Comprising Tooth Contacting Wedge Or Wedge Actuator Patents (Class 433/149)
  • Patent number: 11717379
    Abstract: The dental wedge has an elongated body extending from an outer end to an opposite inner end. The body includes a longitudinal intermediate wall, a longitudinal first side wall connected to the intermediate wall, and a longitudinal second side wall connected to the intermediate wall. The first side wall and the second side wall each flare away from the intermediate wall such that a first distal end of the first side wall and a second distal end of the second side wall are spaced apart creating an inverted generally V-shaped transverse section for the body. The body has a top surface and a bottom surface formed by the intermediate wall, the first side wall and the second side wall. The intermediate wall includes a region of increased flexibility compared to each of the first side wall and the second side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Inventor: David J. Clark
  • Patent number: 11376099
    Abstract: A dental surgery guide system for use with a dental handpiece for forming a bore in a patient's jaw bone to receive a dental implant comprises a surgical template and a handpiece jig; the top of the handpiece guide can slide below the top of the template guide rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: 2INGIS SA
    Inventor: Philippe De Moyer
  • Patent number: 10751148
    Abstract: The present invention relates to dental wedges that may be used for creating space between adjacent teeth. In one form, the dental wedge includes an elongated body extending from an outer end to an opposite inner end. The body has a longitudinal intermediate wall, a longitudinal first side wall connected to the intermediate wall, and a longitudinal second side wall connected to the intermediate wall. The first side wall and the second side wall each flare away from the intermediate wall such that a first distal end of the first side wall and a second distal end of the second side wall are spaced apart creating an inverted generally V-shaped transverse section for the body. The body has a top surface formed by the intermediate wall, the first side wall and the second side wall. The body also has a bottom surface formed by the intermediate wall, the first side wall and the second side wall. The dental wedge includes a grasping section connected to the outer end of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Inventor: David J. Clark
  • Patent number: 10299890
    Abstract: Disclosed is a dental wedge and system comprising a dental wedge and a tool. The dental wedge includes a spherical gripping portion at an end, which provides surfaces extending generally transverse relative to a longitudinal axis of the dental wedge. A tool is configured to engaged with the spherical gripping portion so that a user may manipulate the tool in order to manipulate the dental wedge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: Erskine Products Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Craig Mathew Erskine-Smith
  • Patent number: 10080626
    Abstract: The integral restoration matrix system includes an arcuate frame having opposed upper and lower arcuate members and first and second opposed side members. The arcuate frame defines an open interior region. A matrix sheet is secured to the arcuate frame and extends across, and covers, the open interior region defined by the arcuate frame. First and second upper arcuate retaining arms are secured to, and extend from, respective upper ends of the first and second opposed side members. First and second lower arcuate retaining arms are secured to, and extend from, respective lower ends of the first and second opposed side members. A hemostatic mesh is secured to the lower arcuate member of the arcuate frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: KING SAUD UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Reem Siraj Alsulaimani, Sara Nasser Aldosary
  • Patent number: 9629693
    Abstract: A dental wedge (10) includes symmetrical sides (22, 24). The dental wedge (10) includes a restorative tooth side (24), the restorative tooth side (24) having a generally longitudinally extending planar wall (44) defined in part by an upper edge (34) and a lower edge (42), the planar wall (44) is inclined, wherein the planar wall (44) extends from the lower edge (42) upward and inward. The planar wall (44) includes an upper inclined surface (46) and a lower inclined surface (48), the planar wall (44) having a concave curve extending in a longitudinal direction, the upper inclined surface (46) generally defining the restorative tooth side (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Rhondium IP Limited
    Inventors: Simon P. McDonald, Alejandro Aubone, Matthew Backler
  • Patent number: 9610139
    Abstract: A dental wedge, for use in the inter-proximal space between adjacent teeth, includes a head portion, a body portion, wherein, the body portion includes a backbone, wherein the backbone, viewed from the side, has a curved profile, the body portion includes at least three pairs of wings extending from the backbone, wherein the wings are separated by a plurality of notches such that the wings extend independently, and the body portion has three sections, wherein a proximal wing section includes a pair of wings closest to the head portion, a distal wing section includes a pair of wings furthest from the head portion, and a central wing section has at least one pair of wings, and a neck portion, wherein the neck portion connects the head and body portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Assignee: DENTSPLY INTERNATIONAL Inc.
    Inventors: Simon Paul McDonald, Alejandro Aubone
  • Patent number: 9572635
    Abstract: A dental wedge (10) having a wedge body (11) and a gripping portion (12). The wedge (10) also has a longitudinal axis (13). The body (11) extends from a first end (14) to a second end (15), with the gripping portion (12) attached to the first end (15). The body (11) is constructed of at least two longitudinally extending layers. In one embodiment there are three layers, a first longitudinally extending layer (16), and second longitudinally extending layer (17) and a third longitudinally extending layer (18). The layer (17) is located between the layers (16, 18). In one embodiment the layers (16, 18) are formed of a softer material than the layer (17). In an alternative embodiment the layers (16, 18) are formed of a harder material than the material forming the layer (17).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Erksine Products Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Craig Mathew Erskine-Smith
  • Patent number: 9456880
    Abstract: A dental wedge device, comprising of a hollow body with perforations on all three sides of a general triangular cross section, is coupled to a flexible tubing which can be connected to a dental vacuum device, readily available in a dental operatory. The dental wedge device incorporates a novel element that addresses a major issue of moisture control. Moisture contamination of a dental restoration during placement will compromise the longevity of the restorative material. The perforated sides of the wedge allow any moisture including gingival fluids, saliva and blood to be aspirated from the cavity preparation into a suction chamber. The fluids are then drawn into the flexible tubing line for complete ejection into a dental vacuum device. Another embodiment is described and shown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Inventor: George A Sanchez
  • Patent number: 9084649
    Abstract: An orthodontic separator to simultaneously separate a mesial and a distal aspect of a tooth is disclosed. The orthodontic separator has a first separating unit and a second separating unit adapted to be connected with each other through a connecting bar and the connecting bar is provided to prevent dislodgement of the orthodontic separator from the tooth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Inventor: Sudhanshu Kansal
  • Publication number: 20150125817
    Abstract: A dental wedge (10) includes symmetrical sides (22, 24). The dental wedge (10) includes a restorative tooth side (24), the restorative tooth side (24) having a generally longitudinally extending planar wall (44) defined in part by an upper edge (34) and a lower edge (42), the planar wall (44) is inclined, wherein the planar wall (44) extends from the lower edge (42) upward and inward. The planar wall (44) includes an upper inclined surface (46) and a lower inclined surface (48), the planar wall (44) having a concave curve extending in a longitudinal direction, the upper inclined surface (46) generally defining the restorative tooth side (24).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2013
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Applicant: RHONDIUM HOLDINGS LIMITED
    Inventors: Simon P. McDonald, Alejandro Aubone, Matthew Backler
  • Publication number: 20140356811
    Abstract: A dental wedge (10) having a wedge body (11) and a gripping portion (12). The wedge (10) also has a longitudinal axis (13). The body (11) extends from a first end (14) to a second end (15), with the gripping portion (12) attached to the first end (15). The body (11) is constructed of at least two longitudinally extending layers. In one embodiment there are three layers, a first longitudinally extending layer (16), and second longitudinally extending layer (17) and a third longitudinally extending layer (18). The layer (17) is located between the layers (16, 18). In one embodiment the layers (16, 18) are formed of a softer material than the layer (17). In an alternative embodiment the layers (16, 18) are formed of a harder material than the material forming the layer (17).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2013
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Inventor: Craig Mathew Erskine-Smith
  • Patent number: 8834160
    Abstract: A dental wedge and forming device utilizing a unitary body having a pair of wings which are intended to lie against the outer surfaces of adjacent teeth, either on the lingual or buccal region of the teeth. A curved nose is constructed to extend between the adjacent teeth and includes a flat side and an opposite radiused side. A pair of the devices are nested in opposition in order to hold a dental matrix band in place about a prepared tooth, thus allowing a dental practitioner to practice proper biomimetic restorative techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Inventors: Marc Gottlieb, Craig Bruns
  • Publication number: 20140120497
    Abstract: A tooth separator apparatus, according to one embodiment, includes a tong having two resilient arms that are biased in an open position and having a wedge at each end of each arm. A drive shaft moves a compression member to overcome the resiliency of the arms and move them and the wedges in a closing direction for separating the teeth. The drive shaft can also move the compression member in the opposite direction to release the closing force on the arms and thereby permit their resiliency to allow them and the wedges to move to an open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2014
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: Bowater, LLC
    Inventors: Steve Marty Marteney, John Hamilton
  • Publication number: 20130196285
    Abstract: The device for infiltration of approximal tooth surfaces, with a flexible planar element and with a holder into which the planar element is clamped, is characterized in that the planar element is a liquid-impermeable plastic film which has a surface area for taking up a liquid to be used for treatment, and in that the holder is a bow-shaped element with a web and two lateral arms which extend from the latter and are arranged in an arc-shape or U-shape, to which the plastic film is connected in a liquid-impermeable manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventors: Steffen Effenberger, Hendrik Meyer-Luckel, Sebastian Paris, Susanne Effenberger
  • Publication number: 20130149665
    Abstract: A non-porous dental wedge having a surface coating of a material for aiding a dental procedure. A thin coating of an adhesive and particles having a particle size less than 200 microns is placed on the surface of the non-porous dental wedge. The material is preferable an astringent. The non-porous dental wedge is resistant to compression and the thin surface coating with small material particle size facilitates rapidly disperses the material during a dental procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Inventor: William B. DRAGAN
  • Publication number: 20130122462
    Abstract: The dental instrument is formed of a single elongate, unitary length of surgical steel or other suitable material. The instrument preferably includes two mutually opposed working end portions and a generally medial cushioned handgrip portion. Each of the end portions has a shallow axial channel and a sharpened distal end having a notch formed therein. The two sides of the notch provide two contact points or areas to avoid the extreme pressures applied by conventional single contact point instruments and the resulting breakage of the tooth and subsequent difficulty in extracting the base or root of the tooth that often occurs. A lateral notch having sharpened edges is also preferably formed along one side of each working end portion of the tool. The configuration of the dental instrument provides greater versatility to perform the manipulations generally required for tooth extraction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Applicant: KING SAUD UNIVERSITY
    Inventor: FAHAD IBRAHIM FATINY
  • Patent number: 8435035
    Abstract: The dental instrument is formed of a single elongate, unitary length of surgical steel or other suitable material. The instrument preferably includes two mutually opposed working end portions and a generally medial cushioned handgrip portion. Each of the end portions has a shallow axial channel and a sharpened distal end having a notch formed therein. The two sides of the notch provide two contact points or areas to avoid the extreme pressures applied by conventional single contact point instruments and the resulting breakage of the tooth and subsequent difficulty in extracting the base or root of the tooth that often occurs. A lateral notch having sharpened edges is also preferably formed along one side of each working end portion of the tool. The configuration of the dental instrument provides greater versatility to perform the manipulations generally required for tooth extraction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: King Saud University
    Inventor: Fahad Ibrahim Fatiny
  • Patent number: 8425228
    Abstract: A dental wedge for use in the inter-proximal space between adjacent teeth is described. The wedge comprises a taper section ending at a tip, and a body section extending to the tapering section at one end. The body section has an inverted V-shaped cross-section, flexing of the sides of the V-shape allows the wedge to adapt to various contours of the inter-proximal space. The mid-portion of the body section is narrower than at least a portion of the wedge either end of the mid-portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Triodent Holdings Limited
    Inventor: Simon P. McDonald
  • Publication number: 20130004914
    Abstract: A tooth separator apparatus, according to one embodiment, includes a tong having two arms constructed of a resilient material and having a wedge disposed at each end. An expander member is coupled to the two arms, and a drive shaft is coupled to the expander member. When a user moves or rotates the drive shaft, the expander member is moved into a position which causes the two arms and wedges to separate by a distance sufficient to permit the wedges to be inserted in a patient's mouth and positioned adjacent to two teeth that are to be separated. When the user rotates the drive shaft in the reverse direction, the expander member returns to its original position thereby releasing the separating force on the resilient arms and permitting them and the wedges to move in a closing direction with sufficient force to separate the adjacent teeth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventors: Steve Marty Marteney, John Hamilton
  • Patent number: 8226412
    Abstract: A hand tool engages a pair of opposing matrix wedges that are able to mutually nest when pressed into an interproximal space between adjacent teeth. The hand tool draws a floss tightly thereby causing the wedges mounted on it to move convergently. The wedge elements support a thin matrix band which takes the necessary shape to secure a class II dental preparation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Inventor: Charles E. Slone
  • Publication number: 20120164597
    Abstract: The present invention relates to dental devices utilized during the restoration of teeth and more particularly a dental wedge, for use in the inter-proximal space between adjacent teeth, the dental wedge comprising: a wedge body; and a guard releasably engaged to the wedge body, wherein the guard is transformable between a first position adjoined the wedge body and a second position disengaged from the wedge body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: TRI-DENT INNOVATIONS LIMITED
    Inventor: Simon P. McDonald
  • Patent number: 8206151
    Abstract: A dental wedge for use in the inter-proximal space between adjacent teeth. The wedge includes a taper section ending at a tip, and a body section extending to the tapering section at one end. The body section has an inverted V-shaped cross-section, flexing of the sides of the V-shape allowing the wedge to adapt to various contours of the inter-proximal space. The mid-portion of the body section is narrower than at least a portion of the wedge at either end of the mid-portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Triodent Holdings Limited
    Inventor: Simon Paul McDonald
  • Patent number: 8177553
    Abstract: An elongated flexible dental strip includes front and rear surfaces defining a thickness therebetween. The strip also includes first and second edges defining a lateral width therebetween. A first portion of the strip further is spaced from a second portion along the length of the strip, wherein the thickness of the first portion is different from the thickness of the second portion. The strip has a constant thickness across a lateral width defined between the first and second edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventor: Walter Stoll
  • Publication number: 20120058447
    Abstract: The invention relates to an interdental wedge for use with a matrix band when preparing a filling on a tooth to be restored and/or for use with a rubber dam, by inserting the interdental wedge into an area near the gingiva between the tooth to be restored or to be treated and an adjacent tooth, with an insertion area having a cross section delimited by a lower face, by an inner face and by an outer face, wherein, in the state inserted near the gingiva, the lower face is directed towards the gum, the inner face is directed towards the tooth to be restored or to be treated, and the outer face is directed towards the adjacent tooth, wherein the inner face and the lower face run together in an edge, which is designed such that, in the state inserted near the gingiva, it bears on the tooth to be restored or to be treated, in order to provide a sealing action against passage of material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Applicant: VOCO GmbH
    Inventors: Uwe Liener, Manfred Thomas Plaumann
  • Publication number: 20120045734
    Abstract: A dental wedge device for pulling between teeth. The device features a wedge component having a first end and a second end, the first end being generally pointed; and a generally flexible guiding wire. The guiding wire traverses the wedge component and the first end of the guiding wire extends from the first end of the wedge component and the second end of the guiding wire extends from the second end of the wedge component. In some embodiments, one or more knots are disposed along a portion of the guiding wire that traverses the wedge component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2010
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Inventor: Hung M. Thai
  • Patent number: 8070490
    Abstract: An apparatus for separating teeth utilizing a base member having a first end portion, a second end portion, and an intermediate portion. A first spring extends outwardly from the first end portion while a second spring extends outwardly from the second portion of the base member. A lingual shield spans the distal portions of the first and second springs extending from the base member. A pair of tines overlap one another, one tine extending from the base member, the other extending from the shield. The first and second springs urge the meeting or overlapping of the first and second tines in the vicinity of gap for meeting place between a pair of teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Danville Materials, Inc
    Inventors: Patrick L. Roetzer, Craig Bruns
  • Patent number: 8047843
    Abstract: There are disclosed methods for the restoration of a decayed portion of a tooth, and interdental matrix stabilizers that can be used in the methods. The matrix stabilizer includes an elongated elastic body having a first end portion, a second opposite end portion, a middle portion connecting the first end portion and the second end portion. The middle portion includes a first section attached to the first end portion, a first intermediate section attached to a central section and the first section, a second intermediate section attached to the central section opposite the first end portion, and a second section attached to the second intermediate section and the second end portion. The first side surface of the body includes a curved outwardly extending protrusion on the first intermediate section and a curved outwardly extending protrusion on the second intermediate section. The protrusions stabilize a dental matrix.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Inventor: David J. Clark
  • Publication number: 20110250563
    Abstract: An interdental wedge includes a base body. A cross section of the base body decreases along a length of the base body, at least in places. The base body is three-dimensionally curved, at least in places. An interdental device may include two interdental wedges. One or more interdental wedges may be used for fixing insulating material and/or matrices in the tooth area, and for reversible contact point separation of adjacent teeth, also referred to as separation of the contact points.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Inventors: Domonkos Horvath, Sebastian Horvath, Michael Horvath
  • Publication number: 20110171596
    Abstract: The present invention relates to dental wedges that may be used for creating space between adjacent teeth. In one form, the dental wedge includes an elongated body extending from an outer end to an opposite inner end. The body has a longitudinal intermediate wall, a longitudinal first side wall connected to the intermediate wall, and a longitudinal second side wall connected to the intermediate wall. The first side wall and the second side wall each flare away from the intermediate wall such that a first distal end of the first side wall and a second distal end of the second side wall are spaced apart creating an inverted generally V-shaped transverse section for the body. The body has a top surface formed by the intermediate wall, the first side wall and the second side wall. The body also has a bottom surface formed by the intermediate wall, the first side wall and the second side wall. The dental wedge includes a grasping section connected to the outer end of the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventor: David J. Clark
  • Patent number: 7976308
    Abstract: Improved dental wedge having curved elongate body approximating the anatomical curvature of a tooth undergoing repair to hold the matrix in conformity with the anatomical curvature of said tooth. The wedges comprising a curved elongate body having proximal and distal ends and tapering from the proximal end to the distal end, the elongate body further having a bottom surface, an inside surface and an outside surface opposite the inside surface, the curvature of the elongate body being towards the inside surface, and the bottom surface adjacent the insertion portion being curved upwards relative to the remainder of the bottom surface. The elongate body may be generally triangular in cross-section, and the inside surface is concave and the outside surface is convex transversely to the elongate body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Inventor: Gyula Julius Hegedus
  • Publication number: 20090258325
    Abstract: A separator apparatus for separating a pair of adjacent teeth of a patient to facilitate the later placement of a molar band between the teeth. The apparatus includes a separator unit and a cooperating separating mechanism for manipulating the separator unit. The separator unit includes a length of separator material having a first coiled end portion, a second coiled end portion and an intermediate portion; the first and second coiled end portions being movable by the separating mechanism from a first at rest position to a second, spaced apart partially uncoiled position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventor: Farnaz Zand
  • Publication number: 20090104581
    Abstract: A device for anatomically restoring a tooth having a proximal caries (5) made of an elastically deformable material. Two end units (2a, 2b) are connected by a vertical wall (3) whose height (hp) is greater than its thickness (e). The two end units are separable from each other by a pair of forceps (6). The vertical wall (3) is shaped in the form of a corner, the height thereof (hp) of which is sufficiently high in such a way that it forms an inter-dental partition for the proximal caries (5) when the end units (2a, 2b) are brought into contact with the walls of the tooth in front of the caries.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2005
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventor: Denis Simon
  • Publication number: 20080241787
    Abstract: Improved dental wedge having curved elongate body approximating the anatomical curvature of a tooth undergoing repair to hold the matrix in conformity with the anatomical curvature of said tooth. The wedges comprising a curved elongate body having proximal and distal ends and tapering from the proximal end to the distal end, the elongate body further having a bottom surface, an inside surface and an outside surface opposite the inside surface, the curvature of the elongate body being towards the inside surface, and the bottom surface adjacent the insertion portion being curved upwards relative to the remainder of the bottom surface. The elongate body may be generally triangular in cross-section, and the inside surface is concave and the outside surface is convex transversely to the elongate body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventor: Gyula Julius Hegedus
  • Patent number: 7425130
    Abstract: A dental wedge for use in a dental medical treatment and restoration of hollow spaces associated with caries between neighboring teeth. The dental wedge has a triangular cross-section and a free end running out to a rounded tip. The dental wedge (1) is bent upwardly like a saber. The base face (3) and the side faces (4) of the dental wedge (1) are arched concavely inwardly. The impact edges (5) of the base face (3) and of the side faces (4) of the dental wedge (1) are rounded. The dental wedge (1) exhibits a first, longer wedge section (1a) and a second, shorter wedge section (1b), wherein the impact edges (5) between the base face (3) and the side faces (4) in the first wedge section (1a) are running parallel to each other. The impact edges (5) in the second wedge section (1b) run toward each other toward the free upwardly bent tip (2) of the dental wedge (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Inventors: Alfred Schaffner, Richard Goldman
  • Patent number: 7381055
    Abstract: A dental device for retaining composite material within a cavity is described. The device provides accurate placement of a retaining matrix band which holds dental composite material in place within the cavity under repair and precludes or prevents migration of the dental composite material out of the cavity and down towards the gum line. The disclosed device and methods help to restore the contact area between the two teeth (i.e., the one worked on and the one adjacent to it). An improved mechanical polishing device is also shown and described. Improved methods of repairing cavities with dental composite material using the disclosed devices are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Inventor: Saadallah Jabri
  • Publication number: 20080113315
    Abstract: The invention provides an elastic dental wedge for use in securing a matrix band or a cavity filling material mold against an object tooth. The dental wedge of the instant invention can be easily inserted and removed during dental treatment procedures. Also described herein are the methods of using this dental wedge in tooth restorations, orthodontic operations, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Publication date: May 15, 2008
    Inventor: Russell Beggs
  • Patent number: 7223101
    Abstract: A dental wedge comprises an elongated body, which includes a distal end and a proximal end which tapers to the distal end. The distal end defines an insertion end and tilts upwardly. The elongate body has a first portion starting at the distal end and has a second portion that ends at the proximal end. The first portion has a generally triangular-shaped cross-section and the second portion has a generally trapezoidal cross-section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Inventors: Tom Garrison, Robert Anderson
  • Patent number: 7175432
    Abstract: A dental contact matrix system is described for the placement of dental fillings. The dental contact matrix system includes a matrix, a retainer for placing and retaining the 5 matrix and an elastic wedge. The retainer includes two lugs or tines that fit between two teeth on the buccal and lingual sides of the teeth. The lugs are connected by spring member that presses the lugs against the lingual and buccal sides of the teeth. There is an adaptation to hold the elastic wedge in a stretched condition between the lugs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Tri-Dent Innovations Limited
    Inventor: Simon Paul McDonald
  • Patent number: 6890176
    Abstract: A dental apparatus adapted to facilitate formation of a filling in an object tooth and to retain the filling within normal boundaries of the object tooth and generally spaced from an adjacent tooth includes a matrix having a resilient wedge member attached thereto. The resilient wedge member is elongated and has enlargements at opposite ends thereof. In use, the resilient wedge member is stretched. While the resilient wedge member is in the stretched state, the matrix and resilient wedge member are placed together between the object tooth and an adjacent tooth. The resilient wedge member is then released and contracts toward its natural unstretched state. As the resilient wedge member contracts, it urges the matrix to surroundingly conform to the object tooth. In this way, a tooth is comfortably and conveniently prepared to receive a filling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Inventor: Christian W. Hahn
  • Publication number: 20040265779
    Abstract: A dental contact matrix system is described for the placement of dental fillings. The dental contact matrix system includes a matrix, a retainer for placing and retaining the 5 matrix and an elastic wedge. The retainer includes two lugs or tines that fit between two teeth on the buccal and lingual sides of the teeth. The lugs are connected by spring member that presses the lugs against the lingual and buccal sides of the teeth. There is an adaptation to hold the elastic wedge in a stretched condition between the lugs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Simon Paul McDonald
  • Publication number: 20040248064
    Abstract: An element for aiding in the placing of dental fillings, particularly when two adjacent pieces affected with caries are involved, constituted of a disposable element (1), preferably carried out in a plastic or metallic material, with different lengths and thicknesses to be adapted to each patient, having an elongated strip in which a widened lower area (11) is distinguished, suitable for being situated between two dental pieces at the level of the gingival papilla, and a broad upper area (12), thinner and more flexible than the previous one, separating the interproximal space existing between two adjacent dental pieces (2-3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2004
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Applicant: CORPORACION O.I.B., S.L. (Limited Company)
    Inventor: Jose M. Rodriguez del Val
  • Patent number: 6761562
    Abstract: The interdental wedge is particularly intended for use in the insertion of approximal fillings of light-curing synthetic materials and consists of a combination of a wedge body and an underlying compressible sole comprising a rim which projects on both sides of the wedge body. The sole portion is preferably made of a thermoplastic elastomer and the wedge body of a translucent synthetic material. A wedge of this kind provides a strong spreading force, and the two rims are deformed when inserted, thereby ensuring a firm retention and a tight application of the matrix to the dental anatomy, and they form sealing lips in order to keep away the saliva from the treated area and to gently displace the papilla.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: KerrHawe SA
    Inventor: Beat A. Von Weissenfluh
  • Publication number: 20040014006
    Abstract: A dental wedge comprises an elongated body, which includes a distal end and a proximal end which tapers to the distal end. The distal end defines an insertion end and tilts upwardly. The elongate body has a first portion starting at the distal end and has a second portion that ends at the proximal end. The first portion has a generally triangular-shaped cross-section and the second portion has a generally trapezoidal cross-section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Tom Garrison, Robert Anderson
  • Patent number: 6666683
    Abstract: A dental ring for use in installing interproximal fillings in the teeth of human patients in a dental office. In its most fundamental embodiment, the dental ring exhibits a circular ring comprised of metal which includes a gap formed in the ring for defining a first terminal end and a second terminal end. A pair of downward extending parallel flanges includes a first parallel flange extending from the first terminal end and a second parallel flange extending from the second terminal end where the parallel flanges serve to separate a decayed tooth from an adjacent tooth. Finally, a protuberance is formed onto an interior surface of one of the parallel flanges for securing a matrix foil about the decayed tooth. In an alternative embodiment, a protuberance is formed onto an interior surface of each of the first and second parallel flanges for securing a matrix foil about the decayed tooth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Inventor: Don Mungcal
  • Publication number: 20030186186
    Abstract: A dental apparatus adapted to facilitate formation of a filling in an object tooth and to retain the filling within normal boundaries of the object tooth and generally spaced from an adjacent tooth includes a matrix having a resilient wedge member attached thereto. The resilient wedge member is elongated and has enlargements at opposite ends thereof. In use, the resilient wedge member is stretched. While the resilient wedge member is in the stretched state, the matrix and resilient wedge member are placed together between the object tooth and an adjacent tooth. The resilient wedge member is then released and contracts toward its natural unstretched state. As the resilient wedge member contracts, it urges the matrix to surroundingly conform to the object tooth. In this way, a tooth is comfortably and conveniently prepared to receive a filling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventor: Christian W. Hahn
  • Patent number: 6619956
    Abstract: An elongated flexible dental matrix strip is disclosed. The strip includes a raised portion extending outward from the surface of the strip. The raised portion tapers towards the distal end of the strip in one embodiment and tapers toward both ends of the strip in another embodiment. The raised portion is sized so that when the strip is inserted between adjacent teeth an interference fit occurs. A light force is used to slide the strip into position between adjacent teeth in such a fashion as to anchor the strip in position. The strip serves to contain filling material in a tooth cavity while the filling material or resin hardens. Another embodiment includes a curved surface along one edge of the strip wherein the raised tapered portion is disposed. Yet another embodiment includes two raised tapered portions in parallel with one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Inventor: C. Douglas Weir
  • Publication number: 20030129562
    Abstract: A dental ring for use in installing interproximal fillings in the teeth of human patients in a dental office. In its most fundamental embodiment, the dental ring exhibits a circular ring comprised of metal which includes a gap formed in the ring for defining a first terminal end and a second terminal end. A pair of downward extending parallel flanges includes a first parallel flange extending from the first terminal end and a second parallel flange extending from the second terminal end where the parallel flanges serve to separate a decayed tooth from an adjacent tooth. Finally, a protuberance is formed onto an interior surface of one of the parallel flanges for securing a matrix foil about the decayed tooth. In an alternative embodiment, a protuberance is formed onto an interior surface of each of the first and second parallel flanges for securing a matrix foil about the decayed tooth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Inventor: Don Mungcal
  • Patent number: 6589053
    Abstract: The invention comprises improved matrix band retainers for use in dental procedures. The matrix band retainers comprise a pair of tines anatomically configured to be inserted into the interproximal spaces between adjacent teeth for holding a matrix band in proper alignment during a dental filling procedure. The matrix band retainers have a thin profile characterized by the cross-sectional area of the flexible body member in which the width of the body is greater than the height of the body. The tines are connected to the flexible body member by crossbar members. The matrix band retainers also comprise receptacle means for securely receiving the prongs of a spreading device. The receptacle means may include hole formations formed in the body member configured for engaging the prongs of a rubber dam clamp spreading tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Ultradent Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Dan J. Bills
  • Publication number: 20030113688
    Abstract: The interdental wedge is particularly intended for use in the insertion of approximal fillings of light-curing synthetic materials and consists of a combination of a wedge body and an underlying compressible sole comprising a rim which projects on both sides of the wedge body. The sole portion is preferably made of a thermoplastic elastomer and the wedge body of a translucent synthetic material. A wedge of this kind provides a strong spreading force, and the two rims are deformed when inserted, thereby ensuring a firm retention and a tight application of the matrix to the dental anatomy, and they form sealing lips in order to keep away the saliva from the treated area and to gently displace the papilla.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Publication date: June 19, 2003
    Applicant: Hawe Neos Dental
    Inventor: Beat A. Von Weissenfluh