Patent ID: 6056548
Filing Date: 2000-05-02
Classification: A46B,A61C,A61N

Abstract:
A safe, dental hygiene treatment method to be practiced by a user on a regularly scheduled basis, using a specially prepared dental liquid containing photosensitizer substances, which have specific absorption wavelengths, at concentration levels below that used in photodynamic therapy, and using photons at the absorption wavelengths delivered through a laser dental brushing device having a handle, a brushhead, at least one radiation source and access to a power source for said radiation source, delivery means for said radiation including a safety mechanism to prevent accidental radiation damage, means for applying a dental liquid containing said photosensitizers which on being irradiated at said wavelength create species in an immediate vicinity of said liquid capable of disinfecting an oral site, and comprising the steps of:positioning said dental laser brushing device within one's mouth and deactivating said safety mechanism in said device;applying said specially prepared dental liquid under sufficient liquid pressure to ensure that said dental liquid comes into close contact with all tissue and teeth to be treated, especially between individual teeth and along one's gum line, and using said brushhead to help disperse active ingredients within said dental liquid to further ensure said close contact;producing in said laser dental brushing device a laser beam having substantially said specific wavelength, and delivering it at power levels no greater than 10 mW;activating said photosensitizers with said specific wavelength to kill a portion of bacteria, germs, and microbes present on said tissue and teeth; andrinsing to remove excess material and by products of process.