Patent Publication Number: US-2022226088-A1

Title: Portable tooth cleaning system

Description:
FIELD 
     This disclosure relates to systems and methods for dental hygiene. More specifically, the disclosed embodiments relate to toothbrush systems used by dental hygienists and other caregivers. 
     INTRODUCTION 
     Individuals living in long-term care facilities, such as the elderly and people with physical and/or cognitive disabilities, often have difficulties performing hygiene activities involving fine motor control. Activities such as tooth brushing, which requires small, targeted arm and hand movements, may be challenging or impossible for people with conditions affecting motor function. In some examples, hygiene activities such as tooth brushing must be performed by attendants or nursing aides, as an individual may lack the physical or cognitive ability to perform the required tasks. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present disclosure provides systems, apparatuses, and methods relating to self-contained, portable tooth cleaning systems. 
     A portable electric toothbrush system according to aspects of the present disclosure may include: an electric toothbrush having a head portion coupled to a handle, the head portion including a brush, an irrigation nozzle, and a scavenging port; a portable enclosure housing a first pump and a waste tank, the portable enclosure being coupled to the toothbrush by at least one flexible tube and comprising a sleeve, such that the portable enclosure is configured to be releasably securable to an arm of a user; and a water supply tank coupled to the irrigation nozzle of the electric toothbrush; wherein the at least one flexible tube includes a scavenging tube coupled at a first end to the scavenging port of the toothbrush and at a second end to the waste tank. 
     A portable electric toothbrush system according to aspects of the present disclosure may include: an electric toothbrush having a head portion coupled to a handle, the head portion including a brush and a scavenging port; a portable enclosure housing a vacuum pump coupled to a waste tank, the portable enclosure being coupled to the toothbrush by a flexible scavenging tube and comprising an arm sleeve configured to hold the portable enclosure to a forearm of a user; and a portable power supply electrically coupled to the vacuum pump; wherein the scavenging tube is coupled at a first end to the scavenging port of the toothbrush and at a second end to the waste tank. 
     A method for brushing the teeth of a subject according to aspects of the present disclosure may include: placing a brush end of an electric toothbrush into contact with one or more teeth in a mouth of the subject, wherein the electric toothbrush includes an irrigation nozzle and a scavenging port, and the electric toothbrush is coupled to a forearm-mounted enclosure housing a waste collection system; irrigating the mouth of the subject by pumping water from a water supply tank through the irrigation nozzle of the toothbrush; and scavenging waste from the mouth of the subject by pumping liquid through the scavenging port to the waste collection system. 
     Features, functions, and advantages may be achieved independently in various embodiments of the present disclosure, or may be combined in yet other embodiments, further details of which can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic diagram of a first illustrative tooth cleaning system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 2  is an isometric view of an arm-mounted portion of a second illustrative tooth cleaning system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 3  is an isometric view of the illustrative tooth cleaning system of  FIG. 2 , illustrated with respect to a torso of a user. 
         FIG. 4  is an end view of an arm-mounted portion of the tooth cleaning system of  FIG. 2 , illustrated with the scavenge reservoir removed. 
         FIG. 5  is a side view of interior components of an arm-mounted portion of the tooth cleaning system of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 6  is a top view of interior components of an arm-mounted portion of the tooth cleaning system of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 7  is an isometric view of a third illustrative tooth cleaning system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 8  is an end view of an arm-mounted portion of the tooth cleaning system of  FIG. 7 , illustrated with the scavenge reservoir removed. 
         FIG. 9  is a side view of interior components of an arm-mounted portion of the tooth cleaning system of  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 10  is a top view of interior components of an arm-mounted portion of the tooth cleaning system of  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 11  is an isometric view of a fourth illustrative tooth cleaning system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12  is an end view of an arm-mounted portion of the tooth cleaning system of  FIG. 11 , illustrated with the scavenge reservoir removed. 
         FIG. 13  is a side view of interior components of an arm-mounted portion of the tooth cleaning system of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 14  is a top view of interior components of an arm-mounted portion of the tooth cleaning system of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 15  is a is a flow chart depicting steps of an illustrative method for cleaning teeth according to the present teachings. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Various aspects and examples of a tooth cleaning system, as well as related methods, are described below and illustrated in the associated drawings. Unless otherwise specified, a tooth cleaning system in accordance with the present teachings, and/or its various components, may contain at least one of the structures, components, functionalities, and/or variations described, illustrated, and/or incorporated herein. Furthermore, unless specifically excluded, the process steps, structures, components, functionalities, and/or variations described, illustrated, and/or incorporated herein in connection with the present teachings may be included in other similar devices and methods, including being interchangeable between disclosed embodiments. The following description of various examples is merely illustrative in nature and is in no way intended to limit the disclosure, its application, or uses. Additionally, the advantages provided by the examples and embodiments described below are illustrative in nature and not all examples and embodiments provide the same advantages or the same degree of advantages. 
     This Detailed Description includes the following sections, which follow immediately below: (1) Definitions; (2) Overview; (3) Examples, Components, and Alternatives; (4) Advantages, Features, and Benefits; and (5) Conclusion. The Examples, Components, and Alternatives section is further divided into subsections, each of which is labeled accordingly. 
     Definitions 
     The following definitions apply herein, unless otherwise indicated. 
     “Comprising,” “including,” and “having” (and conjugations thereof) are used interchangeably to mean including but not necessarily limited to, and are open-ended terms not intended to exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. 
     Terms such as “first”, “second”, and “third” are used to distinguish or identify various members of a group, or the like, and are not intended to show serial or numerical limitation. 
     “AKA” means “also known as,” and may be used to indicate an alternative or corresponding term for a given element or elements. 
     “Elongate” or “elongated” refers to an object or aperture that has a length greater than its own width, although the width need not be uniform. For example, an elongate slot may be elliptical or stadium-shaped, and an elongate candlestick may have a height greater than its tapering diameter. As a negative example, a circular aperture would not be considered an elongate aperture. 
     “Coupled” means connected, either permanently or releasably, whether directly or indirectly through intervening components. 
     “Resilient” describes a material or structure configured to respond to normal operating loads (e.g., when compressed) by deforming elastically and returning to an original shape or position when unloaded. 
     “Rigid” describes a material or structure configured to be stiff, non-deformable, or substantially lacking in flexibility under normal operating conditions. 
     “Elastic” describes a material or structure configured to spontaneously resume its former shape after being stretched or expanded. 
     Directional terms such as “up,” “down,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and the like should be understood in the context of the particular object in question. For example, an object may be oriented around defined X, Y, and Z axes. In those examples, the X-Y plane will define horizontal, with up being defined as the positive Z direction and down being defined as the negative Z direction. 
     “Providing,” in the context of a method, may include receiving, obtaining, purchasing, manufacturing, generating, processing, preprocessing, and/or the like, such that the object or material provided is in a state and configuration for other steps to be carried out. 
     In this disclosure, one or more publications, patents, and/or patent applications may be incorporated by reference. However, such material is only incorporated to the extent that no conflict exists between the incorporated material and the statements and drawings set forth herein. In the event of any such conflict, including any conflict in terminology, the present disclosure is controlling. 
     Overview 
     In general, a self-contained tooth cleaning system in accordance with the present teachings may include a handheld toothbrush portion coupled to an arm-mounted module by tubing. Collectively, the system includes an oscillating toothbrush head, an irrigation system, and a suction system. Generally, the oscillating toothbrush head is disposed on the handheld toothbrush, and the irrigation system is disposed in the arm-mounted module. The irrigation system may include components of one or both of the handheld toothbrush and the arm-mounted module. Tubes extend between the arm-mounted module and ports disposed adjacent to the oscillating toothbrush head. An irrigation tube transports water from a water reservoir disposed either within the handheld toothbrush portion or within the arm-mounted module to an irrigation port. A suction (AKA scavenge) tube transports waste (e.g., water, bodily fluids, food waste, etc.) from a scavenge port to a scavenge reservoir disposed in or on the arm-mounted module. In general, systems of the present disclosure are self-contained in the sense that they do not require an interface with any other system to function fully, e.g., drainage, power, water source, etc., are included within the toothbrush, arm-mounted module, and interconnecting structures. 
     The handheld toothbrush portion includes an oscillating toothbrush head coupled to a toothbrush housing. The oscillating toothbrush head includes bristles and/or brushes coupled to a stem, which is caused to oscillate by a motor coupled to (e.g., disposed in) the toothbrush housing. The oscillating toothbrush head is configured to clean the teeth of a patient by providing brush agitation against surfaces of the patient&#39;s teeth. In some examples, the motor is powered by a plurality of batteries (e.g., housed within the toothbrush housing). In some examples, the toothbrush housing includes a charging port disposed at a bottom end of the housing, which is configured to mate with a charging stand. In some examples, the toothbrush housing includes a plurality of buttons and/or switches disposed on exterior surfaces of the toothbrush housing. The buttons may be configured to switch the oscillating toothbrush between an “on” state and an “off” state, and may be configured to switch the oscillating toothbrush between a variety of oscillation speeds. 
     The handheld toothbrush portion further includes an irrigation port and a scavenge port disposed adjacent the oscillating toothbrush head, which are configured to irrigate the mouth of a user and remove waste, respectively. In some examples, the oscillating toothbrush head, scavenge tube, and irrigation tube may be detachable from the toothbrush housing for cleaning. The handheld toothbrush portion may comprise any suitable rigid material for use in medical devices, such as plastics, metals, and/or the like. In some examples, the handheld toothbrush portion may include a resilient grip comprising any material which may be easily sterilized, such as rubber, resilient polymers, and/or the like. 
     In some examples, the handheld toothbrush portion includes one or more lights coupled to the handheld toothbrush portion. In some examples, the lights are directed toward the oscillating toothbrush head, such that the lights illuminate the mouth of a patient during use. In some examples, the handheld toothbrush portion includes a plurality (e.g., two) LED lights disposed within light housings coupled to a front surface of the handheld toothbrush portion. In some examples, the light housings are substantially tubular housings disposed around side portions of the LED lights, which direct light emitted by the LED lights parallel to a long axis of the handheld toothbrush portion. In some examples, the lights are electrically coupled to the plurality of buttons and/or switches, which are configured to switch the lights between an “on” state and an “off” state. 
     In some examples, the handheld toothbrush portion includes an irrigation system disposed within the toothbrush housing. In these examples, the irrigation system may include a water reservoir disposed within the housing, and a water pump. In some examples, the water pump includes a dual action mini peristaltic pump. In some examples, the water pump is manually actuated. The water reservoir may be coupled to the irrigation port by tubes coupled to an external surface of the toothbrush housing, or may be coupled to the irrigation port by internal hoses and/or lines. In some examples, the irrigation port is surrounded by bristles, such that water is expelled through the middle of the oscillating toothbrush head. 
     The arm-mounted module includes a module housing, which is configured to be coupled to the forearm of a user by way of an elastic band including any suitable fasteners such as hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, and/or the like. In some examples, the housing is received within a sleeve comprising elastic material such as neoprene, fabrics comprising polyether-polyurea copolymers, synthetic polymer fabrics, and/or the like. In these examples, the elastic band is coupled to the sleeve (e.g., by sliding the elastic band into a loop coupled to the sleeve, hook-and-loop fasteners, sewing, etc.) In some examples, the elastic band is received within a pair of apertures disposed on external surfaces of the module housing and thereby fastened to the module housing. The module housing may include any suitable shape, such as rectangular, ovular, rounded, oblong, and/or the like. The module housing may comprise any suitable non-porous, sterile material, such as plastics, metals, and/or the like. 
     The arm-mounted module includes a power supply disposed near a distal end of the arm-mounted module. In some examples, the power supply is configured to power a single pump, which is configured to pump both water toward the handheld toothbrush, and waste from the toothbrush toward the arm-mounted module. In some examples, the power supply is configured to power a single scavenge pump. In some examples, the arm-mounted module includes a first power supply, configured to pump water toward the handheld toothbrush, and a second power supply, configured to pump waste toward the arm-mounted module. In some examples, the power supply comprises a battery, such as a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. In some examples, the power supply is coupled to a plurality of indicator light emitting diodes (LEDs), which indicate a state of charge of the power supply. 
     The arm-mounted module includes a scavenge reservoir configured to receive waste pumped away from the handheld toothbrush. In some examples, the scavenge reservoir may be disposed at a distal end of the arm-mounted module and may include a port which facilitates waste drainage. In some examples, the scavenge reservoir may be detached from the arm-mounted module for cleaning. The scavenge reservoir is coupled to the scavenge tube by an internal scavenge line. In some examples, the scavenge tube may be coupled to the scavenge line by way of a scavenge inlet disposed at a proximal end of the arm-mounted module, which functions as a coupling. 
     In some examples, the internal scavenge line may be coupled to the scavenge reservoir, and may be detached from the arm-mounted module for cleaning. 
     In some examples, the arm-mounted module includes a water reservoir and water pump disposed within the module housing, and an irrigation outlet disposed at a proximal end of the arm-mounted module. The irrigation outlet may function as a coupling between the freshwater reservoir and the irrigation tube. 
     A method of cleaning a patient&#39;s teeth may include agitating the surface of the teeth with the oscillating toothbrush head, irrigating the mouth with the irrigation system, and removing waste with the scavenge system. 
     EXAMPLES, COMPONENTS, AND ALTERNATIVES 
     The following sections describe selected aspects of illustrative tooth cleaning system as well as related systems and/or methods. The examples in these sections are intended for illustration and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Each section may include one or more distinct embodiments or examples, and/or contextual or related information, function, and/or structure. 
     A. First Illustrative Tooth Cleaning System 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1-6 , this section describes a first illustrative tooth cleaning system  100 .  FIG. 1  is a schematic diagram of tooth cleaning systems according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 1 , tooth cleaning system  100  includes a handheld toothbrush portion  110  coupled by a flexible irrigation tube  130  and a flexible scavenge tube  140  to an arm-mounted module  150 . Handheld toothbrush portion includes a toothbrush housing  112  coupled to an oscillating toothbrush head  120 . Oscillating toothbrush head  120  may be removably coupled to housing  112  (e.g., by a threaded or friction fit) such that head  120  may be detached from all electronic components for cleaning (e.g., using a dishwasher, autoclave, etc.). 
     Toothbrush housing (AKA handle)  112  is configured to house a power supply and motor (not shown), which collectively oscillate toothbrush head  120 . The motor may include any suitable prime mover configured to rotate and/or oscillate bristles of a toothbrush head, such as an electric motor (e.g., a brushed DC motor), a human powered oscillator, an inductive motor, a heat-powered motor, and/or the like. Housing  112  may include a user interface, such as a plurality of buttons and/or switches  114  disposed on exterior surfaces of the housing, which may be configured to switch the motor between “on” and “off” states. In some examples, buttons  114  are configured to switch the motor between a variety of oscillation speeds. In some examples, buttons  114  are configured to control functions of components associated with arm-mounted module  150 , such as irrigation and scavenge. Housing  112  may comprise any suitable structural material for use in medical devices, such as plastics, metals, and/or the like. In some examples, the handheld toothbrush portion may include a resilient grip comprising any material which may be easily sterilized, such as rubber, resilient polymers, and/or the like. 
     In some examples, toothbrush housing  112  includes one or more lights  116  coupled to the toothbrush housing. In some examples, the lights are directed toward oscillating toothbrush head  120 , such that the lights illuminate the mouth of a patient during use. In some examples, the handheld toothbrush portion includes a plurality (e.g., two) LED lights disposed within light housings coupled to a front surface of the toothbrush housing. In some examples, the light housings are substantially tubular housings disposed around side portions of the LED lights, which direct light emitted by the LED lights parallel to a long axis of the handheld toothbrush portion. In some examples, the lights are electrically coupled to the plurality of buttons and/or switches  114 , which are configured to switch the lights between an “on” state and an “off” state. 
     In some examples, toothbrush housing  112  and/or arm-mounted module  150  includes a controller or chip  118  which connects tooth cleaning system  100  to a host server such that the tooth cleaning system is a component of an internet of things (IOT) system. Controller  118  may collect data while the tooth cleaning system is in use, which may later be uploaded to the Internet and aggregated. The data may be analyzed to determine user activity trends, such as total time used per day, total number of power up cycles, length of each power cycle, load data, and/or the like. The data may be utilized by a third party (e.g., health insurance carrier, physician) to verify that a patient is receiving a required or prescribed standard of care. In some examples, an insurance carrier may cover device costs after verifying that the device is used regularly as a component of a patient care regimen. Oscillating toothbrush head  120  includes a plurality of bristles  122  forming a brush head  124 . Bristles  122  may be arrayed in any suitable arrangement for a toothbrush head, such as circular, ovular, rectangular, and/or the like. Brush head  124  is coupled to a stem  126 , which is configured to oscillate as controlled by the motor. In some examples, stem  126  includes a protrusion disposed at a proximal end, which is configured to interface with the motor when the toothbrush head is coupled to the toothbrush housing. Toothbrush head  120  may comprise any suitable rigid material for use in medical devices, such as plastics, metals, and/or the like. 
     Coupled to oscillating toothbrush head  120  are an irrigation port or nozzle  132  and a scavenge port  142 . Irrigation nozzle  132  is coupled to irrigation tube (AKA water supply tube)  130 , and may be formed as a single piece with the tube. Irrigation nozzle  132  includes an opening or aperture at a distal end of irrigation tube  130 , and is configured to direct the flow of water from tube  130  into the mouth of a patient. In some examples, irrigation nozzle  132  comprises flexible tubing. In some examples, irrigation nozzle  132  comprises rigid tubing. Irrigation tube  130  comprises any suitable resilient material for use in medical tubing, such as silicone, polyvinyl chloride, latex, ethyl vinyl acetate, Tygon, and/or the like. In some examples, irrigation nozzle  132  may be disposed at or adjacent a distal end of the oscillating toothbrush head. 
     Scavenge port (AKA scavenging port, scavenge nozzle)  142  is coupled to scavenge tube or scavenging tube  140 , and may be formed as a single piece with scavenge tube  140 . Scavenge port  142  includes an opening or aperture at a distal end of scavenge tube  140 , and is configured to facilitate the intake of waste (e.g., water, bodily fluids, food waste, etc.) from the mouth of a patient into tube  140 , for example by suction. In some examples, scavenge port  142  comprises flexible tubing. In some examples, scavenge port  142  comprises rigid tubing. Scavenge tube  140  comprises any suitable resilient material for use in medical tubing, such as silicone, polyvinyl chloride, latex, ethyl vinyl acetate, Tygon, and/or the like. In some examples, scavenge port  140  may be disposed at or adjacent a proximal side of brush head  124 . 
     Irrigation tube  130  and scavenge tube  140  may be configured to releasably mate with recesses, clamps, or channels disposed on an exterior surface of toothbrush housing  112 , such that tubes  130  and  140  may be retained against toothbrush housing  112  when the toothbrush is in use, but may be detached from housing  112  for cleaning. In some examples, tubes  130  and  140  are heat-resistant and configured to be sanitized (e.g., using a dishwasher, autoclave, etc.). 
     Irrigation tube  130  and scavenge tube  140  may interface with arm-mounted module  150  through an irrigation outlet  134  and an scavenge inlet  144  disposed at a proximal end of the arm-mounted module. In some examples, irrigation outlet  134  and scavenge inlet  144  comprise rigid tubes configured to mate with irrigation tube  130  and scavenge tube  140 . In some examples, irrigation outlet  134  and scavenge inlet  144  comprise couplings, seals, or valves, which may provide a water-sealable fit when tubes  130  and  140  are inserted into the couplings. 
     Arm-mounted module (AKA portable enclosure)  150  includes housing  152  at least partially enclosing a water supply tank  160  coupled to the irrigation outlet by an irrigation line  166 , a scavenge reservoir  170  coupled to the scavenge inlet by a scavenge line  176 , a power supply  180 , and a dual-action pump  190  configured to pump fluid into and out of the reservoirs. 
     Housing  152  includes an elongate (e.g., rectangular, cuboidal, or the like) capsule, which is configured to retain and protect internal components associated with the arm-mounted module. In some examples, housing  152  includes a lid and a base, which are configured to snap together and apart, providing access to the internal components. Housing  152  is configured to be coupled and/or releasably secured to the arm (e.g., forearm) of a wearer via an armband or sleeve  154 . Armband  154  comprises an elastic material, such as neoprene, fabrics comprising polyether-polyurea copolymers, synthetic polymer fabrics, and/or the like. Armband  154  is configured to loop around the arm of the wearer and fasten to itself, using any suitable fastener such as hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, and/or the like. In some examples, housing  152  includes a pair of slots, apertures, and/or openings disposed in a back surface, which are configured to receive the armband. In some examples, housing  152  is configured to be received by an elastic sleeve, to which the armband is coupled (e.g., sewn, attached with hook-and-loop fasteners, etc.). 
     In some examples, housing  152  includes recesses disposed in external surfaces which are configured to receive water supply tank  160  and scavenge reservoir  170 . For example, housing  152  may include an opening  164  disposed in a side portion of the housing, which is configured to receive water supply tank  160 . Water supply tank  160  comprises a refillable and/or modular tank, which may include a sealing lid and is configured to fit snugly within opening  164 . In some examples, housing  152  may include fasteners configured to retain water supply tank  160  within the housing. In some examples, the elastic sleeve is configured to retain the water supply within the housing. Water supply tank  160  is removable through opening  164 , and may be filled and/or disinfected while disconnected from housing  152 . In some examples, irrigation line  166  is similarly removable through opening  164 . 
     Housing  152  includes a recess  174  disposed at a distal end of arm-mounted module  150 . In some examples, the entire distal end of module  150  is open and configured to mate with scavenge reservoir  170 . Scavenge reservoir  170  comprises a tank (e.g., modular and/or disposable), which may include a sealing lid and is configured to fit snugly within recess  174 . In some examples, housing  152  includes fasteners configured to retain scavenge reservoir  170  within the housing. In some examples, the elastic sleeve is configured to retain the water supply within the housing. In some examples, scavenge reservoir  170  is configured to mate with housing  152  in a friction fit. Scavenge reservoir  170  may be detached from recess  174  for emptying and/or disinfection while disconnected from housing  152 . In some examples, scavenge line  176  is similarly removable through recess  174 . 
     Water supply tank  160  holds fresh (e.g., potable) water, which is configured to be pumped away from module  150  toward the oscillating toothbrush head. Similarly, scavenge reservoir  170  is configured to hold waste collected from the mouth of the patient. Accordingly, water supply tank  160  and scavenge reservoir  170  interface with a pump  190  which is configured to pump water out of the water supply and to pump waste into the scavenge reservoir. Pump  190  pumps water from water supply tank  160 , through irrigation line  166  and through the pump into irrigation tube  130 . The water then travels through the irrigation tube into the mouth of the patient. Pump  190  suctions waste and water from a patient&#39;s mouth, through scavenge tube  140 , through scavenge inlet  144 , through scavenge line  176 , and into scavenge reservoir  170 . In some examples, pump  190  is a peristaltic pump, although any suitable pump may be utilized. 
     Pump  190  is powered by a power supply  180 . In some examples, power supply  180  includes a battery or a plurality of batteries. In some examples, power supply  180  is a rechargeable, e.g., lithium-ion battery. In some examples, power supply  180  is a plurality of alkaline batteries. In some examples, arm-mounted module  150  includes LED indicators disposed on an external surface, which are configured to indicate a pump power level to a user. In some examples, pump  190  is configured to either pump water or suction scavenged water and waste. In these examples, arm-mounted module  150  includes buttons, switches, and/or other controls disposed on an external surface and configured to switch the pump between an irrigation mode and a scavenge mode. 
     Arm-mounted module  150  may be any suitable size for an arm-mounted system. In some examples, arm-mounted module may have a length of 5 inches to 7 inches, a width of 2 inches to 3 inches, and a height of 1.5 inches to 2.5 inches. 
     B. Second Illustrative Tooth Cleaning System 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2-6 , this section describes a second illustrative tooth cleaning system  200 .  FIGS. 2 and 3  are isometric drawings of the second illustrative tooth cleaning system in a close-up view and as worn by a user, respectively. In some examples, second illustrative tooth cleaning system  200  is substantially identical to first illustrative tooth cleaning system  100 , except as described below. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , tooth cleaning system  200  includes a handheld toothbrush portion  210  coupled by a flexible irrigation tube  230  and a flexible scavenge tube  240  to an arm-mounted module  250 . Handheld toothbrush portion  210  includes a toothbrush housing  212  coupled to an oscillating toothbrush head  220 . Oscillating toothbrush head  220  may be removably coupled to housing  212  (e.g., by a threaded or friction fit) such that head  220  may be detached from all electronic components for cleaning (e.g., using a dishwasher, autoclave, etc.). 
     Toothbrush housing (AKA handle)  212  is configured to house a power supply and motor (not shown), which collectively oscillate toothbrush head  220 . The motor may include any suitable prime mover configured to rotate and/or oscillate bristles of a toothbrush head, such as an electric motor (e.g., a brushed DC motor), a human powered oscillator, an inductive motor, a heat-powered motor and/or the like. Housing  212  may include a user interface, such as a plurality of buttons and/or switches  214  disposed on exterior surfaces of the housing, which may be configured to switch the motor between “on” and “off” states. In some examples, buttons  214  are be configured to switch the motor between a variety of oscillation speeds. In some examples, buttons  214  are configured to control functions of components associated with arm-mounted module  250 , such as irrigation and scavenge. Housing  212  may comprise any suitable structural material for use in medical devices, such as plastics, metals, and/or the like. In some examples, the handheld toothbrush portion may include a resilient grip comprising any material which may be easily sterilized, such as rubber, resilient polymers, and/or the like. 
     In some examples, toothbrush housing  212  includes one or more lights coupled to the toothbrush housing. In some examples, the lights are directed toward oscillating toothbrush head  220 , such that the lights illuminate the mouth of a patient during use. In some examples, the handheld toothbrush portion includes a plurality (e.g., two) LED lights disposed within light housings coupled to a front surface of the toothbrush housing. In some examples, the light housings are substantially tubular housings disposed around side portions of the LED lights, which direct light emitted by the LED lights parallel to a long axis of the handheld toothbrush portion. In some examples, the lights are electrically coupled to the plurality of buttons and/or switches, which are configured to switch the lights between an “on” state and an “off” state. Oscillating toothbrush head  220  includes a plurality of bristles  222  forming a brush head  224 . Bristles  222  may be arrayed in any suitable arrangement for a toothbrush head, such as circular, ovular, rectangular, and/or the like. Brush head  224  is coupled to a stem  226 , which is configured to oscillate as controlled by the motor. In some examples, stem  226  includes a protrusion disposed at a proximal end, which is configured to interface with the motor when the toothbrush head is coupled to the toothbrush housing. Toothbrush head  220  may comprise any suitable rigid material for use in medical devices, such as plastics, metals, and/or the like. 
     Coupled to oscillating toothbrush head  220  are an irrigation port or nozzle  232  and a scavenge port  242 . Irrigation nozzle  232  is coupled to irrigation tube  230 , and may be formed as a single piece with the tube. Irrigation nozzle  232  is configured to direct the flow of water from tube  230  into the mouth of a patient. In some examples, irrigation nozzle  232  comprises flexible tubing. In some examples, irrigation nozzle  232  comprises rigid tubing. Irrigation tube  230  comprises any suitable resilient material for use in medical tubing, such as silicone, polyvinyl chloride, latex, ethyl vinyl acetate, Tygon, and/or the like. 
     Scavenge port (AKA scavenging port, scavenge nozzle)  242  is coupled to scavenge tube or scavenging tube  240 , and may be formed as a single piece with scavenge tube  240 . Scavenge port  242  is configured to facilitate the intake of waste (e.g., water, bodily fluids, food waste, etc.) from the mouth of a patient into tube  240 , for example by suction. In some examples, scavenge port  242  comprises flexible tubing. In some examples, scavenge port  242  comprises rigid tubing. Scavenge tube  240  comprises any suitable resilient material for use in medical tubing, such as silicone, polyvinyl chloride, latex, ethyl vinyl acetate, Tygon, and/or the like. 
     In some examples, irrigation port  232  and scavenge port  242  are formed as a single piece, and include a single tube extending proximally from brush head  224  toward the arm-mounted unit. In these examples, irrigation port  232  and scavenge port  232  may include proximally-located ports to which irrigation tube  230  and scavenge tube  140  may couple. In some examples, toothbrush head  220  includes a sleeve  228  through which irrigation tube  230  and scavenge tube  240  may be fed. Sleeve  228  may retain tubes  230  and  240  adjacent the toothbrush head while the toothbrush portion is in use. Tubes  230  and  240  may be removed from sleeve  228  for cleaning. In some examples, tubes  230  and  240  are heat-resistant and configured to be sanitized (e.g., using a dishwasher, autoclave, etc.). 
     Irrigation tube  230  and scavenge tube  240  may interface with arm-mounted module  250  through an irrigation outlet  234  and an scavenge inlet  244  disposed at a proximal end of the arm-mounted module. In some examples, irrigation outlet  234  and scavenge inlet  244  comprise rigid tubes configured to mate with irrigation tube  230  and scavenge tube  240 . In some examples, irrigation outlet  234  and scavenge inlet  244  comprise couplings, seals, or valves, which may provide a water-tight fit when tubes  230  and  240  are inserted into the couplings. 
     Arm-mounted module (AKA portable enclosure)  250  includes a housing  252  at least partially enclosing a water supply tank  260  coupled to the irrigation outlet by an irrigation line  266 , a scavenge reservoir  270  coupled to the scavenge inlet by a scavenge line  276 , a power supply  280 , and pumps  262 ,  272  configured to pump fluid into and out of their respective reservoirs.  FIGS. 4-6  depict end, side, and top views of internal components of arm-mounted module  250 . 
     Housing  252  includes an elongate (e.g., rectangular, cuboidal, or the like) capsule, which is configured to retain and protect internal components associated with the arm-mounted module. In some examples, housing  252  includes a lid and a base, which are configured to snap together and apart, providing access to the internal components. Housing  252  is configured to be coupled and/or releasably secured to the arm (e.g., forearm) of a wearer via an armband or sleeve  254 . Armband  254  comprises an elastic material, such as neoprene, fabrics comprising polyether-polyurea copolymers, synthetic polymer fabrics, and/or the like. Armband  254  is configured to loop around the arm of the wearer and fasten to itself, using any suitable fastener such as hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, and/or the like. In some examples, housing  252  includes a pair of slots, apertures, and/or openings disposed in a back surface, which are configured to receive the armband. In some examples, housing  252  is configured to be received by an elastic sleeve, to which the armband is coupled (e.g., sewn, attached with hook-and-loop fasteners, etc.). 
     In some examples, housing  252  includes recesses disposed in external surfaces which are configured to receive water supply tank  260  and scavenge reservoir  270 . For example, housing  252  may include an opening  264  disposed in a side portion of the housing, which is configured to receive water supply tank  260 . Water supply tank  260  comprises a refillable and/or modular tank, which may include a sealing lid and is configured to fit snugly within opening  264 . In some examples, housing  252  may include fasteners configured to retain water supply tank  260  within the housing. In some examples, the elastic sleeve is configured to retain the water supply within the housing. Water supply tank  260  is removable through opening  264 , and may be filled and/or disinfected while disconnected from housing  252 . In some examples, irrigation line  266  is similarly removable through opening  264 . 
     Housing  252  includes a recess  274  disposed at a distal end of arm-mounted module  250 . In some examples, the entire distal end of module  250  is open and configured to mate with scavenge reservoir  270 . Scavenge reservoir  270  comprises a tank (e.g., modular and/or disposable), which may include a sealing lid and is configured to fit snugly within recess  274 . In some examples, housing  252  includes fasteners configured to retain scavenge reservoir  270  within the housing. In some examples, the elastic sleeve is configured to retain the water supply within the housing. In some examples, scavenge reservoir  270  is configured to mate with housing  252  in a friction fit. Scavenge reservoir  270  may be detached from recess  274  for emptying and/or disinfection while disconnected from housing  252 . In some examples, scavenge tube  240  extends along a top surface of arm-mounted module  250 , and interfaces with scavenge reservoir  270  at a coupling or valve disposed on an external surface of scavenge reservoir  270 . 
     Water supply tank  260  holds fresh (e.g., potable) water, which is configured to be pumped away from module  250  toward the oscillating toothbrush head. Accordingly, water supply tank  260  interfaces with a water pump  262  disposed within housing  252 . Water pump  262  pumps water from water supply tank  260 , through irrigation line  266  and through the pump into irrigation tube  230 . The water subsequently travels through the irrigation tube into the mouth of the patient. In some examples, pump  262  is a peristaltic pump, although any suitable pump may be utilized. 
     Similarly, scavenge reservoir  270  is configured to hold waste collected from the mouth of the patient. Accordingly, scavenge reservoir  270  interfaces with a vacuum pump  272  configured to suction waste from the patient&#39;s mouth into the scavenge reservoir. Waste travels from the patient&#39;s mouth through scavenge tube  240 , through scavenge inlet  244 , through either an irrigation line coupled to the scavenge reservoir or through an extension of scavenge tube  240 , and into scavenge reservoir  270 . Vacuum pump  272  is disposed adjacent scavenge reservoir  270 , but does not contact any waste. In some examples, vacuum pump  272  may be insulated from waste by a seal or filter. In some examples, pump  272  is a peristaltic pump, although any suitable pump may be utilized. 
     Pumps  262  and  272  are powered by a power supply  280 . In some examples, power supply  280  includes a battery or a plurality of batteries  282 . In some examples, battery  282  includes a rechargeable, e.g., lithium-ion battery. In some examples, batteries  282  include a plurality of alkaline batteries. In some examples, arm-mounted module  250  includes a charge indicator  284  configured to alert a user as to the state of charge of the arm-mounted module. In some examples, charge indicator  284  includes a plurality of LED indicators. In examples wherein batteries included in the power supply are rechargeable, the arm-mounted module may include a charging circuit  286  coupled to a charge port, which is configured to facilitate charging the device without removing the batteries. 
     Arm-mounted module  250  may be any suitable size for an arm-mounted system. In some examples, arm-mounted module may have a length of 5 inches to 7 inches, a width of 2 inches to 3 inches, and a height of 1.5 inches to 2.5 inches. 
     C. Third Illustrative Tooth Cleaning System 
     As shown in  FIGS. 7-10 , this section describes a third illustrative tooth cleaning system  300 .  FIG. 7  depicts an isometric view of illustrative tooth cleaning system  300 .  FIGS. 4-6  depict end, side, and top views of internal components of an arm-mounted module  360 . 
     As depicted in  FIG. 7 , tooth cleaning system  300  includes a handheld toothbrush portion  310  coupled by a flexible scavenge tube  350  and an umbilical power cord  392  to an arm-mounted module  360 . Handheld toothbrush portion  310  includes a toothbrush housing  312  coupled to an oscillating toothbrush head  330 . Oscillating toothbrush head  330  may be removably coupled to housing  312  (e.g., by a threaded or friction fit) such that head  330  may be detached from all electronic components for cleaning (e.g., using a dishwasher, autoclave, etc.). 
     Toothbrush housing (AKA handle)  312  is configured to house a motor  314 , a water supply tank  320 , and a water pump  322 . The motor may include any suitable prime mover configured to rotate and/or oscillate bristles of a toothbrush head, such as an electric motor (e.g., a brushed DC motor), a human powered oscillator, an inductive motor, a heat-powered motor and/or the like. Motor  314  is removably coupled to oscillating toothbrush head  330 , and is configured to induce brush agitation in the toothbrush head. Motor  314  is powered by an umbilical power cord  392 , which extends between a power supply  390  disposed within arm-mounted module  360  and the motor. 
     Umbilical cord  392  additionally powers water pump  322 , which pumps water between water supply tank  320  and an irrigation port  324  disposed adjacent oscillating toothbrush head  330 . Housing  312  includes a recess  316  disposed at a bottom end of the housing, which is configured to receive water supply  320 . Water supply tank  320  includes a tank which is configured to be removed from the toothbrush housing to be cleaned and filled. Water reservoir is coupled to water pump  322  by an internal water line  326 . 
     In some examples, housing  312  includes a user interface, such as a plurality of buttons and/or switches disposed on exterior surfaces of the housing, which may be configured to switch motor  314  between “on” and “off” states. In some examples, the buttons are configured to switch the motor between a variety of oscillation speeds. In some examples, the buttons are configured to switch pump  322  between “on” and “off” states. In some examples, the buttons are configured to switch the pump between a variety of pump powers. In some examples, the buttons are configured to control functions of components associated with arm-mounted module  360 , such as scavenge. Housing  312  may comprise any suitable structural material for use in medical devices, such as plastics, metals, and/or the like. In some examples, the handheld toothbrush portion may include a resilient grip comprising any material which may be easily sterilized, such as rubber, resilient polymers, and/or the like. 
     In some examples, toothbrush housing  312  includes one or more lights coupled to the toothbrush housing. In some examples, the lights are directed toward oscillating toothbrush head  330 , such that the lights illuminate the mouth of a patient during use. In some examples, the handheld toothbrush portion includes a plurality (e.g., two) LED lights disposed within light housings coupled to a front surface of the toothbrush housing. In some examples, the light housings are substantially tubular housings disposed around side portions of the LED lights, which direct light emitted by the LED lights parallel to a long axis of the handheld toothbrush portion. In some examples, the lights are electrically coupled to the plurality of buttons and/or switches, which are configured to switch the lights between an “on” state and an “off” state. Oscillating toothbrush head  330  includes a plurality of bristles  332  forming a brush head  334 . Bristles  332  may be arrayed in any suitable arrangement for a toothbrush head, such as circular, ovular, rectangular, and/or the like. Brush head  334  is coupled to a stem  336 , which is configured to oscillate as controlled by motor  314 . In some examples, stem  336  includes a protrusion  338  disposed at a proximal end, which is configured to interface with the motor when the toothbrush head is coupled to the toothbrush housing. Toothbrush head  330  may comprise any suitable rigid material for use in medical devices, such as plastics, metals, and/or the like. 
     Coupled to oscillating toothbrush head  330  are an irrigation port or nozzle  324  and a scavenge port  352 . Irrigation nozzle  324  is coupled to pump  322  by an irrigation tube  328 , and may be formed as a single piece with irrigation tube  328 . Irrigation nozzle  324  is configured to facilitate the flow of water from tube  328  into the mouth of a patient. In some examples, irrigation nozzle  324  comprises flexible tubing. In some examples, irrigation nozzle  324  comprises rigid tubing. Irrigation tube  328  comprises any suitable resilient material for use in medical tubing, such as silicone, polyvinyl chloride, latex, ethyl vinyl acetate, Tygon, and/or the like. In some examples, irrigation nozzle  324  is disposed adjacent to or at the center of brush head  334 . 
     Scavenge port (AKA scavenge port)  352  is coupled to scavenge tube or scavenging tube  350 , and may be formed as a single piece with scavenge tube  350 . Scavenge port  352  is configured to facilitate the intake of waste (e.g., water, bodily fluids, food waste, etc.) from the mouth of a patient into tube  350 , for example by suction. In some examples, scavenge port  352  comprises flexible tubing. In some examples, scavenge port  352  comprises rigid tubing. Scavenge tube  350  comprises any suitable resilient material for use in medical tubing, such as silicone, polyvinyl chloride, latex, ethyl vinyl acetate, Tygon, and/or the like. 
     In some examples, oscillating brush head  330  includes a sleeve  340  extending from a back edge of the brush head. Sleeve  340  is configured to receive scavenge tube  350 . In some examples, scavenge port  352  is formed as a single piece with sleeve  340 . In these examples, sleeve  340  includes ports disposed proximal to the toothbrush-arm-mounted module interface to which scavenge tube  350  may couple. In some examples, scavenge tube  350  may be fed through sleeve  340 , which may retain tube  350  adjacent the toothbrush head while the toothbrush portion is in use. Tube  350  may be removed from sleeve  340  for cleaning. In some examples, tube  350  is heat-resistant and configured to be sanitized (e.g., using a dishwasher, autoclave, etc.). 
     Scavenge tube  350  may interface with arm-mounted module  360  through a scavenge inlet  354  coupled to a scavenge reservoir  370 , which may be disposed at a distal end of the arm-mounted module. In some examples, scavenge inlet  354  comprises a rigid tube configured to mate with scavenge tube  350 . In some examples, scavenge inlet  354  comprises a coupling, seal, or valve, which may provide a water-sealable fit when tube  350  is inserted into the coupling. 
     Arm-mounted module (AKA portable enclosure)  360  includes a housing  362  at least partially enclosing a scavenge reservoir  370 , coupled to scavenge tube  350  by scavenge inlet  354 , a pump  380 , configured to vacuum and/or suction fluid into the scavenge reservoir, and a power supply  390 . 
     Housing  362  includes an elongate (e.g., rectangular, cuboidal, or the like) capsule, which is configured to retain and protect internal components associated with the arm-mounted module. In some examples, housing  362  includes a lid and a base, which are configured to snap together and apart, providing access to the internal components. Housing  362  is configured to be coupled and/or releasably secured to the arm (e.g., forearm) of a wearer via an armband or sleeve  364 . Armband  364  comprises an elastic material, such as neoprene, fabrics comprising polyether-polyurea copolymers, synthetic polymer fabrics, and/or the like. Armband  364  is configured to loop around the arm of the wearer and fasten to itself, using any suitable fastener such as hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, and/or the like. In some examples, housing  362  includes a pair of slots, apertures, and/or openings disposed in a back surface, which are configured to receive the armband. In some examples, housing  362  is configured to be received by an elastic sleeve, to which the armband is coupled (e.g., sewn, attached with hook-and-loop fasteners, etc.). 
     In some examples, housing  362  includes a recess  372  disposed in an external surface, which is configured to receive scavenge reservoir  370 . Recess  372  is disposed at a distal end of arm-mounted module  360 . In some examples, the entire distal end of module  360  is open and configured to mate with scavenge reservoir  370 . Scavenge reservoir  370  comprises a tank (e.g., modular and/or disposable), which may include a sealing lid and is configured to fit snugly within recess  372 . In some examples, housing  362  includes fasteners configured to retain scavenge reservoir  370  within the housing. In some examples, the elastic sleeve is configured to retain the water supply within the housing. In some examples, scavenge reservoir  370  is configured to mate with housing  362  in a friction fit. Scavenge reservoir  370  may be detached from recess  372  for emptying and/or disinfection while disconnected from housing  362 . In some examples, scavenge tube  350  extends along a top surface of arm-mounted module  360 , and interfaces with scavenge reservoir  370  at a coupling or valve disposed on an external surface of scavenge reservoir  370 . 
     Scavenge reservoir  370  is configured to hold waste collected from the mouth of the patient. Accordingly, scavenge reservoir  370  interfaces with a vacuum pump  380  configured to suction waste from the patient&#39;s mouth into the scavenge reservoir. Waste travels from the patient&#39;s mouth through scavenge tube  350 , through scavenge inlet  352 , and into scavenge reservoir  370 . Vacuum pump  380  is disposed adjacent scavenge reservoir  370 , but does not contact any waste. In some examples, vacuum pump  380  may be insulated from waste by a seal or filter. In some examples, vacuum pump  380  is a peristaltic pump, although any suitable pump may be utilized. 
     Pumps  322  and  380  are powered by a power supply  390 . An umbilical power cord  392  extends from power supply  390  to pump  322 . In some examples, the umbilical cord extends through an internal cavity of the arm-mounted module, and exits through a port disposed at a proximal end of the arm-mounted module. In some examples, the umbilical cord includes a male electrical coupling configured to mate with a corresponding female electrical coupling disposed on an external surface of handheld toothbrush  310 . In some examples, power supply  390  includes a battery or a plurality of batteries  394 . In some examples, battery  394  is a rechargeable, e.g., lithium-ion battery. In some examples, batteries  394  are a plurality of alkaline batteries. In some examples, arm-mounted module  360  includes a charge indicator  396  configured to alert a user as to the state of charge of the arm-mounted module. In some examples, charge indicator  396  includes a plurality of LED indicators disposed on an external surface of housing  362 . In examples wherein batteries included in the power supply are rechargeable, the arm-mounted module may include a charging circuit  398  coupled to a charge port, which is configured to allow a user to charge the device without removing the batteries. 
     Arm-mounted module  360  may be any suitable size for an arm-mounted system. In some examples, arm-mounted module may have a length of 5 inches to 7 inches, a width of 1 inches to 2 inches, and a height of 1 inches to 2 inches. 
     D. Fourth Illustrative Tooth Cleaning System 
     As shown in  FIGS. 11-14 , this section describes a fourth illustrative tooth cleaning system  400 .  FIG. 11  depicts an isometric view of illustrative tooth cleaning system  400 .  FIGS. 12-14  depict end, side, and top views of internal components of an arm-mounted module  460 . 
     As depicted in  FIG. 11 , tooth cleaning system  400  includes a handheld toothbrush portion  410  coupled by a flexible scavenge tube  450  to an arm-mounted module  460 . Handheld toothbrush portion  410  includes a toothbrush housing  412  coupled to an oscillating toothbrush head  430 . Oscillating toothbrush head  430  may be removably coupled to housing  412  (e.g., by a threaded or friction fit) such that head  430  may be detached from all electronic components for cleaning (e.g., using a dishwasher, autoclave, etc.). 
     Toothbrush housing (AKA handle)  412  is configured to house a motor  414 , a power supply  416 , a water supply tank  420 , and a water pump  422 . Motor  414  is removably coupled to oscillating toothbrush head  430 , and is configured to induce brush agitation in the toothbrush head. The motor may include any suitable prime mover configured to rotate and/or oscillate bristles of a toothbrush head, such as an electric motor (e.g., a brushed DC motor), a human powered oscillator, an inductive motor, a heat-powered motor and/or the like. Motor  414  is powered by power supply  416 , which may include one or more batteries. In some examples, power supply  416  includes a plurality of alkaline batteries. In some examples, power supply  416  includes a rechargeable, e.g., lithium-ion battery. 
     Water pump  422  pumps water between water supply tank  420  and an irrigation nozzle  424  disposed at or adjacent oscillating toothbrush head  430 . Water pump  422  is manually actuated, and does not include an external power supply. In some examples, water pump  422  comprises a piston-activated positive displacement pump shaft disposed within water supply tank  420 . In some examples, water pump  422  includes a trigger, button, or other actuator disposed on an external surface of water supply tank  420 . In some examples, water supply tank  420  comprises an elastic material (e.g., silicone, latex, etc.) and actuating water pump  422  comprises applying external pressure to the walls of water supply tank  420 . Housing  412  includes a recess  417  disposed at a bottom end of the housing, which is configured to receive water supply tank  420 . Water supply tank  420  includes a tank which is configured to be removed from the toothbrush housing to be cleaned and filled. 
     In some examples, housing  412  includes a user interface, such as a plurality of buttons and/or switches disposed on exterior surfaces of the housing, which may be configured to switch motor  414  between “on” and “off” states. In some examples, the buttons are configured to switch the motor between a variety of oscillation speeds. In some examples, the buttons are configured to control functions of components associated with arm-mounted module  460 , such as scavenge. Housing  412  may comprise any suitable structural material for use in medical devices, such as plastics, metals, and/or the like. In some examples, the handheld toothbrush portion may include a resilient grip comprising any material which may be easily sterilized, such as rubber, resilient polymers, and/or the like. 
     In some examples, toothbrush housing  412  includes one or more lights coupled to the toothbrush housing. In some examples, the lights are directed toward oscillating toothbrush head  430 , such that the lights illuminate the mouth of a patient during use. In some examples, the handheld toothbrush portion includes a plurality (e.g., two) LED lights disposed within light housings coupled to a front surface of the toothbrush housing. In some examples, the light housings are substantially tubular housings disposed around side portions of the LED lights, which direct light emitted by the LED lights parallel to a long axis of the handheld toothbrush portion. In some examples, the lights are electrically coupled to the plurality of buttons and/or switches, which are configured to switch the lights between an “on” state and an “off” state. 
     Oscillating toothbrush head  430  includes a plurality of bristles  432  forming a brush head  434 . Bristles  432  may be arrayed in any suitable arrangement for a toothbrush head, such as circular, ovular, rectangular, and/or the like. Brush head  434  is coupled to a stem  436 , which is configured to oscillate as controlled by motor  414 . In some examples, stem  436  includes a protrusion  438  disposed at a proximal end, which is configured to interface with the motor when the toothbrush head is coupled to the toothbrush housing. Toothbrush head  430  may comprise any suitable rigid material for use in medical devices, such as plastics, metals, and/or the like. 
     Coupled to oscillating toothbrush head  430  are an irrigation port or nozzle  424  and a scavenge port  452 . Irrigation nozzle  424  is coupled to pump  422  by an irrigation tube  428 , and may be formed as a single piece with the tube. Irrigation nozzle  424  is configured to facilitate the flow of water from tube  428  into the mouth of a patient. In some examples, irrigation nozzle  424  comprises flexible tubing. In some examples, irrigation nozzle  424  comprises rigid tubing. Irrigation tube  428  comprises any suitable resilient material for use in medical tubing, such as silicone, polyvinyl chloride, latex, ethyl vinyl acetate, Tygon, and/or the like. In some examples, irrigation nozzle  424  is disposed adjacent to or at the center of brush head  434 . 
     Scavenge port (AKA scavenging port)  452  is coupled to scavenge tube or scavenging tube  450 , and may be formed as a single piece with scavenge tube  450 . Scavenge port  452  is configured to facilitate the intake of waste (e.g., water, bodily fluids, food waste, etc.) from the mouth of a patient into tube  450 , for example by suction. In some examples, scavenge port  452  comprises flexible tubing. In some examples, scavenge port  452  comprises rigid tubing. Scavenge tube  450  comprises any suitable resilient material for use in medical tubing, such as silicone, polyvinyl chloride, latex, ethyl vinyl acetate, Tygon, and/or the like. 
     In some examples, oscillating brush head  430  includes a sleeve  440  extending from a back edge of the brush head. Sleeve  440  is configured to receive scavenge tube  450 . In some examples, scavenge port  452  is formed as a single piece with sleeve  440 . In these examples, sleeve  440  includes a port disposed proximal to the toothbrush-arm-mounted module interface to which scavenge tube  450  may couple. In some examples, scavenge tube  450  may be fed through sleeve  440 , which may retain tube  450  adjacent the toothbrush head while the toothbrush portion is in use. Tube  450  may be removed from sleeve  440  for cleaning. In some examples, tube  450  is heat-resistant and configured to be sanitized (e.g., using a dishwasher, autoclave, etc.). 
     Scavenge tube  450  may interface with arm-mounted module  460  through a scavenge inlet  454  coupled to a scavenge reservoir  470 , which may be disposed at a distal end of the arm-mounted module. In some examples, scavenge inlet  454  comprises a rigid tube configured to mate with scavenge tube  450 . In some examples, scavenge inlet  454  comprises a coupling, seal, or valve, which may provide a water-sealable fit when tube  450  is inserted into the coupling. 
     Arm-mounted module (AKA portable enclosure)  460  includes a housing  462  at least partially enclosing a scavenge reservoir  470  coupled to scavenge tube  450  by scavenge inlet  454 , a pump  480  configured to vacuum and/or suction fluid into the scavenge reservoir, and a power supply  490 . 
     Housing  462  includes an elongate (e.g., rectangular, cuboidal, or the like) capsule, which is configured to retain and protect internal components associated with the arm-mounted module. In some examples, housing  462  includes a lid and a base, which are configured to snap together and apart, providing access to the internal components. Housing  462  is configured to be coupled and/or releasably secured to the arm of a wearer via an armband or sleeve  464 . Armband  464  comprises an elastic material, such as neoprene, fabrics comprising polyether-polyurea copolymers, synthetic polymer fabrics, and/or the like. Armband  464  is configured to loop around the arm (e.g., forearm) of the wearer and fasten to itself, using any suitable fastener such as hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, and/or the like. In some examples, housing  462  includes a pair of slots, apertures, and/or openings disposed in a back surface, which are configured to receive the armband. In some examples, housing  462  is configured to be received by an elastic sleeve, to which the armband is coupled (e.g., sewn, attached with hook-and-loop fasteners, etc.). 
     In some examples, housing  462  includes a recess  472  disposed in an external surface, which is configured to receive scavenge reservoir  470 . Recess  472  is disposed at a distal end of arm-mounted module  460 . In some examples, the entire distal end of module  460  is open and configured to mate with scavenge reservoir  470 . Scavenge reservoir  470  comprises a tank (e.g., modular and/or disposable), which may include a sealing lid and is configured to fit snugly within recess  472 . In some examples, housing  462  includes fasteners configured to retain scavenge reservoir  470  within the housing. In some examples, the elastic sleeve is configured to retain the water supply within the housing. In some examples, scavenge reservoir  470  is configured to mate with housing  462  in a friction fit. Scavenge reservoir  470  may be detached from recess  472  for emptying and/or disinfection while disconnected from housing  462 . In some examples, scavenge tube  450  extends along a top surface of arm-mounted module  460 , and interfaces with scavenge reservoir  470  at a coupling or valve disposed on an external surface of scavenge reservoir  470 . 
     Scavenge reservoir  470  is configured to hold waste collected from the mouth of the patient. Accordingly, scavenge reservoir  470  interfaces with a vacuum pump  480  configured to suction waste from the patient&#39;s mouth into the scavenge reservoir. Waste travels from the patient&#39;s mouth through scavenge tube  450 , through scavenge inlet  452 , and into scavenge reservoir  470 . Vacuum pump  480  is disposed adjacent scavenge reservoir  470 , but does not contact any waste. In some examples, vacuum pump  480  may be insulated from waste by a seal or filter. In some examples, pump  480  is a peristaltic pump, although any suitable pump may be utilized. 
     Pump  480  is powered by a power supply  490 . In some examples, power supply  490  is a battery or a plurality of batteries  492 . In some examples, battery  492  is a rechargeable, e.g., lithium-ion battery. In some examples, batteries  492  are a plurality of alkaline batteries. In some examples, arm-mounted module  460  includes a charge indicator  494  configured to alert a user as to the state of charge of the arm-mounted module. In some examples, charge indicator  494  includes a plurality of LED indicators disposed on an external surface of housing  462 . In examples wherein batteries included in the power supply are rechargeable, the arm-mounted module may include a charging circuit  496  coupled to a charge port, which is configured to allow a user to charge the device without removing the batteries. 
     Arm-mounted module  460  may be any suitable size for an arm-mounted system. In some examples, arm-mounted module may have a length of 5 inches to 7 inches, a width of 1 inches to 2 inches, and a height of 1 inches to 2 inches. 
     E. Illustrative Method 
     This section describes steps of an illustrative method  500  for improving the oral hygiene of a patient or other subject; see  FIG. 15 . Aspects of portable electric toothbrush systems described above may be utilized in the method steps described below. Where appropriate, reference may be made to components and systems that may be used in carrying out each step. These references are for illustration, and are not intended to limit the possible ways of carrying out any particular step of the method. 
       FIG. 15  is a flowchart illustrating steps performed in an illustrative method, and may not recite the complete process or all steps of the method. Although various steps of method  500  are described below and depicted in  FIG. 15 , the steps need not necessarily all be performed, and in some cases may be performed simultaneously or in a different order than the order shown. 
     Step  502  of method  500  includes placing a brush end of an electric toothbrush into contact with one or more teeth in a mouth of a subject, wherein the electric toothbrush includes an irrigation nozzle and a scavenging port, and the electric toothbrush is part of a self-contained system, being coupled to a forearm-mounted enclosure housing a waste collection system. In some examples, forearm-mounted enclosure further comprises a rechargeable battery configured to power the waste collection system. 
     Step  504  of method  500  includes irrigating the mouth of the subject by pumping water from a water supply tank through the irrigation nozzle of the toothbrush. In some examples, the water supply tank is housed in the forearm-mounted enclosure. In some examples, the water supply tank is housed in a handle of the toothbrush. In some examples, pumping water from the water supply tank through the irrigation nozzle includes operating a manual pump disposed in a handle of the toothbrush. 
     Step  506  of method  500  includes scavenging waste from the mouth of the subject by pumping liquid through the scavenging port to the waste collection system. In some examples, the waste collection system comprises a waste collection tank and a vacuum pump. 
     F. Illustrative Combinations and Additional Examples 
     This section describes additional aspects and features of tooth cleaning systems, presented without limitation as a series of paragraphs, some or all of which may be alphanumerically designated for clarity and efficiency. Each of these paragraphs can be combined with one or more other paragraphs, and/or with disclosure from elsewhere in this application, in any suitable manner. Some of the paragraphs below expressly refer to and further limit other paragraphs, providing without limitation examples of some of the suitable combinations. 
     A0. A self-contained portable electric toothbrush system, comprising: 
     an electric toothbrush having a head portion coupled to a handle, the head portion including a brush, an irrigation nozzle, and a scavenging port; 
     a portable enclosure housing a first pump and a waste tank, the portable enclosure being coupled to the toothbrush by at least one flexible tube and comprising a sleeve, such that the portable enclosure is configured to be releasably securable to an arm of a user; and 
     a water supply tank coupled to the irrigation nozzle of the electric toothbrush; 
     wherein the at least one flexible tube includes a scavenging tube coupled at a first end to the scavenging port of the toothbrush and at a second end to the waste tank. 
     A1. The portable electric toothbrush system of A0, wherein the water supply tank is disposed in the portable enclosure, and the at least one flexible tube includes a water supply tube coupled to the irrigation nozzle. 
     A2. The portable electric toothbrush system of A1, the portable enclosure further housing a second pump, wherein the first pump is a vacuum pump coupled to the waste tank and the second pump is a water supply pump configured to move water from the water supply tank through the water supply tube. 
     A3. The portable electric toothbrush system of A1, wherein the first pump is configured to move liquid waste through the scavenging tube and to move water from the water supply tank through the water supply tube. 
     A4. The portable electric toothbrush system of A3, wherein the first pump is a peristaltic pump operatively coupled both to the scavenging tube and to the water supply tube. 
     A5. The portable electric toothbrush system of A0, wherein the water supply tank is disposed in the handle of the electric toothbrush, and the water supply tank is coupled to the irrigation nozzle by a water supply tube. 
     A6. The portable electric toothbrush system of A5, wherein the at least one flexible tube coupling the portable enclosure to the toothbrush includes only the scavenging tube. 
     A7. The portable electric toothbrush system of A5 or A6, wherein the handle of the toothbrush further comprises a hand-operated pump configured to move water from the water supply tank to the irrigation nozzle. 
     A8. The portable electric toothbrush system of any one of paragraphs A0 through A7, wherein the sleeve comprises two elastic portions releasably securable to each other. 
     A9. The portable electric toothbrush system of A8, wherein the two elastic portions include hook and loop fasteners. 
     B0. A portable electric toothbrush system, comprising: 
     an electric toothbrush having a head portion coupled to a handle, the head portion including a brush and a scavenging port; 
     a portable enclosure housing a vacuum pump coupled to a waste tank, the portable enclosure being coupled to the toothbrush by a flexible scavenging tube and comprising an arm sleeve configured to hold the portable enclosure to a forearm of a user; and 
     a portable power supply electrically coupled to the vacuum pump; 
     wherein the scavenging tube is coupled at a first end to the scavenging port of the toothbrush and at a second end to the waste tank. 
     B1. The portable electric toothbrush system of B0, further comprising a water supply tank coupled to an irrigation nozzle of the electric toothbrush. 
     B2. The portable electric toothbrush system of B1, wherein the water supply tank is disposed in the handle of the toothbrush. 
     B3. The portable electric toothbrush system of B1, wherein the water supply tank is disposed in the portable enclosure. 
     B4. The portable electric toothbrush system of any one of paragraphs B0 through B3, wherein the portable power supply comprises a battery housed in the portable enclosure. 
     B5. The portable electric toothbrush system of any one of paragraphs B0 through B4, wherein the portable power supply is further electrically coupled to a motor configured to oscillate the brush of the toothbrush. 
     C0. A method for brushing the teeth of a subject, the method comprising: 
     placing a brush end of an electric toothbrush into contact with one or more teeth in a mouth of the subject, wherein the electric toothbrush includes an irrigation nozzle and a scavenging port, and the electric toothbrush is coupled to a forearm-mounted enclosure housing a waste collection system; 
     irrigating the mouth of the subject by pumping water from a water supply tank through the irrigation nozzle of the toothbrush; and 
     scavenging waste from the mouth of the subject by pumping liquid through the scavenging port to the waste collection system. 
     C1. The method of C0, wherein the water supply tank is housed in the forearm-mounted enclosure. 
     C2. The method of C0, wherein the water supply tank is housed in a handle of the toothbrush. 
     C3. The method of any one of paragraphs C0 through C2, wherein the waste collection system comprises a waste collection tank and a vacuum pump. 
     C4. The method of C0, wherein pumping water from the water supply tank through the irrigation nozzle includes operating a manual pump disposed in a handle of the toothbrush. 
     C5. The method of any one of paragraphs C0 through C4, wherein the forearm-mounted enclosure further comprises a rechargeable battery configured to power the waste collection system. 
     Advantages, Features, and Benefits 
     The different embodiments and examples of the tooth cleaning system described herein provide several advantages over known solutions for cleaning patients&#39; teeth in a dependent care setting (e.g., ICU, extended care facility, home healthcare). For example, illustrative embodiments and examples described herein allow easy sanitation of internal components, which allows a single toothbrush to be used to clean the teeth of multiple patients. 
     Additionally, and among other benefits, illustrative embodiments and examples described herein provide a completely portable system able to both irrigate and suction the mouth of a patient, improving tooth cleaning experience for patients, e.g., for patients unable to care for their own oral hygiene. Convenience and usability are enhanced by the self-contained nature of the apparatus. 
     Additionally, and among other benefits, illustrative embodiments and examples described herein provide a completely portable system that does not require an external power supply, an external drainage system, and/or an external water supply, those things being included within the portable assembly (e.g., one or more being housed in the arm-mounted module). 
     No known system or device can perform these functions. However, not all embodiments and examples described herein provide the same advantages or the same degree of advantage. 
     CONCLUSION 
     The disclosure set forth above may encompass multiple distinct examples with independent utility. Although each of these has been disclosed in its preferred form(s), the specific embodiments thereof as disclosed and illustrated herein are not to be considered in a limiting sense, because numerous variations are possible. To the extent that section headings are used within this disclosure, such headings are for organizational purposes only. The subject matter of the disclosure includes all novel and nonobvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements, features, functions, and/or properties disclosed herein. The following claims particularly point out certain combinations and subcombinations regarded as novel and nonobvious. Other combinations and subcombinations of features, functions, elements, and/or properties may be claimed in applications claiming priority from this or a related application. Such claims, whether broader, narrower, equal, or different in scope to the original claims, also are regarded as included within the subject matter of the present disclosure.