FLOSSER

Abstract

A flosser includes a grip body and a holder which is connected to the grip body and has a first and a second holder arm, and with an interdental space cleaning element which is fastened on the first and second holder arm and extends between the two holder arms, wherein the flosser includes a tongue cleaner for oral hygiene which is arranged in the grip body and which is in the form of a rib-like scraper edge.

Claims

1. A flosser comprising a grip body and a holder which is connected to the grip body and has a first and a second holder arm, and with an interdental space cleaning element which is fastened on the first and second holder arm and extends between the two holder arms, wherein the flosser comprises a tongue cleaner for oral hygiene which is arranged in the grip body and which is in the form of a rib-like scraper edge.

2. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge is arranged in the end section of the grip body which is opposite to the holder.

3. A flosser according to claim 2, wherein the scraper edge is arranged at the outermost free end of the grip body.

4. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the rib-like scraper edge forms a continuous cleaning edge.

5. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge runs transversely to the longitudinal axis of the grip body.

6. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein at least a section of the scraper edge runs parallel to the longitudinal axis of the grip body.

7. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge extends in a direction perpendicular to a plane of the grip body.

8. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the rib-like scraper edge is triangular-shaped in the cross-section.

9. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge is arched.

10. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the grip body having a first arm and a second arm enclosing an intermediate space and the first arm and second arm are connected to one another in the end section of the grip body that is remote from the holder by forming a connection area being part of the grip body.

11. A flosser according to claim 10, wherein the scraper edge is arranged in the connection area.

12. A flosser according to claim 10, wherein the two arm sections are connected to one another in an arched manner.

13. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge is connected to the gip body via the two end sections of the scraper edge and the middle section of the scraper edge lying between the two end sections is not connected to the grip body.

14. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge is led over an opening in the grip body.

15. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge is led over an opening in the end section of the grip body.

16. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge in cross section is formed completely of hard material.

17. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge in cross section is of a hard material core and a soft material coating.

18. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge is formed completely of a soft material.

19. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge is a lamella.

20. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge is flexible and compliant.

21. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the flosser further comprises a toothpick that is arranged in the grip body and that is configured to be folded out of the grip body from a passive position, where the tip of the toothpick is directed towards the holder into a functional position, where the tip of the toothpick is directed away from the holder via an integrated hinge which is arranged on an end section of the grip body that is remote from the holder.

22. A flosser according to claim 20, wherein a first connection means is arranged on the toothpick, and a second connection means is arranged on the grip body, and the first and second connection means are designed for forming a friction connection and/or positive connection between the toothpick and the grip body, in the functional position, when the toothpick at least partially overlays the grip body.

23. A flosser according to claim 20, wherein the grip body having a first arm and a second arm enclosing an intermediate space and the first arm and second arm are connected to one another in the end section of the grip body that is remote from the holder by forming a connection area being part of the grip body and that is arranged between the two end sections of the first and second arm and between the hinge and the free end of the grip body, and wherein the toothpick is arranged in the intermediate space in its passive position.

24. A flosser according to claim 22, wherein the connection area in the end section of the gip body that is remote from the holder has a first side and a second side, wherein the first side lies opposite the second side and wherein the toothpick bears on the second side in its functional position.

25. A flosser according to claim 23, wherein the second connection means is arranged on the second side of the connection area.

26. A flosser according to claim 21, wherein the second connection means is arranged on the rear side of the scraper edge.

27. A flosser according to claim 21, wherein one connection means comprises a recess or an opening, and the other connection means comprises a prominence, and wherein the prominence engages into the recess or into the opening with a positive fit on reaching the functional position of the toothpick.

Description

[0418] The subject-matter of the invention is hereinafter described in more detail by way of preferred embodiment examples which are represented in the accompanying drawings. In these are shown schematically in:

[0419] FIG. 1a-1b: a plan view of the front side of a first embodiment of a flosser;

[0420] FIG. 2a-2b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIGS. 1a and 1b;

[0421] FIG. 3a-3b: a plan view of the rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 1a, 1b and 2a, 2b;

[0422] FIG. 4a-4b: a perspective view from the front side and rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b and 3a, 3b;

[0423] FIG. 5a-5b: a plan view onto the front side of a second embodiment of a flosser;

[0424] FIG. 6a-6b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIGS. 5a and 5b;

[0425] FIG. 7a-7b: a plan view onto the rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 5a, 5b and 6a, 6b;

[0426] FIG. 8a-8b: a perspective view from the front side and rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b and 7a, 7b;

[0427] FIG. 9a-9b: a plan view onto the front side of a third embodiment of a flosser;

[0428] FIG. 10a-10b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIGS. 9a and 9b;

[0429] FIG. 11a-11b: a plan view of the rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 9a, 9b and 10a, 10b;

[0430] FIG. 12a-12b; a perspective view from the front side and rear side of the flosser according to FIG. 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b and 11a 11b;

[0431] FIG. 13a-13b: a plan view onto the front side of a fourth embodiment of a flosser;

[0432] FIG. 14a-14b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIGS. 13a and 13b;

[0433] FIG. 15a-15b: a plan view onto the rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 13a, 13b and 14a, 14b;

[0434] FIG. 16a-16b: a perspective view from the front side and rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 13a, 13b, 14a, 14b and 15a, 15b;

[0435] FIG. 17a-17b a plan view onto the front side of a fifth embodiment of a flosser;

[0436] FIG. 18a-18b a lateral view of the flosser according to FIGS. 17a and 17b;

[0437] FIG. 19a-19b a plan view onto the rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 17a, 17b and 18a, 18b;

[0438] FIG. 20a-20b a perspective view from the front side and rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 17a, 17b, 18a, 18b and 19a, 19b;

[0439] FIG. 21a-21b: a plan view onto the front side of a sixth embodiment of a flosser;

[0440] FIG. 22a-22b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIGS. 21a and 21b;

[0441] FIG. 23a-23b: a plan view onto the rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 21a, 21b and 22a, 22b;

[0442] FIG. 24a-24b: a perspective view from the front side and the rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 21a, 21b, 22a, 22b and 23a, 23b;

[0443] FIG. 25a: a plan view onto the front side of a seventh embodiment of a flosser;

[0444] FIG. 25b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIG. 25a;

[0445] FIG. 26a: a plan view onto the rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 25a and 25b;

[0446] FIG. 26b: a cross-sectional view through the polishing element according to FIG. 26a;

[0447] FIG. 27a-27b: a perspective view from the front side and rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 25a, 25b, 26a, and 26b;

[0448] FIG. 28a: a plan view onto the front side of an eighth embodiment of a flosser;

[0449] FIG. 28b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIG. 28a;

[0450] FIG. 28c: a plan view onto the rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 28a and 28b;

[0451] FIG. 29a-29b: a perspective view from the front side and rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 28a to 28c;

[0452] FIG. 30a: a plan view onto the front side of a ninth embodiment of a flosser;

[0453] FIG. 30b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIG. 30a;

[0454] FIG. 30c: a plan view onto the rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 30a and 30b;

[0455] FIG. 31a-31b: a perspective view from the front and rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 30a to 30c;

[0456] FIG. 32a: a plan view of a tenth embodiment of a flosser in its passive position;

[0457] FIG. 32b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIG. 32a;

[0458] FIG. 32c: a perspective view of the flosser according to FIGS. 32a and 32b;

[0459] FIG. 33a: a plan view of the flosser according to FIG. 32, folded into its functional position;

[0460] FIG. 33b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIG. 33a;

[0461] FIG. 33c: a perspective view of the flosser according to FIGS. 33a and 33b;

[0462] FIG. 34a: a plan view of the front side of an eleventh embodiment of a flosser in the passive position;

[0463] FIG. 34b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIG. 34a;

[0464] FIG. 34c: a plan view of the rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 34a and 34b;

[0465] FIG. 35a: a plan view of the front side of the flosser according to FIG. 34 in the part-assembled position;

[0466] FIG. 35b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIG. 35a;

[0467] FIG. 35c: a plan view of the rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 35a and 35b;

[0468] FIG. 36a: a perspective view of the flosser according to FIG. 34 in the passive position;

[0469] FIG. 36b: a perspective view of the flosser according to FIG. 35 in the part-assembled position;

[0470] FIG. 36c: a perspective view of the flosser in the functional position;

[0471] FIG. 37a: a front view of the flosser according to FIG. 36c;

[0472] FIG. 37b: a plan view of the flosser according to FIG. 36c and FIG. 37c;

[0473] FIG. 37c: a rear side view of the flosser according to FIG. 36c, FIG. 37a and FIG. 37b;

[0474] FIG. 38: a plan view of the front side of a twelfth embodiment of a flosser;

[0475] FIG. 39a: a perspective view of the flosser according to FIG. 38;

[0476] FIG. 39b a perspective view of the flosser according to FIG. 39a in a non-assembled condition;

[0477] FIG. 40: a perspective view of a thirteenth embodiment of a flosser;

[0478] FIG. 41: a plan view of the interdental space cleaning element of a flosser according to FIG. 40;

[0479] FIG. 42: a plan view of the front side of the flosser according to FIG. 40;

[0480] FIG. 43a-47b: different embodiments of dental threads, in each case in a lateral view and in a cross-sectional view;

[0481] FIG. 48: a plan view of a further embodiment of a flosser in different production stages;

[0482] FIG. 49: a plan view of a further embodiment of a flosser in different production stages;

[0483] FIG. 50: a plan view of a further embodiment of a flosser;

[0484] FIG. 51: a plan view of a further embodiment of a flosser;

[0485] FIG. 52: a plan view of a further embodiment of a flosser;

[0486] FIG. 53: a plan view of a further embodiment of a flosser;

[0487] FIG. 54a: a plan view onto the front side of a further embodiment of a flosser;

[0488] FIG. 54b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIG. 54a;

[0489] FIG. 55a: a plan view onto the rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 54a and 54b;

[0490] FIG. 55b: a cross-sectional view through the polishing element according to FIG. 55a;

[0491] FIG. 56a-56b: a perspective view from the front side and rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 54a, 54b, 55a and 55b.

[0492] Basically, the same parts in the figures are provided with the same reference numerals. The described embodiment examples are exemplary for the subject-matter of the invention and have no limiting effect.

[0493] The embodiment example according to FIGS. 1 to 4 shows a flosser 1 which is manufactured of a hard component. The embodiment examples according to FIGS. 5 to 8, 9 to 12 and 13 to 16 in each case show a flosser which comprises a hard component as well as a soft component. The soft component is thereby designed on both sides of the flosser 1. It is the case for all embodiments that the specified soft components can also be substituted by hard components.

[0494] The flosser 1, 21, 41, 61 according to the embodiments according to FIGS. 1 to 4, FIGS. 5 to 8, FIGS. 9 to 12 and FIGS. 13 to 16 comprises a grip body 2, 22, 42, 62 and a holder 3, 23, 43, 63 which is connected to the grip body 2, 22, 42, 62 via a neck section 5, 25, 45, 65. The grip body 2, 22, 42, 62 is designed in a flat manner. I.e., its length and width are significantly greater than its height. The holder 3, 23, 43, 63 comprises a first and second holder arm 6a, 6b; 26a, 26b; 46a, 46b; 66a, 66b which are connected to one another via a bow section.

[0495] A dental floss 4, 24, 44, 64 extends between the two holder arms 6a, 6b; 26a, 26b; 46a, 46b; 66a, 66b. The dental floss 4, 24, 44, 64 is connected to the holder arms 6a, 6b; 26a, 26b; 46a, 46b; 66a, 66b via connection locations. The holder arms 6a, 6b; 26a, 26b; 46a, 46b; 66a, 66b are angled (bent) with respect to the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 2, 22, 42, 62. Grip surfaces for the fingers are formed in the neck section 5, 25, 45, 65.

[0496] The grip body 2, 22, 42, 62 forms two arm sections, which enclose a closed intermediate space 13, 33, 53, 73. A toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 is arranged in this intermediate space 13, 33, 53, 73, in its passive position. The toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 in the passive position lies in the plane of the grip body 2, 22, 42, 62 and is aligned in its longitudinal axis L. The toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 forms a cleaning tip which is directed to the holder 3, 23, 43, 63 in the passive position. The toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 with its end which is remote from the cleaning tip is connected to the grip body 2, 22, 42, 62 via a film hinge 12, 32, 52, 72. The toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 forms two base surfaces which lie opposite one another, as well as two laterally arranged narrow side edges.

[0497] The side edges including the cleaning tip are laterally framed or encompassed by the arm sections of the grip body 2, 22, 42, 62. The pivot movement of the toothpick 7, 27, 47, 7 67 runs along the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 2, 22 42, 62, to its end section which lies opposite the holder 3, 23, 43, 63. Accordingly, the rotation axis of the film hinge 12, 32, 52, 72 is arranged perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis L.

[0498] The toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 with its base surfaces lies in the plane of the grip body 2, 22, 42, 62, in the passive position as well as in the functional position. The pivot angle is accordingly 180°. The toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 in its functional position is applied over the end section of the grip body.

[0499] An opening 9, 29, 49, 69 is arranged on the base surface of the toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67. A nub 10, 30, 50, 70 corresponding to the opening 9, 29, 49, 69 is arranged on the grip body 2, 22, 42 62. The film hinge 12, 32, 52, 72 is located at half the distance between the nub 10, 30, 50, 70 and the opening, so that the nub 10, 30, 50, 70 and the opening 9, 29, 49, 69, on pivoting the toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 about the hinge 12, 32, 52, 72 into its functional position, meet one another or lie over one another on reaching the functional position. The nub 10, 30, 50, 70 locks in the opening 9, 29, 49, 69 of the toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 with a positive fit. The thus arising positive connection holds the toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 in its functional position.

[0500] The grip body 2, 22, 42, 62 in the mentioned end section forms a groove-like recess which is orientated in the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 2, 22, 42, 62. The nub 10, 30, 50, 70 is arranged in the groove-like recess. The toothpick is positioned in the groove-like recess on pivoting the toothpick 7 27, 47, 67 into its functional position. The width and height of the groove-like recess is designed such that the toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 fits into the groove-like recess in a flush or approximately flush manner, and the toothpick section overlapping with the grip body is at least partly sunk in the groove-like recess.

[0501] The arrangement of the nub 10, 30, 50, 70 and the opening 9, 29, 49, 69 can also be the other way round. Thus the nub can be arranged on the toothpick and the opening or a corresponding recess in the grip body. The arrangement of the nub 10, 30, 50, 70 in the recess in the grip body entails the advantage that this is arranged in a somewhat protected manner and essentially does not project out of the body.

[0502] The grip body 2, 22, 42, 62 furthermore in its end sections which lies opposite the holder 3, 23, 43, 63 forms an opening 11, 31, 51, 71 which is arranged between the film hinge 12, 32, 52, 72 and the free end.

[0503] Moreover, a tongue cleaner 8, 28, 48, 68 is arranged in the mentioned end section. The tongue cleaner 8, 28, 48, 68 is arranged between the film hinge 12, 32, 52, 72 and the free end. The tongue cleaner 8, 28, 48, 68 is arranged on that side of the end section which lies opposite the side, on which the toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 bears in its functional position.

[0504] In its functional position, the toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 is arranged above the tongue cleaner 8, 28, 48, 68. The elements considered over the cross section lie directly above one another, The nub 10, 30, 50, 70 can be formed on an element of the tongue cleaner 8, 28, 48, 68, for example on the rear side of the scraper edge 8b, 28b, 48c, 68c.

[0505] The scraper edge 8b, 28b, 48c, 68c in cross section is preferably formed completely of hard material. In any case, the side of the scraper edge 8b, 28b, 48c, 68c which comprises the nub 10, 30, 50, 70 is formed of hard material. The actual scraper edge 8b, 28b, 48c, 68c in the individual case in cross section can be completely of soft material or of a hard material core and a soft material coating.

[0506] The tongue cleaner 8 according to the embodiment example according to FIGS. 1 to 4 comprises cleaning elements in the form of nubs 8a which are arranged in a nub field and the scraper edge 8b. The nub field is arranged on the grip body 2, between the film hinge 12 and the opening 11.

[0507] A scraper edge 8b as a further element of the tongue cleaner 8 is arranged at the free end. The design of the nubs in the region of the grip likewise entails the advantage that these can serve for the use of the flosser as an anti-slip element, and the tooth cleaning apparatus can be securely held by the fingers during use.

[0508] The tongue cleaner 28 according to the embodiment example according to FIGS. 5 to 8 comprises cleaning elements in the form of lamellae 28a which are arranged one after the other along the longitudinal axis L, and a scraper edge 28b. The lamellae 28a are aligned transversely to the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 22. The lamellae 28a are arranged over the opening 31. A scraper edge 28b as a further element of the tongue cleaner 28 is arranged at the free end. A tongue cleaner 28 thus consists of a combination of lamellae 28 and a scraper edge 28b.

[0509] A sickle-shaped damping element 35 is moreover arranged in the bow section of the holder 23, between the two holder arms 26a, 26b. The damping element 35 consists of a soft component.

[0510] The tongue cleaner 48 according to the embodiment example according to FIGS. 9 to 12 comprises cleaning elements in the form of nubs 48a which are arranged in a nub field, combined with a soft-elastic lamella 48b as well as a scraper edge 48c. The further cleaning element in the form of a lamella 48b which extends transversely to the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 42 and delimits the nub field to this side is arranged at the end of the nub field which is remote from the holder 43. The nubs 48a and the lamella 48b are arranged over the opening 51 and are designed from a hard or soft component, preferably a soft component. A scraper edge 48c as a further element of the tongue cleaner 48 is arranged at the free end.

[0511] The tongue cleaner 68 according to the embodiment example according to FIGS. 13 to 16 comprises cleaning elements in the form of nubs 68a, lamellae 68b and a scraper edge 68c. The nubs 68a are arranged in a nub field. The lamellae 68b are arranged one after the other along the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 62 and extend transversely to the longitudinal axis L. The lamellae 68b in the mentioned end section are arranged between the film hinge 72 and the nub field, above the opening 71. The nubs 68a are arranged in the end section between the free end and the lamellae 68b or between the scraper edge 68c and the lamellae 68b. The scraper edge 68c is located at the free end of the body.

[0512] The flosser 81, 101 according to the embodiments according to FIGS. 17 to 20 and FIGS. 21 to 24 comprises a grip body 82, 102 and a holder 83, 103 which is connected to the grip body 82, 102 via a neck section 85, 105. The grip body 82, 102 is designed in a flat manner. I.e., its length and width are significantly larger than its height.

[0513] The holder 83, 103 comprises a first and a second holder arm 86a, 86b; 106a, 106b. A dental floss 84, 104 extends between the two holder arms 86a, 86b; 106a, 106b. The dental floss 84, 104 is connected to the holder arms 86a, 86b; 106a, 106b via connection locations. The holder arms 86a, 86b; 106a, 106b are angled or bent with respect to the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 82, 102.

[0514] The grip body 82, 102 forms a laterally arranged recess 93, 113. A toothpick 87, 107 is arranged in this recess 93, 113 in its passive position. The toothpick 87, 107 forms two base surfaces which lie opposite one another as well as two laterally arranged narrow side edges.

[0515] The one exposed side edge of the toothpick 87, 107 thereby forms a section of the outer contour of the grip body 82, 102. The toothpick 87, 107 in the passive position lies in the plane of the grip body 82, 102 and is aligned essentially in its longitudinal axis L. The toothpick 87, 107 forms a cleaning tip which in the passive position is directed towards the holder 83, 103. The toothpick 87, 107 with its end remote to the cleaning tip is connected to the grip body 82, 102 via a film hinge 92, 112.

[0516] The second side edge of the toothpick 87, 107 is adjacent the grip body 82, 102. The pivot movement of the toothpick 87, 107 runs along the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 82, 102 to its end section which lies opposite the holder 83, 103. Accordingly, the rotation axis of the film hinge 92, 112 is arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis L.

[0517] The toothpick 87, 107 in the passive position as well as in the functional position lies in the plane of the grip body 82, 102. The pivot angle is accordingly 180°. The toothpick 87, 107 in its functional position is applied over the end section of the grip body 82, 102.

[0518] A nub 89, 109 is arranged on the base surface of the toothpick 87, 107. An opening 90, 110 corresponding to the nub 89, 109 is arranged on the grip body 82, 102. The film hinge 92, 112 is located at half the distance between the nub 89, 109 and the opening 90, 110, so that on pivoting the toothpick 87, 107 into its functional position about the film hinge 92, 112, the nub 89, 109 and the opening 90, 110 meet or lie over one another on reaching the functional position. The nub 89, 109 of the toothpick 87, 107 snaps or clicks in the opening 90, 110 of the grip body 82, 102 with a positive fit. The thus arising connection holds the toothpick 87, 107 in its functional position.

[0519] The arrangement of the nub 89, 109 and the opening 90, 110 can also be the other way round. Thus the nub can be arranged on the grip body, and the opening or a corresponding recess can be arranged on the toothpick.

[0520] An arched lamella or scraper edge 94, 114 is arranged around the round terminating contour of the end section of the grip body 82, 102, in the end section of the grip body 82 which lies opposite the holder 83, 103. The lamella or scraper edge 94, 114 is arranged on that side of the end section which lies opposite the side, on which the toothpick 87, 107 bears in its functional position. The lamella or scraper edge 94, 114 forms a tongue cleaner which is supplemented with a second lamella 116.

[0521] A grip surface 88 is which is formed by a nub field is moreover formed on the mentioned end section of the grip body 82, 102. The grip surface 88 is arranged on that side of the end section, on which the toothpick 87, 107 bears in its functional position.

[0522] The holder 83, 103 moreover comprises a damping element 95, 115 in the bow section between the two holder arms 86a, 86b; 106a, 106b.

[0523] According to the embodiment example according to FIGS. 17 to 20, the damping element 95 is designed in a disc-like manner and has a convex contour towards the dental floss 84. The damping element 95 is preferably formed from of a soft component.

[0524] According to the embodiment example according to FIGS. 21 to 24, the damping element 115 is designed as a bow which has a convex curvature towards the dental floss 104. The bow is flexible per se and is preferably formed from a soft component.

[0525] The embodiment example according to FIGS. 21 to 24 moreover comprises a second lamella 116 which is likewise arranged in the end section on the side of the first lamella or scraper edge 114. The second lamella 116 in the longitudinal axis L is arranged in a manner offset towards the holder 103 with respect to the first lamella or scraper edge 114. The second lamella 116 is led over an opening 111 in the end section. Nubs of the nub filed are arranged on the second lamella 116 on the opposite side of the opening 111. These nubs form a nub row.

[0526] The flosser 121 according to the embodiment example according to FIGS. 25a, 25b, 26a, 26b, 27a and 27b comprises a grip body 122 and a holder 123 which is connected to the grip body 122. The grip body 122 is designed in a flat manner. I.e., its length and width are significantly greater than its height. The holder 123 comprises a first and second holder arm 126a, 126b. A dental floss 124 extends between the two holder arms 126a, 126b. The dental floss 124 is connected to the holder arms 126a, 126b via connection locations. The holder arms 126a, 126b are arcuate with respect to the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 122.

[0527] The grip body 122 forms two arm sections which enclose a closed intermediate space 133. The arm sections correspond to the extension of the holder arms 126a, 126b. The arm sections together with the holder arms 126a, 126b form a sickle-like curvature. The transition from the holder 123 to the grip body 122 is formed by a connection web 135 which connects the two holder arms 126a, 126b to one another and delimits the intermediate space 133 to the holder 123. The arm sections run together into an end section, at the end of the grip body 122 which is remote from the holder 123.

[0528] A toothpick 127 is arranged in the mentioned intermediate space 133 in its passive position. The toothpick 127 in the passive position lies in the plane of the grip body 122 and is aligned in its longitudinal axis L. The toothpick 127 forms a cleaning tip which is directed away from the holder 123 towards the end section of the grip body 122. The toothpick with its end remote to the cleaning tip is connected to the connection web 135 via a film hinge 132. The toothpick 127 forms two opposite base surfaces as well as two laterally arranged narrow side edges.

[0529] The side edges including the cleaning tip are framed by the arm sections of the grip body 122. The pivot movement of the toothpick 127 runs essentially along the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 122 towards the holder 123. The cleaning tip is thereby pivoted towards the holder 123. Accordingly, the rotation axis of the film hinge 132 is arranged at an angle to the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 122.

[0530] The toothpick 127 lies in the plane of the grip body 122 in the passive position as well as in the functional position. The pivot angle accordingly is 180°. The toothpick 127 in its functional position is applied over the connection web 135. The toothpick lies above the dental floss 124 in its functional position on account of this.

[0531] The grip body 122 moreover in its end section which lies opposite the holder 123 comprises a polishing element 128. The polishing element 128 comprises a bump-like polishing part 128b which is attached on a base body 128a and which for example is of a soft component. The base body 128a is part of the grip body 122 or part of its end section. According to a variant which is not shown, the polishing element 128 is designed as a membrane and is only carried by a base body 128a in the end regions. The polishing element 128 is thus very flexible and adaptable with respect to the surface.

[0532] The flosser 141 according to the embodiments according to FIGS. 28 and 29 comprises a grip body 142 and a holder 143 which is connected to the grip body 142 via a neck section 145. The holder 143 and the neck section 145 are designed as sheet components. A sheet component in this description means that the length and width are significantly greater than the height of the component.

[0533] The grip body 142 comprises an elongate volume body 153 with a bulgy middle part and two end sections which taper in a projectile-like manner. The volume body is designed as a hollow body which comprises round openings 151 through the body wall. The openings 151 accordingly form passages to the cavity. The present design of the volume body 153 amongst other things serves for the weight reduction and material saving. The holder 143 is connected to the volume body 153 via the neck section 145.

[0534] A mounting element 154 which is likewise designed as a sheet component is arranged at that end section of the volume body 153 which is arranged opposite to the holder 143.

[0535] The holder 143 comprises a first and second holder arm 146a, 146b which are connected to one another via a bow section. An interdental space cleaning element 144 in the form of a fibre body extends between the two holder arms 146a, 146b. The fibre body is connected to the holder arms 146a, 146b via connection locations. The holder arms 146a, 146b are angled with respect to the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 142.

[0536] A toothpick 147 is moreover arranged in the grip body 142. The toothpick 147 is connected to the mounting element 154 via a film hinge 152. The toothpick 147 forms two base surfaces which lie opposite one another as well as two laterally arranged narrow side edges.

[0537] The toothpick 147 in the passive position lies in the plane of the grip body 142 and is aligned in its longitudinal axis L. The one exposed side edge of the toothpick 147 in the passive position of the toothpick 147 forms a section of the outer contour of the grip body 142. The toothpick 147 forms a cleaning tip which is directed towards the holder 143 in the passive position. The second side edge of the toothpick 147 is adjacent the volume body 153.

[0538] The toothpick 147 is pivoted out of the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 142 into is functional position for use. The pivot movement of the toothpick 147 runs along the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 142 to its end section which lies opposite the holder 143. Accordingly, the rotation axis of the film hinge 152 is arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis L.

[0539] The flosser 161 according to FIGS. 30 and 31 comprises a grip body 162 and a holder 163 which is connected to the grip body 162 via a neck section 165. The flosser 161 is designed as a sheet component.

[0540] The grip body 162 comprises two arm sections 167a, 167b, which are connected to one another in an arched manner in the end section of the grip body 162 which is remote from the holder 163. The arm sections 167a, 167b unite into a loop-like formation, towards the neck section.

[0541] The holder 163 comprises a first and a second holder arm 166a, 166b which are connected to one another via a bow section. An interdental space cleaning element 164 in the form of a fibre body extends between the two holder arms 166a, 166b. The fibre body 164 is connected to the holder arms 166a, 166b via connection locations. The holder arms 166a, 166b are angled or bent with respect to the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 162.

[0542] The arm sections 167a, 167b of the grip body 162 run together into a type of knot in the neck section 165. The arm sections 167a, 167b are optically continued on the other side of the neck section 165 in the holder 163, as holder arms 166a, 166b.

[0543] The flosser according to FIGS. 30 and 31 with regard to the functioning principle is directed to those in FIGS. 32 and 33. A grip body 162 which is no longer flat, but is present as a volume shape can be bent by way of parts of the grip body 162 which are connected via film hinges 168a, 168b. If the two arm sections 167a, 167b are pressed against one another, then the film hinges 168a, 168b are actuated and the two arm sections are bent out of the plane, so that an angle sets in between the grip and the holder 163. This is not shown, but with regard to the principle is evident in FIG. 33. The flosser 161 is manufactured in a flat manner and is deformed by the user if required.

[0544] The flosser 181 according to FIGS. 32 and 33 comprises a grip body 182 and a holder 183 which is connected to the grip body 182 via a connection section 185. The flosser 181 is designed as a sheet component.

[0545] The flosser 181 comprises a plurality of sheet segments 191a, 191b, 192a, 192b which are connected to one another via fold hinges 193 which are designed as film hinges. The sheet segments 191a, 191b, 192a, 192b in the passive position lie in one plane together with the holder 183 which is likewise designed in a two-dimensional or sheet-like manner.

[0546] The grip body 182 comprises two sheet segments in the form of a first and a second fold arm 192a, 192b which can be folded to one another along the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 182 via a fold hinge 193. The fold hinge 193 which is designed as a film hinge accordingly forms a fold axis, which runs parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 182.

[0547] The holder 183 comprises a first and a second holder arm 186a, 186b which are connected to one another via a bow section. An interdental space cleaning element 184 in the form of a fibre body extends between the two holder arms 186a, 186b. The fibre body 184 is connected to the holder arms 186a, 186b via connection locations.

[0548] A connection section 185 lies between the holder 183 and the grip body 182. This comprises two triangular sheet segments 191a, 191b which via fold hinges 193 are connected on the one hand to the fold arms 192a, 192b and on the other hand to the bow section of the holder arms 186, 186b. The triangular sheet segments 191a, 191b run to one another into a tip or point.

[0549] The grip body 182 can be brought from the passive position into a functional position, in which the flosser 181 is brought out of the plane into a three-dimensional shape, by way of folding the sheet segments 191a, 191b, 192a, 192b to one another along the fold hinges 193.

[0550] With this procedure, the fold arms 192a, 192b are bent downwards. Thereby, the holder 183 is likewise creased downwards with its holder arms 186a, 186b over the triangular sheet segments 191a, 191b and assumes its functional position.

[0551] The flosser 201 according to the embodiments according to FIGS. 34 to 37 comprises a grip body 202 and a holder 203 which is connected to the grip body 202 via a connection section 205. The flosser 201 is designed as a sheet component.

[0552] The flosser 201 comprises a holder 203, onto which arms sections 211a, 211b of a grip body 202 are articulated via a connection section 205. The arm sections 211a, 211b are pivotably articulated on the connection section 205 via film hinges.

[0553] The sheet-like arm sections 211a, 211b in the passive position lie together with the holder 203 likewise designed in a surface-like manner, in one plane. The two arm sections 211a, 211b in this position lie in a common axis which corresponds to the longitudinal axis A1, A2 of the arm sections 211a, 211b (see FIGS. 34a to 34c, 36a). The connection section 205 is hereby arranged between the arm sections 211a, 211b.

[0554] A connection pin 212 is arranged in a first arm section 211a. A receiving slot 213 running parallel to the longitudinal axis A2 of the arm section 211b is arranged in the second arm section 211b.

[0555] The holder 203 comprises a first and a second holder arm 206a, 206b which are connected to one another via a bow section. The bow section is an integral part of the connection section 205. An interdental space cleaning element 204 in the form of a thread body extends between the two holder arms 206a, 206b. The fibre body 204 is connected to the holder arms 206a, 206b via connection locations.

[0556] The first arm section 211a is pivoted to the second arm section 211b or vice versa, for bringing the flosser 201 from its passive position into its functional position, with which procedure the flosser 201 is brought out of the plane into a three-dimensional shape. With this procedure, the connection pin 212 meets the receiving slot 213 and locks into this. The arm sections 211a, 211b with this step are still aligned parallel to one another (see FIGS. 35a to 35c and 36b).

[0557] The connection pin 212 slides in the receiving slot 213 to the outer-lying slot end by way of setting up the two arm sections 211a, 211b out of the plane of the passive position. The two arm sections 211a, 211b together with the connection section 205 in a plan view form a triangular arrangement (see FIGS. 36c and 37a to 37c). With this procedure, the end regions of the arm sections 211a, 211b which lie remote to the connection section 205, are brought together. The flosser 201 is in its functional position in this position.

[0558] A further functional position is shown in FIG. 35. The flosser 201 in the locked-in situation can also assume this shown position of use.

[0559] The connection pin 212 can be moved in the receiving slot 213, so that apart from the shown positions of FIGS. 34 and 35, positions lying between these positions in the figures can also be realised.

[0560] The flosser 221 according to FIGS. 38 and 39 has an elongate grip body 222 and a holder 223 which is connected to the grip body 222. The holder 223 and the grip body 222 are designed as sheet components.

[0561] The holder 223 comprises a first and a second holder arm 226a, 226b which are connected to one another via a bow section. The holder arms 226a, 226b are bent with respect to the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 222.

[0562] An interdental space cleaning element 24 in the form of a fibre body extends between the two holder arms 226a, 226b (FIG. 38, 39a). The fibre body 224 is connected laterally in each case to a connection section 227. The two connection sections 227 each comprise a connection pin 228. The connection sections 227 are connected to the respective holder arm 226a, 226b via the connection pin 228. For this, the connection pin 228 of the connection section 227 positively engages into a corresponding recess 2299 at the face-side end of the respective holder arm 226a, 226b. The connection section 227 thereby forms a continuation of the holder arm 226a, 226b (FIG. 39a).

[0563] The fibre body 224, the connection sections 227 as well as the connection pins 228 are preferably designed in a single-part manner. The holder 223 and the grip body 222 are likewise preferably designed in a single-part manner.

[0564] An injection moulding method is particularly suitable for the manufacture. The manufacture can be effected in a single-component or multi-component method. Accordingly, the mentioned assembly components can consist of one or more plastic components.

[0565] The flosser 241 according to FIGS. 40 to 42 comprises an elongate grip body 242 and a holder 243 which is connected to the grip body 242. The holder 242 and the grip body 242 are designed as sheet components.

[0566] The holder 243 comprises a first and second holder arm 246a, 246b which are connected to one another via a bow section. The holder arms 246a, 246b are angled (bent) with respect to the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 242.

[0567] An interdental space cleaning element 244 in the form of a fibre body (FIG. 40) extends between the two holder arms 246a, 246b. The fibre body 244 is connected laterally in each case to an anchoring element 247. The anchoring element 247 is designed in a spherical manner.

[0568] The fibre body 244 together with the anchoring element 247 is manufactured separately for example in a prior injection moulding step (FIG. 41). The previously separately manufactured fibre body 244, with the anchoring elements 247 is inserted into a tool mould on manufacture of the flosser 241. The grip body and the holder are subsequently injected in an injection moulding method. The holder arms 246a, 246b are hereby injected around the anchoring elements 247. The anchoring elements 247 are anchored in the holder arms 246a, 246b by way of this (FIG. 42).

[0569] The fibre body 244 and the anchoring elements 247 are preferably designed in a single-part manner. The holder 243 and the grip body 242 are preferably likewise designed in a single-part manner.

[0570] An injection moulding method is particularly suitable for manufacture. The manufacture can be effected in a single-component or multi-component method. Accordingly, the mentioned assembly components can consist of one or of several plastic components.

[0571] FIGS. 43 to 47 show different embodiments of interdental space cleaning elements.

[0572] The interdental space cleaning element 304 according to FIGS. 43a and 43b comprises nubs 305 which are arranged annularly around a fibre body. A plurality of such annular nub arrangements are arranged at a distance to one another in the longitudinal direction of the fibre body.

[0573] The interdental space cleaning element 324 according to FIGS. 44a and 44b comprises individual lamellae 325 which are formed in an annular manner about the fibre body. A plurality of such lamellae 325 are arranged at a distance to one another in the longitudinal direction of the fibre body.

[0574] The interdental space cleaning element 344 according to FIGS. 45a and 45b comprises bristles 345 which are arranged annularly about the fibre body. A plurality of such annular bristle arrangements are arranged at a distance to one another in the longitudinal direction of the fibre body

[0575] The interdental space cleaning element 364 according to FIGS. 46a and 46b is only formed from a fibre body and has no functional elements.

[0576] The interdental space cleaning element 384 according to FIGS. 47a and 47b comprises a combination of bristles 385 according to the embodiment example according to FIG. 45 and nubs 386 according to the embodiment example according to FIG. 43. A plurality of annular bristle arrangements and annular nub arrangements are thus alternately provided on the fibre body.

[0577] The interdental space cleaning elements together with their functional elements are preferably designed in a single-part manner. An injection moulding method is particularly suitable for manufacture. The manufacture can be effected in a single-component or multi-component method. Accordingly, the interdental space cleaning element with functional elements can consist of one or more plastic components.

[0578] The steps for the production of a further embodiment of a flosser 501 which are represented by way of FIG. 48, in a first step comprise the manufacture of a sheet-like (two-dimensional) extrusion component 500.1 of plastic. The extrusion profile 500.1 is designed in a tape-like manner and comprises a co-extruded longitudinal groove 503.

[0579] In a second step, arched recesses are punched out on the one longitudinal side of the extrusion profile 500.2 next to one another and at a distance to one another. Finger-like integral formations which form the later holder arms 506a, 506b result in each case between two arched recesses. The longitudinal groove 503 in now arranged in the form of longitudinal groove sections in the finger-like integral formations.

[0580] In a third step, the dental thread 504 is inserted into the longitudinal groove 503 of the extrusion profile 500.3 and is locked or fixed in this, e.g. by locking in, bonding etc.

[0581] In a fourth step, individual flossers 501 are punched out of the prepared extrusion profile 500.4 along the partition line 505. The partition line 505 leads through the finger-like integral formation and divides this in each case into a holder arm 506a, 506b of two adjacent flossers 501. The partition line 505 corresponds to the contour of the punching knife when punching out.

[0582] The punched-out flosser 501 comprises two holder arms 506a, 506b, a dental thread 504 running between these, and a grip body 502.

[0583] The steps for production of a further embodiment of a flosser 521 which are represented by FIG. 49, in a first step comprise the manufacture of two plastic films.

[0584] Identical arched recesses are punched out on the one longitudinal side of the films, next to one another and at a distance to one another, in a second step. The film sections 520.1, 520.2 arise. Finger-like integral formations which form the later holder arms 526a, 526b result between two arched recesses in each case.

[0585] The two film sections 520.1, 520.1 are led together and connected in a surfaced manner in a third step. The recesses in the two film sections 520.1, 520.2 are thereby aligned to one another, e.g. in a register.

[0586] The dental thread 524 in the region of the end sections of the finger-like integral formations is inserted between the two film sections 520.1, 520.1 and connected to the two film sections 520.1, 520.2, before or on leading together the two film sections 520.1, 520.2. The connection of the two film sections 520.1, 520.2 and accordingly the fastening of the dental thread can be effected by way of bonding or welding.

[0587] In a fourth step, the individual flossers 521 are punched out of the prepared extrusion profile 520.3 along the partition line 525. The partition line 525 leads through the finger-like integral formation and subdivides this in each case into a holder arm 526a, 526b of two adjacent flossers 521.

[0588] The punched-out flosser 521 comprises two holder arms 526a, 526b, a dental thread 525 running between these, and a grip body 522.

[0589] The embodiments of flossers 451, 481 which are shown in FIGS. 50 and 51 comprise a grip body 451, 482 as well as a holder 453, 483 which is arranged in an angled manner with respect to the grip body 452, 482. The holder 453, 483 comprises a first and a second holder arm 456a, 456b; 486a, 486b, between which a dental floss 454, 484 is tensioned.

[0590] The flosser 451, 481 moreover comprises a tension (pull) element 455, 485 in the form of a tension rib. The tension element 455, 485 with one end is arranged on the inner holder arm 456a, 486a of the holder 452, 483 which is angled with respect to the grip body 452, 482, said inner holder arm facing the grip body 452, 482. The tension element 455, 485 is attached on the grip body 452, 482 with the other end. The tension element 455, 485 spans the bending which is formed by the holder arm 456a, 486a and the grip body 452, 482. The tension element 455, 485 is injection moulded together with the flosser 451, 481.

[0591] The tension element 455, 485 on cooling and on account of shrinkage produces a tensile stress (tension) upon the holder arm 456a, 486a, and this tensile stress acts outwards away from the dental thread 454, 484. This tensile stress has the effect that the prestressing of the dental thread 454, 484 is retained or even increases, during the cooling.

[0592] The flosser 401, 431 according to the embodiments according to FIGS. 52 and 53 comprises a grip body 402, 432 and a holder 403, 433 which is connected to the grip body 402, 432. The holder 403, 433 comprises a first and a second holder arm 406a, 406b; 436a, 436b which are connected to one another via a bow section.

[0593] A dental floss 404, 434 extends between the two holder arms 406a, 406b; 436a, 436b. The holder arms 404, 434 are angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the grip body 402, 432. The holder 403, 433 moreover comprises a damping element 405, 435.

[0594] The damping element 405 according to the embodiment according to FIG. 52 is arranged in an arched manner along the inner bow which is formed by the bow section and the holder arms 406a, 406b. The damping element is thereby attached on the bow section and the holder arms 406a, 406b. The damping element 405 moreover extends around the end sections of the holder arms 406a, 406b to their outer sides and covers the end-surfaces of the holder arms 406a, 406b. The damping element 405 is designed as a type of lip.

[0595] The damping element 435 according to the embodiment according to FIG. 53 is likewise arranged in an arched manner along the inner bow which is formed by the bow section and the holder arms 436a, 436b, i.e. along the bow section and the holder arms 436a, 436b. The damping element 435 moreover likewise extends around the end sections of the holder arms 436a, 436b to their outer sides and covers the end-surfaces of the holder arms 436a, 436b

[0596] In contrast to the embodiment according to FIG. 52, the damping element 435 along the inner bow is formed as an exposed, lip-like element which is only fastened with its end sections on the outer side of the holder arms 436a, 436b in the region their end sections, on these holder arms.

[0597] The damping element 405, 435 according to FIGS. 52 and 53 consist for example of a soft component of the type mentioned above. The damping element 405, 435 in particular is injected in a separate injection moulding step.

[0598] The dental floss penetrates the damping element 405, 435 or is at least partly surrounded by this.

[0599] The flosser 121′ according to the embodiment example according to FIGS. 54a, 54b, 55a, 55b, 56a and 56b with the exception of the subsequently described features corresponds to the embodiment according to FIGS. 25a, 25b, 26a, 26b, 27a and 27b. Accordingly, the same features are provided with identical reference numerals in the present figures. The description concerning the mentioned figures FIGS. 25a, 25b, 26a, 26b, 27a and 27b is referred to regarding the description of these features.

[0600] A further tongue cleaner is arranged on the inner holder arm 126a of the flosser 121′ curved in a sickle-like manner, said holder arm facing the grip body 122. This tongue cleaner is designed in the form of a row of nubs 137 which are arranged in a row next to one another on the holder arm 126a.

[0601] The descriptions made with regard to the specific figures can of course also be conferred to the other figures, which show the same or similar fashions, and in which the fashions are not described with the same detail.