SBIR Phase I: Mouthrinse Generator for Plaque and Halitosis Control

这个小型企业创新研究(SBIR)第一阶段项目是开发一种微型电化学操作的抗菌剂发生器，用于抑制牙菌斑和控制口臭。牙菌斑、口腔异味、牙龈炎、牙周病和牙齿变色都是影响许多人的不良疾病。据广泛估计，有2500万至8500万美国人患有口臭，特别是由于革兰氏阴性厌氧细菌。虽然良好的口腔卫生，如用清洁牙膏刷牙，可以减少上述情况，但不一定能防止或消除这些情况的发生。微生物对这些条件的产生和发展都有贡献。因此，抑制微生物是良好口腔卫生的关键。在这个第一阶段的项目中，将对电催化剂(以提高电流和能源效率以及长期稳定性)和双重消毒剂的生物杀灭性能进行优化。在后续的二期工程中，将建造微型装置。这种微型漱口水发生器可以同时生产两种FDA批准的抗菌剂，具有巨大的商业化潜力。预计该设备将坚固耐用，无需维护，只需更换笔电电池和廉价的耗材。该项目的商业应用领域是一般家庭使用的牙齿卫生领域。

This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to develop a miniature electrochemically operated antimicrobial agents generator for suppression of dental plaque and halitosis control. Plaque, oral malodor, gingivitis, periodontal disease, and discoloration of the teeth are all undesirable conditions that affect many people. It is broadly estimated that 25-85 million Americans have halitosis, especially due to gram-negative anaerobic bacteria. While good oral hygiene, as achieved by brushing the teeth with a cleansing dentifrice, reduces the above-mentioned conditions, it does not necessarily prevent or eliminate their occurrence. Microorganisms contribute to both the initiation and progression of these conditions. Thus, suppressing microorganisms is the key to good oral hygiene. In this Phase I project, optimization of the electrocatalyst (to improve current and energy efficiencies as well as long term stability) and biocidal properties of the dual disinfectants will be conducted. In the follow on Phase II project, the miniature device will be constructed. This miniature mouthwash generator, simultaneously producing two FDA approved antimicrobial agents, has a significant potential for commercialization. The device is expected to be robust and maintenance free, and will require only the replacement of penlight batteries and inexpensive consumables.The commercial application of this project is in the area of dental hygiene for general household use.