Metallic Spring Patents (Class 433/21)
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Patent number: 11957536Abstract: Hybrid orthodontic archwire designs are disclosed. Hybrid archwires may have bracket-archwire sections and interproximal archwire sections in which each section can vary in cross-section shape, size, and/or material properties. Bracket-archwire sections may be configured to promote torque control and may have rectangular cross-sections. Interproximal archwire sections may be configured to be bent into force-promoting loops and may have round cross sections. Each archwire section may be straight or bent into any shape. Hybrid archwires may have sliding sections and non-sliding sections. Non-sliding sections may have male connectors configured to prevent the archwire from sliding relative to the orthodontic brackets and/or may have cross-sectional shapes, sizes, or coatings that resist sliding relative to sliding sections. Sliding sections may have linear archwire segments. Hybrid archwires may have distal or posterior non-sliding sections and an intermediate anterior or medial sliding section.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2020Date of Patent: April 16, 2024Assignee: Swift Health Systems Inc.Inventors: Hongsheng Tong, Philong John Pham, Allen Huynh, Robert Lee
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Patent number: 11497586Abstract: In one aspect an appliance includes a plurality of discrete shell segments, each including one or more cavities shaped to receive at least portions of teeth. The discrete shell segments are joined by an elastic material to form a single appliance shell.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2015Date of Patent: November 15, 2022Assignee: Align Technology, Inc.Inventor: Avi Kopelman
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Patent number: 11246682Abstract: Systems and methods for moving teeth are discussed. In particular, an orthodontic spring that is configured to extend between an upper and lower dental arch of a patient is discussed. While the spring can include any suitable feature, in some cases, it includes a tension coil spring, a first coupler that is disposed at a first end of the tension coil spring and that is configured to couple to a first anchor that is coupled to the upper dental arch, and a second coupler that is disposed at a second end of the tension coil spring and that is configured to couple to a second anchor that is coupled to the lower dental arch. In some cases, the tension coil spring, the first coupler, and the second coupler comprise one continuous wire. In some cases, the tension coil springs tapers at its ends. Additional implementations are discussed herein.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2020Date of Patent: February 15, 2022Inventor: Elliott Jolley
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Patent number: 11229505Abstract: A device for correcting misaligned teeth, the device including an arc element; and at least two transmission elements, wherein each of the at least two transmission elements is configured to cooperate with a respective tooth surface and includes a respective coupling portion wherein each of the at least two transmission elements is connected or connectable in the respective coupling portion with the respective arc element in a force transmitting manner, wherein the arc element has an overall parabolic cambered shape that is adapted to a lower jaw or an upper jaw of a patient, wherein the arc element includes at least one activation section which is arranged between two adjacent transmission elements of the at least two transmission elements and configured so that the arc element is at least locally elastically deformed in an installed condition of the device.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2018Date of Patent: January 25, 2022Inventors: Pascal Roman Schumacher, Yong-Min Jo
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Patent number: 11139076Abstract: Approaches presented herein enable cognitive oral health management. Specifically, data from at least one internet of things (IoT) sensor and data from at least one visual image sensor are collected over time for a user via one or more sensors operatively coupled with one or more personal daily oral care devices as the user is performing a periodic oral care activity with the one or more personal daily oral care devices. Collected data are subjected to cognitive diagnostics to identify abnormalities in a user's oral healthcare regimen and physiological abnormalities within the oral cavity by categorizing data. A report for a medical professional may be generated providing recommendation of potential diagnoses and treatment options.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2017Date of Patent: October 5, 2021Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Ebony C. Adams, Michael Bender, Christian Compton, Jeremy R. Fox, Manjunath Ravi
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Patent number: 11094415Abstract: Approaches presented herein enable cognitive oral health management. Specifically, data from at least one internet of things (IoT) sensor and data from at least one visual image sensor are collected over time for a user via one or more sensors operatively coupled with one or more personal daily oral care devices as the user is performing a periodic oral care activity with the one or more personal daily oral care devices. Collected data are subjected to cognitive diagnostics to identify abnormalities in a user's oral healthcare regimen and physiological abnormalities within the oral cavity by categorizing data. A report for a medical professional may be generated providing recommendation of potential diagnoses and treatment options.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2017Date of Patent: August 17, 2021Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Ebony C. Adams, Michael Bender, Christian Compton, Jeremy R. Fox, Manjunath Ravi
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Patent number: 11058520Abstract: An orthodontic appliance may include an archwire and multiple orthodontic brackets. The archwire may fit within a human mouth and contain multiple male connectors. Each orthodontic bracket may have a configuration that facilitates attaching the orthodontic bracket to a single tooth. Each orthodontic bracket may allow one of the male connectors to be locked into the orthodontic bracket with a snapping action. The male connector may be unable to slide with respect to the orthodontic bracket after being locked in the orthodontic bracket. A manual unlocking action may allow the male connector to disengage from the orthodontic bracket.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2019Date of Patent: July 13, 2021Assignee: University of Southern CaliforniaInventors: Behrokh Khoshnevis, Hongsheng Tong, Yong Chen, Philong John Pham, Robert Lee
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Patent number: 10980614Abstract: Systems and methods of repositioning teeth, using one or more appliances for installing on a patient's teeth are described. The appliance includes an arch shaped member; a plurality of spring members coupled to or provided on the arch shaped member; and a plurality of securing members for securing to a corresponding plurality of the patient's teeth on a one-to-one basis, the securing members being supported by the arch shaped member. The arch shaped member and the plurality of springs, together, comprise a two dimensional structure having a length dimension and a width dimension with varying widths along the length dimension, that is bent into a three dimensional structure.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2019Date of Patent: April 20, 2021Assignee: Brius Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Seyed Mehdi Roein Peikar, James Sylvester Wratten, Jr.
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Patent number: 10881489Abstract: Hybrid orthodontic archwire designs are disclosed. Hybrid archwires may have bracket-archwire sections and interproximal archwire sections in which each section can vary in cross-section shape, size, and/or material properties. Bracket-archwire sections may be configured to promote torque control and may have rectangular cross-sections. Interproximal archwire sections may be configured to be bent into force-promoting loops and may have round cross sections. Each archwire section may be straight or bent into any shape. Hybrid archwires may have sliding sections and non-sliding sections. Non-sliding sections may have male connectors configured to prevent the archwire from sliding relative to the orthodontic brackets and/or may have cross-sectional shapes, sizes, or coatings that resist sliding relative to sliding sections. Sliding sections may have linear archwire segments. Hybrid archwires may have distal or posterior non-sliding sections and an intermediate anterior or medial sliding section.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2018Date of Patent: January 5, 2021Assignee: Swift Health Systems Inc.Inventors: Hongsheng Tong, Philong John Pham, Allen Huynh, Robert Lee
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Patent number: 10849718Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to devices and a method for orthodontic torquing. For the various embodiments, a pliers for crimping coils of an orthodontic torquing spring to an arch wire includes: a pair of plier halves, each of the plier halves including a handle, a jaw, and a pivot section, each of the jaws including a crimping face defined by a distal edge having a length in a range of 200 percent to 400 percent of a diameter of the orthodontic spring, a first lateral edge, and a second lateral edge, the edges defined by a radius of curvature in a range of 0.1 millimeters to 0.5 millimeters, a textured surface on at least one of the crimping faces to frictionally engage the coil of the orthodontic spring, and a pivot joint connecting the pivot sections of the pair of plier halves such that the handles can be manipulated to cause the crimping faces of the jaws to move together to crimp a coil of the orthodontic torquing spring to the arch wire.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2017Date of Patent: December 1, 2020Inventor: Phillip M. Goodman
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Patent number: 10617490Abstract: An orthodontic device and methods thereof for correcting an arrangement of teeth are provided. The orthodontic device includes a plurality of brackets for attaching to teeth; a plurality of spring anchoring units, wherein each of the plurality of spring anchoring units is attached to one of the plurality of brackets; and a spring having a tension, two-dimensional longitudinal deformability and two-dimensional rotational deformability, wherein the spring is attached to each spring anchoring unit, wherein the tension is zero prior to attaching the plurality of brackets to the teeth, wherein further the tension is greater than zero immediately after attaching the plurality of brackets to the teeth, wherein further the tension is zero when the plurality of brackets is attached to the teeth and in an optimal position.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2016Date of Patent: April 14, 2020Inventors: David Regev, Daniel Harel, Ehud Ayalon
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Patent number: 10357335Abstract: Orthodontic appliances for correcting teeth irregularities and for retaining the position of teeth are disclosed. According to an aspect, an orthodontic appliance may include an arch component configured to engage one of teeth and gums of a patient. Further, the orthodontic appliance may include a spring having a teeth engaging portion and an anchor portion. The teeth engaging portion may be shaped to engage the incisors of the patient. The anchor portion may be attached to the arch component.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2014Date of Patent: July 23, 2019Assignee: Apex Ortho Innovations, LLCInventor: Jeff Paul
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Patent number: 10123855Abstract: A method of using an orthodontic device to effect movement of an impacted or malpositioned tooth includes providing an orthodontic device, the orthodontic device including a bracket, a coiled spring, and an anchoring assembly, bonding the bracket to an impacted or malpositioned tooth, connecting a first end of the spring to a first spring attachment portion supported by the bracket, connecting a second end of the spring to a second spring attachment portion supported by the anchoring assembly, and coupling the anchoring assembly to a second orthodontic device that is installed in the patient's mouth.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2014Date of Patent: November 13, 2018Inventor: Grant G. Coleman
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Patent number: 10092375Abstract: The present invention provides an invisible orthodontic appliance with a molar distalization device, comprising an orthodontic invisible aligner, and further comprising a molar distalization device arranged on the orthodontic invisible aligner, wherein the molar distalization device comprises a lip bumper arranged just in front of the orthodontic invisible aligner close to the lip side, and a connector connected with the lip bumper, and the end of the connector is connected to the molar position of the orthodontic invisible aligner. The end of the connector forms a U-shaped structure and the tail end of the U-shaped structure is connected to the molar position of the orthodontic invisible aligner. The novel orthodontic appliance provided by the present invention has the advantages of ensuring the attractiveness and greatly improving the orthodontic effect, improving the orthodontic speed and shortening the service cycle of the aligner.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2017Date of Patent: October 9, 2018Inventor: Jialiang Huang
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Patent number: 10028807Abstract: The dental appliance-holding bracket assembly includes a plurality of housings attached to a corresponding tooth band, each of the tooth bands being cemented to the crown of an adjoining tooth. Each housing defines a socket of a ball-and-socket joint. The assembly further includes a plurality of bracket arms, each bracket arm having a shank including a proximal end and an opposing distal end. The proximal end of the shank has a ball pivotally captured within the housing socket to form a ball-and-socket joint, while the opposing distal end of the shank includes a ring adapted for supporting a dental appliance.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2017Date of Patent: July 24, 2018Assignee: KING SAUD UNIVERSITYInventor: Khalid Abdullah Ibrahim Alruhaimi
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Patent number: 9427291Abstract: An orthodontic appliance may include an archwire and multiple orthodontic brackets. The archwire may fit within a human mouth and contain multiple male connectors. Each orthodontic bracket may have a configuration that facilitates attaching the orthodontic bracket to a single tooth. Each orthodontic bracket may allow one of the male connectors to be locked into the orthodontic bracket with a snapping action. The male connector may be unable to slide with respect to the orthodontic bracket after being locked in the orthodontic bracket. A manual unlocking action may allow the male connector to disengage from the orthodontic bracket.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2013Date of Patent: August 30, 2016Assignee: University of Southern CaliforniaInventors: Behrokh Khoshnevis, Hongsheng Tong, Yong Chen, Philong John Pham, Robert Lee
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Patent number: 9237941Abstract: An orthodontic appliance and system are provided for adjusting the relative positions of mandibular and maxillary arches. The orthodontic appliance includes a telescoping assembly including a plurality of telescoping members, and at least a first end member supportably retaining at least a portion of a spring member. The end member is adapted to slidably receive an end of a first telescoping member for selectively interconnection and disconnection therebetween. When interconnected, the spring member extends into an open end of the first telescoping member and is operative to apply spring-force to a second telescoping member. A plurality of interchangeable end members may be provided for use with the telescoping assembly, wherein the different end members have different spring-force delivery attributes. The orthodontic appliance may be installed utilizing an attachment device selectively interconnectable to and disconnectable from orthodontic archwires.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2012Date of Patent: January 19, 2016Inventor: Andrew Hayes
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Patent number: 9089385Abstract: An orthodontic apparatus for installation in a patient's mouth is disclosed. The orthodontic apparatus includes a first extension wire, a second extension wire, and a palatal archwire. Each of the first and second extension wires includes a proximal portion and a distal portion. The proximal and distal portions and the palatal archwire are manipulatable to apply corrective buccal, labial, and transverse forces on the patient's dento-alveolar complex (DAC)to correct the shape of the patient's palate.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2011Date of Patent: July 28, 2015Inventor: Sue S. Lee
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Patent number: 8712733Abstract: Herein are provided methods, systems, computer-readable media, techniques and processes for adjusting dental prostheses based on soft tissue. These include allowing an operator to define the surface of a dental prosthesis, such as an abutment, that is proximal to the patient's gum relative to a 3D scan of the patient's gums. The operator can define the offset of that surface as well as the limits of that surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2010Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: Biocad Medical, Inc.Inventors: Jean-Sebastien Auclair Beaudry, David Giasson
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Patent number: 8641235Abstract: A patient module for use in a medical setting is provided. The patient module includes a patient seating assembly and at least one of a medical instrument for use in providing treatment to a patient. At least one member having an articulated joint is provided. The member has a first end configured for engagement with a structure and a second end configured for engagement with a light for illuminating a treatment area of the patient. A display screen is carried by the light for displaying images for viewing by the patient. The display screen may be integrally formed with the light within a housing.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2011Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Inventor: David E. Galatas
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Publication number: 20120058444Abstract: A variable extension spring with two anchoring ends. Each anchoring end connected to an anchoring mechanism having engagement mechanisms. Engagement mechanisms may be eyelets. Engagement of the engagement mechanisms to intraoral features at different engagement positions allows variability in the extension length of the spring. Such variability allows the user to adjust the force exerted by the spring on the intraoral features. As intraoral features move overtime due to the force exerted by the spring, the extension length of the spring may change. Adjustment of the spring extension length is accomplished by engaging a different engagement mechanism to provide an engagement position that will extend the spring the desired length. The user is able to reduce inventory by being able to use the same spring several times to provide a desired range of forces for adjusting orthodontia.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2011Publication date: March 8, 2012Inventor: Timothy J. Allesee
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Publication number: 20110311937Abstract: An orthodontic space-closing appliance has an anterior component that can be secured to the anterior part of one of the patient's dental arches; a posterior component that is slidably connected to the anterior component and that can be secured to teeth in the patient's dental arch distal to the teeth to which the anterior component is secured; and an urging member acting on the posterior and anterior components to urge those components towards one another. The posterior component has a support block that is adapted to act against the underside of an attachment fixed to the lingual surface of the tooth to which the posterior component is attached. The support block applies force to resist tipping of the tooth as the tooth is displaced anteriorly.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 5, 2009Publication date: December 22, 2011Applicant: ORTHO-PRO-TEKNICA LIMITEDInventor: Andrew McCance
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Publication number: 20110195370Abstract: The invention relates to a dentition retaining apparatus that includes a joint between a holding member and a supporting member. The holding member is elastically deformable and terminates in an end segment having a length with an outer diameter. The joint includes a coil extending from the supporting member and having an inner diameter that is less than the outer diameter of the end segment of the holding member. The coil is placed around at least a portion of the end segment of the holding member. The coil compresses the end segment of the holding member.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2011Publication date: August 11, 2011Inventor: Paul William Griffiths
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Patent number: 7934927Abstract: An impacted tooth appliance including a micropin bone anchor with a quadrilateral aperture formed therein, a rigid apertured ribbon secured to the impacted tooth by means of a rotatable bracket secured to the tooth, the ribbon pivoted on the bracket, and the ribbon and the micropin interconnected by means of spring-biased quadrilateral wire.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2008Date of Patent: May 3, 2011Inventor: Mohamadreza Yazdi
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Patent number: 7837468Abstract: A long-arm type upright molar tooth spring includes a lingual groove rest, for resting the spring at a lingual groove of a first molar tooth; a loop, for surrounding and fixing the periphery of the second molar tooth; a buccal bracket rest, for resting the spring at a buccal bracket of the first molar tooth; a reactivating area, being an area between the first molar tooth and the second premolar tooth; a lever, for applying a force onto the second molar tooth; and an arc, extended from an adjacent wall between an engaging surface of the first molar tooth and an engaging surface of the second molar tooth, and fixed at a root of the second molar tooth.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2008Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Inventor: Chi-Ming Teng
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Patent number: 7785102Abstract: An orthodontic device for shifting a molar tooth along the maxillary arch includes an elongated guide element, on whose one end a first securing element is installed to secure the guide element relative to the maxillary arch. A first tube is formed to be shiftable on the guide element, wherein the first tube has a first securing device for optionally securing the first tube relative to the guide element. A second tube is guided on the first tube like a telescope arm, wherein the second tube has a second securing element for securing to the molar tooth. A spring is disposed to act between the first and the second tube which forces the second tube in a direction away from the first securing device.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2007Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Inventor: Moschos A. Papadopoulos
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Publication number: 20100178628Abstract: An orthodontic device and an orthodontic method that can prevent an orthodontic treatment from being eccentrically performed while aligning straightly tooth. The orthodontic device includes teeth-attachment unit attached to an orthodontic tooth object; and hook member provided in the teeth-attachment unit and having a connection part of traction unit for orthodontic treatment that is located in the vicinity of a center of resistance (CR) of a tooth. In addition, the orthodontic device includes teeth-attachment unit; and hook member provided in the teeth-attachment unit and having a connection part of traction unit for orthodontic treatment that is located in the vicinity of at least gingiva. Since the teeth-attachment unit of a bracket or a button is substantially horizontal to a traction line of the traction unit, it is possible to perform the orthodontic treatment effectively without eccentric phenomenon in which the tooth and a dental root are tilted.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 7, 2007Publication date: July 15, 2010Inventor: Ok Kyoung Kim
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Publication number: 20100129766Abstract: An orthodontic retraction arch (10) includes an arch section (12) and two distal spring sections (14). Distal ends of spring sections (14) have eyelets (16) for ligation to orthodontic implants (18). An orthodontic retraction spring (20) has first and second spring segments (22, 24) and structures to engage an archwire (a crimpable archwire slot 28) and an orthodontic implant 18 (an eyelet 26). Retraction arch (10) and retraction spring (20) may also include recumbant loops (15, 23).Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2007Publication date: May 27, 2010Applicant: ORMCO CORPORATIONInventor: James Jay Hilgers
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Publication number: 20100092906Abstract: A method, an orthodontic system, and orthodontic assembly (10), and a corrector assembly (8) with a telescopable portion (19), an attachable portion (18), and an engaging portion (20). The attachable portion (18) is attached to the telescopable portion (19) and is configured for coupling to a corrective device (14). The engaging portion (20) is attached to the telescopable portion (19) and is configured for coupling to an orthodontic implant (44). The telescopable portion (19) may be configured for pivotally coupling to the engaging portion (20). The attachable portion (18) may be configured for coupling to a corrective device (14), such as by crimping. The engaging portion (20) may be configured for rotatably coupling to an orthodontic implant (44). A process for attaching the corrector assembly (8) is provided by the method. By having a telescopable portion (19), an attachable portion (18), and an engaging portion (20), multiple modes of adjustability and direction of movement are possible.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2007Publication date: April 15, 2010Applicant: ORMCO CORPORATIONInventors: Jefferson Sabilla, John Warren Graham
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Patent number: 7578672Abstract: A dental apparatus for use with a connecting member coupled to a jaw in a patient's mouth. The apparatus includes an orthodontic device and a connecting device carried by the orthodontic device. The connecting device includes a receptacle adapted to partially receive the connecting member and a blocking member. The blocking member is moveable relative to the receptacle between an opened position in which the connecting member may be disengaged from the receptacle and a closed position in which the connecting member is captured within the receptacle for pivotally engaging the orthodontic device with the connecting member. The orthodontic device may further include a biasing member selectively activated to provide a spring-biased force to the jaw. A method of using the dental apparatus includes moving the blocking member to capture/release the connecting member in the receptacle and activating/deactivating the biasing member to operate the apparatus in a different mode.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2007Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Assignee: Ormco CorporationInventors: Hamid Sheikh, Dwight Damon, Kevin Corcoran
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Publication number: 20090191501Abstract: A long-arm type upright molar tooth spring includes a lingual groove rest, for resting the spring at a lingual groove of a first molar tooth; a loop, for surrounding and fixing the periphery of the second molar tooth; a buccal bracket rest, for resting the spring at a buccal bracket of the first molar tooth; a reactivating area, being an area between the first molar tooth and the second premolar tooth; a lever, for applying a force onto the second molar tooth; and an arc, extended from an adjacent wall between an engaging surface of the first molar tooth and an engaging surface of the second molar tooth, and fixed at a root of the second molar tooth.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2008Publication date: July 30, 2009Inventor: Chi-Ming Teng
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Publication number: 20080138759Abstract: An orthodontic appliance for orthodontic treatment includes first and second eyelets connected to coil spring at each end of the coil spring, thereby forming a double eyelet and spring unit. In one embodiment, a connector for detachably attaching a spring to an orthodontic appliance includes a means for engaging an appliance. In one embodiment the connector is an eyelet having an aperture in its central region for allowing the spring to be detachably attached to the orthodontic appliance. The aperture may have a variety of shapes. Alternatively, the connector may comprise a hook or equivalent structure for facilitating the spring to be attached to the orthodontic appliance.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2007Publication date: June 12, 2008Inventors: Neal D. Kravitz, David Wolf, Leon W. Laub
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Publication number: 20080020339Abstract: An orthodontic device for shifting a molar tooth along the mandibular arch includes an elongated guide element, on whose one end a first securing element is installed to secure the guide element relative to the madibular arch. A first tube is formed to be shiftable on the guide element, wherein the first tube has a first securing device for optionally securing the first tube relative to the guide element. A second tube is guided on the first tube like a telescope arm, wherein the second tube has a second securing element for securing to the molar tooth. A spring is disposed to act between the first and the second tube which forces the second tube in a direction away from the first securing device.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2007Publication date: January 24, 2008Applicant: Moschos A. PAPADOPOULOSInventor: Moschos A. Papadopoulos
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Publication number: 20070196781Abstract: An orthodontic tensioning assembly, comprising a tensioner attachment body having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the tensioner attachment body has an opening adapted to removably receive a dental anchorage structure, and wherein the second end of the tensioner attachment body is adapted to removably couple a tensioning element.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2007Publication date: August 23, 2007Applicant: UNDER DOG MEDIA, LPInventor: Jason B. Cope
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Patent number: 7182596Abstract: The invention comprises a jaw orthopedic device for the movement and/or correction of teeth in the tooth arch with a synthetic resin element and/or at least one mature element or tooth contacting or tooth movement, whereby the synthetic resin element is comprised of a hard synthetic resin material and the synthetic resin element (1) has at least one soft plastic element (3) integrated therewith for tooth contacting or tooth movement.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2001Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Assignee: Bredent Dentalgerate und Materialien Fach-und Organisationsberatung Peter BrehmInventor: Werner Paulus
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Patent number: 7156654Abstract: A force adjusting mechanism for an orthodontic appliance wherein the appliance functions to move teeth and/or to expand the dental arch. The mechanism includes a shaft operatively coupled at opposite ends between a first portion of the appliance which is anchored in the patient's dental arch and a second portion of the appliance which applies force to one or more of the patient's teeth. A lock is slidable along the shaft to compress a spring between the lock and the second portion of the appliance. Co-operating structures on the shaft and on the lock provide a unidirectional ratchet movement of the lock along the shaft. Thus, the lock may be advanced one step at a time in one direction only, preferably manually using an implement for engaging the lock, to compress the spring to apply force to one or more of the patient's teeth. Advantageously, this may be done by the patient or a parent or guardian without the need for an office visit to a clinician.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventor: Donal P. Inman
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Patent number: 7018202Abstract: A tooth moving method and appliance for securing a space for an incoming permanent tooth to arrive includes two lingual buttons to be fixed to two teeth, respectively, to spread out a space therebetween or correct a dentition therebetween. An inner wire is pivotally connected to a first lingual button at an end thereof, and a tube is loosely fitted onto the inner wire and pivotally connected to the other lingual button at an end thereof. An open coil is loosely fitted onto the tube, and a split stop is provided for adjusting the tensile force of the open coil. Thus the 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: GrantFiled: February 5, 2003Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Inventor: Nobuhisa Teramoto
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Patent number: 6964566Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 22, 2002Date of Patent: November 15, 2005Inventor: Schubert L. Sapian
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Patent number: 6935859Abstract: A method for fabricating a removable orthodontic appliance with lingual springs using a model of a patient's teeth. One or more ideal reference grooves (e.g., a central ideal reference groove, occlusal ideal reference groove, or gingival ideal reference groove) are cut into the lingual surfaces of the model teeth reflecting the desired, ideal positions of these teeth after orthodontic treatment. The orthodontic appliance is then cast on the model with the stem of each lingual spring stem embedded in the appliance and the tooth-contacting end of each lingual spring positioned in the reference groove of a model tooth.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2003Date of Patent: August 30, 2005Inventor: Velton C. White
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Patent number: 6908306Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 15, 2001Date of Patent: June 21, 2005Assignee: American Orthodontics Corp.Inventors: Steven Jay Bowman, Mauro Testa, Aldo Carano
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Patent number: 6905334Abstract: The invention is an orthodontic bondable offset tooth eyelet which is attached to the lingual surface of an impacted tooth placing an orthodontic force attaching eyelet on an unattachable labial or buccal surface, the labial placement assures the tooth will arrive in its final position rotationally correct.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2003Date of Patent: June 14, 2005Inventor: Neil John Graham
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Publication number: 20040265769Abstract: A force adjusting mechanism for an orthodontic appliance wherein the appliance functions to move teeth and/or to expand the dental arch. The mechanism includes a shaft operatively coupled at opposite ends between a first portion of the appliance which is anchored in the patient's dental arch and a second portion of the appliance which applies force to one or more of the patient's teeth. A lock is slidable along the shaft to compress a spring between the lock and the second portion of the appliance. Co-operating structures on the shaft and on the lock provide a unidirectional ratchet movement of the lock along the shaft. Thus, the lock may be advanced one step at a time in one direction only, preferably manually using an implement for engaging the lock, to compress the spring to apply force to one or more of the patient's teeth. Advantageously, this may be done by the patient or a parent or guardian without the need for an office visit to a clinician.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2004Publication date: December 30, 2004Inventor: Donal P. Inman
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Patent number: 6818076Abstract: A stranded wire having improved fatigue characteristics and made of a shape memory and/or superelastic material, such as Ni/Ti or alloys thereof. Further, the stranded wire may be coiled along the entire length of the wire or only a portion thereof to form one or more coil springs. The stranded and optionally coiled wire is heat treated to set the wire in the twisted configuration.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2000Date of Patent: November 16, 2004Assignee: Ormco CorporationInventor: Farrokh Farzin-Nia
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Publication number: 20040197726Abstract: A clip type anchor for orthodontic treatment comprises piercing portions for piercing a skin and fitting a bone, and a connection portion connecting the piercing portions to each other. The connection portion biases the piercing portions toward the bone. A connection portion is substantially U-like shaped, and piercing portions fit an inside and an outside of an alveolar bone, thereby fixing the anchor to the alveolar bone. In an anchor comprising piercing portions for piercing a skin and fitting a bone, and a connection portion connecting the piercing portions to each other, the connection portion biases the piercing portions so as to either increase or decrease a distance between the piercing portions.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2003Publication date: October 7, 2004Inventors: Shouichi Miyawaki, Isao Koyama, Teruko Yamamoto
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Publication number: 20040185411Abstract: The invention is an orthodontic bondable offset tooth eyelet which is attached to the lingual surface of an impacted tooth placing an orthodontic force attaching eyelet on an unattachable labial or buccal surface, the labial placement assures the tooth will arrive in its final position rotationally correct.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2003Publication date: September 23, 2004Inventor: Neil John Graham
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Patent number: 6655959Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 24, 2001Date of Patent: December 2, 2003Assignee: Ormco CorporationInventors: Farrokh Farzin-Nia, Rohit Chaman Lal Sachdeva
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Publication number: 20030198915Abstract: A method for fabricating a removable orthodontic appliance with lingual springs using a model of a patient's teeth. One or more ideal reference grooves (e.g., a central ideal reference groove, occlusal ideal reference groove, or gingival ideal reference groove) are cut into the lingual surfaces of the model teeth reflecting the desired, ideal positions of these teeth after orthodontic treatment. The orthodontic appliance is then cast on the model with the stem of each lingual spring stem embedded in the appliance and the tooth-contacting end of each lingual spring positioned in the reference groove of a model tooth.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 21, 2003Publication date: October 23, 2003Inventor: Velton C. White
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Publication number: 20030157455Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: February 5, 2003Publication date: August 21, 2003Inventor: Nobuhisa Teramoto
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Publication number: 20030157454Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: February 18, 2002Publication date: August 21, 2003Applicant: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: James D. Hansen, Tsi-Zong Tzou
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Patent number: 6604943Abstract: A method and apparatus for orthodontic treatment employs a cast mass-type appliance with a labial bow and combinations of labial and lingual springs to produce multiple coupled forces on selected teeth. The lingual spring has a stem embedded in the appliance and a plurality of pairs of activation loops at its active, tooth-contacting end, which extend laterally outward from the longitudinal axis of the stem. The labial spring has a pair of lateral wings for attachment to a labial bow, and one or more rabbit ears extending selectively either occlusally or gingivally along the labial surface of the tooth.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2001Date of Patent: August 12, 2003Inventor: Velton C. White