Interdental brush and cleaning device for the same

An interdental brush (1) comprises a body (4) with a handle (5) and a guide channel (7). Also provided is a connecting element (9), which connects a cleaning body (3) to an operating element (6). The connecting element (9) with the cleaning body (3) can be displaced in a reciprocating manner within the guide channel (7), by means of the operating element (6), between a retracted position, in which the cleaning body (3) is arranged within the guide channel (7), and an extended position, in which the cleaning body (3) projects out of the guide channel (7) at a distal end of the guide channel (7), as seen in relation to the handle (5). A flexible positioning element (2) is provided at the distal end of the guide channel (7). The positioning element (2) can be placed in an approximal space between two teeth such that the cleaning body (3), during displacement into the extended position, penetrates into the approximal space. The reciprocating displacement of the cleaning body (3) can be induced by movement of the operating element (6) relative to the positioning element (2) of the interdental brush (1).

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a National Phase Entry of PCT/CH2015/000164, filed Nov. 6, 2015; which claims the priority of Swiss Patent Application No. 1731/14, filed on Nov. 7, 2014, the entire contents of both of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to an interdental brush and to a cleaning device for the same, according to the independent claims.

In the dental hygiene sector there is a very wide selection of solutions for cleaning teeth. Standard toothbrushes for cleaning the tooth faces are available in many variations. Electrically operated toothbrushes which are capable of generating movements of the brush head at high frequencies have also been developed. Therewith, teeth can be cleaned in the most efficient manner in the accessible locations. However, all conventional toothbrushes as well as the electrically operated toothbrushes have the disadvantage that they cannot remove the biofilm between the teeth. Various methods for cleaning this approximal space have been developed.

In the prophylaxis of tooth decay, dental floss has the maximum effect on the contact points of the teeth. Said dental floss is introduced as a thin thread via the contact point into the interdental space. Plaque is hereby stripped away. Dental floss above all serves for preventing tooth decay because it can greatly reduce the plaque-related decalcification of the dental enamel in the region of mutually contacting teeth. The complex handling and the risk of injuries to the gums in the case of an incorrect application are disadvantageous herein. The application is very difficult or completely precluded in certain cases (tight spacing), for example when neighboring teeth have been blocked (bridges, orthodontist apparatuses, retainers).

Interdental brushes are used above all in the intermediate space between teeth that has been opened up by bone atrophy. Interdental brushes are the main pillar for daily application in the modern prophylaxis of periodontal pathology. The care of the approximal space by way of interdental brushes has also achieved high priority in the prevention of root decay. This is a modern phenomenon as a result of a reduced saliva flow rate. Anomalies in the saliva flow arise very often in geriatric medicine and as side effects of many medicaments. The interdental brush is indispensable in stationary reconstruction by way of implants. Since neighboring implants are typically mutually blocked, there are no alternatives to the brushes for cleaning between the implants. The interdental brush can be introduced into the intermediate space between the teeth directly by the finger or using a handle to which the brush is connected via a stem. The cleaning effect is achieved by simply bracing an adequate small brush in the trigone that is delimited by the tooth, the neighboring tooth, and the gingiva. Smallest niches or locations which for root-related causes have double concavities can be relieved of the biofilm in a proven and thorough manner. As opposed to tooth picks, interdental wooden picks, or felt-coated sticks, the interdental brush by erecting the bristles is capable of developing a cleaning effect even after having passed an isthmus. The handling in relation to the introduction, the buckling of the thin small brushes, and the risk of injury are disadvantageous in the application of interdental brushes. While the introduction of small interdental brushes in the visible region of the intermediate spaces between the teeth can easily be practiced in front of a mirror, issues arise beyond the second premolar and certainly at the latest between the first two molars. First, the mucosal lining of the cheeks bears more tightly on the dentition as additional opening of the mouth occurs. The introduction of a small brush at an angle that is perpendicular to the facial area of the molars is greatly impeded if not precluded. This leads to the user being tempted to close the mouth again during introduction between the back teeth, this leading to the second issue. A visible check relating to the position and direction of the delicate small interdental brush is no longer provided. The introduction into the approximal space then quickly becomes a matter of trial and error unless a finger of the second hand is used for holding down the cheek. The daily use of interdental brushes sets relatively high requirements for the patient. Standing in an uncomfortable position, typically bent forward over the washbasin facing toward the bathroom mirror, the application is seen as a tedious chore. The handling requires attention and certain motoric capabilities which recede when growing older.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the invention to provide an interdental brush which at least minimizes these issues. In particular, the object of the invention lies in enabling a type of cleaning of intermediate spaces between teeth that is ergonomic and as comfortable as possible, wherein simultaneously a high cleaning effect can be achieved and the risk of injury is minimized.

In a first aspect of the invention, this object is achieved by means of an interdental brush comprising a body having a handle and a guide duct. The interdental brush furthermore comprises a connection element that is disposed in the guide duct and connects a cleaning body to an operating element. The connection element with the cleaning body is displaceable in a reciprocating manner by means of the operating element. The displacement takes place between a retracted position in which the cleaning body is disposed within the guide duct, and a deployed position in which the cleaning body at an end of the guide duct that is distal in relation to the handle protrudes from the guide duct. A flexible positioning element is provided at the distal end of the guide duct. The positioning element at an approximal space between two teeth is engageable in such a manner that the cleaning body during the displacement to the deployed position ingresses into the approximal space. The positioning element runs toward the distal end in a substantially funnel-shaped manner. The reciprocating displacement of the cleaning body is capable of being caused by a movement of the operating element relative to the positioning element of the interdental brush.

One advantage of the interdental brush according to the invention lies in that the movement of the cleaning body is performed from outside the mouth, this greatly simplifying the operation of the interdental brush. It is furthermore advantageous that the positioning element is provided, with the aid of which positioning element the cleaning body at the intended position is capable of being guided in an easy and intuitive manner for cleaning the regions in between the teeth.

The funnel-shaped profile of the positioning element toward the distal end is particularly advantageous in order for the respective approximal space between two teeth to be rapidly found and for the interdental brush to be correctly engaged. In other words, the funnel shape has an inherent “auto centering function”.

In one preferred embodiment the positioning element is elastically deformable. Said positioning element can be produced from a rubber-type material, for example from rubber or silicone. This is particularly advantageous since the positioning element can adapt to the contour of the approximal space and therefore has a more stable fit. A further advantage lies in that the risk of injury to the gums or a tooth is minimized, since the positioning element is soft. The user, prior to moving the cleaning body from the retracted position, seeks the approximal space and positions the interdental brush at the approximal space. On account of this procedure there is no risk of the user being injured by the pointed cleaning body during the positioning process.

The guide duct in relation to a longitudinal axis of the body of the interdental brush preferably has at least one curvature in such a manner that the free end of the guide duct is not parallel with the longitudinal axis. The operation of the interdental brush is simplified by way of this measure that serves the ergonomics, since the user during teeth cleaning can hold the interdental brush in a natural position of the arm or the hand, respectively.

In one embodiment an opening of the positioning element through which the cleaning body in the deployed position exits toward the outside has a smaller diameter than the cleaning body, this having the advantage that the bristles of the cleaning body during retraction to the retracted position are bent outward on the opening of the positioning element and are cleaned by the friction on the contour of the opening of the positioning means. It is also possible for the cleaning body to be cleaned more thoroughly under running water by carrying reciprocating movements of the operating element in the same manner as during cleaning of the teeth.

In one embodiment the guide duct through the generated surface thereof has an opening, through which opening air can circulate between an interior space of the guide duct and the environment. The at least one opening of the guide duct herein is preferably disposed in a region in which the cleaning body in the retracted position comes to rest. The advantage of such an opening lies in that the interior space of the guide duct can be ventilated such that the cleaning body, which following use can be wet, can rapidly dry and no fungi or bacteria can accumulate in the interior of the guide duct, for example. Furthermore, the interior of the guide duct can more readily be rinsed with water. The opening can furthermore be used as an introduction opening for a medication.

A second aspect of the invention relates to a cleaning device for an interdental brush according to the first aspect of the invention, said cleaning device comprising a cleaning body and a connection element, or consisting of a cleaning body and a connection element. The cleaning body in the axial direction of the connection element is disposed on the distal end of the latter. The connection element is produced from a material that in terms of bending is flexible, and by means of a coupling element of the connection element is fastenable in the guide duct of the interdental brush.

In one preferred embodiment the cleaning body comprises a main body having at least one protrusion. A pointed rod-shaped element of the cleaning body is provided at the free end of the cleaning body, so as to be in the extension of the main body.

The cleaning body is preferably produced in an integral manner from one material, in particular, cast.

One advantage of the cleaning device according to the invention is the potential for interchangeability with another cleaning device, wherein the type of cleaning body that is integrated in the cleaning device is irrelevant. A further advantage lies in that the pointed rod-shaped element represents an additional aid for positioning the cleaning body at the correct locations at the approximal space.

The cleaning device is preferably used for replacing the cleaning body and the connection element of the interdental brush according to the first aspect of the invention. This enables a cost-effective and material-saving solution, since the body of the interdental brush having the guide duct and the positioning element needs to be purchased only once and only the cleaning device needs to be replaced once a cleaning body has worn out.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Elements which are equivalent in structural or functional terms are identified by the same reference sign in the figures that illustrate the various embodiments of the interdental brush according to the invention.

FIG. 1shows one embodiment of an interdental brush1according to the invention. The interdental brush1has a body4having a handle5and a guide duct7. The handle5and the guide duct7in this embodiment are constructed so as to be integral, this being advantageously cheaper in production. In another embodiment the guide duct7can be removable from the handle5. The connection between the handle5and the guide duct7herein can be a screw connection. This embodiment has the advantage that the guide duct7can be replaced.

The interdental brush1furthermore has an operating element6on the body4. A connection element9carrying a cleaning body3is disposed in the guide duct7, wherein the connection element9is not visible in this figure (cf.FIGS. 2, 3). The connection element in the embodiments described hereunder is a pin9. However, connection elements which deviate from the shape of a pin can also be employed. The cleaning body3can be a small brush, for example, which has dimensions that are suitable for interdental cleaning. However, a plastic-material carrier having pimples or fibers can also be employed. Further design embodiments of the cleaning body3will be described in more detail in conjunction withFIGS. 6-16. The guide duct7at the distal end has a flexible positioning element2. The term “distal” in the present document relates to the handle5, in other words to that free end of the guide duct7that is remote from the handle. The term “flexible” in the present context is to be understood as being “pliable” and/or “elastic”. In other words, the positioning element2by virtue of the flexibility thereof is capable of nestling to the approximal space between two teeth.

An opening8which allows a circulation of air between the interior space of the guide duct7and the environment is provided in a generated surface of the guide duct7. The opening8is preferably disposed in a region in which the cleaning body3in the retracted position comes to rest. It is also possible for a plurality of openings8to be provided; the generated surface of the guide duct7can be provided with perforations, for example.

However, the opening8can also serve as an introduction opening for a medication. In this case, the interior space of the guide duct7assumes the task of a medication reservoir. Depending on the application, the opening8in the case of this embodiment can be closable when a comparatively large quantity of the medication is incorporated in the interior space of the guide duct7. In this case, the cleaning body3upon exhaustion of the medication during cleaning can repeatedly be moved to the retracted position in order for new medication to be received. By virtue of the closure of the opening8, no medication can escape when the interdental brush is being handled. On the other hand, it is also possible for no closure to be provided, in particular when only single-application doses of the medication are incorporated in the interior space. The medication can be toothpaste or other agents which are known to a person skilled in the art.

As can be seen in the drawing, the guide duct is bent in relation to a longitudinal axis z of the handle5. This facilitates the introduction of the distal end of the guide duct7into the mouth since the bent shape is adapted to a natural position of the hand.

The operating element6is designed as a slide and for the reciprocating displacement is drivable by the user, in particular by means of one finger. However, the operating element6can also be designed in a double-sided manner such that the former is selectively operable from one side or from the opposite side by way of two fingers or by way of one finger (cf.FIG. 1). Alternatively, the operating element6for the reciprocating displacement can be drivable by a motor, in particular having an adjustable frequency.

It can also be seen inFIG. 1that the body4in the region of the guide duct7has an elongate slot16. This slot16serves for relieving stress and for partially dissipating a drive force acting on the operating element6in the radial direction. This results in the advantage that any injury in the mouth is avoided. For example, it can be avoided in the case of tight spacing of the teeth, that is to say in the case of a closed trigone, that the user pushes too hard on the intended cleaning location. This could lead to injury to the gums when the cleaning body slips from the tooth, for example. In the case of a tight spacing of the teeth, the connection element7that in this embodiment is flexible bends and can partially deflect outward through the slot16and thus absorb part of the compression force of the cleaning body3, on account of which a risk of injury is at least minimized. The slot16herein is dimensioned in such a manner that the connection element in the region thereof that in the above case is bent can penetrate outwardly through the slot16. Any differences pertaining to the width along the length of the connection element are considered in the dimensioning and shaping of the slot16. Apart from the use of the flexible positioning element2, this optional feature represents a further factor which facilitates “blind” usage of the interdental brush. However, it is to be noted that the slot and the flexibility of the connection element9do not necessarily have to be provided in other embodiments, for example those ofFIGS. 4 and 5. In this case which will be explained later, the main focus is on a cost-effective embodiment of the interdental brush. However, the connection element9is flexible in all other embodiments. This is a consequence of the preferred shape of the interdental brush1(FIGS. 1, 3, 6) having a bent distal end, this being explained in an exemplary manner in the context ofFIG. 2. As mentioned, the bent distal end of the interdental brush1allows an ergonomic introduction into the mouth space and is therefore preferred to a solution having a straight distal end. A further advantage is the saving in space, wherein the space for handling the interdental brush1is very limited in the case of the typical usage of the interdental brush in the mouth.

FIG. 2shows a pin9having a cleaning body3for the interdental brush1as perFIG. 1. It is to be noted in this context that the figures are not to scale in relation to one another. The pin9is produced from a flexible material such as flexural plastics. In this way, the pin during the reciprocal displacement can adapt to the bent shape of the guide duct7. By contrast thereto, the guide duct7is preferably produced from a rigid material so as to impart stability to the interdental brush1.

It is to be noted in the context of the rigid material that the term “rigid” in the context of the entire document is to be interpreted as relating to flexural rigidity. The flexural rigidity herein is to be understood such that the body or the guide duct, respectively, of the interdental brush when handled in the mouth can be bent only to a negligible extent. The term “flexible” is to be understood in relation to the flexural rigidity as defined above, specifically such that the connection element when bending in the guide duct causes bending of the guide duct that is only negligible, and that the connection element when bending between the retracted position and the deployed position, and vice versa, does not buckle.

The pin9having the cleaning body3is preferably interchangeable. Herein, replacement cleaning bodies having pins can be disposed in the interior of the handle5of the interdental brush. Various design embodiments of cleaning bodies3having connection elements9are shown inFIGS. 6-16. Various types of pin/cleaning body combinations can be stored as replacement cleaning bodies in the handle5.

The pin9comprises one or a plurality of first convexities10, the extent of which correspond to the diameter of the distal end of the guide duct7. On account thereof, the pin9during use has improved retention in the guide duct, this being best visible inFIG. 3.

The pin furthermore has a cleaning body mounting11which preferably corresponds to the tapered shape of the positioning element2. On account thereof, it is prevented, on the one hand, that the cleaning body3can be pushed too far out of the opening of the guide duct7at the distal end of the interdental brush1, and the cleaning body3is centered in a simple manner, on the other hand, such that it is pushed out of the center of the opening.

The pin9preferably comprises a second convexity12for fastening the pin9to the operating element6. A clip connection is preferably used herein. In other words, the operating element6has a recess which inFIG. 1is visible at the location at which the line of the reference sign6ends, the second convexity12of the pin9being able to be clipped into said recess. However, other fastening systems can also be used, of course.

The cleaning body3in the embodiment shown is cylindrical, but can also have other shapes. For example, said cleaning body3can be funnel-shaped toward the tip.

FIG. 3shows a section through the body4of the interdental brush1. The arrangement of the positioning element2, of the cleaning body3, and of the connection element9in the guide duct7in the retracted position of the cleaning body3is visible in particular herein.

In one embodiment the positioning element2is interchangeable, in particular with a positioning element of dissimilar size and shape, wherein the opening of the positioning element toward the outside has the same diameter in the case of all embodiments. However, it is also possible for narrower or thicker cleaning bodies to be used, depending on how large the approximal spaces between two teeth are. In this case, the positioning element2in terms of the diameter thereof is of course adapted to the cleaning body3. The diameter of the positioning element2herein is chosen so as to be somewhat smaller than the diameter of the cleaning body3. The cleaning body3after use of the interdental brush1can be cleaned better in that the former is displaced in a reciprocating manner on the distal opening such that the bristles of the cleaning body3wipe the edges of the opening of the positioning element2. The cleaning body in this embodiment is a small brush.

As mentioned, the positioning element2is preferably produced from a flexible, flexural material. On account thereof, it is ensured that the enamel or the gums, respectively, are not scratched or injured, respectively, during the positioning of the distal end, in other words of the distal opening. Furthermore, any discomfort if the user has sensitive teeth or tooth necks is minimized on account thereof.

The use of the interdental brush1will be described in a summarized manner hereunder.

As a first step, a pin9having cleaning body3is introduced into the interdental brush1. For this purpose, the body4of the interdental brush1comprises an elongate introduction opening14(FIG. 1). The pin9is introduced into the guide duct7with the cleaning body3leading, and the second convexity12is clipped into the recess of the operating element6that is provided therefor. The interdental brush1is subsequently ready for use. In order for the approximal space between two teeth to be cleaned, the distal end of the interdental brush1is introduced into the mouth and positioned in the correct position, wherein the cleaning body3is kept in the retracted position. The positioning of the distal end or of the positioning element2, respectively, at the approximal space is easy and intuitive by virtue of the funnel shape and of the bent distal end. As soon as the positioning element2is at the correct location, cleaning of the respective intermediate space between teeth can be performed in that the cleaning body3by means of the operating element6is moved to the deployed position and by means of moving the operating element6by way of one finger is displaced a reciprocating manner. Alternatively, the motor which takes over the reciprocating displacement of the pin9can be switched on. The cleaning body3herein does not have to be moved back to the retracted position but can describe a reciprocating displacement between the completely deployed position and a position in which the cleaning body3is still disposed outside the guide duct7.

A further embodiment of an interdental brush1aaccording to the invention is shown inFIG. 4. Only the differences to the embodiments of the interdental brush already described will be discussed hereunder. The operating element6here comprises a web15to which the connection element9is fastened, wherein the operating element6is preferably molded so as to be integral with the web15, the connection element9, and the cleaning body3. The web15is visible through a clearance in the body4that is preferably on both sides (cf.FIG. 4). This clearance serves for saving material. The guide duct7in the case of this embodiment is embodied so as to be straight and not bent. The interdental brush1aby virtue of the integral construction of those parts of the interdental brush1athat are movable in relation to the body4, of the material savings that are due to the clearance, and of the straight shape, is cheap in production. In addition, said interdental brush1acan be embodied so as to be very small such that the former can be held by only a thumb and an index finger, for example, this further contributing toward the savings in material. Said interdental brush1a, for the reasons mentioned above, is very suitable as a disposable interdental brush, and by virtue of the small size is very readily usable on the road, and can be disposed of thereafter.

In another embodiment only the integral assembly of operating element6, connection element9, and cleaning body3can be disposed of in that said assembly is retrieved through the clearance and are replaced by a fresh assembly. In this case, the body can be composed of a high-grade material, or comprise design features, respectively, for example.

In one further variant (not shown) of the embodiment1aof the interdental brush, the guide duct can be open on one side along the longitudinal axis of the body, wherein the connection element can fill the interior space of the guide duct with slight play such that said connection element is capable of sliding in a reciprocating manner therein.

FIG. 5shows a perspective view of the embodiment ofFIG. 4, in order to highlight the shape and arrangement of the clearance and of the operating element6. In the case of this embodiment1a, the handle5can be partially formed by the operating element6and partially by a rear part of the body4. The user herein holds the interdental brush1awith one finger on the body4and another finger on the operating element6.

The connection element9in the embodiments1and1acan also have a distal end of such a type that only the cleaning body3is interchangeable. The cleaning body3can be push-fitted onto the distal end of the connection element9, for example.

A variant of the embodiment of the interdental brush1wherein the cleaning body3and the connection element9(pin) are combined as a cleaning device will be described hereunder.

The interdental brush1ofFIG. 6differs from that ofFIG. 1only in that the cleaning body3is of a different design. Therefore, reference is made to the description ofFIG. 1for the description of the remaining aspects of the interdental brush1.FIG. 7shows a detail A ofFIG. 6, showing a pointed rod-shaped element20which protrudes from the positioning element2. The rod-shaped element is disposed on the free end of the cleaning body, so as to be in the extension of a main body of the cleaning body3. In particular, the pointed rod-shaped element20does not carry any protrusions for cleaning teeth. The cleaning body3having the main body is not visible in this figure, since said two bodies are located in the interior of the guide duct of the interdental brush1(indicated by the arrow3). However, the construction of the cleaning body will be discussed in more detail in the context ofFIGS. 8 to 16.

It is preferable that the rod-shaped element20in the retracted state shown of the cleaning body3or of the cleaning device, respectively, protrudes at least partially from the positioning element, since in addition to the respective effect of the positioning element2the positioning of the interdental brush at the approximal space between two teeth on account thereof offers further facilitation. The rod-shaped element20herein is produced so as to be integral with the cleaning body3and preferably from a rubber-based material, or from Teflon, respectively, and is flexible in terms of bending, in order for said rod-shaped element not to injure the teeth or the gums and to be able to be more readily fitted into the approximal space. The rod-shaped element protrudes from the positioning element by between 0.5 and 1.5 mm, preferably by approx. 1 mm, so as to be sufficient to develop the positioning effect and not to interfere too much with the introduction into the mouth. It is preferable herein that the rod-shaped element20protrudes so far that the tip thereof has a gradient which follows substantially the profile of the funnel-shaped positioning element3. With this arrangement, the user can slide the rod-shaped element20along the teeth in order to intuitively find the approximal space to be cleaned. On account thereof, the positioning of the interdental brush in the mouth becomes even more precise and rapid, since the rod-shaped element enables even more sensitive sensory exploration of the relief of the row of teeth than the thicker positioning element2. Once the correct position has been found, the positioning element can be engaged at the approximal space, and the distal tip of the interdental brush1can be imparted an even more stable footing. On account of the rod-shaped element having already found the passage between the teeth, the cleaning body3upon subsequent activation of the operating element6is directed directly in the correct direction.

However, it is of course also possible for the pointed rod-shaped element20in the retracted state of the cleaning device to be completely retracted into the guide duct of the interdental brush1, wherein this option can be provided additionally or alternatively to the embodiment above. For example, it is possible for two retracted positions to be provided, wherein the position with the completely retracted cleaning device can be used for example when storing the interdental brush while travelling, and the position having the protruding rod-shaped element20is employed for the daily dental care routine.

The pointed rod-shaped element20is of course usable also for the embodiments ofFIGS. 1 to 5.

FIG. 8shows an embodiment of the cleaning device3a, andFIG. 9shows an enlargement of the cleaning body3of the cleaning device3a. Reference is made toFIG. 2for the description of the further elements of the cleaning device3a, saidFIG. 2also showing a cleaning device.

The cleaning device3acomprises in general a main body22which carries or comprises at least one protrusion, and is mounted in a cleaning body mounting11. A plurality of protrusions21of the cleaning body3are provided in the special embodiment as perFIG. 9, wherein the protrusions21are disposed in an annular manner along the main body22and at a consistent mutual spacing around the main body22. The annular protrusions in this embodiment have identical diameters.

In another embodiment (FIGS. 10 and 11) which is similar to the embodiment of the cleaning device as perFIG. 2, a plurality of protrusions31of the cleaning body3are also provided, wherein the protrusions in this case are filaments31, and the entirety of the filaments31form a small brush.

Embodiments of the cleaning device3aare shown inFIG. 8andFIG. 10. Said embodiments correspond to the embodiment as perFIG. 2, wherein another type of the coupling element12is shown here in an exemplary manner. Said coupling element12here is not provided by a convexity as inFIG. 2, but by a transverse pin through the body of the connection element9that after the introduction of the cleaning device3ainto the guide duct7of the interdental brush1is received in receptacles of the body5of the interdental brush1that are provided therefor. It is preferable for this connection to be a clip connection, wherein other known forms of connections are also possible. The receptacle for the coupling element12in the operating element6is especially provided in the case of this embodiment (not shown), wherein the cleaning device3ahas a surface which upon fastening of the coupling element12is flush with the activation surface of the operating element6and preferably also has the serrations or the structure, respectively, of said activation face.

FIGS. 12 to 15show embodiments of the cleaning body3in which the protrusion or the protrusions extends or extend, respectively, along the main body22in a screw-shaped or helical manner about the latter. It is to be noted in this context that a single protrusion is referred to in the context of this document when said protrusion across the entire cross section thereof has no interruptions.

An embodiment of a cleaning body3in which a plurality of protrusions41are also provided is illustrated inFIG. 12. The protrusions are disposed in a screw-shaped manner, and neighboring protrusions41are mutually separated by a gap42.

Two protrusions51which are disposed in a screw-shaped manner along the main body22and in terms of the screw shape are in mutually opposite directions are used in the case ofFIG. 13.

FIG. 14shows an alternative in which the protrusions61, as is the case in the embodiment ofFIG. 13, do not have any interruptions. The screw-shaped protrusions in this case are wider such that the latter at the free extremities thereof in each case form one shoulder62.

FIG. 15shows an embodiment which is similar to the embodiments ofFIGS. 13 and 14. The protrusions71here are thinner. Of course, in the case of embodiments having screw-shaped or helical protrusions, parameters such as pitch, the degree of screw-fit (mean angle of the protrusion in relation to the longitudinal axis), thickness are modifiable in principle.

FIG. 16shows an embodiment of the cleaning body3which is similar to that ofFIG. 9, the point of difference being that the diameter of the protrusions81which are also disposed around the main body22decreases toward the rod-shaped element20, and the spacing between neighboring protrusions81is larger.

All embodiments of the cleaning device are preferably produced from a material that is based on rubber or silicone. It is furthermore preferable for the cleaning body3to be cast in one piece, this increasing the stability of the latter. However, it can also be provided that the main body22in the interior thereof is provided with additional reinforcement fibers so as to increase the rigidity of said main body22. Such a measure has little influence on the integral design of the cleaning body, since the reinforcement fibers can be put in place first, and the main composition of the main body22can subsequently be cast around said reinforcement fibers.

The embodiments described of the interdental brush1,1ahaving the associated cleaning devices3aand cleaning bodies3have a simple construction and are light, in particular in the version without a motor, this facilitating the handling of said embodiments. Cleaning is facilitated on account of the movement of the cleaning body3being effected from outside the mouth. Not least, it is advantageous that not the entire interdental brush1but only the pin9having the cleaning body3has to be moved. On account thereof, any unintentional displacement of the interdental brush1in the mouth is prevented, and the risk of the cleaning body3snapping or bending is minimized.

The bent shape and the presence of the positioning element in the respective embodiments make for a very intuitive use. Again, the embodiments having a straight body or guide duct, respectively, are easier to produce and therefore cheaper such that the former can also be suitable as disposable interdental brushes.

Furthermore, by virtue of the positioning element the introduction of the interdental brush into the trigone between the tooth, the neighboring tooth, and the papilla is enabled without visual contact. The risk of injury is practically excluded by virtue of the positioning function and the orientation function of the positioning element. Furthermore, the interdental brush according to the invention, by virtue of the introduction and support function of the positioning element, also enables an introduction into the mouth at an oblique angle without any visual contact. The positioning element has a reference function which enables the interdental brush to be moved freely in a reciprocating manner through the approximal space as soon as the sliding introduction has taken place. A further advantage of the interdental brush according to the invention lies in that buckling of the cleaning body during the introduction is prevented since the positioning element, apart from the other functions thereof, also has a protective function in relation to the cleaning body. Finally, the positioning element has a plaque stripping function when the interdental brush is cleaned under running water.

While preferred embodiments of the invention have been described, it is to be pointed out that the invention within the scope of the claims hereunder can be implemented in other ways. Terms used in the description such as “preferable”, “in particular”, “advantageous”, etc. herein only refer to optional and exemplary embodiments.