Dentistry Patents (Class 434/263)
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Patent number: 6786732Abstract: A method is proposed for analysing the usage of a toothbrush made by a subject. The position of the toothbrush is monitored using a position sensor on the brush, and the position of the teeth is monitored by a position sensor mounted in a known fixed relation to the teeth. The resultant data is used to find the relative positions of the toothbrush and teeth over time. Statistical analysis of this data permits the identification of habitual brushing failures by subjects of the toothbrush. The toothbrush may transmit the output of its position sensor to a data analysis unit as a wireless signal. The toothbrush may also be provided with further sensors, such as pH and pressure sensors, the output of which is used in the statistical analysis to enrich the results.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2002Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Assignee: Unilever Home & Personal Care USA, division of Conopco, Inc.Inventors: Derek Guy Savill, Robert Lindsay Treloar
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Publication number: 20040091845Abstract: A system for virtual reality training, to acquire procedure movements in odontology, by sensing data concerning spatial position of a real hand-held element (2), three-dimensional representation of a virtual object (T) on a display screen (7), processing spatial position data for providing spatial display of a virtual instrument (OV) corresponding to the actual spatial position of the real element (2), supplying a virtual instrument (01-04) for operating on the virtual object (T) and modelling an interaction between the virtual instrument and said virtual object (T). The hand-held element (2) belongs to a haptic man-machine interface (IHM) comprising actuators controlled to supply the user holding in his hand the real element (2) with a force-feedback when the virtual instrument (OV) interacts with the virtual object (T). The invention is useful for pedagogical and professional purposes.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2003Publication date: May 13, 2004Inventors: Jean Azerad, Julien Blanchard, Yves Maurin
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Publication number: 20040067477Abstract: A model of dental caries may include simulated decay material in a cavity in an artificial tooth. The artificial tooth may be made of resin. The cavity may include an opening that extends from a simulated enamel surface to, e.g., at least the dentinoenamel junction of the tooth. The model may include at least one groove that extends from the opening (e.g., along the dentinoenamel junction). The cavity may contain simulated decay material in a groove and/or the opening. The simulated decay material is a homogenous substance that may include a curable resin, a porous substance, and/or coloring. The simulated decay material may be detectable with caries detecting stain. An etching solution and/or a curable bonding substance may be applied to the cavity before the simulated decay material is applied. The simulated decay material may simulate dental caries in color, texture, and/or tenacity.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2003Publication date: April 8, 2004Inventor: Thomas D. Marshall
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Publication number: 20040048231Abstract: In a method of encouraging a person to use dental floss, the person is educated that using dental floss promotes a healthy tooth. Dental floss is provided in a container (10) having a shape, and color that signifies a healthy tooth (20)(30). In some aspects the dental floss container (10) has a shape of a tooth (20)(30). Alternative containers (10) may have a shape of dentures (110). In further aspects, the dental floss is flavored with an aroma of a fruit, and the dental floss container (10) has a shape of the fruit (FIGS. 3a-3f).Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2002Publication date: March 11, 2004Inventor: B. Michael Perlin
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Patent number: 6692032Abstract: The present invention is a nontechnical, nonmechanical, easy to use, healthcare product that allows any individual to monitor changes in moles, freckles, or other skin growths in the comfort of their own home. It doubles as a record-keeping system that allows a person to compare new measures to their previously recorded measures—notice a change has occurred—and make a potentially life-saving appointment with a dermatologist. By using the flexible transparent sheets and a numeric value system, the product identifies changes in size, shape, color, “geography” of the mole and if any bleeding has occurred; all of which are important features in the development of skin cancer or melanoma. This product does not diagnose or treat a disease, but most importantly it provides people with a means of discovering a potential problem that normally would be undetected by the naked eye. This product has the potential to decrease medical care costs, reduce human suffering, and save lives.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Melanie Ann Christy
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Patent number: 6554619Abstract: An electronic instructional device (10) operable to teach, through point-of-performance demonstration, proper technique for accomplishing a process, such as performing dental hygiene or preparing a recipe, wherein the device (10) is customized and adaptable to conditions surrounding performance of the particular process. The device (10) broadly comprises a base (12), a display screen (14), a speaker (16), and an input device (18). The device (10) may store instructional information for subsequent recall and communication, or download such information from a network as needed for immediate communication. Furthermore, the device may include a compliance encouraging mechanism 48, such as a telltale or reward mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2001Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Inventor: Jacquelyn Williams
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Patent number: 6524105Abstract: A dental model, in particular for practice purposes, is provided, and has a support plate with recesses for artificial teeth, each of which has a tooth stump that fits into the associated recess. A gum mass overlaps both the teeth of a row of teeth and the recesses. The teeth are each disengageably held on the plate and in their associated recess with friction.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2001Date of Patent: February 25, 2003Assignee: Ivoclar Vivadent AGInventor: Oscar Raffeiner
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Patent number: 6520775Abstract: A fixture and method for use in dental training is disclosed which assists a student in learning how to determine the position of a root canal apex. The fixture and method include a tooth having a root canal and root apex with an electrically-conductive medium set around the root and root apex and securing the tooth in a fixture. An alternative embodiment uses first and second conductive mediums wherein the first medium is set around the root and root apex. The tooth is set into a fixture containing a second electrically-conductive medium. An electronic apical position locator is connected to an endodontic reamer and to the electrically-conductive medium in the fixture so that when the reamer is advanced through the root canal to the root apex, the electronic locator so indicates. Some locators are sufficiently sophisticated to indicate the distance of the reamer tip from the apex. In others an electrical circuit is closed causing the apical position locator to so indicate.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2001Date of Patent: February 18, 2003Inventor: Charles Q. Lee
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Publication number: 20020192627Abstract: A fixture and method for use in dental training is disclosed which assists a student in learning how to determine the position of a root canal apex. The fixture and method include a tooth having a root canal and root apex with an electrically-conductive medium set around the root and root apex and securing the tooth in a fixture. The tooth is set into a fixture containing the electrically-conductive medium so that when the probe is advanced through the root canal to the root apex, the electronic locator so indicates. An alternative embodiment provides a pair of articulated jaws with sockets therein for receiving teeth mounted in sleeves by a solid matrix. The sleeves are held in place by a pin that preferably also functions as a conductor between the locator and the conductive medium. Practice with this fixture and method enables a student to gain experience in determining the location of a root apex without the necessity to practice upon a live patient.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2001Publication date: December 19, 2002Inventors: Charles Q. Lee, Amy H. Lee
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Publication number: 20020182575Abstract: A dental-on-line system includes a central or master server having storage including image presentations relating to a plurality of dental surgical protocols; and a plurality of satellite installations in dentists' offices, with each satellite office including a video monitor and a computer; and arrangements for coupling the satellite offices to the central server to receive up-to-date image presentations of selected protocols. The satellite offices include controls for selecting and advancing to selected protocol images. The system may also include arrangements for (1) displaying medication or drug alternatives, (2) writing prescriptions, (3) dialing a patient's telephone number, (4) displaying patient's treatment history, and (5) displaying dental radiology images.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 25, 2001Publication date: December 5, 2002Inventor: Michel Vannoye
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Publication number: 20020164568Abstract: A fixture and method for use in dental training is disclosed which assists a student in learning how to determine the position of a root canal apex. The fixture and method include a tooth having a root canal and root apex with an electrically-conductive medium set around the root and root apex and securing the tooth in a fixture. An alternative embodiment uses first and second conductive mediums wherein the first medium is set around the root and root apex. The tooth is set into a fixture containing a second electrically-conductive medium. An electronic apical position locator is connected to an endodontic reamer and to the electrically-conductive medium in the fixture so that when the reamer is advanced through the root canal to the root apex, the electronic locator so indicates. Some locators are sufficiently sophisticated to indicate the distance of the reamer tip from the apex. In others an electrical circuit is closed causing the apical position locator to so indicate.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 3, 2001Publication date: November 7, 2002Inventor: Charles Q. Lee
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Patent number: 6461164Abstract: A toothbrush kit and specially designed toothbrushes and dental utensils for use by children that teach children how to clean and care for their teeth. The toothbrushes and other dental utensils each include a gripping element formed near the middle of the handle of the toothbrush and dental utensils to provide for better gripping by a child's hand. The gripping element is in the shape of a sporting implement that also serves to make the use of the toothbrush more attractive and fun for the child. In addition to including the toothbrush and other dental utensils, the toothbrush kit also includes an instructional book for teaching the child dental health practices, a toothbrush stand for holding the toothbrushes and finger puppets ached to the stand that are animal characters from the instructional book.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Inventor: Linda O. Ramelli
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Publication number: 20020119432Abstract: A training system using haptically enhanced simulations of dental procedures to provide the sensorimotor involvement needed for dental training. To provide touch feedback in combination with a realistic visual experience, the system integrates a haptic stylus interface for simulating the movement and feel of the tool-tip with a three-dimensional, stereoscopic display. The haptic stylus enables the dental student to orient and operate simulated dental tools. Working on a virtual model viewed in a stereo display, dental students can use a simulated pick to probe a tooth, or a simulated drill to prepare a tooth for cavity repair. The touch feedback is simulated by representing these dental instruments as force-to-a-point tools which map to haptic simulation procedures executed on a computer workstation that also provides the visual display.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 3, 2001Publication date: August 29, 2002Inventors: John F. Ranta, Walter A. Aviles, R. Bruce Donoff, Linda P. Nelson
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Patent number: 6428322Abstract: A developed film is illuminated to project its image onto a rear projection screen. A transparent case with a clear liquid filled therein is arranged, and the film is accommodated in the case. A writable transparent or translucent sheet is arranged over a front side of the rear projection screen.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2000Date of Patent: August 6, 2002Assignee: Nix Company Ltd.Inventor: Hiroyuki Tanaka
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Publication number: 20020096607Abstract: A tooth brush holder having a base plate, a rotating cover, and a receptacle therein for receiving a tooth brush. The cover has at least one opening in alignment with the receptacle. The base plate includes facilities for closing the receptacle when the tooth brush is removed so that the user cannot replace the tooth brush until a predetermined time has elapsed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2002Publication date: July 25, 2002Inventor: Peter Strunk
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Publication number: 20020058239Abstract: An electronic device that assists, teaches, and inspires a user to perform otherwise unfamiliar or difficult tasks, during the time that the user is actually performing the task. In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a visual and audible program for leading the user sequentially through the proper steps of the activity. The device is alternately embodied as a toothbrush holder having a timing or teaching function incorporated therein.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 2, 2001Publication date: May 16, 2002Inventor: Chi-Hsiang Wang
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Patent number: 6361323Abstract: A system for use in skill acquisition, transfers and verification for performer has a simulated object, i.e., simulated head, to which the performer would perform clinical procedure. An image pickup, e.g., CCD camera, picks up an image of a point indicator provided on the performer or an instrument. Using the picked-up image, an image signal corresponding to the picked-up image is made. An image processor processes the image signal and generates data for showing a movement or tracks of the point indicator on a two-dimensional coordinate system. Thereby, a display shows tracks of the point indicator by using coordinate data.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2000Date of Patent: March 26, 2002Assignees: J. Morita Manufacturing CorporationInventors: Daryl Raymond Beach, Masato Miyahara
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Patent number: 6257895Abstract: In a jaw model for demonstrating dental work, anchoring parts (2) designed as imitation tooth stumps and guided in bore holes (10) of a main body (1) are used for securing the workpieces which consist in particular of individual teeth or bridges. To be able to quickly adapt the position and number of the post-shaped anchoring parts (2) to different demonstration conditions, the anchoring parts (2) are spring-mounted in the bore holes (10) so that they can be easily transferred from a first locked position, in which their end is flush with the surface of the main body (1), into a second locked position in which they can be used for securing the respective workpiece.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2000Date of Patent: July 10, 2001Inventor: Gerd Oestreich
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Patent number: 6129553Abstract: A developed film is illuminated to project its image onto a rear projection screen. A transparent case with a clear liquid filled therein is arranged, and the film is accommodated in the case. A writable transparent or translucent sheet is arranged over a front side of the rear projection screen.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 1999Date of Patent: October 10, 2000Assignee: Nix Company Ltd.Inventor: Hiroyuki Tanaka
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Patent number: 6116910Abstract: A thin flat body of material, including static cling vinyl, capable of adhering electrostatically to vertical nonporous surfaces such as a bathroom mirror allowing it to be removed and reapplied repeatedly without leaving residue and further permiting writing and printing on the surface thereof. Said body of material also having preprinted on its front surface a depiction of teeth of the upper jaw (12) and of the lower jaw (13) with a means of conveying conditions and advice regarding dental hygiene (22) on the depiction of teeth by writing. In addition, an area is preprinted on the body of material for advertising (18) as well as an area for writing the date and time of a future appointment (20).Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1999Date of Patent: September 12, 2000Inventor: Christopher E. Green
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Patent number: 5989036Abstract: A device for encouraging the brushing of teeth by a child includes a doll having a toothbrush carried by an arm of the doll adjacent the mouth of the doll; an electrical motor; a transmission coupling the electrical motor to the doll's toothbrush for reciprocating the doll's toothbrush with respect to the doll's mouth to simulate brushing teeth; and an electrical control circuit including an electrical switch to be actuated for energizing the electrical motor.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 1998Date of Patent: November 23, 1999Inventor: Erez Schwartz
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Patent number: 5944531Abstract: An oral hygiene instructional display of a human mouth, including a body, an upper arch comprised of a representation of a plurality of teeth, a lower arch which is inverted from the upper arch comprised of a representation of a plurality of teeth, a timer having a display on the body, and an audible source capable of producing sounds. The teeth of the upper arch and the teeth of the lower are all capable of being individually illuminated. Additionally, the teeth of the upper arch and the teeth of the lower arch each have numerous surfaces thereof displayed, with each surface capable of being individually illuminated. The instructional display is capable of being adjusted wherein the audible sounds vary as different teeth or surfaces of teeth are illuminated, wherein multiple teeth or surfaces of teeth are illuminated simultaneously as a group, and/or wherein the timer is adjusted for longer or shorter brushing periods.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 1998Date of Patent: August 31, 1999Inventors: Rita S. Foley, Patrick F. Foley
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Patent number: 5826594Abstract: Personal oral hygiene of the general population is improved by making flossing considerably easier and less time consuming than it is when performed pursuant to current recommendations of the dental profession. This invention is an improved method for cleaning the interproximal tooth surfaces, comprising alternating the flossing of the lower teeth and the upper teeth in separate flossing sessions. A preferred embodiment is to floss the lower teeth on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and the upper teeth on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays (or Sundays). This invention can maintain gingival health with less than half the time and effort of currently recommended methods. An alternative embodiment is to floss the lower and upper teeth on alternate days, irrespective of the day of the week. The invention may be carried out with any type of dental floss, and with any mechanical or electrical flossing aid, as well as other kinds of interdental cleaners.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 1997Date of Patent: October 27, 1998Inventor: David C. Sokal
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Patent number: 5823775Abstract: Diamond bur A has base metal 1 formed with cylindrical shank 1b on one side of diamond bur A, and cutting portion 1a formed on base metal 1 on the other side of diamond bur A extending over a given length from an end of diamond A. A mixture 2 of various abrasive grains with three different grain sizes are secured to cutting portion 1a. Since various abrasive grains with different grain sizes are secured to cutting portion 1a, with the increase of load applied on artificial tooth, the number of abrasive grains contributing to cutting increases, and the machinability is improved. This tendency is equal to the machinability of the diamond bur on the market for cutting human dentin, or dental enamel.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 1995Date of Patent: October 20, 1998Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Matsutani SeisakushoInventors: Masao Aono, Kohji Yamamoto, Kanji Matsutani, Satoshi Tezuka
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Patent number: 5810601Abstract: A dental hygiene display for instructing and educating children on the proper toothbrush stroke technique, brushing duration, and stroke location including a human mouth figure with toothbrush motion simulation utilizing a liquid crystal display a speech processor and a piezo-electric sound emitting devise. The toothbrush stroke movements are simulated by multiple liquid crystal display segments activated and de-activated in sequence. The multiple liquid crystal display is repeated at various locations within the mouth. Additionally, a microprocessor circuit is provided for controlling of the crystal displays, brush stroke, speed, duration, and location within the mouth, as well as the speech processor and the piezo-electric sound emitting device.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 1996Date of Patent: September 22, 1998Inventor: John Miles Williams
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Patent number: 5766017Abstract: A dental teaching and practicing simulator comprising a stationery work bench having a work surface and a completely enclosed storage compartment. The storage compartment has a door with locking means thereon to restrict access to the storage compartment. The dental simulation and teaching equipment is mounted on a slide mechanism which can be stored within the compartment and slid out therefrom for utilization. The dental simulation and teaching equipment comprises a mannequin head, a torso, handpieces, and vacuum tools which are normally used in dentistry. The dental simulation and teaching equipment can be stored and locked in the storage compartment such that access thereto is limited. Thus, a safe and secure environment is provided for the equipment until its authorized use.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 1996Date of Patent: June 16, 1998Assignee: Nevin Laboratories, Inc.Inventors: Robert L. Nevin, Denis M. Sexton
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Patent number: 5755577Abstract: A virtual surgery system or virtual testing system provides a simulation or test based on image data. A simulator combined with a real exam requires simulation tasks by a test taker. Additionally, a surgical procedure may be simulated using image data of a patient in devices simulating the physical instruments a surgeon uses in performing the actual procedure, for example. The user input device, such as a mouse, three dimensional mouse, joystick, seven dimensional joystick, full size simulator, etc., can be used in a virtual simulation to move through the image data while the user looks at the data and interaction of the input device with the image data on a display screen. Force feedback can be provided based on based on physical constraint models (of the anatomy, for example), or based on edge and collision detection between the virtual scope or virtual tool used by the operator and walls or edges of the image data in the image space.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 1996Date of Patent: May 26, 1998Inventor: Robert G. Gillio
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Patent number: 5743730Abstract: A color rendering system for obtaining accurate tooth color. The device has a base sheet, with various tooth outlines printed thereon. Above the base sheet are a number of clear sheets made of mylar, or similar type material. These sheets are then collected and formed into a pad. Three sheets can be used, thereby giving four layers of color, which is sufficient for most cases. Additional clear sheets can be added, however. The dentist can then mark each with the placement of color for a particular layer. When finished, the sheets overlap, providing a detailed picture of tooth color using the four factors discussed above, and the positions of those colors within the tooth.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 1996Date of Patent: April 28, 1998Inventors: Kenneth E. Clester, Karen L. Clester
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Patent number: 5704087Abstract: A toothbrush is equipped with electronic means for measuring the time interval between a visit to the dentist and the time when the next visit is to take place. The toothbrush remains "dormant" during that time interval. At the end of the interval, electronic means are activated to provide a visual and/or audible alerting signal to the user of the toothbrush. The signal is delivered during actual use of the brush. Preferably, it is repeated, at relatively short intervals, during subsequent uses of the brush.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 1995Date of Patent: January 6, 1998Inventor: Richard Strub
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Patent number: 5704791Abstract: A virtual surgery system or virtual testing system provides a simulation or test based on image data. A simulator combined with a real exam requires simulation tasks by a test taker. Additionally, a surgical procedure may be simulated using image data of a patient in devices simulating the physical instruments a surgeon uses in performing the actual procedure, for example. The user input device, such as a mouse, three dimensional mouse, joystick, seven dimensional joystick, fall size simulator, etc., can be used in a virtual simulation to move through the image data while the user looks at the data and interaction of the input device with the image data on a display screen. Force feedback can be provided based on based on physical constraint models (of the anatomy, for example), or based on edge and collision detection between the virtual scope or virtual tool used by the operator and walls or edges of the image data in the image space.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 1996Date of Patent: January 6, 1998Inventor: Robert G. Gillio
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Patent number: 5688118Abstract: An image, sound and feeling simulation system for dentistry, comprising a dental handpiece having a drill for drilling a cavity in a tooth, the drill having a drilling end; a first three-dimensional sensor attached to the dental handpiece, the first three-dimensional sensor providing the system with position and orientation in space of at least the drill; and a data processing and display unit for simulating of at least the drilling end of the drill. The system further comprising means to control the flow of compressed air operating the drill and thus to control the rotation of the drill to imitate the sound and hand-feeling associated when drilling through tooth layers of different hardness.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 1996Date of Patent: November 18, 1997Assignee: Denx Ltd.Inventors: Alon Hayka, Liat Eytan
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Patent number: 5673451Abstract: A toothbrush adapted to serve as an instructional aid to encourage toothbrushing and to reinforce recommended toothbrushing technique. The toothbrush includes a body having an electrical subassembly incorporating a visual indicator such as a light or a light emitting diode, and a switching unit within the electrical subassembly for selectively activating the visual indicator only when the toothbrush is being used according to recommended toothbrushing technique. An alternate embodiment of the toothbrush includes a separate toothbrush head insert and a separate handle for receiving the toothbrush head insert which can therefore be removed and replaced. A further alternate embodiment of the invention includes an aural indicator selectively activated by the electrical subassembly during recommended toothbrushing technique.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 1995Date of Patent: October 7, 1997Inventors: James R. Moore, Julia C. Moore
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Patent number: 5572762Abstract: A sound generating toothbrush has a sound generating apparatus and a switch device for activating the sound generating apparatus. The toothbrush has a handle portion with a compartment provided adjacent to the proximate end thereof for accommodating the sound generating apparatus and the switch device. The switch device has a bush-button which is located at the proximate end of the handle. Consequently, the sound generating apparatus can be activated, while normally holding the handle portion of the toothbrush, by momentarily pressing the proximate end of the toothbrush handle against any appropriate surface.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 1994Date of Patent: November 12, 1996Inventor: Jonathan Scheiner
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Patent number: 5570325Abstract: Tooth brushing timer device for presenting an amusing visual representation of the time required for a child to brush his or her teeth. The timer device comprises a housing, a static character face disposed at the front of the housing, and a visual indicator disposed behind the face. The face includes an aperture at the mouth region of the face so that a teeth portion of the visual indicator is visible through the aperture. The teeth portion of the visual indicator is capable of showing a white color for representing clean teeth and a non-white color, such as off-white or yellow, for representing non-clean teeth. Preferably, the visual indicator includes an hour glass timer, a liquid crystal display or a rotary timer. When the timer device is activated, the teeth portion animates a gradual transition from a non-white color to a white color for a predetermined period of time. In addition, the timer device may stand alone or include one or more compartments for bathroom amenities.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 1996Date of Patent: October 29, 1996Inventor: Harry S. Arpadi
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Patent number: 5554034Abstract: An organizer is disclosed herein for identifying a workpiece with a noted project or owner on a work chart. The chart has rows and columns containing indicia characterizing the workpiece and further including visual labels of a given shape and identification color. An identical set of labels is provided separate from the chart and having corresponding shape and color to those labels carried on the chart. A selected one of the separate labels is affixed to a particular workpiece so as to identify the workpiece with a particular row and column of indicia. A marking pen and an eraser is included to complete the organizer.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 1995Date of Patent: September 10, 1996Inventor: Farnaz Zand
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Patent number: 5503562Abstract: An improved inspection block for use in endodontia training in the form of a block of transparent material having a root canal emulating cavity therein extending from the top towards the block bottom, the cavity opening at the block top so that an endodontic file may be positioned in the cavity whereby a student may replicate manipulation of the file in the cavity to practice the art of cleaning and preparing a root canal, the block having at least one side wall surface configured to optically magnify the root canal.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 1995Date of Patent: April 2, 1996Inventor: Ralph C. Mays
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Patent number: 5501602Abstract: A dental care kit for simulating a visit of a fictional tooth fairy and instructing a child of the importance of proper dental care. The inventive kit includes a storage chest containing a plurality of envelopes, magical fairy dust contained within a fairy dust container, an ink pad, left and right foot stamps, a coin bag, and a plurality of written notes. A method of utilizing the kit includes placing a deciduous tooth within one of the envelopes and underneath a pillow of the child's sleeping accommodations. After the child falls asleep, a parent of the child removes the tooth in the envelope for storage within the chest, sprinkles the magical fairy dust around and about the child, utilizes the left and right foot stamps and ink pad to place footprints on or about the child, places an amount of money within the coin bag underneath the pillow, and leaves one of the written notes underneath the pillow along with the coin bag.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 1994Date of Patent: March 26, 1996Inventors: Karen L. Anderson, Keith E. Anderson
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Patent number: 5480307Abstract: In a training and practice apparatus (1) for simulating and practising clinical dental processes, with a model bust (6) which has a chest part, a neck (16) and a head (7) and is swivel-mounted on a carrier (4), the head (7) is mounted on a head carrier by means of a joint (17) and can thereby be swivelled into different working positions and fixed in the adopted swivel position, the joint (17) is arranged in the neck (16), the neck (16) has an engagement recess (28) opening approximately coaxially at its bottom end and the head carrier is a bearing rod, engaging in the engagement recess, on which the joint (17) is arranged and which is mounted in the chest part.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 1993Date of Patent: January 2, 1996Assignee: Kaltenbach & Voigt GmbH & Co.Inventors: Hans-Walter Lang, Alfred Straka, Frank Berlinghoff
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Patent number: 5433613Abstract: In a training and practice apparatus (1) for simulating and practicing clinical dental processes and for carrying out technical dental work, with a liquid extraction device (17) and a solids extraction device (14), a common vacuum source (25) is provided for both extraction devices (14, 17), with a suction line section (26) which branches at a branch (27) with two suction line branches (28, 29) to the extraction devices (14, 17), a change-over device (37) being arranged in the area of the branch (27) to open the one suction line branch and simultaneously close the other suction line branch (28, 29).Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 1993Date of Patent: July 18, 1995Assignee: Kaltenbach & Voigt GmbH & Co.Inventors: Frank Berlinghoff, Helmut Klamer
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Patent number: 5355544Abstract: A force indicating toothbrush which uses magnetic latching to hold a movable brush member against a hollow handle. When held by the hollow handle, the bristles of the brush member are pressed against the user's teeth and gums until a predetermined force is reached. The predetermined force causes unlatching of the magnetic latch and movement of the brush member relative to the hollow handle, thereby indicative the user that too much pressure has been exerted against the teeth and gums.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 1994Date of Patent: October 18, 1994Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventor: Robert S. Dirksing
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Patent number: 5356294Abstract: A dental diagnostic and instructional apparatus includes a base member, a top sheet, and a plurality of movable magnetic devices. The top sheet includes a dental diagram relative to which the magnetic devices are positioned. The magnetic devices are preferably configured and dimensioned to be representative of teeth or other dental prothesis. The dental diagnostic and instructional apparatus enables a dentist to diagnose and instruct a patient concerning a dental condition and possible dental treatments. The dental diagnostic and instructional apparatus further enables records to be easily made to provide a comprehensive and progressive record of a patient's dental history.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 1993Date of Patent: October 18, 1994Inventor: Wataru Odomo
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Patent number: 5342202Abstract: Process for modelling cranio-facial architecture on the basis of a lateral cephalometric X-ray by determining bony points and plotting analysis lines, measuring the angles and comparing them with thresholds and measuring the lengths and comparing the lengths with one another.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 1993Date of Patent: August 30, 1994Inventor: Marie-Josephe Deshayes
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Patent number: 5320529Abstract: An apparatus and method for locating and surgically positioning a hole for an implant and holder in a jawbone of a patient includes constructing a model of a jawbone. A structure is located within the model depicting variations in density within the jawbone. A hole is drilled into the model based on the location of the structure. A rod is placed into the hole and a guide template is fabricated around the model which forms a bore around the rod. The guide template is placed onto the jawbone of the patient and a hole is drilled through the bore into the jawbone to make a hole in the jawbone along the same path as the hole in the model for receiving the implant and holder.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 1992Date of Patent: June 14, 1994Assignee: Howard C. WeitzmanInventor: Daniel G. Pompa
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Patent number: 5282291Abstract: An improved handle for a hand operated implement of the type for which it is desirable to control the force of application. The handle has bifurcated sections which are connected by a means for sensing the applied force and indicating a variation of the applied force from a desired level.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 1992Date of Patent: February 1, 1994Assignee: Bioware Inc.Inventors: Eric L. Spieler, Richard M. Berman
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Patent number: 5259086Abstract: A musical toothbrush has a elongate handle having proximal and distal ends. Bristles are formed at the distal end of the elongate handle and a music box is removably attached to the proximal end of the elongate handle. The music box has a housing within which a music generator is disposed such that it may conveniently be actuated by a child prior to brushing the teeth. A retainer disposed within the housing releasably retains the toothbrush upon the handle. The retainer has a tensioner assembly and a plurality of teeth disposed proximate the tensioner assembly such that the proximal end of the toothbrush is positionable intermediate the tensioner assembly and the teeth. The tensioner assembly urges the proximal end of the toothbrush handle toward the teeth such that the tips of the teeth are substantially depressed and therefore frictionally engaged to the proximal end of the toothbrush handle.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 1992Date of Patent: November 9, 1993Assignee: Advanced Technology Products, Inc.Inventor: Peter S. Fong
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Patent number: 5244394Abstract: An educational dental kit for entertaining and educating young children about both the mythological "Tooth Fairy" and about good dental hygiene. The kit comprises a greeting card, a poster, and a drawstring pouch. The poster portrays a child's face with particular emphasis on the mouth. The teeth on the mouth are printed on removable stickers, each sticker representing a different tooth. When the child loses a tooth, the corresponding sticker is removed from the poster and is placed in the appropriate location on the greeting card. Indicia describing the teeth as well as proper dental hygiene may be located on the poster. The greeting cards may include indicia in the form of an image or text. The greeting cards may also encourage active participation of the child. A number corresponding to the order in which each tooth is lost may also be provided on each greeting card. The numbers would appear in ascending order on each successive greeting card.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 1992Date of Patent: September 14, 1993Inventor: Judy Serabian-Musto
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Patent number: 5232370Abstract: A dental teaching toy for children having structure including an artificial upper artificial gums, artificial baby teeth, and artificial adult molars (for which there are no earlier and corresponding baby teeth). Also included is at least one removable artificial baby tooth having a crown, and an artificial adult tooth having a crown and a root, the adult tooth positioned within a channel in the artificial gum wherein the removable baby tooth is removably attached to the crown of the adult tooth. The removable baby tooth can be manually replaced by the adult tooth by placing a finger through a proximal opening in the artificial gum and pushing on the root of the adult tooth, thereby pushing the crown of the adult tooth through a distal opening in the gum, thereby pushing the baby tooth out from the gum and can be removably detached from the adult tooth.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 1992Date of Patent: August 3, 1993Inventor: Mary E. Hoye
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Patent number: 5184959Abstract: A programmable device which emits an audible alarm to indicate one or more preselected toothbrushing times includes a display member set in a device housing, the housing having a number of toothbrush accommodating slots, each of the toothbrush-accommodating slots having an alarm switch associated therewith, the switch being disposed in an individual alarm circuit. The alarm switch is activated and reset by removal and insertion of the toothbrush into the slot.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1991Date of Patent: February 9, 1993Inventors: Harry W. Oryhon, Jeremy Oryhon
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Patent number: 5180308Abstract: A novel stand for demonstrating electrosurgical, laser, and electrocautery treatments with animal tissue. The stand can have a simple C-shape, and be connected via a tube to a conventional vacuum device. Any smoke or noxious vapors generated during the simulated treatment are efficiently and effectively removed by the vacuum device.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 1992Date of Patent: January 19, 1993Inventors: Jon C. Garito, Alan G. Ellman
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Patent number: 5158488Abstract: A combined teaching and practicing apparatus. The apparatus is adapted for an optimized simulation and practice in dental-clinical work or operating procedures, as well as also being adapted for purely dental-technical work and which, in addition thereto, ensures that the apparatus is suited for right-handed as well as left-handed persons, and which affords for an optimum savings in space at uniformly maintained quality in the teaching or educating of the students.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 1990Date of Patent: October 27, 1992Assignee: Kaltenbach & Voigt GmbH & Co.Inventors: Frank Berlinghoff, Hans-Walter Lang