Patent Application
20210137256
The present invention generally relates to an apparatus to compliment and finish the process of caring for and maintaining teeth after brushing and flossing. More specifically, the present invention relates to an apparatus comprising a buffing material used with a handle to remove tiny scratches a toothbrush would have left on the surface of the enamel after brushing. The apparatus buffs the teeth and makes the teeth smoother. Further, the apparatus allows the user to use it with a dentifrice to wash the teeth without brushing when desired.
Caring for teeth has always been an important aspect of life for people. In the late eighteen hundreds dental floss came to be used and has been developed since. People began to use a bristle brush we know as a toothbrush to clean their teeth around 1938. The toothbrush and dental floss have become household items found in homes all around the world. The present invention seeks to compliment the inventions that have been adopted by humanity in the care of their teeth. Professionals who prepare and care for surfaces of fine quality and softness such as pianos and violins have long since realised that brushing scratches the surfaces and when used require a buffing to smooth the scratches and create a lustrous and clean surface that sheds dirt and other contaminants. It is known that brushing requires buffing in all other fields of finishing. The need and even the necessity for a device to use after brushing teeth is a long existent gap that the current invention seeks to fill. The gap has existed nearly a hundred years since the invention of the toothbrush. The current invention is the first logical invention to complete the tools needed to care for teeth since the invention of the toothbrush.
The frequent use of the tooth brush has caused dentists and other professional dental care personnel to advise people to use a soft bristle toothbrush to minimise scratching the enamel of the teeth and to minimise the loss of gum tissue. They have not offered a method to routinely buff the scratches created by brushes in the home. The current invention is designed to augment and complete the brushing and flossing of teeth by providing a convenient and inexpensive way to remove the scratches a toothbrush puts on the surfaces of teeth.
People use toothbrushes to brush their teeth. Toothbrushes generally comprise bristles that operate in a reciprocating motion i.e., back and forth or up and down motion and clean the teeth. The bristles scratch an enamel of the teeth and result in micro abrasion that remains on the teeth after brushing. Repeated brushing with a toothbrush erodes tooth enamel making the micro abrasions worse over time. The micro abrasions provide habitat for bacteria and bacterial deposits on the enamel which are difficult to clean by subsequent brushing. If left untreated for a long time, the micro abrasions cause decay and reduces the beauty and feel of the teeth. As the abrasions worsen with repeated use of a brush, the teeth staining and decaying often occurs. Over the time, it becomes impossible to preserve the beauty and health of teeth. Millions of people lose their teeth before the need for them ends. False teeth are a global result of not caring for teeth and caring for them improperly over a period of time. The best effort to care for the teeth requires the same procedures all who are familiar with the art of quality finishing of surfaces, a buffing and polishing after brushing. The apparatus as described herein is the logical next step after brushing the teeth and flossing between them.
In order to overcome the above problem, dentists recommend polishing the teeth. Tooth polishing smoothens the surface of teeth and removes extrinsic stains, removes dental plaque accumulation, and increases aesthetics. Generally, dentists recommend polishing teeth once or twice a year depending on the oral condition of a patient. Dentists use either a small, soft rubber cup and polishing paste for polishing the teeth. If the patient has severe stain, an air polishing system, which is a jet of pressurised air and water mixed with an abrasive agent might be used to polish the teeth. Stains that cannot be removed by the polishing are being treated with a bleaching process. Both procedures are made more necessary with repeated brushing without smoothing or buffing the teeth after brushing.
Several devices for cleaning and polishing teeth have been disclosed in the past. One such example is disclosed in a United States Publication No. 2003/0168075, entitled “Finger shaped tooth polisher” (the “'075 Publication”). The '075 Publication discloses a tooth polisher that includes an elastic finger shaped finger cloth having two opposing sides for fitting tightly over a finger. A rough cloth is disposed on a first of said opposing sides polishes the teeth. A chamois cloth on the other of said opposing sides is soft and is used to buff the teeth after polishing with the rough cloth. A finger pull tab connects to said finger cloth between said rough cloth and said chamois cloth and allows the tooth polisher to be rotated to orient the rough cloth and chamois cloth.
Another example is disclosed in a U.S. Pat. No. 8,549,693 entitled “Tooth cleaning device” (the “'693 patent”). The '693 patent discloses a tooth cleaning device comprising a handle, and a pad coupled to the handle, wherein the pad has a front face, a back face and a plurality of side walls. There are a plurality of different areas disposed on the front face of the pad comprising a first area comprising a first set of protrusions, in a substantially semi-spherical shape, and a second area comprising a second set of protrusions in a substantially conical shape. There is also a third area of protrusions formed as a substantially conical shape, and a fourth area of protrusions formed as a substantially semi-spherical shape. The device can be formed as a pad which collapses voluntarily under pressure.
Yet another example is disclosed in a United States Publication No. 2002/0127513, entitled “Hygiene instrument for cleaning and polishing the surface of the teeth and the composite materials of dental fillings” (the “'513 Publication”). The '0513 Publication discloses a hygiene instrument for removing stains, cleaning and polishing the surface of the teeth and the composite materials of dental fillings. The structure of the hygiene instrument is made up of fibers and optionally a load of particles embedded in a resinous matrix giving the working surface of the hygiene instrument a continuous abrasive power.
Yet another example is disclosed in a United States granted patent No. 2005/0138741, entitled “Integrated Apparatus For Teeth Cleaning” (the “'741 Publication”). The '741 Publication discloses six different teeth cleaning aspects in one teeth cleaning apparatus. These aspects are: (i) use of an abrasive surface supported by a pad that is rubbed for cleaning exposed and easily reachable part of the teeth, (ii) use of bristles for reaching spaces between teeth and gum lines and between two teeth, (iii) use of a sponge under the abrasive surface that delivers plaque cleaning and anti-bacterial agent to the teeth surface, (iv) use of a woven cloth like surface with the ability to absorb and remove the food/acid film from the teeth, (v) ability to clean teeth with little or no use of water, (vi) use of a one-time throw away cleaning head for better hygiene.
Yet another example is disclosed in a U.S. Pat. No. 2,443,461 entitled “Teeth Cleaning and Polishing Applicator” (the “'461 patent”). The '461 patent discloses an instrument that has portions corresponding in shape to the gingival curvature and surfaces of the teeth.
Yet another example is disclosed in a U.S. Pat. No. 6,336,461 entitled “Teeth Cleaning Device” (the “'461 patent”). The '461 patent discloses a tooth cleaning device for cleaning teeth of plaque without using a toothbrush having bristles thereon. The tooth cleaning device includes a tubular member that is elongated and has a first end and a second end. The first end is open for accessing an interior of the tubular member. The second end is closed and has a generally convex shape. The tubular member comprises a cloth material. An elongated implement movably extends into the first end of the tubular member, such that the tubular member rubs against the teeth of the user.
Polishing devices disclosed in the above disclosures are complex, expensive, and designed differently. They are not specialised devices that serve the simple purpose of the invention disclosed herein. Additionally, polishing by some of the polishing devices discussed above removes too much material from the enamel. Some include brushes and some are unpleasant to use. Given the location of teeth and the difficulties of applying a devise to the ones at the back of the mouth, some of the above devices will cause choking and gagging reflex in the attempt to reach all the teeth and all their surfaces.
Therefore, there is a need for an apparatus that is simple, easy to use on all the teeth and all their surfaces, and capable of holding a buffing material in a comfortable and convenient arrangement that will not cause choking and gagging reflex. This will prevent neglect caused by inconvenience, difficulty, time, and discomfort. In as much as it is commonly known that people tend to omit regular hygienic procedures necessary to prolong the health and life of teeth while maintaining their appearance the apparatus disclosed here has none of the discouraging characteristics that further the omission of competent care steps.
The present invention solves the above discussed problems inexpensively and conveniently without discomfort such as gagging or choking. The present invention discloses an apparatus that provides a noticeably smoother tooth surface and brighter appearance. The apparatus reduces staining and makes the teeth feel better to the tongue and lips. With continual use from childhood, teeth will be healthy longer and look better, too and requires less dental help by professionals. The apparatus provides an obvious and natural next development in the care of teeth. The disclosed invention requires no additional substances or dentifrice. The apparatus operates in a wet or dry condition and removes the necessity of polishing compounds used with other devices.
It is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus for buffing teeth and that avoids the drawback of known polishing tools. Further, the present invention provides an apparatus that can be used to wash the teeth with a dentifrice occasionally. It can produced with a toothbrush on the other end. It will conduce better care if the teeth and reduce dental problems including recessing gums.
In order to achieve the object, the present invention provides a technical feature in which the apparatus includes a handle and a buffing material mounted to the handle. The buffing material removes tiny scratches a toothbrush would have left on the surface of the enamel after brushing. Further, the buffing material ensures the teeth shine without the need for additional and/or expensive polishing tools.
In one implementation of the present invention, the apparatus provides a handle, a pad, and a buffing material. The handle provides an elongated body similar to the handle of a toothbrush. The pad removably mounts to the handle. The pad provides a material made of soft and firm material. The pad provides a material that does not absorb water or moisture. The pad comes in different configurations. In one example, bottom portion of the pad comes in a flat configuration. Top portion of the pad comes in a variety of configurations such as a flat, concave or convex configuration. In one example, the pad has a stiff or rigid structure at the bottom portion. In another example, the pad includes a support member such as a metal plate at the bottom portion. The support member mounts to the pad and connects the pad to the handle using known mechanisms e.g., adhesive or glue or fastener.
The buffing material mounts at the top portion of the pad. The buffing material mounts to the pad using adhesive or any other known mechanism. The buffing material provides a material made of a variety of fibres such as a cloth or cloth-like material. For example, the buffing material provides a material made of a synthetic material or cotton terrycloth or cotton muslin. In another example, the buffing material provides a material made of a cloth or leather, polyvinyl acetal sponge, and a non-woven or synthetic porous material. Further, the buffing material possesses properties having elasticity and flexibility that allows it to conform to the shape and texture of the teeth individually or in groups.
In order to buff teeth, a user uses the apparatus after brushing the teeth with a toothbrush and flossing. User has a choice to use the apparatus in a dry or wet condition to buff the teeth. The user places the buffing material against the teeth and moves the buffing material back and forth over the surface of the teeth to remove tiny scratches that the toothbrush would have left on the surface of the enamel. The buffing material further cleans the teeth and diminishes stains on the teeth. Buffing removes the tiny scratches and results in teeth becoming smoother. Further, buffing removes stains and shines the teeth more lustrously with continued use. Buffing ensures no damage to gums and stimulates blood circulation in the gums. This provides an advantage over an existing polishing tool which grinds, buffs and polishes damaging the gums. The apparatus complements a logical expression to clean, smooth and shine the teeth without damaging the gums. Apparatus helps to clean, smooth and shine the teeth of human beings and/or animals. As specified above, buffing ensures no scratches remain on the teeth. This ensures biological organisms, acids, corrosive substances, and other undesired substances do not get accumulated at the teeth and gums. In order words, buffing removes or reduces the chances of retaining biological organisms, acids, corrosive substances, and other undesired substances on the surfaces of the teeth.
In one technical feature of the present invention, the pad provides a flat, concave or convex portion/surface depending on the need. For instance, the pad having a convex surface allows buffing inside of the teeth. Further, the pad having a concave surface allows buffing outside of the teeth.
In another technical feature of the present invention, the handle includes a flat/straight or a bent or offset configuration. The handle allows the pad to mount at either sides of the handle such that the user may buff inside and outside of the teeth as desired.
In another technical feature of the present invention, the apparatus allows the pad and the buffing material to mount to the handle in a variety of ways. In one implementation, the pad and the buffing material make up a buffing material attachment i.e., as a single unit. The buffing material attachment removably attaches to the handle and allows for easy replacement.
In accordance with another implementation of the technical features of the present invention, the apparatus buffs the teeth without the need for pad. In such an implementation, the buffing material has a thick configuration of cloth or cloth-like material. The buffing material provides a flat bottom and top surface in one of flat, or concave or convex surface. The buffing material mounts to the handle using a variety of means such as using adhesive or other known mechanism.
Alternatively, the handle provides a thin and elongated configuration. The buffing material mounts firmly in a thick configuration at one end of the handle. This type of the apparatus allows to buff area between the teeth and in specific areas that are otherwise not possible with other configurations of the apparatus described above.
Further, the buffing material provides a bent or hooked or tip-like structure such that the buffing material allows to buff or clean the back of the teeth.
In one technical feature of the present invention, the apparatus includes a handle, in which one end consists of buffing material and another end consists of bristles. As such, the bristles allow to brush the teeth similar to a toothbrush. Subsequently, the user turns the handle and uses the buffing material to buff the teeth.
In yet another technical feature of the present invention, the apparatus allows it to use as a tooth washer i.e., to wash the teeth. In the current implementation, the buffing material such as terrycloth mounts to the handle. The terrycloth mounts to the handle in a thick or layers configuration. The buffing material helps to wash the teeth in a wet condition using toothpaste or other dentifrice. The apparatus when used as the tooth washer removes very little enamel. It serves as a one-step quick treatment of the teeth when full treatment is not possible.
In one technical feature of the present invention, the apparatus includes a motor, a battery and a tool coated or mounted with a buffing material. The tool oscillates, rotates and vibrates to buff the teeth using the buffing material. The apparatus provides actuators at the handle for operating the tool at varied speed.
In one advantageous feature of the present invention, the apparatus removes the scratches for the teeth and reduces the chances of accumulation of dental deposits and, thereby, reduces the effort and time required to conduct daily, sometime multiple treatments by brush, dental floss, and buffing treatments per day. When done after every meal as recommended by professionals in the dental field, the easy use of the apparatus disclosed herein makes the process faster, easier, and more effective.
Also, the addition of the apparatus here disclosed to the set of tools used daily in caring for one's teeth can assist people when they see their dentist for regular professional care. This is an additional advantageous feature of the present invention. The apparatus reduces the amount of help the professionals will need to do. Anyone familiar with the art of professional dentistry will appreciate the benefits their patients receive by the use of the presently disclosed apparatus. Their work will be reduced with each visit as the use of the apparatus continues over time.
Dental carries, tooth failures, and staining are caused by the compounds that occurs naturally in the mouth. Reducing the ability of the tooth enamel to retain them reduces the dental problems that require more drastic procedures. This is yet another advantageous feature of the present invention.
Features and advantages of the invention hereof will become more apparent in light of the following detailed description of selected embodiments, as illustrated in the accompanying FIGUREs. As will be realized, the invention disclosed is capable of modifications in various respects, all without departing from the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and the description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature.
The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings, which are provided as illustrative examples of the invention as to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. It will be noted that throughout the appended drawings, like features are identified by like reference numerals. Notably, the FIGUREs and examples are not meant to limit the scope of the present invention to a single embodiment, but other embodiments are possible by way of interchange of some or all of the described or illustrated elements and, further, wherein:
The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of exemplary embodiments in which the presently disclosed invention may be practiced. The term “exemplary” used throughout this description means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration,” and should not necessarily be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The detailed description includes specific details for providing a thorough understanding of the presently disclosed apparatus for tooth buffing and polishing. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the presently disclosed invention may be produced without these specific details without changing the character and quality of the apparatus. In some instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in functional or conceptual diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the concepts of the presently disclosed apparatus.
In the present specification, an embodiment showing a singular component should not be considered limiting. Rather, the invention preferably encompasses other embodiments including a plurality of the same component, and vice-versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise herein. Moreover, the applicant does not intend for any term in the specification to be ascribed an uncommon or special meaning unless explicitly set forth as such. Further, the present invention encompasses present and future known equivalents to the known components referred to herein by way of illustration.
Although the present invention provides a description of an apparatus for buffing and washing teeth, it is to be further understood that numerous changes may arise in the details of the embodiments of the apparatus for buffing teeth. It is contemplated that all such changes and additional embodiments are within the spirit and true scope of this invention.
The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word “exemplary” or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
It should be understood that the present invention describes an apparatus for buffing and washing teeth. The apparatus includes a handle, a pad, and a buffing material. The handle provides an elongated body. The pad comprises a bottom portion and a top portion. The bottom portion has a flat configuration and the top portion has a flat or concave or convex configuration. The buffing material mounts at the top surface of the pad, and as a result the buffing material takes the shape of the top surface of the pad. The bottom portion removably mounts to the handle. The apparatus allows to buff the teeth after brushing the teeth with a toothbrush. User uses the apparatus in a dry or wet condition to suit the user. User holds the handle and places the buffing material against the teeth and moves the buffing material back and forth over the surface of the teeth to remove tiny scratches the toothbrush would have left on the surface of the enamel. In one embodiment, the buffing material presents a thick configuration and mounts to the handle without the need for the pad. User applies pressure according to the condition of the teeth. The process requires a few strokes on each surface or until the desired smoothness is achieved.
Various features and embodiments of an apparatus for buffing teeth are explained in conjunction with the description of
In one embodiment, the present invention discloses an apparatus for buffing teeth.
Apparatus 10 includes pad 22. Pad 22 provides material made of plastic, rubber, or any other suitable material. Pad 22 provides material having soft and firm properties with varied thickness. Pad 22 provides material that does not absorb water or moisture. In other words, pad 22 is not susceptible to water or moisture absorption. Person skilled in the art will appreciate that pad 22 comes in different shapes and sizes. In the current implementation, pad 22 has a size similar to that of head portion 18 of handle 12. However, person skilled in the art will appreciate that pad 22 comes in different shapes and sizes depending on the need. In one example, pad 22 has a thickness of approximately ⅛th inches. In one embodiment, pad 22 presents bottom portion 24 and top portion 26. Bottom portion 24 has a flat configuration. Bottom portion 24 provides material having stiff or rigid configuration. In one example, bottom portion 24 includes a support member (not shown) such as a metal plate. The support member mounts to bottom portion 24 and allows connecting pad 22 to handle 12. In one example, the support member connects to handle 12 using known mechanisms such as adhesive or fastener. Alternatively, bottom portion 24 of pad 22 directly connects to handle 12 using known mechanisms such as adhesive or clips of various configurations without the need for the support member.
Top portion 26 of pad 22 may have a variety of shapes. In one example, top portion 26 may have a flat surface. In another example, top portion 26 may have a concave surface. In another example, top portion 26 may have a convex surface. In another example, top portion 26 may have a wave-like surface/structure.
Apparatus 10 further includes buffing material 28. Buffing material 28 provides material made of a cloth or cloth-like material. In one example, buffing material 28 provides material made of a synthetic material. In other example, buffing material 28 provides material made of a cotton terrycloth or cotton muslin. In other words, buffing material 28 provides material made of cloth or leather, polyvinyl acetal sponge, and a non-woven or synthetic porous material. Buffing material 28 provides material such as cloth of various textures, which allows to buff out scratches incurred by cleaning the teeth with a brush. Buffing material 28 possesses properties such as elasticity and flexibility, which does not scratch the surface (teeth) to be buffed. In the current implementation, buffing material 28 mounts to pad 22 at top surface 26. In one example, buffing material 24 mounts to pad 22 using adhesive or any other known mechanism.
In order to buff teeth, a user uses apparatus 10 after brushing the teeth with a toothbrush and flossing between the teeth. User uses apparatus 10 in a dry or wet condition. Using the apparatus 10 in wet condition requires more strokes. The apparatus 10 does not lose buffing efficacy even when used in wet condition. At first, the user places buffing material 28 against the teeth with the help of handle 12. Subsequently, the user applies required pressure and moves handle 12 such that buffing material 28 moves back and forth (strokes) over the surface of the teeth to remove tiny scratches the toothbrush would have left on the surface of the enamel. Buffing the teeth with buffing material 28 removes the tiny scratches and results in the teeth becoming smoother. The user repeats the above process for buffing all of the teeth on all three surfaces of the enamel. Buffing after brushing the teeth reduces stains and shines the teeth. Buffing ensures no damage to the gum and stimulates blood circulation in the gum. As buffing removes the scratches, the chance of retaining biological organisms, acids, corrosive substances, and other undesired substances on the surface of the teeth reduces.
In one alternate embodiment, head portion 18 inserts into a sack of buffing material 28 having a section to receive head portion 18. Head portion 18 inserts into the section and a string from buffing material 28 helps to tie buffing material 28 to head portion 28. Alternatively, buffing material 24 includes material made in strips having ends. Here, head portion 18 encompasses slots. The slots in head portion receive the strips 18 and secure buffing material 28 to head portion 28.
Apparatus 100 further includes buffing material 112. Buffing material 112 removably mounts to handle 102 at head portion 108. Person skilled in the art will appreciate that buffing material 112 comes in different shapes and sizes depending on the need. In the current implementation, buffing material 112 has a size similar to that of head portion 108. Buffing material 112 provides material made of a cloth or cloth-like material. In one example, buffing material 112 provides material made of a synthetic material. In other example, buffing material 112 provides material made of a cotton terrycloth or cotton muslin. In other words, buffing material 112 provides material made of cloth or leather, polyvinyl acetal sponge, and a non-woven or synthetic porous material that conform to the surface being buffed.
In the current embodiment, buffing material 112 has a thick configuration. Here, bottom portion 114 of buffing material 112 has a flat configuration. Bottom portion 114 has flat configuration and stiff or rigid structure and allows mounting to head portion 108. In one example, bottom portion 114 includes a support member (not shown) such as a metal plate. The support member mounts to buffing material 112 at bottom portion 114 using known mechanisms such as adhesive or fastener. The support member mounts to bottom portion 114 and allows connecting buffing material 112 to handle 108. In one implementation, buffing material 112 removably mounts to handle 102 directly at the head portion 108 without the need for a support member.
Top portion 116 of buffing material 112 has a variety of shapes. In one example, top portion 116 may have a flat surface. In another example, top portion 116 may have a concave surface. In another example, top portion 116 may have a convex surface. In another example, top portion 116 may have a wave-like surface.
In order to buff teeth, a user uses apparatus 100 after brushing the teeth with a toothbrush and flossing between the teeth. The user places buffing material 112 against the teeth with the help of handle 102. The user moves buffing material 112 back and forth over the surface of the teeth using the desired and effective amount of pressure on the teeth to remove tiny scratches the toothbrush would have left on the surface of the enamel and make the teeth smoother. It should be understood that the current embodiment explains use of apparatus 100 without the need of pad as explained above with the help of
In one implementation, apparatus 100 allows the user to use it as a tooth washer i.e., to wash the teeth. In such implementation, buffing material 112 such as terrycloth mounts to handle 102. The terrycloth mounts to the handle 102 in thick layer configuration in the shape of a tooth. Buffing material 112 allows to use the apparatus 100 in a wet condition with toothpaste or other dentifrice to wash the teeth.
Apparatus 200 includes buffing material 212. Buffing material 212 consists of fibrous material. In one example, buffing material 212 provides material made of synthetic material, cotton terrycloth or cotton muslin or other material. As presented above, buffing material 212 has a thick configuration such that its bottom surface has a flat surface and its top surface has one of flat, concave or convex surface. In the current embodiment, buffing material 212 has a flat surface at its top surface. However, person skilled in the art will appreciate that the top surface may have a concave or convex surface. Buffing material 212 removably mounts to handle 202 at head portion 208.
Apparatus 300 includes buffing material 312. Buffing material 312 consists of a cloth or cloth-like material. In one example, buffing material 312 provides material made of synthetic material, cotton terrycloth or cotton muslin or other material. As presented above, buffing material 312 has a thick configuration such that its bottom surface has a flat surface and its top surface has one of flat, concave or convex surface. In the current embodiment, buffing material 312 has a flat surface at its top surface. However, person skilled in the art appreciates that the top surface may have a concave or convex surface. Buffing material 312 removably mounts to handle 302 at head portion 308.
Alternatively, apparatuses shown in
Apparatus 400 further includes buffing material attachment 420. Buffing material attachment 420 includes pad 422 and buffing material 430. Pad 422 provides material having soft and firm properties. Pad 422 provides material that does not absorb water or moisture. In one example, pad 422 has bottom portion 424 and top portion 426. Bottom portion 424 has a flat configuration. Top portion 426 has one of flat, concave and convex surface/configuration. In one example, bottom portion 424 has a stiff or rigid configuration. In another example, bottom portion 424 provides a support member (not shown) such as a metal plate. Support member mounts to pad 422 using known mechanisms such as adhesive or fastener. Alternatively, handle 402 includes the support member that allows connecting bottom portion 424 to handle 402.
Bottom portion 424 provides at least one male member 428. In the current embodiment, pad 422 provides two male members 428. Male member 428 indicates a protrusion or extension or hook that extends from bottom portion 424. In one example, each of the male members 426 provides a T-shape protrusion. In another example, male member 412 may have any other shape. Person skilled in the art will appreciate that male members 428 insert into female members 412 provided at head portion 408 to mount pad 422 to handle 402.
Buffing material 430 mounts at top portion 426 of pad 422. Buffing material 430 mounts to pad 422 using adhesive or any other known mechanism. As specified above, buffing material 430 provides material made of a variety of fibrous materials. In one example, buffing material 430 provides material made of synthetic material or cotton terrycloth or cotton muslin or hemp.
In order to mount buffing material attachment 420 to handle 402, at first, buffing material 430 mounts on top portion 426 of pad 422. Buffing material 430 takes the shape of top portion 426. In the current embodiment, buffing material 430 takes the concave shape at its top surface. After mounting buffing material 430, pad 422 mounts to handle 402 at head portion 408. As explained above, male members 426 insert into female members 412 to mount pad 422 to handle 402.
In one alternate embodiment, head portion 408 includes female members 412 at its bottom surface, such that buffing material attachment 420 mounts at the bottom surface of head portion 408. This enables buffing material attachment 420 to removably mount to handle 402 either at the top or bottom of handle 402 for buffing inside and outside of the teeth.
Apparatus 500 includes buffing material attachment 520. In the current embodiment, buffing material attachment 520 includes head portion 521. Head portion 521 provides material made of plastic, wood or any other suitable material. As specified above, head portion 521 comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. In the current embodiment, head portion 521 has oval shape i.e., similar to a head of a toothbrush. However, a person skilled in the art will understand that the shape of head portion 521 may come in any other shape. Head portion 521 provides third end 522 and fourth end 524. Head portion 521 includes male member 526 at fourth end 524. Male member 526 indicates a protrusion that extends from fourth end 524. In one example, male member 526 has rectangular configuration. Person skilled in the art understands that male member 526 has similar shape similar to female member 508 provided at handle 502. Male member 526 removably mounts to female member 508 using a known mechanism e.g., in a snap mechanism. Buffing material attachment 520 further includes buffing material 528. Here, shape of buffing material 528 appears similar to head portion 521. Buffing material 528 mounts at the top surface of head portion 521. Buffing material 528 mounts to head portion 521 using adhesive or any other known mechanism. As specified above, the buffing material 528 provides material made of a cloth or cloth-like material. In one example, buffing material 528 provides material made of synthetic material or cotton terrycloth or cotton muslin or hemp.
In order to mount buffing material attachment 520 to handle 502, at first, buffing material 528 mounts on the top of head portion 521. After mounting, buffing material 528 takes the shape of head portion 521. Here, buffing material 528 takes the shape of the head 521. In the example shown in
Handle 802 includes bristles 816 at second end 806 and first side 812. Bristles 816 indicate bristles or brush-like structure common with a toothbrush. Handle 802 provides buffing material 818 at first end 804 and second side 814. As specified above, buffing material 818 mounts to handle 802 using known mechanisms. Alternatively, buffing material 818 mounts with the help of a pad as explained above.
In the current implementation, apparatus 800 allows to brush or clean and to buff the teeth. Specifically, the user uses bristles 816 to brush the teeth similar to the toothbrush. Subsequently, user turns handle 802 and uses buffing material 818 to buff the teeth as explained above. It should be understood that placement of bristles 816 and buffing material 818 show illustrative embodiments. Person skilled in the art will appreciate that bristles 816 and buffing material 818 may interchange their position or placement depending on the need.
The person skilled in the art appreciates that user operates apparatus in a dry condition after brushing and flossing the teeth. Therefore, there is no need for using water for removing scratches and shining the teeth after brushing the teeth. Using the apparatus in a wet condition will not destroy the function of the apparatus, but it may cause the need to apply more pressure and buff longer. Either method works well and can be used as desired by the user. When compared to known polishing tools, buffing ensures no damage to the gum and stimulates blood circulation in the gum. The apparatus reduces and removes stains, cleans and shines the teeth. Existing polishing tools damage the gums by grinding, buffing and then polishing. The presently disclosed apparatus complements logical expression to clean, smooth and shine the teeth without damaging the gums. The buffing material helps to clean, smooth and shine the teeth of human beings and/or animals. As specified above, buffing ensures no scratches remain on the teeth. This ensures biological organisms, acids, corrosive substances, and other undesired substances do not get accumulated at the teeth and gums. In order words, buffing removes or reduces the chances of retaining biological organisms, acids, corrosive substances, and other undesired substances on the surface of the teeth.
It should be understood that the above embodiments explain the variety of ways in which the buffing material mounts to the handle for buffing and cleaning the teeth. However, person skilled in the art will appreciate that other ways of mounting the buffing material to handle for buffing inside and outside of the teeth fall within the scope of the present invention. In one example, the buffing material provides a sack having a drawstring. The drawstring slips over the end and allows it to tie around the handle. In another example, the buffing material provides a strip that stretches and allows it to put its ends through slots provided in the handle to grip the buffing material. In another example, the handle includes clips. The clips hold the strip of the buffing material. In another example, the handle has a rectangular opening. A portion of the buffing material goes into the rectangular opening and allows the exposed buffing material to buff the teeth.
The apparatus comprising the handle, the pad and the buffing material may come as a single product. Alternatively, the buffing material attachment comprising the pads of different configuration i.e., flat, concave and convex surface and the buffing material may come separately such that the buffing material attachment removably mounts to the handle. The user selects the pad based on the need. After use or certain time, user may replace the buffing material attachment.
Although the embodiments explained require manually operating the apparatus to buff the teeth, the apparatus might be equipped with a motor, a battery and a tool coated or mounted with a buffing material. The tool oscillates, rotates and vibrates so as to buff the teeth using the buffing material. The apparatus provides actuators at the handle for operating the tool at varied speed.
A person skilled in the art will appreciate that apparatus complements brushing teeth. Specifically, the presently disclosed apparatus gently smoothens the micro-abrasions caused by a toothbrush. The apparatus provides simple design and takes very little time to complete the buffing process. The apparatus results in a smoother tooth surface that is easily detected by passing the tongue over the teeth after brushing and then after buffing. The apparatus makes the teeth smoother and thereby makes the teeth to stay clean for a longer time. The buffing material reduces bacterial retention by removing the extra surface area of the tooth that is created by the bristles in a brush. The apparatus is easier to use and is not large enough to cause a gag reflex like other devices that are designed to place over a finger, or the ones that are round, or ones that are designed to go over the tooth entirely on all three sides. The presently disclosed apparatus is less gagging when compared with known devices that have buffing material on opposing sides. The apparatus does not apply material to both sides of the handle making it more comfortable and peasant to use as compared to the other devices available.
It should be understood that the shape, size and placement of each component shown in figures are provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed in a limited sense. A person skilled in the art will appreciate alternate parts and/or mechanisms that might be used to implement the embodiments of the present invention and such implementations will be within the scope of the present invention.
The presently disclosed apparatus is being marketed as “Tooth Buff” or “Toothbuff™” or “Tooth Shiner”. However, there is no intention on part of the Applicant to limit to the scope of the apparatus's branding to “Tooth buff” or “Tooth Shiner” to advertise or market the apparatus. Applicant may refer to the apparatus as he may seem fit, without such reference limiting the scope of the present disclosure or claims herein or otherwise affecting related patent rights he may derive from this or other patent application filings.
In the above description, numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of some embodiments, specific components, devices, methods, in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present invention. It will be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art that these specific details need not be employed, and should not be construed to limit the scope of the invention.
In the development of any actual implementation, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints. Such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but may nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill. Hence as various changes could be made in the above constructions without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.
The foregoing description of embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the novel principles and invention disclosed herein may be applied to other embodiments without the use of the innovative faculty. It is contemplated that additional embodiments are within the spirit and true scope of the disclosed invention.
The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/932,400, filed Nov. 7, 2019; all of which is incorporated herein by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62932400 | Nov 2019 | US |
