Abstract: A dental instrument adapted to be fixed to a hand piece suitable for communicating ultrasound waves to the dental instrument, includes at least one arm ending in an active extremity that has two longitudinal concavities in opposing surfaces.

Abstract: The invention is an improved endodontic adapter for a sonic scaler consisting of a talon having a threaded end for insertion into the handle of the sonic scaler. A pair of downwardly pointed barbs protrude radially from the side of the adapter for receiving an elastic ligature which firmly holds the dental instrument such as file to the talon. The opposite end of the talon has a tapered shaft that receives an aperture drilled into the side of the dental instrument. The ligature is simply wrapped around the dental instrument on opposite sides of the talon and then the ends are wrapped around the downwardly pointing barbs.

Abstract: A dental instrument for sonic or ultrasonic treatment comprises a shank (1) to which a treatment section (2) is joined. The shank (1) and treatment section.(2) are made of matrix-bonded carbon fibers. The instrument can be machined out of a woven carbon fiber fabric or can be a compression molding or an injection molding. The mechanical properties of the instrument can be adjusted by varying the length of the carbon fibers.

Abstract: The invention relates to a medical or dental-medical instrument (1) for the material-removing working of body tissue or a substitute material, having an elongate handpiece (2), a holding device (4) arranged in the forward end region of the handpiece (2), and a tool (5) having a tool shaft (5a) and a tool body (5b) connected therewith, which is releasably connected with the handpiece (2) by means of the holding device (4), there being arranged in the handpiece (2) a vibration drive (6) for the tool (5), which transfers to the tool (5) high frequency oscillating movements, back and forth in at least one plane or orbital or three-dimensional, the tool body (5b) having an abrasive working surface (5c), the tool body (5b) being formed by means of a lamina (B), and the working surface (5c) being arranged at a narrow edge (21) of the lamina (B).

Abstract: An automatic drive circuit for an ultrasonic probe, such as a dental scaler insert, is operative with a probe which includes a magnetostrictive unit and a vibratory element to be set into vibration by the magnetostrictive unit upon energization of the magnetostrictive unit with an alternating magnetic field. An energizing coil is enclosed within a handle having a compartment for receiving the probe. The coil is located within the handle adjacent to the probe-receiving compartment for applying the alternating magnetic field to the magnetostrictive unit upon insertion of the probe into the handle and upon energizing the coil by the drive circuit. An oscillator of the drive circuit is coupled to the coil for applying an oscillatory current to the coil. The drive circuit includes a frequency sensor for sensing a frequency of the oscillatory current, the sensor outputting a signal designating a magnitude of the frequency.

Abstract: A magnetic coupling system comprising a magnetic assembly for removably combing a base structure and a tool insert is described. This arrangement allows energy from a transducer located in the base structure to be transmitted through the magnetic assembly to the tool insert. In one embodiment, the magnetic assembly comprises one or more magnetic inserts located between the base structure and tool insert and a permanent magnet or an electromagnet located proximate to the one or more magnetic inserts. The permanent magnet can be axially polarized, radially polarized or polarized at any intermediate angle. In one embodiment, the two components being coupled are a wave guide in direct contact with an ultrasonic motor and a dental scaling tool. In this embodiment, vibrational motion is transferred from the acoustic extension to the tool insert.

Abstract: An ultrasonic dental scaler for use with a dental scaler insert having a resonant frequency associated therewith includes a handpiece adapted for removably receiving the dental scaler insert, an energizing coil mounted on the handpiece, whereby the energizing coil substantially surrounds the dental scaler insert. The ultrasonic dental scaler includes a selectively tunable oscillator circuit coupled to the energizing coil and which generates a control signal having an oscillation frequency associated therewith for vibrating the dental scaler insert in response thereto. Specifically, the selectively tunable oscillator circuit includes an automatic tuner for automatically altering the oscillation frequency associated with the control signal to be substantially equivalent to the resonant frequency associated with the dental scaler insert in response to the control signal being fed back thereto.

Abstract: A dental tool having a processing section at one end which includes a longitudinally extending lateral face and a transversely extending front face having an abrasive working face located at a distance from the lateral face so as to permit forming a precise marginal edge around a tooth to permit precise positioning of a crown while avoiding deleterious working of the tooth region nearest the stump on which the crown is to be mounted.

Abstract: A three-part ultrasonic dental insert and replacement system used in a handpiece having an induction coil disposed about a well and operably connected to power supply. The three parts include a magnetostrictive element, a velocity transducer and a tip. The magnetostrictive element has a crown at one end which is releasably attached to a distal end of the velocity transducer. The tip is releasably attached to a proximal end of the velocity transducer. The insert can comprise a set of interchangeable tips wherein the velocity transducer and the tips are ultrasonically operable with the coil and the magnetostrictive element. The three-part replacement system comprises a set of the magnetostrictive coils and a set of the velocity transducer elements, as well as the interchangeable tips. The velocity transducer and tip sets include a plurality of transducer-tip combinations ultrasonically operable at the ultrasonic frequencies of the magnetostrictive elements.

Abstract: For ultrasonic preparation of hard or soft tissues or of tissue replacement material a apparatus is proposed comprising a hand piece (10), which includes an ultrasonic vibration generator (16), an ultrasonics deflecting head (28) as well as a tool (36) carried by the output member of the deflecting head. An abrasive treatment medium (48) is supplied to the working region defined between the tool (36) and the material (66) to be prepared. Thus even in places, which are difficult to access, cavities can be produced in dental or bone tissue in a gentle and precise manner.

Abstract: An ultrasonic dental scaler insert includes a tool coupled to a connecting body which is mechanically coupled to a transducer. When the insert is placed within an ultrasonic dental scaler device handpiece, the transducer produces ultrasonic vibrations which are transmitted to the tool via the connecting body. In order to reduce the noise generated by the operating scaler insert, the connecting body includes an elastomeric material which surrounds a portion of the connecting body. Additionally, a sleeve is provided which surrounds a portion of the connecting body providing a place to grasp the scaler insert during operation. The sleeve includes a bellows section which provides vibrational damping for the insert. Furthermore, the connecting body includes a vibration dampening bushing at an end adjacent the working tool.

Abstract: In the case of a medical or dental handpiece with a tool for the processing of body tissue or of a substitute material by machining, wherein the tool comprises an, in particular, elongated processing section extending from a base part connected to the handpiece by a detachable connecting device, the processing section having at least one abrasive working face extending in its longitudinal direction and/or transverse thereto, the handpiece has an oscillating drive for the tool, in particular for a frequency in the ultrasonic range, an articulation is assigned to the connecting device, and the axis of the articulation extends approximately in the longitudinal direction of the longitudinal axis of the processing section, approximately at a right angle thereto or in an angular range lying in between.

Abstract: A combined laser and ultrasonic device includes a combination laser and ultrasonic source, a control console and a combined laser and ultrasonic delivery handpiece. The system has three modes of operation: 1) laser energy only, 2) ultrasonic energy only and 3) combined laser and ultrasonic energy. All three modes of operation are controlled by a single foot-operated activation switch, which will operate the laser source, the ultrasonic source or both, depending on which mode the device is operating in according to a mode switch on the control console. The combined laser and ultrasonic delivery handpiece includes an ultrasonic transducer coupled to an ultrasonic vibrating tip, which is mounted in close proximity to a laser delivery wave guide, such as a flexible optical fiber. The combined laser and ultrasonic device can be used to perform a variety of surgical procedures, including an improved method of a laser excisional new attachment procedure (Laser E.N.A.P.

Abstract: System for the removal of a defect in a tooth (71), consisting of an oscillatingly movable tool (3) having working surfaces (56) for an abrasive making of a cavity (K) in the tooth, a filling material for filing the cavity (K), an insert (91, 91A) which can be placed into the cavity (K), which with regard to its surface region surrounded by the cross-sectional walls (KW) of the cavity (K) is pre-fabricated adapted to the dimension and shape, and a binding material (92), which hardens or cures, for bonding the insert (91, 91A) with the walls (KW) of the cavity (K).

Abstract: An ultrasonic operation apparatus performs a treatment through the utilization of an ultrasonic oscillation and comprises a handpiece serving as a surgical tool and an apparatus body including a power source unit for supplying electric power to the handpiece. The handpiece is exchangeably attachable to, and detachable from, the apparatus body. The handpiece comprises an ultrasonic oscillation element for generating an ultrasonic oscillation, a probe for transmitting the ultrasonic oscillation which is generated from the ultrasonic oscillation element to a region of interest of a human being and a signal generating unit for generating a signal corresponding to a resonant frequency inherent in the ultrasonic oscillation element and hence the probe.

Abstract: A magnetostrictive transducer including a plurality of magnetostrictive laminates each having a first end and a second end. The first and second ends of the laminates include openings. The laminates are arranged in a stacked configuration and bonded together by solder at the first and second ends. At the first and second ends the solder extends through the openings of the laminates forming a solder bar therein. The solder bars bond the laminates together with increased mechanical strength and also provide increased electrical contact between the laminates.

Abstract: A dental scaling system includes a scaling instrument with a handpiece and a scaling tip at the end of the handpiece. An ultrasonic transducer is connected to the scaling tip, and there is an irrigant outlet in the scaling tip. A cable is attachable to the handpiece and includes an irrigant passage and two lead wires for supplying irrigant and electrical energy to the handpiece. An irrigant supply bottle is releasably attachable on a housing, and the cable is attachable on the housing. The housing includes an air pump to pressurize and transfer irrigant liquid from the irrigant supply bottle through the cable to the handpiece. The housing also includes electronics to power and control the ultrasonic transducer. Each irrigant supply bottle includes a mounting member with a pair of wings, received in a forked docking assembly on the housing, with the mounting member lockable in the docking assembly.

Abstract: There is provided a substantially disposable dental tip incorporated in an ultrasonic scaler and a dental working distal end piece used for the dental tip.The dental tip in accordance with the present invention includes a transmission medium whose proximal end portion is connected to an ultrasonic vibration source to transmit ultrasonic vibrations generated from the ultrasonic vibration source and the dental working distal end piece of the present invention which is mounted on a distal tip end of the transmission medium and consists of a tip end member having a shape suitable for dental treatment etc. and a connecting portion connected integrally to a proximal end portion of the tip end member.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for numbing tissue before a shot is inserted into the tissue wherein said method and apparatus provide a vibratory force the tissue, thereby overexciting the nerves in the tissue and blocking the nerves' ability to sense pain.

Abstract: An ultrasonic dental tool for use with an ultrasonic transducer, comprises a substantially elongate tool defined by a shaft having a proximal end with a connector for attachment to an ultrasonic transducer, a distal end having a tip configured for performing a dental procedure, a portion of straight cylindrical wall from the tip inward toward the proximal end, and a contra-angle portion of substantially uniform diameter on the proximal end, and a uniform gradual tapered portion intermediate the distal end and the proximal end.

Abstract: An ultrasonic tooth cleaner having an elongated tip having multiple bends or a curved shape. This allows the operator to reach any surface or crevice in the oral cavity. The tips are formed of plastic materials that can withstand constant ultrasonic vibration in a range that is therapeutically beneficial.

Abstract: An ultrasonic dental tool for use with an ultrasonic transducer, comprises a substantially elongate tool defined by a shaft having a proximal end with a connector for attachment to an ultrasonic transducer, a distal end having a tip configured for performing a dental procedure, and a uniform gradual tapered portion intermediate the distal end and the proximal end is composed of a medical grade titanium alloy.

Abstract: Improved methods and apparatus for the removal of plaque from interproximal areas of the dental anatomy and from periodontal pockets. An reciprocal or orbital vibratory motion about the longitudinal axis of the bristles is utilized to impart frictional forces from a multitude of bristles positioned within the interproximal area of two adjacent teeth and in the periodontal pockets of the gum. An advanced embodiment utilizes ultrasonically enhanced bristle tufts to transmit ultrasonic vibrations into the gingival fluids in the periodontal pockets, producing standing ultrasonic waves within the gingival fluids which augments and enhances the plaque removal capability of the reciprocally or orbitally vibrating nylon bristles.

Abstract: The invention relates to an instrument for periodontal treatment, consisting of a connection piece (4) and of a blade (1), wherein said blade (1) has an abrasive part exhibiting two sectors (10, 11) distributed along the blade, and each situated on opposite sides of a plane passing through the axis of the blade, these two sectors (10, 11) exhibiting different levels of abrasiveness such that when the instrument is introduced into the periodontal pocket during treatment, the more abrasive sector comes into contact with the root surface of the tooth, and the other, less abrasive, sector comes into contact with the mucosa, said instrument being adapted to be held by way of its connection piece (4) on a handpiece which confers a vibratory movement on it, allowing the two sectors (10, 11) to effect the detachment of the undesirable tartar.

Abstract: An ultrasonic tooth cleaner having an elongated tip having multiple bends or a curved shape. This allows the operator to reach any surface in the oral cavity. The tips are formed of plastic materials that can withstand constant ultrasonic vibration in a range that is therapeutically beneficial.

Abstract: A transducer activated subgingival tool for contacting subgingival tooth surfaces and directing a fluid adjacent to said surfaces, wherein the tool has an activated tip having a fluid inlet end, a subgingival outlet end, a step in the surface of the outer wall of said tip between said inlet end and said subgingival outlet end, and a fluid passageway wall internal to the tip. The passageway wall is formed in the inlet end generally along the longitudinal center axis of the inlet end of the tip. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the step intersects the passageway wall at the orifice edge.

Abstract: Improved methods and apparatus for the removal of plaque from interproximal areas of the dental anatomy and from periodontal pockets. An orbital vibratory motion about the longitudinal axis of the bristles is utilized to impart frictional forces from a multitude of bristles positioned within the interproximal area of two adjacent teeth and in the periodontal pockets of the gum. An advanced embodiment utilizes ultrasonically enhanced bristle tufts to transmit ultrasonic vibrations into the gingival fluids in the periodontal pockets, producing standing ultrasonic waves within the gingival fluids which augments and enhances the plaque removal capability of the orbitally vibrating nylon bristles.

Abstract: Microsurgical drill bits for selective connection to an ultrasonic transducer head for use in dental retro-filling preparations each have a hub at one end for coupling to the transducer head, a cutting tip at the opposite end, and a shaft extending from the hub to the tip. The shaft has one or more steps in diameter at a predetermined position in its length designed for optimum vibration of the cutting tip without increasing the breakage rate above acceptable limits. The drilling tips have shafts which are angled relative to the hub and at least some have bent end portions so that the cutting tip is at an angle to the remainder of the shaft, allowing the transducer head to be held at a comfortable angle.

Abstract: An ultrasonic dental scaler for use with a dental scaler insert having a resonant frequency associated therewith includes a handpiece adapted for removably receiving the dental scaler insert, an energizing coil mounted on the handpiece, whereby the energizing coil substantially surrounds the dental scaler insert. The ultrasonic dental scaler includes a selectively tunable oscillator circuit coupled to the energizing coil and which generates a control signal having an oscillation frequency associated therewith for vibrating the dental scaler insert in response thereto. Specifically, the selectively tunable oscillator circuit includes an automatic tuner for automatically altering the oscillation frequency associated with the control signal to be substantially equivalent to the resonant frequency associated with the dental scaler insert in response to the control signal being fed back thereto.

Abstract: A dental tip comprises a proximal end portion connected to a drive source and a distal end portion adapted to act on a region to be subjected to dental treatment. The distal and proximal end portions are formed of a composite-material molded product which includes a plastic base material and an inorganic filler or/and an organic filler compounded therewith. This tip can produce the same treatment effect as a conventional one without damaging teeth or prostheses in dental treatment, and can be manufactured with ease. Thus, the tip is low-priced and disposable.

Abstract: An ultrasonic dental tip that is hardened by a novel process that includes roughing the tip and then applying a metal nitride coating, such as titanium nitride (Ti--N) or zirconium nitride (Zr--N). The roughing is preferably accomplished by sandblasting the tip with a microblaster. Optionally the tip may be heat treated after it has been roughened and prior to being coated in order to further increase its hardness.

Abstract: The drive assembly for a dental sonic scaler is disconnected from a scaling tip assembly and is then withdrawn from a surrounding tubular handle/sheath. This allows the sheath to be sterilized, after use, while the drive assembly, not needing sterilization, can be easily connected to another sheath, by way of a quick-disconnect joining the components. A tubular seal between the tip assembly and the sheath prevent the drive assembly from being contaminated during use of the scaler.

Abstract: An electric device which removes supragingival and subgingival plaque and undesirable debris from the interproximal surfaces between teeth is described. This device utilizes a combination of sonic energy and dental floss which is secured between two tines, the tines being part of a flexible fork which is removable from a powered handle which contains batteries and an electric motor. The electric motor, which is coupled to an eccentrically mounted disc on an output shaft, revolves at sonic frequencies which in turn generates sonic energy that is transmitted to the flexible fork which holds the floss. The sonic energy is synchronized and in tune with the natural resonance frequencies of the fork thereby stimulating the resonance action of oscillating vertical and/or elliptical movement of the fork which in turn imparts cleaning energy to and enhances the cleaning properties of the floss.

Abstract: This invention relates to a periodontal instrument and curettage method for separating and removing diseased granulation tissue from a periodontal cavity. The instrument is comprised of a periodontal curette affixed to a source of ultrasonic energy that drives the curette in an elliptical motion at an ultrasonic frequency. The instrument greatly reduces the physical effort and time required for periodontal curettage.

Abstract: A transducer activated tool for contacting workpiece surfaces and directing fluid adjacent to the surfaces is disclosed. The tool may be ultrasonically activated by attachment to an insert that includes a magnetostrictive element. The tip includes distal surfaces shaped to contact the workpiece and additionally includes a fluid passageway internal to the tip that is bored generally along the centerline of the tip but is offset from the tip axis such that a discharge orifice is formed in the tip displaced from the distal tip end. The passageway is preferably angularly offset so that the discharge orifice is formed in the distal end of the tip about 2-8 mm from the distal end of the tip. The tip when shaped to conform to dental or tooth surfaces is particularly useful as a dental tool. In another embodiment the fluid passageway is eccentrically offset from the tip axis wherein the passageway is substantially parallel to the center axis but displaced therefrom preferably by about 0.1 to 0.5 mm.

Abstract: A portable power supply system utilizes a foot controller and a lightweight, sealed electric motor assembly which attaches to any International Standard E-Coupling handpiece. The foot controller is adaptable for use with either an AC/DC adaptor or a rechargeable battery. A coaxial cable connects the variable voltage supply from the foot controller to the low voltage, DC motor assembly. The motor assembly is sterilizable, lightweight, and quiet, making it ideal for use by dentists, oral or orthopedic surgeons, laboratory technicians, or anyone else desiring an economical, portable power supply for handpieces.

Abstract: Method and tool for fracturing the interface between dental structure that have been cemented together. The method is accomplished by positioning a rapid impacting tool at about 90.degree. against the one side of the lower portion of a cap covering a tooth. The opposite side of the cap is abutted with a kinetic energy absorber. The flexing against the cap is small while the frequency is high.

Abstract: An improved therapeutic ultrasonic toothbrush for daily removal of soft plaque, disruption of the bacterial colonization process within the gingival pockets, the reduction of the recurrence of aphthous stomatitis, and for the acceleration of the healing of the sores of the oral cavity. The device includes a handle constructed of a rigid material, a battery pack, an electronics driving module, a piezoelectric member, and a removable brush head. The piezoelectric crystal resonates, expands and contracts volumetrically, in tune with the frequency supplied by the electronics driving module and thereby converts the electronic energy into sound-wave energy. The sound waves loosen up the bound between the bacterial plaque and the teeth and disrupt the bacterial colonization process within the periodontal pockets and the mucous membranes of the oral cavity. Ultrasonic emission from the back side of the brush accelerates healing of sores of the oral cavity.

Abstract: A transducer activated tool for contacting workpiece surfaces and directing fluid adjacent to said surfaces is disclosed. The tool may be ultrasonically activated by attachment to an insert that includes a magnetostrictive element. The tip includes distal surfaces shaped to contact the workpiece and additionally includes a fluid passageway internal to the tip that is bored generally along the centerline of the tip but is offset from the tip axis such that a discharge orifice is formed in the tip displaced from the distal tip end. The passageway is preferably angularly offset so that the discharge orifice is formed in the distal end of the tip about 2-8 mm from the distal end of the tip. The tip when shaped to conform to dental or tooth surfaces is particularly useful as a dental tool. In another embodiment the fluid passageway is eccentrically offset from the tip axis wherein the passageway is substantially parallel to the center axis but displaced therefrom preferably by about 0.1 to 0.5 mm.

Abstract: An apparatus for the hygienic care of the teeth and surrounding gum tissue utilizes ultrasonic energy to massage and clean the teeth and gingival areas. A semi-rigid connector is provided for a handle, and a transducer provided with a liquid-filled membrane. The spring-action created by this handle would allow the transducer to contact the teeth. The transducer is configured to cover only a relatively small portion of the user's teeth and gingival tissue, and can easily be replaced.

Abstract: A dental scaler is provided which has a control unit and a handpiece assembly linked to the control unit by a conduit carrying fluid and electrical power. The handpiece assembly includes a conduit connector secured to an end of the conduit remote from the control unit and an autoclavable handpiece removably securable to the conduit connector. The connector and handpiece have slidably connectable bodies, each having mating fluid and electrical connectors. The handpiece connector body includes a check valve to prevent rearward flow of water. The conduit connector body includes a check valve and a double fluid tight seal. The use of the two check valves and two seals reduces the possibility of fluid leaking from the back of the handpiece or from the connector. The conduit connector body is received in a sleeve of the handpiece. The connector has a finger which is received in an axial slot of the handpiece sleeve.

Abstract: An ultrasonic surgical handpiece for surgery on a patient has a handpiece with distal and proximal ends on a housing thereof for manipulation by a surgeon. A vibrator is carried within a hollow inside of the housing. A tool extends from the vibrator at the distal end to a distal tip and is tubular with a bore along its axis so axial vibrations at high frequency are transmitted to the distal tip. Fluid flows from the distal tip to the vibrator, cools the vibrator and connects to a source of suction at the proximal end. A flue carried cantilever on the distal end extends about the tool so a space is between the tool and the flue for guiding fluid from the distal end to the distal tip. A port located through the tool connects between the space and the bore and is axially positioned near the distal end to collect fluid. An inlet on the flue is near the distal end for fluid provided by a supply. The inlet is axial distal of the port and/or may meter fluid to a preset range.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for vibrating a dental scaler insert at its resonant frequency which includes an energizing coil and an automatically tuned oscillating circuit is disclosed. The oscillating circuit is automatically tuned to vibrate a scaler insert at its resonant frequency in response to an impedance of the energizing coil. The energizing coil impedance is responsive to a scaler insert positioned within the energizing coil. Additionally, the dental scaler device can be operated with scaling inserts having different mechanical resonant frequencies associated therewith. Accordingly, dental scaler inserts resonant at about 25kHz or 30kHz may be inserted and operated by the dental scaler device of the present invention. The apparatus for vibrating a dental scaler may also include a feature permitting the operator to temporarily increase an amplitude of vibration of the scaler insert to enable the operator to dislodge stubborn calculus from a patient's teeth.

Abstract: Scaler consisting of a body comprising at its proximal end a device of known type for rapid connection to the lead of the dental unit, and leaving its distal end a scaling curette, and at its inside a vibration-generation device, characterized in that the scaling curette forms an integral part of the vibration-transmission device, and in that it cannot be detached therefrom.

Abstract: An ultrasonic handpiece wherein the entire assembled handpiece may be sterilized with an ingress of the sterilizing fluid into the interior of the handpiece. The handpiece is formed with an elongated housing sleeve and a coil unit for establishing an alternating magnetic field located therein. The housing sleeve and coil unit is assembled such that crevices are formed between the ends of the housing sleeve and coil unit, thus allowing steam, chemicals and heat to pass in and out of the interior of the handpiece for more rapid and thorough sterilizing of the handpiece. Further, the coil unit is not potted to the housing sleeve in order to allow for different thermal coefficients of expansion between materials without the buildup of undue stress.

Abstract: An ultrasonic dental scaler device includes a handpiece having a removable outer sheath secured thereto. After performing a scaling procedure on a patient's teeth, the outer sheath is easily removed from the dental scaler handpiece and sterilized. A completely sterile sheath is secured to the dental scaler handpiece for use with each patient thereby preventing cross-contamination among different patients.

Abstract: Disclosed is a suction hood assembly that is attachable to an ultrasonic handpiece, as well as to a source of suction. The suction hood assembly includes a portion thereof that opens in an area adjacent the ultrasonic tip to provide an area of influence of the suction and thereby recover microdroplets of body fluids, matter and water mist. The suction can be used to control the size of the aerosol envelope generated when the water stream from the ultrasonic device is directed toward the ultrasonic-moving tip. The size of the aerosol envelope can be substantially reduced to a small area of operation, thereby minimizing the dispersion of germs, viruses and body fluids from the patient to the surgeon. The suction tube assembly is easily attached or removed from the ultrasonic handpiece, is easily manufactured, cost effective and thus is disposable.

Abstract: A removable brush-head for an ultrasonic toothbrush for daily dental hygiene purposes, including a plurality of bristle clusters, a substantially tubular body constructed of a flexible material and tensioning means securing the brush-head to the ultrasonic device, providing for the efficient transmission of ultrasonic frequency vibrations from the device via the brush-head to the teeth and gums and oral tissue of the user to loosen and remove soft plaque therefrom and to treat oral lesions.

Abstract: An ultrasonic cutter suitable for cutting a fixation dressing used for orthopedic treatment of affected body parts so as to remove the dressing from an orthopedically bandaged body part, wherein in order to ensure structural simplification as well as a safe and easy cutting operation, the ultrasonic cutter includes a cutting blade (4) which is provided with a cutting edge on a side face (4A) only thereof, the leading end portion (4B) of the cutting blade (4) being round in shape and being provided with no cutting edge.

Abstract: An electric device which removes supragingival and sub-gingival plaque and undesirable debris from the interproximal surfaces between teeth is described. This device utilizes a combination of sonic energy and dental floss which is secured between two tines, the tines being part of a flexible fork which is removable from a powered handle which contains batteries and an electric motor. The electric motor, which is coupled to an eccentrically mounted disc on an output shaft, revolves at sonic frequencies which in turn generates sonic energy that is transmitted to the flexible fork which holds the floss. The sonic energy is synchronized and in tune with the natural resonance frequencies of the fork thereby stimulating the resonance action of oscillating vertical and/or elliptical movement of the fork which in turn imparts cleaning energy to and enhances the cleaning properties of the floss.