Abstract: An applicator system (2) which includes a fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) post (4) or anchor in its non-polymerized form including a resinous matrix and fibers, i.e., a prepreg (4); and an applicator tube (8). The inner diameter (dT) of the tube (8) is essentially the same or slightly larger than the outer diameter (DP/A) of the FRC post (4) in its non-polymerized form. The outer diameter (DT) end of the tube through which the FRC post is applied is essentially the same or slightly smaller that the coronal opening of the canal (6). The applicator system (2) may be used to prepare permanent or temporary root canal (6) posts, to make a tooth canal (6) filling and to make a post and/or anchorage system that forms a continuous FRC structure from the apex of the tooth to the coronal part of the tooth.

Abstract: An dental filling material comprising a thermoplastic polymer. The thermoplastic polymer may be biodegradable. A bioactive substance may also be included in the filling material. The thermoplastic polymer acts as a matrix for the bioactive substance. The composition may include other polymeric resins, fillers, plasticizers and other additives typically used in dental materials. The filling material is used for the filing of root canals.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to root canal obturation in a tooth. In one embodiment, a plug is positioned in a root canal and bonded to the root canal by applying a light-curing adhesive to the canal and exposing the plug to a light source to bond the plug to the root canal. In another embodiment, a carrier is disclosed having an optically transmissive plug portion for insertion into the canal. In still another embodiment, the plug portion of the carrier includes an optical fiber to transmit light from a light source into the plug portion. In still yet another embodiment, a filler material is heated and injected into the root canal in a semi-liquid state and exposed to light to cure the adhesive.

Abstract: An endodontic filling material comprising a biodegrable thermoplastic polymer. A bioactive substance may also be included in the filling material. The thermoplastic polymer acts as a matrix for the bioactive substance. The composition may include other polymeric resins, fillers, plasticizers and other additives typically used in dental materials. The filling material is used for the filing of root canals.

Abstract: A paste formulation for dental use, a paste injector, and a system for detecting paste filling are disclosed. The paste formulation includes electric conductive material. The present invention also discloses the system for detecting paste filling comprising a paste injector containing electric conductive paste and an electric conductive member for electrically connecting the electric conductive paste to an external electrode, a current detector for detecting the current flowing through the electric conductive paste held in the container portion, and a current display device for indicating the current flowing through the electric conductive paste.

Abstract: Devices and methods for the application of materials to an interior space of a tooth, such as the extirpated pulp chamber and/or root canals of the tooth subsequent to root canal surgery. The device has one or more syringe-like pistons and associated chambers for drawing a vacuum within an extirpated pulp chamber and applying cleansing, sealing, and/or filler materials into the tooth under continued vacuum pressure to ensure complete and thorough application.

Abstract: A paste formulation for dental use, a paste injector, and a system for detecting paste filling are disclosed. The paste formulation includes electric conductive material. The present invention also discloses the system for detecting paste filling comprising a paste injector (1) containing electric conductive paste (D) and an electric conductive member for electrically connecting the electric conductive paste (D) to an external electrode, a current detector (101) for detecting the current flowing through the electric conductive paste (D) reserved in the container portion (1), and a current display device (105) for indicating the current flowing through the electronic conductive paste (D).

Abstract: A rinsing cannula (1) to rinse a root canal (2) of a tooth (3) having a supply channel for rinsing fluid. A proximal end area of the rinsing cannula (1) is connected to or connectable to a syringe or similar fluid supply and has at least one inlet opening (6), and a distal end area of the rinsing cannula (1) that is insertable into the root canal (2) in its position of use has at least one outlet opening (7) for the rinsing fluid. The distal end area of the rinsing cannula (1) is formed of titanium or a titanium alloy for flexible adaptation of the end area to the shape of the root canal (2) when it is inserted.

Abstract: A dental instrument includes a pneumatic pressure intensifier that supplies a handpiece having an orifice to generate a high velocity liquid jet. A pneumatic system includes valves to supply the pressure intensifier and control the output to the handpiece. A jet forming assembly includes an orifice mount in the handpiece, and a guide tube assembly secured to the orifice mount. The guide tube assembly is variably positioned to select the minimum distance from the jet orifice to the tissue target, so that the jet force may be controlled.

Abstract: An autoclavable needle assembly and method of making the same is provided for endodontic surgical procedures. The needle assembly includes a supporting hub member containing an adhesive in which one end of the needle is embedded. The surgical needle is preferably fabricated from NiTi alloy and includes, at its distal end, a side vent in the form of a skived portion extending a predetermined distance inwardly from the tip from the distal end of the needle. One or more coatings may be applied to the needle. An angle-adjustment sleeve can be bent to hold a desired angle in the needle.

Abstract: Endodontic sealant compositions and methods for sealing a root canal using sealant or other filling materials. The compositions include one or more resins that promote adhesion to hydrophilic dental tissues. Examples include alkyl methacrylates and derivatives thereof, such as alkylamino methacrylates and oxyphosphoro methacrylates. The compositions include a radio opacifying agent, so that they may be seen using X-rays, and one or more polymerization initiators to effect curing, at least one chemical initiator and, optionally, a photoinitiator, to yield a curable sealant composition. The compositions are introduced into the root canal using a narrow cannula coupled to a high pressure hydraulic delivery device. Additional pressure may be applied to the sealant compositions using a syringe-like plunger introduced within a cylindrical access hole drilled through the crown of the tooth. The chemical initiator causes the mixed composition to harden over time.

Abstract: A method of and device for testing for conditions, particularly moisture conditions, in root canals and for drying the root canal. In accordance with the method, a small pointed implement in the nature of a rolled piece of paper having pH indicator on the tip thereof is inserted into the root canal. The pH indictor, by change of color, will present information as to whether or not any moisture is present in the canal and, secondly, whether or not the moisture is a positive pH or negative pH.

Abstract: Endodontic fibers comprising a biocompatible polymer vehicle permeable to medicaments, or combinations of medicaments are described. Such fibers can be used, for example, in a method for the local delivery and sustained release of medicaments to periodontal or intracanal treatment sites. Endodontic fibers described include modified periodontal fibers and intracanal fibers.

Abstract: An assembly for aspirating and irrigating an endodontic or other cavity. The assembly includes a handpiece having at least one fluid discharge inlet and a vacuum outlet. The assembly further includes a surgical needle connected to the handpiece by way of a L-shaped connector. The L-shaped connector is arranged to support the needle while concurrently providing communication between a fluid discharge tube and an aspiration tubing.

Abstract: An assembly for aspirating and irrigating an endodontic or other cavity. The assembly includes a handpiece having at least one fluid discharge inlet and a vacuum outlet. The assembly further includes a surgical needle connected to the handpiece by way of a L-shaped connector. The L-shaped connector is arranged to support the needle while concurrently providing communication between a fluid discharge tube and an aspiration tubing.

Abstract: A filling element for use in a root canal treatment, which treatment comprises the removal of the nerve from the root canal, machining the walls of the root canal and inserting a thermoplastic material in the root canal, which thermoplastic material is able when warm to adapt to the shape of the root canal such that no open spaces remain therein, comprises a support as well as a coating of the thermoplastic material on said support. The support comprises an element that can be electrically heated.

Abstract: Endodontic sealant compositions and methods for sealing a root canal using sealant or other filling materials. The compositions include one or more resins that promote adhesion to hydrophilic dental tissues. Examples include alkyl methacrylates and derivatives thereof, such as alkylamino methacrylates and oxyphosphoro methacrylates. The compositions include a radio opacifying agent, so that they may be seen using X-rays, and one or more polymerization initiators to effect curing, typically both chemical and photo initiators to yield a dual cure sealant composition. The compositions are introduced into the root canal using a narrow cannula coupled to a high pressure hydraulic delivery device. Additional pressure may be applied to the sealant compositions using a syringe-like plunger introduced within a cylindrical access hole drilled through the crown of the tooth.

Abstract: An endodontic irrigator tip having a cannula with an annealed distal portion and a proximal portion enables the cannula to easily move within a root canal. The cannula extends from a hub that is adapted for coupling with a syringe or other delivery device. The cannula has an outlet orifice for delivering an irrigant out of the endodontic irrigator tip and into the root canal. The outlet orifice may be defined by a rounded rim that optimally enables the distal insertion end of the cannula to be advanced within the root canal.

Abstract: A dental delivery tool sized and configured to deliver a dental composition into a dental preparation includes: (A) a hollow body configured to deliver a dental composition therefrom; and (B) a plurality of fibers coupled to at least a portion of the hollow body. A portion of the fibers extend a length “L” distally beyond the rim of the hollow body. A portion of the fibers are coupled along the wall a distance “D” proximally with respect to the rim. The distance “D” is at least about two and one half times greater than the length “L”. Employing the tool, which may be a delivery tip, for example, the interior walls of a dental preparation may be conveniently brushed or cleaned during a procedure in which a dental composition is delivered using the dental delivery tool.

Abstract: Gutta-percha part for locating an apex for odontological use: a substantially conical shape gutta-percha part to be installed in a root canal. The part is provided either in its interior or along its lateral side with an electrode of biocompatible material. The electrode ends at a minimal distance from the end of the part, and has access to the exterior of the part laterally in a slightly concave zone thereof. On the opposite end, the electrode has access to the exterior to be connected to a device for locating an apex.

Abstract: A flushing apparatus for cleaning a cavity space of a cavity space containing member such as a tooth or a restorative piece is provided. The flushing apparatus includes a working space in communication with a pump for producing a vacuum in the working space, a supply conduit communicated with the working space, and an outlet conduit with the working space. The working space is disposed in fluid communication with the cavity space and an oscillation generator creates oscillatory movement in the flushing fluid which is fluidly communicated into the working space and the cavity space. An adapter communicates the working space with the cavity space. The flushing apparatus is operable to place the working space in a vacuum condition relative to the tooth or the restorative piece.

Abstract: A device for sealing the pulp cavity and root canals of a devitalized tooth, comprising a vacuum pump, a first connecting conduit between this vacuum pump and the pulp cavity, a source of fluid substance for sealing this pulp cavity, a second connecting conduit between the source of fluid substance and the pulp cavity, and structure for closing said second conduit in order to bring the source of fluid sealing substance selectively into communication with the cavity.

Abstract: An endodontic irrigator tip with a fiber covered cannula enables a root canal be cleaned with a scrubbing action as the cannula is moved up and down within the root canal. The cannula extends from a hub that is adapted for coupling with a syringe or other delivery device. The cannula has an outlet orifice for delivering an irrigant out of the endodontic irrigator tip and into the root canal. The outlet orifice may be defined by a rounded rim that optimally enables the distal insertion end of the cannula to be advanced within the root canal.

Abstract: A dental instrument includes a pneumatic pressure intensifier that supplies a handpiece having an orifice to generate a high velocity liquid jet. A pneumatic system includes valves to supply the pressure intensifier and control the output to the handpiece. A jet forming assembly includes an orifice mount in the handpiece, and a guide tube assembly secured to the orifice mount. The guide tube assembly is variably positioned to select the minimum distance from the jet orifice to the tissue target, so that the jet force may be controlled.

Abstract: A root canal is sequentially cleaned in sections from the crown to the apex by dividing it into three sections including an operative coronal portion, an operative middle portion and an apical portion. The pulp material is then sequentially removed from the portion of the root canal above the apical portion of the root canal with a set of instruments. The apical portion is then optionally cleaned with another set of instruments. Another optional set of instruments can also be used to improve the access into the apical portion such that irrigants can be delivered to the apical portion.

Abstract: A method of filing an endodontically prepared root canal includes the steps of applying filler material to a distal portion of an elongated shaft formed of heat conducting material, inserting the proximal portion of the shaft having the filler material thereon into the root canal, heating the shaft to decrease the surface tension of the filler material and removing the shaft leaving the filler material in the root canal. An obturator system for practicing the method of filling an endodontically prepared root canal employs an elongated heat conductible shaft having proximal and distal portions with filler material on the distal portion, the distal portion of the shaft with the filler material thereon being insertable into a tooth root canal and a heat source serving to selectably heat the shaft allowing it to be removed while leaving the filler material in the root canal.

Abstract: A new and improved gutta-percha point for obturation of root canals comprising a cone with a gripping hub and an insertion tip and generally tapered toward the tip. The cone is also defined by indicia running side-to-side at predetermined positions relative to the tip to allow a visual alignment relative to a point of reference plane. The indicia further comprises a marking scale that includes a succession of discrete ring markings spaced incrementally along the gutta-percha point. A method of using the above-described gutta-percha cone is also described and this includes the steps of establishing a reference plane relative to the prepared root canal, inserting the gutta-percha cone into the prepared root canal, visually ascertaining a position of the markings relative to the reference plane to determine if the gutta-percha cone is too long, and cutting back the gutta-percha cone with reference to the markings if the gutta-percha cone is determined to be too long.

Abstract: A method of filling a root canal of a tooth includes inserting a plug of filling material into the root canal until a tip of the plug resides substantially at the apical foramen of the root canal and delivering a filling material into a remaining exposed portion of the root canal. An instrument for delivering a plug of filling material into a root canal of a tooth includes a shaft and a head formed integrally with the shaft, wherein the head includes a tip for receiving a plug of filling material. An instrument for delivering filling material into a root canal of a tooth includes a shaft and a working portion formed integrally with the shaft for carrying the filling material.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for dental procedures using a dental hydrojet tool having a cannula extending therefrom. The cannula is connected to a source of high pressure liquid, and delivers a high velocity, high pressure jet. For root canal procedures, the cannula is directed through an opening formed in the crown of the tooth, and the hydrojet is directed at the pulp, nerve and vascular tissue within the interior chamber. The jet may comprise medical-grade saline, disinfectant, antibiotic or abrasive solutions. All the soft tissue within the tooth is cut, excised, emulsified, and aspirated out of the tooth. The time required to excise, emulsify, and aspirate all the soft tissue within a typical molar is on the order of 10-240 seconds. The interior chamber of the tooth is completely aspirated and verified visually for completion of removal of all soft tissue, and then packed with an appropriate filler material, and the opening in the top of the tooth is filled or provided with a prosthetic crown.

Abstract: A root canal is sequentially cleaned in sections from the crown to the apex by dividing it into three sections including an operative coronal portion, an operative middle portion and an apical portion. An operative phase corresponds with each section and specific instrumentation is used in each phase. After an opening is formed into the tooth to provide access into the root canal, the opening is preferably rectified to remove obstructions so that the anatomical root canal can be filly accessed. The pulp material is then sequentially removed from the portion of the root canal above the apical portion of the root canal with a set of instruments. The apical portion is then preferably cleaned with an irrigator or alternatively with another set of instruments. An optional set of instruments can also be used to improve the access into the apical portion such that irrigants can be delivered to the apical portion.

Abstract: A tubular applicator handle having an applicator integrally formed on either end. The applicable integrally formed on either end may be a brush, foam pad, fuzzy ball or other similar or equivalent applicator, for applying a liquid, paste or powder. The applicator may be use in a method of coating a post hole with a dental material. The present invention has particular adaptability in the dental field for applying dental materials.

Abstract: The invention concerns an insert for filling the dental canal comprising means for anatomically and physiologically filling up the root canal 1, comprising a ductile and resilient core 10 made of a polymerised composite material, sheathed in one or several sleeves 14, 15 made of a composite material pre-impregnated with resin, being in a first pasty state previous to polymerisation so as to make the insert flexible and malleable before and during its introduction into the root canal 1. Said material is then polymerized at will by cross-linking means to be in a second polymerized state after the insert has been introduced in said canal. The upper part 17 of the insert which emerges from the root canal 1, can advantageously be used as prop or pivot for a coronal reconstitution. Thus, the same material is used for filling the root canal and for reinforcing the residual structures of the tooth. The canal obturator and the anchoring pivot are made of one and the same material.

Abstract: A hollow jointless needle formed from a single piece of conductive metal for injecting thermoplastic material into a dental cavity includes a flange for securing the needle to an injection device. The flange extends transversely relative to the longitudinal axis of the needle. A first needle portion having a first diameter extends from the flange along the longitudinal axis. A second needle portion extending along the longitudinal axis is connected to the first needle portion by a first transition region. The second needle portion has a second diameter which is smaller than the first diameter of the first needle portion.

Abstract: A method of applying a dental composition to tooth structure of a dental patient includes the act of providing an applicator having an empty chamber at least partially surrounded by flexible wall portions. A tip portion of the applicator is placed into a bulk container having a quantity of dental composition, and the wall portions are squeezed together. When the wall portions are released, a portion of the dental composition is drawn into the chamber by suction. The wall portions are then squeezed together once the tip portion of the applicator has been placed next to tooth structure of a dental patient in order to dispense at least a portion of the dental composition directly onto the tooth structure. Since a sufficient amount of composition is drawn from the bulk container before the applicator is placed in the patient's oral cavity, the likelihood of cross-contamination between dental patients is substantially reduced.

Abstract: An arrangement for releasably connecting a disposable dental tool to the discharge end of a dental handpiece. The connection includes a plug and socket configuration in which one member includes at least one detent portion arranged to snap fit with an indent portion on the remaining member.

Abstract: A plastic dental article, including an outer container made up of an outer shell and a tubular insert. It also includes a stem having an interdental pick and a brush near the pick but spaced slightly therefrom. The container is non-spill, when turned over, either when the stem is in place therein, or removed therefrom.

Abstract: An endodontic irrigator tip includes a hub and a cannula coupled to the hub. The hub includes a neck having a distal stop end which ensheathes the proximal portion of the cannula. The distal stop end is angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of the hub. The stop end prevents the insertion of the cannula beyond a desired distance, thereby preventing perforation of the apex of the root canal. The stop end has a substantially greater diameter than the diameter of the cannula Thus, the stop end of the neck rests on the occlusal surface of the crown of the tooth while the cannula extends the desired distance within the root canal.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a device (10) for delivering a viscous fluid. The device features a housing (14), pistons (58,60) which act on containers (22,24) having the viscous fluid therein, a rotational drive unit (12) which moves the pistons (58,60) in a translational sense in the direction of a flow channel open towards the containers (22,24). The drive unit is arranged in a motor housing (81) separate from the housing (14). A gear assembly (68,70,72,76) converts the rotational drive motion into a translational motion of the pistons (58,60) towards a flow channel (52) which connects to a nozzle (30) and the delivery opening in the container (22,24). A coupling (82) is provided by which the rotational drive unit (12) can be decoupled from the gear assembly (68,70,72,76).

Abstract: A dental device for applying a thermoplastic filler material comprising thermoplastic gutta percha to a root canal of a tooth. The device comprises an elongated shaft of flexible material having a distal end forming a core for a layer of thermoplastic filler material surrounding at the least distal end said shaft. The layer of filler material comprises an anti-microbiological substance for preventing or at least reducing the risk of irritation, inflammation or infection.

Abstract: A hollow jointless needle formed from a single piece of conductive metal for injecting thermoplastic material into a dental cavity includes a flange for securing the needle to an injection device. The flange extends transversely relative to the longitudinal axis of the needle. A first needle portion having a first diameter extends from the flange along the longitudinal axis. A second needle portion extending along the longitudinal axis is connected to the first needle portion by a first transition region. The second needle portion has a second diameter which is smaller than the first diameter of the first needle portion.

Abstract: A dental device and method are provided for applying gutta percha to a root canal of a tooth. The device includes an elongate filler member made of a biocompatible material capable of being cut so that the length of the filler member can be reduced to a desired length by a user of the device, in accordance with the length of the root canal, prior to insertion of the device into the root canal. A head portion of the filler member is of uniform thickness throughout the length thereof, and a distal end portion is uniformly tapered along the length thereof in a direction away from the head portion such that the filler member is without any discrete area of weakness throughout the length thereof. An outer sheath of thermoplastic gutta percha surrounding a portion of the distal end of the filler member. An indicator at the proximal end of the filler member assists the user in determining the portion thereof to be cut off to achieve the desired length.

Abstract: An obturator for use in filling an endodontically prepared root canal in a tooth formed as an elongated body having a handle portion and a shaft, the handle portion being configured for grasping by a practitioner whereby the shaft may be inserted into a root canal, the shaft tapering from the handle to the shaft distal end, the shaft having an exterior surface having a generally linear groove therein extending from near the handle to the shaft distal end, or at least adjacent the shaft distal end, the groove providing: (a) a channel for flow of excess filler material as the shaft is positioned into a prepared root canal; (b) increased flexibility of the shaft, and (c) a passageway that will accept a slender, tapered metallic retrieval tool, such as a typical endodontic file, to assist in the removal of the shaft from a root canal.

Abstract: A method and system for inserting a dental post into a tooth root canal is provided. The method comprises the steps of cutting out a post hole in the tooth and inserting a threaded tap into the post hole for creating at least one groove along the hole. Significantly, the tap includes at least one slot defined by a pair of flexible legs and running at least a portion of the length thereof for reducing stress along the post hole during threaded insertion. Also provided is a lentulo drill comprising a spiraled wire with a reverse spiral configuration at the apical end thereof for confining cement placement in the post hole prior to insertion of the dental post.

Abstract: A radiopaque composition for use in visualizing and cleaning root canal system anatomy, pathologies, anomalies, and iatrogenic conditions. The composition comprises a radiopaque iodine solution and a sodium hypochlorite solution. The iodine solution comprises diatrizoate meglumine and sodium iodine. The iodine solution and sodium hypochlorite solution are mixed in a ratio of between 5:95 to 95:5, by volume. Preferably, the iodine solution and sodium hypochlorite solution are mixed in a ratio of between 30:70 to 70:30, by volume. And more preferably, the iodine solution and sodium hypochlorite solution are mixed in a ratio of between 45:55 to 55:45, by volume. In use, the root canal system anatomy, anomaly, pathology, or iatrogenic condition to be visualized and addressed or treated is liberally flushed with the composition, preferably after the root canal system has been exposed.

Abstract: In an appliance for use in filling an endodontically prepared root canal of the kind comprisinga) a central insertion rod (2) of flexible material, surrounded partly byb) an elongate filler body (3) of plastic or thermoplastic material, the new feature is represented byc) a core (4) surrounding the rod (2) and surrounded by the filler body (3) and consisting of material that is or may be made sufficiently soft to allow removal of the rod (2) without removal of the filler body (3).One advantageous effect of this arrangement is that anchoring holes for a tooth crown may be drilled without risk of encountering a broken-off part of an insertion rod that would previously have been left to remain permanently in the filler body (3).

Abstract: A medicine injection device capable of continuously administrating a medicine to the body of a patient over a long period of time while keeping the patient from being restrained during administration. The medicine injection device includes a medicine container and at least one medicine passage each arranged in at least one of a root and a crown, so that a medicine stored in the medicine container is administrated through the medicine passage to the body of a patient.

Abstract: A dental irrigating and aspirating instrument utilizes a cannula with a reduced diameter extended member shaped to occlude the apical foramen while conducting irrigating fluid into the apical terminations of root canal preparations. The extended member also serves to occlude the apical foramen while conducting fluid and debris out of the apical regions during aspiration. The extended member can be shaped with a cutting surface to prepare a base for the root canal preparation and root canal filling. Use and fabrication of the instrument for irrigation and aspiration of the fullest depths of the gingival sulci and periodontal pockets in periodontic practice is also described. A handpiece is described that retains the instrument allowing manipulation of the instrument and control of fluids to and from the instrument.

Abstract: A dental irrigating and aspirating instrument utilizes a cannula with a reduced diameter extended member shaped to occlude the apical foramen while conducting irrigating fluid into the apical terminations of root canal preparations. The extended member also serves to occlude the apical foramen while conducting fluid and debris out of the apical regions during aspiration. The extended member can be shaped with a cutting surface to prepare a base for the root canal preparation and root canal filling. Use and fabrication of the instrument for irrigation and aspiration of the fullest depths of the gingival sulci and periodontal pockets in periodontic practice is also described. A handpiece is described that retains the instrument allowing manipulation of the instrument and control of fluids to and from the instrument.

Abstract: A prefilled disposable apparatus is provided for placing thermoplastic filling material including gutta percha in an endodontically prepared root canal. A hollow carrier has a distal end and a proximal end and has a cylindrical carrier bore defined therethrough. A plug of thermoplastic filling material is contained in the carrier bore. A displacing shaft is received in the proximal end of the carrier bore for displacing the thermoplastic filling material from the distal end of the carrier bore into the endodontically prepared root canal.

Abstract: A fluid dispensing assembly 10 of the type for dispensing a precise stream of a fluid, such as a liquid and/or gas is disclosed. The fluid dispensing assembly 10 comprises of a fluid dispensing instrument or fluid source means 12, a needle apparatus 14, and is characterized by an adapter 16 for connecting the fluid dispensing instrument 12 to the needle apparatus 14 to establish fluid communication therebetween.