Having Tool, Marker, Or Coupling Or Guiding Means Therefor Patents (Class 433/75)
  • Patent number: 7429175
    Abstract: A prefabricated dental implant surgical guide. The implant surgical guide comprises a tooth shaped contour which simulates a natural tooth and the final prosthesis. The tooth shaped contours can be shaped to match any tooth found in the mouth. The system further comprises apical posts which protrude from the apical aspect of the tooth contour of the surgical guide. These apical posts are capable of marking an initial osteotomy site. The apical posts are further able to be placed in to an initial and developing osteotomy site to verify proper implant location, angulation and rotational position prior to implant placement. Significantly the apical post can be attached to the surgical guide and of a fixed length. The apical post can also be adjustable allowing continuous osteotomy site verification and removable allowing an implant surgical drill to pass thru it thereby allowing continuous osteotomy site development and verification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Inventor: Glenn L. Gittelson
  • Publication number: 20080227056
    Abstract: A method of virtually producing a dental stent for placing one or more dental implants based on data derived from scanning a patient's mouth and a prosthesis to be installed or an impression of the patient's existing teeth. The virtual dental stent is converted to a usable dental stent, which is, thereafter, used to guide the placement of the one or more dental implants into the patient's jawbone. After the dental implants have been placed, a prosthesis can be mounted onto the dental implants.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Applicant: IMTEC
    Inventor: Ronald A. Bulard
  • Publication number: 20080199827
    Abstract: In order to produce a device for guiding a surgical tool, a support repositionable on a human body is produced. Three-dimensional radiological information delivered by said support and the treatable area of the human body are used for developing a virtual model of the support and the human body treatable area by means of computer assistance. Said virtual model makes it possible to determine at least one axis and to transfer said axis onto the repositionable support, thereby enabling it to be produced directly on a patient's jaw or the model thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2006
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventor: Lukas Kamer
  • Publication number: 20080171301
    Abstract: A dental drill system and method for drilling a socket to a predetermined depth and diameter which is sized to receive an implant includes a probe portion and a collar threadably disposed on the probe. The probe includes a number of spaced thread sections, wherein each thread section has a margin. Aligning the collar with any one of the thread section margins positions the collar at a desired position. The resulting distance between a tip of the probe and the collar corresponds to a specified depth for a standard implant. The collar is sized and shaped to accurately mimic an implant platform and is used to confirm proper formation of the socket and the resulting orientation of the implant platform before the implant is inserted into the site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Emil M. Verban
  • Publication number: 20080145812
    Abstract: A method for comparing between an orthodontic element's actual position on the surface of a tooth and a proper position comprise monitoring the element, the tooth or both once the element and the tooth are proximal to one another by an image acquisition unit which transmits an image to a screen that displays the image and displaying information on the screen regarding proper position of the element in a manner allowing to compare between the actual and the proper position is disclosed. Further disclosed is a system and device for positioning of an orthodontic element or a marking device having a marking member for marking a position for subsequent placement of an orthodontic element on a surface of a tooth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Applicant: CADENT LTD.
    Inventors: Eldad Taub, Baruch Nissenbaum, Avi Kopelman
  • Publication number: 20080108011
    Abstract: A device and system for use in a root canal treatment, the device having a probe member and a handpiece for holding the elongate probe member, the probe member having an elongate distal portion capable of being accommodated in a root canal, said probe member comprising: at least one treatment channel having a distal opening in said elongate distal portion, said at least one treatment channel being configured for enabling operation of a suitable root canal treatment tool via said distal opening; at least one illumination channel comprising a first light guide having a first proximal end configured for optical coupling to a light source system, and a second distal end in said distal portion for illuminating internal regions of the root canal during operation of said device; at least one light collection channel comprising a second light guide having a first proximal end configured for optical coupling to an imaging system, and a second distal end located in said distal portion for collecting and transmitting li
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2006
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventor: Oded Nahlieli
  • Patent number: 7367801
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for precisely-positioned production of a cavity, especially a bone cavity, at a preparation point by means of a hand instrument, comprising the following steps: calculation of position-dependent surface characteristics from a three-dimensional data set of the surface of the preparation point at a desired position of an implant which is to be inserted in said cavity, wherein the area in which the cavity is to be created is represented in the form of a three-dimensional data set of volume data; detection of at least one partial cut-out of the preparation point comprising an actual visible surface feature by means of a camera which is arranged on the hand instrument at a pre-defined distance to a processing tool and display as a video image; insertion of a calculated surface characteristic for the desired position of the hand instrument, wherein the inserted surface characteristic can be altered, especially made congruent with respect to its position in relation to the actual vi
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: Sirona Dental Systems GmbH
    Inventor: Günter Saliger
  • Publication number: 20080085489
    Abstract: A method is set forth for making a computer model of patient's jaws on the basis of digital information. Digital data about the jaws, teeth, soft tissues and artificial teeth is joined in computer space to create aesthetic and functional plans for the removal of teeth, shaping of supporting bone and placement of dental implants. Artificial teeth and pre-manufactured prosthetic devices are made and attached to the dental implants at the time of surgery. The aesthetic and functional position of artificial teeth is determined prior to surgical removal of natural teeth and the ideal position of implants and the proper form of the remaining bone are determined prior to surgery. Surgical guides used to shape bone, record occlusal orientation and position dental implants are manufactured using computer milling or layered manufacturing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Publication date: April 10, 2008
    Applicant: DENTAL IMPLANT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Stephen M. Schmitt
  • Patent number: 7347830
    Abstract: The invention provides an assembly for measuring the penetration depth of a dental instrument into a root canal of a tooth. The assembly has a base element configured to be clampingly braced onto a tooth to be treated; an electrically conductive guiding member affixable to the base element and disposed, when assembled, above the tooth, thereby, in use, a portion of the dental instrument makes electrical contact with it. The guiding member further includes an electrical terminal connectable to an apex location measuring device. Methods for continuously measuring penetration depths of a dental instrument into a root canal of a tooth are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Medic.NRG Ltd.
    Inventors: Arie Becker, Gabriel Savin, Nachman Berger, Shai Gal
  • Patent number: 7346417
    Abstract: Method and system, for which can be used in the fields of medicine and dentistry as well as for the most varied types of material working in different areas of application and model working, provides that an exact removal of material or a highly precise, reproducible material working can be realized by acquiring, storing and processing data pertaining to position and/or orientation of an effector and their changes relative to the position of at least one reference body. The effector is controlled and/or regulated with regard to its power and/or parameterization based on a predetermined working volume, material volume removed and remaining material volume. A first marking support with markings is arranged on a handpiece with the effector, where the handpiece is connected to a control unit, and a second marking support with markings is attached to the material object or tissue object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: LB Medical GmbH
    Inventors: Tim Lüth, Jürgen Bier, Angelika Bier, Andreas Hein, Olaf Schermeier
  • Patent number: 7331786
    Abstract: Dental implant drill holes and the shape of a dental implant superstructure are chosen by creating a computer model giving jawbone structural details, gum surface shape information and proposed teeth or dental prosthesis shape information. The computer model shows the bone structure, gum surface and teeth images properly referenced to one another so that implant drill hole positions can be selected taking into consideration proper positioning within the bone as well as proper positioning with respect to the dental prosthesis. Similarly, manufacture of the dental implant superstructure used for fixed dental prosthesis or overdentures can be designed based on knowledge of the actual implant positions referenced to an image of the gum surface and proposed dental prosthesis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: Technique d'Usinage Sinlab Inc.
    Inventor: Michel Poirier
  • Publication number: 20080032257
    Abstract: A dental X-ray reference device comprised of a radiopaque marker having a known dimension and a tooth overlay molding adapted to secure the radiopaque marker in close proximity to a tooth. Also disclosed is a process for measuring teeth for implant placement or root canal treatment. This process comprises the steps of providing a dental X-ray reference device comprised of a radiopaque marker having a known dimension and a tooth overlay molding adapted to secure the radiopaque marker in close proximity of a tooth, or alveolar ridge. The dental X-ray reference device is then positioned in a mouth of a patient. The radiopaque marker is positioned over the edentulous area or over a tooth. Then an X-ray sensor is positioned behind the tooth, or alveolar ridge, and behind the X-ray reference device. A radiograph of the tooth or alveolar ridge, and the radiopaque marker is taken.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2006
    Publication date: February 7, 2008
    Inventor: Michael P. Muckler
  • Publication number: 20080032258
    Abstract: A microimplant placement guide is disclosed. The microimplant placement guide includes a jig having a through-hole and a guide hole for guiding a dental drill or a microimplant to be inserted into an alveolar bone, a supporting member including a flexible wire which passes through the through-hole of the jig and is deformed according to a placement position and direction of the microimplant, and a holder which is manufactured based on a patient's teeth model and fixes both ends of the supporting member while determining the accurate placement position and direction of the microimplant. Since the microimplant placement is achieved by the microimplant placement guide obtained from the patient's teeth model, the accuracy and safety of the operation are increased.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2006
    Publication date: February 7, 2008
    Inventors: Hee Moon Kyung, Hyo Sang Park
  • Patent number: 7322821
    Abstract: A positioning device for dental implant has a post and multiple guides. The post is cylindrical and has a diameter corresponding to a diameter of a hole in a dental model. The guides are mounted detachably on the post and are semi-tubular tabs and each has an inner concave, an inner diameter, and an outer diameter. The guides are mounted concentrically one another. A dentist can use the positioning device to precisely position a drill bit of a drilling device on an edentulous place of a patient's jaw bone and drills a bone cavity suitable for a dental implant. The drill bit can be easily inserted into the patient's mouth without opening excessively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Inventor: Hsieh-Hsing Lin
  • Patent number: 7179084
    Abstract: A method and apparatus to remove dental implant. The apparatus comprises a guide ring rotatably attached to a base, means to rotatably attach the guide ring to the base, means to attach the apparatus to an implant, and apparatus to remove dental implant indexing means sized to mate with implant indexing means when the apparatus is attached to the implant. Where an abutment is mounted to the implant, means of attaching the base to the abutment is taught. The method includes the steps of attaching the apparatus to an implant or abutment, sliding a trephine burr bore over the guide ring, and using the guide ring to guide the trephine while drilling into bone in which the implant is implanted, without drilling into the implant or abutment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Inventor: Athas N. Kometas
  • Patent number: 7144251
    Abstract: A dental-facial measuring instrument provides a possibility to determine an occlusion to make a denture. An improved dental-facial measuring instrument includes the first and second strips coupled by the connector and spring with a slidable strip comprising a horizontal portion and a scale, and wherein the first and second corbels of the slidable strip are appropriately inserted into the first and second slots of the first strip and second strip respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Inventor: Armen Karapetyan
  • Patent number: 7101181
    Abstract: A drilling system includes a drilling jig which is used for a dental implant where the dental implant has a bore designed to received a clamp of the drilling jig. The bore enables the drilling jig to be guided for producing one or several lateral holes in the bone and for passing through one or several pins. The dental implant also includes a jig body accurately fixed on a positioning member integral with the dental implant, and an elongated part or socket which slides in the jig body to be urged in contact with the bone. A pin and pin holder cooperate with each other and the jig.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Guy Hure
    Inventors: Bruno Bompard, Elisabeth Bompard, Guy Hure
  • Patent number: 7086860
    Abstract: The specification and drawing figures describe and show an implant placement system that includes one or more graphic representations of a proposed dental implant site, and a device for determining bone and soft tissue data at the proposed dental implant site (“site”). A model is formed of the site for portraying dental implant site data. A variety of tools are sued to determine the size and angulations of the dental implant. After cutting the model, additional tools are used for drawing a graphic on the model. A pin, formable material and an implant guide are provided to transfer the placement information to the site. A drill is use to form a channel for the implant device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Inventors: Walter F. Schuman, Gordan D. Blacklock
  • Patent number: 7070411
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a dental head unit capable of measuring a root canal length of a patient. The head unit includes a head section having a sleeve rotatably supported therein for detachably holding a cutting tool therein, a neck section extending proximally from the head section and having a proximal end for connecting to a handpiece body, a contact capable of detachably contacting the cutting tool for providing electric connection to the cutting tool when in contact, and a contact holder fixed to a proximal end of the contact and axially slidable with respect to the neck section. The contact holder has a lead attachment to which a lead for electrically connecting the contact to a root canal length measuring device is detachably attached. The present invention also relates to a contact holder assembly including the contact and the contact holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Nakanishi Inc.
    Inventors: Eiichi Nakanishi, Masanori Mizunuma
  • Patent number: 7048477
    Abstract: A depth stop for use with a drill bit comprises a tubular body having an opening therethrough. Used with a drill bit whose bit portion includes a cutting end, and a shank portion, the depth stop is frictionally positionable on the bit portion at a specified point from the cutting end, thereby indicating a specified depth. Depth stops are manufactured in different colors, each color corresponding to a specified range of drill bits that the depth stops will fit. The depth stops, manufactured from a sterilizable material, are intended for single use. The depth stop can be used with a drill bit and drill extender, where one or more depth stops provide multiple visual points of reference for the operator. The depth stops can be quickly mounted onto most any manufacturer's drill bits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: I.D.M.S., L.L.C.
    Inventor: Steven Abrams
  • Patent number: 7044735
    Abstract: A method of installing a dental implant includes positioning a drill guide tube adjacent to a jawbone and taking a tomographical scan of the two. Based on the scan, a computer-generated image is created and analyzed to confirm whether the drill guide tube is properly aligned. If the drill guide tube is in the correct position, that same tube to used to guide a drill bit into the jawbone. In some cases, the tube also helps guide a biopsy punch in cutting just a small, round opening into the gum tissue, which minimizes the time needed for healing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventor: Leo J. Malin
  • Patent number: 6997707
    Abstract: The present invention provides a positioning device for setting implanted bearing dental prostheses in the maxillary bone or for bone grafting on the maxillary bone, including positioning interim dentures along two dimensions, a positioning member along the third dimension, structure for fixing the positioning member on the interim dentures in a specific axial position, a linking member provided with an axial nesting surface, matching a nesting surface of the positioning member, with a surface designed to be fixed to a guide element or a prosthetic element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Inventor: Yves Germanier
  • Patent number: 6974320
    Abstract: A tooth reduction measuring system comprises a holding tool having a proximal end and a distal end. A flexible loop extends from the distal end and defines an opening. The loop has a thickness from the range about 1 mm to about 2 mm, and the opening a size large enough to be placed around a tooth. The loop is adapted to be positioned relative to a pair of opposing teeth, one of which has been reduced. In this way, the pair of opposing teeth are within the opening, and the loop may be pulled by the shaft into a gap between the opposing teeth to permit evaluation of the size of the gap based on the thickness of the loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Inventor: Bart G. Christiansen
  • Patent number: 6971877
    Abstract: A dental tool for guiding a drill bit during a dental implant procedure includes a pivotal drill bushing attached to a bushing holder. The bushing holder, in turn, is attached to a surgical dental stent that fits a patient's jaw. The bushing holder attaches to the stent by extending into a hole or bore of the stent. In some cases, the bushing holder snaps into the hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Inventor: Robert J. Harter
  • Patent number: 6966772
    Abstract: A method for a dental implant process involves creating an overall image that shows a trajectory of a drill bushing in relation to a patient's jaw. The overall image shows a trajectory image that represents the trajectory of the drill bushing and a jaw image that represents the jaw. The method allows a user to move the trajectory image relative to the jaw image, which can be useful when adjusting the angular position of the actual drill bushing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Inventors: Leo J. Malin, Robert J. Harter
  • Patent number: 6928733
    Abstract: A method for applying a desired shape to an orthodontic archwire includes the steps of obtaining a numerical description of the desired shape of an orthodontic archwire, generating a description of the design of a fixture basing on the numerical description, manufacturing a fixture basing on this description of the design, constraining a wire into the fixture and applying an adequate treatment to the wire in order to cause it to adopt the shape dictated by the fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Lingualcare, Inc.
    Inventors: Ruedger Rubbert, Thomas Weise
  • Publication number: 20040259051
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a template which locates hole positions in a jawbone while the template is separated from the jawbone by gum tissue. The template follows a contour of the gum tissue surrounding the jawbone and has guide holes which receive a cutting tool. Anchoring elements attach the template to the jawbone. A system includes means for scanning an implantation site on a patient's jawbone, simulating the implantation site, and determining nerve-rich areas or nerve paths in the jawbone. A holed template is produced which is separated from the jawbone by at least gum tissue of the patient. Attachment hole positions in the jawbone are located so as to avoid nerve paths. A method of forming holes to attach a dental implant to a patient's jaw bone without surgical intervention in gum tissue of the patient to expose the jawbone is disclosed which avoids impingement on a nerve path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2004
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Applicant: NOBEL BIOCARE AB
    Inventor: Izidor Brajnovic
  • Patent number: 6824384
    Abstract: A drilling jig is used for a dental implant which dental implant has a bore designed to received a clamp of the drilling jig. The bore enables the drilling jig to be guided for producing one or several lateral holes in the bone and for passing through one or several pins. The dental implant also includes a jig body accurately fixed on a positioning member integral with the dental implant, and an elongated part or socket which slides in the jig body to be urged in contact with the bone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Inventors: Bruno Bompard, Elisabeth Bompard
  • Patent number: 6814575
    Abstract: Dental implant drill holes and the shape of a dental implant superstructure are chosen by creating a computer model giving jawbone structural details, gum surface shape information and proposed teeth or dental prosthesis shape information. The computer model shows the bone structure, gum surface and teeth images properly referenced to one another so that implant drill hole positions can be selected taking into consideration proper positioning within the bone as well as proper positioning with respect to the dental prosthesis. Similarly, manufacture of the dental implant superstructure used for fixed dental prosthesis or overdentures can be designed based on knowledge of the actual implant positions referenced to an image of the gum surface and proposed dental prosthesis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Assignee: Technique d'Usinage Sinlab Inc.
    Inventor: Michel Poirier
  • Publication number: 20040219477
    Abstract: A dental tool for guiding a drill bit during a dental implant procedure includes a drill bushing that is pivotally attached to a stent, wherein the drill bushing has a generally spherical surface that directly engages the stent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventor: Robert J. Harter
  • Publication number: 20040219482
    Abstract: A device for use in an endodontic root canal, performed using a dental drill hand set has a first upper unit coupled to the drill hand set. The first upper unit is cylindrical in shape and has a first drill shank shaft therethrough. The upper unit has a first threading on its outside surface. A second bottom unit, cylindrical in shape, is also provided, having a second drill shank shaft therethrough. The second bottom unit has a second corresponding threading on its inside surface. When the second bottom unit is screwed onto the first upper unit a root canal jig is formed having a set height and allowing a shank from the drill hand set to pass through the first and second drill shank shafts, such that when the drill shank of the drill hand set is drilled into an affected tooth for a root canal, the drill shank is prevented from drilling along its entire length into the root of the affected tooth when the bottom of the root canal jig contacts the top of the tooth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2004
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventors: Shahin I. Bina, Danny H. Kuighadush
  • Publication number: 20040219478
    Abstract: A dental tool for guiding a drill bit during a dental implant procedure includes a pivotal drill bushing attached to a bushing holder. The bushing holder, in turn, is attached to a surgical dental stent that fits a patient's jaw. The bushing holder attaches to the stent by extending into a hole or bore of the stent. In some cases, the bushing holder snaps into the hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventor: Robert J. Harter
  • Publication number: 20040219481
    Abstract: A method for a dental implant process involves creating an overall image that shows a trajectory of a drill bushing in relation to a patient's jaw. The overall image shows a trajectory image that represents the trajectory of the drill bushing and a jaw image that represents the jaw. The method allows a user to move the trajectory image relative to the jaw image, which can be useful when adjusting the angular position of the actual drill bushing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventors: Leo J. Malin, Robert J. Harter
  • Publication number: 20040219479
    Abstract: A dental tool for guiding a drill or biopsy punch during a dental implant procedure includes a drill bushing pivotally attached to a bushing holder. The bushing holder, in turn, is attached to a surgical stent that fits a patient's teeth, gums, and/or jaw. The pivotal connection between the drill bushing and the bushing holder allows the angular orientation of the drill bushing to be adjusted, so the trajectory of the drill or biopsy punch can be aimed directly into the patient's jawbone. Once the drill bushing is properly oriented, the bushing is bonded to the bushing holder to prevent further movement between the bushing and the holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventors: Leo J. Malin, Thomas J. Arendt, Robert J. Harter
  • Publication number: 20040219480
    Abstract: A method of installing a dental implant includes positioning a drill guide tube adjacent to a jawbone and taking a tomographical scan of the two. Based on the scan, a computer-generated image is created and analyzed to confirm whether the drill guide tube is properly aligned. If the drill guide tube is in the correct position, that same tube to used to guide a drill bit into the jawbone. In some cases, the tube also helps guide a biopsy punch in cutting just a small, round opening into the gum tissue, which minimizes the time needed for healing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventor: Leo J. Malin
  • Patent number: 6793491
    Abstract: A system of temporary stabilizing implants are provided at specifically determined locations in a patient's jawbone for positioning and temporarily stabilizing a dental surgical template at a specifically determined orientation with respect to the jawbone. The template is used to arrange and create osteotomies at sites where permanent dental implants will be located. The template is removably and replaceably positioned with respect to the temporary stabilizing implants by the use of components provided in the template that engage the temporary stabilizing implants, such that the template may be used over a prolonged time period as necessary. Once the dental surgical template is no longer needed, the temporary stabilizing implants are preferably removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Implant Logic Systems
    Inventors: Michael Klein, Michael Abrams
  • Publication number: 20040157188
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and device system, which are provided for removing material or tissue or for working material or tissue and which can be used in the fields of medicine and dentistry as well as for the most varied types of material working in different areas of application and model working. The invention is particularly advantageous in that an exact removal of material or a highly precise, reproducible material working can be realized within the shortest amount of time by acquiring, storing and computer processing data pertaining to position and/or orientation of the effector and their changes relative to the position of at least one reference body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2004
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Inventors: Tim Luth, Jurgen Bier, Angelika Bier, Andreas Hein, Olaf Schermeier
  • Publication number: 20040152040
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a dental head unit capable of measuring a root canal length of a patient. The head unit includes a head section having a sleeve rotatably supported therein for detachably holding a cutting tool therein, a neck section extending proximally from the head section and having a proximal end for connecting to a handpiece body, a contact capable of detachably contacting the cutting tool for providing electric connection to the cutting tool when in contact, and a contact holder fixed to a proximal end of the contact and axially slidable with respect to the neck section. The contact holder has a lead attachment to which a lead for electrically connecting the contact to a root canal length measuring device is detachably attached. The present invention also relates to a contact holder assembly including the contact and the contact holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2003
    Publication date: August 5, 2004
    Inventors: Eiichi Nakanishi, Masanori Mizunuma
  • Patent number: 6755652
    Abstract: A method for preparing dental restoration which is to be secured in the mouth of a dental patient includes providing a base plate with ready made x-ray opaque restorative teeth thereon, the base plate being formed in correspondence with the mouth of the patient in which the restorative teeth are to be fixedly secured. The base plate is temporarily situated in the patient's mouth and then the temporarily situated position of the base plate in the patient's mouth is observed, preferably via an x-ray. The temporarily situated position of the base plate in the patient's mouth is assessed to determine predetermined locations at which drill holes for facilitating the fixed securement of the restorative teeth in the patient's mouth are to bored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Ivoclar Vivadent AG
    Inventor: Marco Nanni
  • Patent number: 6739872
    Abstract: A security device includes a stop member for a rotary drilling instrument used in particular in dental surgery. The stop member is capable of being positioned at a desired depth of drilling and of preventing the depth from being exceeded. The two elements drilling instrument and the stop member include coupling elements directly or indirectly linking them together and co-operating elements capable of transforming their movement, such that when the device is operating, the drilling instrument is retracted rearwards relative to the drilling direction and to the position of the stop member under the action of the elements when the front part of the stop member comes in contact with a neighboring surface. The co-operating elements preferably consist of a screw-nut system, the direction of the thread(s) of the system and the rotating direction of the drill being opposite. A device comprising a gauge containing a piston enables to pre-calibrate and store the desired drilling depth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Arsline SA
    Inventor: Achille Turri
  • Publication number: 20040063062
    Abstract: A device for determining the position of a sleeve, on the one hand in the vertical direction in relation to a fixture dummy (6) in or on a model (1) of a bone, and on the other hand in the transverse direction in relation to the longitudinal axis (13) of the fixture dummy. An expansion spacer (7) cooperates with the fixture dummy and the sleeve (4). An expansion screw is designed in such a way that, when acted upon, it in turn acts upon the expansion spacer so that the latter determined the position of the sleeve and thus of the template relative to the jaw bone and the fixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: Izidor Brajnovic
  • Patent number: 6702578
    Abstract: A dental handpiece stably cutting a wall of a root canal without a fear of piercing a root opening. The dental handpiece includes a means for holding a tool cutting a tooth to be cured and a support for setting the cutting tool at a desired position relative to the tooth to be cured. The length of the support may be changeable by stages. The holding means may be formed of a head of the dental handpiece and a plurality of supports with different lengths may be removably mounted to the head. The support can stand on a head of the dental handpiece and the length from the head is changeable. The support is formed separately from the dental handpiece to be removable, and may have a stopper which abut with a tooth to be cured or an appropriate portion near the tooth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Mani, Inc.
    Inventors: Kanji Matsutani, Nozomu Satake, Toshiyuki Takase
  • Publication number: 20040043355
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for tooth treatment, wherein a base is mounted in a mouth of a patient and a tooth treatment tool is connected to the base such that the connection allows for supported movement of the tool in relation to the tooth. The base has an extending support member onto which a pantograph is adjustably engaged, the pantograph holds a dental tool and guiding means for guiding the movement of the tool to within a predetermined cavity of varying shape, for insertion of prefabricated fillings, and alleviates the dentist from much of the physical stress experienced in common dental work.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Publication date: March 4, 2004
    Inventors: Egill Jonsson, Geir Gudmundsson, Gerrit Van Der Straaten, Sigurdur Thorsteinsson
  • Patent number: 6685472
    Abstract: A dental instrument having a blade and an elongated guide connected to the blade. The guide is sized to fit within the bore of a dental implant and is placed at a predetermined radial location with respect to the blade. The guide may selectively translate in a direction parallel to the cutting plane of the blade. The instrument includes a geometric step or a conical surface integrated into the guide so as to prevent the guide from being inserted further than a predetermined distance into the implant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Inventor: Fred Kastenbaum
  • Publication number: 20040013999
    Abstract: An implant hole guide is used in drilling a hole in jaw bone for a dental implant. A bar of the guide has opposite ends and opposite surfaces, one being adapted to engage a jaw bone adjacent the site of a hole to be drilled. A guide bore extends in the bar adjacent one end for guiding the drill. First and second guide posts extend from the opposite surfaces of the bar adjacent the other end. The posts are parallel to the bore and are spaced from the bore by a minimum center-to-center implant distance sufficient to maintain at least 3 mm of jaw bone between adjacent implant receiving holes in the jaw bone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Harold I. Sussman
  • Patent number: 6672870
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for mounting a dental prosthesis to an upper or lower jaw of a patient. The apparatus includes a jig bushing and a base plate. The jig bushing has a plurality of apertures therethrough for guiding the travel of a drill bit for forming bores in the jaw of the patient. The base plate is immovably associated with the jig bushing and is formed to correspond to the shape of the jaw. A drill bit adaptor is provided for drilling bores in the ridge of the patient to an adjustable predetermined depth. The drill bit adaptor includes a plurality of annular recesses along a longitudinal length of the elongate body for receiving an E-ring. The body of the drill bit adaptor can be inserted into an aperture of the jig bushing until the E-ring presses against the jig bushing. Implants can be screwed into bores. Transmucosal adaptors having sloped ends can be added to each implant. Retaining screws can connect the implants with the transmucosal adaptors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: John G. Knapp
  • Patent number: 6634883
    Abstract: A device for planning and further placing a dental implant comprises a rigid base, a column that projects from the base with a regulating mechanism for the height and support of a bi-directional head. The head has two hubs, which have binding mechanisms for certain positions and are furnished with a mechanism for indicating the angle position. One of the hubs is furnished with a drill and also a device for fixing guides. Also described and claimed are a method for planning correct placing of a dental implant, a pre-tomographic guide obtained with the method, and a surgical template obtained using the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Inventor: Sebastian Luciano Ranalli
  • Publication number: 20030186187
    Abstract: The invention concerns a positioning device for setting implanted bearing dental prostheses in the maxillary bone or for bone grafting on the maxillary bone, comprising positioning interim dentures (1) along two dimensions, a positioning member (4) along the third dimension, means (5) for fixing said positioning member (4) on said interim dentures (1) in a specific axial position, a linking member (6) provided with an axial nesting surface, matching a nesting surface of said positioning member (4) and with a surface designed to be fixed to a guide element (7, 7′) or a prosthetic element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2003
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventor: Yves Germanier
  • Publication number: 20030134252
    Abstract: A dental implant guide arrangement accurately guides a bur for drilling a pilot or initial hole for a dental implant into the upper or lower jaw bone of an edentulous (toothless) patient. The arrangement includes jaws, pointed projections or other jaw bone ridge engagement structures which engage the ridge area of the upper or lower jaw bone to fix the arrangement in place. A preferably closed cylindrical guide channel is connected to the engagement structure and extends outwardly along and over the jaw bone ridge. The axis of the channel is parallel to an acceptable axis for the pilot or initial hole into the ridge. The bur can be guided along the guide channel for accurately drilling the hole. Another part of the arrangement is used after the initial hole is drilled to accurately space and orient subsequent implant hole in the jaw bone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventor: Harold I. Sussman
  • Patent number: 6499221
    Abstract: The invention relates to a setting gauge (21) for setting a depth stop (6) on a handpiece (1), which has a connection device (3) for the releasable connection of a pin-shaped tool (4) with the handpiece (1), in particular for setting a depth stop (6) on a handpiece (1) for a working of a root canal (W2) in a tooth (Z). So that the setting of the depth stop can be effected more simply and with little manual effort, the setting gauge (21) has a connection element for connecting and positioning the setting gauge (21) on the handpiece (1) and at least one scale (27a, 27b, 27c) on the setting gauge body (22) which, in the position of the setting gauge (21) connected with the handpiece (1), extends parallel to the depth stop (6) and its setting path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: Kalenbach & Voigt GmbH & Co
    Inventors: Bernhard Kuhn, Bernhard Schilling