US20070248930A1 - Light therapy apparatus and methods - Google Patents

Light therapy apparatus and methods Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20070248930A1
US20070248930A1 US11/767,302 US76730207A US2007248930A1 US 20070248930 A1 US20070248930 A1 US 20070248930A1 US 76730207 A US76730207 A US 76730207A US 2007248930 A1 US2007248930 A1 US 2007248930A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
light
light source
patient
therapy apparatus
oral
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US11/767,302
Inventor
Peter Brawn
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Biolux Research Holdings Inc
Original Assignee
Biolux Research Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US11/355,583 external-priority patent/US20060200212A1/en
Priority to US11/767,302 priority Critical patent/US20070248930A1/en
Assigned to BIOLUX RESEARCH LTD. reassignment BIOLUX RESEARCH LTD. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: BRAWN, PETER
Application filed by Biolux Research Ltd filed Critical Biolux Research Ltd
Publication of US20070248930A1 publication Critical patent/US20070248930A1/en
Priority to EP08772845.7A priority patent/EP2164570A4/en
Priority to PCT/CA2008/001188 priority patent/WO2009000075A1/en
Priority to US12/834,601 priority patent/US20100318161A1/en
Priority to US13/895,330 priority patent/US8900282B2/en
Priority to US14/147,210 priority patent/US20140121731A1/en
Priority to US14/554,404 priority patent/US9308389B2/en
Assigned to BIOLUX RESEARCH HOLDINGS, INC. reassignment BIOLUX RESEARCH HOLDINGS, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: BIOLUX RESEARCH LIMITED
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61NELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N5/0613Apparatus adapted for a specific treatment
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61NELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N2005/0626Monitoring, verifying, controlling systems and methods
    • A61N2005/0629Sequential activation of light sources
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61NELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N2005/0635Radiation therapy using light characterised by the body area to be irradiated
    • A61N2005/0643Applicators, probes irradiating specific body areas in close proximity
    • A61N2005/0645Applicators worn by the patient
    • A61N2005/0647Applicators worn by the patient the applicator adapted to be worn on the head
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61NELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N2005/065Light sources therefor
    • A61N2005/0651Diodes
    • A61N2005/0652Arrays of diodes
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61NELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N2005/0658Radiation therapy using light characterised by the wavelength of light used
    • A61N2005/0659Radiation therapy using light characterised by the wavelength of light used infrared
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61NELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N2005/0658Radiation therapy using light characterised by the wavelength of light used
    • A61N2005/0662Visible light

Definitions

  • This invention relates to light therapy.
  • Apparatus and methods according to the invention may be applied to the treatment of bone disorders and the biostimulation of bone and soft tissue.
  • Embodiments of the invention provide apparatus for irradiating tissues of the face and jaw with biologically effective doses of light.
  • Light therapy involves irradiating tissues with light.
  • Light can stimulate a variety of biological activities in cells and tissues that are compromised in function.
  • Light therapy treatment is typically administered by a physician or therapist who directs light from a hand-held light emitting device at an affected area.
  • Light emitting devices can be difficult to position consistently over the affected area.
  • a tattoo is used to identify the affected area.
  • even with a tattoo or other reference mark it is difficult to consistently deliver light therapy treatments to an affected area.
  • Light therapy typically involves repeated treatments over at least several days. Thus, patients undergoing light therapy may be required to make multiple visits to a practitioner's office or clinic in order to complete a therapy regimen. Such repeated visits may be time consuming and/or expensive.
  • LEDs and other light sources suitable for generating light for light therapy can get hot when they operate. Such light sources can be inefficient at higher temperatures. Hot apparatus can also be uncomfortable or even dangerous to patients.
  • the inventor has identified a need or desire for light therapy apparatus which can deliver consistent treatments, particularly to tissues in the dental and maxillofacial areas. There is a particular need or desire for such apparatus that is sufficiently cost-effective and foolproof to be used at home by patients. There is also a need for such apparatus that can be operated without exposing a patient to high temperature surfaces.
  • One aspect of this invention provides apparatus for delivering light to tissues of a patient's dental and maxillofacial areas.
  • the apparatus comprises a support that registers against one or more anatomical features of a patient's head and one or more light sources mounted to the support.
  • the light sources illuminate selected tissues of a patient's dental and maxillofacial areas from outside of the patient's mouth.
  • the light sources comprise arrays of LEDs in some embodiments.
  • the support comprises an intra-oral tray connected to an extra-oral bridge.
  • a light source such as a light emitting diode (“LED”) array, is mounted to the extra-oral bridge.
  • LED light emitting diode
  • the support comprises a head-set that registers on the bridge of a patient's nose and the patient's ears.
  • a light source such as a light emitting diode (“LED”) array, is mounted to the head-set.
  • LED light emitting diode
  • FIG. 1 is a view from the front side of an extra-oral light therapy device having an intra-oral tray, an extra-oral bridge, and left and right side extra-oral LED arrays.
  • FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1 C are respectively a cross-section, a front side elevation and a rear elevation of a light source having a cooling fan, a heat sink and two arrays of light emitters.
  • FIG. 2 is a right side view of the device of FIG. 1 with the end of the extra-oral bridge attached to the extra-oral LED array.
  • FIG. 3 is a view from the front-left side of the extra-oral bridge, intra-oral tray and extra-oral LED array of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 4 is a view from the rear right side of the extra-oral bridge, intra-oral tray and extra-oral LED array of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 5 is a view from the left rear side of the extra-oral bridge, intra-oral tray and extra-oral LED array of FIG. 1 with the intra-oral tray detached.
  • FIG. 6 is a top view of a programmable controller for use with light therapy apparatus.
  • FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a light therapy device according to an alternative embodiment in which an LED array is supported by a head-set.
  • FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a light therapy device according to another alternative embodiment in which an LED array is supported by a head-set.
  • FIG. 8 is a side view of the light therapy device of FIG. 7 .
  • FIG. 9 is a front view of at least one LED array, and a connector detached from the head-set.
  • FIG. 10 is a front view of an external light therapy device having two LED arrays, a hinge-like member, and an attaching means.
  • FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of an LED array mounted onto a substrate.
  • FIG. 11A is a schematic cross section through a portion of a light source having a light emitter and a reflector.
  • FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of an LED array detached from the substrate.
  • FIG. 1 shows an example light therapy apparatus 2 that comprises an extra-oral light source 4 having a right side 1 and a left side 3 (as viewed from the front of the device), an extra-oral bridge 5 , and an intra-oral tray 7 .
  • Intra-oral tray 7 registers to a patient's teeth.
  • Light source 4 is rigidly connected to intra-oral tray 7 by extra-oral bridge 5 . Therefore, a patient can position light source 4 accurately and repeatedly to illuminate a desired location in the patient's dental and maxillofacial areas by inserting intra-oral tray 7 into his or her mouth and biting intra-oral tray 7 so that it registers to at least some of the patient's teeth. This stabilizes light therapy apparatus 2 and positions light source 4 at a desired position.
  • the consistent alignment and targeting of light from light source 4 during subsequent treatments makes the treatments more repeatable.
  • extra-oral bridge 5 is removable from extra-oral light source 4 and intra-oral tray 7 .
  • Providing a light therapy apparatus 2 having major components that are detachably connectable to one another adds versatility.
  • a design which permits the major components of the light therapy apparatus to be disassembled and reassembled while preserving alignment of extra-oral light source 4 to intra-oral tray 7 has the advantage that the apparatus can be disassembled for storage or transportation and then used immediately after assembly.
  • FIG. 3 shows light therapy apparatus 2 with extra-oral light source left side 3 detached from extra-oral bridge 5 .
  • Extra-oral bridge 5 , extra-oral light source right side 1 , and extra-oral light source left side 3 may be secured together via a suitable connector.
  • extra-oral bridge 5 , the extra-oral light source right side 1 , and the extra-oral light source left side 3 may be connected by inserting male connector portions 6 A of the extra-oral light source right and left sides 1 and 3 into corresponding female connector portions 8 A of extra-oral bridge 5 (see FIG. 3 ).
  • the suitable connector allows extra-oral light source right and left sides 1 and 3 to be detached from extra-oral bridge 5 for ease of use and flexibility.
  • extra-oral light source right and left sides 1 and 3 are rotatable between a sagittal orientation (as shown in FIG. 1 ) and a vertical orientation (indicated in dotted outline in FIG. 1 ).
  • Light source right and left sides 1 and 3 can be locked at a desired angle of rotation by any suitable mechanism. This permits light source right and left sides 1 and 3 to be arranged so that the light that they emit fully covers the desired treatment areas.
  • Intra-oral tray 7 may be connected to extra-oral bridge 5 by way of another suitable connector.
  • a male portion 6 B of intra-oral tray 7 is removably received in a female portion 8 B of extra-oral bridge 5 .
  • extra-oral bridge 5 may be reused for other patients (after suitable sterilization).
  • Intra-oral tray 7 may be disposed of after it is no longer required by a patient.
  • extra-oral bridge 5 is non-removably attached to intra-oral tray 7 .
  • Intra-oral tray 7 is intended for insertion into a patient's mouth and is suitably shaped to fit around a patient's teeth. Intra-oral tray 7 may register with a few selected teeth (for example, intra-oral tray 7 may comprise a bite tab) or may fit around the patient's full set of teeth.
  • the intra-oral tray 7 comprises a frame of a plastic or other suitable material that can serve as a skeleton for a settable material. The frame may be perforated to aid retention of the settable material.
  • the frame may comprise extra-oral bridge 5 or a connector to connect to extra-oral bridge 5 .
  • the frame for intra-oral tray 7 may be filled with a suitable settable material (for example a clear vinyl siloxane gel or similar material) which sets around the patient's teeth and subsequently allows repeatable alignment of intra-oral tray 7 in the patient's mouth.
  • a suitable settable material for example a clear vinyl siloxane gel or similar material
  • intra-oral tray 7 could be in the path of light as it travels from light source 4 to target tissues, the material of intra-oral tray 7 should be transparent to the light.
  • Extra-oral bridge 5 preferably conforms around the jaw line of a patient.
  • the light source right and left sides 1 and 3 are respectively positioned on the right and left sides of a patient's face along the patient's jaw line.
  • Extra-oral bridge 5 may be adjustable to permit alignment of light source left and right sides 1 and 3 with target areas to be irradiated.
  • Light source left and right sides 1 and 3 are extra-oral (outside of the patient's oral cavity). Light can pass from left and right sides 1 and 3 through tissues of the patient's lips and cheeks into target areas on the patient's gums and/or in the patient's jaws.
  • Light source 4 emits light toward the patient.
  • the light is not necessarily visible light.
  • the light may include or consist of infrared light.
  • Light source 4 comprises an array of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in some embodiments.
  • Light source 4 has an inner surface 13 (see FIG. 4 ) that is placed near or against the patient's skin adjacent to the tissues that it is desired to treat. Light is emitted is from inner surface 13 toward the area of treatment.
  • left and right sides 1 and 3 of light source 4 each have a length similar to a significant fraction of the length of a human jaw.
  • left and right sides 1 and 3 may each have a length of about 20 mm to about 90 mm in some embodiments and about 25 to about 45 or 60 mm in some embodiments.
  • light source 4 may be smaller in extent.
  • light source 4 has optics that emit light in the form of diverging beams.
  • light source 4 may be somewhat smaller than the area of tissues to be treated because light from light source 4 will spread somewhat as it passes through the tissues of the patient's lips and cheeks before reaching the tissues of the jaw and or gums to be treated.
  • Light source 4 may be wide enough to illuminate both upper and lower jaws of a patient simultaneously although in some embodiments light source 4 may be narrower.
  • light source 4 has a width in the range of 12 mm to about 40 mm in some embodiments (e.g. about 15 to 17 mm in some embodiments).
  • the light is emitted by arrays of discrete LEDs.
  • the LEDs may be arranged in any of a wide variety of patterns.
  • the LEDs may be arranged in staggered parallel rows to maximize the density of LEDs in the LED array.
  • the LEDs may be arranged to achieve substantially uniform optical intensity over the light-emitting inner surface 13 of light source 4 .
  • each array comprises 50 to 100 LEDs or other light emitters.
  • the average light intensity produced by light source 4 is at least about 10 mW/cm 2 .
  • light source 4 has an average intensity that is, or can be adjusted to be, in the range of 20 mW/cm 2 to about 60 mW/cm 2 .
  • the output of light source 4 is pulsed.
  • the peak light intensity may be significantly higher than 50 mW/cm 2 .
  • right light source 4 or its components are flexible so that they can be bent in one or two dimensions (i.e. molded) to conform to the contours of the patient's face.
  • light source 4 may comprise an array of light emitters mounted to a flexible sheet of material that will hold a shape when it is bent.
  • the flexible material can advantageously comprise a metal sheet that can serve as a heat sink or as a thermal path to a heat sink for heat generated by the light emitters.
  • the flexible sheet may be molded to conform to the contours of the patient's face while light therapy apparatus 2 is being fitted.
  • Light source 4 may include optical elements such as lenses and reflectors to focus and direct light from light source 4 onto a target area. Such optical elements may be suitably encapsulated in plastic or similar material.
  • FIG. 11A shows a portion of a light source 4 .
  • a light emitter 11 (which may, for example, comprise a junction in a light-emitting diode or other light-emitting semiconductor device) is located adjacent to a reflective backing 11 A.
  • a curved light-reflecting recess 11 B is provided adjacent to light emitter 11 . Light from light source 11 is reflected in recess 11 B to form a beam.
  • the beams from all light emitters of light source 4 combine to illuminate the target tissues. The area covered by the beam will depend upon the tissues which it is desired to treat.
  • the beams of light emitted by light source 4 diverges to cover an area of tissue larger than the area of the light-emitting part of light source 4 .
  • the emitted light converges to provided increased light intensity at the location of the tissues that it is desired to treat.
  • the emitted light diverges in a beam having an included angle ⁇ in the range of about 45-60°.
  • light source 4 may comprise a system for forced air or liquid cooling.
  • a cooling system allows for treatment without the danger of potential burns to the patient and allows for greater efficiency and control of the device.
  • Extra-oral light source right and left sides 1 and 3 may comprise thermally-conductive LED wafers mounted on a suitable heat sink. Heat from the LED wafers is conducted into the heat sink and dissipated.
  • FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1 C show a light source 100 of a type that may be used as light source right and left sides 1 and 3 .
  • Light source 100 comprises arrays 102 of LEDs that are mounted to a heat sink 104 .
  • Heat sink 104 has pins 106 projecting from its face that is away from LED arrays 102 .
  • a fan 110 causes air to flow past pins 106 to carry away excess heat.
  • the light from light source 4 at the tissues to be treated should have at least a threshold intensity.
  • Light source 4 may be operated in a pulsed mode to facilitate cooling of light source 4 while ensuring that when light source 4 is emitting light, the intensity of emitted light at the tissues to be treated is sufficient to be effective.
  • the duty cycle of light source 4 is 1:1 or less, in some embodiments 1:2 or less (for each interval in which light source 4 is on, light source 4 is off for two equal intervals).
  • the pulsing of light source 4 may be performed fast enough that light source 4 does not visibly flicker (e.g. at 25 Hz or more) although this is not mandatory.
  • the character of the light emitted by light source right and left sides 1 and 3 will depend upon the nature of the LEDs or other light emitters in light source 4 . It is generally desirable that the emitted light include light in the wavelength range of 620 nm to 1000 nm. In some embodiments the emitted light includes light having a wavelength in at least one of the following wavelength ranges: about 820 to about 890 nm and about 620 to about 680 nm. Light having wavelengths corresponding to one or more of the following ranges may be particularly effective:
  • the light is substantially monochrome in some embodiments although this is not mandatory. Providing light emitters that emit at multiple wavelengths allows for irradiation over multiple wavelengths for greater biological activity.
  • the light may comprise incoherent light although this is not mandatory.
  • the light may be delivered continuously or pulsed at suitable frequencies and duty cycles.
  • Invisible infrared light can be clinically effective.
  • the emitted light includes infrared light
  • the emitted light also includes bright visible light.
  • the bright visible light deters users from looking into the light source when it is operating, provides a perceptible indication that the apparatus is operating, and may be useful in properly positioning the device.
  • the visible light may be, but is not necessarily in a wavelength range that is beneficial for light therapy.
  • the ratio of the intensities of the visible and infrared components of the light is 1 part or less visible light to 5 parts or more infrared light.
  • the treatment area and desired light characteristics will vary from patient to patient.
  • a physician, dentist or other therapist can determine a light treatment regime for a patient and set up light therapy apparatus 2 to operate light emitters in light source 4 to provide the desired treatment.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates a programmable controller 15 of a type that may be used to control the operation of light therapy apparatus 2 (or other light therapy apparatus as described below).
  • Programmable controller 15 may be a separate, remote unit or may be directly connected to or integrated with light source 4 .
  • Programmable controller 15 may comprise a microprocessor, data store, power supply, clock and associated electronic circuitry. Control parameters are stored in the data store. Programmable controller 15 operates light source 4 according to the parameters in the data store. The parameters may specify one or more of:
  • light therapy apparatus has sets of light emitters having different characteristics (e.g. sets of LED that emit light at different wavelengths or sets of light emitters that illuminate target tissues in different locations) then separate control parameters may be provided for different sets of the light emitters.
  • different sets of parameters are specified for different segments (intervals) of a light treatment.
  • light therapy treatments may be defined for a set of intervals each lasting from a few seconds to a few hundred seconds or a fraction of an hour. Different parameters may be specified for each of the intervals. The intervals are not necessarily equal in length.
  • different sets of parameters may be specified for different areas of light source 4 .
  • some areas of light source 4 may be turned off because the treatment plan for a patient does not require light to be delivered at locations corresponding to those parts of the light source 4 .
  • a physician, dentist, or therapist may program a patient's treatment regimen into programmable controller 15 . This may be done, for example, with the aid of suitable software running on a computer that is in data communication with programmable controller 15 or by way of a suitable user interface built into programmable controller 15 .
  • Programmable controller 15 may have one or more pre-set programs built in. As an alternative to, or as an aid to programming controller 15 the physician, dentist, or therapist may select a pre-set program that is appropriate for controlling light therapy apparatus 2 to deliver light to a patient.
  • a typical treatment regimen provides a dose of light daily.
  • Each of the daily doses of light may be delivered over a period lasting between a few minutes and an hour or so.
  • daily 1 ⁇ 2 hour doses of light can be effective and are not unduly inconvenient for patients.
  • a single daily dose appears to be as effective as dividing the same dose into multiple sessions delivered at different times during the day. Examples of possible treatment regimens are:
  • Programmable controller 15 may maintain a log of treatments that have been delivered. For example, controller 15 may log the date and time that each treatment was initiated, the duration of the treatment, and whether or not the treatment was completed. This log can be subsequently reviewed by a dentist, physician, or the like to evaluate whether or not the patient has complied with the prescribed treatment regimen.
  • Programmable controller 15 has a button or other suitable user patient interface that allows a patient to initiate a treatment according to previously-set parameters in the data store.
  • the patient interface is preferably very simple such that minimal instruction is required to explain to a patient how to use light therapy apparatus 2 .
  • Programmable controller 15 may include an audible or visual indicator that generates a signal to remind a patient that it is time for a treatment (or that a scheduled treatment is overdue).
  • a patient can use light therapy apparatus 2 at home or in another location by operating programmable controller 15 to initiate delivery of a treatment.
  • Programmable controller 15 may comprise circuitry that monitors temperature at one or more locations in light source 4 .
  • the circuitry may monitor a signal modulated by a temperature sensor in light source 4 .
  • programmable controller 15 may monitor the current and voltage driving LEDs in light source 4 .
  • the current/voltage relationship is temperature-dependent. Thus, by monitoring the current/voltage relationship programmable controller 15 can determine whether the LED is at an undesirably high temperature.
  • Programmable controller 15 may shut off or reduce current to light source 4 (or part of light source 4 ) when it detects that the temperature of light source 4 is undesirably high (or is trending towards being undesirably high). If light source 4 is equipped with a cooling fan then programmable controller 15 may optionally control the speed of the cooling fan in response to the monitored temperature.
  • Programmable controller 15 may be configured to maintain a log of treatments delivered by light therapy apparatus 2 .
  • the log may be reviewed by a physician, dentist or technician to verify that light therapy device has been used as prescribed by a patient.
  • the log may track the times and durations of light therapy treatments delivered by light therapy apparatus 2 and may also track other features such as operating temperatures, operational status and the like.
  • FIGS. 7 and 8 show a light therapy apparatus 2 A having a head-set style arrangement.
  • Light therapy apparatus 2 A comprises a head-set 17 and at least one extra-oral light source 19 mounted to head-set 17 by way of a suitable connector 21 .
  • Head-set 17 may have the general form of a frame for eyeglasses.
  • headset 17 has arms 27 that fit above and around the patient's ears and a frame 29 that fits over the bridge of the patient's nose.
  • Head-set 17 may also include lenses (not shown).
  • the lenses may be made of a material that blocks radiation at wavelengths emitted by light source 19 so that the patient's eyes are protected from the radiation.
  • Light source 19 may comprise an array of LEDs or other light emitters.
  • Head-set 17 When head-set 17 has been adjusted to fit an individual patient, frame 29 registers with the bridge of the patient's nose and arms 27 sit on the patient's ears. Head-set 17 will sit on the patient's head in the same way each time it is put on. Head set 17 may be adjusted for fit by adjusting arms 27 which may be made of a firm, resilient material that allows for some flexibility for a better and more secure fit for individual users. In some embodiments, arms 27 can also be adjusted horizontally along their axis. Frame 29 can also be adjustable, for example, by bending to allow for a better and more secure fit. An elastic keeper such as an elastic strap may be provided to hold head-set 17 in place during use.
  • arms 27 may be made of a firm, resilient material that allows for some flexibility for a better and more secure fit for individual users.
  • arms 27 can also be adjusted horizontally along their axis.
  • Frame 29 can also be adjustable, for example, by bending to allow for a better and more secure fit.
  • An elastic keeper such as an
  • connector 21 permits the position of light source 19 to be adjusted both along a horizontal axis 30 A and a vertical axis 30 B relative to head-set 17 .
  • a yoke 31 A is mounted to head-set 17 by screws 31 B which pass through slot 31 C.
  • the position of light source 19 in horizontal direction 30 A can be adjusted by loosening screws 31 B, sliding yoke 31 A to a desired position along slot 31 C and retightening screws 31 B.
  • Light source 19 is connected to arms 31 D of yoke 31 A by screws 31 E which pass through slots 31 F.
  • the vertical position of light source 19 may be adjusted by loosening screws 31 E, sliding light source 19 up or down along slots 31 F to a desired vertical position and then retightening screws 31 E.
  • slot 31 C is curved when viewed from above.
  • Slot 31 C generally follows the curvature of a typical maxillary bone such that light source 19 can effectively be applied against the patient's skin for a range of positions of light source 19 along slot 31 C.
  • connector 21 may hold light source 19 so that it is tilted with its lower edge projecting more in the direction of the patient than its upper edge.
  • the angle of tile of light source 19 is adjustable. Head-set 17 may be adjusted so that light source 19 is biased against the patient's face when head set 17 is being worn by a patient.
  • connector 21 may comprise a bar, rod or similar device that can be clamped or otherwise fastened to head-set 17 and a clip or similar mechanism that fastens light source 19 to the bar, rod or similar device.
  • light source 19 can be removably detached from head-set 17 . This can be convenient for storage or transportation of light therapy apparatus 2 A.
  • head-set 17 comprises an adjustable strap (not shown) which fits around the crown of a patient's head for securing the extra-oral light therapy device 2 A.
  • the adjustable strap can also fit around a patient's chin and extend back to the crown and around the crown of a patient's head.
  • the adjustable strap may be made of a flexible, elastic woven material.
  • FIG. 10 shows a light therapy apparatus 34 comprising at least one light source 35 .
  • Light source 35 comprises at least one light emitter, for example an LED array, mounted on a thin molded substrate 51 ( FIG. 11 ). More than one array of light emitters may be provided in light source 35 .
  • the light source 35 shown in FIG. 10 has two arrays of LEDs.
  • Arrays 36 of light emitters may be arranged in lower level 45 and an upper level 47 .
  • the upper and lower levels may be separately controlled.
  • the upper and lower levels respectively irradiate tissues of the upper and lower jaws.
  • An attaching means 43 is provided for securing the device to the area of treatment.
  • a power source and controller which may comprise a programmable controller 15 as described above, operate light source 35 to emit light according to a desired protocol.
  • light source 35 has a right section 37 , a center section 39 and a left section 41 .
  • Right section 37 and the left section 41 are respectively supported on the right and left sides of a patient's face.
  • a light source 35 as shown in FIG. 10 may be supported by way of any suitable attaching means including:
  • the LED arrays may be removably attached to light source 35 by suitable connectors 38 such as ribbon connectors or may be more permanently integrated into light source 35 as illustrated in FIG. 11 .
  • suitable connectors 38 such as ribbon connectors or may be more permanently integrated into light source 35 as illustrated in FIG. 11 .
  • Providing removable, repositionable LED arrays on a light source 35 permits LED arrays to be arranged on light source 35 so as to optimally illuminate target tissues. LED arrays may be concentrated to illuminate target tissues while areas of light source 35 that overly non-target tissues do not need to have any LED arrays.
  • FIG. 12 shows a cross-section of an LED array 36 of external light therapy device 34 detached from substrate 51 .
  • a clip or similar attaching means 53 allows the at least one LED array 36 to be mounted onto substrate 51 .
  • Substrate 51 serves as a heat sink as described above.
  • Substrate 51 may be made of aluminum or similar metal that is a good heat conductor.
  • Substrate 51 may be moldable (i.e. flexible in one or two dimensions so that it can be formed to follow contours of a patient's face and, once formed, will retain its shape).
  • Hinge-like members 49 may be provided between arrays 36 to allow light source 35 to be bent to provide a better fit around the facial area.
  • Hinge-like member 49 may comprise a thin crease 50 or other bend line set into the substrate material, as illustrated in FIG. 11 .
  • Hinge-like member 49 allows the center section 39 to fit around a patient's mouth and the right section 37 and the left section 41 to fit around a patient's face.
  • Apparatus as described herein may be applied to treat a variety of conditions including:
  • the apparatus may be applied by fitting a support to a patient.
  • the support may comprise a head-set, intra-oral tray, a bite tab, or the like.
  • one or more light sources are mounted to the support at locations where light from the light sources can illuminate a treatment area.
  • a treatment regimen is then established.
  • the physician, dentist, or therapist at his office or a patient at his home then performs the prescribed extra-oral light therapy treatment.
  • intra-oral tray 7 Prior to extra-oral light therapy treatment, intra-oral tray 7 is prepared by filling it with a suitable settable material such as a clear vinyl siloxane gel or similar material. The intra-oral tray is then placed around the patient's teeth to obtain an impression of the patient's teeth. After the settable material sets, intra-oral tray 7 can be used to achieve consistent targeting of light to target tissues bone during subsequent treatments.
  • a suitable settable material such as a clear vinyl siloxane gel or similar material.
  • a physician, dentist, or therapist programs a patient's prescribed treatment regimen into a programmable controller 15 (see FIG. 6 , for example).
  • Programmable controller 15 controls parameters of a light therapy treatment to be delivered by light therapy apparatus 2 .
  • controller 15 may control the duration of the treatment, light intensity, pulse frequency, etc.
  • Programmable controller 15 runs a patient's prescribed treatment regimen causing the at least one light source 4 to emit pulsed or continuous light according to the prescribed parameters onto the treatment area. Therefore, stimulating and accelerating bone formation and healing at a patient's treatment area for the treatment of jaw bone disorders and jaw osteonecrosis.
  • the invention also relates to a method for the treatment and stimulation of soft and hard tissue and the biostimulation of bone.
  • a light source 35 which may comprise at least one LED array 36 is first attached to the desired area of treatment.
  • a physician, dentist, or therapist programs a patient's prescribed treatment regimen into a programmable controller 15 .
  • Programmable controller 15 controls the energy density, pulse frequency and duration of the external light therapy device 34 .
  • the programmable controller 15 runs a patient's prescribed treatment regimen causing the at least one LED array 35 to emit pulsed or continuous light at the predetermined rates and frequencies onto the treatment area.
  • the light therapy device can provide effective, stabilized, repeatable, accurate, programmable, and consistent light therapy for the treatment and stimulation of soft and hard tissue and the biostimulation of bone.
  • Exclusion criteria included: 1) a medical condition associated with abnormal bone growth or remodeling, such as Paget's disease of bone, fibrous dysplasia, osteopetrosis, severe systemic osteoporosis, etc.; 2) unwillingness to sign informed consent form; 3) inability to perform daily LED treatments at home; 4) inability to obtain high quality QUS scans of the jaws.
  • An exclusion waiver for the research was provided by the Committee for the Protection of Human Subjects of the University of Texas in Houston and informed consent was obtained from all subjects.
  • I Cube shows mild loss of column height in more than 1 ⁇ 4 of columns; and/or moderate loss of column height in 1/16 to 1 ⁇ 4 of the columns (5-16 columns); and/or severe loss of height in 1/16 to 1 ⁇ 8 of the columns (5-8 columns).
  • II Cube shows moderate loss of column height in 1 ⁇ 4 to 1 ⁇ 2 of columns (17-32 columns); and/or severe loss of height in 1 ⁇ 8 to 1 ⁇ 4 of columns (8-16 columns).
  • III Cube shows moderate loss of column height in more than 1 ⁇ 2 of columns (32 columns); and/or severe loss of column height in 1 ⁇ 4 to 1 ⁇ 2 of columns (17-32 columns).
  • IV Cube shows severe loss of column height in more than 1 ⁇ 2 of columns (32 columns).
  • the investigational OsseoPulseTM (Version 1.0) device made by Biolux Research Ltd., Vancouver, Canada.
  • the device consists of an extra-oral array of highly-efficient light emitting diodes (LED) producing non-coherent continuous wave monochromatic light in the visible far red (660 nm @ 15 mW/cm2) and infra-red range (840 nm @ 20 mW/cm2).
  • LED highly-efficient light emitting diodes
  • the OsseoPulse device was placed on the facial surface for 15 minutes daily, 5 days a week for 12 weeks on each treatment side.
  • the dose per session per treatment area was approximately 200 Joules per square inch.

Abstract

An extra-oral light therapy device comprises a support that registers against features of a patient's head. A light source is mounted to the support. The light source may comprise an array of light emitting diodes (“LEDs”). A controller controls the extra-oral light therapy device. The support may comprise a tray fitted to the patient's teeth or a head-set fitted to the patient's ears and the bridge of the patient's nose. An external light therapy device has a thin, molded substrate, at least one array of light emitters mounted onto the thin, molded substrate, an attaching means for removably attaching the device to an area of treatment, and a controller for controlling the external light therapy device. Methods for supporting light sources adjacent desired treatment locations and for treating jaw bone disorders and jaw osteonecrosis and biostimulating bone and soft tissue are also disclosed.

Description

    REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
  • This is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/355,583 which claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application No. 60/705,753, filed on Aug. 5, 2005 and U.S. provisional application No. 60/653,828, filed on Feb. 17, 2005.
  • TECHNICAL FIELD
  • This invention relates to light therapy. Apparatus and methods according to the invention may be applied to the treatment of bone disorders and the biostimulation of bone and soft tissue. Embodiments of the invention provide apparatus for irradiating tissues of the face and jaw with biologically effective doses of light.
  • BACKGROUND
  • Light therapy involves irradiating tissues with light. Light can stimulate a variety of biological activities in cells and tissues that are compromised in function. Light therapy treatment is typically administered by a physician or therapist who directs light from a hand-held light emitting device at an affected area. Light emitting devices can be difficult to position consistently over the affected area. Sometimes a tattoo is used to identify the affected area. However, even with a tattoo or other reference mark it is difficult to consistently deliver light therapy treatments to an affected area.
  • Light therapy typically involves repeated treatments over at least several days. Thus, patients undergoing light therapy may be required to make multiple visits to a practitioner's office or clinic in order to complete a therapy regimen. Such repeated visits may be time consuming and/or expensive.
  • LEDs and other light sources suitable for generating light for light therapy can get hot when they operate. Such light sources can be inefficient at higher temperatures. Hot apparatus can also be uncomfortable or even dangerous to patients.
  • The inventor has identified a need or desire for light therapy apparatus which can deliver consistent treatments, particularly to tissues in the dental and maxillofacial areas. There is a particular need or desire for such apparatus that is sufficiently cost-effective and foolproof to be used at home by patients. There is also a need for such apparatus that can be operated without exposing a patient to high temperature surfaces.
  • SUMMARY
  • One aspect of this invention provides apparatus for delivering light to tissues of a patient's dental and maxillofacial areas. The apparatus comprises a support that registers against one or more anatomical features of a patient's head and one or more light sources mounted to the support. The light sources illuminate selected tissues of a patient's dental and maxillofacial areas from outside of the patient's mouth. The light sources comprise arrays of LEDs in some embodiments.
  • In some embodiments the support comprises an intra-oral tray connected to an extra-oral bridge. A light source, such as a light emitting diode (“LED”) array, is mounted to the extra-oral bridge.
  • In some embodiments, the support comprises a head-set that registers on the bridge of a patient's nose and the patient's ears. A light source, such as a light emitting diode (“LED”) array, is mounted to the head-set.
  • Other aspects of the invention provide methods for preparing light therapy apparatus and methods for delivering light therapy.
  • Further aspects of the invention and features of various example embodiments of the invention are described below and/or shown in the accompanying drawings.
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
  • The appended drawings illustrate non-limiting example embodiments of the invention.
  • FIG. 1 is a view from the front side of an extra-oral light therapy device having an intra-oral tray, an extra-oral bridge, and left and right side extra-oral LED arrays.
  • FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C are respectively a cross-section, a front side elevation and a rear elevation of a light source having a cooling fan, a heat sink and two arrays of light emitters.
  • FIG. 2 is a right side view of the device of FIG. 1 with the end of the extra-oral bridge attached to the extra-oral LED array.
  • FIG. 3 is a view from the front-left side of the extra-oral bridge, intra-oral tray and extra-oral LED array of FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 4 is a view from the rear right side of the extra-oral bridge, intra-oral tray and extra-oral LED array of FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 5 is a view from the left rear side of the extra-oral bridge, intra-oral tray and extra-oral LED array of FIG. 1 with the intra-oral tray detached.
  • FIG. 6 is a top view of a programmable controller for use with light therapy apparatus.
  • FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a light therapy device according to an alternative embodiment in which an LED array is supported by a head-set.
  • FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a light therapy device according to another alternative embodiment in which an LED array is supported by a head-set.
  • FIG. 8 is a side view of the light therapy device of FIG. 7.
  • FIG. 9 is a front view of at least one LED array, and a connector detached from the head-set.
  • FIG. 10 is a front view of an external light therapy device having two LED arrays, a hinge-like member, and an attaching means.
  • FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of an LED array mounted onto a substrate.
  • FIG. 11A is a schematic cross section through a portion of a light source having a light emitter and a reflector.
  • FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of an LED array detached from the substrate.
  • DESCRIPTION
  • Throughout the following description specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding to persons skilled in the art. However, well known elements may not have been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the disclosure. Accordingly, the description and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative, rather than a restrictive, sense.
  • FIG. 1 shows an example light therapy apparatus 2 that comprises an extra-oral light source 4 having a right side 1 and a left side 3 (as viewed from the front of the device), an extra-oral bridge 5, and an intra-oral tray 7. Intra-oral tray 7 registers to a patient's teeth. Light source 4 is rigidly connected to intra-oral tray 7 by extra-oral bridge 5. Therefore, a patient can position light source 4 accurately and repeatedly to illuminate a desired location in the patient's dental and maxillofacial areas by inserting intra-oral tray 7 into his or her mouth and biting intra-oral tray 7 so that it registers to at least some of the patient's teeth. This stabilizes light therapy apparatus 2 and positions light source 4 at a desired position. The consistent alignment and targeting of light from light source 4 during subsequent treatments makes the treatments more repeatable.
  • In the illustrated embodiment, extra-oral bridge 5 is removable from extra-oral light source 4 and intra-oral tray 7. Providing a light therapy apparatus 2 having major components that are detachably connectable to one another adds versatility. A design which permits the major components of the light therapy apparatus to be disassembled and reassembled while preserving alignment of extra-oral light source 4 to intra-oral tray 7 has the advantage that the apparatus can be disassembled for storage or transportation and then used immediately after assembly. FIG. 3 shows light therapy apparatus 2 with extra-oral light source left side 3 detached from extra-oral bridge 5.
  • Extra-oral bridge 5, extra-oral light source right side 1, and extra-oral light source left side 3 may be secured together via a suitable connector. For example, extra-oral bridge 5, the extra-oral light source right side 1, and the extra-oral light source left side 3 may be connected by inserting male connector portions 6A of the extra-oral light source right and left sides 1 and 3 into corresponding female connector portions 8A of extra-oral bridge 5 (see FIG. 3). Suitably, the suitable connector allows extra-oral light source right and left sides 1 and 3 to be detached from extra-oral bridge 5 for ease of use and flexibility.
  • In some embodiments, extra-oral light source right and left sides 1 and 3 are rotatable between a sagittal orientation (as shown in FIG. 1) and a vertical orientation (indicated in dotted outline in FIG. 1). Light source right and left sides 1 and 3 can be locked at a desired angle of rotation by any suitable mechanism. This permits light source right and left sides 1 and 3 to be arranged so that the light that they emit fully covers the desired treatment areas.
  • Intra-oral tray 7 may be connected to extra-oral bridge 5 by way of another suitable connector. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, a male portion 6B of intra-oral tray 7 is removably received in a female portion 8B of extra-oral bridge 5. Where intra-oral tray 7 is removable from extra-oral bridge 5, extra-oral bridge 5 may be reused for other patients (after suitable sterilization). Intra-oral tray 7 may be disposed of after it is no longer required by a patient. In some embodiments, extra-oral bridge 5 is non-removably attached to intra-oral tray 7.
  • Intra-oral tray 7 is intended for insertion into a patient's mouth and is suitably shaped to fit around a patient's teeth. Intra-oral tray 7 may register with a few selected teeth (for example, intra-oral tray 7 may comprise a bite tab) or may fit around the patient's full set of teeth. In one embodiment, the intra-oral tray 7 comprises a frame of a plastic or other suitable material that can serve as a skeleton for a settable material. The frame may be perforated to aid retention of the settable material. The frame may comprise extra-oral bridge 5 or a connector to connect to extra-oral bridge 5.
  • Prior to being used in the delivery of light therapy, the frame for intra-oral tray 7 may be filled with a suitable settable material (for example a clear vinyl siloxane gel or similar material) which sets around the patient's teeth and subsequently allows repeatable alignment of intra-oral tray 7 in the patient's mouth. Where intra-oral tray 7 could be in the path of light as it travels from light source 4 to target tissues, the material of intra-oral tray 7 should be transparent to the light.
  • Extra-oral bridge 5 preferably conforms around the jaw line of a patient. The light source right and left sides 1 and 3 are respectively positioned on the right and left sides of a patient's face along the patient's jaw line. Extra-oral bridge 5 may be adjustable to permit alignment of light source left and right sides 1 and 3 with target areas to be irradiated. Light source left and right sides 1 and 3 are extra-oral (outside of the patient's oral cavity). Light can pass from left and right sides 1 and 3 through tissues of the patient's lips and cheeks into target areas on the patient's gums and/or in the patient's jaws.
  • Light source 4 emits light toward the patient. The light is not necessarily visible light. For example, the light may include or consist of infrared light. Light source 4 comprises an array of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in some embodiments. Light source 4 has an inner surface 13 (see FIG. 4) that is placed near or against the patient's skin adjacent to the tissues that it is desired to treat. Light is emitted is from inner surface 13 toward the area of treatment. In some embodiments, left and right sides 1 and 3 of light source 4 each have a length similar to a significant fraction of the length of a human jaw. For example, left and right sides 1 and 3 may each have a length of about 20 mm to about 90 mm in some embodiments and about 25 to about 45 or 60 mm in some embodiments. In cases where a light source 4 is intended to treat a localized condition, then light source 4 may be smaller in extent. In some embodiments, light source 4 has optics that emit light in the form of diverging beams. In such cases, light source 4 may be somewhat smaller than the area of tissues to be treated because light from light source 4 will spread somewhat as it passes through the tissues of the patient's lips and cheeks before reaching the tissues of the jaw and or gums to be treated.
  • Light source 4 may be wide enough to illuminate both upper and lower jaws of a patient simultaneously although in some embodiments light source 4 may be narrower. For example, light source 4 has a width in the range of 12 mm to about 40 mm in some embodiments (e.g. about 15 to 17 mm in some embodiments).
  • In some embodiments, the light is emitted by arrays of discrete LEDs. The LEDs may be arranged in any of a wide variety of patterns. For example, the LEDs may be arranged in staggered parallel rows to maximize the density of LEDs in the LED array. The LEDs may be arranged to achieve substantially uniform optical intensity over the light-emitting inner surface 13 of light source 4. In some embodiments, each array comprises 50 to 100 LEDs or other light emitters.
  • It is desirable that the average light intensity produced by light source 4 is at least about 10 mW/cm2. In some embodiments, light source 4 has an average intensity that is, or can be adjusted to be, in the range of 20 mW/cm2 to about 60 mW/cm2. In some embodiments the output of light source 4 is pulsed. In such embodiments, the peak light intensity may be significantly higher than 50 mW/cm2.
  • In some embodiments right light source 4 or its components are flexible so that they can be bent in one or two dimensions (i.e. molded) to conform to the contours of the patient's face. For example, light source 4 may comprise an array of light emitters mounted to a flexible sheet of material that will hold a shape when it is bent. The flexible material can advantageously comprise a metal sheet that can serve as a heat sink or as a thermal path to a heat sink for heat generated by the light emitters. The flexible sheet may be molded to conform to the contours of the patient's face while light therapy apparatus 2 is being fitted.
  • Light source 4 may include optical elements such as lenses and reflectors to focus and direct light from light source 4 onto a target area. Such optical elements may be suitably encapsulated in plastic or similar material. FIG. 11A shows a portion of a light source 4. A light emitter 11 (which may, for example, comprise a junction in a light-emitting diode or other light-emitting semiconductor device) is located adjacent to a reflective backing 11A. A curved light-reflecting recess 11B is provided adjacent to light emitter 11. Light from light source 11 is reflected in recess 11B to form a beam. The beams from all light emitters of light source 4 combine to illuminate the target tissues. The area covered by the beam will depend upon the tissues which it is desired to treat. In some embodiments, the beams of light emitted by light source 4 diverges to cover an area of tissue larger than the area of the light-emitting part of light source 4. In other embodiments the emitted light converges to provided increased light intensity at the location of the tissues that it is desired to treat. In some embodiments, the emitted light diverges in a beam having an included angle θ in the range of about 45-60°.
  • Since LEDs and other light emitters give off heat when they are operated, it is desirable to provide a suitable mechanism for dissipating the heat to prevent any parts of light therapy apparatus 2 that could come into contact with a patient's skin from getting too hot. For example, light source 4 may comprise a system for forced air or liquid cooling. A cooling system allows for treatment without the danger of potential burns to the patient and allows for greater efficiency and control of the device.
  • Extra-oral light source right and left sides 1 and 3 may comprise thermally-conductive LED wafers mounted on a suitable heat sink. Heat from the LED wafers is conducted into the heat sink and dissipated. FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C show a light source 100 of a type that may be used as light source right and left sides 1 and 3. Light source 100 comprises arrays 102 of LEDs that are mounted to a heat sink 104. Heat sink 104 has pins 106 projecting from its face that is away from LED arrays 102. A fan 110 causes air to flow past pins 106 to carry away excess heat.
  • To be most effective, the light from light source 4 at the tissues to be treated should have at least a threshold intensity. Light source 4 may be operated in a pulsed mode to facilitate cooling of light source 4 while ensuring that when light source 4 is emitting light, the intensity of emitted light at the tissues to be treated is sufficient to be effective. In some embodiments, the duty cycle of light source 4 is 1:1 or less, in some embodiments 1:2 or less (for each interval in which light source 4 is on, light source 4 is off for two equal intervals). The pulsing of light source 4 may be performed fast enough that light source 4 does not visibly flicker (e.g. at 25 Hz or more) although this is not mandatory.
  • While the invention is described herein as usefully employing LEDs, other light sources such as lasers could suitably be employed. The character of the light emitted by light source right and left sides 1 and 3 will depend upon the nature of the LEDs or other light emitters in light source 4. It is generally desirable that the emitted light include light in the wavelength range of 620 nm to 1000 nm. In some embodiments the emitted light includes light having a wavelength in at least one of the following wavelength ranges: about 820 to about 890 nm and about 620 to about 680 nm. Light having wavelengths corresponding to one or more of the following ranges may be particularly effective:
      • 613 nm to 624 nm
      • 667 nm to 684 nm
      • 750 nm to 773 nm
      • 812 nm to 846 nm.
        The range 613 nm to 624 nm corresponds to a band at which reduced cytochrome c oxidase absorbs light. The range 812 nm to 846 nm corresponds to a band at which oxidized cytochrome c oxidase absorbs light.
  • The light is substantially monochrome in some embodiments although this is not mandatory. Providing light emitters that emit at multiple wavelengths allows for irradiation over multiple wavelengths for greater biological activity. The light may comprise incoherent light although this is not mandatory. The light may be delivered continuously or pulsed at suitable frequencies and duty cycles.
  • Invisible infrared light can be clinically effective. In some embodiments in which the emitted light includes infrared light, the emitted light also includes bright visible light. The bright visible light deters users from looking into the light source when it is operating, provides a perceptible indication that the apparatus is operating, and may be useful in properly positioning the device. The visible light may be, but is not necessarily in a wavelength range that is beneficial for light therapy. In some embodiments, the ratio of the intensities of the visible and infrared components of the light is 1 part or less visible light to 5 parts or more infrared light.
  • The treatment area and desired light characteristics will vary from patient to patient. A physician, dentist or other therapist can determine a light treatment regime for a patient and set up light therapy apparatus 2 to operate light emitters in light source 4 to provide the desired treatment.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates a programmable controller 15 of a type that may be used to control the operation of light therapy apparatus 2 (or other light therapy apparatus as described below). Programmable controller 15 may be a separate, remote unit or may be directly connected to or integrated with light source 4. Programmable controller 15 may comprise a microprocessor, data store, power supply, clock and associated electronic circuitry. Control parameters are stored in the data store. Programmable controller 15 operates light source 4 according to the parameters in the data store. The parameters may specify one or more of:
      • treatment duration;
      • light intensity during the treatment;
      • whether light emitters operate continuously or are pulsed;
      • if the light emitters are pulsed, the rate at which light emitters are pulsed;
      • if the light emitters are pulsed, the duty cycle at which the light emitters are pulsed;
      • etc.
  • If light therapy apparatus has sets of light emitters having different characteristics (e.g. sets of LED that emit light at different wavelengths or sets of light emitters that illuminate target tissues in different locations) then separate control parameters may be provided for different sets of the light emitters. In some embodiments, different sets of parameters are specified for different segments (intervals) of a light treatment. For example, light therapy treatments may be defined for a set of intervals each lasting from a few seconds to a few hundred seconds or a fraction of an hour. Different parameters may be specified for each of the intervals. The intervals are not necessarily equal in length.
  • In some embodiments, different sets of parameters may be specified for different areas of light source 4. In some cases, some areas of light source 4 may be turned off because the treatment plan for a patient does not require light to be delivered at locations corresponding to those parts of the light source 4.
  • A physician, dentist, or therapist may program a patient's treatment regimen into programmable controller 15. This may be done, for example, with the aid of suitable software running on a computer that is in data communication with programmable controller 15 or by way of a suitable user interface built into programmable controller 15.
  • Programmable controller 15 may have one or more pre-set programs built in. As an alternative to, or as an aid to programming controller 15 the physician, dentist, or therapist may select a pre-set program that is appropriate for controlling light therapy apparatus 2 to deliver light to a patient.
  • A typical treatment regimen provides a dose of light daily. Each of the daily doses of light may be delivered over a period lasting between a few minutes and an hour or so. For example, the inventor has found that daily ½ hour doses of light can be effective and are not unduly inconvenient for patients. A single daily dose appears to be as effective as dividing the same dose into multiple sessions delivered at different times during the day. Examples of possible treatment regimens are:
      • Enhancement of bone density by applying light in 5 treatments per week for 12 weeks. Each treatment lasts ½ hour and illuminates the tissues of a patient's jaw with light having wavelengths of 660 nm and 840 nm. The 660 nm light has an intensity of about 20 mW/cm2 at the skin's surface The 840 mn light has an intensity of about 10 mW/cm2 at the skin's surface.
      • Accelerating healing of bone grafts by applying light in daily treatments for 21 days. Each treatment lasts between 20 minutes and one hour and illuminates the tissues of a patient's jaw with light having a wavelength of 618 nm and an intensity of 20 mW/cm2 at the skin's surface.
  • Programmable controller 15 may maintain a log of treatments that have been delivered. For example, controller 15 may log the date and time that each treatment was initiated, the duration of the treatment, and whether or not the treatment was completed. This log can be subsequently reviewed by a dentist, physician, or the like to evaluate whether or not the patient has complied with the prescribed treatment regimen.
  • Programmable controller 15 has a button or other suitable user patient interface that allows a patient to initiate a treatment according to previously-set parameters in the data store. The patient interface is preferably very simple such that minimal instruction is required to explain to a patient how to use light therapy apparatus 2. Programmable controller 15 may include an audible or visual indicator that generates a signal to remind a patient that it is time for a treatment (or that a scheduled treatment is overdue).
  • A patient can use light therapy apparatus 2 at home or in another location by operating programmable controller 15 to initiate delivery of a treatment.
  • Programmable controller 15 may comprise circuitry that monitors temperature at one or more locations in light source 4. The circuitry may monitor a signal modulated by a temperature sensor in light source 4. In the alternative, programmable controller 15 may monitor the current and voltage driving LEDs in light source 4. The current/voltage relationship is temperature-dependent. Thus, by monitoring the current/voltage relationship programmable controller 15 can determine whether the LED is at an undesirably high temperature. Programmable controller 15 may shut off or reduce current to light source 4 (or part of light source 4) when it detects that the temperature of light source 4 is undesirably high (or is trending towards being undesirably high). If light source 4 is equipped with a cooling fan then programmable controller 15 may optionally control the speed of the cooling fan in response to the monitored temperature.
  • Programmable controller 15 may be configured to maintain a log of treatments delivered by light therapy apparatus 2. The log may be reviewed by a physician, dentist or technician to verify that light therapy device has been used as prescribed by a patient. The log may track the times and durations of light therapy treatments delivered by light therapy apparatus 2 and may also track other features such as operating temperatures, operational status and the like.
  • FIGS. 7 and 8 show a light therapy apparatus 2A having a head-set style arrangement. Light therapy apparatus 2A comprises a head-set 17 and at least one extra-oral light source 19 mounted to head-set 17 by way of a suitable connector 21. Head-set 17 may have the general form of a frame for eyeglasses. In the illustrated embodiment, headset 17 has arms 27 that fit above and around the patient's ears and a frame 29 that fits over the bridge of the patient's nose. Head-set 17 may also include lenses (not shown). Suitably, the lenses may be made of a material that blocks radiation at wavelengths emitted by light source 19 so that the patient's eyes are protected from the radiation. Light source 19 may comprise an array of LEDs or other light emitters.
  • When head-set 17 has been adjusted to fit an individual patient, frame 29 registers with the bridge of the patient's nose and arms 27 sit on the patient's ears. Head-set 17 will sit on the patient's head in the same way each time it is put on. Head set 17 may be adjusted for fit by adjusting arms 27 which may be made of a firm, resilient material that allows for some flexibility for a better and more secure fit for individual users. In some embodiments, arms 27 can also be adjusted horizontally along their axis. Frame 29 can also be adjustable, for example, by bending to allow for a better and more secure fit. An elastic keeper such as an elastic strap may be provided to hold head-set 17 in place during use.
  • In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7A, connector 21 permits the position of light source 19 to be adjusted both along a horizontal axis 30A and a vertical axis 30B relative to head-set 17. A yoke 31A is mounted to head-set 17 by screws 31B which pass through slot 31C. The position of light source 19 in horizontal direction 30A can be adjusted by loosening screws 31B, sliding yoke 31A to a desired position along slot 31C and retightening screws 31B. Light source 19 is connected to arms 31D of yoke 31A by screws 31E which pass through slots 31F. The vertical position of light source 19 may be adjusted by loosening screws 31E, sliding light source 19 up or down along slots 31F to a desired vertical position and then retightening screws 31E.
  • In the illustrated embodiment slot 31C is curved when viewed from above. Slot 31C generally follows the curvature of a typical maxillary bone such that light source 19 can effectively be applied against the patient's skin for a range of positions of light source 19 along slot 31C. Since the lower portions of people's faces are typically narrower than upper portions, connector 21 may hold light source 19 so that it is tilted with its lower edge projecting more in the direction of the patient than its upper edge. In some embodiments the angle of tile of light source 19 is adjustable. Head-set 17 may be adjusted so that light source 19 is biased against the patient's face when head set 17 is being worn by a patient.
  • Many alternative designs for connector 21 may be provided. For example, connector 21 may comprise a bar, rod or similar device that can be clamped or otherwise fastened to head-set 17 and a clip or similar mechanism that fastens light source 19 to the bar, rod or similar device.
  • As shown in FIG. 9, in some embodiments light source 19 can be removably detached from head-set 17. This can be convenient for storage or transportation of light therapy apparatus 2A.
  • In another embodiment, head-set 17 comprises an adjustable strap (not shown) which fits around the crown of a patient's head for securing the extra-oral light therapy device 2A. The adjustable strap can also fit around a patient's chin and extend back to the crown and around the crown of a patient's head. The adjustable strap may be made of a flexible, elastic woven material.
  • FIG. 10 shows a light therapy apparatus 34 comprising at least one light source 35. Light source 35 comprises at least one light emitter, for example an LED array, mounted on a thin molded substrate 51 (FIG. 11). More than one array of light emitters may be provided in light source 35. For example, the light source 35 shown in FIG. 10 has two arrays of LEDs. Arrays 36 of light emitters may be arranged in lower level 45 and an upper level 47. The upper and lower levels may be separately controlled. The upper and lower levels respectively irradiate tissues of the upper and lower jaws. An attaching means 43 is provided for securing the device to the area of treatment.
  • A power source and controller, which may comprise a programmable controller 15 as described above, operate light source 35 to emit light according to a desired protocol.
  • In the example apparatus 34 shown in FIG. 10, light source 35 has a right section 37, a center section 39 and a left section 41. Right section 37 and the left section 41 are respectively supported on the right and left sides of a patient's face. A light source 35 as shown in FIG. 10 may be supported by way of any suitable attaching means including:
      • a head-set 17 as described above;
      • an intra-oral tray 7 which may comprise a full tray or one or more bite tabs as described above;
      • an adhesive such as double-sided adhesive tape;
      • a strap or set of straps; or
      • the like.
  • The LED arrays may be removably attached to light source 35 by suitable connectors 38 such as ribbon connectors or may be more permanently integrated into light source 35 as illustrated in FIG. 11. Providing removable, repositionable LED arrays on a light source 35 permits LED arrays to be arranged on light source 35 so as to optimally illuminate target tissues. LED arrays may be concentrated to illuminate target tissues while areas of light source 35 that overly non-target tissues do not need to have any LED arrays.
  • FIG. 12 shows a cross-section of an LED array 36 of external light therapy device 34 detached from substrate 51. A clip or similar attaching means 53 allows the at least one LED array 36 to be mounted onto substrate 51. Substrate 51 serves as a heat sink as described above. Substrate 51 may be made of aluminum or similar metal that is a good heat conductor. Substrate 51 may be moldable (i.e. flexible in one or two dimensions so that it can be formed to follow contours of a patient's face and, once formed, will retain its shape).
  • Hinge-like members 49 may be provided between arrays 36 to allow light source 35 to be bent to provide a better fit around the facial area. Hinge-like member 49 may comprise a thin crease 50 or other bend line set into the substrate material, as illustrated in FIG. 11. Hinge-like member 49 allows the center section 39 to fit around a patient's mouth and the right section 37 and the left section 41 to fit around a patient's face.
  • Apparatus as described herein may be applied to treat a variety of conditions including:
      • jaw osteonecrosis,
      • other jaw bone disorders,
      • periodontitis,
      • malocclusion and other conditions treated by orthodontics,
      • stimulation and acceleration of healing after oral surgery or periodontal surgery,
      • stimulation of the healing of wounds at the locations of bone grafts,
      • healing and acceleration of osseo-integration of endosseous dental implants; and,
      • the like.
        The application to jaw osteonecrosis permits treatment of a condition for which existing treatments are highly invasive. Treating osteonecrosis using light therapy is significantly more cost-effective and comfortable for the patient than existing surgical treatment options.
  • The apparatus may be applied by fitting a support to a patient. The support may comprise a head-set, intra-oral tray, a bite tab, or the like. When the support has been fitted so that it can be repeatably worn by the patient one or more light sources are mounted to the support at locations where light from the light sources can illuminate a treatment area. A treatment regimen is then established. The physician, dentist, or therapist at his office or a patient at his home then performs the prescribed extra-oral light therapy treatment.
  • An example method for treatment for jaw osteonecrosis, other jaw bone disorders, periodontitis, orthodontics, or for stimulation and acceleration of healing after oral surgery or periodontal surgery or for acceleration of osseo-integration of endosseous dental implants applies extra-oral light therapy device 2. Prior to extra-oral light therapy treatment, intra-oral tray 7 is prepared by filling it with a suitable settable material such as a clear vinyl siloxane gel or similar material. The intra-oral tray is then placed around the patient's teeth to obtain an impression of the patient's teeth. After the settable material sets, intra-oral tray 7 can be used to achieve consistent targeting of light to target tissues bone during subsequent treatments.
  • A physician, dentist, or therapist programs a patient's prescribed treatment regimen into a programmable controller 15 (see FIG. 6, for example). Programmable controller 15 controls parameters of a light therapy treatment to be delivered by light therapy apparatus 2. For example, controller 15 may control the duration of the treatment, light intensity, pulse frequency, etc. Programmable controller 15 runs a patient's prescribed treatment regimen causing the at least one light source 4 to emit pulsed or continuous light according to the prescribed parameters onto the treatment area. Therefore, stimulating and accelerating bone formation and healing at a patient's treatment area for the treatment of jaw bone disorders and jaw osteonecrosis.
  • The invention also relates to a method for the treatment and stimulation of soft and hard tissue and the biostimulation of bone. In this method, a light source 35 which may comprise at least one LED array 36 is first attached to the desired area of treatment. A physician, dentist, or therapist programs a patient's prescribed treatment regimen into a programmable controller 15. Programmable controller 15 controls the energy density, pulse frequency and duration of the external light therapy device 34. The programmable controller 15 runs a patient's prescribed treatment regimen causing the at least one LED array 35 to emit pulsed or continuous light at the predetermined rates and frequencies onto the treatment area. The light therapy device can provide effective, stabilized, repeatable, accurate, programmable, and consistent light therapy for the treatment and stimulation of soft and hard tissue and the biostimulation of bone.
  • Several studies have been carried out to determine the effectiveness of the invention. In one, a retrospective record review of a cohort of 68 QUS (quantitative ultrasound) scanned dental patients from the private practices of two co-investigators as performed. All scans and treatments occurred between 2002 and 2005. Inclusion criteria included: 1) no surgical procedure at an investigative site during or less than one year prior to entry into the study; 2) pre-treatment and post-treatment QUS scans of the maxillofacial region; 3) LED therapy to one or more maxillofacial regions. Exclusion criteria included: 1) a medical condition associated with abnormal bone growth or remodeling, such as Paget's disease of bone, fibrous dysplasia, osteopetrosis, severe systemic osteoporosis, etc.; 2) unwillingness to sign informed consent form; 3) inability to perform daily LED treatments at home; 4) inability to obtain high quality QUS scans of the jaws. An exclusion waiver for the research was provided by the Committee for the Protection of Human Subjects of the University of Texas in Houston and informed consent was obtained from all subjects.
  • QUS scans were made immediately prior to LED therapy and immediately thereafter. All scans were performed by the FDA cleared dental QUS device, the Cavitat 4000™ (Cavitat Medical Technologies, Inc, Aurora, Colo.). This device renders a series of 3-dimensional cube images from analog signals generated when an external transmitter sends 27,000 sound pulses per microsecond through the alveolar bone at a speed of 317.6 meters per second, 3.5 mHz, to an intraoral piezo screen held on the lingual aspect of the alveolus. The screen has 64 sensors which detect electrical changes in the screen as sound distorts it. The test is premised on the assumption that sound traveling through LBD (low bone density) becomes attenuated, hitting the receptor screen with less intensity than sound which has traveled through normal bone. The speed of sound is also diminished and so changes in speed are captured and accounted for by the device.
  • All initial and follow-up QUS scans of alveolar bone were blindly and independently graded, after calibration, by two investigators according to an established 5-point scale, and the following results were shown (Table 1):
    TABLE 1
    Grading categories for individual 3-D cube images (64 columns in each) of the
    Cavitat QUS images.
    QUS
    Grade* Description**
    0 “Green bone.” Cube shows no loss of column height and is 100% green; or
    mild loss of column height in less than ¼ of columns (16 columns); and/or
    moderate to severe loss of column height in less than 4 non-adjacent columns.
    I Cube shows mild loss of column height in more than ¼ of columns; and/or
    moderate loss of column height in 1/16 to ¼ of the columns (5-16
    columns); and/or severe loss of height in 1/16 to ⅛ of the columns (5-8
    columns).
    II Cube shows moderate loss of column height in ¼ to ½ of columns (17-32
    columns); and/or severe loss of height in ⅛ to ¼ of columns (8-16
    columns).
    III Cube shows moderate loss of column height in more than ½ of columns
    (32 columns); and/or severe loss of column height in ¼ to ½ of columns
    (17-32 columns).
    IV Cube shows severe loss of column height in more than ½ of columns (32
    columns).

    *high grade lesion = Grade III and IV scans; low-grade lesion = Grade I and II scans; “green bone” = normal or Grade 0 scan

    **definition of loss of column height: mild (crown is green, less than ⅓ loss of height); moderate (crown is yellow or brown, ⅓ to ⅔ loss of height); severe (crown is orange or red, more than ⅔ loss of height)
  • In case of differences, a consensus grade was arrived at via discussion between the two. QUS grades of positive scans, i.e. scans with grades I-IV before LED therapy were compared with post-therapy scan grades using matched pair analysis.
  • Patients were treated using the a device made in accordance with the present invention, the investigational OsseoPulse™ (Version 1.0) device (made by Biolux Research Ltd., Vancouver, Canada). The device consists of an extra-oral array of highly-efficient light emitting diodes (LED) producing non-coherent continuous wave monochromatic light in the visible far red (660 nm @ 15 mW/cm2) and infra-red range (840 nm @ 20 mW/cm2). In addition, there was an integral alignment device used to ensure that the LED array was repeatably and accurately positioned directly over the treatment sites. The OsseoPulse device was placed on the facial surface for 15 minutes daily, 5 days a week for 12 weeks on each treatment side. The dose per session per treatment area was approximately 200 Joules per square inch.
  • Of 1,148 pre-treatment QUS jawbone scans, each representing the area of one tooth, 294 were positive for damaged or abnormal bone. Using the 5-point scale (0=normal; 4=most severe), half of these sites were low grade, i.e. grades 1 or 2, with half being high grade (Table 2):
    TABLE 2
    Results of 294 QUS scans before and after 3 months of daily LED
    photobiomodulation.
    Grade Level* # at Pre-Treatment # at Post-Treatment
    1 79 120
    2 69 54
    3 86 53
    4 61 40
    Mean: 2.43 1.33

    *1 = mild LBD/dehydration; 4 = severe LBD/dehydration
  • The average grade for all 294 positive sites was 2.43. After LED photomodulation the average grade was 1.33 and almost 42% of investigated sites had returned to completely normal bone, while another 54 (18.4%) sites were grade 1 after therapy (Table 2). One would expect that the lower the pre-treatment grade, the larger would be the proportion which returned to normal, since it takes a much greater grade improvement to reach normal from the higher grades. This proved to be the case: regions with pre-treatment grades of 1, 2, 3 and 4 returned to green bone 68.4%, 46.4%, 30.2% and 13.3% of the time, respectively (Table 3):
    TABLE 3
    Post-treatment changes for each pre-treatment grade level, 294 QUS scans.
    Number of Number @ Grade for each Site at
    Grade Sites at Post-Treatment* Avg.
    Level* Pre-Treatment 0** 1** 2** 3** 4** Change
    1 79 54 15 8 2 0 −0.54
    2 69 32 19 12 4 2 −1.32
    3 86 26 17 22 16 5 −1.50
    4 60 8 3 10 18 21 −1.32
    Mean: 2.43 120 54 52 40 28 −1.11

    *1 = mild LBD/dehydration; 4 = severe LBD/dehydration (see Table 1)

    **Represents grade levels, 0-4, as described in Table 1
  • Almost 71% of the 294 treated sites demonstrated improvement of at least one QUS grade level, with most of those, 43.4%, dropping by one grade. The post-treatment grade change was relatively uniform all each pretreatment QUS grade level (Table 3). Overall the mean difference, i.e. improvement of bone quality, of −1.11 was very statistically significant (matched pair analysis: Std error 0.06914; t-Ratio −15.9896; DF 293; prob [t] less than 0.0001; 95% confidence interval 0.558-1.242).
  • While in the foregoing specification this invention has been described in relation to certain preferred embodiments thereof, and many details have been set forth for the purpose of illustration, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention is susceptible to additional embodiments and that certain details described herein can be varied considerably without departing from the basic principles of the invention. For example:
      • Light therapy apparatus 34 may be applied for treatment and stimulation of other bone or soft tissues, such as the hip. In such applications, light source 35 can be attached to a treatment area with an adhesive such as double-sided adhesive tape (not shown). Alternatively, the external light therapy apparatus 34 can be placed or sewn into a pouch, undergarment or similar garment and attached to the treatment area through means of a strap, button or similar attaching means (not shown).
      • It is not mandatory that a controller be programmable. For example, a controller may have controls that allow various parameters to be set. A physician, therapist or technician may set those controls so that an appropriate treatment is delivered when a patient initiates delivery of the treatment.
      • Features or components described in relation to one of the embodiments described herein may be provided in combination with components or features of other ones of the example embodiments described herein. For example, the controller 15 shown in FIG. 6 could be used in conjunction with any of the described embodiments. Light sources having a property or properties like those of the light source 4 shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 1C could be applied in other embodiments. It is therefore intended that the following appended claims and claims hereafter introduced are interpreted to include all such modifications, permutations, additions and sub-combinations as are within their true spirit and scope.

Claims (44)

1. A light therapy apparatus comprising:
a support configured to register with anatomical features of a patient's head;
at least one light source mounted to the support and oriented to direct light toward a jaw region of the patient; and
a controller operable to drive the light source to irradiate at least a part of the jaw region of the patient.
2. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the support comprises an intra-oral tray that is molded to conform to one or more teeth of the patient and the light source is mounted to an extra-oral bridge that extends from the intra-oral tray.
3. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 2 wherein the extra-oral bridge is detachably coupled to the intra-oral bridge.
4. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the at least one light source comprises an extra-oral LED array right side and an extra-oral LED array left side.
5. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the at least one light source is elongated and is rotatable between a sagittal orientation and a vertical orientation.
6. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the at least one light source comprises a plurality of LEDs in thermal contact with a heat sink and a fan disposed to move air past the heat sink.
7. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the controller comprises a programmable controller and the controller is connected to control separately light output by first and second groups of light emitters in the light source.
8. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the light source comprises a plurality or emitters of infrared light and a plurality of emitters of visible light.
9. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the light source includes emitters of light in at least one of the wavelength ranges 820 to 890 nm and 620 to 680 nm.
10. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the light source includes emitters that emit light in at least one of the wavelength ranges
613 nm to 624 nm
667 nm to 684 nm
750 nm to 773 nm and
812 nm to 846 nm.
11. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the light source includes emitters that light of a wavelength corresponding to an absorption band of cytochrome c oxidase.
12. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 11 wherein the absorption band is an absorption band of reduced cytochrome c oxidase.
13. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 11 wherein the absorption band is an absorption band of oxidized cytochrome c oxidase.
14. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the support comprises a head-set having a first part configured to register with a bridge of a patient's nose.
15. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 14 wherein the head-set comprises a pair of arms extending rearwardly from the first part, the arms configured to pass over the patient's ears.
16. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 15 wherein the light source is coupled to the head-set by a coupler wherein a point of attachment of the coupler to the head-set is adjustable.
17. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 16 wherein the coupler connects the light source to one of the arms and a point of attachment of the coupler to the arm is adjustable.
18. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 16 wherein the head-set defines a slot extending generally horizontally, the coupler is slidable along the slot, and the apparatus comprises a clamp for locking the coupler at a desired position along the slot.
19. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 16 comprising a mechanism for adjusting a position of the light source vertically and a mechanism for adjusting a position of the light source horizontally.
20. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 19 wherein the light source is detachable from the head-set.
21. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the light source is moldable to conform to a shape of the patient's face.
22. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the light source comprises a right section, a center section, and a left section and is flexible in its portions between the center section and the left and right sections.
23. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 22 comprising a right hinge-like member between the right section and center section and a left hinge-like member between the left section and center section.
24. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the controller is configured to determine a temperature at the light source and to discontinue operation of the light source if the temperature exceeds a threshold temperature.
25. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the controller is configured to maintain a log of treatments delivered by the light therapy apparatus.
26. A light therapy apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the controller comprises a stored treatment regimen comprising a plurality of scheduled treatments and an indicator wherein the controller is configured to operate the indicator in response to stored treatment regimen to generate a signal to remind a patient of one of the scheduled treatments.
27. A method for preparing an apparatus to deliver light therapy to jaw tissues of a patient, the method comprising:
fitting a support to register with anatomical features of the patient's head;
coupling an extra-oral light source to the fitted support; and
aligning the light source adjacent target jaw tissues in the patient.
28. A method according to claim 27 wherein fitting the support comprises:
filling an intra-oral tray with a settable material;
inserting the intra-oral tray into the patient's mouth; and, allowing the settable material to set against one or more the patient's teeth to form a fitted intra-oral tray.
29. A method according to claim 27 wherein fitting the support comprises adjusting a head set to register with the bridge of the patient's nose and the patient's ears.
30. A method for delivering phototherapy to tissues of the jaws or gums of a patient, the method comprising:
supporting a light source adjacent to the face of the patient;
operating the light source to ernit light and allowing the light to pass through tissues of one or more of the patient's lips and cheeks to irradiate target tissues in one or more of the patient's jaws and gums.
31. A method according to claim 30 wherein supporting the light source comprises registering a frame to anatomical features of the patient's head and supporting the light source on the frame.
32. A method according to claim 30 wherein the emitted light includes light in at least one of the wavelength ranges 820 to 890 nm and 620 to 680 nm.
33. A method according to claim 30 wherein the emitted light includes light in at least one of the wavelength ranges
613 nm to 624 nm
667 nm to 684 nm
750 nm to 773 nm and
812 nm to 846 nm.
34. A method according to claim 30 wherein the emitted light includes light of a wavelength corresponding to an absorption band of cytochrome c oxidase.
35. A method according to claim 34 wherein the absorption band is an absorption band of reduced cytochrome c oxidase.
36. A method according to claim 34 wherein the absorption band is an absorption band of oxidized cytochrome c oxidase.
37. A method according to claim 30 comprising pressing the light source against skin of the patient's face.
38. A method according to claim 30 wherein operating the light source to emit light comprises operating the light source to emit pulses of light.
39. A method according to claim 38 wherein operating the light source to emit light comprises emitting light having a time-averaged intensity of at least 10 mW/cm2 at a light-emitting surface of the light source over a period of at least 10 seconds.
40. A method according to claim 39 wherein the time-averaged intensity is in the range of 20 mW/cm2 to 60 mW/cm2.
41. A method according to claim 30 wherein operating the light source to emit light comprises operating the light source to emit both visible and infrared light.
42. A method according to claim 41 wherein a ratio of the intensity of the visible light to the infrared light is 1 part or less visible light to 5 parts or more infrared light.
43. A method according to claim 30 comprising operating the light source to emit light for a period determined by an automatic timer.
44. A method according to claim 30 comprising, prior to operating the light source to emit light, forming the light source co conform to contours of the face of the patient and during operating the light source to emit light urging the light source against the face of the patient.
US11/767,302 2005-02-17 2007-06-22 Light therapy apparatus and methods Abandoned US20070248930A1 (en)

Priority Applications (7)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US11/767,302 US20070248930A1 (en) 2005-02-17 2007-06-22 Light therapy apparatus and methods
PCT/CA2008/001188 WO2009000075A1 (en) 2007-06-22 2008-06-20 Light therapy apparatus and methods
EP08772845.7A EP2164570A4 (en) 2007-06-22 2008-06-20 Light therapy apparatus and methods
US12/834,601 US20100318161A1 (en) 2005-02-17 2010-07-12 Light therapy methods
US13/895,330 US8900282B2 (en) 2005-02-17 2013-05-15 Light therapy apparatus and methods
US14/147,210 US20140121731A1 (en) 2005-02-17 2014-01-03 Light therapy methods
US14/554,404 US9308389B2 (en) 2005-02-17 2014-11-26 Light therapy apparatus and methods

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US65382805P 2005-02-17 2005-02-17
US70575305P 2005-08-05 2005-08-05
US11/355,583 US20060200212A1 (en) 2005-02-17 2006-02-16 Light therapy device for treatment of bone disorders and biostimulation of bone and soft tissue
US11/767,302 US20070248930A1 (en) 2005-02-17 2007-06-22 Light therapy apparatus and methods

Related Parent Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US11/335,583 Continuation-In-Part US20060165740A1 (en) 2005-01-24 2006-01-20 Perfume delivery system
US11/355,583 Continuation-In-Part US20060200212A1 (en) 2005-02-17 2006-02-16 Light therapy device for treatment of bone disorders and biostimulation of bone and soft tissue

Related Child Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US12/834,601 Division US20100318161A1 (en) 2005-02-17 2010-07-12 Light therapy methods
US13/895,330 Continuation US8900282B2 (en) 2005-02-17 2013-05-15 Light therapy apparatus and methods

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20070248930A1 true US20070248930A1 (en) 2007-10-25

Family

ID=40193520

Family Applications (5)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US11/767,302 Abandoned US20070248930A1 (en) 2005-02-17 2007-06-22 Light therapy apparatus and methods
US12/834,601 Abandoned US20100318161A1 (en) 2005-02-17 2010-07-12 Light therapy methods
US13/895,330 Expired - Fee Related US8900282B2 (en) 2005-02-17 2013-05-15 Light therapy apparatus and methods
US14/147,210 Abandoned US20140121731A1 (en) 2005-02-17 2014-01-03 Light therapy methods
US14/554,404 Active US9308389B2 (en) 2005-02-17 2014-11-26 Light therapy apparatus and methods

Family Applications After (4)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US12/834,601 Abandoned US20100318161A1 (en) 2005-02-17 2010-07-12 Light therapy methods
US13/895,330 Expired - Fee Related US8900282B2 (en) 2005-02-17 2013-05-15 Light therapy apparatus and methods
US14/147,210 Abandoned US20140121731A1 (en) 2005-02-17 2014-01-03 Light therapy methods
US14/554,404 Active US9308389B2 (en) 2005-02-17 2014-11-26 Light therapy apparatus and methods

Country Status (3)

Country Link
US (5) US20070248930A1 (en)
EP (1) EP2164570A4 (en)
WO (1) WO2009000075A1 (en)

Cited By (38)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20060200212A1 (en) * 2005-02-17 2006-09-07 Brawn Peter R Light therapy device for treatment of bone disorders and biostimulation of bone and soft tissue
US20100092916A1 (en) * 2008-09-09 2010-04-15 New York University Method and devices to increase craniofacial bone density
WO2010142031A1 (en) * 2009-06-08 2010-12-16 Biolux Research Limited Method and apparatus for regulating tooth movement
WO2012048423A1 (en) * 2010-10-13 2012-04-19 Biolux Research Limited Method and apparatus for tooth regulation with heavy forces
WO2012075584A1 (en) * 2010-12-08 2012-06-14 Biolux Research Limited Methods and apparatuses useful for regulating bone remodeling or tooth movement using light therapy, a functional appliance, and/or vitamin d
US20130280671A1 (en) * 2012-04-19 2013-10-24 Biolux Research Ltd. Intra-oral light therapy apparatuses and methods for their use
US20140072932A1 (en) * 2012-04-19 2014-03-13 Biolux Research Ltd. Intra-oral light therapy apparatuses and methods for their use
US8900282B2 (en) 2005-02-17 2014-12-02 Biolux Research Ltd. Light therapy apparatus and methods
WO2015006872A1 (en) 2013-07-17 2015-01-22 Meditech International Inc. System and method for multi-colour light treatment
US8996137B2 (en) 2013-04-19 2015-03-31 Oculeve, Inc. Nasal stimulation devices and methods
BE1022600B1 (en) * 2015-04-29 2016-06-14 Hugues Libotte AUTONOMOUS DEVICE FOR VISIBLE AND INFRARED ILLUMINATION TREATMENT OF ARTHROSITIC PAIN IN SMALL ANIMALS
US20160262856A1 (en) * 2015-03-12 2016-09-15 Align Technology, Inc. Digital dental tray
US9622840B2 (en) 2010-06-15 2017-04-18 The Procter & Gamble Company Methods for whitening teeth
US9687652B2 (en) 2014-07-25 2017-06-27 Oculeve, Inc. Stimulation patterns for treating dry eye
US9730780B2 (en) 2013-10-22 2017-08-15 Biolux Research Ltd. Intra-oral light-therapy apparatuses and methods for their use
US9737712B2 (en) 2014-10-22 2017-08-22 Oculeve, Inc. Stimulation devices and methods for treating dry eye
US9770583B2 (en) 2014-02-25 2017-09-26 Oculeve, Inc. Polymer formulations for nasolacrimal stimulation
US20180207443A1 (en) * 2017-01-23 2018-07-26 Hidetoshi Nishio Light Irradiation Device for Teeth Whitening
USD826420S1 (en) 2014-04-18 2018-08-21 Oculeve, Inc. Nasal stimulator device
US10085822B2 (en) 2012-04-13 2018-10-02 Advanced Orthodontics And Education Association, Llc Method and device for increasing bone density in the mouth
US10207108B2 (en) 2014-10-22 2019-02-19 Oculeve, Inc. Implantable nasal stimulator systems and methods
US10252048B2 (en) 2016-02-19 2019-04-09 Oculeve, Inc. Nasal stimulation for rhinitis, nasal congestion, and ocular allergies
US10328262B2 (en) 2010-11-16 2019-06-25 The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University Stimulation devices and methods
US10426958B2 (en) 2015-12-04 2019-10-01 Oculeve, Inc. Intranasal stimulation for enhanced release of ocular mucins and other tear proteins
US10537469B2 (en) 2013-03-12 2020-01-21 Oculeve, Inc. Implant delivery devices, systems, and methods
US10598949B2 (en) * 2013-07-30 2020-03-24 Jonathan Stephen Farringdon Method and apparatus for forming a visible image in space
US10610095B2 (en) 2016-12-02 2020-04-07 Oculeve, Inc. Apparatus and method for dry eye forecast and treatment recommendation
US10610695B2 (en) 2014-10-22 2020-04-07 Oculeve, Inc. Implantable device for increasing tear production
WO2020112735A2 (en) 2018-11-28 2020-06-04 Biolux Research Holdings, Inc. Orthodontic appliance compliance monitoring systems, devices, and methods
US10716652B2 (en) 2018-08-10 2020-07-21 SDU U.S. SmilePay SPV Mouthpiece for teeth whitening
US10722718B2 (en) 2010-11-16 2020-07-28 The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University Systems and methods for treatment of dry eye
US10918864B2 (en) 2016-05-02 2021-02-16 Oculeve, Inc. Intranasal stimulation for treatment of meibomian gland disease and blepharitis
CN113164243A (en) * 2018-10-11 2021-07-23 高露洁-棕榄公司 Oral treatment devices, systems, and methods
US11141254B2 (en) 2018-08-10 2021-10-12 Sdc U.S. Smilepay Spv Mouthpiece for teeth whitening
CN113995960A (en) * 2021-11-23 2022-02-01 固安翌光科技有限公司 Oral cavity light medical device
US20230277867A1 (en) * 2015-07-28 2023-09-07 Know Bio, Llc Phototherapy devices for treatment of dermatological disorders of the scalp
US11833368B2 (en) 2020-02-11 2023-12-05 Jonathan A. Shanker Systems and methods for delivering low-level electromagnetic radiation to a patient
USD1008700S1 (en) 2021-02-08 2023-12-26 Jonathan A. Shanker Neck therapy cushion

Families Citing this family (19)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
AU2012335699B2 (en) * 2011-11-08 2017-06-15 Biophotas, Inc. Shapeable light therapy device and method
US9687669B2 (en) 2011-11-09 2017-06-27 John Stephan Wearable light therapy apparatus
US9352170B1 (en) 2012-01-31 2016-05-31 Christina Davis Spectral light therapy for autism spectral disorders
US9572645B2 (en) * 2013-08-01 2017-02-21 Jbl Radical Innovations, Llc Closed system mouthpiece with light and heat generation to activate a formulation to increase its volume
KR101525123B1 (en) * 2014-08-29 2015-06-03 주식회사 비에스앤코 Teeth Whitening Apparatus
BR122020024964B1 (en) 2015-07-28 2024-01-16 Know Bio, Llc METHODS AND DEVICES FOR REDUCING THE PRESENCE, CONCENTRATION OR GROWTH OF PATHOGENS IN OR ON TISSUE OF LIVING MAMMALS
US10500410B2 (en) 2016-02-26 2019-12-10 Cimphoni Life Sciences LLC Light emitting bone implants
US11285337B2 (en) * 2016-07-22 2022-03-29 The Regents Of The University Of Michigan Temporally modulated multi-LED for enhanced subconscious physiological responses
US20190083809A1 (en) 2016-07-27 2019-03-21 Z2020, Llc Componentry and devices for light therapy delivery and methods related thereto
USD860453S1 (en) * 2016-10-10 2019-09-17 K-Laser D.O.O. Device for laser therapy
EP3573570B1 (en) 2017-01-25 2023-01-04 Dentsply Sirona Inc. Light curing dental system
US11202919B2 (en) 2017-03-30 2021-12-21 Healthe, Inc. Wavelength converting therapeutic treatment and associated methods
WO2020112416A1 (en) 2018-11-26 2020-06-04 Anthony Suriano Unimpeded distalizing jig
USD925046S1 (en) 2019-05-30 2021-07-13 Biophotas, Inc. Light therapy device
US11331513B2 (en) 2019-09-07 2022-05-17 National Laser Company Pain treatment device
IL292670A (en) * 2019-11-01 2022-07-01 Millennium Healthcare Tech Inc Blast protocol
USD957660S1 (en) 2020-02-28 2022-07-12 Biophotas, Inc. Controller for light therapy system
US11147984B2 (en) 2020-03-19 2021-10-19 Know Bio, Llc Illumination devices for inducing biological effects
US11654294B2 (en) 2021-03-15 2023-05-23 Know Bio, Llc Intranasal illumination devices

Citations (84)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2884926A (en) * 1957-03-15 1959-05-05 Grasso Frank Device for radiating the mouth
US4244373A (en) * 1978-05-17 1981-01-13 Nachman Marvin J Electrical stimulation dental device
US4457707A (en) * 1981-11-18 1984-07-03 Medical Magnetics, Inc. Integrated oral magnetic osteogenic and orthodontic appliances
US4628931A (en) * 1982-03-03 1986-12-16 Barrett Harold F Medical treatment method
US4840174A (en) * 1986-06-27 1989-06-20 University Of Cincinnati Method of laser treatment of cancerization of the oral cavity
US5259380A (en) * 1987-11-04 1993-11-09 Amcor Electronics, Ltd. Light therapy system
US5358503A (en) * 1994-01-25 1994-10-25 Bertwell Dale E Photo-thermal therapeutic device and method
US5421727A (en) * 1993-06-07 1995-06-06 Stevens; Barry H. Dental instrument with microwave/RF radiation and method of treating a tooth
US5445608A (en) * 1993-08-16 1995-08-29 James C. Chen Method and apparatus for providing light-activated therapy
US5487662A (en) * 1994-03-22 1996-01-30 Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company Dental impression tray for photocurable impression material
US5500009A (en) * 1990-11-15 1996-03-19 Amron, Ltd. Method of treating herpes
US5549660A (en) * 1990-11-15 1996-08-27 Amron, Ltd. Method of treating acne
US5601619A (en) * 1993-12-13 1997-02-11 Drechsler; Howard J. Phototherapeutic device and method
US5611793A (en) * 1992-04-30 1997-03-18 Institute Of Dental Surgery Laser treatment
US5616140A (en) * 1994-03-21 1997-04-01 Prescott; Marvin Method and apparatus for therapeutic laser treatment
US5683436A (en) * 1994-02-24 1997-11-04 Amron Ltd. Treatment of rhinitis by biostimulative illumination
US5709645A (en) * 1996-01-30 1998-01-20 Comptronic Devices Limited Independent field photic stimulator
US5766233A (en) * 1994-01-20 1998-06-16 Biolight Patent Holding Ab Device for wound healing by means of light
US5913883A (en) * 1996-08-06 1999-06-22 Alexander; Dane Therapeutic facial mask
US5951141A (en) * 1998-11-17 1999-09-14 Bradley; Paul David Head mounted illumination device
US6063108A (en) * 1997-01-06 2000-05-16 Salansky; Norman Method and apparatus for localized low energy photon therapy (LEPT)
US6077073A (en) * 1998-09-15 2000-06-20 Jacob; Gregory S. Light emitting diode-array light apparatus
US6096066A (en) * 1998-09-11 2000-08-01 Light Sciences Limited Partnership Conformal patch for administering light therapy to subcutaneous tumors
US6156028A (en) * 1994-03-21 2000-12-05 Prescott; Marvin A. Method and apparatus for therapeutic laser treatment of wounds
US6290714B1 (en) * 1999-03-23 2001-09-18 Jackson Streeter Method for treating bone fracture
US6319273B1 (en) * 1999-12-16 2001-11-20 Light Sciences Corporation Illuminating device for treating eye disease
US6328732B1 (en) * 1996-12-10 2001-12-11 Wavelight Laser Technologies Gmbh Device for treating bodily substances
US6337305B1 (en) * 1997-03-20 2002-01-08 Basf Aktiengesellschaft Substituted 2-benz(o)ylpyridines, their preparation and their use as herbicides
US6413267B1 (en) * 1999-08-09 2002-07-02 Theralase, Inc. Therapeutic laser device and method including noninvasive subsurface monitoring and controlling means
US6418345B1 (en) * 1998-08-03 2002-07-09 Amei Technologies Inc. PEMF stimulator for treating osteoporosis and stimulating tissue growth
US6450170B1 (en) * 2000-06-15 2002-09-17 Mark Friedman Treatment of migraine, post-traumatic headache, tension-type headaches, atypical facial pain, cervical pain and muscle spasm
US6471716B1 (en) * 2000-07-11 2002-10-29 Joseph P. Pecukonis Low level light therapy method and apparatus with improved wavelength, temperature and voltage control
US20020198575A1 (en) * 2000-09-18 2002-12-26 Jana Sullivan Photo-therapy device
US20030009205A1 (en) * 1997-08-25 2003-01-09 Biel Merrill A. Treatment device for topical photodynamic therapy and method of using same
US6514075B1 (en) * 1998-09-15 2003-02-04 Gregory S. Jacob Dental curing apparatus for light-sensitive materials
US6524329B1 (en) * 2001-03-08 2003-02-25 Tru-Light Corporation Body processing using light
US20030125782A1 (en) * 2001-11-15 2003-07-03 Jackson Streeter Methods for the regeneration of bone and cartilage
US20030167080A1 (en) * 2002-03-04 2003-09-04 Hart Barry Michael Joint / tissue inflammation therapy and monitoring device(s) JITMon device
US6645230B2 (en) * 2000-03-23 2003-11-11 Photo Therapeutics Ltd. Therapeutic light source and method
US6663659B2 (en) * 2000-01-13 2003-12-16 Mcdaniel David H. Method and apparatus for the photomodulation of living cells
US6676655B2 (en) * 1998-11-30 2004-01-13 Light Bioscience L.L.C. Low intensity light therapy for the manipulation of fibroblast, and fibroblast-derived mammalian cells and collagen
US6678562B1 (en) * 2000-01-12 2004-01-13 Amei Technologies Inc. Combined tissue/bone growth stimulator and external fixation device
US20040093047A1 (en) * 2000-11-03 2004-05-13 Elliot Lach System and method for tissue treatment
US20040093042A1 (en) * 2002-06-19 2004-05-13 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Method and apparatus for photothermal treatment of tissue at depth
US6746473B2 (en) * 2001-03-02 2004-06-08 Erchonia Patent Holdings, Llc Therapeutic laser device
US20040193235A1 (en) * 2001-11-29 2004-09-30 Altshuler Gregory B. Multi-directional oral phototherapy applicator
US20040230259A1 (en) * 2003-02-26 2004-11-18 Di Matteo Thierry Fabio Apparatus and method for treatment of acne
US20040248059A1 (en) * 2003-05-06 2004-12-09 J. Morita Manufacturing Corporation Medical irradiation apparatus
US20050070977A1 (en) * 2003-04-28 2005-03-31 Molina Sherry L. Light and magnetic emitting mask
US20050181333A1 (en) * 2002-05-08 2005-08-18 Naim Karazivan System and method for detecting dental caries
US6942658B1 (en) * 2001-08-24 2005-09-13 Boilase Technology, Inc. Radiation emitting apparatus with spatially controllable output energy distributions
US20050203592A1 (en) * 2003-11-14 2005-09-15 Klaus Teichert Irradiation device and use thereof
US6974224B2 (en) * 2003-07-30 2005-12-13 Tru-Light Corporation Modularized light processing of body components
US20050278003A1 (en) * 2004-05-12 2005-12-15 Harold Feldman Electroluminescent light therapy devices
US20050282102A1 (en) * 2004-06-16 2005-12-22 Cms-Dental Aps Kit for use by dental professionals
US20060009823A1 (en) * 2004-07-08 2006-01-12 Richardson Brian D Luminex® laser therapy system
US6986782B2 (en) * 1999-01-15 2006-01-17 Light Sciences Corporation Ambulatory photodynamic therapy
US7018395B2 (en) * 1999-01-15 2006-03-28 Light Sciences Corporation Photodynamic treatment of targeted cells
US20060085052A1 (en) * 2004-09-09 2006-04-20 Osnat Feuerstein Method and means for exerting a phototoxic effect of visible light on microorganisms
US7084389B2 (en) * 2002-09-11 2006-08-01 Donald Spector Hand held led device
US7100615B1 (en) * 2002-11-25 2006-09-05 Cms-Dental Aps Low level laser therapy system
US7101384B2 (en) * 2001-03-08 2006-09-05 Tru-Light Corporation Light processing of selected body components
US20060200212A1 (en) * 2005-02-17 2006-09-07 Brawn Peter R Light therapy device for treatment of bone disorders and biostimulation of bone and soft tissue
US20060223032A1 (en) * 2003-08-08 2006-10-05 Daniel Fried Near-infrared transillumination for the imaging of early dental decay
US7163400B2 (en) * 2002-03-06 2007-01-16 Nocari, Llc Method and laser apparatus for preventing tooth decay
US7184614B2 (en) * 2001-12-10 2007-02-27 Inolase 2002 Ltd. Method and apparatus for improving safety during exposure to a monochromatic light source
US20070121786A1 (en) * 2003-12-08 2007-05-31 J. Morita Manufacturing Corporation Dental diagnostic and treatment apparatus
US20070129776A1 (en) * 2005-10-20 2007-06-07 Light Sciences Llc External wearable light therapy treatment systems
US7244253B2 (en) * 1998-12-08 2007-07-17 Joseph Neev Energy application with cooling
US20070208289A1 (en) * 2006-03-03 2007-09-06 Jay Walther Systems and methods for providing light therapy traction
US20070259310A1 (en) * 2006-05-03 2007-11-08 Goodson J M Intraoral light-emitting device
US7306620B2 (en) * 2002-02-11 2007-12-11 Keraderm, Llc Prevention and treatment of skin and nail infections using germicidal light
US20080032252A1 (en) * 2004-08-25 2008-02-07 Discus Dental Impressions, Llc Illumination system for dental applications
US20080051858A1 (en) * 2001-06-26 2008-02-28 Photomed Technologies, Inc. Therapeutic methods using electromagnetic radiation
US20080113313A1 (en) * 2006-11-15 2008-05-15 Louie Khouri Self contained composition enhancing dental tray
US7374569B2 (en) * 2004-09-02 2008-05-20 Dynatronics, Corporation Dynamically distributing power of a light beam for use in light therapy
US20080214530A1 (en) * 2003-05-23 2008-09-04 Michael John Colles Photo-Activated Disinfection
US20080255498A1 (en) * 2005-08-25 2008-10-16 Houle Philip R Sensitizer Solutions, Systems, and Methods of Use
US20080273163A1 (en) * 2006-03-13 2008-11-06 Manabu Sasaki Structure for Installing Bone Conduction Device on Eyeglasses
US20090011380A1 (en) * 2007-07-02 2009-01-08 I Roou Wang Dental medical tool
US20090029311A1 (en) * 2006-01-24 2009-01-29 Smile Studio (Uk) Limited Method and apparatus for whitening teeth
US7513906B2 (en) * 2005-05-31 2009-04-07 Medx Health Corp. Phototherapy apparatus and method for bone healing, bone growth stimulation, and bone cartilage regeneration
US20090323370A1 (en) * 2005-10-17 2009-12-31 Cha Hyoung Koo Intraoral Illuminating Apparatus
US20100318161A1 (en) * 2005-02-17 2010-12-16 Biolux Research Ltd. Light therapy methods

Family Cites Families (112)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2635175A (en) 1952-02-09 1953-04-14 Hodge Woodrow Wilson Therapeutic appliance
US3516411A (en) * 1968-05-13 1970-06-23 Estelle Adler Apparatus for the therapeutic treatment of the skin
US3971387A (en) * 1975-03-21 1976-07-27 Mantell Michael J Electro-therapeutic face mask
JPS5576646A (en) * 1978-12-04 1980-06-09 Morita Mfg Teeth decaying preventive device by laser ray irradiation
ES8800832A1 (en) * 1985-12-30 1987-12-01 Torres Zaragoza Vicente M Method and device for producing the whitening of live teeth with pathological and normal colorations.
DE3603156A1 (en) 1986-02-03 1987-08-06 Zeiss Carl Fa DEVICE FOR THERAPEUTIC RADIATION OF ORGANIC TISSUE WITH LASER RADIATION
JPS6397175A (en) 1986-10-15 1988-04-27 森 敬 Light irradiation apparatus for emitting tooth germ treating light
JPS63257578A (en) * 1987-04-15 1988-10-25 森 敬 Light irradiation remedy apparatus
IL84367A (en) 1987-11-04 1994-02-27 Amcor Ltd Apparatus for use in radiation therapy
US4930504A (en) 1987-11-13 1990-06-05 Diamantopoulos Costas A Device for biostimulation of tissue and method for treatment of tissue
US4877401A (en) 1988-03-09 1989-10-31 University Of Utah Method of preventing tooth decay by laser beam irradiation and chemical treatment
US5365624A (en) 1993-03-02 1994-11-22 Berns Michael S Apparatus for automatic and simultaneous caring for teeth and gums
IL107248A0 (en) 1993-10-11 1994-01-25 Amcor Ltd Apparatus for treatment of the oral cavity
US5814039A (en) * 1996-04-15 1998-09-29 Prescott; Marvin A. Laser catheter
US5989245A (en) 1994-03-21 1999-11-23 Prescott; Marvin A. Method and apparatus for therapeutic laser treatment
US5429501A (en) 1994-03-28 1995-07-04 Ormco Corporation Orthodontic coil springs and methods
US5660461A (en) * 1994-12-08 1997-08-26 Quantum Devices, Inc. Arrays of optoelectronic devices and method of making same
HU222088B1 (en) 1995-02-03 2003-04-28 Les Laboratoires Aeterna Inc. Use of extracts of shark cartilage for production of pharmaceutical compositions
AU744385B2 (en) 1997-06-20 2002-02-21 Align Technology, Inc. Method and system for incrementally moving teeth
US5975893A (en) 1997-06-20 1999-11-02 Align Technology, Inc. Method and system for incrementally moving teeth
RU2133630C1 (en) 1997-09-23 1999-07-27 Прохончуков Александр Алексеевич Method of orthodontic treatment of anomalies in position of separate teeth
JPH11188098A (en) * 1997-10-20 1999-07-13 Matsushita Electric Works Ltd Portable lighting equipment
US6283956B1 (en) 1998-11-30 2001-09-04 David H. McDaniels Reduction, elimination, or stimulation of hair growth
SE522247C2 (en) * 1999-01-13 2004-01-27 Biolight Patent Holding Ab Device for external treatment of the oral cavity by light
US6157854A (en) 1999-01-13 2000-12-05 Bales Scientific Inc. Photon irradiation human pain treatment monitored by thermal imaging
US20050279949A1 (en) 1999-05-17 2005-12-22 Applera Corporation Temperature control for light-emitting diode stabilization
US6613001B1 (en) 2000-08-14 2003-09-02 Jeffrey B. Dworkin Intraoral appliance, monitoring device and method of treating patient
AU2001292872A1 (en) 2000-09-22 2002-04-02 The Board Of Trustee Of The University Of Illinois Use of cyclic forces to expedite remodeling of craniofacial bones
US6616447B1 (en) 2000-11-15 2003-09-09 Biolase Technology, Inc. Device for dental care and whitening
KR100412569B1 (en) 2001-02-05 2003-12-31 주식회사 지화이브 Portable far-infrared temporomandibular disease treatment device
EP1665996A3 (en) 2001-03-02 2007-11-28 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Apparatus and method for photocosmetic and photodermatological treatment
AU2002303863B2 (en) 2001-05-23 2006-08-31 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Cooling system for a photocosmetic device
GB2376891A (en) 2001-06-27 2002-12-31 Icn Photonics Ltd Method and apparatus for interacting with bone tissue using illuminating radiation
US7384419B2 (en) 2002-08-26 2008-06-10 Biolase Technology, Inc. Tapered fused waveguide for delivering treatment electromagnetic radiation toward a target surfaced
US8771149B2 (en) 2001-10-01 2014-07-08 The Nemours Foundation Compliance monitor and method for a medical device
US6648904B2 (en) 2001-11-29 2003-11-18 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Method and apparatus for controlling the temperature of a surface
US20040147984A1 (en) * 2001-11-29 2004-07-29 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Methods and apparatus for delivering low power optical treatments
US6976841B1 (en) 2002-02-21 2005-12-20 Nova Ranger, Inc. Intra oral dental irradiation device for material curing and dental imaging
US20050202363A1 (en) 2002-02-21 2005-09-15 Osterwalder J. M. Dental imaging and treatment system
US20030186193A1 (en) 2002-04-02 2003-10-02 Comfort Biomedical, Inc. Hand-held medical/dental tool
US7201577B2 (en) * 2002-04-24 2007-04-10 Gosmile, Inc. Tooth whitener applicator and method
US20040043349A1 (en) * 2002-08-27 2004-03-04 Chu-Yuan Liao Illuminated mouthpiece
US6860896B2 (en) 2002-09-03 2005-03-01 Jeffrey T. Samson Therapeutic method and apparatus
US20070219604A1 (en) 2006-03-20 2007-09-20 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Treatment of tissue with radiant energy
JP2004202189A (en) 2002-10-29 2004-07-22 Yuichiro Irie Lighting system, treatment apparatus, and bleaching method for teeth
KR20050086590A (en) 2002-11-12 2005-08-30 팔로마 메디칼 테크놀로지스, 인코포레이티드 Apparatus for performing optical dermatology
AU2003207356A1 (en) 2003-02-26 2004-09-17 Photo Therapeutics Ltd. Therapeutic method and apparatus
US20050015121A1 (en) 2003-05-27 2005-01-20 Molina Sherry L. Light wand for healing tissue
US20050221251A1 (en) 2003-07-21 2005-10-06 Soukos Nikos S Method and device for improving oral health
EP2277589B1 (en) 2003-08-12 2012-09-19 Lumenis Ltd. System for controlling non-coherent pulsed light
US7775795B2 (en) 2003-12-29 2010-08-17 Fluorinex Active Ltd. Electrochemically treating teeth
RU2363416C2 (en) 2003-12-29 2009-08-10 Флуоринекс Эктив Лтд. Ion-exchange dental device and method
WO2005107637A1 (en) 2004-05-11 2005-11-17 Remedent Nv Method and device for enhancing the treatment of teeth and gums
US7314372B2 (en) 2004-05-19 2008-01-01 Orthovisage, Inc. System and method to bioengineer facial form in adults
GB2416311B (en) 2004-07-21 2008-10-15 Smile Studio Method and apparatus for whitening teeth
WO2006008741A1 (en) 2004-07-23 2006-01-26 Ben Zion Beiski Manufacturing methods, testing methods and testers for intra-oral electronically embedded devices
WO2006028461A2 (en) 2004-09-08 2006-03-16 Tru-Light Corporation Light processing of selected body components
TW200610504A (en) * 2004-09-21 2006-04-01 Ind Tech Res Inst Toothbrush for bleaching teeth
US20060084024A1 (en) 2004-10-14 2006-04-20 Farrell Christopher J Oral appliance
WO2006063318A1 (en) 2004-12-09 2006-06-15 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Oral appliance with heat transfer mechanism
JP2008532619A (en) 2005-03-09 2008-08-21 ザ プロクター アンド ギャンブル カンパニー Sensor-responsive electric toothbrush and its use
US20060228158A1 (en) 2005-04-11 2006-10-12 Gosmile, Inc. Dipstick-type applicator for tooth whitener and skin care medication
AU2006255196B2 (en) 2005-06-03 2010-04-22 Biolase, Inc. Tissue treatment device and method
US20070016178A1 (en) 2005-07-14 2007-01-18 Boris Vaynberg Laser energy delivery device with swivel handpiece
US20070016177A1 (en) 2005-07-14 2007-01-18 Boris Vaynberg Laser ablation apparatus useful for hard tissue removal
US7597497B2 (en) 2005-07-25 2009-10-06 Gosmile, Inc. Single dose tooth whitener dispenser and applicator, and method of tooth whitening
US20070110683A1 (en) * 2005-11-16 2007-05-17 Gosmile, Inc. Oral care formulation
US7335025B2 (en) 2005-11-28 2008-02-26 Gosmile, Inc. Method of tooth whitening including wrapping the teeth
US20070183988A1 (en) * 2006-02-03 2007-08-09 GoSMILE, INC Tooth whitening delivery system
CA2535276A1 (en) 2006-02-06 2007-08-06 John Kennedy Therapy device and system and method for reducing harmful exposure to electromagnetic radiation
WO2007106856A2 (en) 2006-03-14 2007-09-20 Allux Medical, Inc. Phototherapy device and method of providing phototherapy to a body surface
WO2007121760A1 (en) 2006-04-20 2007-11-01 Remedent Nv Method and device for enhancing the treatment of teeth and gums
US20070265605A1 (en) 2006-05-15 2007-11-15 Light Instruments Ltd. Apparatus and method for treating dental tissue
US7850720B2 (en) 2006-09-23 2010-12-14 Ron Shefi Method and apparatus for applying light therapy
US20100086891A1 (en) 2006-12-14 2010-04-08 Jong-Chan Jun Tooth whitening apparatus
US7798149B2 (en) 2007-01-30 2010-09-21 Han Haduong Method and system for swallow control resulting in improved posture
EP1953446A1 (en) 2007-02-02 2008-08-06 Swiss Medical Technology GmbH Cascadable lighting module
US9668828B2 (en) 2007-03-14 2017-06-06 Orthoaccel Technologies, Inc. Systems, methods, and adjunctive procedures for correcting malocclusion
US9028250B2 (en) 2007-03-14 2015-05-12 Orthoaccel Technologies, Inc. Vibrating dental devices
EP2139560B1 (en) 2007-03-19 2012-05-30 Syneron Medical Ltd. Device for soft tissue destruction
US7934927B2 (en) 2007-04-12 2011-05-03 Mohamadreza Yazdi Impacted tooth appliance
USD582559S1 (en) 2007-07-18 2008-12-09 Fluorinex Active Ltd. Dental device
AU2008288652B2 (en) 2007-08-20 2014-06-26 Universite Laval Artificial light apparatus and its use for influencing a condition in a subject
KR101304099B1 (en) 2007-12-05 2013-09-05 시네론 메디컬 리미티드 A disposable electromagnetic energy applicator and method of using it
WO2009123965A1 (en) 2008-03-31 2009-10-08 Orthoaccel Technologies, Inc. Vibrating compressible dental plate for correcting malocclusion
ITBG20080024A1 (en) 2008-04-15 2009-10-16 Dermotricos Srl DEVICE FOR THE HAIRLIGHTING OF THE SCALP LEATHER WITH LIGHT SOURCES.
JP5251265B2 (en) 2008-06-02 2013-07-31 オムロンヘルスケア株式会社 electric toothbrush
US9072370B2 (en) 2008-06-19 2015-07-07 Colgate-Palmolive Company User health profiles derived from oral care implements
WO2009158297A1 (en) 2008-06-23 2009-12-30 Orthoaccel Technologies, Inc. Differential vibration of dental plate
US8029278B1 (en) 2008-08-06 2011-10-04 Levine Jonathan B Intra-oral whitening device
US8215954B2 (en) * 2008-08-06 2012-07-10 Levine Jonathan B Methods for effecting oral treatment of teeth or gums
US8262390B1 (en) 2008-08-18 2012-09-11 Jbl Radical Innovations, Llc Vial for delivery of its contents without shards
US8371853B2 (en) * 2008-10-06 2013-02-12 Jbl Radical Innovations, Llc Mouthpiece that adjusts to user arch sizes and seals from oxygen exposure and methods for effecting an oral treatment
US20110091835A1 (en) * 2008-10-06 2011-04-21 Levine Jonathan B Mouthpiece that adjusts to user arch sizes and seals from oxygen exposure
US8591227B2 (en) * 2008-10-06 2013-11-26 Jbl Radical Innovations, Llc Mouthpiece that adjusts to user arch sizes and seals from oxygen exposure
WO2010093632A1 (en) 2009-02-10 2010-08-19 Orthoaccel Technologies, Inc. Vibrating dental plate and accessories
US8267609B2 (en) 2009-03-19 2012-09-18 Jbl Radical Innovations, Llc Vial for delivering contents onto a substrate
US8262306B2 (en) 2009-03-19 2012-09-11 Jbl Radical Innovations, Llc Dispenser and applicator that bring reactive substances into contact with each other at time of use
US8398324B2 (en) * 2009-03-19 2013-03-19 Jbl Radical Innovations, Llc Vial for delivering contents onto a substrate
WO2010142013A1 (en) * 2009-06-08 2010-12-16 Biolux Research Limited Method and device for accelerating orthodontic tooth movement
USD661806S1 (en) * 2009-07-20 2012-06-12 Fluorinex Active Ltd. Dental device
US20110136071A1 (en) * 2009-10-09 2011-06-09 Orthoaccel Technologies, Inc. Brace cap
USD636074S1 (en) * 2010-06-14 2011-04-12 Levine Jonathan B Mouthpiece
WO2012048423A1 (en) * 2010-10-13 2012-04-19 Biolux Research Limited Method and apparatus for tooth regulation with heavy forces
WO2012075584A1 (en) 2010-12-08 2012-06-14 Biolux Research Limited Methods and apparatuses useful for regulating bone remodeling or tooth movement using light therapy, a functional appliance, and/or vitamin d
US20120172679A1 (en) 2010-12-30 2012-07-05 Logan Robert J Systems and methods for monitoring and processing biometric data
EP2760369B1 (en) 2011-11-25 2017-04-12 Braebon Medical Corporation Method and apparatus for verifying compliance with dental appliance therapy
WO2013155366A1 (en) 2012-04-13 2013-10-17 Orthoaccel Technologies, Inc. Laser orthodontic devices
US20140072932A1 (en) 2012-04-19 2014-03-13 Biolux Research Ltd. Intra-oral light therapy apparatuses and methods for their use
US20130280671A1 (en) 2012-04-19 2013-10-24 Biolux Research Ltd. Intra-oral light therapy apparatuses and methods for their use
US20140080082A1 (en) 2012-09-14 2014-03-20 Orthoaccel Technologies Inc. Light cure bite plate for orthodontic remodeling devices
CN111330163A (en) 2013-10-22 2020-06-26 碧乐生物光子科研控股有限公司 Intraoral light therapy devices and methods of using same

Patent Citations (99)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2884926A (en) * 1957-03-15 1959-05-05 Grasso Frank Device for radiating the mouth
US4244373A (en) * 1978-05-17 1981-01-13 Nachman Marvin J Electrical stimulation dental device
US4457707A (en) * 1981-11-18 1984-07-03 Medical Magnetics, Inc. Integrated oral magnetic osteogenic and orthodontic appliances
US4628931A (en) * 1982-03-03 1986-12-16 Barrett Harold F Medical treatment method
US4840174A (en) * 1986-06-27 1989-06-20 University Of Cincinnati Method of laser treatment of cancerization of the oral cavity
US5259380A (en) * 1987-11-04 1993-11-09 Amcor Electronics, Ltd. Light therapy system
US5500009A (en) * 1990-11-15 1996-03-19 Amron, Ltd. Method of treating herpes
US5549660A (en) * 1990-11-15 1996-08-27 Amron, Ltd. Method of treating acne
US5611793A (en) * 1992-04-30 1997-03-18 Institute Of Dental Surgery Laser treatment
US5421727A (en) * 1993-06-07 1995-06-06 Stevens; Barry H. Dental instrument with microwave/RF radiation and method of treating a tooth
US5445608A (en) * 1993-08-16 1995-08-29 James C. Chen Method and apparatus for providing light-activated therapy
US5601619A (en) * 1993-12-13 1997-02-11 Drechsler; Howard J. Phototherapeutic device and method
US5766233A (en) * 1994-01-20 1998-06-16 Biolight Patent Holding Ab Device for wound healing by means of light
US5358503A (en) * 1994-01-25 1994-10-25 Bertwell Dale E Photo-thermal therapeutic device and method
US5683436A (en) * 1994-02-24 1997-11-04 Amron Ltd. Treatment of rhinitis by biostimulative illumination
US6156028A (en) * 1994-03-21 2000-12-05 Prescott; Marvin A. Method and apparatus for therapeutic laser treatment of wounds
US5616140A (en) * 1994-03-21 1997-04-01 Prescott; Marvin Method and apparatus for therapeutic laser treatment
US5487662A (en) * 1994-03-22 1996-01-30 Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company Dental impression tray for photocurable impression material
US5709645A (en) * 1996-01-30 1998-01-20 Comptronic Devices Limited Independent field photic stimulator
US5913883A (en) * 1996-08-06 1999-06-22 Alexander; Dane Therapeutic facial mask
US6328732B1 (en) * 1996-12-10 2001-12-11 Wavelight Laser Technologies Gmbh Device for treating bodily substances
US6063108A (en) * 1997-01-06 2000-05-16 Salansky; Norman Method and apparatus for localized low energy photon therapy (LEPT)
US6494900B1 (en) * 1997-01-06 2002-12-17 Norman Salansky Method for localized low energy photon therapy (LEPT)
US6337305B1 (en) * 1997-03-20 2002-01-08 Basf Aktiengesellschaft Substituted 2-benz(o)ylpyridines, their preparation and their use as herbicides
US6743249B1 (en) * 1997-08-25 2004-06-01 Philip G. Alden Treatment device for photodynamic therapy and method for making same
US20030009205A1 (en) * 1997-08-25 2003-01-09 Biel Merrill A. Treatment device for topical photodynamic therapy and method of using same
US7070611B2 (en) * 1997-08-25 2006-07-04 Advanced Photodynamic Technologies, Inc. Treatment device for topical photodynamic therapy and method of using same
US20020165583A1 (en) * 1998-08-03 2002-11-07 Amei Technologies Inc., A Delaware Corporation PEMF stimulator for treating osteoporosis and stimulating tissue growth
US6418345B1 (en) * 1998-08-03 2002-07-09 Amei Technologies Inc. PEMF stimulator for treating osteoporosis and stimulating tissue growth
US6096066A (en) * 1998-09-11 2000-08-01 Light Sciences Limited Partnership Conformal patch for administering light therapy to subcutaneous tumors
US6514075B1 (en) * 1998-09-15 2003-02-04 Gregory S. Jacob Dental curing apparatus for light-sensitive materials
US6077073A (en) * 1998-09-15 2000-06-20 Jacob; Gregory S. Light emitting diode-array light apparatus
US5951141A (en) * 1998-11-17 1999-09-14 Bradley; Paul David Head mounted illumination device
US6676655B2 (en) * 1998-11-30 2004-01-13 Light Bioscience L.L.C. Low intensity light therapy for the manipulation of fibroblast, and fibroblast-derived mammalian cells and collagen
US7244253B2 (en) * 1998-12-08 2007-07-17 Joseph Neev Energy application with cooling
US6986782B2 (en) * 1999-01-15 2006-01-17 Light Sciences Corporation Ambulatory photodynamic therapy
US7018395B2 (en) * 1999-01-15 2006-03-28 Light Sciences Corporation Photodynamic treatment of targeted cells
US6290714B1 (en) * 1999-03-23 2001-09-18 Jackson Streeter Method for treating bone fracture
US6413267B1 (en) * 1999-08-09 2002-07-02 Theralase, Inc. Therapeutic laser device and method including noninvasive subsurface monitoring and controlling means
US6319273B1 (en) * 1999-12-16 2001-11-20 Light Sciences Corporation Illuminating device for treating eye disease
US6678562B1 (en) * 2000-01-12 2004-01-13 Amei Technologies Inc. Combined tissue/bone growth stimulator and external fixation device
US6663659B2 (en) * 2000-01-13 2003-12-16 Mcdaniel David H. Method and apparatus for the photomodulation of living cells
US20040127961A1 (en) * 2000-03-23 2004-07-01 Colin Whitehurst Therapeutic light source and method
US6645230B2 (en) * 2000-03-23 2003-11-11 Photo Therapeutics Ltd. Therapeutic light source and method
US6450170B1 (en) * 2000-06-15 2002-09-17 Mark Friedman Treatment of migraine, post-traumatic headache, tension-type headaches, atypical facial pain, cervical pain and muscle spasm
US6471716B1 (en) * 2000-07-11 2002-10-29 Joseph P. Pecukonis Low level light therapy method and apparatus with improved wavelength, temperature and voltage control
US20020198575A1 (en) * 2000-09-18 2002-12-26 Jana Sullivan Photo-therapy device
US6602275B1 (en) * 2000-09-18 2003-08-05 Jana Sullivan Device and method for therapeutic treatment of living organisms
US6896693B2 (en) * 2000-09-18 2005-05-24 Jana Sullivan Photo-therapy device
US20040093047A1 (en) * 2000-11-03 2004-05-13 Elliot Lach System and method for tissue treatment
US6746473B2 (en) * 2001-03-02 2004-06-08 Erchonia Patent Holdings, Llc Therapeutic laser device
US7101384B2 (en) * 2001-03-08 2006-09-05 Tru-Light Corporation Light processing of selected body components
US6524329B1 (en) * 2001-03-08 2003-02-25 Tru-Light Corporation Body processing using light
US20080051858A1 (en) * 2001-06-26 2008-02-28 Photomed Technologies, Inc. Therapeutic methods using electromagnetic radiation
US6942658B1 (en) * 2001-08-24 2005-09-13 Boilase Technology, Inc. Radiation emitting apparatus with spatially controllable output energy distributions
US20030125782A1 (en) * 2001-11-15 2003-07-03 Jackson Streeter Methods for the regeneration of bone and cartilage
US20040199227A1 (en) * 2001-11-29 2004-10-07 Altshuler Gregory B. Biostimulation of the oral cavity
US20040193235A1 (en) * 2001-11-29 2004-09-30 Altshuler Gregory B. Multi-directional oral phototherapy applicator
US7422598B2 (en) * 2001-11-29 2008-09-09 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Multi-wavelength oral phototherapy applicator
US7329274B2 (en) * 2001-11-29 2008-02-12 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Conforming oral phototherapy applicator
US7354448B2 (en) * 2001-11-29 2008-04-08 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Dental phototherapy methods and compositions
US7184614B2 (en) * 2001-12-10 2007-02-27 Inolase 2002 Ltd. Method and apparatus for improving safety during exposure to a monochromatic light source
US7306620B2 (en) * 2002-02-11 2007-12-11 Keraderm, Llc Prevention and treatment of skin and nail infections using germicidal light
US7081128B2 (en) * 2002-03-04 2006-07-25 Hart Barry M Phototherapy device and method of use
US20030167080A1 (en) * 2002-03-04 2003-09-04 Hart Barry Michael Joint / tissue inflammation therapy and monitoring device(s) JITMon device
US7163400B2 (en) * 2002-03-06 2007-01-16 Nocari, Llc Method and laser apparatus for preventing tooth decay
US20050181333A1 (en) * 2002-05-08 2005-08-18 Naim Karazivan System and method for detecting dental caries
US20040093042A1 (en) * 2002-06-19 2004-05-13 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Method and apparatus for photothermal treatment of tissue at depth
US7084389B2 (en) * 2002-09-11 2006-08-01 Donald Spector Hand held led device
US7100615B1 (en) * 2002-11-25 2006-09-05 Cms-Dental Aps Low level laser therapy system
US20040230259A1 (en) * 2003-02-26 2004-11-18 Di Matteo Thierry Fabio Apparatus and method for treatment of acne
US20050070977A1 (en) * 2003-04-28 2005-03-31 Molina Sherry L. Light and magnetic emitting mask
US20040248059A1 (en) * 2003-05-06 2004-12-09 J. Morita Manufacturing Corporation Medical irradiation apparatus
US20080214530A1 (en) * 2003-05-23 2008-09-04 Michael John Colles Photo-Activated Disinfection
US6974224B2 (en) * 2003-07-30 2005-12-13 Tru-Light Corporation Modularized light processing of body components
US20060223032A1 (en) * 2003-08-08 2006-10-05 Daniel Fried Near-infrared transillumination for the imaging of early dental decay
US20050203592A1 (en) * 2003-11-14 2005-09-15 Klaus Teichert Irradiation device and use thereof
US20070121786A1 (en) * 2003-12-08 2007-05-31 J. Morita Manufacturing Corporation Dental diagnostic and treatment apparatus
US20050278003A1 (en) * 2004-05-12 2005-12-15 Harold Feldman Electroluminescent light therapy devices
US20050282102A1 (en) * 2004-06-16 2005-12-22 Cms-Dental Aps Kit for use by dental professionals
US20060009823A1 (en) * 2004-07-08 2006-01-12 Richardson Brian D Luminex® laser therapy system
US20080032252A1 (en) * 2004-08-25 2008-02-07 Discus Dental Impressions, Llc Illumination system for dental applications
US7374569B2 (en) * 2004-09-02 2008-05-20 Dynatronics, Corporation Dynamically distributing power of a light beam for use in light therapy
US20060085052A1 (en) * 2004-09-09 2006-04-20 Osnat Feuerstein Method and means for exerting a phototoxic effect of visible light on microorganisms
US20060200212A1 (en) * 2005-02-17 2006-09-07 Brawn Peter R Light therapy device for treatment of bone disorders and biostimulation of bone and soft tissue
US20100318161A1 (en) * 2005-02-17 2010-12-16 Biolux Research Ltd. Light therapy methods
US20100305668A1 (en) * 2005-02-17 2010-12-02 Biolux Research Ltd. Methods for treatment of bone disorders and biostimulation of bone and soft tissue
US7513906B2 (en) * 2005-05-31 2009-04-07 Medx Health Corp. Phototherapy apparatus and method for bone healing, bone growth stimulation, and bone cartilage regeneration
US20080255498A1 (en) * 2005-08-25 2008-10-16 Houle Philip R Sensitizer Solutions, Systems, and Methods of Use
US20090323370A1 (en) * 2005-10-17 2009-12-31 Cha Hyoung Koo Intraoral Illuminating Apparatus
US20070129776A1 (en) * 2005-10-20 2007-06-07 Light Sciences Llc External wearable light therapy treatment systems
US20090029311A1 (en) * 2006-01-24 2009-01-29 Smile Studio (Uk) Limited Method and apparatus for whitening teeth
US20100094190A1 (en) * 2006-03-03 2010-04-15 Jay Walther Systems and methods for providing light therapy traction
US20070208289A1 (en) * 2006-03-03 2007-09-06 Jay Walther Systems and methods for providing light therapy traction
US20080273163A1 (en) * 2006-03-13 2008-11-06 Manabu Sasaki Structure for Installing Bone Conduction Device on Eyeglasses
US20070259310A1 (en) * 2006-05-03 2007-11-08 Goodson J M Intraoral light-emitting device
US8021148B2 (en) * 2006-05-03 2011-09-20 Forsyth Dental Infirmary For Children Intraoral light-emitting device
US20080113313A1 (en) * 2006-11-15 2008-05-15 Louie Khouri Self contained composition enhancing dental tray
US20090011380A1 (en) * 2007-07-02 2009-01-08 I Roou Wang Dental medical tool

Cited By (83)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20060200212A1 (en) * 2005-02-17 2006-09-07 Brawn Peter R Light therapy device for treatment of bone disorders and biostimulation of bone and soft tissue
US9308389B2 (en) 2005-02-17 2016-04-12 Biolux Research Ltd. Light therapy apparatus and methods
US8900282B2 (en) 2005-02-17 2014-12-02 Biolux Research Ltd. Light therapy apparatus and methods
US20100092916A1 (en) * 2008-09-09 2010-04-15 New York University Method and devices to increase craniofacial bone density
CN102802726A (en) * 2009-06-08 2012-11-28 碧奥鲁克斯研究有限公司 Method and apparatus for regulating tooth movement
KR101670537B1 (en) * 2009-06-08 2016-10-28 바이오룩스 리서치 리미티드 Method and apparatus for regulating tooth movement
WO2010142031A1 (en) * 2009-06-08 2010-12-16 Biolux Research Limited Method and apparatus for regulating tooth movement
KR20120047227A (en) * 2009-06-08 2012-05-11 바이오룩스 리서치 리미티드 Method and apparatus for regulating tooth movement
US20120148975A1 (en) * 2009-06-08 2012-06-14 Biolux Research Ltd. Method and apparatus for regulating tooth movement
JP2012529299A (en) * 2009-06-08 2012-11-22 バイオルックス リサーチ リミテッド Method and apparatus for adjusting tooth movement
EP2440288A4 (en) * 2009-06-08 2015-10-07 Biolux Res Ltd Method and apparatus for regulating tooth movement
WO2010142013A1 (en) * 2009-06-08 2010-12-16 Biolux Research Limited Method and device for accelerating orthodontic tooth movement
US9642687B2 (en) 2010-06-15 2017-05-09 The Procter & Gamble Company Methods for whitening teeth
US9622840B2 (en) 2010-06-15 2017-04-18 The Procter & Gamble Company Methods for whitening teeth
US11793620B2 (en) 2010-06-15 2023-10-24 The Procter & Gamble Company Methods for whitening teeth
US10667893B2 (en) 2010-06-15 2020-06-02 The Procter & Gamble Company Methods for whitening teeth
US20220105357A1 (en) * 2010-10-13 2022-04-07 Lllt Technologies Sa Method and apparatus for tooth-movement regulation
US20170173359A1 (en) * 2010-10-13 2017-06-22 Biolux Research Ltd. Method and apparatus for tooth regulation with heavy forces
US20130196284A1 (en) * 2010-10-13 2013-08-01 Biolux Research Ltd. Method and apparatus for tooth regulation with heavy forces
WO2012048423A1 (en) * 2010-10-13 2012-04-19 Biolux Research Limited Method and apparatus for tooth regulation with heavy forces
EP2627283B1 (en) * 2010-10-13 2015-09-23 Biolux Research Limited Apparatus for tooth regulation with heavy forces
US10835748B2 (en) 2010-11-16 2020-11-17 Oculeve, Inc. Stimulation devices and methods
US10328262B2 (en) 2010-11-16 2019-06-25 The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University Stimulation devices and methods
US11771908B2 (en) 2010-11-16 2023-10-03 The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University Systems and methods for treatment of dry eye
US10722718B2 (en) 2010-11-16 2020-07-28 The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University Systems and methods for treatment of dry eye
EP2648651A1 (en) * 2010-12-08 2013-10-16 Biolux Research Limited Methods and apparatuses useful for regulating bone remodeling or tooth movement using light therapy, a functional appliance, and/or vitamin d
US20120148976A1 (en) * 2010-12-08 2012-06-14 Biolux Research Ltd. Methods and apparatuses useful for regulating bone remodeling or tooth movement using light therapy, a functional appliance, and/or vitamin d
US9242118B2 (en) * 2010-12-08 2016-01-26 Biolux Research Ltd. Methods useful for remodeling maxillofacial bone using light therapy and a functional appliance
WO2012075584A1 (en) * 2010-12-08 2012-06-14 Biolux Research Limited Methods and apparatuses useful for regulating bone remodeling or tooth movement using light therapy, a functional appliance, and/or vitamin d
EP2648651A4 (en) * 2010-12-08 2014-07-16 Biolux Res Ltd Methods and apparatuses useful for regulating bone remodeling or tooth movement using light therapy, a functional appliance, and/or vitamin d
US10085822B2 (en) 2012-04-13 2018-10-02 Advanced Orthodontics And Education Association, Llc Method and device for increasing bone density in the mouth
US20140072932A1 (en) * 2012-04-19 2014-03-13 Biolux Research Ltd. Intra-oral light therapy apparatuses and methods for their use
US20130280671A1 (en) * 2012-04-19 2013-10-24 Biolux Research Ltd. Intra-oral light therapy apparatuses and methods for their use
US20170312538A1 (en) * 2012-04-19 2017-11-02 Biolux Research Ltd. Intra-oral light therapy apparatuses and methods for their use
CN104379087A (en) * 2012-04-19 2015-02-25 碧奥鲁克斯研究有限公司 Intra-oral light-therapy apparatuses and methods for their use
US10537469B2 (en) 2013-03-12 2020-01-21 Oculeve, Inc. Implant delivery devices, systems, and methods
US10967173B2 (en) 2013-04-19 2021-04-06 Oculeve, Inc. Nasal stimulation devices and methods for treating dry eye
US10835738B2 (en) 2013-04-19 2020-11-17 Oculeve, Inc. Nasal stimulation devices and methods
US10238861B2 (en) 2013-04-19 2019-03-26 Oculeve, Inc. Nasal stimulation devices and methods for treating dry eye
US10799695B2 (en) 2013-04-19 2020-10-13 Oculeve, Inc. Nasal stimulation devices and methods
US9737702B2 (en) 2013-04-19 2017-08-22 Oculeve, Inc. Nasal stimulation devices and methods
US10155108B2 (en) 2013-04-19 2018-12-18 Oculeve, Inc. Nasal stimulation devices and methods
US9440065B2 (en) 2013-04-19 2016-09-13 Oculeve, Inc. Nasal stimulation devices and methods
US8996137B2 (en) 2013-04-19 2015-03-31 Oculeve, Inc. Nasal stimulation devices and methods
EP3021938A4 (en) * 2013-07-17 2017-03-22 Meditech International Inc. System and method for multi-colour light treatment
US20160325109A1 (en) * 2013-07-17 2016-11-10 Meditech International Inc. System and method for multi-colour light treatment
WO2015006872A1 (en) 2013-07-17 2015-01-22 Meditech International Inc. System and method for multi-colour light treatment
US10598949B2 (en) * 2013-07-30 2020-03-24 Jonathan Stephen Farringdon Method and apparatus for forming a visible image in space
US10729524B2 (en) 2013-10-22 2020-08-04 Biolux Research Holdings, Inc. Intra-oral light-therapy apparatuses and methods for their use
US9730780B2 (en) 2013-10-22 2017-08-15 Biolux Research Ltd. Intra-oral light-therapy apparatuses and methods for their use
US9770583B2 (en) 2014-02-25 2017-09-26 Oculeve, Inc. Polymer formulations for nasolacrimal stimulation
US10799696B2 (en) 2014-02-25 2020-10-13 Oculeve, Inc. Polymer formulations for nasolacrimal stimulation
US9956397B2 (en) 2014-02-25 2018-05-01 Oculeve, Inc. Polymer Formulations for nasolacrimal stimulation
USD837396S1 (en) 2014-04-18 2019-01-01 Oculeve, Inc. Nasal stimulator probe
USD907791S1 (en) 2014-04-18 2021-01-12 Oculeve, Inc. Nasal stimulator body
USD826420S1 (en) 2014-04-18 2018-08-21 Oculeve, Inc. Nasal stimulator device
US10722713B2 (en) 2014-07-25 2020-07-28 Oculeve, Inc. Stimulation patterns for treating dry eye
US9687652B2 (en) 2014-07-25 2017-06-27 Oculeve, Inc. Stimulation patterns for treating dry eye
US10610695B2 (en) 2014-10-22 2020-04-07 Oculeve, Inc. Implantable device for increasing tear production
US9737712B2 (en) 2014-10-22 2017-08-22 Oculeve, Inc. Stimulation devices and methods for treating dry eye
US10207108B2 (en) 2014-10-22 2019-02-19 Oculeve, Inc. Implantable nasal stimulator systems and methods
US10112048B2 (en) 2014-10-22 2018-10-30 Oculeve, Inc. Stimulation devices and methods for treating dry eye
US10780273B2 (en) 2014-10-22 2020-09-22 Oculeve, Inc. Stimulation devices and methods for treating dry eye
US10849721B2 (en) 2015-03-12 2020-12-01 Align Technology, Inc. Digital dental tray
US9844426B2 (en) * 2015-03-12 2017-12-19 Align Technology, Inc. Digital dental tray
US11419707B2 (en) 2015-03-12 2022-08-23 Align Technology, Inc. Digital dental tray for 3D model generation
US20160262856A1 (en) * 2015-03-12 2016-09-15 Align Technology, Inc. Digital dental tray
BE1022600B1 (en) * 2015-04-29 2016-06-14 Hugues Libotte AUTONOMOUS DEVICE FOR VISIBLE AND INFRARED ILLUMINATION TREATMENT OF ARTHROSITIC PAIN IN SMALL ANIMALS
US20230277867A1 (en) * 2015-07-28 2023-09-07 Know Bio, Llc Phototherapy devices for treatment of dermatological disorders of the scalp
US20230310880A1 (en) * 2015-07-28 2023-10-05 Know Bio, Llc Phototherapy devices for treatment of dermatological disorders of the scalp
US10426958B2 (en) 2015-12-04 2019-10-01 Oculeve, Inc. Intranasal stimulation for enhanced release of ocular mucins and other tear proteins
US10940310B2 (en) 2016-02-19 2021-03-09 Oculeve, Inc. Nasal stimulation for rhinitis, nasal congestion, and ocular allergies
US10252048B2 (en) 2016-02-19 2019-04-09 Oculeve, Inc. Nasal stimulation for rhinitis, nasal congestion, and ocular allergies
US10918864B2 (en) 2016-05-02 2021-02-16 Oculeve, Inc. Intranasal stimulation for treatment of meibomian gland disease and blepharitis
US10610095B2 (en) 2016-12-02 2020-04-07 Oculeve, Inc. Apparatus and method for dry eye forecast and treatment recommendation
US20180207443A1 (en) * 2017-01-23 2018-07-26 Hidetoshi Nishio Light Irradiation Device for Teeth Whitening
US11141254B2 (en) 2018-08-10 2021-10-12 Sdc U.S. Smilepay Spv Mouthpiece for teeth whitening
US10716652B2 (en) 2018-08-10 2020-07-21 SDU U.S. SmilePay SPV Mouthpiece for teeth whitening
CN113164243A (en) * 2018-10-11 2021-07-23 高露洁-棕榄公司 Oral treatment devices, systems, and methods
WO2020112735A2 (en) 2018-11-28 2020-06-04 Biolux Research Holdings, Inc. Orthodontic appliance compliance monitoring systems, devices, and methods
US11833368B2 (en) 2020-02-11 2023-12-05 Jonathan A. Shanker Systems and methods for delivering low-level electromagnetic radiation to a patient
USD1008700S1 (en) 2021-02-08 2023-12-26 Jonathan A. Shanker Neck therapy cushion
CN113995960A (en) * 2021-11-23 2022-02-01 固安翌光科技有限公司 Oral cavity light medical device

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US9308389B2 (en) 2016-04-12
US20140121731A1 (en) 2014-05-01
WO2009000075A1 (en) 2008-12-31
US20130253620A1 (en) 2013-09-26
US8900282B2 (en) 2014-12-02
US20100318161A1 (en) 2010-12-16
EP2164570A1 (en) 2010-03-24
US20150079536A1 (en) 2015-03-19
EP2164570A4 (en) 2014-04-23

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US9308389B2 (en) Light therapy apparatus and methods
US20220105357A1 (en) Method and apparatus for tooth-movement regulation
US20210068936A1 (en) Intra-oral light-therapy apparatuses and methods for their use
US20190117994A1 (en) Methods useful for remodeling maxillofacial bone using light therapy and a functional appliance
JP6007313B2 (en) Intraoral phototherapy device
US20180117356A1 (en) Intra-oral light therapy apparatuses and methods for their use
JP5705838B2 (en) Method and apparatus for adjusting tooth movement
EP1853347B8 (en) Light therapy device for treatment of bone disorders and biostimulation of bone and soft tissue

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: BIOLUX RESEARCH LTD., BRITISH COLUMBIA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:BRAWN, PETER;REEL/FRAME:019470/0592

Effective date: 20070622

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION

AS Assignment

Owner name: BIOLUX RESEARCH HOLDINGS, INC., CHINA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:BIOLUX RESEARCH LIMITED;REEL/FRAME:049462/0510

Effective date: 20190426