Abstract: A tool recognition system recognizes a tool selected for a surgical procedure. The tool includes a distal portion configured to perform at least part of the surgical procedure and a proximal portion including a first electronic module that stores tool-identifying electronic information. A surgical handpiece is configured to receive the tool and includes a second electronic module configured to communicate electronically with the first electronic module when tool is disposed in the handpiece. The first electronic module includes a coil that is configured as a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag antenna. The second electronic module includes a coil that is configured as a radio-frequency identification (RFID) interrogator antenna. In one embodiment, the first electronic module is a transponder that includes a RFID chip and a RFID antenna. Another embodiment includes a surgical tool recognition system for a drill and the tool includes a file.

Abstract: A tool for use with an electronic tool recognition system includes a tool blank with a distal tip configured for performing a procedure and a proximal handle encasing, fixedly, a proximal end of the tool blank. A tool-identifying apparatus including a mechanical resonator is embedded in a proximal end of the tool blank to provide a tool identifier. A conductive wire in electrical contact with the resonator provides the identifier to a processor. In another arrangement, conductive brushes in contact with slip rings provide the identifier to a processor. In another arrangement, a dental tool handle includes an insulating portion defining a recess in a proximal end of the handle configured to receive either a sensor or an information-managing chip.

Abstract: A dental tool detection system for detecting a type of a dental tool attached to a dental device for performing a dental procedure includes a controller. The controller has an electronic processor and a memory electrically connected to the electronic processor. The system includes a motor control electrically connected to the electronic processor and electrically connected to a motor, and an electrical property sensor electrically connected to the electronic processor. The electronic processor is configured to (1) receive, from the electrical property sensor, a measured value of an electrical property associated with the dental device without the dental tool attached and separately a measured value of the electrical property of the dental device with the dental tool attached. The electronic processor determines a value of the electrical property associated with the dental tool, and recognizes the type of the dental tool based on the value.

Abstract: A tool recognition system includes a tool and a dental drill. The tool includes a fluted portion and a shank portion. The tool has one or more colored identifiers at least partially circumscribing a part of the shank portion. The dental drill includes a tool rotating portion, a light transmitter located in the tool rotating portion, and a light sensor. With the tool removably coupled to the tool rotating portion, the one or more colors present a sequence of one or more colors to the light sensor for identifying the tool to the light sensor when the tool rotates a predetermined number of turns. The dental drill includes a handpiece and a console in another embodiment.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for removing a dental crown from a tooth. Chemical bonds within an adhesive, between the adhesive and the crown, and between the adhesive and the tooth may secure the crown to the tooth. The chemical bonds may be weakened. After weakening the bonds, the crown may not be securely affixed to the tooth. After weakening the bonds, the crown may be easily removed from the tooth. The bonds may be weakened by applying ultrasonic waves to the adhesive. Sonic energy of the waves may heat the adhesive. The bonds may be weakened by positioning the adhesive within an electric field. The bonds may be weakened by applying heat to the adhesive. The heating may cause particles within the adhesive to expand. The electric field and/or the sonic energy may be applied via an electronic tool.

Abstract: Methods and systems for using a curable material for endodontic processes are provided. The method comprises using an electroactive composition to cure and optionally un-cure the material. Using an electroactive composition allows for easy introduction of the material without unwanted complexity or side effects. It also allows for easy removal and replacement if desired.