Abstract: A dental compound applicator, having a shaft (1) that can be gripped in pencil-hold fashion, the front end of which can be connected to a syringe (4) containing the dental compound and a plunger, and containing a piston (6) for driving forward the plunger, which piston is connected to an actuation device (10) in that region of the shaft where a fingertip is located when gripping in pencil-hold fashion. The actuation device (10) comprises a toothed wheel which is mounted on the shaft, can be rotated by the fingertip and engages in a rack provided on the piston (6). The toothed wheel can consist of a larger grip wheel to be actuated using the finger, and a smaller pinion, cooperating with the rack, so that gearing down results.

Abstract: Oral compositions for the local administration of a therapeutic agent to a periodontal pocket of a patient for alleviating dental disease comprise a plurality of dry, discrete microparticles each of which comprise an effective amount of at least one therapeutic agent dispersed in a matrix comprising a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer. Apparatus and methods are also provided for the dispensing of the dry microparticles to the periodontal pocket whereby they become tacky and adhere to the involved tissue so as to induce long term therapeutic benefits.

Abstract: An apparatus for and method of whitening teeth utilizes a liquid composition containing a liquid tooth whitening bleach and a breath freshener. The composition is sprayed onto the teeth and is allowed to stay on the teeth for a short period of time. The composition is then expectorated. The process is repeated two to four times a day. The apparatus of the invention comprises a small, compact and portable container with spraying mechanism which contains a supply of the composition and which can be used both in the home and outside for convenience and economy.

Abstract: A syringe actuation device comprises an elastomeric element that is removably attachable to the outlet tip of a syringe, and to a grip member that allows the elastomeric element to be pulled along the syringe barrel, so as to seat against the distal end of the syringe plunger. In first and second embodiments, the elastomeric element is attached between a grommet, that fits around the outlet tip, and an end cap, having a finger grip, that engages the distal end of the plunger. When the grommet is seated around the outlet tip, and the end cap is engaged against the distal end of the plunger with the plunger in its withdrawn position, the elastomeric element is stretched along the syringe, thereby biasing the plunger toward its inserted position. As the elastomeric element restores itself to its unstretched configuration, it pushes the plunger into the syringe barrel.

Abstract: This invention relates to dental restorative materials and adhesives, and particularly relates to the control of chemical reactions in chemically initiated dental restorative materials. The invention includes a method for controllably affecting the reaction of a chemiclly initiated liquid dental adhesive, resin or restorative material comprising mixing the adhesive, resin or retorative material with an instrument, or in a mixing container, at least a portion of which instrument or container has been impregnated with a reaction affecting compound of predetermined amount to accomplish the intended reaction effect. Devices and kits for use in the inventive methods are also disclosed. The present invention affords both efficiency and greater control in applying dental adhesives, resins or restorative materials, reduces the time necessary for mixing and dispensing solutions and allows the components of the dental adhesive, resin or retorative material to be stored in a more stable form.

Abstract: A syringe apparatus is disclosed for delivering a light-cured tooth composite material of a type that is essentially solid, yet pliable. The syringe apparatus comprises a barrel and a plunger which is used to push the composite material through the barrel. The barrel has an outlet end with a divider formed as an integral part thereof. The divider cuts, sectionalizes, and individually compartmentalizes the material as it is pushed to the outlet of the barrel. Thus, the material is extruded into a plurality of individualized sections. Each individualized section of material is contained in a separate compartment having a support surface that optionally extends beyond the outlet end of the barrel. The support surface serves as a cutting plate against which a dental tool can pinch off a discreet portion of the material.

Abstract: A device for use in removing food debris from between the teeth includes a rigid body having a fluid passage in it extending between a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, means for connecting the inlet to a source of fluid under pressure, a valve in the passage for controlling fluid flow through the passage, manual means for operating the valve, a rigid tube extending from the fluid outlet to a fluid exit orifice, and pressure relief means between that outlet and the exit orifice.

Abstract: A dental cartridge for dispensing a dental material having a body portion made of a material transparent to at least a portion of the visible light spectrum and opaque to the actinic light of the dental material contained therein. Also, a dental cartridge having a body portion formed from a toroidal segment and a coaxial nozzle attached thereto. The dental cartridges are used in a dental syringe for application of the dental material to a patient. Several embodiments provide various discharge end configurations, including hemispherical, conical frustum, and flat. Additionally, dosing indicia are placed on the body portion of the dental cartridge, permitting the dentist to fill the dental cartridge with a predetermined volume of dental material. A specially configured piston having an appendage thereon is used in combination with the dental cartridge for extruding substantially all of the costly dental material therein.

Abstract: A hygiene and treatment device wherein it comprises a pipe having a chamber at one of its ends, suitable for being put into communication with an endpiece connected to a supply of water under pressure, the other end of the pipe being curved and having a longitudinal slot. The invention is particularly suitable for anal and gynecological hygiene.

Abstract: Oral compositions for the local administration of a therapeutic agent to a periodontal pocket of a patient for alleviating dental disease comprise a plurality of dry, discrete microparticles each of which comprise an effective amount of at least one therapeutic agent dispersed in a matrix comprising a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer. Apparatus and methods are also provided for the dispensing of the dry microparticles to the periodontal pocket whereby they become tacky and adhere to the involved tissue so as to induce long term therapeutic benefits.

Abstract: A dental cartridge for dispensing a dental material having a body portion made of a material transparent to at least a portion of the visible light spectrum and opaque to the actinic light of the dental material contained therein. Also, a dental cartridge having a body portion formed from a toroidal segment and a coaxial nozzle attached thereto. The dental cartridges arae used in a dental syringe for application of the dental material to a patient. Several embodiments provide various discharge end configurations, including hemispherical, conical frustum, and flat. Additionally, dosing indicia are placed on the body portion of the dental cartridge, permitting the dentist to fill the dental cartridge with a predetermined volume of dental material. A specially configured piston having an appendage thereon is used in combination with the dental cartridge for extruding substantially all of the costly dental material therein.

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: 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: An anticontagion device for injecting dental anesthetic solution contained in cartridges, comprising a cartridge-holding sleeve for once-only use, which is closed by a non-removable plug and fitted to a piston mechanism.

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 syringe for treating gums includes a cylinder in which a piston is reciprocally mounted. The fluid for treating the gums is located in the cylinder and is expelled from a spout, such as a cannula or other replaceable reusable thin irrigating tip. The tip would have a rounded end if made of metal and would be softer if made of plastic thus rendering it relatively harmless, while thin enough to provide access to the deepest regions of the periodontal pocket and deposit/irrigate effective antibacterial agents so as to eradicate periodontal disease associated micro-organisms. Fluid is discharged by depressing the piston into the cylinder. A resilient member reacts means react between the piston and the cylinder to urge the piston into the cylinder. The user may control the amount of inward movement by manually restraining the piston.

Abstract: An applicator particularly useful in making dental impressions, includes a barrel for containing a dental impression material, an ejector nozzle fixed to the barrel at one end through which the dental impression material is to be ejected, a plunger movable through the opposite end of the barrel for ejecting the dental impression material through the ejector nozzle, and a retractor adjacent to the tip of the ejector nozzle for retracting the gingival tissue at the time the dental impression material is ejected.

Abstract: A device for treating gums allows a treating solution to be injected into contact with the gums between the teeth. The device is a hand held unit having a reservoir and a tubular neck joined to it. A hollow rubber tip is secured to the upper end of the neck. The tip has a number of ports in its sidewall. The device has a check valve in it that prevents fluid in the mouth from entering into the neck. Squeezing the reservoir expels fluid through the tip into contact with the gums between the teeth. The tip is small enough to be inserted partially between the teeth into contact with the gums.

Abstract: Apparatus for the delivery of light-curable composite dental filling material comprises a tubular composite reservoir, plunger and slider. The slider is free to move longitudinally along the reservoir but is matingly mounted to facets on the outside surface of the reservoir to prevent angular movement of the slider relative to the reservoir. The plunger consists of a shaft threaded to mate with the threaded inside diameter of the composite reservoir. The plunger also has a disk integrally formed to end of the shaft at one end and a male front piece at the other. The male front piece mates with a female fitting of a separate composite extrusion element.

Abstract: A single handpiece that can be used in multiple dental treatments is provided. The handpiece comprises a housing having a coil for producing an electromagnetic or electrostrictive field in the housing, and a number of inserts that react with the electromagnetic or electrostrictive field and can be used with the housing to complete the handpiece. A switching system used with the handpiece, which electrically recognizes the particular insert used with the housing provide for automatically controlling circuitry that determines which of a number of materials and medicaments are to be delivered to the handpiece for use with a particular insert. Circuitry which provides better control of the ultrasonic insert in the handpiece is also provided.

Abstract: A toothpick has a body part with two body portions which are movable relative to one another to assume different angles. The toothpick can be filled with a substance which is then expelled by squeezing or displacing a part of it. Both ends of the toothpick can be formed as working ends with different sizes.

Abstract: A syringe for injecting a pasty material comprising: a main cylindrical body; a piston slidable in the body; and a tube slotted in the largest part of its length and provided with a handling ring at its rear part, the internal diameter of the main cylindrical body substantially corresponding to the external diameter of the tube so that, when the tube is arranged into the cylinder, this set defines an injection chamber delimited by the internal wall of the tube and, in front of the slot of the tube, by the internal wall of the cylindrical body.

Abstract: A dental appliance for introducing a filler material into a tooth cavity, comprises a support, a filler pipe, units forming a first passage, a filler expelling element reciprocatingly movable in the first passage, the filler expelling element merging into the filler pipe and having a front end, a removable magazine which accommodates a filler a plurality of parts of which can be expelled therefrom, the magazine extending transversely to the filler pipe and opening into the latter, the magazine having an inlet opening which opens into the filler pipe and is provided with an upper edge, a second passage, a magazine expelling element guided in the second passage for pressing a portion of the filler from the magazine into the filler pipe, the filler expelling element and the magazine expelling element being surrounded by the support, and a mechanical transmission unit which couple the filler expelling element and the magazine expelling element with one another to provide coordination of their movements, the trans

Abstract: A miniature capsule-like cartridge adapted to be operated by being mounted in an ejector holder and including a tubular body of uniform inner diameter open at one end and the other end being closed but having a discharge opening therein, the body containing a complementary piston having an innermost pressure end complementary to the interior of the closed end of the body end and provided with an integral thin cylindrical wall at least precisely complementary in outer diameter to the inner diameter of the tubular body and extending axially away from the pressure end of the piston, the piston being operable by a piston post integral at one end with and extending axially away from the pressure end of the piston and connected to the thin cylindrical sleeve by a reinforcing rib extending integrally therebetween.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for effecting painless hypodermic needle administration of liquid anesthetics particularly in dentistry in which the needle is carried on a light wand and the anesthetic is delivered to the needle by motive means independently of the operator's fingers during penetration of the needle, with both the rates of penetration and expression of liquid being controlled to achieve intermediate numbing followed by a high rate of liquid expression, if desired, to achieve full anesthesia of the site.

Abstract: A dental appliance for introducing a filler material into a tooth cavity comprises a support, a filler pipe, a filler expelling element, and a removable magazine which accommodates a filler, and a mechanical transmission which couples the filler expelling element and the magazine expelling element with one another to provide coordination of their movements and includes a toothed rack connected with the magazine expelling element, an expelling lever which is turnably connected with a support and has a free end engaging in the toothed rack and expelling button actuatable by a finger and connected with the filler expelling element, and a projection, the lever being arranged so that during the working stroke it displaces with the toothed rack via the expelling button and the projection in direction toward the filler pipe before a front end of the filler expelling element reaches an end of the opening of the magazine into the filler pipe, a toothed pinion supported in the support, a rotary element connected with t

Abstract: A dispensing device includes a hollow cylindrical body from which a high viscosity composition is discharged in precisely metered doses by means of a plunger rod longitudinally movable within the body. The plunger rod includes a series of thread segments formed at equispaced, angular intervals from each other to establish an exterior thread of constant pitch in threaded engagement with the body. Each segment has an abutment surface projecting from the surface of the plunger. By depressing a trigger mounted on the body into contact with an abutment surface aligned therewith, the plunger rotates through the angular interval and thereby advances through the body to expel a desired amount of composition. Disengagement of the trigger with the abutment surface automatically occurs as the abutment surface rotates to the end of the angular interval, out of contact with the trigger, causing the next in-line abutment surface to be indexed into alignment with the trigger to allow for successive doses.

Abstract: A dispensing device including a hollow cylindrical body from which a high viscosity composition is discharged in precisely metered doses by a plunger rod longitudinally movable within the body. A series of projection are formed at equispaced, longitudinal intervals from each other on the plunger rod. A pair of parallel actuating arms pivotally mounted on the body extend along opposite side of the plunger rod and are formed with a pair of teeth, respectively, projecting inward toward the rod. By depressing the arms, the teeth pivot into engagement with one of the projections to advance the plunger within the body to expel a desired amount of composition. In a preferred embodiment, advancement of the plunger rod through a precise distance is automatically controlled via contact between the teeth with stop surfaces formed on the next in-line projection.

Abstract: A dental syringe for the dispensing of a relative viscous dental material that includes a readily replaceable barrel portion that defines a reservoir for containing a bulk supply of a dental material having a spout or nozzle discharge end to which a dispensibly nozzle tip is detachably connected and which barrel portion is sealed by a displaceable plug. A plunger is provided for effecting the displacement of the plug for effecting the extruding of the material from the barrel portion as needed, and which plunger has formed on the end thereof a unidirectional vent arrangement which is operative for imparting a negative pressure on the end plug to permit a slight rearward displacement thereof to relieve the back pressure exerted on the plug by the material upon the termination of an extruding operation and thereby prevent drooling of any unwanted material subsequent to an extruding operation.

Abstract: An improved manual pressure syringe for odontological use, includes a handgrip provided with a control lever, a barrel for a cartridge, and a bushing arranged on the longitudinal extension of the barrel. It also includes a shaft having a pushbutton at one end which is slidable in the bushing and acts on the piston of the cartridge, a thrust lever for the shaft operated by the control lever, and a coil spring arranged between the thrust lever and the bushing. The coil spring is formed of two end parts, the turns of which are of a larger diameter than that of the shaft, and an intermediate part, the turns of which are substantially of the same diameter as that of the shaft.

Abstract: A novel hand tool for dental use for dispensing wire, pins or rod and for manipulating the dispensed material in a dental procedure. In a preferred embodiment, the dispensed material is a strip of notched pins for cementing to tooth dentin in a retentive pin procedure.

Abstract: A combined dental impression tray with a syringe is provided, wherein the communication between the syringe and the tray is effected, in the most preferred embodiment, by way of a side opening in the wall of the barrel of the syringe. The opening communicates with the bottom section of the tray and is very short compared to the diameter or cross-sectional area of the passage for the impression material. The opening is arranged such that it can be closed by the piston of the syringe while a first impression of the tissue area is taken. A device detachably secured to the tray apparatus is also provided to facilitate cutting out of a portion of the dental mixture, the cutting device being preferably of the type of a reciprocating tubular cutting die whose edge engages the bottom wall of the tray at a close spacing about the said opening.

Abstract: A dental amalgam dispensing instrument has an amalgam dispensing head having a dispensing passage slidably receives a rectangular section dispensing passage with an amalgam feed passage intersecting the dispensing passage. A straight rectangular section feed plunger slides in the feed passage and is slidably carried by a handle that is detachably mounted on the head. The dispensing passage in the head is formed as an elongate channel opening toward the front of the instrument and a detachable cover plate closes the front of the channel.

Abstract: A dental amalgam dispenser unit having a detachable discharge head, the dispenser having a plunger with a front amalgam-advancing tip and rearwardly disposed ratchet teeth and a pawl comprising a slidably mounted sleeve and a cantilever spring projecting rearwardly therefrom. A dental amalgam loader assembly is also described for loading the dispenser discharge head. The loader has a plunger and advancing means for advancing the forward portion of the loading plunger a predetermined distance into the bore of the dispenser head.

Abstract: A diagnostic lamp is provided for fluorescent excitation of a fluorescible material applied to the parts of the body to be tested, in particular the teeth and gums. The lamp is battery operated and in accordance with a disclosed embodiment the light source may be at least one ligth-emitting diode capable of emitting light in a narrow range of wave lengths. A dispenser may be mounted with the lamp for containing the fluorescible material.

Abstract: An apparatus for charging a plastic mass such as dental amalgam through an opening of and into the hollow interior of a capsule such as a magazine for a tooth-filling appliance has a support formed with an elongated passage defining a longitudinal axis and having an outlet end, with a seat at the outlet end snugly interfittable with the capsule over the opening thereof, and with a storage chamber adapted to hold the mass and extending transversely from the passage. A piston is reciprocal axially within the passage between a retracted position to the opposite side of the chamber as the outlet end and in an advanced position as least substantially past the chamber toward the outlet end. This piston is axially displaceable in the passage between these positions for displacing a charge of the mass from the chamber axially along the passage and out of the outlet end into the capsule through the opening thereof.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of manufacturing a laminated plastic article such as a dental tray or the like having a hydrophilic foam formed and heat bonded to a polyethylene foam substrate. The dental tray has upper and lower portions hinged together, and contoured to properly accommodate the particular tooth structure of the posterior and anterior teeth and the general geometry of the upper and lower jaws. In a vacuum forming operation a laminated sheet is formed, the tray is appropriately contoured and the tray cut or blanked from the sheet.