Abstract: A flossing tool comprising includes a handle having a first end, a second end opposite said first end, and a longitudinal length defining a line extending through the first end and the second end. A head is attached to the handle, the head includes a pair of arms supporting a strand of dental floss. The arms extend at a first angle with respect to the line. A hinge is positioned between the head and the handle. The hinge enables the head to pivot with respect to the line, forming a second angle between the head and the line, the second angle being different from the first angle. The first angle may be fixed to orient the floss into a use position, and the second angle may vary as the head is flexed about the hinge. The hinge enables the head and arms to flex as the user moves the floss between different sets of teeth.
Abstract: A replacement head for an electromagnetic toothbrush drive includes a mechanical linkage assembly for converting linear drive motion into rotational movement of the brush head. The mechanical linkage assembly includes a fixed shaft and a lever arm that extend between a movable bottom member and a fixed top member, and a link member rotatably connected to the top member and the brush head. The lever arm pivots about a fulcrum formed in the top member, and engages the link member. When the bottom member oscillates as a results of the actuation of the electromagnet in the drive unit, the lever arm pivots about the fulcrum and drives the link member to rotate in an arc shaped pattern. The rotation of the link member consequently rotates the brush head.
Abstract: A molded interdental tool includes a plurality of filament strands molded into a portion of the tool. The interdental tool includes a body having a handle portion and a pick portion. The filament strands are molded into the pick portion, with at least a portion of the filament strands protruding or extending from the pick portion. A middle portion of the filament strands may be molded into the pick portion, such that end portions of the filament strands protrude from opposite sides of the pick portion.
Abstract: An oral treatment composition that includes a carrier, an active agent and a silicon dioxide compound. The active agent can be a variety of compositions, such as dental whitening or bleaching agents, desensitizing agents, antimicrobials, anti-plaque agents, remineralizing agents, anti-tartar agents, mouth fresheners, and anesthetics. Optionally, a processing aid can be added to the composition to streamline manufacture of the gel. The composition can be formed as a bead in a dental tray so that when a user applies the dental tray to their dental arch, the bead readily spreads over the surfaces of the teeth without the user having to supply significant force to achieve such spreading.
Abstract: An oral care strip includes a substrate having a first side and a second side. An oral care substance is disposed on the first side and a flavor element is attached to the second side. The flavor element may be a dissolvable, edible, flavored film. A method for forming the oral care strip includes the steps of a) applying an oral care substance to a first side of a substrate and b) attaching a flavor element to a second side of the substrate. The second side of the substrate may include a wax layer to which the flavor element is attached.