TWI516226B - Toothbrush - Google Patents

Description

toothbrush Field of invention Technical field

The present invention relates to toothbrushes.

The present application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2010-177779, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Background of the invention

In the toothbrush which is an in-oral cleaning device, in order to improve the tartar removal effect which is the most essential function, the arrangement of the hair bundles which have been used for the bundled toothbrush has been working until now. What is known is the arrangement of the tufts in a basic toothbrush, in which the uniform diameter tufts are planted in a lattice or staggered manner.

In recent years, due to the improvement of the hygiene intention, in the toothbrush, the tartar removal effect is required to be further improved. For such a demand, it is proposed to combine a toothbrush having a different diameter hair bundle or a combination of hair bundles having different hair lengths. Made into a toothbrush.

For example, Patent Document 1 proposes a toothbrush having a front end side hair planting region and a rear end side hair planting region, and having a planting density of the front end side planting region higher than a planting density of the rear end side planting region; wherein the front end side The hair-planting region is provided with a large-diameter hair bundle substantially U-shaped along the periphery of the hair-planting surface at the front end of the head, and a small-diameter hair bundle is disposed at the rear end of the head. According to this toothbrush, it is possible to obtain a brushing force in each part of the oral cavity, in particular, on the occlusal surface of the molar.

Further, Patent Document 2 proposes a toothbrush having a central hair bundle row and an outer hair bundle row, and the ratio of the total area of the planting hairs in the central hair bundle column to the total area of the planting hairs in the outer hair bundle row is 1:0.6~1:2.8, in which the central tufts are arranged in the center along the direction of the head, and the bristles are planted in the planting holes with an inner diameter of 2.0~2.8mm, while the outer tufts are in the center. The outer side of the hair bundle column is provided with a bristles in a planting hole having an inner diameter of 1.2 to 1.6 mm. According to this toothbrush, the tartar which is located in the detail of the tooth surface, the tooth neck, and the interdental portion can be efficiently swept.

Patent Document 3 proposes a toothbrush in which a central tuft of a toothbrush and a middle tuft are attached to the inner side of the outer tuft, and the central tuft has the highest hair length and a tuft length toward the outer side. a toothbrush which is sequentially lowered in the order of a central tuft, an intermediate tuft, and an outer tuft; wherein the central tuft and the intermediate tuft have a larger diameter than the outermost tuft The beam diameter is also fine and the hair length of the central tuft and the intermediate tuft is higher than the hair length of the outer tuft. According to this toothbrush, an excellent cleaning feeling and an insertion feeling into the gap in the oral cavity can be obtained.

Patent Document 4 proposes a toothbrush in which the hair-planting surface is divided into a central strip-shaped region of 3 mm wide in the axial direction of the parallel toothbrush and a double outer region on one side of the central strip-shaped region to make the central strip-shaped region The height of the central main bristle is higher than the height of the main main bristles outside the outer region and the hardness of the central main bristles is greater than the hardness of the outer main bristles. According to this toothbrush, the interdental portion can be brushed efficiently.

Alternatively, it is proposed to use a toothbrush that sharpens the tip of the toothbrush with a hair, that is, a so-called tapered hairbrush.

For example, Patent Document 5 proposes a toothbrush in which tapered teeth are formed into protrusions having a height of 1 mm to 10 mm higher than the height of the needle-like hairs at other portions. According to this toothbrush, the needle-like hair can be easily removed from the food residue by locally and intensively penetrating the fine portion of the periphery of the tooth such as the gap portion of the tooth or the periodontal pocket.

Further, Patent Documents 6 to 7 propose a toothbrush in which a hair bundle having a different hair length is planted and a tip end portion of the bristles constituting the hair bundle is tapered. According to this toothbrush, excellent brushing real feeling and insertion into the gap in the oral cavity can be obtained.

Advanced technical literature Patent literature

Patent Document 1 JP-A-2007-229065

Patent Document 2, JP-A-2008-154808

Patent Document 3 Japanese Patent No. 3583346

Patent Document 4 Japanese Patent No. 4076403

Patent Document 5, JP-A-2002-85159

Patent Document 6 Japanese Patent No. 3585811

Patent Document 7 JP-A-2001-346632

However, if you have periodontal disease, in order to avoid pain or bleeding during brushing, there is a tendency to prefer not to give the gums a toothbrush that stimulates the touch. In order to avoid the gingival irritation, generally use a toothbrush with a soft toothbrush with a finer hair diameter, or use a toothbrush with a low hardness of the brush, or increase the density of the hair of the toothbrush to disperse the brush. pressure.

On the other hand, if a toothbrush with a low hardness of the brush is used, the removal of the tartar is likely to be insufficient; if the density of the hair of the toothbrush is increased, it becomes necessary to restrict the gap between the tooth and the gum. The activity of each tuft. Such a toothbrush cannot satisfy the "cleaning property of the tooth neck" which is a fundamental problem of the countermeasure against periodontal disease. For patients with periodontal disease, it is desirable to clean the toothbrush of the tooth neck while providing a feeling of relief that does not burden the gums.

Further, the toothbrushes of the above Patent Documents 1 to 7 are invented from the viewpoint of efficiently removing tartar, and the concern for patients with periodontal disease is insufficient.

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a toothbrush that is compatible with a gentle touch to the gums and a high-definition sweep of the tooth neck.

As a result of intensive investigation by the present inventors, the following knowledge is obtained: since the hair bundle positioned outside the width direction of the hair-planting surface is easy to contact the gums, and by relieving the pressure of the hair bundle on the gums, the gums can be realized. Gentle touch. In addition, it has been found that by making the hair density of the hair bundle located substantially at the center of the hair-planting surface and the hair density of the hair bundle positioned outside the hair-planting surface within a certain range, it is compatible with the gentle touch of the gums and the cleaning of the tooth neck. Sexuality, and the completion of the present invention.

In other words, the toothbrush of the present invention is provided with a toothbrush in which a hairbrush for hairbrush is formed in two or more planting pockets of the head hair-planting surface, and the hair-planting surface is provided. Central hair bundle a group and a pair of outer hair bundles, the central group of hair bundles being disposed in the axial direction of the holding member and being formed by a central tuft of 2 or more located substantially at the center of the hair-planting surface; The outer group of hair bundles is formed by two or more outer hair bundles planted in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the grip member, adjacent to the central group of hair bundles; The area surrounded by the annular line connecting the outer edges of the aforementioned hair-growing points of the central hair bundle as the central hair-planting area, and the total number of hairs of the toothbrush constituting the central hair bundle group divided by the area of the central hair-planting area The obtained value is regarded as the central planting density, and the area surrounded by the annular line connecting the outer edges of the aforementioned hair-growing points of the outermost hair bundle located at the outermost periphery of one of the outer hair bundle groups is regarded as the first outer hair planting. a region surrounded by an annular line connecting the outer edges of the aforementioned hair-growing points of the outermost hair bundle located at the outermost periphery of the other outer hair bundle group as a second outer hair-planting region, which will constitute the aforementioned outer side hair The toothbrush uses the total number of hairs divided by the sum of the area of the first outer planting area and the area of the second outer planting area as the outer planting density, and the planting density expressed by the outer planting density/central planting density. The ratio is 1.6~6.0.

The diameter of the cross section of the central tuft in the longitudinal direction thereof is 1.0 to 1.6 mm, and the cross-sectional area of the outer tuft perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the outer tuft is divided by the center perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the central tuft Preferably, the value of the cross-sectional area of the tuft is 1.8 or more; preferably, the length of the central tuft on the flocking surface is longer than the length of the outer tuft on the flocking surface; more preferably, the central tuft and Either or both of the outer hair bundles include toothbrush hairs whose diameter gradually decreases toward the tip of the hair.

According to the toothbrush of the present invention, the hair-planting surface of the head has a central tuft group and a pair of outer bristle bundles, and the central tuft group is disposed in the axial direction of the gripper and is positioned substantially at the center of the tufting surface. And 2 or more of the outer tufts are formed by the outer tufts of 2 or more implanted in the axial direction of the gripper in the direction of the axial direction of the gripper. The area surrounded by the annular line of the outer edge of the planting hole implanted by the central hair bundle at the outermost circumference of the central tuft group is regarded as a central planting area, and will constitute the central hair bundle group. The value obtained by dividing the total number of hairs of the toothbrush by the area of the central hair-planting area is taken as the central planting density, and the aforementioned hair-planting hole is implanted by the outer hair bundle which is connected to the outermost circumference of one of the outer hair bundle groups. The region surrounded by the annular line of the outer edge is regarded as the first outer hair-planting region, and is connected by an annular line of the outer edge of the aforementioned hair-planting hole to which the outer hair bundle at the outermost circumference of the other outer hair bundle group is attached. Surrounded by The domain is regarded as the second outer hair-planting region, and the total number of hairs of the toothbrush constituting the pair of outer hair bundles is divided by the sum of the area of the first outer hair-planting region and the area of the second outer hair-planting region. As the outer planting density, the planting density ratio represented by the outer planting density/central planting density is 1.6-6.0, which is compatible with the mild touch of the gums and the high-definition sweep of the tooth neck.

According to the toothbrush of the present invention, since the diameter of the cross section of the central tuft in the longitudinal direction thereof is 1.0 to 1.6 mm, and the cross-sectional area of the outer hair bundle perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the outer tuft is divided by the length of the central tuft The value of the cross-sectional area of the central hair bundle in the direction is 1.8 or more, and the touch feeling to the gums can be made better and the cleaning property of the tooth neck can be improved.

According to the toothbrush of the present invention, since the length of the central tuft on the flocking surface is increased by the length of the outer tuft on the flocking surface, the front end of the central tuft becomes easy to enter the periodontal pocket or the interdental portion. The cleaning of the tooth neck can be further improved.

The toothbrush for the center hair bundle or the outer hair bundle is included in the center tuft and the outer hair bundle. The front end of the hair becomes easy to enter the periodontal pocket or the interdental portion, which further improves the cleaning property of the tooth neck.

Simple illustration

Fig. 1A is a plan view showing a toothbrush head according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 1B is a side view showing a toothbrush head according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2 is a side view of the toothbrush for the toothbrush used in the toothbrushes of Figs. 1A and 1B.

Detailed description of the preferred embodiment Form for implementing the invention

The toothbrush of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1A is a plan view showing a head portion of a toothbrush 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention; and Fig. 1B is a side view showing a head portion of a toothbrush 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, the toothbrush 1 is provided with the grip 2, and the grip 2 is roughly provided by a long-sized grip portion (not shown) and provided in the grip portion. The head 4 of the front end is composed of. In Fig. 1A, the symbol O is the axis of the grip member 2, that is, the line passing through the center of the grip member 2 in the longitudinal direction of the grip member 2.

The direction of the axis O is taken as a plan view of the long direction, and the head 4 is substantially rectangular, and any face is regarded as the hair-growing face 5 of the hair bundle. On the hair-growing surface 5, on the axis O and along the axis O, 23 bottomed cylindrical central hair-planting holes 10 are formed in a staggered manner, and the two or more central planting hair points 10 are planted in a substantially cylindrical shape. The center tooth bundle 12 is formed by the center toothbrush 12 of the center toothbrush 2 or more, and the center hair bundle group 14 is comprised.

Further, in the hair-growing surface 5, the central planting hole 10 is placed in the direction of the width direction thereof, that is, the vertical axis O, and 12 bottomed cylindrical outer hair-planting holes 20 are formed along the axis O, and the outer hair-planting hole 20 is formed thereon. The outer hair bundle 22 is bundled by the outer toothbrush 23 in a substantially cylindrical shape. Then, on the hair-growing surface 5, the first outer tufts 24a are formed by the six outer tufts 22 provided along the side edges 6 of the head 4, and the six outer sides are provided by the side edges 7 of the head 4. The tuft 22 constitutes a second outer tuft group 24b.

The hair length t1 of the length of the central tuft 12 on the hair-growing surface 5 is grown to be the hair length t2 which is the length of the outer tuft 22 on the hair-growing surface 5.

A central hair-planting region 11 is formed on the hair-growing surface 5, and the central hair-planting region is shown as a region in which the central hair-brimging region 11 is formed, and the central hair-planting region 11 is planted in a central hair bundle 12 which is connected to the outermost periphery of the central hair bundle group 14. The area surrounded by the annular line of the outer edge of the central planting hole 10. Moreover, the loop line constitutes a common connection between the adjacent central planting pockets 10 .

In the hair-growing surface 5, a first outer hair-planting region 21a is formed, the first outer hair-planting region showing a region in which the first outer hair-blowing group 24a is provided, and the first outer hair-planting region 21a is connected to constitute the first outer hair bundle group 24a. The area surrounded by the annular line of the outer edge of the outer planting hole 20 implanted by the outer tuft 22.

Further, the loop line constitutes a common wiring adjacent to the outer side planting holes 20 in the first outer bristle bundle group 24a.

Further, a second outer hair-planting region 21b is formed on the hair-growing surface 5, the second outer hair-planting region is a region in which the second outer hair-blowing group 24b is provided, and the second outer hair-planting region 21b is connected to constitute a second outer hair bundle. The outer hair bundle 22 of the group 24b is surrounded by an annular line surrounded by the outer edge of the outer hair planting hole 20. Further, the loop line constitutes a common wiring adjacent to the outer side planting holes 20 in the second outer bristle bundle group 24b.

The material of the grip member 2 can be determined in consideration of the rigidity or mechanical properties required for the toothbrush 1, for example, by using a high hardness resin having a flexural modulus (JIS K7203) in the range of 500 to 3000 MPa, the toothbrush 1 can be obtained. The necessary mechanical properties. Such high hardness resins include, for example, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polydimethylene terephthalate (PCT), polystyrene (PS), Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), cellulose propionate (CP), polyarylate, polycarbonate, and acrylonitrile-styrene (AS), etc., one or more of these may be used. .

The size of the head portion 4 can be determined in consideration of the operability in the oral cavity, etc., for example, the width W is 10 to 15 mm, and the thickness T is 4 to 8 mm.

The diameter R1 of the central planting hole 10 can be determined according to the diameter of the central tuft 12, that is, the diameter of the cross section of the vertical central tuft 12 in the longitudinal direction, for example, 1.0 to 1.6 mm. In the present embodiment, the diameters R1 of all the central planting pockets 10 are made substantially equal. Substantially equal means that all diameters R1 are included in the range of ± 5%.

Further, the diameter R2 of the outer planting hole 20 can be determined in accordance with the diameter of the outer tuft 22, for example, 1.8 to 2.4 mm. In the present embodiment, the diameter R2 of all the outer planting holes 20 is made substantially equal. Substantially equal means that all diameters R2 are included in the range of ± 5%.

In Fig. 1A, the number of central planting pockets 10 is 23, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The number of central planting hair points 10 can be determined according to the shape of the hair-planting surface, preferably 18 to 28 pieces.

Further, in Fig. 1A, the number of the outer planting holes 20 is twelve, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The number of lateral planting pores 20 can be determined according to the shape of the hair-planting surface, preferably 8 to 16.

The hair length t1 of the central tuft 12 can be determined in consideration of the material and thickness of the central toothbrush 13 , for example, 6 to 15 mm.

The diameter of the hair bundle diameter r1 of the center tuft 12, that is, the diameter of the cross section in the longitudinal direction of the vertical center tuft 12 is not particularly limited, and is preferably 1.0 to 1.6 mm and more preferably 1.2 to 1.4 mm. If the hair bundle diameter r1 of the center tuft 12 is 1.0 mm or more, the hardness of the bristle as the center tuft 12 becomes high, and the cleaning property of the tooth neck is increased. If it is 1.6 mm or less, the tip end portion of the center tuft 12 is raised. It is easy to intrude into a minute portion such as a periodontal pocket or an interdental portion, and the cleaning property is improved.

In the present embodiment, the hair bundle diameter r1 of all the center tufts 12 is made substantially equal. Roughly equivalent, all diameters r1 are included in the range of ± 5% Inside.

The number of the central toothbrush hairs 13 for each of the central hair bundles 12 can be determined by the diameter of the toothbrush of the central toothbrush 13 or the like, for example, 10 to 30.

Further, the hair bundle diameter r1 of the central tuft 12 is the diameter on the boundary portion with the hair-planting surface 5, and is substantially equal to the diameter R1 of the central planting pocket 10. Substantially equal means that the difference is within ± 5%.

The planting density of the central tuft group 14, that is, the total number of the central toothbrush hairs 13 constituting the central tuft group 14 divided by the area of the central tufting area 11 (central planting density) is not particularly limited, for example, It is preferably 4 to 11 pieces/mm ^{2 and} preferably 6 to 9 pieces/mm ² . If the central planting density is less than 4/mm ² , the central tufts 14 cannot support each other at the time of brushing to become low bristle hardness and the cleaning property of the tooth neck is lowered. If the central planting density exceeds 11 pieces/mm ² , the interference between the adjacent central tufts 14 becomes large at the time of brushing, and the movement of the central tuft 14 or the like is excessively suppressed, and the central toothbrush is prevented from being afflicted 13 Intrusion into the neck of the tooth.

As shown in Fig. 2, the central toothbrush 13 is substantially cylindrical and has a tip end portion which gradually decreases in diameter from the base portion 13b toward the distal end 13a, and is a so-called tapered hair.

The material of the central toothbrush 13 is not particularly limited. For example, polyimides such as 6-12 nylon and 6-10 nylon; PET, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), and polyparaphenylene can be used. A polyester such as propylene dicarboxylate (PTT); a polyolefin such as PP; and a synthetic resin material such as an olefin elastomer or a styrene elastomer. Further, two or more of these resin materials may be used in combination, for example, It is also possible to use a different resin material in the core portion and the sheath portion as in the core sheath structure.

The diameter of the toothbrush for the central toothbrush 13 can be determined by considering the material of the central toothbrush 13 or the like, for example, 6 to 9 mils (1 mil = 1/1000 inch = 0.025 mm). When it is 6 mil or more, it is ensured that the hardness of the bristles of the tooth neck can be cleaned well, and when it is 9 mil or less, it is ensured that the softness to the stimuli and the like can be alleviated. Further, the diameter of the base of the tip end portion 13b is the diameter at which the diameter of the toothbrush of the tapered hair is gradually decreased toward the front end 13a.

The length of the outer hair bundle 22 on the hair-growing surface 5, that is, the hair length t2 can be determined in consideration of the material and thickness of the outer toothbrush 23, for example, 6 to 13 mm.

The hair length difference t3 between the hair length t1 of the center hair bundle 12 and the hair length t2 of the outer hair bundle 22 expressed by the following formula (1) is preferably 0.3 mm or more and 2.0 mm or less, and 0.5 to 1.5 mm. good. When t1>t2, the cleaning property of the tooth neck and the touch of the gums can be further improved.

Hair length difference t3 (mm) = hair length t1 (mm) - hair length t2 (mm) ‧ ‧ (1)

The hair bundle diameter r2 of the outer tufts 22, that is, the diameter of the cross section of the vertical outer tufts 22 in the longitudinal direction is preferably 1.8 to 2.4 mm and preferably 2.0 to 2.2 mm. If the hair bundle diameter r2 of the outer tufts 22 is less than 1.8 mm, the pressure applied to the gums from the front end of the outer tufts 22 cannot be dispersed during the brushing, and the stimulation of the gums becomes strong and the feeling of the gums is lowered. If the hair bundle diameter r2 of the outer hair bundle 22 exceeds 2.4 mm, the interference between the outer toothbrush hairs 23 and the other outer toothbrush hairs 23 that also constitute the outer hair bundle 22 becomes excessively large, and the degree of freedom of movement is impaired. Reduces the gentle touch.

In the present embodiment, the hair bundle diameters r2 of all the outer hair bundles 22 are made substantially equal. Substantially equal means that all diameters r2 are included in the range of ± 5%.

The number of the toothbrushes 23 for the outer side of each of the outer hair bundles 22 can be determined by the diameter of the toothbrush for the outer toothbrush 23, for example, 50 to 200.

Further, the hair bundle diameter r2 of the outer tuft 22 is a diameter on the boundary portion with the hair-planting surface 5, and is substantially equal to the diameter R2 of the outer tufting hole 20.

The cross-sectional area of the bundle of hair bundles indicated by the [outer bundle cross-sectional area] / [central bundle cross-sectional area] is the cross-sectional area of the longitudinal outer bundle 22 in the longitudinal direction (outer bundle cross-sectional area) and the length of the vertical center tuft 12 The ratio of the cross-sectional area (the cross-sectional area of the central hair bundle) is preferably 1.8 or more, preferably 1.8 to 5.0, and most preferably 2.5 to 4.0. If it is 1.8 or more, the hair bundle diameter of the outer tufts 22 does not become too small, and the pressure applied from the front end of the outer tufts 22 to the gums can be sufficiently dispersed to improve the touch. Further, the hair bundle diameter of the center tuft 12 does not become excessively large, and the tip end portion of the center tuft 12 is easily inserted into the periodontal pocket or the interdental portion, and the cleaning property of the tooth neck portion is improved. If it is 5.0 or less, the hair bundle diameter of the center tuft 12 does not become too small compared with the tuft diameter of the outer tuft 22, the bristle hardness of the center tuft 12 becomes high, and the cleaning property of the tooth neck improves. Further, the outer tufts 22 do not become excessively large, and the operability due to the enlargement of the head and the strength of the head are improved.

Further, the cross-sectional area of the central hair bundle cross-sectional area at the boundary between the central tuft 12 and the hair-planting surface 5 is substantially equal to the opening area of the central planting pocket 10. The outer hair bundle cross-sectional area is the cross-section of the boundary between the outer tuft 22 and the hair-planting surface The product is approximately equal to the open area of the lateral planting hole 20.

The planting density of the first outer bristle bundle group 24a, that is, the value obtained by dividing the total number of the outer side toothbrush hairs 23 constituting the outer side bristle bundle group 24a by the area of the first outer tufting region 21a, is 10 pieces/ It is preferably mm ² or more, and preferably 15 pieces/mm ² or more. If the planting density of the first outer tuft group 24a is less than 10/mm ² , it becomes difficult to disperse the pressure applied to the gum from the front end of the outer tuft 22 at the time of brushing.

The planting density of the second outer bristle bundle group 24b, that is, the value of the total number of the outer toothbrush hairs 23 on the outer side of the second outer bristle bundle group 24b divided by the area of the second outer tufting region 21b is the first outer hair. The planting density of the bundle 24a is the same.

The planting density of the first outer bristle bundle group 24a and the tufting density of the second outer bristle bundle group 24b may be the same or different. However, from the viewpoint of ensuring a gentle touch to any of the upper and lower gingiva in the oral cavity during brushing, the planting density of the first outer bristle bundle group 24a and the planting density of the second outer bristle bundle group 24b are It is roughly equal. Further, roughly equal means that the ratio expressed by [planting density of the first outer hair bundle group] / [planting density of the second outer hair bundle group] is 0.95 to 1.05.

The total number of the outer toothbrush hairs 23 constituting the second outer hair bundle group 24b is the same as the total number of the outer toothbrush hairs 23 constituting the first outer hair bundle group 24a.

The total number of the outer toothbrush hairs 23 constituting the first outer hair bundle group 24a and the total number of the outer toothbrush hairs 23 constituting the second outer hair bundle group 24b may be the same or different. However, from the upper and lower sides of the mouth during brushing From the viewpoint of ensuring a gentle touch, the total number of the hairbrush hairs 23 constituting the outer side of the first outer hair bundle group 24a and the total number of the hairbrush hairs 23 constituting the outer side of the second outer hair bundle group 24b are It is roughly equal.

In addition, roughly equal means that the ratio of [the total number of hairs for the toothbrush outside the first outer bundle group] / [the total number of hairs of the toothbrush outside the second outer bundle group] is 0.95~ 1.05.

The sum of the total number of the outer toothbrush hairs 23 constituting the outer side outer hair bundle group 24a and the total number of the outer side toothbrush hairs 23 constituting the second outer hair bundle group 24b is divided by the area of the first outer hair planting area 21a. The value obtained by the sum of the areas of the second outer hair-planting regions 21b (outer planting density) is preferably 10 pieces/mm ² or more, and preferably 15 pieces/mm ² or more. If the outer planting density is less than 10/mm ² , it becomes difficult to disperse the pressure applied from the front end of the outer tuft 22 to the gums during brushing.

The planting density ratio expressed by [outer planting density] / [central planting density] is preferably 1.6 to 6.0, preferably 1.8 to 4.0, and preferably 2.0 to 3.5. If the planting density ratio is 1.6 or more, the pressure distribution of the outer hair bundle group is lowered to cause a mild touch, and the density of the central hair bundle is too high, so that the cleaning property of the tooth neck is improved. If the planting density ratio is 6.0 or less, the bristle hardness of the central tuft group 14 becomes high and the cleaning property of the tooth neck is improved. That is, within the above range, it is possible to achieve compatibility with the mild touch of the gums and the excellent cleanability of the tooth neck.

Similarly to the central toothbrush hairs 13, the outer toothbrush hairs 23 have taper hairs whose tip end portion gradually decreases toward the tip end.

The material of the outer toothbrush 23 is the same as that of the central toothbrush 13 with.

Further, the material of the central toothbrush hair 13 and the material of the outer toothbrush hair 23 may be the same or different.

The hair diameter of the toothbrush for the outer toothbrush 23 can be determined in consideration of the material of the outer toothbrush 23, for example, 4 to 7 mil. When it is 4 mil or more, sufficient self-standing property can be obtained, and when it is 7 mil or less, the stimulation of the gums can be fully relieved.

Further, it is preferable that the tooth diameter of the toothbrush for the outer toothbrush 23 is smaller than the hair diameter of the toothbrush for the hairbrush 13 of the center toothbrush. With such a configuration, it is possible to improve the cleaning property of the tooth neck by the central toothbrush hair 13 by facilitating the contact with the toothbrush hair 23 on the outer side of the gum during brushing.

In the method for producing the toothbrush 1 of the present invention, a conventionally known method can be used, for example, a flat wire type hair plant in which a hairbrush is folded in half and a hair bundle is implanted by a flat line which is inserted into the hair planting hole. a method of heat-sealing in which the lower end of the hair bundle is pressed into a molten resin to be a hair-planting portion, or an in-mold process in which a lower portion of the hair bundle is heated to form a molten mass, and a molten resin is injected into the mold to form a hair-planting portion ( In-mold process) and so on.

According to the embodiment, a central group of hair bundles is disposed substantially at the center of the hair-planting surface, and a pair of outer hair bundle groups are disposed on both sides of the central group of hair bundles, and since the planting density is 1.6 to 6.0, when brushing, The planting density is high, and the outer hair bundles are in contact with the gums and give a soft touch, and the toothbrush neck can be well cleaned by the central toothbrush which constitutes the central hair bundle group having a low density of planting. This is because it will be easy to contact the outer bristles of the gums during brushing. High planting density, the pressure from the front end of the outer hair bundle to the gums is dispersed, thus alleviating the stimulation of the gums.

In addition, since the central hair bundle group is made to have a lower planting density than the outer hair bundle group, the degree of freedom of hair movement of each central toothbrush is ensured, and the central toothbrush easily enters the periodontal pocket or the interdental portion to clean the teeth well. neck. Further, since the movement of the central toothbrush can be appropriately controlled by a pair of outer hair bundles, the central toothbrush can clean the tooth neck by ensuring the hardness of the bristles necessary for removing the tartar.

According to the present embodiment, since the central hair bundle is made longer than the outer hair bundle, it becomes easy to enter the periodontal pocket or the interdental portion, and the cleaning property of the tooth neck can be further improved.

According to the present embodiment, since the central toothbrush and the outer toothbrush are used as the tapered hair, the central toothbrush or the outer toothbrush can easily enter the periodontal pocket or the interdental portion, thereby further improving the cleaning property of the tooth neck. .

The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. In the above embodiment, the central tufts are formed in a substantially columnar shape, for example, a cylindrical shape in a plan view elliptical shape, or a polygonal column shape such as a plan view triangle, a quadrangle, and a pentagon. Further, in the case where the central hair bundle is formed into a shape other than a substantially cylindrical shape, the diameter of a perfect circle circumscribing the shape of the plan view is regarded as the hair bundle diameter.

Further, the outer tufts are similar to the central tufts, and may have a cylindrical shape in a plan view elliptical shape, or may be a polygonal column shape such as a plan view triangle, a quadrangle, and a pentagon.

In the above embodiment, the central planting hair fossa is formed into a bottomed cylindrical shape, and the shape of the central planting hair fossa can be determined according to the shape of the central tuft, for example, the central planting fossa is a flat-bottomed elliptical bottomed cylinder. It can also be a bottomed polygonal tube such as a plan view triangle, a quadrangle, and a pentagon.

Further, the outer planting hairs are similar to the central planting hairs, and may have a bottomed cylindrical shape in a plan view elliptical shape, and may also have a bottomed polygonal shape such as a plan view triangle, a quadrangle, and a pentagon.

In the above embodiment, the diameters of all the central planting points are substantially equal. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the diameters of all the central planting points may be different from each other, and the diameter of a part of the central planting hair points may be different from other central plants. The diameter of the hair points can be different.

Further, in the above embodiment, the diameters of all the outer planting points are substantially equal. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the diameters of all the outer planting holes may be different from each other, and the diameter of a part of the outer planting holes may be different. It is also different from the diameter of other lateral planting points.

In the above embodiment, the central toothbrush is made of a tapered hair. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the central toothbrush may have a uniform diameter throughout the longitudinal direction, and the front end may be hemispherical or parallel. The face can also be. However, from the viewpoint of easy entry into the periodontal pocket or the interdental portion, it is preferred that the central toothbrush with a central hair bundle be used as the tapered hair, and the central toothbrush with the central hair bundle is tapered. Hair is better.

Further, the outer toothbrush hairs may be the same as the central toothbrush hair, and may have a uniform diameter throughout the longitudinal direction, and the front end may be a hemispherical surface or a parallel hair grafting surface. However, from the viewpoint of making the touch of the gums mild, it is preferable that the outer side of the outer hair bundle is made of the outer toothbrush for the tapered hair, and the outer outer hair bundle is the outer outer toothbrush for the tapered hair. It is better.

In addition, either the central toothbrush or the outer toothbrush may be formed of tapered hair.

In the above embodiment, the central toothbrush and the outer toothbrush are made into a substantially cylindrical tapered hair, and the central toothbrush and the outer toothbrush are in a plane view, an elliptical cylindrical shape, a plan view triangle, a quadrangle, and five. It is also possible to have a polygonal column shape such as a side shape. Further, in the case where the central toothbrush or the outer toothbrush has a shape other than a substantially cylindrical shape, the diameter of a perfect circle which is externally connected to the plan view is taken as the diameter of the toothbrush.

In the above embodiment, the hair length of the central hair bundle is longer than the hair length of the outer hair bundle. For example, the hair length of the central hair bundle is the same as the hair length of the outer hair bundle, that is, the hair length difference is 0 mm. However, the hair length of the central hair bundle may be shorter than the hair length of the outer hair bundle. Further, the hair length of the center hair bundle and the outer hair bundle may be set such that the shape of the front end connecting the hair bundles is such that the convex portions of the mountain portions and the valley portions are overlapped in the axial direction of the grip member.

However, from the viewpoint of making the cleaning of the tooth neck well, the hair length of the central hair bundle is preferably longer than the hair length of the outer hair bundle.

In the above embodiment, the central tufts of the central tufts are interlaced, but for example, the central tufts may be planted in a lattice shape. Further, the central tuft group is composed of 23 central tufts, but the number of central tufts constituting the central tuft group may be 22 or less, and may be 24 or more.

In the above embodiment, the first or second outer hair bundle group is composed of six outer hair bundles. For example, the first or second outer hair bundle group may have five or less hair bundles. It is also possible for seven or more.

Further, the number of the outer tufts constituting the first outer bristle bundle group may be the same as the number of the outer tufts constituting the second outer bristle bundle group, and may be different.

In the above embodiment, the first and second outer hair bundle groups are arranged in the axial direction of the grip member in a row, but the present invention is not limited thereto, for example, the first or second outer side. In the group of hair bundles, it is also possible to plant the outer hair bundles in a lattice or staggered manner. However, from the viewpoint of making the hair bundle diameters constituting the outer hair bundles of the first and second outer hair bundle groups as large as possible and lifting the touch feeling to the gums, the first and second outer hair bundle groups are It is preferable that the outer tufts are arranged in one row and arranged in the axial direction of the grip member.

In the above embodiment, the outer tufts are implanted outside the central planting region, but the outer tufts may be implanted with the central tufts, for example, one of the locations may be located in the central tufting region.

In the above embodiment, the hair bundle diameters of all the central tufts are made substantially equal, but for example, the hair bundle diameters of the central tufts may be different from each other. However, from the viewpoint of appropriately controlling the hardness of the bristles of the central tufts, it is preferable that the hair bundle diameters of all the central tufts are substantially equal.

Further, in the above embodiment, the hair bundle diameters of all the outer hair bundles are made substantially equal, but for example, the hair bundle diameters of the outer hair bundles may be different from each other. However, from the viewpoint that the pressure applied to the gums from the distal end of the outer hair bundle is uniform by the outer hair bundles, and the tactile sensation of the outer hair bundle group is moderate, the hair bundle diameter of all the outer hair bundles is obtained. The system is roughly equal.

Example

(evaluation method)

The toothbrush of each example was evaluated for the tactile sensation and the cleaning property of the tooth neck by the following method. In addition, the cleaning of the tooth neck is evaluated by "the real feeling of the tooth neck insertion" and "the real feeling of the tooth neck cleaning."

<Evaluation of touch feeling>

The tactile sensation commentator 10 people used the toothbrush of each case, and evaluated the tactile sensation of the gums according to the following evaluation criteria. The average score of 10 commentators is 2.5 points or more as "A", the average score of 2.0 points or more is less than 2.5 points as "B", the average score is 1.5 points or more and less than 2.0 points as "C" and the average score is Less than 1.5 points is considered as "D".

Evaluation Benchmark

3 points: no gum pain and very good touch.

2 points: no gum pain and good touch.

1 point: I feel weak pain in the gums.

0 points: I feel strong pain in the gums.

<Evaluation of the physical impression of the tooth neck insertion>

The neck and the neck were inserted into the real sense. Ten people commented on each of the 10 people using the toothbrush, and the actual feeling of insertion into the tooth neck was evaluated according to the following evaluation criteria. The average score of 10 commentators is 2.5 points or more as "A", the average score of 2.0 points or more is less than 2.5 points as "B", the average score is 1.5 points or more and less than 2.0 points is regarded as "C" and the average score is Less than 1.5 points is considered as "D".

Evaluation Benchmark

3 points: I feel the feeling that the tip of the hair reaches the gap between the teeth and the gums.

2 points: Feel the feeling that the tip of the hair reaches the gap between the tooth and the gum.

1 point: I don't feel the feeling that the tip of the hair reaches the gap between the teeth and the gums.

0: Feel the feeling that the tip of the hair reaches the gap between the tooth and the gum.

<Evaluation of the physical feel of the tooth neck cleaning>

The neck and the neck were cleaned. The number of the commentators was 10, and the toothbrushes of each example were used to evaluate the true feeling of the neck and neck according to the following evaluation criteria. Opinion commentator 10 people with an average score of 2.5 or more as "A", an average score of 2.0 or more and less than 2.5 points as "B", an average score of 1.5 or more and less than 2.0 points as "C" and the average score is not 1.5 points are considered as "D".

Evaluation Benchmark

3 points: I feel the feeling of falling dirt between the teeth and the gums.

2 points: Feel the feeling of falling dirt between the teeth and the gums.

1 point: I don't feel the feeling of falling dirt between the teeth and the gums.

0 points: I don't feel the feeling of falling dirt between the teeth and the gums.

(Examples 1 to 5, Comparative Examples 1 and 2)

In the same manner as shown in Table 1, a toothbrush in which taper hair (made of PBT) was implanted was produced in the same manner as the toothbrush 1 of Figs. 1A and 1B. The toothbrush has a central group of hair bundles and a pair of outer hair bundles; the central group of hair bundles is formed by a centrally bundled bundle of hair bundles, the pair of outer hair bundles being held by a central tuft The outside of the group is a bunch of hair. The first outer bundle of hair bundles and the second bundle of outer bundles are each formed by the same number of outer tufts.

In the table, the "number of hairs for the central toothbrush of each central tuft" refers to the number of hairs for the central toothbrush that constitutes one central tuft, and the number of hairs for the outer toothbrush of each outer tuft refers to one. The amount of hair used on the outside of the outer hair bundle. The method of the outer hair bundle group is a combination of the first outer hair bundle group and the second outer hair bundle group.

The touch of the toothbrush, the feeling of the neck and the neck, and the feeling of the neck cleaning were evaluated for each of the obtained toothbrushes, and the results are shown in Table 1.

As shown in Table 1, the evaluation of the tactile sensation, the insertion of the tooth neck, and the real feeling of the tooth neck cleaning using any of the embodiments 1 to 5 of the present invention are "A" or "B". On the other hand, in Comparative Example 1 in which the planting density ratio was 1.2, the tactile sensation, the feeling of the neck and the neck, and the feeling of the neck and neck cleaning were evaluated as "C". Further, in Comparative Example 2 in which the planting density ratio was 6.1, the evaluation of the tactile sensation was "A", and the evaluation of the real feeling of the tooth neck and the actual feeling of the tooth neck cleaning was "C".

From this result, it is understood that due to the application of the present invention, the gentle touch to the gums and the cleaning property of the tooth neck can be constrained.

Industrial availability

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a toothbrush which is compatible with a gentle touch to the gums and a high-definition sweep of the tooth neck.

1. . . toothbrush

2. . . Grip

4. . . head

5. . . Hair surface

6, 7. . . Side edge

10. . . Central planting

11. . . Central planting area

12. . . Central tuft

13. . . Central toothbrush with hair

13a. . . front end

13b. . . Base

14. . . Central hair bundle

20. . . Lateral planting

21a. . . First lateral planting area

21b. . . Second lateral planting area

twenty two. . . Lateral tuft

twenty three. . . Outer toothbrush with hair

24a. . . First lateral hair bundle

24b. . . Second lateral hair bundle

O. . . Axis

R1, R2. . . diameter

R1, r2. . . Hair beam diameter

T. . . thickness

T1, t2. . . Mao Chang

T3. . . Gross length difference

W. . . width

Fig. 1A is a plan view showing a toothbrush head according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 1B is a side view showing a toothbrush head according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2 is a side view of the toothbrush for the toothbrush used in the toothbrushes of Figs. 1A and 1B.

1. . . toothbrush

2. . . Grip

4. . . head

5. . . Hair surface

6, 7. . . Side edge

10. . . Central planting

11. . . Central planting area

12. . . Central tuft

13. . . Central toothbrush with hair

14. . . Central hair bundle

20. . . Lateral planting

21a. . . First lateral planting area

21b. . . Second lateral planting area

twenty two. . . Lateral tuft

twenty three. . . Outer toothbrush with hair

24a. . . First lateral hair bundle

24b. . . Second lateral hair bundle

O. . . Axis

R1, R2. . . diameter

R1, r2. . . Hair beam diameter

T. . . thickness

T1, t2. . . Mao Chang

T3. . . Gross length difference

W. . . width

Claims (4)

A toothbrush comprising: a toothbrush having a head at a front end; and a toothbrush formed with a hair bundle of a toothbrush in a planting hole of 2 or more of the head hair-planting surface, wherein the hair-planting surface is provided a central hair bundle group and a pair of outer hair bundle groups, the central hair bundle group being formed by a central hair bundle disposed in the axial direction of the holding member and located at substantially the center of the hair growth surface, and The pair of outer hair bundles are formed by two or more outer hair bundles implanted in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the gripper, adjacent to the central bundle of hair bundles. The area surrounded by the annular line connecting the outer edges of the aforementioned hair-growing points of the central hair bundle of the outermost periphery of the group is regarded as a central planting area, and the total number of hairs of the toothbrush constituting the central hair bundle group is divided by the central hair-planting area. The value obtained by the area is regarded as the central planting density, and the area surrounded by the annular line connecting the outer edges of the aforementioned hair-growing points of the outermost hair bundle located at the outermost periphery of one of the outer hair bundle groups is regarded as the first outer side. Planting area, A region surrounded by an annular line connecting the outer edges of the hair-growing holes of the outer hair bundles located at the outermost periphery of the other outer hair bundle group is used as a second outer hair-planting region, which will constitute the aforementioned double outer hair bundle The value of the sum of the total number of hairs of the group of toothbrushes divided by the area of the first outer hair-planting area and the area of the second outer hair-planting area is taken as the outer planting density, and the central planting density is 4 to 11 pieces/mm. ² , the outer planting density is 10 / mm ² or more, and the planting density ratio represented by the outer planting density / the central planting density is 1.6 to 6.0, and the diameter of the cross section of the central hair bundle in the longitudinal direction is 1.0. The value obtained by dividing the cross-sectional area of the outer hair bundle perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the outer hair bundle by the cross-sectional area of the center hair bundle perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the center hair bundle is 1.8 or more. The toothbrush according to claim 1, wherein the cross-sectional area of the outer hair bundle perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the outer hair bundle is divided by the cross-sectional area of the central hair bundle perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the central hair bundle. 1.8~5.0. The toothbrush according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the length of the central tuft on the flocking surface is longer than the length of the outer tuft on the flocking surface. A toothbrush according to claim 1 or 2, wherein either or both of the central tuft and the outer tuft are provided with a toothbrush for the toothbrush having a diameter which gradually decreases toward the tip.