SLIM TOOTHBRUSH

Abstract

A slim toothbrush for cleaning teeth of both the upper and lower jaw simultaneously is disclosed. The slim toothbrush is designed with smaller dimensions targeting users who are unable to open their mouths widely. The slim toothbrush comprises a toothbrush head having both an upper and lower surface, each surface having a plurality of outer and inner bristles designed to accept teeth of the upper and lower jaw of a user simultaneously and allow for cleaning of the respective teeth from the crown to the gum line.

Claims

1. A slim toothbrush, comprising: a toothbrush head, comprising: an upper surface and a lower surface; a plurality of outer bristles disposed along one or more lateral edges of the upper and lower surfaces of the toothbrush head; a plurality of inner bristles centrally positioned onto the upper and lower surfaces of the toothbrush head wherein the inner bristles have different dimensions from the outer bristles; and wherein the plurality of outer bristles and inner bristles form a U shaped pocket on both the upper and lower surfaces of the toothbrush head allowing the toothbrush head to accept an upper set of teeth and a lower set of teeth simultaneously.

2. The slim toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the plurality of outer bristles and plurality of inner bristles are arranged to collectively clean the upper set of teeth and the lower set of teeth in a single oral insertion.

3. The slim toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the toothbrush head is adapted to be orally inserted into a restricted oral aperture of a subject.

4. The slim toothbrush of claim 1, wherein a height of the plurality of inner bristles is less than a height of the plurality of outer bristles.

5. The slim toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the plurality of outer bristles are arranged to make an inward angle and the plurality of inner bristles are arranged to make an outward angle with respect to the upper and lower surfaces of the toothbrush head.

6. The slim toothbrush of claim 1, comprising a connecting means for enabling an attachment of the toothbrush head with an elongated handle.

7. The slim toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the plurality of outer bristles are positioned to brush outer and side tooth surfaces and corresponding gum linings of a user and wherein the plurality of inner bristles are positioned to brush biting surfaces of a user.

8. The slim toothbrush of claim 6, wherein the elongated handle is flexible.

9. The slim toothbrush of claim 6, wherein the elongated handle is further connected to a gripping portion.

10. A slim toothbrush, comprising: a toothbrush head adapted to be orally inserted into a restricted oral aperture of a subject, wherein the toothbrush head comprises: an upper surface and a lower surface each surface comprising a plurality of outer bristles disposed along one or more lateral edges of the upper surface and a plurality of inner bristles centrally positioned onto the upper and lower surfaces of the toothbrush head wherein the inner bristles have a height less than a height of the outer bristles; and an elongated handle connected to the toothbrush head using a connecting means and adapted to effectuate brushing motions within the restricted oral aperture of the subject.

11. The slim toothbrush of claim 10, wherein the plurality of outer bristles and the plurality of inner bristles are arranged to engage an upper set of teeth and a lower set of teeth in a single oral insertion.

12. The slim toothbrush of claim 10, wherein the plurality of outer bristles and plurality of inner bristles form a U shaped pocket on both the upper and lower surfaces of the toothbrush head allowing the toothbrush head to accept an upper set of teeth and a lower set of teeth simultaneously.

13. The slim toothbrush of claim 10, wherein the plurality of outer bristles are arranged to make an inward angle and the plurality of inner bristles are arranged to make an outward angle with respect to both the upper surface and lower surface of the toothbrush head.

14. The slim toothbrush of claim 10, wherein the elongated handle is adapted to structurally interconnect the toothbrush head with a gripping portion.

15. The slim toothbrush of claim 10, wherein the elongated handle is flexible.

16. A slim toothbrush, comprising: a toothbrush head comprising: an upper surface and a lower surface each surface having a plurality of outer bristles disposed along one or more lateral edges of the upper and lower surfaces and a plurality of inner bristles centrally positioned onto the upper and lower surfaces of the toothbrush head wherein the inner bristles have a height less than a height of the outer bristles; a gripping portion located at a distal end of the slim toothbrush, wherein the gripping portion is adapted to enable a subject to grip the slim toothbrush for engaging the plurality of outer bristles and plurality of inner bristles with an upper set of teeth and a lower set of teeth in a single oral insertion; and an elongated handle extending between and structurally interconnecting the toothbrush head and the gripping portion and adapted to transmit forces exerted at the gripping portion toward the toothbrush head for effectuating cleaning motions by the plurality of outer bristles and the plurality of inner bristles.

17. The slim toothbrush of claim 16, wherein the toothbrush head comprises a connecting means for enabling an attachment of the toothbrush head with the elongated handle.

18. The slim toothbrush of claim 16, wherein the elongated handle is flexible.

19. The slim toothbrush of claim 16, wherein the plurality of outer bristles are arranged to make an inward angle and the plurality of inner bristles are arranged perpendicular with respect to both the upper surface and lower surface of the toothbrush head.

20. The slim toothbrush of claim 19, wherein the plurality of outer bristles and plurality of inner bristles form a U shaped pocket on both the upper and lower surfaces of the toothbrush head allowing the toothbrush head to accept an upper set of teeth and a lower set of teeth simultaneously with the plurality of outer bristles positioned to brush tooth surfaces and corresponding gum linings of a user and wherein the plurality of inner bristles are positioned to brush biting surfaces of a user.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The foregoing and other aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein are best understood from the following detailed description when read in connection with the accompanying drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the embodiments disclosed herein, there is shown in the drawings embodiments that are presently preferred, it being understood, however, that the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to the specific instrumentalities disclosed. Included in the drawings are the following figures:

[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a slim toothbrush, according to embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein;

[0028] FIG. 2 illustrates a first side view of the slim toothbrush, according to embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein;

[0029] FIG. 3 illustrates a second side view of the slim toothbrush, according to embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein;

[0030] FIG. 4 illustrates a first side view of a toothbrush head of the slim toothbrush, according to embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein;

[0031] FIG. 5 illustrates a second side view of the toothbrush head of the slim toothbrush, according to embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein;

[0032] FIG. 6 illustrates a front view of the toothbrush head of the slim toothbrush, according to embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein;

[0033] FIG. 7 illustrates a primary brushing mechanism of the slim toothbrush, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention disclosed herein;

[0034] FIG. 8 illustrates a secondary brushing mechanism of the slim toothbrush, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention disclosed herein;

[0035] While embodiments of the present invention are described herein by way of example using several illustrative drawings, those skilled in the art will recognize the present invention is not limited to the embodiments or drawings described. It should be understood that the drawings and the detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the present invention to the particular form disclosed, but to the contrary, the present invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of embodiments of the present invention.

[0036] The toothbrush headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description. As used throughout this application, the word may is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words include, including, and includes mean including but not limited to. To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in conjunction with an exemplary slim toothbrush. Embodiments of the present invention are not limited to any particular type of slim toothbrush. Those skilled in the art will recognize the disclosed techniques may be used in any slim toothbrush in which it is desirable to provide a double-sided slim toothbrush.

[0038] The phrases at least one, one or more, and and/or are open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For example, each of the expressions at least one of A, B and C, at least one of A, B, or C, one or more of A, B, and C, one or more of A, B, or C and A, B, and/or C means A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B, and C together.

[0039] The term a or an entity refers to one or more of that entity. As such, the terms a (or an), one or more and at least one can be used interchangeably herein. It is also to be noted that the terms comprising, including, and having can be used interchangeably.

[0040] As used herein, the term subject or variations thereof refers to a user of a toothbrush described in the present disclosure. The subject may include, but is not limited to, a human or a non-human entity. In various embodiments of the present invention, the subject may be an adult, an infant, a child, an elderly individual, a person with no physical or medical conditions, temporary physical or medical conditions, or permanent physical or medical conditions. The subject may also include animals, such as domesticated pets (e.g., dogs, cats) or veterinary patients, for whom oral hygiene assistance is desired.

[0041] As used herein, the term toothbrush, or variations thereof, refers to any device or instrument adapted to and/or configured for cleaning teeth, gums, tongue, or other parts of an oral cavity of a subject. The term encompasses both manual and powered (e.g., electric, battery-operated) toothbrushes, as well as toothbrushes of various shapes, sizes, and structural configurations.

[0042] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a slim toothbrush 100, according to embodiments of the present invention. The slim toothbrush 100 may be adapted to be used by any kind of subject, including but not limited to infants, young children, elderly individuals, or non-human animals such as pets requiring assisted oral care.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the slim toothbrush 100 may be designed for a subject having a restricted oral aperture. The slim toothbrush 100 may be adapted to have scaled-down dimensions, to enable the subject to maintain oral hygiene who may be unable to open their mouths wide, and/or may only be able to open their mouth in a range from 15 millimeters (mm) to 20 millimeters (mm) to maintain oral hygiene. The inability of the subjects to open their mouth wide may be due to reasons such as, but not limited to, an accident, radiotherapy, paralysis, cancer, frugal joints, temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ), and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any other reasons due to which the subject may be unable to open mouth wide.

[0044] According to embodiments of the present invention, the slim toothbrush 100 may be manufactured in a variety of colors for aesthetic appeal, personalization, or identification purposes. According to embodiments of the present invention, a color of the slim toothbrush 100 may be, but not limited to, a black color, a white color, a red color, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any color of the slim toothbrush 100.

[0045] The slim toothbrush 100 may comprise a proximal end 102 and a distal end 104. The proximal end 102 of the slim toothbrush 100 may be adapted to be orally inserted into the oral aperture of the subject. The distal end 104 of the slim toothbrush 100 may be adapted to be held and gripped by the subject. In an embodiment of the present invention, the slim toothbrush 100 may be in a unibody form, such that the slim toothbrush 100 may be manufactured as a single molded piece from the proximal end 102 till the distal end 104. The slim toothbrush 100 may be manufactured by connecting multiple molded pieces, in another embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] According to embodiments of the present invention, the slim toothbrush 100 may comprise a toothbrush head 106, an elongated handle 108, and a gripping portion 110.

[0047] The toothbrush head 106 may be located at the proximal end 102 of the slim toothbrush 100. The toothbrush head 106 may be adapted to be orally inserted into an oral aperture of the subject. The oral aperture may be the restricted oral aperture or a wide oral aperture. In an embodiment of the present invention, the toothbrush head 106 may be detachably installed onto the slim toothbrush 100. The detachable installation may enable a replacement of the toothbrush head 106 from rest of the slim toothbrush 100, upon wear and tear and/or damage of bristles implanted onto the toothbrush head 106. In another embodiment of the present invention, the toothbrush head 106 may be permanently installed onto the slim toothbrush 100.

[0048] According to embodiments of the present invention, the toothbrush head 106 may be constructed of any material such as, but not limited to, a flexible material, a rubber material, a silicone material, a plastic material, a wooden material, a biodegradable material, a recyclable material, a natural material, a synthetic material, a medical grade material, and so forth. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the toothbrush head 106 may be constructed of a soft material having curved surfaces to prevent injury to internal areas of the oral aperture. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any material for the construction of the toothbrush head 106, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.

[0049] Further, the toothbrush head 106 may be constructed of a non-sharp-edged shape, such as, but not limited to, a pill shape, an ovoid shape, a cylindrical shape, a spherical shape, a raindrop shape, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any shape of the toothbrush head 106, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies. Further, embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any color of the toothbrush head 106.

[0050] In an embodiment of the present invention, the elongated handle 108 may be adapted to connect the toothbrush head 106 with the gripping portion 110. The elongated handle 108 may extend between the toothbrush head 106 and the gripping portion 110. The elongated handle 108 may be adapted to structurally interconnecting the toothbrush head 106 with the gripping portion 110. The elongated handle 108 may be adapted to transmit forces exerted the gripping portion 110 toward the toothbrush head 106 for effectuating cleaning motions by the slim toothbrush 100.

[0051] In an embodiment of the present invention, the toothbrush head 106 with the gripping portion 110 may be detachably connected to the elongated handle 108. The toothbrush head 106 with the gripping portion 110 may be permanently connected to the elongated handle 108, in an embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, the elongated handle 108 may be linear. In other embodiments of the present invention, the elongated handle 108 may be curved, angled, and/or contoured to improve ergonomics, user comfort, or reachability within the oral aperture of the subject.

[0052] In an embodiment of the present invention, the elongated handle 108 may be adapted to provide flexibility to the toothbrush head 106. The elongated handle 108 may enable the toothbrush head 106 to flexibly reach curved and obscured areas in the oral aperture of the subject. In an embodiment of the present invention, the elongated handle 108 may be designed with a spring or a helical structure to provide flexibility to the toothbrush head 106 of the slim toothbrush 100. In another embodiment of the present invention, the elongated handle 108 may be designed with a very thin profile. The thin profile may reduce the rigidity of the elongated handle 108 and may provide flexibility to the toothbrush head 106 of the slim toothbrush 100.

[0053] In an embodiment of the present invention, the elongated handle 108 of the slim toothbrush 100 may feature a Venturi-shaped profile, also referred to as, an hourglass profile. The hourglass profile may exhibit a cross-sectional area that may gradually narrows from the toothbrush head 106 towards a central constriction and may further expands toward the gripping portion 110. The narrow central constriction may serve as a controlled flex region that may be adapted to absorb excessive force applied during brushing, thereby preventing damage to the oral aperture of the subject and may increase lifespan of the slim toothbrush 100.

[0054] In an embodiment of the present invention, the hourglass profile of the elongated handle 108 may provide mechanical strength while allowing controlled flexibility. The hourglass profile may further allow for improved grip ergonomics, facilitating comfortable handling and better control during brushing.

[0055] In an embodiment of the present invention, the hourglass profile of the elongated handle 108 may provide enhanced tactile feedback to the subject. The narrow central constriction may act as a feedback point, allowing the subject to perceive pressure changes more accurately and adjust brushing force accordingly for effective plaque removal with minimal gum damage.

[0056] In an embodiment of the present invention, the hourglass profile of the elongated handle 108 may provide optimal fluid flow along a surface of the elongated handle 108 during brushing with water or toothpaste. The optimal fluid flow may minimize residue buildup along the elongated handle 108 and may further allow easier cleaning and drying of the slim toothbrush 100 post-usage.

[0057] In an embodiment of the present invention, the hourglass profile of the elongated handle 108 may reduce material volume used in construction of the elongated handle 108 without compromising structural integrity. This may contribute to a lightweight slim toothbrush 100 design, improving handling by the subject.

[0058] In an embodiment of the present invention, the hourglass profile of the elongated handle 108 may provide a distinct aesthetic appeal and may serve as a brand-identifying design feature. The hourglass profile of the elongated handle 108 may differentiate the slim toothbrush 100 from conventional straight or contoured elongated handle 108, adding market value and recognition.

[0059] According to embodiments of the present invention, the elongated handle 108 may be constructed of any material such as, but not limited to, a flexible material, a rubber material, a silicone material, a plastic material, a wooden material, a biodegradable material, a recyclable material, a natural material, a synthetic material, a medical grade material, and so forth. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the elongated handle 108 may be constructed of a soft material having curved surfaces to prevent injury to internal areas of the oral aperture. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any material for the construction of the elongated handle 108, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies. Further, embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any color of the elongated handle 108.

[0060] In an embodiment of the present invention, the gripping portion 110 may enable the subject to grip the slim toothbrush 100 for effectuating the cleaning motions. The cleaning motions may be, but not limited to, an upside motion, a downside motion, an up-down motion, a down-up motion, a back motion, a front motion, a front-back motion, a back-front motion, a swiveled motion, a zig-zag motion, a stroking motion, a striking motion, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the cleaning motions, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies, effectuated by gripping portion 110 of the slim toothbrush 100.

[0061] In an embodiment of the present invention, the gripping portion 110 may be layered with a gripping material. The layering of the gripping material on the gripping portion 110 may enable the subject to grip the slim toothbrush 100 tightly and sturdily. Further, a substantially bigger dimensions of the gripping portion 110 and the layering of the gripping material may provide traction and a grip for a palm of the subject on the gripping portion 110. In an embodiment of the present invention, the gripping portion 110 may comprise indentations for enhancing the grip of the palm of the subject on the gripping portion 110.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the gripping portion 110 may have a substantially bigger dimensions in comparison with the toothbrush head 106. In another embodiment of the present invention, the gripping portion 110 may be having substantially similar dimensions in comparison with the toothbrush head 106. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the gripping portion 110 may be having substantially smaller dimensions in comparison with the toothbrush head 106.

[0063] In another embodiment of the present invention, the gripping portion 110 may provide a hanging hook (not shown) to enable a secure storage of the slim toothbrush 100. The hanging hook may be, but not limited to, a hole, a wedge, a hook, a lanyard, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any hanging hook, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies, that may enable the secure storage of the slim toothbrush 100.

[0064] According to embodiments of the present invention, the gripping portion 110 may be constructed of any material such as, but not limited to, a flexible material, a rubber material, a silicone material, a plastic material, a wooden material, a biodegradable material, a recyclable material, a natural material, a synthetic material, a medical grade material, and so forth. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the gripping portion 110 may be constructed of a soft material having curved surfaces to prevent injury to internal areas of the oral aperture. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any material for the construction of the gripping portion 110, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies. Further, embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any color of the gripping portion 110.

[0065] FIG. 2 illustrates a first side view of the slim toothbrush 100, according to embodiments of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, the toothbrush head 106 may comprise an upper surface 200 and a lower surface 202. The upper surface 200 and the lower surface 202 may be positioned opposite to one another along a vertical axis of the toothbrush head 106. The lower surface 202 may be disposed opposite to the upper surface 200. Further, the upper surface 200 and the lower surface 202 may be positioned in a way that a proximal end of the toothbrush head 106 may coincide with or be integrally formed with the proximal end 102 of the slim toothbrush 100.

[0066] In an embodiment of the present invention, the upper surface 200 of the toothbrush head 106 may be adapted to point towards an upper jaw or an upper set of teeth of the subject. Further, the lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106 may be adapted to point towards a lower jaw or a lower set of teeth of the subject. In an embodiment of the present invention, the upper surface 200 and the lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106 may be adapted to accommodate a plurality of bristles 204. As will be discussed, the plurality of bristles 204 further comprise a plurality of outer bristles and a plurality of inner bristles.

[0067] In an embodiment of the present invention, the upper surface 200 and the lower surface 202 may comprise perforations (not shown). In an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of bristles 204 be implanted onto the upper surface 200 and onto the lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106, respectively, through the perforations. In another embodiment of the present invention, the toothbrush head 106 may comprise pass-through perforations (not shown). In another embodiment of the present invention, the pass-through perforations may enable a passage of the plurality of bristles 204 onto the upper surface 200 and the lower surface 202, respectively. In such an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of bristles 204 may be disposed as continuous strands of bristles.

[0068] FIG. 3 illustrates a second side view of the slim toothbrush 100, according to embodiments of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, the slim toothbrush may comprise connecting means 300. The connecting means 300 may be adapted to enable the attachment of the toothbrush head 106 with a remainder body of the slim toothbrush 100. The connecting means 300 may be, but not limited to, a snap-lock connector, a screwing connector, a magnetic connector, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of connecting means 300, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies. The connecting means 300 may comprise attachment mechanism, such as, but not limited to, a snap-lock mechanism, a screwing mechanism, a magnetic adhesion, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any attachment mechanism, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies, that may be installed in the connecting means 300.

[0069] In an embodiment of the present invention, the connecting means 300 may be adapted to detachably connect the toothbrush head 106 onto the elongated handle 108, such as the connecting means 300 may allow a detachment and replacement of the toothbrush head 106. The detachment and replacement may allow a plurality of subjects to use a single slim toothbrush 100 by replacing the toothbrush head 106 as per their brushing routine. Further, the detachment and replacement may allow the subject to replace the toothbrush head 106 as per brushing recommendations. For example, a subject experiencing dental pain may switch to a toothbrush head 106 having soft bristles, by detaching previously installed toothbrush head 106 and replacing the toothbrush head 106 with the soft bristles onto the elongated handle 108. Thus, obtaining an altogether new slim toothbrush 100.

[0070] The connecting means 300 may internally be compartmented into connectors (not shown). Further, the connecting means 300 may be reversible in nature, such that there may be no upside-downside configuration in the connecting means 300. Thus, elimination of the upside-downside configuration may allow the installation of the toothbrush head 106 in any orientation onto the elongated handle 108.

[0071] In an embodiment of the present invention, the slim toothbrush 100 may comprise a tongue cleaner 302. The tongue cleaner 302 may be provided on or proximate to the gripping portion 110. The tongue cleaner 302 may be obtained by forming indentations and extrusions on the gripping portion 110, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Upon scrubbing the tongue cleaner 302 onto a tongue, the indentations and extrusions may scrape and collect a tongue buildup. The collected tongue buildup in the indentations and extrusions of the tongue cleaner 302 may be further washed up and cleaned.

[0072] According to embodiments of the present invention, a total length of the slim toothbrush 100 may be denoted by L1. In an embodiment of the present invention, the length L1 may be in a range from 15 centimeters (cm) to 20 centimeters (cm). Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any length L1 for the slim toothbrush 100.

[0073] According to embodiments of the present invention, a total length of the toothbrush head 106 may be denoted by L2. In an embodiment of the present invention, the length L2 may be in a range from 2 centimeters (cm) to 3 centimeters (cm). Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any length L2 for the toothbrush head 106 of the slim toothbrush 100.

[0074] According to embodiments of the present invention, the total thickness of the toothbrush head 106 may be denoted by T1. In an embodiment of the present invention, the thickness T1 may be in a range from 2 millimeters (mm) to 4 millimeters (mm). Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any thickness T1 for the toothbrush head 106 of the slim toothbrush 100.

[0075] According to embodiments of the present invention, a total thickness of the gripping portion 110 may be denoted by T2. In an embodiment of the present invention, the thickness T2 may be in a range from 4 millimeters (mm) to 8 millimeters (mm). Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any thickness T2 for the gripping portion 110 of the slim toothbrush 100.

[0076] FIG. 4 illustrates a first side view of the toothbrush head 106 of the slim toothbrush 100, according to embodiments of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of bristles 204 disposed on both the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202 may comprise a plurality of outer bristles 400 and a plurality of inner bristles 402.

[0077] The plurality of outer bristles 400 and plurality of inner bristles 402 may be arranged in a uniform pattern. In another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 and plurality of inner bristles 402 may be arranged in a non-uniform pattern. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 and plurality of inner bristles 402 may be arranged in an incremental pattern. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 and the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be arranged in a decremental pattern. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 and the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be arranged in a gradient pattern. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 and the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be arranged in a waved pattern.

[0078] In an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be implanted between a plurality of outer bristles 400 as shown in FIG. 6. Further, this arrangement of a plurality of inner bristles 402 between a plurality of outer bristles 400 may be repeatedly installed on an entire surface area of the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106 across the length L2. In another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be alternatively implanted among the plurality of outer bristles 400. Further, this arrangement of alternate implantation of the plurality of inner bristles 402 among the plurality of outer bristles 400 may be repeatedly installed on the entire surface area of the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106 across the length L2.

[0079] In an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 may be disposed at corners of the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 may be disposed at a middle line of the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 may be disposed along lateral edges of the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202. In some embodiments of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 may be disposed after a margin along a lateral boundary of the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202.

[0080] In an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 may be arranged in a tapered manner on the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202. In another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 may be arranged in a perpendicularly straight manner on the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 may be arranged in a wavy manner on the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 may be arranged in a zig-zag manner on the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202. Hereby explained arrangement manner may enable a reachability of the plurality of outer bristles 400 up to outer surface of teeth, gingival pockets, mesial surfaces, gum cervices, gum linings, and so forth of the upper set of teeth of the subject.

[0081] In an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be centrally positioned onto the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202. In another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be disposed at midpoints of the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be disposed at a midline of the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be disposed at a central position of the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202.

[0082] In an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be arranged in a fountain manner on the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202. In another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be arranged in the perpendicularly straight manner on the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be arranged in a wavy manner on the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of inner of bristles 402 may be arranged in an inverted triangle manner on the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be arranged in a zig-zag manner on the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be arranged in a serrated manner on the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202. Hereby explained arrangement manner may enable a reachability of the plurality of inner bristles 402 up to crown surfaces, biting surfaces, occlusal surfaces, and so forth of the upper set of teeth of the subject.

[0083] In an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 may be the same as the plurality of inner bristles 402. In another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 may be different from the plurality of inner bristles 402. The differentiation between the plurality of outer bristles 400 and the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be developed by factors such as, but not limited to, dimensions, material of construction, rigidity, softness, hardness, color, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any factors, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies, that may develop differentiation between the plurality of outer bristles 400 and the plurality of inner bristles 402.

[0084] In an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 and the plurality of inner bristles 402 of the top surface 200 and bottom surface 202 may be adapted to collectively brush, scrub, and clean both the upper and lowers sets of teeth, respectively, of the subject in a single oral insertion, in an embodiment of the present invention. An arrangement of the plurality of outer bristles 400 and the plurality of inner bristles 402 on the upper surface 200 and the lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106 may further be explained in detail in conjunction with FIG. 6.

[0085] In another embodiment of the present invention, an additional set of bristles (not shown) may be installed onto the proximal end 102 of the slim toothbrush 100 and may enable the subject to collectively brush, scrub, and clean the biting surfaces, the crown surfaces, the outer surface of teeth, the gingival pockets, the mesial surfaces, the gum cervices, the gum linings, the occlusal surfaces, and so forth of the upper set of teeth and the lower set of teeth at a same time in a limited number of brushing strokes.

[0086] According to embodiments of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 and the plurality of inner bristles 402 of both the top surface 200 and bottom surface 202 may be constructed of any material such as, but not limited to, a Polyethylene terephthalate material, a Poly (1,4-butylene terephthalate) material, a Poly (1,4-butylene adipate) material, a flexible material, a rubber material, a silicone material, a plastic material, a biodegradable material, a recyclable material, a natural material, a synthetic material, a medical grade material, and so forth. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, both inner and outer bristles may be constructed of a Poly-Butylene Terephthalate (PBT) material. Moreover, the bristles may be constructed of soft and flexible material to prevent injuries and wounds to the oral aperture of the subjects. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any material for the construction of the bristles, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.

[0087] According to embodiments of the present invention, a color of the plurality of outer bristles 400 and plurality of inner bristles 402 may be, but not limited to, a black color, a white color, a beige color, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any color of the plurality of outer bristles 400 and plurality of inner bristles 402.

[0088] FIG. 5 illustrates a second side view of the toothbrush head 106 of the slim toothbrush 100, according to embodiments of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, both the upper surface 200 and the lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106 may comprise the plurality of outer bristles 400 and plurality of inner bristles 402.

[0089] According to embodiments of the present invention, the total height of the plurality of outer bristles 400 of both the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202 including a thickness of the toothbrush head 106 may be denoted by H1. The height H1 may be in a range from 10 millimeters (mm) to 20 millimeters (mm). In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the height H1 may be 15 millimeters (mm). Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any height H1 for the plurality of outer bristles 400 of both the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202 including the toothbrush head 106 of the slim toothbrush 100.

[0090] In an embodiment of the present invention, the height H1 of plurality of outer bristles 400 of both the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106 may enable the subject to collectively brush, scrub, and clean the biting surfaces, the crown surfaces, the outer surface of teeth, the gingival pockets, the mesial surfaces, the gum cervices, the gum linings, the occlusal surfaces, and so forth of the upper set of teeth and the lower set of teeth at the same time in the limited number of brushing strokes.

[0091] According to embodiments of the present invention, a total height of the plurality of outer bristles 400 may be denoted by H2. The height H2 may be in a range from 6 millimeters (mm) to 7 millimeters (mm). Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any height H2 for the plurality of outer bristles 400 arranged on the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106 of the slim toothbrush 100. In an embodiment of the present invention, the height H2 of the plurality of outer bristles 400 arranged on the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106 may enable the reachability of the outer bristles 400 up to the outer surface of teeth, the gingival pockets, the mesial surfaces, the gum cervices, the gum linings, and so forth of the upper set of the teeth of the subject.

[0092] According to embodiments of the present invention, the total height of the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be denoted by H3. The height H3 may be in a range from 3 millimeters (mm) to 4 millimeters (mm). Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any height H3 for the plurality of inner bristles 402 arranged on the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106 of the slim toothbrush 100. In an embodiment of the present invention, the height H3 of the plurality of inner bristles 402 arranged on the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106 may enable a reachability of the plurality of inner bristles 402 up to the biting surfaces, the crown surfaces, the occlusal surfaces, and so forth of the upper set of teeth of the subject.

[0093] In an embodiment of the present invention, the height H2, and/or other dimensions such as the diameter, girth, width, and so forth of the plurality of outer bristles 400 may be greater than (>) the height H3, and/or the corresponding dimensions of the plurality of inner bristles 402. In another embodiment of the present invention, the height H2, and/or the other dimensions of the plurality of outer bristles 400 may be less than (<) the height H3, and/or the corresponding dimensions of the plurality of inner bristles 402. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the height H2, and/or the other dimensions of the plurality of outer bristles 400 may be equal to (=) the height H3, and/or the corresponding dimensions of the plurality of inner bristles 402.

[0094] FIG. 6 illustrates a front view of the toothbrush head 106 of the slim toothbrush 100, according to embodiments of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 may be arranged to make an inward angle R1 with the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106. Further, the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be arranged to make an outward angle R2 with the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106.

[0095] In an embodiment of the present invention, the inward angle R1 and the outward angle R2 may be in a range of 30 degrees to 85 degrees. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the inward angle R1 and the outward angle R2 may be in the range of 45 degrees to 60 degrees. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any suitable angle for deployment of the bristles on the upper surface 200 and/or the lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106.

[0096] In an embodiment of the present invention, the inward angle R1 may be equal to the outward angle R2. In another embodiment of the present invention, the inward angle R1 may be less than the outward angle R2. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the inward angle R1 may be greater than the outward angle R2.

[0097] According to embodiments of the present invention, a total width of the toothbrush head 106 may be denoted by W1. The width W1 may be in a range from 6 millimeters (mm) to 10 millimeters (mm). In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the width W1 may be 8 millimeters (mm). Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any width of toothbrush head 106 of the slim toothbrush 100.

[0098] In another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 may be arranged to make an inward angle R1 with the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106. Further, the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be arranged perpendicular to the upper surface 200 (not shown) and lower surface 202 (not shown) of the toothbrush head 106. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any configuration of the plurality of outer bristles 400 and plurality of inner bristles 402 to effectuate optimal dental cleaning.

[0099] FIG. 7 illustrates a primary brushing mechanism 700 of the slim toothbrush 100, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106 may comprise a plurality of outer bristles 400 and a plurality of inner bristles 402.

[0100] In an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of outer bristles 400 on the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106 may be tapered in an upside triangular shape. The upside triangular shape may enable a brushing of an upper set of teeth 702 and lower set of teeth 704 of the subject simultaneously. The upside triangular shape may further enable the reachability of the plurality of outer bristles 400 onto the outer surface of teeth, the gingival pockets, the mesial surfaces, the gum cervices, the gum linings, and so forth of the upper set of teeth 702 and lower set of teeth 704.

[0101] Further, in an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of inner bristles 402 on the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106 may be in an upper fountain formation. The upper fountain formation may enable a brushing of the upper set of teeth 702 and lower set of teeth 704 of the subject simultaneously. The upper fountain formation may further enable the reachability of the plurality of inner bristles 402 onto the biting surfaces, the crown surfaces, the occlusal surfaces, and so forth of the upper set of teeth 702 and lower set of teeth 704. In another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be arranged angled towards a midline of the plurality of outer bristles 400 with spaced out bundles.

[0102] However, as depicted in FIG. 7, the primary brushing mechanism 700 may allow the subject to align the plurality of outer bristles 400 with the biting surfaces, the crown surfaces, the occlusal surfaces, and so forth of the upper set of teeth 702 and lower set of teeth 704 simultaneously. In such arrangements, the plurality of inner bristles 402 may still be uncontacted with dental elements of the subject. Further, the primary brushing mechanism 700 may allow the subject to brush, scrub, and clean the occlusal surfaces of the upper set of teeth 702 and lower set of teeth 704 using the plurality of outer bristles 400.

[0103] FIG. 8 illustrates a secondary brushing mechanism 800 of the slim toothbrush 100, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As the plurality of outer bristles 400 of the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202 may be aligned, the subject may tend to close the mouth. The closing of the mouth may generate a transmission of force in the plurality of outer bristles 400.

[0104] Further, as the outer bristles 400 and inner bristles 402 may be arranged perpendicular to the upper surface 200 and lower surface 202 of the toothbrush head 106. An U shaped pocket may be formed to enable reachability of the plurality of outer bristles 400 to the outer surface of teeth, the gingival pockets, the mesial surfaces, the gum linings, and so forth of the upper set of teeth 802 and lower set of teeth 804 simultaneously. As the plurality of outer bristles 400 may be bi-parted and deflected, the plurality of inner bristles 402 may reach till the biting surfaces, the crown surfaces, the occlusal surfaces, and so forth of the upper set of teeth 802 and lower set of teeth 804 simultaneously. Further to ensure a larger surface area of the upper set of teeth 802 and lower set of teeth 804 may be captured in a single stroke of the slim toothbrush, the plurality of inner bristles 402 may be arranged angled towards the midline of the plurality of outer bristles 400 with the spaced-out bundles.

[0105] Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous changes and modifications may be made to the preferred embodiments of the invention and that such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the true spirit of the invention.

[0106] The exemplary embodiments of this present invention have been described in relation to a slim toothbrush. However, to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present invention, the preceding description omits a number of known structures and devices. This omission is not to be construed as a limitation of the scope of the present invention. Specific details are set forth by use of the embodiments to provide an understanding of the present invention. It should however be appreciated that the present invention may be practiced in a variety of ways beyond the specific embodiments set forth herein.

[0107] A number of variations and modifications of the present invention can be used. It would be possible to provide for some features of the present invention without providing others.

[0108] The foregoing discussion of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to limit the present invention to the form or forms disclosed herein. In the foregoing Detailed Description, for example, various features of the present invention are grouped together in one or more embodiments, configurations, or aspects for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. The features of the embodiments, configurations, or aspects may be combined in alternate embodiments, configurations, or aspects other than those discussed above.

[0109] Moreover, though the description of the present invention has included description of one or more embodiments, configurations, or aspects and certain variations and modifications, other variations, combinations, and modifications are within the scope of the present invention, e.g., as may be within the skill and knowledge of those in the art, after understanding the present disclosure. It is intended to obtain rights which include alternative embodiments, configurations, or aspects to the extent permitted, including alternate, interchangeable, and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges, or steps to those disclosed, whether or not such alternate, interchangeable, and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges, or steps are disclosed herein, and without intending to publicly dedicate any patentable subject matter.