Abstract: A syringe useful for washing root canals wherein the syringe is configured and arranged with a two-position valve which, in a first position, supplies the syringe with hydrogen perioxide and, in the second position, supplies the syringe with sodium peroxide. In a selected embodiment, the valve has a single outlet port and first and second inlet ports connected to a hydrogen peroxide and sodium peroxide supply, respectively. The outlet port is connected to the inlet ports by a rotatable obturator having first and second slanted grooves having first and second ducts, respectively, at opposite ends thereof. In a first rotatable position of the obturator, the first groove is aligned with the first inlet port, and the first duct is aligned with the outlet port. In a second rotatable position of the obturator, the second groove is aligned with the second inlet port, and the second duct is aligned with the outlet port.

Abstract: An apparatus for applying a dentin conditioning system to a dentin surface of a tooth comprises a deformable container having a sealed ampule disposed therein, which ampule contains a dentin conditioner. The deformable container is deformed to crush the sealed ampule so that the dentin conditioner may be delivered from the deformable container through a dropper tip. Methods of applying a dentin conditioner are also provided as is a dental restoration kit. Methods and apparatus for simultaneously applying dentin conditioners are also provided.

Abstract: A vacuum instrument for dental hygiene and dental treatment which is intended to permit parodontological treatment of the tooth pockets. The instrument has an elastic suction cap which can produce a sealed vacuum over the gum pockets and interdental crevices. A treatment liquid is supplied to the suction cap and removed by the suction. Intermittent application of the vacuum produces a pumping action, which through likewise intermittent rinsing results in optimal cleaning of the interdental crevices as far as the base of the pocket.

Abstract: A system for long term releasing of medication in the mouth, and especially an intra-oral fluoride releasing system (IFRS) for releasing fluoride over a long term for inhibiting the formation of caries in the teeth. The system uses a holder for retaining and protecting intra-oral fluoride tablets or other intra-oral medicament in the form of fluoride releasing devices (IFRD). The holder has a plate with retaining sides and retaining posts or a carrier. The tablet will fit within the holder. The tablet may be located in the carrier, or ligature bands can be tied around the tablet in order to releasably hold the IFRD within the holder. The system causes a level of fluoride to be maintained over a long term within the mouth which has been found chemically effective for caries control and without causing severe irritation to oral tissues.

Abstract: The present invention describes a hollow irrigation probe consisting of two parts: (i) a rigid, straight or bent, metal or plastic arm with a proximal connection hub such as a luer lock or luer connection or threaded hub or other connection element; (ii) a short, flexible, plastic distal end with a blunt tapered or round tip. Said flexible part is fixed to the arm by means such as chemical bonding, glue, welding or insert molding or plasma etching or mechanical lock. The probe lumen opens at the center of the tip or laterally at some distance from the tip. The probe according to the present invention constitutes the end of pumping devices reaching the patient's body engineered for the delivery of antibiotic/antiseptic or other physiologic and medically compatible solutions. These devices include different manual and automatic syringes, spray injectors and mechanically/electrically driven pump systems.

Abstract: A dental syringe is disclosed having a head and attached handle. Finger actuated valves in the head control water and air flows to a syringe tip having concentric conduits. A tip retainer assembly includes a holder having a socket to insertably receive the syringe tip. A lock collar, slidably carried by said holder, has a conical surface which acts on ball elements in the holder to urge them into locking engagement with a grooved, inserted portion of the syringe tip. A spring automatically positions the collar to the locking position with movement of the collar in an opposite direction to a tip unlocking position by fingertip pressure applied to the collar.

Abstract: Apparatus, and method, for flossing the teeth, and simultaneously applying an antibacterial liquid solution to the teeth being flossed. The apparatus is constituted generally of a flexible hollow fiber with porous walls of diameter sufficiently small for fitting between and flossing the teeth, and a positive displacement device for supplying an antibacterial liquid to the interior volume, or bore, of the flexible hollow fiber for transport through the porous walls to the teeth. Flossing with the flexible hollow fiber, to which the antibacterial liquid solution is applied during flossing, bathes the teeth with the liquid solution during the flossing and provides a significant reduction in plaque accumulation.

Abstract: An applicator to deliver and hold anesthetic to the gums of a teething infant. In a first embodiment, an open ended trough having a sponge lining has a handle, so that medicament may be applied to the sponge lining and then held against the gum. In a second embodiment, a tube and syringe are provided in place of the handle, and the trough has a passage where the tube attaches, so that medicament within the syringe may be measurably delivered and held to the gum. Handle and tube may be flexible, or if not flexible, attached to the trough by a joint. Orientation of the handle is preferably within 44 and 96 degrees from a normal to the trough.

Abstract: A disposable medicinal applicator tip of the type for use on a handheld gum massaging tool, the applicator tip being specifically adapted to carry a charge of medicament so that when the tip is moved over the gum area, the gums are massaged while the tip simultaneously delivers the medicament to the gums and surrounding area providing necessary topical treatment at the sight of gum disease.

Abstract: A mouthpiece for a dental hygiene apparatus is formed of a relatively rigid tray having a plurality of orifices connected by tubes to a source of dental cleaning solution, a vacuum source, and a vent. A first group of the orifices are selectively formed and positioned in the tray such that they lie adjacent the interproximal crevices of the teeth. These orifices are connected to the source of cleaning solution. A second group of orifices, which are substantially larger in diameter and fewer in number than the first orifices, are connected to the vacuum source for evacuating the cleaning solution and other substances from the mouth. The second orifices are formed in the tray in a position which is inferior to (i.e., below) the first orifices. A pair of third orifices are formed in the tray superior to (i.e., above) the first orifices, and are connected to a vent to prevent formation of a vacuum within the mouth during operation.

Abstract: For use with an oral irrigating appliance which provides a series of pulses of fluid through a flexible hose to a user-held handle, a subgingival delivery tip is in the form of an elongated hollow shank with a knob at one end thereof. Formed at the other end of the shank is an in-turned constriction which defines a passage more narrow than the inner width of the shank. A probe of resilient material has an outer cone-shaped portion projecting away from and with its base seated adjacent to the outer end of the constriction. That probe also has a necked-down central portion continuing centrally from its base through the passage and continuing into an enlarged button-shaped inner portion on the inner end of that central portion with that inner portion being received within the shank in a position seated adjacent to the innermost end of the passage. A channel is pierced centrally through the entirety of all of the different portions of the probe.

Abstract: This hand-held pressurized applicator is very effective to apply medicants to the perio pocket area of the tooth-gum margin. This pressurized applicator can be held and used in any orientation. The medicant is applied at a pressure of greater than about 20 psi, and preferably a pressure of greater than about 30 psi. In one embodiment, there is used a tip that fits into the perio pocket of teeth, and in a second embodiment there is used a toothbrush with the medicant flowing from between the bristles of the toothbrush or through hollow bristles.

Abstract: A composition for the rapid desensitization of dentin and a system for its application, comprising a subsaturated aqueous solution of monopotassium monohydrogen oxalate and a disposable single-use applicator/dispenser apparatus. The apparatus includes a crushable ampule containing the desensitizing solution housed in a flexible body, with a filter which retains ample fragments but allow the solution to flow to and saturate an applicator tip or swab. The applicator may be used to treat the teeth directly, or the swab may be removed from the applicator after saturation and placed on hard-to-reach dentinal surfaces. In one embodiment, the apparatus further includes a dispensing package containing a plurality of the single-use applicators and provided with a magnetic means affixed thereto for securing the package to convenient metallic surfaces. Another embodiment includes a blister dispensing package comprising a plurality of detachable sheets which stores the applictors.

Abstract: Dental cleansing device including a fork-shaped instrument with two arms capable of being connected to a pressurized fluid supply device. Each of the two arms (2,3) of the instrument (1) has, on its internal face, an orifice (15,16) for ejecting a water jet (17,18), the two orifices being directed so as to enable the ejection of non-aligned water jets in opposite directions. Each arm (2,3) may, in addition, have a needle eye (4,5) for the passage of a piece of interdental floss (6).

Abstract: A method for treatment of periodontal disease is disclosed. The gingival tissue is separated from the tooth surface in an area where periodontal disease is present. A biocompatible, porous material such as expanded polytetrafluoroethylene capable of supporting ingrowth of gingival connective tissue and preventing apical migration of gingival epithelium is placed in a laminar relationship to a portion of the perimenter of the tooth surface. The gingival tissue is repositioned around the tooth and in contact with the porous material, with the porous material positioned between the gingival tissue and the tooth. Articles for the treatment of periodontal disease are also disclosed. One article comprises a first portion which is capable of supporting ingrowth of gingival connective tissue and preventing apical migration of gingival epithelium and a second portion which is impermeable to oral tissues and bacteria. Articles and methods for the treatment of bone defects are also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for automatically and progressively dispensing fluids into an individual's mouth comprises a dental prostheses such as a bridge having an interior cavity with a plurality of chambers defined therein. A first passageway communicates between the inner chamber and the interior of the mouth for progressive delivery of fluid from the chamber into the mouth. A second passageway communicates between the outer chamber and the outer surface of the bridge and functions as a vent. Spaced parallel walls within the cavity define the chambers therein and openings in the walls communicate between adjacent chambers. The walls, openings, and passageways are positioned and oriented such that fluid is dispensed into the mouth progressively from the inner chamber during waking hours when the wearer is in a standing or upright position and is not dispensed during the night time or sleeping hours when the wearer is in an inclined or lying position.

Abstract: In dental surgery apparatus, provided with the usual compressed air and water circuits supplying power and spray to drills and other instruments, use is made of a reservoir from which to dispense physiological saline into a pipeline connecting with the main water supply circuit; upstream of the resulting connection, the respective lines carrying saline and spray water are controlled by a 3-way, 2-position valve that permits of alternating from one source of liquid to the other as required.

Abstract: A dental medicant applicator includes a U-shaped body member having a base portion with an upstanding peripheral wall. A shoulder is formed near the top edge of the wall. Medicament is placed in the base portion of the applicator. When the applicator is mounted in place the medicament spreads along the teeth. Continued mounting movement of the applicator results in the shoulder forcing the gums outwardly to expose the gum pocket so that the medicament is also deposited into the gum pocket.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable, self powered, oral cavity cleaner that produces a pulsed stream of fluid to clean the teeth, and areas around the gums and teeth. It is powered by compressed gas contained in a container along with the fluid to be dispensed, and has a valve that produces a pulsed stream.The fluid in the pressurized unit could contain some or all of the following: breath freshener, plaque inhibitor or dissolving agent, bactericidal and bacteriostatic ingredients. It should also exhibit the ability to be swallowed so that spitting it out might be obviated while leaving the mouth feeling refreshed.The stream is directed by a tube that has an angle and an articulated joint that is leak proof and snaps together for assembly. The dispensing tube, articulated joint, and pulsating valve are protected by a hygienic cover which rotates respective to the container to expose the tube. The pulsating valve, hygienic cover and dispensing tube may be reused.

Abstract: A dental spray handpiece, consisting of a gripping sleeve possessing a connection for media at one end thereof and a media discharge at its other end, and in which sleeve there are arranged media conduits leading from the media connection to the media discharge. A tubular member or cannula for further conducting the media egressing from the media discharge is arranged at the media-discharging end of the gripping sleeve, the cannula including forwarding passageways for the advancing of the media, and which communicate with the surroundings through discharge orifices at the free end of the cannula.

Abstract: Aa system for long term releasing of medication in the mouth, and especially an intra-oral fluoride releasing system (IFRS) for releasing fluoride over a long term for inhibiting the formation of caries in the teeth. The system uses a holder for retaining and protecting intra-oral fluoride tablets or other intra-oral medicament in the form of fluoride releasing devices (IFRD). The holder has a plate with retaining sides and retaining posts or a carrier. The tablet will fit within the holder. The tablet may be located in the carrier, or ligature bands can be tied around the tablet in order to releasably hold the IFRD within the holder. The system causes a level of fluoride to be maintained over a long term within the mouth which has been found chemically effective for caries control and without causing severe irritation to oral tissues.

Abstract: An improved air-water syringe for use by dentists and the like, the syringe including a body portion and a nozzle portion extending therefrom, with air and water passageways extending through the body portion and the nozzle portion, and with control buttons to regulate the flow of and air and water through such passageways. A protective barrier plate is mounted on the nozzle portion so that it can move relative to the nozzle portion in linear and angular directions with respect to the nozzle, whereby the protective barrier plate can be placed across the open mouth of a dental patient to prevent splashback while still permitting the syringe to be manipulated to locate the extending end of the nozzle at virtually any desired location within the oral cavity of the patient.

Abstract: A dental handpiece for rotating a dental cleaning tool includes a casing in which there is mounted a drive shaft that is operably connected to the cleaning tool. A rotor is affixed to the drive shaft and is driven by compressed air fed to the casing. The drive shaft is hollow and communicates with a reservoir situated within the casing. The reservoir contains a refillable supply of dental paste. Pressurized air is fed to the reservoir to push paste through the hollow drive shaft and into the dental cleaning tool. The interior of the drive shaft includes a helical screw which aids in feeding the paste toward the cleaning tool.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for moisturizing and therapy of the mouth and throat is disclosed. A nebulized fine pulsating liquid spray of relatively small droplets is applied. The pressure and temperature of the spray are controlled to obtain optimum penetration. A liquid pulse generator and moisturizing break-up nozzle are employed for practicing the method.

Abstract: Irrigation system and method for delivering a selected one of multiple liquid solutions to a treatment site include a plurality of solution reservoirs, each including a quantity of a respective liquid solution, a handpiece, a selector valve for fluidly coupling the handpiece to a selected one of the liquid solutions and a pump for causing a selected one of the liquid solutions to flow to the handpiece for delivery to treatment site. Each of the liquid solutions may have a color which is distinguishable from the color of the other liquid solutions and the tubing to the handpiece is transparent so that the color of a liquid solution flowing through the tube is visible during treatment thereby enabling the identity of the particular solution being used to be quickly verified during treatment. The irrigation system is preferably a closed system with the pump as well as a heater for heating the liquid solution being situated outside of the flow path of the liquid solution.

Abstract: Dental apparatus includes a tank of compressed sterile oxygen, or another compressed gas such as nitrogen, a source of a pressurized treatment liquid, and valves for coupling the oxygen tank or treatment liquid to the water inlet of the dental unit enabling the dental unit to be used for a wide variety of dental treatments, particularly when using a triple syringe for rinsing the canals in root canal treatment, or when using an ultrasonic scaler for dislodging hard deposits and stain.

Abstract: A system for long term releasing of medication in the mouth, and especially an intra-oral fluoride releasing system (IFRS) for releasing fluoride over a long term for inhibiting the formation of caries in the teeth. The system uses a holder for retaining and protecting intra-oral fluoride tablets or other intra-oral medicament in the form of fluoride releasing devices (IFRD). The holder has a plate with retaining sides and retaining posts or a carrier. The tablet will fit within the holder. The tablet may be located in the carrier, or ligature bands can be tied around the tablet in order to releasably hold the IFRD within the holder. The system causes a level of fluoride to be maintained over a long term within the mouth which has been found chemically effective for caries control and without causing severe irritation to oral tissues.

Abstract: A clear rigid plastic syringe tip having a central water passageway and three arcuate section air passageways disposed circumferentially about the water passageway. The syringe tip has an extension that mounts the syringe tip into an adaptor which holds the assembly in the handpiece body. Alternatively, the adaptor is provided with a coupling device for joining the syringe tip to the adaptor.

Abstract: A handheld gum massaging device of the type which includes a wand with a movable distal dip zone and a handle connected to the wand which includes means to move the distal tip zone of the wand in a massaging action. The distal tip zone carries an element of absorbent material for receiving and applying a charge of medicament so that when the wand tip zone is moving, the element not only massages the gums but, simultaneously, delivers the medicament topically to the gums.

Abstract: A sterilizable medical/dental syringe having a handle with a nozzle at one end is provided with means for releasably coupling the other end of the handle to a flexible supply hose providing compressible gases and/or noncompressible liquids. When disconnected from the flexible hose supply line, automatic sealing valves prevent the contents of the supply line from escaping. A readily repairable flow control valve for the nozzle is also disclosed.

Abstract: A device for dispensing a treatment fluid (such as chlorhexidine) for the treatment of a dental disorder (such as periodontitis), the device (10) comprising a housing (14) for receiving a reservoir (3) for storing the treatment fluid, dispensing means (17,80-92) for dispensing treatment fluid to the area of the disorder and pump means (30-63) for metering and delivering a predetermined quantity of the fluid from the reservoir (3) to the dispensing means (17,80-92), wherein the dispensing means (17,80-92) comprises a cannula (17) removably connectable to the housing (14) and having an angled distal portion (21) for delivery of the treatment fluid to the area of the disorder, means (80-90) being provided for locating the cannula (17) selectively in two positions such that the distal portion (21) can be directed in two different directions, e.g. at substantially 180.degree. to one another.

Abstract: A method for treatment of periodontal disease is disclosed. The gingival tissue is separated from the tooth surface in an area where periodontal disease is present. A biocompatible, porous material such as expanded polytetrafluoroethylene capable of supporting ingrowth of gingival connective tissue and preventing apical migration of gingival epithelium is placed in a laminar relationship to a portion of the perimeter of the tooth surface. The gingival tissue is repositioned around the tooth and in contact with the porous material, with the porous material positioned between the gingival tissue and the tooth. Articles for the treatment of periodontal disease are also disclosed. One article comprises a first portion which is capable of supporting ingrowth of gingival connective tissue and preventing apical migration of gingival epithelium and a second portion which is impermeable to oral tissues and bacteria.

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: The present invention comprises a sheath for protecting a dental syringe and for preventing residual cross-contamination between successive patients. Means are provided for preventing contaminants from being drawn back into the syringe after application has ceased.

Abstract: A dental irrigation needle includes a hub engagable with a syringe and a cannula having one closed end and another end fitted to the hub, the cannula being formed of a freely bendable material such as annealed stainless steel. One or more nozzle orifices are formed in a lateral wall of the cannula adjacent the closed end so that a fluid from the syringe may be discharged through the nozzle orifices during the irrigation of a reamed root canal. The orifices are mutually axially and circumferentially spaced along the cannula and a marking may be provided on the hub to indicate a direction of each of the nozzle openings.

Abstract: There is provided a dental tool for use with a reciprocating drive means and a sleeve member operatively connected to the drive means for reciprocating motion and designed to retain a dental tool, the dental tool comprising a crank portion designed to be retained for reciprocating movement by the sleeve member of the handpiece, and a dental blade, preferably with an abrasive surface, secured to one end of the shank; in one embodiment, the dental tool is preferably hollow and further comprises an axially extending channel, preferably extending along the full length of the shank and a plenum extending within the dental blade, and outlet perforations from the plenum extending through the blade, and in a second embodiment there is further provided means secured to the shank portion for applying pressure within the channel to force any fluid material within the channel and plenum out through the outlet perforations through the blade. Finally, there is provided means for dispensing fluid material, e.g.

Abstract: A dental tool adapted to deliver a mixed stream of two fluids to teeth of a patient. It comprises a nozzle, a hand-piece, and a resiliently flexible clip adapted to releasably retain the nozzle in the hand-piece. The nozzle has an elongate body portion, a proximal end, a distal end, and first and second conduits through the body portion. The conduits define first and second fluid passages. The hand-piece is adapted for delivering a first fluid stream and a second fluid stream through a downstream end of the hand-piece to the proximal end of the nozzle and through the fluid passages and distal end of the nozzle. The clip has a base portion secured to the hand-piece and a contact portion adapted for engaging a contact region of the nozzle's body portion. The clip is adapted for being deflected to disengage the contact portion from the contact region to enable a user to readily remove the nozzle from or insert the nozzle into the hand-piece.

Abstract: A dental apparatus is provided which includes a handle having a hollow interior and an end portion which is slightly curved to facilitate insertion in the oral cavity of a dental patient. Within the hollow interior, an air heater system is provided consisting of an air vortex tube. Air is delivered to one end of the vortex tube in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tube causing the air to rapidly spin within the tube. The spinning air impinges upon an air flow control member at the opposite end of the tube which causes a portion of the air to deflect rearward toward its point of entry. This air is cool in temperature, and expelled from the rear of the tube. The non-deflected air is warm and directed out of the curved end portion of the handle. The invention further includes an adjustment system to control the temperature of air leaving the vortex tube.

Abstract: An improved hand-held syringe for convenient and safe self-use simultaneously scraping and irrigating periodontal pockets, featuring three elements:a rubber-like bulb-syringe to carry medicant; a cannula whose distal end comprises both an aperture for dispensing the medicant and an irregular surface for scraping plaque; and, a tubular coupler comprising a smooth end for adjustable tight-fit insertion into an aperture in the bulb-syringe, the other end a (female) luer-lock with mates with a (male) luer-lock on the proximal end of the cannula.

Abstract: A dental spray handpiece, consisting of a switchless sleeve having a media inlet connection at its rearward end and a media discharge outlet at its forward end. Within the sleeve there is arranged at least one media conduit leading from the media connection to the media discharge outlet and discharging therefrom at this location, with a remote-controlled flow of media.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for an improvement in the treatment of a tooth or teeth. The improved method comprises the steps of making a model of the tooth and molding a stint to overlay the model of the tooth. The stint defines an internal region for receiving a retaining material therein. An active agent is inserted into the retaining material and the stint containing the retaining material and the active agent is placed upon the tooth. The improved apparatus comprises a stint having an internal region and an external region with the internal region of the stint being defined for overlaying the tooth. A retaining material is disposed within the internal region of the stint to retain the active agent for enabling the active agent to be maintained in contact with the tooth when the stint is inserted upon the tooth.

Abstract: Disclosed is an oral applicator for the application of an active substance in the form of a hollow structure corresponding substantially in shape and dimensions to an external form of a crown of one or more natural teeth and adapted to contain the active substance, the hollow structure having one or more passage openings for the controlled release of certain amounts of the active substance, the passage openings being a buccal and/or palatal or lingual portion for the passage of saliva and of the active substance dissolved therein.

Abstract: A sub-gingival medicament applicator comprising an aerosol container having a gingival medicament filling and a nitrogen propellant. A wand is secured to the container and has an end portion extending angularly to the rest thereof. The wand has a passageway therethrough. A valve, provided with an actuator, is provided for controlling fluid flow through a passageway in the wand to permit application of the medicament through the end piece onto the gums of the user in a manner for optimum benefit.

Abstract: A sterilizable medical/dental syringe having a handle with a nozzle at one end is provided with means for releasably coupling the other end of the handle to a flexible supply hoses providing compressible gases and/or noncompressible liquids. When disconnected from the flexible hose supply line, automatic sealing valves prevent the contents of the supply line form escaping. A readily repairable flow control valve for the nozzle is also disclosed.

Abstract: There is provided a dental tool for use with a reciprocating drive means and a sleeve member operatively connected to the drive means for reciprocating motion and designed to retain a dental tool, the dental tool comprising a shank portion designed to be retained for reciprocating movement by the sleeve member of the handpiece, and a dental blade, preferably with an abrasive surface, secured to one end of the shank; in one embodiment, the dental tool is preferably hollow and further comprises an axially extending channel, preferably extending along the full length of the shank and a plenum extending within the dental blade, and outlet perforations from the plenum extending through the blade, and in a second embodiment there is further provided means secured to the shank portion for spplying pressure within the channel to force any fluid material within the channel and plenum out through the outlet perforations through the blade. Finally, there is provided means for dispensing fluid material, e.g.

Abstract: Filter cartridge for filtering air and water dispersed by a dental syringe; the cartridge being a cylindrical member divided into two lengthwise spaces, one filled with water filtering material and the other filled with air filtering material; the cartridge having a barbed prong coupler from each lengthwise space for coupling to a flexible hose support for air or water, respectively; the cartridge having two female recesses for joining each of the two lengthwise spacers separately to barbed prong couplers on the dental syringe.

Abstract: A free-standing oral hygiene device that is attachable to and detachable from a faucet member with one hand. An elongate flexible hose extends from the device to a hand-held wand which terminates in a nozzle that ejects a jet stream of water onto the teeth and gums of the user. When water pressure exceeds an adjustable preselected threshhold, a pressure relief valve opens so that the gums of the individual are not injured. A retaining clip member is depressed when the device is attached to the faucet, and released. When the retaining clip has been released, it holds the device to the faucet even when the water pressure from the faucet is very high. Removing the device is accomplished by depressing the retaining clip a second time and displacing the device downwardly. It can then be stored on a substantially level support surface as a free-standing unit.

Abstract: The process involves the application of heated water, above 40.degree. C., to the teeth with simultaneous rotary brushing to remove plaque. The apparatus is a turbine power unit adapted to be connected to the heated water faucet and adapted to sit in the sink. A heated water exhaust conduit from the unit and a flexible power shaft lead to a handpiece which has a rotary brush driven by the shaft and a nozzle connected to the conduit and directed at the brush.

Abstract: A dental pick having an enlarged head for removing plaque between teeth is disclosed. The pick has a handle portion and an operational portion. The handle portion has two gripping portions to provide two different operational lengths for the pick. The operational portion includes a flexible neck portion and an enlarged head portion. Advantageously, the operational portion of the pick is of a substantially continuous, non-tapering thickness which enables the pick to be inserted into the interproximal spaces between adjacent teeth without the risk of becoming impacted. The pick is adapted to slide between adjacent teeth while in a vertical orientation, and is then rotated so that the larger vertical portion of the head assumes a generally horizontal orientation. Once the device is substantially horizontally oriented, the pick is agitated both vertically and horizontally so as to disrupt food, plaque and bacteria residing therein.

Abstract: A dental syringe covering, shield or prophylactic comprised of a thin, tear-resistant, but deformable material which is sterile and disposable for covering the exposed nozzle surfaces of different types of dental syringes providing a covering which will significantly reduce and/or prevent the spread of diseases which may be transmitted by or through contact with human body fluids and tissues during dental procedures.