Having Condition Sensor To Transmit Signal To Regulate Indicating Device Or Controller Patents (Class 433/27)
  • Patent number: 8413282
    Abstract: An oral care instrument, such as a motorized toothbrush, which activates upon exposure to the oral environment of the user, is described. The electrical conductivity of saliva, optionally mixed with toothpaste and water, may be utilized to complete an electrical circuit that powers a motorized device within the instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventors: Heng Cai, Thomas James Boyd
  • Publication number: 20130078596
    Abstract: An apparatus for detecting bone defects includes a detecting device and a dental abutment wirelessly connected to each other. The dental abutment includes a vibration component, at least one vibration excitation transducer, and at least one response sensor. The vibration component is used for being inserted in a dental implant. The vibration excitation transducer is disposed at one side of the vibration component for exciting the vibration component to vibrate, and the vibration excitation transducer is spatially separated from the vibration component. The response sensor is disposed at a side of the to vibration component opposite to the vibration excitation transducer for detecting the vibration of the vibration component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: NATIONAL CENTRAL UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Min-Chun PAN, Han-Bo ZHUANG, Chao-Ping LEE
  • Publication number: 20130071806
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to oral care devices, system and methods for advanced ionic micro-current control. In some embodiments, an oral care device is actuated upon completion of an electric circuit by a users hand and oral cavity. The electrode on an oral care implement may be configured to lose conductivity over time to indicate a replacement oral care implement is need. In some embodiments, a controller of the oral care device may detect the type of oral care implement and control the ionic micro-current accordingly. Additionally, embodiments may detect a region within the oral cavity that the oral care device is in contact with and apply the ionic micro-current accordingly. Further, in some embodiments, the health status of various regions of a user's oral cavity may be detected and monitored over time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventors: Alexander Franz Doll, Uwe Jungnickel, Rene Guebler, Niclas Altmann
  • Publication number: 20130071805
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to oral care devices, system and methods for advanced ionic micro-current control. In some embodiments, an oral care device is actuated upon completion of an electric circuit by a users hand and oral cavity. The electrode on an oral care implement may be configured to lose conductivity over time to indicate a replacement oral care implement is need. In some embodiments, a controller of the oral care device may detect the type of oral care implement and control the ionic micro-current accordingly. Additionally, embodiments may detect a region within the oral cavity that the oral care device is in contact with and apply the ionic micro-current accordingly. Further, in some embodiments, the health status of various regions of a user's oral cavity may be detected and monitored over time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventors: Alexander Franz Doll, Uwe Jungnickel, Rene Guebler, Niclas Altmann
  • Publication number: 20130071807
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to oral care devices, system and methods for advanced ionic micro-current control. In some embodiments, an oral care device is actuated upon completion of an electric circuit by a users hand and oral cavity. The electrode on an oral care implement may be configured to lose conductivity over time to indicate a replacement oral care implement is need. In some embodiments, a controller of the oral care device may detect the type of oral care implement and control the ionic micro-current accordingly. Additionally, embodiments may detect a region within the oral cavity that the oral care device is in contact with and apply the ionic micro-current accordingly. Further, in some embodiments, the health status of various regions of a user's oral cavity may be detected and monitored over time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventors: Alexander Franz Doll, Uwe Jungnickel, Rene Guebler, Niclas Altmann
  • Patent number: 8398394
    Abstract: A system for driving an electric handpiece in response to a pneumatic control signal may provide for fast interchange of handpieces, self-calibration and wide dynamic range of operation with precise speed control. The system may be incorporated into virtually any dental treatment center using traditional pneumatic drive handpieces, and a conversion kit may facilitate such conversion. The system may provide not only for controlling the speed and torque of a tool coupled to an electric drive handpiece responsive to a pneumatic control signal, it may also provide for coupling cooling air and treatment media, such as air and/or water to the handpiece. Coupling of a handpiece to an operating base of the system, including coupling of media lines and electrical connections may be made with a simple press and twist action using quick connection structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Kaltenbach & Voigt GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Johannes Sauter, Richard Bürk
  • Patent number: 8393037
    Abstract: A three-axis acceleration sensor is mounted to a body of an electric toothbrush. A CPU detects the three-dimensional attitude of the body based on an output from the acceleration sensor and, based on the attitude of the toothbrush, estimates which portion is being brushed. Then, the CPU measures by using a timer a brushing time of the portion being brushed. Results of brushing for each portion are evaluated and outputted based on the measured brushing time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Omron Healthcare Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Iwahori, Akitoshi Miki, Kuniyoshi Takahashi
  • Publication number: 20130052606
    Abstract: A detection system for remotely determining the speed of a rotating tool tip in a pneumatic dental handpiece. A means for detecting the speed of the rotating tool tip monitors a periodic mechanical function at the pneumatic hose connected to the handpiece. The monitored periodic mechanical function serves to provide feedback that is used to control the speed of the rotating tool tip. The means for detecting the speed of the rotating tool detects a mechanical function of the rotating tool tip, which in transmitted to a controller. The controller in turn regulates the operation of an air supply valve in response to the detected mechanical function. The valve regulates the flow of air to the handpiece. By continuously adjusting the flow of air through the valve into the pneumatic hose, the speed of the rotating tool is maintained at the desired cutting speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: DENTSPLY INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: DENTSPLY INTERNATIONAL, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130052607
    Abstract: This invention relates to a curing light device capable of curing dental composites with a means to blow air. The blown air is directed from the curing light onto the tooth that is exposed to the curing light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Mark Gersh, Marc Orloff, Jeff MacDonald
  • Publication number: 20130045456
    Abstract: A tip-based computer controlled system for a dental delivery device is disclosed. The system automatically controls an operating characteristic such as power control or fluid flow based on tip identification and history. The operating characteristic may also be controlled in response to particular conditions throughout the dental procedure, such as (but not limited to) temperature, dental hygiene material, fluid type, etc. The system may provide an alert or shut off if unsafe conditions occur and/or error circumstances are detected. An operator interface is provided to configure the system and augment/override an executing control algorithm during a procedure. A method and a computer-readable storage medium are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventors: James Feine, Mohammad A. Jamnia, William L. Bollig
  • Patent number: 8359179
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an equipment, device (10; 110) and apparatus for applying electrical stimuli to a system and acquiring a system response. According to the present invention there is provided a test equipment such as a portable test device (10; 110) for testing a system, the equipment comprising: signal generation means, signal receiving means, and signal processing means, wherein, in use, the signal generation means generates a signal to be applied to a system to be tested and the signal receiving means receives a response signal of the system, and the generated and response signals undergo processing by the signal processing means so as to provide a measure of a characteristic of the system, wherein further the generated signal comprises a plurality of periodic signals each of different frequency and phase and which are applied to the system simultaneously. The equipment finds particular use in the field of dentistry, but also finds other uses, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: 3D Diagnostic Imaging PLC
    Inventors: Peter George Bruce, Alasdair McCall Christie, Christopher Longbottom, Nigel Berry Pitts
  • Publication number: 20130017507
    Abstract: Drilling of an implant shaft is carried out with a handpiece tool whose location and angular orientation with respect to a radiographic working guide is updated in real time with respect to the radiographic working guide and anatomical structures of the patient, free of viewing obstructions. Prior to the drilling, the radiographic working guide is fitted to a particular patient. Real-time imaging support is provided on a display of a computer, wherein the radiographic workpiece guide includes a plurality of fiducial markers that define a substantially planar reference surface of the radiographic workpiece guide. The radiographic workpiece guide also includes an alignment structure located a predetermined distance from a pilot hole proximate the work site. The image is updated based on an initial radiographic scan and updated position information from the handpiece tool as to location and angular orientation of the handpiece tool relative to the workpiece guide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Applicant: PRECISION THROUGH IMAGING, LLC
    Inventors: Allen M. Moffson, Majid Azmoon
  • Patent number: 8348666
    Abstract: A water spray intensity system for providing water to a dental workpiece based on dynamic conditions experienced by the handpiece. The dental workpiece is a dental structure, typically in the mouth of a patient. A periodic function of the handpiece may include a motion such as a periodic motion of a tool of the handpiece, the speed of the rotating tip or some measurable parameter such as the torque experienced by a rotating tip assembled to the handpiece. Instead of providing water at a constant flow rate, the periodic function of the handpiece, such as torque or tip speed, is made by measuring a parameter associated with the handpiece. The water spray intensity system then automatically adjusts the flow of water from the handpiece based on the sensed parameter or periodic function to improve cutting efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Dentsply International, Inc.
    Inventor: Timothy M. Beck
  • Publication number: 20120322023
    Abstract: The present invention relates to devices and systems for detecting the existence of oral conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventors: Douglas Hohlbein, Elizabeth Gittens, Harsh M. Trivedi, Sharon Kennedy, Madhusudan Patel, Deborah Peru
  • Publication number: 20120322022
    Abstract: One example embodiment includes a system for testing the vitality of a tooth. The system includes a stimulus output. The stimulus output is configured to produce a stimulus and output the stimulus to a tooth of a patient. The system also includes a controller, where the controller is configured to control the magnitude and duration of the stimulus produced by the stimulus output.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: GARBIN DEVELOPMENT
    Inventors: Randal P. Garvey, Matthew R. Burris
  • Publication number: 20120308953
    Abstract: An oral hygiene implement is described herein. The oral hygiene implement has a handle; a head, and a neck disposed between the handle and the head. The head has a plurality of contact elements. An indication element is positioned between the neck and handle of the oral hygiene element. A transmission element is positioned between the indication element and a light emitting source. The light emitting source provides electromagnetic energy to the transmission element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Inventors: Uwe JUNGNICKEL, Niclas ALTMANN
  • Publication number: 20120301839
    Abstract: The invention includes a noninvasive method for characterizing dental pulpal vitality of a tooth including the steps of irradiating the tooth with at least partially coherent light, and speckle imaging to provide quantitative feedback to an end user of pulpal blood flow in the tooth, and the tangible records made by such a method. The invention also includes an apparatus for noninvasively characterizing dental pulpal vitality of a tooth comprising a source of at least partially coherent light for irradiating the tooth characterized by a speckle pattern, optics for directing the at least partially coherent light onto the tooth, including a corresponding pulpal cavity within the tooth, a detector for detecting transmission of the at least partially coherent light through the tooth, and a processor coupled to the detector speckle imaging to provide a quantitative feedback of pulpal blood flow in the tooth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Charles Stoianovici, Bernard Choi, Petra Wilder-Smith
  • Publication number: 20120301840
    Abstract: An endodontic device is described including: a file adapted to remove by abrasion the dental material by a rotary working motion; an AC or DC motor, adapted to drive the file in the working motion according to two opposite verses of rotation; a pair of optical or magnetic encoders controlling a position mounted in quadrature of the driving shaft, to evaluate the angular position of the file and consequently control the motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Inventor: Daniele Poli
  • Patent number: 8320654
    Abstract: To evaluate an exact bone mineral density, when a reference bar region in an X-ray picture of a mandible and a reference bar disposed beside the mandible is selected, the mean value and deviation of the brightness of this region are displayed by means of letter groups. When an evaluation object region is selected, the brightness of this region is corrected according to the mean value and deviation of the brightness of the reference bar region and standard mean value and deviation, or, in other words, according to a fixed reference. The corrected brightness is displayed in the form of histogram. Furthermore, the mean value and deviation of the corrected brightness are determined, and they are displayed by means of letter groups. The bone mineral density is quantitatively evaluated from the histogram and the mean value and deviation of the corrected brightness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Inventor: Yoshitomo Takaishi
  • Publication number: 20120295216
    Abstract: A diagnostic oral health care implement and system are provided for use during oral health care activities. The diagnostic oral health care implement has a diagnostic sensor. The diagnostic sensor provides diagnostic measurements in a plurality of formats including the biofilm thickness of dental plaque. The diagnostic oral health care system has a diagnostic oral health care implement and a first data transfer medium. The system optionally has any combination of a second data transfer medium, a network storage device, and a third data transfer medium. The system provides for the collection of diagnostic measurements and transmission of the data into a readable, usable form for the user via an oral health care implement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: BEAM TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel E. Dykes, Alex X. Frommeyer, Alexander D. Curry
  • Publication number: 20120276497
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for root canal treatments are provided. In some embodiments, an aiming element may be used to position a high-velocity liquid jet near a desired location in the tooth. Embodiments of the aiming element may include an interrupter that deflects or impedes the liquid jet when it is not desirable for the jet to propagate from the aiming element. Embodiments of the aiming element may include an elongated member that permits passage of the liquid jet through a channel. The elongated member may include one or more openings, for example, on sides and/or ends of the member. Some root canal cleaning techniques include one or more applications of the liquid jet followed by application of a disinfectant such as, for example, an aqueous solution of sodium hypochlorite.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: SONENDO, INC.
    Inventors: Morteza Gharib, Joshua Adams, Bjarne Bergheim, Adam E. Piotrowski, Michele Pham, Oleg Goushcha
  • Publication number: 20120251971
    Abstract: The appliance includes a brushhead having conductive fiber bristles by which a potential is applied to electrochemically activate a teeth whitening substance, such as peroxide, in the vicinity of the teeth. An impedance appliance system (62) or an optical appliance system (27) provides information concerning whether the conductive fiber bristles are adjacent a tooth surface or gum region. The impedance system uses an electrical signal through the fiber to determine the impedance of a circuit which includes the tooth or gum surface, the impedance being different, depending on whether a tooth or gum surface is in the circuit. The optical system generates a light beam which is directed to the mouth surface through a conductive fiber, the color of the returning light indicating whether the surface is a tooth or gum region. If a tooth is determined, the teeth whitening substance is activated at that bristle, while if gum tissue is determined, the teeth whitening substance is not activated at that bristle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: David Andrew Fish, Nigel David Young, Jay Patel, Estelle Julie Dorothee Bernhard-Fichet, Peter Douglas Fairley
  • Publication number: 20120231410
    Abstract: A device for dispensing a dental material comprises a plunger for extruding a component of the dental material, and a motor for driving the plunger. The device has two electric circuits for powering the motor to drive the plunger forward or backward. A selector switch is arranged in the device for alternately selecting between the first electric circuit and the second electric circuit for powering the motor. The device further has switches for interrupting the first and/or second electric circuits when the plunger is positioned at certain positions. The device provides automatic functionality for facilitating dispensing of dental materials, and further is preferably relatively robust and relatively inexpensive to manufacture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2010
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventors: Jens Gramann, Ralf Kelz
  • Publication number: 20120202165
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring dentin hypersensitivity is provided. The apparatus comprises a dental probe configured to apply force increasingly on a tooth until the applied force corresponds to a threshold force. The apparatus further comprises a load cell that is positioned in the dental probe. The load cell is configured to generate an electrical signal proportional to the applied force. Further, the apparatus comprises a microcontroller which is in communication with the load cell. The microcontroller is configured to determine an applied force value corresponding to the electrical signal. Furthermore, the apparatus comprises a display device. The display device is in communication with the microcontroller. The display device is configured to display the applied force value and a threshold force value digitally. The threshold force value is a quantifiable value of the applied force to which a patient responds and is a measure of the dentin hypersensitivity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2010
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Inventor: Ashish Kakar
  • Publication number: 20120202166
    Abstract: A vibrating dental instrument is provided that may be used with different styles of tips for performing different dental procedures. The dental instrument has an elongated body and a tip that is releasably coupled to the elongated body. The dental instrument further has a vibrating apparatus for vibrating the tip and a sensor for sensing a condition of a dental composite material when the tip is used to apply the dental composite material onto a tooth. A controller is operatively coupled to the vibrating apparatus and to the sensor and is configured to automatically vary an output frequency of the vibrating apparatus in response to the condition sensed by the sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Applicant: KERRHAWE SA
    Inventors: Beat Kilcher, Angelo Putignano, Marco Da Rold, Hinko Kovacevic
  • Publication number: 20120189973
    Abstract: A collecting arrangement for collecting particles from oral fluid from the mouth of a patient during dental treatments, has a) a first particle separating device for separating particles from the oral fluid, wherein the first particle separating device is arrangeable in a flow path of the oral fluid, and b) a second particle separating device for separating particles from the oral fluid, wherein the second particle separating device is arrangeable in a flow path of the oral fluid, c) wherein the first particle separating device is activated or operative when particles not containing noble metal (and/or contain mercury) are present in the oral fluid and d) the second particle separating device is active or operative when particles that contain noble metal are present in the oral fluid and are deactivated or inoperative when particles that do not contain noble metal and/or contain mercury are present in the oral fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2010
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Inventor: Thomas Schwenk
  • Publication number: 20120183918
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting infected tissue are disclosed. The apparatus comprises a light source for producing a light beam and an optical element having an input end optically coupled to the light source and an output end arranged to direct the light beam as a confocal beam into tissue. The apparatus also comprise a detector optically coupled to the optical element to receive a return beam back from the tissue stimulated by the confocal beam and to generate an output dependent upon the return beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Inventors: Ian THOMPSON, Tim WATSON, Richard COOK
  • Publication number: 20120148977
    Abstract: A dental implant detector comprising an inductive sensor arranged to detect a position of a dental implant in a jaw within a specified range by applying a magnetic field to the surroundings of the inductive sensor; an ergonomic handle connected to the inductive sensor and arranged to allow positioning the inductive sensor at various positions near the jaw; and a control unit connected to the inductive sensor and arranged to allow defining the specified range by adjusting a strength of the magnetic field, and to indicate detections by the inductive sensor. The dental implant detector is arranged to allow detection of dental implants concealed by bone or gum overgrowth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2011
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventors: Mordechai SHAHAK, Dina COHEN
  • Patent number: 8192359
    Abstract: A functional module type medical apparatus for use in medical treatment and/or diagnosis and a functional module with individual function of medical treatment and/or diagnosis are disclosed. The functional module type medical apparatus comprises a common functional body with a module connection part, having at least one of a display section for displaying necessary information relating to medical treatment and/or diagnosis, an operation section for medical treatment and/or diagnosis, and a power source section for supplying driving power to the medical apparatus, in which the module connection part is constructed such that the corresponding connection part of a functional module having medical treatment and/or diagnosis is replaceably connected thereto, whereby the common functional body cooperatively functions in accordance with its individual function of the functional module when the functional module is connected thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: J. Morita Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroaki Kusakabe, Naoki Katsuda, Seiichiro Yamashita, Kazunari Matoba
  • Publication number: 20120107761
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device 10 for generating a non-thermal gas species 24 which may be a flow of gas plasma in the form of a gas plasma plume emitted from the device. The device comprises a gas capsule, or pressure vessel, 12 for holding a gas or gases 14 under pressure and forming a flow of gas through a reaction generator 16 to an applicator 18 when released from the capsule. Gas released from the gas capsule is energised in the reaction generator to form a gas plasma. The device is adapted to be hand-held and operated to allow it to be used for instance for cleaning and whitening teeth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventors: Thomas Bickford Holbeche, Cormac John Devery, Geoffrey Morgan Lloyd
  • Publication number: 20120107762
    Abstract: A method and corresponding system for operating a dental handpiece, wherein the handpiece comprises a motor for driving a tool. the method comprises (a) sequentially capturing values of a physical parameter, which—at least approximately—represent the power or energy fed to the motor, (b) forming an integration value by integrating the values captured in (a), and (c) automatically reducing a power or energy fed to the motor if the integration value formed in (b) exceeds an upper threshold value. The integration value formed in (b) represents a measure of the power integrated over time and can thus be used at least approximately as a measure of the temperature of the instrument. The automatic reduction in the power or energy fed to the motor performed in (c) can therefore effectively act against a further increase in temperature or allow cooling if the temperature of the instrument exceeds an upper threshold value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Applicant: KALTENBACH & VOIGT GMBH
    Inventors: Johannes Sauter, Hans Heckenberger, Bernd Gugel
  • Patent number: 8152743
    Abstract: The invention relates to an accessory for an apex locating apparatus, characterized in that it comprises a fitting (16) held with the aid of electrically conducting fastening means (20, 50) to the tooth to be treated or to a neighbouring tooth (14) and which comprises first means (36, 54) for wire-based electrical connection (44) between the apex locating apparatus (2) and the endodonty tool (46), and second means (28, 52) for wire-based electrical connection (34) between said apparatus (2) and the patient. The invention also relates to such an accessory characterized in that it comprises means for wireless electrical connection between said fitting and said apex locating apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Bien-Air Holding SA
    Inventors: Luc Mâitre, Robert Bachmann
  • Patent number: 8118594
    Abstract: A dental handpiece (1) includes mechanical components, in particular, a tool-holder assembly for the attachment and for the rotational driving of a dental instrument about a drive axis (6) and an assembly for the transmission of such movement. The mechanical components are mounted in the interior of a body (2) having a head (4) and a handle (3). The mechanical components of the handle and the head of the handpiece are electrically connected by an elastic and electrically conducting connecting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Micro-Mega International Manufactures
    Inventors: Jacques Pernot, Jean-Claude Boinot
  • Patent number: 8106600
    Abstract: A light-weight, portable photocuring device possesses a single multi-wavelength light emitting diode (LED). The single LED backed with a heat sink is driven by a driving circuit and controlled by a timing circuit. A temperature monitor can be included in a closed loop to feed back and control the driver. A multi-plexing device regulates the current to individual ports on the LED effecting the dies allowing the overall wavelength and intensity of the emitted light by the apparatus to be controlled. Lenses and/or light guides in the device act to further direct the light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Gilbert Fregoso
  • Publication number: 20120021371
    Abstract: A dental cleaning system for providing a liquid jet for a mouth rinse includes a nozzle member, a nozzle attachment coupled to the nozzle member to define an axially extending chamber, a liquid duct configured to supply pressurized liquid to the chamber, a pressure piece disposed within the chamber, and a nozzle outlet extending out of the chamber and configured to discharge a cleaning jet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Inventors: Oswald Gromer, Andreas Kramp, Michael Sauer, Michael Stolper, Norbert Schaefer, Karl Herzog
  • Publication number: 20120009539
    Abstract: The present invention relates to methods, systems, kits and devices that emit light to the oral cavity. The device includes a light source; a power source in electrical communication with the light source; and a bite actuated switch in electrical communication with the power source and the light source. The device is a size or shape that fits within an oral cavity of an individual. Since the device along with the light and power source are self contained, the user have their hands-free and can perform other activities while using the device. The device, methods, systems, and kits, further include the use of an agent (e.g., antibacterial agents, tooth whitening agents, cleaning agents) that assists or enhances the efficacy of the light therapy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventors: J. Max Goodson, Nikos Soukos
  • Publication number: 20120003601
    Abstract: A tooth treatment device includes a detector that detects a marker of oral health and a fluid ejector that ejects fluid against teeth in response to the detected marker. The device can include a housing configured to be held on hand, the fluid ejector being positioned at an end of the housing. The fluid may include a liquid, a medicant, a cleansing solution, cleaning particles, or any combination thereof. The medicant can include any combination of a chelating agent, fluoride, a fluorescent dye, a bacterial specific probe, and a biochemical specific biomarker. Further, the device can include a servo controller controlling pressure of ejected fluid in response to the detected marker and a sensed surface condition, latter including for example, a mechanical property of tissue. The device may include a pressure sensor that senses pressure of the fluid in the ejector. Also included may be a distance sensor that senses distance of the ejector from a tissue surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Applicant: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Ian W. Hunter, Yi Chen, N. Catherine Hogan, Bryan P. Ruddy
  • Publication number: 20110318700
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for a dental thermal sensitivity tester have been disclosed. A dental wand has an end that is positionable against a dental feature and has a thermal generation unit in thermal communication with the dental wand end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Inventor: Mark A Stepovich
  • Publication number: 20110311939
    Abstract: A method of tooth treatment includes sensing a surface condition of tooth or gum and controlling ejection of a fluid jet against the tooth based on the sensed condition. The fluid may be a liquid and may be carried in a self-contained reservoir in a handle of a fluid ejection device. The liquid can be a cleansing solution and may contain cleaning particles. The ejection can be controlled to clean teeth at high pressure and to reduce pressure applied to gum, for example, to clean plaque. In some embodiments, the method may be used to remove soft tooth. The method may further include automatically scanning the fluid jet relative to a handle of an injection device. In an embodiment, the fluid is ejected by means of a fluid ejector comprising a stationary magnet assembly providing a magnetic field and a coil assembly, slidably disposed with respect to the magnet assembly, the coil assembly driving ejection of the fluid jet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Applicant: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventor: Ian W. Hunter
  • Publication number: 20110294089
    Abstract: A dental tartar detection and removal device (10) comprises a powered tartar removal instrument (12) adapted to be displaced along a tooth (T), illumination means (14) for illuminating with an incident light a region on the examined or periodontal site, detection means (16) for collecting the light reflected there at, and an analysing system for providing a signal to an operator (OP) of the tartar removal instrument (12) or to the tartar removal instrument when measurements on the reflected light in one or more predetermined ranges of wavelengths fall within any first predetermined range of values that are characteristic of tartar, or when said measurements do not fall within any second predetermined range of values that are characteristic of artefacts other than tartar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2011
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Applicant: Dentsply Canada Ltd.
    Inventors: Naim KARAZIVAN, Emmanuel MONTINI, François AYOTTE
  • Publication number: 20110275025
    Abstract: A system, method, and apparatus including a printed circuit board with electronic circuit components mounted thereon and configured for wireless communication between the various components and devices used in a wireless dental device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: DENTSPLY International Inc.
    Inventors: KEVIN KENNETH LINT, Joseph Robert Reagan
  • Publication number: 20110256496
    Abstract: An intelligent dental handpiece control system is disclosed. The handpiece includes a sensor which detects a vibration, sound, force or torque_frequency/time signal produced by the handpiece in use and signal processor which produces or determines secondary signal characteristics such as the handpiece torque, force or angular velocity. A controller analyzes the secondary signal characteristics and produces a control signal which controls or stops the angular velocity of the dental handpiece in order to avoid overdrilling of healthy tooth material or damaging the nerves in the jaw during dental implant operations. The controller may also provide a warning signal to the user and/or control the angular velocity of the handpiece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: Siamak ARZANPOUR
  • Publication number: 20110229839
    Abstract: A treatment unit includes: a communication part that receives through a communication cable information about a root canal length acquired by a root canal length measuring unit as an external diagnostic unit; a display device on which the information about a root canal length is displayed; and a treatment unit body to which a file for root canal enlargement is attached. The treatment unit body forms a holding part held by a user. The display device is provided on the outer circumference of the holding part. The user can visually recognize a root canal length displayed on the display device while performing root canal enlargement with the treatment unit held by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: J. Morita Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Seiichiro YAMASHITA, Hiroaki Kusakabe, Kazunari Matoba
  • Patent number: 7975341
    Abstract: An oral care instrument, such as a motorized toothbrush, which activates upon exposure to the oral environment of the user, is described. The electrical conductivity of saliva, optionally mixed with toothpaste and water, may be utilized to complete an electrical circuit that powers a motorized device within the instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventors: Heng Cai, Thomas James Boyd
  • Publication number: 20110159453
    Abstract: The oral health appliance (10) includes a source of light (16) having a wavelength which is suitable for determination of oral health conditions, as well as treatment thereof. An assembly (16) in the appliance directs the light to selected dental regions of the mouth. A light receiver and sensor (16) receives reflected light from the dental regions, produces signal information therefrom and delivers the signal information to a processor (20), which determines the presence of oral health conditions, as well as determining the overall coverage of the mouth during a use of the appliance. The information from the processor is then sent to a display (24), identifying the presence of any oral health conditions and the location thereof, as well as information concerning those areas of the mouth which have been investigated during the use of the appliance and those which have not.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2009
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventor: Garrett Kotlarchik
  • Publication number: 20110143303
    Abstract: A vibrating applicator is provided for applying a dental composite material onto a tooth. The applicator has an elongated body and a tip that is coupled to the elongated body to apply the dental composite material onto the tooth. The applicator further has a vibrating apparatus for vibrating the tip and a sensor for sensing a condition of the dental composite material. A controller is operatively coupled to the vibrating apparatus and to the sensor and is configured to automatically vary an output frequency of the vibrating apparatus in response to the condition sensed by the sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: KERRHAWE SA
    Inventors: Beat Kilcher, Marco Da Rold
  • Publication number: 20110076636
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a portable dental whitening device. The device comprises a flexible mouthpiece including a bite platform having a horseshoe shape adapted to receive a plurality of mouth shapes. The mouthpiece comprising at least one lighting element for generating light, at least one heating element for generating heat, a flexible printed circuit board, and at least one temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the heat generated by the at least one heating elements. Further, the device comprises a control unit for selectively powering said lighting element and said heating element. The dental whitening is achieved by applying simultaneously the light and the heat and the chemical activity delivered by a whitening agent provided in the mouthpiece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Andy Wolff, Ben-Zion Beiski
  • Patent number: 7901210
    Abstract: A rotatable file dental treating device (1) driven by a motor (2) includes elements (3, 18) for determining a root-canal position instruction related to a tooth apex, elements (4) for stopping the motor according the file (1) position with respect to the position instruction and first members (5, 6) for measuring and calculating the canal length (L) remaining between the file and the position instruction. The device includes second members (7, 7a, 7b) for calculating a value (D) derived from the remaining canal length and third members (8, 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, 8e) for combining the derived value and the remaining canal length and the combination of the derived value. The canal length produced by the calculating elements (6, 7, 8, 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, 8e) controls the motor turn-off in such a way that the rotation of the file is stopped in anticipation of the position instruction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Xelyx
    Inventor: Roger Heraud
  • Publication number: 20100273122
    Abstract: This invention is an improved method and intra-oral device for smoking cessation or alcohol cessation. Specifically, this method requires the use of an intra-oral device comprised of a carbon monoxide sensor, ethanol sensor, sensor supervising and signal processing circuit, power source, electrodes, mounting element. The intra-oral device is used in association with the molar tooth via the mounting element which provides affixation to the device. During the process of smoking, the carbon monoxide sensor of the intra-oral device detects the threshold of carbon monoxide in the smoke entering the mouth. The sensor supervising and signal processing circuit is set into an activation mode, which triggers an electrical stimulation of the neck of the tooth via two electrodes of the device. During the process of alcohol consumption, the ethanol sensor of the intra-oral device detects the threshold of ethanol in the mouth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2009
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Inventors: Victoria Vilshenker, Pavel Morozov
  • Patent number: 7771197
    Abstract: A handpiece for measuring root canal length having an outer sleeve that is substantially non-insulating, a connecting device, an instrument carrier, at least one transmission element within the outer sleeve, a length measuring circuit portion, a contact portion and an insulating portion. The instrument carrier is configured to receive a dental instrument. The transmission element transmits force to move the instrument carrier so that a dental instrument received in the instrument carrier executes a rotating, reciprocating and/or vibrating working movement. The length measuring circuit portion is disposed inside the handpiece and operable to transmit measuring signals for measuring length. The contact portion is operable to establish a conductive path between the dental instrument serving as an electrode and the length measuring circuit portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: W & H Dentalwerk Bürmoos GmbH
    Inventors: Johann Eibl, Andreas Brandstaetter