Elastomeric core
The core provides the primary elastic structure. In disclosed embodiments, thermochromic material may be incorporated directly into this core.
Patent pending technology
Orthodontic elastomerics with flavor and responsive color
The filed application describes a torus-shaped orthodontic elastomeric device with a structural core and one or more functional outer layers.
Product structure
Functional outer layer
One or more coatings may contain sweetener, flavoring, colorant, or thermochromic material. The filing describes layers that can gradually dissolve through exposure to saliva or moisture.
Layer sequence
Multiple coatings may use different flavors, colors, and thicknesses to create staged flavor or color changes over time.
Temperature response
Reversible thermochromic response to temperature changes in the oral environment. An example could be shifts from blue in a cooler state to red in a warmer state.
Cool stateA rubber band would be blue.
Warm stateA rubber band could be red.
MechanismMicroencapsulated thermochromic material, including Leuco dyes
Development status