WO2007139112A1

WO2007139112A1 - Dental interproximal cleaner

Info

Publication number: WO2007139112A1
Application number: PCT/JP2007/060909
Authority: WO
Inventors: Naoshi Kanamaru; Takao Kato
Original assignee: Lion Corporation
Priority date: 2006-05-31
Filing date: 2007-05-29
Publication date: 2007-12-06
Also published as: KR101374468B1; CN101453960B; KR20090026271A; CN101453960A

Abstract

A dental interproximal cleaner having an excellent effect of removal of stain in interproximal regions. The dental interproximal cleaner has an arch-shaped strung section (3) where interproximal cleaning fiber bundles (4a, 4b, 4c) are stretched and also has a holding section having at one end the strung section (3). The strung section (3) has an insertion body (4) where at least two or more fiber bundles (4a, 4b, 4c) are arranged substantially in parallel with each other. The distance between the centers of adjacent fiber bundles is from 0.6 to 1.0 mm, the thickness of each fiber bundle (4a, 4b, 4c) is from 400 to 700 dtex, and the sum of the thicknesses of two or more of the fiber bundles (4a, 4b, 4c) is from 1200 to 2000 tdx. A stain film (9) containing plaque is formed between adjacent fiber bundles when the cleaner is inserted in an interproximal region and removed from the region.

Description

Specification

Interdental cleaning tool

Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to an interdental cleaning tool.

Background art

Conventionally, brushing with a toothbrush has been most widely used as a method for controlling plaque, which is a cause of dental caries and periodontal disease. However, it is difficult to completely remove plaque by brushing with a toothbrush, and it is known that 20-50% of adhering plaque remains between the tooth surface and the teeth after brushing. In addition, the interproximal adjacent surface, where the plaque adhesion is unclear and the toothbrush brush is difficult to enter, is one of the areas with the highest caries risk (risk of caries). Furthermore, plaque that is pressed into the interproximal surface of the tooth and adheres to the neck of the interproximal surface causes periodontal disease. For this reason, cleaning between teeth is very important in preventing oral disease.

[0003] An interdental brush is a dental floss as an effective interdental cleaning tool for cleaning the interproximal adjacent surface having a high risk of intraoral disease. Interdental brushes can only be used when the interdental gap is wide! /, But dental floss has a small interdental opening! For this reason, dental floss is highly versatile and can be regarded as an interdental cleaning tool.

As dental floss, there are known types that use a bundle of single fibers wrapped around a finger, a type in which a fiber bundle is insert-molded in a holder, and a holder type that is discarded. The holder type has become popular in recent years because of its ease of use and ease of use. The holder type is hygienic in that it does not wet the finger with saliva compared to the type that uses a fiber bundle wrapped around the finger, and has become popular in recent years because of its ease of use and ease of use. . As for the holder type, there is also known a type in which a plurality of fiber bundles are arranged in order to improve the insertability and the actual feeling of plaque removal.

[0004] The type of dental floss in which a plurality of such fiber bundles are arranged includes, for example, a holder portion formed in a substantially U shape that holds the inserted body in a stretched state (for example, 2), an essentially flat handle, a spaced arm, a first floss Having a second strand and a second floss strand (for example, refer to Patent Document 3), and a holder portion whose legs are bent at an angle of 40 ° to 50 ° with respect to the longitudinal side surface of the handle (for example, , See patent document 4)! In the case of holder-type dental floss, the nature and arrangement of the fiber bundles fixed to the holder are mainly studied from the viewpoint of plaque removal effect and interdental insertion (for example, Patent Documents 1 to 3). reference).

Patent Document 1 proposes a dental floss in which a bundle of fiber bundles is fixed to a holder. Patent Document 1 aims to provide an interdental cleaning tool that is easy to insert and easy to remove plaque.

Patent Document 1 also relates to knowledge about the shape of the floss fixing part on the gripping part side of the yarn tension part located on or near the axis of the gripping part, and the thickness of the fiber bundle suitable for the floss. Knowledge is disclosed! Speak.

Patent Document 2 and Patent Document 3 propose a dental floss in which a plurality of fiber bundles are fixed to a holder.

Patent Document 2 aims to provide an interdental cleaning tool that can reliably remove food residue sandwiched between teeth and can provide a good cleaning effect. Patent Document 2 discloses knowledge relating to the width and thickness of an insert composed of a plurality of filaments.

Patent Document 3 aims to provide an interdental cleaning tool that is easy to insert and easy to remove plaque.

Patent Document 3 discloses a dental flosser having two strands, and describes the distance, spacing, and denier of the strands. One strand of the two strands described in Patent Document 3 backs up the other.

Patent Document 1: JP-A-8-266340

Patent Document 2: JP 2000-197647 A

Patent Document 3: Special Table 2001-503664

Patent Document 4: Actual Fairness 7-13694

Disclosure of the invention

Problems to be solved by the invention [0006] As described above, dental floss has a high interdental cleaning effect and is the best tool for preventing oral diseases. However, dental floss is not as popular as toothbrushes. One of the reasons is that the motivation that users continue to use is less likely to recognize the brushing effect of dental floss than the brushing of dental brushes. In other words, when cleaning with a toothbrush, a smooth force is felt when the plaque on the smooth surface is removed.When cleaning with dental floss, the user feels that the dirt has been removed because the cleaning site is between the teeth. Hateful.

Moreover, the point with the low usability of dental floss is mentioned. With conventional dental floss, even if it is a holder type dental floss that is simpler than the type that uses a fiber bundle wrapped around your finger, it can improve usability because it is not as easy to operate as a toothbrush. It was requested. In particular, dental floss in which multiple fiber bundles are arranged is difficult to insert fiber bundles between teeth! /

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and provides an interdental cleaning tool that can realize the effect of removing dirt between teeth, and is excellent in operability and easy to use. The purpose is to provide ingredients.

Means for solving the problem

[0008] The present inventor has conducted extensive research to obtain a high cleaning effect and make it easy for the user to recognize dirt such as plaque removed by interdental cleaning. V. Technical thought that it is possible to increase the intention to use the interdental cleaning tool and to effectively prevent oral diseases by making the removal effect perceived both physically and visually. Thus, the interdental cleaning tool of the present invention has been conceived.

In addition, when performing interdental cleaning using an interdental cleaning tool in which a plurality of fiber bundles are arranged, in order to smoothly and efficiently insert and remove fiber bundles between teeth, two or more bundles must be used. It has been found that it is desirable to insert the fiber bundle between the teeth in a state where the extending direction of the arrangement surface where the fiber bundles are arranged is directed between the teeth. Then, the present inventor holds the arrangement surface facing between the teeth and immediately performs a delicate operation to insert and remove the fiber bundle between the teeth and to change the direction of the thread tension portion. Furthermore, the interdental cleaning tool of the present invention that can be easily performed without feeling a muscle burden has been conceived. [0009] The interdental cleaning tool of the present invention is an interdental cleaning tool provided with an arch-shaped thread tension portion in which a fiber bundle for interdental cleaning is tensioned, and a grip portion provided with the thread tension portion at one end. The thread tension portion is provided with an insert in which at least two bundles of fibers are arranged substantially in parallel, the distance between the centers of adjacent fiber bundles is 0.6 to 1.0 mm, and the fineness of each fiber bundle is 400. -700 dtex, The total fineness of the two or more bundles of fibers is 1200-2000 dtex.

[0010] Further, in the interdental cleaning tool of the present invention, a dirt film containing plaque is formed between adjacent fiber bundles by inserting and removing the insert between the teeth to which plaque adheres. It can be done.

[0011] Further, in the interdental cleaning tool of the present invention, each of the fiber bundles is deformed by being inserted between the teeth, is partly in contact with another fiber bundle, and is restored by being taken out between the teeth. You can be separated from each other.

[0012] Further, in the interdental cleaning tool of the present invention, the gripping part is a support surface to which a user's finger is attached in a direction perpendicular to an arrangement surface in which the two or more bundles of fibers are arranged. Can be provided.

[0013] Further, in the interdental cleaning tool of the present invention, the gripping portion is a value obtained by dividing the maximum width dimension a in the direction perpendicular to the arrangement surface by the width dimension β in the direction parallel to the arrangement surface. It can be assumed that some αZ j8 force ^ ~ 9.5.

Preferably, the a Z j8 may be 2 to 3.

[0014] In the interdental cleaning tool of the present invention, the gripping portion may have a maximum width dimension a in a direction perpendicular to the arrangement surface in a range of 5 mm to 15 mm.

[0015] Further, in the interdental cleaning tool of the present invention, the length of the gripping part can be 70 mm or more.

[0016] In the interdental cleaning tool of the present invention, the cross-sectional shape of the grip portion can be any of a substantially rectangular shape, a substantially hexagonal shape, and a substantially elliptical shape.

The invention's effect

[0017] In the present invention, it is possible to provide an interdental cleaning tool that allows the interdental dirt removal effect to be perceived and visually recognized. Therefore, the intention to use the interdental cleaning tool continuously can be increased, and oral diseases can be effectively prevented. In addition, according to the interdental cleaning tool of the present invention, the extension surface of the arrangement surface formed by arranging two or more bundles of fibers is held in a state where the extending direction is directed between the teeth, and a delicate operation is quickly performed between the interdental teeth. The fiber bundle can be easily inserted and removed and the direction of the thread tension portion can be changed without feeling a muscle strain. Therefore, according to the interdental cleaning tool of the present invention, interdental cleaning can be sufficiently performed with little burden, and oral diseases can be effectively prevented. Brief Description of Drawings

FIG. 1A is a schematic view for explaining an example of an interdental cleaning tool of the present invention.

FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of the interdental cleaning tool of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged side view showing a part of the interdental cleaning tool shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged side view showing a part of the interdental cleaning tool shown in FIG. 1, and is a diagram for explaining the state of the interdental cleaning tool after cleaning.

[4] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a situation in which interdental cleaning is performed using the interdental cleaning tool shown in FIG.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a situation where interdental cleaning is performed using the interdental cleaning tool shown in FIG. 1.

Explanation of symbols

[0019] 1 Interdental cleaning tool

2 Grip part

3 Yarn tension

4 Insert

4a, 4b, 4c fiber bundle

8 picks

6 Between fiber bundles

9 Dirt film

41 Array plane

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of an interdental cleaning tool of the present invention, FIG. 1A is a side view, and FIG. 1B is a view when a fiber bundle for interdental cleaning is viewed downward. FIG. FIG. 2 is an enlarged side view showing a part of the interdental cleaning tool shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is an enlarged side view showing a part of the interdental cleaning tool shown in FIG. 1, and is a view for explaining the state of the interdental cleaning tool after cleaning. 4 and 5 are diagrams for explaining a situation where interdental cleaning is performed using the interdental cleaning tool shown in FIG.

[0021] The interdental cleaning tool 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes an arch-shaped thread tension part 3, a thread tension part 3 at one end, and a pick 8 having a toothpick function at the other end, and has a substantially cross-sectional shape. The holding part 2 made into the rectangle is provided, and the insertion body 4 which also has the fiber bundle force for the interdental cleaning strained on the thread tension part 3 is provided. The grip portion 2 includes a support surface 2a to which a user's finger is attached. The thread tension part 3 is substantially U-shaped, and the force on the grip part 2 side is also gently curved as it is directed toward the tip. In the interdental cleaning tool 1 shown in FIG. 1, the extending direction of the grip portion 2 is parallel to the arrangement direction of the fiber bundles of the insert 4. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the thread tension part 3 of the interdental cleaning tool 1 shown in FIG. 1 is provided with an insert 4 in which three bundles of fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c are arranged substantially in parallel. ing.

[0022] The material of the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c is preferably a polyester resin such as polyethylene terephthalate, a polyamide resin such as nylon 6 or nylon 66, or a polyolefin resin such as polyethylene or polypropylene. Moreover, it is preferable that the thickness of the single fiber of the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, and 4c is 2 to 20 dtex. Also, in order to improve the workability of the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c at the time of production and to reduce the fraying of the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c, it is preferable that the twisted yarn is applied. U, preferred to be 50-150 times per lm.

[0023] The gripping part 2 may be made of polyester resin such as polyethylene terephthalate or polyolefin resin such as polyethylene or polypropylene, but polystyrene resin (PS) is used because of its low shrinkage during molding. U, preferred to use. In addition, in order to be able to use the grip part 2 by bending it or to make the pick 8 have a good toothpick function, the material of the grip part 2 has a high impact strength, and it has no impact polystyrene (HIPS). It is preferable to use.

[0024] The interdental cleaning tool 1 shown in FIG. 1 is inserted between the teeth and removed, thereby forming a dirt film 9 containing plaque between adjacent fiber bundles 6 as shown in FIG. Is. Also, In the interdental cleaning tool 1 of the present embodiment, the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c are inserted between the teeth, so that they are separated from each other and arranged in a substantially parallel state. Are in contact with each other, restored by being taken out between the teeth, and again separated from each other and arranged substantially in parallel. By using the interdental cleaning tool 1, the mixture of plaque and saliva removed at the time of cleaning can easily spread in the form of a film between the fiber bundles 6, and dirt containing plaque between the adjacent fiber bundles 6. The film 9 can be easily formed. In addition, with such an interdental cleaning tool 1, high interdental insertability and high plaque removal feeling can be obtained.

Further, in the interdental cleaning tool 1 shown in FIG. 1, as shown in FIG. 2, the distance between the centers of the adjacent fiber bundles 6 of the three bundles 4a, 4b, 4c (fiber bundle interval) D is 0.6 to: LOmm, preferably 0.7 to 0.9 mm, most preferably 0.8 mm, and each fiber bundle 4a, 4b, 4c has a fineness of 400 to 70 Odtex, preferably 500 to 700 dtex, The total fineness (total fiber fineness) of the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, and 4c is set to 1200 to 2000 dtex.

In the interdental cleaning tool 1 shown in FIG. 1, since the distance D between the centers of the adjacent fiber bundles 6 is arranged in the above range, the removed teeth as shown in FIG. The mixture of plaque and saliva spreads in the form of a film between the fiber bundles 6 and a stain film 9 containing plaque is easily formed between the adjacent fiber bundles 6 so that the removed plaque is easy. Can be recognized.

[0027] When the fiber bundle interval D shown in Fig. 2 exceeds 1.0 mm, the fiber bundle interval D is too wide to make it difficult to form a dirt film 9 containing dental plaque, and dirt between teeth causes the fiber bundle 4a, 4b and 4c may only adhere to the periphery, making it difficult to visually recognize the presence or absence of removed plaque. Also, if the fiber bundle spacing D exceeds 1.0 mm, the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c are inserted between the teeth during cleaning. Therefore, there is a risk that the adhesion between the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c and the tooth surface will be insufficient.

[0028] On the other hand, when the fiber bundle interval D is less than 0.6 mm, even if the fiber bundle interval D is filled with plaque, the fiber bundle interval D is too narrow and the fiber bundle interval D is embedded with plaque. Whether or not it is recognized. If the fiber bundle distance D is less than 0.6 mm, the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c are inserted between the teeth during cleaning. In this case, the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c are difficult to unwind when they are in contact with other fiber bundles so that the fiber bundles overlap each other, so that the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c are arranged substantially in parallel with each other. Return to the separated state. For this reason, when the fiber bundle interval D is less than 0.6 mm, the fiber bundles often overlap each other and attempt to pass between the teeth in a state of being arranged in parallel with the teeth. As in the case of using it, the insertability (removability) between the teeth decreases. In particular, when a plurality of thin fiber bundles are arranged in a band without any interval, the degree of freedom of movement of each fiber bundle during cleaning is reduced, so that it is in contact with other fiber bundles. When the fiber bundle becomes very loose and returns to an almost parallel arrangement, the insertion (extraction) between the teeth of the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, and 4c is significantly deteriorated. There is. Furthermore, when manufacturing the interdental cleaning tool 1, each fiber bundle 4a, 4b, 4c is inserted into the corresponding groove of each fiber bundle 4a, 4b, 4c formed in the mold, and insert molding is performed. However, if the fiber bundle interval D is narrow, it becomes difficult to insert the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c into the groove of the mold, and the workability at the time of molding deteriorates. As a result, the groove force also increases the possibility of forming defects due to the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c protruding.

In general, dental floss often uses fiber bundles with a fineness of around lOOOOdtex. By making the fiber bundle thinner, it is possible to improve the insertability between the teeth. On the other hand, when the fiber bundle is thinned, the adhesion between the fiber bundle and the tooth surface is lowered, so the cleaning effect is lowered and the plaque removal feeling is lowered.

In contrast, in the interdental cleaning tool 1 of the present embodiment, since the three bundles of fiber bundles 4a, 4b, and 4c are arranged substantially in parallel, the thickness of each fiber bundle 4a, 4b, and 4c is set to a general thickness. Even if it is made thinner than dental floss to improve the insertion between the teeth, sufficient adhesion between the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c and the tooth surface can be secured. Therefore, the interdental cleaning tool 1 of the present embodiment can obtain a high cleaning effect while maintaining a good insertion property, and has a high plaque removal actual feeling that the interdental dirt removal effect can be easily recognized. , Become a thing.

However, in the interdental cleaning tool 1 of this embodiment, when the fineness of each fiber bundle 4a, 4b, 4c exceeds 700d tex, or when the total fiber bundle thickness exceeds 2000dtex, the interdental insertion property is remarkable. It will drop very much. On the other hand, when the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, and 4c have a fineness of less than OOdtex or the total fiber bundle has a fineness of less than 1200 dtex, the plaque removal feeling is reduced. [0030] When the insertion body 4 is passed between the teeth, the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c are moved between the teeth regardless of the relationship between the extending direction of the arrangement surface 41 and the depth direction between the teeth. As shown in Fig. 4, the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c are arranged in series with respect to the teeth while deforming according to the force applied to the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c applied by the insertion / removal operation. As shown in the arranged state and Z or FIG. 5, the fiber bundles pass between the teeth in an overlapping state.

Here, the state in which the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c are arranged in series with respect to the interdental space means that three bundles of fiber bundles 4a, This means that the widths of 4b and 4c are the thickness dimensions of the fiber bundle having the highest fineness among the fiber bundles 4a, 4b and 4c constituting the insert 4. In addition, the state in which the fiber bundles overlap each other is a state in which at least some of the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, and 4c overlap in parallel with each other as shown in FIG. It means that the width of the three bundles 4a, 4b, 4c occupied in the vertical direction is wider than the thickness of each bundle 4a, 4b, 4c. For example, in FIG. 5, all the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c are overlapped in parallel with each other between the teeth near the center in the length direction of the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c.

[0031] For example, in the interdental cleaning tool 1 of the present embodiment, when passing between narrow teeth that cannot pass in a state in which the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c are arranged in parallel with respect to the teeth, As shown in FIG. 4, the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c are deformed into a state of being arranged in series with respect to the interdental space and pass through the interdental space. Therefore, in the interdental cleaning tool 1 of the present embodiment, the interdental cleaning tool 1 can achieve an excellent interdental equivalent to the case of using the thickest fiber bundle of the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, and 4c constituting the insert 4. Insertability (removability) is obtained. Moreover, in this case, the three fiber bundles 4a, 4b, and 4c arranged in series with respect to the teeth in one insertion and removal operation rub the tooth surface, so that a high cleaning effect is obtained. can get.

[0032] Further, when passing between teeth wider than the thickness dimension of each fiber bundle 4a, 4b, 4c, each fiber bundle 4a, 4b, 4c is freely deformed and teeth along the tooth surface. Pass between. In this case, even for one insertion / removal operation! Thus, a plurality of fiber bundles rub the tooth surface. Further, even if the thickness of each fiber bundle 4a, 4b, 4c is thin, three bundles of fiber bundles 4a, which occupy in the direction perpendicular to the arrangement surface 41 by deformation of each fiber bundle 4a, 4b, 4c, Since the widths of 4b and 4c are increased, sufficient adhesion between the fiber bundles 4a, 4b and 4c and the tooth surface can be ensured. Therefore, a high cleaning effect is obtained.

[0033] Furthermore, in the interdental cleaning tool 1 of the present embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 5, even if the fiber bundle is in a state of being in partial contact with other fiber bundles, After passing between the two, they are restored quickly and are arranged in parallel and spaced apart as shown in FIG.

[0034] Further, in the interdental cleaning tool 1 shown in FIG. 1, a direction perpendicular to the arrangement surface 41 in which the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c of the grip portion 2 having a substantially rectangular cross-sectional view are arranged (the yarn tension portion 3). The maximum width dimension in the direction perpendicular to the arch height direction) is within the range of α force mm to 15 mm, and the vertical maximum width dimension a is divided by the width dimension β parallel to the arrangement surface 41. Since the value aΖβ is 1 to 9.5, as shown in FIG. 4, with the thumb or index finger attached substantially perpendicular to the insertion direction of the insert 4, the array surface 41 extends. The insert 4 can be easily inserted and removed between the teeth with the direction between the teeth. By inserting the insert 4 between the teeth in a state where the extending direction of the arrangement surface 41 is between the teeth, the insertion and removal operations of the insert 4 between the teeth can be performed smoothly and efficiently.

In order to efficiently clean the interdental space using the interdental cleaning tool 1 including the insert 4 in which a plurality of fiber bundles are arranged as in the interdental cleaning tool 1 shown in FIG. It is desirable to insert the insert 4 between the teeth with 41 extending directions between the teeth. In addition, the insertion and removal operations of the insert 4 between the teeth are performed with a thumb or a finger on the support surface 2a provided in a direction perpendicular to the arrangement surface 41 with the extending direction of the arrangement surface 41 facing the teeth. It is desirable to hold the interdental cleaning tool 1 with the index finger.

However, when the maximum width dimension α in the vertical direction of the gripping portion 2 shown in FIG. 1 is less than 5 mm, when the thumb or index finger is held on the surface of the gripping portion 2 in the vertical direction with respect to the arrangement surface 41, Since the pressure applied to the thumb or index finger attached substantially perpendicular to the insertion direction of the insert 4 increases, the thumb or index finger may feel pain. If the maximum width dimension α in the vertical direction of the gripping part 2 exceeds 15 mm, the gripping part 2 and the finger are held when the thumb or index finger is attached to the surface of the gripping part 2 in the vertical direction with respect to the arrangement surface 41. The contact area is too wide, making it difficult to perform fine operations in the oral cavity, resulting in poor operability.

[0036] When a a β, which is a value obtained by dividing the maximum width dimension a in the vertical direction by the width dimension β in the direction parallel to the arrangement surface 41, is less than 1, the cross-sectional shape of the grip portion 2 is How to insert insert 4 When the holding surface of the gripping part 2 perpendicular to the arrangement surface 41 is attached with a thumb or index finger, with the extending direction of the arrangement surface 41 facing between the teeth. Grasping becomes unstable and operability becomes worse. When α Z j8, which is the value obtained by dividing the maximum width dimension ex in the vertical direction by the width dimension β in the parallel direction with respect to the arrangement surface 41, exceeds 9.5, the width dimension ι8 in the parallel direction of the gripping part 2 decreases. Too much rigidity may make it difficult to perform fine operations in the oral cavity, resulting in poor operability.

[0037] Here, for example, the maximum width dimension a in the vertical direction is defined as the width dimension in the direction parallel to the arrangement surface 41.

If it is less than α Z j8 force ^ divided by β and the maximum width dimension α in the direction perpendicular to Z or the arrangement surface 41 is less than 5 mm, the arrangement surface 41 On the other hand, it is easier to hold the side of the gripping part 2 that is substantially parallel to the arrangement surface 41 with the thumb and index finger, rather than holding the thumb or index finger on the surface of the gripping part 2 in the vertical direction. Become. However, when gripping the side surface of the gripping part 2, if the force between the fingers is insufficient, the force between the fingers can be reduced by applying force in the insertion direction of the interdental cleaning tool (depth direction between the teeth). Since the cleaning tool will fall off during this time, it is necessary to hold the thumb with your thumb and finger firmly. Therefore, the burden on the thumb adductor, which is the main muscle of the pinching operation by the thumb and the index finger, and the burden on the first dorsal interosseous muscle of the index finger are very large. Thus, when a user's muscle burden is large, it becomes difficult to perform sufficient cleaning between teeth.

[0038] On the other hand, according to the interdental cleaning tool 1 of the present embodiment, the extending direction of the arrangement surface 41 where the gripping part 2 is not strongly pinched with the thumb and the index finger is directed between the teeth. Thus, the insert 4 can be inserted and removed between the teeth while holding the thumb or index finger on the surface of the grip 2 perpendicular to the arrangement surface 41. Therefore, it is possible to easily perform interdental cleaning without feeling the burden on the thumb adductor and the first dorsal interosseous muscle of the finger, and cleaning between the teeth until a sufficient feeling of plaque removal is obtained. Can be performed sufficiently.

[0039] The length L of the gripping part 2 shown in Fig. 1 is 70 mm or more. Here,! /, The gripping part 2 means all parts behind the base of the thread tension part 3 (the pick 8 side in FIG. 1). By setting the length L of the gripping part 2 to 70 mm or more, as shown in Fig. 4, the little finger can reach the end of the gripping part 2 and the interdental cleaning tool 1 can be gripped stably and stably. Cleaning between teeth is easy to use. Therefore, using the interdental cleaning tool 1 of this embodiment The oral cavity can be sufficiently cleaned.

On the other hand, if the length L of the gripping part 2 is less than 70 mm, for example, when the base of the thread tension part 3 is gripped when the insert 4 is inserted, the pick constituting the end of the gripping part 2 8 Becomes difficult to reach the little finger, making it difficult to perform stable cleaning.

[0040] Further, in the interdental cleaning tool 1 of the present embodiment, since the extending direction of the grip portion 2 is parallel to the arrangement direction of the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, 4c, the extending direction of the arrangement surface 41 is set between the teeth. With the thumb or index finger attached to the surface of the gripping part 2 in the direction perpendicular to the arrangement surface 41 in the state of facing the insertion surface, insert or remove the interdental cleaning tool 1 immediately between the teeth. The operation can be performed more easily.

[0041] In the interdental cleaning tool 1 of the present embodiment, the distance D between the centers of the adjacent fiber bundles of the three bundles 4a, 4b, 4c is 0.6 to: LOmm, and each fiber bundle 4a 4b, 4c has a fineness of 00-7 OOdtex, and the combined fineness of three bundles 4a, 4b, 4c Sl 200-2000dtex, it has better insertability and higher cleaning effect. can get. Further, according to the interdental cleaning tool 1 of the present embodiment, the mixture of the removed plaque and saliva spreads in a film shape between the fiber bundles 6 and the dirt film containing plaque between the adjacent fiber bundles 6 9 is easily formed, and the removed plaque can be easily recognized, and the intention to use the interdental cleaning tool continuously can be increased.

[0042] Usually, the fiber bundle for interdental cleaning is colorless to white, and the plaque is close to white. For this reason, it is difficult to recognize even if plaque adheres to the fiber bundle. In particular, dental floss in which fiber bundles are arranged like a conventional interdental cleaning tool, or dental floss in which fiber bundles are arranged without gaps, recognize even if plaque adheres to the fiber bundle. Was difficult. On the other hand, in the interdental cleaning tool of the present invention, at least two bundles of fibers are arranged substantially in parallel. Plaque is sandwiched between the plaque and a dirt film containing plaque is formed, and the removed plaque is very easily recognized. This is because the gap between the fiber bundles arranged in parallel is filled with the removed plaque so that the plaque can be seen well.

Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment. For example, the shape of the arch-shaped thread tension portion may not be the shape shown in Fig. 1 but may be a U-shape or a Y-shape. Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a pick 8 can be provided on the opposite side of the grip portion 2 from the yarn tension portion 3.For example, instead of the pick 8, the yarn tension portion 3 shown in FIG. Alternatively, it may be a flat bar instead of pick 8.

[0044] In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the grip portion 2 of the interdental cleaning tool 1 of the above-described embodiment can be substantially rectangular, but it is generally flat such as a flat substantially octagon or a flat substantially hexagon. Any shape such as a square shape or a substantially oval shape may be used. In addition, ribs or wrinkles may be provided on the surface of the grip portion 2 in order to provide an anti-slip effect.

[0045] Further, in the interdental cleaning tool 1 of the above-described embodiment, the forces that make all the fiber bundles 4a, 4b, and 4c of the three bundles all the same may be partially different, or all may be different. Also good. Furthermore, in the interdental cleaning tool 1 of the above-described embodiment, the distance D between the centers of the adjacent fiber bundles 6 may be the same force. In the present invention, when the number of fiber bundles of two or more bundles exceeds 3, the distances D between the centers of adjacent fiber bundles may all be the same or only a part may be different. All may be different.

In the interdental cleaning tool 1 of the above-described embodiment, the number of fiber bundles is three, but the number of fiber bundles is not particularly limited as long as it is two or more.

[0046] The present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the following examples, but the present invention is not limited to these examples.

"Experiment 1 to Experiment 7"

Three bundles of fiber bundles 4a, 4b and 4c with a fineness of 560dtex in the yarn tension part 3 are the fiber bundle spacing D shown in Table 1.

The interdental cleaning tool 1 shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 arranged substantially in parallel (distance between the centers of adjacent fiber bundles) was manufactured.

[0047] [Table 1] Experimental example

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 3 9

Fiber east spacing (隱) 0.5 5 0. 6 0, 7 0. 8 0. 9 1.0 1. 1 ― (band) Number of fiber bundles (bundle) 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 1 6 X— Δ removed厶 0 △ ~ ο Ο X ~ 厶 ~ AX ~ 厶 Easiness to see plaque

Formability ~ A 厶厶 0 ο 〇 0 0 Ο Comprehensive evaluation 厶 ο 厶〜 ο Δ 〜Δ X ~ Δ X ~ Δ [0048] "Experiment 8"

An interdental cleaning tool was manufactured in the same manner as in Experimental Example 1 except that the fineness of the fiber bundle was lOOOOdtex and the number of fiber bundles was one.

[0049] "Experiment 9"

The interdental cleaning tool was manufactured in the same manner as in Experimental Example 1 except that the fineness of the fiber bundle was 170 dtex, the number of fiber bundles was 6, and the adjacent fiber bundles were arranged in a band shape so that they touched each other.

[0050] The "formability" of the interdental cleaning tools of Experimental Examples 1 to 9 obtained in this way was evaluated based on the evaluation criteria shown below. In addition, 30 panelists performed interdental cleaning using the interdental cleaning tool of Experimental Examples 1 to 9, and evaluated “Ease of seeing removed plaque” based on the evaluation criteria shown below. did. Furthermore, the “comprehensive evaluation” of “ease of molding” and “ease of seeing removed plaque” was evaluated based on the evaluation criteria shown below. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0051] <Evaluation criteria>

3-level absolute evaluation

“Moldability (Ease of Molding)”

○: Defect rate less than 1% △: Defect rate 1 or more and less than 5% X: Defect rate 5% or more “Ease of seeing removed plaque”

○: Very easy to see △: Slightly easy to see X: Difficult to see

"Comprehensive evaluation"

○: Very good △: Slightly good X: Not good

[0052] As shown in Table 1, in Experimental Examples 2 to 6 in which the fiber bundle interval was within the range of the present invention, there was no X in all evaluations, and good results were obtained. Furthermore, in Experimental Example 3 to Experimental Example 5 in which the fiber bundle interval is 0.7 to 0.9 mm, the overall evaluation is ◯ or ◯ to △, and in Experimental Example 4 in which the fiber bundle interval is 0.8 mm, all It was confirmed that the evaluation was better and better.

[0053] Further, in Experimental Example 1, the fiber bundle interval is 0.5 mm, and the range of the present invention is 0.6 to less than L0 mm. Therefore, it is recognized whether the fiber bundle interval is filled with dental plaque. The evaluation of “Ease of seeing removed plaque” was Χ ~ Δ. In Experimental Example 1, the workability at the time of molding was poor because the fiber bundle interval was narrow, and the evaluation of “formability” was Χ˜Δ. Further experiments In Example 1, when the fiber bundles were slack during cleaning, the fiber bundles overlapped in the width direction between the teeth, and it was difficult to insert them immediately between the teeth.

[0054] Further, in Experimental Example 7 in which the fiber bundle spacing exceeds the range of the present invention, a dirt film is hardly formed.

The evaluation of “Ease of seeing removed plaque” was Χ˜Δ. In Experimental Example 7, the “overall evaluation” was also> <˜ △.

[0055] Further, in Experimental Example 8 in which the number of fiber bundles was 1, "Ease of seeing removed plaque" and "Overall evaluation" were Χ to Δ.

In Experimental Example 9 in which the fiber bundles were arranged in a strip shape so that adjacent fiber bundles were in contact with each other, the “easiness to see the removed plaque” and the “total evaluation” were X to Δ.

[0056] "Experimental Example 10 to Experimental Example 16"

Three bundles of fiber bundles 4a, 4b, and 4c with the fineness shown in Table 2 are arranged in parallel in the yarn tension part 3 with a fiber bundle interval D (distance between centers of adjacent fiber bundles) of 0.8 mm. The interdental cleaning tool 1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 was manufactured.

[0057] [Table 2]

[0058] "Experiment 17"

An interdental cleaning tool similar to Experimental Example 10 to Experimental Example 16 was manufactured except that the number of fiber bundles was two.

"Experiment 18"

The interdental cleaning tool was manufactured in the same manner as in Experimental Examples 10 to 16, except that the number of fiber bundles was 4.

[0059] "Experiment 19"

Interdental cleaning tool similar to Experimental Example 10 to Experimental Example 16 except that the number of fiber bundles is one. Manufactured.

`` Experiment 20 ''

The interdental cleaning tool was manufactured in the same manner as in Experimental Example 10 to Experimental Example 16 except that the number of fiber bundles was 6 and that the adjacent fiber bundles were arranged in contact with each other.

"Experiment 21"

[0060] Using the interdental cleaning tools of Experimental Example 10 to Experimental Example 21 obtained in this way, 30 panelists performed interdental cleaning. Was evaluated based on the following evaluation criteria. Furthermore, the “comprehensive evaluation” between the evaluation of “interdental insertion property” and the evaluation of “plaque removal actual feeling” was evaluated based on the following evaluation criteria. The results are shown in Table 2.

[0061] <Evaluation criteria>

3-level absolute evaluation

Interdental insertability (insertion / extraction between teeth)

○: Very easy to insert △: Slightly easy to insert X: Hard to insert

○: Feel very △: Feel slightly X: “Overall evaluation”

○: Very good △: Slightly good X: Not good

[0062] As shown in Table 2, in Experimental Example 11 to Experimental Example 15, Experimental Example 17 to Experimental Example 18 in which the fineness of the fiber bundle and the total fineness of the fiber bundle (total fiber bundle fineness) are within the scope of the present invention , X was a good result for all evaluations. Furthermore, in Examples 12 to 13, in which the fineness of the fiber bundle is 500 to 560 dtex and the total fineness of the fiber bundle (total fiber bundle fineness) is 1500 to 1680 dtex, the “overall evaluation” becomes ◯, which is more preferable. Was confirmed. In Experimental Example 15 in which the total fineness of the fiber bundle (total fiber bundle fineness) is 1950 dtex, the “overall evaluation” is Δ, and the total fineness of the fiber bundle (total fiber bundle fineness) is more preferably 1200 to 1800 dtex. It could be confirmed.

[0063] In Example 10 in which the thickness of the fiber bundle and the total fineness of the fiber bundle (total fiber bundle fineness) were less than the scope of the present invention, "plaque removal actual feeling" was X.

The thickness of the fiber bundle and the total fineness of the fiber bundle (total fiber bundle fineness) exceed the scope of the present invention. In Experimental Example 16, “interdental insertability” was X.

[0064] In Example 19 in which the thickness of the fiber bundle exceeds the range of the present invention, the total fineness of the fiber bundle (total fiber bundle fineness) is less than the range of the present invention, and the number of fiber bundles is one bundle, Interdental insertion, “plaque removal” and “overall evaluation” were X to △.

In Experimental Example 20 in which the fiber bundles are arranged in a strip shape so that adjacent fiber bundles are in contact with each other, the fiber bundles are not arranged at intervals, so the movement of the fiber bundles is restricted during interdental cleaning, and the fineness of the fiber bundles is Although the total fineness of the fiber bundle (total fiber bundle fineness) was also less than the range of the present invention, “interdental insertability” and “overall evaluation” were X.

In Experimental Example 21 in which the total fineness of the fiber bundle (total fiber bundle fineness) was less than the range of the present invention, “plaque removal actual feeling” and “overall evaluation” were X to Δ.

Next, another example of the present invention will be shown.

`` Experimental example 22 to Experimental example 28 ''

An interdental cleaning tool in which the fiber bundles having the fineness and the number of fiber bundles shown in Table 3 are arranged on the yarn tension portion substantially in parallel with the fiber bundle interval shown in Table 3 (the distance between the centers of adjacent fiber bundles). Manufactured.

[0066] [Table 3]

The fiber bundle fineness and fiber bundle spacing shown in Table 3 are shown in order with the inner side of the yarn tension part facing up and the outer side facing down.

Using the interdental cleaning tool of Experimental Example 22 to Experimental Example 28 obtained in this way, “interdental insertion”, “plaque removal feeling”, and “overall evaluation” were evaluated in the same manner as in Experimental Example 10. . The results are shown in Table 3. As shown in Table 3, in Experimental Examples 22 to 28 where the fineness of the fiber bundles and the total fineness of the fiber bundles (total fiber bundle fineness) are within the scope of the present invention, all evaluations had no X and were good. As a result.

[Experiment 29 to Experiment 43]

Three bundles with a fineness of 560dtex in the yarn tension part are arranged in parallel with a fiber bundle spacing D of 0.8mm (distance between the centers of adjacent fiber bundles). Direction maximum α (maximum width dimension 0 in the direction perpendicular to the array surface) ”“ parallel direction width j8 (width dimension in the direction parallel to the array surface β) J ”maximum vertical direction width a Z parallel direction width β An interdental cleaning tool with a gripping part having a “cross-sectional shape” was manufactured.

[0069] [Table 4]

s007

Using the interdental cleaning tool of Experimental Example 29 to Experimental Example 43 obtained in this way, 30 panelists performed interdental cleaning and achieved `` finger pain, '' `` operability, '' and `` ease of holding '' below. Evaluation was performed based on the evaluation criteria shown in.

The results are shown in Table 4. [0072] <Evaluation criteria>

3-level absolute evaluation

"Finger pain"

○: I do not feel at all △: I do not feel almost X: I feel

Inertia "

〇: Very easy to operate △: Slightly easy to operate X: Difficult to operate “Ease of holding”

○: Very easy to hold △: Slightly easy to hold X: Hard to hold

[0073] As shown in Table 4, Experimental Example 31 to Experimental Example 34, Experimental Example 36 to Experimental Example 39, Experimental Example 41 in which the vertical maximum width α and the vertical maximum width parallel direction width j8 are within the scope of the present invention.

In Experimental Example 42, there was no X in all evaluations, and good results were obtained.

Furthermore, in Experimental Example 33, Experimental Example 41, and Experimental Example 42 where X is 9.5 mm and X vertical width <x Z parallel direction width β is 2.7, regardless of the cross-sectional shape. The overall evaluation was ○, confirming that it was more favorable.

Further, in Experimental Example 29 and Experimental Example 30, the maximum vertical width ex is within the scope of the present invention.

Since it is less than 5-15mm, it feels painful when grasping and the evaluation of "finger pain" is X or X-

△. In Experimental Example 29 and Experimental Example 30, the evaluation of “operability” and “ease of holding” was also X or X to Δ.

[0075] Further, in Experimental Example 35, since the vertical maximum width α exceeds 5 to 15 mm which is the range of the present invention, the movement of the finger is restricted, and the direction of the thread tension portion that makes it difficult to perform a fine operation is determined. When changing the thread tension, it was difficult to change the direction of the thread tension, and the evaluations of “operability” and “ease of holding” were Χ to Δ.

[0076] Further, in Experimental Example 40 and Experimental Example 43, the vertical maximum width ex Ζ parallel direction width β is less than 1 to 9.5, which is the range of the present invention. Since the burden on the thumb adductor and the first dorsal interosseous muscle of the finger was large and difficult to hold, the evaluation of “operability” and “ease of holding” was X or X to Δ.

Next, another example of the present invention will be shown.

`` Experimental example 44 to Experimental example 52 '' Three bundles of fiber with a thickness of 560 dtex are arranged on the thread tension part in parallel with a fiber bundle spacing D of 0.8 mm (distance between the centers of adjacent fiber bundles). Large α (Maximum width dimension perpendicular to array surface ο) `` Parallel width j8 (Width dimension 13 parallel to array surface) '' `` Maximum vertical width α Ζ Parallel width IS '' An interdental cleaning tool having a gripping portion having a “cross-sectional shape” was manufactured.

[Table 6]

Using the interdental cleaning tool of Experimental Examples 44 to 52 thus obtained, “finger pain”, “operability” and “ease of holding” were evaluated in the same manner as in Experimental Example 29. The results are shown in Table 6.

[0080] As shown in Table 6, in Experimental Example 44 to Experimental Example 52 in which the vertical maximum width α and the vertical maximum width parallel width j8 are within the scope of the present invention, all evaluations had no X and were satisfactory. As a result.

Industrial applicability

In the present invention, it is possible to provide an interdental cleaning tool that allows the interdental dirt removal effect to be perceived and sensed. Therefore, the intention to use the interdental cleaning tool continuously can be increased, and oral diseases can be effectively prevented.

In addition, according to the interdental cleaning tool of the present invention, the extension surface of the arrangement surface formed by arranging two or more bundles of fibers is held in a state where the extending direction is directed between the teeth, and a delicate operation is quickly performed between the interdental teeth. The fiber bundle can be easily inserted and removed and the direction of the thread tension portion can be changed without feeling a muscle strain. Therefore, according to the interdental cleaning tool of the present invention, interdental cleaning can be sufficiently performed with little burden, and oral diseases can be effectively prevented.

Claims

The scope of the claims

[1] In an interdental cleaning tool comprising an arch-shaped thread tension portion in which a fiber bundle for interdental cleaning is tensioned, and a grip portion provided with the thread tension portion at one end.

The yarn tension portion is provided with an insert in which at least two fiber bundles are arranged substantially in parallel,

The distance between the centers of adjacent fiber bundles is 0.6-1.0mm,

Fineness force of each fiber bundle ^s 400-700dtex,

The interdental cleaning tool, wherein the total fineness of the two or more fiber bundles is 1200 to 2000 dtex.

[2] The dirt film containing plaque is formed between adjacent fiber bundles by inserting and removing the insert between the teeth to which plaque adheres. The interdental cleaning tool described in 1.

[3] Each of the fiber bundles is deformed by being inserted between teeth, and a part of the fiber bundle is in contact with another fiber bundle

The interdental cleaning tool according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the interdental cleaning tool is restored by being taken out between the teeth and separated from each other.

[4] The gripping part includes a support surface to which a user's finger is attached in a direction perpendicular to an array surface in which the two or more fiber bundles are arrayed. 1 to 3! Interdental cleaning tool as described in any of the above.

[5] The gripping portion is a value obtained by dividing a maximum width dimension ex in a direction perpendicular to the arrangement surface by a width dimension β in a direction parallel to the arrangement surface, α Z j8 force ^ ˜9.5. The interdental cleaning tool according to claim 4, wherein:

[6] The gripping portion has a maximum width dimension “a” of 5 mn in a direction perpendicular to the arrangement surface! The interdental cleaning tool according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that it is in the range of -15 mm.

[7] The interdental cleaning tool according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein a length of the grip portion is 70 mm or more.

[8] The interdental cleaning tool according to any one of [1] to [7], wherein a cross-sectional shape of the grip portion is any one of a substantially rectangular shape, a substantially hexagonal shape, and a substantially elliptical shape.