By Filling, Bonding Or Cementing Patents (Class 433/226)
  • Patent number: 6315566
    Abstract: Dental materials are provided comprising Component i), which is a hydrogen bondable compound that is a polymer having a molecular weight greater than about 10,000, and Component ii), which is a hydrogen bondable bridging compound. One of Components i) and ii) contains 2 or more hydrogen-bond donor sites per compound, and the other of Components i) or ii) contains 2 or more hydrogen-bond acceptor sites per compound, which hydrogen-bond acceptor sites are not capable of also acting as hydrogen-bond donor sites. Components i) and ii) are present in an amount sufficient to exhibit at least 10% higher Relative Viscosity, and optionally at least one of i) or ii) is polymerizable. If the material contains any compounds having only one hydrogen-bond donor site or hydrogen-bond acceptor site per compound, the ratio of hydrogen-bond donor sites on compounds having only one hydrogen-bond donor site to hydrogen-bond donor sites on compounds having 2 or more hydrogen-bond donor sites per compound is less than 0.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Byron Ciping Shen, Sumita B. Mitra, Xiaodong Zhang, Robert D. Kuehn
  • Patent number: 6312667
    Abstract: Dental etching compositions 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Matt C. Trom, Joel D. Oxman
  • Patent number: 6309221
    Abstract: Compositions, methods and kits for providing hemostasis and sealing of exposed tooth pulp and/or pink dentin. The inventive methods and kits employ propylhexedrine as a hemostatic agent, such as in the form of an aqueous composition of propylhexedrine hydrochloride, and an adhesive sealant composition. The propylhexedrine solution is advantageously applied to the exposed pulp and pink dentin by means of a cotton pellet or other absorbent applicator. The adhesive sealant composition is advantageously applied to exposed pulp and pink dentin, which has been previously treated with the propylhexedrine solution, by means of a syringe. The adhesive sealant composition may include an alkyl methacrylate having an oxyphosphorus group, a polymerization initiator and an antimicrobial agent, such as calcium hydroxide. The adhesive sealant composition can be polymerized in situ and is used to prevent ingress by microorgaism into an area of the tooth being treated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Ultradent Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven D. Jensen
  • Publication number: 20010034010
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing dental restorations for teeth that need to be restored. In the process, a first set of data points is retrieved from a tooth or an image of the tooth to be restored. The tooth is prepared by the dentist and a second set of data points is retrieved from the tooth or an image of the tooth. The second set of points is compared to the first set of points to obtain a third set of points. The dental restoration is milled from dental material based on the image resulting from the third set of data points.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2001
    Publication date: October 25, 2001
    Inventors: Joseph A. MacDougald, Carlino Panzera
  • Patent number: 6290502
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the removal of caries (4) in a cavity (7), in which a flowable medium (11), which contains a caries (4)-dissolving substance and/or solid particles (13), is introduced into the cavity (7) and for improving the effectiveness the medium is acted upon with oscillations by means of an oscillation part (14) which is applied in the medium (11) located in the cavity (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: Kaltenbach & Voigt GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Burkhard Hugo
  • Patent number: 6290503
    Abstract: A dental device is disclosed for dispensing a slurry-like dental compound, such as MTA, into a tooth cavity. The device comprises a delivery tool with a dispensing tip and a plastic tubing sleeve, for example, polyethylene, TEFLON®, TYGON®, or other inert tubing. The inner diameter of the sleeve is approximately the same as or slightly less than the outer diameter of the dispensing tip, thereby creating a tight seal between the sleeve and the dispensing tip, but still allowing the sleeve to slide along the dispensing tip when pressure is exerted. The outer diameter of the sleeve is chosen so that the sleeve rim forms a seal around the insertion point on the tooth. The sleeve length is long enough to allow a hydrated filling compound such as MTA to be loaded within the bore of the sleeve between the end of the sleeve and the displacing shaft, but short enough to withstand pressure applied to the dispensing tip to extrude the compound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: Board of Supervisors of Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College
    Inventors: Ronald R. Lemon, Raymond G. Luebke
  • Patent number: 6254393
    Abstract: System for the removal of a defect in a tooth (71), consisting of an oscillatingly movable tool (3) having working surfaces (56) for an abrasive making of a cavity (K) in the tooth, a filling material for filing the cavity (K), an insert (91, 91A) which can be placed into the cavity (K), which with regard to its surface region surrounded by the cross-sectional walls (KW) of the cavity (K) is pre-fabricated adapted to the dimension and shape, and a binding material (92), which hardens or cures, for bonding the insert (91, 91A) with the walls (KW) of the cavity (K).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: Kaltenbach & Voigt GmbH
    Inventor: Burkhard Hugo
  • Patent number: 6250926
    Abstract: In the method for manufacturing a dental replacement a dental support structure is provide that has a labial and a buccal side. A fired, pre-shaped ceramic part is placed onto the labial or the buccal side and at least partially embedded in a ceramic paste. Subsequently, the thus assembled dental replacement is fired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Ivoclar Vivadent AG
    Inventors: Hanspeter Foser, Gerard Ubassy
  • Patent number: 6224379
    Abstract: A spinning end of a rotating instrument is used to deform an adhesive material without the adhesive material adhering to the instrument. This process is particularly suited for packing dental composites within oral cavities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Trustees of Tufts College
    Inventors: Behrouz Abedian, Livia M. Racz, James P. O'Leary, Philip L. Millstein
  • Patent number: 6217644
    Abstract: A dental adhesive set is disclosed, comprising (I) a tooth surface conditioning agent and (II) a bonding material, wherein the tooth surface conditioning agent (I) is an acid aqueous solution, and the bonding material (II) comprises a mixture of: (a) a fluoroalumino silicate glass powder, (b) one or two or more unsaturated organic compounds selected from polymerizable unsaturated organic compounds having at least one CH2═CR1—COO—, wherein R1 is H or CH3, and not having an acid group; (c) an acid; (d) water; and (e) a photopolymerization catalyst. According to the dental adhesive set of the present invention, the dental restoration and the dentin can be firmly and surely adhered to each other in a clinically simple operation, and by imparting properties for continuously releasing a fluoride ion not only the dentinal restoration but also the reinforcement of tooth structure and the inhibition of secondary caries can be expected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: GC Corporation
    Inventors: Kaori Matsunae, Shoji Akahane
  • Patent number: 6213776
    Abstract: A bonding material for joining a polymeric veneering material or porcelain ceramic to a metal framework of a dental restoration or dental prosthesis before sintering the porcelain at a suitable temperature to form a clinically unbreakable structure. The bonding material is composed of finely divided metal particles including at least 50% gold or a gold alloy as its major constituent and finely divided particles of a carbonaceous material preferably of activated carbon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Inventors: Itzhak Shoher, Aharon Whiteman
  • Patent number: 6206959
    Abstract: Single-solution adhesive resin formulations are made of predominantly dimethacrylates or diacrylates containing (predominantly) two carboxyl groups and a functionalized methacrylate or acrylate diluent monomer. A novel light-activated initiator can be used for photopolymerization of such adhesives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: American Dental Association Health Foundation
    Inventor: Sabine H. Dickens
  • Patent number: 6203319
    Abstract: A mold used to form small pellets of dental filling material. The mold has several flat surfaces, on which several individual pellet-forming grooves (12a-d) are located. A handle is attached to one end (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventor: Edward Stanley Lee
  • Patent number: 6197212
    Abstract: A process for the conditioning of dental cavities by etching in preparation for bonding restoration to enamel and dentin, comprising the steps: a) etching the dentin part of a dental cavity using an aqueous composition containing, as an active constituent, EDTA, in an effective amount, and b) etching the enamel part of said cavity using a conventional etching acid; and a kit for use in such process for conditioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: Peridoc AB
    Inventors: Sven Lindskog, Leif Blomlöf
  • Patent number: 6168431
    Abstract: A method of polymerizing a photo-polymerizable dental composition with the use of a light-curing apparatus including a light source (1) for emitting a laser beam and an optical fiber (2) optically coupled with the light source (1) and having a light emitting element (5) opposite to the light source (1). The photo-polymerizable dental composition (M) is filled in a dental cavity (H), and the light emitting element (5) of the optical fiber (2) is subsequently introduced in the filled photo-polymerizable dental composition (M) to a position adjacent a bottom of the dental cavity (H). Thereafter, the filled photo-polymerizable dental composition (M) is irradiated with the laser beam of 350 to 500 mm in wavelength at 10 to 100 mW, to cause the filled photo-polymerizable dental composite (M) to initiate polymerization progressively from a portion thereof adjacent the bottom of the dental cavity (H) towards a surface portion thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Assignees: Kuraray Co., Ltd., Shimadzu Corporation
    Inventors: Hideaki Narusawa, Kenichi Hino, Fumihiko Ohtani, Masahiro Ihara
  • Patent number: 6162056
    Abstract: The invention relates to a composition for filling root canals in humans or animals, comprising: (a) at least one chlorhexidine derivative of at least one carboxylic acid; (b) one or more carriers based on trans-polyisoprene, gutta-percha, balata, silicone, caoutchouc, acrylate, or mixtures thereof; (c) optionally one or more fillers; and (d) optionally one or more X-ray contrast substances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Assignee: Roeko GmbH & Co., Dentalerzeugnisse
    Inventor: Werner Mannschedel
  • Patent number: 6159011
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for producing a titanium and ceramic adhesive composite system, and a titanium and ceramic adhesive system produced therefrom. The system can be used to improve the adhesive of ceramics, intended for pure titanium or titanium alloys, to a structure consisting of pure titanium or a titanium alloy. The improvement is attained in that silicon ions (4) are inserted into the surface (1) of a structure consisting of pure titanium or a titanium alloy by ion implantation with ion beams (3) between the atoms (5) of the titanium or the atoms (5) of the titanium alloy. The silicon ions form a titanium and silicon layer (2) in the surface (1) of the structure in the penetration layer of the ion implantation, on which titanium and silicon layer crystalline, non -metallic inorganic materials are applied, and an adhesive composite is produced with said materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventors: Andreas Moormann, Lothar Wehnert
  • Patent number: 6126446
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition for filling tooth root canals comprising an isoprene-based powder and at least one sealer. The composition can be prepared by cooling an isoprene-based material, adding any additives that may be present before, during or after comminution, comminuting and then adding a sealer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: Roeko GmbH & Co., Dentalerzeugnisse
    Inventor: Werner Mannschedel
  • Patent number: 6103203
    Abstract: A system and method for achieving partial polymerization of a photoreactive resin include: (i) light source means for providing light energy to the photoreactive resin, the light source means having an intensity; (ii) timing means for causing the light source means to provide light energy to the photoreactive resin for an illumination time, during which the light source means provides light energy to the photoreactive resin, the timing means selectively operable in a plurality of different time increments, thereby allowing fine tuning of the total amount of light energy provided to the photoreactive resin; and (iii) power supply means electrically coupled to the light source means and the timing means for supplying electrical power to the light source means and the timing means. In one embodiment, the system is programmed to automatically achieve a constant total light energy output despite variations in the intensity of the light source means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Ultradent Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Dan E. Fischer
  • Patent number: 6065965
    Abstract: A deice for curing a photocurable plastic filler (6) disposed in a dental cavity (2) of a hard tooth substance (4) includes a laser light source (10) and a light conductor (11) leading from the laser light source (10) to an applicator (14). The applicator (14) is utilized to apply drops of the plastic filler (6) upon the dental cavity alternating with an intermittent operation of the laser light source (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Inventor: Peter Rechmann
  • Patent number: 6050815
    Abstract: A dental article having a lyophilic ionic cement component on at least one surface thereof. Also contemplated are methods of using a dental article having a lyophilic ionic cement component on at least one surface thereof, and methods of making such articles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Randall E. Adam, James F. Forbes
  • Patent number: 6033223
    Abstract: A method of polymerizing a photo-polymerizable dental composition with the use of a light-curing apparatus including a light source (1) for emitting a laser beam and an optical fiber (2) optically coupled with the light source (1) and having a light emitting element (5) opposite to the light source (1). The photo-polymerizable dental composition (M) is filled in a dental cavity (H), and the light emitting element (5) of the optical fiber (2) is subsequently introduced in the filled photo-polymerizable dental composition (M) to a position adjacent a bottom of the dental cavity (H). Thereafter, the filled photo-polymerizable dental composition (M) is irradiated with the laser beam of 350 to 500 nm in wavelength at 10 to 100 mW, to cause the filled photo-polymerizable dental composite (M) to initiate polymerization progressively from a portion thereof adjacent the bottom of the dental cavity (H) towards a surface portion thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignees: Kuraray Co., Ltd., Shimadzu Corporation
    Inventors: Hideaki Narusawa, Kenichi Hino, Fumihiko Ohtani, Masahiro Ihara
  • Patent number: 6031016
    Abstract: A single package adhesive for tooth bonding application comprising a solvent-based homogeneous mixture ofa) an ethylenically unsaturated functional and hygroscopically functional monomer;b) an ethylenically unsaturated functional and hygroscopically functional coupling agent that is capable of (a) chemically reacting with and through the ethylenic bond of the ethylenically unsaturated functional monomer of 1) above and (b) chemically bonding to the surface to which the adhesive is applied;c) a poly-ethylenically unsaturated functional crosslinking agent that is capable of reacting with the monomer of 1) above and the coupling agent of 2) above; andd) a photoinitiator that induces addition polymerization of an ethylenically unsaturated compound.A method for forming a composite and composite structure are included that emply the single package adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Den-Mat Corporation
    Inventors: Robert L. Ibsen, William R. Glace
  • Patent number: 6027341
    Abstract: A process for the conditioning of dental cavities by etching in preparation for bonding restorations to enamel and dentin, comprising the steps: a) etching the dentin part of a dental cavity using an aqueous composition containing, as an active constituent, EDTA in an effective amount, and b) etching the enamel part of said cavity using a conventional etching acid; and a kit for use in such process for conditioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: Peridoc AB
    Inventors: Sven Lindskog, Leif Blomlof
  • Patent number: 6013246
    Abstract: A preparation for inhibiting the release of mercury or to render mercury that is released when treating amalgam dental fillings or when inserting new amalgam fillings, harmless. The preparation contains at least 0.01 percent by weight of a physiologically acceptable organic sulphur compound, which includes at least one group chosen from SH and R.sub.1,-S.sub.n,-R.sub.2, where n=1--6. The use of such a preparation in mouth washes, mouth sprays, toothpastes, dental prophylactic pastes or rinsing/cooling liquids intended for use when drilling, abrading, polishing or cleaning with the aid of dental instruments. A therapeutic treatment preparation may include cysteine for rendering Hg harmless in solution form and/or gas form in the oral cavities of human beings and animals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: CTC Medical AB
    Inventor: Sven Langworth
  • Patent number: 5997302
    Abstract: A method and kit is presented, wherein a prepared tooth cavity is etched; treated with a primer/adhesive which is cured; treated with a flowable composite and cured; and then filled with a condensable composite, using techniques and instruments developed for use with amalgams. Such techniques include transferring the composite with an amalgam carrier, and shaping and packing the composite with an amalgam plugger. The dental restoration may optionally be further etched and sealed. The kit comprises at least a condensable composite and an amalgam carrier. The condensable composite is further provided in premeasured amounts, that is, in amounts of one spill, two spills, or three spills. In another embodiment, the kit further comprises a flowable composite material, and in still another embodiment, the kit further comprises a flowable composite material and dispenser, an etchant, a primer/adhesive, a plugger, and brush tips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Jeneric Pentron Incorporated
    Inventor: Bruce Alpert
  • Patent number: 5975906
    Abstract: A dental strip comprised of uniformly thick, dead soft polymer, for use as a matrix in molding hardenable restorative materials. Matrixing processes for the strip permit the formation of interproximally contacting restorations without wedging; and the formation of composite restorations with smooth interproximal margins. Other processes for the strip permit the formation of removable restorations which are separated from prepared tooth surfaces by the strip; the formation of restorations with reduced resin excess; and stabilization of the strip on dental surfaces by affixing with a temporary adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventor: Eric J. Knutson
  • Patent number: 5945558
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for making dibasic amino acid monoesters useful in repair of teeth in which a dibasic amino acid is partially esterified with an allylic acrylic compound in the presence of an acidic ion-exchange resin at ambient temperature. The invention also comprises cyclicizing the amino groups of the monoesters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: Southwest Research Institute
    Inventor: William A. Mallow
  • Patent number: 5927972
    Abstract: A crown cementation seating comprising a longitudinal portion having opposed first and second ends and a central portion therebetween. The central portion having a width that corresponds generally to the central groove of the crown and that is less than the distance between the lingual and buccal cusps of the crown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Inventor: Geoff Humboldt
  • Patent number: 5921778
    Abstract: A reinforced composite material for use in dental restorations such as dental bridges, splints, veneers, and laminate comprising a hybrid woven material formed of glass yarns and synthetic yarns. Suitable synthetic yarns comprise polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, acrylic fibers, or a combination thereof. The hybrid woven material of the present invention does not fray upon cutting, which greatly enhances ease of preparation of the fiber-reinforced dental restorations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Jeneric/Pentron Incorporated
    Inventors: Ajit Karmaker, Arun Prasad
  • Patent number: 5921779
    Abstract: A formulation for use as a dental adhesive in the treatment of the hard tooth substance, to provide enhanced bonding between dental restoration material and the enamel and dentine of the tooth. The formulation contains glycerol di(meth)acrylate, volatile solvent, photo-initiator and, optionally, usual additives and fillers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Heraeus Kulzer GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Wolfgang Podszun, Werner Finger, Ludger Heiliger
  • Patent number: 5915969
    Abstract: A tooth having a tooth surface with a plurality of tubules and microchannels defined therein is treated with a polymeric hydrogel formed by a polyphosphazene substance and a metal salt. The polyphosphazene substance is first applied to the tooth surface and then the metal salt is applied thereto. The polyphosphazene substance is reacted with the metal salt to form a polymeric hydrogel inside the tubules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Inventor: Lars .ANG.ke Linden
  • Patent number: 5876210
    Abstract: The invention concerns a process for preparing a polymer composition, that is free-radical/photochemical and thermal curing epoxide-methacrylate and/or isocyanate-methacrylate adhesives in broadest terms, dental/medical adhesives, and dental restoratives. Furthermore the dual curing epoxide-methacrylate and/or isocyanate-methacrylate adhesives can be used in the optical industry, in optoelectronics and microelectronics, for example for the adhesion of complicated optical components in the combination glass/glass, glass/metal. Advantageous is the small shrinkage during polymerization and the good mechanical properties in combination with the possibility of step-wise or one-step polymerization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: Dentsply G.m.b.H.
    Inventors: Joachim E. Klee, Walter Leube
  • Patent number: 5871360
    Abstract: A method for restoration of a cavity of a tooth including firmly bonding a tooth and a dental composite resin by using a resin reinforced type glass ionomer cement. The method includes a step where the cavity of the tooth is treated with a tooth surface treating agent containing an aqueous solution of acid as a main component or a pre-treating agent containing an unsaturated organic compound as a main component; a step where the resin reinforced type glass ionomer cement is filled in or spread to the cavity; a step where a dental composite resin is then filled in the cavity before or after the resin reinforced type glass ionomer cement is hardened; and a step where the dental composite resin is hardened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Assignee: GC Corporation
    Inventor: Shinichi Kato
  • Patent number: 5851512
    Abstract: The present invention discloses sticky dental compositions and methods for treating sensitive teeth. For maximum comfort, an improved dental tray that is thin-walled, flexible and lightweight is used to hold the dental composition adjacent the desired tooth surfaces. The dental compositions include a sticky matrix material into which is dispersed a desensitizing agent such as KNO.sub.3 and other optional dental agents. The matrix material preferably includes carboxypolymethylene that has been partially neutralized with a base to reduce etching of the enamel. The carboxypolymethylene adds a unique stickiness to the dental composition which helps to adhere and retain the soft tray material against the patient's teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1998
    Assignee: Ultradent Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Dan E. Fischer
  • Patent number: 5810595
    Abstract: A composition for use in repair of teeth in which a dibasic amino acid partially esterified with allyl alcohol or a hydroxyacrylate or methacrylate and cyclicized, is utilized and the method of tooth repair comprising applying the composition to a tooth requiring repair and curing the composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Assignee: Southwest Research Institute
    Inventor: William A. Mallow
  • Patent number: 5807101
    Abstract: A universal occlusal matrix for application to the occlusal surface of a tooth having a central groove forming a V-shape in cross-section, the universal occlusal matrix being transparent to ultraviolet rays and to rays of the visible spectrum to permit rapid hardening by polymerization of the filling material and of a material which does not adhere to that of the said filing. The universal occlusal matrix has an elastic lamina having a central groove forming a V-shape in cross-section with first and second curved concave wings extending outward from the central groove. The elastic lamina extends away from the central groove sufficiently far to cover the occlusal surface of the various teeth to which it may be applied. The angle of the V-shape of the groove of the lamina is greater than the angle of the V-shape of the groove of the various teeth to which it may be applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: Josephine Scalzo
  • Patent number: 5800169
    Abstract: A supply and metering syringe for viscous dental compounds, having a syringe body which contains a piston and opens out in a delivery opening. The delivery opening adjoins the syringe body without a constriction. As a result, a separation of the compound components in the surface region of the emerging strand is prevented. The diameter of the syringe body preferably widens toward the delivery opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Inventor: Ernst Muhlbauer
  • Patent number: 5797749
    Abstract: An aqueous-based dental composition useful for desensitizing an exposed tooth surface in preparation for performing restorative work on the tooth surface. The composition comprises benzethonium chloride, 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate, water and optionally a small amount of a fluoride salt. The composition is used in the method of repairing a damaged tooth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Assignee: Danville Materials
    Inventors: Raymond L. Bertolotti, Thomas S. Blake
  • Patent number: 5788499
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for restoration of teeth using light curable restoratives while assuring interproximal contact between the restored tooth and an adjacent tooth. The apparatus is in the form of a hand-held instrument with a specialized tip to hold an amount of pre-cured composite which is made from the same material as the restorative material or other compatible material and is intended for permanent placement in the tooth during the restorative process and becomes an integral part of the restoration. A tooth cavitation opening through a vertical tooth surface about which a matrix band has been tightened is filled by alternate deposition and curing of successive layers of the light curable restorative to a level at or below the plane of maximum circumference of the tooth. The amount of pre-cured composite is placed in a layer of uncured composite on this plane and the instrument is used to apply pressure to the amount of pre-cured composite to establish interproximal contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Inventor: Craig A. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 5759037
    Abstract: The present invention discloses high viscosity sustained release dental compositions, such as tooth bleaching or fluoride compositions, for treating tooth surfaces. For maximum results, an improved dental tray having reservoirs for holding the dental composition adjacent the desired tooth surfaces is preferably used in combination with the sustained release dental composition. The sustained release dental compositions include a high carboxypolymethylene concentration which results in very high viscosity. The high level of carboxypolymethylene makes dilution of the dental compositions from saliva difficult and time consuming so that the compositions stay within the tray reservoirs, thereby providing sustained release. The concentrated carboxypolymethylene adds a unique tackiness to the dental composition which helps retain and seal the soft tray material against the patient's teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1998
    Inventor: Dan E. Fischer
  • Patent number: 5759038
    Abstract: The present invention discloses high viscosity sustained release dental compositions, such as tooth bleaching or fluoride compositions, for treating tooth surfaces. For maximum results, an improved dental tray having reservoirs for holding the dental composition adjacent the desired tooth surfaces is preferably used in combination with the sustained release dental composition. The sustained release dental compositions include a high carboxypolymethylene concentration which results in very high viscosity. The high level of carboxypolymethylene makes dilution of the dental compositions from saliva difficult and time consuming so that the compositions stay within the tray reservoirs, thereby providing sustained release. The concentrated carboxypolymethylene adds a unique tackiness to the dental composition which helps retain and seal the soft tray material against the patient's teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1998
    Inventor: Dan E. Fischer
  • Patent number: 5752833
    Abstract: A method for effectively repairing damage to dental enamel. In a repairing process, employed is a repairing agent containing a filling component strong adherable to dental enamel when heated by laser beam irradiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Assignee: Scalar Co.
    Inventor: Masao Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 5735942
    Abstract: A novel silica based bioactive glass composition that can be used in conjunction with a delivery agent such as a toothpaste, gel saliva, etc. having a particle size range <90 .mu.m which will form a rapid and continuous reaction with body fluids due to the immediate and long term ionic release of Ca and P from the core silica particles, to produce a stable crystalline hydroxy carbonate apatite layer deposited onto and into the dentin tubules for the immediate and long term reduction of dentin hypersensitivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Assignees: USBiomaterials Corporation, University of Maryland
    Inventors: Leonard J. Litkowski, Gary D. Hack, David C. Greenspan
  • Patent number: 5730601
    Abstract: A composition for use in dental treatments of damaged or diseased teeth is provided. The composition comprises a combined filler material, photoinitiator and comonomer resin mixture polymerizable upon incidence of light. The comonomer resin mixture comprises a comonomer resin blend comprising at least two monomers from the same monomer series with at least a first monomer having a first molecular weight and a second monomer having a second molecular weight with the second molecular weight being greater than the first molecular weight of the first monomer. The comonomer resin mixture further comprises a third monomer combined with the comonomer resin blend.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of Colorado
    Inventors: Christopher N. Bowman, Kristi S. Anseth, Anandkumar R. Kannurpatti, Michael D. Goodner
  • Patent number: 5711866
    Abstract: A metallic composite solid, containing alloys and/or intermetallics, is formed by compacting at moderate pressure a mixture of powder particles, foils or sheets at a temperature close to room temperature, well below the melting temperature of the constituent components and without the addition of low melting metals such as mercury, indium or gallium acting as a sintering agent. This low temperature consolidation of the powder mixture is enhanced by having the surface oxide of the powder particles removed, prior to consolidation, and/or by coating the particles with an oxide-replacing metal such as silver or gold. The coating process may be replacement reactions, autocatalytic reduction or electrolytic reduction. The composite formation is assisted by the addition of a liquid acid such as fluoroboric acid, sulfuric acid, fluoric acid, adipic acid, ascorbic acid, or nitric acid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 27, 1998
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of Commerce
    Inventors: David S. Lashmore, Moshe P. Dariel, Christian E. Johnson, Menahem B. Ratzker, Anthony A. Giuseppetti, Frederick C. Eichmiller, Glenn L. Beane, David R. Kelley
  • Patent number: 5708052
    Abstract: Compositions and methods for priming or sealing dental or biological substrates for subsequent bonding. The primer is particularly useful for priming dentin of a tooth to prepare the dentin for bonding with a resinous material. The primer comprises a mixture of a polymerization initiator such as camphoroquinone and a polymerizable promoter such as methacrylic acid. Polymerizable promoters within the scope of the present invention have at least one ethylenically unsaturated group and at least one carboxylic acid group. The primer may further comprise a solvent such as ethanol, a natural resin such as Canadian balsam and a polymerizable resin such as 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA). The primer can also be formed from a mixture of a polymerization initiator, a natural resin and a polymerizable resin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1998
    Assignee: Ultradent Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan E. Fischer, Steven D. Jensen
  • Patent number: 5707236
    Abstract: The present specification describes a cleanup article which selectively sorbs hydrophobic dental resins. The article is particularly useful in the removal of excess resin-containing materials from the mouth during dental procedures. The article preferably is of sufficient integral strength to prevent break-up of the article during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1998
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Jerome E. Swanson, Kevin M. Cummings
  • Patent number: 5702446
    Abstract: A bone prosthesis having a porous or mesh type mating surface for attachment to bone and at least one continuous hollow internal chamber is disclosed. The prosthesis also includes at least one portal and at least one channel extending from each hollow chamber that allows communication between the chamber of the prosthesis and the mating surface of the device. Biomaterial for enhancing bone growth is injected in fluid form through a portal of the device into a hollow chamber, simultaneous with or after press fitting the prosthesis into the bone. Biomaterial thereby reaches bone mating surfaces through one or more channels. Bony growth at a mating surface of the prosthesis is enhanced, and union of the prosthesis with bone is thereby promoted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: Board of Regents, The University of Texas System
    Inventors: Robert C. Schenck, C. Mauli Agrawal
  • Patent number: 5700148
    Abstract: A syringe-deliverable neutralizing barrier and methods for delivering a composition to form the neutralizing barrier. The neutralizing barrier is formed from a viscous caulking-type material delivered onto a tooth surface to define an etching area while protecting surrounding dental tissues during the application etching solution. The caulking-type material includes a matrix material and a neutralizing agent and has a viscosity such that it is syringe-deliverable yet will intimately and continuously adhere to the tooth surface without substantially flowing after being placed in a desired configuration. The neutralizing barrier is generally water soluble in order to facilitate quick and easy rinsing of the etching solution and neutralizing barrier in order to terminate the etching process, and preparatory to subsequent bonding of a porcelain crown or resinous composite to the tooth or porcelain prosthesis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1997
    Assignee: Ultradent Products? Inc.
    Inventors: Dan E. Fischer, Steven D. Jensen