Abstract: In a method for closing a space between a first tooth and a second tooth, a pair of dental matrices is used. The pair of dental matrices is selected using a matrix selection tool, such as a gauge having a distal end section with color coded sections.

Abstract: Methods for the restoration of a decayed portion of a tooth and dental matrices that may be used in the methods for the restoration of a decayed portion of a tooth are disclosed. Methods for direct elective composite additive crowning and veneering of teeth that may or may not have decay or previous restorations are also disclosed.

Abstract: A matrix adapted is for the specific tooth type, and is positioned on the tooth to covers the tooth, so that an injected curable material is encased by the matrix over the tooth. When the curable material has cured, the matrix is removed, resulting in a veneer on the tooth.

Abstract: Methods for the restoration of a decayed portion of a tooth and dental matrices that may be used in the methods for the restoration of a decayed portion of a tooth are disclosed. Methods for direct elective composite additive crowning and veneering of teeth that may or may not have decay or previous restorations are also disclosed.

Abstract: An elastic matrix band for use during a dental restoration process is provided. In one embodiment, among others, the matrix band may include an elastic circular band that has a first end and a second end. The elastic circular band includes an opening at the second end, and the first end has a larger diameter than the second end. The elastic circular band is configured to expand in order to situate the elastic circular band around a tooth and contract in order to adhere to the tooth. Additionally, the elastic circular band comprises a ridge that is positioned between the first end and the second end.

Abstract: Methods for the restoration of a decayed portion of a tooth and dental matrices that may be used in the methods for the restoration of a decayed portion of a tooth are disclosed. Methods for direct elective composite additive crowning and veneering of teeth that may or may not have decay or previous restorations are also disclosed.

Abstract: Dental matrix bands with novel surface structures and use thereof in dental procedures are described herein. The band features a three-dimensional surface structure that is contoured to an outer portion of a torus to allow the band to securely fit around a tooth. The band comprises: an outer surface of the band; an upper and lower edge of the band; a proximal and distal end of the band; and a flattened region disposed along the band. The outer surface of the band forms a first convex curve between the upper edge and the lower edge of the band and a second convex curve between the proximal and the distal end of the band. The flattened region can extend between the upper edge and the lower edge of the band and between the proximal and distal ends of the band.

Abstract: A matrix adapted is for the specific tooth type, and is positioned on the tooth to covers the tooth, so that an injected curable material is encased by the matrix over the tooth. When the curable material has cured, the matrix is removed, resulting in a veneer on the tooth.

Abstract: One or more oral devices having interdental anchors configured to elastically deform and engage with an interdental gap between adjacent teeth. One or more medical devices can then be secured to the oral device via a securing portion, allowing the medical device to be secured relative to the patient.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a dental matrix for use repairing and restoring inter-proximal cavities on a tooth with light-cured composites, the dental matrix comprising a matrix body and a plurality of light transmitting micro-pores positioned on the matrix body and overlying the inter-proximal surface of the tooth when the dental matrix engages the restored tooth. The present invention further relates to a method manufacture of such dental matrix.

Abstract: The elastically tensioned dental matrix wedge is a dental matrix wedge for use in dental restoration procedures. The elastically tensioned dental matrix wedge includes a hollow elongated body having first and second longitudinally opposed ends. The first end is at least partially open and the second end is closed. An elongated tube is mounted within the hollow elongated body and extends longitudinally therein. A spiral torsion spring is secured to, and wraps about, the elongated tube. A clip is provided for releasably holding the spiral torsion spring in a compressed state. Release of the clip allows the spiral torsion spring to expand and exert an elastic tension force on an inner surface of the hollow elongated body.

Abstract: A dental shaping strip includes a base portion and a shaping portion. The base portion has a first base surface and a second base surface facing in an opposite direction from the first base surface. The first and second base surfaces have prescribed longitudinal lengths and prescribed widths transverse to the prescribed longitudinal lengths. The shaping portion is connected to a longitudinal edge of the base portion. The shaping portion has a first shaping surface connected to the first base surface, with at least part of the first shaping surface being abrasive. The first and second base surfaces are at least partially non-abrasive. Preferably, the first shaping surface and the first base surface diverge from each other as they approach longitudinal free edges of the dental shaping strip. Preferably, the first and second base surfaces are non-abrasive along their prescribed longitudinal lengths.

Abstract: The present invention relates to dental devices utilized during the restoration of teeth and more particularly a dental wedge, for use in the inter-proximal space between adjacent teeth, the dental wedge comprising: a wedge body; and a guard releasably engaged to the wedge body, wherein the guard is transformable between a first position adjoined the wedge body and a second position disengaged from the wedge body.

Abstract: A dental instrument, suitable for use when creating a dental filling, is provided. The dental instrument includes a wedge and a matrix. The matrix is fixedly attached to the wedge, and the wedge is adapted to be inserted into the approximal space between two teeth of a patient. The wedge has a bow shape along a length axis of the wedge, the matrix has a first bow shape along a length axis of the matrix, and the matrix also has a second bow shape along an axis perpendicular to the length axis of the matrix. A method of using the dental instrument and a disposable system, which further comprises a protective member, is further provided.

Abstract: A dental shaping strip includes a base portion and a shaping portion. The base portion has a first base surface and a second base surface facing in an opposite direction from the first base surface. The first and second base surfaces have prescribed longitudinal lengths and prescribed widths transverse to the prescribed longitudinal lengths. The shaping portion is connected to a longitudinal edge of the base portion. The shaping portion has a first shaping surface connected to the first base surface, with at least part of the first shaping surface being abrasive. The first and second base surfaces are at least partially non-abrasive. Preferably, the first shaping surface and the first base surface diverge from each other as they approach longitudinal free edges of the dental shaping strip. Preferably, the first and second base surfaces are non-abrasive along their prescribed longitudinal lengths.

Abstract: In some embodiments, an apparatus comprises a housing, an emitter, and an electronic circuit. The housing is configured to fit within a patient's mouth. The emitter is at least partially encased within the housing. The emitter is configured to emit an effective amount of light to the alveolar soft tissue when the housing is disposed within the mouth. The electronic circuit is operatively coupled to the emitter. The electronic circuit is configured to control the emitter when the housing is disposed within the mouth and the apparatus is in use during orthodontic treatment. The apparatus and its use for regulating tooth movement or maintaining or improving oral tissue health are disclosed herein.

Abstract: A matrix band, including a straight, contoured or sectional matrix band for use in dentistry is described. The matrix band includes a metal or metal alloy strip constructed from titanium, titanium alloy or stainless steel plated with titanium or titanium alloy, which initiates coagulation of the blood, while the polymer coating eliminates capillary action between a tooth and the matrix band while the tooth is being filled.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an adhesive strip, particularly an adhesive strip or bandage for use in periodontal treatments. The biocompatible adhesive strip comprises a flexible barrier with a biocompatible adhesive for use in an oral environment, wherein the adhesive is in a non-tacky state when dry and becomes adherent upon contact with liquids.

Abstract: A dental matrix band includes a band having a first end and a second end. The band is folded over with the first end and second end generally aligned. A portion of the band adjacent the first and second ends form opposed facing band portions in contact with one another, and another portion of the band forming a looped band forming a circumference. A first or stationary toggle is secured to the band at the first and second ends with the first toggle stationary with respect to the band. A second or movable toggle is formed over the band and is capable of sliding over the opposed facing band portions in contact with one another, whereby sliding of the movable toggle away from the first and second ends causes the circumference of the looped band to reduce in size.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a U-shaped patch for oral health care, comprising a thin film layer and a support layer, and the inner and outer margin of the U-shaped patch have at least one notch or cut line so that the patch can be folded as a three-dimensional concave shape, wherein the thin film layer comprises a health care agent. The present invention uses a two-layered design comprising a thin film layer and a support layer, and a health care agent in the adhesive layer effective for caries prevention, whitening and/or remineralization. The patch of the present invention can closely cover teeth with the thin film layer to enable the health care agent to tightly contact the teeth so as to increase the efficacy on tooth care.

Abstract: A matrix band for use in dentistry has a silicone-based, polymer coating applied to a stainless steel or a polyester surface, which reduces or eliminates capillary action between a tooth and the matrix band. The matrix band may include at least one aperture to assist with removal of the matrix band from the tooth.

Abstract: This invention relates to methods and devices for restoring teeth using fixed restorations. In particular, the invention provides a system, kit, and devices for the management of interproximal areas for traditional cementation and/or bonding of dental crowns, onlays, inlays, veneers and bridges. In the method, a barrier is positioned in contact with the tooth being restored and an adjacent tooth to cover a section of the tooth being restored and to create separation of the tooth being restored and the adjacent tooth. Cement is applied to the first mating surface of the fixed restoration and/or to the second mating surface of the tooth, and the first mating surface of the fixed restoration and the second mating surface of the tooth are positioned adjacent each other to seat the fixed restoration on the tooth. The barrier covers a section of the tooth being restored to prevent cement from bonding to the section of the tooth. This eliminates the need to remove hardened cement from this section of the tooth.

Abstract: A dental separator device for applying pressure against adjacent teeth to separate the teeth from one another so that a dental restoration can be made. The separator device increases the interproximal space between the adjacent teeth giving the dental clinician improved visibility and working space. The invention also encompasses a flexible matrix band used for making the restoration. The matrix band is wrapped around the tooth to define a desired mold or shape for the restoration.

Abstract: A matrix ring comprising a ring body and a pair of opposing tips mounted to the ends of the ring body. Each of the tips may be movably coupled to the ring body about an axis of rotation. Optionally, or alternatively, the tips may be removably mounted to the ring body. For example, the ring body may include a pair of opposed spaced apart ends each with a tine mounted at each end. Further, at least a portion of the matrix ring may be formed from a bulk amorphous alloy.

Abstract: A matrix band retainer clip for sealing a matrix band against a tooth is provided. The retainer clip includes a pair of tines, each of which has a generally wedge shaped piece with a pair of contact surfaces that are angled relative to one another. A spring is coupled with and extends between the tines and biases the tines towards one another to apply a biasing force from at least one contact surface of each tine against the matrix band thereby sealing the matrix band against the tooth. The spring has a generally U-shaped portion with a pair of vertically extending legs coupled with the tines at their lower ends and interconnected at their upper ends by a generally laterally extending leg for distributing a stress across a length of the spring in response to the tines being separated from one another.

Abstract: A dental separator ring includes an elastic body having a first end and an opposed second end spaced from the first end. The body has three axes defined by a front to rear reference line of the body, a side to side reference line of the body, and a top to bottom reference line of the body. A first surface engager is connected to the first end of the body by a first connector, and a second surface engager is connected to the second end of the body by a second connector. The first connector allows motion of the first surface engager in all three axes, and the second connector allows motion of the second surface engager in all three axes. A third surface engager and a fourth surface engager that allow motion in all three axes may also be included in the separator ring.

Abstract: A dental implement that includes a biasing ring and a pair of opposing tines. The biasing ring includes a substantially hoop-like configuration terminating at two opposing ends which are spaced apart from each other a distance. The pair of opposing tines extend inwardly from each of the two ends of the biasing ring toward each other. Each of the pair of opposing tines is coupled to the respective opposing end about a central region thereof and extends radially outwardly therefrom. Each tine includes a front face having opposing sides, a top end and a bottom end. The front face is defined by two inwardly inclined surfaces which start at the opposing sides and incline inwardly toward each other and intersect to form a peak that extends at least partially between the top end and the bottom end of the front face. The peaks of the opposing tine assemblies face each other.

Abstract: A dental matrix clamp includes an elongate body and a matrix band mountable relative to the body so as to form a loop projecting at one end of the body. The clamp has a tensioning device operable on the band to tighten the loop, and a deflector member which engages the band to provide an inclined conformation thereto. The deflector member is adjustable transversely across the band between opposite positions at which it bears against opposite peripheral portions of the band. The clamp is a hand-held device used in dentistry to clamp a band around a tooth for retention and molding of filling material.

Abstract: A matrix band for use in dentistry has a silicone-based, polymer coating applied to an etched stainless steel surface, which reduces or eliminates capillary action between a tooth and the matrix band, while at least one aperture in the matrix band assists with removal of the matrix band from the tooth.

Abstract: A dental wedge for use in the inter-proximal space between adjacent teeth is described. The wedge comprises a taper section ending at a tip, and a body section extending to the tapering section at one end. The body section has an inverted V-shaped cross-section, flexing of the sides of the V-shape allows the wedge to adapt to various contours of the inter-proximal space. The mid-portion of the body section is narrower than at least a portion of the wedge either end of the mid-portion.

Abstract: In a method for closing a diastema and/or papilla regeneration between a first tooth and a second tooth, a dental matrix is used. The dental matrix includes a curved sectional strip of material. The strip has a length from a first end to a second end sufficient to create a form for molding a restorative material to a surface of the first tooth. The strip has a root end section and a second section integral with the root end section. The root end section of the strip is anatomic in shape such that the root end section hugs the gingival portion of the first tooth. In one form, a non-anatomic bulge is formed in the second section. The root end section of the matrix can slide to the depth of the sulcus without lacerating the tissue. After inserting the root end section of the dental matrix into the sulcus between the papilla and the gingival portion of the first tooth, a composite restorative material is placed between the dental matrix and a cervical surface of the first tooth.

Abstract: The plastic clear band for dental restoration is a dental matrix band having an elongate body with first and second ends and at least one light transmissive portion midway between the first and second ends. The first and second ends have a thickness greater than the light transmissive portion, the band tapering in thickness from a thin central portion to the thick first and second ends. The thick first and second ends are adapted to provide a bearing surface for the clamping screws of a matrix band retainer, while the thin central portion provides a snug fit and tight contact with the tooth. The band is made from biocompatible plastic, and has an inverted V-shape or chevron configuration when viewed from the front.

Abstract: A dental wedge for use in the inter-proximal space between adjacent teeth is described. The wedge comprises a taper section ending at a tip, and a body section extending to the tapering section at one end. The body section has an inverted V-shaped cross-section, flexing of the sides of the V-shape allows the wedge to adapt to various contours of the inter-proximal space. The mid-portion of the body section is narrower than at least a portion of the wedge either end of the mid-portion.

Abstract: A dental matrix includes a band with an edge for placement toward the gingival margin of a tooth to be restored, and a strip of material such as dental floss, attached to and extending along an edge of the band. In the preferred embodiment, buccal and lingual extensions are located beyond a central portion of the band along the edge. The extensions are folded over the strip of material so as to secure the strip of dental floss to the edge. The strip of material facilitates the insertion of the band in the interproximal space between two teeth.

Abstract: A hand tool engages a pair of opposing matrix wedges that are able to mutually nest when pressed into an interproximal space between adjacent teeth. The hand tool draws a floss tightly thereby causing the wedges mounted on it to move convergently. The wedge elements support a thin matrix band which takes the necessary shape to secure a class II dental preparation.

Abstract: A dental separator device for applying pressure against adjacent teeth to separate the teeth from one another so that a dental restoration can be made. The separator device increases the interproximal space between the adjacent teeth giving the dental clinician improved visibility and working space. The invention also encompasses a flexible matrix band used for making the restoration. The matrix band is wrapped around the tooth to define a desired mold or shape for the restoration.

Abstract: A dental wedge for use in the inter-proximal space between adjacent teeth. The wedge includes a taper section ending at a tip, and a body section extending to the tapering section at one end. The body section has an inverted V-shaped cross-section, flexing of the sides of the V-shape allowing the wedge to adapt to various contours of the inter-proximal space. The mid-portion of the body section is narrower than at least a portion of the wedge at either end of the mid-portion.

Abstract: A dental matrix band device may be applied in a single step without the need for additional instruments for its application. The matrix band device may include a conventional matrix band, such as a Tofflemier™ band and a wire attached to the band. The band may be used to separate adjacent teeth, while the wire keeps the band in place until the procedure is completed. At the completion of the procedure, the band and wire are easily removed from the patient.

Abstract: An elongated flexible dental strip includes front and rear surfaces defining a thickness therebetween. The strip also includes first and second edges defining a lateral width therebetween. A first portion of the strip further is spaced from a second portion along the length of the strip, wherein the thickness of the first portion is different from the thickness of the second portion. The strip has a constant thickness across a lateral width defined between the first and second edges.

Abstract: A dental instrument, suitable for use when creating a dental filling is provided. The dental instrument comprises a wedge and a matrix. The matrix is fixedly attached to the wedge, and the wedge is adapted to be inserted into the approximal space between two teeth of a patient. The wedge comprises a bow shape along a length axis of the wedge, the matrix comprises a first bow shape along a length axis of the matrix, and the matrix comprises a second bow shape along an axis perpendicular to the length axis of the matrix. A method of using the dental instrument and a disposable system, which further comprises a protective member, is further provided.

Abstract: A dental matrix comprising a band with an edge for placement toward the gingival margin of a tooth to be restored, and a strip of dental floss attached to and extending along an edge of the band. In the preferred embodiment, buccal and lingual extensions are located beyond a central portion of the band along the edge. The extensions are folded over the strip of dental floss so as to secure the strip of dental floss to the edge.

Abstract: The dental matrix band includes an elongated body having first and second opposing ends adapted to wrap around a tooth to be restored, and having first and second opposing longitudinal edges extending between the first and second opposing ends. The dental matrix band further includes a first line of weakness in the elongated body where the elongated body is separable along the first line of weakness. The dental matrix includes a fixture adjacent the first line of weakness. The dental matrix band may further include a second line of weakness. The dental matrix band may include an annealed section.

Abstract: A matrix band for dental applications comprising a base material and a coating. The base material has an outer surface and a tooth contact surface as well as a perimeter. The coating is applied to the tooth contact surface and extends to the perimeter of the tooth contact surface. The coating is a fluorinated ethylene propylene, polytetrafluoroethylene and polyether sulfone.

Abstract: Non-customized dental treatment trays used to provide a desired treatment are formed from elastomeric silicone or silicone-like material. They may be injection molded from a two-part liquid silicone composition or a silicone-like TPE material (e.g., preferably SEBS and/or VERSAflex thermoplastic elastomer). The dental treatment trays possess high adaptability, flexibility, softness, and elastic elongation while also exhibiting resiliency in order to readily conform to the ridges, depressions and contours of a person's teeth during use. The trays possess a greater ability to adhere to a person's teeth compared to non-elastomeric thermoplastic materials. Due to their high adaptability and conformability, the non-customized dental trays behave like a semi-custom dental tray when placed over conformed to a person's teeth, particularly when used in combination with a sticky, viscous treatment composition.

Abstract: A flexible dental impression tray for use with a curable matrix-forming material and a related method for fabricating temporary dental prostheses. The temporary matrix tray is configured to provide a moderate degree of flexibility and easy customization to a particular patient's dentition. Use of transparent material for the tray and the matrix material allow better visualization by the practitioner.

Abstract: For a resilient mounting of a spider die onto a dental prosthetic suprastructure on a male spider mold, at least one retention element is molded onto a sleeve, and the retention element has a substantially occlusal alignment. The at least one retention element extends across the entire length of the sleeve and has a head having a connecting neck in its cross-section. In this manner, retention undercuts are formed on both sides of the connecting neck. The connecting neck of the at least one retention element is molded at an offset as opposed to the crown line of the sleeve. A spider die is thus created, which has an improved retention with an increased retention force at a smaller installation height.

Abstract: In a method for closing a diastema and/or papilla regeneration between a first tooth and a second tooth, a dental matrix is used. The dental matrix includes a curved sectional strip of material. The strip has a length from a first end to a second end sufficient to create a form for molding a restorative material to a surface of the first tooth. The strip has a root end section and a second section integral with the root end section. The root end section of the strip is anatomic in shape such that the root end section hugs the gingival portion of the first tooth. In one form, a non-anatomic bulge is formed in the second section. The root end section of the matrix can slide to the depth of the sulcus without lacerating the tissue. After inserting the root end section of the dental matrix into the sulcus between the papilla and the gingival portion of the first tooth, a composite restorative material is placed between the dental matrix and a cervical surface of the first tooth.

Abstract: A mouthguard includes two sections, a vertical component and a horizontal component. The foam is molded into a configuration such that the vertical component curves around the anterior section of the maxillary dental arch to the lateral aspects, just beyond the canine teeth. At the mouth temperature of 98.6 degrees F., the vertical component is held perfectly between the upper lip and teeth by the general pressure of lip musculature. There is a V-shaped notch in the midline of the vertical section to accommodate the maxillary labial frenum. The horizontal component provides a bite platform and a slit is located along the midline forming two rearwardly extending tabs to facilitate the curvature of the bite platform. Accommodative curvature of the vertical section is provided by spaces between the horizontal component and the ends of the vertical component forming deflectable wings in these regions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for the restoration of a decayed portion of an anterior tooth or re-restoration of a previously filled anterior tooth, and to dental matrices and composite resin dispensers that may be used in the methods for the restoration of a decayed portion of an anterior tooth

Abstract: A lower jaw dental impression tray with custom track and having a faux-tongue extension part in which the first part can be used for making a lower impression and wherein the second part extension is used to create a detailed, presentable diagnostic cast model, can be removed and combined from the tray itself. The main purpose of the extension tongue is to come up with a detailed, presentable diagnostic cast model. (fastest way of doing a refined model, staying away from the hassle of mixing an alginate (irreversible hydrocolloid materials) and minimizing time and materials in making a diagnostic model. The dental impression tray has a track the runs along the base of the flanges of the EZ-tray allowing the faux-tongue extension (trademarked and hereafter referred to as “EZ-tongue”) to slide into the EZ-tray.