WO2007063775A1

WO2007063775A1 - Toothbrush

Info

Publication number: WO2007063775A1
Application number: PCT/JP2006/323457
Authority: WO
Inventors: Toyokazu Mori; Shinya Sakurai
Original assignee: Sunstar Suisse Sa
Priority date: 2005-12-02
Filing date: 2006-11-24
Publication date: 2007-06-07
Also published as: CA2631552C; EP1964489A4; CN101321480A; ES2758474T3; JP2007151704A; JP4816037B2; TWI421043B; US20090255077A1; EP1964489A1; CA2631552A1; EP1964489B1; TW200735815A

Abstract

A toothbrush (1) wherein a plural number of bristle bundles (4) to (7) each having synthetic resin bristles are fixed on a brush-filling base (3) of the brush body (10) to thereby form a brush-filling area (9); bristle bundles (6) and (6) that have almost triangular sections of the same shape tempering from the sides toward the axial core of the toothbrush (1) are provided in both sides of the brush-filling base (3) adjacent to the axial core direction of the toothbrush (1) in such a manner that the distance between the centers thereof is almost the same as the length in the width direction of a single tooth; and, between the bristle bundles (6) and (6) adjacent to each other, a bristle bundle (7) having a rectangular cross section being longer in the axial core direction of the toothbrush (1) is provided outside the bristle bundle (6) in the width direction of the brush-filling base (3). Owing to this structure, the toothbrush is excellent in the effects of removing plaque in the gap between teeth and the gap between teeth and gum, cleansing performance, handling properties in the oral cavity, design and so on.

Description

Toothbrush

Technical field

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present invention relates to a toothbrush excellent in plaque removal effect and cleanability, and more specifically, between teeth (interdental part), in particular, interdental papilla, gingival margin, periodontal pocket. It is related with the toothbrush excellent in the removal effect of the plaque (plaque) which accumulates in etc.

Background art

[0002] Conventionally, various toothbrushes that devised the tip shape of brush bristles made of synthetic resin filaments as a toothbrush with improved plaque removal effect and cleanability of narrow and interdental parts and periodontal pockets. It has been known. For example, the tip of the taper part of a synthetic monofilament concentrically implanted in the flocking hole of a toothbrush has a taper shape in which the brush diameter at each part of a predetermined length is a predetermined ratio to the brush diameter of the base (Patent Document 1) Toothbrushes and the above-mentioned filaments that have different shapes at both ends of the filament, with one end of the filament in the hair bundle that is bent and planted in a U shape in the follicle hole of the brush head, with one end being spherical and the other end being a taper Toothbrush planted with one end protruding from the other end (see Patent Document 2), toothbrush with long taper bristle and short taper bristle planted separately on tuft, mixed together Various toothbrushes have been proposed in which the tip of the bristles is a tapered taper (see Patent Document 3), and the insertability into narrow parts such as interdental parts and periodontal pockets is improved. Further, the tip of the composite synthetic resin filament having a cross-sectional shape in which islands made of polyamide resin are scattered in the sea part made of polyester resin is immersed in an acid or alkali solution to dissolve the sea part. A toothbrush in which only the islands are exposed at the hair tips and the core hairs are formed to a predetermined length and the fiber is implanted on the flocking table (see Patent Document 4), and the base cross-sectional shape on the flocking table is circular or elliptical. A brush having a shape formed by connecting a plurality of unit cross-section elements having a predetermined shape such as a shape, a triangle shape or a hexagonal shape is immersed in a chemical solution such as acid or alkali, and the tip of the brush is branched into a plurality of portions; and A toothbrush in which a brush with a sharp tapered shape is placed on each branched hair (see Patent Document 5), a plurality of sharp tapered branched hairs are formed at the tip, and other branched hairs for a specific branched hair Different hair Flocking a brush that was of Various toothbrushes with branched filament tips such as a toothbrush (see Patent Document 6) have been proposed.

[0003] In addition, various types of toothbrushes have been proposed in which the cross-sectional shape of the hair bundle fixed to the flocking table of the toothbrush is devised. For example, a toothbrush (for example, refer to Patent Document 7) in which brush hairs are implanted in a substantially triangular flock hole, and the tip surface of a hair bundle (tuft) having an angular cross-sectional shape such as a triangle or a sector is inclined. A toothbrush cut into a flat surface (for example, see Patent Document 8), a crescent shape, a triangle, or the like, and a hair bundle (tuft) having a cross-sectional shape having an acute angle portion is placed on the peripheral portion of the flocked surface of the flocking table. A toothbrush placed with the outer side facing out (see, for example, Patent Document 9), and the cross-sectional shape is away from the outer edge force of the brush bristles and is directed toward the longitudinal axis or toward the outer edge of the bristles. A toothbrush (for example, refer to Patent Document 10) arranged in a bundle of hairs that tapers in a direction is known.

Patent Document 1: JP-A-6-141923

Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 7-284412

Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-75939

Patent Document 4: JP-A-9-322821

Patent Document 5: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2003-144229

Patent Document 6: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2003-199626

Patent Document 7: Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 56-58227

Patent Document 8: US Patent No. 1981657

Patent Document 9: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-41403

Patent Document 10: Special Table 2002-502268

Disclosure of the invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

[0004] As described above, toothbrushes that have been devised in various ways to remove the plaque accumulated in the interproximal part and periodontal pockets and improve the cleaning effect have various brush tip shapes and bristle cross-sectional shapes. It has been. However, if the tip of the bristle is tapered (tapered), the insertion of the bristle into narrow parts such as interdental parts and periodontal pockets will certainly improve, but on the other hand, Relatively flat parts such as tooth surfaces due to reduced rigidity In some cases, it may not be satisfactory in terms of plaque removal effect and cleanability for the entire tooth including the minute. In addition, with regard to the cross-sectional shape of the hair bundle, it is possible to simultaneously satisfy plaque removal and cleanability at each part of the interdental part, particularly the interdental papilla, and the periodontal pocket in the gingival marginal part or cervical part. No toothbrush has been obtained. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a toothbrush that is excellent in plaque removal effect such as interdental part and between teeth and gums and excellent in cleaning properties, and further, operability and design properties in the oral cavity. It is a good idea to provide excellent toothbrushes.

Means for solving the problem

[0005] The toothbrush according to the present invention has a plurality of hair bundles made of synthetic resin brush hairs fixed to a flocking base of a synthetic resin brush main body to form a flocked portion, and the plurality of hair bundles Some of the hair bundles are adjacent in the axial direction of the toothbrush so that the cross-sectional shape is substantially the same and the distance between the centers of the hair bundles is substantially equal to the length in the width direction of one tooth. It is characterized by being arranged.

[0006] The distance between the centers of the hair bundles of the same cross-sectional shape arranged adjacent to the axial direction of the toothbrush so that the distance between the centers becomes equal to the length in the width direction of one tooth, It is preferably 5 to 12 mm. The bristles having the same cross-sectional shape are arranged adjacent to each other in the axial direction of the toothbrush so that the distance between the centers is equal to the length in the width direction of one tooth. U, preferred to be placed on the edge.

[0007] In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the hair bundle of the same cross-sectional shape arranged adjacent to the axial direction of the toothbrush so that the distance between the centers is equal to the length in the width direction of one tooth is substantially triangular. In addition, it is preferable that the hair bundle of the triangular cross section is fixed to the flocking table with the substantially tapered portion of the triangle facing the same direction. Further, it is preferable that the bristles having a triangular cross section have a substantially triangular cross section that tapers from the side edge of the flocking base toward the axial center of the toothbrush. The hair bundle having the triangular cross section preferably has a cross-sectional shape inscribed in a circle having a diameter of 1.4 to 4.5 mm.

[0008] Further, preferably U, in the toothbrush of the embodiment, the cross-sectional shape is long in the axial direction of the toothbrush between the plurality of triangular cross-shaped hair bundles arranged in the axial direction of the toothbrush! Is placed. In this case, the hair bundle of the elongated cross section is more than the hair bundle of the triangular cross section, It is more preferable that it is arranged on the outside in the width direction of the flocking table. Moreover, it is preferable that the cross-sectional shape of the elongated cross-section hair bundle is a substantially square shape.

[0009] The bristles constituting the bristles of the same cross-sectional shape arranged adjacent to the axial direction of the toothbrush so that the distance between the centers is substantially equal to the length in the width direction of one tooth, It ’s tapering! The tapered brush bristles may be subjected to branching at the end. In addition, it is preferable that the bristles made of brush bristles having a normal rounded round shape are fixed on the side closer to the axial center of the toothbrush than the position of the bristles made of brush bristles.

[0010] Further, in the toothbrush of the present invention, the brush surface constituted by the front end surface of the bristle bundle may have irregularities. Further, the central portion of each hair bundle tip surface constituted by the tips of the brush hairs may be formed in a convex shape.

[0011] The hair length of the tapered brush hair may be substantially equal to or longer than that of the normal tapered brush hair.

[0012] In the toothbrush of the present invention, the hair bundle may be thermally fixed to the flocking table. In this case, the number of brush bristles in the triangular cross-section bristles and the number of brush hairs in the cross-section bristles or Z or the long cross-section bristles are the same amount when the bunch is thermally fixed to the flocking table. It is approximately an integral multiple of the number of brush hairs taken out by the device for taking out the hair, or the cross-sectional area of the bristle of the hair bundle of the triangular section and the cross-sectional area of the bristle of the hair bundle of Z or the elongated cross-section When the hair bundle is thermally fixed to the flocking table, it is preferable that it is approximately an integral multiple of the cross-sectional area of the gap from which the brush hair is taken out with a device that takes out the same amount of brush hair. The invention's effect

[0013] The toothbrush according to the present invention has a bristle bundle having substantially the same cross-sectional shape, and the distance between the centers thereof is approximately equal to the length in the width direction of one tooth at a predetermined interval. Since it is arranged adjacent to the axial direction, the bristles fit well in the interdental part, particularly the interdental papilla position, and are excellent in the cleanability and plaque removal effect of the part. In addition, when the bristles adjacent to each other at the predetermined interval are fixed to the side edge of the flocking table, the toothbrush tips are applied to the teeth at right angles and the back and forth (in the direction of the axis of the toothbrush) When brushing teeth by scrubbing methods that move and polish, or by a bath method where the hair tips are slanted at the boundary between the teeth and gingiva and squeezed and squeezed back and forth, The operation to fit the interdental part becomes easier. Further, if the hair bundles adjacent to each other at the predetermined interval have a substantially triangular cross-sectional shape and are fixed so that the tapered portions of the substantially triangular shapes are fixed in the same direction, the hair bundle having the triangular cross section is further secured. If the cross-sectional shape of this is a substantially triangular shape in which the side edge force of the flocking table is tapered toward the axial center of the toothbrush, the fit to the interdental papilla portion is excellent.

[0014] Further, between the bundles of triangular cross-sections adjacent to each other in the axial direction of the toothbrush at the predetermined interval, the cross-sectional shape is long in the axial direction of the toothbrush, and the bristles having an elongated cross-section are arranged. When brushing teeth by the scrub method or bath method, the hair bundle of the elongated cross section is located at the gingival margin and the periodontal pocket at the boundary between the tooth and gum in the cervical region. Since the hairs of triangular cross-section on both sides are located in the interdental area between the teeth on both sides, both the gingival marginal part and periodontal pocket, and the interdental part can be cleaned simultaneously. Excellent cleaning and plaque removal effect. Further, when the hair bundle of the elongated cross section is arranged on the outer side of the flock base than the hair bundle of the triangular cross section, the hair bundle of the elongated cross section and the hair bundle of the triangular cross section are connected to the gingival marginal portion. And the periodontal pocket and the interdental papilla on both sides can be reliably applied, and the cleaning and plaque removal of those parts is further facilitated.

[0015] When the cross-sectional shape of the elongated bundle of hair is substantially square, cleaning the periodontal pocket when brushing the toothbrush by driving the toothbrush forward and backward (in the axial direction) and the bath method, Plaque removal is easy.

[0016] Further, the bristles of the bristles having a triangular cross section are tapered, and preferably, the bristles of the long cross section are also tapered, so that the tip of the bristles has a periodontal pocket and a tooth. It penetrates into a narrow space between the spaces, and is excellent in cleaning performance and plaque removal effect. Further, if the brushed bristles are bristles with branching at the tip, the ability to be inserted into the periodontal pockets and the interdental region is easy to clean and the plaque removal effect is high. On the other hand, the bristles of the hair bundle fixed on the side close to the axis of the toothbrush on the flocking table are the normal brushed bristles. Cleanability of the entire tooth with high removal effect is improved.

[0017] Furthermore, the taper brush bristle force is more rounded if the length of the brushed brush hair is approximately equal to or longer than that of a normal round brushed brush hair. Other The tip with less resistance due to the brush hair is easily inserted into the periodontal pocket and interdental area, and the cleaning and plaque removal effects of these parts are enhanced.

[0018] In addition, it is preferable that the brush surface formed by the front end surface of the hair bundle is not flat but has irregularities because the tips of the brush hairs fit into the irregularities of the dentition. Furthermore, when the central portion of the hair bundle tip surface composed of the tip of the brush hair in each hair bundle fixed to the flocking table is formed in a convex shape, the insertability of the hair bundle into the concave portion is better. This is preferable.

[0019] In addition, the brush bristles thermally fixed to the flocking table without using a flat wire can reduce the thickness of the flocking table, and the operability of the toothbrush in the oral cavity is good. It is easy to fix the hair bundle to the flocking table in a triangular cross section. Furthermore, in general, when a hair bundle is thermally fixed to a flocking table, a brush hair that has been cut to a predetermined length in advance is removed from a device (such as a picker, but a picker). The space for brush molding (cavity) between the mold for brush molding (second mold) is set in the receiving hole formed in the mold member (first mold). In the case of the toothbrush of the present invention, the number and the cross-sectional area of the bristles of the bristles having the substantially triangular cross section and The number of brush hairs and the cross-sectional area of the hair bundle of Z or elongated cross-section is approximately an integral multiple of the number of brush hairs taken out with a picker etc. that takes out the same amount of brush hairs, or the crossing with respect to the brush hairs of the voids from which the brush hairs are taken out If the area is approximately an integral multiple of the area, The hair bundle size can be changed simply by adjusting the number of removals using a car, etc., which is convenient in the manufacturing process.

Brief Description of Drawings

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a flocking table portion showing an embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention.

[Fig. 2] (a) is a front view of a toothbrush, and (b) is a plan view.

[Fig. 3] (a) is an enlarged front view of the flocked base, (b) is an enlarged plan view, and (c) is an enlarged side view.

[FIG. 4] (a) is a plan view of a flocked table portion showing another embodiment of the toothbrush, and (b) is a plan view of the flocked table portion showing still another embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a schematic view showing a state in which a hairbrush bundle of a toothbrush hits an interdental part and a gingival marginal part.

[Fig. 6] (a) is an enlarged view of the tip of the branched hair, and (b) to (h) are cross-sectional views of the filament of the branched hair. is there.

[FIG. 7] (a) is a front view of a bristle with a plurality of core hairs protruding from the tip, (b) is a perspective view thereof, and (c) to (e) are cross-sectional views of a filament having a sea-island structure. is there.

[FIG. 8] (a) is a perspective view of another example of a bristle with a plurality of core hairs protruding from the tip, and (b) is a cross-sectional view of the filament of the bristle.

[FIG. 9] (a) is a perspective view of a bristle with a single core bristle protruding from the tip, and (b) is a cross-sectional view thereof.

[FIG. 10] (a) is a perspective view of another embodiment of a bristle with a single core bristle protruding from the tip, and (b) is a cross-sectional view thereof.

[FIG. 11] (a) is a perspective view of another embodiment of a bristle having a single core bristle protruding from the tip, and (b) is a cross-sectional view thereof.

[FIG. 12] (a) is a perspective view of another embodiment of a bristle with a single core bristle protruding from the tip, and (b) is a cross-sectional view thereof.

[FIG. 13] (a) to (c) are cross-sectional views of a cross-section core-sheath filament.

Explanation of symbols

1 toothbrush

2 neck

3 Flocking table

3a Flocked surface

4 Hair bundles

4a Brush surface

5 hair bundles

5a Brush surface

6 Hair bundle

6a Brush surface

7 Hair bundle

7a Brush surface 10 Brush body

11 Handle

21 branched hair

22 Unit section elements

23 Sheath

24 core hair

25 Sea (Scabbard)

26 Island (Core)

27 Taper

28 Projection

29 groove

A Adhesive layer

B Interdental part

d Distance between the centers of the hair bundles

F filament

N interdental papilla

S Gingival margin

t Thickness of flocking table

w Length in the width direction of the tooth

X Toothbrush axis

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

1 to 3 show an embodiment of a toothbrush according to the present invention, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a flocking table, FIG. 2 (a) is a front view of the toothbrush, and FIG. ) Is also a plan view, FIG. 3 (a) is a front view of the flocking table, FIG. 3 (b) is a plan view, and FIG. 3 (c) is a side view. The toothbrush 1 has a large number of hair bundles 4, 5, 6, and 7 that also have brush bristle force on the flocking table 3 at one end of the brush body 10.

RU

[0023] The brush body 10 is integrally formed by injection molding of a thermoplastic resin, and the hair bundles 4 to 7 The hair transplant table 3 includes a handle portion 11 for gripping the toothbrush 1, and an elongated neck portion 2 that connects the hair transplant table 3 and the handle portion. The type of thermoplastic resin as the material of the brush body 10 is not particularly limited, but polybutylene terephthalate resin, polypropylene terephthalate tree, polyethylene terephthalate resin, polyethylene naphthalate resin,

Polyester resin such as PCTA resin, PCTG resin, polyacetal resin (homopolymer, copolymer), polycarbonate resin, aliphatic polyamide resin, aromatic polyamide resin

Examples of the resin include a resin mainly composed of polyolefin resin, such as polypropylene and polyethylene. Preferably, a resin mainly composed of a resin selected from polyester resins such as polybutylene terephthalate resin, polyethylene terephthalate resin, PCTA resin and PCTG resin, and polyacetal resin is used. PCTA resin is a copolymer of an ester compound of cyclohexanedimethanol (CHDM) and terephthalic acid (TP A) and an ester compound of CHDM and isophthalic acid (IPA). These are copolymers of ethylene glycol and CHDM ester compounds and CHDM and TPA ester compounds, both of which are saturated polyester resins. Here, the main component is used as a blend or alloy with another resin, and the resin contains 50% by weight or more of the resin, or with other resin. This means that the copolymer contains repeating units of the polymer of the resin in a proportion of 50% by weight or more. Other thermoplastic resins that can be used by mixing or copolymerizing with the thermoplastic resin as the main component as described above include those that can be used as the main components listed above, ABS resin Polystyrene resin, EPDM, acrylic resin, polyurethane resin, polyarylate, thermoplastic elastomer, silicone resin, fluorine resin, and the like. The bristles 4 to 7 fixed to the flock base 3 of the toothbrush 1 converge the brush hairs made of synthetic resin and use heat fusion, a fuse-in method or an in-mold method without using a flat wire. Therefore, a so-called flat wire toothbrush formed by thermally adhering to the flocking table 3 is preferable. A method for fixing the hair bundle without using a flat wire on the flocking table 3 is a conventionally known method. Examples of the fuse-in method include Japanese Patent Laid-Open Nos. 60-241404 and 61-76104 or method described in Japanese Patent No. 2 99002, as the in-mold method, for example, JP 61 - 268208 discloses, Hei ² - 503150, JP-a No. ⁹ - 1826 Examples include the methods described in Japanese Patent No. 32, Japanese National Publication No. 9-512724, and Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-102552. By these methods, the hair bundle 4 to 7 is thermally fixed to the flocking table 3 without using a flat wire, so that the burial depth of the hair bundle in the flocking table 3 is reduced and the flocking table 3 The thickness t can be made extremely thin, for example, 4 mm or less, or even 3.5 mm or less, and the toothbrush can be manufactured with excellent operability in the oral cavity and also in terms of design.

[0025] As shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 3, on the flocking surface 3a of the flocking table 3, a large number of hair bundles 4 to 7 are arranged in a plurality of rows extending in the direction of the axis X of the toothbrush 1. Has been. The middle row of hair bundles is a total of five hair bundles arranged along the axis X, with the hair bundle 4 located at the most distal end of the flocking table 3 and four hair bundles 5 smaller than that. These hair bundles 4 and 5 have a cross-sectional shape that is long in the X axis direction! Speak. On the left and right side edges of the center row of hair bundles, the tip side force in the center row of hair bundles is perpendicular to the axis X direction with respect to the first, third, and fifth hair bundles 4, 5, and 5. Three hair bundles 5 having the same size and cross-sectional shape as the four hair bundles 5 in the central row are arranged at predetermined intervals at positions adjacent to each other in the direction. Each of these hair bundles 4 and 5 is composed of a brush bristle cover having a tip that has a normal rounded edge. Further, the brush surfaces 4a and 5a formed by the bristles of the bristle bundles 4 and 5 are formed in a mountain shape having two inclined surface forces that incline before and after the central force in the axial direction X of the toothbrush 1.

[0026] Further, between the three hair bundles 5 of the left and right hair bundle rows, the cross-sectional shape is from the side edge of the flocking table 3 toward the axis X of the toothbrush, that is, the side edge of the flocking table 3. Two hair bundles 6 having a substantially triangular cross-section, which tapers inward from the portion, are fixed. Furthermore, the side cross-sectional shape of the axial center of the toothbrush 1 on the flocking table 3 is sandwiched between the two hair bundles 6 and 6 having a triangular cross section at the side edge located at the approximate center in the X direction. A long rectangular hair bundle 7 in the X direction is fixed. The triangular cross-section hair bundle 6 and the square cross-section hair bundle 7 fixed to the side edge portion between them (in FIG. 3, black-coated hair bundle) are all other hair bundles 4 and 5 (in FIG. 3, Unlike the white hair bundle, the brush surfaces 6a, 7a, which are made of tapered brush hairs and are constituted by the tips of the brush hairs, are formed in a plane parallel to the flocked surface 3a.

[0027] The bristle bundle 6 having a triangular cross section is a distance between the centers of two bristle bundles 6 adjacent to the axial direction X of the toothbrush 1 (shown in FIG. 3 (b) d) 1S in the width direction of one tooth. It is almost equal to the length (w shown in Fig. 5) Are arranged. The center-to-center distance d of the bristle bundle 6 having a triangular cross section is a toothbrush specification, for example, a force different for adults and children, for example, 5 to 12 mm, and a normal toothbrush is 6 to about LOmm, preferably 7 to 9.5 mm. Further, the cross-sectional shape of the hair bundle 6 having a triangular cross section is not particularly limited, but an equilateral triangle or an isosceles triangle is preferable because it fits easily to any interdental papilla such as anterior teeth and back teeth. Further, the size of the hair bundle 6 having a triangular cross section preferably has a cross-sectional shape inscribed in a circle having a diameter of 1.4 to 4.5 mm, preferably 2.0 to 4. Omm. By arranging the bunch 6 of triangular cross section having the above-mentioned distance d between the centers and the size as described above adjacent to the axial direction X of the toothbrush, the interdental part, particularly the interdental papilla Triangular hair bundle 6 fits well.

Next, FIG. 4 (a) is a plan view showing another embodiment of the toothbrush according to the present invention. In the toothbrush 1A of this embodiment, the brush bristle force is tapered at the side edge of the flocking table 3, and the cross-sectional shape is the side edge force of the flocking table 3 toward the axis X of the toothbrush. That is, it consists of brush hairs that are also tapered between the three hair bundles 6 that are fixed in a triangular shape that tapers inward from the side edge of the flocking table 3. Two hair bundles 7 having a rectangular shape that is long in the core X direction are fixed to form a flocked portion 9.

[0029] FIG. 4 (b) is a plan view showing still another embodiment of the toothbrush according to the present invention. In the toothbrush 1B of this embodiment, the brush bristle force is tapered at the both side edges of the flocking table 3, and the cross-sectional shape is the side edge force of the flocking table 3 toward the axis X of the toothbrush. Three bristles 6 with a triangular cross-section with a taper are arranged in the axial center X direction of the toothbrush, and the inside is made up of brush hairs with a normal rounded tip, and the cross-sectional shape is the axis of the toothbrush Three hair bundles 8 having a substantially triangular cross-section tapering from the core X toward the side edge of the flocking table are fixed in two rows to constitute the flocked portion 9.

In the toothbrushes 1A and IB of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4 (a) and 4 (b), the hair bundle 6 having a triangular cross section is also the center of the second hair bundle 6 adjacent to the axial direction X of the toothbrush 1. The distance d between them is, for example, 5 to 12 mm so that it is approximately equal to the length of one tooth in the width direction (w shown in FIG. 5). In a normal toothbrush, it is about 6 to: LOmm. It is preferable to be arranged so that it is about 7 to 9.5 mm, and the cross-sectional shape is a size inscribed in a circle with a diameter of 1.4 to 4.5 mm, preferably 2.0 to 4. Omm. It is preferable. [0031] In the toothbrushes 1, 1A, and IB according to the embodiments of the present invention as described above, the bristles 6 composed of brushed brush hairs are fixed to the flock base 3 so as to have a substantially triangular cross section. Are arranged so that the distance d between the centers of each bristles is substantially equal to the length w of one tooth in the width direction. Therefore, the interdental part, particularly the interdental papilla, is excellent in cleanability and plaque removal effect. In addition, since the hair bundle 6 having a triangular cross section is fixed to the side edge of the flocking table, a scrub method in which the tip of the toothbrush is placed at a right angle to the tooth and vigorously brushed back and forth, or the tip of the tooth is When brushing teeth using the bath method, which is applied diagonally to the gingival boundary and brushed with great force, the triangular cross hairs 6 fit well to the interdental area, especially the interdental papilla. , Excellent cleaning and plaque removal of the part. Furthermore, in the toothbrushes 1 and 1A of the above-described embodiment, the cross-sectional shape is long in the axial direction of the toothbrush and the bristles 7 having an elongated cross section are arranged between the bristles 6 having the triangular cross section. As shown in Fig. 5, the hair bundle 7 with an elongated cross section is located at the gingival margin S of the boundary between the tooth T and the gum G, and at the same time, the hair bundle 6 with a triangular cross section is between the teeth T on both sides. Since it fits well in the interdental part B, particularly the interdental papilla N, the gingival marginal part S and the interdental part B (interdental papilla N) can be cleaned simultaneously. The bristles of the hair bundle 6 with a triangular cross-section and the hair bundle 7 with an elongated cross-section are tapered, so that the tip of the bristles enters the narrow space of the periodontal pocket and interdental part B, and cleans the relevant part. Remove plaque. Furthermore, since the hair bundle 7 having an elongated cross section is arranged on the outer edge side of the flocking table rather than the hair bundle 6 having a triangular cross section, the hair bundle 7 having an elongated cross section and the hair bundle 6 having a triangular cross section are connected to the gingival margin. It can be reliably applied to the edge S and the interdental papilla N on both sides, making it easier to clean these parts and remove plaque.

[0032] The material of the bristle used in the present invention is a polyamide resin such as nylon talamide, or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polypropylene terephthalate (polytrimethylene terephthalate, PPT or PTT) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Known synthetic resins can be used as brush bristles for toothbrushes such as polyester resin and polyolefin resins such as polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE). In addition, there is no particular limitation on the tip shape of the brushed brush hair, and a known tapered brush hair can be used. The shape and length of the tapered portion are not particularly limited, but the brush hair is not limited. Considering rigidity, cleanability, etc., the length of the taper part is the length of the hair (brushed surface 3a to brush hair The length to the tip is preferably 1Z2 or less. In addition to the taper-processed brush bristles, various types can be used in addition to the normal taper-processed one.

[0033] For example, FIG. 6 (a) shows a tip portion of a filament F made of a synthetic resin showing one embodiment of the bristles used in the toothbrush according to the present invention. The filament F is a tapered bristle that is branched into a plurality of ends and the branched ends (branched hairs 21) are formed into a tapered shape. For example, as shown in FIGS. 6B to 6H, the filament F having the branched hairs 21 at the tip includes a plurality of unit cross-section elements 22 having various shapes such as a circular shape, an elliptical shape, a triangular shape, and a hexagonal shape. It has a connected cross-sectional shape. In addition, a single or a plurality of leaf portions having a cross-sectional area different from that of the leaf portion are arranged around a specific leaf portion via a joint portion that is thinner than the minimum cross-sectional dimension of the leaf portion having the smallest cross-sectional area. It may be a multi-leaf type cross section. In this case, 2 to 5 leaves are practical, but the number of leaves is not limited and is determined according to the intended use. As shown in Fig. 6 (a), the synthetic resin filament F having the cross-sectional shape described above is dipped in a chemical solution such as caustic soda (aOH), acid, or organic solvent, and pulled up, as shown in Fig. 6 (a). Hair 21 is formed. At this time, the shape and length of the branched hair 21 can be arbitrarily adjusted according to the concentration of the chemical solution, the immersion time, the pulling speed from the chemical solution, and the like. As the material of the synthetic resin filament F, any of the various known synthetic resins described above can be used.

[0034] The synthetic resin filament F on which the tapered branched hairs 21 are formed has a branching point force having a tip length of 1Z2 or less, preferably 1Z3 or less of the brush height (ie, hair length) in the flocked state. And Further, the cross-sectional area of the portion not subjected to the proximal side, i.e. the dissolving treatment of the branch point (bristle base) is a different force 0. 001-0. 5mm ² due sectional shape, usually 0.01 to 0. More preferably, it is optimum to be set to 0.01 to 0.1 mm ² . If the cross-sectional area of the brush bristle base is less than 0.001 mm ² , the bristle will be weak and lack the rigidity necessary for brushing. If it exceeds 0.5 mm ² , the bristle will be thick and the insertability into details will be poor. For this reason, the lower limit and the upper limit are used as a reference, and appropriate decisions are taken in consideration of relevant factors such as cross-sectional shape and material. Further, in the case of the brush hair having two kinds of branched hairs having different lengths, the length force of the short branched hair is preferably in the range of 1 Z10 to 9Z10 of the length of the long branched hair. If the length of the short branched hair is shorter than 1Z10, which is the length of the long branched hair, it is longer than 9Z10, which has a poor brushing effect due to the short branched hair. , And can not fully demonstrate the effect of different length of branched hair!

[0035] FIGS. 7 (a) and 7 (b) show another embodiment of a tapered synthetic resin filament F having a branched tip. In this synthetic resin filament F, the sheath 23 has a plurality of tip forces, and in the illustrated example, three core hairs 24 are formed so as to protrude. The filament F, in which the plurality of core hairs 24 protrude from the tip of the sheath 23 and branch the tip, is made of, for example, a material mainly composed of polyamide resin such as nylon or aramid, and the sea part is made of poly. A composite synthetic resin monofilament F (hereinafter referred to as a composite monofilament) composed of a material mainly composed of polyester resin such as butylene terephthalate, for example, the polyester as shown in FIGS. 7 (c) to (e). Immerse the composite filament F of sea-island structure with coconut resin at sea part 25 and nylon resin at island part 26 in caustic soda (NaOH) and pulling it up, sea part 25 dissolves and removes the tip force, and island part 26 is exposed. As shown in FIGS. 7 (a) and 7 (b), a bristle is produced in which a plurality of core hairs 24 project from the tip force of the sheath portion 23 constituting the outer surface of the bristle. In this case, the tapered shape of the tip of the sheath 23 and the exposed length of the core hair 24 can be adjusted as appropriate depending on the concentration of the caustic soda, the dipping time, the pulling speed of the caustic soda force, and the like. Further, as shown in FIG. 8 (b), a synthetic resin filament having a cross-sectional shape in which a plurality of unit cross-sectional elements 22 are connected and each unit cross-sectional element 22 has a core-sheath structure or sea-island structure cross-sectional shape. As shown in Fig. 8 (a), the core hair 24 is drawn from each tip of the plurality of tapered branched hairs 21 by pulling F up in a chemical solution such as caustic soda (NaOH), acid, or organic solvent. Use the protruding filament F (brush hair).

[0036] The size of the filament F that forms the bristle with a plurality of core hairs 24 protruding from the distal end force of the sheath portion 23 is 0.150-0.300mm in diameter on the base end side (core-sheath composite portion). The diameter of the core hair 24 is preferably 0.03 to 0.07 mm, the exposed length of the core hair is 0.2 to 4. Omm, and the exposed length of the core hair is preferably 0.5 to 4.0 mm. Further, the length to the tip of the flocking base force (the length of the bristles exposed from the flocked surface 3a, that is, the hair length) is preferably 7 to: L lmm. Furthermore, assuming that the diameter of the base end is 100%, the diameter at the position lmm closer to the composite part side from this base point is 70 ± 15% with the boundary between the exposed core hair 24 and the composite part as the base point. It is preferable that the end of the composite part is tapered to 89 ± 8% at 3mm and 93 ± 7% at 5mm. The diameter of the composite part is 0.150 to 0.300 mm, and the diameter of the core hair 24 is 0.03 to 0.07 mm. When the exposed length of the core hair 24 is set to 0.2 to 4 Omm, insertion into the oral cavity details, reachability to the back of the oral cavity, and the plaque removal action by the reached core hair 24 are more preferable. Furthermore, when the exposed length of the core hair 24 is set to 0.5 to 4. Omm, the insertion into the oral detail, the reachability to the interior of the oral detail, the plaque removal action by the reached core hair 24 Is even more preferred. Also, if the length from the planted base to the tip of the planted sea-island composite fiber is in the range of 7 to 11 mm, sufficient hair and waist for obtaining a cleaning effect is obtained and the interdental part is narrow! , It has excellent insertability into the site and is easy to operate.

[0037] Further, what is shown in Fig. 9 (a) is a filament F made of a synthetic resin showing still another embodiment of the tapered brush bristles used in the present invention. This synthetic resin filament F has a core-sheath structure or sea-island structure cross-sectional shape, and preferably has a tapered shape in which the sheath part or sea part, which also has a material force mainly composed of polyester resin, is thinned by directing toward the hair tips. A single core hair 24 that is formed and exposed to the hair tip, preferably having a material strength mainly composed of polyamide coffin, is exposed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9 (b), the core on the tip side of the composite monofilament F having a core-sheath structure in which a sheath (sea) 25 is arranged around one core (island) 26. The portion 26 is exposed, and the core hair 24 is projected from the tip as shown in FIG. 9 (a). In the case of the composite monofilament F having the core-sheath structure, the cross-sectional area of the composite monofilament F including the core part 26 and the sheath part 25 is 15 to 80%, more preferably 40-80%. As a result, while maintaining a moderate bristles on the proximal side of the brush hair, the core hair 24 with a sectional area of 15 to 80% exposed on the distal end side exhibits excellent fine cleaning performance without damaging the gums. It is possible to prevent the tip of the hair from being bent or uneven when thermally fixing to the flocking table 3.

[0038] The method for exposing the core portion is the same as the case where the plurality of core portions shown in Figs. 7 and 8 are exposed. However, when the single core portion 26 is exposed, a chemical method is used. In addition, a means for removing the sheath 25 by a mechanical method can be employed. In the case of the chemical removal method, for example, the tip side of the composite monofilament F in which polyamide resin is used for the core part 26 and polyester resin such as PBT is used for the sheath part 25 is caustic soda (NaOH). Filament F (brush hair) in which the core portion 26 is exposed by being immersed in an alkali-type chemical solution or the like and the core hair 24 protrudes to the tip can be formed. [0039] A tapered portion 27 that is continuous with the core hair 24 is inevitably formed at the distal end of the sheath portion 23 (sea portion 25) to be melted as described above. It can be easily adjusted by controlling the time. By forming the tapered portion 27, the insertion property and reachability into the oral cavity details are further improved.

[0040] The cross-sectional shapes of the composite monofilament F and its core portion 26 shown in Fig. 9 (b) are substantially circular, and the outer diameter b2 of the composite monofilament F is set to 0.16 mm to 0.25 mm, and the core portion The outer diameter bl of 26 is set to 40 to 90%, more preferably 60 to 80% of the outer diameter of the composite monofilament F. The hair length from the planted base to the tip of the planted brush hair is preferably in the range of 6 to 12 mm. If the length is too long, not only the operability in the mouth is bad, but also the hair and hips are too soft to obtain a sufficient cleaning effect. On the other hand, if it is too short, there will be less deflection of the hair during brushing and the feeling of use will be worsened, and the insertion property between the teeth will also be worsened. Further, the exposed length of the core hair 24 is set to 5 to 50% of the hair length, more preferably 10 to 50%, and specifically to a suitable range of 0.5 to 4. Omm. If the exposed length of the core hair 24 is less than 5% of the bristle length, it is not sufficient to reach the back of the interdental part, the periodontal pocket of the tooth neck part, the pit and fissure. Further, the longer the core hair 24 with the core portion 26 exposed, the higher the cleaning effect on the deep portion, but on the other hand, the durability decreases. The length of the core hair 24 that can maintain practical durability is 50% or less of the hair length, specifically 4. Omm or less.

[0041] The tip shape of the exposed core hair 24 is arbitrary and can be processed into an appropriate shape such as a hemisphere. In the present embodiment, the core portion 26 is made of polyamide resin, and the core hair 24 exposed from the sheath portion 23 extends straight in a columnar shape. As a result, it is possible to prevent the hair tips from being bent during the thermal fixing operation to the flocking table 12.

Next, FIG. 10 shows an example in which the cross-sectional shape of the core portion 26 and the core hair 24 where the core portion 26 is exposed from the sheath portion 25 is a substantially polygonal shape, and FIG. 11 shows the outer peripheral surface of the core portion 26. FIG. 12 shows an example in which a plurality of concave grooves 29 extending in the axial direction are provided on the outer peripheral surfaces of the core part 26 and the core hair 24. In the example shown in FIG.

[0043] If the cross-sectional shape of the core portion 26 is a substantially polygon having a ¾ | ¾ corner portion as in the filament F shown in FIG. 10, the end portion of the sheath portion is connected to the core portion 26 at the core portion exposed proximal end. By forming a bite portion that remains as if it bites into the concave portion to be formed, the sheath portion can be used as the core portion by use. It is possible to prevent the exposed proximal end force from being peeled off and improve durability. In the case of the filament F shown in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, as in the case of the substantially polygonal shape described above, the sheath portion 23 is formed with a bite portion that bites into the protruding portion 28 or the concave groove 29 at the end portion of the sheath portion 23. The peeling of the end of the 25 part is prevented.

[0044] FIGS. 13 (a) and 13 (b) show a composite monofilament F in which an adhesive layer A is provided between the core portion 26 and the sheath portion 25 so as to bond them together. Can be more reliably prevented. Further, FIG. 13 (c) shows that the cross-sectional shape of the composite monofilament F is substantially similar to the cross-sectional shape of the core portion 26, whereby the thickness of the sheath portion 25 is substantially uniform along the circumferential direction. It becomes difficult for the sheath 25 to peel off from the core 26.

[0045] When the toothbrush according to the present invention is thermally fixed to a flocking table by using an in-mold method, a fuse-in method, or the like without using a flat wire, the tip of the brush bristles is used as a contact plate or the like. The brush surface composed of the tip of the bristles can be formed into an arbitrary shape by aligning the brush surface composed of the hair bundle tip surface and the hair bundle tip surface so as to have a desired shape. it can. For example, the front end surface of the hair bundle is formed in a mountain shape such that the center portion is high (hair length is long) like the hair bundles 4 and 5 and is low (hair length is short) toward the periphery, Furthermore, the brush surface can be formed into a three-dimensional shape having concave and convex portions in the width direction of the flocked portion (direction perpendicular to the axis X of the toothbrush). If the tip of the hair bundle is formed into a mountain shape (convex shape) in this way, or the brush surface is made uneven, the ability to insert the hair bundle into a narrow part such as between the teeth or between the teeth and gums is further improved. Improved toothbrush due to improved cleaning and plaque removal effect.

[0046] In addition, the bristles that have been previously cut to a predetermined length are taken out with a device that takes out the bristles, and after the thermal bundling is thermally integrated, the molding material for the main body is injected. You can also mold a toothbrush. It is preferable that the number of the bristle bundles 6 and Z or the long bristle bundles 7 of the present invention is approximately an integer multiple of the number of brush hairs taken out by the brush hair take-out device. Here, “substantially integer multiple” means that an error of ± 10% is included around a numerical value that is an integer multiple. This is because the number of brush hairs to be taken out varies depending on the mechanism of the device for taking out the bristle. Further, the cross-sectional area of the hair bundle 6 having a triangular cross section and the hair bundle 7 having a Z cross section or an elongated cross section has a gap bra that takes out the brush hair of the take-out device. It may be a substantially integer multiple of the cross-sectional area with respect to the bristle. Furthermore, considering the efficiency in production, the number or cross-sectional area of the hair bundle 6 having a triangular cross section and Z or the hair bundle 7 having an elongated cross section is equal to the number of brush hairs of the apparatus for taking out brush hairs or the gap for taking out the brush hairs. More preferably, the cross-sectional area of the brush bristles is substantially the same. Thus, the toothbrush according to the present invention is obtained by inserting a synthetic resin filament that is pre-tapered or subjected to a normal round force to the flock base 3 of the toothbrush body 10, using an insert method or a fuse-in method. It is possible to arbitrarily form the cross-sectional shape of each hair bundle by thermally fixing by, for example. In addition, a hair bundle made of brush hair is placed in a V-shaped plate shape so that it is reflected in the final planting pattern to create a prototype of the planted part, and then the bundle is installed. Alternatively, a method may be used in which the brush body is formed so as to include the plate, and the flocked portion is formed. That is, the shape of the flock hole formed in the flocking table 3 of the flock holding bracket (first mold) when the brush bristles (hair bundles) are fixed to the flocking table 3 is triangular or rectangular. In addition, the hair bundle having an arbitrary cross-sectional shape can be fixed to the flocking table 3 by forming it in any other shape.

[0047] Although only the manual toothbrush 1 having the handle portion 11 has been described in the above embodiment, the toothbrush of the present invention is for an electric toothbrush having a drive portion having a short handle portion. It ’s a brush.

[0048] (Example 1)

The toothbrush handle 10 shown in Fig. 2 is molded by injection molding using polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), and the bristles 7 on both sides of the flock base 3 among the bristles 9 of the flock 9 shown in Figs. In addition, the bristles (hereinafter referred to as “normal bristles”) with a nylon filament tip rounded as the hair bundles 6 and 6 having a triangular cross-section are omitted in the cross-sectional shape inscribed in a circle having a diameter of 2.7 mm, and the distance between the centers. A toothbrush having a flocked portion planted so that the distance is 7. Omm was formed by the in-mold method. The hair bundle specifications are shown in Table 1.

[0049] [Table 1] Table 1 Specifications of toothbrush bristle bundle in implementation 1

Brush hair thick

Brush hair

Brush hair, flocking holes "

Hair length (Η) Hair tip shape material Number of mil brush hairs

m m

(M m)

Hair bundle 4 Nylon 1 5 6 // Hole 8 tip round processing Hair bundle 5 Nylon 7 8 / hole 8 tip round processing Hair bundle 6 Nylon 7 8 tips Ζ Hole 8 tip round processing ^ 卜

[0050] (Example 2)

In the toothbrush of Example 1, a toothbrush was molded in the same manner as in Example 1 except that the center-to-center distance between the hair bundles 6 and 6 having a triangular cross section was 9.4 mm.

[0051] (Example 3)

In the toothbrush of Example 1, the hair bundles 6 and 6 having a triangular cross section were planted in the same manner as in Example 1 except that the hair was planted so as to have a triangular cross section tapered toward the side edge of the flocking table from the axis of the toothbrush. A toothbrush was molded.

[0052] (Example 4)

In the toothbrush of Example 1, a toothbrush was formed in the same manner as in Example 1 except that a hair bundle (normal hair) having a square cross section was planted instead of the hair bundles 6 and 6 having a triangular cross section.

[0053] (Example 5)

In the toothbrush of Example 1, a toothbrush was formed in the same manner as in Example 1 except that instead of the hair bundles 6 and 6 having a triangular cross section, a hair bundle having a circular cross section (normal hair) was planted.

[Example 6]

In the toothbrush of Example 1, a toothbrush was formed in the same manner as in Example 1 except that the hair bundles 6 and 6 having a triangular cross section were inscribed in a circle having a diameter of 2. Omm.

[Example 7]

In the toothbrush of Example 1, a toothbrush was formed in the same manner as in Example 1 except that the bristle bundles 6 and 6 having a triangular cross section were inscribed in a circle having a diameter of 4. Omm.

[Example 8] The toothbrush of Example 1 is the same as Example 1 except that a hair bundle 7 having a square cross section shown in FIG. 3 (b) (ordinary hair having a hair length of 8 mm) is planted between the hair bundles 6 and 6 having a triangular cross section. A toothbrush was formed.

[Example 9]

In the toothbrush of Example 8, the bristle bundles 6 and 6 having a triangular cross section and the bristle bundle 7 having a square cross section have PBT as a sea part (sheath part), nylon as an island part (core part), and a tip branched into three. A toothbrush was formed in the same manner as in Example 8 except that it was composed of 10 mm bristle brush hair (hereinafter referred to as “special hair”).

[Example 10]

In Example 1, a toothbrush was formed in the same manner as Example 1 except that the hair bundles 6 and 6 having a triangular cross section were inscribed in a circle having a diameter of 1.4 mm.

[Example 11]

In Example 1, a toothbrush was molded in the same manner as Example 1 except that the hair bundles 6 and 6 having a triangular cross section were inscribed in a circle having a diameter of 4.5 mm.

[0060] (Example 12)

In the toothbrush of Example 1, a toothbrush was molded in the same manner as in Example 1 except that the center-to-center distance between the bristles 6 and 6 having a triangular cross section was 11. Omm.

[0061] (Comparative Example 1)

In Example 1, a toothbrush was molded in the same manner as in Example 1 except that the center-to-center distance between the hair bundles 6 and 6 having a triangular cross section was 3.5 mm.

[0062] (Comparative Example 2)

In Example 4, a toothbrush was molded in the same manner as in Example 4 except that the distance between the centers of the hair bundles having a square cross section was 3.5 mm.

[0063] (Comparative Example 3)

In Example 5, a toothbrush was molded in the same manner as in Example 5 except that the distance between the centers of the bristles having a circular cross section was set to 2.5 mm.

[0064] The cleaning properties (plaque removal properties) of the toothbrushes of Examples and Comparative Examples molded as described above were examined by the following method. The results are shown in Table 2, and the cleaning property evaluation is judged. Table 3 shows the criteria.

(Cleaning evaluation method)

A pseudo plaque is attached to the maxillary first molar part of the jaw model, the jaw model is attached to a brushing simulation device, and is placed so that one end of the toothbrush flocked portion hits the maxillary first molar. Place a toothbrush to cover one molar. Brushing for 3 seconds with a lateral stroke of 20mm and a load of 300g, the area of the pseudo plaque was measured and calculated for each part with the image analyzer, and the pseudo plaque was removed from the area where the pseudo plaque was attached. The ratio of the area thus obtained was defined as the plaque removal rate. The cleanability of each part was evaluated by the obtained plaque removal rate.

[0065] [Table 2] Table 2 Cleanability evaluation

[0066] [Table 3] Table 3 Judgment criteria for cleanability of each part

Whole tooth neck between m αβ

◎ 90 or more 8 0 or more 6 0 or more

〇 8 5 or more 7 0 or more 50 000 or more

Δ 80 or more 6 0 or more 4 5 or more

X Less than 80 60 Less than 0 4 Less than 5

* Figures are plaque removal rate (%)

[0067] The overall cleaning performance evaluation shown in Table 2 represents the height of the function of the toothbrush product. In the cleaning performance evaluation of each part, “◎” is 2 points, “◯” is 1 point, The evaluation points with a “△” of 0.5 were added together, and the products with higher total evaluation points were judged to be products with higher cleaning effects. In addition, the overall evaluation for items that did not meet the criteria was “X”. In other words, in the cleaning property evaluation of each part, even if there was at least one “X”, it was judged that the function as a product was not satisfied, and the overall evaluation was also rejected as “X”. In the overall evaluation and the evaluation of each part, none of the “X” s were accepted.

[0068] As is apparent from Table 2, the toothbrush according to the present invention is disposed adjacent to the axial direction of the toothbrush so that the distance between the centers of the bristles is substantially equal to the length in the width direction of one tooth. Has excellent cleanability over the entire teeth. In particular, by arranging the hair bundle having a triangular cross section to be tapered from the side edge of the flocking table toward the axis of the toothbrush, the interdental portion can be easily cleaned. In addition, by arranging the hair bundle of the square cross section between the hair bundles of the triangular cross section, the cleaning performance of the tooth neck portion is improved, and further, by using the tip branch hair (special hair), the interdental portion, the tooth neck portion The cleanability of the is further improved.

Industrial applicability

[0069] In the toothbrush according to the present invention, the hair bundle of the flocked portion fits well in the interdental part, particularly the position of the interdental papilla, and is excellent in the cleaning property and plaque removal effect of the part, for example, A scrub method in which the tip of the toothbrush is applied at right angles to the tooth and moved forward and backward (in the direction of the axis of the toothbrush) and brushed. When brushing teeth using the brushing method, the operation of fitting the hair bundle to the interdental part is easy, and it can be suitably used for brushing by the scrub method or bath method.

Claims

The scope of the claims

[1] A plurality of hair bundles having a synthetic resin brush bristle force are fixed to a flock base of a synthetic resin brush body to form a hair transplant portion, and a part of the plurality of hair bundles However, the cross-sectional shapes are substantially the same, and the distance between the centers of the bristles is approximately the same as the length in the width direction of one tooth, and the toothbrushes are arranged adjacent to each other in the axial direction. Toothbrush characterized by.

[2] The distance between the centers of bristles of the same cross-sectional shape arranged adjacent to the axial direction of the toothbrush so that the distance between the centers is equal to the length in the width direction of one tooth is 5 The toothbrush according to claim 1, which is ˜12 mm.

[3] A hair bundle having the same cross-sectional shape arranged adjacent to the axial direction of the toothbrush so that the distance between the centers is equal to the length in the width direction of one tooth is a side edge of the flocking table. The toothbrush according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the toothbrush is disposed in a portion.

[4] The cross-sectional shape of the hair bundle of the same cross-sectional shape that is arranged adjacent to the axial direction of the toothbrush so that the distance between the centers is equal to the length in the width direction of one tooth is substantially triangular. And

The toothbrush according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the bristle bundle having a triangular cross section is fixed to the flocking table with a substantially triangular tapering portion facing in the same direction.

5. The toothbrush according to claim 4, wherein the bristle bundle having a triangular cross section has a substantially triangular cross section that tapers toward a side edge force toothbrush axis of the flocking table.

6. The toothbrush according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the bristle bundle having a triangular cross section has a cross-sectional shape inscribed in a circle having a diameter of 1.4 to 4.5 mm.

[7] Between the plurality of triangular cross-sectional hair bundles arranged in the axial direction of the toothbrush, the cross-sectional shape is long in the axial direction of the toothbrush, and the narrow cross-sectional hair bundle is arranged! The toothbrush described in 6 of the slippage.

[8] The toothbrush according to claim 7, wherein the hair bundle having the elongated cross section is arranged on the outer side in the width direction of the flocking table than the hair bundle having the triangular cross section.

9. The toothbrush according to claim 7 or 8, wherein a cross-sectional shape of the hair bundle having an elongated cross section is a substantially square shape.

[10] The axis of the toothbrush so that the distance between the centers is substantially equal to the length in the width direction of one tooth. The toothbrush according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the bristles constituting the bristles of the same cross-sectional shape arranged adjacent to each other in a direction are tapered!

11. The toothbrush according to claim 10, wherein the tapered brush bristles are branched at the tip.

[12] It is closer to the axis of the toothbrush than the position of the bristles that are tapered and have the brush bristle power! The toothbrush according to claim 10 or 11, wherein a bristle bundle having a bristle force with a normal round tip is fixed on the side.

[13] The toothbrush according to any one of [1] to [12], wherein the brush surface constituted by the front end surface of the hair bundle has irregularities.

14. The toothbrush according to claim 13, wherein a central portion of each bristles front end surface constituted by the ends of the bristles is formed in a convex shape.

[15] The toothbrush according to any one of [10] to [14], wherein a hair length of the tapered brush bristles is substantially equal to or longer than the normal bristled brush bristles.

16. The toothbrush according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the hair bundle is thermally fixed to the flocking table.

[17] The number of brush hairs of the hair bundle having a triangular cross-section according to claim 4 and the number of brush hairs of the hair bundle having an elongated cross-section according to claim 7 are thermally fixed to the flocking table. The toothbrush according to claim 16, wherein the number of brush bristles is a substantially integer multiple of the number of bristles taken out by a device that takes out the same amount of bristles.

[18] The cross-sectional area of the bristle of the bristle having a triangular cross section according to claim 4 and the cross-sectional area of the bristle of the bristle having a long cross-section according to claim 7 are thermally transferred to the flocking table. 17. The toothbrush according to claim 16, wherein the toothbrush is substantially an integral multiple of the cross-sectional area of the gap bristles from which the bristles are taken out by a device that takes out the same amount of bristles when fixed to the brush.