Patent Application
20060194164
There are a wide spectrum of bacteria and other microorganisms found in the oral cavity. Although the presence of microorganisms does not indicate an unhealthy condition, if not attended to these microorganisms will cause a variety of undesirable effects including oral disease and cosmetic degradation. Tooth discoloration, caries formation, periodontitis and tooth loss are all possible results.
Oral bacteria creates plaque, a sticky, colorless film of bacteria on the surfaces of teeth and other tissue, and these plaque forming bacteria create toxins. Over time the plaque begins combining with other materials and hardens into a rough, porous deposit, calculus. The eventual result is gingival irritation (gingivitis) symptomized by gum swelling, bleeding, and fibrous enlargement of the gingival. In addition, the growth of plaque and calculus can cause the gums to move away from the teeth, resulting in pockets between the teeth and gums where bacteria can thrive. The bacteria toxins can also destroy gum tissue and even lead to bone loss.
Thus, the prevention and treatment of periodontal gum disease and early caries requires effective bacteria killing or growth suppression within all regions of the oral cavity. In particular, bacteria killing within the junction of gingival tissue and tooth root surface and under the enamel surface is important, as well as, difficult using traditional means.
Application of available, on the market, toothbrushes, toothpastes, mouth rinsing solutions and/or mouth irrigators containing chemical antibacterial agents, for prevention of periodontal disease is only partly successful. In addition, once tissue damage has started, conventional treatments are not effective at reversing the results.
In addition, the oral cavity can host a variety of other conditions which may or may not be a direct result of bacterial growth, including, tongue diseases, inflammation of salivary glands and small sublingual ducts, damaged nerves, oral pain, sore throat/tonsillitis, tooth hypersensitivity, and tooth discoloration. These conditions and others would benefit from a novel oral treatment regimen.
Thus, there is a need in the art for improved oral treatments which can effectively kill and/or suppress microorganisms, help to reverse the damaging effects of bacteria, and/or provide treatment for conditions in, near, or related to the oral cavity.
The present invention provides methods and apparatus for treating tissue in, through, or around the oral cavity with light emitting oral applicators. In one aspect, the apparatus include an oral phototherapy applicator having a body sized and shaped so as to fit at least partially within a user's oral cavity and includes at least one radiation emitting element for irradiating a portion of the oral cavity with phototherapeutic radiation. The applicator can further include a heat transfer element for the transfer of heat from the radiation emitting element to another portion of the device and/or to the external environment.
In one embodiment, the oral applicator can include a fluid pump for moving cooling fluid along a fluid pathway. For example, the fluid pathway can extend from a fluid reservoir to a portion of the device adjacent to a radiation emitting element.
For example, the oral appliance can be a toothbrush comprising a head portion having a plurality of bristles and a radiation source and a body portion having a pump for propelling a coolant to the head portion. The toothbrush can further include a coolant pathway between the pump and the head portion. Activating the pump can move fluid along the fluid pathway and remove waste heat generated by the radiation source.
In one aspect, the fluid pathway is a closed loop cooling system and the coolant pathway includes a return coolant pathway. The closed fluid pathway moves heat from the radiation source to a cooling capacitor in thermal contact with the coolant pathway. In one aspect, the cooling capacitor can include a phase change material.
In another aspect the toothbrush includes an open fluid pathway that receives fluid from a source outside the device and expels fluid after absorbing heat. The fluid can be a therapeutic material, such as, for example, toothpaste paste.
In another embodiment disclosed herein, a oral phototherapy applicator is provided. The applicator can include a body sized and shaped so as to fit at least partially in a user's mouth and at least one radiation emitter coupled to the body and adapted to irradiate a portion of an oral cavity with phototherapeutic radiation within at least one desired spectral band. The applicator can further include a pump for propelling coolant and a coolant pathway between the pump and a portion of the body in thermal contact with the at least one radiation emitter.
In one aspect, the applicator includes a plurality of bristles suitable for contacting a portion of the oral cavity during phototherapy. For example, the bristles can be substantially transparent to phototherapeutic radiation within at least one wavelength range and, optionally, further comprise a scattering agent to diffuse the radiation. In yet another aspect, the applicator can include an auto-shutoff circuit in communication with a heat sensor adapted to turn off a radiation emitter when overheat condition is sensed.
Further understanding of the invention can be obtained by reference to the following detailed description in conjunction with the associated drawings, described briefly below.
The invention will be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:
The present invention generally relates to light emitting oral appliances used for irradiating a user's oral cavity to treat conditions in, through and/or related to the oral cavity. The oral appliances of the present invention can include, for example, a light emitting toothbrush, a light emitting mouth piece, or various other types of light emitting probes adapted for insertion into the oral cavity.
With reference to
While in some embodiments, the head portion 12 and handle portion 16 can be optionally formed as a single unit, in other embodiments, the handle portion and the body portion are removably and replaceably mated with one another to allow cleaning and/or replacement. Handle portion 16 can include an electrical power supply 32, such as a battery, and a control switch 34 and optionally control electronics.
As discussed in more detail below, the radiation source 18 can be a single source generating radiation either in a single bandwidth, or multiple distinct bandwidths. Alternatively, the radiation source 18 can include a plurality of light sources, for example, a matrix or an array of light emitting diodes (LED), generating radiation in similar or different bandwidths. The radiation source can be a multi-band light source, such as a multicolor LED. In some embodiments, the radiation source can be a broadband source, such as a lamp, and can be optionally coupled to one or more filters for selecting radiation within one or more desired bandwidths.
Mouthpiece 24 can preferably include a handle 30 which allows a user to grip the mouthpiece, and can contain an electrical power supply, such as a battery, and a control switch. In one embodiment, the handle also includes a pathway 31 for delivering or removing substances from the oral cavity. For example, pathway 31 can provide for the entrance and/or egress of air, the delivery of treatment agents and/or drugs, and water evacuation.
The optical radiation source disposed in the light-emitting oral appliances of the present invention can preferably include a variety of radiation sources capable of delivering electromagnetic radiation in the range of about 280 nm-100000 nm with power densities in the range of about 1-50,000 mW/cm2 and total power 1 mW-10 W. One preferred radiation source is a LED or LED-matrix irradiator emitting at 1 to 20 different wavelengths. Radiation sources for the oral appliance are preferably compact, effective, low cost and provide the necessary wavelengths and power. In a preferred embodiment, the output spectrum of such radiation sources should preferably be in the range of about 280-12000 nm and have a power in the range of about 10 mW to 1 W. The terms “light” and “radiation” are used interchangeably throughout this application to encompass the entire spectral range of optical radiation useful in the phototherapy, for example, a range of about 280 nm to about 100,000 nm, and are not limited to the visible spectrum. The size of the radiation source should preferably be small enough to package in an oral appliance and be sufficiently efficient to be powered by a battery for at least 1-15 minutes.
In one embodiment, the light radiation source is solid-state lighting (SSL) including a light emitting diode (LED) and LED variations, such as, edge emitting LED (EELED), surface emitting LED (SELED) or high brightness LED (HBLED). The LED can be based on different materials such as AlInGaN/AlN (emitting from 285 nm), SiC, AlInGaN, GaAs, AlGaAs, GaN, InGaN, AlGaN, AlInGaN, BaN, InBaN, AlGaInP (emitting in NIR and IR), etc. LEDs also include organic LEDs which are constructed with a polymer as the active material and which have a broad spectrum of emission. The radiation source can be an LED such as shaping of LED dies, LED with transparent confinement region, photonics crystal structure, or resonant-cavity light-emitting diodes (RCLED).
Other possibilities include a superluminescent diode (SLD) or LED which preferably can provide a broad emission spectrum source. In addition, laser diode (LD), waveguide laser diode (WGLD), and a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) can also be utilized. The same materials used for LED's can be used for diode lasers. Other possibilities include a fiber laser (FL) with laser diode pumping. Fluorescence solid-state light source (FLS) with electro or light pumping from LD, LED or current/voltage sources can also be the radiation source. The FLS can be an organic fiber with electrical pumping.
Lamps such as incandescent lamps, fluorescent lamps, micro halide lamps or other suitable lamps may also be used with the present invention. A lamp can provide the radiation source for white, red, NIR and IR irradiation. For the 5-100 micron range, quantum cascade lasers (QCL) or far infrared emitting diodes can be used. One skilled in the art will appreciate that a variety of radiation sources can provide the necessary optical radiation for the optical appliance depending on size, power requirements, desired treatment regimen, and combinations thereof.
An LED, a laser diode, or a microlamp can generate heat energy that is up to 20 times higher than the generated optical energy. To accommodate unwanted waste heat, the light emitting oral appliance can include heat transfer and/or cooling mechanisms. For example, head portion 12 of the exemplary light emitting toothbrush can be at least partially formed of a heat conducting material for dissipating heat generated by the radiation source. For example, with reference to
In another aspect of the invention, heat can be transferred along the head portion of the light emitting toothbrush to the handle portion and dissipated into the surrounding environment, e.g., an operator's hand.
With reference to
Although the above discussed examples of heat transfer elements are made with reference to the light emitting toothbrush, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the heat transfer elements can be used in any of the oral appliances of the present invention. In particular, these heat transfer elements can provide for the storage or transfer of heat from the radiation source in the light emitting mouthpiece to adjacent tissue, a handle, and/or the surrounding environment.
In some embodiments, the light emitting oral appliance can include a heater for heating a target portion of the oral cavity, for example, while therapeutic radiation is applied to the target portion. Thermal therapy is useful in some treatment regimens and provides an additive or symbiotic effect when combined with phototherapy.
In some embodiments, heating is provided by a radiation source. In one aspect of the invention, the heater 40 is a radiation source that is distinct from the radiation source generating therapeutic radiation, e.g., radiation source 18. In another aspect, heating can be provided by the same radiation source utilized for providing therapeutic radiation. For example, in such an embodiment, the radiation source can generate broadband radiation, or radiation in two or more bandwidths, such that at least one bandwidth is suitable for heating the oral cavity tissue. Alternatively, multiple radiation sources can be used, at least one of which provides radiation in a suitable wavelength range for deep heating of tissue. Exemplary deep heating radiation includes radiation having a wavelength in the range of about 0.38 to about 0.6 microns or a range of about 0.8 to 100 microns. One skilled in the art will appreciate that a variety of electric and non-electric heaters can be used with the oral appliances of the present invention.
Depending on the desired treatment regimen, the optical radiation delivered from the oral appliance of the present invention can be selectively directed to different regions of the oral cavity.
In one aspect of the invention, at least a portion of the radiation is emitted in a direction other than towards the hard tissue of teeth. This can be accomplished with the light emitting toothbrush of the present invention by emitting radiation in a direction other than that represented by the cross sectional area defined by a circumference which surrounds the bristles or extensions thereof.
In another embodiment, optical radiation can be directed in multiple directions from the same oral appliance (as shown by directional arrows 5 in the various FIGS). For example, a light-emitting toothbrush of the invention can include two groups of LEDs, as shown in
The illustrated examples of multidirectional light emitting oral appliances similarly applies to the light emitting mouthpiece of the present invention. As shown in
The direction in which the optical radiation is emitted can be controlled in a variety of ways. In one embodiment, optical radiation source 18 can be disposed such that the radiation it produces travels toward the target tissue. This can be accomplished by positioning the optical radiation source at or near the surface of the oral appliance and placing the surface adjacent to the target tissue. In another embodiment, an optical element, e.g., a reflective or a refractive element, can be coupled to the radiation source for selectively directing radiation emitted by the source. The optical element can include, for example, rotatable mirrors, prisms, and/or diffusers, which direct the optical radiation toward target tissue. For example, with reference to
In addition to providing single or multidirectional optical radiation, the oral appliance of the present invention can supply single or multiple bands of optical radiation. For example, some treatment regimens may call for a single wavelength band such as a single blue color (central wavelength of 400-430 nm), a single green color (central wavelength of 540-560 nm), a single red color (central wavelength 620-635, 660), or a NIR single color (central wavelength 800-810 nm). Alternatively, a combination of these or other distinct wavelength bands could be applied, including two, three, or more distinct bands of optical radiation. For example, two separate wavelength bands can be employed to treat the same conditions more effectively or to treat two different conditions.
Multiple distinct wavelength bands can be achieved in a variety of ways. In one aspect of the invention, a broad band radiation source is used with an optical element to filter out unwanted wavelengths. For example, a filter or filters can remove all wavelengths from a broad spectrum with the exception of those in the blue and red portions of the spectrum. In another aspect of the invention, multiple distinct bands can be achieved with multiple radiation sources, each source providing optical radiation in a desired band. And in yet another aspect, a single radiation source which produces multiple distinct bands can be used. As an example, a single LED can be used to produce two or more distinct wavelength bands. Fluorescence conversion of radiation energy can be employed for generating additional wavelengths. As another example, a diode pumped fiber laser can be used to generate two wavelengths, one corresponding to the diode laser pumping the fiber and the other corresponding to the fiber laser wavelength.
In some embodiments of the oral appliance, it may be desirable to change wavelength bands. This can be accomplished with the light emitting toothbrush of the present invention by using removable head portions. Each head portion can include a radiation source producing a light of a different wavelength. A user can then choose the desired wavelength band by selecting among removable head portions. Alternatively, the handle portion can include a broad band light source and the removable head portions can include filters to isolate desired wavelength bands.
As described above, various embodiments of the light-emitting toothbrush of the invention include bristles for performing functions that include, but are not limited to, mechanical cleaning of hard and soft tissue, massage, blood circulation activation, compression of soft tissue for improved light penetration, and improved light delivery. For example,
In one embodiment, each bristle can be optically coupled to radiation source 18, and in a further embodiment, each bristle can be coupled to an individual LED. For example, each bristle can be in substantial register with a single radiation source 18 (
In some embodiments, bristle 14 acts as a waveguide for directing radiation from a radiation source to a portion of a user's oral cavity. For example,
In some embodiments of the invention, the bristles are shaped so as to allow controlled leakage of radiation at selected points. For example,
The bristle can have other shapes which facilitate controlled leakage of optical radiation.
In another embodiment, it may be desirable to release the optical energy in a dispersed pattern and reduce the formation of hot spots by doping the bristles, or improving emission spectra of the radiation sources. For example, the bristles can include a fluorescent material dispersed therein, which will fluoresce when exposed to optical radiation. Alternatively, a lasing material can be used to dope the bristles, such as a dye.
The body of the light emitting mouthpiece of the present invention can also be designed to so as to allow controlled leakage or dispersal of radiation based on the concepts described with respect to the bristle. For example, light can be contained within mouthpiece body 26 except for at select points and/or the body can include light dispersing material.
An oral appliance of the present invention can additionally include sensors for monitoring treatment and/or diagnosing conditions within the oral cavity.
Sensors can also provide the user with a variety of other information, such as, sensing and alerting a user when a treatment session is complete, when the oral appliance is properly positioned, when the oral appliance is in contact with tissue, and/or if the temperature in the treatment area rises above a predetermined level. Sensors can also be used with a controller to provide autofeedback control of a treatment session(s). In one exemplary embodiment, a controller is coupled with a diagnostic sensor to control the radiation source based on signals from the sensor. In another optional embodiment, a controller could be combined with a sensor to emit radiation only when the oral appliance is in contact with tissue.
In another embodiment, the oral appliance of the present invention can include various features to assist with treatment. For example, the light emitting toothbrush or light emitting mouthpiece can include vibrating mechanisms, such as mechanical or ultrasonic vibrators, to assist with mechanical cleaning.
In yet another embodiment, the present invention can include reflective surfaces to more efficiently deliver radiation to tissue. When radiation is delivered to a target area, some of the radiation can be reflected by the tissue surface resulting in lost radiation. To save this reflected energy, the oral appliance of the present invention can include a highly reflective surface which will return at least a portion of the reflected radiation to the tissue. For example, the light emitting toothbrush pictured in
The oral appliance of the present invention can include a power supply 32 (
An oral appliance according to the teachings of the invention can be employed for application of single-wise and/or multi-wise treatment procedures, e.g., twice per day for a few weeks or a month. The oral appliance of the present invention can be used with a variety of treatment agents, such as chromophores and optical couplers, to improve effectiveness. These agents can be part of an oral appliance system comprising a treatment agent for applying to the oral cavity and an oral appliance such as a light emitting toothbrush or a light emitting mouthpiece. In one embodiment, the treatment agent is applied to the oral cavity in the form of a paste, film, liquid rinse, spray, or combination thereof.
Chromophores (or photosensitizers) are useful as treatment agents for enhancing photodynamic and photothermal killing of microorganisms, as well as, tooth whitening and brightening. Chromophores include intrinsic light acceptors which induce and/or enhance chain-wise photochemical reactions leading to the generation of nitrogen oxide, singlet oxygen, and other radicals within tissue. Preferred chromophores include those which are nontoxic (i.e., those chromophores which can be provided at a concentration below which there is no action on bacteria or tissue without specific light). Exemplary exogenous chromophores for use in the present invention include dyes: methylene blue, indocyanine green, ALA—an inductor of porphyrins in proliferating cells—, mineral photocatalysts and photosensitizers: TiO2, nanoparticles, fullerenes, tubulene, carbon black, and other similar treatment agents.
Endogenous chromophores are also present within the oral cavity and the surrounding tissue. These chromophores are naturally occurring substances which provide similar radical production to the exogenous species described above when exposed to optical radiation in their absorption band. Exemplary intrinsic chromophores include porphyrines like protoporphyrins, coproporphyrins, and Zn-protoporphyrins. The absorption band for porphyrins includes blue light, and to a lesser extent, green light and red light. Other intrinsic chromophores include cytochromes such as cytogem and cytoporphyrin, bilirubin, and molecular oxygen.
Another treatment agent which can be used with the present invention is an optical coupling agent. These compounds provide increased optical access into underlying tissue by reducing the amount of light scattering at the tissue surface. Exemplary optical coupling agents include glycerol; glucose; propylene glycol; polyethylene glycol; polyethylene glycol; x-ray contrasting agents (Trazograph-60, Trazograph-76, Verografin-60, Verografin-76, and Hypaque-60); proteins (hemoglobin, albumin); and combinations thereof. The optical coupling agents can also be used with additives such as ethanol and water (e.g., ethanol, glycerol and water).
Additional treatment agents may further include desensitizing agents (e.g., sodium citrate and potassium nitrate); gelling agents (e.g., sodium chloride and glycerol), sticky matrix materials (e.g., CARBOPPOL 974 NF); and conventional toothpastes. Materials which stabilize or adjust pH levels within the oral cavity may also be added as a treatment agent.
The oral appliance of the present invention can be used for a variety of photodynamic and phototherapeutic treatments in and around the oral cavity. These treatments are based on several biophysical phenomena that result from delivering light energy in the range of about 280 to 3000 nm with power densities in the range of about 1 to 10000 mW/cm2 and are collectively referred to as biostimulation. In a preferred embodiment, biostimulation is effected with an energy flux in the range of about 1 J/cm2 to 1000 J/cm2, and in an even more preferred embodiment in the range of about 10 J/cm2 to 100 J/cm2.
Biostimulation can include, for example, increase in blood and lymph microcirculation of gingiva, tongue, salivary glands and ducts, tonsils, vocal cords, lips, cheeks, perioral facial skin, and other tissue due to light absorption by endogenous porphyrins, cytochroms, and tissue molecular oxygen. The light absorption can induce photo stimulated nitric oxide (NO) which causes dilatation of blood and/or lymph vessels and can also induce Ca2+ storage in cell mitochondria and activation of Ca2+-dependent ATPase in vascular smooth muscle cells which causes photo attenuated sympathetic vasomotor nerve activity. These processes activate a tissue drainage function; endothelium cells and endothelial leukocytes proliferative potency; and the formation of a new capillary net that helps regeneration of oral cavity epithelium, gingival tissue, neural tissue, skin collagen, and other tissue. In addition, the combined action of light therapy with heating can also cause activation of blood and lymph microcirculation of above mentioned tissues and glands.
Other effects include activation of blood microcirculation in tooth pulp due to light concentration in the tooth pulp caused by waveguide light propagation through enamel and dentin, and a corresponding increase in calcium ion flux from pulp to enamel through the protein matrix, which assists calcium ions to fill vacancies in the hydroxyapatite structure.
Biostimulation can also include an increase in local (oral and surrounding tissues) macrophage activity and fibroblast, osteoblast, and odontoblast proliferation. This can result in epithelium, collagen, nerve tissue, and hard tooth tissue regeneration. An additional important benefit can also be the killing of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This effect is induced by light action on endogenous porphyrins, molecular oxygen, incorporated exogenous dyes, mineral photosensitizers, and/or mineral photocatalysts.
Another desirable effect is the normalization of oral cavity pH caused by bacteria activity reduction and oral lesions (stomatitis) healing which leads to decrease in oral tissue swelling and in osmotic pressure.
The systemic beneficial (biostimulation) effect can also provide improved immunocompetence via blood and lymph irradiation. In particular, biostimulation can cause light improved immunocompetence of blood and lymph macrophages, which produce superoxide and nitric oxide; erythrocyte membrane elasticity; and lymphocyte proliferation activity. Other whole body effects can include light-induced control of human circadian rhythms.
The oral appliances of the present invention can be used for a variety of other therapeutic treatments which include directly radiating areas of the oral cavity with optical radiation. Both the light emitting toothbrush and the light emitting mouthpiece can be used to radiate hard and/or soft tissue in the oral cavity with or without additional treatment steps such as heating, vibrating, and applying treatment agents such as chromophores and optical coupling agents.
In one embodiment the light emitting toothbrush and/or the light emitting mouthpiece can be used to treat dental problems such as gum bleeding, tooth hypersensitivity, tooth pain, bone problems, enamel degeneration, caries, root canal inflammation, and periodontal problems by radiating hard and/or soft oral tissue. The therapy can include directly radiating the problem area, and in some cases using heat or chromophores to assist with treatment.
As a further feature of the invention, the oral appliances can use multiple distinct wavelength bands as part of the therapy because multiple bands can provide, in some circumstances, a greater overall effectiveness. For example, while blue light is very effective at porphyrin excitation, the penetration depth of blue light is not high due to blood absorption and light scattering by biological tissue. By combining blue light with other wavelength bands, such as green and red which can more easily penetrate tissue, but which have less of a porphyrin exciting effect, the overall treatment can be made more effective. Multiple wavelength bands can also be used to excite different substances and produce biostimulation from several sources. In one embodiment, blue and green light can be used to stimulate porphyrins (400-430 nm) while redlight (e.g., 630 nm) and/or NIR (e.g., 1060 nm or 1268 nm) can be used to photoactivate molecular oxygen. In some cases, this results in a more effective overall treatment by relying on several therapeutic treatments providing a synergistic effect.
The oral appliances of the present invention also have an advantage because they can be used repeatedly at a low dose. Unlike high powered treatments which are performed a minimal number of times, the present invention can be used as part of the usual personal care regimen. The result is an overall dose which is effective to provide treatment, but which does not require the time and expense of visiting a doctor or dentist.
Therefore, the phototherapies provided by the oral appliances of the present invention can provide recovery and/or prophylaxes from a number of abnormalities and diseases. More specifically, the term “phototherapy” as used herein is intended to encompass both the treatment of abnormalities and also improvement of the user's physiology. Such beneficial improvements can further encompass both health and cosmetic improvements, as discussed below:
Dental
Reduction of gum bleeding. Gum bleeding is mostly caused by a poor proliferation of epithelial cells and other connective tissues. The oral appliances of the present invention can provide light irradiation and soft heating to activate increased fibroblast proliferation, causing regeneration of epithelium, collagen, and other connective tissue that helps stop gum bleeding. Light acceptors include endogenous porphyrins, cytochromes, and molecular oxygen and therefore irradiation of oral mucus and underlining tissue at power density of 1-1000 mW/cm2 and daily doses of 0.06-30 J/cm2 at the wavelengths corresponding to porphyrins, cytochromes, and molecular oxygen are preferred. Blue light (400-430 nm) is very effective for porphyrin excitation; green light (540-580 nm) and red light (600-650 nm) are also capable of activating porphyrins. In particular, coproporphyrins can be excited at the wavelengths: 402±20 (extinction at maximum≈480), 4950±20, 540±30 (extinction at maximum≈17), 580±30 (extinction at maximum≈6), 623±20 nm; and cytochroms: cytogem (the prosthetic group of cytochromoxidase) at 414±20 (extinction at maximum≈70), 439±20 (extinction at maximum≈117), 446±20 (extinction at maximum≈10), 534±20 (extinction at maximum≈11), 598±20 (extinction at maximum≈16), 635±20 nm (extinction at maximum≈9), and cytoporphyrin at 415±20 (extinction at maximum≈160), 520±20 (extinction at maximum≈9), 560±20 (extinction≈21), 580±20 (extinction at maximum≈11), 617±20, 646±20 nm (extinction at maximum≈1)). Cytoporphyrin, which is found in bacteria, is very photosensitive. Protoporphyrin IX contained in bacteria and fungi can be excited at the wavelengths: 410±20 (extinction at maximum≈270), 504±20 (extinction at maximum≈15), 556±20 (extinction at maximum≈15), 600±20 (extinction at maximum≈6), 631±20 nm (extinction at maximum≈5)
Molecular oxygen can be photoactivated at the wavelengths 580±20, 630±20, 760±20, 1060±20, and 1268±20 nm. Moderate hyperthermia provided by a heater up to 43° C. during a tooth cleaning procedure of 0.5-3 min in duration is also desirable to provide a synergetic effect on blood and lymph microcirculation.
Reduction of tooth hypersensitivity. Tooth sensitivity results mostly from the increased movement of fluid through the dentinal tubes toward nerve endings in the tooth due to osmotic pressure induced by drink and/or saliva components. Tooth hypersensitivity depends on enamel porosity caused by temporal or permanent enamel demineralization induced by a low value of the oral liquid pH. At more acidic pH of the oral liquid (4.0-5.0), the enamel permeability increases 3-4-fold. Therefore, the process of enamel light-induced remineralization will assist in the reduction of tooth hypersensitivity. Bacteria killing will also lead to reduction of tooth hypersensitivity due to pH normalization and less gingival swelling and less osmotic pressure applied to hypersensitive tooth compounds. Therefore, irradiation of a tooth surface at a power density of 1-1000 mW/cm2 and a daily dose of 0.06-30 J/cm2 at wavelengths corresponding to porphyrins, cytochromes, and molecular oxygen are preferred. Blue light (400-430 nm) is very effective for bacterial porphyrin excitation; green light (530-580 nm) and red light (600-700 nm) are also capable of activating porphyrins in bacteria and killing them via radical generation. Green (540-580 nm) and red (600-650 nm) light are capable of activating tooth pulp porphyrins and increasing blood and lymph microcirculation in pulp, with a corresponding increase in calcium ion flux from pulp to enamel through the protein matrix, which assists calcium ions to fill vacancies in hydroxyapatite structure. Molecular oxygen dissolved in tissues and tooth pulp can be photoactivated at the wavelengths 580±20, 630±20, 760±20, 1060±20, and 1268±20 nm. Moderate hyperthermia provided by a heater can also provide a synergetic effect on blood and lymph microcirculation. More effective bacteria killing can be accomplished by exogenous chromophore application and irradiation at wavelengths corresponding to the chromophore; in particular, for Methylene Blue (MB) dye at concentration of 0.01-1.0%, irradiation at 660±10 nm and power densities 5-1000 mW/cm2; or for Indocyanine Green (ICG) dye at concentration of 0.01-1.0%, irradiation at 805±5 nm and power densities 5-1000 mW/cm2.
Pain reduction in teeth is mostly due to improved pulpal blood and lymph microcirculation caused by dilatation of blood and/or lymph vessels induced by photo stimulated NO action on endothelial cells of vessel wall and by photo attenuated sympathetic vasomotor nerves activity. Direct light induced inhibition of nerve activity is also possible. Therefore, irradiation of a tooth surface at a power density of 1-1000 mW/cm2 and a daily dose of 0.06-30 J/cm2 at the wavelengths corresponding to porphyrins, cytochromes, and molecular oxygen are needed. Green (530-580 nm) and red light (600-650 nm) are capable of activating tooth pulp porphyrins and increasing blood and lymph microcirculation in pulp. Molecular oxygen dissolved in tissues and tooth pulp can be photoactivated at the wavelengths 580±20, 630±20, 760±20, 1060±20, and 1268±20 nm. Moderate hyperthermia provided by an electrical heater (or LED radiation heating) up to 43° C. during a tooth cleaning procedure of 0.5-3 min in duration is desirable to get a synergetic effect on blood and lymph microcirculation.
Periodontal and bone regeneration and implant connection are mostly caused by increase in macrophage activity, in fibroblast, osteoblast, and odontoblast proliferation, induced by light and/or combined light and thermal action. Increased blood and lymph microcirculation also improves tissue growing and regeneration. Irradiation of teeth and periodontal tissue at power density of 1-1000 mW/cm2 and daily dose of 0.06-30 J/cm2 at the wavelengths corresponding to porphyrins, cytochromes, and molecular oxygen will produce radicals responsible for increased macrophage activity, increased fibroblast, osteoblast, and odontoblast proliferation, and increased blood and lymph microcirculation. Blue light (400-430 nm) is very effective for porphyrin excitation; green light (530-580 nm) and red light (600-650 nm) are also capable of activating porphyrins. Green (530-580 nm) and red light (600-650 nm) are capable of activating tooth pulp porphyrins. Molecular oxygen can be photoactivated at the wavelengths 580±20, 630±20, 760±20, 1060±20, and 1268±20 nm. Moderate hyperthermia provided by a special heater (or LED current heating) up to 43° C. during a tooth cleaning procedure of 0.5-3 min in duration is desirable to obtain a synergetic effect in macrophage activity, in fibroblast, osteoblast, and odontoblast proliferation, and increased blood and lymph microcirculation.
Remineralization of enamel. Enamel demineralization is induced mostly by a low value of the oral liquid pH. Light and soft heating activates blood and lymph microcirculation of gingiva and therefore increases calcium ion flux from saliva to enamel through the protein matrix; ions of calcium fill vacancies in hydroxyapatite structure. Bacteria killing leads to pH normalization and therefore prevents enamel demineralization. Therefore, irradiation of a tooth surface at a power density of 1-1000 mW/cm2 and a daily dose of 0.06-30 J/cm2 at the wavelengths corresponding to porphyrins, cytochromes, and molecular oxygen are needed. Blue light (400-430 nm) is very effective for bacterial porphyrin excitation; green light (530-580 nm) and red light (600-650 nm) are also capable of activating porphyrins in bacteria and killing them via radical generation. Green (530-580 nm) and red light (600-650 nm) are capable of activating tooth pulp porphyrins and increasing blood and lymph microcirculation in pulp and a corresponding increase in calcium ion flux from pulp to enamel through the protein matrix, which assists calcium ions to fill vacancies in hydroxyapatite structure. Molecular oxygen dissolved in tissues and tooth pulp can be photoactivated at the wavelengths 580±20, 630±20, 760±20, 1060±20, and 1268±20 nm. Moderate hyperthermia provided by a special heater (or LED current heating) up to 43° C. during a tooth cleaning procedure of 0.5-3 min in duration is desirable to get a synergetic effect on blood and lymph microcirculation. Sonophoresis and/or electrophoresis will assist in increasing blood and lymph flow, and in smoother distribution of Ca and P elements within hard tooth tissue. More effective bacteria killing (if needed) can be achieved by exogenous chromophore application and irradiation at wavelengths corresponding to the chromophore; in particular, for Methylene Blue (MB) dye at concentration of 0.01-1.0%, irradiation at 660±10 nm and power densities 5-100 mW/cm2; or for Indocyanine Green (ICG) dye at concentration of 0.01-1.0%, irradiation at 805±5 nm and power densities 5-100 mW/cm2.
Prevention of caries, which is usually caused mostly by Streptococcus mutants bacteria. Thus, bacteria killing via photodynamic effect induced by light and endogenous porphyrins, and/or cytochroms, and/or molecular oxygen, and/or exogenous dyes, and/or mineral photosensitizers, and/or mineral photocatalysts incorporated in the oral cavity, is a technique for caries prevention and healing. Light and thermal induced blood and lymph microcirculation in pulp and gingiva and increased calcium flux from saliva to enamel also prevents caries. Therefore, irradiation of a tooth surface at a power density of 1-1000 mW/cm2 and a daily dose of 0.06-30 J/cm2 at the wavelengths corresponding to porphyrins, cytochromes, and molecular oxygen are needed. Blue light (400-430 nm) is very effective for bacterial porphyrin excitation; green light (530-580 nm) and red light (600-650 nm) are also capable of activating porphyrins in bacteria and killing them via radical generation. Green (540-580 nm) and red light (600-650 nm) are capable of activating tooth pulp porphyrins and increasing blood and lymph microcirculation in pulp and a corresponding increase in calcium ion flux from pulp to enamel through the protein matrix, which assists calcium ions to fill vacancies in hydroxyapatite structure. Molecular oxygen dissolved in tissues and tooth pulp can be photoactivated at the wavelengths 580±20, 630±20, 760±20, 1060±20, and 1268±20 nm. Moderate hyperthermia provided by a special heater (or LED current heating) up to 43° C. during a tooth cleaning procedure of 0.5-3 min in duration is desirable to get a synergetic effect on blood and lymph microcirculation. Sonophoresis, and/or electrophoresis will assist in increasing blood and lymph flow, and in smoother distribution of Ca and P elements within hard tooth tissue. More effective bacteria killing (if needed) can be achieved by exogenous chromophore application and irradiation at wavelengths corresponding to the chromophore; in particular, for Methylene Blue (MB) dye at concentration of 0.01-1.0%, irradiation at 660±10 nm and power densities 5-100 mW/cm2; or for Indocyanine Green (ICG) dye at concentration of 0.01-1.0%, irradiation at 805±5 nm and power densities 5-100 mW/cm2. Very effective and nonspecific singlet oxygen and other radical production can be provided at broadband (300-900 nm) excitation of carbon nanoparticles or nanotubes, like carbon black, fullerene, or tubulene, and/or at application of a photocatalyst, like TiO2 nanoparticles, in mixture with MB and/or ICG dyes.
Root canal sterilization and inflammation prevention also can be realized by photodynamic effect induced by light and endogenous porphyrins, in particular Protoporphyrin IX, and/or molecular oxygen, and/or exogenous dyes incorporated in tooth pulp via local blood and lymph microcirculation. Due to waveguide propagation, light is concentrated in the tooth pulp, and therefore enhances photodynamic efficiency and activates pulp blood and lymph microcirculation. Light also improves immunocompetence of macrophages, which produce SO and NO responsible for host defense against microorganisms. Therefore, irradiation of a tooth surface at a power density of 1-1000 mW/cm2 and a daily dose of 0.06-30 J/cm2 at the wavelengths corresponding to porphyrins, cytochromes, and molecular oxygen are needed. Green (540-580 nm) and red (600-650 nm) light are capable of activating tooth pulp porphyrins to produce radicals for bacteria killing, improvement of macrophage immunocompetence, and increased blood and lymph microcirculation in pulp. Molecular oxygen dissolved in tissues and tooth pulp can be photoactivated at the wavelengths 580±20, 630±20, 760±20, 1060±20, and 1268±20 nm. Moderate hyperthermia provided by a special heater (or LED current heating) up to 43° C. during a tooth cleaning procedure of 0.5-3 min in duration is desirable to get a synergetic effect on blood and lymph microcirculation. Sonophoresis and/or electrophoresis will assist in increase of blood and lymph flow. The light which penetrates to the root canal and apex area can prevent or decrease inflammation associated with bacteria growth.
Periodontal problem prevention and healing is also due to the lethal effect of light on bacteria via excitation of endogenous porphyrins, and/or molecular oxygen, and/or exogenous dyes, and/or mineral photosensitizers, and/or mineral photocatalysts incorporated in the periodontal lesions via production of active (singlet) oxygen and other radicals. Light also improves immunocompetence of macrophages, which produce SO and NO responsible for host defense against microorganisms. Light and soft heating activate blood and lymph microcirculation and therefore activate endotheliocytes proliferative potency and formation of new capillary net that helps to keep gingiva attached to the teeth. Therefore, light power densities, daily doses, and wavelengths are the same as used for prevention of caries (see, Prevention of caries).
Soft Tissue Treatments:
Another advantage of the oral appliances of the present invention is that they allow directional radiating. In some cases discussed below it is desirable to optically radiate primarily soft tissue such as tongue tissue, nerve tissue, throat tissue, vascular tissue, hair follicles, sebaceous follicles, sebaceous glands, facial subcutaneous fat, facial muscular tissue, lymph systems, collagen, pigmented spots, and/or other tissue including other facial tissue and other oral tissue. The oral appliances allow for directing radiation toward these tissue areas by choosing the direction in which the optical radiation is emitted. For example, to radiate facial tissue, the optical radiation source can be positioned on the outer perimeter of a light emitting toothbrush or a light emitting mouthpiece. Unlike conventional toothbrushes which only radiate in the direction of the bristle (toward the hard tissue of the teeth), the radiation provided by these appliances can be directed such that the emitted radiation penetrates the mucosal lining of the oral cavity to deliver phototherapy to a region within the user's soft facial tissue.
In addition, the oral appliances of the present invention allow certain conditions, which had in the past been treated from outside the oral cavity, to be treated by employing an optical radiation source from within the oral cavity. For example, instead of treating acne by radiating the effected skin, the oral appliances can directly radiate from within the oral cavity out toward the target tissue. This is advantageous because the tissue within the oral cavity is easier to penetrate due to the limited amount of collagen contained in the tissue walls of the oral cavity. As a result, optical energy more easily penetrates tissue to provide treatment at a lower level of energy and reduce the risk of tissue damage. Preferable range of wavelength for this type of treatment is in the range of about 280 nm to 1400 nm and even more preferably in the range of about 590 nm-1300 nm.
Improvement of oral mucus inflammatory disease (stomatitis—superficial erosions and fissuring at the angle of the mouth, an acute infection of the oral mucosa with vesicle formation, due to the herpes simplex virus, stomatitis with shallow ulcers on the cheeks, tongue, and lips) due to lethal effect of light on viruses and bacteria via excitation of endogenous porphyrins, and/or molecular oxygen, and/or exogenous dyes, and/or mineral photosensitizers, and/or mineral photocatalysts incorporated in the oral mucus lesions via production of active (singlet) oxygen and other radicals. Light also improves immunocompetence of macrophages, which produce SO and NO responsible for host defense against microorganisms. Light and soft heating activate blood and lymph microcirculation and therefore activate epithelial cell proliferative potency. Light power densities, daily doses, and wavelengths are the same as used for prevention of caries (see, Prevention of caries).
Tongue diseases (black tongue—the presence of a brown fur-like patch on the dorsum of the tongue, composed of hypertrophied filiform papillae with microorganisms and some pigment; coated tongue—one covered with a whitish or yellowish layer consisting of desquamated epithelium, debris, bacteria, fungi, etc.) improvement due to lethal effect of light on microorganisms via excitation of endogenous porphyrins, and/or molecular oxygen, and/or exogenous dyes, and/or mineral photosensitizers, and/or mineral photocatalysts incorporated in the tongue lesions via production of active (singlet) oxygen and other radicals. Light also improves immunocompetence of macrophages, which produce SO and NO responsible for host defense against microorganisms. Light and soft heating activate blood and lymph microcirculation and therefore activate epithelial cell proliferative potency. Llight power densities, daily doses, and wavelengths are the same as used for prevention of caries (see, Prevention of caries).
Recovery from inflammation of salivary glands and small sublingual ducts, which open into the mouth on the sublingual fold (ducts of Rivinus). The same mechanisms of recovery as for stomatitis and tongue lesions are expected. Light power densities, daily doses, and wavelengths are the same as used for prevention of caries (see, Prevention of caries).
Pain reduction in oral tissue results mostly from improved blood and lymph microcirculation caused by dilatation of blood and/or lymph vessels induced by photo stimulated NO action on endothelial cells of vessel wall and by photo attenuated sympathetic vasomotor nerves activity. Direct light induced inhibition of nerve activity is also possible. Light power densities, daily doses, and wavelengths are the same as used for dental pain reduction (see, Pain reduction in teeth).
Improvement of sore throat, angina, acute or chronic tonsillitis, etc. caused mostly by growth of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria (tonsillitis inflammation of tonsils, especially the palatine tonsils; follicular tonsillitis, tonsillitis especially affecting the crypts; parenchymatous tonsillitis; acute tonsillitis, that affecting whole substance of the tonsil; pustular tonsillitis, a variety characterized by formation of pustules). Such improvement is due to lethal effect of light on bacteria via excitation of endogenous porphyrins, and/or molecular oxygen, and/or exogenous dyes, and/or mineral photosensitizers, and/or mineral photocatalysts incorporated in tonsil lesions via production of active (singlet) oxygen and other radicals. Light also improves immunocompetence of macrophages, which produce SO and NO responsible for host defense against microorganisms. Light and soft heating activate blood and lymph microcirculation and therefore activate epithelial cell proliferative potency. Light power densities, daily doses, and wavelengths are the same as used for prevention of caries (see, Dental, 6). ALA related treatment with low concentration of ALA, an inductor of porphyrins in proliferating cells, at 620-640 nm excitation can be used for suppression of abnormal proliferation or oral mucous epithelial cells, glands growing, microbial colonies within oral tissues (gingival, glands, tongue, throat, etc). In particular, treatment of pharyngomycosis can be provided.
Sinusitis caused mostly by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. The same mechanisms of recovery as for angina and tonsillitis. Light power densities, daily doses, and wavelengths are the same as used for prevention of caries (see, Prevention of caries).
Recovery from laryngitis and other inflammations of the vocal cords. The same mechanisms of recovery as for angina, tonsilities, and sinusities. Light power densities, daily doses, and wavelengths are the same as used for prevention of caries (see, Prevention of caries).
Improvement of skin texture, elasticity, as well as wrinkle reduction (i.e., skin rejuvenation) around lips and cheeks via increased macrophage and fibroblast proliferation activities and new collagen production induced by light and/or combined light and thermal action. Increased blood and lymph microcirculation also improves tissue growth and regeneration. Light power densities, daily doses, and wavelengths are the same as used for periodontal and bone regeneration and implant connection (see, Periodontal and bone regeneration and implant connection).
Improvement of acne. Due to high penetration depth of red light, it is possible to provide needed irradiation dose to sebaceous glands through cheek tissues for a lethal light effect on acne causing bacteria concentrated within the sebaceous glands. The light excitation of bacteria porphyrins will generate active (singlet) oxygen and other radicals which selectively kill these bacteria. Therefore, irradiation of cheeks inside the oral cavity at a power density of 1-1000 mW/cm2 and a daily dose of 0.06-30 J/cm2 at the wavelengths corresponding to bacterial porphyrins is desirable. Green (530-580 nm) and red light (600-650 nm) can penetrate through cheek tissue and activate acne bacterial porphyrins to produce radicals which kill bacteria. The acne treatment efficiency can be enhanced by application of an appropriate photosensitizer (e.g., methylene blue, indocyanine green, ALA, etc) to the acne lesion in combination with utilizing red and/or NIR radiation.
Hair growth control can be provided by normalization of blood and lymph microcirculation within hair follicles by light, and/or combined light and thermal action. Irradiation of oral cavity tissues at a power density of 1-1000 mW/cm2 and a daily dose of 0.06-30 J/cm2 at the wavelengths corresponding to porphyrins, cytochromes, and molecular oxygen will produce radicals responsible for vessel dilatation and corresponding increase of blood and lymph microcirculation. Green (530-580 nm) and red light (600-650 nm) penetrate through cheek tissue and activate porphyrins and cytochromes. Molecular oxygen can be photoactivated at the wavelengths 580±20, 630±20, 760±20, 1060±20, and 1268±20 nm. Moderate hyperthermia provided by a special heater (or LED current heating) up to 43° C. during a tooth cleaning procedure of 0.5-3 min in duration is desirable to get a synergetic effect in increase of blood and lymph microcirculation. Hair growth control can, for example, includes hair removal or reduction by selective destruction of multiple hair follicles using a single or time-dependent sequence of radiation.
Vascular improvement can be associated with increased macrophage and fibroblast proliferation activities and new collagen and epithelium production induced by light and/or combined light and thermal action. Irradiation of oral cavity tissues at a power density of 1-1000 mW/cm2 and a daily dose of 0.06-30 J/cm2 at the wavelengths corresponding to porphyrins, cytochromes, and molecular oxygen will produce radicals responsible for increase in macrophage activity, fibroblast proliferation, and collagen growth. Green (530-580 nm) and red light (600-650 nm) penetrate through cheek tissue and activate tissue porphyrins and cytochroms. Molecular oxygen can be photoactivated at the wavelengths 580±20, 630±20, 760±20, 1060±20, and 1268±20 nm. Moderate hyperthermia provided by a special heater (or LED current heating) up to 43° C. during a procedure of 0.5-3 min in duration is desirable to get a synergetic effect in macrophage activity, fibroblast proliferation, and collagen growth.
Perioral dermatitis treatment is due to light improved immunocompetence of macrophages, and light activated blood and lymph microcirculation caused epidermal cell proliferative potency. Irradiation of oral cavity tissue at a power density of 1-1000 mW/cm2 and a daily dose of 0.06-30 J/cm2 at the wavelengths corresponding to porphyrins, cytochromes, and molecular oxygen will produce radicals responsible for increased macrophage activity and increased blood and lymph microcirculation. Green (530-580 nm) and red light (600-650 nm) penetrate through cheek tissue and activate porphyrins and cytochroms. Molecular oxygen can be photoactivated at the wavelengths 580±20, 630±20, 760±20, 1060±20, and 1268±20 nm. Moderate hyperthermia provided by a special heater (or LED current heating) up to 43° C. during a procedure of 0.5-3 min in duration is desirable to get a synergetic effect in macrophage activity and increase of blood and lymph microcirculation.
Repair of damaged trigeminal facial nerve peripheral receptors in the oral cavity tissues, including gingiva, teeth, lips, and tongue, and other nerves controlling oral tissue functioning, can be caused by Ca2+ storage in neural cell mitochondria and followed activation of Ca2+-dependent ATPase in these cells. Increase of blood and lymph microcirculation induced by light and/or combined light and thermal action also should be important for neural tissue regeneration. Light power densities, daily doses, and wavelengths are the same as used for perioral dermatitis treatment (see, perioral facial skin).
Pain reduction in oral tissue results mostly from improved blood and lymph microcirculation caused by dilatation of blood and/or lymph vessels induced by photo stimulated NO action on endothelial cells of vessel wall and by photo attenuated sympathetic vasomotor nerve activity. Direct light induced inhibition of nerve activity is also possible. The following nerves may be involved in the process: buccal nerve which innervate oral mucosa and cheek skin at the mouth nook; inferior and superior alveolar nerves which innervate teeth, periosteum and gingiva; glossopharyngeal, hypoglossal, and lingual nerves, which innervate gullet, tongue and chin-tongue muscles, and oral cavity bottom mucosa; inferior, recurrens, and superior laryngeal nerves which innervates gullet muscles and mucosa; masseteric nerve which innervates masticatory muscle. Light power densities, daily doses, and wavelengths are the same as used for dental pain reduction (see, Pain reduction in teeth).
Beneficial influence on human organism immunocompetence, in particular by light improved immunocompetence of blood and lymph macrophages, which produce superoxide and nitric oxide; erythrocytes membrane elasticity and lymphocyte proliferation activity. Light acceptors are endogenous porphyrins, cytochroms, and molecular oxygen. Therefore, irradiation of oral mucus and underlying tissue, well supplied by blood vessels, should be at power density of 1-1000 mW/cm2, daily doses of 0.06-30 J/cm2 and at the wavelengths corresponding to porphyrins, cytochromes, and molecular oxygen. Blue light (400-430 nm) is very effective for porphyrins excitation; green light (530-580 nm) and red light (600-650 nm) are also capable to activate porphyrins. In particular, coproporphyrins can be excited at the wavelengths: 402±20 (extinction at maximum≈480), 495±20, 540±30 (extinction at maximum≈17), 580±30 (extinction at maximum≈6), 623±20 nm; and cytochroms: cytogem at 414±20 (extinction at maximum≈70), 430±20 (extinction at maximum≈117), 446±20 (extinction maximum≈10), 534±20 (extinction at maximum≈11), 598±20 (extinction at maximum≈16), 635±20 nm (extinction at maximum≈9), and cytoporphyrin (porphyrin a) at 415±20 (extinction at maximum≈160), 520±20 (extinction at maximum≈9), 560±20 (extinction≈21), 580±20 (extinction at maximum≈11), 617±20, 646±20 nm (extinction at maximum≈1). Protoporphyrin IX can be excited at the wavelengths: 410±20 (extinction at maximum≈270), 504±20 (extinction at maximum≈15), 556±20 (extinction at maximum≈15), 600±20 (extinction at maximum≈6), 631±20 nm (extinction at maximum≈5) Molecular oxygen can be photoactivated at the wavelengths 580±20, 630±20, 760±20, 1060±20, and 1268±20 nm.
Control of circadian rhythms. Blue light at 470 nm affects the circadian rhythms of humans and might be applicable to anyone who has biological rhythms disorder. The possible light acceptors are blood bilirubin and/or coproporphyrins. Light irradiation of oral mucus and underlining tissue, well supplied by blood vessels, is desirably at power density of 1-1000 mW/cm2, one-day dose of 0.06-30 J/cm2 and wavelengths corresponding to bilirubin absorption (455±20 nm) and/or Coproporphyrins I and III absorption (402±20, 470±20, 540±30, 580±30, 623±20 nm). In some embodiments of the invention, a light-emitting toothbrush is provided that can be utilized to irradiate the user's oral cavity in the morning with radiation having a selected wavelength, e.g., blue light (or other biostimulating light), and to irradiate the oral cavity in the evening with radiation having another wavelength, e.g., red light (or light having a sedative effect), so as to help regulate the user's circadian cycle.
Controllable destruction of metabolic components of blood, in particular bilirubin, appearing in the blood stream due to normal or pathological decay of erythrocytes, allows for prevention of such diseases as bilirubinemia. Light irradiation of oral mucus and underlining tissue, well supplied by blood vessels at 450-460 nm with power density of 1-1000 mW/cm2 and one-day dose of 0.06-30 J/cm2 is preferable.
Killing viruses within the blood microcirculatory system via photodynamic effect by topical application (e.g., to oral mucous) or intravenous injection of an appropriate photodynamic agent like ALA, hematoporphyrin, etc. Light irradiation of oral mucus and underlining tissue, well supplied by blood vessels, for this treatment should be preferably at a power density of 1-1000 mW/cm2, one-day dose of 0.06-30 J/cm2 and wavelengths corresponding to absorption spectra of the photodynamic agent which is used. For ALA application, these wavelengths correspond to absorption bands of Protoporphyrin IX (409±20, 503±20, 538±20, 555±20, 576±20, 600±20, 632±20 nm); while for Hematoporphyrin derivatives (HPD) the wavelength is 620±20 nm.
Diseases of the lip can also be treated light and/or combined light and thermal action. Irradiation of oral cavity tissues at a power density of 1-1000 mW/cm2 and a daily dose of 0.06-30 J/cm2 at the wavelengths corresponding to porphyrins, cytochromes, and molecular oxygen will produce radicals responsible for increase in macrophage activity, fibroblast proliferation, and collagen growth. Green (530-580 nm) and red light (600-650 nm) penetrate through cheek tissue and activate tissue porphyrins and cytochroms. Molecular oxygen can be photoactivated at the wavelengths 580±20, 630±20, 760±20, 1060±20, and 1268±20 nm. Moderate hyperthermia provided by a special heater (or LED current heating) up to 43° C. during a procedure of 0.5-3 min in duration is desirable to get a synergetic effect in macrophage activity, fibroblast proliferation, and collagen growth.
Drug delivery. Radiating soft tissue within the oral cavity, and particularly the area under the tongue, can improve the efficiency of drug delivery into the blood stream. The optical radiation creates NO species which in turn causes blood vessel to dilate and can thereby increase the absorption rate and efficiency of pharmaceutical agents placed on the tissue surface. In one embodiment a drug is placed under the tongue and optical radiation is directed toward the adjacent soft tissue. Another more complex drug delivery involves in situ activation of chemical therapeutic components, which in an inactive state can readily diffuse into the oral cavity tissue, by radiation. For example, such agents in an inactive form can be administered to a patient's oral cavity tissue followed by activation via irradiation at a selected wavelength.
Another use for the oral appliances of the present invention is tooth whitening and brightening. All current tooth whitening technologies are based on chemical bleaching effects of peroxides. Tooth color is defined by its structure and optical properties of acquired pellicle, enamel, dentin. All these components are generally responsible for presenting a stained appearance.
Use of optical radiation from the oral appliances of the present invention can provide effective tooth whitening and brightening. An additional benefit from using a light emitting toothbrush can be concurrent prophylaxis and/or treatment in the user's home of periodontal disease, caries and other oral diseases, which are based mostly on effective bacteria killing and lesion healing.
The oral appliance can provide optical teeth whitening and brightening based on the following exemplary mechanisms of color centers bleaching in enamel and dentin; 1) short wavelength (300-500 nm) direct photobleaching; 2) wavelengths in the range 960±20 nm, and/or 1200-12000 nm, more preferably 1450±150 nm, and/or 1890±250 nm and/or 2400-3200 nm; 9000-12000 nm are used for photo thermal bleaching; and 3) direct photo and photochemical production of singlet oxygen within enamel and dentin using light absorption by oxygen in tissue at 580±20, 630±20, 760±20, 1060±20, and 1268±20 nm, and/or light absorption at selective wavelengths in the range 300-900 nm corresponding to absorption bands of a photosensitizer due to a photodynamic effect upon endogenous and/or externally applied photosensitizers and/or photocatalysts (FDA approved dyes, and/or carbon black (graft copolymers), fullerenes (carbon nanoparticles), and/or tubulenes (carbon nanotubes), and/or TiO2 nanoparticles).
In another embodiment, the optical appliance of the present invention is used to irradiate teeth so as to reduce staining within the dentine and the enamel; the teeth are thereby whitened and brightened. In one embodiment, teeth are optically radiated with radiation in the wavelength band between approximately 300 and 1350 nm. The oral appliance can also include a mechanical vibrator for better cleaning, and/or electrodes for electrophoresis of the photosensitizer. In addition, a photodetector and a microchip for detection of reflected and/or fluorescent light from enamel can be used to monitor tooth color.
Heating with electrical heaters or with radiation in the wavelength range above about 800 nm to about 100000 nm (100 microns) can be used to facilitate whitening and brightening. The use of optical radiation is particularly advantageous because it allow for deep, selective heating. By choosing an appropriate wavelength, the tooth can be heated to a predetermined depth and color centers can be destroyed and removed from enamel due to thermally induce bleaching and diffusion. The stain will diffuse out of the tooth and can be dissolved in saliva or saline (if present). Prefered wavelength ranges include 960±20 nm, and/or 1200-100000 nm; more preferably 1450±150 nm, and/or 1890±250 nm and/or 2400-3200 nm.
The oral appliances of the present invention can also directly photobleach teeth using only intrinsic light absorbers. Alternatively, the exogenous chromophores discussed above can be use to improve the effectiveness of tooth whitening and brightening. The chromophores (and other treatment agents) can be applied to teeth and then the teeth irradiated.
Direct experimental modeling has been done of the efficiency of MB and red light irradiation for bleaching of foreign pigments caused by tea, coffee, or red wine action. As a suitable model, acrylic plastic material used for denture prosthesis was chosen. Slabs of 3 mm in thickness were used. Staining of slabs was performed via dropping of tea, coffee, or red wine, and followed natural drying of the sample for 1-2 hours. It was important for photobleaching that the sample should be not be absolutely dry, some wetness should remain.
A simpler model providing a quick preparation period was based on usage of a high quality white paper. For such model, a few drops of a solution of tea, coffee, or red wine for a few minutes of application were enough. After preparation of the described experimental models of stained tooth, photobleaching experiments were done. First, the stained samples were impregnated by a 1% MB dye water solution during a few minutes. The back reflectance spectra of such samples were measured in the range from 400 to 800 nm using a fiber optic CCD grating spectrometer LESA-7. These spectra served as a baseline for photobleached samples. Photobleached samples were received at irradiation during 10 min by a He—Ne laser (633 nm) providing power density of 20 mW/cm2.
Results for coffee stains are shown in
The differential apparent optical density spectra presented in
It should be noted that for all tested food pigments (coffee, tea, and red wine) similar results were received. The white paper model also works well and can be recommended for the fast testing of photosensitizer activity to bleach a target stain of different origin.
In another embodiment, dentine stains can be selectively photobleached by direct optical radiation within the absorption range of the stain. Unlike conventional tooth whitening, the present invention allows a user to use select wavelength ranges centered around the absorption spectrum of the stain, which can be in a range of about 280 to about 800 nm. The result is whitening and brightening with a very specific wavelength band.
With reference to
In another aspect of the invention, biostimulating and/or dental phototherapies are disclosed for conditions that are normally responsive to a known power density of phototherapeutic radiation (1-10 treatments spaced 1-30 days). However, in the present invention a series of temporally spaced treatment sessions are delivered to a patient, where each session provides a power density of therapeutic radiation lower than typical power density needed to treat the condition according to the conventional protocols. The method can comprise the steps of selecting a condition normally responsive to oral application of a known power density of phototherapeutic radiation, and delivering a series of temporally spaced treatment sessions to a patient. Each session provides a power density of therapeutic radiation lower than the typical power density needed to treat the patient condition. The series of temporally spaced treatment sessions can be continued until the patient's condition is ameliorated by a cumulative effect of the series of treatment sessions. The power density applied to the patient's skin surface is between approximately 1 mW/cm2 and approximately 100 W/cm2, and depends at least on the condition being treated and the wavelength of the radiation. Preferably, the energy at the tooth or muscosal surface is between 10 mW/cm2 and 10 W/cm2. The radiation can be applied for a duration of one second to one hour. Energy flux can be in the range of about 1 J/cm2 to 1000 J/cm2, and preferably in the range of about 10 J/cm2 to 100 J/cm2. In many embodiments, an emitting area of an LETM or LEMP can be in a range of about 0.1 to about 100 cm2 and the power delivered is in a range of about 1 mW to about 10 W, and preferably in a range of about 10 mW to about 1 W. This power can be delivered by employing highly efficient light sources, such as those described above, with power supplies that can be as small as a batter, or wall plug power supplies.
A variety of manufacturing techniques can be employed for form a light-emitting appliance according to the teachings of the invention. For example, with reference to
In another embodiment of the light emitting oral appliances disclosed herein, heat transfer elements disposed within the appliance can assist with removal of waste heat. Radiation sources, such as an LED, a laser diode, or a microlamp described above can generate excess heat energy. In some cases, the heat generated by the radiation source is up to 20 times higher than the generated optical energy. To accommodate unwanted waste heat, the light emitting oral appliance can include heat transfer mechanisms that transfer heat from the radiation source to a heat sink.
In one aspect, waste heat is transferred with the use of heat conducting materials. For example, head portion 12 of the light emitting toothbrush can be at least partially formed of a heat conducting material for dissipating heat generated by the radiation source.
One skilled in the art will appreciate that the oral applicator, and specifically a heat transfer element, can include a variety of materials that allow (or promote) heat transfer such as, for example, metals including aluminum, copper or their alloy; ceramic; and composite materials such as plastics having high thermally conductive components, such as carbon fiber. In one embodiment, the light emitting toothbrush or light emitting mouthpiece includes materials adapted to conduct heat from a radiation source to tissue and/or saliva in contact with oral appliance. In one embodiment, the transferred heat can provide additional or enhanced therapeutic effects by gently heating oral tissue, and/or a paste applied to a portion of the oral tissue.
In another aspect of the invention, heat can be transferred along or through the head portion of the light emitting toothbrush to the handle portion and be dissipated into the surrounding environment, e.g., an operator's hand.
With reference to
In another aspect, the light emitting toothbrush can include a pump to assist with heat transfer.
Toothbrush 10 can include the various features of the oral appliances described above including the radiation source. In one exemplary embodiment, the radiation source 18 comprises at least one LED capable of generating an optical power in the range of about 0.1 mW to 10 mW, and the LED emission spectrum is in the range of about 200 nm to 3000 nm.
The body 16 of toothbrush 10 can include a cooling pump 200 (e.g., a screw pump) that can drive a coolant 202 (e.g., a cooling fluid, paste, slurry, etc.) along a fluid path 201 for the transfer of heat from radiation source 18 to another location. To assist with the transfer of waste heat from radiation source 18 to coolant 202, head 12 can also include a heat spreader 203 (e.g., heat exchanger) disposed between, and in thermal contact with, fluid path 201 and radiation source 18. Toothbrush 10 can also include a cooling capacitor 204, a coolant reservoir 205, a motor 206 and shaft 207 for driving the pump, control electronics 208, and a battery 209 for powering the pump.
Cooling pump 200 transfers coolant 202 from coolant reservoir 205 of the toothbrush to radiation source 18. In one embodiment, the coolant travels in a closed loop system and pump 200 pumps the coolant in a loop between coolant reservoir 205 and the radiation source 18 (or a point adjacent to the radiation source). The loop defines a fluid pathway from coolant reservoir 205, through pump 200, to radiation source 18 and back to the coolant reservoir.
To assist with the removal of heat from the closed loop system, the fluid pathway can be in thermal contact with cooling capacitor 204. For example, coolant reservoir 205 can be disposed adjacent to cooling capacitor 204 and adapted to transfer heat to the cooling capacitor. Waste heat then travels from the radiation source, via the cooling fluid, to the cooling capacitor.
Cooling capacitor 204 provides a heat sink that receives and/or distributes waste heat. In one embodiment, the cooling capacitor can include a heat spreader and/or be filled with a phase-change material as discussed above. The phase change material can absorb thermal energy of the coolant by changing its phase (the coolant can provide the heat for a phase change, e.g., melting). Exemplary phase change materials include those materials that change phase at a temperature in the range of about 30° C. and 50° C. The cooling capacitor can alternatively contain thermal storage materials that have a high thermal storage capacity, such as, for example water, fiberglass, a metal(s) or other dense materials. In addition, cooling capacitor 204 can be adapted to distribute heat to handle portion 16 and/or to the environment (e.g., a user's hand).
In one embodiment, the pump is a helical pump that includes a thread 220, which is located on the external surface of shaft 207. The turning movement of thread 220 forces water from coolant reservoir 205 to heat spreader 203 in proximal head 12. During operation, heat produced by light source 18 is conducted to heat spreader 203. The excess heat is transferred from heat spreader 203 to the fluid circulating through fluid pathway 201. The heated fluid then flows into an opening 222 in shaft 207, which can have an inner lumen running along a longitudinal axis from head 12 to handle portion 16. The heated water flows through shaft 207 and is expelled from the interior of shaft 207 through holes 224 that are located adjacent to cooling capacitor 204. At this point, the heated water reverses direction, and flows along cooling capacitor 204 (and associated heat spreader), to more efficiently transfer heat from the fluid to the cooling capacitor 204. The water then flows around the exterior of shaft 207 back into the coolant reservoir 205.
To prevent water from flowing out of the closed cooling system, the cooling system is sealed appropriately, including, for example, with a seal 228 between cooling capacitor 204 and motor 206. In addition, where proximal head 12 detachable, toothbrush 10 can include a reasealable fluid pathway. The junction between 12 head portion and body 16 can also be sealed to prevent the toothbrush from leaking. For example, this can be accomplished by designing a fit between the head and neck portions that snaps together and effectively seals the cooling system.
In an alternative embodiment, cooling pump 200 can operate in an open loop system in which coolant is discarded from the light emitting appliance after one or more uses. For example a coolant can be pumped to the head portion 12 and exit the toothbrush via one or more nozzles (not shown). As the coolant travels through head portion 12 it can absorb waste heat from radiation source 18 and carry the heat into the surrounding environment (e.g., a user's oral cavity). Coolants used with the open loop system can include, for example, biocompatible materials that preferably have a high thermal capacity. In one exemplary embodiment, the coolant can include suspended microcapsules filled with phase-change material. The coolant can additionally or alternatively include an oral treatment agent. For example, the coolant can be toothpaste or a solution containing fluoride. The pump can propel a toothpaste through the nozzles provided the toothbrush head to a treatment area. The speed of the toothpaste delivery can be designed so that the toothpaste heats up to a desired temperature level to provide a comforting sensation and/or to enhance the therapeutic effect of the toothpaste.
The source of coolant in the open loop system can be outside the light emitting toothbrush. For example, cooling pump 200 can draw water into handle portion 16 of the light emitting toothbrush and expel it through head portion 12. Alternatively, the open loop coolant is stored within the light emitting toothbrush. For example, the toothbrush can include a disposable cartridge loaded with coolant (e.g., a toothpaste cartridge).
In another aspect, the coolant in an open loop system can exit the fluid path through a portion of the device other than head portion 12. For example, the coolant can be used one or more times and then emptied by opening a fluid egress in the handle portion of the light emitting oral appliance.
The cooling pump used to pump the coolant can include a variety of known pumps capable of being disposed within toothbrush handle portion 16. One such exemplary pump is an electric screw pump as shown in
In one embodiment, the screw pump can be adapted to vibrate. For example, the pump shaft can be equipped with an eccentricity that causes the toothbrush to vibrate as shaft 207 turns. The vibrations can travel to the head portion 12 and assist with tooth cleaning and/or massage oral tissue.
Although several of the above discussed examples of heat transfer elements are made with reference to the light emitting toothbrush, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the heat transfer elements (including cooling pump 200) can be used in any of the oral appliances described herein. In particular, these heat transfer elements can provide for the storage or transfer of heat from the radiation source in the light emitting mouthpiece to adjacent tissue, a handle, and/or the surrounding environment.
In addition to the cooling features described above, or as an alternative, the oral appliance can include an auto-shutoff feature that protects against overheating. For example, a thermal switch (not shown) can be mounted in thermal contact with a portion of the oral appliance described above. Exemplary locations include those in thermal contact with the a fluid pathway, heat sink, radiation source, device frame, and combinations thereof. To prevent overheating of the device during operation, thermal switch can monitors the temperature and cut power to the radiation source if excess temperatures are detected. In one embodiment, the switch shuts off power to the oral applicator, if it detects a temperature of 70° C. or more. Alternatively, a thermal switch could cut power to the light source only and the device could continue to supply power to operate a cooling system to reduce the excessive temperature as quickly as possible.
A person skilled in the art will appreciate further features and advantages of the invention based on the above-described embodiments. Accordingly, the invention is not to be limited by what has been particularly shown and described, except as indicated by the appended claims. All publication and references cited herein are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entity.
This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/634,643, entitled “Light Emitting Oral Appliance and Method of Use,” filed Dec. 9, 2004, and hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60634643 | Dec 2004 | US |
