【NecoSonic】舌を傷つけない新形状の電動舌ブラシ。

The main causes of bad breath and taste disorders are generated from dirt and bacteria adhering to the tongue. The key to solving bad breath is to remove tongue coating, but the tongue is a delicate tissue that requires careful cleaning.

In conventional products, the common method for cleaning involved direct contact with the tongue using brushes or scrapers to actively remove dirt. However, there were risks of pushing dirt and bacteria deeper or injuring the tongue.

Our new, innovative product employs a different cleaning approach. It is a ‘passive’ tongue brush that, when placed on the tongue, utilizes sonic vibrations to lift and remove dirt. By minimizing direct contact with the tongue and reducing the risk of worsening bad breath, our product effectively eliminates dirt and bacteria from the mouth.

With a flat protrusion structure that avoids harming the tongue and allows water to permeate through capillary action, it indirectly removes bacteria. By minimizing damage during tongue cleaning, it reduces the risk of bad breath.

When using a tongue brush with the mouth filled with water, a phenomenon called capillary action occurs due to surface tension. As a result, water permeates into the papillae and the uneven surface of the tongue brush. In addition to this, the generation of sonic vibrations allows the vibrations to be transmitted to dirt through water, effectively lifting dirt from deep within the papillae.

Bacteria lifted by the tongue brush gather at the center of the protrusions due to the brush’s structure, where they repeatedly collide with the protrusions, promoting decomposition and extermination. This reduces the amount of bacteria in the oral cavity and mitigates the impact of bacteria even upon reattachment.

conventional tongue brush

Neco Sonic (prototype)

With a structure that facilitates easy water flow downward, dirt is lifted by surface tension and sonic vibration, then moved towards the mouth opening. The flat and thin structure minimizes unnecessary oscillation amplitude, keeping water splashing to a minimum. This prevents the reattachment of bacteria and dirt, the causes of bad breath, enhancing cleaning effectiveness.

Why dose not it use ultrasonic vibration?

The electric components utilize sonic vibration to prevent damage to tongue tissue. Ultrasonic vibration poses a risk of excessive impact on the tongue, so sonic vibration with high cleaning effectiveness was chosen.

Experiment

Experiment using tapioca, which has a similar softness to tongue tissue.
Sonic and ultrasonic vibrations were applied at a weight of 200 g, the appropriate pressure for tongue cleaning, and measured for 1 minute.

Experiments have shown that even just one minute of ultrasonic vibration may cause significant deformation to tongue tissue.

This product is designed for use on the tongue only. Please do not use it for other purposes.
Inserting the product too deeply into the back of the tongue may induce nausea, so please be cautious.
When cleaning the tongue, cleaner vertically from the back to the front. Cleaning in other directions may not effectively remove debris.
Avoid excessive rubbing to prevent damage to the surface of the tongue.
Discontinue use if the tongue is irritated or if any abnormalities occur.
After use, thoroughly rinse with water and store in a well-ventilated place.
Do not use if the cleaner is damaged or compromised.
If any abnormalities, discomfort, or unpleasant sensations occur during use, consult a healthcare professional.
For hygiene and effectiveness, replace the tongue cleaner regularly.
Do not share the cleaner with multiple individuals.
Do not use or consult with a dentist before using if:
You have sensitive sensations in the oral cavity.
You have undergone recent oral or periodontal surgery or are currently undergoing treatment.
You have noticeable symptoms in the oral cavity, such as ongoing dental treatment or unstable dentures.

I had an experience where using commercially available tongue brushes did not improve my bad breath. Upon reflecting on why regular tongue brushes were ineffective, I realized that the issue lay in the “active” approach to tongue cleaning.

Therefore, I devised a structure where dirt is naturally drawn in, allowing for the removal of dirt even from the back of the papillae. Additionally, considering the delicate and easily damaged nature of the tongue, I made a conscious effort to avoid direct stimulation. The key inspiration for this approach came from sonic vibration and capillary action.

When I initially sought quotes from factories that handle soft materials, the estimates were high. However, after finding a small-scale rubber manufacturer, I discovered that production could be done at a lower cost, leading to the creation of prototypes with various shapes.

We produced 10 prototypes and conducted experiments under various conditions. To ensure a detailed comparative analysis, we maintained consistency in meal types and the timing of tongue cleaning. After one week, we observed changes in bad breath to assess the effectiveness.
As a result, the most effective prototype was No.3. However, due to the technique required for cleaning with this shape, we modified it to a more user-friendly design. The final adopted shape features a design with a chipped bottom, ensuring sufficient effectiveness even without advanced skills.

Q: How long is the recommended usage time?

A: While individual preferences vary, around 30 seconds to 1 minute is sufficient for effective cleaning. There’s generally no risk of tongue damage even with extended use. However, excessive cleaning may lead to issues such as discomfort near the back of the tongue.

Q: How many times a day should it be used?

A: It is recommended to use it after brushing your teeth, before bedtime, and before breakfast for optimal effectiveness.

Q: Can children and pregnant women use it?

A: It is suitable for individuals aged 13 and above. Pregnant women can safely use it without any concerns.