Abstract: An orthodontic bracket positioning system comprises a plate having a bridge. The plate is defined by a first side portion and a second side portion to form a hollow therebetween. The first and second side portions are connected to each other by the bridge and an outer edge line of the plate contains therein the bridge, the first and second side portions. First and second connectors each have a front end and a rear end to become rotatably engaged to each other between the front and rear ends thereof. The first and second connector front ends are rotatably connected to the first and second side portions An actuator is engaged to said each rear end of the first and second connectors to control a relative rotation of the first and second connectors so as to subsequently either widen or narrow the hollow.

Abstract: In an apparatus for precisely locating an orthodontic bracket at a predetermined position on a surface of a tooth, orthodontic brackets for holding orthodontic wires can be easily and precisely located at and adhered to a predetermined position on a surface of a tooth, not only at an initial time but also even when the used orthodontic brackets are separated from the surface of the tooth in the course of the orthodontic treatment. The apparatus has a suspension body, a ring, and a molding spacer. The suspension body is disposed extending in parallel with the tooth from an apex toward a dental root of the tooth with a predetermined gap. The ring is inserted in the groove and hooked around the hook after the holding member has been fittedly inserted in the fitting recess, to thereby tightly assemble the suspension body and the orthodontic bracket together. The molding spacer is disposed between the suspension body and the tooth.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for generating a orthodontic template that assists in the placement of an orthodontic apparatus includes processing that begins by obtaining a digital model of an orthodontic structure of an orthodontic patient. The processing continues by obtaining a selection of one of a plurality of orthodontic apparatuses for the orthodontic structure to produce a selected orthodontic apparatus. The processing then continues by obtaining a digital model of placement of the selected orthodontic apparatus on the digital model of the orthodontic structure. The processing then continues by retrieving a digital image of a tooth mounting apparatus (e.g., a bracket, a band, a headgear tube, etc.) of the selected apparatus for a given tooth.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating an orthodontic patient include processing that begins by generating digital information regarding the orthodontic patient by a site orthodontic system. The site orthodontic system then transmits the digital information to an orthodontic server, which creates an electronic patient record therefrom. The orthodontic server then generates an initial treatment from the electronic patient record, wherein the initial treatment plan includes precise steps to obtain a desired orthodontic structure. The orthodontic server then transmits a digital version of the initial treatment plan to the site orthodontic system. Upon confirmation from the site orthodontic system, the orthodontic server designs an orthodontic apparatus for one of the precise steps based on the treatment plan. The orthodontic apparatus is then fabricated and provided to the site orthodontic system.

Abstract: An adjusting tool and associated method of use for turning orthodontic expansion screws are described. The tool or device consists of a contra-angled molded plastic handle or housing with a rotatable pin at the distal end for inserting into an expansion screw located in a patient's mouth. The tool housing is designed to limit the angular rotation of the pin to the arc required for insertion and subsequent activation of the orthodontic screw. When rotated to the position associated with screw activation, the pin is captured and held in place by a locking mechanism which then requires the tool to be disengaged from the screw prior to its removal from the patient's mouth. This feature eliminates the possibility of reversing and deactivating the expansion screw by pulling the expansion key straight out of the mouth. A manual release mechanism on the tool frees the pin to allow the pin to be rotated back to the insertion position.

Abstract: In an apparatus for precisely locating an orthodontic bracket at a predetermined position on a surface of a tooth, orthodontic brackets for holding orthodontic wires can be easily and precisely located at and adhered to a predetermined position on a surface of a tooth, not only at an initial time but also even when the used orthodontic brackets are separated from the surface of the tooth in the course of the orthodontic treatment. The apparatus has a suspension body, a ring, and a molding spacer. The suspension body is disposed extending in parallel with the tooth from an apex toward a dental root of the tooth with a predetermined gap. The ring is inserted in the groove and hooked around the hook after the holding member has been fittedly inserted in the fitting recess, to thereby tightly assemble the suspension body and the orthodontic bracket together. The molding spacer is disposed between the suspension body and the tooth.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating an orthodontic patient include processing that begins by generating digital information regarding the orthodontic patient by a site orthodontic system. The site orthodontic system then transmits the digital information to an orthodontic server, which creates an electronic patient record therefrom. The orthodontic server then generates an initial treatment from the electronic patient record, wherein the initial treatment plan includes precise steps to obtain a desired orthodontic structure. The orthodontic server then transmits a digital version of the initial treatment plan to the site orthodontic system. Upon confirmation from the site orthodontic system, the orthodontic server designs an orthodontic apparatus for one of the precise steps based on the treatment plan. The orthodontic apparatus is then fabricated and provided to the site orthodontic system.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating an orthodontic patient include processing that begins by generating digital information regarding the orthodontic patient by a site orthodontic system. The site orthodontic system then transmits the digital information to an orthodontic server, which creates an electronic patient record therefrom. The orthodontic server then generates an initial treatment from the electronic patient record, wherein the initial treatment plan includes precise steps to obtain a desired orthodontic structure. The orthodontic server then transmits a digital version of the initial treatment plan to the site orthodontic system. Upon confirmation from the site orthodontic system, the orthodontic server designs an orthodontic apparatus for one of the precise steps based on the treatment plan. The orthodontic apparatus is then fabricated and provided to the site orthodontic system.

Abstract: A gauge for measuring and/or marking teeth or models of teeth for the determination of the placement of attachments for orthodontic braces. The gauge has a first arm with a gauge element with a longitudinal extension portion lying on a first axis and a vertical extension portion extending generally perpendicularly from the first axis of the longitudinal extension portion. The gauge has a second arm which has a pointer or marking element at an end thereof, the pointer element having a tip which is spaced apart from the longitudinal extension portion of the first arm, the first and second arm being connected together to maintain the spaced apart relationship between the tip of marking element and the longitudinal extension portion with the vertical extension portion extending towards the pointer or marking element. The invention also provides a gauge element for converting a bow divider into a gauge for measuring and/or marking teeth for the determination of the placement of attachments for orthodontic braces.

Abstract: An orthodontic bracket positioning system comprises a plate having a bridge. The plate is defined by a first side portion and a second side portion to form a hollow therebetween. The first and second side portions are connected to each other by the bridge and an outer edge line of the plate contains therein the bridge, the first and second side portions. First and second connectors each have a front end and a rear end to become rotatably engaged to each other between the front and rear ends thereof. The first and second connector front ends are rotatably connected to the first and second side portions An actuator is engaged to said each rear end of the first and second connectors to control a relative rotation of the first and second connectors so as to subsequently either widen or narrow the hollow.

Abstract: A method for for comparing between an orthodontic element's actual position on the surface of a tooth and a proper position comprise monitoring the element, the tooth or both once the element and the tooth are proximal to one another by an image acquisition unit which transmits an image to a screen that displays the image and displaying information on the screen regarding proper position of the element in a manner allowing to compare between the actual and the proper position is disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides several tools that can be used in connection with orthodontic treatment using orthodontic brackets. One of the tools has a first member that engages a notch of a self-ligating orthodontic bracket. The tool also has a second member engaged with the first member and adapted to engage a free end of a locking member in order to disengage the locking member when the first and second members are squeezed toward each other. Another tool has a pair of notches that are adapted to engage an archwire on both sides of a tooth in order to seat an archwire in an archwire slot. In one embodiment, there is provided an instrument having a first end and a second end. The first end has a guiding member having two spaced-apart arms. Each of the arms defines a notch formed thereon capable of engaging an archwire whereby the guiding member can engage an archwire on both sides of a tooth to guide the archwire into an archwire slot of an orthodontic bracket.

Abstract: A method, system and device for positioning and fixing an orthodontic element on a surface of a tooth are provided. The positioning of the element on a tooth is accomplished by: bringing the element into proximity of the tooth while continuously capturing an image of at least the tooth or of the element, and an image of both, once the tooth and the element are proximal to one another; transmitting the image or its representation to a display for displaying a real-life image of the captured image or representation together with indicators providing guidance information on intended position of the orthodontic element on the tooth's surface; positioning the element on a tooth's surface according to said indicators such that the element's position coincides with the intended position; and fixing the element onto the tooth.

Abstract: An orthodontic bracket positioner includes a metal plate placed under a tongue, a pair of side elongated slots formed along a side edge portion of the metal plate, a circular hole formed in a front edge portion of the metal plate and adjacent to the side elongated slots. A pair of side bracket holders substantially elongated to sufficiently hold brackets for a canine tooth and molar teeth behind the canine tooth, a front edge line of a front bracket holder arc-shaped in a similar manner to the front teeth line to fixedly hold four front teeth at the same time. The side elongated slots of the metal plate are perpendicular to an open type connection slot formed at a portion of each of the bracket holders, the bracket holders including a plurality of fixing slots formed along an edge line thereof so as to engage a plurality of brackets therethrough.

Abstract: An orthodontic height hand gauge is both double-ended and double-sided, allowing four measurement heights to be determined by a single tool. Each end of the gauge has a rotatable element capable of rotating and stopping at zero degrees, 45 degrees, and 90 degrees from the handle axis by a plunger mechanism which provides a detent function. Rotatable ends provide proper gauge alignment to the tooth, especially for difficult-to-reach teeth in the back of the mouth. A center tab extends longitudinally from each rotatable element and is separated by a given distance from top and bottom legs which extend parallel to the center tab. The distances between the center tab and the legs are two different gauge heights to be measured. Thus, by using both ends of the tool, four gauge distances can be measured.

Abstract: A dental tool for installation of brackets for orthodontic braces is provided which has an adjustable gripping mechanism for gripping the orthodontic bracket and a centering mechanism for centering the bracket on the tooth. The tool is adjustable to fit a wide variety of orthodontic brackets and the tool is further adjustable to enable the bracket to be installed at the proper vertical location on teeth of a wide variety of sizes and lengths.

Abstract: An orthodontic jig for attaching orthodontic brackets on the teeth is disclosed. The orthodontic jig comprises a housing, a bracket support extending out of the front side of the housing through the back side of the housing, tweezers for gripping the tie wings of the bracket connected to the housing and disposed around the bracket support, a cusp tip reference means for setting the cusp tip of the tooth as the reference surface of the orthodontic position, means for displacing the cusp tip reference plate upward or downward, and a handle connected to the upper and lower surface of housing for supporting the housing.

Abstract: An improved dental elastic handling system is disclosed. The system is directed to the use of one or more assemblies which each include a plurality of elastics interconnected to a runner. The system may comprise an inventive dispenser having a tubular member with a channel therethrough for receiving an elastics runner assembly. The tubular member may include a slot extending from one end to a mid-portion. A cutting edge may be provided at the distal end of the slot. Upon positioning an elastics/runner assembly within the channel of the dispenser, the elastics will extend through the slot a predetermined distance to facilitate grasping by a placement device. By opposing advancement of the dispenser and/or elastics/runner assembly the elastics may selectively contact the cutting edge of the dispenser so as to facilitate disengagement of the elastics. The arrangement provides for enhanced carrying, cutting and installation of dental elastics.

Abstract: A system and method by which an orthodontic appliance is automatically designed and manufactured from digital lower jaw and tooth shape data of a patient provides for preferably scanning a model of the patient's mouth to produce two or three dimensional images and digitizing contours and selected points. A computer is programmed to construct archforms and calculate finish positions of the teeth, then to design an appliance, preferably including archwires and brackets, to move the teeth to the calculated positions. The lower teeth are positioned at their roots on an arch defined by the lower jaw bone, and the arch is modified to best fit the tooth tips on a smooth curve. Upper archforms are constructed for the upper teeth. Then, machine code is generated and appliances are automatically produced that will straighten the teeth of the patient. Custom placement jigs are also automatically designed and fabricated and are provided with the custom appliance to position the appliance on the patient's teeth.

Abstract: The present invention is a medical implant or device fabricated, in any manner, from a niobium (Nb)—titanium (Ti)—zirconium (Zr)—Molybdenum (Mo) alloy (NbTiZrMo alloy). The implant or device has components at least partially fabricated from a metal alloy comprising a) between about 29 and 70 weight percent Nb; b) between about 10 and 46 weight percent Zr; c) between about 3 and 15 weight percent Mo; and a balance of titanium. The inventive alloy provides for a uniform beta structure which is corrosion resistant, and can be readily processed to develop high-strength and low-modulus, with the ability for conversion oxidation or nitridization surface hardening of the medical implant or device.

Abstract: The present invention is a thermoelectric device and method designed to create a martensitic state in a shape memory alloy. The invention allows for prolonged use without overheating, and is more less expensive and easier to use than current art. The device is comprised of a cooling tip that is made of a thermally conductive material in contact with the thermoelectric module powered by an external DC converter. A heat sink is in thermal contact with the heating face of the module with cooling fins to draw heat away from the module. A continuous supply of cooling gas or liquid flows over the cooling fins or liquid channels to further cool the module. The DC power supply is controlled by a pneumatic device that will only operate under positive gas pressure, thus ensuring proper cooling of the heat sink of the invention. The cooling tip extends from the front end of an insulating body, the body having a threaded chucking hold for easy removal and changeout of the cooling tip.

Abstract: An adjusting device and method of adjusting an orthodontic expander has an elongated handle and a distal extension in the form of a wire. The extension is bent at an angle of approximately 90° to form an activator tip which is inserted into the expansion screw. The handle is then rotated by one hand located entirely to one side of the medial plane of the patient's mouth, to torque the expansion screw.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for precisely positioning and bonding orthodontic appliances such as brackets and buccal tubes to a patient's teeth. The method and apparatus includes the use of a transfer tray and arms that are connected to the transfer tray. Orthodontic appliances are releasably connected to the arms and detached from the arms once the adhesive used for bonding the appliances to the tooth surfaces has sufficiently hardened. In certain embodiments, the transfer tray has a shape that helps hold the tray immobile relative to the patient's teeth also facilitates clean-up of any adhesive extruded from the base of the appliances during bonding. In other embodiments, fixture components are connected to the tray and include analogs for each orthodontic appliance. In certain embodiments, the tray is made by placing matrix material over arms for supporting orthodontic appliances or appliance analogs.

Abstract: A wire driver collet mechanism for selectively enabling the repositioning of a wire within a wire driver. The adjustable collet mechanism enables the wire to be repositioned under its own weight so that a user is not required to grasp the wire, thereby enabling one-handed operation of the wire driver. A method of adjusting a wire within a wire driver utilizes the steps of positioning the tip of a wire against a surface and allowing the wire to move under its own weight while moving the wire driver to position the wire as desired. The release of the wire is under the control of the hand holding the wire driver.

Abstract: A system and method by which an orthodontic appliance is automatically designed and manufactured from digital lower jaw and tooth shape data of a patient provides for preferably scanning a model of the patient's mouth to produce two or three dimensional images and digitizing contours and selected points. A computer is programmed to construct archforms and calculate finish positions of the teeth, then to design an appliance, preferably including archwires and brackets, to move the teeth to the calculated positions. The lower teeth are positioned at their roots on an arch defined by the lower jaw bone, and the arch is modified to best fit the tooth tips on a smooth curve. Upper archforms are constructed for the upper teeth. Then, machine code is generated and appliances are automatically produced that will straighten the teeth of the patient. Custom placement jigs are also automatically designed and fabricated and are provided with the custom appliance to position the appliance on the patient's teeth.

Abstract: A twister for orthodontic ligature wires which easily enable a twisting operation of the wire with one hand, and is capable of clamping the wire with certainty, and simple in construction. The twister for passing the ligature wire in a nipping cylinder and a gripping cylinder to nip the wire, comprises a guide hole provided in the nipping cylinder to enable inserting the wire in a direction along a central axis of the nipping cylinder, an insertion port provided at a tip end of the guide hole, a compartment pin for inhibition of twisting provided on the insertion port, or an engagement piece provided on an extension of the insertion port, and a locking mechanism mounted in the nipping cylinder and the gripping cylinder to allow engagement and disengagement of the wire with one hand.

Abstract: A ligature tool for applying elastic ligatures onto an orthodontic bracket without patient discomfort by automatically picking up one ligature at a time, expanding it over a tip and snapping it onto a bracket, without pressing against the bracket. The ligature tool has a ligature tip that is pre-loaded with a stack of ligatures where the ligature tip is replaceable with tips having larger or smaller ligatures.

Abstract: A dental bracket having a non-adhering, moldable base, wherein the moldable base is conformed to the surface of the tooth to which it is to be adhered. A very thin layer of dental adhesive interposed between the moldable base and the tooth (by coating of any or both of the tooth and moldable base--preferably the tooth) effects full adherence of the bracket to the tooth. The base material is fully cured by normal curing methods such as by UV or other wavelength light activation. Use of a non-tacky, bondable plastic membrane (or coating or use of a thin inert interposition material which is non-tacky and bondable) bonded to the base material (and which is conformed with the molding of the base material), facilitates application of a bracket with an applicator. A bracket applicator and package suitable for use with the dental bracket of the present invention is also described.

Abstract: The invention provides an automatic ligation tool which comfortably and quickly fastens ligature wires to brackets.

Abstract: A positioning fixture, or jig, adapted for use with conventional, off-the-shelf orthodontic appliance brackets and arch wires is shaped for optimum placement of the bracket on its associated tooth. Computer modeling of each tooth using digital scanning techniques allows each jig to be custom sized and shaped by CAD/CAM. The jig may be translucent for use with a light sensitive adhesive applied to the bracket to permit light curing of the adhesive. The jig may further be provided with one or more color-coded indicia such as for designating the arch and the particular tooth with which the jig is to be used. The jig may be further provided with elasticity to allow for deformation or failure of the jig to facilitate its removal and may also include an integral occlusal standoff extension to ensure proper in/out, or prominence, registration from the tooth's enamel surface as well as an alignment tab to ensure proper positioning of the jig on its associated tooth.

Abstract: A disposable applicator has a translucent bonder tip member that forms an orthodontic attachment which bonds to the surface of the tooth in one easy motion, where an orthodontic wire or rubber band may be placed thereon and held in position to correct irregular teeth of an individual. The curing resin is placed in a shaped contour cavity of the bonder tip member and then it is positioned against each surface of the tooth. Then a curing light is shined on the resin through the translucent bonder tip member so that the resin becomes hardened and forms the orthodontic attachment on the surface of the tooth. The disposable applicator may also retain a conventional orthodontic button therein so that an orthodontist can rapidly and effortlessly bond the orthodontic button to each surface of the tooth.

Abstract: A device (10) used in orthodontic processes in which light is supplied from a source (40) through a light transmissive cable (42) and directed at a patient's teeth (T). A housing (12) is deformable to conform to an arch shape of a set (SU, SL) of the patient's teeth. The length of the housing corresponds to the arcuate length of the set of teeth, and an adaptor (48) attaches the housing to an end (44) of the cable for light to be directed into the housing. A light diffusion system (18) diffuses the light throughout the housing which has a light transmissive surface (14) by which the diffused light is simultaneously directed at all of the patient's teeth on which the dental/orthodontic process is being pre-formed to substantially reduce the amount of time required for light to be used in performing the process.

Abstract: A method of reducing the extent to which microorganisms, particularly bacteria, will adhere to a surface, which comprises providing a surface having pendant groups of formula (I), in which each group R is the same or different and is alkyl of 1 to 4 carbon atoms and a is from 1 to 4, use of compounds containing a group of formula (I) in reducing the extent to which microorganisms would adhere to a surface and use of articles comprising such surfaces in environments susceptible to microorganism adhesion. The method has application in a wide variety of industrial or domestic fields wherever it is desirable to prevent growth of microorganisms as well as in the medical field.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for providing a dental aid (18) on at least one tooth (7) of at least one row of teeth (2), which apparatus comprises a mold (1) containing the impression of at least a portion of a number of teeth from a row, pressure means (3,4,5) being connected with the mold which comprises fastening means (5) for the dental aid and are adapted to move the dental aid in a controlled manner from a first position to a second position.

Abstract: Instead of preparing the elastic rings and tool separately for the treatment, the tool of this invention can hold a number of elastic rings behind the head. When needed, an elastic ring can be pushed to the head of the tool and fixed by the indented portion of the head. Then, the elastic ring can be fastened to the bracket by the same procedure as with the traditional tools. Also, it provides a simpler way to fix the position of the elastic ring at the head of the tool. Thus, it prevents unnecessary waste of the elastic rings during the elastic ring placement at the head. The tool is designed to be disposable so that it can eliminate hygienic problem which may be caused by the repeated use of the traditional plier-type tools.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically designing and manufacturing a custom orthodontic appliance from anatomical shape data preferably of the lower jaw and teeth of a patient includes a scanner to produce images in three dimensions, a computer that constructs archforms and calculates finish tooth positions, then automatically designs an appliance, preferably including archwires and brackets, to move the teeth to the calculated positions and jigs to place the brackets on the teeth of the patient, and program controlled machines for making the brackets, wires and jigs to the appliance design driven by commands derived from digitized tooth and jaw shape data.

Abstract: A disposable resin applicator is used for applying a small, precise mound of resin to hold an orthodontic wire to the teeth of a patient. The disposable resin applicator assists an orthodontist to bond curing resin to the teeth to retain the wire used to stabilize the teeth after or during orthodontic movement. The resin applicator has a translucent wire bonder tip which has two opposite wire slots through which the orthodontic wire can be inserted therein. An alignment guide runs the length of the wire bonder tip on either side so that it is easy to visually view where the wire slots are to place on the orthodontic wire. The curing resin is placed in a tiny cup on the wire bonder tip and then it is placed over the orthodontic wire on the tooth so that the wire fits in the two wire slots such that the wire bonder tip can be held by a dental tool. Then a curing light is shined on the resin through the translucent wire bonder tip so that the resin becomes hardened and holds the orthodontic wire to the teeth.

Abstract: An orthodontic appliance debonder for minimizing the time and effort on the part of the clinician in removing bondable orthodontic appliances, i.e. those having a plastic body secured to the crowns of the teeth by an orthodontic bonding agent. In accordance with the invention, a screw is incorporated in the plastic body of the appliance, in particular in the occlusal portion thereof. The screw is oriented substantially vertically when the patient's head is in an upright position and preferably is positioned over the first molar. A thin layer of plastic occlusal to the screw maintains the integrity of the seal between the plastic body and the tooth. This thin layer of plastic is compromised when the screw is activated, such as being turned or rotated by an Allen wrench type tool, thus breaking the bond or seal between the plastic body and the tooth. The appliance lifts up in a manner similar to a car being lifted up by a screw type jack.

Abstract: A temporomandibular joint (TMJ) diagnosis device easily incorporates into the handle of a dental mirror or the like. Marks indicating distances critical to the evaluation of TMJ articulation are engraved or otherwise permanently made upon the handle of a dental instrument, particularly an angled dental mirror. By resting or setting the butt end of the handle against the incisal edge of either mandibular or maxillary teeth, a dental practitioner can easily gauge proper TMJ functioning and alignment as the patient slowly opens the mouth. Any misalignment is indicated by the relative motion of the opposing jaw portion with respect to the handle side which is generally perpendicular to the butt end. Generally, a mark can be engraved or otherwise made at forty-five millimeters to indicate generally the proper range of TMJ articulation. Likewise, collateral marks can be made sixty millimeters, fifty-two millimeters, thirty-eight millimeters, and twenty-five millimeters.

Abstract: An orthodontic bracket having a base with a front face and spaced tie wings, with a generally central recess provided between the tie wings. With non-metal brackets, a separate jig or insert may be positioned between the tie wings. The jig or insert includes a central recess. The orthodontic brackets are designed to be positioned on an individual's tooth with the aid of a conventional bracket positioning gauge having a guide which is received in the recess of a bracket or the recess of a jig or insert. In alternate embodiments, one or more grooves may be provided between the tie wings to both assist in bracket positioning and to reduce friction between a bracket and the archwire which extends between brackets.

Abstract: An indicator for using in setting a device for teeth irregularities including a wire extending along with a dentition, a bracket in which the wire is inserted, the bracket being fixed to a surface of each tooth in a manner that a pillow-like shaped base plate is interposed between the bracket and the surface, the indicator including: a backbone member extending along with a longitudinal axis in the tooth; a leg member connected with a lower end of the backbone member; a first arm member connected with an upper end of the backbone member, the first arm member extending parallel to the leg member; a device for carrying the bracket for slidably carrying in a slidable manner, the device being connected with the backbone member at intermediate portion of the backbone member; and at least one second arm member connected with the backbone member at intermediate portion between a position where the means is connected and another position where the leg member is connected the second arm member extruding parallel to th

Abstract: An orthodontic tool is described wherein an elastic band can be easily stretched into a triangular shape and attached over the hooks of an orthodontic apparatus attached within a mouth. The tool can be operated with a single hand and the rubber band can be stretched and placed over a first hook and then partially released from the tool. The second end of the rubber band is placed over a second hook in the mouth and the rubber band is completely released from the tool which is then removed from the mouth. The tool comprises two stationary L-shaped ends and one L-shaped end movable from the two stationary ends.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for accurately positioning and orienting an orthodontic appliance relative to individual teeth of a patient is provided, preferably in the form of a pivot action jig, preferably of two parts pivotally linked together. Preferably, one part releasably engages an orthodontic bracket relative to a pivot axis at which the two parts are connected, preferably by fitting between spaced vertical tie wings of the bracket with a blade fitting in a bracket slot. The second jig part []includes a tooth-engaging surface configured to the shape of the crown of the tooth. Where the bracket itself is configured to pivotally attach to the jig, the jig may be formed of only the tooth engaging part. Preferably, the tooth-engaging surface uniquely fits over the occlusal end of the crown and includes a slight over center end, opposite the pivot connection, and may include a three-dimensional cap.

Abstract: A locking orthodontic band gauge for determining an orthodontic band size. An elongated main portion is provided with a locking indicator assembly slidably mounted thereon. A loop cooperates with the main portion and indicator assembly such that when the indicator assembly is slid along the main portion, the size of the loop circumference changes. A series of locking portions are provided and spaced along the length of the elongated main portion at discrete positions and cooperate with the locking indicator assembly to selectively lock the indicator assembly at the discrete positions. Alternatively the orthodontic band gauge includes a probe for supporting a gauge tape such that the gauge tape can be fitted around the tooth when the probe is inserted into a patient's mouth. The probe has an indicator associated therewith and moveable relative to the probe for indicating the orthodontic band size of a patient's tooth when the gauge tape is fitted around the tooth.

Abstract: A presenting/dispensing system for chain-interconnected, cut-separable orthodontic/medical devices, organized into groups having a pre-selected number of patient-usable units, including a container constructed for housing such devices, and presenting/dispensing aperture substructure formed therein to allow for presenting such devices and dispensing a desired number of the same in an indexed manner. The system also includes check structure associated with the presenting/dispensing aperture substructure, which check structure is changeable, as a result of dispensing action, to a first condition that accommodates dispensing of such devices, and to a second condition, upon termination of such action, that resists slipping back of a chain of devices into the container.

Abstract: An orthodontic apparatus includes a mouth prop for separating a patient'lips to provide access to the teeth, and a placement tool for placing orthodontic brackets on a patient's teeth. The mouth prop includes a flat platform which is inserted between the patient's upper and lower teeth to provide a base upon which a head portion of the placement tool may be supported to align a bracket on a tooth. The mouth prop preferably includes a fluid ejector tube affixed to the rearward edge of the platform to remove fluids from the patient's mouth during the procedure. The placement tool includes a head portion having a support plate for releasably securing a bracket during the positioning process. A leg affixed to the head portion support plate depends a predetermined distance and supports the bracket above the mouth prop platform at a desired height. The process of attaching the brackets includes the steps of securing a bracket to the placement tool head portion and applying an adhesive to the seat of the bracket.

Abstract: Orthodontic appliance placement jigs are provided positioning and orienting the appliance at connection points on the teeth of a patient, particularly for positioning brackets against the surfaces of the teeth so that they can be bonded thereto. The jigs are each provided with a surface conforming to the contour of the tooth to which they are to be mounted. Another surface of the jig engages the bracket to hold it in the proper position and orientation for mounting to the tooth and spaced in relation to the contour surface to precisely locate the jig on the tooth. The jigs are particularly useful in positioning brackets of custom appliances designed to the individual anatomy of the patient, and requiring custom positioning of the brackets on the teeth. The jigs are formed with numerical controlled machinery that develops jig forming instructions from digitized tooth shape data and from digital representations of the tooth finish positions and appliance design.

Abstract: A disposable dental marking product comprising a elongated shaft having a first end representing a gripping area for a user's fingers and a second end directly covered with a composition of marking chemicals representing a writing area.

Abstract: Method and device for fracturing the interface between dental structures that have been secured together, and for adhesive removal and cleaning of the teeth. The device comprises an ultrasonic tool for providing hi-directional movement of a preferred amplitude and frequency. The tool is applied against one of the dental structures at an acute angle with respect to a plane in which the interface between the dental structures lies. Alternatively, the dental tool is applied against the adhesive on the tooth surface for removal thereof. In another alternative, the dental tool is utilized with a liquid layer to provide cavitation of the liquid, thereby cleaning and polishing the enamel surface.

Abstract: A disposable marking gauge for use in certain orthodontic procedures to mark a patient's tooth with a readily visible mark at the precise location relative to the occlusal surface of the tooth. The marking is especially useful in locating support wire positioning brackets on the patient's teeth so that they can be bonded to the teeth at precise locations relative to the occlusal surfaces of the teeth.