Abstract: A dental floss is produced from expanded polytetrafluoroethylene that has been coated with a friction enhancing coating such as a microcrystalline wax to increase the friction coefficient of the floss. The polytetrafluoroethylene is preferably expanded to form a structure having a plurality of nodes interconnected by fibrils. The floss has a tensile strength of at least about 10,000 psi and a weight of about 500 denier to about 1500 denier. The coefficient of friction of the wax coated floss ranges from about 0.08 to 0.25. The floss may be comprised of a single strand or multiple strands. The floss may contain an optional dentifrice or pharmaceutically active material for delivery to the tooth and gum surfaces during use.

Abstract: This hand-held pressurized applicator is very effective to apply medicants to the perio pocket area of the tooth-gum margin. This pressurized applicator can be held and used in any orientation. The medicant is applied at a pressure of greater than about 20 psi, and preferably a pressure of greater than about 30 psi. In one embodiment, there is used a tip that fits into the perio pocket of teeth, and in a second embodiment there is used a toothbrush with the medicant flowing from between the bristles of the toothbrush or through hollow bristles.

Abstract: A toothbrush comprising a head having a flat surface facing upwardly, the head joined to a handle. The tufts of bristles are arranged in two groups of rows, each row extending transversely of the head. The rows of the first and second groups alternate with each other along the longitudinal axis of the head. In the first group, the two laterally outermost tufts of each row tilt sidewise towards their respective nearest side of the head, this tilt being about 12 degrees. The middle tuft of each of the second group extends substantially vertically upwardly from the head. The laterally outermost tufts of the second group tilt laterally inwardly toward each other by about 8 degrees. The tufts define three functional groups of tufts. The tuft arrangement is such that the cleaning action is substantially independent of any particular brushing technique employed by the user.

Abstract: Porous, high strength (that is, "Expanded") polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) dental floss is coated with microcrystalline wax. If desired, the floss may also incorporate one or more actives tartar control anti-caries antiplaque and/or antibacterial actives and/or dentally acceptable agents such as polishing and abrasive agents, coolants, flavorants and/or coagulants.

Abstract: A sub-gingival medicament applicator comprising an aerosol container having a gingival medicament filling and a nitrogen propellant. A wand is secured to the container and has an end portion extending angularly to the rest thereof. The wand has a passageway therethrough. A valve, provided with an actuator, is provided for controlling fluid flow through a passageway in the wand to permit application of the medicament through the end piece onto the gums of the user in a manner for optimum benefit.