Abstract: A device for providing a dental material, which comprises a compartment formed by first and second interconnected layers, and a well adjacent the compartment in the first layer. The second layer partially overlaps the well. The device helps the dental material to be used in a convenient manner, and may be relatively inexpensive to manufacture.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, an apparatus for removing enamel from a person's tooth includes a blade portion and a handle portion. The blade portion includes an abrasive surface adapted to remove enamel from the tooth in response to reciprocating movement of the abrasive surface against the enamel of the tooth. The handle portion is coupled to the blade portion, has a substantially solid cross-section, and is adapted to be inserted into a corresponding opening in a driver mechanism that is adapted to drive reciprocating movement of the blade portion to provide the reciprocating movement of the abrasive surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to a porous osteoinductive calcium phosphate material having an average grain size in a range of 0.1-1.50 ?m, having a porosity consisting essentially only of micropores in a size range of 0.1-1.50 ?m, and having a surface area percentage of micropores in a range of 10-40%.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to a device and method for reconditioning the muscles and tissues, in particular, the gums, of an edentulous patient.

Abstract: A flexible dental dam for application in a variety of dental procedures, the flexible dental dam including a flexible dome having at least two apertures for inserting dental tools, and a flexible sheet bound between two rigid rings, wherein the flexible dome is attached to the flexible sheet at one of the two rigid rings. The flexible sheet can include an aperture for positioning around a tooth. Methods for use of the flexible dental dam are describe.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of making a dental blank which combines uniaxial pressing isostatic pressing techniques. The invention also includes a press for performing the method and a system comprising a uniaxial and a isostatic press. The invention may help in efficient manufacturing of dental blanks at minimized costs and maximized quality.

Abstract: The disclosed invention provides electrochemical dispensing apparatus and methods. According to the principles of the invention, a microelectronic electrochemical dispenser is used to cause the release of one or more selected chemical substance from a stored chemical compound. The release is controlled using a timer or sensor apparatus in a controlling device, preferably an ASIC.

Abstract: The invention relates to a dental composition for detecting bacteria comprising a solvent, at least one electron acceptor component and at least one electron donor component, the composition being substantially free of components which enable or facilitate the electron transmission between the electron acceptor component and the electron donor component. The invention also relates to a kit of parts and the use of the dental composition for producing a means for the inter-oral detection of bacteria.

Abstract: Feedback data useful in prosthodontic procedures associated with the intra oral cavity is provided. First, a 3D numerical model of the target zone in the intra oral cavity is provided, and this is manipulated so as to extract particular data that may be useful in a particular procedure, for example data relating to the finish line or to the shape and size of a preparation. The relationship between this data and the procedure is then determined, for example the clearance between the preparation and the intended crown. Feedback data, indicative of this relationship, is then generated, for example whether the preparation geometry is adequate for the particular type of prosthesis.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for diagnosis of and early treatment adoption for asymptomatic diseases. In one embodiment, an examination system is provided including an input device for entering patient data, a computer including a medium for storing entered data, and a feedback module for providing feedback to an examined patient based on the data entered. A method of using the examination system is also provided in which feedback is provided directly to the patient concurrently with the measurement or other acquisition of a significant data point. Feedback is also provided at the conclusion of the examination in the form of a report, treatment plan, or customized educational materials. In a further embodiment, the patient is an active participant in the examination, recording data points themselves via the input device.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to system and method for digitally obtaining, recording utilizing and customizing dental data and features needed in providing customized dentures.

Abstract: An optical tip for disinfecting a site of a periodontal pocket includes a first portion configured to be optically coupled to a light source, and a second portion configured to be introduced into the site of the periodontal pocket, where a distal end of the second portion is cylindrical in form and has a constant outer diameter. The second portion is configured to carry light from the light source to the distal end.

Abstract: The invention relates to orthodontic or dental appliances with a substrate, at least certain regions of which are provided with a coating containing titanium dioxide and/or titanium nitride, as well as a coating formulation and a method of applying the coating formulation to the orthodontic or dental appliances.

Abstract: A scanning system for carrying out 3D scanning of dental models in a scanning direction V including a holding device for a whole jaw model which spans an occlusal plane E over a line-shaped mandibular arch, a base, a swivel bearing on a swivel axis normal to the scanning direction V and a stage mounted for rotation on the swivel bearing relatively to the base, on which the dental model to be scanned can be mounted. The stage can be rotated through an angular range ? of at least 150° about the swivel axis, and the whole jaw model can be mounted such that said occlusal plane E is aligned parallel to said scanning direction V. An evaluation unit receives data from a detector to generate a 3D data set.

Abstract: A method of making a surgical template comprises: producing a 3-D geometrical image by a CT scanning performed on a patient's jaw and establishing corresponding implant planning data to obtain a 3-D first digital image, making a positive plaster model of the patient's jaw, scanning the plaster model to obtain a 3-D second digital image, overlapping the second digital image on the first digital image to obtain a computer representation of the plaster model and at least one implant to be mounted according to the implant planning data, drilling the plaster model to form at least one pinhole according to the implant planning data, inserting a pin into the pinhole, producing a negative template body from an assembly of the plaster model and the pin with a thermoplastic dental material so that the negative template body has at least one implant guide hole and constitutes the surgical template.

Abstract: A device for tomographic scanning objects comprises a source of light for irradiating the object; a first grid arranged in the optical axis of the light beam so that a pattern of the first grid is projected on the object; an optical imaging assembly for imaging the object on a sensor; and a second grid provided in the optical axis of the reflected light beam having a pattern matching the first grid, through said second grid the reflected light beam having the pattern of the first grid being guided so that the sensor senses the light beam reflected by the object with a Moiré pattern resulting from overlying the pattern of the first grid and the pattern of the second grid. The device further comprises a means for moving the first grid and/or the second grid at a frequency causing fluctuations in the intensity of the resulting Moiré pattern.

Abstract: Disclosed is a reshapable retention device for insertion at a dental site and contact with adjacent dental surfaces, for the controlled delivery to the dental site of at least one material having a predetermined intraoral activity, with at least one matrix containing the material. The device is adapted for physically affixing at the dental site. The device has a first configuration in which the overall dimensions of the retention device are larger than at least one dimension of the dental site, which is reshapable to a second in which at least one dimension of the retention device is reduced. In the second configuration the retention device has a predetermined shape having contours for affixing at the dental surfaces. The device is affixed to the dental site in its second configuration.

Abstract: An intra-oral imaging apparatus having an illumination field generator that forms an illumination beam having a contour fringe projection pattern when receiving light from a first light source and having a substantially uniform illumination field when receiving light from a second light source. A polarizer in the path of the illumination beam has a first polarization transmission axis. A projection lens directs the polarized illumination beam toward a tooth surface and an imaging lens directs at least a portion of the light from the tooth surface along a detection path. A polarization-selective element disposed along the detection path has a second polarization transmission axis. At least one detector obtains image data from the light provided through the polarization-selective element. A control logic processor responds to programmed instructions for alternately energizing the first and second light sources in a sequence and obtaining both contour fringe projection data and color image data.

Abstract: System and method for automatic construction of orthodontic reference objects, such as the occlusal plane, arch form, and the local occlusal plane for a patient's teeth are disclosed. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, a computer-implemented system and method for automatic construction of orthodontic reference objects comprises receiving three dimensional data for the teeth, setting an initial direction for a normal of the occlusal plane, determining tips for selected teeth, calculating a plane that matches the determined tip, and determining a new normal for the calculated plane.

Abstract: A strainer/filter unit for effectively collecting solid, liquid or gaseous substances at the source and the method of using the strainer/filter unit. The strainer/filter unit includes a housing, a one-way valve at one end of the housing, and a filter having a certain depth and thickness within the housing. The filter is formed from a plurality of layers of material with pores such that pores of one layer partially overlap pores of subsequent adjacent layers. Matters entering the strainer/filter unit are collected in the filter while travelling through filter via a tortuous path.

Abstract: An internal sinus procedure for patching a perforation in patient's sinus membrane comprising the steps of (i) creating an opening in the sinus floor of a patient to expose the portion of the sinus membrane including the perforation, (ii) inserting a quantity of a sinus membrane patching material through the opening to a location adjacent the sinus perforation and (iii) laterally expanding and forcing the patching material against the sinus membrane to seal the perforation.

Abstract: A miniaturized spectrometer/spectrophotometer system and methods are disclosed. A probe tip including one or more light sources and a plurality of light receivers is provided. A first spectrometer system receives light from a first set of the plurality of light receivers. A second spectrometer system receives light from a second set of the plurality of light receivers. A processor, wherein the processor receives data generated by the first spectrometer system and the second spectrometer system, wherein an optical measurement of a sample under test is produced based on the data generated by the first and second spectrometer systems.

Abstract: A method of maxillary sinus bone grafting for placement of an implant in which upon placement of the implant, a vertical hole is formed and enlarged with ease in a maxillary sinus floor, a maxillary membrane is easily lifted in an always-stable state using a piezotome and gel type bone graft material while preventing the membrane from becoming damaged, and even the bone graft material of coarse bone meal is uniformly diffused and infused, thereby ensuring that the implant is placed in a fast, safe manner while allowing a patient to keep relaxed and alleviating the pain the patient feels, resulting in shortening a curing time and maximizing effects of the placement of the implant.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to compositions for whitening human teeth, and more particularly, to compositions that do not contain hydrocarbon humectants and which, when applied onto the surface of teeth act to whiten without damage to tooth surfaces. They do contain a hydrogel, defined as a gel that does not contain a hydrocarbon humectant. A hydrocarbon humectant is defined as a carbon, hydrogen and oxygen compound which is used to prevent the oral care composition from hardening upon exposure to air or a carbon, hydrogen and oxygen compound which is used as a carrier for ingredients of an oral care composition.

Abstract: A dental applicator device is disclosed. Generally, the dental applicator device includes a trough comprising a first wall, a second wall, and a floor, wherein at least one of the first wall, second wall, and floor comprises a contact surface, wherein at least a portion of the contact surface comprises a reticulated foam material. Methods of applying a dental agent to a target surface of a subject's dentition are also disclosed.

Abstract: A composition and method for treating periodontal infections and gingivitis includes an extract of Centipeda cunninghami, coenzyme Q10, aloe vera and folic acid. The composition also contains additional plant extracts and nutrients that are effective in cell reproduction, wound healing and provide antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. The composition is applied to the teeth and gums to inhibit bacterial growth and reduce inflammation of the gums.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, an apparatus for removing enamel from a person's tooth includes a blade portion and a handle portion. The blade portion includes an abrasive surface adapted to remove enamel from the tooth in response to reciprocating movement of the abrasive surface against the enamel. The handle portion is coupled to the blade portion and includes first and second regions, the first region is proximal and the second region is distal to the blade portion. The first region includes a substantially solid cross-section with a substantially circular perimeter. The second region includes a substantially solid cross-section with at least a substantially semi-circular perimeter, the solid cross-section defining a notched region. The apparatus is adapted to be inserted via a pressure fit into a corresponding opening in a driver mechanism adapted to drive reciprocating movement of the blade portion and the abrasive surface.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method separates gingiva from a model of a tooth by defining a cutting surface along the gingiva; and applying the cutting surface to the tooth to separate the gingiva from the tooth.

Abstract: The provision of dental restorations can be improved by generating a cold atmospheric plasma inside the mouth of the patient and then applying that cold atmospheric plasma onto a dental restoration site. The dental restoration site can be composed of either or both of dentin and enamel. Further, the provision of dental restorations can also be improved by introducing a dental adhesive onto a dental restoration site and treating it with a cold atmospheric plasma.

Abstract: An antimicrobial formulation for dental applications includes colloidal silver, from between about 0.01 to 2 percent by weight and colloidal copper, from between about 0.05 to about 10 percent by weight. The antimicrobial formulations are used to treat microorganisms on a tooth to prevent tooth decay by administering an effective amount of the antimicrobial formulation alone or in combination with a dental varnish, stannous fluoride, or sodium fluoride. The antimicrobial formulation may be part of a kit or used in a biocompatible time release chip.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are teeth whitening compositions generally including an oxidizing agent (e.g., a peroxide), and an activating agent that has an emission wavelength between about 400 nm and about 570 nm (e.g., Eosin B, Eosin Y, or Erythrosine B). Methods of employing these compositions to whiten teeth, methods of making these compositions and kits that include some or part of the composition ingredients, are also described.

Abstract: The invention provides a dental coating kit with high adhesiveness to teeth that contains a primer composition including an acidic group-containing polymeric monomer (a), water (b) and a water-soluble solvent (c) and a surface smoothing composition including a polyfunctional polymeric monomer (f), a volatile solvent (g) and a photopolymerization initiator (h); and a dental coating kit with high adhesiveness to teeth and minimally suffering from chipping and peeling off that contains a primer composition including an acidic group-containing polymeric monomer (a), water (b) and a water-soluble solvent (c), a coating composition including a polymeric monomer (d) and a photopolymerization initiator (e), and a surface smoothing composition including a polyfunctional polymeric monomer (f), a volatile solvent (g) and a photopolymerization initiator (h). Either dental coating kit is particularly useful as a kit for preventing stain and color return of a bleached tooth.

Abstract: The invention relates to a curable dental retraction composition comprising alginate and a solvent, with the proviso that essentially no crosslinker in an amount effective to start setting of the curable dental retraction composition is present. The invention also relates to a container containing said composition and to a kit comprising two parts, wherein the first part comprises the curable dental retraction composition of the present invention and the second part comprises a crosslinker being able to start setting of the dental retraction composition.

Abstract: The invention relates to a dental composition comprising a hardenable powder to be used in a process for retraction of dental tissue. The invention also relates to a kit of parts comprising the dental composition comprising a hardenable powder, a hardening agent, optionally a handpiece of a powder jet device, optionally a powder jet device, and optionally retraction caps. In a further aspect, the invention relates to a method for retracting dental tissue comprising the steps of applying a dental composition comprising a hardenable powder with a powder jet device into the sulcus between soft and hard dental tissue, applying a composition comprising a hardening agent either before or after the previous step, leaving the dental composition in the sulcus for a time sufficient to effect retraction of the soft dental tissue and removing the dental composition from the sulcus.

Abstract: A system and method for making an improved mandibular repositioning device includes a pair of tooth fixation element premolds, a pressure molding cap and at least one adjustment mechanism. The premolds include resin and reinforcing material within a flexible envelope. The pressure molding cap includes a rigid shell and an inflatable bladder. The tooth fixation element premold is placed on the patient's teeth. The pressure molding cap is placed over the premold and the bladder is filled. The pressure of the bladder forms the premold to the patient's teeth. The pressure is released once the resin is set and the formed tooth fixation element may be removed from the patient's teeth. After a tooth fixation element is created for both the top and bottom sets of teeth an attachment mechanism is coupled to both tooth fixation elements to adjustably coupled the tooth fixation elements to each other.

Abstract: A single use cartridge 10 is disclosed for dispensing a medicament or other substance for dental, medical, or veterinarian applications. A motive fluid can contact the medicament to mix and dispense from reservoir 12, or the motive fluid can act on a plunger 21 to dispense the medicament. A handpiece 15 can sealably connect the cartridge 10 to a source of the motive fluid. The cartridge 10 can be easily replaced to facilitate the use of multiple cartridges with a single handpiece 15. An ultrasonic cleaning element 30 with a channel for fluid flow can be used in a handpiece 25 with a single use medicament cartridge 28 to dispense medicament during ultrasonic dental procedures. A cartridge 72 can contain a mixing element 70 to mix the motive fluid and abrasive particles for tooth surface polishing.

Abstract: Described are dental implements useful for inspecting tooth surfaces for abnormalities such as caries or plaque. Preferred implements of the invention include light-emitting diodes mounted on an implement body having a mirror for insertion into a user's mouth. Such implements also have on-board batteries mounted in chambers in the implement handle, and a switch for energizing and de-energizing the LED with the battery. Also described are methods for examining tooth surfaces for abnormal conditions indicative of plaque involving illuminating surfaces with radiation at a wavelength in the range of 390-450 nm wherein the radiation is effective to cause detectable fluorescence emissions from bacterial metabolites known to be associated with plaque-containing surfaces, and detecting the emissions.

Abstract: A retraction material promoting both retraction and drying of the gingival sulcus around a tooth. The retraction material comprises an astringent and an absorbing or drying agent. The retraction material is placed with a syringe and capsule around the gingival sulcus prior to the taking of an impression in a dental procedure.

Abstract: A dental diagnostic OCT system capable of diagnosis of dental caries existing at the approximal surfaces of teeth, comprising a light source, a beam splitter, a mirror, a photo detector, a lens, an optical fiber, and a probe. A filler having a refractive index larger than the refractive index of air and smaller than that of an object of diagnosis is to be filled between the tip portion of the probe and approximal surfaces of teeth, i.e., objects of diagnosis. The light output from the tip portion of the probe is irradiated to the objects of diagnosis via the filler, and the sample light occurring upon such irradiation is input into the tip portion of the probe via the filler. The intensity of light which the beam splitter outputs by combining the sample light and the reference light is detected by the photo detector, and thereby the teeth as the objects of diagnosis are diagnosed.

Abstract: Embodiments of systems and methods for planning and/or delivering an oral or facial endosseous implantation in a patient are described. In certain embodiments, systems according to the invention include a processing module; a surface imaging scan and a CT scan which utilizes a locator mouthpiece having a plurality of reference points thereon and can send scanned data to a treatment planning module. A processing module processes the data and the surface data into an output that includes three-dimensional (3-D) representation data indicative of at least one of an oral structure and a facial structure of the patient. In certain embodiments, a system includes a fabrication module that produces a physical model based on the 3-D representation data and indicating a planned location of an endosseous implant. In certain embodiments, a system includes a surgical module that guides implantation of an endosseous implant based on the 3-D representation data.

Abstract: A method for temporarily widening a gingival sulcus is provided using an uncured composition comprising a polymerizable monomer having at least one ethylenically unsaturated group, a photo polymerization initiator, a fine inorganic powder, and an astringent. The uncured composition is inserted within a gingival sulcus to be widened, and the composition is thereafter irradiated in situ to polymerize the composition. The result is a rubbery material that is easily removable from the widened sulcus.

Abstract: A method for whitening teeth which utilizes laser light to activate bleaching agents applied to the teeth. The mouth is first prepared so that the soft tissues of the gums are protected and only the teeth are exposed. The teeth are cleaned to remove any materials which will reduce or nullify the effects of the bleaching agents. A first bleaching composition comprising a peroxide compound is prepared and applied to the teeth. The teeth are exposed to laser light from an argon laser which light activates the peroxide to accelerate the bleaching process without heat. If further whitening is desired, a second bleaching composition comprising a peroxide compound is prepared and applied to the teeth. The teeth are briefly exposed to laser light from a carbon dioxide laser which heat activates the peroxide to accelerate the bleaching process.

Abstract: Apparatus for the treatment of iatrogenic enamel damage includes a tray for connection to a handpiece for delivering ozone to teeth. A port in the tray is provided for receiving the ozone. The tray includes a resilient edge for sealably engaging the tooth/gums to prevent escape of ozone therepast.

Abstract: A method of measuring the distance of a probe in a cavity in a root canal of a tooth, comprising: supplying at least one first voltage waveform to the probe via a resistor; receiving at least one signal responsive to the position of the probe and the at least one first voltage waveform; generating two response waveforms from said at least one signal, at least one of said response waveforms having at least a primary frequency component and a substantial amount of at least one other non-zero frequency component; and estimating the distance of the probe from the apex utilizing both generated waveforms.

Abstract: A squeezable hermetically sealed vessel contains a whitening compound and an elongated applicator tip extending outwardly from the vessel. A cap closed and seals the applicator tip and the vessel, but may be removed under manual force. Once the cap is removed, the walls of the vessel may be squeezed together to urges the contents of the vessel to flow through a fluid passage through the elongated applicator tip to reach an accommodating surface. The accommodating surface may either be impregnated with a different material that reacts with the contents of the vessel upon contact or covers a chamber that in turn contains such a different material.

Abstract: A rotatable tissue removing instrument having a tissue engaging member. The tissue engaging member includes one or more prongs or barbs, or both, which grab the strands of granulation tissue and cause the tissue to be wrapped around the tissue engaging member. The granulation tissue continues to be wrapped around the tissue engaging member until pulled free from both the tooth and the bone.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for designing the surface of a dental prosthetic item consisting of three-dimensional data, wherein three-dimensional data of a surface (30) of an electronically stored tooth (11) are used at least as part of the surface of the dental prosthetic item to be fabricated, to which end the surface of the tooth (30) is first of all determined as to size and then placed against an electronically stored prosthetic item or the region of a preparation site (1;21) existing as three-dimensional data. The position of the digital tooth surface (30) over the dental prosthetic item or in the preparation site (1; 21) can be set with regard to at least one spatial axis and/or at least one direction of rotation.

Abstract: Method of designing a tooth replacement part, which is intended to be mountable on a residual tooth area and in which a spacing (1) is provided between the tooth replacement part (2) and the residual tooth area (3), and the subsequent step of examining whether one or more undercuts (4) exist in the tooth replacement part. Method of processing a designed tooth replacement part having one or a plurality of undercuts, wherein a spacing is provided between the tooth replacement part and a residual tooth area and wherein a shape of the spacing is modified so as to remove the undercut or undercuts from the tooth replacement part. Method of avoiding the formation of undercuts originating from the provision or the modification of a spacing. Tooth replacement part having a spacing, wherein the spacing of the tooth replacement part has first and second spacing areas and an intermediate transition area, said transition area being free from undercuts. Computer-readable medium with instructions for said methods.

Abstract: In a jaw implant, an anchoring part (1) is designed in the manner of a helix (3), in which the size ratio of external diameter (Da) to core diameter (Di) is equal to or greater than 2. The invention also proposes a two-step method, and a device for carrying out the method using a special tool, in order to produce a helical recess in the jaw bone into which the anchoring part (1) can be screwed.

Abstract: Dental compositions containing adjuvants are provided that have the capability of undergoing an increase in viscosity in response to an increase in temperature. In a preferred embodiment, the compositions also have the ability to reverse their viscosity in response to a decrease in temperature.