Abstract: A toothbrush having novel bristles and/or a novel handle is disclosed. The toothbrush has a better grip and a better massaging effect than in the prior art. The effective areas of bristle contact are preferably flat sections, which increase the total area of contact. The bristles in the present invention are shaped like a polygon in cross-section. The polygon-shaped bristles preferably have three to six sides, and the polygon is preferably a regular polygon. The points of contact on the tooth are the edges of the polygon. When the cleaning direction of the brush is perpendicular to the long axis of the bristle, the effective cleaning agent is a cleaning edge equivalent to the corner of the polygon. The bristles are twisted in a spiral (screw-like) pattern to allow for the tooth to contact primarily the edges of the sides of the bristles. The edges of the bristles are preferably always in contact with the tooth. The toothbrush handle preferably has at least four thumb grips.

Abstract: The appliance of the present invention works effectively during root canal treatment by being firmly attached to the tooth to be treated and having a fixed platform from which the file can have a fixed working length. The appliance has three functional parts: (1) an attachment section that is held against the tooth by a matrix retainer and band, (2) a resting section that rests against the occlusal or top of the crown of the tooth, and (3) a guide section with a hole that pivots or is fixed over the tooth. The appliance is preferably attached to the tooth by any tofflemiere type matrix holder and band. Once the working or desired length of the file is obtained, then it is placed into the guide section of the appliance which is stationary in one plane. Therefore, the file cannot extend further than the desired length into the canal. This appliance provides an effective stop for the file while it is being used.