Means To Transmit Or Apply Force To Tooth Patents (Class 433/18)
  • Publication number: 20040067463
    Abstract: A system for applying corrective leverage to teeth in the upper or lower dental arch without the use of brackets or ligation wires. The present invention employs prongs bonded onto the lingual surfaces of teeth and a compartmentalized, U-shaped arch tube into which the prongs are plugged by a snap-in process. Alignment takes place in a progressive sequence of steps produced by computer-prepared arches.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Inventor: Farel Rosenberg
  • Patent number: 6702575
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for orthodontic treatment employs a removable orthodontic aligner having a polymeric shell with a plurality of cavities shaped to receive teeth. A number of openings are formed that extend through the shell of the orthodontic aligner into a cavity. An orthodontic aligner auxiliary can then be secured to the opening in the shell of the orthodontic aligner to exert a therapeutic force on a tooth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Inventor: Jack Keith Hilliard
  • Publication number: 20040023182
    Abstract: A screw device for orthodontic treatment is formed with a platform part that has a relatively large radial width between a head part and a screw-body part of the screw device, and a neck part that has a radial width smaller than that of head part is also formed between the platform part and the head part. Therefore, a hook ring at the end of a spring (or rubber band) used for orthodontic treatment may be directly fitted from the head part and be positioned at the neck part without worrying about being dropped off. The thickness of the platform part may prop the spring up the gingiva for keeping from friction. By screwing the screw-body part into the maxilla (or mandible) to make the platform part abutted against the maxilla (or mandible), not only may a stable screwing force be provided for securing the screw, but also does the side surface of the platform have a function of facilitating the gingiva tissue to grow, so the healed-over wound will be more even and good looking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventor: Cheng-Yi Lin
  • Publication number: 20040013996
    Abstract: An easy to install tooth spreading and uprighting device that is positioned on a temporary basis across an edentulous space between a pair of teeth in the mouth of a dental patient to correct and prevent the teeth from tipping and loosing their upright alignment which awaiting the implantation of a dental crown. The size of the tooth spreading and uprighting device is selectively adjustable depending upon the spacing between the patient's teeth so as to establish a tight fit and thereby apply a suitable holding pressure to prevent a misalignment of the teeth while awaiting the installation of the dental crown to replace a natural tooth which has been removed from the patient's mouth. The size of the tooth spreading and uprighting device is selectively adjustable by an inner body that is received within and slidable axially through a hollow outer body. An optional locking feature is provided to prevent a displacement of the inner body relative to the outer body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Schubert L. Sapian
  • Publication number: 20040013993
    Abstract: In order to solve a drawback in a conventional fixed type orthodontic appliance and further to provide an orthodontic appliance with a high treatment effect and a novel orthodontic technique using the same, an orthodontic mouthpiece for conducting orthodontic treatment efficiently is constituted by connecting a plurality of segments including an upper anterior segment 10, a lower anterior segment 20, a right buccal segment 30 and a left buccal segment 40 to one another by orthodontic wire members 51a, 51b, 52a, 52b and 53 such that distances among the respective segments can be adjusted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Gakuji Ito
  • Publication number: 20040009450
    Abstract: A lingual arch developer (350) having at least one force generator module (330) with an internal spring (338) is disclosed. A posterior wire section (356a) extends through one end of a housing (332). A stop (346) is attached to the posterior wire section (356a) and is located within this housing (332). The spring (338) is disposed within the housing (332) between this stop (346) and a collar (336) that is disposed at an opposite end of the housing (332). One end of an anterior wire (358) is mounted on the collar (336). Compression of the spring (338) during the installation of the lingual arch developer (350) on a dental arch of the patient will thereby exert forces on this dental arch and bias the posterior wire section (356a) and anterior wire section (358) apart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2003
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventor: William J. Clark
  • Patent number: 6669473
    Abstract: The invention discloses an anchor screw (10) to the palatal vault for orthodontic correction treatments comprising: a lower threaded portion (1) adapted to be screwed to the bone; a substantially cylindrical central portion (2) protruding from the bone and the gum adapted to allow anchorage of traction and/or thrust orthodontic devices; an upper portion (3) provided with movement means (4) to screw and unscrew the screw. The central portion (2) has a reduced diameter zone (6) in comparison with the diameter of the cylindrical portion and at least a hole (5) for the passage of orthodontic devices such as round and/or rectangular/square wires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Nicos Sas di de Toni Nicoletta & C.
    Inventor: Bortolo Giuliano Maino
  • Publication number: 20030224315
    Abstract: A screw device for orthodontic treatment is formed with a platform part that has a relatively large radial width between a head part and a screw-body part of the screw device, and a neck part that has a radial width smaller than that of head part is also formed between the platform part and the head part. Therefore, a hook ring at the end of a spring (or rubber band) used for orthodontic treatment may be directly fitted from the head part and be positioned at the neck part without worrying about being dropped off. The thickness of the platform part may prop the spring up the gingiva for keeping from friction. By screwing the screw-body part into the maxilla (or mandible) to make the platform part abutted against the maxilla (or mandible), not only may a stable screwing force be provided for securing the screw, but also does the side surface of the platform have a function of facilitating the gingiva tissue to grow, so the healed-over wound will be more even and good looking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Cheng-Yi Lin
  • Patent number: 6655959
    Abstract: An orthodontic device for retraction or extension of teeth. The orthodontic device utilizes a spring and concentric sliding members to apply a biasing force to a patient's teeth in a manner that translates the teeth without rotation or tipping either tooth to which it is attached. A removable activation structure is adapted to hold the sliding members in a locked condition which maintains the device at a fixed length prior to fixation of the device to the teeth. When the activation structure is removed to provide a released condition, a corrective force is applied to the teeth for accomplishing an orthodontic treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Ormco Corporation
    Inventors: Farrokh Farzin-Nia, Rohit Chaman Lal Sachdeva
  • Patent number: 6648639
    Abstract: Methods of treating malocclusion and inducing osteogenesis as well as an apparatus for treating malocclusion are described. The methods and apparatus utilize cyclic forces as compared to static forces to achieve their results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois
    Inventor: Jeremy Jian Mao
  • Publication number: 20030194675
    Abstract: A mandibular and maxillary arch expansion apparatus having a first and second forward orthodontic bands and first and second rear orthodontic bands. The respective forward and rear orthodontic bands are interconnected by an expansion sheath element. The two forward bands are connected by a substantially straight, solid rod. The expansion sheaths exert lengthening forces while the solid rod resists lateral or widening forces. Also provided is a maxillary apparatus connected to a mandibular apparatus by a telescoping contraction connector. The device is positioned to exert adjustable contracting pressure for the correction of Class II malocclusions or overbite. Also provided is an arch expansion apparatus with a centrally disposed expansion element having two forward connector wires extending outwardly therefrom and two rearward connector wires extending outwardly. Each connector wire has an orthodontic band on the terminal end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Publication date: October 16, 2003
    Inventor: Michael O. Williams
  • Patent number: 6632088
    Abstract: An orthodontic bracket assembly comprising an orthodontic bracket and a powered actuator mounted to the bracket. The actuator can be used to provide relative movement between a tooth (or set of teeth) and another object, such as an archwire or another tooth (or set of teeth). Preferably, the actuator is a micro electromechanical system (MEMS) having a size that will not significantly interfere with the comfort of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Assignee: OrthoArm, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Voudouris
  • Patent number: 6626665
    Abstract: For maxillary molar distalization a newly developed maxillary molar distalization appliance is introduced. Maxillary first molars and first premolars were banded. On the palatal side of the Class II first molar bands 0.45 inch diameter tubes were soldered. First premolar band were attached with 1.1 mm in diameter s.s. retaining wires to a wide acrylic Nance button. The acrylic button also included an anterior bit plane. The purpose of creating an anterior bit plane was to disocclude the posterior teeth, enhance the molar distalization and correct the anterior deep bit. On the palatal side of molars 0.9 mm in diameter s.s. wires were embedded into the acrylic about 5 mm apical to the gingival margin of the first molars, which passed through the tube and oriented parallel to the occlusal plane. This force system would allow applying consistent force at the level of center of resistance of the first molars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Inventor: Ahmet Ozlem Keles
  • Publication number: 20030180689
    Abstract: A dental splint (2) for fixing a tooth (Z4, Z5) with increased mobility has several eyes (10), adjacent eyes (10) being interconnected. The individual eyes (10) each have a through opening (11) which is surrounded by a link (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d), so that e.g. an adhesive (KK) can be applied to the tooth (Z1, Z2, Z3, Z4, Z5, Z6, Z7) that is located behind a particular through opening (11) through said through opening (11) in order to fix the dental splint (2) on the tooth. The invention is characterised in that the connection (13) between adjacent eyes (10) is configured in the form of a flat connection (13).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2003
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventors: Thomas Von Arx, Andreas Filippi, Joachim Pfefferle
  • Publication number: 20030157455
    Abstract: In a tooth moving method and appliance for securing a space for an incoming permanent tooth to erupt, there are provided two lingual buttons to be fixed to two teeth, respectively, to spread out a space therebetween or correct a dentition therebetween; an inner wire to be pivotally connected to one lingual button at an end thereof; a tube to be loosely fitted onto the inner wire and pivotally connected to the other lingual button at an end thereof; an open coil loosely fitted onto the tube; and a split stop for adjusting tensile force of the open coil, whereby tensile force of the open coil is adjusted by the split stop to move at least either of the two teeth, so as to spread out the space therebetween to a desired extent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2003
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Inventor: Nobuhisa Teramoto
  • Publication number: 20030157454
    Abstract: An orthodontic separator, said separator dimensioned such that it can be inserted between adjacent teeth, said separator being characterized in that when inserted between adjacent teeth in the oral environment, it exhibits an increase in compressive force, wherein the separator exerts sufficient force on the adjacent teeth to push the teeth apart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2002
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Applicant: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: James D. Hansen, Tsi-Zong Tzou
  • Patent number: 6595774
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an orthodontic arch (12) comprising at least one special loop (22) in the form of a spring hook. Said spring hook makes it possible to effect intrusion and corporal retraction of the front teeth, especially in the upper jaw, in a faster, more gentle and better controlled manner in comparison with conventional arches and methods. By additionally attaching rubber bands, springs or ligatures (24), all disadvantages of conventional constructions can be eliminated or minimized by means of an adjustable lever action effect due to the fact that the inventive arch-spring construction enables dynamic undulating movement of the front teeth adapted to biological processes during an activation procedure as opposed to conventional rigid mechanisms. Especially medical or biological requirements and aspects are fulfilled by the inventive arch. The inventive arch enables faster movement and greatly reduces damage and pain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Inventor: Georg Risse
  • Publication number: 20030124478
    Abstract: A dental retainer device for stabilization, so-called retention, of pairs of teeth or groups of teeth in a lower jaw and/or an upper jaws in orthodontic treatment. The retainer device is formed of a pair (2) of retainer elements, consisting of two preferably individual, but in the position of use cooperating, retainer elements (4, 6). Each of the retainer elements (4, 6) is formed in with a retainer approximal surface (16, 18), the retainer approximal surfaces (16, 18) being formed complementary relative to one another. In use, one or more pairs (2) of retainer elements is/are positioned and secured with its/their individual elements (4, 6) preferably on the inner face of a tooth (20, 22) each of a pair of adjacent teeth, so that in the position of use the retainer approximal surfaces (16, 18) bear on each other and support, possibly lock, each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventor: Ole Christian Amundsen
  • Patent number: 6575741
    Abstract: The present invention provides an intra-oral anchorage which comprises a flexible belt that extends around and between the teeth of a patient. The belt has locking means fixed thereon to receive a free end portion of the belt and lock said portion against retraction therefrom. The locking means is in the form of a buckle. The intra-oral anchorage of the present invention can be used to hold a jaw in a fixed position, in the case of a broken jaw for example. It offers ease of application and therefore a reduction in the cost of surgery as well as eliminating the risk of “needle stick” injury inherent with cutting and bending multiple ends of wire. It causes less gum damage in placement and removal, which is similarly easier, faster and less uncomfortable for the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Zygomatics Limited
    Inventor: Duncan Fraser Campbell
  • Patent number: 6575742
    Abstract: An osteogenic support device for an orthodontic treatment comprises a platform, lower and upper projections extending downwardly and upwardly from the platform. The upper projection is substantially tapered from the platform toward a cap. The upper protection has a through opening substantially perpendicular to an axis of the lower projection. A first end of the elastic wire is hooked between the cap and the platform, and a second end of the elastic wire is hooked with an orthodontic wire which links each bracket attached on teeth of the orthodontic patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Inventors: Hee Moon Kyung, Hyo Sang Park, Sung Min Bae
  • Publication number: 20030104335
    Abstract: Disclosed is the rapid orthodontics treatment method after corticotomy and the skeletal anchorage plate. The method comprises the steps of: incising gums within a range established in consideration of a set of teeth to be corrected; incising front and rear surfaces of a cortical bone; suturing incised gums; and placing an orthodontic appliance on the teeth and applying tensioning force to the set of teeth, thereby to correct irregularities of the teeth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Publication date: June 5, 2003
    Inventor: Kyu-Rhim Chung
  • Patent number: 6572372
    Abstract: Traditional orthodontic treatment often involves the use of basic repositioning devices, such as braces, and the use of supplementary devices, components or accessories to achieve desired end results. Such components may be mounted on fixed, non-removable devices or they may be part of a removable appliance typically worn prior to the application of the fixed devices. As with traditional treatment, it may be desired to utilize similar components when repositioning teeth with removable elastic repositioning appliances. Due to the nature of elastic appliances, such components may take a variety of forms ranging from readily available traditional accessories to specially created devices. Thus, traditional components may be mounted on or embedded in an elastic appliance, or the appliance may be formed to provide similar components. Likewise, the appliance may be modified to provide additional features for specific orthodontic treatments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Align Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Loc X. Phan, Muhammad Chishti, Ross J. Miller, H. Robert Van Den Berg, Eric Kuo, Jae Hyun Ahn
  • Patent number: 6568935
    Abstract: Various embodiments of lingual arch developers are disclosed that have at least one telescoping force generator module assemblies for exerting at least generally mesio-distally directed forces on each side of the patient's arch for arch lengthening, as well as at least one telescoping force generator module assembly for exerting at least generally transversely directed forces on the patient's arch for arch expansion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: William J. Clark
  • Publication number: 20030091952
    Abstract: An orthodontic distalizing apparatus comprises at least one force generating element positioned intermediate a force dissipating element secured to the hard palate and/or alveolar ridge and a first tooth (e.g., a molar) that is being distalized. The at least one force generating element is positioned to apply a distalizing force on the molar in a direction substantially along a longitudinal axis of the dental arch and at a low level of the basal gingiva. The at least one force generating element may be configured to prevent inadvertent disassembly thereof during installation, adjustment and/or conversion of the apparatus between an active and a passive state. In addition, the at least one force generating element may be configured to be reversibly convertible between an active state and a passive state without requiring removal of the device from the patient's mouth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2001
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventors: Steven Jay Bowman, Mauro Testa, Aldo Carano
  • Publication number: 20030068595
    Abstract: A pre-emergent tooth correction method and assembly for applying traction to a pre-emergent tooth to cause the tooth to erupt in a desired position. A bonding pad is surgically affixed to an outer surface of a pre-emergent tooth. A chain is attached at one end to the bonding pad and at a second end to a traction device. The bonding pad includes a stainless steel mesh comprising a non-allergenic metal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventors: Lewis H. Pitnick, Denis R. Slawsby, Jeffrey M. Sakoff
  • Publication number: 20030049583
    Abstract: A pre-emergent tooth correction method and assembly for applying traction to a pre-emergent tooth to cause the tooth to erupt in a desired position. A bonding pad is surgically affixed to an outer surface of a pre-emergent tooth. A chain is attached at one end to the bonding pad and at a second end to a traction device. The bonding pad includes a stainless steel mesh comprising a non-allergenic metal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Inventors: Lewis H. Pitnick, Denis R. Slawsby, Jeffrey Sakoff
  • Publication number: 20030044746
    Abstract: A removable orthodontic implant brackets for straightening teeth, wherein the implant is implanted into the palate roof of the mouth, includes a patient removable palate anchor connector as well as patient removable tooth connectors which attach the ends of palatal wires to tabs which are adhesively bonded to a tooth. Due to the geometries of the connectors, the connectors have low insertion and removal forces, positive locking of connected sections, and resist rotation in all planes. During removal, a captive actuator stud is simply pulled up or pressed down to deploy or retract the dual locking studs which operate in a plane orthogonal to the direction of movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Leonard Marotta, John Mizzi
  • Publication number: 20030044745
    Abstract: An anchor implanting device for orthodontics used for implanting an wire supporting anchor supporting a teeth supporting wire which supports a plurality of teeth and correct the teeth, comprises a tooth supporter supportedly enclosing a portion between a pair of neighboring teeth elastically in a transverse direction relative to an array direction of the teeth; a locating projection projected inward in a radial direction from the tooth supporter and positioned between the pair of neighboring teeth and a gum; at least one anchor positioning unit extended from the tooth supporter, positioned on the side of the gum so as to establish an implanting position of the wire supporting anchor. With this configuration, the present invention provides an anchor implanting device for orthodontics, allowing a wire supporting anchor to be implanted on the predetermined position of the gum in an easy manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Joong-han Kim
  • Publication number: 20030039939
    Abstract: An orthodontic device for retraction or extension of teeth. The orthodontic device utilizes a spring and concentric sliding members to apply a biasing force to a patient's teeth in a manner that translates the teeth without rotation or tipping either tooth to which it is attached. A removable activation structure is adapted to hold the sliding members in a locked condition which maintains the device at a fixed length prior to fixation of the device to the teeth. When the activation structure is removed to provide a released condition, a corrective force is applied to the teeth for accomplishing an orthodontic treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Applicant: Ormco Corporation
    Inventors: Farrokh Farzin-Nia, Rohit Chaman Lal Sachdeva
  • Publication number: 20030022125
    Abstract: A mechanism includes a first member having a channel and a second member with a generally cylindrical portion at least partially received in the channel. The second member includes a stop portion for limiting relative movement of the first member and the second member. The stop portion is made of a formable material and includes at least three lobes that extend outwardly in different respective directions. The stop portion increases the stiffness of the second member, and is useful in both pivoting and rotating mechanisms for limiting relative movement between the first member and the second member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2001
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Applicant: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventor: James D. Cleary
  • Publication number: 20020192617
    Abstract: Traditional orthodontic treatment often involves the use of basic repositioning devices, such as braces, and the use of supplementary devices, components or accessories to achieve desired end results. Such components may be mounted on fixed, non-removable devices or they may be part of a removable appliance typically worn prior to the application of the fixed devices. As with traditional treatment, it may be desired to utilize similar components when repositioning teeth with removable elastic repositioning appliances. Due to the nature of elastic appliances, such components may take a variety of forms ranging from readily available traditional accessories to specially created devices. Thus, traditional components may be mounted on or embedded in an elastic appliance, or the appliance may be formed to provide similar components. Likewise, the appliance may be modified to provide additional features for specific orthodontic treatments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Applicant: ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventors: Loc X. Phan, Muhammad Chishti, Ross J. Miller, H. Robert Van Den Berg, Eric Kuo, Jae Hyun Ahn, Robert E. Tricca, Trang Duong
  • Publication number: 20020192619
    Abstract: The invention relates to a dental device (1) for dilating the interdental spaces (7, 8). The inventive dental device (1) comprises two interdental matrices (4, 5) for insertion into the interdental spaces (7, 8), two retaining means (2, 3) for the interdental matrices (4, 5) and a spacer device (6, 6′, 60, 61, 60b, 61b, 90, 91) for guiding the retaining means (2,3) in parallel and for separating next but one adjacent teeth (111, 112). Unlike conventional wedges, the inventive dental device (1) allows a better access to the mesial and distal tooth surfaces in the area of the interdental spaces (7, 8) and prevents gingival injuries and damages to the dental enamel caused by the pressure. The embodiments relate to interdental matrices (4, 5) with a window (9), embodiments of the retaining means (2, 3) for detachably fixing the interdental matrices (4, 5) and spacer devices with separator screws (6, 6′, 60, 61) and guide pins (60b, 61b, 90, 91).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: Mario Besek
  • Publication number: 20020187453
    Abstract: A force generating device is described which includes an elastomeric force generating member. Preferably the elastomeric member is a elastomeric polymer tube. Each end of the tube can be fitted over collars. Attached to one collar is a piston and formed within the other collar is an orifice for slidably receiving the piston. When compressed, the force generating device will attempt to return to its original undeformed shape thus exerting a force along a longitudinal axis. Preferably, the force generating device is employed in an orthodontic assembly. For example, the force generating device can be employed in an orthodontic assembly for developing a patient's arch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 1998
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventors: WILLIAM J. CLARK, THOMAS A. TRINCO, DAVID E. WATT
  • Patent number: 6491519
    Abstract: A force generating device is described which includes an elastomeric force generating member. Preferably the elastomeric member is a elastomeric polymer tube. Each end of the tube can be fitted over collars. Attached to one collar is a piston and formed within the other collar is an orifice for slidably receiving the piston. When compressed, the force generating device will attempt to return to its original undeformed shape thus exerting a force along a longitudinal axis. Preferably, the force generating device is employed in an orthodontic assembly. For example, the force generating device can be employed in an orthodontic assembly for developing a patient's arch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: RMO, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Clark, Thomas A. Trinco, Jr., David E. Watt
  • Publication number: 20020182560
    Abstract: An implant for teeth orthodontics to fix firmly the orthodontic appliance ligated to malaligned teeth, to decide freely the pulling direction of a bracket mounted on malaligned teeth, and to minimize the size of the exposed part of an implant after implanting into dentine of teeth. The present invention is composed of a screw part at its bottom side to be implanted into dentine of teeth, a plain part at its middle side to be contacted with gingival tissue, and a head part at its upper side having a groove for manipulation of the implant by tools, a wire slot for a wire to be inserted therein, and a ligation part for a wire to be ligated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Young-Chel Park, Jong-Suck Lee
  • Patent number: 6488498
    Abstract: An orthodontic component structured to be mounted within a patients mouth in interconnection relation to spaced apart conventional or customized orthodontic appliances so as to exert a predetermined and pre-directed force on the interconnected orthodontic appliances as well as the teeth to which such appliances are attached. The orthodontic component of the present invention includes a module formed of a elastomeric material having sufficient elastic characteristics to exert the aforementioned force when stretched or expanded into interconnecting relation with the spaced apart appliances. The module comprises a unitary or a one piece construction having an elongated, normally linear configuration and terminating at oppositely disposed ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Inventor: Richard C. Mariani, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6464494
    Abstract: The present invention provides a composite orthodontic device including a base of a first material, with a first surface configured to facilitate attachment of the base to a tooth and a second surface configured to provide a mechanical interlock facilitating attachment of a bumper formed of a second material different from the first material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventor: David V. Young
  • Patent number: 6464495
    Abstract: The invention is directed to orthodontic devices that provide anterior guidance to teeth situated opposite thereto so as to inhibit excessive or uncontrollable grinding and clenching of teeth. The claimed invention is also directed to methods of opening the bite with anterior guidance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: OrthoArm, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Voudouris
  • Publication number: 20020127510
    Abstract: An osteogenic support device for an orthodontic treatment comprises a platform, lower and upper projections extending downwardly and upwardly from the platform. The upper projection is substantially tapered from the platform toward a cap. The upper protection has a through opening substantially perpendicular to an axis of the lower projection. A first end of the elastic wire is hooked between the cap and the platform, and a second end of the elastic wire is hooked with an orthodontic wire which links each bracket attached on teeth of the orthodontic patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventors: Hee Moon Kyung, Hyo Sang Park, Sung Min Bae
  • Patent number: 6435870
    Abstract: This orthodontic distalizing appliance includes a forward support assembly having an anchoring base in the roof of the mouth. A rearward laterally disposed spring assembly is provided having outer ends removably received within associated sheaths attached to maxillary molars. A centrally disposed adjustment assembly extends between the anchoring base and the spring assembly for applying a force to the spring assembly which is transmitted to the molars to be distalized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventor: Kevin C. Walde
  • Publication number: 20020106604
    Abstract: The present invention provides improved systems and methods for removably attaching a dental positioning appliance to the dental features of a patient during orthodontic treatment. These appliances function by applying force to specific surfaces of the teeth or dental features to cause directed movement. The application of force is improved by the use of one or more attachment devices which may be positioned on the teeth or dental features to provide the appropriate physical features. Specific design and location of these attachment devices may provide newly achievable and/or more effective repositioning forces, anchoring ability and appliance retention. The systems and methods of the present invention provide the design, production and use of such attachment devices with removable dental positioning appliances in orthodontic treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2001
    Publication date: August 8, 2002
    Applicant: Align Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Loc X. Phan, Muhammad Z. Chishti, Ross J. Miller
  • Patent number: 6413082
    Abstract: In an orthodontic appliance, referred to as Herbst hinge, for the forward displacement of the lower jaw of a patient, with a pair of telescopes, each comprising a telescopic tube and a telescopic slide rod, which are attachable at their free ends in each case via a joint to the patient's upper jaw and lower jaw, respectively, for increasing the freedom of movement of the lower jaw while at the same time achieving the therapeutically desired forward push onto the lower jaw, it is proposed that the telescopes in the telescoped state be rigid, as known per se, but in the extended state be flexible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Dentaurum J. P. Winkelstroeter KG
    Inventor: Friedrich Binder
  • Patent number: 6405729
    Abstract: A device (10) for improving a user's breathing includes an upper arch (12) that is adapted to receive at least some of the user's upper teeth and a lower arch (14) that is adapted to receive at least some of the user's lower teeth. A deformable material (16) couples the upper arch (12) to the lower arch (14) and includes an aliphatic polyester. The deformable material (16) is bonded to the upper arch (12) and bonded to the lower arch (14) to fix the forward position of the lower arch (14). The aliphatic polyester may include a polycaprolactone polymer. The deformable material (16) may be placed in a deformable state to allow the lower arch (14) to be adjusted to a new position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Inventor: W. Keith Thornton
  • Patent number: 6402510
    Abstract: An orthodontic expansion complex for a mandibular and maxillary arch expansion that resists buccal tipping of molars. The expansion complex includes first and second forward orthodontic bands and a pair of rear orthodontic bands operatively connected to the forward orthodontic bands. The expansion complex includes an arm extending lingually from a lingual side of the first forward orthodontic band. An expander body is rotationally mounted on the arm to rotate about the arm. A passage extends through the body, and the arm extends into a rear end of the passage. The body passage is internally threaded near the front of the body. An expansion rod is mounted to a lingual side of the second forward orthodontic band. The expansion rod is externally threaded at a rear end thereof to be threadedly received in the threaded portion of the body passage. The expansion rod has a bore extending forwardly from the rear end of the rod which receives the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventor: Michael O. Williams
  • Publication number: 20020068254
    Abstract: The present invention provides an intra-oral anchorage which comprises a flexible belt that extends around and between the teeth of a patient. The belt has locking means fixed thereon to receive a free end portion of the belt and lock said portion against retraction therefrom. The locking means is in the form of a buckle. The intra-oral anchorage of the present invention can be used to hold a jaw in a fixed position, in the case of a broken jaw for example. It offers ease of application and therefore a reduction in the cost of surgery as well as eliminating the risk of “needle stick” injury inherent with cutting and bending multiple ends of wire. It causes less gum damage in placement and removal, which is similarly easier, faster and less uncomfortable for the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 1999
    Publication date: June 6, 2002
    Inventor: DUNCAN FRASER CAMPBELL
  • Publication number: 20020058227
    Abstract: An orthodontic bracket for providing traction to an impacted tooth, the bracket having a base portion adapted to be fixed to the exposed tooth surface, and a plurality of attachment points adapted to be attached to one or more traction ligatures (e.g., elastic modules), which in turn are adapted to be attached to an arch wire in order to provide traction forces to the tooth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2002
    Publication date: May 16, 2002
    Inventor: Shelly Townsend-Hansen
  • Patent number: 6364659
    Abstract: A bite opener for use during orthodontic treatment has a base for mounting on a lingual side of a tooth, as well as at least one occlusal portion for contact with an opposing tooth so that other teeth (such as molar teeth) can be extruded. In one embodiment, the bite opener has a channel extending between a mesial section and a distal section, so that the sections can be squeezed together when desired to debond the bite opener from the patient's tooth. In other embodiments, the bite opener includes a bite plate connected to the body, and the bite plate is made of a material softer than the body to enhance patient comfort when the jaws are closed. Optionally, the bite plate is detachably connected to the body so that the bite plate can be removed before debonding the body from the tooth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventor: Brian W. Lotte
  • Patent number: 6354834
    Abstract: An orthodontic supporting structure of the present invention comprises an implant unit which is implantable in a jaw bone and a connecting unit which includes an arm part having a fastening portion. The implant unit has a narrow part in its upper portion. The connecting unit further includes an engaging part having an opening at one end. The engaging part fits on the narrow part of the implant unit. The connecting unit can be attached to the implant unit in a simple way by sliding the engaging part along the narrow part and then crimping far ends of the engaging part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: Sankin Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Ryuzo Kanomi, Katsuyuki Nakagawa, Yoshiharu Shin
  • Publication number: 20020025501
    Abstract: Various embodiments of lingual arch developers are disclosed that have at least one telescoping force generator module assemblies for exerting at least generally mesio-distally directed forces on each side of the patient's arch for arch lengthening, as well as at least one telescoping force generator module assembly for exerting at least generally transversely directed forces on the patient's arch for arch expansion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Publication date: February 28, 2002
    Inventor: William J. Clark
  • Patent number: 6341956
    Abstract: An orthodontic dental distractor was invented for rapid orthodontic tooth movement and leveling treatment. The molars at two side of patients teeth are mounted respectively with a barrel band which fastens to a steel wire which in turn engages with the brackets adhered to the front teeth like a conventional orthodontic treatment does. However the dental distractor further includes a front joint member which has a holding member to engages with one end of the steel wire, a rear joint member which has a hook to engage with the barrel band and a screw bar which engage with the front end and rear joint member. Turning the screw bar, the front joint member will be moved toward the rear joint member for pulling or pushing the bracket, consequently moving the front teeth toward or away from the molar for leveling the teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Inventor: Eric Jein-Wein Liou