Abstract: A dedicated configuration controller includes a configuration memory and a configuration processing unit. The memory stores configuration data for a data-processing device having a device processing unit, and the configuration processing unit couples the configuration data from the memory to the device processing unit before or during the initialization of the data-processing device. Such a configuration controller can reduce the time it takes to reconfigure a data-processing device by allowing a network administrator to modify the configuration data with minimum interruption to the operation of the device. Furthermore, such a configuration controller can often save the network administrator time by allowing him to simultaneously modify the configuration data of multiple data-processing devices. Moreover, one can program the controller to offload post-initialization tasks from the device processing unit.

Abstract: A method of applying an anatomical occlusal surface configuration to a formable tooth-like member includes the step of pressing a stamp having a complimentary anatomical surface configuration onto the occlusal surface of the tooth-like member. The method can be effectively utilized in fabricating dental crowns, and it virtually assures consistent occlusal surface quality while minimizing labor costs. The stamp includes a stamping portion having the complimentary anatomical surface thereon and a handle portion for manipulating the stamping portion to form an occlusal surface on a tooth-like member.

Abstract: A base structure for a dental prosthesis comprises first and second anchor elements which are permanently securable to the teeth on opposite sides of a space or gap in the tooth structure of a patient and a base element which is securable to the anchor elements in the gap but which comprises slidably interfitted first and second base element portions so that it is expandable to fit the width of the gap. The method of securing and forming a dental prosthesis in the gap with the base structure comprises the steps of securing the anchor elements on the teeth on opposite sides of the gap, assembling the base element with the anchor elements in the gap, securing the first and second base element portions together, forming an outer shell on the base element and securing the base element with the outer shell thereon to the anchor elements.

Abstract: A permanent dental prosthesis and a method of installing the prosthesis in the mouth of a patient to replace a missing tooth. The prosthesis comprises a body portion, first and second lugs which project outwardly from opposite side edges of the body portion and which are inwardly slidable with respect to each other, a spring element for biasing the lugs apart and a cap receivable on the body portion for defining an outer tooth-like configuration for the prosthesis. In accordance with the method, the prosthesis is installed between a pair of spaced teeth by first forming elongated notches in the inwardly facing edges of the teeth and then assembling and cementing the prosthesis between the teeth so that the lugs are received and cemented in the notches. The spring element is preferably then removed, and a cap is formed over the body portion to provide an outer configuration for the prosthesis which simulates a natural tooth.

Abstract: A base structure for a dental prosthesis comprises first and second anchor elements which are permanently securable to the teeth on opposite sides of a space or gap in the tooth structure of a patient and a base element which is securable to the anchor elements in the gap but which comprises slidably interfitted first and second base element portions so that it is expendable to fit the width of the gap. The method of securing and forming a dental prosthesis in the gap with the base structure comprises the steps of securing the anchor elements on the teeth on opposite sides of the gap, assembling the base element with the anchor elements in the gap, securing the first and second base element portions together, forming an outer shell on the base element and securing the base element with the outer shell thereon to the anchor elements.