DELIFLOSS: THE RISE OF EDIBLE DENTAL FLOSS

Abstract

The present invention, titled "DeliFloss: Edible Dental Floss for Pediatric and Special Needs Patients," presents a novel approach to enhancing oral hygiene through the development of an edible dental floss. This product is formulated using biodegradable, ingestible polymers, specifically designed to reduce the risks associated with accidental ingestion, which is particularly crucial for pediatric patients and individuals with special healthcare needs. The floss is engineered to exhibit optimal mechanical properties, such as tensile strength and elasticity, ensuring effective interdental cleaning by dislodging food debris and disrupting dental plaque biofilms. The composition is further enhanced with bioactive agents that contribute to the reduction of oral pathogenic bacteria, thereby decreasing the prevalence of dental caries and periodontal diseases. The. invention also details janjnnovative, scalable manufacturing process that maintains the structural integrity and safety of the floss, while incorporating a palatable flavor profile to promote compliance among young children and those with special needs. This product represents a significant advancement in preventive dental care, offering a safe, effective, and appealing solution to improve oral health outcomes in these vulnerable populations.

Specification

FIELD OF INVENTION
The present invention introduces an edible dental floss tailored for pediatric patients and
individuals with special healthcare needs. Recognizing the critical role of flossing in preventing
dental caries and gum disease, this product is made from biodegradable materials that are safe for
ingestion, minimizing risks associated with accidental swallowing. The composition is
engineered to effectively remove interdental food particles and plaque, thereby enhancing oral
hygiene_and reducing the incidence of oral health issues.^Enhanced with a pleasant taste-and
texture, the floss encourages regular use among children and special needs populations. This
invention also outlines a novel manufacturing method for producing the edible dental floss,
ensuring its efficacy and safety in promoting oral health within these targeted groups.

Dental floss is a critical component of oral hygiene, designed to clean between teeth and other
hard-to-reach areas where a toothbrush cannot reach. Regular use of dental floss helps prevent
plaque accumulation and gingivitis. According to the American Dental Association, flossing can
remove up to 80% of plaque, and individuals with orthodontic devices may benefit even more
from its use. Studies have shown that flossing significantly reduces interdental plaque and
gingivitis when combined with tooth brushing compared to brushing alone.
Despite its proven effectiveness, scientific data supporting the therapeutic advantages of flossing
in addition to regular brushing is still limited. Furthermore, flossing poses specific challenges for
children. Research indicates that many children lack the manual dexterity required for effective
flossing and find the process cumbersome and unpleasant. These' difficulties often result in
inconsistent oral hygiene practices among pediatric populations.
Innovation in oral care is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Over the years, dental
floss has become a staple in oral hygiene routines, aiding in the removal of plaque and food
particles from between teeth. However, many people find traditional dental flossing tedious and
unpleasant, leading to inconsistent oral hygiene practices. Additionally, conventional dental floss
is typically made of non-biodegradable materials, raising environmental concerns regarding
disposal.


The Concept Behind Edible Dental Floss:
Edible dental floss is an innovative solution that addresses these issues by using biodegradable
materials safe for consumption. After flossing, the floss can be swallowed, eliminating the need
for separate disposal. This concept simplifies the flossing process and aligns with environmental
sustainability efforts.
The Benefits of Edible Dental Floss:
l. Convenience: Edible dental floss simplifies the flossing process, removing the need for
intricate maneuvering of traditional string floss. Users can floss as usual and swallow the floss afterward.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
2. Reduced Waste: Traditional dental floss, made from non-biodegradable materials, can
take centuries to decompose in landfills. Edible dental floss, made from natural
ingredients, breaks down easily, offering an eco-friendly alternative.
3. Improved Compliance: Many people find flossing to be a chore and may skip it
altogether. Edible dental floss, available in various flavors such as mint and fruit, makes
the process more enjoyable, increasing the likelihood of regular use.
4. Enhanced Oral Health: By making flossing easier and more enjoyable, edible dental
floss encourages better oral hygiene practices. This can reduce the risk of cavities, gum
disease, and other dental issues, promoting overall oral health.

This innovative approach to dental flossing promises to transform oral care practices, particularly
for pediatric patients and individuals with special healthcare needs; by combining convenience,
environmental sustainability, and improved oral health outcomes


DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION:
THE OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION
The invention of Edible Dental Floss is designed to meet the specific needs of special children
and young children, with the following key objectives:
L Promoting Oral Hygiene Education: The primary goal is to enhance oral hygiene
education for special and young children, emphasizing the importance of regular flossing
for healthy teeth and gums. Edible Dental Floss serves as an engaging tool for educators
and caregivers to teach proper flossing techniques in a fun and interactive way.
2. Creating Positive Associations with Oral Care: This invention aims to make oral care
a positive experience, especially for children with sensory sensitivities or developmental
disabilities who may find traditional floss challenging. By offering a more enjoyable and
accessible alternative, Edible Dental Floss fosters early positive associations with oral
hygiene.
3. Addressing Texture and Taste Preferences: The invention caters to the diverse texture
and taste preferences of special and young children, many of whom may have aversions
to certain oral care products. Edible Dental Floss is available in various flavors and
textures, making the flossing experience more appealing and enjoyable.
4. Encouraging Independence and Autonomy: By providing a user-friendly and
enjoyable flossing option, the invention supports children in developing independence
and autonomy in their oral care routines. This empowerment is crucial for fostering self-
care skills at an early age.

5. Supporting Caregivers and Educators: The invention provides a practical and effective
tool for caregivers and educators to promote oral health in both home and educational
settings. Edible Dental Floss simplifies the process of teaching and reinforcing good oral
hygiene habits.
6. Fostering Inclusive Oral Care Practices: The invention promotes inclusive oral care by
accommodating the diverse needs and abilities of special and young children. By offering
an accessible, enjoyable, and effective product, Edible Dental Floss supports inclusivity
and a sense of belonging in oral hygiene routines.



SUMMARY OF INVENTION
The concept of edible dental floss arose from the recognition of the challenges people face in
maintaining consistent oral hygiene, particularly with flossing. Traditional dental floss, though
effective, is often perceived as inconvenient or unpleasant due to its texture and taste. This
prompted innovators to explore alternative approaches that could make flossing more appealing
and enjoyable. Edible dental floss is a novel product that combines the essential functionality of
traditional floss with the sensory experience of consuming a treat. The invention involves the use
of edible materials that are safe for consumption and gentle on teeth and gums. These materials
may include food-grade polymers, natural fibers, or biodegradable substances, carefully selected
to provide the necessary strength and flexibility for effective plaque removal.
In the development of edible dental floss, taste and texture are critical factors. Innovators focus
on creating flavors and formulations that cater to a wide range of preferences, from classic mint
to fruit or dessert-inspired options. The texture of the floss is meticulously designed to strike a
balance between being sturdy enough to remove plaque and debris, while soft enough to prevent
irritation or damage to the gums. The production process of edible dental floss is subject to
rigorous testing and quality control to ensure the product meets high safety and hygiene
standards. This includes evaluating the floss for durability, effectiveness in plaque removal, and
compatibility with other oral health products like toothpaste and mouthwash.
Once developed, edible dental floss is marketed as a convenient and enjoyable alternative to
traditional floss. Its appealing taste and texture increase the likelihood that individuals will
incorporate flossing into their daily oral care routines, ultimately contributing to improved dental
health. This invention represents a creative solution to the challenge of promoting better oral
hygiene. By combining the practicality of dental floss with the enjoyable experience of
consuming a treat, edible dental floss aims to make flossing a more accessible and pleasant part
of everyday oral care.
Regarding the product's shelf life, the date indicated on the packaging is a "best before" date
rather than an expiration date. While the taste and texture are best experienced before this date,
the floss remains safe to use afterward. The floss, being too dry to support microbial growth,
does not provide an environment conducive to microorganism proliferation.



BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DIAGRAMS
The image appears to depict a schematic representation of the key stages in the production of
edible dental floss, emphasizing the controlled and precise nature of the manufacturing process
to ensure the floss is both functional and safe for consumption. Below is a detailed description of
Figure l:
1. Mixing Chamber: The top section of the image shows a large cylindrical mixing chamber
where the raw ingredients for the edible dental floss are likely mixed. The chamber seems
to have a mechanical mixer at the top, possibly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
Below the chamber, the mixture is being extruded through multiple nozzles, creating
-strands of the edible material: - -
2. Extrusion Process: After being extruded, the material is shown being fed into a pair of
rollers or tubular structures. These might be used to shape, stretch, or further refine the
strands into the desired thickness and consistency for dental floss.
3. Winding Mechanism: The bottom section of the image shows the processed dental floss
being wound onto a spool. This mechanism ensures that the floss is neatly stored for later
packaging. The spool is connected to a motorized winding system that controls the
tension and speed at which the floss is wound.

The present invention relates to an innovative dental care product, specifically an edible dental
floss, which offers a novel solution to the persistent challenge of encouraging regular and
effective interdental cleaning. This invention integrates oral hygiene with the sensory pleasure of
flavored edible materials, thereby transforming the flossing experience into an enjoyable and
health-promoting routine.
Composition
The edible dental floss of the present invention is composed of a meticulously selected blend of
biocompatible and food-grade materials. The materials are chosen based on their ability to
maintain structural integrity while being safe for consumption. These materials may include
natural fibers such as silk or bamboo, food-safe polymers, and biodegradable substances like
plant-derived cellulose and xanthan gum. The combination of these materials ensures that the
floss is both robust enough to effectively remove interdental plaque and debris, and gentle
enough to avoid causing harm to the gingival tissues.
Flavor Profiles and Variants
A key aspect of the invention is the inclusion of diverse flavor profiles that cater to a wide range
of consumer preferences. The edible dental floss is available in multiple flavor options, including
but not limited to, traditional mint, fruity flavors such as berry and citrus, and dessert-inspired
flavors such as chocolate, caramel, and coffee. Furthermore, the floss is produced in various
textures-smooth, textured, or coated with flavor-in fused layers-providing a tailored sensory
experience that appeals to different consumer needs and preferences.
Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing process of the edible dental floss involves several meticulously controlled
stages to ensure that the product meets stringent safety, quality, and efficacy standards. The
process begins with the selection of raw materials, which are subjected to rigorous quality
control tests to ensure their suitability for both dental and culinary applications. The selected
materials are then processed into thin, flexible strands through precision extrusion techniques.

The application of flavorings and coatings is carried out using advanced food-grade
encapsulation methods, which ensure that the taste and texture are consistent throughout the
product while maintaining its dental efficacy.
The entire manufacturing process is designed to comply with food safety regulations and dental
product standards, ensuring that the final product is both safe for consumption and effective in
promoting oral health.
Packaging and Presentation
The edible dental floss is packaged in specially designed containers that are both functional and
aesthetically appealing. The packaging is designed to be portable and user-friendly, with a
mechanism similar to that of traditional dental floss dispensers. This design allows for easy
access and encourages consistent use. The packaging also emphasizes the dual function of the
product as both a dental care tool and a flavorful treat, thereby increasing consumer appeal and
promoting regular use.
Intended Use and Benefits
l
The edible dental floss is intended to be used in the same manner as traditional dental floss, by
gently sliding the floss between the teeth to remove food particles and plaque from the
interproximal spaces. However, unlike conventional floss, the edible dental floss offers the
additional benefit of a pleasant taste and texture, making the flossing experience more enjoyable
and likely to be adhered to on a regular basis. This dual functionality not only enhances the oral
hygiene routine but also contributes to improved dental health outcomes through increased
consumer compliance.
Ingredient Composition
The specific formulation of the edible dental floss may vary depending on the intended market
and manufacturer. However, common ingredients may include:
• Biodegradable Fibers: The primary structural component, these fibers are derived from
sustainable sources such as com, bamboo, or other plant-based materials. They are
engineered to be safe for consumption and to degrade naturally after use.

• Natural Flavors: To enhance the palatability and consumer appeal, natural flavors such
as mint, fruit essences, or cinnamon are incorporated. These flavors are chosen for their
compatibility with dental care and their ability to make the flossing experience more
enjoyable.
• Sweetening Agents: Natural sweeteners like stevia or xylitol are included to provide a
subtle sweetness that does not contribute to tooth decay, thereby promoting oral health
while enhancing the taste.
• Emulsifiers: Emulsifiers such as lecithin or glycerin are used to ensure a uniform texture
and consistent distribution of ingredients throughout the floss.

• Preservatives: Natural preservatives like vitamin E or rosemary extract may be added to
prolong„shelf life and prevent microbial growth,^ensuring the safety„and. longevity of the_
product.
• Colorants: Natural colorants derived from fruits or vegetables may be used to enhance
the visual appeal of the product and to differentiate between different flavors.
• Antimicrobial Agents: Certain formulations may include natural antimicrobial agents
such as tea tree oil or neem extract, which provide additional protection against oral
bacteria and help maintain oral hygiene.
Application of Xanthan Gum in the Formulation
Xanthan gum, a high-molecular-weight polysaccharide, is utilized within some formulations of
edible dental floss to impart thickening and stabilizing properties. This component, while not
typically the primary material, enhances the mechanical properties of the floss, contributing to its
structural integrity and ease of use.
Manufacturing Methodology for Xanthan Gum-Based Floss:
1. Preparation: A measured quantity of deionized water is heated in a controlled
environment to a sub-boiling temperature.
2. Incorporation of Xanthan Gum: Xanthan gum is gradually introduced into the heated
medium using high-shear mixing techniques to ensure homogenous dispersion and
prevent clumping.

3. Gel Formation: The mixture is continuously agitated until the xanthan gum is fully
hydrated and the solution attains a viscoelastic gel-like consistency.
4. Flavoring and Coloring: Once the mixture has cooled, natural flavoring agents and
colorants are added, and the mixture is homogenized to ensure consistent distribution.
5. Extrusion: The mixture is then extruded through precision-engineered dies to form thin
strands that simulate the dimensions and characteristics of conventional dental floss.
6. Drying and Curing: The extruded strands undergo controlled drying and curing
processes to achieve the desired tensile properties and surface texture, ensuring the
product's effectiveness in removing plaque.
7. Final Assembly: The strands are then cut to individual lengths and packaged in sterile
j:onditionsJo_ maintain pro duct integrity and safety.
This methodological approach is designed to create a high-quality product that meets the
demands of both dental efficacy and consumer satisfaction.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
Production and Manufacturing:
The industrial production of edible dental floss involves a meticulously controlled process that
merges dental care expertise with advanced food manufacturing technologies. This process
utilizes state-of-the-art machinery and precision techniques to transform high-quality raw
materials-including food-grade polymers, natural fibers, and specialized flavorings-into a
novel oral care product. Automated production lines ensure uniformity, efficiency, and
scalability, allowing for mass production while maintaining stringent quality control protocols.
Packaging and Presentation:
Packaging is a critical component of the industrial application of edible dental floss, serving not
only to protect the product but also to enhance its marketability. Manufacturers employ
innovative packaging solutions that are both functional and visually appealing, such as compact
dispensers and travel-friendly containers. These designs cater to the consumer's need for
portability and convenience, making it easy to incorporate flossing into daily routines. Moreover,
distinctive branding and graphic elements on the packaging highlight the dual benefits of oral
care and sensory pleasure, effectively attracting consumer interest and driving product adoption.



Marketing and Distribution:
The market success of edible dental floss is contingent upon comprehensive marketing strategies
designed to educate consumers and stimulate demand. Manufacturers leverage a range of
marketing channels, including traditional advertising, digital platforms, and partnerships with
influences, to reach target demographics and communicate the product's unique benefits.
Educational campaigns emphasize the importance of regular flossing for maintaining oral health
while highlighting the added sensory appeal of edible dental floss. Additionally, robust
distribution networks, including collaborations with retail chains, pharmacies, and e-commerce
platforms, ensure widespread product availability, making it accessible to a global audience.
Consumer Adoption and Impact:
The industrial relevance of edible dental floss extends beyond its production and distribution to
its impact on consumer behavior and public health. As awareness of oral hygiene grows, the
demand for innovative products like edible dental floss is expected to rise. By offering a
compelling combination of functional efficacy and sensory enjoyment, this product has the
potential to transform flossing habits and significantly improve oral health outcomes worldwide.
Continued innovation in this field is poised to drive further advancements in dental care
technology, setting new standards for oral wellness and influencing future product development.
CLOSING STATEMENTS
In conclusion, the development of edible dental floss marks a significant advancement in oral
hygiene practices, merging the proven benefits of traditional flossing with the sensory
satisfaction of consuming a flavorful treat. This product stands at the forefront of dental care
innovation, offering an array of flavors, user-friendly packaging, and strategic marketing that
together create a compelling proposition for consumers. As the product continues to gain
traction, edible dental floss is poised to become an integral part of daily oral care routines,
ultimately contributing to better dental health outcomes and setting new benchmarks in the
industry.




WE CLAIM
1. Tailored Formulation for Sensory Sensitivities:
The invention of Edible Dental Floss is specifically formulated to accommodate the unique sensory needs of special children and young children. Its composition is designed
to be gentle on the gums while appealing to sensitive palates, ensuring a flossing
experience that is both comfortable and enjoyable.
2. Variety of Child-Friendly Flavors and Textures:
The product offers a diverse array of flavors and textures tailored to the preferences of
special children and young children. From fruit to dessert-inspired flavors, and from
smooth to textured options, Edible Dental-Floss provides choices that cater to a wide
range of tastes and sensory experiences.
3. Promotion of Independence and Empowerment:
This invention is designed to foster independence and self-care among special children
and young children by providing a user-friendly and enjoyable flossing experience.
Edible Dental Floss empowers young users to take charge of their oral health from an
early age, helping them develop essential self-care skills.
4. Facilitation of Oral Hygiene Education:
Edible Dental Floss serves as an effective tool for oral hygiene education, particularly for
special children and young children. It enables caregivers and educators to teach proper
flossing techniques in a way that is both fun and engaging, promoting lifelong oral health
habits.
5. Support for Inclusive Oral Care Practices:
The invention supports inclusive oral care practices by providing a product that is
accessible, enjoyable, and effective for children of all abilities. Edible Dental Floss
fosters a sense of inclusivity and belonging in oral care routines, ensuring that all children
have the opportunity to maintain good oral hygiene.
6. Enhanced Oral Health Outcomes:
Through its carefully formulated composition, appealing flavors, and focus on education
and empowerment, Edible Dental Floss aims to significantly improve oral health
outcomes among special children and young children. By transforming flossing into a
positive and rewarding experience, this invention contributes to healthier smiles and
better overall well-being for children everywhere.





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