WO2017013680A2

WO2017013680A2 - A periodontal sheath bur and file

Info

Publication number: WO2017013680A2
Application number: PCT/IN2016/050242
Authority: WO
Inventors: Roshan SAKHARKAR
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2015-07-20
Filing date: 2016-07-18
Publication date: 2017-01-26
Anticipated expiration: 2018-01-20
Also published as: WO2017013680A3

Abstract

A periodontal sheath bur and file for a dental instrument, said element configured to provide for abrasive action on gingival wall of periodontal pocket and for cleaning, polishing action on tooth surface without abrading or damaging it, said element comprising: at least a sheath head configured to ensconce an operative distal tip of said dental instrument, characterised in that, said sheath comprising one of a plurality of features on its external surface, said feature configured to provide abrading action on gingival wall of periodontal pocket and cleaning, polishing action on tooth surface without damaging it; and at least an attachment for holding said sheath at one end.

Description

A PERIODONTAL SHEATH BUR AND FILE

Field of the Invention:

This invention relates to the field of biomedical engineering and medical devices.

Particularly, this invention relates to a dental bur and ultrasonic scaler tip for use in dentistry and more particularly to a dental bur or rotating tip and scaler tip / vibrating or oscillating or reciprocating ultrasonic / hand held device tip for removing / abrading a periodontal pocket wall lining of gingival side and cleaning / polishing / smoothing tooth surface , root planing , gingival curettage for reducing / elimination of periodontal pocket depth and treating periodontal disease.

Background of the Invention:

Periodontal pocket is well understood in dentistry as one of the most important clinical features of periodontal disease. It is the space between tooth and gingival margin. Periodontal pocket is defined as a pathologically deepened gingival sulcus.

Periodontitis is a set of inflammatory diseases affecting the periodontium, i.e., the tissues that surround and support the teeth. Periodontitis is defined as an inflammatory disease of the supporting tissue of the teeth caused by specific microorganisms resulting in progressive destruction of the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone with increased probing depth, and if left untreated, can lead to the loosening and subsequent loss of teeth.

Periodontal disease occurs when bacteria colonise the sulcus space between the teeth and gingiva. The bacteria cause inflammation, destroys the inner surface of the sulcus altering the structure from a normal epithelial lining to a pathological epithelium. As periodontal disease progresses, deep pocket develop between the tooth and the gingiva. The root surface and periodontal pocket becomes contaminated with biofilm, bacterial toxins, and hard adhered calcified calculus deposits.

Periodontitis is caused by microorganisms that adhere to and grow on the tooth's surfaces, along with an over-aggressive immune response against these microorganisms. A diagnosis of periodontitis is established by inspecting the soft gum tissues around the teeth with a probe (i.e., a clinical examination) and by evaluating the patient's X-ray films (i.e. a radiographic examination), to determine the amount of bone loss around the teeth.

Specialists in the treatment of periodontitis are periodontists; their field is known as "periodontology" or "periodontics". Periodontitis is common but largely preventable. Periodontitis is usually the result of poor oral hygiene. Brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily and getting regular dental checkups can greatly reduce chances of developing periodontitis.

Some products only remove biofilm on tooth surface and are not made for injuring / abrasing periodontal pocket wall of gingival side.

Some products give excessive abrasive action of tooth surface of pocket wall and remove some tooth structure.

Traditional treatment performed for periodontal disease is to remove or debride granulation tissue and scrape the root surface clean, subgingival biofilm removal. This treatment includes scaling and root planning of the tooth within subgingival area for removing the calculus on which biofilms are prone to collect. This procedure is done during surgical / non-surgical root planing and curettage and surgical periodontal therapy. During root planing and curettage, it cannot completely remove hard deposits (e.g. calculus) or soft deposits (e.g. biofilm). Also, curettage or scraping of periodontal pocket wall of gingival side is not completely or finely or uniformly done using available instruments even when utilising both specialised hand instrument , rotary instrument and oscillating or vibrating sonic or ultrasonic instruments.

Periodontal surgery to remove periodontal pocket wall of gingival side requires excision of pocket wall by giving incision with a knife e.g. Excisional new attachment procedure. Surgical procedures are complex and are to be done by a specialist wherein numerous medicines including anaesthesia and instruments are required.

Hand instruments are complex in design and require numerous shaft angles mated with a myriad of shaped scraping edges to allow the operator to clean complex curves of root surfaces and periodontal pocket walls in difficult positions in the mouth have been designed number in the thousands.

Ultrasonic instruments utilise electronics to generate a vibrating insert tip to clean the root. Ultrasonic inserts are manufactured in different sizes, designs, and angles to allow placement of the ultrasonic cleaning tip along side of the roots.

There is one type of powered bur, the Evian debridement bur designed to remove granulation tissue and root deposits. Its use is limited because it is only round in shape so it cannot engage periodontal pocket completely and effectively. It can damage tooth surface or root surface by abrasion. It cannot easily enter the narrow periodontal pocket between tooth and gingiva without incisions to create a wider entry space. Therefore, its use is limited to surgical procedures. Also, there are some dental burs developed for abrasion on periodontal pocket wall. This type of bur not only gives abrasing action on periodontal pocket wall of gingival side, but also abrades and damages tooth root surface.

There is a need for a dental bur and scaler tip which provides for appropriate and effective abrading action on periodontal pocket wall of gingival side and cleaning or polishing action on periodontal pocket wall of tooth side without destruction or trauma to tooth surface. There is a need for a device or instrument that does not damage or abrade tooth or root surface. Some rotary instruments are developed to clean tooth root surface without damaging it but these instruments are not able to abrade periodontal pocket wall of gingival side effectively and completely.

The objective of root planning is to remove root deposits, calculus, granulation tissue and to detoxify the root surface of embedded bacterial toxins and curettage of periodontal pocket wall lining of gingival side.

The stated goal of hand instruments, ultrasonic instruments, rotary instruments, and burs to remove as little of the root surface as possible. On the other hand, some dental bur excessively abrade tooth surface or root surface and exposes dentin by abrasion which may lead to sensitivity of tooth and other damaging effect and problems.

Therefore, what is needed is rotary instrument tip or a dental bur or oscillating or a vibrating sonic or ultrasonic tip or a scaler tip, designed to enter the periodontal pocket to detoxify the root by cleaning and polishing effect on outer surface of the tooth root without damaging and abrading it and to debride the granulation tissue lining of the periodontal pocket wall of gingival side by abrasive action on it.

Prior Art:

EP2719356 relates to dental bur but it is specially made for cleaning soft deposit from a tooth or root surface of a tooth in periodontal pocket and implant and not to injure or abrade gingival wall of periodontal pocket . It is specially designed only to remove soft deposit from a tooth or implant so it is not able to remove hard deposit from a tooth e.g. calculus. It causes no abrasion or very less abrasion to gingival wall of periodontal pocket. Furthermore, it is a complicated design and requires special rotating device for its bur. Also, it is relatively costly.

US20040191725 relates to dental bur but it causes excessive abrading damage to both gingival and tooth root surface , also to bone structure , specially tooth surface of periodontal pocket . Furthermore, prior art bur / instruments are made to obtain optimum cleaning action of the root canal, so ability for abrasive action to soft tissue is not possible in it.

In prior art brush for cleaning root canal has disadvantage of bristles coming apart from shank, i.e. they tear off the shank if hard pressure is applied as in case of abrading gingival wall of periodontal pocket and polishing tooth side wall of pocket .

Objects of the Invention:

An object of the invention is to provide a medical device or a medical instrument for use in dentistry for reducing / elimination of periodontal pocket depth and the effective prevention and treatment of diseases such as periodontitis.

Another object of the invention is to provide a medical device or a medical instrument or a dental instrument, which not only provides abrasive action on gingival wall of periodontal pocket but also clean and polishes tooth surface , specially root surface .

Summary of the Invention:

According to this invention, there is provided an element for a dental instrument, said element configured to provide for abrasive action on gingival wall of periodontal pocket and for cleaning, polishing action on tooth surface without abrading or damaging it, said element comprises:

- at least a sheath head configured to ensconce an operative distal tip of said dental instrument, characterised in that, said sheath comprising one of a plurality of features on its external surface, said feature configured to provide abrading action on gingival wall of periodontal pocket and cleaning , polishing action on tooth surface without damaging it ; and

- at least an attachment for holding said sheath at one end .

Typically, said element is configured to be attached on to a dental bur. Alternatively, said element is configured to be attached on to an endo-file. Alternatively, said element is configured to be attached on to a scaler tip. Typically, said attachment comprising at least a head. Typically, said sheath head is a rubber sheath head. Alternatively, said sheath head is a latex sheath head. Alternatively, said sheath head is a latex free sheath head. Alternatively, said sheath head is a plastic sheath head. Typically, said at least an attachment is a metal attachment. Alternatively, said at least an attachment is a non-metal attachment.

Typically, said sheath is a conical sheath or long tapered sheath such that it fits atop a bur in an ensconced fashion.

Alternatively, said sheath is a conical sheath or long tapered sheath such that it fits atop a scaler tip in an ensconced fashion.

Alternatively, said sheath is a conical sheath or long tapered sheath such that it fits atop an endo-file in an ensconced fashion.

In at least one embodiment, said sheath is a spiked sheath.

In at least one embodiment, said sheath is a spiked sheath, characterised, in that, said spikes decrease or increase in length from an operative upper end of the sheath to an operative lower end of the sheath.

In at least one embodiment, said sheath is a spiked sheath, characterised, in that, said spikes comprises a variety of lateral end shapes selected from a group of shapes consisting of round shape, conical shape, tapering shape.

In at least one embodiment, said sheath is a spiked sheath, characterised, in that, said spikes comprises a conical tapered tip.

In at least one embodiment, said at least an attachment is configured to fit into a rotary instrument or a handpiece at one end.

In at least one embodiment, said at least an attachment is configured to fit at one end into an instrument selected from a group of instruments consisting of sonic instruments, ultrasonic instruments, scaler instruments, and vibratory dental instruments. In at least one embodiment, said at least an attachment is configured to fit at one end into a chuck or file holder which is to be fitted on an instrument selected from a group of instruments consisting of sonic instruments, ultrasonic instruments, scaler instruments, and vibratory dental instruments.

In at least one embodiment, said sheath is a serrated sheath.

In at least one embodiment, said sheath is a serrated sheath characterised, in that, said serrations are rough edges on said sheath's outer surface.

In at least one embodiment, said sheath consistency varies from a soft sheath to a hard sheath or combination of both at different layer or part of sheath.

In at least one embodiment, said element comprises an opening in said sheath for allowing entry of an attachment to a bur in said sheath head, said opening being provided on the operative bottom side of said head, said opening having a pattern selected from a group of patterns consisting of hemispherical pattern, step pattern, notch pattern, split pattern.

In at least one embodiment, said element comprises an opening in said sheath for allowing entry of an attachment to a scaler tip in said sheath head, said opening being provided on the operative bottom side of said head, said opening having a pattern selected from a group of patterns consisting of hemispherical pattern, step pattern, notch pattern, split pattern.

In at least one embodiment, said element comprises an opening in said sheath for allowing entry of an attachment to an endo-file in said sheath head, said opening being provided on the operative bottom side of said head, said opening having a pattern selected from a group of patterns consisting of hemispherical pattern, step pattern, notch pattern, split pattern.

In at least one embodiment, said sheath is a dotted sheath.

In at least one embodiment, said sheath is a ribbed sheath.

In at least one embodiment, at least an endpiece is provided at an operative bottom end of said at least an attachment in order to fit said at least an attachment onto a handpiece.

In at least one embodiment said sheath is a spiral sheath.

In at least one embodiment, said sheath is a ridged spiral sheath, said ridges being aligned in a pattern selected from a group of patterns consisting of spirally aligned pattern, linearly aligned pattern, and protruding pattern. In at least one embodiment, said sheath is a flare pattern sheath.

In at least one embodiment, said sheath is a flare pattern sheath, characterised in that, said flare pattern sheath comprising superimposing extensions to the effect that there are sharp edges which are axially aligned, said sharp edges provide for abrading action.

In at least one embodiment, said sheath comprises operatively internally located grooves or notches for efficient retention of the sheath onto an attachment of a bur.

Preferably, said sheath comprises operatively internally located grooves or notches for efficient retention of the sheath onto an attachment of a scaler tip.

Preferably, said sheath comprises operatively internally located grooves or notches for efficient retention of the sheath onto an attachment of an endo-file.

Typically, said sheath is a disposable sheath.

In at least one embodiment , said sheath is a re-usable sheath .

Typically, said at least an attachment comprises at least a notch which provides for gripping said sheath head when said sheath head is ensconced over a bur.

In at least one embodiment, said at least an attachment comprises at least a notch which provides for gripping said sheath head when said sheath head is ensconced over a scaler tip.

In at least one embodiment, said at least an attachment comprises at least a notch which provides for gripping said sheath head when said sheath head is ensconced over an endo-file.

In at least one embodiment, said at least an attachment comprising a hemispherical end tip for insertion into said sheath head.

In at least one embodiment, said at least an attachment comprising split-hemispherical end tip for insertion into said sheath head.

In at least one embodiment, said at least an attachment comprises different or coincide shapes on end tip for insertion into said sheath head's operative bottom and forming removable joint with it. In at least one embodiment, said at least an attachment is fixed with sheath head's operative bottom and forming non-removable joint.

In at least one embodiment, at least an attachment member connects said at least a head to an instrument handpiece.

In at least one embodiment, said sheath head is a conical head with a rough polystrip coating.

In at least an embodiment, said head is a conical head with a rough polystrip coating, characterised in that, said polystrip coating being sandpaper type coating.

In at least an embodiment, said sheath head is a conical head with a polystrip coating, characterised in that, said polystrip coating having micro-grained surface.

In at least an embodiment, said sheath head is a conical or tapered sheath head with sharp tip in its outline shape for easy insertion into narrow periodontal pocket.

In at least an embodiment, said sheath head is conical with sharp tip, in its outline for easy insertion between tooth and gingiva in narrow periodontal pocket.

In at least a preferred embodiment, said sheath head is long tapered with sharp tip.

In at least another preferred embodiment, said sheath head is conical with blunt tip.

In at least an embodiment, said sheath head is long tapered with blunt tip.

In at least an embodiment, said head is long conical or long tapered in its outline so that it can be easily inserted between tooth and gingiva in periodontal pocket up to bottom of pocket.

Alternatively or additionally , complete bur or scaler tip can be produced by a moulding method, especially injection moulding technique. Such method is economical. It is used to prepare bur or scaler tip from thermoplastic material. The bur or scaler tip of the invention is usually made from thermoplastic material .

The head, the shank or the attachment and the sheath are of integral construction which means that they are produced in the form of a single workpiece that is also to say usually from one material. That has the advantage that the sheath are joined to the shank or attachment in considerably better manner Prior art has a specially designed small brush in the form of so called micro bristles for cleaning brushes for tooth aperture this is suitable for their respective cleaning purpose but disadvantage is that small brushes do not effectively give abrasion on gingival wall of periodontal pocket and polish tooth side wall of periodontal pocket. The instrument of the current invention uses sheath, especially thick and tough sheath according to specific use.

In cross section, the sheath of the current invention can be of unilateral single plate, bilateral double plate type, triangular three plates, plus pattern or star pattern depending upon single row projection, two rows of projection, three rows of projection, four rows of projection or multiple rows of projection respectively, used in sheath or circular as in case of micro grained surface or any desired shape .

The current invention has head, shank or attachment together with the sheath is produced by a milling method especially a micro milling method.

Instrument according to the current invention comprises shank or attachment together with the sheath head which is produced by a moulding method especially a micro injection moulding method .

Instrument of the current invention is made by a method of producing stated instrument for curettage, abrasion of gingival wall of periodontal pocket and polishing tooth side wall, comprising shank or attachment the external surface of which is provided with sheath head , projection or micro grained surface characterised by the step production of the shank integrally with the sheath.

Instrument of the current invention is made by a method of production encompassing milling, especially micro milling of the shank or attachment together with the sheath.

Instrument of the current invention is made by method of production encompassing moulding especially micro injection moulding of the shank or attachment together with the sheath.

Instrument of the current invention is a one piece integrally formed dental instrument including shank or attachment extending from the sheath head , said shank or attachment , and said sheath head being molded as a unitary, one piece part from resin .

Shaft can be made of titanium or high quality steel or fiberglass or of carbon to be incorporated in the sheath.

Almost any desired form can be given to the sheath, production is simpler and more economical. Brief Description of the Accompanying Drawings:

The invention will now be described in relation to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figures 1 and 2 illustrate various embodiments of this rotary and vibratory instrument respectively;

Figures 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, and 1.5 illustrate horizontal cross sections of sheath at its lower half; Figure 3 a illustrates a vertical cross section of a spiked sheath;

Figure 3b illustrates a horizontal cross section of a spiked sheath, from its operative lower side;

Figure 3 c illustrates a vertical cross section of a bur;

Figure 3d illustrates a conical sheath with extensions or spikes protruding from the conical sheath;

Figure 3e illustrates an embodiment of this spirally aligned sheath; Figure 3f illustrates an embodiment of this flare pattern sheath;

Figure 4 illustrates vertical cross section of sheath head showing internal grooves with attachment;

Figure 5a illustrates a first embodiment of the attachment for insertion into a sheath or bur of this invention;

Figure 5b illustrates a second embodiment of the attachment for insertion into a sheath or bur of this invention;

Figure 5c illustrates an embodiment wherein an attachment head has a hemispherical end tip for insertion into the sheath or bur of this invention;

Figure 5d illustrates an embodiment wherein a attachment head has a split-hemispherical end tip for insertion into the sheath or bur of this invention;

Figure 5e illustrates a step for gripping the sheath when the sheath is ensconced over the bur; Figure 5f illustrates a vertical cross section depicting the step pattern;

Figure 5g illustrates a horizontal cross section of a spherical pattern hollow operative base for split type attachment;

Figure 6a and 6b illustrates the polystrip abrading head;

Figure 7 illustrates an ultrasonic scaler tip dental instrument with a sheath or rubber abrading head with protrusions as per the embodiment shown in Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, and 3d;

Figure 8 illustrates an ultrasonic scaler tip dental instrument with a sheath or polystrip abrading head may have coarse micro-grained surface with protrusions as per the embodiment shown in Figure 6a and 6b;

Figure 9 illustrates a unique end design which facilitates ease of insertion into the space between the gingiva and root of a tooth;

Figure 10 illustrates a file adapter chuck;

Figure 11 illustrates a spike sheath abrading perio-file;

Figure 12 illustrates a sandpaper type -abrading / polystrip perio-file;

Figure 13 illustrates a plate type perio-file;

Figure 14 illustrates a spiral type perio-file; and

Figure 15 illustrates a unique end design attached to rotary instrument , which facilitate ease of insertion into the space between the gingiva and root of a tooth

Detailed Description of the Accompanying Drawings:

According to this invention, there is provided a dental bur and scaler tip and perio file for abrasive action on gingival wall of periodontal pocket and cleaning, polishing effect on tooth surface without damaging tooth .

In accordance with an embodiment of this invention, there is provided rotary and vibratory instrument (10, 20) respectively used in the field of dentistry. Figures 1 and 2 illustrate various embodiments of this rotary and vibratory instrument respectively. Typically, this instrument in fig 1 has a rotary tip (12) i.e. dental bur which effects cutting by abrasion on the area onto which it is focused. This area may be the tooth surface, root surface, bone structure, hard tissue or soft tissue and the like. Instrument in Figure 2 is a scaler instrument or oscillating or vibrating or sonic or ultrasonic device has a vibrating or oscillating tip which effects on the area onto which it is focused. This may be the tooth surface, root surface, hard tissue or soft tissue and the like. Typically, the instrument design comprises at least a hand piece which holds and provides power for the tip or tool at the distal end and further comprises at least a tip or tool at the distal end. The handpiece may be designed in a variety of shapes and sizes; straight, angled, contra-angles, right-angles, ergonomically influenced, and the like. Typically, the tip or distal tool is the piece that vibrates or rotates, in order to achieve the action and result as per the dentistry application.

However, according to this invention, the bur is modified in order to provide abrasive action in a variety of manners. According to a first embodiment invention, the bur is provided with a sheath which ensconces the bur. Typically, the sheath is a rubber sheath. Alternatively, the sheath is a latex sheath. Alternatively, the sheath is a latex free sheath. Alternatively, the sheath is a plastic sheath. Typically, the sheath is a conical sheath or long tapered sheath such that it fits atop a bur in an ensconced fashion.

Prior art has brush for cleaning root canals of tooth has bristles in order to obtain optimum cleaning action and at the time high stability for the cleaning portion, the bristles overall form a substantially conical outer shape. Such shape ensures that the force is directed from the head portion of the cleaning instrument to the tip of the cleaning portion without substantial twisting of the shank i.e., these bristles of the brush bend without exerting much force to avoid breaking or twisting so it is unable for abrasive action the current invention's instrument or bur or scaler tip has sheath or projection or micro grained surface which is made to exert more pressure and effectively gives abrasion since overall length is short according to our specific use, as compared to prior art instrument twisting of the shank or attachment is not a problem in bur of this invention.

Figure 1.2 illustrates a horizontal cross section of sheath [30] at its lower half. It is showing four simultaneous projections or spike [32]. It is showing plus pattern. Projections are moulded with shaft or core or central body or attachment as a single unit by injection molding method with thermoplastic material. Four rows of projections [32] on this bur. This design is economical, exerts more abrading force, high strength, projections are fitted more tightly with shaft or attachment as a single workpiece.

Figure 1.3 illustrates a horizontal cross section of sheath [30] at its lower half. It is showing three projections or spike [32]. It is triangular pattern. Projections are moulded with shaft or core or central body or attachment as a single unit by injection molding method with thermoplastic material. Three rows of projections [32] on this bur. This design is economical, exerts more abrading force, high strength , projections are fitted more tightly with shaft or attachment as a single workpiece.

Figure 1.4 illustrates a horizontal cross section of sheath [30] at its lower half. It is showing two projections or spike [32]. It is double sided wedge pattern or double sided projection. Projections are moulded with shaft or core or central body or attachment as a single unit by injection molding method with thermoplastic material. Two rows of projections [32] on this bur. This design is economical, exerts more abrading force, high strength, projections are fitted more tightly with shaft or attachment as a single workpiece.

Figure 1.5 illustrates a horizontal cross section of sheath [30] at its lower half. It is showing single projections or spike [32]. It is wedge pattern or single projection type. Projections are moulded with shaft or core or central body or attachment as a single unit by injection molding method with thermoplastic material. Single rows of projections [32] on this bur. This design is economical, exerts more abrading force, high strength, projections are fitted more tightly with shaft or attachment as a single workpiece.

In at least one embodiment, the sheath is a spiked sheath. Figure 3a illustrates a vertical cross section of the spiked sheath (30). Figure 3b illustrates a horizontal cross section of the spiked sheath (30), from its operative lower side. The spikes (32) are elongate protrusions that extend laterally out of the operative outer surface of the sheath. These spikes provide for abrasive action which is just enough for the abrasive action on gingival wall of periodontal pocket and cleaning , polishing effect on tooth surface without damaging the tooth surface. The spikes may decrease or increase in length, from an operative upper end of the sheath to the operative lower end of the sheath. Also, the spikes may have a variety of lateral end shapes (round, conical, tapering, straight, and the like). Bur tip is mostly conical or long tapered in overall or in its outline shape, so that it can easily enter into a narrow periodontal pocket space and it can touch pockets bottom. Periodontal pockets are of different length, it can be a shallow pocket or a deep pocket; so, bur tip length also varies from short to long size. It is to be understood that the length of the spikes can be of varying or common flexibility and of various lengths and diameters.

Reference numeral 25 refers to a metal attachment or non metal attachment or shaft on which the invention is located.

In at least one other embodiment, the sheath is a serrated sheath. The serrations are rough edges on the operative outer surface of the sheath. These serration provide for abrasive action which is just enough for the abrasive action on gingival wall of periodontal pocket without damaging the tooth surface and giving cleaning, polishing effect on tooth surface. Reference numeral 34 refers to an opening in the sheath which allows for entry of bur or scaler tip or endo file in the sheath. This opening is provided on the operative bottom side of the bur. This opening can be a hemispherical or step pattern or notches or split pattern opening. Figure 5f illustrates a vertical cross section depicting the step pattern. Figure 5g illustrates a horizontal cross section of a spherical pattern hollow operative base for split type attachment.

In at least one other embodiment, the sheath is a dotted sheath. These dots are protrusions on the operative outer surface of the sheath which provide for abrasive action on gingival wall of periodontal pocket without damaging the tooth surface and giving cleaning, polishing effect on tooth surface.

In at least one other embodiment, the sheath is a ribbed sheath. These ribs are provided on the operative outer surface of the sheath which provide for abrasive action on gingival wall of periodontal pocket without damaging the tooth surface and giving cleaning, polishing effect on tooth surface.

Furthermore, an end piece or a notched stub (27) may be provided at the operative bottom end of the attachment in order to fit the attachment onto a handpiece used in dentistry.

Figure 3c illustrates a vertical cross section of a bur. It illustrates a notched head of a attachment in order to grasp the sheath or bur of this invention. Reference numeral 30 refers to the rubber or latex or latex free or plastic abrading sheath head with spikes (32) available for abrasion, according to this invention. The notches in the head portion fit tightly inside the sheath or bur of this invention.

Figure 3d illustrates a conical sheath with extensions or spikes (35) protruding from the conical sheath. Typically, this conical sheath as well as the extensions is made of rubber or latex sheath or latex free sheath or plastic sheath. These extensions are used for abrasion, according to this invention. The attachment fits into the conical sheath in order to grasp the sheath or rubber or latex or latex free sheath or plastic sheath.

In at least one other embodiment, the sheath is a spiral sheath (31). Figure 3e illustrates an embodiment of the spiral sheath. This spiral sheath has ridges (31a) in order to aid abrasion. These ridges are spirally aligned or linearly aligned and protrude out of the spiral sheath.

In at least one other embodiment, the sheath is a flare pattern sheath (33). Figure 3f illustrates an embodiment of this flare pattern sheath. This pattern comprises superimposing extensions to the effect that there are sharp edges which are axially aligned and the sharp edges (33a) provide for abrading action when used in dentistry applications according to this invention. This is, typically, a tapering or long conical design.

Figure 4 illustrates another embodiment of the sheath (40) to be used on a bur. In at least one embodiment, operatively internally located grooves or notches (reference by numeral 42) may be provided for efficient retention of the sheath on to the bur. The rotary and / or vibratory action of the bur should not dislodge the sheath off the bur.

The sheath can be re-usable or it can be disposable depending upon quality of material and method of sterilization.

Figure 5a illustrates a first embodiment of the attachment (60) for insertion into a sheath or bur of this invention. Figure 5b illustrates a second embodiment of the attachment (60) for insertion into a sheath or bur of this invention.

Reference numeral 62 refers to a metal or nonmetal head.

In at least one embodiment, this metal or nonmetal head (62) has notches which provide for gripping the sheath when the sheath is ensconced over the bur or scaler tip. These notches can be seen in Figures 5a, 5b, and 5e of this invention. These notches are precisely detailed so that the fit in the sheath or rubber or latex sheath or latex free sheath or plastic sheath portion of this invention, very tightly.

In at least one embodiment this metal or nonmetal head (62) has a hemispherical end tip (62a) for insertion into the sheath or bur of this invention. This can be seen in Figure 5c of the invention.

In at least one embodiment this metal or nonmetal head (62) has a split-hemispherical end tip (62b) for insertion into the sheath or bur of this invention. This can be seen in Figure 5d of the invention.

Reference numeral 64 refers to an attachment member which connects the metal or nonmetal head (62) to a rotary instrument handpiece (10). The protrusions (64), typically, may increase or decrease in length and size from operative top to operative bottom.

The only difference between the design of Figure 5a and Figure 5b is that the design of Figure 5b comprises a notch on its operative proximal end for removably fitting into certain types of rotary instrument handpiece. In accordance with another embodiment of this invention, there is provided a conical head (70) with a polystrip coating (71). This is the polystrip abrading head configured to provide abrading action, as per the use of this invention. Typically, this polystrip is sandpaper type. In at least one embodiment, as seen in Figure 6a of the accompanying drawings, the polystrip abrading head may have fine micro-grained surface (71a). Figure 6a is a vertical cross section of bur in Figure 6b. In at least one embodiment, as seen in Figure 6b of the accompanying drawings, the polystrip abrading head may have coarse micro-grained surface (71b). An attachment (25) attached this conical head to a rotary dental instrument (10). The metal or nonmetal attachment (25) can be removably or non-removably fitted (73) to the coarse micro- grained surface (71b).

The current invention's instrument sheath or micro grained area has especially been emphasized to give abrasive effect on gingival wall of periodontal pocket and polishing effect on tooth side wall so that the instrument is made stiffer than root canal cleaning brush. This invention has working area made up of sheath, projections or micro grained surface this is totally different than brush pattern or prior art.

Figure 7 illustrates an ultrasonic scaler tip dental instrument with a sheath or rubber or latex sheath or latex free sheath or plastic sheath abrading head with protrusions as per the embodiment shown in Figures 3a, 3b, and 3c, 3d of the accompanying drawings. Reference numeral 85 refers to an opening for water spray.

Figure 8 illustrates an ultrasonic scaler tip dental instrument with a sheath or polystrip abrading head may have coarse micro-grained surface with protrusions as per the embodiment shown in Figure 6b of the accompanying drawings. Reference numeral 85 refers to an opening for water spray.

Since periodontal pockets are of different depth, so the bur of this invention or scaler tip or perio file can be of different lengths and / or widths. Most preferably, the bur of this invention or scaler tip or perio file is long conical or long tapered in its outline so that it can be easily inserted between tooth and gingiva in periodontal pocket up to bottom of pocket.

The instrument of this invention has a unique end design which facilitates ease of insertion into the space between the gingiva and root of a tooth 95. This can be seen in Figure 9 and Figure 15 of the accompanying drawings. File adapter chuck can be used to attach gingiva abrading perio file, as mention in the invention to sonic or ultrasonic scaler. Reference numeral 91 refers to a file adapter chuck which can be seen in detail in Figure 10 of the accompanying drawings. Reference numeral 93 refers to periodontal pocket. Reference numeral 97 refers to gingiva. Alternatively, a rotary instrument (10) can be used to attach spike sheath (30) bur, as seen in Figure 15 of the accompanying drawings.

Figure 11 illustrates a rubber or latex sheath or latex free sheath or plastic sheath -abrading perio-file (101), according to this invention. A conical body is provided which is coaxial with an elongate element (121) which holds the conical body. This conical body has latex or latex free or plastic or rubber spikes or sheath with spike (125) extending or protruding from it. In at least one embodiment, the spikes' lengths are tapering from operative bottom to operative top of the conical body_or vice versa. This can be fitted onto a file adapter (91) and file adapter is priorly fitted onto a sonic or ultrasonic instrument or a scaler head of a dental instrument (20).

Figure 12 illustrates a sandpaper type - abrading / polystrip perio-file (103), according to this invention. A conical body is provided which is coaxial with an elongate element (121) which holds the conical body. This conical body has coarse micro-grained surface enveloping it, which provides for abrasive action as stated in the invention. This can be fitted onto a file adapter (91) and file adapter is priorly fitted onto a sonic or ultrasonic instrument or a scaler head of a dental instrument (20).

Figure 13 illustrates a plate type perio-file (107).

Figure 14 illustrates a spiral type perio-file (109).

It is to be noted that this bur or scaler tip or perio file can be used for any dental instrument useful for abrading or polishing action. Specifically, the dental instruments may comprise an instrument or a handheld tool or a hand piece with a rotary instrument tip, an instrument or a handheld tool or a hand piece with a vibrating tip, or reciprocating tip, an instrument or a handheld tool or a hand piece with an ultrasonic scaler tip, an instrument or a handheld tool or a hand piece with an oscillating tip, or the like. This instrument of handheld tool or hand piece along with the bur or scaler tip or perio file of this invention is used to perform abrasion procedure on periodontal pocket wall of gingival side and cleaning and polishing on tooth surface or a root surface of a tooth. During scaling and polishing and root planing and curettage and surgical procedures, the invented dental bur or a scaler tip or perio file simultaneously removes granulation tissue, proper curettage from the inner lining of the periodontal pocket wall of gingival side or biofilm and calculus from the roots and cleanses and polishes the root surface for speedy healing of periodontal pockets , reducing pocket depth and diseases.

In prior art brush instruments, the bristles conform to the contour and surface of the root canal for cleaning of root canal. This property makes them less suitable for abrading action on gingival wall of periodontal pocket and polishing action on tooth side wall of periodontal pocket. On the contrary the currently invented sheath bur or scaler tip has sheath or projection or abrasive area which is suitable for soft tissue abrasion and polishing tooth surface.

Prior art brushes had been designed to clean root canal, tooth root canal has length of up to 25 mm - so to access these root canal, prior art brushes had long shaft which facilitates the attachment of a head portion, which either can have a hand grip or is intended for insertion into a device for dental use i.e., brush was connected to head with the help of long shaft. In other word brush, shaft, and head is a long assembly up to 45 mm which gives it accessibility to enter root canal up to its apex and clean for which they are especially made but it makes this design difficult to insert into periodontal pocket. Long length makes prior art instruments more prone to twisting if used in periodontal pocket. In prior art, due to long length, less torque and force reaches to the working area brushes. Periodontal pocket does not require that much long instrument. Operator will find it difficult to use that long instrument into periodontal pocket.

Some prior art brushes were round in overall shape on tip which makes them difficult to insert in periodontal pocket.

The instrument of the current invention is advantageous as it has short shank as compared to root canal cleaning brush and comparatively shorter top to bottom length which makes its design more precise to enter in periodontal pocket.

Prior art brushes / instruments are specially made in order to obtain optimum cleaning action - so unable for abrasive and polishing action in contrast to current invention.

These prior art cleaning instrument / brushes according to the invention carries material out from the root canal

The prior art relates to a cleaning instrument for a tooth root canal and also for a tooth interstice not for curetting or abrasion of a gingival wall of periodontal pocket and polishing tooth side wall

The prior art had a cleaning portion having a shank the external surface of which is provided with bristles as in the current invention, one has to do soft tissue abrasion so the current invention's instrument is provided sheath, projection or micro grained surface.

There are hundreds of brush designs and types already existing in dentistry; all are specially designed for their respective purpose. The current invention's instrument is adapted for specific purpose Prior art cleaning brushes in which bristles are bound into wound wires are known for cleaning cavities and drilled holes in teeth; such brushes are however usually too large to clean a tooth root or periodontal pocket and some brushes are too small to effectively give abrasion on gingival wall of periodontal pocket and polishing tooth side wall.

Furthermore, during rotation of the brush, the wound wires can twist open and bristles can come away and remain behind in the root canal or it can be broken. The current invention' s sheath does not have this disadvantage since it has projections or micro grained surface.

Not every root canal is of circular cross section so that these prior art brushes are made too flexible and its bristles are easily tilted so they cannot be used for abrasion of gingival wall of periodontal pocket.

In prior art, to access root canal these brushes are made too long in overall head to bottom length which restricts user to effectively give abrasion effect on gingival wall of periodontal pocket using prior art.

In prior art, some brushes are oval or of different shapes; which do not engage periodontal pocket wall completely and effectively.

The problem underlying the invention is to provide abrading, curettage instrument and a method overcoming the previously mentioned disadvantage and specially allowing the abrasion and curettage of gingival wall of periodontal pocket and polishing tooth side wall reliably .

Previous invention has brushes or instrument for cleaning and especially allowing the tooth root canal to be cleaned reliably.

The previous prior art has brushes, in which bristles on the other hand, must not damage the wall of the root canal. This softness makes it unable to polish tooth side wall of periodontal pocket and abrading gingival wall of periodontal pocket.

The previous prior art has brushes, in which bristles must be in contact with the wall and must conform thereto. Also prior art bristles are therefore made from relatively soft material or are made very fine, with a small diameter. This makes it unable for abrasive action of gingival wall of periodontal pocket and polishing tooth side wall.

In prior art, these brushes are made very thin and soft according to their use. Also, it is made long in shaft to access long root canal this make prior art suitable for cleaning long root canal as it claims but we have different use , we want to give curettage and abrasion on gingival wall of periodontal pocket and polishing tooth side wall for this use we have to keep our invented instrument length short , sheath hard enough and long for our unique and specific use .

Prior art is of brush and the current invention's instrument has sheath that includes projections and micro grained surface for our unique and specific use.

Prior art cleaning brushes are suitable for cleaning root canals for which they are made but it makes them very week for abrading gingival wall of periodontal pocket and polishing tooth side wall .

This invention's instrument can be produced by a milling method especially a micro milling method because milling is a material removing method. The sheath, projection, micro grained surface can be made by this method so that they are able to give curettage, abrasion to gingival wall of periodontal pocket and polishing effect on tooth side wall. These sheath can, moreover, be given any desired shape milling is recommended when relatively rigid or stiff basic material used.

Alternatively or additionally the sheath head and shank or attachment can be produced by moulding method specially micro injection moulding. Such method is specially economical .

Prior art brushes are made from comparatively soft material e.g. polypropylene, polystyrene, or elastomers. In current invention Comparatively harder material is preferred e.g., delrin as an advantageous result we get abrasive effect rather than smooth cleaning effect.

Prior art cleaning instrument caries material out from the tooth root canal especially well when the bristles are distributed over outer surface of the shank in a helical arrangement. The cleaning instrument then moves material in the manner of a drill without, however enlarging the canal. In contrast, the currently invented instrument, if used against tooth, will polish the surface removing irregularities because of its comparatively harder sheath, projections, micro grained surface.

Prior art brushes are made specially soft so that they conform to the contour and surface of the root canal; so unable for soft tissue abrasion and tooth polishing.

Root canal of a tooth may have length of 25 mm for cleaning. Prior art instruments are made long up to 45 mm in overall head to bottom length also it is made very thin in diameter for insertion into root canal, bristles are made very thin and soft according to their cleaning use. Such long length soft brush is more prone to torsional force and bending force at the shank and brush. So they are difficult to use in periodontal pocket even if inserted into periodontal pocket they are inefficient to perform curettage, abrasion on gingival wall of periodontal pocket and polishing tooth side wall. Long length of previous instrument brushes reduces its torque and force. On working length of brushes while comparatively overall short length, rigid sheath gives the current invention's instrument more torque and force for curettage, abrasion of gingival wall of periodontal pocket and polishing tooth side wall .

Prior art instruments and burs were made especially for cleaning tooth root canal and tooth interstice, not for inserting in periodontal pocket and not for curetting, abrading gingival wall of periodontal pocket and polishing tooth side wall.

Prior art interproximal toothbrushes only made for removing food particles lodge between teeth.

Prior art US 5899693A refers to plastic scaler tip made for general scaling of teeth by ultrasonic scaler. Its drawback is that it cannot easily be inserted into periodontal pocket due to its relatively bigger size.

Prior art has toothpick and interdental brushes to remove food lodged between teeth.

Prior art root canal brushes are particularly only thin in diameter at working area according to their use and requirement whereas the currently invented instrument has sheath or projection or micro grained surface which vary in diameter from narrow to wide since periodontal pocket can be narrow to wide.

While this detailed description has disclosed certain specific embodiments of the present invention for illustrative purposes, various modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art which do not constitute departures from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the following claims, and it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the invention and not as a limitation.

Claims

Claims,

1. An element for a dental instrument, said element configured to provide for abrasive action on gingival wall of periodontal pocket and for cleaning, polishing action on tooth surface without abrading or damaging it, said element comprising:

- at least an attachment for holding said sheath at one end .

2. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said element configured to be attached on to a dental bur.

3. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said element configured to be attached on to an endo-file.

4. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said element configured to be attached on to a scaler tip.

5. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said attachment comprising at least a head.

6. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath head is a rubber sheath head.

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7. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath head is a latex sheath head.

8. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath head is a latex free sheath head.

9. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath head is a plastic sheath head.

10. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein , said at least an attachment is a metal attachment.

11. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said at least an attachment is a non-metal attachment.

12. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath is a conical sheath or long tapered sheath such that it fits atop a bur in an ensconced fashion.

13. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath is a conical sheath or long tapered sheath such that it fits atop a scaler tip in an ensconced fashion.

14. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath is a conical sheath or long tapered sheath such that it fits atop an endo-file in an ensconced fashion.

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15. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath is a spiked sheath.

16. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath is a spiked sheath, characterised, in that, said spikes decrease or increase in length from an operative upper end of the sheath to an operative lower end of the sheath.

17. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath is a spiked sheath, characterised, in that, said spikes comprising a variety of lateral end shapes selected from a group of shapes consisting of round shape, conical shape, tapering shape.

18. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath is a spiked sheath, characterised, in that, said spikes comprising a conical tapered tip.

19. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said at least an attachment is configured to fit into a rotary instrument or a handpiece at one end.

20. An element for dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein , said at least an attachment is configured to fit at one end into an instrument selected from a group of instruments consisting of sonic instruments, ultrasonic instruments, scaler instruments, and vibratory dental instruments.

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21. An element for dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein , said at least an attachment is configured to fit at one end into a chuck or file holder which is to be fitted on an instrument selected from a group of instruments consisting of sonic instruments, ultrasonic instruments, scaler instruments, and vibratory dental instruments.

22. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath is a serrated sheath.

23. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath is a serrated sheath characterised, in that, said serrations are rough edges on said sheath's outer surface.

24. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath consistency varies from a soft sheath to a hard sheath or combination of both at different layer or part of sheath.

25. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said element comprising an opening in said sheath for allowing entry of an attachment to a bur in said sheath head, said opening being provided on the operative bottom side of said head, said opening having a pattern selected from a group of patterns consisting of hemispherical pattern, step pattern, notch pattern, split pattern.

26. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said element comprising an opening in said sheath for allowing entry of an attachment to a scaler tip in said sheath head, said opening being provided

4 on the operative bottom side of said head, said opening having a pattern selected from a group of patterns consisting of hemispherical pattern, step pattern, notch pattern, split pattern.

27. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said element comprising an opening in said sheath for allowing entry of an attachment to an endo-file in said sheath head, said opening being provided on the operative bottom side of said head, said opening having a pattern selected from a group of patterns consisting of hemispherical pattern, step pattern, notch pattern, split pattern.

28. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath is a dotted sheath.

29. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath is a ribbed sheath.

30. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, at least an endpiece is provided at an operative bottom end of said at least an attachment in order to fit said at least an attachment on to a handpiece.

31. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath is a spiral sheath.

32. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath is a ridged spiral sheath, said ridges being aligned in a pattern

5 selected from a group of patterns consisting of spirally aligned pattern, linearly aligned pattern, and protruding pattern.

33. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath is a flare pattern sheath.

34. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath is a flare pattern sheath, characterised in that, said flare pattern sheath comprising superimposing extensions to the effect that there are sharp edges which are axially aligned, said sharp edges provide for abrading action.

35. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath comprises operatively internally located grooves or notches for efficient retention of the sheath onto an attachment of a bur.

36. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath comprises operatively internally located grooves or notches for efficient retention of the sheath onto an attachment of a scaler tip.

37. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath comprises operatively internally located grooves or notches for efficient retention of the sheath onto an attachment of an endo-file.

38. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath is a disposable sheath.

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39. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath is a re-usable sheath.

40. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said at least an attachment comprising at least a notch which provides for gripping said sheath head when said sheath head is ensconced over a bur.

41. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said at least an attachment comprising at least a notch which provides for gripping said sheath head when said sheath head is ensconced over a scaler tip.

42. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said at least an attachment comprising at least a notch which provides for gripping said sheath head when said sheath head is ensconced over a endo-file.

43. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said at least an attachment comprising a hemispherical end tip for insertion into said sheath head.

44. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said at least an attachment comprising split-hemispherical end tip for insertion into said sheath head.

45. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said at least an attachment comprising different or coincidal shapes on end tip for insertion into said sheath head's operative bottom and forming removable joint with it.

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46. An element for dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said at least an attachment is fixed with sheath head's operative bottom and forming non-removable joint.

47. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, at least an attachment member connects said at least a head to an instrument handpiece.

48. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath head is a conical head with a rough polystrip coating.

49. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said head is a conical head with a rough polystrip coating, characterised in that, said polystrip coating being sandpaper type coating.

50. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath head is a conical head with a polystrip coating, characterised in that, said polystrip coating having micro-grained surface.

51. An element for dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath head is a conical or tapered sheath head with sharp tip in its outline shape for easy insertion into narrow periodontal pocket.

52. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath head is conical with sharp tip, in its outline for easy insertion between tooth and gingiva in narrow periodontal pocket.

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53. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath head is long tapered with sharp tip.

54. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath head is conical with blunt tip.

55. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said sheath head is long tapered with blunt tip.

56. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1 wherein, said head is long conical or long tapered in its outline so that it can be easily inserted between tooth and gingiva in periodontal pocket up to bottom of pocket.

57. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1, characterised in that, cross section of sheath can be of single one side projection , double side projection , triangular three side projection , plus pattern four side projection and star pattern multiple projection depending upon single row of projection, two rows of projection, three rows of projection, four rows of projection and multiple rows of projection on sheath respectively or circular as in case of micro grained surface or any desired shape.

58. An element for a dental instrument as claimed in claim 1, characterised in that, said instrument being a one piece integrally formed dental instrument including the sheath head, the bottom of sheath head and the attachment extending from the end of the sheath head ; said attachment, said bottom, and said sheath head being molded as a unitary, one piece part from resin .

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