may be positioned between the intersection of the liquid reservoir 120 and the tubes 122 and 132 to deliver liquid to the intersection of the tubes 122 and 132.

In some embodiments, the venturi effect is utilized to entrain liquid in a gas stream. The venturi effect is the creation of a partial vacuum when restricting the flow of fluid, thereby increasing its flow velocity. In this embodiment, the gas tube 132 is narrowed at a point before widening again. The liquid tube 122 is attached to a narrowed portion of the gas tube 132 and liquid in the liquid tube 122 is drawn into and entrained in the gas tube 132.

In this embodiment, the entrained fluid separates into a gas phase and a liquid phase upon contact with the tooth and gum surfaces. The gas phase is dispersed mainly into the oral cavity while the liquid phase is partially or completely recaptured. A pipe 182 connects the vacuum pump 180 to the reciprocating flow controller 140. Pump 180 generates a negative pressure that draws liquid from appliance 150 back through reciprocating flow controller 140 and delivers it back to liquid reservoir 120 via tube 184.

Liquid in liquid supply reservoir 120 flows through tube 122 to the junction of tubes 122 and 132 to reciprocating flow controller 140. There may be a one-way flow valve in the tube 122 and/or tube 132 to prevent back pressure from flowing liquid back to the reservoir 120 or gas back to the reservoir 130, respectively. After entrainment, the entrained fluid flows to the reciprocating flow controller 140 and then from the reciprocating flow controller 140 to the appliance 150 through the pipe 142 or 144, depending on the flow direction setting of the flow controller 140.

In a cleaning operation, the system 100 generates a series of pulses of entrained fluid in the appliance 150. In some embodiments, the flow controller 140 generates a series of entrained fluid pulses. In other embodiments, the entrained fluid pulses are generated by a controller positioned in any of the tubes 122, 132, 142, or 144.

One method of cleaning teeth using the system 100 is as follows. In a first step, the user positions the appliance 150 in the oral cavity around the teeth and gum regions. In using the system according to the invention, the user presses the start button to start the cleaning process. The cleaning process is as follows:

1. the system 100 is activated to begin the distribution of liquid from the liquid reservoir 120 and gas from the gas reservoir 130 to the intersection of the tubes 122 and 132 to the reciprocating flow controller 140 and then to the appliance 150 via the tube 142, reciprocating. The entrained fluid pulses are used to clean the teeth and gum region from the first side 152 of the appliance 150. The entrained fluid separates into a gas and a liquid phase.

2. Liquid returns to reciprocating flow controller 140 via pipe 144, to pump 180 via pipe 182, and to liquid reservoir 120 via pipe 184.

3. Reciprocating flow controller 140 is then activated to change the fluid flow from tube 142 to tube 144. The entrained fluid pulses are used to clean the teeth and gum region from the second side 154 of the appliance 150.

4. Liquid returns to reciprocating flow controller 140 via tube 142, to pump 180 via tube 182, and to liquid reservoir 120 via tube 184.

5. Steps 1 through 4 are repeated in order to reciprocate the cleaning fluid as the entrained fluid pulses are used to clean the teeth and gum area from the first side 152 and subsequently the second side 154, respectively, of the appliance 150.

6. The described reciprocation cycle continues until the desired time for cleaning is over or the desired number of cycles is completed.

In this embodiment, the liquid portion of the entrained fluid is directed back to the liquid reservoir 120 via a tube 182 for reuse in current or future cleaning processes. In other embodiments, the pump 180 may direct the waste fluid to be discarded.

In some embodiments, the entrained fluid may be delivered from the reciprocating flow controller 140 to the first side 152 of the vessel 150 while being simultaneously drawn from the second side 154 of the vessel 150 by the vacuum pump 180. When the reciprocating flow controller 140 is activated to alter the fluid flow from the tube 142 to the tube 144, entrained fluid may be delivered from the reciprocating flow controller 140 to the second side 154 of the appliance 150, while at the same time being drawn from the first side 152 of the appliance 150 by the vacuum pump 180.

It is important to note that while 180 is referred to as a "vacuum pump," 180 may also employ other devices or methods that create a pressure drop from the reciprocating flow controller 140 to the liquid reservoir 120. The included devices create a venturi effect or temperature drop.

Fig. 3 is a schematic view of a third embodiment of a system according to the present invention. The figure shows a system 200 in which the components include: a liquid supply reservoir 220, a gas supply reservoir 230, a reciprocating flow controller 240, an appliance 250, and tubes 222, 232, 242, and 244 for transporting fluid throughout the system.

A tube 222 carries liquid from the liquid reservoir 220 to a reciprocating flow controller 240. A pipe 232 carries gas from the gas reservoir 230 to a reciprocating flow controller 240. The pipes 242 and 244 convey entrained fluid from the reciprocating flow controller 240 to the appliance 250. Tube 242 delivers fluid to a first side 252 of the implement 250, while tube 244 delivers fluid to a second side 25 of the implement 250.

In this embodiment, the entrained fluid is generated in a reciprocating flow controller 240. The gas reservoir 230 may deliver entrained fluid under sufficient pressure to the reciprocating flow controller 240 and further to the appliance 250. In some embodiments, the liquid reservoir 220 may deliver liquid to the reciprocating flow controller 240 under sufficient pressure (such as head pressure). In other embodiments, a pump may be positioned between the liquid reservoir 220 and the reciprocating flow controller 240.

In this embodiment, the entrained fluid disperses into the oral cavity upon contact with the tooth and gum surfaces. In other embodiments, some of the liquid portion of the entrained fluid may be directed back to the reservoir 220 via tubing for reuse in current or future cleaning processes, or directly discarded.

Liquid in the liquid supply reservoir 220 flows through a tube 222 to a reciprocating flow controller 240. The gas in the gas reservoir 230 flows through a tube 232 to a reciprocating flow controller 240. There may be a one-way flow valve in the tube 222 and/or the tube 232 to prevent back pressure from flowing liquid back to the reservoir 220 or gas back to the reservoir 230, respectively.

After entrainment, the entrained fluid flows through the tube 242 or 244 to the appliance 250, depending on the flow direction setting of the flow controller 240.

In a cleaning operation, the system 200 generates a series of pulses of entrained fluid in the appliance 250. In some embodiments, the flow controller 240 generates a series of entrained fluid pulses. In other embodiments, the entrained fluid pulse is generated by a controller positioned in any of the tubes 222, 232, 242, or 244.

One method of cleaning teeth using the system 200 is as follows. In a first step, the user positions the appliance 250 in the mouth around the teeth and gum area. In using the system according to the invention, the user presses the start button to start the cleaning process. The cleaning process is as follows:

1. the system 200 is activated to begin dispensing liquid from the liquid reservoir 220 to the reciprocating flow controller 240 via the tube 222 and gas from the gas reservoir 230 to the reciprocating flow controller 240 via the tube 232. The reciprocating flow controller 240 sends the gas-entrained fluid to a first side 252 of the appliance 250 via a pipe 242. The entrained fluid pulses are used to clean the teeth and gum region from the first side 252 of the appliance 250. The entrained fluid separates into a gas and a liquid phase.

2. Reciprocating flow controller 240 is then activated to change the fluid flow from pipe 242 to pipe 244. The entrained fluid pulses are used to clean the teeth and gum region from the second side 254 of the appliance 250. The entrained fluid separates into a gas and a liquid phase.

3. Steps 1 and 2 are repeated in order to reciprocate the cleaning fluid as the entrained fluid pulses are used to clean the teeth and gum region from the first side 252 and subsequently the second side 254, respectively, of the appliance 250.

4. The described reciprocation cycle continues until the desired time for cleaning is over or the desired number of cycles is completed.

In this embodiment, the entrained fluid disperses into the oral cavity upon contact with the tooth and gum surfaces. In other embodiments, the liquid portion of the entrained fluid may be directed back to the reservoir 220 via a tube for reuse in current or future cleaning processes, or directly discarded.

Fig. 4 is a schematic view of a fourth embodiment of a system according to the present invention. The figure shows a system 300 in which the components include: a liquid supply reservoir 320, a gas supply reservoir 330, a reciprocating flow controller 340, an appliance 350, and tubes 322, 332, 342, 344, 346, and 348 for transporting fluid throughout the system.

A tube 322 carries liquid from the liquid reservoir 320 to a reciprocating flow controller 340. The tube 332 conveys gas from the gas reservoir 330 to the reciprocating flow controller 340. Pipes 342 and 344 carry fluid from the reciprocating flow controller 340 to the appliance 350. The tube 342 delivers fluid to a first side 352 of the appliance 350, while the tube 344 delivers fluid to a second side 35 of the appliance 350. Pipes 346 and 348 convey gas from reciprocating flow controller 340 to an appliance 350. The tube 346 delivers gas to a first side 352 of the appliance 350, while the tube 348 delivers gas to a second side 354 of the appliance 350.

In this embodiment, entrained fluid is generated in the appliance 350. The gas reservoir 330 may deliver the entrained fluid to the appliance 350 under sufficient pressure. In some embodiments, the liquid reservoir 320 may deliver liquid to the appliance 350 under sufficient pressure (such as head pressure). In other embodiments, a pump may be positioned between the liquid reservoir 320 and the reciprocating flow controller 340 to deliver liquid to the appliance 350.

In this embodiment, the entrained fluid disperses into the oral cavity upon contact with the tooth and gum surfaces. In other embodiments, some of the liquid portion of the entrained fluid may be directed back to the reservoir 320 via a tube for reuse in current or future cleaning processes, or directly discarded.

Liquid in the liquid supply reservoir 320 flows through the tube 322 to the reciprocating flow controller 340. The gas in the gas reservoir 330 flows through the tube 332 to the reciprocating flow controller 340. There may be a one-way flow valve in tube 322 and/or tube 332 to prevent back pressure from flowing liquid back to reservoir 320 or gas back to reservoir 330, respectively.

In a cleaning operation, the system 300 generates a series of pulses of entrained fluid in the appliance 350. In some embodiments, the flow controller 340 generates a series of entrained fluid pulses. In other embodiments, the entrained fluid pulses are generated by a controller positioned in any of the tubes 322, 332, 342, 344, 346, and 348.

One method of cleaning teeth using the system 300 is as follows. In a first step, the user positions the appliance 350 in the mouth around the teeth and gum area. In using the system according to the invention, the user presses the start button to start the cleaning process. The cleaning process is as follows:

1. the system 300 is activated to begin the distribution of liquid from the liquid reservoir 320 to the reciprocating flow controller 340 via the tube 322 and gas from the gas reservoir 330 to the reciprocating flow controller 340 via the tube 332. Reciprocating flow controller 340 sends liquid to a first side 352 of vessel 350 via tube 342 and gas to first side 352 of vessel 350 via tube 346. Entrained fluid is generated in the appliance 350. The entrained fluid pulses are used to clean the teeth and gum region from the first side 352 of the appliance 350. The entrained fluid separates into a gas and a liquid phase.

2. Reciprocating flow controller 340 is then activated to change the fluid flow from tubes 342 and 346 to tubes 344 and 348. Reciprocating flow controller 340 sends liquid to second side 354 of fixture 350 via pipe 344 and gas to second side 354 of fixture 350 via pipe 348. The entrained fluid pulses are used to clean the teeth and gum region from the second side 354 of the appliance 350. The entrained fluid separates into a gas and a liquid phase.

3. Steps 1 and 2 are repeated in order to reciprocate the cleaning fluid as the entrained fluid pulses are used to clean the teeth and gum region from the first side 352 and subsequently the second side 354, respectively, of the appliance 350.

4. The described reciprocation cycle continues until the desired time for cleaning is over or the desired number of cycles is completed.

In this embodiment, the entrained fluid disperses into the oral cavity upon contact with the tooth and gum surfaces. In other embodiments, the liquid portion of the entrained fluid may be directed back to the reservoir 320 via a tube for reuse in current or future cleaning processes, or directly discarded.

While as mentioned in this embodiment, entrained fluid is generated in the appliance 350, in other embodiments, the tube 342 may meet with the tube 346 prior to the appliance 350, thereby generating entrained fluid prior to the appliance 350. Also, and tube 344 may intersect with tube 348 before the instrument 350, thereby creating an entrained fluid before the instrument 350.

Each of the embodiments depicted in fig. 1,2, 3, and 4 includes a reciprocating flow controller (40, 140, 240, and 340 in fig. 1,2, 3, and 4, respectively).

Figures 5a and 5b are schematic diagrams of an embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller 40 for use in a first embodiment of a system according to the present invention. In FIG. 5a, the reciprocating flow controller 40 is in a first position, and in FIG. 5b, the reciprocating flow controller 40 is in a second position. In this embodiment, the reciprocating flow controller 40 is in the form of an l-port valve 72. The L-port valve is a ball valve that uses a hollow, perforated and pivoting ball having an L-shaped bore 74 through the ball to control flow through the valve. The ball is open when its bore is in line with the flow and closed when it is not. The port valve can be pivoted 90 degrees to connect the center port to either side port.

In fig. 5a, valve 72 is set such that entrained fluid passes from tube 22 through orifice 74 and into tube 42. To reciprocate fluid in the system 10, the valve 72 is pivoted 90 degrees (as shown in fig. 5 b) so that fluid from the tube 22 passes through the aperture 74 and into the tube 44.

Figures 6a and 6b are schematic diagrams of an embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller 140 for use in a second embodiment of a system according to the present invention. In FIG. 6a, the reciprocating flow controller 140 is in a first position, and in FIG. 6b, the reciprocating flow controller 140 is in a second position. In this embodiment, the reciprocating flow controller 140 is in the form of two l-port valves 172 and 176. Valve 172 has an L-shaped aperture 174 and valve 176 has an L-shaped aperture 178.

In fig. 6a, valve 172 is set such that entrained fluid passes from tube 132 through orifice 174 and into tube 142. The valve 176 is set so that liquid returning from the second side 154 of the appliance 150 via the tube 144 passes through the orifice 178 and into the tube 182. To reciprocate fluid in the system 100, the valves 172 and 176 are pivoted 90 degrees (as shown in fig. 6 b) so that entrained fluid passes from the tube 132 through the aperture 174 and into the tube 144, while liquid returning from the second side 154 of the appliance 150 via the tube 144 passes through the aperture 178 and into the tube 182.

Figures 7a and 7b are schematic diagrams of an embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller 240 for use in a third embodiment of a system according to the present invention. In FIG. 7a, the reciprocating flow controller 240 is in a first position, and in FIG. 7b, the reciprocating flow controller 240 is in a second position. In this embodiment, the reciprocating flow controller 240 is in the form of two port valves 272 and 276. Valve 272 has an L-shaped bore 274 and valve 276 has an L-shaped bore 278.

In fig. 7a, valve 276 is set so that gas from tube 232 passes through hole 278 and into tube 242. Valve 272 is set so that liquid from tube 222 passes through orifice 274 and meets tube 242 at the point where entrainment occurs. As mentioned earlier, the venturi effect can be utilized to entrain liquid in a gas stream. In this embodiment, the tube 242 is narrowed at one point before being widened again. Liquid tube 222 is attached to the narrowed portion of tube 242 and liquid in liquid tube 222 is drawn into and entrained in the gas in tube 242.

To reciprocate fluid in the system 200, the valves 272 and 276 are pivoted 90 degrees (as shown in fig. 7 b) so that gas from the tube 232 passes through the aperture 274 and into the tube 244. Valve 272 is set so that liquid from tube 222 passes through orifice 274 and meets tube 244 at the point where entrainment occurs. The venturi effect can be utilized here to entrain liquid in the gas stream. Here, the tube 244 is narrowed at a point before being widened again. Liquid tube 222 is attached to the narrowed portion of tube 244 and liquid in liquid tube 222 is drawn into and entrained in the gas in tube 244.

Figures 8a and 8b are schematic diagrams of an embodiment of a reciprocating flow controller 340 for use in a fourth embodiment of a system according to the present invention. In FIG. 8a, the reciprocating flow controller 340 is in a first position, and in FIG. 8b, the reciprocating flow controller 340 is in a second position. In this embodiment, the reciprocating flow controller 340 is in the form of two/port valves 372 and 376. Valve 372 has an L-shaped bore 374 and valve 376 has an L-shaped bore 378.

In fig. 8a, valve 372 is set so that liquid passes from pipe 322 through hole 374 and into pipe 342. Valve 376 is set so that gas from tube 322 passes through hole 378 and into tube 346. To reciprocate fluid in the system 300, the valves 372 and 376 are pivoted 90 degrees (as shown in fig. 8 b) so that liquid passes from the tube 322 through the hole 374 and into the tube 344. Valve 376 is set so that gas from tube 332 passes through hole 378 and into tube 348.

As mentioned earlier, the appliance (50, 150, 250 or 350) may be in the form of an application tray or mouthpiece. Fig. 9-12 illustrate an embodiment of an application tray 1200 in which only the top or bottom teeth and gum areas of the user are in contact with fluid. It should be understood that in other embodiments, the application tray 1200 may be designed to contact the top and bottom teeth and gum areas of the user substantially simultaneously, as shown elsewhere herein.

FIG. 9 is a top front perspective view of an application tray 1200 used in accordance with the present invention. Fig. 10 is a top rear view of the embodiment of the application tray 1200 of fig. 9, and fig. 11 is a bottom rear view of the application tray 1200 of fig. 9. These figures illustrate an application tray 1200 having an outer front wall 1212, an outer rear wall 1214, an inner front wall 1216, and an inner rear wall 1218. Inner front wall spray slots 1232 are positioned on inner front wall 1216 and inner rear wall spray slots 1234 are positioned on inner rear wall 1218. First port 1244 and second port 1242 enter application tray 1200 through outer front wall 1212.

The number and location of the inner front wall spray slots 1232 and inner rear wall spray slots 1234 as shown in fig. 9-12 are exemplary and not intended to limit the scope of application of the tray. The actual number, shape and size of the inner front wall spray slots 1232 and inner rear wall spray slots 1234 affect the cleaning of the teeth and gums and may be selected or designed to direct a jet of cleaning fluid in a variety of spray patterns. The inner front wall spray slots 1232 and inner rear wall spray slots 1234 shown in fig. 9-11 are only one embodiment of a spray slot configuration.

In other embodiments, there may be additional wall spray slots positioned on outer front wall 1212, outer back wall 1214, or both walls. These jets will allow entrained fluid to be directed to the mouth, or inner lip, or tongue to facilitate cleaning or treatment of these areas in the mouth.

Fig. 12 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the application tray 1200 of fig. 9. These figures show a first manifold 1246, which is defined as the space bounded by the outer front wall 1212 and the inner front wall 1216. The second manifold 1248 is defined as the space bounded by the outer rear wall 1214 and the inner rear wall 1218. A Fluid Contact Chamber (FCC)1254 is defined by an inner front wall 1216, an inner rear wall 1218, and an inner bottom wall 1250.

In one embodiment of the cleaning operation, the entrained fluid enters the first manifold 1246 through the first port 1244 under pressure and then enters the FCC1254 through the inner front wall injection slots 1232. In this embodiment, the fluid-entrained jet is first directed onto the front side of the tooth, gum and/or gum region. Next, the flow in the manifold is reversed. The entrained fluid enters the second manifold 1248 through the second port 1242 under pressure and then enters the FCC1254 through the inner backwall spray slots 1234. In a second part of this embodiment, the fluid-entrained jet is directed onto the back side of the tooth, gum and/or gum region. The pressure alternates through multiple cycles creating repeatable and reversible turbulence providing a reciprocating motion of the entrainment on and around the surface of the oral cavity.

Fig. 13 is a top perspective view of a second embodiment of a member for directing entrained fluid onto a plurality of surfaces in the oral cavity (e.g., application tray 1100) for use with a device according to the invention. Fig. 14 is a bottom perspective view of the application tray 1100 of fig. 13. These figures show an application tray 1100 having an outer front wall 1112, an outer back wall 1114, an inner front wall 1116, an inner back wall 1118, and a base film (e.g., bite plate) 1156. The inner front wall jet slots 1132 are positioned on the inner front wall 1116 and the inner aft wall jet slots 1134 are positioned on the inner aft wall 1118. The inner front wall jet slots 1132 and inner back wall jet slots 1134 shown in fig. 13 and 14 are only one embodiment of a jet slot configuration. First port 1142 and second port 1144 enter applicator tray 1100 through outer front wall 1112.

In other embodiments, there may also be additional wall spray slots located on outer front wall 1112, outer back wall 1114, or both walls. These jets will allow entrained fluid to be directed to the mouth, or inner lip, or tongue to facilitate cleaning or treatment of these areas in the mouth.

Fig. 13 and 14 illustrate an embodiment of an application tray 1100 in which the upper and lower teeth and/or gum areas of a user are contacted with fluid substantially simultaneously to provide a desired benefit. It should be understood that in other embodiments, the application tray 1100 may be designed to clean and/or treat only the upper and lower teeth and/or gum areas of the user.

Teeth and gum regions are cleaned from a first side or a second side of an appliance (50, 150, 250, or 350) using entrained fluid pulses. The appliance used in the present invention will now be discussed. Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a mammalian tooth in the gums of the oral cavity. The figure shows a tooth 400 having a first side 402 and a second side 404 and a gum 450 having a first side 452 and a second side 454. The gumline 425 is at the intersection of the tooth 400 and the gingiva 450.

Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a first embodiment of an appliance 50 for use in accordance with the present invention. The appliance 50 has first and second sides 52, 54, first and second manifolds 56, 58, and first and second jets 62, 64. The tubes 42 and 44 deliver a pulse of entrained fluid to the appliance 50. The tube 42 delivers fluid to the first side 52 of the appliance 50, delivering a pulse of entrained fluid into the first manifold 56. The tube 44 delivers fluid to the second side 54 of the appliance 50, delivering a pulse of entrained fluid into the second manifold 58. Manifolds 56, 58 deliver the entrained fluid pulses to jets 62, 64, respectively. The nozzle 62 delivers the entrained fluid pulse to the first side 402 of the tooth 400, and/or the first side 452 of the gum 450, and/or the gum line 425. The nozzle 64 delivers the entrained fluid pulse to the second side 404 of the tooth 400, and/or the second side 454 of the gum 450, and/or the gum line 425. In some embodiments, it is preferable to deliver a pulse of entrained fluid to the gum line 425. In some embodiments, the distance from the nozzle to the tooth surface is from about 0mm (contacting the tooth surface) to about 10mm, or from about 1mm to about 5 mm.

It should be noted that while only one jet is shown in fig. 16 for each of jet 62 and second jet 64, in some embodiments, manifolds 56, 58 may deliver entrained fluid pulses to multiple jets on first side 52 and/or second side 54 of implement 50.

In use, the entrained fluid pulse will reciprocate from one side of the appliance 50 to the other. Thus, the cleaning operation will alternate from the first side 402 to the second side 404 of the tooth 400, and/or the first side 452 to the second side 454 of the gum 450. In some embodiments, during the reciprocating motion, while the first nozzle 62 delivers the pulse of entrained fluid to the first side of the tooth or gum, the second nozzle 64 simultaneously extracts the liquid phase of the pulse of entrained fluid from the second side of the tooth or gum. Then, while the second nozzle 64 delivers the pulse of entrained fluid to the second side of the tooth or gum, the first nozzle 62 simultaneously extracts the liquid phase of the pulse of entrained fluid from the first side of the tooth or gum.

The above description of the appliance 50 may also be used to describe the appliances 150, 250 or 350. In all of these embodiments, the entrained fluid is generated prior to the fluid entering the appliance. In some embodiments, the entrained fluid is generated after the fluid enters the appliance.

Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a second embodiment of an appliance 550 for use in accordance with the present invention. The appliance 550 has first and second sides 552, 554, first and second manifolds 556, 558, and first and second jets 562, 564. Tubes 542 and 544 carry liquid to the instrument 550. The tube 542 delivers liquid to a first side 552 of the appliance 550, delivering liquid (which may be pulsed) into the first manifold 556. Tube 544 delivers liquid to a second side 554 of implement 550, delivering liquid (which may be pulsed) into second manifold 558. The manifolds 556, 558 deliver liquid to the jets 562, 564, respectively. The nozzles 562 deliver the liquid to the first side 402 of the tooth 400, and/or the first side 452 of the gum 450, and/or the gum line 425. The nozzle 564 delivers the liquid to the second side 404 of the tooth 400, and/or the second side 454 of the gum 450, and/or the gum line 425. In some embodiments, it is preferable to deliver a pulse of entrained fluid to the gum line 425.

The third nozzle 526 delivers a pulse of gas to the first side 402 of the tooth 400, and/or the first side 452 of the gum 450, and/or the gum line 425. An entrained fluid pulse is generated at the intersection of the gas flow from the jet 526 and the liquid flow from the jet 562. Likewise, the fourth nozzle 528 delivers a pulse of gas to the second side 404 of the tooth 400, and/or the second side 454 of the gingiva 450, and/or the gumline 425. An entrained fluid pulse is generated at the intersection of the gas flow from jet 528 and the liquid flow from jet 564.

It should be noted that while only one spout is shown in fig. 17 for each of the spout 562 and the second spout 564, in some embodiments, the manifolds 556, 558 may deliver liquid to multiple spouts on the first side 552 and/or the second side 554 of the implement 550.

It should also be noted that the third nozzle 526 and the fourth nozzle 528 (which both deliver gas) are preferably directed toward the surface being cleaned or treated.

In use, the entrained fluid pulse will reciprocate from side to side of the appliance 550. Thus, the cleaning operation will alternate from the first side 402 to the second side 404 of the tooth 400, and/or the first side 452 to the second side 454 of the gum 450. In some embodiments, during the reciprocating motion, the second nozzle 564 simultaneously extracts the liquid phase of the entrained fluid pulse from the second side of the tooth or gum as the first nozzle 562 delivers the liquid to the first side of the tooth or gum. The first jet 562 then simultaneously draws the liquid phase of the entrained fluid pulse from the first side of the tooth or gum as the second jet 564 delivers the liquid to the second side of the tooth or gum.

Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a third embodiment of an appliance 650 for use in accordance with the present invention. The implement 650 has first and second sides 652, 654, first and second manifolds 656, 658, and first and second jets 662, 664. Tubes 642 and 644 deliver gas to the appliance 650. Tube 642 delivers gas to a first side 652 of fixture 650, delivering a pulse of gas into a first manifold 656. The tube 644 delivers gas to the second side 654 of the appliance 650, delivering pulses of gas into the second manifold 658. The manifolds 656, 658 deliver gas to the jets 662, 664, respectively. The nozzles 662 deliver the gas to the first side 402 of the tooth 400, and/or the first side 452 of the gum 450, and/or the gum line 425. The jets 664 deliver the gas to the second side 404 of the tooth 400, and/or the second side 454 of the gum 450, and/or the gum line 425. In some embodiments, it is preferable to deliver a pulse of entrained fluid to the gum line 425.

The tube 626 delivers a liquid or pulse of liquid to the first side 402 of the tooth 400, and/or the first side 452 of the gum 450, and/or the gum line 425. An entrained fluid pulse is generated at the intersection of the liquid flow from the tube 626 and the gas flow from the jets 662. Likewise, the tube 628 delivers the liquid or pulses of liquid to the second side 404 of the tooth 400, and/or the second side 454 of the gingiva 450, and/or the gumline 425. An entrained fluid pulse is generated at the intersection of the liquid flow from the tube 628 and the gas flow from the jets 664.

It should be noted that while only one jet is shown in fig. 18 for each of the first and second jets 662, 664, in some embodiments, the manifolds 656, 658 may deliver pulses of entrained fluid to multiple jets on the first and/or second sides 652, 654 of the vessel 650.

It should be noted that while fig. 18 shows the tube 626 delivering liquid to the area between the first nozzle 662 and the tooth 400, in some embodiments, the tube 626 may deliver liquid to the manifold 656. Likewise, the tubes 628 may deliver liquid to the manifold 658. In these embodiments, entrained fluid is generated in the manifolds 656 and 658. The entrained fluid pulses are then delivered to the tooth 400 through jets 662 and 664.

In use, the entrained fluid pulse will reciprocate from side to side of the appliance 650. Thus, the cleaning operation will alternate from the first side 402 to the second side 404 of the tooth 400, and/or the first side 452 to the second side 454 of the gum 450. In some embodiments, during the reciprocating motion, while tube 626 delivers liquid to a first side of the tooth or gum, tube 628 simultaneously draws liquid phase entrained with the fluid pulses from a second side of the tooth or gum. Then, as tube 628 delivers the liquid to the second side of the tooth or gum, tube 626 simultaneously draws the liquid phase of the entrained fluid pulse from the first side of the tooth or gum.

Pulse parameter

As noted above, in certain embodiments, the systems/devices of the present invention are designed to pulse one fluid (gas/liquid) into the other (liquid/gas) to produce an entrained fluid that is directed to at least one nozzle. In such embodiments, applicants have recognized that any of a number of pulse parameters may be used. In certain embodiments, the frequency of the graphically measured gas pulses combined with the liquid/fluid pulses ("gas pulse frequency") is from about 0.1Hz to about 25Hz, including from about 0.25Hz to about 5Hz, including about 1 Hz. In certain embodiments, the frequency of the graphically measured liquid or liquid-containing fluid pulses combined with the gas pulses ("fluid pulse frequency") is from about 0Hz to about 50Hz, including from about 5Hz to about 30Hz, including about 25 Hz. While any suitable fluid and gas pulse frequency may be used in accordance with the present invention, applicants have found that in certain preferred embodiments, the following ratio of fluid pulse frequency to gas pulse frequency may be used to obtain improved benefits: greater than 0 to about 50, including greater than 0 to about 25, greater than 0 to about 15, or greater than 0 to about 10.

Any of a number of other system parameters may be used. In certain embodiments, the gas is provided from its source at a gas manifold pressure of: from about 1psi to about 100psi, including from about 5psi to about 35psi, including from about 5psi to about 20psi, including from about 10psi to about 15psi, including about 10 psi. In certain embodiments, the gas pulse width is from about 0.100ms to about 500ms, including from about 5ms to about 100ms, including about 30 ms. In certain embodiments, the system provides the following pulses of fluid: about 0.0001ml to about 1ml per nozzle pulse, including about 0.001ml to about 0.10ml per nozzle pulse.