Abstract: A periodontal pocket cleaning device is provided which has a very excellent effect for the prevention of periodontal diseases, which is least liable to cause injury to the periodontal pocket, which can be used at any place without limiting the place of its use, which is able to obtain a stabilized atomized jet without being influenced by the height position of the handy probe, and which is available at a low cost. The periodontal cleaning device includes a handy probe provided with an air-jet ejection mechanism, an air pump for producing compressed air, and an air-feeding tube for feeding the compressed air from the air pump to the handy probe. The handy probe is provided with a liquid storage tank for storing liquid agent such as water or liquid chemicals therein. The jet-out pressure of the compressed air to be ejected from the nozzle of the handy probe is set in a range of from 0.05 to 0.08 kg/cm.sup.2. The jet-out quanity of the compressed air is set in a range of from 2 to 30 l/min.

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 dental apparatus, including an instrument having an optical fiber for delivering UV light, an optical viewing fiber and an irregular surface located on the exterior surface at the distal end of the instrument to provide tactile feedback. The instrument preferably additionally comprises an irrigation channel, a suction channel, and abrasives on the distal end of the device. Other aspects of the invention include inventive dental procedures, facilitated by the apparatus, including the cleaning of teeth, periodontic and endodontic procedures, and bleaching discolored teeth.

Abstract: In a device for the removal of deposits (8,10,12) on teeth (2), comprising a laser light source for a pulsed laser light beam, provided with a light conductor leading to an applicator, it is provided that the laser light source emits a laser light beam having a wavelength from 300 to 600 nm and an energy density of 0.5 to 10 J/cm.sup.2.

Abstract: An electric toothbrush (10) with an adaptive load sensor (12) is disclosed. The toothbrush of this invention includes a brushhead (16) that is vibrated by a drive assembly (18). The load sensor monitors the current drawn by the drive assembly to determine the mechanical load to which the toothbrush is exposed. The load sensor assembly produces an adaptive threshold signal that represents the instantaneous maximum pressure load. If the sensed load voltage exceeds the adaptive threshold signal, the load sensor assembly deenergizes the drive assembly and generates an alarm signal so as to give the user a warning that the toothbrush has been excessively loaded.

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: 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 treatment of cysts and granulomas in the gum, and cutting of 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 defocussed laser radiation.

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: 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: An oral irrigator syringe bulb having an elastic compressible bulb, which may be filled with irrigation fluid, and a rigid nozzle having a base portion which may be sealingly fitted to the bulb. The nozzle has a lumen along the longitudinal axis thereof, and the lumen has a fluid outlet at its upper part to which suitable irrigation means can be attached. The nozzle also has an elongate non-kinking flexible dip tube which reaches into the lumen, the free end of the dip tube being provided with a weight, whereby when the nozzle is fitted onto the bulb the free end of the dip tube extends into the bulb and is submerged in the irrigation fluid at any spatial position in which the bulb is held.

Abstract: An etchant/primer composition is provided which includes (a) a compound having the formulaRN(CH.sub.2 YCO.sub.2 M).sub.2 (I)wherein R=R.sup.1 or R.sup.2 ;R.sup.1 =an aromatic group;R.sup.2 =a conjugated aliphatic group;Y=a single bond, CH.sub.2, CHCH.sub.3 or C.dbd.CH.sub.2 ; andeach M is independently H, an alkali metal, an alkaline earth metal, aluminum, a transition or redox metal or an alkyl group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms, with the proviso that when both M groups are alkyl groups, the compound corresponding to formula I be capable of being easily hydrolyzed, displaced or exchanged with other reagents present in the etchant/primer composition and (b) a polar solvent system. An etchant/primer/adhesive monomer composition is also provided which includes the etchant/primer composition and an adhesive monomer system. One and two step simplified methods for adhering and for preparing a substrate surface, such as a dental substrate surface, to a polymeric material are also provided.

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: 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: The present invention relates to oral compositions containing specially prepared herbal materials; in another aspect the compositions contain a water insoluble noncationic antibacterial agent.

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: The present invention relates to oral hygiene and specifically to an improved method for adding chemotherapeutic agents to dental floss containing several multi-fiber bundles, to methods of treating the oral cavity with the improved dental floss and to the improved dental flosses per se.

Abstract: A home denture cleaning kit for cleaning dentures. The kit includes at least a one year's supply of dental pumice, at least a one year supply of tin oxide and an electric driven rotating brush. In a preferred embodiment the bristles of the brush are at least 1/2 inch long and no longer than about 1 1/4 inch and are aligned generally parallel to the axis of rotation of the brush. Dentures are cleaned by mixing about one gram of pumice with an equal quantity of water to form a paste which is applied to the dentures. The rotating brush is then used to brush the pumice-water paste against the denture material to remove film and surface stains such as those due to coffee and tea. After the teeth are cleaned, approximately 1/8 gram of tin oxide powder is mixed with an equal quantity of water and applied to the teeth portion of the dentures. The rotating buffing wheel is then used to buff the tin-oxide paste against the dentures in order to produce a shine on the dentures.

Abstract: The invention is an oral cleaning device incorporating a low power laser radiation source and means for producing pulsed or continuous wave delivery of low power radiation to teeth, gums and oral tissue. The device is used alone or in conjunction with a liquid jet or jets and/or with photosensitizer dental paste or liquid. The device destroys bacteria and viruses in the mouth and on surrounding tissue. It increases oral blood circulation and enhances the body's immune system response to oral infection. The device may be operated by a trained professional at three different repetition rate frequencies, selected by the operator to threat different dental conditions. The specific photosensitizer liquid or paste which is activated at a certain wavelength is chosen by the operator to treat different dental conditions. The device is also intended for home dental hygiene at low power.

Abstract: An electric toothbrush having a handle with a cavity therein, a motor mounted in the cavity of the handle and having a rotatable shaft, a brush head, and a shaft arranged to connect the brush head to the handle. An eccentric weight is mounted to the motor shaft so as to rotate eccentrically when the motor shaft rotates so that the brush handle vibrates. A further weight is mounted to the shaft so as to be axially movable by a manipulator for adjusting vibration of the brush head.

Abstract: The present invention relates to various oral care products containing, stable, dispersions of certain high viscosity silicones in certain surfactants; wherein:a. the dispersed silicones, which are insoluble in said surfactant, are oriented by the surfactant such that when dispersed in water they are particularly adept at forming oriented, coatings on surfaces of the mouth with enhanced substantivity, andb. the particle size of the dispersed silicone is from between about 0.1 and about 10 microns, with a particle size distribution such that from between about 80 and 95% of the dispersed silicone is within this particle size range. These stable dispersions are described as ULTRAMULSIONS, which, together with their physical properties, when contained in oral care products, provide these oral care products with enhanced substantivity to mouth surfaces, where the non continuous silicone phase functions as a reservoir for various active ingredients contained therein.

Abstract: The present invention relates to various oral care rinses containing, stable, dispersions of certain high viscosity silicones in certain surfactants; wherein:a. the dispersed silicones, which are insoluble in said surfactant, are oriented by the surfactant such that when dispersed in water they are particularly adept at forming oriented, coatings on surfaces of the mouth with enhanced substantivity, andb. the particle size of the dispersed silicone is from between about 0.1 and about 10 microns, with a particle size distribution such that from between about 80 and 95% of the dispersed silicone is within this particle size range. These stable dispersions are described as ULTRAMULSION.TM.

Abstract: A tooth brush 10 includes a handle 12 having at one end a head 14 to which bristles are attached. A substantial number of these bristles have ends which terminate at a surface that has a helical shape.

Abstract: A method of disinfecting or sterilizing tissues of the oral cavity or a wound or lesion in the oral cavity is provided. The method comprises applying a photosensitizing compound to said tissues, wound or lesion and irradiating said tissues, wound or lesion with laser light at a wavelength absorbed by said photosensitizing compound.

Abstract: A dental repair process removes an area of tooth decay from a tooth structure, and prepares the tooth structure, including dentin and enamel surfaces of the tooth structure, for bonding with a filler material. It is characterized by the use of a soft abrasive particulate material such as a urea resin with a Mohs hardness in the range of from 3.0 to 4.0 and a particle size of 10 to 200 microns. Such material is capable of effectively removing soft tooth decay when carried in a fluid stream that is directed towards the decayed area under pressure.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for treating a tooth with an active agent such as a tooth whitening agent comprising a stint having an internal region defined by an internal surface. A plurality of indentations are formed in the internal surface for retaining the active agent to maintain the active agent in contact with the tooth when the stint is applied upon the tooth. The stint is molded from a sheet of plastic material with the indentations being formed by an abrading process such as abrasive blasting or the like.

Abstract: An anti-microbial composition includes particles having an outer surface onto which an anti-microbial agent has been adsorbed. The particles can be used, for example, for coating the bristles of toothbrushes.

Abstract: An electric toothbrush comprising a toothbrush device (100) and a charge device (200) is operative to provide an accurate determination and an adequate indication of the duty performance of toothbrushing. The toothbrush device (100) comprises a supply unit (110), a control unit (120) and a driving portion (130). The control unit (120) is provided with a time-measuring portion (121) for measuring the duty time during toothbrushing, a pressure-measuring portion (122) for measuring the duty pressure during toothbrushing, a position-determining portion (124) for determining the duty position during toothbrushing and a computing portion (123) to compute a duty performance. An accurate determination of the duty performance is achieved in computing portion (123) which computes the duty performance in response of the duty time, the duty pressure and the duty position. "duty" time, pressure and position being the time, pressure and position during operation of the toothbrush during toothbrushing.

Abstract: An oral irrigator syringe bulb having an elastic compressible bulb, which may be filled with irrigation fluid, and a rigid nozzle having a base portion which may be sealingly fitted to the bulb. The nozzle has a lumen along the longitudinal axis thereof, and the lumen has a fluid outlet at its upper part to which suitable irrigation means can be attached. The nozzle also has an elongate non-kinking flexible dip tube which reaches into the lumen, the free end of the dip tube being provided with a weight, whereby when the nozzle is fitted onto the bulb the free end of the dip tube extends into the bulb and is submerged in the irrigation fluid at any spatial position in which the bulb is held.

Abstract: A vibrating toothbrush, which includes a handle member, an elongated arm which has a brushhead at the distal end thereof, and a drive assembly for moving the brushhead at a selected velocity. Responsive to an on/off switch on the toothbrush is an on/off variable, which enables a master clock to produce a drive signal, the on/off variable being reset by a 120-second timer. A quadtimer variable, when in the enabled state, is responsive to the on/off switch to produce an audible signal and a difference in brush velocity at 30-second intervals within the 120-second period.

Abstract: Higher molecular weight copolymers of polyaspartic acid which are suitable for the inhibition of scale deposition may be obtained by reacting maleic acid and ammonia in a stoichiometric excess, with a diamine or a triamine, at 120.degree.-350.degree. C., preferably 180.degree.-300.degree. C., and then converting the copolymer of polysuccinimide formed to a salt of a copolymer of polyaspartic acid by hydrolysis with a hydroxide.

Abstract: A method of irrigating and cleaning a sub-gingival region is provided by guiding a sub-gingival periodontal irrigator of a flexible material into an interproximal region. The sub-gingival periodontal irrigator has outer and inner V-shaped portions having outer working surfaces and inner working surfaces which intersect at their distal ends from the spines, such that a hollow space is present therebetween. Irrigation fluid, medication or antibacterial agents may be dispensed through at least one aperture in at least one working surface to the sub-gingival region.

Abstract: A method of removing carious tooth material is effected by creating a laser light beam from a pulsed laser light source, and utilize a flexible light guide to direct the laser light beam as a light spot on carious tooth material of a tooth. The light source has a wavelength in the range from substantially 320 to 520 nm and the energy density per pulse in the light spot is substantially 0.14 to about 7.0 J/cm.sup.2.

Abstract: Dental products employing a ternary surfactant system of poloxamers, anionic polysaccharides, and nonionic cellulose ethers. This ternary surfactant system has greatly enhanced foaming power relative to poloxamers alone or to poloxamers plus anionic polysaccharides or to poloxamers plus nonionic cellulose ethers. The poloxamer-anionic polysaccharide-nonionic cellulose ether surfactant system has little or no taste, is nonirritating, and has excellent adhesion to tooth surfaces and oral mucosa. Inclusion of a mild abrasive plus one or more of xylitol, raw licorice, licorice extract, and glycyrrhizin and its derivatives enhances the clinical efficacy of the formulations by further reducing plaque buildup thus brightening teeth and reducing tooth decay and periodontal disease.The surfactant system can be used in a dentifrice paste or gel, powder, granules, disintegrable tablet, and a mouthwash, lozenge, and chewing gum.

Abstract: A vibrating toothbrush which includes a brushhead (18) mounted for vibrating movement, a reservoir (30) for containing dentifrice which is located in the handle (14) of the toothbrush, and fluid connecting means (32) connecting the reservoir (30) to the brushhead (18). The brushhead (18) includes either hollow bristles (80) or nozzles (87) in the brushhead (18) to permit egress of the dentifrice from the brushhead (18) in the area of the bristles. The brushhead (18) is driven so as to provide a scrubbing action for the teeth and to provide acoustical energy for acoustical cleansing as well. The action of the brushhead (18) and the load thereon will result in dentifrice being released out of the brushhead (18) or bristles (80) as needed, supporting cavitation and streaming for the acoustical energy, as well as providing the cleansing/therapeutic effect of the dentifrice.

Abstract: A customized tooth cleansing device equipped with bristles whose orientation, length, and flexibility is customized to the dental characteristics of the user so as to provide proper penetration of the periodontal pockets. The device is equipped with a conduit for irrigating the mouth of the user with a cleansing, medicinal, or antibiotic solution. The device is molded to accommodate the particular dental characteristics of the user, and is equipped with a seal to prevent escape of the irrigating solution.

Abstract: Dentifrices, including toothpaste creams and gels, and mouthwashes, are provided including aminoalkyl silicones. In the mouth, the aminoalkyl silicones form a lasting hydrophobic film on the teeth for prevention of cavities and stain. Antimicrobial compounds such as chlorhexidine may be included.

Abstract: A tooth-brushing method comprises the steps of: predeterming respective weights of an electric toothbrush and a heavy eccentric mass as well as a location of the center of gravity of the eccentric mass; establishing an output of a motor at about 7,000 rpm in accordance with the predetermined conditions; and, producing a vibration at about 7,000 rpm by actuating the motor, thereby brushing the teeth.

Abstract: An insert for use in an apparatus for scaling of teeth and lavage of the gingival sulcus is provided. The insert comprises a tip for scaling and delivery of lavage fluids, retaining means for retaining the scaling tip in the insert, and a path means for delivering irrigant for scaling or for lavage through the insert and to the end of the scaling tip. The scaling tip is shaped and dimensioned for scaling and lavage below the gumline in periodontal pockets. When a magnetostrictive insert is used, an outlet means is provided to remove stack cooling water from the insert so that stack cooling water does not enter a patient's mouth.

Abstract: A dental cleaning implement includes a handpiece graspable at one end by a user, an electrical oscillating drive within the handpiece for oscillating the handpiece at a frequency of at least 5 Khz, a head at the opposite end of the handpiece including attaching apparatus for releasably attaching a toothpick or toothbrush thereto, and a spray nozzle for discharging a liquid spray in the region of the toothpick or toothbrush when attached to the head.

Abstract: The dental hygiene apparatus includes a body portion (12) from one end of which extends a elongated resonator arm (32). The arm (32) is mounted for oscillating action about a torsion pin (38), by means of a electromagnet (16) in the body acting in combination with two permqanent magnets (34, 35) which are mounted on the rear end (31) of the resonator arm (32). On the forward end (44) of the resonator arm (32) is mounted a set of bristles (47). The arm (32) is driven such that the tips of the bristles operate within ranges of amplitude and frequency to produce a bristle tip velocity greater than 1.5 meters per second, producing a significant cleansing effect beyond the tips of the bristles.

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 for detecting and quantifying mutans streptococci in the saliva of an individual is provided comprising the steps of(a) collecting a sample of saliva on the surface of a solid carrier strip;(b) introducing the sample on the solid carrier strip into a liquid medium which is selective for mutans streptococci and incubating in the liquid medium for a period of time sufficient to allow growth of visible colonies of mutans streptococci; and(c) detecting and counting colonies of mutans streptococci on the surface of the solid carrier strip. The invention further provides a kit for carrying out the method of the invention. The kit includes a solid carrier strip for obtaining a sample, an incubation vessel sized to accept the solid carrier strip, and a selective medium for growth of mutans streptococci.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for treating a tooth with an active agent such as a tooth whitening agent comprising a stint having an internal region defined by an internal surface. A plurality of indentations are formed in the internal surface for retaining the active agent to maintain the active agent in contact with the tooth when the stint is applied upon the tooth. The stint is molded from a sheet of plastic material with the indentations being formed by an abrading process such as abrasive blasting or the like.

Abstract: A device for removing plaque from teeth comprises a toothbrush having a thick, cylindrical, hollow handle in which are located an electric motor actuable to cause rotation of an eccentrically mounted member and vibration of the entire device, and an ultrasonic transducer actuable to produce high frequency sound waves along the brush. The combination of brush vibration and ultrasound loosens and removes plaque from the teeth.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for the removal or reduction of tooth enamel stains due to fluorosis. The method includes a step of treating a surface of an isolated stained tooth with an abrasive-free solution of hydrochloric acid, having a concentration of from about 6-12N, for a period of time sufficient to significantly reduce staining of the tooth, without removal enamel from the treated surface. Thereafter, any residual acid on the tooth surface is neutralized.

Abstract: A toothbrush has a brush head of bristles joined to a gripping portion which when grasped and used by a user in a natural, common and ordinary manner, results in the brush head being positioned automatically at a 45.degree. angle with the long axis of the teeth; the preferred tooth cleaning position of the Dr. Skillman and Dr. Bass toothbrushing method. The handle is a symmetrical four-sided column having a cross-section which can be circumscribed by a square with one diagonal parallel to the bristles of the brush head.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for cleaning and treating teeth and gums, for the removal of plaque and calculus build-up on teeth, and for the prevention of plaque and calculus formation on teeth thus reducing or eliminating susceptibility of dental and gum related diseases. The method comprises the passing of fluid particles through a magnetic field of a predetermined minimum strength wherein the fluid particles are caused to flow through the magnetic field in a south pole to north pole direction. The magnetically treated fluid is then applied to the teeth and gums. A preferred embodiment comprises a conventional, pulsating, high velocity fluid stream, tooth and gum cleaning machine for delivery of the magnetically treated fluid to the surface of the teeth and gums.

Abstract: Higher molecular weight copolymers of polyaspartic acid which are suitable for the inhibition of scale deposition may be obtained by reacting maleic acid and ammonia in a stoichiometric excess, with a diamine or a triamine, at 120.degree.-350.degree. C., preferably 180.degree.-300.degree. C., and then converting the copolymer of polysuccinimide formed to a salt of a copolymer of polyaspartic acid by hydrolysis with a hydroxide.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method for preparing tooth structure, such as dentin and enamel, for bonding with a composite material. The method includes the steps of creating a fluid stream laden with an abrasive material, such as aluminum oxide. The fluid stream is directed towards the tooth structure so that the abrasive material laden fluid stream impinges upon the tooth structure and roughens it for enhanced bonding with composite material.

Abstract: A power-operated toothbrush for cleaning and stimulating the surface of the teeth, cleaning between the teeth, cleaning between the teeth and gums, and cleaning and stimulating the gums of a user having a housing, a power means, a toothbrush extending from the housing having a bristled toothbrush head and an oscillating or movement imparting means for driving the toothbrush head in a complex motion, such as a figure-eight motion. The brush driving means of the power-operated toothbrush may comprise a rotary motor, a gear element driven by the rotary motor, a cam follower pivotally attached to the motor, and a T-bar. The T-bar is driven in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the power-operated toothbrush housing and also in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the power-operated toothbrush housing.