FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[01] The present invention pertains to an oral care implement having various features that may include a cleanser for cleaning soft tissue surfaces in a user's mouth, tooth cleaning or tooth treating elements, movable cleaning features, vibratory mechanisms, and/or handle gripping features.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[02] A variety of toothbrush configurations exist that have stationary and/or mechanically- driven movable cleaning elements. These conventional toothbrushes are dedicated to tooth cleaning/polishing operations and typically include a head portion directed to the cleaning/polishing operations, and a handle portion. The head typically has a flat or slightly altered surface to which the cleaning elements are attached, or to which mechanically-driven movable carriers for the cleaning elements are attached. The cleaning elements of these toothbrushes are configured for cleaning and/or for polishing a user's teeth, but are not configured for effective cleaning of soft tissue in a user's mouth, such as the user's tongue.

[03] Tongue scrapers exist as devices for removing micro debris disposed on a user's tongue. Conventional tongue scrapers are stand-alone devices directed to the singular purpose of scraping a user's tongue. These conventional devices typically include a handle and scraper portion without including other cleaning elements.

[04] Users manipulate conventional toothbrushes and tongue scrapers by grasping their handle portions. The handles are typically simple, linear rods of a relatively rigid material, which are neither comfortable for the user nor given to easy manipulation. As these devices are commonly used in wet conditions, their handles are often slippery during use.

[05] Many people use multiple oral care implements, such as toothbrushes and tongue scrapers, on a daily basis to accomplish multiple oral care tasks. For instance, a user may use a toothbrush to clean his teeth and then use a tongue scraper to remove debris from his tongue. The user may then re-use the toothbrush to further clean his tongue. Thus, the user may switch between various oral care implements during a single session in a wet environment.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[06] The present invention pertains to an oral care implement that provides several advantages and that may be used for multiple functions. In one embodiment of the invention, an oral care

implement is provided that has a plurality of cleaning elements extending from the head, which are attached to a flexible support on the head and are outwardly movable from the head. The cleaning elements may include a column-shaped central bristle at the central portion of the flexible support, and may further include a row of first cleaning elements traversing a central region of the flexible support. The oral care implement may further include a soft tissue cleanser on the head, which may be disposed on an opposite face from the cleaning elements. The soft tissue cleanser may include a ring of projections.

[07] Embodiments of the invention may be multi-functional and include various combinations of features in advantageous combinations. Some embodiments include a soft tissue cleanser in combination with tooth cleaning features and/or in combination with gripping features on the handle that improve the user's grip and handling thereof. The embodiments may be manual or mechanically-driven devices, or combinations thereof. These and other aspects are discussed in relation to the following figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[08] A more complete understanding of the present invention and the advantages thereof may be acquired by referring to the following description in consideration of the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numbers indicate like features.

[09] Figure 1 shows a side view, partially in section, of an embodiment of a toothbrush according to the invention and of a handle-closure part separated from one another (without a battery).

[10] Figure 2 shows a bottom view, partially in section, of another embodiment of a toothbrush according to the invention shown in the assembled state.

[11] Figure 3 shows a side view, partially in section, of the toothbrush according to Figure 2 and the closure part separated from one another (without a battery).

[12] Figure 4 shows a side view of a further embodiment of a toothbrush according to the invention shown in the assembled state.

[13] Figure 5 shows a front part of the toothbrush according to Figure 4 with different embodiments of exchangeable treatment heads.

[ 14] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a head of a further embodiment of the invention. [15] Figure 7 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line DC-K in Figure 6.

[16] Figure 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the invention taken along line IX-IX in Figure 6.

[17] Figure 9 is a partial cross-sectional view of a further embodiment taken along line IX-IX in Figure 6.

[18] Figure 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of an additional embodiment taken along line IX-IX in Figure 6.

[19] Figure 11 is a partial perspective view of yet another oral care implement in accordance with the present invention.

[20] Figure 12 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line XIV-XIV in Figure 11.

[21] Figure 13 is a perspective view of a head of a further toothbrush embodiment in accordance with the present invention.

[22] Figure 14 is a top plan view of the head of Figure 13.

[23] Figures 15 and 16 are top plan views of the head illustrating alternative concave-shaped ridges for the head of Figure 13.

[24] Figure 17 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line H-II in Figure 13.

[25] Figure 18 is a partial cross sectional plan view of an alternative structure taken along line IHI of Figure 13.

[26] Figures 19A and 19B are partial cross-sectional views of alternative ridge shapes for the embodiment of Figure 13.

[27] Figures 20-33 are each a top plan view of the head illustrating an alternative ridge construction for the embodiment of Figure 13.

[28] Figures 34-38 are each a perspective view of a further embodiment of a head of an oral care implement in accordance with the invention.

[29] Figure 39 is top plan view of a further oral care implement in accordance with the present invention.

[30] Figure 40 is partial perspective view of a head portion of the oral care implement of Figure 39.

[31] Figure 41 is side view of a further oral care implement in accordance with the present invention.

[32] Figure 42 is partial perspective view of a head portion of the oral care implement of Figure 41.

[33] Figure 43 is side view of a further oral care implement in accordance with the present invention.

[34] Figure 44 is partial perspective view of a head portion of the oral care implement of Figure 43.

[35] Figure 45 is side view of a further oral care implement in accordance with the present invention.

[36] Figure 46 is partial perspective view of a head portion of the oral care implement of Figure 45.

[37] Figure 47 is partial perspective view of a head portion of yet another oral care implement in accordance with the present invention.

[38] Figures 48 A-C show an additional oral care implement in accordance with the invention.

[39] Figure 49 is a perspective view of a toothbrush in accordance with the invention.

[40] Figure 50 is a side view of the toothbrush shown in Figure 49.

[41] Figure 51 is a top view of the toothbrush shown in Figures 49 and 50.

[42] Figure 52 is a cross-sectional view taken through line 102-102 of Figure 51.

[43] Figure 53 is a top view of a powered toothbrush in accordance with the invention.

[44] Figure 54 is a perspective view of a toothbrush having elastic areas in the head and handle in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention.

[45] Figure 55 is a side view of the toothbrush shown in Figure 54.

[46] Figure 56 is a top view of the toothbrush shown in Figures 54 and 55.

[47] Figure 57 is a side view of the toothbrush of Figure 54 showing deflection in the open area under the bristles and the handle area.

[48] Figure 58 is a top view of a powered toothbrush in accordance with the invention.

[49] Figure 59 is a perspective view of a toothbrush formed in accordance with still another embodiment of the invention.

[50] Figure 60 is a side elevational view of the toothbrush shown in Figure 59.

[51] Figure 61 is a top view of the toothbrush shown in Figures 59-60.

[52] Figure 62 is an end view of the toothbrush shown in Figures 59-61 shown in an original closed position.

[53] Figure 63 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 113-113 of Figure 61 with the brush head in its hinged open position and omitting some of the cleaning elements.

[54] Figure 64 is a top view of a powered toothbrush in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[55] Figure 65 is perspective view of a head portion of a further embodiment of an oral care implement in accordance with the invention.

[56] Figure 66 is a top view of the head portion of Figure 65. [57] Figure 67 is a side view of the head portion of Figure 65.

[58] Figure 68 is a side view of a head portion of an oral care implement in accordance with the invention.

[59] Figure 69 is partial perspective view of a head portion of an oral care implement in accordance with the invention.

[60] Figure 70 is a top view of the head portion of Figure 69. [61] Figure 71 is a front view of the head portion of Figure 69.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[62] The following embodiments describe aspects of the invention in the form of various oral care implement configurations that provide a variety of features and functions. Although these aspects are disclosed in the context of particular exemplary embodiments, the invention provides an oral care implement that includes one or more of the features described herein. The oral care implement may include a first feature described in one example configuration herein, as well as a second feature described in another example configuration herein.

[63] In other words, the invention contemplates mixing and matching features from the disclosed embodiments in various combinations into a single oral care implement. The present invention thus makes it possible to select a combination of cleaning/treating element configurations, tissue cleanser configurations, handle features, gripping features, mechanical driving features, materials and orientations, etc. to achieve intended results, and to deliver additional oral health benefits, such as enhanced cleaning, tooth polishing, tooth whitening, tongue cleansing, massaging of gums, etc.

[64] Oral care implements of various configurations are provided that generally include a handle and one or more cleaning features. The handle may include a mechanically-driven feature, such as rotating, vibrating, and/or moving cleaning elements. In one configuration, a toothbrush is provided with a mechanical vibratory element and a head having a plurality of different types of cleaning/treating elements and cleaning areas which provide for an enhanced cleaning and/or treating effects. The cleaning/treating elements move by the mechanical vibratory device and/or independently of the mechanical vibratory device. Such a toothbrush, therefore, provides for synergistic and enhanced cleaning, scrubbing and massaging experience on the teeth and gums.

[65] A variety of toothbrush configurations are disclosed herein. In some example embodiments, groupings of cleaning/treating elements are mounted relative to the toothbrush head using a transverse, flexible membrane or web extending from the periphery of the cleaning/treating elements to the sidewalls of the toothbrush head. In one example, such flexible mounting facilitates 360 degree limited angle wobble of the cleaning/treating elements, which, in turn, orients the cleaning/treating elements towards the teeth even if the toothbrush head is not angled directly parallel to the user's teeth.

[66] One exemplary toothbrush of this configuration includes a head in the form of a base having an upstanding wall to create a peripheral frame. In one embodiment, a thin resilient membrane or web is mounted within the frame. The membrane or web is capable of flexing to facilitate orientation of the cleaning/treating elements carried by the membrane relative to the teeth of the user.

[67] The cleaning/treating elements may be bristles secured to the membrane or web by in- molded technology. Additional cleaning/treating elements can be arranged on the periphery of the "islands" to facilitate cleaning in those areas between the "islands". In a one embodiment, these additional cleaning/treating elements are fixedly mounted to the toothbrush head outside the periphery of the membrane or web flexibly holding the "islands" of cleaning/treating elements. This combination of flexible and fixed mounting of cleaning/treating elements provides very effective brushing of teeth and massaging of gums.

[68] In use, for example, pressure applied to the toothbrush handle by a user causes a first group of cleaning/treating elements to contact the teeth being cleaned. As the force applied to the toothbrush exceeds a predetermined volume, a central group of cleaning/treating elements moves relative to the balance of the head. This movement, in turn, allows an outer group of

fixed cleaning/treating elements to contact other areas of the teeth located at a greater distance from the head, including interproximal spaces between teeth.

[69] This desired flexibility of the central grouping of cleaning/treating elements may be accomplished with an elastomeric bridge between the central movable group of cleaning/treating elements and the surrounding outer group of cleaning/treating elements. This elastomeric bridge may be continuous or maybe a series of independent bridges with a void between each bridge to encourage greater flexibility. The width of this bridge can be adjusted to vary the amount of force needed to push the central group of cleaning/treating elements into a position where the outer group can achieve their greatest cleaning potential.

[70] In another toothbrush configuration, the gap between the groups of cleaning/treating elements corresponding to the width of the elastomeric bridge between them can effectively be filled with elastomeric wipers that move as force is applied to the central group of cleaning/treating elements. For example, tapered elastomeric wipers can be mounted to the elastomeric bridge so that the narrower tip of the wipers flex in ward and outward as force is applied to and released from the toothbrush handle. This wiping action further enhances the cleaning and treating functions of the toothbrush.

[71] In a powered configuration, the toothbrush has a power source. The power source may be at least one battery, for example, 1, 2 or more batteries. The battery may be removable or fixed, rechargeable, non-rechargeable or rechargeable from an external source. Further, the battery may be of any size, such as, for example, AA, AAA, 9 V and C. Alternatively, the power source may from an external source, for example via an AC adapter.

[72] Turning to the Figures, both the toothbrush illustrated in FIG. 1 and that according to FIGS. 2 and 3 each have a handle 1 , a front bristle-carrying head part 3 and a neck part 4, which connects the head part 3 to the handle 1. The bristles combined to form clusters of bristles 6 are anchored in a bristle carrier 5 and form a profiled brushing surface with their free ends. In the embodiment illustrated, the bristle carrier 5 with the clusters of bristles 6 is positioned, in a manner which is known per se and thus is not described in detail, on a retaining part 2 of the head part 3 such that it can be exchanged. Also, as noted above, any of the arrangements of teeth cleaning elements disclosed herein could be used in place of the illustrated bristle pattern.

[73] The neck part 4 is provided with neck-part zones 7 which are preferably made of an elastically relatively compliant material component and provide for, or additionally increase, the elasticity of the neck part 4, with the result that, during use of the toothbrush, the bristle-carrying head part 3 can be forced back resiliently in the case of forces acting in the direction of the

brushing surface. Optionally, the neck-part zones 7 are designed as notches which extend over part of the neck circumference and are filled with elastically compliant material (e.g., with a thermoplastic elastomer). It is understood that the form and number of neck-part zones can be different. It is also conceivable to have a flexible neck zone without using elastic material components, e.g., by providing constrictions or by way of a bellows.

[74] Integrated in the front head part 3, or in that region of the neck part 4 which is adjacent to the head part 3, is a mechanical vibratory device 50, by means of which vibrations which effect or enhance the teeth-cleaning action may be imparted to the bristle-carrying head part 3. The vibratory device 50 can be connected to an electric power source, accommodated in the handle 1, via electrical connections running in the neck part 4, as is described herein below. In one embodiment, neck-part zones 7 are made of an elastically compliant material which dampens the vibration between the vibrating head part 3 and the handle 1, with the result that the vibratory action is produced, in particular, in the head part and is transmitted to the handle 1 to a slight extent. This means that slight vibrations can be felt in the handle 1 during the teeth-cleaning operation, and the toothbrush is thus comfortable to handle. In another embodiment, the vibration produced is not damped by the handle 1 and can act to full effect in the head part 3. Instead of the neck-part zones 7 having elastically compliant-material, however, other vibration- damping elements could also be used. Further, the dampening may also be achieved, for example, by using a basic material, by the neck part being configured in a particular form, for example by the presence of a bellows/accordion part, etc. Alternatively, the neck could be formed with reduced thickness and/or of dual materials as disclosed in U.S. Patent application no. 11/053589.

[75] Accommodated in the handle 1 is a sheath or sleeve 60 which extends in the longitudinal direction of said handle and is made of electrically conductive material. Both the handle 1 and the sleeve 60 are open to the rear, this forming a cavity 21 which can be closed from the rear by a closure part 52 and into which it is possible to insert a battery 55, in the preferred embodiment illustrated a commercially available, non-rechargeable cylindrical battery, with a defined power (e.g. 1.5 V) as the power source for the vibratory device 50. It would also be possible, however, for a button cell or for a rechargeable storage battery to be used as the power source.

[76] A spring contact 59 for the positive pole 30 of the battery 55 (see FIG. 2) is fitted in the sleeve 60, on a transverse wall 58, and is connected to the vibratory device 50 via an electric line 61, a switch 32, which is installed in the sleeve 60 and can be actuated from the outside of the

handle 1, and an electric line 33 running in the neck part 4. The electrical connection can be interrupted by means of the switch 32.

[77] The closure part 52 is provided with a threaded stub 52a made of an electrically conductive material and can be screwed into the handle 1 and/or into the sleeve 60 by way of said threaded stub. The threaded stub 52a is provided with a contact surface 52b which, with the closure part 52 screwed in, comes into abutment against the negative pole 35 of the battery 55 inserted into the sleeve 60. The negative pole 35 is electrically connected to the vibratory device 50 via the threaded stub 52a, the sleeve 60 itself and a line 34, which connects the sleeve 60 to the vibratory device 50 and runs in the neck part 4.

[78] Instead of being transmitted via the electrically conductive sleeve 60, it would also be possible for the power to be transmitted in some other way, for example using wires or an electrically conductive plastic.

[79] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the vibratory device 50 comprises a vibratory element 11' which functions preferably in the manner of a vibratory armature, can be electrically connected directly to the power source via the lines 33, 34 and, with the power source connected, is made to vibrate.

[80] In the case of the toothbrush variant illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the vibratory device 50 comprises a vibratory element 11 in the form of an eccentric, which produces mechanical vibrations and can be rotated about an axis located in the longitudinal direction of the toothbrush, and also comprises a drive which is arranged directly adjacent and is designed as a micromotor 15. The vibratory element 11 is connected to the shaft 15a of the micromotor 15, which can be electrically connected to the power source via the lines 33, 34. The micromotor 15 and the eccentric may be accommodated as a structural unit in a housing 62.

[81] Instead of an eccentric which can be driven in rotation, it would also be possible to have a vibratory element 11 which can be driven in a translatory manner. It would be possible, in the case of the toothbrush according to the invention, to arrange the bristle-carrying head part 3 such that it can be moved in relation to the neck part 4 in order for the latter, in the case of vibrations produced by means of the vibratory device 50, to be made to move in relation to the rest of the toothbrush.

[82] The electric lines 61, 33, 34 could also be realized by electricity-conducting plastic tracks. The switch 32, which connects or interrupts the lines 61, 33, may also be, for example, a magnetic switch. A preferred configuration of the switch 32, however, has a pulse switch

arranged on a printed circuit board as well as further electronic components which store the switching state.

[83] It is also possible, however, for the electrical connection between the battery 55 and the vibratory element 11' (FIG. 1) or the drive 15 (FIGS. 2 and 3) to be produced or interrupted not by the switch 32, but by the closure part 52, which can be screwed into the handle and/or into the sleeve 60 or connected to the same in a bayonet-like manner, being turned (i.e., the switch 32 is dispensed with in the case of such a configuration).

[84] Instead of the rear closure part 52 being screwed to the handle 1, it would, of course, also be possible to have some other type of releasable connection (e.g., plug-in connection, bayonet connection, etc.) and a corresponding configuration of the contact part interacting with the negative pole 35.

[85] It would also be possible for the closure part 52 to be in a form which is quite different to that illustrated in the drawing. For example, the closure part could be provided with a set-down surface or a foot part and thus serve as an element on which the toothbrush can be set down.

[86] The toothbrush illustrated in FIG. 4 corresponds essentially to that according to FIGS. 2 and 3. According to FIG. 4, the vibratory device 50 is arranged directly in the front head part 3. In this exemplary embodiment, the sleeve 60 is dispensed with; the battery 55 is connected directly to the vibratory device 50 via the lines 33, 34. It is also the case with this toothbrush that use is preferably made of an exchangeable bristle carrier 5, which can be positioned on a retaining part 2 of the head part 3, e.g., in the manner of a snap-in connection. The capacity for changing the bristle carrier 5 provided with the clusters of bristles 6 is particularly advantageous since the toothbrush provided with the vibratory device 50 can be used irrespective of the service life of the bristles, which is usually even shorter than the service life of the battery 55.

[87] As can be seen from FIG. 5, it is possible, instead of the bristle carrier 5 or 5a, which forms part of a conventional brush head and is provided with respective clusters of bristles 6 or 6a, to position other, optionally different bristle carriers or adapters 5b to 5d on the retaining part 2, these being provided with different interdental brushes 6b, 6c or interdental treatment parts 6d for effective cleaning of the spaces between the teeth. The interdental brush 6b may be designed, for example, as a helical brush made of coated wire with plastic filaments twisted in. The interdental brush 6c comprises bristles which, together, form a cluster tip. The treatment part 6d may be designed, for example, as a plastic element which has a tip and may preferably be provided with an abrasive coating for removing plaque and tartar from the spaces between the teeth. Of course, it would also be possible to use any other desired treatment heads. It is also

the case with the variant according to FIGS. 4 and 5 that the bristle carrier 5 could be configured such that a vibration-induced movement in relation to the retaining part 2 were possible.

[88] For the introduction of the vibratory device 50, the connecting lines 33, 34 and further electronic components, it is possible for a toothbrush according to the invention, or the housing thereof, to be produced in two parts and for the two parts to be welded in a water-tight manner once the abovementioned parts have been positioned therein. It is also possible, however, for a toothbrush according to the invention to be produced by injection molding preferably involving two or more components. The abovementioned parts are advantageously positioned as a unit in an injection molding made of a first material component and then encapsulated in the second material component (or in the further material component) by injection molding. It is not necessary here for full encapsulation to take place. Certain parts may be exposed, as a result of which it is possible to achieve an esthetic effect.

[89] It would also be possible, however, for the abovementioned electronic components to be inserted into a ready-molded handle 1. In a preferred embodiment, since it is not only the vibratory element 11, 11' itself but also the drive, i.e. the micromotor 15, which are arranged in the front head part 3, or in the directly adjacent front region of the neck part 4, it is not necessary for a mechanical drive element to be led through the flexible neck part 4 in order to connect the micromotor to the vibratory element 11. In this embodiment, electric lines 33, 34 (e.g., wires, cables or electrically conductive plastic tracks) run through the neck part 4.

[90] According to one embodiment of the invention, use is made of a mechanical vibratory device 50 which has a diameter of less than about 15 mm preferably less than about 6 mm, and is less than about 35 mm, preferably less than about 20 mm, in length. This ensures that the toothbrush may be of ergonomic configuration and is easy to handle. A toothbrush according to the invention corresponds, in size, more or less to the conventional manual toothbrushes, which makes them more straightforward to handle in comparison with the commercially available, considerably larger electric toothbrushes. A number of head configurations can produce an enhanced cleaning effect when the mechanical vibratory device is engaged.

[91] Figure 6 shows an additional embodiment of the invention that is discussed in terms of a toothbrush. Nevertheless, the invention could be used in other oral care implements including simply a tissue cleansing implement. They also could be as powered brushes.

[92] As shown in Figure 6, toothbrush 5000 includes a plurality of nubs or other projections 5002 protruding from a back side 5004 of head 5006 as a cleanser 5008 of soft tissue in the

mouth. Teeth cleaning elements 5016 preferably extend from a front side 5005 of head 5006. The projections 5002 are preferably arranged seriatim along at least one narrow base or pad in the form of a strip 5010 fixed to the head 5006. In the illustrated example, a plurality of generally parallel strips 5010a, 5010b, 5010c, 5010d are fixed in a generally concave shape facing away from the handle. In this one construction, the strips extend along back side 5004 of head 5006 and each sidewall 5011, although extensions along the sidewalls are not necessary. Any number of strips could be included. The strips could define virtually any shape or orientation on the head. For example, strips 5010 could have any of the shapes disclosed for the ridges in co-pending U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 10/989,267, which is incorporated herein by reference. In the illustrated construction, strips 5010 are interconnected by an axial stem 5012 which extends into the handle and forms a part of the grip for the user. Further, this handle extension or even the stem is of course not necessary.

[93] In one construction, each projection 5002 is generally columnar and formed with a width W of about 1.1 mm and a height H of about 1.7 mm (FIG. 7). The projections are spaced apart from each other along strip 5010 a distance of about 1.0 mm. These height, width and spacing dimensions could, however, vary widely. In the illustrated embodiment, projections 5002 each includes a peripheral wall 5013 protruding outward from base 5010, and an inclined distal end surface 5014 at an angle of about 50 degrees to side surface 5004 of head 5006. The inclined end surface 5014 defines a narrow top edge 5016 along a portion of peripheral wall 5013, which is advantageous for cleansing the tongue and other soft tissue. Although the end surfaces 5014 are shown to be inclined in the same direction, they could be inclined in different directions.

[94] In an alternative construction (FIG. 11), head 5006 is additionally formed with at least one elongate ridge 5025. With this arrangement, the user is provided with a cleanser that obtains a beneficial dual cleaning effect by moving the discrete projections 5002 and the ridge 5025 across the tongue or other tissue. In the illustrated example, ridge 5025 is a curved, elongate projection protruding generally outward along the outer edge of the remote end 5027 of the head. Nevertheless, other arrangements, locations and shapes are possible. Additional ridges could also be provided. In one preferred construction, ridge 5025 is molded as one-piece with the head and formed of a relatively hard plastic such as polypropylene. The ridge, however, could be formed separately from the head and/or composed of other materials that are compatible for oral care implements.

[95] In one construction, ridge 5025 is, as noted above, formed of a relatively hard material (e.g., polypropylene), while projections 5002 are formed of a relatively soft material (e.g., a

thermoplastic elastomer). This use of dual materials enables the benefits of both materials to be gained. The cleanser includes the firm engagement of the relatively hard scraper blade in ridge 5025 and the relatively soft discrete projections that flex and turn as they dig into the tongue or other tissue.

[96] As seen in Figures 11 and 12, ridge 5025 is defined by a pair of opposite sidewalls 5033, 5034 which meet to form a scraper edge 5035. While edge 5035 is relatively narrow in this construction, it could be substantially widened. In one embodiment, sidewalls 5033, 5034 are formed with different slopes relative to side 5004 of head 5006, though they could have the same slope. In one preferred construction, sidewall 5033 is formed with a steeper slope than sidewall 5034 to define a more aggressive scraping action as the head is pulled across the tongue by the user. The shallower slope of sidewall 5034 facing generally away from the handle, makes the ridge less prone to pushing the tongue biofilm farther back in the throat as the ridge is pushed back toward the throat. In a preferred embodiment, sidewall 5033 is oriented at an angle a of 62 degrees relative to side 5004, whereas sidewall 5034 is oriented at an angle β of 43 degrees. Other angles could also be used for both sidewalls.

[97] In another alternative construction (FIG. 8), each projection 5002a is provided with an end surface 5014a having two inclined end face portions 5015a, 5017a and a top edge 5016a. As with ridge 5025, end face portion 5015a, generally facing toward the handle, is preferably inclined at a steeper angle relative to side 5004a than end face portion 5017a, although other arrangements including end face portions having the same inclination can be used. As one example, end face portion 5015a is oriented at an angle a of 62 degrees relative to side 5004a, and end face portion 5017a is oriented at an angle β of 43 degrees. The steeper angle of end face portion 5015a provides a more aggressive scraping action as the head is dragged out of the mouth. The shallower angle of end surface 5017a makes the projection less prone to pushing the tongue biofilm farther back in the throat.

[98] Of course, other projections can be used. For example, each projection could include a non-inclined distal end or an end that tapers to a pointed tip. The projections could have a wide variety of shapes beyond the cylindrical shape shown in Figure 6. For example, the projections could have a conical shape, irregular cross sections, or be inclined to the back side 5004. Moreover, the projections may also be ridge shaped to extend entirely or partially along the length of strip 5010.

[99] In a preferred construction, projections 5002 and strip 5010 are formed as a one piece member molded or otherwise secured to head 5006. The projections and strip are preferably

formed as a one-piece member of a resilient thermoplastic elastomer such as styrene- ethylene/butylene-styrene block copolymer (SEBS) manufactured by GLS Corporation, but could be composed of other resilient materials, hard materials, or a combination of materials such as disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11/011,605, incorporated herein by reference. The projections and strips could also be formed of the same substance as head 5006 (e.g., polypropylene), but have a different color or the like to define it a different material from the head and thereby create at least a visually appealing brush.

[100] In one construction, strips 5010 are molded to overlie a generally planar surface 5004 of head 5006 (FIG. 7). Nevertheless, channels 5007 could be formed in side 5004 to receive strips 5010 therein so that side 5004 and the outer surfaces 5012 of strips 5010 having projections 5002 are generally co-planar (FIG. 9). Additionally, the strips of resilient material could be formed as an integral part of the head construction (FIG. 10). More specifically, in this alternative construction, the head includes a plurality of first members 5020 joined together by a resilient second member 5022 that acts as a living hinge to permit the first members to move relative to each other during use of the toothbrush. The second member also forms the base 5010c of soft tissue cleanser 5006 provided with projections 5002. Additionally, as discussed in regard to toothbrush 5000, projections 5002 or 5002a can be integrally formed as a one-piece member with elastomeric tooth cleaning elements extending in an opposite directions from the head.

[101] Referring now to Fig. 13, an oral care implement in accordance with the present invention is further illustrated in the form of a toothbrush 10 including a head 12 and a handle 14. Although discussed in terms of a toothbrush, it is understood that the device could be in the form of other oral care implements including simply a tissue cleansing implement.

[102] An oral care implement in accordance with the present invention is illustrated in the form of a toothbrush 10 including a head 12 and a handle 14. While figure 13 only illustrates the connection of the handle to the head, the handle is preferably an elongate member to be grasped by the user. The handle 14 could have any known shape adapted for the manipulation needed to clean the teeth and/or tongue of a user.

[103] The head 12 with a pair of opposite sides 16, 17 is shown with a generally oblong shape, although other known shapes could be used. A plurality of teeth cleaning elements 20 extend from one side 16 of the head 12. The teeth cleaning elements could be bristles and/or elastomeric members of various shapes and sizes. Any form or combination of elements 20 suitable for cleaning a user's teeth could be used.

[104] The other side 17 of head 12 includes at least one ridge and preferably a plurality of elongate ridges 22 to cleanse the tongue and other soft tissue of the mouth (e.g., the inner surfaces of the cheeks). While the ridges are preferably formed on a head also provided with teeth cleaning elements, they could also be formed on other implements or other parts of the toothbrush. A head of the implement is simply meant to be the operative portion of the implement that is inserted into the mouth for cleaning of the tongue, and does not refer to a particular shape or structure of the head.

[105] In one construction of the invention, each ridge 22 projects orthogonally from a back surface 17a of the head and has a generally square-like cross-sectional configuration (Fig. 17). The ridge includes a distal end 29 remote from surface 17a that forms a contact region 29a adapted to contact and clean the tongue or other soft tissue in the mouth. In this embodiment, the contact region 29a is defined between and includes protruding corners or edges 25, 27. As can be appreciated, the contact region 29a has a width W extending transverse to the extension of the ridge across surface 17a. The width W of ridge 22 is at least as large as the height H of the ridge (i.e., the distance the ridge extends from surface 17a). With this width to height relationship, the risk of the ridge cutting or injuring the soft tissue of the tongue or other parts of the mouth is reduced. A narrow ridge that extends outward from head 12 a distance greater than its width has an increased risk of cutting or otherwise injuring the user as compared to a similarly narrow ridge (i.e., one with the same width) that extends from the head a distance less than the width of the ridge; such a ridge will not tend to cut or hurt the user. The tongue and other soft tissue in the mouth will give and bend some distance around the ridge so long as the ridge is not too tall for the width of the ridge engaging the tissue. In one exemplary embodiment, ridges 22 have a width W that is preferably about 0.8 mm and a height H about 0.6 mm. Nevertheless, a wide range of relative sizes are possible.

[106] Additionally, ridge 22 also includes a base 28 where the ridge is fixed to surface 17a. In a preferred construction, base 28 defines a width Wl that is at least as large as the height H of the ridge. In this way, the ridges do not experience undue bending as they are dragged over the tongue. Rather, ridges 22 are stably supported so that they tend to remain generally in a protruding orientation. As a result, edges 25, 27 are stably supported to dig into recesses in the tongue to effectively remove bacteria and debris.

[107] Alternatively, the ridges could have other shapes. For example, Figure 18 illustrates ridges 22' that are substantially wider than they are tall, i.e., base 28' and contact region 29a' each has a width W2 that is substantially greater than the height H2 of the ridge. In one

example, the width is about twice the distance of the height. The increased width to height ratio of ridge 22 ¹ provides for a stiffer, smaller ridge to effectively cleanse the tongue. Such ridges are beneficial in that they reduce the size of the head, which is preferred by some users. A shorter, wider ridge also further reduces the prospect of users injuring themselves. Moreover, such ridges can be made of softer materials without losing the desired stability.

[108] In another example (FIG. 19A) ridge 22" has a rounded distal end. Accordingly, the contact region 29a" has an arcuate, convex surface to engage the tongue or other soft tissue. In this example, the contact region 29a" (i.e., the surface adapted to engage the tongue) has a width W3 that is at least as large as the height H3 of the ridge. In this embodiment, the base 28" of ridge 22" also has a width W4 that is at least as large as height H to present a stable ridge. Of course, numerous variations may be formed in the shape of the ridge while maintaining the benefits of the invention.

[109] In addition, the ridges may be formed to gain only some of the benefits of the invention. For instance, ridge 22'" can be formed to taper to a narrowed distal end 29'" (Fig. 3b). In this instance, contact region 29a'" has a width W5 that is less than the height H5. However, the base 28'" of ridge 22"' has a width W6 that is at least as large as the height to form a stable ridge construction.

[110] Although the illustrated ridges have all been shown to extend generally perpendicular from surface 17a, they could be inclined relative to surface 17a. A perpendicular extension is preferred to provide effective cleaning regardless of whether the tongue cleaner is pushed or pulled over the tongue. The sides 24, 26 could also be inclined, curved, angular, irregular or otherwise shaped. Additionally, the ridges could project from a non-planar surface. As one example, surface 17a and ridges 22 could have an undulating configuration.

[I ll] Regardless of the cross-sectional shape of the ridge, each ridge 22 is preferably curved to define a concave side 24 facing toward handle 14 and a convex side 26 facing in the opposite direction. Although ridges that are continuously curved are preferred (Fig. 14), such concave- shaped ridges could be defined by non-continuous ridges (Fig. 15) or angular ridges (Fig. 16). Further, in one preferred construction, ridges 22 are progressively less curved as they are formed farther from handle 14. In one illustrated construction (Figs. 13 and 14), the ridges are generally concentric to each other curving generally about a common point near the connection of handle 14 to head 12.

[112] In use, the user grips the handle and typically pulls the tongue cleanser repeatedly over the tongue from back to front so that the concave sides 24 are scraped against the tongue to

effectively gather and remove bacteria and debris on the tongue. Alternatively, the user may also commonly move the tongue cleanser forward and backward over the tongue. In either event, the different curvatures of the ridges enable aligned segments of the ridges (i.e., along lines generally parallel to longitudinal axis 30) to engage the tongue surface at different angles for effective cleaning of the tongue. Nevertheless, the tongue cleansing ridges can be moved over the tongue in a number of ways to clean the tongue.

[113] Further, other ridge constructions could be used. For example, the oral care implement could include ridges 22a that are reversed so that the concave sides face away from the handle (e.g., Fig. 20), ridges 22b, 22g, 22i, 22j, 22s with different curved shapes (e.g., Figs. 21, 26-28 and 36), ridges 22c, 22d, 22k and 22r that are linear (e.g., Figs. 22, 23, 29 and 35), ridges 22e, 221, 22m, 22n and 22o that include a mixture of curved and linear ridges (e.g., Figs. 24 and 31- 33), or one continuous ridge member 22f, 22g forming successive ridges 22f , 22g\ (e.g., Figs. 25 and 26). The ridges could be non-concentric or curved at all the same radius of curvature. While the ridges preferably extend substantially across the entire side 17 of head 12, they could extend only part way across the head. For example, ridges 22p, 22r, 22t, 22v could be provided only along the sides of surface 17a (Figs. 34-35 and 37-38). Ridges along the sides of head 12 could also be used with central ridges; i.e., side ridges 22p, 22t, 22v could be used with a central ridge(s) such as an oval or partially oval ridge 22q, 22u, 22w (Figs. 34, 37 and 38), any of the ridge patterns illustrated in Figures 14-16 and 20-33, or another ridge pattern. Any of the ridges could also be used with various projections, e.g., conical projections 31 (see, e.g., Figs. 32 and 34-38). Regardless of whether the ridge 22 each form a continuous segment across the head (e.g., Fig. 14) or is defined by aligned ridge sections 22h separated by gaps 23 (e.g., Fig. 15), they are in this application each considered a ridge. Also, regardless of whether successive ridges 22 are separated (e.g., Fig. 14) or interconnected to define a single ridge member 22f (e.g., Fig. 25), the successive sections extending laterally across the hand are each considered to be a ridge. Concepts of this invention can be used in connection with ridges having virtually any shape or orientation along surface 17a.

[114] As shown in Figures 13 and 17, head 12, handle 14 and ridges 22 can be molded together as a one-piece member of the same material, for example, polypropylene. Nonetheless, other arrangements are possible. For example, head 12 could be detachable from handle 14. Further, ridges 22 could be separately molded, glued or otherwise attached to side 17 of head 12. The ridges as well as the head and the handle could each be made from a material different from the other parts. Soft materials, such as TPE or the like, can be fixed to head 12 to form the ridges

(see, e.g., Figs. 34-38). The ridges could be made of virtually any known material used to make oral care implements.

[115] Figures 39-48C show additional embodiments of the invention that further illustrate the combinability of various aspects, features and functions disclosed herein into single oral care implement configurations. Figures 39-48C disclose oral care implement configurations that provide tongue cleanser functionality and include handle gripping features. As such, the oral care implements of Figures 39-48C generally include the aspects discussed along with Figures 6-38 pertaining to soft tissue cleansers (e.g., tongue cleansers). Further, it is understood that other features may be used along with these configurations.

[116] As an example of potential embodiments based on combinations of features disclosed herein, the mechanical drive features discussed along with Figure 1-5 and/or tooth cleansing features discussed throughout the specification may be combined with the soft tissue cleansers of Figures 39-48C. Thus, as illustrated in Figures 48A-C, embodiments of the invention include any one of heads 9014, 9214, 9414, 9614 and 9514 discussed hereafter in combination with handle 1 and neck part 4 shown in Figures 1-4 instead of bristle-carrying head part 3 shown in Figures 1-5. These embodiments provide powered oral care implement configurations that can provide enhanced cleansing benefits. For example, such combination devices can provide the functions of two devices in a single device. Further, these devices can simultaneously provide dual cleaning functionality. For instance, toothbrush features may be used to clean a user's teeth while the soft tissue cleanser features simultaneously clean soft tissues, such as the inside of a user's cheeks.

[117] Figures 39 and 40 disclose an oral care implement 9010 including a soft tissue cleanser for removing microbial and other debris from the soft tissue of a user's mouth, such as the user's tongue and inside of their cheeks and lips. As shown, implement 9010 generally includes a handle 8103 attached to a head 9014. The head and handle may be molded together as a one- piece member of the same material, for example, polypropylene or another thermoplastic elastomer. In addition, the head may be detachable from the handle.

[118] In general, head 9014 includes a plurality of tissue engaging elements 9012 disposed about a central portion 9016 of the head. Elements 9012 include projections in the form of ridges 9018 and nubs 9020, which extend from the head to engage the soft tissue in a user's mouth. The ridges and nubs may be separately molded, glued or otherwise attached to head 9014. In addition, they may be integrally formed therewith. The ridges and nubs could each be made from a material different from each other and/or different from other parts. Soft materials,

such as TPE or the like, can be fixed to head 9014 to form the ridges. However, a harder material or virtually any known material used to make oral care implements may be appropriate for the ridges and nubs. Ridges 9018 and nubs 9020 could have a variety of shapes, patterns, cross-sections, configurations, etc., as discussed along with Figures 6-38.

[119] Central portion 9016 is shown as a generally elliptically-shaped region on a face of head 9014 about which cleaning elements 9012 are disposed that has a bottom surface 9017 generally disposed below the tips of the ridges and nubs. It is understood, however, that the central portion may have a variety of shapes, sizes and depths. In the configuration shown, central portion 9016 is a relatively shallow depression that extends into the head about 10% to about 30% of the thickness of the head. In another configuration, the central portion may be shallow and may not extend into the head. For instance, the central portion may be formed by a surface 9017 of the head upon which the cleaning elements are disposed along with a ring of cleaning elements 9012 bounding the central portion. In such a configuration, the central portion would be a depressed region with respect to the protruding cleaning elements disposed about it, but would not otherwise extend into the head. In other configurations, the central portion may be depressed into the head about 0 to 10% of its thickness, or it may be depressed about 30% to 50% or more of its thickness.

[120] As shown, surface 9017 may be continuous to provide a non-interrupted boundary for the central portion 9016 and it may be relatively smooth. In alternate configurations, surface 9017 may include interrupting or undulating features, such as one or more notches, contour features, or features to permit partial flow of materials therethrough, such as a mesh or screen. In addition, surface 9017 may include irregular features, such as cleaning elements, projections, etc.

[121] Central portion 9016 and the ring of protruding cleaning elements 9012 cooperate to translate a downward force applied by the user into a concentrated force at the cleaning elements. Thus, the cleaning elements penetrate more deeply into the user's soft tissue than would be provided by a relatively uniform contact surface or a uniform field of cleaning elements. This permits ridges 9018 and nubs 9020 to more effectively penetrate the soft tissues. In an alternative construction in which the head includes toothbrush features on an opposite side thereof (see Figures 48B-C), the ring of protruding cleaning elements configuration can effectively engage soft tissues in the inside of a user's cheeks and lips without the user applying significant force in the direction of the ring, as may be the case when the user cleans their teeth via the toothbrush features. As further shown, central portion 9016 includes a bottom surface

9017 for contacting soft tissue during use. The bottom surface can act as a guide to limit the penetration depth of the nubs and ridges when excessive downward force is applied by the user. In addition, it can provide a collector for micro debris scraped during use of the oral care implement.

[122] A variety of ridges, nubs, or other cleaning element configurations may be used. In the configuration shown for oral care implement 9010, ridges 9018 are generally oriented away from a center of central portion 9012 in a radial manner. Central portion 9016 is elliptically shaped and is aligned with a longitudinal axis of handle 8103. As such, ridges 9018 are oriented generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the handle, which provide blades oriented transverse to the scraping direction for most users. When a user scrapes the oral care implement 9010 forward and backward in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of handle 8103, ridges 9018 act as small blades to scrape micro debris from the soft tissue. As also shown in Figures 39 and 40, the ridges may be angled upward toward engagement with soft tissue during use. Thus, inner portions 9022 of ridges 9018 engage soft tissue when the user applies a light downward pressure, and the ridges more fully engage the soft tissue when additional pressure is applied. As such, variable cleaning and scraping functionality is provided as desired by the user via their selection of a downward force.

[123] As further shown in Figures 39 and 40, nubs 9020 are provided along a portion of central portion 9016 disposed between handle 8103 and a distal end of head 9014. Nubs provide concentrated penetration into the user's soft tissue during use. In addition, in their location along central portion 9016 as shown in Figure 40, they can encourage dislodged micro debris into central portion 9016 to be captured therein and removed by the user. It is understood that various nub configurations, positions and orientations, as well as ridge and central portion configurations, positions and orientations, can provide various advantages and functionality.

[124] Figures 41 and 42 illustrate another possible configuration of cleaning elements in an example oral care implement 9210. Oral care implement 9210 generally includes the same aspects and features of oral care implement 9010, except that it additionally includes a narrow protrusion 9224 erected around the perimeter of central portion 9216. The narrow protrusion may be a semi-flexible, "blade-like" structure that assists with scraping a user's tongue or other soft tissue. In alternative constructions, it may be a rigid structure or relatively flexible structure. Narrow protrusion 9224 may be made from a flexible or semi-flexible, thermoplastic elastomer, a hard plastic structure or another rigid material, such as metal. As shown in Figures 41 and 42, blade-like protrusion 9224 may be continuous structure disposed about the central

portion. In other configurations, it may a partial structure, such as an arc. It may also exist apart from or without the central portion, and it may include a truncated shape or shapes. The blade- like protrusion provides an effective blade for scraping micro debris from a user's soft tissue. In a continuous configuration, it may further encourage micro debris scraped from the user's soft tissue to be retained within central portion 9216.

[125] Figures 43 and 44 illustrate another possible configuration of cleaning elements in an example oral care implement 9410. Oral care implement 9410 generally includes the same aspects and features of oral care implement 9210, except that cleaning elements 9412 only include nubs 9420 disposed about central portion 9416. The nubs provide concentrated penetration into the user's soft tissue, which can act to dislodge micro debris and thereby assist blade-like protrusion 9416 with scraping micro debris from the user's soft tissue.

[126] Figures 45 and 46 illustrate another possible configuration of cleaning elements in an example oral care implement 9610. Oral care implement 9610 generally includes the same aspects and features of oral care implement 9010, except with respect to cleaning elements 9612 and blade-like structure 9624. As shown, cleaning elements 9612 include a combination of blades 9618 extending substantially radially from the center of central portion 9616, as well as blades 9630 oriented substantially perpendicular to blades 9618. The mixture of blades in alternating orientations can improve scraping effectiveness of the oral care implement. In addition, blade-like structure 9624 includes notches 9632 spaced about its blade, which can further improve the scraping effectiveness of the oral care implement.

[127] Figure 47 illustrates a further possible configuration of an oral care implement. Oral care implement 9510 generally includes the same aspects and features of oral care implement 9210, except with respect to cleaning elements 9512 and blade-like structure 9524. As shown, cleaning elements 9512 include short blades 9534 interposed between pairs of longer blades 9518, which can further improve the scraping effectiveness of the blades, hi addition, blade-like structure 9524 is truncated such that it only extends around a distal portion of central portion 9516, which can encourage dislodged micro debris to be retained within central portion 9516 when the oral care implement 9510 is scraped across soft tissue while being withdrawn from the user's mouth. Oral care implement 9510 further includes tooth cleaning elements 9536 extending from an opposite side of the head from cleaning elements 9512. Thus, a user can use the single oral care implement 9510 to effectively clean their teeth and to scrape their tongue, for which the handling of the implement is improved via gripping features of handle 8103. In

addition, the user can simultaneously clean their teeth via cleaning elements 9536 and engage the inside of their cheeks and lips via 9512.

[128] Figures 48A-C show an oral cleaning implement 9810 that includes a dual function head 4900 or 9514, and a powered handle 1. The handle is generally the same as powered handle 1 discussed along with Figures 1-5, which may be used to move or vibrate tooth cleaning features of the head, and/or soft tissue cleanser features of the head. Although the head is shown as either head 4900 or head 9514, the head may include any one of heads 9014, 9214, 9414, 9614 and 9514 or other dual function heads. As discussed above, these embodiments can provide enhanced cleansing benefits by simultaneously engaging proximate oral surfaces, such as cleaning a user's teeth, and cleaning or stimulating the inside of their cheeks and lips. Moreover, such combination devices can provide the functions of two devices in a single device.

[129] Figures 49-52 illustrate a toothbrush 9710 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. As shown therein, toothbrush 9710 includes a handle 9712 and a head 9714. Handle 9712 may include a suitable grip pad 9716 made of an elastomer material. As shown in Figure 52, head 9714 has a base portion 9718 with an upstanding wall 9720 to create a peripheral frame extending outwardly above base portion 9718. A membrane 9722 is attached to frame 9720 completely along its periphery. Membrane 9722 in its initial non-use condition is convex or bowed outwardly as shown in Figure 52. The convex bowing would preferably be both in the longitudinal and transverse directions, thus presenting a dome-like outer surface 9724 to which cleaning elements 9726 are connected.

[130] Toothbrush 9710 is particularly suitable for cleaning elements in the form of strands or bristles attached via in-molded technology (IMT) methods that generally require small cross- sections of material into which the strands are permanently attached. The strands utilizing IMT methods are preferably attached during formation of the toothbrush handle or at least during formation of the head which is the portion of the toothbrush to which the strands and other materials are attached.

[131] A feature of the invention as illustrated in Figures 49-52 and Figure 53 is the use of thin cross-sections of material for membrane 9722. Membrane 9722 is flexible and resilient. The cross-section shown, for example, in Figure 52 is formed like a moon crescent thus representing a shape similar to the dome.

[132] Because of the open space 9728 between base portion 9718 and membrane 9722, the membrane can move from its original dome-like shape to be distorted into other shapes as the cleaning elements or bristles 9726 contact the teeth. Thus, the dome 9722 has a thin membrane

of material or combinations of material that can flex to become altered from its original shape and recover to its original shape randomly during brushing. The bristles 9726 are attached to the flexible dome and move accordingly, creating a random topology based on interactions with teeth and by doing so improve the cleaning of the teeth. The moving bristle strands have more degrees of motion than conventional toothbrushes due to the flexibility of the membrane and thus represent a different and unique tooth brushing device.

[133] In illustrated embodiments of this invention, the head 9714 is generally oval shaped and the membrane 9722 has a corresponding oval shape. See Figure 51. However, other configurations may include a variety of membrane shapes.

[134] Any suitable form of cleaning elements may be used as the cleaning elements 9726 in the broad practice of this invention. The term "cleaning elements" is intended to be used in a generic sense, which could include conventional fiber bristles or massage elements or other forms of cleaning elements, such as elastomeric fingers or walls arranged in a circular cross- sectional shape or any type of desired shape including straight portions or sinusoidal portions. Where bristles are used, the bristles could be mounted to tuft blocks or sections by extending through suitable openings in the tuft blocks so that the base of the bristles is mounted within or below the tuft block and below membrane 9722.

[135] It is to be understood that the illustrated cleaning elements are merely for exemplary purposes. The invention can be practiced with various combinations of the same or different cleaning element configurations (such as stapled or in-molded technology bristles, anchor free technology (AFT), etc.) and/or with the same bristle or cleaning element materials (such as nylon bristles, spiral bristles, rubber bristles, etc.). Similarly, while Figure 50 illustrates the cleaning elements to be generally perpendicular to the outer surface 9724 of membrane 9722 or head 9714, some or all of the cleaning elements may be angled at various angles with respect to the outer surface of head 9714. It is thereby possible to select the combination of cleaning element configurations, materials and orientations to achieve specific intended results to deliver additional oral health benefits, like enhanced cleaning tooth polishing, tooth whitening and/or massaging of the gums.

[136] Preferably, however, cleaning elements 9726 are IMT bristles since IMT bristles require small cross-sections of material into which the strands are attached and the membrane 9722 in a preferred practice of the invention has a small cross-section.

[137] Although Figures 49-51 illustrate the membrane 9722 to occupy generally the entire head 9714, the invention may be practiced where the head 9714 is of sufficient size that it could include other bristle carrying surfaces adjacent to the dome shape membrane 9722.

[138] Although Figures 49-52 illustrate a manually operated toothbrush, the invention may also be practiced where the head includes one or more power or electrically operated movable sections carrying cleaning elements. Such movable sections may oscillate in a rotational manner or may oscillate linearly in a longitudinal direction with respect to the longitudinal axis of the head or may oscillate linearly in a lateral or transverse direction with respect to the longitudinal axis of the head. The movable section may oscillate in and out in a direction toward and away from the outer surface of the head. The movable section may rock back and forth with respect to the outer surface of the head. The movable section may rotate continuously in the same direction, rather than oscillate. Any suitable drive mechanism may be used for imparting the desired to the movable section. Where plural movable sections are used, all of the movable sections may have the same type and direction of movement, or combinations of different movements may be used.

[139] As an example, Figure 53 illustrates a toothbrush 9710A that is similar to toothbrush 9710, except that toothbrush 9710A is a powered toothbrush having a power driven movable disc or section 9730A having cleaning elements attached thereto. The movable section 9730A could be oscillated rotationally such as by using the type of drive mechanism shown in U.S. Patent No. 5,625,916, or it could move in and out using the type of drive mechanism shown in U.S. Patent No. Re35, 941, all of the details of both patents are incorporated herein by reference thereto. Alternatively, the other types of drives referred to above could move section 9730A in other manners and directions, such as the drive features shown in Figures 1-4. Although Figure 53 shows movable section 9730A to be at the distal end of the head, the movable section (s) could be located at any desired location on the head.

[140] Returning to Figures 49-52, handle 9712, base 9718 and frame 9720A are preferably made of hard plastic materials, which are conventionally used for manual toothbrushes. As noted, however, a characteristic of dome shape membrane 9722 is that it is made of a flexible resilient material such as an elastomer capable of being moved from its original position and then returning to that original position.

[141] Membrane 9722 may be secured to frame 9720 in any suitable manner. Thus, for example, frame 9720 includes inwardly inclined surfaces for receiving membrane 9722. Other

structural arrangements may be used within the practice of this invention to mount membrane 9722 on head 9714.

[142] Figures 54-57 illustrate a manual toothbrush 9810 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. This is a variation of the prior embodiment that uses a trampoline type structure to achieve an up and down motion rather than a convex membrane, as well as grip features on the handle. As shown, toothbrush 9810 includes a handle 9812 and a head 9814. Handle 9812 may include a suitable area 9816 made of an elastomeric material. This elastomeric portion of the handle is preferably molded with an open area 9818 which is readily deformable by the user. The elastomeric material 9816 on the top side of the handle 9812 (as viewed in Figures 54, 55 and 57) will yield under pressure of the user's fingers to provide a better grip on the handle while providing a more comfortable feel to the handle. Figure 57 illustrates this elastomeric portion 9816 of the handle 9812 in a depressed state. The downward arrow P in this Figure represents the pressure applied by the toothbrush user. The open area 9818 is thereby minimized. As soon as the user's pressure is released, the properties of the elastomeric portion 9816 of the handle 9812 return the elastomeric material 9816 to its original shape as illustrated in Fig. 54.

[143] A similar flexible, deformable open area 9820 is created in the head by inclusion of an elastomeric portion 9822 in the head overlying open area 9820. Cleaning elements 9824 are arrayed in the elastomeric portion of the head and fastened thereto by known methods including in-molded technology (IMT). Bristle attachment utilizing IMT methods preferably occurs during formation of the toothbrush handle or at least during formation of the elastomeric portion 9822 of the head 9814.

[144] In use, the application of pressure by the toothbrush user causes a like pressure of the teeth against cleaning elements 9824 as illustrated by arrow F in Figure 57. This causes deflection of the elastomeric portion 9822 of head 9814, which in turn causes a reorientation of cleaning elements relative to the teeth being cleaned. As the user's pressure is reduced, the open area 9820 of head 9814 opens up causing the cleaning elements to follow the shape of the teeth being brushed and thereby improving the cleaning of the teeth. When all user pressure is released, the open area 9820 returns to its original shape.

[145] The elastomeric portion 9822 of head 9814 should be a material or combinations of material that can flex to become altered from its original shape and recover to its original shape randomly during brushing. The cleaning elements, for example, bristles, are attached to the flexible membrane creating a flexible orientation of cleaning elements 9824 which improves the

cleaning of the teeth. The moving bristle strands have considerable degrees of motion and thus provide a unique tooth brushing experience.

[146] Any suitable form of cleaning elements may be used as the cleaning elements 9824 in the broad practice of this invention, as discussed with the embodiments of Figures 49-53. It is to be understood that the specific illustration of the cleaning elements is merely for exemplary purposes. The invention can be practiced with various combinations of the same or different cleaning element configurations (such as stapled or in-molded technology bristles, AFT, etc.) and/or with the same bristle or cleaning element materials (such as nylon bristles, spiral bristles, rubber bristles, etc.). Similarly, while Figures 55 and 57 illustrate the cleaning elements to be generally perpendicular to the elastomeric portion 9822 of head 9814, some or all of the cleaning elements may be angled at various angles. It is thereby possible to select the combination of cleaning element configurations, materials and orientations to achieve specific intended results to deliver additional oral health benefits, like enhanced cleaning, polishing, tooth whitening and/or massaging of the gums.

[147] Portions of handle 9812 and head 9814 may be made of hard plastic material which is used for manual toothbrushes. As noted, however, a feature of this toothbrush is use of elastomeric portions 9816 of the handle and/or elastomeric portion 9822 of head 9814, such as an elastomer capable of being moved from its original position and then returning to its original position.

[148] This invention may also be practiced where the head 9814 includes one or more powered or electrically operated movable sections carrying cleaning elements.

[149] Figure 58 illustrates a toothbrush 9810A which includes a power driven movable disc or section 9850 having cleaning elements. The movable section 9850 could be similar to section 9730 of Figure 53. Although Figure 108 shows movable section 9850 to be at the one end of the head, as with Figure 53, the movable section(s) could be located at any desired location on the head.

[150] In another embodiment of the invention shown in Figures 59-63, a toothbrush 9910 includes a head longitudinally separated into side by side areas by means of a flexible hinge structure that serves as a spring to return the brush head materials and cleaning areas to their original position. As shown, toothbrush 9910 includes an elongated handle 9912 and a head 9914. A portion of handle 9912 may be recessed at gripping area 9916 between shoulders 9918 and 9920. Shoulder 9918 could extend outwardly a sufficient distance to act as a hook or ledge to facilitate hanging the toothbrush in an inverted condition.

[151] Head 9914 and handle 9912 are elongated and have a longitudinal axis. As shown in Figures 62 and 63, head 9914 includes a spine 9922 which extends collinear with the longitudinal or major axis of the toothbrush handle and head. As a result, head 9914 is separated into two side by side longitudinal sections 9924, 9926 connected to the spine 9922. Spine 9922 is made of a resilient material, such as an elastomer, which is sufficiently flexible as to be movable and yet return to its original position. As a result, spine 9922 functions as a hinge axis whereby the side by side sections 9924, 9926 may move or pivot about the spine away from the original position shown in Figure 62 to an open position such as shown in Figure 63 when the cleaning elements on the sections 9924, 9926 contact the teeth. Then sections 9924, 9926 return to their original position under the influence of the resilient hinge or spine 9922. Preferably hinge or spine 9922 is confined to head 9914.

[152] As illustrated, each of the sections 9924, 9926 includes sets of cleaning elements. For example, an outer set of cleaning elements 9928 is located at the outer periphery of each section 9924, 9926 while an inner set of cleaning elements 9930 is located closer to the spine 9922. Preferably, the terminal surfaces 9932 of the inner cleaning elements 9930 are tapered toward the hinge axis 9922 so that the adjacent terminal ends 9932 of each inner set of cleaning elements forms an obtuse angle as indicated by the letter A in Figure 62 when the brush head is in its original position.

[153] The outer sets of cleaning elements 9928 extend outwardly a longer distance from the outer surface of the sections than do the inner cleaning elements 9930. As a result, the combined cleaning elements are designed to wrap around the edge of the teeth for simultaneous possible contact with both the front and top of the teeth. See Figure 62. During use, the brush head is pressed against the edge of the teeth causing the flexible hinge to open and close during cleaning.

[154] As illustrated in Figures 59-63, in a preferred practice of the invention, the outer sets of cleaning elements 9928 are bristle bundles of plaque bristles. The inner sets of cleaning elements 9930 may be bristles formed by in-molded technology (IMT) where sets of bristles are fused together at one end and the fused end is inserted in a mold cavity during the manufacture of the head.

[155] Figure 63 shows the sections 9924, 9926 in their open position. Figure 63 omits some of the cleaning elements so as to provide a better understanding of how the cleaning elements are mounted. As shown therein, the plaque bristles 9928 are in the form of bristle bundles or tufts inserted into individual holes 9934 in bristle container 9936. The inner sets of cleaning elements

9930 are IMT bristles mounted in IMT container 9938. The IMT containers 9938 may be made of soft flexible elastomer material integral with hinge axis 9922, as shown in Figure 63.

[156] As shown in Figures 59-63 the bristle container 9936 does not extend completely to the distal end of the head 9914. Accordingly, side plates 9940 are provided on each side of the head longitudinally abutting against bristle containers 9936 and disposed against containers 9938 for the remaining length of containers 9938 so that a smooth contour results along the side of the head 9914. Side plates 9940 may also be made of a soft, flexible elastomer material.

[157] As best shown in Figures 59-61 each inner row of IMT bristles 9930 has its bristles spaced apart or staggered so that the inclined IMT bristles of each section may fit between the spacing of adjacent IMT bristles of the other section.

[158] Although Figures 59-63 illustrate a preferred form of cleaning elements to be the plaque bristles and IMT bristles any suitable form of cleaning elements may be used as the cleaning elements 9928 and 9930 as previously described. Thus the term "cleaning elements" is intended to be used in a generic sense which could include conventional fiber bristles or massage elements or other forms of cleaning elements such as elastomeric fingers or walls arranged in a circular cross-sectional shape or any type of desired shape including straight portions or sinusoidal portions. Where bristles are used, the bristles could be mounted to tuft blocks or sections by extending through suitable openings in the tuft blocks so that the base of the bristles is mounted within or below the tuft block.

[159] Similarly, it is to be understood that the specific illustration of the cleaning elements is merely for exemplary purposes. The invention can be practiced with various combinations of the same or different cleaning element configurations (such as stapled or IMT bristles, AFT, etc.) and/or with the same bristle or cleaning element materials (such as nylon bristles, spiral bristles, rubber bristles, etc.). Similarly, while Figure 59 illustrates the cleaning elements to be generally perpendicular to the outer surface of head 9914 some or all of the cleaning elements may be angled at various angles with respect to the outer surface of head 9914. It is thereby possible to select the combination of cleaning element configurations, materials and orientations to achieve specific intended results to deliver additional oral health benefits, like enhanced cleaning tooth polishing, tooth whitening and/or massaging of the gums.

[160] Handle 9912 could be made of a conventional hard plastic material which could, however, include a soft elastomer section 9942 near the head 9914. Bristle containers 9936, 9936 could also be made of a hard plastic material wHle side plates 9940 and IMT containers 9938 are made of a soft elastomer material. By having the bristle containers 9936 mounted

against the IMT containers 9938, the bristle containers 9936 and their cleaning elements 9928 move along with the movement of the IMT containers 9938 in response to the IMT bristles 9930 contacting the teeth. If desired, the bristle containers 9936 may also be made of a soft elastomer material.

[161] Although Figures 59-63 illustrate a manually operated toothbrush, the invention may also be practiced with powered configurations, such as where the head includes one or more power or electrically operated movable sections carrying cleaning elements. Figure 64 illustrates a toothbrush 9910A which includes a power driven movable disc or section 9950 having cleaning elements, similar to the movable sections of toothbrushes 9710A and 9810A.

[162] Figures 65-71 show additional embodiments of the invention that further illustrate the combinability of various aspects, features and functions disclosed herein into single oral care implement configurations. Figures 65-71 disclose oral care implement configurations that provide flexibly mounted tooth cleansing features, tongue cleanser functionality and/or handle gripping features. As such, the oral care implements disclosed in Figures 65-71 generally include the aspects discussed along with Figures 49-52 pertaining to flexibly mounted tooth cleansing configurations including a flexible dome-shaped membrane, as well as the aspects discussed along with Figures 54-57 and 59-61 pertaining to handle features, and aspects discussed along with Figures 6-47 pertaining to soft tissue cleansers. However, it is understood that other features may used along with these configurations, such as mechanical drive features discussed along with Figure 1-5, 53 and 64, the flexibly mounted tooth cleansing configuration of Figures 54-57, and tooth cleansing features discussed throughout the specification.

[163] Figures 65-67 illustrate a toothbrush 10010 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. As shown therein, toothbrush 10010 includes a head 10014 and a handle 9812. Handle 9812 may generally be the same as handle 9712 discussed along with Figures 49-52 or other handle configurations. Head 10014 is generally the same as head 9714 discussed along with Figures 49-52, with the exception of cleaning elements 10026. As such, a membrane 10022 is attached to head 10014, which in its initial non-use condition may be convex or bowed outwardly, from which cleaning elements 10026 extend. Although configured differently than cleaning elements 9714 of Figures 4-52, it is understood that cleaning elements 10014 may also be attached to the membrane via in-molded technology (IMT) methods or other appropriate methods.

[164] As shown in Figure 66, cleaning elements 10014 form star configurations 10015 that better retain dentifrice among the tooth cleaning elements, conform to a user's teeth, and

penetrate gaps between a user's teeth. These advantages may be particularly realized during use of the oral care implement when the convex membrane 10022 is flexed downward toward the head. When the membrane is flexed downward due to contact with a user's teeth, the tooth cleaning elements converge inward toward each other about the user's teeth. This action improves interaction with the user's teeth and other oral structures, as well as improves retention of the dentifrice.

[165] Tooth cleaning elements may be formed of elastomeric wall members, elongate bristle tufts, or other types of cleaning elements, which are independently flexible. In this way, the cleaning elements are able to provide a limited and controlled flow of the dentifrice, as well as maintain sufficient flexibility to provide improved cleaning of a user's teeth and stimulation of the user's gums via the cleaning elements. In the configuration shown in Figure 66, cleaning elements 10022 include central elements 10024 that are generally disposed along a longitudinal axis of membrane 10022 substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis a-a of handle 9812. As shown in Figures 65 and 67, central elements 10024 may be taller than adjacent cleaning elements, such that central elements 10024 typically make contact with a user's teeth prior to adjacent elements. During use, central elements 10024 cause membrane 10022 to flex toward the head due to contact with a user's teeth, which flexes other cleaning elements inward toward the central elements while membrane 10022 flexes toward the head.

[166] Disposed about each central element, and radially extending therefrom, is a plurality of cleaning elements 10026. Radial cleaning elements and their respective central element each form the star configuration 10015. Adjacent radial elements are spaced apart to form gaps 10028 therebetween, which permit a limited outward flow of dentifrice, independent flexing of each radial cleaning element, and convergence of the radial cleaning elements. The gaps also aid the cleaning of cleaning elements 10026 by permitting water to flush through the cleaning elements. The gaps, however, are preferably kept small to limit the escape of the dentifrice. While three star configurations are shown, which each include six radial cleaning elements, other numbers of radial cleaning elements and numbers of star configurations could be used.

[167] Disposed along perimeter regions of the head are a plurality of outer cleaning elements 10030. During use, the outer cleaning elements converge inward toward the star configurations, which assist with the retention of dentifrice and with grasping teeth being engaged by the cleaning elements.

[168] The cleaning elements 10014 may be formed from bristles or tufts composed of nylon, and may further be made from the nylon material marketed by Dupont under the name

BRILLIANCE. Nevertheless, other materials could be used, such as an elastomeric material. In addition, the cleaning elements may be formed as upstanding elastomeric projections or walls. As shown in Figure 67, a distal star configuration 10032 of cleaning elements at the distal end of the head may have a height greater than other cleaning elements, which can assist with engagement of molars and other teeth at the rear of a user's mouth.

[169] Figure 68 illustrates a toothbrush 11810 in accordance with another embodiment of this invention. Toothbrush 11810 includes a handle 9812, a head 11814, tooth cleaning elements 11826 on one side of the head, and a soft tissue cleanser 11830 on the opposite side of the head. Toothbrush 11810 generally includes the same aspects and features of toothbrush 10010, except with respect to soft tissue cleanser 11830. In addition, base portion 9718 shown in Figure 52 may include a flexible membrane forming surface 9017 shown in Figure 40. In such a configuration, movement of the tooth cleaning elements 11826 away from and toward the head will move surface 9017.

[170] Soft tissue cleanser 11830 generally includes the same aspects and features pertaining to cleaning soft tissues, such as a user's tongue, as oral care implement 9510 shown in Figure 47. As such, soft tissue cleanser includes soft tissue engaging elements 9512 disposed about a recess 9516 formed in the head, as well as a blade-like structure 9524. Elements 9512 include projections in the form of ridges 9518 and nubs 9520, which extend from the head to engage the soft tissue in a user's mouth along with the blade-like structure.

[171] Toothbrush 11810 provides a single oral care implement that can be used to effectively clean a user's teeth and to scrape their tongue, for which the handling of the device may be improved via gripping features of handle 9812. Thus, toothbrush 11810 further illustrates the combinability of various aspects, features and functions disclosed herein into single oral care implement configurations. It is understood that a variety of combinations are possible. For instance, toothbrush 11810 may include a soft tissue cleanser configuration shown in Figures 6- 48C rather than the configuration of soft tissue cleanser 11830. In addition, toothbrush 11810 may include a handle shown in Figures 1-5, 49-52, 54-57 or 59-61 rather than handle 9812. In addition, the handle could include a resilient elongate ridge (not shown) in a gripping region thereof that merges with the soft tissue cleanser. Further, various tooth cleaning element configurations may be used instead of tooth cleaning elements 11826.

[172] The advantages of particular configurations will depend on the features selected and the intended use of the device. In the configuration of toothbrush 11810, a variety of advantages are provided in a single device including flexibility and cleaning advantages of the dome membrane

configuration, tooth cleaning advantages of the star configuration for the tooth cleaning elements, soft tissue cleaning advantages of the soft tissue cleanser, and handling advantages of the handle grip features.

[173] Figures 69-71 show a further oral care implement 11910 that also provides a variety of advantages and features in a single device. Oral care implement includes a handle 9812, a head 11914, tooth cleaning elements 11926 on one side of the head, and a soft tissue cleanser 11830 on the opposite side of the head. Toothbrush 11810 generally includes the same aspects and features of toothbrush 10810, except with respect to the configuration of tooth cleaning elements 11926.

[174] As shown in Figure 71, cleaning elements 11926 include central elements 11928 that are generally disposed along a longitudinal axis b-b of the toothbrush, and transverse elements 11930 oriented substantially perpendicular to longitudinal axis b-b across the face of the toothbrush head. The central elements and transverse elements intersect to generally form a cross-shape 11921 across membrane 11922.

[175] As shown in Figure 70, the central and transverse elements may extend further from the toothbrush head than adjacent cleaning elements, which encourages membrane 11922 to flex toward the head as the central and transverse elements make initial contact with a user's teeth. The central elements and transverse elements may have circular cross-sections, elongate cross- sections such as provided by wall-like elements, and combinations thereof. As also shown in Figure 70, cleaning elements 11926 further include opposing arcuate cleaning elements 11934 at the ends of cross-shape configuration. These elements assist with the retention of dentifrice, as well as provide cleaning and polishing benefits.

[176] In the configuration shown in Figure 71, the central elements and transverse elements include a mixture of rounded 11940 and wall-like elements 11942, which provide various advantages. For instance, the rounded elements tend to have higher column strengths than elongate or wall-like elements. Thus, high column strength rounded elements may be included to improve the transfer of force to membrane 11922 for flexing the membrane. The elongate or wall-like elements tend to provide other advantages, such as improved tooth polishing and retention of dentifrice within the cleaning elements. Combinations of types of cleaning elements, as shown in Figure 71, can provide advantages based on the overall configuration and functionality provided by the mixture of cleaning elements.

[177] Cleaning elements 11926 further include radial cleaning elements 11932 that are wall- like elements. Cleaning elements 11926 are generally oriented in a radial fashion such that their

flat side portions are angled toward a central portion of the head proximate an intersection 11934 of the cross-shape configuration 11921 of the cleaning elements. As with the embodiments for Figures 49-68, the radial cleaning elements, and the other cleaning elements, may each be formed as an upstanding elastomeric wall attached to and extending from membrane 11922. In other configurations, they may be formed from tufts of bristles extending from the membrane.

[178] As shown in Figure 71, oral care implement 11910 provides orientations of wall-like elements that generally cover 360 degrees. This full range of orientations is provide by the arrangement of radial wall-like cleaning elements 11926, as well as the central cleaning elements 11928 and transverse cleaning elements 11930. As such, one or more cleaning elements are likely oriented to match crevices between a user's teeth during cleaning, which can improve effectiveness of the toothbrush. Further, the flexibility provided by the dome configuration of membrane 11922 provides a dynamic cleaning environment that further enhances cleaning and polishing of a user's teeth. In addition, the range of orientations of the radial cleaning elements along with their elongate shape can provide enhanced polishing benefits as they move across a user's teeth.

[179] As various changes could be made in the above methods, compositions and structures without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in this application, including all mechanisms and/or modes of interaction described above, shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not limiting in any way the scope of the appended claims. Further, as noted above, it is intended that oral care implements according to the invention and associated methods may utilize various combinations of aspects, features and configurations discussed within the application.