US20070253990A1 - Methods of tooth bleaching - Google Patents

Methods of tooth bleaching Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20070253990A1
US20070253990A1 US11/824,055 US82405507A US2007253990A1 US 20070253990 A1 US20070253990 A1 US 20070253990A1 US 82405507 A US82405507 A US 82405507A US 2007253990 A1 US2007253990 A1 US 2007253990A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
strip
teeth
tooth
tooth bleaching
shape
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US11/824,055
Inventor
Paul Sagel
Robert Dirksing
Frederick Rohman
Lisa Glaser
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Procter and Gamble Co
Original Assignee
Procter and Gamble Co
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=23021843&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=US20070253990(A1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Priority claimed from US08/870,330 external-priority patent/US5879691A/en
Application filed by Procter and Gamble Co filed Critical Procter and Gamble Co
Priority to US11/824,055 priority Critical patent/US20070253990A1/en
Assigned to PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY, THE reassignment PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY, THE ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: SAGEL, PAUL ALBERT, DIRKSING, ROBERT STANLEY, ROHMAN, FREDERICK JAMES, GLASER, LISA RAE
Priority to US11/888,291 priority patent/US20070269471A1/en
Publication of US20070253990A1 publication Critical patent/US20070253990A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61CDENTISTRY; APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR ORAL OR DENTAL HYGIENE
    • A61C19/00Dental auxiliary appliances
    • A61C19/06Implements for therapeutic treatment
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61KPREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K8/00Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations
    • A61K8/18Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition
    • A61K8/19Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing inorganic ingredients
    • A61K8/22Peroxides; Oxygen; Ozone
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61CDENTISTRY; APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR ORAL OR DENTAL HYGIENE
    • A61C19/00Dental auxiliary appliances
    • A61C19/06Implements for therapeutic treatment
    • A61C19/063Medicament applicators for teeth or gums, e.g. treatment with fluorides
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61CDENTISTRY; APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR ORAL OR DENTAL HYGIENE
    • A61C19/00Dental auxiliary appliances
    • A61C19/06Implements for therapeutic treatment
    • A61C19/063Medicament applicators for teeth or gums, e.g. treatment with fluorides
    • A61C19/066Bleaching devices; Whitening agent applicators for teeth, e.g. trays or strips
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61KPREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K6/00Preparations for dentistry
    • A61K6/30Compositions for temporarily or permanently fixing teeth or palates, e.g. primers for dental adhesives
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61KPREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K8/00Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations
    • A61K8/02Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by special physical form
    • A61K8/0208Tissues; Wipes; Patches
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61KPREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K8/00Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations
    • A61K8/18Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition
    • A61K8/19Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing inorganic ingredients
    • A61K8/20Halogens; Compounds thereof
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61KPREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K8/00Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations
    • A61K8/18Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition
    • A61K8/30Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing organic compounds
    • A61K8/40Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing organic compounds containing nitrogen
    • A61K8/42Amides
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61KPREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K8/00Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations
    • A61K8/18Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition
    • A61K8/72Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing organic macromolecular compounds
    • A61K8/73Polysaccharides
    • A61K8/731Cellulose; Quaternized cellulose derivatives
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61KPREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K8/00Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations
    • A61K8/18Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition
    • A61K8/72Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing organic macromolecular compounds
    • A61K8/81Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing organic macromolecular compounds obtained by reactions involving only carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bonds
    • A61K8/8141Compositions of homopolymers or copolymers of compounds having one or more unsaturated aliphatic radicals, each having only one carbon-to-carbon double bond, and at least one being terminated by only one carboxyl radical, or of salts, anhydrides, esters, amides, imides or nitriles thereof; Compositions of derivatives of such polymers
    • A61K8/8147Homopolymers or copolymers of acids; Metal or ammonium salts thereof, e.g. crotonic acid, (meth)acrylic acid; Compositions of derivatives of such polymers
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61QSPECIFIC USE OF COSMETICS OR SIMILAR TOILETRY PREPARATIONS
    • A61Q11/00Preparations for care of the teeth, of the oral cavity or of dentures; Dentifrices, e.g. toothpastes; Mouth rinses

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to improved shapes of a strip for a tooth whitening delivery system.
  • the delivery system comprises a strip of material and tooth whitening substance.
  • Tooth whitening has become popular in today's culture. More and more consumers are searching for the best method to achieve tooth whitening.
  • Professional tooth bleach by a dentist is common.
  • tooth bleaching generally involves several visits to the dentist and the use of a rubber dam to protect the patient's gums from the bleaching agents.
  • Out of the office tooth bleaching generally involves the use of a device or tray which is made in the dental office to fit the patient's teeth. The device is reused, and therefore, must be sufficiently robust to endure repeat handling, cleaning, filling, installation, and wearing.
  • a patient uses the device in time periods when social contact can be avoided.
  • Fontenot discloses a prepackaged moldable dental appliance adapted to fit a wide range of variously sized dental arches. In use, the dental appliance is removed from the packaging, aligned in a parallel fashion to the edges of the teeth and pushed over the teeth in the direction of the periodontal tissue until it covers the teeth surfaces.
  • Curtis et al. disclose a putty-like material which is formed by pressing against the teeth. It is held in place by mechanical engagement with undercut surfaces and by friction. The composition encapsulates the active.
  • each user or patient will have four front teeth, two canine teeth, and additional back teeth, such as molars. This applies to both a user's top set of teeth and the bottom set of teeth.
  • the shape of the front four teeth and the canine teeth is generally the same on the top and bottom with the top set generally being larger.
  • Each of the teeth has a front side, a back side, and a tip.
  • the front side of the tooth is described as the side of the tooth that is visible to, others and faces the lips of the mouth.
  • the back side of the tooth is generally not visible to others unless the mouth is open wide.
  • the tip of the tooth is defined as the portion of the tooth that is farthest from the gums.
  • the tip may alternatively be described as the crown, the peak, the point, or the tops of the tooth.
  • the tips of the front four teeth are very different is shape as the tips of the canines or back teeth.
  • the front four teeth are generally flat in shape which allows for a tooth whitening strip to easily fold over the tips of the teeth.
  • the tip of the canine teeth generally come to a point or a cone shape. This shape is not conducive to a strip folding over or wrapping over the tip.
  • a user of a strip of material covering the tip of the canines may find that the strip cannot easily conform and therefore does not stay in place for extended periods of time. Additionally, it is not as easy for a user to place the strip of material over the top of the canines.
  • the strip may also tear at the tip of the canine.
  • the strip of material not fold over or wrap over the molars.
  • the tips of the molars are generally square in shape and do not allow for a strip to easily fold over the tooth. However, depending upon the shape of the strip of material, folding over the top of the molars may be suitable.
  • a low cost commercial tooth whitening strip which has a superior shape and which is in conformable contact with the appropriate tooth surfaces and will stay in place during normal daily activities.
  • a tooth whitening strip shape is needed which does not require extensive user placement manipulation to be certain of good contact.
  • a non-bulky active containment means that will permit the wearer to use the system during social discourse without interfering with the wearer's speech or appearance.
  • a tooth whitening system comprising a strip of flexible material and a tooth whitening substance.
  • the shape of the strip was described as any shape that has rounded comers.
  • the disclosures focused on the characteristics of the strip such as the flexural stiffness, the materials comprising the strip, the drape, and the interaction between the strip and the tooth whitening substance to hold the strip in place.
  • the present inventors have now discovered that the shape of the tooth whitening strip is also important. Superior shapes of the tooth whitening strip allow for better adhesion of the tooth whitening strip and substance to the teeth.
  • the improved shapes allow for the tooth whitening strips to remain on a user's teeth for an even longer amount of time without slipping. Additionally, the new shapes make the strips less noticeable by the users.
  • a method of bleaching a plurality of adjacent teeth, the teeth having facial and lingual surfaces comprising: applying a tooth bleaching delivery system to a plurality of adjacent teeth, wherein the tooth bleaching delivery system comprises a flexible strip of material and a tooth bleaching composition having a peroxide active, polyvinylpyrolidone, carboxypolymethylene, a sweetening agent and a flavoring agent, wherein applying the tooth bleaching system comprises applying the strip of material and tooth bleaching composition to the facial surfaces, incisal edge, and lingual surfaces of the plurality of adjacent teeth so that the tooth bleaching composition contacts the facial surfaces of the plurality of adjacent teeth; conforming the strip of material to the facial surface and interstitial tooth spaces of a plurality of adjacent teeth; and wherein the tooth bleaching delivery system is applied to the facial surfaces of the plurality of adjacent teeth for a sufficient period of time for the peroxide active to act upon the facial surfaces of the plurality of adjacent teeth; and wherein the aforementioned steps are repeated for about 7 days.
  • FIG. 1 is a planar view of a tooth whitening strip of material which is substantially trapezoidal in shape
  • FIG. 2 is a planar view of a tooth whitening strip which is substantially trapezoidal in shape with stair stepped sides;
  • FIG. 3 is a planar view of a tooth whitening strip which is substantially rectangular in shape with stair stepped sides;
  • FIG. 4 is a planar view of a tooth whitening strip which is substantially rectangular in shape with notched sides;
  • FIG. 5 is a planar view of a tooth whitening strip which is rectangular in shape with two slits;
  • FIG. 6 is a planar view of a tooth whitening strip which is rectangular in shape with two cross-slits;
  • FIG. 7 is a planar view of a tooth whitening strip which is rectangular in shape with two holes;
  • FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a user's front six teeth.
  • FIG. 9 is cross-sectional view of a tooth whitening strip placed upon a user's front six teeth before being folded over the back sides of the user's teeth.
  • centimeter means centimeter.
  • mm means millimeter.
  • Embodiment 10 represents a tooth whitening strip which is substantially trapezoidal in shape.
  • Embodiment 10 has a first side 11 and second side 12 , a third side 13 , and a fourth side 14 .
  • First side 11 and second side 12 are straight sides which angle in from the fourth side 14 to the third side 13 .
  • Third side 13 is concave and shorter then the fourth side 14 .
  • the fourth side 14 is convex. The fourth side 14 will be placed close to the bottom edge of the front side of a user's bottom set of front teeth.
  • the fourth side 14 may be placed along the top part of the front side of a user's top set of front teeth.
  • a fold line 15 of embodiment 10 extends from first side 11 to second side 12 .
  • the fold line 15 may be located closer to the third side 13 or the fourth side 14 .
  • the fold line 15 will be determined by the size of the user's teeth and the placement of the tooth whitening strip on the user's teeth.
  • the third side 13 will be along the back side of a user's teeth after the strip 10 is folded along the fold line 15 .
  • the tooth whitening strip of material may be substantially trapezoidal in shape with stair stepped sides.
  • Embodiment 20 has a first side 21 , a second side 22 , a third side 23 , and a fourth side 24 .
  • Third side 23 is concave and shorter then the fourth side 24 .
  • the fourth side 24 is convex.
  • First side 21 and second side 22 are both stair step sides.
  • Fold line 15 extends from the corners 26 and 27 of the stair step in the first side 21 and the second side 22 , respectively.
  • Embodiment 20 can alternatively be described as two substantially trapezoidal shapes placed on top of one another.
  • the top trapezoid is formed by the third side 23 , the second side 22 from its corner 27 up to the third side 23 , the fold line 25 , and the first side 21 from its corner 26 up to the third side 23 .
  • the bottom trapezoid is formed by the fold line 25 , the second side 22 from its corner 27 down to the fourth side 24 , the fourth side 24 , and the first side 21 from its corner 26 down to the fourth side 24 .
  • FIG. 3 illustrates an alternative embodiment 30 of the present invention.
  • the tooth whitening strip of material may be substantially rectangular in shape with stair stepped sides.
  • Embodiment 30 has a first side 31 and second side 32 , a third side 33 , and a fourth side 34 .
  • First side 31 and second side 32 are both stair step sides.
  • Fold line 35 extends from the corners 36 and 37 of the stair step in the first side 31 and the second side 32 , respectively.
  • Embodiment 30 can also be described as two rectangles placed on top of one another. The top rectangle is formed by the third side 33 , the second side 32 from its corner 37 up to the third side 33 , the fold line 35 , and the first side 31 from its corner 36 up to the third side 33 .
  • This top rectangle may alternatively be described as a flap which fits over the back sides of the user's teeth.
  • the bottom rectangle is formed by the fold line 35 , the second side 32 from its corner 37 down to the fourth side 34 , the fourth side 34 , and the first side 31 from its corner 36 down to the fourth side 34 .
  • the fold line 35 will be placed over the tips of a user's teeth enabling the strip to fold down onto both the front side and the back side of the user's teeth.
  • the strip will be placed so that the user's two canine teeth are just outside of corners 36 and 37 .
  • the fourth side 34 will be located close to the bottom edge of the front side of a user's bottom set of front teeth. Alternatively if the strip is worn on the user's top set of teeth, the fourth side 34 may be placed along the top part of the front side of a user's top set of front teeth.
  • the third side 33 will be along the back side of a user's teeth.
  • FIG. 4 details a tooth whitening strip of material substantially rectangular in shape with notched sides.
  • Embodiment 40 has a first side 41 , second side 42 , a third side 43 , and a fourth side 44 .
  • Third side 43 and fourth side 44 are both substantially straight sides and the same length.
  • First side 41 and second side 42 have notches 46 and 47 , respectively, which enable the tips of the canine teeth not to be covered when the strip is placed on the user's teeth.
  • Fold line 45 extends from notch 46 in the first side 41 to notch 47 in the second side 42 .
  • Notches 46 and 47 as have a sideways V shapes as shown.
  • the notches may be of any shape including rectangular, semi circles, etc. that allows the tips of the canine teeth to not be wrapped by embodiment 40 .
  • Embodiments 50 , 60 , and 70 are illustrated by FIGS. 5, 6 , and 7 respectively.
  • the tooth whitening strip of material of embodiments 50 , 60 , and 70 is substantially rectangular in shape with rounded comers.
  • Each embodiment contains two recesses which allow for protrusion of the canine teeth when the tooth whitening strip is placed on a user's teeth.
  • FIG. 5 illustrates where the recesses are straight slits 56 and 57 .
  • Slits 56 and 57 extend from the outside edge of embodiment 50 to an interior point. Fold line 55 extends between slits 56 and 57 .
  • FIG. 6 shows slits 66 and 67 which are cross-slits. Cross-slits 66 and 67 are located within embodiment 60 .
  • Fold line 65 extends from cross-slit 66 to cross-slit 67 .
  • Embodiment 70 of FIG. 7 illustrates holes 76 and 77 in the strip. Holes 76 and 77 may be of any size that is sufficient for the tips of the canines to protrude. Fold line 75 extends between holes 76 and 77 .
  • FIG. 8 shows corresponding top 81 and front 82 view of a user's bottom set of the front six teeth.
  • Top view 81 illustrates the general arched shape found in the front six teeth.
  • the two canine teeth 83 and 84 are located on opposite sides of the four front teeth 85 .
  • additional back teeth such as molars, which are located next to each of the canine teeth.
  • Front view 82 illustrates the general shapes, including the tips, of the front four teeth 85 and canine teeth 83 and 84 .
  • FIG. 9 shows front view 82 of a user's front six teeth shown in FIG. 8 with the tooth whitening strip illustrated by embodiment 20 of FIG. 2 .
  • Embodiment 20 is shown placed along the teeth but not yet folded over the teeth.
  • fourth side 24 is placed along the bottom portions of the front four teeth 85 and the two canine teeth 83 and 84 .
  • Fold line 25 hits at the tips of the front four teeth 85 and allows the tips of the canine teeth 83 and 84 to be exposed.
  • Canine teeth 83 and 84 protrude at the corners 26 and 27 of the stair steps.
  • Third side 23 will subsequently be folded down onto the back side of the four front teeth 85 .
  • the tooth whitening strip may be called a tooth whitening strip of material, a strip of material, or a strip.
  • the tooth whitening strip of material will have a shape that is adapted to fit a user's teeth. It is preferred that the strip substantially covers the front side of at least a user's front four teeth and two canine teeth. These teeth are the most visible teeth for most users.
  • the strip of material may cover the front side of additional teeth such as the teeth next two the canine teeth. This may be desired if these teeth are visible to others. By substantially, it is meant that at least half of the front tooth surface is covered.
  • the tooth whitening strip may cover all of the front tooth surface and may also cover portions of the gums adjacent to the teeth. Generally, the tooth whitening strip will begin coverage at the point where the surface of the teeth intersect the gums.
  • the tooth whitening strip will be foldable over the tips and onto the back sides of one or more of the front four teeth without covering the tips of the two canine teeth.
  • the shape of the strip will allow for canine tips to not be covered. By folding over the tips it is meant that the strip covers or wraps around the front side of the tooth over the tip and onto the back side of the tooth. Depending upon the size of the strip of material, the entire back side of the tooth including the adjacent gum may be covered or only a portion of the back side of the tooth.
  • the shape of the tooth whitening strip is critical to allow for coverage of the front side of the canines by not coverage of the tips.
  • the shape of the strip may be any shape which allows this to result.
  • the shape of the tooth whitening strip may be of many shapes.
  • the strip may be substantially trapezoidal in shape.
  • the term substantially trapezoidal is used to mean any shape having four general sides where there are two sides which are generally parallel or arched the same way. This may result when one side is convex and the opposing side is concave.
  • the arched shape may help to reduce bunching of the strip and allow the strip to lay smoother along the surfaces of the teeth.
  • the other two opposing sides will generally not be parallel.
  • the strip may be substantially rectangular in shape. This is used generally to mean a shape with four sides which each of two sides are close to parallel.
  • Parallel is used broadly to include when sides are arched, not straight, and generally not perpendicular.
  • the strip may be of any shape such as round or oval.
  • the strip may also be of a shape with many numbers of sides. The shape of the strip does not need to be symmetrical.
  • any of the sides or edges of the strip may be notched, stair stepped, or arched.
  • notched it is meant that there is a recess, indentation, or curve of some type.
  • stair stepped it is meant that the side is not straight and may contain one or more stair steps.
  • the strip may also contain slits, cross-slits, holes, perforations, or any suitable formation that allows for the canines to protrude through or be avoided by the strip of material. In generally, a recess should allow approximately 2 cm for protrusion of the canines.
  • Each strip of material will contain a fold line.
  • the fold line is defined as the part of the strip where the tips of the teeth meet the strip when the strip is folded or wrapped over the tips. This line may be from the point where one recesses, stair steps, or notch on one side extends into the strip the farthest to where the other recess, stair step, or notch extends into the strip the farthest on the opposing side. For example, at the corner of a stair step or at the point of a notch.
  • the fold line will generally extend from one side of the strip to another parallel side and along the longer part of the strip.
  • the fold line may be self adjusting depending upon the size and shape of the strip.
  • the fold line With a trapezoidal shape strip, the fold line will be determined based upon the positioning of the strip on a user's teeth.
  • the fold line is generally up to about 4 cm in length for a strip designed to fit on a user's bottom set of teeth. There is not a minimum requirement for the fold line as long as part of the strip folds over the tips of at least part of one of the front four teeth.
  • the fold line will be from about 0.1 cm to about 4 cm, preferably from about 0.5 cm to about 3.5 cm, more preferably from about 1 cm to about 3.2 cm, and most preferably from about 2 cm to about 3.1 cm.
  • the fold line is up to about 4.3 cm in length.
  • the fold line is generally from about 0.1 cm to about 4.3 cm, preferably from about 0.5 cm to about 4 cm, more preferably from about 1 cm to about 3.5 cm and most preferably from about 2 cm to about 3.4 cm.
  • the shape of the strip of material is any shape that has rounded corners. “Rounded corners” is defined as not having any sharp angles or points.
  • the conformable strip of material is preferably of a size that individually fits the row of teeth desired to be bleached. The size of the strip of material depends upon many factors, including the number of teeth to be bleached, the size of the teeth, and personal preference of the wearer. In general, the length of the strip of material is from about 2 cm to about 12 cm, preferably from about 3 cm to about 9 cm, and more preferably from about 4 cm to about 6 cm.
  • the longer side of the strip of material is generally from about 3 cm to about 12 cm, preferably from about 3.1 to about 10 cm, more preferably from about 3.5 cm to about 8 cm, and most preferably from about 4 cm to about 6 cm.
  • the shorter side is from about 0.1 cm to about 12 cm, preferably from about 0.5 cm to about 8 cm, more preferably from about 1 cm to about 5 cm, and most preferably from about 1.5 cm to about 3 cm.
  • the width of the strip of material will also depend upon many factors, including whether or not the strip of material wraps completely around the teeth and covers part or all of the front and back surfaces of the tooth. In a general application, the width of the strip of material is from about 0.5 cm to about 4 cm and preferably from about 1 cm to about 2 cm.
  • the strip of material serves as a protective barrier to substantially prevent saliva contacting the tooth whitening substance and leaching and/or erosion of the tooth whitening substance from the surface of the teeth by the wearer's lips, tongue, and other soft tissue.
  • saliva contacting the tooth whitening substance and leaching and/or erosion of the tooth whitening substance from the surface of the teeth by the wearer's lips, tongue, and other soft tissue.
  • act upon is herein defined as bringing about a desired change. For example, if the substance is a tooth whitener, it bleaches color bodies to bring about whitening.
  • the strip of material may comprise materials such as polymers, natural and synthetic wovens, non-wovens, foil, paper, rubber, and combinations thereof.
  • the strip of material may be a single layer of material or a laminate of more than one layer. Generally, the strip of material is substantially water impermeable.
  • the material may be any type of polymer that meets the required flexural rigidity and is compatible with tooth whitening actives, such as peroxide.
  • the material may comprise a single polymer or a mixtures of polymers.
  • Suitable polymers include, but are not limited to, polyethylene, ethylvinylacetate, ethylvinyl alcohol, polyesters such as Mylar® manufactured by DuPont, fluoroplastics such as Teflon® manufactured by DuPont, and combinations thereof.
  • the material is polyethylene.
  • the strip of material is generally less than about 1 mm thick, preferably less than about 0.05 mm thick, and more preferably from about 0.001 to about 0.03 mm thick.
  • a polyethylene strip of material is preferably less than about 0.1 mm thick and more preferably from about 0.005 to about 0.02 mm thick.
  • the strip of material may contain shallow pockets.
  • additional substance fills shallow pockets to provide reservoirs of additional substance.
  • the shallow pockets help to provide a texture to the delivery system.
  • the film will preferably have an array of shallow pockets. Generally, the shallow pockets are approximately 0.4 mm across and 0.1 mm deep.
  • the overall thickness of the delivery system is generally less than about 1 mm. Preferably, the overall thickness is less than about 0.5 mm.
  • Flexural stiffness is a material property that is a function of a combination of strip thickness, width, and material modulus of elasticity.
  • This test is a method for measuring the rigidity of polyolefin film and sheeting. It determines the resistance to flexure of a sample by using a strain gauge affixed to the end of a horizontal beam. The opposite end of the beam presses across a strip of the sample to force a portion of the strip into a vertical groove in a horizontal platform upon which the sample rests. A microammeter, wired to the strain gauge is calibrated in grams of deflection force. The rigidity of the sample is read directly from the microammeter and expressed as grams per centimeter of sample strip width.
  • the strip of material has a flexural stiffness of less than about 5 grams/cm as measured on a Handle-O-Meter, model #211-300, available from Thwing-Albert Instrument Co. of Philadelphia, Pa., as per test method ASTM D2923-95.
  • the strip of material has a flexural stiffness less than about 4 grams/cm, more preferably less than about 3 grams/cm, and most preferably from about 0.1 grams/cm to about 1 grams/cm.
  • the flexural stiffness of the strip of material is substantially constant and does not significantly change during normal use. For example, the strip of material does not need to be hydrated for the strip to achieve the low flexural stiffness in the above-specified ranges.
  • This relatively low stiffness enables the strip of material to drape over the contoured surfaces of teeth with very little force being exerted; that is, conformity to the curvature of the wearer's mouth and gaps between adjacent teeth is maintained because there is little residual force within strip of material to cause it to return to its substantially flat shape.
  • the flexibility of the strip enables the strip of material to contact adjoining soft tissue over an extended period of time without physical irritation. The strip of material, does not require pressure forming it against the teeth.
  • the strip of material is held in place on a plurality of adjacent teeth by adhesive attachment provided by the substance.
  • the viscosity and general tackiness of the substance cause the strip of material to be adhesively attached to a plurality of adjacent teeth without substantial slippage under the potential friction from the lips, tongue, and other soft tissue rubbing against the strip of material during mouth movements associated with talking, drinking, etc.
  • this adhesion to the teeth is low enough to allow the delivery system to be easily removed by the wearer by peeling off the strip of material using one's finger or fingernail.
  • the delivery system is easily removable from the surfaces of the teeth without the use of an instrument, a chemical solvent, or undue friction.
  • Chemical solvents include any organic solvents commonly used in oral care products such as alcohol and other safe solvents such as water, which could be used to dilute the gelling agent.
  • Undue friction is described as any type of rubbing with one's finger or a soft implement, such as cotton balls, swabs, or gauze pads.
  • a peel force of from about 1 gram to about 50 grams for a 1.5 cm strip width (approximately 17 grams/cm) is all that is required.
  • the peel force is from about 5 grams to about 40 grams and more preferably from about 10 grams to about 30 grams.
  • the low peel force is desired for consumer handling purposes. The low peel force is possible because of the non-aggressive nature of a gel substance. Only when the flexural stiffness of the strip is low can the adhesion of the substance also be low. The adhesion of a stiffer strip would have to be greater in proportion to the strip stiffness in order to prevent the strip from returning to its flat condition and pulling away from the contoured surface of a plurality of teeth.
  • the strip of material may be formed by several of the film making processes known in the art.
  • a strip of material made of polyethylene is made by a blown process or a cast process. Processes, such as extrusion and other processes that do not affect the flexural rigidity of the strip of material, are also feasible.
  • the substance may be incorporated onto the strip during the processing of the strip.
  • the substance may be a laminate on the strip.
  • the tooth whitening substance is a composition, compound, or mixture capable of influencing or effecting a desired change in appearance and/or structure of the surface it contacts.
  • appearance and structural changes include, but are not necessarily limited to, whitening, stain bleaching, stain removal, plaque removal, and tartar removal.
  • the active is for the whitening of the tooth surfaces.
  • the tooth whitening substance may be coated on the strip of material, be applied by the user to the strip of material, or be applied by the user to their teeth and then apply the strip over the coated teeth.
  • the amount of substance applied to the strip of material or teeth will depend upon the size and capacity of the piece of material, concentration of the active, and the desired benefit. Generally, less than about 1 gram of substance is required. Preferably, from about 0.05 grams to about 0.5 grams and more preferably from about 0.1 gram to about 0.4 grams of the substance is used.
  • the amount of substance per square cm of material is less than about 0.2 grams/cm 2 , preferably from about 0.005 to about 0.1 grams/cm 2 , and more preferably from about 0.01 grams/cm to about 0.04 grams/cm 2 .
  • the substance of the present invention can be in the form of a viscous liquid, paste, gel, solution, or other suitable form that can provide sufficient adhesion.
  • the substance is in the form of a gel.
  • the substance will have a viscosity of from about 200 to about 1,000,000 cps at low shear rates (less than one 1/seconds).
  • the viscosity is from about 100,000 to about 800,000 cps and more preferably from about 400,000 to about 600,000 cps.
  • Actives suitable for whitening include any material safe for use in the oral cavity which provides bleaching or stain removal.
  • the actives suitable for whitening are selected from the group consisting of the peroxides, metal chlorites, perborates, percarbonates, peroxyacids, and combinations thereof.
  • Suitable peroxide compounds include hydrogen peroxide, calcium peroxide, carbamide peroxide, and mixtures thereof. Most preferred is carbamide peroxide.
  • Suitable metal chlorites include calcium chlorite, barium chlorite, magnesium chlorite, lithium chlorite, sodium chlorite, and potassium chlorite. Additional whitening actives may be hypochlorite and chlorine dioxide.
  • the preferred chlorite is sodium chlorite.
  • the tooth whitening active is present in an amount of from about 0 . 01 % to about 40%, by weight of the substance. If a peroxide compound is chosen as the active, the peroxide compound should provide an amount of hydrogen peroxide equivalent of from about 0.1% to about 20%, preferably from about 0.5% to about 10%, and most preferably from about 1% to about 7%, by weight of the substance. To deliver this amount of hydrogen peroxide equivalent, the peroxide compound, such as carbamide peroxide, is generally present in an amount of from about 0 . 1 % to about 30% and preferably from about 3% to about 20%, by weight of the substance.
  • the actives are generally contained in an aqueous gel.
  • the gel is a high viscosity matrix formed from gelling agents known in the art. These gelling agents are safe for oral use, do not readily dissolve in saliva, and do not react with or inactivate the oral care compounds incorporated into them. Generally, the gelling agent is a swellable polymer. Furthermore, the gel formed with these agents provides sufficient adhesive attachment of the film material to the targeted area of the mouth.
  • the level of gelling agent to form the gel composition is from about 0.1% to about 15%, preferably from about 1% to about 10%, more preferably from about 2% to about 8%, and most preferably from about 4% to about 7%, by weight of the substance.
  • Suitable gelling agents useful in the present invention include carboxypolymethylene, carboxymethyl cellulose, carboxypropyl cellulose, poloxamer, carrageenan, Veegum, carboxyvinyl polymers, and natural gums such as gum karaya, xanthan gum, Guar gum, gum arabic, gum tragacanth, and mixtures thereof.
  • the preferable gelling agent for use in the present invention is carboxypolymethylene, obtained from B. F. Goodrich Company under the tradename “Carbopol”.
  • Particularly preferable Carbopols include Carbopol 934, 940, 941, 956 and mixtures thereof. Particularly preferred is Carbopol 956.
  • Carboxypolymethylene is a slightly acidic vinyl polymer with active carboxyl groups.
  • the normal concentration of various carboxypolymethylene resins in water, according to the manufacturer, is below about 2%.
  • suitable high viscosity oral gel compositions may be prepared.
  • the concentrated carboxypolymethylene gels have a number of important characteristics in addition to high viscosity. Enough carboxypolymethylene is added to the oral gel compositions beyond that required to provide high viscosity such that a significant quantity of saliva or water is required to lower the viscosity to the point that the composition may be diluted and washed out by saliva.
  • the concentrated carboxypolymethylene composition also has a unique tackiness or stickiness which retains and seals the strip material against the targeted oral cavity surface it is affixed to, particularly teeth. However, care should be taken to avoid too much carboxypolymethylene thereby making insertion or withdrawal of the strip material difficult.
  • Water is also present in the gel compositions disclosed herein.
  • the water, employed in the present invention should, preferably, be deionized and free of organic impurities.
  • Water comprises from about 0.1% to 95%, preferably from about 5% to about 90%, and most preferably from about 10% to about 80%, by weight of the substance. This amount of water includes the free water that is added plus that amount that is introduced with other materials.
  • a pH adjusting agent may also be added to optimize the storage stability of the gel and to make the substance safe for oral tissues.
  • These pH adjusting agents, or buffers can be any material which is suitable to adjust the pH of the substance. Suitable materials include sodium bicarbonate, sodium phosphate, sodium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide, sodium stannate, triethanolamine, citric acid, hydrochloric acid, sodium citrate, and combinations thereof.
  • the pH adjusting agents are added in sufficient amounts so as to adjust the pH of the gel composition to about 4.5 to about 11, preferably from about 5 to about 8.5, and more preferably from about 5.5 to about 7.
  • pH adjusting agents are generally present in an amount of from about 0.01% to about 15% and preferably from about 0.05% to about 5%, by weight of the substance.
  • Suitable agents include both polymers with limited water solubility as well as polymers lacking water solubility. These polymers deposit a thin film on both the oral cavity's soft and hard tissues when saliva combines with the instant composition.
  • Suitable limited water solubility adhesives include: hydroxy ethyl or propyl cellulose. Adhesives lacking water solubility include: ethyl cellulose and polyox resins.
  • Another possible adhesive suitable for use in the instant composition is polyvinylpyrrolidone with a molecular weight of about 50,000 to about 300,000.
  • Still another possible adhesive suitable for use in the instant composition is a combination of Gantrez and the semisynthetic, water-soluble polymer carboxymethyl cellulose.
  • Carrier materials can be humectants. Suitable humectants include glycerin, sorbitol, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and other edible polyhydric alcohols. Humectants are generally present in an amount of from about 10% to about 95%, preferably from about 20% to about 80%, and more preferably from about 50% to about 70%, by weight of the substance. In addition to the above materials of the gel of the present invention, a number of other components can also be added to the substance.
  • Additional components include, but are not limited to, flavoring agents, sweetening agents, xylitol, opacifiers, coloring agents, and chelants such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid. These additional ingredients can also be used in place of the compounds disclosed above.
  • the release liner may be formed from any material which exhibits less affinity for substance than substance exhibits for itself and for the strip of material.
  • the release liner preferably comprises a rigid sheet of material such as polyethylene, paper, polyester, or other material which is then coated with a non-stick type material.
  • the release liner material may be coated with wax, silicone, polyester such as Teflon®, fluoropolymers, or other non-stick type materials.
  • a preferred release liner is Scotchpak®, produced by 3M.
  • the release liner may be cut to substantially the same size and shape as the strip of material or the release liner may be cut larger than the strip of material to provide a readily accessible means for separating the material from the strip.
  • the release liner may be formed from a brittle material which cracks when the strip is flexed or from multiple pieces of material or a scored piece of material. Alternatively, the release liner may be in two overlapping pieces such as a typical adhesive strip bandage type design. A further description of materials suitable as release agents is found in Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology, Fourth Edition, Volume 21, pp. 207-218, incorporated herein by reference.
  • the strip of material is preferably a 0.009 mm thick piece of polyethylene film.
  • the film preferably has an array of shallow pockets, typically 0.4 mm across and 0.1 mm deep.
  • the strip of material has a flexural stiffness of about 0.6 grams/cm as measured on a Handle-O-Meter, model #211-300, available from Thwing-Albert Instrument Co. of Philadelphia, Pa., as per test method ASTM D2923-95.
  • tooth whitener is a gel described as follows: Combine 70% glycerin, 5% carboxypolymethylene, 10% carbamide peroxide, and 15% water adjusted to pH 6.5 with sodium hydroxide. Mix until homogeneous.
  • a strip of material is applied by the user to the teeth.
  • the side of the material facing the teeth is coated with a tooth whitening substance which is preferably in a viscous state to provide not only the active but also tackiness between the tooth surfaces and the strip of material to hold the strip in place for an extended period of time.
  • the user may apply a tooth whitening substance to the teeth or to the strip before applying the strip to the teeth.
  • the strip of material readily conforms to the teeth by lightly pressing it against the teeth and/or by the wearer gently sucking through the gaps between the teeth.
  • the strip of material is easily removed by the wearer by peeling it off.
  • each successive treatment will use a fresh strip of material.
  • the tooth surface is not required to be prepared before the delivery system is applied.
  • the wearer may or may not choose to brush his teeth or rinse his mouth before applying the delivery system.
  • the surfaces of the teeth are not required to be dried or to be excessively wet with saliva or water before the strip of material is applied.
  • the strip of material and substances are substantially transparent so as to be almost unnoticeable when worn. Thinness of the delivery system enables the higher temperature inside of the wearer's mouth to conduct heat through the strip of material to the normally cooler teeth in order to accelerate the rate of diffusion of the active material into the surfaces of the teeth.
  • the wearer applies the delivery system of the present to the teeth continuously for about 5 minutes to about 120 minutes a day, preferably from about 30 minutes to about 60 minutes. Generally, this is done once a day for about 7 to 28 days.
  • the amount of time and the number of days are dependent upon several factors, including the amount of bleaching desired, the wearer's teeth, and if initial or maintenance bleaching is desired.
  • the bleaching is done to achieve a whitening benefit of 1-4 shade guide improvement as measured by VITA LUMIN® Vacuum Farbskala Shade Guides, a product of VITA Zahnfabrik, of BadSackingen, Germany.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a tooth whitening strip of material having a shape adapted to fit a user's teeth. Each user has four front teeth, two canine teeth and additional back teeth, such as molars. Each tooth has a front side, a tip, and a back side. The strip of material is of a shape so that the strip will substantially cover the front side of at least the user's front four teeth and two canine teeth. The front sides of additional teeth may be covered. The tooth whitening strip will then fold over the tips and onto the back side of one or more of the front four teeth. However, the strip of material will not cover the tips of the two canine teeth. The strip of material may be of any shape that allows for the canines to protrude. Possible shapes include substantially trapezoidal with or without stair stepped sides or notches, and rectangular with notches, stair stepped sides, or recesses.

Description

    CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
  • This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/516,896, filed Sep. 7, 2006, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/099,738, filed Apr. 6, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,122,199, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/864,640, filed May 24, 2001, (abandoned) which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/268,185, (abandoned) filed Mar. 15, 1999, which is a Continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/040,000, filed Mar. 17, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,891,453, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 08/870,330, filed Jun. 6, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,879,691, the substances of which are incorporated herein by reference.
  • FIELD OF THE INVENTION
  • The present invention relates to improved shapes of a strip for a tooth whitening delivery system. The delivery system comprises a strip of material and tooth whitening substance.
  • BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • Tooth whitening has become popular in today's culture. More and more consumers are searching for the best method to achieve tooth whitening. Professional tooth bleach by a dentist is common. Generally, there are two types of professional tooth bleaching: in the dentist's office or outside of the dentist's office. In the office tooth bleaching generally involves several visits to the dentist and the use of a rubber dam to protect the patient's gums from the bleaching agents. Out of the office tooth bleaching generally involves the use of a device or tray which is made in the dental office to fit the patient's teeth. The device is reused, and therefore, must be sufficiently robust to endure repeat handling, cleaning, filling, installation, and wearing. Typically, a patient uses the device in time periods when social contact can be avoided.
  • There are now non-professional programs available to persons interested in whitening their teeth using commercial products available at drug stores. The commercial products provide a kit which includes a generic appliance and a container of bleaching gel. The obvious appeal is the lower cost of the program. A major disadvantage of this generic “one size fits all” appliance is the greater void space between the interior walls of the appliance and the teeth versus a professionally fitted appliance. Hence, in order to insure intimate contact of the bleaching gel and the teeth surfaces, more bleaching gel is required. Furthermore, the poorer fit means a greater loss of bleaching gel onto the gums, into the oral cavity, and eventual ingestion. The commercial kits, an the outside-the-office professionally administered program, require the user to clean and to reuse the appliance. Since generic appliances are not fitted to the individual user, they are even more bulky in the mouth than the fitted appliances and thus they restrict social discourse to a greater degree.
  • One attempt to remedy some of the problems of the commercial kits is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,575,654, issued to Fontenot on Nov. 19, 1996. Fontenot discloses a prepackaged moldable dental appliance adapted to fit a wide range of variously sized dental arches. In use, the dental appliance is removed from the packaging, aligned in a parallel fashion to the edges of the teeth and pushed over the teeth in the direction of the periodontal tissue until it covers the teeth surfaces.
  • Another solution is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,310,563, issued to Curtis et al. on May 10, 1994. Curtis et al. disclose a putty-like material which is formed by pressing against the teeth. It is held in place by mechanical engagement with undercut surfaces and by friction. The composition encapsulates the active.
  • Other methods are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,425,953, issued to Sintov et al. on Jun. 20, 1995. Sintov et al. discloses a liquid polymer composition for bleaching of the teeth. The liquid polymer composition forms a film after applied to the teeth. Other references which disclose using a film in the oral cavity include U.S. Pat. No. 4,713,243 issued to Schiraldi et al. on Dec. 15, 1987, and U.S. Pat. No. 2,835,628, issued to Saffir on May 20, 1958.
  • It is generally assumed that each user or patient will have four front teeth, two canine teeth, and additional back teeth, such as molars. This applies to both a user's top set of teeth and the bottom set of teeth. The shape of the front four teeth and the canine teeth is generally the same on the top and bottom with the top set generally being larger. Each of the teeth has a front side, a back side, and a tip. The front side of the tooth is described as the side of the tooth that is visible to, others and faces the lips of the mouth. The back side of the tooth is generally not visible to others unless the mouth is open wide. The tip of the tooth is defined as the portion of the tooth that is farthest from the gums. The tip may alternatively be described as the crown, the peak, the point, or the tops of the tooth. The tips of the front four teeth are very different is shape as the tips of the canines or back teeth. The front four teeth are generally flat in shape which allows for a tooth whitening strip to easily fold over the tips of the teeth. The tip of the canine teeth generally come to a point or a cone shape. This shape is not conducive to a strip folding over or wrapping over the tip. A user of a strip of material covering the tip of the canines may find that the strip cannot easily conform and therefore does not stay in place for extended periods of time. Additionally, it is not as easy for a user to place the strip of material over the top of the canines. The strip may also tear at the tip of the canine. In general, it is also preferred that the strip of material not fold over or wrap over the molars. The tips of the molars are generally square in shape and do not allow for a strip to easily fold over the tooth. However, depending upon the shape of the strip of material, folding over the top of the molars may be suitable.
  • What is needed is a low cost commercial tooth whitening strip, which has a superior shape and which is in conformable contact with the appropriate tooth surfaces and will stay in place during normal daily activities. In addition a tooth whitening strip shape is needed which does not require extensive user placement manipulation to be certain of good contact. Furthermore, what is needed is a non-bulky active containment means that will permit the wearer to use the system during social discourse without interfering with the wearer's speech or appearance.
  • In U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/040,000 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,879,691 there is disclosed a tooth whitening system. The system comprises a strip of flexible material and a tooth whitening substance. The shape of the strip was described as any shape that has rounded comers. The disclosures focused on the characteristics of the strip such as the flexural stiffness, the materials comprising the strip, the drape, and the interaction between the strip and the tooth whitening substance to hold the strip in place. The present inventors have now discovered that the shape of the tooth whitening strip is also important. Superior shapes of the tooth whitening strip allow for better adhesion of the tooth whitening strip and substance to the teeth. The improved shapes allow for the tooth whitening strips to remain on a user's teeth for an even longer amount of time without slipping. Additionally, the new shapes make the strips less noticeable by the users.
  • SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
  • A method of bleaching a plurality of adjacent teeth, the teeth having facial and lingual surfaces, comprising: applying a tooth bleaching delivery system to a plurality of adjacent teeth, wherein the tooth bleaching delivery system comprises a flexible strip of material and a tooth bleaching composition having a peroxide active, polyvinylpyrolidone, carboxypolymethylene, a sweetening agent and a flavoring agent, wherein applying the tooth bleaching system comprises applying the strip of material and tooth bleaching composition to the facial surfaces, incisal edge, and lingual surfaces of the plurality of adjacent teeth so that the tooth bleaching composition contacts the facial surfaces of the plurality of adjacent teeth; conforming the strip of material to the facial surface and interstitial tooth spaces of a plurality of adjacent teeth; and wherein the tooth bleaching delivery system is applied to the facial surfaces of the plurality of adjacent teeth for a sufficient period of time for the peroxide active to act upon the facial surfaces of the plurality of adjacent teeth; and wherein the aforementioned steps are repeated for about 7 days.
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • While the specification concludes with claims which particularly point out and distinctly claim the present invention, it is believed that the present invention will be better understood from the following description of preferred embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals identify identical elements and wherein:
  • FIG. 1 is a planar view of a tooth whitening strip of material which is substantially trapezoidal in shape;
  • FIG. 2 is a planar view of a tooth whitening strip which is substantially trapezoidal in shape with stair stepped sides;
  • FIG. 3 is a planar view of a tooth whitening strip which is substantially rectangular in shape with stair stepped sides;
  • FIG. 4 is a planar view of a tooth whitening strip which is substantially rectangular in shape with notched sides;
  • FIG. 5 is a planar view of a tooth whitening strip which is rectangular in shape with two slits;
  • FIG. 6 is a planar view of a tooth whitening strip which is rectangular in shape with two cross-slits;
  • FIG. 7 is a planar view of a tooth whitening strip which is rectangular in shape with two holes;
  • FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a user's front six teeth; and
  • FIG. 9 is cross-sectional view of a tooth whitening strip placed upon a user's front six teeth before being folded over the back sides of the user's teeth.
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
  • The abbreviation “cm”, as used herein, means centimeter. The abbreviation “mm”, as used herein, means millimeter.
  • Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIG. 1, there is shown a first preferred embodiment of the present invention, which is generally indicated as 10. Embodiment 10 represents a tooth whitening strip which is substantially trapezoidal in shape. Embodiment 10 has a first side 11 and second side 12, a third side 13, and a fourth side 14. First side 11 and second side 12 are straight sides which angle in from the fourth side 14 to the third side 13. Third side 13 is concave and shorter then the fourth side 14. The fourth side 14 is convex. The fourth side 14 will be placed close to the bottom edge of the front side of a user's bottom set of front teeth. Alternatively, if the strip is worn on the user's top set of teeth, the fourth side 14 may be placed along the top part of the front side of a user's top set of front teeth. A fold line 15 of embodiment 10 extends from first side 11 to second side 12. The fold line 15 may be located closer to the third side 13 or the fourth side 14. The fold line 15 will be determined by the size of the user's teeth and the placement of the tooth whitening strip on the user's teeth. The third side 13 will be along the back side of a user's teeth after the strip 10 is folded along the fold line 15.
  • As shown in FIG. 2 by embodiment 20, the tooth whitening strip of material may be substantially trapezoidal in shape with stair stepped sides. Embodiment 20 has a first side 21, a second side 22, a third side 23, and a fourth side 24. Third side 23 is concave and shorter then the fourth side 24. The fourth side 24 is convex. First side 21 and second side 22 are both stair step sides. Fold line 15 extends from the corners 26 and 27 of the stair step in the first side 21 and the second side 22, respectively. Embodiment 20 can alternatively be described as two substantially trapezoidal shapes placed on top of one another. The top trapezoid is formed by the third side 23, the second side 22 from its corner 27 up to the third side 23, the fold line 25, and the first side 21 from its corner 26 up to the third side 23. The bottom trapezoid is formed by the fold line 25, the second side 22 from its corner 27 down to the fourth side 24, the fourth side 24, and the first side 21 from its corner 26 down to the fourth side 24.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates an alternative embodiment 30 of the present invention. The tooth whitening strip of material may be substantially rectangular in shape with stair stepped sides. Embodiment 30 has a first side 31 and second side 32, a third side 33, and a fourth side 34. First side 31 and second side 32 are both stair step sides. Fold line 35 extends from the corners 36 and 37 of the stair step in the first side 31 and the second side 32, respectively. Embodiment 30 can also be described as two rectangles placed on top of one another. The top rectangle is formed by the third side 33, the second side 32 from its corner 37 up to the third side 33, the fold line 35, and the first side 31 from its corner 36 up to the third side 33. This top rectangle may alternatively be described as a flap which fits over the back sides of the user's teeth. The bottom rectangle is formed by the fold line 35, the second side 32 from its corner 37 down to the fourth side 34, the fourth side 34, and the first side 31 from its corner 36 down to the fourth side 34.
  • The fold line 35 will be placed over the tips of a user's teeth enabling the strip to fold down onto both the front side and the back side of the user's teeth. The strip will be placed so that the user's two canine teeth are just outside of corners 36 and 37. The fourth side 34 will be located close to the bottom edge of the front side of a user's bottom set of front teeth. Alternatively if the strip is worn on the user's top set of teeth, the fourth side 34 may be placed along the top part of the front side of a user's top set of front teeth. The third side 33 will be along the back side of a user's teeth.
  • FIG. 4 details a tooth whitening strip of material substantially rectangular in shape with notched sides. Embodiment 40 has a first side 41, second side 42, a third side 43, and a fourth side 44. Third side 43 and fourth side 44 are both substantially straight sides and the same length. First side 41 and second side 42 have notches 46 and 47, respectively, which enable the tips of the canine teeth not to be covered when the strip is placed on the user's teeth. Fold line 45 extends from notch 46 in the first side 41 to notch 47 in the second side 42. Notches 46 and 47 as have a sideways V shapes as shown. The notches may be of any shape including rectangular, semi circles, etc. that allows the tips of the canine teeth to not be wrapped by embodiment 40.
  • Embodiments 50, 60, and 70 are illustrated by FIGS. 5, 6, and 7 respectively. The tooth whitening strip of material of embodiments 50, 60, and 70 is substantially rectangular in shape with rounded comers. Each embodiment contains two recesses which allow for protrusion of the canine teeth when the tooth whitening strip is placed on a user's teeth. FIG. 5 illustrates where the recesses are straight slits 56 and 57. Slits 56 and 57 extend from the outside edge of embodiment 50 to an interior point. Fold line 55 extends between slits 56 and 57. FIG. 6 shows slits 66 and 67 which are cross-slits. Cross-slits 66 and 67 are located within embodiment 60. Fold line 65 extends from cross-slit 66 to cross-slit 67. Embodiment 70 of FIG. 7 illustrates holes 76 and 77 in the strip. Holes 76 and 77 may be of any size that is sufficient for the tips of the canines to protrude. Fold line 75 extends between holes 76 and 77.
  • FIG. 8 shows corresponding top 81 and front 82 view of a user's bottom set of the front six teeth. Top view 81 illustrates the general arched shape found in the front six teeth. The two canine teeth 83 and 84 are located on opposite sides of the four front teeth 85. Not shown are additional back teeth, such as molars, which are located next to each of the canine teeth. Front view 82 illustrates the general shapes, including the tips, of the front four teeth 85 and canine teeth 83 and 84.
  • FIG. 9 shows front view 82 of a user's front six teeth shown in FIG. 8 with the tooth whitening strip illustrated by embodiment 20 of FIG. 2. Embodiment 20 is shown placed along the teeth but not yet folded over the teeth. As illustrated, fourth side 24 is placed along the bottom portions of the front four teeth 85 and the two canine teeth 83 and 84. Fold line 25 hits at the tips of the front four teeth 85 and allows the tips of the canine teeth 83 and 84 to be exposed. Canine teeth 83 and 84 protrude at the corners 26 and 27 of the stair steps. Third side 23 will subsequently be folded down onto the back side of the four front teeth 85.
  • Tooth Whitening Strip
  • The tooth whitening strip may be called a tooth whitening strip of material, a strip of material, or a strip. The tooth whitening strip of material will have a shape that is adapted to fit a user's teeth. It is preferred that the strip substantially covers the front side of at least a user's front four teeth and two canine teeth. These teeth are the most visible teeth for most users. The strip of material may cover the front side of additional teeth such as the teeth next two the canine teeth. This may be desired if these teeth are visible to others. By substantially, it is meant that at least half of the front tooth surface is covered. The tooth whitening strip may cover all of the front tooth surface and may also cover portions of the gums adjacent to the teeth. Generally, the tooth whitening strip will begin coverage at the point where the surface of the teeth intersect the gums.
  • The tooth whitening strip will be foldable over the tips and onto the back sides of one or more of the front four teeth without covering the tips of the two canine teeth. The shape of the strip will allow for canine tips to not be covered. By folding over the tips it is meant that the strip covers or wraps around the front side of the tooth over the tip and onto the back side of the tooth. Depending upon the size of the strip of material, the entire back side of the tooth including the adjacent gum may be covered or only a portion of the back side of the tooth.
  • The shape of the tooth whitening strip is critical to allow for coverage of the front side of the canines by not coverage of the tips. The shape of the strip may be any shape which allows this to result. The shape of the tooth whitening strip may be of many shapes. The strip may be substantially trapezoidal in shape. The term substantially trapezoidal is used to mean any shape having four general sides where there are two sides which are generally parallel or arched the same way. This may result when one side is convex and the opposing side is concave. The arched shape may help to reduce bunching of the strip and allow the strip to lay smoother along the surfaces of the teeth. The other two opposing sides will generally not be parallel. The strip may be substantially rectangular in shape. This is used generally to mean a shape with four sides which each of two sides are close to parallel. Parallel is used broadly to include when sides are arched, not straight, and generally not perpendicular. Alternatively, the strip may be of any shape such as round or oval. The strip may also be of a shape with many numbers of sides. The shape of the strip does not need to be symmetrical.
  • Any of the sides or edges of the strip may be notched, stair stepped, or arched. By notched it is meant that there is a recess, indentation, or curve of some type. By stair stepped it is meant that the side is not straight and may contain one or more stair steps. The strip may also contain slits, cross-slits, holes, perforations, or any suitable formation that allows for the canines to protrude through or be avoided by the strip of material. In generally, a recess should allow approximately 2 cm for protrusion of the canines.
  • Each strip of material will contain a fold line. The fold line is defined as the part of the strip where the tips of the teeth meet the strip when the strip is folded or wrapped over the tips. This line may be from the point where one recesses, stair steps, or notch on one side extends into the strip the farthest to where the other recess, stair step, or notch extends into the strip the farthest on the opposing side. For example, at the corner of a stair step or at the point of a notch. The fold line -will generally extend from one side of the strip to another parallel side and along the longer part of the strip. The fold line may be self adjusting depending upon the size and shape of the strip. With a trapezoidal shape strip, the fold line will be determined based upon the positioning of the strip on a user's teeth. The fold line is generally up to about 4 cm in length for a strip designed to fit on a user's bottom set of teeth. There is not a minimum requirement for the fold line as long as part of the strip folds over the tips of at least part of one of the front four teeth. Generally, the fold line will be from about 0.1 cm to about 4 cm, preferably from about 0.5 cm to about 3.5 cm, more preferably from about 1 cm to about 3.2 cm, and most preferably from about 2 cm to about 3.1 cm. For the top set of a user's teeth, the fold line is up to about 4.3 cm in length. The fold line is generally from about 0.1 cm to about 4.3 cm, preferably from about 0.5 cm to about 4 cm, more preferably from about 1 cm to about 3.5 cm and most preferably from about 2 cm to about 3.4 cm.
  • Preferably, the shape of the strip of material is any shape that has rounded corners. “Rounded corners” is defined as not having any sharp angles or points. The conformable strip of material is preferably of a size that individually fits the row of teeth desired to be bleached. The size of the strip of material depends upon many factors, including the number of teeth to be bleached, the size of the teeth, and personal preference of the wearer. In general, the length of the strip of material is from about 2 cm to about 12 cm, preferably from about 3 cm to about 9 cm, and more preferably from about 4 cm to about 6 cm. If the strip of material is stair stepped on the sides or trapezoidal shaped, the longer side of the strip of material is generally from about 3 cm to about 12 cm, preferably from about 3.1 to about 10 cm, more preferably from about 3.5 cm to about 8 cm, and most preferably from about 4 cm to about 6 cm. The shorter side is from about 0.1 cm to about 12 cm, preferably from about 0.5 cm to about 8 cm, more preferably from about 1 cm to about 5 cm, and most preferably from about 1.5 cm to about 3 cm. The width of the strip of material will also depend upon many factors, including whether or not the strip of material wraps completely around the teeth and covers part or all of the front and back surfaces of the tooth. In a general application, the width of the strip of material is from about 0.5 cm to about 4 cm and preferably from about 1 cm to about 2 cm.
  • The strip of material serves as a protective barrier to substantially prevent saliva contacting the tooth whitening substance and leaching and/or erosion of the tooth whitening substance from the surface of the teeth by the wearer's lips, tongue, and other soft tissue. In order for an active in tooth whitening substance to act upon the surface of tooth over an extended period of time, from several minutes to several hours, it is important to minimize such leaching and/or erosion. The term “act upon” is herein defined as bringing about a desired change. For example, if the substance is a tooth whitener, it bleaches color bodies to bring about whitening.
  • The strip of material may comprise materials such as polymers, natural and synthetic wovens, non-wovens, foil, paper, rubber, and combinations thereof. The strip of material may be a single layer of material or a laminate of more than one layer. Generally, the strip of material is substantially water impermeable. The material may be any type of polymer that meets the required flexural rigidity and is compatible with tooth whitening actives, such as peroxide. The material may comprise a single polymer or a mixtures of polymers. Suitable polymers include, but are not limited to, polyethylene, ethylvinylacetate, ethylvinyl alcohol, polyesters such as Mylar® manufactured by DuPont, fluoroplastics such as Teflon® manufactured by DuPont, and combinations thereof. Preferably, the material is polyethylene. The strip of material is generally less than about 1 mm thick, preferably less than about 0.05 mm thick, and more preferably from about 0.001 to about 0.03 mm thick. A polyethylene strip of material is preferably less than about 0.1 mm thick and more preferably from about 0.005 to about 0.02 mm thick.
  • The strip of material may contain shallow pockets. When the substance is coated on a substance-coated side of strip of material, additional substance fills shallow pockets to provide reservoirs of additional substance. Additionally, the shallow pockets help to provide a texture to the delivery system. The film will preferably have an array of shallow pockets. Generally, the shallow pockets are approximately 0.4 mm across and 0.1 mm deep. When shallow pockets are included in the strip of material and substances are applied to it in various thicknesses, the overall thickness of the delivery system is generally less than about 1 mm. Preferably, the overall thickness is less than about 0.5 mm.
  • Flexural stiffness is a material property that is a function of a combination of strip thickness, width, and material modulus of elasticity. This test is a method for measuring the rigidity of polyolefin film and sheeting. It determines the resistance to flexure of a sample by using a strain gauge affixed to the end of a horizontal beam. The opposite end of the beam presses across a strip of the sample to force a portion of the strip into a vertical groove in a horizontal platform upon which the sample rests. A microammeter, wired to the strain gauge is calibrated in grams of deflection force. The rigidity of the sample is read directly from the microammeter and expressed as grams per centimeter of sample strip width. In the present invention, the strip of material has a flexural stiffness of less than about 5 grams/cm as measured on a Handle-O-Meter, model #211-300, available from Thwing-Albert Instrument Co. of Philadelphia, Pa., as per test method ASTM D2923-95. Preferably, the strip of material has a flexural stiffness less than about 4 grams/cm, more preferably less than about 3 grams/cm, and most preferably from about 0.1 grams/cm to about 1 grams/cm. Preferably, the flexural stiffness of the strip of material is substantially constant and does not significantly change during normal use. For example, the strip of material does not need to be hydrated for the strip to achieve the low flexural stiffness in the above-specified ranges.
  • This relatively low stiffness enables the strip of material to drape over the contoured surfaces of teeth with very little force being exerted; that is, conformity to the curvature of the wearer's mouth and gaps between adjacent teeth is maintained because there is little residual force within strip of material to cause it to return to its substantially flat shape. The flexibility of the strip enables the strip of material to contact adjoining soft tissue over an extended period of time without physical irritation. The strip of material, does not require pressure forming it against the teeth.
  • The strip of material is held in place on a plurality of adjacent teeth by adhesive attachment provided by the substance. The viscosity and general tackiness of the substance cause the strip of material to be adhesively attached to a plurality of adjacent teeth without substantial slippage under the potential friction from the lips, tongue, and other soft tissue rubbing against the strip of material during mouth movements associated with talking, drinking, etc. However, this adhesion to the teeth is low enough to allow the delivery system to be easily removed by the wearer by peeling off the strip of material using one's finger or fingernail. The delivery system is easily removable from the surfaces of the teeth without the use of an instrument, a chemical solvent, or undue friction. Chemical solvents include any organic solvents commonly used in oral care products such as alcohol and other safe solvents such as water, which could be used to dilute the gelling agent. Undue friction is described as any type of rubbing with one's finger or a soft implement, such as cotton balls, swabs, or gauze pads.
  • A peel force of from about 1 gram to about 50 grams for a 1.5 cm strip width (approximately 17 grams/cm) is all that is required. Preferably, the peel force is from about 5 grams to about 40 grams and more preferably from about 10 grams to about 30 grams. The low peel force is desired for consumer handling purposes. The low peel force is possible because of the non-aggressive nature of a gel substance. Only when the flexural stiffness of the strip is low can the adhesion of the substance also be low. The adhesion of a stiffer strip would have to be greater in proportion to the strip stiffness in order to prevent the strip from returning to its flat condition and pulling away from the contoured surface of a plurality of teeth.
  • The strip of material may be formed by several of the film making processes known in the art. Preferably, a strip of material made of polyethylene is made by a blown process or a cast process. Processes, such as extrusion and other processes that do not affect the flexural rigidity of the strip of material, are also feasible. Additionally, the substance may be incorporated onto the strip during the processing of the strip. The substance may be a laminate on the strip.
  • Tooth Whitening Substance
  • The tooth whitening substance is a composition, compound, or mixture capable of influencing or effecting a desired change in appearance and/or structure of the surface it contacts. Examples of appearance and structural changes include, but are not necessarily limited to, whitening, stain bleaching, stain removal, plaque removal, and tartar removal. Preferably, the active is for the whitening of the tooth surfaces.
  • The tooth whitening substance may be coated on the strip of material, be applied by the user to the strip of material, or be applied by the user to their teeth and then apply the strip over the coated teeth. The amount of substance applied to the strip of material or teeth will depend upon the size and capacity of the piece of material, concentration of the active, and the desired benefit. Generally, less than about 1 gram of substance is required. Preferably, from about 0.05 grams to about 0.5 grams and more preferably from about 0.1 gram to about 0.4 grams of the substance is used. The amount of substance per square cm of material is less than about 0.2 grams/cm2, preferably from about 0.005 to about 0.1 grams/cm2, and more preferably from about 0.01 grams/cm to about 0.04 grams/cm2.
  • The substance of the present invention can be in the form of a viscous liquid, paste, gel, solution, or other suitable form that can provide sufficient adhesion. Preferably, the substance is in the form of a gel. The substance will have a viscosity of from about 200 to about 1,000,000 cps at low shear rates (less than one 1/seconds). Preferably, the viscosity is from about 100,000 to about 800,000 cps and more preferably from about 400,000 to about 600,000 cps.
  • Actives suitable for whitening include any material safe for use in the oral cavity which provides bleaching or stain removal. The actives suitable for whitening are selected from the group consisting of the peroxides, metal chlorites, perborates, percarbonates, peroxyacids, and combinations thereof. Suitable peroxide compounds include hydrogen peroxide, calcium peroxide, carbamide peroxide, and mixtures thereof. Most preferred is carbamide peroxide. Suitable metal chlorites include calcium chlorite, barium chlorite, magnesium chlorite, lithium chlorite, sodium chlorite, and potassium chlorite. Additional whitening actives may be hypochlorite and chlorine dioxide. The preferred chlorite is sodium chlorite.
  • The tooth whitening active is present in an amount of from about 0.01% to about 40%, by weight of the substance. If a peroxide compound is chosen as the active, the peroxide compound should provide an amount of hydrogen peroxide equivalent of from about 0.1% to about 20%, preferably from about 0.5% to about 10%, and most preferably from about 1% to about 7%, by weight of the substance. To deliver this amount of hydrogen peroxide equivalent, the peroxide compound, such as carbamide peroxide, is generally present in an amount of from about 0.1% to about 30% and preferably from about 3% to about 20%, by weight of the substance.
  • The actives are generally contained in an aqueous gel. The gel is a high viscosity matrix formed from gelling agents known in the art. These gelling agents are safe for oral use, do not readily dissolve in saliva, and do not react with or inactivate the oral care compounds incorporated into them. Generally, the gelling agent is a swellable polymer. Furthermore, the gel formed with these agents provides sufficient adhesive attachment of the film material to the targeted area of the mouth. The level of gelling agent to form the gel composition is from about 0.1% to about 15%, preferably from about 1% to about 10%, more preferably from about 2% to about 8%, and most preferably from about 4% to about 7%, by weight of the substance.
  • Suitable gelling agents useful in the present invention include carboxypolymethylene, carboxymethyl cellulose, carboxypropyl cellulose, poloxamer, carrageenan, Veegum, carboxyvinyl polymers, and natural gums such as gum karaya, xanthan gum, Guar gum, gum arabic, gum tragacanth, and mixtures thereof. The preferable gelling agent for use in the present invention is carboxypolymethylene, obtained from B. F. Goodrich Company under the tradename “Carbopol”. Particularly preferable Carbopols include Carbopol 934, 940, 941, 956 and mixtures thereof. Particularly preferred is Carbopol 956. Carboxypolymethylene is a slightly acidic vinyl polymer with active carboxyl groups. The normal concentration of various carboxypolymethylene resins in water, according to the manufacturer, is below about 2%. However, it has been found that by preparing supersaturated carboxypolymethylene compositions having an absolute concentration in the ranges specified above, suitable high viscosity oral gel compositions may be prepared.
  • The concentrated carboxypolymethylene gels have a number of important characteristics in addition to high viscosity. Enough carboxypolymethylene is added to the oral gel compositions beyond that required to provide high viscosity such that a significant quantity of saliva or water is required to lower the viscosity to the point that the composition may be diluted and washed out by saliva. The concentrated carboxypolymethylene composition also has a unique tackiness or stickiness which retains and seals the strip material against the targeted oral cavity surface it is affixed to, particularly teeth. However, care should be taken to avoid too much carboxypolymethylene thereby making insertion or withdrawal of the strip material difficult.
  • Water is also present in the gel compositions disclosed herein. The water, employed in the present invention should, preferably, be deionized and free of organic impurities. Water comprises from about 0.1% to 95%, preferably from about 5% to about 90%, and most preferably from about 10% to about 80%, by weight of the substance. This amount of water includes the free water that is added plus that amount that is introduced with other materials.
  • A pH adjusting agent may also be added to optimize the storage stability of the gel and to make the substance safe for oral tissues. These pH adjusting agents, or buffers, can be any material which is suitable to adjust the pH of the substance. Suitable materials include sodium bicarbonate, sodium phosphate, sodium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide, sodium stannate, triethanolamine, citric acid, hydrochloric acid, sodium citrate, and combinations thereof. The pH adjusting agents are added in sufficient amounts so as to adjust the pH of the gel composition to about 4.5 to about 11, preferably from about 5 to about 8.5, and more preferably from about 5.5 to about 7. pH adjusting agents are generally present in an amount of from about 0.01% to about 15% and preferably from about 0.05% to about 5%, by weight of the substance.
  • While the gel described above provides sufficient adhesiveness, additional gelling agents may also be included in the formula to help the active ingredients adhere to the tissues of the oral cavity. Suitable agents include both polymers with limited water solubility as well as polymers lacking water solubility. These polymers deposit a thin film on both the oral cavity's soft and hard tissues when saliva combines with the instant composition. Suitable limited water solubility adhesives include: hydroxy ethyl or propyl cellulose. Adhesives lacking water solubility include: ethyl cellulose and polyox resins. Another possible adhesive suitable for use in the instant composition is polyvinylpyrrolidone with a molecular weight of about 50,000 to about 300,000. Still another possible adhesive suitable for use in the instant composition is a combination of Gantrez and the semisynthetic, water-soluble polymer carboxymethyl cellulose.
  • An additional carrier material may also be added to the substance. Carrier materials can be humectants. Suitable humectants include glycerin, sorbitol, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and other edible polyhydric alcohols. Humectants are generally present in an amount of from about 10% to about 95%, preferably from about 20% to about 80%, and more preferably from about 50% to about 70%, by weight of the substance. In addition to the above materials of the gel of the present invention, a number of other components can also be added to the substance. Additional components include, but are not limited to, flavoring agents, sweetening agents, xylitol, opacifiers, coloring agents, and chelants such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid. These additional ingredients can also be used in place of the compounds disclosed above.
  • Release Liner
  • The release liner may be formed from any material which exhibits less affinity for substance than substance exhibits for itself and for the strip of material. The release liner preferably comprises a rigid sheet of material such as polyethylene, paper, polyester, or other material which is then coated with a non-stick type material. The release liner material may be coated with wax, silicone, polyester such as Teflon®, fluoropolymers, or other non-stick type materials. A preferred release liner is Scotchpak®, produced by 3M. The release liner may be cut to substantially the same size and shape as the strip of material or the release liner may be cut larger than the strip of material to provide a readily accessible means for separating the material from the strip. The release liner may be formed from a brittle material which cracks when the strip is flexed or from multiple pieces of material or a scored piece of material. Alternatively, the release liner may be in two overlapping pieces such as a typical adhesive strip bandage type design. A further description of materials suitable as release agents is found in Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology, Fourth Edition, Volume 21, pp. 207-218, incorporated herein by reference.
  • Examples
  • The strip of material is preferably a 0.009 mm thick piece of polyethylene film. The film preferably has an array of shallow pockets, typically 0.4 mm across and 0.1 mm deep. The strip of material has a flexural stiffness of about 0.6 grams/cm as measured on a Handle-O-Meter, model #211-300, available from Thwing-Albert Instrument Co. of Philadelphia, Pa., as per test method ASTM D2923-95.
  • An example of a tooth whitener is a gel described as follows: Combine 70% glycerin, 5% carboxypolymethylene, 10% carbamide peroxide, and 15% water adjusted to pH 6.5 with sodium hydroxide. Mix until homogeneous.
  • Additional examples of alternative tooth whitening gel are described as follows: Combine 8% carboxypolymethylene in approximately 84% water, add 4% sodium hydroxide and enough sodium bicarbonate to bring the pH to about 10. Dissolve in 3.75% sodium chlorite and mix until homogeneous.
  • Combine 60% glycerin, 4.5% carboxypolymethylene, and 5% hydrogen peroxide. Add sodium hydroxide (50% solution) until the pH is adjusted as desired and then add the remainder as water. Mix until homogeneous.
  • Combine 56% glycerin, 6% carboxypolymethylene, 10% carbamide peroxide, and 24% water. Add 4% sodium hydroxide (50% solution) to adjust the pH. Mix until homogeneous.
  • Combine 68% glycerin, 6% carboxypolymethylene, 22% carbamide peroxide, and 4% sodium hydroxide (50% solution). Mix until homogeneous.
  • Combine 25% glycerin, 69.7% water, 2% xanthan gum, 3% carboxymethylcellulose, and 0.3% carbamide peroxide. Mix until homogeneous.
  • Combine 24% poloxamer, 20% glycerin, 46% polyethylene glycol, and 10% carbamide peroxide. Mix until homogeneous.
  • Commercial tooth whiteners, such as Opalescence and Nu-Pro Gold, are also operable with the delivery system of the present invention.
  • Method of Use
  • In practicing the present invention, a strip of material is applied by the user to the teeth. The side of the material facing the teeth is coated with a tooth whitening substance which is preferably in a viscous state to provide not only the active but also tackiness between the tooth surfaces and the strip of material to hold the strip in place for an extended period of time. Alternatively, the user may apply a tooth whitening substance to the teeth or to the strip before applying the strip to the teeth. The strip of material readily conforms to the teeth by lightly pressing it against the teeth and/or by the wearer gently sucking through the gaps between the teeth. The strip of material is easily removed by the wearer by peeling it off. Preferably, each successive treatment will use a fresh strip of material.
  • The tooth surface is not required to be prepared before the delivery system is applied. For example, the wearer may or may not choose to brush his teeth or rinse his mouth before applying the delivery system. The surfaces of the teeth are not required to be dried or to be excessively wet with saliva or water before the strip of material is applied.
  • Preferably, the strip of material and substances are substantially transparent so as to be almost unnoticeable when worn. Thinness of the delivery system enables the higher temperature inside of the wearer's mouth to conduct heat through the strip of material to the normally cooler teeth in order to accelerate the rate of diffusion of the active material into the surfaces of the teeth.
  • Preferably, the wearer applies the delivery system of the present to the teeth continuously for about 5 minutes to about 120 minutes a day, preferably from about 30 minutes to about 60 minutes. Generally, this is done once a day for about 7 to 28 days. The amount of time and the number of days are dependent upon several factors, including the amount of bleaching desired, the wearer's teeth, and if initial or maintenance bleaching is desired. The bleaching is done to achieve a whitening benefit of 1-4 shade guide improvement as measured by VITA LUMIN® Vacuum Farbskala Shade Guides, a product of VITA Zahnfabrik, of BadSackingen, Germany.
  • When the wearer removes the strip of material from the tooth, there may be a residue of substance remaining on the surface. This residual will not be great, as the tooth whitening substance has affinity for both the film and for itself. If residual substance remains, it may be easily removed by brushing or rinsing.
  • While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and it is intended to cover in the appended claims all such modifications that are within the scope of the invention.

Claims (19)

1. A method of bleaching a plurality of adjacent teeth, the teeth having facial and lingual surfaces, comprising:
applying a tooth bleaching delivery system to a plurality of adjacent teeth, wherein the tooth bleaching delivery system comprises a flexible strip of material and a tooth bleaching composition having a peroxide active, polyvinylpyrolidone, carboxypolymethylene, a sweetening agent and a flavoring agent, wherein applying the tooth bleaching system comprises:
a) applying the strip of material and tooth bleaching composition to the facial surfaces, incisal edge, and lingual surfaces of the plurality of adjacent teeth so that the tooth bleaching composition contacts the facial surfaces of the plurality of adjacent teeth;
b) conforming the strip of material to the facial surface and interstitial tooth spaces of a plurality of adjacent teeth;
c) and wherein the tooth bleaching delivery system is applied to the facial surfaces of the plurality of adjacent teeth for a sufficient period of time for the peroxide active to act upon the facial surfaces of the plurality of adjacent teeth; and wherein steps (a) and (b) are repeated for about 7 days.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein said peroxide is hydrogen peroxide.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the tooth bleaching composition further comprises glycerin.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the tooth bleaching composition further comprises water.
5. The method of claim 4, wherein said tooth bleaching composition comprises from about 0.1% to about 95% water by weight of the total composition.
6. The method of claim 5, wherein said tooth bleaching composition comprises from about 5% to about 90% water by weight of the total composition.
7. The method of claim 6, wherein said tooth bleaching composition comprises from about 10% to about 80% water by weight of the total composition.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the tooth bleaching composition further comprises phosphate.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein said tooth bleaching delivery system is applied for a period of time between about 5 minutes and about 120 minutes.
10. The method of claim 1, wherein a fresh strip of material is used for each application of said tooth bleaching composition to said surfaces of said teeth.
11. The method of claim 1, wherein the tooth bleaching product has a thickness of less than 1 mm.
12. The method of claim 1, wherein the length of the strip of material is from about 2 cm to about 12 cm.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein the length of the strip of material is from about 3 cm to about 9 cm.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein the length of the strip of material is from about 4 cm to about 6 cm.
15. The method of claim 1, wherein the width of the strip of material is from about 0.5 cm to about 4 cm.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the width of the strip of material is from about 1 cm to about 2 cm.
17. The method of claim 1, wherein said tooth bleaching composition has a viscosity between about 200 and about 1,000,000 cps.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein said tooth bleaching composition has a viscosity between about 100,000 and about 800,000 cps.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein said tooth bleaching composition has a viscosity between about 400,000 and about 600,000 cps.
US11/824,055 1997-06-06 2007-06-29 Methods of tooth bleaching Abandoned US20070253990A1 (en)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US11/824,055 US20070253990A1 (en) 1997-06-06 2007-06-29 Methods of tooth bleaching
US11/888,291 US20070269471A1 (en) 1997-06-06 2007-07-31 Methods of tooth bleaching

Applications Claiming Priority (7)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US08/870,330 US5879691A (en) 1997-06-06 1997-06-06 Delivery system for a tooth whitener using a strip of material having low flexural stiffness
US09/040,000 US5891453A (en) 1997-06-06 1998-03-17 Delivery system for a tooth whitener using a strip of material having low flexural stiffness
US09/268,185 US20020018754A1 (en) 1999-03-15 1999-03-15 Shapes for tooth whitening strips
US09/864,640 US20020006387A1 (en) 1997-06-06 2001-05-24 Methods for whitening teeth
US11/099,738 US7122199B2 (en) 1997-06-06 2005-04-06 Methods for whitening teeth
US11/516,896 US20070003495A1 (en) 1997-06-06 2006-09-07 Methods for whitening teeth
US11/824,055 US20070253990A1 (en) 1997-06-06 2007-06-29 Methods of tooth bleaching

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US11/516,896 Continuation US20070003495A1 (en) 1997-06-06 2006-09-07 Methods for whitening teeth

Related Child Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US11/888,291 Continuation US20070269471A1 (en) 1997-06-06 2007-07-31 Methods of tooth bleaching

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20070253990A1 true US20070253990A1 (en) 2007-11-01

Family

ID=23021843

Family Applications (7)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/268,185 Abandoned US20020018754A1 (en) 1997-06-06 1999-03-15 Shapes for tooth whitening strips
US09/864,640 Abandoned US20020006387A1 (en) 1997-06-06 2001-05-24 Methods for whitening teeth
US10/321,252 Expired - Lifetime US6884426B2 (en) 1997-06-06 2002-12-17 Methods for whitening teeth
US11/099,738 Expired - Fee Related US7122199B2 (en) 1997-06-06 2005-04-06 Methods for whitening teeth
US11/516,896 Abandoned US20070003495A1 (en) 1997-06-06 2006-09-07 Methods for whitening teeth
US11/824,055 Abandoned US20070253990A1 (en) 1997-06-06 2007-06-29 Methods of tooth bleaching
US11/888,291 Abandoned US20070269471A1 (en) 1997-06-06 2007-07-31 Methods of tooth bleaching

Family Applications Before (5)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/268,185 Abandoned US20020018754A1 (en) 1997-06-06 1999-03-15 Shapes for tooth whitening strips
US09/864,640 Abandoned US20020006387A1 (en) 1997-06-06 2001-05-24 Methods for whitening teeth
US10/321,252 Expired - Lifetime US6884426B2 (en) 1997-06-06 2002-12-17 Methods for whitening teeth
US11/099,738 Expired - Fee Related US7122199B2 (en) 1997-06-06 2005-04-06 Methods for whitening teeth
US11/516,896 Abandoned US20070003495A1 (en) 1997-06-06 2006-09-07 Methods for whitening teeth

Family Applications After (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US11/888,291 Abandoned US20070269471A1 (en) 1997-06-06 2007-07-31 Methods of tooth bleaching

Country Status (22)

Country Link
US (7) US20020018754A1 (en)
EP (1) EP1161198B1 (en)
JP (1) JP3938663B2 (en)
KR (1) KR100430635B1 (en)
CN (1) CN1205899C (en)
AT (1) ATE247932T1 (en)
AU (1) AU763529B2 (en)
BR (1) BR0009075A (en)
CA (1) CA2367148C (en)
CZ (1) CZ20013285A3 (en)
DE (1) DE60004796T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2200850T3 (en)
HK (1) HK1043722B (en)
HU (1) HUP0200573A2 (en)
MX (1) MXPA01009344A (en)
NO (1) NO20014472L (en)
NZ (1) NZ514139A (en)
PL (1) PL194880B1 (en)
RU (1) RU2219895C2 (en)
SK (1) SK13092001A3 (en)
TR (1) TR200102685T2 (en)
WO (1) WO2000054699A1 (en)

Cited By (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20050002975A1 (en) * 2003-06-06 2005-01-06 Densen Cao Structures and methods for delivering topical compositions
US20090087393A1 (en) * 2006-02-08 2009-04-02 Cao Group, Inc. Dental Treatment Compositions and Conformable Dental Treatment Trays Using the Same
US8202091B2 (en) 2007-08-31 2012-06-19 Ultradent Products, Inc. Dental treatment trays comprising silicone elastomeric material
US9554976B2 (en) 2002-09-11 2017-01-31 The Procter & Gamble Company Tooth whitening product
US9949809B2 (en) 2007-08-31 2018-04-24 Ultradent Products, Inc. Dental treatment devices comprising silicone-like elastomeric material

Families Citing this family (120)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8182473B2 (en) 1999-01-08 2012-05-22 Palomar Medical Technologies Cooling system for a photocosmetic device
US6517532B1 (en) 1997-05-15 2003-02-11 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Light energy delivery head
JP4056091B2 (en) 1997-05-15 2008-03-05 パロマー・メディカル・テクノロジーズ・インコーポレーテッド Dermatological treatment method and apparatus
US6096328A (en) * 1997-06-06 2000-08-01 The Procter & Gamble Company Delivery system for an oral care substance using a strip of material having low flexural stiffness
US20020018754A1 (en) * 1999-03-15 2002-02-14 Paul Albert Sagel Shapes for tooth whitening strips
WO1999046005A1 (en) 1998-03-12 1999-09-16 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. System for electromagnetic radiation of the skin
US7785572B2 (en) 2000-03-17 2010-08-31 Lg Household And Health Care Ltd. Method and device for teeth whitening using a dry type adhesive
AU6840501A (en) * 2000-06-28 2002-01-08 Procter & Gamble Structures and compositions increasing the stability of peroxide actives
USRE44145E1 (en) 2000-07-07 2013-04-09 A.V. Topchiev Institute Of Petrochemical Synthesis Preparation of hydrophilic pressure sensitive adhesives having optimized adhesive properties
US6500408B2 (en) 2001-01-27 2002-12-31 Jc Technologies, Inc. Enamel-safe tooth bleach and method for use
US6503486B2 (en) * 2001-03-12 2003-01-07 Colgate Palmolive Company Strip for whitening tooth surfaces
US6419906B1 (en) * 2001-03-12 2002-07-16 Colgate Palmolive Company Strip for whitening tooth surfaces
US6514483B2 (en) * 2001-03-12 2003-02-04 Colgate Palmolive Company Strip for whitening tooth surfaces
US8206738B2 (en) 2001-05-01 2012-06-26 Corium International, Inc. Hydrogel compositions with an erodible backing member
US8840918B2 (en) 2001-05-01 2014-09-23 A. V. Topchiev Institute of Petrochemical Synthesis, Russian Academy of Sciences Hydrogel compositions for tooth whitening
ATE438418T1 (en) 2001-05-01 2009-08-15 Av Topchiev Inst Petrochemical HYDROGEL COMPOSITIONS
US8541021B2 (en) 2001-05-01 2013-09-24 A.V. Topchiev Institute Of Petrochemical Synthesis Hydrogel compositions demonstrating phase separation on contact with aqueous media
US20050215727A1 (en) 2001-05-01 2005-09-29 Corium Water-absorbent adhesive compositions and associated methods of manufacture and use
US20050113510A1 (en) * 2001-05-01 2005-05-26 Feldstein Mikhail M. Method of preparing polymeric adhesive compositions utilizing the mechanism of interaction between the polymer components
KR100436968B1 (en) * 2001-06-19 2004-06-23 주식회사 엘지생활건강 Patches for teeth whitening
KR100455228B1 (en) * 2001-06-23 2004-11-09 주식회사 엘지생활건강 Semi-transparent patches for teeth whitening
KR100471919B1 (en) * 2001-07-04 2005-03-08 주식회사 엘지생활건강 Flexible patches for teeth whitening
CN1571654A (en) * 2001-08-17 2005-01-26 史密丝克莱恩比彻姆有限公司 Oral care substance delivery strip
US7329274B2 (en) * 2001-11-29 2008-02-12 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Conforming oral phototherapy applicator
US6949240B2 (en) * 2002-05-23 2005-09-27 The Procter & Gamble Company Tooth whitening products
BR0312430A (en) 2002-06-19 2005-04-26 Palomar Medical Tech Inc Method and apparatus for treating skin and subcutaneous conditions
US6896518B2 (en) * 2002-06-28 2005-05-24 Scott Jacobs Teeth treatment device
US20040157192A1 (en) * 2002-06-28 2004-08-12 Scott Jacobs Teeth treatment device
US8956160B2 (en) * 2002-07-02 2015-02-17 Ranir, Llc Device and method for delivering an oral care agent
US20050019277A1 (en) * 2002-09-11 2005-01-27 The Procter & Gamble Company Tooth whitening products
US6916463B2 (en) * 2002-09-24 2005-07-12 The Procter & Gamble Company Oral products having an aesthetic layer
EP2522293A2 (en) 2002-10-23 2012-11-14 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Phototreatment device for use with coolants and topical substances
AU2003277701A1 (en) 2002-11-21 2004-06-15 Lg Household And Health Care Ltd. Dry type patches safe for gum
WO2004058352A2 (en) * 2002-12-20 2004-07-15 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Apparatus for light treatment of acne and other disorders of follicles
US7004756B2 (en) * 2003-01-24 2006-02-28 Ultradent Products, Inc. Pre-shaped dental trays and treatment devices and methods that utilize such dental trays
US6964571B2 (en) * 2003-01-24 2005-11-15 Ultradent Products, Inc. Pre-shaped dental trays and treatment devices and methods that utilize such dental trays
CA2515843A1 (en) * 2003-02-19 2004-09-02 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Method and apparatus for treating pseudofolliculitis barbae
AU2003283851A1 (en) * 2003-04-30 2004-12-13 Icure Pharmaceutical Corporation Patch for tooth whitening
US7416546B2 (en) * 2003-05-05 2008-08-26 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Tissue patches and related delivery systems and methods
US7040897B2 (en) * 2003-05-23 2006-05-09 Ultradent Products, Inc. Thin, flexible membrane dental trays and systems and methods utilizing such trays
US7011523B2 (en) * 2003-10-22 2006-03-14 Ultradent Products, Inc. Bleaching compositions and devices having a solid adhesive layer and bleaching gel adjacent thereto
US6860736B2 (en) * 2003-05-23 2005-03-01 Ultradent Products, Inc. Oral treatment devices that include a thin, flexible barrier layer and an endoskeleton treatment or adhesive composition
US7059857B2 (en) * 2003-05-27 2006-06-13 Ultradent Products, Inc. Substantially solid desensitizing compositions and devices having a tray-like configuration and methods of manufacturing and using such compositions and devices
US7056118B2 (en) * 2003-05-27 2006-06-06 Ultradent Products, Inc. Compositions and devices having a tray-like configuration for delivering a medicament and methods of manufacturing and using such compositions and devices
US7074042B2 (en) * 2003-05-27 2006-07-11 Ultradent Products, Inc. Tray-like dental bleaching devices having a barrier layer and a substantially solid bleaching composition
US7048543B2 (en) * 2003-05-27 2006-05-23 Ultradent Products, Inc. Substantially solid bleaching composition in a tray-like configuration
US7052275B2 (en) 2003-05-27 2006-05-30 Ultradent Products, Inc. Kits and methods for bleaching and desensitizing teeth
AU2004261189A1 (en) * 2003-07-28 2005-02-10 Discus Dental, Llc. Compositions, methods, devices, and kits for maintaining or enhancing tooth whitening
US20050036956A1 (en) * 2003-08-15 2005-02-17 Lin Fei Non-aqueous liquid tooth whitening composition
US20050036959A1 (en) * 2003-08-15 2005-02-17 Sayed Ibrahim Rapid temporary tooth whitening composition
US20050036034A1 (en) * 2003-08-15 2005-02-17 Rea David D. Apparatus for communicating over a network images captured by a digital camera
US20050069501A1 (en) * 2003-08-15 2005-03-31 Sayed Ibrahim Rapid temporary tooth whitening composition
US6981874B2 (en) * 2003-10-22 2006-01-03 Ultradent Products, Inc. Dental bleaching compositions and devices having a solid activation adhesive layer or region and bleaching gel layer or region
US6997708B2 (en) 2003-10-22 2006-02-14 Ultradent Products, Inc. Treatment compositions and strips having a solid adhesive layer and treatment gel adjacent thereto
US7108506B2 (en) * 2003-08-27 2006-09-19 Archtek, Inc. One wall boil and bite dental tray
US20050050659A1 (en) * 2003-09-09 2005-03-10 The Procter & Gamble Company Electric toothbrush comprising an electrically powered element
US20050066459A1 (en) * 2003-09-09 2005-03-31 The Procter & Gamble Company Electric toothbrushes and replaceable components
US20050137110A1 (en) * 2003-12-17 2005-06-23 Scott Douglas C. Compositions and methods of delivering bleaching agents to teeth
KR20070007299A (en) 2004-01-30 2007-01-15 코리움 인터네셔널, 인크. Rapidly dissolving film for delivery of an active agent
US7059858B2 (en) * 2004-02-19 2006-06-13 Ultradent Products, Inc. Universal tray design having anatomical features to enhance fit
US7192280B2 (en) * 2004-02-19 2007-03-20 Ultradent Products, Inc. Dental bleaching devices having a protective adhesive region
US20080003248A1 (en) * 2004-03-03 2008-01-03 Constantine Georgiades Whitening products
US20050196348A1 (en) * 2004-03-03 2005-09-08 Constantine Georgiades Stabilized peroxide compositions
US20070190125A1 (en) * 2004-03-03 2007-08-16 Constantine Georgiades Positioning feature for aiding use of film or strip product
US20050196354A1 (en) * 2004-03-03 2005-09-08 Andre Soshinsky Film compositions
US20050196355A1 (en) * 2004-03-03 2005-09-08 Constantine Georgiades Film products having controlled disintegration properties
US20070269519A1 (en) * 2004-03-03 2007-11-22 Constantine Georgiades Whitening products
US20050210615A1 (en) * 2004-03-29 2005-09-29 Ramachandra Shastry Oral care method
US7264471B2 (en) 2004-05-05 2007-09-04 Ultradent Products, Inc. Methods and kits for bleaching teeth while protecting adjacent gingival tissue
US7625210B2 (en) * 2004-08-09 2009-12-01 Ultradent Products, Inc. Treatment devices for providing oral treatments and kits and methods that utilize such treatment devices
AU2005277088B2 (en) 2004-08-24 2011-04-14 Millennium Dental International Inc. Permanganate containing whitening compositions and methods of their use
US7185654B2 (en) * 2004-10-01 2007-03-06 Haddix Thomas R System and method for preventing snoring
US7594511B2 (en) 2004-10-01 2009-09-29 Haddix Thomas R Device and method for preventing unwanted oral activity
US20060099550A1 (en) * 2004-11-10 2006-05-11 Ranir/Dcp Corporation Device and method for delivering an oral care agent
US7247022B2 (en) * 2005-01-31 2007-07-24 Ultradent Products, Inc. Dental tray system with releasable hold inner and outer dental trays
US20060171905A1 (en) * 2005-01-31 2006-08-03 Allred Peter M Dental bleaching compositions having a protective coating applied thereto
US20060228307A1 (en) * 2005-04-08 2006-10-12 Cao Group, Inc. Structures and methods for delivering topical compositions
US7856985B2 (en) 2005-04-22 2010-12-28 Cynosure, Inc. Method of treatment body tissue using a non-uniform laser beam
JP4716360B2 (en) * 2005-04-28 2011-07-06 ファインフーズ株式会社 Caries bandage
US7452209B2 (en) * 2005-05-02 2008-11-18 Ultradent Products, Inc. Exoskeleton support for placement of a dental treatment strip
US20060275369A1 (en) * 2005-06-01 2006-12-07 Cao Group, Inc. Orally Therapeutic Plastics and Devices Formed Therefrom
US8414293B2 (en) * 2005-06-28 2013-04-09 Colgate-Palmolive Company Carrier strip for application to oral surfaces and related methods
US8137658B2 (en) 2005-06-28 2012-03-20 Isp Investments Inc. Tooth whitening compositions
US20070259011A1 (en) * 2005-07-22 2007-11-08 The Procter & Gamble Company Oral care products
JP2009504260A (en) * 2005-08-08 2009-02-05 パロマー・メデイカル・テクノロジーズ・インコーポレーテツド Eye-safe photocosmetic device
AU2006292526A1 (en) 2005-09-15 2007-03-29 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Skin optical characterization device
US7335025B2 (en) * 2005-11-28 2008-02-26 Gosmile, Inc. Method of tooth whitening including wrapping the teeth
US20100015068A1 (en) * 2006-07-06 2010-01-21 Massachusetts Institute Of Technology Methods and Compositions For Altering Biological Surfaces
US7586957B2 (en) 2006-08-02 2009-09-08 Cynosure, Inc Picosecond laser apparatus and methods for its operation and use
US20080044793A1 (en) * 2006-08-03 2008-02-21 Jonah White Simulated teeth coverings
US8007277B2 (en) 2006-08-25 2011-08-30 Ultradent Products, Inc. Non-custom dental treatment trays and mouth guards having improved anatomical features
US8622206B2 (en) 2006-09-08 2014-01-07 The Procter & Gamble Company Peel-to-open packages
EP2097327B1 (en) * 2006-12-01 2010-10-13 Unilever PLC Fabric whiteness guide
US20080154157A1 (en) * 2006-12-13 2008-06-26 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Cosmetic and biomedical applications of ultrasonic energy and methods of generation thereof
GB0704615D0 (en) * 2007-03-09 2007-04-18 Univ Gent A process for the preparation of highly porous nanofibrous structures and a device for preparing as such
WO2008115571A1 (en) * 2007-03-21 2008-09-25 Dryvit Systems, Inc. Wall cladding system with adhesive ribbons and trowel and push box for making ribbons
US7850453B2 (en) * 2007-08-08 2010-12-14 Coll Partners Ltd. Reshapable device for fixation at a dental site
US20090087812A1 (en) * 2007-10-02 2009-04-02 Ultradent Products, Inc. Self-customizable dental treatment trays
US20090117522A1 (en) * 2007-11-02 2009-05-07 Yaneav Cohen System to whiten interproximal surfaces of adjacent teeth
DE102008014533A1 (en) * 2008-03-15 2009-09-17 Lts Lohmann Therapie-Systeme Ag Gingival wafer
GB0820938D0 (en) * 2008-11-17 2008-12-24 Univ Gent Solid teeth bleaching device
US9296846B2 (en) * 2008-12-18 2016-03-29 The Trustees Of The University Of Pennsylvania Porous polymer coating for tooth whitening
AU2010204986B2 (en) 2009-01-14 2016-06-02 Corium International, Inc. Transdermal administration of tamsulosin
US9919168B2 (en) 2009-07-23 2018-03-20 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Method for improvement of cellulite appearance
US9780518B2 (en) 2012-04-18 2017-10-03 Cynosure, Inc. Picosecond laser apparatus and methods for treating target tissues with same
TWI544906B (en) 2012-07-03 2016-08-11 Xian-Song Zhou Dental care oral care film
EP2908798B1 (en) 2012-10-17 2018-08-22 The Procter and Gamble Company Strip for the delivery of an oral care active and methods for applying oral care actives
WO2014138659A2 (en) * 2013-03-08 2014-09-12 Ultradent Products, Inc. Wax-based compositions, articles made therefrom, and methods of manufacture and use
EP2973894A2 (en) 2013-03-15 2016-01-20 Cynosure, Inc. Picosecond optical radiation systems and methods of use
WO2015053808A1 (en) 2013-10-11 2015-04-16 Ultradent Products, Inc. Wax-based compositions, articles made therefrom, and methods of manufacture and use
US9668844B2 (en) 2013-11-06 2017-06-06 Colldent Y.A Ltd Device for fixation at a dental site
WO2015164326A1 (en) * 2014-04-22 2015-10-29 Jensen Steven D Protective mouth guards and related methods
US20160089223A1 (en) * 2014-09-29 2016-03-31 Toothfilm Inc. Planar oral care patch, oral care patch tape, method of using the same and methods of treating oral disease by using the same
EP3215260B1 (en) * 2014-11-03 2020-01-15 Tangen Biosciences Inc. Apparatus and method for cell, spore, or virus capture and disruption
EP3797740A1 (en) * 2016-03-08 2021-03-31 Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. Mouthpiece
EP3344011A1 (en) * 2016-12-28 2018-07-04 Stephane Bochenek Light generator for whitening teeth
RU2668690C2 (en) * 2017-01-13 2018-10-02 Виктор Николаевич Долинский Dental lining
CN111031998A (en) * 2017-08-03 2020-04-17 株式会社Lg生活健康 Brush-off type tooth adhesive plaster
KR102627248B1 (en) 2018-02-26 2024-01-19 싸이노슈어, 엘엘씨 Q-switched cavity dumping subnanosecond laser
US11857652B2 (en) * 2020-01-13 2024-01-02 Lg Household & Health Care Ltd. Dental wrap, dental kit comprising the same, method of using the same, and method for whitening teeth using the same

Citations (96)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3640741A (en) * 1970-02-24 1972-02-08 Hollister Inc Composition containing gel
US3657413A (en) * 1969-08-28 1972-04-18 Block Drug Co Antiseptic composition containing peroxide glycerol and carboxypolymethylene polymer
US3711182A (en) * 1971-05-17 1973-01-16 J Jasgur Glareless mirror using relatively rotatable polarizers
US3784390A (en) * 1971-07-23 1974-01-08 Hayashibara Biochem Lab Shaped bodies of pullulan and their use
US3859987A (en) * 1972-04-17 1975-01-14 Harald Holstad Mirror, particularly for examination of cavities, for example, surgical mirrors or dental mirrors
US4072551A (en) * 1975-12-15 1978-02-07 Hoffman-La Roche Inc. Novel dosage form
US4084700A (en) * 1976-02-06 1978-04-18 Optarac Corporation Display rack
US4136145A (en) * 1974-07-05 1979-01-23 Schering Aktiengesellschaft Medicament carriers in the form of film having active substance incorporated therein
US4136162A (en) * 1974-07-05 1979-01-23 Schering Aktiengesellschaft Medicament carriers in the form of film having active substance incorporated therein
US4138314A (en) * 1975-04-10 1979-02-06 Basf Wyandotte Corporation Method of forming diaphragms from discrete thermoplastic fibers requiring no bonding or cementing
US4139627A (en) * 1977-10-06 1979-02-13 Beecham Inc. Anesthetic lozenges
US4138814A (en) * 1976-03-08 1979-02-13 Pacemaker Corporation Disposable dental tray for topical application of fluoride gel and other dental medications
US4182222A (en) * 1978-02-16 1980-01-08 Stahl Robert L Coupon confining bag method
US4251400A (en) * 1971-11-03 1981-02-17 Borden, Inc. Hot and cold water redispersible polyvinyl acetate adhesives
US4324547A (en) * 1978-09-16 1982-04-13 Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. Dentistry technique
US4325855A (en) * 1975-09-10 1982-04-20 Lingner And Fischer Gmbh Adhesives
US4373036A (en) * 1981-12-21 1983-02-08 Block Drug Company, Inc. Denture fixative composition
US4376628A (en) * 1979-05-09 1983-03-15 B.V. Gaba Device for treating teeth
US4428373A (en) * 1982-02-03 1984-01-31 Sultan Dental Products Limited Disposable dental tray
US4431631A (en) * 1983-01-03 1984-02-14 Colgate-Palmolive Company Aqueous oral solution
US4438258A (en) * 1981-06-12 1984-03-20 National Research Development Corporation Hydrogels
US4442258A (en) * 1979-07-04 1984-04-10 Nitto Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Water-soluble pressure-sensitive adhesive composition
US4503070A (en) * 1981-07-31 1985-03-05 Eby Iii George A Method for reducing the duration of the common cold
US4568536A (en) * 1985-02-08 1986-02-04 Ethicon, Inc. Controlled release of pharmacologically active agents from an absorbable biologically compatible putty-like composition
US4640685A (en) * 1985-04-15 1987-02-03 Croll Theodore P Hand-held light filter
US4650665A (en) * 1985-02-08 1987-03-17 Ethicon, Inc. Controlled release of pharmacologically active agents from an absorbable biologically compatible putty-like composition
US4722761A (en) * 1986-03-28 1988-02-02 Baxter Travenol Laboratories, Inc. Method of making a medical electrode
US4728291A (en) * 1986-06-26 1988-03-01 Golub Jeff E Cloth wrap dental process
US4799888A (en) * 1986-06-26 1989-01-24 Golub Jeff E Dental process with treated fabric
US4812308A (en) * 1987-02-20 1989-03-14 Church & Dwight Co., Inc. Hydrogen peroxide-releasing tooth powder
US4895721A (en) * 1988-01-22 1990-01-23 Carter-Wallace Inc. Peroxide gel dentifrice compositions
US4895517A (en) * 1987-04-14 1990-01-23 Ultradent Products, Inc. Methods for performing vital dental pulpotomy
US4900554A (en) * 1986-12-24 1990-02-13 Teikoku Seiyaku Co., Ltd. Adhesive device for application to body tissue
US4900552A (en) * 1988-03-30 1990-02-13 Watson Laboratories, Inc. Mucoadhesive buccal dosage forms
US4900253A (en) * 1987-07-15 1990-02-13 Landis Timothy J Dental mirror having ultraviolet filter
US4902227A (en) * 1988-05-04 1990-02-20 Pascal Company, Inc. Dental treatment tray
US4910247A (en) * 1989-03-27 1990-03-20 Gaf Chemicals Corporation Adhesive composition
US4983379A (en) * 1983-03-01 1991-01-08 Schaeffer Hans A Dental preparation, article and method for storage and delivery thereof
US4983381A (en) * 1985-12-30 1991-01-08 Futura Medical S.A. Method and device for producing the whitening of live teeth with pathological and normal colorations
US4988500A (en) * 1989-09-29 1991-01-29 The Procter & Gamble Company Oral compositions
US4990089A (en) * 1988-08-23 1991-02-05 Dunhall Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Method and material for brightening teeth
US5001170A (en) * 1989-12-01 1991-03-19 Warner-Lambert Company Denture stabilizer
US5084268A (en) * 1991-06-17 1992-01-28 Dental Concepts, Inc. Tooth whitening dentifrice
US5098303A (en) * 1990-03-22 1992-03-24 Ultradent Products, Inc. Method for bleaching teeth
US5186938A (en) * 1984-07-24 1993-02-16 Key Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Adhesive transdermal dosage layer
US5192802A (en) * 1991-09-25 1993-03-09 Mcneil-Ppc, Inc. Bioadhesive pharmaceutical carrier
USRE34196E (en) * 1988-08-23 1993-03-16 Dunhall Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Method and material for brightening teeth
US5288231A (en) * 1993-03-08 1994-02-22 Pinnacle Products, Inc. Light shield for dental apparatus
US5288498A (en) * 1985-05-01 1994-02-22 University Of Utah Research Foundation Compositions of oral nondissolvable matrixes for transmucosal administration of medicaments
US5290566A (en) * 1990-12-18 1994-03-01 Schow Robert S Tooth whitening formulation and method
US5380198A (en) * 1990-08-06 1995-01-10 Suhonen; Jouko Matrix for dental medicine and a device for the fabricaton of matrix bands
US5387103A (en) * 1993-02-16 1995-02-07 Ultradent Products, Inc. Syringe apparatus for delivering tooth composites and other solid yet pliable materials
US5393528A (en) * 1992-05-07 1995-02-28 Staab; Robert J. Dissolvable device for contraception or delivery of medication
US5401495A (en) * 1990-10-10 1995-03-28 Natural White, Inc. Teeth whitener
US5401528A (en) * 1991-03-19 1995-03-28 Thera Patent GmbH & Co. KG Geselleschaft fur industrielle Schutzrechte Use of compositions based on organically modified silicic acid polycondensates for coating teeth and dental prostheses
US5593684A (en) * 1993-08-04 1997-01-14 Pharmacia Ab Method and therapeutic system for smoking cessation
US5599553A (en) * 1992-09-01 1997-02-04 Dong Kook Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Local drug delivery film for periodontal treatment
US5603701A (en) * 1995-03-27 1997-02-18 Ultradent Products, Inc. Syringe apparatus with threaded plunger for delivering tooth composites and other solid yet pliable materials
US5611687A (en) * 1995-11-06 1997-03-18 Dental Concepts Inc. Oral hygiene delivery system
US5708052A (en) * 1995-04-07 1998-01-13 Ultradent Products, Inc. Compositions and methods for priming and sealing dental and biological substrates
US5707736A (en) * 1991-04-04 1998-01-13 Sion Texo Medic Ltd. Products having anti-microbial activity
US5707235A (en) * 1995-04-03 1998-01-13 Knutson; Eric J. Dental tray spacer
US5713738A (en) * 1995-12-12 1998-02-03 Britesmile, Inc. Method for whitening teeth
US5723132A (en) * 1991-08-23 1998-03-03 Gillette Canada Inc. Sustained-release matrices for dental application
US5722833A (en) * 1995-03-21 1998-03-03 Ultradent Products, Inc. Viscous neutralizing barrier
US5725843A (en) * 1990-03-22 1998-03-10 Ultradent Products, Inc. Methods for bleaching teeth surfaces
US5855870A (en) * 1990-03-22 1999-01-05 Ultradent Products, Inc. Method for treating sensitive teeth
US5858332A (en) * 1997-01-10 1999-01-12 Ultradent Products, Inc. Dental bleaching compositions with high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide
US5860809A (en) * 1997-08-04 1999-01-19 Meehan; Frank P. Lipstick display and device
US5863202A (en) * 1992-11-24 1999-01-26 Fontenot; Mark G. Device and method for treatment of dentition
US5879591A (en) * 1995-05-24 1999-03-09 Tokuyama Corporation Process for production of photochromic cured product
US5879691A (en) * 1997-06-06 1999-03-09 The Procter & Gamble Company Delivery system for a tooth whitener using a strip of material having low flexural stiffness
US5888480A (en) * 1995-01-17 1999-03-30 Four Star Partners Methods, compositions, and dental delivery systems for the protection of the surfaces of teeth
US6030222A (en) * 1998-12-01 2000-02-29 Tarver; Jeanna G. Dye compositions and methods for whitening teeth using same
US6036943A (en) * 1990-03-22 2000-03-14 Ultradent Products, Inc. Methods for treating a person's teeth using sticky dental compositions in combination with passive-type dental trays
US6182420B1 (en) * 1997-04-08 2001-02-06 Retail Communications Corp. Method of making a cosmetic sampler using bulk thin film application techniques
US6197331B1 (en) * 1997-07-24 2001-03-06 Perio Products Ltd. Pharmaceutical oral patch for controlled release of pharmaceutical agents in the oral cavity
US20020006387A1 (en) * 1997-06-06 2002-01-17 The Procter & Gamble Company Methods for whitening teeth
US6343932B1 (en) * 2000-11-13 2002-02-05 Peter E. Wiesel Delivery system for whitening teeth
US20050016884A1 (en) * 2003-07-25 2005-01-27 Gary Stout Orthodontic bracket packaging kits and systems
US20050019275A1 (en) * 2002-09-11 2005-01-27 The Procter & Gamble Company Tooth whitening products
US20050019277A1 (en) * 2002-09-11 2005-01-27 The Procter & Gamble Company Tooth whitening products
US20050031554A1 (en) * 2000-03-17 2005-02-10 Ji-Young Kim Patches for teeth whitening
US6860736B2 (en) * 2003-05-23 2005-03-01 Ultradent Products, Inc. Oral treatment devices that include a thin, flexible barrier layer and an endoskeleton treatment or adhesive composition
US20050064371A1 (en) * 2003-07-21 2005-03-24 Soukos Nikos S. Method and device for improving oral health
US20050069837A1 (en) * 2003-05-13 2005-03-31 Paul Lewis Methods for manufacturing endodontic instruments
US6981874B2 (en) * 2003-10-22 2006-01-03 Ultradent Products, Inc. Dental bleaching compositions and devices having a solid activation adhesive layer or region and bleaching gel layer or region
US6994546B2 (en) * 2002-12-18 2006-02-07 Ultradent Products, Inc. Light curing device with detachable power supply
US6997706B2 (en) * 2004-03-04 2006-02-14 Ultradent Products, Inc. Fluoride-releasing pellet kit
US6997708B2 (en) * 2003-10-22 2006-02-14 Ultradent Products, Inc. Treatment compositions and strips having a solid adhesive layer and treatment gel adjacent thereto
US7011523B2 (en) * 2003-10-22 2006-03-14 Ultradent Products, Inc. Bleaching compositions and devices having a solid adhesive layer and bleaching gel adjacent thereto
US7018622B2 (en) * 1997-06-06 2006-03-28 The Procter & Gamble Company Structures and compositions increasing the stability of peroxide actives
US7168951B2 (en) * 2004-06-09 2007-01-30 Ultradent Products, Inc. Reinforced gingival retraction cord
US7172423B2 (en) * 2003-05-27 2007-02-06 Ultradent Products, Inc. Substantially solid bleaching or treatment compositions in the form of inserts for dental trays, and kits comprising such inserts and trays
US7192276B2 (en) * 2003-08-20 2007-03-20 Ultradent Products, Inc. Dental curing light adapted to emit light at a desired angle
US7192280B2 (en) * 2004-02-19 2007-03-20 Ultradent Products, Inc. Dental bleaching devices having a protective adhesive region

Family Cites Families (124)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE871818C (en) * 1951-04-05 1953-03-26 Walter Koehler Inlay for treating the human jaw
US2878174A (en) * 1955-06-06 1959-03-17 Grace W R & Co Polyethylene
US2835628A (en) 1957-04-01 1958-05-20 Jacob A Saffir Means for treating teeth
US3070102A (en) 1960-05-12 1962-12-25 Harold B Macdonald Throw-away toothbrush and package
US3256014A (en) * 1963-04-05 1966-06-14 Technical Displays Inc Display device with two rheostats
US3625215A (en) 1970-07-09 1971-12-07 Sverre Quisling Dental sheaths
US3688406A (en) 1970-08-07 1972-09-05 William I Porter Apparatus for and method of applying decay retardant compositions to teeth
US3754332A (en) 1970-09-09 1973-08-28 L Warren Treatment member
US3902509A (en) 1972-10-10 1975-09-02 Colgate Palmolive Co Disposable device for cleaning teeth
US3844266A (en) 1972-10-10 1974-10-29 D Peterson Capacitor discharge ignition circuit
SE379479B (en) * 1973-02-05 1975-10-13 Hesselgren S G
US4032627A (en) * 1973-04-02 1977-06-28 Koh-I-Noor Rapidograph, Inc. Tooth whitening cosmetic composition
US3844286A (en) 1973-08-10 1974-10-29 Chemed Corp Releasable medicament dental carrier and method
US3955281A (en) 1974-12-05 1976-05-11 Pacemaker Corporation Disposable dental tray for topical application of fluoride gel and other dental medications
US3972995A (en) 1975-04-14 1976-08-03 American Home Products Corporation Dosage form
US4031200A (en) * 1975-12-15 1977-06-21 Hoffmann-La Roche Inc. Manufacture of pharmaceutical unit dosage forms
US4029758A (en) * 1975-12-15 1977-06-14 Hoffmann-La Roche Inc. Preparation of pharmaceutical unit dosage forms
US4335731A (en) 1978-07-25 1982-06-22 Bora Jr F William Device for oral hygiene care
US4211330A (en) 1979-02-01 1980-07-08 Strock Alvin E Oral health and hygiene kit
US4363843A (en) 1979-03-20 1982-12-14 Raychem Limited Seals
US4273718A (en) * 1979-07-05 1981-06-16 The Upjohn Company 2-Decarboxy-2-hydroxymethyl-9-deoxy-6ε,9αepoxy-16,16-difluoro-19-hydroxy-PGF1
US4307075A (en) 1979-09-13 1981-12-22 American Home Products Corporation Topical treatment of aphthous stomatitis
GB2084870B (en) 1980-10-10 1985-05-09 Muhlemann R Hans Oral compositions containing pyrimidine amine compounds and zinc salts
US4557692A (en) 1981-02-12 1985-12-10 Chorbajian Peter M Occlusal splints and the method of manufacturing the same
US4518721A (en) 1982-03-26 1985-05-21 Richardson-Vicks Inc. Hydrophilic denture adhesive
US4537778A (en) 1983-01-03 1985-08-27 Colgate-Palmolive Company Oral preparation
US4528180A (en) 1983-03-01 1985-07-09 Schaeffer Hans A Dental preparation, article and method for storage and delivery thereof
US4687663B1 (en) 1983-03-01 1997-10-07 Chesebrough Ponds Usa Co Dental preparation article and method for storage and delivery thereof
US4849213A (en) 1983-03-01 1989-07-18 Schaeffer Hans A Dental preparation, article and method for storage and delivery therof
US4554154A (en) 1983-03-15 1985-11-19 White Maurice J E Dental product and method of dental treatment
US4522805A (en) 1983-06-08 1985-06-11 Norman Gordon Tooth and gum dentifrice
US4522593A (en) * 1983-07-07 1985-06-11 Fischer Dan E Knitted gingival retraction cord
US4971782A (en) 1983-09-14 1990-11-20 Peroxydent Group Periodontal composition and method
US4560351A (en) 1984-07-05 1985-12-24 Osborne Travis H Method of and apparatus for applying dental treatment fluid
US4544354A (en) 1984-09-21 1985-10-01 Gores Kenneth W Anteriorly bridged dental trays
US4593053A (en) * 1984-12-07 1986-06-03 Medtronic, Inc. Hydrophilic pressure sensitive biomedical adhesive composition
US4837008A (en) * 1985-04-09 1989-06-06 Peroxydent Group Periodontal composition and method
US4592488A (en) 1985-05-24 1986-06-03 Simon Gilbert I Method for the preparation of chemotherapeutic compositions for the treatment of periodontal disease, compositions therefor and use thereof
JPS61280423A (en) 1985-06-05 1986-12-11 Kiyuukiyuu Yakuhin Kogyo Kk Mucosal application agent in oral cavity
US4592487A (en) 1985-07-03 1986-06-03 Simon Gilbert I Dentifrices
DE3524572A1 (en) 1985-07-10 1987-01-15 Thomae Gmbh Dr K SOLID PHARMACEUTICAL FORMS FOR PERORAL USE CONTAINING 9-DEOXO-11-DEOXY-9,11- (IMINO (2- (2-METHOXYETHOXY) ETHYLIDEN) -OXY) - (9S) -ERYTHROMYCIN AND METHOD FOR THE PRODUCTION THEREOF
US4741941A (en) 1985-11-04 1988-05-03 Kimberly-Clark Corporation Nonwoven web with projections
US4755386A (en) 1986-01-22 1988-07-05 Schering Corporation Buccal formulation
US4661070A (en) 1986-03-17 1987-04-28 Joshua Friedman Method for bleaching discolored teeth
US4770634A (en) 1986-06-11 1988-09-13 Pellico Michael A Method for treating teeth with foamable fluoride compositions
US4696757A (en) 1986-06-16 1987-09-29 American Home Products Corporation Stable hydrogen peroxide gels
US4713243A (en) 1986-06-16 1987-12-15 Johnson & Johnson Products, Inc. Bioadhesive extruded film for intra-oral drug delivery and process
USRE33093E (en) 1986-06-16 1989-10-17 Johnson & Johnson Consumer Products, Inc. Bioadhesive extruded film for intra-oral drug delivery and process
US4741700A (en) 1986-07-16 1988-05-03 Barabe David J Dental breath freshening device
DE3630603A1 (en) * 1986-09-09 1988-03-10 Desitin Arzneimittel Gmbh PHARMACEUTICAL AND DOSAGE FORM FOR MEDICINAL ACTIVE SUBSTANCES, REAGENTS OR THE LIKE, AND METHOD FOR THE PRODUCTION THEREOF
US5009881A (en) * 1986-11-06 1991-04-23 Hill Ira D Oral hygiene gels
JPH0739508B2 (en) * 1986-11-11 1995-05-01 株式会社林原生物化学研究所 Pullulan / polyethylene glycol aggregate, its production method and use
US4786253A (en) 1986-12-04 1988-11-22 Henneret Properties (Proprietary) Limited Dental model articulator
US4839156A (en) 1987-04-17 1989-06-13 Colgate-Palmolive Company Stable hydrogen peroxide dental gel
US4788052A (en) 1987-04-17 1988-11-29 Colgate-Palmolive Company Stable hydrogen peroxide dental gel containing fumed silicas
US4839157A (en) 1987-04-17 1989-06-13 Colgate-Palmolive Company Stable hydrogen peroxide dental gel containing fumed silicas
US4980152A (en) 1987-08-06 1990-12-25 Marion Laboratories Oral preparation
US4915950A (en) * 1988-02-12 1990-04-10 Cygnus Research Corporation Printed transdermal drug delivery device
US5438076A (en) 1988-05-03 1995-08-01 Perio Products, Ltd. Liquid polymer composition, and method of use
US4828113A (en) * 1988-05-18 1989-05-09 Friedland Jeffrey B Dental treatment kit
DE68904539T2 (en) * 1988-11-28 1993-06-03 Unilever Nv DENTAL CLEANER CONTAINING AMINO ALKYL SILICONE.
JPH0645536B2 (en) 1989-01-31 1994-06-15 日東電工株式会社 Oral mucosa patch and oral mucosa patch preparation
US5122365A (en) 1989-02-15 1992-06-16 Natural White, Inc. Teeth whitener
US4919615A (en) 1989-04-28 1990-04-24 Croll Theodore P Orthodontic band cap
US4968251A (en) 1989-07-03 1990-11-06 Darnell Daniel H Treatment of a tooth
US5356291A (en) 1989-07-03 1994-10-18 Dunhall Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Treatment of a tooth
US5008106A (en) * 1989-12-14 1991-04-16 Gaf Chemicals Corporation Method for reducing the microbial content of surfaces with a microbiocidal, anhydrous complex of PVP-H2 O2
US4972946A (en) 1990-01-08 1990-11-27 Dale Whittaker Disposable dental hygiene kit
US4989379A (en) * 1990-03-07 1991-02-05 Yugen Kaisha Suzuki House Folding house
US5234342A (en) 1990-03-22 1993-08-10 Ultradent Products, Inc. Sustained release method for treating teeth surfaces
US5059417A (en) 1990-06-26 1991-10-22 Chesebrough-Pond's Usa Co., Division Of Conopco, Inc. Peroxide gel dentifrice
US5165424A (en) 1990-08-09 1992-11-24 Silverman Harvey N Method and system for whitening teeth
US5076791A (en) 1990-10-22 1991-12-31 Madray Jr George Professional home method for bleaching teeth
US5326685A (en) 1991-02-13 1994-07-05 Gaglio Thomas J Viscous fluid dispensing apparatus
US5332576A (en) 1991-02-27 1994-07-26 Noven Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Compositions and methods for topical administration of pharmaceutically active agents
IL97930A (en) 1991-04-23 1996-06-18 Perio Prod Ltd Sustained-release toothbleaching preparations containing a peroxy agent
IT1250421B (en) 1991-05-30 1995-04-07 Recordati Chem Pharm CONTROLLED RELEASE PHARMACEUTICAL COMPOSITION WITH BIO-ADHESIVE PROPERTIES.
US5211559A (en) 1991-07-18 1993-05-18 Gillette Canada Inc. Dental treatment tray for holding medicament gel
US5340581A (en) 1991-08-23 1994-08-23 Gillette Canada, Inc. Sustained-release matrices for dental application
US5256402A (en) 1991-09-13 1993-10-26 Colgate-Palmolive Company Abrasive tooth whitening dentifrice of improved stability
US5310563A (en) 1991-10-25 1994-05-10 Colgate-Palmolive Company Dental material and method for applying preventative and therapeutic agents
ATE155681T1 (en) * 1992-05-18 1997-08-15 Minnesota Mining & Mfg DEVICE FOR TRANSMUCOSAL ACTIVE DELIVERY
US5575654A (en) 1992-11-24 1996-11-19 Fontenot; Mark G. Apparatus and method for lightening teeth
US5340314A (en) 1992-11-27 1994-08-23 Tarvis Jo Ellen Method of bonding and relining dentures
US5320831A (en) * 1992-12-30 1994-06-14 The Procter & Gamble Company Oral compositions
US5409703A (en) * 1993-06-24 1995-04-25 Carrington Laboratories, Inc. Dried hydrogel from hydrophilic-hygroscopic polymer
US5509800A (en) * 1993-08-20 1996-04-23 Cunningham; Peter J Light-filter for dental use
AU676430B2 (en) * 1994-03-07 1997-03-06 Theratech, Inc. Drug-containing adhesive composite transdermal delivery device
US5505933A (en) 1994-06-27 1996-04-09 Colgate Palmolive Company Desensitizing anti-tartar dentifrice
US5560379A (en) 1994-08-12 1996-10-01 Pieczenik; George Dental paper pick and flosser
US5522726A (en) 1994-10-27 1996-06-04 Hodosh; Milton Method for anesthetizing teeth
US5565190A (en) 1994-11-14 1996-10-15 Colgate Palmolive Company Dentifrice compositions containing reactive ingredients stabilized with alkali metal compounds
US5618273A (en) * 1995-03-27 1997-04-08 Ultradent Product, Inc. Syringe apparatus with threaded plunger for delivering tooth composites and other solid yet pliable materials
US5616027A (en) * 1995-04-18 1997-04-01 Jacobs; Allison J. Custom dental tray
US6217335B1 (en) * 1996-06-06 2001-04-17 Ultradent Products, Inc. Endodontic systems and methods for the anatomicall, sectional and progressive corono-apical preparation of root canals with minimal apical intrusion
US6379155B1 (en) * 1996-06-06 2002-04-30 Ultradent Products, Inc. Endodontic systems and methods for the anatomical, sectional and progressive corono-apical preparation of root canals with instruments utilizing stops
US5620322A (en) 1995-07-27 1997-04-15 Lococo; Michael Dental matrix strip
AU7245596A (en) * 1995-09-25 1997-04-17 Robert Eric Montgomery Tooth bleaching compositions
US5631000A (en) * 1996-03-11 1997-05-20 Laclede Professional Products, Inc. Anhydrous tooth whitening gel
US6094889A (en) * 1997-02-25 2000-08-01 Exxon Chemical Patents, Inc. Method of form and seal packaging
US5989569A (en) * 1997-06-06 1999-11-23 The Procter & Gamble Company Delivery system for a tooth whitener using a permanently deformable strip of material
US6277458B1 (en) * 1999-03-15 2001-08-21 The Procter & Gamble Company Release strip with partible break to facilitate
US6045811A (en) * 1997-06-06 2000-04-04 The Procter & Gamble Company Delivery system for an oral care substance using a permanently deformable strip of material
US5894017A (en) * 1997-06-06 1999-04-13 The Procter & Gamble Company Delivery system for an oral care substance using a strip of material having low flexural stiffness
US6582708B1 (en) * 2000-06-28 2003-06-24 The Procter & Gamble Company Tooth whitening substance
US6096328A (en) * 1997-06-06 2000-08-01 The Procter & Gamble Company Delivery system for an oral care substance using a strip of material having low flexural stiffness
US6036946A (en) * 1997-12-24 2000-03-14 Shaklee Corporation Methods for protecting skin from damaging effects of ultraviolet light
WO1999062472A1 (en) * 1998-06-03 1999-12-09 Wolf Robert O System for whitening teeth surfaces
US6039625A (en) * 1998-10-23 2000-03-21 Wang; Mai Interactive and animated mini-theater
US6309625B1 (en) * 1998-11-12 2001-10-30 Ultradent Products, Inc. One-part dental compositions and methods for bleaching and desensitizing teeth
US6274122B1 (en) * 1999-01-07 2001-08-14 Mclaughlin Gerald Device and method using dry mixtures for whitening teeth
US6692727B1 (en) * 1999-07-02 2004-02-17 The Procter & Gamble Company Systems comprising organosiloxane resins for delivering oral care substances and for prolonging such delivery
US6234793B1 (en) * 1999-07-19 2001-05-22 Ultradent Products, Inc. Textured dental matrix bands and related methods
US6517350B2 (en) * 2000-05-26 2003-02-11 Dentovations Inc. Method for whitening teeth
US6685921B2 (en) * 2000-10-25 2004-02-03 The Procter & Gamble Company Dental care compositions
US6585997B2 (en) * 2001-08-16 2003-07-01 Access Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Mucoadhesive erodible drug delivery device for controlled administration of pharmaceuticals and other active compounds
US6729879B2 (en) * 2002-03-13 2004-05-04 Ultradent Products, Inc. Dental bonding methods for adhering amalgam restoratives to dental substrates
US6949240B2 (en) * 2002-05-23 2005-09-27 The Procter & Gamble Company Tooth whitening products
US20050100515A1 (en) * 2002-09-11 2005-05-12 The Procter & Gamble Company Tooth whitening products
US7198623B2 (en) * 2003-01-10 2007-04-03 Ultradent Products, Inc. Fiber-coated dental infusor systems and methods of use
JP2004280690A (en) * 2003-03-18 2004-10-07 Hitachi Ltd Information processing system, and system setting method
US8014450B2 (en) * 2003-09-07 2011-09-06 Microsoft Corporation Flexible range reduction
US20080011636A1 (en) * 2006-07-17 2008-01-17 The Procter & Gamble Company Packages for tooth whitening products
KR100871818B1 (en) * 2007-05-11 2008-12-03 김영삼 Storage apparatus using the IP share device

Patent Citations (99)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3657413A (en) * 1969-08-28 1972-04-18 Block Drug Co Antiseptic composition containing peroxide glycerol and carboxypolymethylene polymer
US3640741A (en) * 1970-02-24 1972-02-08 Hollister Inc Composition containing gel
US3711182A (en) * 1971-05-17 1973-01-16 J Jasgur Glareless mirror using relatively rotatable polarizers
US3784390A (en) * 1971-07-23 1974-01-08 Hayashibara Biochem Lab Shaped bodies of pullulan and their use
US4251400A (en) * 1971-11-03 1981-02-17 Borden, Inc. Hot and cold water redispersible polyvinyl acetate adhesives
US3859987A (en) * 1972-04-17 1975-01-14 Harald Holstad Mirror, particularly for examination of cavities, for example, surgical mirrors or dental mirrors
US4136162A (en) * 1974-07-05 1979-01-23 Schering Aktiengesellschaft Medicament carriers in the form of film having active substance incorporated therein
US4136145A (en) * 1974-07-05 1979-01-23 Schering Aktiengesellschaft Medicament carriers in the form of film having active substance incorporated therein
US4138314A (en) * 1975-04-10 1979-02-06 Basf Wyandotte Corporation Method of forming diaphragms from discrete thermoplastic fibers requiring no bonding or cementing
US4325855A (en) * 1975-09-10 1982-04-20 Lingner And Fischer Gmbh Adhesives
US4072551A (en) * 1975-12-15 1978-02-07 Hoffman-La Roche Inc. Novel dosage form
US4084700A (en) * 1976-02-06 1978-04-18 Optarac Corporation Display rack
US4138814A (en) * 1976-03-08 1979-02-13 Pacemaker Corporation Disposable dental tray for topical application of fluoride gel and other dental medications
US4139627A (en) * 1977-10-06 1979-02-13 Beecham Inc. Anesthetic lozenges
US4182222A (en) * 1978-02-16 1980-01-08 Stahl Robert L Coupon confining bag method
US4324547A (en) * 1978-09-16 1982-04-13 Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. Dentistry technique
US4376628A (en) * 1979-05-09 1983-03-15 B.V. Gaba Device for treating teeth
US4442258A (en) * 1979-07-04 1984-04-10 Nitto Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Water-soluble pressure-sensitive adhesive composition
US4438258A (en) * 1981-06-12 1984-03-20 National Research Development Corporation Hydrogels
US4503070A (en) * 1981-07-31 1985-03-05 Eby Iii George A Method for reducing the duration of the common cold
US4373036A (en) * 1981-12-21 1983-02-08 Block Drug Company, Inc. Denture fixative composition
US4428373A (en) * 1982-02-03 1984-01-31 Sultan Dental Products Limited Disposable dental tray
US4431631A (en) * 1983-01-03 1984-02-14 Colgate-Palmolive Company Aqueous oral solution
US4983379A (en) * 1983-03-01 1991-01-08 Schaeffer Hans A Dental preparation, article and method for storage and delivery thereof
US5186938A (en) * 1984-07-24 1993-02-16 Key Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Adhesive transdermal dosage layer
US4568536A (en) * 1985-02-08 1986-02-04 Ethicon, Inc. Controlled release of pharmacologically active agents from an absorbable biologically compatible putty-like composition
US4650665A (en) * 1985-02-08 1987-03-17 Ethicon, Inc. Controlled release of pharmacologically active agents from an absorbable biologically compatible putty-like composition
US4640685A (en) * 1985-04-15 1987-02-03 Croll Theodore P Hand-held light filter
US5288498A (en) * 1985-05-01 1994-02-22 University Of Utah Research Foundation Compositions of oral nondissolvable matrixes for transmucosal administration of medicaments
US4983381A (en) * 1985-12-30 1991-01-08 Futura Medical S.A. Method and device for producing the whitening of live teeth with pathological and normal colorations
US4722761A (en) * 1986-03-28 1988-02-02 Baxter Travenol Laboratories, Inc. Method of making a medical electrode
US4799888A (en) * 1986-06-26 1989-01-24 Golub Jeff E Dental process with treated fabric
US4728291A (en) * 1986-06-26 1988-03-01 Golub Jeff E Cloth wrap dental process
US4900554A (en) * 1986-12-24 1990-02-13 Teikoku Seiyaku Co., Ltd. Adhesive device for application to body tissue
US4812308A (en) * 1987-02-20 1989-03-14 Church & Dwight Co., Inc. Hydrogen peroxide-releasing tooth powder
US4895517A (en) * 1987-04-14 1990-01-23 Ultradent Products, Inc. Methods for performing vital dental pulpotomy
US4900253A (en) * 1987-07-15 1990-02-13 Landis Timothy J Dental mirror having ultraviolet filter
US4895721A (en) * 1988-01-22 1990-01-23 Carter-Wallace Inc. Peroxide gel dentifrice compositions
US4900552A (en) * 1988-03-30 1990-02-13 Watson Laboratories, Inc. Mucoadhesive buccal dosage forms
US4902227A (en) * 1988-05-04 1990-02-20 Pascal Company, Inc. Dental treatment tray
US4990089A (en) * 1988-08-23 1991-02-05 Dunhall Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Method and material for brightening teeth
USRE34196E (en) * 1988-08-23 1993-03-16 Dunhall Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Method and material for brightening teeth
US4910247A (en) * 1989-03-27 1990-03-20 Gaf Chemicals Corporation Adhesive composition
US4988500A (en) * 1989-09-29 1991-01-29 The Procter & Gamble Company Oral compositions
US5001170A (en) * 1989-12-01 1991-03-19 Warner-Lambert Company Denture stabilizer
US5098303A (en) * 1990-03-22 1992-03-24 Ultradent Products, Inc. Method for bleaching teeth
US6183251B1 (en) * 1990-03-22 2001-02-06 Ultradent Products, Inc. Scalloped dental trays for use in treating teeth with sticky dental compositions
US6036943A (en) * 1990-03-22 2000-03-14 Ultradent Products, Inc. Methods for treating a person's teeth using sticky dental compositions in combination with passive-type dental trays
US5855870A (en) * 1990-03-22 1999-01-05 Ultradent Products, Inc. Method for treating sensitive teeth
US5725843A (en) * 1990-03-22 1998-03-10 Ultradent Products, Inc. Methods for bleaching teeth surfaces
US5380198A (en) * 1990-08-06 1995-01-10 Suhonen; Jouko Matrix for dental medicine and a device for the fabricaton of matrix bands
US5401495A (en) * 1990-10-10 1995-03-28 Natural White, Inc. Teeth whitener
US5290566A (en) * 1990-12-18 1994-03-01 Schow Robert S Tooth whitening formulation and method
US5401528A (en) * 1991-03-19 1995-03-28 Thera Patent GmbH & Co. KG Geselleschaft fur industrielle Schutzrechte Use of compositions based on organically modified silicic acid polycondensates for coating teeth and dental prostheses
US5707736A (en) * 1991-04-04 1998-01-13 Sion Texo Medic Ltd. Products having anti-microbial activity
US5084268A (en) * 1991-06-17 1992-01-28 Dental Concepts, Inc. Tooth whitening dentifrice
US5723132A (en) * 1991-08-23 1998-03-03 Gillette Canada Inc. Sustained-release matrices for dental application
US5192802A (en) * 1991-09-25 1993-03-09 Mcneil-Ppc, Inc. Bioadhesive pharmaceutical carrier
US5393528A (en) * 1992-05-07 1995-02-28 Staab; Robert J. Dissolvable device for contraception or delivery of medication
US5599553A (en) * 1992-09-01 1997-02-04 Dong Kook Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Local drug delivery film for periodontal treatment
US5863202A (en) * 1992-11-24 1999-01-26 Fontenot; Mark G. Device and method for treatment of dentition
US5387103A (en) * 1993-02-16 1995-02-07 Ultradent Products, Inc. Syringe apparatus for delivering tooth composites and other solid yet pliable materials
US5288231A (en) * 1993-03-08 1994-02-22 Pinnacle Products, Inc. Light shield for dental apparatus
US5593684A (en) * 1993-08-04 1997-01-14 Pharmacia Ab Method and therapeutic system for smoking cessation
US5888480A (en) * 1995-01-17 1999-03-30 Four Star Partners Methods, compositions, and dental delivery systems for the protection of the surfaces of teeth
US5722833A (en) * 1995-03-21 1998-03-03 Ultradent Products, Inc. Viscous neutralizing barrier
US5603701A (en) * 1995-03-27 1997-02-18 Ultradent Products, Inc. Syringe apparatus with threaded plunger for delivering tooth composites and other solid yet pliable materials
US5707235A (en) * 1995-04-03 1998-01-13 Knutson; Eric J. Dental tray spacer
US5708052A (en) * 1995-04-07 1998-01-13 Ultradent Products, Inc. Compositions and methods for priming and sealing dental and biological substrates
US5879591A (en) * 1995-05-24 1999-03-09 Tokuyama Corporation Process for production of photochromic cured product
US5611687A (en) * 1995-11-06 1997-03-18 Dental Concepts Inc. Oral hygiene delivery system
US5713738A (en) * 1995-12-12 1998-02-03 Britesmile, Inc. Method for whitening teeth
US5858332A (en) * 1997-01-10 1999-01-12 Ultradent Products, Inc. Dental bleaching compositions with high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide
US6182420B1 (en) * 1997-04-08 2001-02-06 Retail Communications Corp. Method of making a cosmetic sampler using bulk thin film application techniques
US20070003495A1 (en) * 1997-06-06 2007-01-04 The Procter & Gamble Company Methods for whitening teeth
US7018622B2 (en) * 1997-06-06 2006-03-28 The Procter & Gamble Company Structures and compositions increasing the stability of peroxide actives
US20020006387A1 (en) * 1997-06-06 2002-01-17 The Procter & Gamble Company Methods for whitening teeth
US5879691A (en) * 1997-06-06 1999-03-09 The Procter & Gamble Company Delivery system for a tooth whitener using a strip of material having low flexural stiffness
US6197331B1 (en) * 1997-07-24 2001-03-06 Perio Products Ltd. Pharmaceutical oral patch for controlled release of pharmaceutical agents in the oral cavity
US5860809A (en) * 1997-08-04 1999-01-19 Meehan; Frank P. Lipstick display and device
US6030222A (en) * 1998-12-01 2000-02-29 Tarver; Jeanna G. Dye compositions and methods for whitening teeth using same
US20020018754A1 (en) * 1999-03-15 2002-02-14 Paul Albert Sagel Shapes for tooth whitening strips
US20050031554A1 (en) * 2000-03-17 2005-02-10 Ji-Young Kim Patches for teeth whitening
US6343932B1 (en) * 2000-11-13 2002-02-05 Peter E. Wiesel Delivery system for whitening teeth
US20050019275A1 (en) * 2002-09-11 2005-01-27 The Procter & Gamble Company Tooth whitening products
US20050019277A1 (en) * 2002-09-11 2005-01-27 The Procter & Gamble Company Tooth whitening products
US6994546B2 (en) * 2002-12-18 2006-02-07 Ultradent Products, Inc. Light curing device with detachable power supply
US20050069837A1 (en) * 2003-05-13 2005-03-31 Paul Lewis Methods for manufacturing endodontic instruments
US6860736B2 (en) * 2003-05-23 2005-03-01 Ultradent Products, Inc. Oral treatment devices that include a thin, flexible barrier layer and an endoskeleton treatment or adhesive composition
US7172423B2 (en) * 2003-05-27 2007-02-06 Ultradent Products, Inc. Substantially solid bleaching or treatment compositions in the form of inserts for dental trays, and kits comprising such inserts and trays
US20050064371A1 (en) * 2003-07-21 2005-03-24 Soukos Nikos S. Method and device for improving oral health
US20050016884A1 (en) * 2003-07-25 2005-01-27 Gary Stout Orthodontic bracket packaging kits and systems
US7192276B2 (en) * 2003-08-20 2007-03-20 Ultradent Products, Inc. Dental curing light adapted to emit light at a desired angle
US6981874B2 (en) * 2003-10-22 2006-01-03 Ultradent Products, Inc. Dental bleaching compositions and devices having a solid activation adhesive layer or region and bleaching gel layer or region
US7011523B2 (en) * 2003-10-22 2006-03-14 Ultradent Products, Inc. Bleaching compositions and devices having a solid adhesive layer and bleaching gel adjacent thereto
US6997708B2 (en) * 2003-10-22 2006-02-14 Ultradent Products, Inc. Treatment compositions and strips having a solid adhesive layer and treatment gel adjacent thereto
US7192280B2 (en) * 2004-02-19 2007-03-20 Ultradent Products, Inc. Dental bleaching devices having a protective adhesive region
US6997706B2 (en) * 2004-03-04 2006-02-14 Ultradent Products, Inc. Fluoride-releasing pellet kit
US7168951B2 (en) * 2004-06-09 2007-01-30 Ultradent Products, Inc. Reinforced gingival retraction cord

Cited By (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US10493016B2 (en) 2002-09-11 2019-12-03 The Procter & Gamble Company Tooth whitening product
US9554976B2 (en) 2002-09-11 2017-01-31 The Procter & Gamble Company Tooth whitening product
US20050002975A1 (en) * 2003-06-06 2005-01-06 Densen Cao Structures and methods for delivering topical compositions
US20090087393A1 (en) * 2006-02-08 2009-04-02 Cao Group, Inc. Dental Treatment Compositions and Conformable Dental Treatment Trays Using the Same
US20090238779A1 (en) * 2006-02-08 2009-09-24 Cao Group, Inc. Dental Treatment Compositions and Conformable Dental Treatment Trays Using the Same
US9295620B2 (en) 2006-02-08 2016-03-29 Cao Group, Inc. Dental treatment compositions and conformable dental treatment trays using the same
US9295619B2 (en) 2006-02-08 2016-03-29 Cao Group, Inc. Dental treatment compositions and conformable dental treatment trays using the same
US9789036B2 (en) 2006-02-08 2017-10-17 Cao Group, Inc. Peroxide gel compositions
US10603259B2 (en) 2006-02-08 2020-03-31 Cao Group, Inc Peroxide gel compositions
US10646419B2 (en) 2006-02-08 2020-05-12 CAO Group, LLC Peroxide gel compositions
US8202091B2 (en) 2007-08-31 2012-06-19 Ultradent Products, Inc. Dental treatment trays comprising silicone elastomeric material
US9949809B2 (en) 2007-08-31 2018-04-24 Ultradent Products, Inc. Dental treatment devices comprising silicone-like elastomeric material
US11033374B2 (en) 2007-08-31 2021-06-15 Ultradent Products, Inc. Dental treatment devices comprising silicone-like elastomeric material

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ES2200850T3 (en) 2004-03-16
WO2000054699A1 (en) 2000-09-21
CZ20013285A3 (en) 2002-02-13
TR200102685T2 (en) 2001-12-21
EP1161198A1 (en) 2001-12-12
SK13092001A3 (en) 2002-04-04
NO20014472D0 (en) 2001-09-14
EP1161198B1 (en) 2003-08-27
BR0009075A (en) 2001-12-18
US7122199B2 (en) 2006-10-17
US20050196352A1 (en) 2005-09-08
US20070003495A1 (en) 2007-01-04
CA2367148C (en) 2005-10-11
JP2002538887A (en) 2002-11-19
CA2367148A1 (en) 2000-09-21
HK1043722A1 (en) 2002-09-27
HK1043722B (en) 2004-08-13
US20030068284A1 (en) 2003-04-10
KR100430635B1 (en) 2004-05-10
AU763529B2 (en) 2003-07-24
CN1205899C (en) 2005-06-15
PL194880B1 (en) 2007-07-31
KR20010104726A (en) 2001-11-26
MXPA01009344A (en) 2002-06-21
US6884426B2 (en) 2005-04-26
US20020018754A1 (en) 2002-02-14
NO20014472L (en) 2001-11-13
RU2219895C2 (en) 2003-12-27
US20070269471A1 (en) 2007-11-22
ATE247932T1 (en) 2003-09-15
US20020006387A1 (en) 2002-01-17
DE60004796T2 (en) 2004-06-17
NZ514139A (en) 2001-09-28
PL349808A1 (en) 2002-09-09
DE60004796D1 (en) 2003-10-02
HUP0200573A2 (en) 2002-06-29
CN1343109A (en) 2002-04-03
JP3938663B2 (en) 2007-06-27
AU3743600A (en) 2000-10-04

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP1161198B1 (en) Shapes for tooth whitening strips
US5891453A (en) Delivery system for a tooth whitener using a strip of material having low flexural stiffness
EP1011516B1 (en) A delivery system for a tooth whitener using a strip of material having low flexural stiffness
US6582708B1 (en) Tooth whitening substance
US20020146666A1 (en) Kits for whitening teeth
KR200435828Y1 (en) A delivery device for a tooth whitener using a strip of material having low flexural stiffness
MXPA99011323A (en) A delivery system for a tooth whitener using a strip of material having low flexural stiffness

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY, THE, OHIO

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:SAGEL, PAUL ALBERT;DIRKSING, ROBERT STANLEY;ROHMAN, FREDERICK JAMES;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:019556/0253;SIGNING DATES FROM 20060608 TO 20060718

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: EXPRESSLY ABANDONED -- DURING EXAMINATION