| abstract |
An oral hygiene device is disclosed having an ultrasonic transducer 22 and an acoustic waveguide 24 that facilitate the transmission of ultrasonic acoustic energy to a fluid in the oral cavity. Ultrasonic operating parameters suitable for working in an aqueous environment and dental slurry are disclosed. The apparatus can include a drive motor 16 to vibrate the device head 23, acoustic waveguide 24, and one or more brush bristle bundles 26 at acoustic frequencies, and preferably also provides operational parameters of sound. Multi-element piezoelectric transducer assemblies 30, 40 and various control and communication functions are disclosed. The oral hygiene device disclosed here achieves improvements in removing plaque and dirt from teeth, as well as from the interdental and subgingival areas, while enhancing the user experience and massaging the gums, Stimulates tooth tissue and destroys biofilm. |