Disposable oral hygiene instrument and methods and packages for same

Abstract

Described are packages and systems for conveniently dispensing tongue cleaning devices. The packages include containers containing a plurality of tongue cleaning devices. The package and devices are arranged in such a fashion that the tongue cleaning devices are presented individually for dispensing from the container. Arrangements for achieving convenient dispensing include strips containing a plurality of tongue cleaning devices attached to one another and wound around a spindle within the container. The strip exits an opening in the container and conveniently presents devices sequentially which can be separated from one another at relatively weak points along the strip and/or using cutting elements on the container. Additional embodiments include a plurality of tongue cleaning devices in a stacked relationship in a container, and presented individually for sequential dispensing from the container. The invention provides packages, articles of manufacture and tongue cleaning devices which can be conveniently stored, used, and transported, and which are readily adapted as disposable items thus avoiding the need for cleaning and storing operations of conventional non-disposable tongue cleaners.