1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to dental implements, and more particularly, to a toothpick holder for holding a toothpick in any one of several different adjusted positions for easier access to difficult to reach areas of the mouth.
More specifically, the present invention relates to a toothpick holder which includes a handle with a toothpick retainer projecting perpendicularly therefrom and rotatable about its axis to several different latched positions. The retainer has a pair of aligned openings therein for snugly receiving a toothpick of yieldable material, whereby the toothpick is held in a firmly latched position with its axis extending in a desired direction relative to the axis of the handle. By manipulating a latch member, the retainer may be released for removal from the handle or adjustment to different latched positions.
It is well known by the dental profession that brushing does not always adequately clean the teeth, particularly in the areas between the teeth. Thus, flossing and other cleaning methods are recommended in conjunction with brushing. Moreover, the proper use of toothpicks is very beneficial in any oral hygiene program, and can be particularly effective in cleaning the spaces between the teeth.
However, except for a few attempts at developing a toothpick holder, people are generally limited to the use of wood or plastic toothpicks held in the users hand. Accordingly, the use of a toothpick is only partially effective in cleaning the teeth, and those areas which are difficult to reach are usually not cleaned.
Prior Art
Examples of prior art toothpick holders are shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 710,498, 1,291,282 and 3,892,040. In U.S. Pat. No. 710,498 a quill-like member is inserted through a shaped holder whereupon the quill-like member is curved to form a pick. U.S. Pat. No. 1,291,282 discloses a threaded holder having a pair of openings therein for receiving a toothpick in either of two different positions. U.S. Pat. No. 3,892,040 discloses a holder having a threaded sleeve which is movable against a round toothpick to clamp the toothpick in position.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,471,929 discloses a dental implement in which a shaft 26 is held to a handle by a pin 8. A blade 30 is carried by the shaft for performing gum cutting operations.
None of the above patents teaches a toothpick holder capable of holding a toothpick with a wedge shaped cross section in any one of several different adjusted latched positions, and with the particular cooperation between the elements and pick as set forth more fully hereinafter, wherein the holder properly orients such a wedge shaped toothpick for optimum effectiveness in all areas of the mouth.