Abstract:
Assemblies for storing and dispensing material, systems including an assembly and a composition, and methods of forming and using the assembly and systems are disclosed. An assembly may include a resilient vessel portion for storing material and a spout portion for directing the material as the material is dispensed from the system. The vessel portion and the spout portion may be formed separately and subsequently coupled together to form an assembly, or the vessel portion and the spout portion may be formed as a single unit.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS  
       [0001]     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60/800,638, entitled METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR FACILITATING ORAL HEALTH, filed May 15, 2006; U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60/800,631, entitled METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR FACILITATING AND MAINTAINING ORAL HEALTH THROUGH PRESCRIBED APPLICATIONS OF ORAL COMPOSITIONS, filed May 15, 2006; and U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60/863,913, entitled ASSEMBLY FOR DISPENSING MATERIAL, SYSTEM INCLUDING THE ASSEMBLY, AND METHODS OF USING AND FORMING THE ASSEMBLY AND SYSTEM, filed May 15, 2006. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
       [0002]     The present invention generally relates to assemblies for storing and dispensing materials. More particularly, the invention relates to assemblies for sealing material within a container and for controllably dispensing material from the container, to systems including the assemblies, and to methods of using and forming the assemblies and systems.  
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0003]     Many containers for storing and dispensing material are known. For example, sealed containers formed of resilient material, such as foil or plastic, are known. Material is often dispensed from such containers by rupturing (e.g., tearing) a portion of the container and squeezing a portion of the container to cause the material to flow through the ruptured portion of the container.  
         [0004]     Although these containers work well for several applications, they may be deficient for use in some applications. For example, the rupturing or tearing of the container can be unpredictable, which leads to an unpredictable opening in the container. As a result, flow and placement of material extruded from the container may be unpredictable and/or difficult to control.  
         [0005]     Accordingly, improved containers and systems including the containers are desired.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0006]     The present invention provides an improved assembly, system including one or more assemblies, and methods of using and forming assemblies and systems. More particularly, the invention provides an assembly for controllably dispensing material from a sealable container and a system including the assembly and material to be dispensed. The assembly and system of the present invention can be used in a variety of applications and are conveniently described herein in the context of sealably containing and delivering a material including an active ingredient to a desired location.  
         [0007]     While the ways in which the present invention addresses the disadvantages of the prior art will be discussed in greater detail below, in general, the present invention provides a convenient, easy-to-assemble sealable assembly, which allows precise dispensing of material to a desired location.  
         [0008]     In accordance with various examples of embodiments of the invention, an assembly includes a vessel portion, including a resilient, deformable vial, a neck and optionally a transition portion, and a spout portion including a cap and a spout. In accordance with some aspects of this embodiment, the assembly includes a separately-formed spout portion that sealably attaches to the vessel portion to form a dispensing assembly.  
         [0009]     In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, a vessel portion and a spout portion of an assembly are detachably coupled together. In accordance with various aspects of the embodiment, a neck of the vessel portion and a cap of the spout portion are configured to interference fit or snap fit together. In accordance with one aspect, one of the neck and the cap includes a first protrusion and the other of the neck and the cap includes a recess for receiving the first protrusion. In accordance with yet another aspect of this embodiment, the neck includes a second protrusion (e.g., a capping ring) to facilitate handling of the vessel portion and/or to thwart detachment of the cap from the vessel portion. In accordance with another aspect, the cap portion includes a sealing flange to form a detachable seal with the neck of the vessel portion. In accordance with other aspects, the neck and cap engage each other, using thread and/or lug techniques, to form a seal between the vessel and spout portions. And, in accordance with yet further aspects, once the vessel portion and the spout portion are coupled, the portions are sealed using, the sealing flange, a sealant, by heat sealing the two portions together, and/or the like.  
         [0010]     In accordance with an alternative embodiment of the invention, the cap of the spout portion rotatably couples to the neck of the vessel portion to form a rotatable seal between the vessel portion and the cap portion. In accordance with one aspect of this embodiment, one of the neck and the cap includes a first protrusion (e.g., a ring) and the other of the neck and the cap includes a recess for receiving the first protrusion. In accordance with other aspects, the vessel and the spout portions interference fit or snap-fit together to form a rotatable seal between the vessel portion and the spout portion. In accordance with yet another aspect of this embodiment, the neck includes a second protrusion (a capping ring) to facilitate handling of the vessel portion and/or to thwart detachment of the cap from the vessel portion. In accordance with yet a further aspect of this embodiment, the cap portion includes a sealing flange, which engages a top portion of the neck to form a rotatable seal.  
         [0011]     In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, a system includes an assembly and a dispensable material within the assembly. In accordance with various aspects of this embodiment, the material includes one or more active ingredients for oral health care. In accordance with additional aspects of this embodiment, the material is configured to remain in an oral cavity for an extended period of time. In accordance with other aspects, the material is a viscous material. Examples of viscous materials have a viscosity greater than about 20,000 cp, preferably greater than 30,000 cp, and more preferably greater than about 35,000 cp. The viscosity of the materials may range from about 20,000 to about 250,000 cp, preferably about 25,000 to about 100,000, and more preferably about 30,000 to about 50,000 cp. Suitable active ingredients include cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), zinc salts, other antimicrobial agents, and other ingredients known to improve (typically reduce) measurable oral health care indices. In accordance with additional aspects of this embodiment, the container encapsulates a single dose of the material. In accordance with yet further aspects, the container is configured to facilitate application of the material to specific areas within an oral cavity. In accordance with yet additional aspects of this embodiment, the system is designed to improve one or more oral health indices selected from the group of GI, PI, TI, SI, GBI, x-ray analysis, and probe pocket depth. In accordance with yet additional aspects, a system includes a material, having a plurality of active ingredients to measurably improve oral health, and a container to hold the material. In accordance with various aspects of this embodiment of the invention, the material includes a carrier having a thickening agent, wherein the material is configured to maintain the plurality of active ingredients in contact with a surface for an extended period of time. Examples of thickening agents suitable for use in the material include hydroxyethylcellulose, glycerin, and other pharmaceutically acceptable thickeners, and examples of active ingredients include CPC, zinc salts, other antimicrobial agents, and similar agents known to reduce tartar or plaque. In accordance with further aspects, a system includes a material, having one or more active ingredients to measurably improve oral health and a carrier including a thickening agent, and a container to hold the material. Examples of thickening agents suitable for use in the material include hydroxyethylcellulose, glycerin, and other pharmaceutically acceptable thickeners, and examples of active ingredients include CPC, zinc salts, other antimicrobial agents, and similar agents known to improve oral health. In accordance with yet further aspects, a system for measurably improving oral health includes a material, including a colorant indicative healthy gingiva and an active ingredient, and a container.  
         [0012]     In accordance with yet further embodiments of the invention, an assembly is formed by separately forming a vessel portion and a spout portion and subsequently coupling the vessel and spout portions to form an assembly. In accordance with various aspects of this embodiment, the vessel portion is formed using blow-molding and/or injection-molding techniques. In accordance with further aspects of this embodiment, the spout portion is formed using injection-molding techniques. In accordance with yet further aspects, the separately formed vessel and spout portions are sealably coupled together using interference-fit, snap-fit, thread, or lug fastening techniques.  
         [0013]     In accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention, a system is formed by forming a vessel portion, forming a spout portion, filling the vessel portion with material, and sealably attaching the spout portion to the vessel portion to form the system.  
         [0014]     In accordance with yet an additional embodiment of the invention, a method of using a system includes applying pressure to the vessel portion of a system to cause material to exit the system through the spout, which is rotatably and/or detachably coupled to the vessel portion. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0015]     A more complete understanding of the invention may be derived by referring to the detailed description, considered in connection with the figures, wherein like reference numbers refer to similar elements throughout the figures, and:  
         [0016]      FIG. 1  illustrates a side view of a system in accordance with various embodiments of the invention;  
         [0017]      FIG. 2  illustrates a cross-sectional view of an assembly or container in accordance with various embodiments of the invention;  
         [0018]      FIG. 3  illustrates a cross-sectional view of a spout or applicator portion in accordance with various embodiments of the invention;  
         [0019]      FIG. 4  illustrates a cross-sectional view of a vessel or expulsion portion in accordance with various embodiments of the invention;  
         [0020]      FIG. 5  illustrates a cross-sectional view of an assembly or container in accordance with various embodiments of the invention;  
         [0021]      FIG. 6  illustrates a side view of an example of an assembly or container system in accordance with various embodiments of the invention;  
         [0022]      FIGS. 7A-7D  illustrate, respectively, left view, front view, right view and a top view of an example of a container system in accordance with various embodiments of the invention;  
         [0023]      FIGS. 8A and 8B  illustrate, respectively, a perspective view and top view of an example of a storage system for facilitating and maintaining oral health care through regular applications of oral compositions in accordance with various embodiments of the invention; and  
         [0024]      FIG. 9  illustrates a block diagram of an example of a method for facilitating and maintaining oral health care through regular applications of oral compositions in accordance with various embodiments of the invention. 
     
    
       [0025]     Elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. The dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of embodiments of the present invention.  
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION  
       [0026]     The present invention provides an improved assembly for containing and dispensing material and a system including the assembly. As described in more detail below, the assembly provides a convenient, easy-to-use container and applicator for use with a variety of materials and applications. For example, the system can be used to contain and dispense oral care materials to a gum/tooth interface and surrounding areas within an oral cavity.  
         [0027]      FIG. 1  and  FIG. 2  illustrate a system  100 , including an assembly or container  102  and a material or composition  104 , in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. System  100  can be used to dispense material  104 , such as liquid, a semi liquid, or dry granule materials, to a desired location using assembly  102 . In addition, system  100  can provide protection to material  104  from, for example, moisture, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and the like, during storage.  
         [0028]     Assembly  102  includes a vessel or expulsion portion  106  and an elongated spout or applicator portion  108 . As discussed in more detail below, vessel portion  106  and spout portion  108  may be separately formed and coupled together to form assembly  102 . Separately forming vessel portion  106  and spout portion  108  may facilitate filling assembly  102  with material  104 , facilitate manufacture of the assembly, and may also facilitate dispensing material  104  to a desired location.  
         [0029]     Vessel portion  106  may be formed of a variety of resilient materials, which preferably retain and return to their original structure when not under pressure, such as various types of plastics, foils, and the like. In accordance with one embodiment, vessel portion  106  is formed of thermoplastic resin, such as low-density polyethylene. Other thermoplastic materials suitable for use for vessel portion  106  may include high density polyethylene, medium density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, K resin, polyethylene terephthalate and copolyesters, polypropylene, surlyn, silicones and other thermoplastics. Portion  106  may be opaque, transparent, or semitransparent. An advantage of forming vessel portion  106  of transparent or semitransparent material is that an amount of material  104  within vessel portion  106  can be ascertained when the portion is formed of such material. Material used to form vessel portion  106  may also include UV protection additives, colorants, or the like. When used to dispense food, drugs, supplements, or the like, vessel portion  106  is preferably formed of FDA-approved material.  
         [0030]     In accordance with various embodiments of the invention, vessel portion  106  includes a resilient vial  110 , a neck  112  (see  FIG. 4 ), and an optional transition portion  114 . Resilient vial  110  acts as a reservoir for material  104  and also facilitates expulsion of material from assembly  102  when pressure is applied to an external surface of vial  110 . Neck  112  is configured to couple to spout portion  108 , and transition portion  114  connects vial  110  to neck  112 .  
         [0031]     Although illustrated as substantially tubular, with a semispherical, sealed end  116 , resilient vial  110  may be of any suitable shape. For example, vial  110  may be pyramidal, cone shaped, fluted, or have a rectangular cross section. Similarly, end portion  116  may be of any suitable shape, such as linear (e.g., a crimped end) or the like. In general, preferred shapes of vial  110  conserve material used to form the vial, allow for easy dispensing of material  104 , are easy to produce, and produce relatively little scrap during production. Further, a size of vial  110  may be selected for a particular application. For example, a size of vial  110  may be selected for application of a single dose of material.  
         [0032]     Transition section  114  is the portion of vessel portion  106  between vial  110  and neck  112 . Transition portion  114  may be of any suitable shape such as frustro-conical, fluted, and the like.  
         [0033]     Although not illustrated, systems in accordance with various embodiments of the invention may include tamper-resistant features. For example, system  100  may include a seal formed over neck  112 , using, for example plastic or foil glued to or otherwise adhered to a top portion of neck  112 . Alternatively, after spout portion  108  is attached to vessel portion  106 , the two portions may be fused together using heat sealing and/or adhesive techniques.  
         [0034]     Spout portion  108  includes a cap  118  and a spout  120 , which has an end portion  122 . As described in more detail below, cap  118  is configured to attach to neck  112  of vessel portion  106 .  
         [0035]     Cap  118  may be configured in any suitable shape that sealably couples to neck  112 . In accordance with the illustrated embodiment, cap  118  fits over an exterior portion of neck  112 . However, neck  112  and cap  118  may alternatively be configured such that cap  118  sealably attaches to an interior portion of neck  112 .  
         [0036]     An example of cap  118  includes a circular cross section; however, cap  118  may suitably be configured in other shapes, such as, for example, having a square, rectangular, or triangular cross section. Cap  18  may also include a decorative skirt on an exterior portion  119 .  
         [0037]     Spout  120  is configured to facilitate placement and controlled flow of material dispensed from system  100 . Spout  120  may be substantially cylindrical, as illustrated. Alternatively, spout  120  may have a square, rectangular, ellipse, or other cross-section configuration. Spout  120  may also include a weakened section  126 , which may be formed, for example, by scaring a portion of spout  120 . Weakened section  126  may facilitate rupturing spout  120  at weakened section  126 , which in turn allows for a predicable cross section of spout  120  and thus a relatively predictable flow of material dispense from system  100 . Having a substantially constant cross-section of spout  120 , as illustrated, also makes the flow more predictable, even if spout  120  is ruptured away from weakened area  126 .  
         [0038]     As illustrated, spout  120  may form an angle relative to an axis, A-A, illustrated in  FIG. 2 . In accordance with various embodiments of the invention, spout  120  forms an angle of about 0 degrees to about 80 degrees from axis A-A, preferably about 0 degrees to about 55 degrees, and more preferably about 40 degrees to about 55 degrees. In accordance with one specific example, spout  120  forms an angle of about 48 degrees relative to axis A-A.  
         [0039]     End portion  122  forms a sealed end at one end of spout  120 . In accordance with various embodiments of the invention, end portion  122  is flat and wider than an interior portion  124  of spout  120 . Having end portion  120  wider than spout  120  allows a user to grip end  122  to, for example, tear spout  120  at weakened section  126 . However, end  122  may be alternatively configured as, for example, a semisphere or other suitable shape.  
         [0040]     Spout portion  108  may be formed using a variety of materials, such as any of the materials described above in connection with vessel portion  106 . Examples of materials include polypropylene, high density prolethylene, low density polyethylene, medium density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, impact polystyrene, surlyn, silicone, K resin, nylon, copolyester, and similar materials. However, because spout portion  108  may be formed separately from vessel portion  106 , it need not be formed of the same material.  
         [0041]     In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, vessel portion  106  and spout portion  108  are configured to sealably (and optionally rotatably) couple to each other. In accordance with various aspects of this embodiment, one of neck  112  and cap  118  includes a protrusion and the other of neck  112  and cap  118  includes a recess to receive the protrusion, such that the protrusion and recess hold vessel portion  102  and spout portion  108  together, while optionally allowing the two portions to rotate about an axis, with respect to each other. In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, neck  112  and cap  118  are configured to allow vessel portion  106  and spout portion  108  to be detachably coupled to each other. In this case, neck  112  and cap  118  may be snap-fit together as described above, or one of neck  112  and cap  118  may include an external threaded portion and the other of neck and  112  and cap  118  may include an internal portion (e.g., a threaded portion) to threadably receive the other portion, such that neck  112  and cap  118  form a seal when the two parts are threadably engaged. In accordance with yet other embodiments, neck portion  112  and cap  118  may engage using lug or interference-fit technology.  
         [0042]      FIG. 3  and  FIG. 4  respectfully illustrate spout portion  108  and vessel portion  106 , in greater detail, in accordance with various embodiments of the invention.  
         [0043]      FIG. 3  illustrates a cross-sectional view of spout portion  108 . Portion  108  is configured such that an interior surface  302  of spout  120  is fluidly coupled to an interior portion  304  of cap  118 . In the illustrated embodiment, first end  306  of spout  120  is fluidly coupled to cap  118  and forms an angle relative to axis A-A, and second distal end  122  is along an axis B-B from first end  306 .  
         [0044]     In the illustrated embodiment, cap  118  includes a sealing flange  308  in the form of a protruding ring about interior surface  304  of cap  118 , and a protrusion  310 , also in the form of a ring on interior surface  304 . Flange  308  is located near an upper surface  312  of interior surface  304  of cap  118  and is preferably angled away from surface  312  of cap  118 , such that when spout portion  108  is coupled to vessel portion  106 , flange  308  forms a seal with a top  402  ( FIG. 4 ) of neck  112 . In accordance with an alternate embodiment of the invention, cap  118  and neck  112  may be sealably connected using a valve seal.  
         [0045]     Protrusion  310  is configured to fit within a recess  404  within neck  112 . In the illustrated embodiment, protrusion  310  and recess  404  are configured, such that spout portion  108  and vessel portion  106  are sealably and (optionally) rotatably coupled together—e.g., in a snap-fit manner.  FIG. 5  illustrates an alternative configuration of assembly  102 , in which neck  112  includes a protrusion  502 , which is received by a recess  504  within cap  118 .  
         [0046]     As illustrated in  FIGS. 1, 4 , and  5 , neck  112  of vessel portion  106  also includes a capping ring  132 . Capping ring  132  allows production equipment to hold and support vessel portion  106  during production, reduces tampering with system  100  by making it more difficult to remove spout portion  108  from vessel portion  106 , and may act as a stop when spout portion  108  is attached to vessel portion  106 , by preventing spout portion  106  from moving too far down neck  112  of vessel portion  106 .  
         [0047]     In accordance with additional embodiments of the invention, system  100  is formed by separately forming vessel portion  106  and spout portion  108 , filling vessel portion  106  with material  104 , and attaching spout portion  108  to vessel portion  106 . Vessel portion  106  may be formed using a variety of techniques. By way of particular examples, vessel portion  106  is formed using blow-molding, injection-molding techniques, such that vessel portion  104  includes a relatively thin-walled vial section  110  and a relatively thick-walled neck  112 . Vessel portion may alternatively be formed using extrusion blow-molding techniques.  
         [0048]     Spout portion  108  can also be formed using a variety of techniques. By way of one example, spout portion  108  is formed using injection-molding techniques, such that cap  118  and elongated spout  120  are formed in a single process step. After portion  108  is formed, a portion of spout  120  is sealed to form sealed end  122  and another portion of spout  120  is scared to form weakened section  126 . Sealed end  122  may be formed, for example, using heat, ultrasonic waves, a laser, or any combination of such techniques.  
         [0049]     Once vessel portion  106  and/or spout portion  108  are formed, information may be printed on the respective portion, using ink jet, silk screen, paper label, a shrink band, or similar techniques.  
         [0050]     With reference to  FIG. 6 , in accordance with another exemplary embodiment, a container  600  includes an expulsion portion  602  that can comprise a plastic-type, cylinder or tube-like structure  602 A that suitably encloses a composition and can be squeezed or otherwise forced for expulsing composition into an applicator portion  604 . For example, a tube-like structure can be easily gripped with the fingers or hand and squeezed to force any composition within to be transferred into applicator portion  604 .  
         [0051]     While expulsion portion  602  can suitably comprise a cylinder or tube-like shape  602 A, expulsion portion  602  can also comprise a rectangular shape, a substantially flat-like shape, e.g., that similar to a hot water bottle, or any other shape that can contain or store a composition and allow for the expulsion of the composition by a force. In addition, while such a force can be suitably applied on an exterior of expulsion portion  602 , e.g., similar to “squeezing” a tube of toothpaste approximate a center-section or on one end and rolling or collapsing the tube, such an expulsion force can also be realized by urging a plunger-like device against, e.g., much like a syringe, or any other like manner wherein the amount of force and/or the rate or expulsion or delivery into applicator portion  604  can be suitably controlled.  
         [0052]     Container  600  can include an applicator portion  604  that is suitably molded in a unitary structure with expulsion portion  602 . For example, container  600  can comprise an injection molded tube-like structure for portions  602  and  604 . In accordance with other embodiments, applicator portion  604  can suitably comprise a separate component that is suitably screwed, press-fit, clamped or otherwise permanently, semi-permanently or removably attached to expulsion portion  602 .  
         [0053]     In accordance with an example of an embodiment, applicator portion  604  comprises a passive structure to allow a composition to be forced through an applicator tip  612  and onto a surface. For example, applicator portion  604  can comprise a semi-rigid or substantially rigid tube-like component  604 A configured to allow composition to flow to applicator tip  612  upon an expulsion force being applied to expulsion component  602 . In other embodiments, applicator portion  604  can also be configured as a less-rigid or otherwise expulsive component to allow for any remaining composition within applicator portion  604  to be suitably squeezed or otherwise delivered or applied by applicator tip  612  onto a surface.  
         [0054]     Applicator tip  612  suitably comprises an opening at a discharge end of applicator  604  to allow for any composition to be discharged or otherwise delivered from the opening and applied to a surface. A composition can be discharged from applicator tip  612  and applied to surface, such as by tilting container  600 . As such, the composition can be targeted for delivery onto a region at selected amounts and/or locations to achieve a desired treatment, while avoiding other areas of the oral cavity that composition is not to be applied or needed. In accordance with an example of an embodiment, applicator tip  612  can suitably comprise a similar shape or configuration to that of portion  604 A, e.g., a tube structure; however, applicator tip  612  can also comprise a narrower or wider cross-sectional configuration. For example, tip  612  may include a disposable break-away portion, as is described in greater detail herein.  
         [0055]     Referring to  FIGS. 7A-7D , a system  700  in accordance with another embodiment is illustrated. System  700  is similar to system  600 , except system  700  includes an angled spout portion  704  and an access/closure portion  706 , can comprise a detachable device that suitably separates at a region  706 A such that an applicator tip  712  is exposed. To gain access, a user can simply grip and detach, e.g., by pulling, bending, twisting and/or other like separating action, to remove access portion  706  from applicator portion  704 . Access portion  706  can be completely detached and removed or discarded, or substantially detached such as by bending backwards to provide an opening and yet remain connected with at least some portion adjacent applicator tip  712 .  
         [0056]     In accordance with an example of an embodiment, access portion  706  can suitably comprise a tab component  708  configured to allow a user to simply grip and detach. Tab component  708  can comprise various shapes, thicknesses and sizes for facilitating easier removal of access portion  706  from applicator portion  704 . Tab component  708  further comprises a closed end, i.e., without an opening or otherwise configured to facilitate a sealed closure of applicator portion  704 . Having tab component  704  can making gripping of access portion  706  easier, although other examples of embodiments can be configured without tab component  708 , such as access portion  706  having substantially the same shape, cross-sectional area and/or configuration of applicator portion  704 .  
         [0057]     In  FIGS. 7A-7D , access portion  706  comprises a detachable component that remains detached, e.g., region  706 A and applicator tip  712  are not made for re-attachment. Such embodiments may be desirable for single or other short term uses. In accordance with other examples of embodiments, access portion  706  can comprise a re-attachable configuration in which a detached region can be suitably screwed, clamped, press-fit or otherwise re-attached to applicator portion  704 , such as to enable re-use over a period of days. In addition, to prevent misplacement after detaching or opening, access portion  706  can comprise a strap portion that surrounds or is otherwise attached to applicator portion  704  or any other part of container  700  that allows for access portion  704  to be suitably found and used to reseal or close applicator portion  704  after use.  
         [0058]     Referring now to  FIGS. 8A and 8B , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment a kit  800  includes an application tray  850  and a plurality of containers. The kit may include any suitable number or supply of containers. In the illustrated embodiment, kit  800  includes a two-week daily supply of containers  804 , each such container  804  suitably stored or maintained within a plurality of compartments  852 . The size and shape of compartments  852  can be configured in various arrangements, e.g., square or rectangular, circular or other like shapes, to suitably contain containers  804  within during transporting or other uses of application tray  850 . In addition, application tray  850 , including compartments  852 , can comprise various materials, such as paperboard, plastics, thin-alloys, fiberglass, or other composites, or any combination of materials thereof, for providing the storage functions.  
         [0059]     To further secure containers  804  within application tray  850 , in accordance with an example of an embodiment, each compartment  852  can be configured with an opening, e.g., the spacing between compartment sides  852 A, only slightly larger than an outer circumference or perimeter of containers  804  to facilitate a snug or tight fit when containers  804  are placed within compartments  852 . In accordance with another example of an embodiment, each compartment  852  can also comprise a carved-out, bottom portion having a shape substantially conforming to a bottom shape of containers  804  to facilitate a snug or otherwise secure fit within compartments  852 . Such carved-out bottom portions can comprise various paperboard, plastics, e.g., Styrofoam, or other like composites capable of providing a substantially conforming shape with containers  804 .  
         [0060]     To facilitate tracking of usage of containers  804 , an example of an application tray  850  can be configured for identifying and displaying a prescribed period for systematic application of containers to facilitate compliance with a prescribed treatment plan. For example, in accordance with the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 8A , application tray  850  can comprise one or more period indicators  854 A and  854 B, e.g., a first week and a second week of a two-week supply, as well as single-dose container indicators  856 , e.g., the days of the week. Thus, for example, for a two-week supply of single-dose containers  804  prescribed for daily use, a user can simply retrieve a single container  804  beginning on the first day of the week, i.e., Sunday, and selectively apply to a targeted area of an oral cavity interface, and discard that container  804  after use, followed by retrieval, application and use of remaining containers  804  as the weeks progress until the two-week supply is exhausted.  
         [0061]     While the application tray  850  illustrated in  FIGS. 8A and 8B  comprises a two-week supply, shorter or longer periods of treatment and/or shorter or longer time periods between applications of containers  804  can also be provided within application trays  850 . For example, application tray  850  can be configured to store and maintain a one-week supply, a month supply, three-month supply, or a year-supply, or any other shorter or longer prescribed periods depending on the prescribed treatment plan. In addition, the time period between prescribed uses of containers  804  can be configured for a morning and an evening/nighttime use, e.g., a.m. and p.m. indicators  856 , or over periods of every one, two or three days or longer. In accordance with an example of an embodiment, application trays  850  can be configured for stacking, e.g., with a top cover surrounding containers  804  and/or with sides  852  extending to a height at least as long as the vertical length of containers  804 . Such application trays  850  can be configured for discarding after use of all containers  804  within, or for restocking with new containers  804  ready for selective application of composition.  
         [0062]     In an example of an embodiment, application tray  850  provides an integrated recordation device for further tracking usage of a plurality of containers  804 , for example, to determine how many containers  804  have been used within a prescribed period of treatment, e.g., within two-week periods  854 A and  854 B, and/or how many containers  804  are remaining to be used within the prescribed period, e.g., indicators  856  can indicate that three containers  856  have been used, and that four days of containers  804  are remaining. A recordation device can also comprise a separate component, for example, an information and/or recordation display card that can be suitably folded or otherwise inserted within or coupled to application tray  850  that allows a user to mark-off, e.g., with a writing instrument or through puncture of use indicators configured within the display card.  
         [0063]     Regardless of whether integrated within an application tray or comprising a separate component, a recordation device can also comprise other related information about a composition and/or a prescribed treatment plan. For example, information regarding the expiration or expectancy of effective use of composition  104  can be suitably configured on application tray  850  or otherwise on a separate display card, as well as a summary or detailed explanation of the prescribed treatment plan and/or instructions on how to selectively apply composition  104  depending on the target area of an oral cavity interface.  
         [0064]     Referring to  FIG. 9 , as well as continuing reference to  FIGS. 7A-7D , a method  900  of facilitating and maintaining oral health care through regular applications of oral compositions can include providing prescribed dosages of any composition within a plurality of containers ( 902 ), retrieving a single container and accessing a composition within the container ( 904 ), and selectively applying a composition to a surface and discarding of used container ( 906 ).  
         [0065]     Providing prescribed dosages of a composition within a plurality of containers can comprise any method now known or hereinafter devised for filling containers with a substantially liquid or other like composition. For example, composition  104  can be suitably filled in one end of container  702  and then sealed to maintain composition  104  within container  702 . In addition, providing composition  104  within container  702  can include providing a single and/or daily dose of composition  104 , or multiple doses of composition  104 .  
         [0066]     Retrieving a single container  702  and accessing composition  104  within the container  102  may include retrieval from a storage system and removal of an access or closure device or component from container  702 . For example, in accordance with an example of an embodiment, retrieval from a storage system can comprise retrieval from an application tray  850 , while accessing composition  104  within container  702  comprises detachably removing of an access component, e.g., access portion  706 , to provide an applicator tip.  
         [0067]     Selectively applying composition  104  to an oral cavity interface and discarding of used container  702  can suitably comprise expulsing or otherwise forcing or delivering composition  104  from a storage portion to an applicator portion of container  702 . For example, in accordance with an example of an embodiment, composition  104  can be “squeezed” from an expulsion portion, such as expulsion portion  712 , into an applicator portion, such as  704 , through an applicator tip, such as  704  and onto a targeted region of oral cavity interface. In accordance with another example of an embodiment, applying with an applicator portion  704  can be realized through an angled portion configured to facilitate targeted placement of composition  104 . After such use, a container  702  can be suitably discarded and a next prescribed use can be initiated with a new, filled container  702 . As a result, regular and/or systematic use systems described herein at one or more target regions can result in improved oral health.  
         [0068]     As noted above, systems in accordance with the invention include material e.g., material  104  within an assembly—e.g., assembly  102 . In accordance with various exemplary embodiments of the invention, material  104  includes an active ingredient, such as an active oral care ingredient. As explained in greater detail below, exemplary material  104  is designed to maintain the active ingredient in contact with a surface for an extended period of time to allow the active ingredient(s) to stay in contact with possibly affected areas on the surface.  
         [0069]     In accordance with various aspects of this embodiment, the active ingredients include one or more of the following: cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), dicalcium phosphate dehydrate, hydrogen peroxide, sanguinaria extract, sodium bicarbonate, sodium lauryl sulfate, stannous fluoride, zinc salts such as zinc chloride, zinc acetate, zinc citrate, and zinc gluconate, zinc oxide, alkyl dimethyl amine oxide, alkyl dimethyl glycine, eucalyptol, menthol, methyl salicylate, thymol, sodium citrate, peppermint oil, sage oil, polymethylsiloxane, polxamer, and stannous pyrophosphate.  
         [0070]     An amount of the active ingredient varies in accordance with the dosage size and particular ingredient. In accordance with particular examples, an active ingredient is present in an amount of about 0.001 wt % to about 1.5 wt %, preferably about 0.025 wt % to about 1.0 wt %, and more preferably, about 0.05 wt % to about 0.7 wt %. All percentages set forth herein are in weight percent of the total material, unless otherwise indicated.  
         [0071]     In accordance with particular examples of this exemplary embodiment of the invention, the active ingredient includes CPC. In this case, the CPC is present in an amount of about 0.001% to about 1%, preferably about 0.01% to about 0.5%, and more preferably about 0.05% to about 0.25% or about 0.045% to about 0.10%.  
         [0072]     In accordance with other examples, the active ingredient includes zinc gluconate. In this case, the zinc gluconate is present in an amount of about 0.001% to about 1.5%, preferably about 0.01% to about 1.0%, and more preferably about 0.05% to about 0.75%.  
         [0073]     In accordance with further aspects, the material includes a thickener to obtain the desired viscosity. Suitable thickening agents include substances which increases the viscosity of the material, cause the material to gel or coagulate, or the like, such as food-grade or pharmaceutical grade thickeners, including, for example, hydroxyethylcellulose, glycerin, carrageenan, guar gum, methylcellulose, methyethylecellulose, aloe vera, and the like. The thickener is present in an amount of about 0.01 to about 10%, preferably about 0.1 to about 7%, and more preferably about 1% to about 5% or about 0.5% to about 3%.  
         [0074]     The material may also include a humectant such a glycerin, which may be present in an amount of about 0.01% to about 15%, preferably about 0.1% to about 10%, and more preferably about 1 to about 7%. When used, the humectant may facilitate maintaining the material in a liquid form and may help maintain a desired viscosity of the material. In addition, glycerin may facilitate maintaining one or more of the active ingredients in an ionic form and may facilitate the transport of the active ingredients through the material.  
         [0075]     The composition may also include a diluent. Exemplary diluents suitable for use with the present composition include Sorbitol, Xylitol, Mannitol, water, alcohols, and oils. In accordance with particular examples of the invention, the composition includes purified water in an amount of about 80% to about 99%, preferably about 85% to about 95%, and more preferably about 88% to about 92%.  
         [0076]     Composition  104  may also include sugar alcohols such as sorbitol and xylitol, monnital, lactitol, and the like that act as a sweetener and also as a humectant and/or emulsifier. When used, sorbitol or other sugar alcohol can be present in an amount of about 0.001% to about 0.5%, in an amount of about 0.01% to about 0.1%, or even in an amount of about 0.025% to about 0.075%. Compositions in accordance with the invention may alternatively includes a greater percentage of sugar alcohol(s).  
         [0077]     Composition  104  may also include a natural or artificial sweetener such as Magnasweet, cyclamates, sucralose, saccharin (e.g., sodium or calcium), ace-k, or aspartame which, when included in composition  104 , can be present in an amount of about 0.001% to about 1.5%, in an amount of about 0.01% to about 1%, or even in an amount of about 0.25% to about 0.75%.  
         [0078]     Colorants may also be added to the material as desired. In accordance with various aspects, the material includes colorants, such that when the material is applied to or proximate the gingiva, the material has a color indicative of healthy gingiva—i.e., the material is pink in color. Providing a material having a color indicative of healthy gingiva provides added incentive to users to continue using the material, which in turn promotes measurable improvement in oral health indices. Additionally or alternatively, colorants, which are indicative of flavor may be added to the composition. Examples include FD&amp;C Blue #1, D&amp;C Green #5, FD&amp;C Yellow #5, and FD&amp;C Yellow #6.  
         [0079]     The material also optionally includes flavorants such as cinnamon bark oil, clove bud oil, mint flavorings, citrus flavorings, and the like. By way of one particular example, a material includes cinnamon bark oil present in an about of about 0.001% to about 2%, preferably about 0.01% to about 1%, and more preferably about 0.1% to about 0.5%; and clove bud oil in an amount of about 0.001% to about 2%, preferably about 0.002% to about 1%, and more preferably about 0.003% to about 0.0075%.  
         [0080]     The viscosity of the material is configured to maintain the material in contact with a surface for an extended period of time, which has several advantages over traditional materials used to promote oral health. For example, because the material is viscous and “sticks” to a surface to which it is applied, relatively small amounts of the material and consequently the active agent(s) can be used to effectively prevent or remove plaque and/or tartar buildup on a surface. This is advantageous, not only from an economic viewpoint, but it also reduces an amount of the material that may be ingested. Additionally, the viscosity of the material enables easy delivery of the material from its container, while also facilitating maintaining the material in contact particular areas within an oral cavity, such as the crevices within teeth and between the teeth and gingiva. In accordance with further embodiments of the invention, the viscosity is low enough to allow application of the material to desired locations within the oral cavity.  
         [0081]     Exemplary materials have a viscosity greater than about 20,000 cp, preferably greater than 30,000 cp, and more preferably greater than about 35,000 cp. By way of more particular examples, the viscosity of materials range from about 20,000 to about 250,000 cp, preferably about 25,000 to about 100,000, and more preferably about 30,000 to about 50,000 cp, and yet more preferably about 35,000 to about 45,000 cp. The viscosity values as set forth herein are measured at 77 F (25 C) using Spindle #6 at 10 RPM using a Brookfield, Model DV-II+ Pro, spindle # 6, 10 RPM for 90 seconds at 25 C.  
         [0082]     By way of example, a material in accordance with this embodiment of the invention includes CPC and zinc gluconate as the active ingredients and hydroxyethylcellulose as the thickener. In one case, the CPC is present in an amount of about 0.001% to about 1%, preferably about 0.01% to about 0.5%, and more preferably about 0.05% to about 0.25% or about 0.045% to about 0.1%; the zinc gluconate is present in an amount of about 0.001% to about 1.5%, preferably about 0.01% to about 1.0%, and more preferably about 0.05% to about 0.75%; and the hydroxyethylcellulose is present in an amount of an amount of about 0.01 to about 10%, preferably about 0.1 to about 7%, and more preferably about 1% to about 5%.  
         [0083]     The present invention has been described above with reference to examples of embodiments. Changes and modifications may be made to the embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, some embodiments of the present invention have been described in connection with snap-fit connections. However, other techniques, such as tread and lug techniques, for connecting sections of an example of an assembly are also within the scope of the invention. Further, any element of an embodiment discussed above may be combined in any manner with any other element of any other embodiment discussed above. These and other changes or modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.