WO2025076581A1

WO2025076581A1 - Therapeutic toothbrush

Info

Publication number: WO2025076581A1
Application number: PCT/AU2024/051047
Authority: WO
Inventors: Masoud Jafarzadeh
Original assignee: Cosmoaesthetics Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Cosmoaesthetics Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2023-10-12
Filing date: 2024-10-04
Publication date: 2025-04-17
Anticipated expiration: 2026-04-12

Abstract

A therapeutic toothbrush is disclosed, comprising a light emitter and an electro- muscle stimulation (EMS) transducer, both controlled by a controller located in the handle. The light emitter and EMS transducer are configured to operate simultaneously, delivering synergistic therapeutic light and EMS from the head of the toothbrush to target localised areas of oral tissue. The light therapy promotes collagen production and improves tissue elasticity, while the EMS enhances muscle tone and circulation, particularly within the palate. This combination may help address conditions such as snoring and sleep apnoea by improving muscle tone and overall oral tissue health.

Description

Therapeutic Toothbrush

Field of the Invention

[0001 ] The present invention relates to therapeutic toothbrushes. More specifically, the invention concerns a toothbrush that combines light therapy and electro-muscle stimulation (EMS) to target oral mucosal tissue, promoting improved muscle tone, tissue elasticity, and circulation, with applications for addressing conditions such as snoring and sleep apnoea.

Background of the Invention

[0002] In recent years, there has been growing interest in developing toothbrushes that go beyond traditional cleaning to offer therapeutic benefits. These advancements aim to enhance oral hygiene and address specific oral health concerns through innovative technologies. Among the developments in this field is the integration of light sources into toothbrushes, with designs incorporating phototherapy to provide additional health benefits during routine brushing.

[0003] The use of light-emitting toothbrushes has gained attention due to their potential therapeutic benefits. Some modern toothbrushes incorporate light sources, such as LEDs, into their design to enhance oral hygiene and support treatments through phototherapy. Various photo-therapeutic toothbrushes have been developed, addressing diverse dental care needs, including bacterial control, tissue stimulation, and gum health.

[0004] One such example is US 2019/0167400 A1 (ORALUCENT LLC), which discloses a toothbrush with an electronic interlock control device that prevents the light source from operating when the toothbrush is removed from the user's mouth. The toothbrush activates when placed inside the mouth and deactivates upon removal, offering protection against inadvertent light exposure.

[0005] Despite these advancements, these prior art arrangements are generally suited for a limited range of treatments. While they effectively address certain aspects of oral hygiene, such as bacterial control, they do not offer comprehensive solutions for more complex oral health needs. [0006] The present invention seeks to provide a therapeutic toothbrush which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.

[0007] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

Summary of the Disclosure

[0008] A therapeutic toothbrush is provided, comprising a handle, a stem, and a head. The head contains a light emitter and an electro-muscle stimulation (EMS) transducer, both controlled by a controller located in the handle. The light emitter and EMS transducer are designed to operate simultaneously, emitting therapeutic light and delivering EMS to target localised areas of oral mucosal tissue, producing simultaneous synergistic light therapy and muscle stimulation effect.

[0009] Light emitted by the light emitter promotes collagen production and improves tissue elasticity, while the EMS enhances muscle tone and blood circulation, particularly in the palate. This combined treatment may help to alleviate conditions such as snoring and sleep apnoea by improving muscle tone and circulation within the targeted oral tissues. Additionally, the improvement in tissue tone and elasticity may contribute to better overall oral health , such as by strengthening the oral muscles, enhancing the firmness of the soft palate, and supporting the structure of the oral cavity, potentially reducing the risk of tissue sagging .

[0010] In embodiments, the toothbrush can be programmed to operate in different stages, including an initial stage where the light emitter is active to prepare the tissue for EMS by enhancing cellular metabolism and promoting tissue repair. In a later stage, the light emitter and EMS transducer work together, providing therapeutic light and electrical stimulation simultaneously for optimal therapeutic effects. At the conclusion of the treatment cycle, the light emitter may switch to a wavelength range with biocidal properties to sterilise the oral cavity by targeting bacteria and reducing inflammation. [001 1 ] According to one aspect, there is provided a therapeutic toothbrush comprising a light emitter and an electro-muscle stimulation (EMS) transducer controlled by a controller and configured to emit therapeutic light and deliver EMS from a head of the toothbrush to target a localised area of oral tissue with simultaneous light therapy and muscle stimulation.

[0012] Preferably, the head comprises paired electrodes controlled by the controller to deliver microcurrent stimulation. The inclusion of paired electrodes allows for targeted and controlled delivery of electrical stimulation, which may enhance muscle activation and promote improved circulation in the treated oral tissues.

[0013] In accordance with an embodiment, the light emitter is configured to emit red light in the range of 620-700 nm while the electrodes simultaneously deliver low- frequency electrical stimulation in the range of 1 -100 Hz. The combination of red light, known to stimulate collagen production and improve tissue elasticity, with low- frequency EMS offers synergistic effects, particularly for addressing snoring and sleep apnoea by improving the muscle tone of the palate.

[0014] Preferably, at the start of a treatment cycle, the light emitter is controlled by the controller to emit light at wavelengths between 700-900 nm while the EMS transducer remains non-operational. This pre-treatment phase may enhance cellular metabolism and promote tissue regeneration by penetrating deeper into the oral tissues before EMS is applied, ensuring optimal tissue preparation.

[0015] In accordance with an embodiment, at the end of the treatment cycle, the light emitter is controlled by the controller to emit light at wavelengths between 400-450 nm while the EMS transducer remains non-operational. The use of light in this biocidal range helps sterilise the treated area by targeting harmful bacteria, reducing inflammation and promoting oral hygiene following the treatment.

[0016] Optionally, the paired electrodes may be configured to deliver short, low- energy pulses of electrical current.

[0017] In an embodiment, the head may comprise capacitors controlled by the controller to deliver EMS via capacitive coupling. Capacitive coupling allows for non - contact stimulation, providing a gentler and more comfortable treatment, particularly beneficial for sensitive areas of the mouth.

[0018] Preferably, the head defines a tip from which therapeutic light is emitted, and the EMS transducer is located at the tip for pinpoint targeting. This configuration enables focused treatment of specific areas, such as the soft palate, offering precise delivery of light and EMS therapy. The tip may expose paired electrodes controlled by the controller to deliver microcurrent stimulation. This configuration further enhances the targeted delivery of electrical stimulation, improving muscle tone and circulation in specific areas requiring pinpoint treatment.

[0019] The therapeutic light may be emitted from a cross-section of the back surface, and the EMS transducer operates from the back surface for broader targeting that is not impeded by the bristles. This allows for more comprehensive treatment of larger areas, such as the hard palate, without interference from the bristles. Preferably, the back surface defines a plurality of paired electrodes controlled by the controller to deliver microcurrent stimulation over a broader area, enhancing the therapeutic effect by covering more tissue in a single treatment session.

[0020] In accordance with an embodiment, the head comprises distal componentry and posterior componentry, each comprising a respective light emitter and EMS transducer, with the controller configured to independently operate the distal and posterior componentry. This configuration allows for more versatile treatment options, enabling selective targeting of different regions in the oral cavity.

[0021 ] The distal componentry may comprise a narrow beam lens for delivering a focused beam of therapeutic light, while the posterior componentry includes broad beam lenses for covering larger treatment areas. This dual configuration provides flexibility for addressing both small, targeted regions and broader areas of the mouth. [0022] In an embodiment, the controller is configured to operate the distal and posterior componentry in response to manual control, providing the user with greater control over the treatment process to suit their individual needs. Alternatively, the controller interfaces a sensor configured to detect the orientation of the head and operate the componentry accordingly. This automatic adjustment ensures that the appropriate componentry is activated based on the position of the toothbrush in the oral cavity, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of the treatment. In accordance with an embodiment, the controller is configured to detect conductivity between the electrodes of the distal componentry, ensuring that the componentry only activates when in contact with oral tissue. This prevents unnecessary activation and ensures precise delivery of the treatment.

[0023] The head may further comprise a piezoelectric vibrator, and the controller may be configured to operate the vibrator simultaneously with the light therapy and EMS to vibrate the localised area. This additional vibrational stimulation may promote vasodilation and enhance tissue toning, complementing the effects of both the light therapy and EMS for improved therapeutic outcomes.

[0024] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0025] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0026] Figure 1 illustrates a therapeutic system including a therapeutic toothbrush.

[0027] Figure 2 shows the therapeutic toothbrush comprising a handle, stem, and head with bristles.

[0028] Figure 3 depicts the head of the toothbrush defining a tip and a back surface, showing the arrangement of the light emitter and electrodes for EMS.

[0029] Figure 4 shows a wider cross-section of the back surface of the head, demonstrating the placement of multiple pairs of electrodes for broader application of light and EMS therapy.

[0030] Figure 5 illustrates the use of the posterior componentry for treating a larger area, such as the hard palate.

[0031 ] Figure 6 depicts the use of the distal componentry for pinpoint targeting, such as the soft palate.

[0032] Figure 7 shows a method of delivering EMS in light therapy using the system. Description of Embodiments

[0033] Figure 1 shows a therapeutic system 100 comprising a therapeutic toothbrush

101. With reference to Figure 2, the therapeutic toothbrush 101 comprises a handle

102, a shank 107, and a head 108. The head 108 includes bristles 1 15.

[0034] The handle 102 may house a controller 103 configured to control a light emitter 1 10 and an electro-muscle stimulation (EMS) transducer 1 1 1 , both operative from the head 108. In embodiments, the EMS transducer 1 1 1 may be located in the handle 101 but may be operative from the head, such as by being wired through the shank 107 to a capacitor, electrode or the like located within the head 1 10. The light emitter 1 10 and the EMS transducer 1 1 1 are designed to work together, emitting therapeutic light 123 while delivering EMS to target a localised area of oral mucosal tissue, providing simultaneous light therapy and muscle stimulation.

[0035] The light emitter 1 10 preferably comprises light-emitting diodes (LEDs), chosen for their efficiency, compact size, and ability to emit specific therapeutic wavelengths. The LEDs may be configured to emit light in a controlled range to maximise therapeutic benefits.

[0036] The handle 102 may also feature a control interface 124, operably connected to the controller 103. This control interface 124 may include a power button 125, function selection buttons, and one or more status indicators 126, which could display the state of the treatment cycle.

[0037] The controller 103 includes a processor configured to process digital data. It communicates with a memory device containing program code that is executed by the processor to implement the control functions. The processor may be a low-power microprocessor, and the memory could comprise ROM for storing fixed program instructions and, in some embodiments, RAM for storing user configuration settings and treatment variables. Additionally, the handle 102 houses a battery 104, which powers the controller 103, light emitter 1 10, and EMS transducer 1 1 1 . The battery 104 is preferably rechargeable and may have electrical contacts at the base of the handle 102 for wired charging, or it may support inductive recharging. [0038] In some embodiments, the head 108 may further include a piezoelectric vibrator 121 , which enhances the therapeutic effects by adding vibrational stimulation. Additionally, the handle 102 may include at least one sensor, such as an orientation sensor 107, and it may also contain a wireless interface 1 10 for communication with an external electronic device 1 17 via Bluetooth. This device, such as a mobile phone, may run a dedicated software application that allows remote control of the toothbrush 101 and the adjustment of settings.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the EMS transducer 1 1 1 is electrically connected to paired electrodes 127, which are controlled by the controller 103 to deliver microcurrent stimulation. This stimulation activates the muscles and tissues of the mouth, promoting firming of the oral tissue, including the palate, by improving muscle tone and circulation. The voltage for such applications may range from 1 to 10 volts, with a current between 50 and 500 microamps, depending on the desired intensity and treatment duration.

[0040] The light emitter 1 10 may be configured to emit red light in the range of approximately 620-700 nm, while the EMS transducer 1 1 1 delivers low-frequency electrical stimulation between 1 -100 Hz. The combined application of light therapy and EMS produces a synergistic effect: the red light stimulates collagen production and improves tissue elasticity, while the EMS enhances muscle tone and blood circulation, particularly targeting the palate to address conditions such as snoring and sleep apnoea.

[0041 ] With reference to Figure 7, the controller 103 is configured to deliver treatment in multiple stages, with precise control over the light emitter 1 10 and EMS transducer 1 1 1. The process 128 begins with the user configuring treatment settings at step 129, such as age, health status, and the specific treatment goal, whether for tissue elasticity improvement or muscle toning. These settings are stored in the memory of the controller 103, which uses them to control each treatment stage.

[0042] At step 130, the user begins brushing with the toothbrush 101 , moving it back and forth so the bristles 1 15 contact the teeth. The controller 103, using inputs from sensors such as the orientation sensor 107 or an accelerometer in the handle 102, may detect the start of brushing and automatically begins the treatment cycle at step 131. In some embodiments, the controller 103 may also detect conductivity between the electrodes 127 when they come into contact with saliva, confirming the start of the treatment. At the start of the treatment at step 132, the controller 103 may activate the light emitter 1 10 to emit light in the wavelength range of 700 to 900 nm, while the EMS transducer 1 1 1 remains non-operational. This stage prepares the oral tissues by allowing the light to penetrate deeper, enhancing cellular metabolism, improving blood circulation, and promoting tissue repair and regeneration. This pre-treatment phase is critical for optimising the subsequent delivery of EMS.

[0043] During the main treatment phase at step 133 the controller 103 activates both the light emitter 1 10 and the EMS transducer 1 1 1 . The light emitter 1 10 emits red light in the range of approximately 620 to 700 nm, while the electrodes 127 deliver alternating or pulsing microcurrent in the range of 1 to 100 Hz. This simultaneous application produces a synergistic effect, with the red light stimulating collagen production and improving tissue elasticity, while the EMS enhances muscle tone and circulation in the palate and surrounding oral tissues. This stage is particularly beneficial for addressing conditions such as snoring and sleep apnoea by improving the muscle tone and functionality of the oral tissues. During this treatment, the controller 103 may adjust the duration, frequency, and intensity based on the user’s pre-configured settings stored in its memory.

[0044] The treatment may conclude with an end-of-cycle stage at step 141. In this final phase, the controller 103 switches the light emitter 1 10 to emit light in the range of 400 to 450 nm, which has biocidal properties while the EMS transducer 1 1 1 remains inactive. The biocidal light works to sanitise the oral cavity, removing bacteria that may have been loosened during brushing, and addressing any residual irritation from the earlier treatment phases.

[0045] In alternative embodiments, instead of using paired electrodes 127, the EMS transducer 1 1 1 may use paired capacitors (not shown) located within the head 108 to deliver EMS via capacitive coupling which creates an electric field between the capacitors, which induces a current in the tissues without direct electrode contact, providing a gentler form of stimulation suitable for sensitive areas.

[0046] In an alternative embodiment, the EMS transducer 1 1 1 may apply high- intensity and frequency electromagnetic (HIFEM) stimulation unit designed to improve muscle tone and lifting of the palate through the application of magnetic waves. The HIFEM transducer generates electromagnetic fields that penetrate deeper into the muscle tissues of the palate, inducing rapid muscle contractions which help to strengthen and lift the muscles for improved muscle tone and firmness. The HIFEM transducer may be controlled by the controller 103 in a similar manner as the standard EMS transducer, with operational parameters adjusted to deliver high-intensity electromagnetic fields at frequencies typically ranging between 10 and 30 kHz. The application of these magnetic waves stimulates deep muscle fibres more effectively than traditional low-frequency EMS, promoting increased muscle activity and enhanced circulation within the targeted oral tissue. As the HIFEM transducer demands higher power, it may be necessary to ensure that sufficient energy is available to maintain prolonged and effective treatment cycles. Due to the increased power requirements of the HIFEM transducer, the battery 104 may be adapted to provide additional capacity. In certain embodiments, the toothbrush 101 may also comprise a power lead (not shown) that connects to an external high-capacity power supply. This configuration allows the therapeutic system 100 to deliver the required energy to operate the HIFEM transducer effectively, ensuring consistent and reliable performance throughout the treatment cycle.

[0047] With reference to Figure 3, the head 108 defines a tip 134 from which therapeutic light 123 is emitted. The tip 134 may also house a pair of closely spaced electrodes 127 for precise targeting of EMS. Figure 3 also shows that the head 108 has a back surface 135, better illustrated in Figure 4, where therapeutic light 123 is emitted from a wider section, allowing for a broader application of therapy. Multiple pairs of electrodes 127 may be arranged along the back surface 135 for delivering EMS over a larger area. [0048] In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the head 108 includes distal componentry at the tip and posterior componentry at the back, each having a light emitter 1 10 and an EMS transducer 1 1 1 . The controller 103 may independently control these components, allowing for either broad rear application or targeted tip application of EMS and light therapy. Figure 5 shows the posterior componentry being used for treating a large area such as the hard palate 137B, while Figure 6 shows the distal componentry being used to target the soft palate 137A.

[0049] The distal componentry may include a narrow-beam lens 138A to focus the light for pinpoint therapy, while the posterior componentry may have broader lenses 138B that overlaps to create a contiguous light therapy zone. The controller 103 may switch between the components manually via the control interface 124 or automatically based on input from the orientation sensor 107. With reference to Figure 5, the orientation sensor 107 may be configured to detect the roll orientation of the head 108 in relation to the longitudinal axis defined by the shank 107. This allows the system 100 to detect when the bristles 1 15 are facing downwardly, indicating that the back surface 135 of the head 108 is facing upward towards the palate 137. By sensing this orientation, the controller 103 can automatically activate the posterior componentry, optimising the delivery of light therapy and EMS to the palate 137. Furthermore, with reference to Figure 6, the controller 103 may detect current between the electrodes 127 caused by the tip 134 coming into contact with the back of the throat, such as the soft palate 137A. Upon detecting this contact, the controller 103 can activate the componentry to deliver pinpoint light and EMS therapy from the tip 134, providing targeted treatment to the soft palate or surrounding areas. This precise detection of head orientation and contact allows for targeted treatment of the intended area, enhancing the therapeutic effect by adjusting the activation of the anterior or posterior componentry based on the real-time position of the toothbrush within the oral cavity.

[0050] Figure 3 shows an embodiment wherein the bristles 1 15 are embedded in a tray 139, which is releasably engaged within a cradle 140. The cradle 140 may be sized and shaped to snugly fit the tray 139 therein to prevent dislodgement of the bristles 115 during use. The cradle 140 may comprise a gate 141 , which may be deflected or displaced to engage a proximal end of the tray 139 in opposition to a fixed end of the cradle 140 engaging the distal end of the tray 139. This secure engagement ensures that the bristles 115 remain firmly in place during brushing.

[0051 ] The head 108 may further comprise an anterior componentry set, including a respective light emitter 110 and EMS transducer 1 11. When simultaneous EMS and light therapy are required at the anterior end of the toothbrush, or when simultaneous anterior and posterior application of the therapy is desired, the tray 139 may be removed to expose the light emitter 1 10 and the EMS transducer 111 of the anterior componentry. This allows for the provision of targeted light and EMS therapy from the anterior region of the head 108.

[0052] In some embodiments, the controller 103 may operate the piezoelectric vibrator 121 simultaneously with the EMS transducer 1 11 and light emitter 1 10 to enhance the effects of the treatment. The vibration delivered by the piezoelectric vibrator 121 promotes further vasodilation and tissue toning in the targeted area, complementing the effects of both the EMS and light therapy. This combined operation can enhance therapeutic outcomes by stimulating blood flow and improving tissue health.

[0053] The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that specific details are not required in order to practise the invention. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the invention are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed as obviously many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the following claims and their equivalents define the scope of the invention.

Claims

1 . A therapeutic toothbrush comprising a light emitter and an electro-muscle stimulation (EMS) transducer controlled by a controller and configured to emit therapeutic light and deliver EMS from a head of the toothbrush to target a localised area of oral tissue with simultaneous light therapy and muscle stimulation.

2. The therapeutic toothbrush of claim 1 , wherein the head comprises paired electrodes controlled by the controller to deliver microcurrent stimulation.

3. The therapeutic toothbrush of claim 2, wherein the light emitter is configured to emit red light in the range of 620-700 nm while the electrodes simultaneously deliver low-frequency electrical stimulation in the range of 1 -100 Hz.

4. The therapeutic toothbrush of claim 3, wherein, at a start of a treatment cycle, the light emitter is controlled by the controller to emit light at wavelengths between 700- 900 nm while the EMS transducer is non-operational.

5. The therapeutic toothbrush of claim 4, wherein, at an end of a treatment cycle, the light emitter is controlled by the controller to emit light at wavelengths between 400- 450 nm while the EMS transducer is non-operational.

6. The therapeutic toothbrush of claim 2, wherein the paired electrodes are controlled by the controller to deliver short, low-energy pulses of electrical current.

7. The therapeutic toothbrush of claim 1 , wherein the head comprises capacitors controlled by the controller to deliver EMS via capacitive coupling.

8. The therapeutic toothbrush of claim 1 , wherein the head defines a tip, and wherein the therapeutic light is emitted from the tip, and the EMS transducer operatives from the tip.

9. The therapeutic toothbrush of claim 8, wherein the tip exposes paired electrodes controlled by the controller to deliver microcurrent stimulation.

10. The therapeutic toothbrush of claim 1 , wherein the head comprises bristles and a back surface opposite the bristles, and wherein the therapeutic light is emitted from a cross-section of the back surface, and the EMS transducer operates from the back surface.

1 1 . The therapeutic toothbrush of claim 10, wherein the back surface defines a plurality of paired electrodes controlled by the controller to deliver microcurrent stimulation.

12. The therapeutic toothbrush of claim 1 , wherein the head comprises a distal componentry and posterior componentry, each comprising a respective light emitter and EMS transducer, and wherein the controller is configured to independently operate the distal componentry and posterior componentry.

13. The therapeutic toothbrush of claim 12, wherein the distal componentry comprises a narrow beam lens to provide a narrow beam of therapeutic light, and the posterior componentry comprises a plurality of broad beam lenses to provide broader beams of therapeutic light.

14. The therapeutic toothbrush of claim 13, wherein the controller is configured to operate the distal componentry and posterior componentry responsive to manual control.

15. The therapeutic toothbrush of claim 14, wherein the controller comprises a sensor and is configured to operate the distal componentry and posterior componentry responsive to sensor readings.

16. The therapeutic toothbrush of claim 15, wherein the sensor is an orientation sensor configured to detect the roll of the head with respect to a longitudinal axis defined by the stem, and wherein the controller uses the sensor to detect the orientation of the back surface and operate the posterior componentry accordingly.

17. The therapeutic toothbrush of claim 15, wherein the controller is configured to detect conductivity between the electrodes of the distal componentry to operate the distal componentry.

18. The therapeutic toothbrush of claim 1 , wherein the bristles are engaged within a tray, the tray being removably engaged within a cradle defined by the head, and wherein the light emitter and EMS transducer operate from within the cradle when the tray is removed.

19. The therapeutic toothbrush of claim 1 , wherein the head further comprises a piezoelectric vibrator, and the controller is configured to operate the vibrator simultaneously with the light therapy and EMS to vibrate the localised area.

20. A method of delivering simultaneous light therapy and muscle stimulation using the therapeutic toothbrush of claim 1 , comprising the steps of emitting therapeutic light and delivering EMS to target a localised area of oral tissue.