Abstract: A toothbrush comprising a handle member affixed to a flexible extension which is grippable by the user so that the flexible end is in contact with the heel of the palm of the user to flex when force is applied by the user to the head of the toothbrush. Rubberized inserts are also provided on the handle of the toothbrush to provide improved gripping surfaces for the fingers and palm of the user.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for bleaching a discolored tooth, comprising the steps of applying a solution/paste of titanium dioxide powder and hydrogen peroxide solution onto the surface of discolored teeth, and bleaching the tooth based on the photocatalytic action that is produced by irradiating this area with light; and to a bleaching agent for applying onto the surface of discolored tooth to bleach the discolored tooth based on the photocatalytic action that is produced by irradiating this area with light, the bleaching agent comprising as active ingredients a combination of hydrogen peroxide solution and titanium dioxide producing photocatalytic action when irradiated with light.

Abstract: An dental hygiene solution is provided comprising water; sodium tripolyphosphates in an amount from 100 to 1000 mg per gallon of water; disodium edetate in an amount from 0.01 to 1.0 ml of saturated solution per gallon of water (0.1 mg to 10 mg per gallon of water); and a detergent in an amount from 1 to 10 ml per gallon of water, which detergent is effective to remove plaque from the tooth surface and thereby reduce the risk of oral diseases associated with plaque such as tooth decay or mouth ulcers. Further provided herein is a dental hygiene paste or gel comprising the same ingredients as the solution and further including a binding agent, such as carboxymethyl-celloulose sodium in an amount from 80 g to 150 g per gallon of water.

Abstract: A process for the conditioning of dental cavities by etching in preparation for bonding restoration to enamel and dentin, comprising the steps: a) etching the dentin part of a dental cavity using an aqueous composition containing, as an active constituent, EDTA, in an effective amount, and b) etching the enamel part of said cavity using a conventional etching acid; and a kit for use in such process for conditioning.

Abstract: Irrigants to be used with vibratory scaling apparatus and lavage are provided. The irrigants of the invention are characterized in that they contain medicaments for the treatment of conditions in the mouth and have a viscosity and deliquescence adapted to substantially optimize the efficiency of the apparatus. The irrigants are formulated so that they have minimal stickiness on drying, minimal foaming and do not gum-up the apparatus in which they are used. Also provided is a method for treating dental diseases comprising applying the irrigants of the invention through a vibratory scaring apparatus to substantially optimize the efficiency of said apparatus and to substantially optimize destruction and removal of infectious bacteria using said apparatus and the removal or inactivation of endotoxins derived from bacteria or the host.

Abstract: A topical anesthetic/prophylaxis paste is provided that is effective at removing extrinsic stains and plaque on the teeth and at reducing discomfort during scaling procedures thereon by delivery of an anesthetic into the gingival sulcus. The paste includes at least one topical anesthetic, either 5% Lidocaine or 20% Benzocaine, at least one humectant, preferably a Polyethylene glycol in the amount of about 28 to about 42 percent by weight, at least one abrasive agent, preferably pumice in the amount of about 55 to about 65 percent by weight, and at least one sweetener, preferably Saccharin sodium in the amount up to about three percent by weight. A method of delivering the topical anesthetic/prophylaxis paste into the sulcus by a low speed handpiece with a prophylaxis angle and rubber cup is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention discloses high viscosity sustained release dental compositions, such as tooth bleaching or fluoride compositions, for treating tooth surfaces. For maximum results, an improved dental tray having reservoirs for holding the dental composition adjacent the desired tooth surfaces is preferably used in combination with the sustained release dental composition. The sustained release dental compositions include a high carboxypolymethylene concentration which results in very high viscosity. The high level of carboxypolymethylene makes dilution of the dental compositions from saliva difficult and time consuming so that the compositions stay within the tray reservoirs, thereby providing sustained release. The concentrated carboxypolymethylene adds a unique tackiness to the dental composition which helps retain and seal the soft tray material against the patient's teeth.

Abstract: A fluid delivery powered toothbrush utilizes a removable/disposable neck assembly that contains a fluid reservoir, a fluid delivery system and a fluid path therein leading to a brush receptacle. No fluid is used in or passes through the toothbrush handle. Preferably a pump is located in the neck assembly and activated at the same time as the brush drive such that fluid is delivered during brushing. In one embodiment of the invention, the brush is replaced with a nozzle for providing fluid prior to or after brushing. The components for the neck assembly are disposable to minimize cross-contamination while enhancing fluid delivery to the teeth during brushing.

Abstract: A method and device for the high speed fluid (preferably water) jet removal of dental caries. The water jet is of a controlled upper and lower speed and pressure with a low speed and pressure being of at least 5 to 10 kpsi, sufficient to pierce and flush decayed tissue of a caries with a small beam fluid jet diameter. A pulsed or continuous fluid jet is used to remove and completely flush caries material from a tooth in a time period of under a second with a maximum stagnation pressure of about 30 kpsi, at which point healthy dentin is affected. A coherent or pseudo-coherent water jet operating at high stagnation pressure (range 10,000 to 20,000-psi and no more than 30-kpsi), in a brief burst (.apprxeq.1 second) and small beam diameter (30 to 100-.mu.m) will cleanly remove caries without damage to the tooth structure in particular the sound dentin at the boundary of the caries. No anaesthetic is accordingly required in the absence of a possible exposed nerve.

Abstract: The present invention provides a tooth whitening composition having a transparent first component that is a carrier compound and a transparent second component that is an oxidizing compound which when applied to a stained tooth and exposed to actinic light is activated to facilitate tooth whitening. The invention also provides a method for light-activated tooth whitening which comprise applying a tooth-whitening composition to one or more teeth and exposing said composition to actinic light to activate said oxidizing compound.

Abstract: Methods for whitening a person's teeth are disclosed. In a first embodiment, the steps include providing a carrier, such as a transparent tape, where the carrier contains a catalyst thereon, and preparing a mixture which includes an oxygen radical generating agent and a buffer. The mixture is then applied to the carrier and the carrier is applied to a person's teeth. The person's teeth are then exposed to a light source. In another embodiment of the present invention, the mixture may include an oxygen radical generating agent, a catalyst, and a buffer. The mixture is then applied to a carrier which is applied to the person's teeth. The person's teeth are then exposed to a light source. In yet another embodiment, a mixture of an oxygen radical generating agent, a thickening agent, and a buffer is prepared and applied to a carrier. The carrier is then applied to a person's teeth which are then exposed to a light source.

Abstract: An automated hands-free personalized cleansing device for oral hygiene is described in which a robotic cleansing head is mounted for reciprocatable movement on a mounting base and is powered and controlled by a computer module to provide multiple movements of the brush portion thereof in and out, up and down and all about the user's oral cavity to provide ultimate cleansing of the teeth and gums and any openings found therein. In addition, the cleansing head is provided with a device to deliver fluid, with or without dentifrice, to preprogrammed locations within the oral cavity to treat and rinse the teeth and gums and a device to withdraw spent fluids from the oral cavity for delivery to suitable waste drain. Especially unique is the bite block which extends from the mounting base including a first portion for engagement between the rear-most teeth (upper and lower) of the user, and a second portion for engagement between the user's front teeth when bit upon.

Abstract: A dental tray for delivery medication to oral structure is custom-made to closely match the configuration of the oral structure. A lingual wall of the tray includes a lingual edge section having an outer edge that is spaced in a gingival direction from the patient's gingival margin a certain distance in order to reduce the possibility of adverse effects as might be caused by movement of the patient's tongue. A buccolabial wall of the tray has an outer edge that is closely adjacent the patient's gingival margin in order to increase patient comfort, reduce gingival irritation and improve patient compliance during the course of treatment.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a jet nozzle (1) for a handpiece of an oral irrigator, which has a nozzle head (2) in which a feed line (4) runs. The feed line (4) opens into an outlet orifice (5) from which a liquid can emerge in the form of a single jet. A constriction (6) is provided in the feed line (4). The constriction (6) acts to produce a large number of microfine gas bubbles. The microfine gas bubbles are better suited to penetrate deep into subcrestal pockets in order to kill anaerobic bacteria which have settled there by the supply of oxygen, hence treating and curing inflammations of the gums.

Abstract: The invention relates to the improvement of plaque remover consisting of an abradant for removing dental plaque, dirt adhered to teeth, dirt adhered to filler, dirt adhered to prosthesis or dirt adhered to implant by injecting it with water or with water and compressed air. By using granular polysaccharide as the plaque remover derived from natural materials such as cellulose, starch, agar, pulverized particles of a fibrous plant body, particles prepared by decomposing a fibrous plant body, plaque can be removed without damaging not only sound enamel but also dentin prosthesis filler, gingiva and stomal membrane.

Abstract: A method for cleaning teeth by abrasive oral irrigation with a slurry containing a granular dentifrice composition. The dentifrice composition is gravity fed to a liquid reservoir of an oral irrigation device of the type that provides a pulsed, liquid jet stream, and forms a slurry within the reservoir. The slurry is pumped from the device and applied under pressure to teeth and gums. The composition includes a particulate baking soda having granular particles with major dimension in the range 10 to 60 microns, and a flow agent in an amount sufficient to ensure smooth and continuous gravity feed of the composition into the reservoir. A method for making the composition is described.

Abstract: A lighting toothbrush (20) includes a body (22) which carries a motion-sensing switch (26), a plurality of light emitting devices (30), a timer (32), and a battery (34). As lighting toothbrush (20) is oscillated, motion switch (26) closes sending a signal to timer (32) which applies a voltage waveform (50) to lights (30). In a preferred embodiment, timer (32) causes lights (30) to be sequentially illuminated thereby producing a "twinkle" effect. Also, in a preferred embodiment, all of the components are permanently encapsulated within transparent body (22).

Abstract: There is disclosed a novel device for providing heat to dental and periodontal structures and a novel process for brightening teeth, together with a novel use of old known processes for brightening teeth. The novel device comprises a splint/stint or vacumformed dental tray, containing a heating element to be placed around the tooth or teeth to be brightened. The novel process for brightening/whitening teeth entails using the splint containing the heating element in conjunction with standard tooth whiteners with a brightening agent. The heating element is attached to a power source, preferably mobile and transportable, so that the process may be accelerated by the heating of the brightening agent, in accordance with the Q10 rule.

Abstract: A controlled process for thoroughly curing light-activated surgical and dental composites and a process for tissue sterilization is presented using a hand-held, self-contained, cordless, rechargeable laser instrument. At least one solid state microchip laser is pumped by at least one diode laser to generate blue laser light of at most 480 nm. Q-switched, pulsed laser light output enhances efficiency and control of the curing. Another microchip laser within the instrument generates 210-360 nm wavelength of UV laser light for the sterilization process which differentially kills micro-biological life forms contaminating a repair site without killing healthy tissue. The process of use includes switching from sterilization mode to curing mode of operation of the instrument to save time during surgical and dental procedures.

Abstract: A tooth powdering applicator. A container for holding infrared reflective powder has an inlet connected to a source of pressurized fluid and an outlet connected to a rigid outlet tube. A cover is removably threaded on the container to allow for insertion of the powder. The container includes a circuitous path through which the pressurized fluid is directed lifting the powder therein and forcing the powder out through the tube. The tube is rotatably mounted to the container. An optional push button valve is provided to control the flow of fluid.

Abstract: Low-density polyethylene dental whitening or bleaching trays are molded to a dental impression cast of a patient, typically by vacuum or pressure thermoforming techniques. In a typical application, a low-density polyethylene plate or sheet is molded on a dental impression cast by operation of a vacuum or pressure thermoforming machine to produce bleaching trays of high quality and extended use for whitening the teeth of patients. The low-density polyethylene material so molded has superior memory for repetitive clinging fit on the teeth and is comfortable and virtually transparent while in place.

Abstract: A toothbrush having an improved cleaning and abrasion efficiency, wherein the bristles are comprised of synthetic thermoplastic polymeric compositions, and contain longitudinal channels extending along the length thereof, having a depth sufficient to entrap a quantity of abrasive particles such that during brushing with a toothpaste, contact between the channel entrapped abrasive particles and the surfaces of the teeth is improved, resulting in a cleaning efficiency coefficient, CEC, above about 1.5 and, an abrasion efficiency coefficient, AEC, above about 1.5, while demonstrating suitable bristle wearability.

Abstract: The present invention discloses high viscosity sustained release dental compositions, such as tooth bleaching or fluoride compositions, for treating tooth surfaces. For maximum results, an improved dental tray having reservoirs for holding the dental composition adjacent the desired tooth surfaces is preferably used in combination with the sustained release dental composition. The sustained release dental compositions include a high carboxypolymethylene concentration which results in very high viscosity. The high level of carboxypolymethylene makes dilution of the dental compositions from saliva difficult and time consuming so that the compositions stay within the tray reservoirs, thereby providing sustained release. The concentrated carboxypolymethylene adds a unique tackiness to the dental composition which helps retain and seal the soft tray material against the patient's teeth.

Abstract: Porcelain compositions of the present invention possess non-greening properties and comprise one or more glass or glass-ceramic components. Additionally, an oxygen release agent is included in the compositions. The porcelain compositions may vary depending upon the specific thermal properties desired.The application temperature of the porcelain compositions ranges from about 600.degree. C. to about 930.degree. C. depending upon the method of application of the porcelain. The coefficient of thermal expansion is preferably in the range of about 11.times.10.sup.-6 /.degree. C. to about 16.times.10.sup.-6 /.degree. C. The porcelain is compatible with cores and/or substrates having coefficients of thermal expansion in the range of about 11 to about 20.times.10.sup.-6 /.degree. C.

Abstract: An oral preparation for removing deposits on surfaces in the oral cavity in conjunction with a toothbrush. The preparation includes at least one nonionic surfactant in a concentration range of from about 1.0% to about 40.0% by weight and at least one essential oil in a concentration range of from about 0.2% to about 13.0% by weight.

Abstract: An oral hygiene article adapted to be received as a whole within a mouth so that the article can thereby be manipulated with the tongue to dislodge foreign particles, promote salivary excretion, drag bacterial plaque, and massage the gums. The article includes at least a core portion and a plurality of protruding members extending from the core portion. The protruding members each have a proximal end connected to the core portion and a distal end portion opposing the proximal end and spaced from the core portion. One or more of the protruding members has a distal end that terminates in an associated substantially linear edge. One or more of the protruding members can have a polygon-shaped cross section that continuously decreases in area from the proximal end portion to the distal end portion to define the substantially linear edge.

Abstract: The invention is a safe, hygienic method to use a laser toothbrush employing low power radiation in conjunction with an enhanced dental liquid or paste. The method provides a safe hygienic dental treatment that can be practiced by anyone and enhances destruction of oral viruses and bacteria. The present invention teaches a method which will have a significant effect on the treatment of all types of oral diseases, inflammations, and infections. A pulsed diode laser as well as a continuous wave diode laser can be used with an enhanced dental liquid or paste for selective bio-stimulation within the oral cavity with little more effort than a conscientious person spends brushing their teeth.

Abstract: A toothbrush having filaments which comprise poly(trimethylene terephthalate).

Abstract: A dental bleaching system and method having two separated components adapted to be dispensed from a single dispenser as a mixed viscous dental bleach composition. The first component comprises aqueous hydrogen peroxide and the second component includes a gelling agent, catalyst, a pH alkaline buffer, a redox color indicator adapted to oxidize in the presence of a peroxide from a visible color into a neutralized color and a second dye stable in the presence of a peroxide with the concentration of the redox color indicator selected relative to the second dye such that the redox color will be predominant during the bleaching operation and the second dye will be predominant at the end of a controlled time period corresponding to when the bleaching treatment may be discontinued.

Abstract: Compositions, methods and systems for whitening teeth. A whitening composition is applied to off-white or yellowish teeth in order to hide or mask the inherent underlying natural tooth color to yield whiter looking teeth. The whitening composition includes a complementary dye that, when absorbed by a tooth, will cause the tooth to reflect a color of light that is whiter than the natural or initial color reflected by the tooth. The tooth whitening composition may comprise a toothpaste that is applied like any conventional toothpaste in order to achieve whitening without significant alteration of a person's daily routine. Alternatively, the tooth whitening composition may be adapted for direct application onto the teeth in a more concentrated form, such as by means of a syringe, tooth cleaning paste, or cotton swab.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for preparing a preparation for bleaching teeth or for treating skin complaints and mucous membrane disorders, in which method at least the following are combined: (a) a gel or paste in which a component (i) is present, component (i) being composed of at least a cation A.sup.n+ and an anion O.sub.m X.sup.- ; where A is a metal from Group 1 or 2 of the periodic system, n=1 or 2, X is a halogen atom and m=1-4, and (b) a gel or paste in which a component (ii) is present, component (ii) being composed of at least a cation A.sup.n+ and an anion [B.sub.p O.sub.q ].sup.r-, where A is a metal from Group 1 or 2 of the periodic system, p=1-4, q=1-8 and r=1-3.

Abstract: A tooth surface treatment composition includes an acidic component which is at least one water-soluble acid in an aqueous solution, such that when the composition is applied to the tooth surface and not subsequently washed, it will increase the adhesiveness of the tooth structure. A method of treating a tooth structure includes contacting the tooth structure with such a composition.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a decorative toothbrush, which will encourage children to brush their teeth more frequently. The brush includes a brush component and handle component. The handle component, in the preferred embodiment, is constructed from a transparent, plastic material. A decorative fluid is placed within the hollow interior of the handle component.A variety of decorative fluids are disclosed for use within the handle. One such fluid contains a plurality of phosphorescent characters, which are suspended within a glycerin-water mixture.In an alternative embodiment, the brush and handle components are releasably interconnected. The two-component nature of the alternative embodiment allows multiple handles to be used with the same brush component. In this way, a user can collect various handle components featuring different characters.

Abstract: The present invention describes a novel composition and system for use for removal of organic and inorganic materials from a variety of substrates, including a tooth surface, without damage occurring to the substrate. The disclosed composition comprises a friable abrasive particle which when propelled by a gas stream at a surface for a time sufficient departs adequate energy to remove organic and inorganic materials from the surface without causing any significant ablation of the surface.

Abstract: A method for cleaning dentures in which a solution of about 5% carboxylic acid, an artificial sweetener and a flavoring is prepared, the dentures are placed therein and agitated. After agitation, the dentures are removed from the solution and are insertable into a wearer's mouth immediately without being rinsed, brushed or soaked. The solution is prepared by placing an amount of 25% a carboxylic acid solution in an amount of water equivalent to five times the amount of the 25% carboxylic acid solution or filling a receptacle with a known amount of water and placing a tablet having the sweetener, flavoring and an amount of carboxylic acid sufficient to provide the amount of water with a 5% carboxylic acid concentration into the receptacle. If used in combination with an ultrasonic cleaning apparatus, the solution is placed in a tank of the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus, and an ultrasonic transducer in the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus directs ultrasonic vibrations into the tank to agitate the dentures.

Abstract: A tooth powdering applicator. A container for holding infrared reflective powder has an inlet connected to a source of pressurized fluid and an outlet connected to a rigid outlet tube. A cover is removably threaded on the container to allow for insertion of the powder. The container includes a circuitous path through which the pressurized fluid is directed lifting the powder therein and forcing the powder out through the tube. The tube is rotatably mounted to the container. An optional push button valve is provided to control the flow of fluid.

Abstract: A device for oral cleaning consists of an elongate handle carrying a resilient pad, for example of polyester foam, with flock adhering directly to its surface. Preferably the pad surrounds an underlying support portion of the handle so that this does not contact the interior of the mouth in use. The handle support portion may have a series of projections to enhance the cleaning action. The pad may be pre-impregnated with an oral cleaning agent.

Abstract: A sonic toothbrush and method produces acoustic pressure. A predetermined bristle tip velocity is generated under applied load. A predetermined acoustic pressure is produced under applied load. A predetermined shear stress is produced and predetermined mechanical power is produced. Bacterial and microbial plaque under the gumline and in pockets is dislodged without physical contact between the plaque surface and bristle tips.

Abstract: An intracoronal bristle brush for preparing a tooth cavum comprising a plurality of bristles and a dental bit having a first portion being a shank adapted to be received by a dentist's handpiece and a second portion for receiving the plurality of bristles. The plurality of bristles emanate outwardly in a uniform manner from an axial hole within the second portion. The diameter of the intracoronal bristle brush dental bit ranges from substantially uniform to a tapered diameter towards the second portion such that the bristles of the brush may penetrate into an interior surface of a tooth cavum.

Abstract: A brush having a handle and associated surface application portion, which brush handle contains a beneficial agent generator. The brush typically has a stem with first and second ends, the first end serving as a handle. Bristles are associated with the stem's second end. A beneficial agent generator (such as an electrochemical gas generating cell) that generates a fluid comprising an oxidizing agent is encased within the stem. For treating teeth, the generator will generally be chosen to generate an oxidizing agent such as a peroxide, ozone, oxygen, or mixtures thereof. When the generator requires it, the brush will also include a battery and a switch associated with the stem and in electrical contact with the generator. The switch may be associated with the first stem end and will be in operable (e.g., electrical) contact with the electrochemical gas generating cell and the battery.

Abstract: An oral hygiene article adapted to be received as a whole within a mouth so that the article can thereby be manipulated with the tongue to dislodge foreign particles, promote salivary excretion, drag bacterial plaque, and massage the gums. The article includes at least a core portion and a plurality of protruding members extending from the core portion. The protruding members each have a proximal end connected to the core portion and a distal end portion opposing the proximal end and spaced from the core portion. One or more of the protruding members has a distal end that terminates in an associated substantially linear edge. One or more of the protruding members can have a polygon-shaped cross section that continuously decreases in area from the proximal end portion to the distal end portion to define the substantially linear edge.

Abstract: Laser radiation having a selected wavelength and in the form of pulses having a selected pulse duration, repetition rate and energy content per pulse, is employed for performing a variety of dental and medical procedures, including cutting of enamel, dentin, cementum, dental root material, bone and metal. Cavities and openings in teeth and bones can be filled with a mixture containing hydroxyapatite and phosphoric acid, mixed together to form a paste, and the resulting mixture, after being introduced into the opening or cavity, can be cured and hardened by application of pulses of defocused laser radiation.

Abstract: A toothbrush including a head, a tuft of bristles positioned at the head, a piezoelectric film disposed within the head in such a way that a force applied to the tuft of bristles generates voltage in the piezoelectric film, and an indicator for indicating that a predetermined level of voltage is being generated in the piezoelectric film. Preferably the tuft of bristles is able to "float" within the head of the toothbrush. The indicator is constructed to provide a signal that is perceivable by a user of the toothbrush (e.g., a visible signal or an audible signal).

Abstract: A method and device for enabling oscillating drive of at least one tooth cleaning element in a tooth cleaning device which includes a drive unit and motion transmitters acting between the drive unit and the at least one tooth cleaning element. A rotary motion, derived from the rotary motion of the drive unit, is converted and one of the motion transmitters in a vicinity of at least one tooth cleaning element into a cyclic linear motion directed at an angle to an axis of the rotary motion of the drive unit and transmitted to the cleaning element.

Abstract: Dental bleaching compositions that include a high concentration of bleaching agent and a bleaching agent stabilizer that maintains the potency of the bleaching agent over time. The dental bleaching compositions of the present invention may be one-part, pre-mixed compositions that do not require mixing at the time of treating a patient's teeth but which remain stable over time. The bleaching agent may consist of hydrogen peroxide, either in aqueous form or complexed with urea (carbamide peroxide) or sodium perborate. The bleaching agent stabilizer includes an impurity scavenger that binds or ties up impurities, such as errant or residual metal ions, that can cause decomposition of the bleaching agent. The bleaching agent stabilizer may include a carboxylic acid chelator or a tin salt. The bleaching composition may include a thickening agent to achieve a selected viscosity and a neutralizing agent to adjust the pH and a carrier to help provide selected consistency and potency.

Abstract: The present invention discloses sticky dental compositions and methods for treating sensitive teeth. For maximum comfort, an improved dental tray that is thin-walled, flexible and lightweight is used to hold the dental composition adjacent the desired tooth surfaces. The dental compositions include a sticky matrix material into which is dispersed a desensitizing agent such as KNO.sub.3 and other optional dental agents. The matrix material preferably includes carboxypolymethylene that has been partially neutralized with a base to reduce etching of the enamel. The carboxypolymethylene adds a unique stickiness to the dental composition which helps to adhere and retain the soft tray material against the patient's teeth.

Abstract: The invention is directed in part to an interproximal brush apparatus containing:a stem portion having a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis, at least one of said first and said second ends being adapted for receiving an interproximal cleansing portion having an hourglass shape extending 360.degree. along said longitudinal axis of said stem portion. Methods of cleansing interproximal spaces are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention discloses high viscosity sustained release dental compositions, such as tooth bleaching or fluoride compositions, for treating tooth surfaces. For maximum results, an improved dental tray having reservoirs for holding the dental composition adjacent the desired tooth surfaces is preferably used in combination with the sustained release dental composition. The sustained release dental compositions include a high carboxypolymethylene concentration which results in very high viscosity. The high level of carboxypolymethylene makes dilution of the dental compositions from saliva difficult and time consuming so that the compositions stay within the tray reservoirs, thereby providing sustained release. The concentrated carboxypolymethylene adds a unique tackiness to the dental composition which helps retain and seal the soft tray material against the patient's teeth.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a toothbrush, including providing a bristle having a first opening, a second opening, and a lumen between the first and the second openings; contacting the first opening with a substance; applying a vacuum to the second opening thereby suctioning the substance into the lumen through the first opening to provide a bristle containing a substance; and attaching the bristle containing the substance to a toothbrush. A toothbrush including a plurality of bristles having fracturable walls for controllably releasing a substance from the bristles into the oral cavity is provided.

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.