Patent Application
20230172695
[2] Standard dentures are fully removable dentures that are placed in the mouth after all teeth have been removed. Once the mouth tissue has healed, the dentures are placed. These dentures are held in place by suction contact or denture adhesive. For a standard denture to be placed, any remaining teeth must be extracted and the patient will be fitted for the device. Without the extracted teeth's previous support, the gum ridge will begin to collapse and the mouth will develop a sunken look. Since the gum ridge flattens over time and the tongue tends to knock standard dentures loose, such a device can become a nuisance at best or even a serious inhibitor to such basic functions as eating and speaking. These and similar minor disturbances in the oral cavity can constitute a major disruption to one's quality of living.
There are generally two types of alternative dentures, fixed or removable dentures, often referred to as overdentures. Overdentures form a gum-supported base onto which a removable denture can be placed; overdenture implants are typically performed on the bottom teeth. Implants are placed into the jawbone to serve as anchors for the overdenture itself. Often the overdenture is made for the bottom teeth, since traditional dentures remain less stable on the lower palate than the upper due to the lower ridge's u-shape, lack of osmotic pressure, tongue movement, and other factors. After the implants are placed, the restoring dentist may use LOCATOR® attachment systems to attach the removable prosthetic denture to the implants. The LOCATOR attachments ensure that the denture will not dislodge unintentionally and will not inconvenience the patient by preventing sliding or shifting in the mouth. Overdentures are designed to be removable by the patient for daily hygiene maintenance.
The advantages of overdentures are manifold. Often people choose implant overdentures over conventional dentures because implants offer a conservative way to add retention, stability, and comfort to the edentulous patient. Instead of sliding freely around the gum area, the denture remains snugly in place in the mouth because it is anchored to the implants. One way this benefits the patient is by allowing her to maintain her dietary health. While someone with traditional dentures must stay away from chewy or hard foods for fear of dislodging the denture, someone with an implant-secured overdenture can maintain his ability to adhere to his regular diet, fully chew his food, and absorb vital nutrition.
Furthermore, the implants themselves help stop facial-contour deterioration, improving not only the physical but also the mental well-being of implant overdenture wearers. Ordinary dentures cause facial bone loss, perpetuating jaw collapse and premature aging. Such facial bone collapse occurs because after one's teeth are removed and one begins to wear a denture, the denture speeds up bone loss by deteriorating the bone ridges where the denture is placed. Moreover, the jaw area increasingly resorbs in the areas where the teeth have been extracted due to lack of stimulation. Overdenture implants provide support for the jaw and gum area, since the implants will naturally integrate with live gum and bone, fortifying the jaw line and preventing bone resorption and facial bone loss. Such osseointegration not only keeps the facial bones physiologically healthy, but it also improves the psychological health of wearers by allowing them to speak, eat, smile, and maintain their natural appearance with increased confidence.
Overall, implant overdentures present a more comfortable, healthy, and durable option than standard dentures. The implants keep the denture secured in place, allowing the patient to converse with confidence, participate in normal social interactions, and even enjoy a diverse diet for optimal nutritional health. Moreover, the implants keep the facial contours and jaw line from collapsing, allowing edentulous patients to maintain bone retention and actually strengthen the jaw line.
But overdentures are not without drawbacks. Dental anchoring or attachment assemblies are utilized to anchor the overdenture appliance with a dental implant or tooth root, typically by fitting two or more partially-movable components together to provide an improved fit and comfort. In some assemblies, male and female parts have mating, snap engageable formations for releasably securing the male part to the female part. For example, the female part, which is anchored to the dental implant or tooth root, has a socket and the male part, which resides in the appliance or prosthesis has a head for snap engagement in the socket. But repeated impacts of the socket and head, as the prosthesis is removed and reattached, can damage the retentive head of the male and cause wearing due to friction of the components as they move. A compressible annular ring can be provided to absorb the frictional forces and act as a cushion between the socket and the head; however, even the ring may wear out over a period of time and need to be replaced, requiring regular maintenance of the dental anchoring assembly that is uncomfortable and inconvenient for the patient. Furthermore, to allow the compressible annular ring to be easily removed and replaced, the ring can be provided with a securing mechanism on a mating surface with the socket (such as a threaded portion), which further adds to the cost and complexity of the dental anchor assembly.
As noted above, an annular ring (not shown), or retention head as described below with respect to
Another problem with removable denture assemblies is that over time the tissue can recede.
These issues can be addressed with permanent or fixed dentures, which are basically denture devices that consist of a row of prosthetic teeth connected to a framework that is held in position by dental implants and is only removable by a clinician (non-patient removable). A typical procedure for placement of permanent dentures involves an oral examination of the patient's dentition, followed by scanning of the jawbone to determine the precise locations for implant placements—two in the anterior region and two at the back of the jawbone at minimum. The permanent dentures will be affixed to the implants following the healing period, during which time the implants would biologically fuse to the jawbone via osseointegration.
The screws 2012, abutments 2004a, b, c, and d, and implants 2006a, b, c, and d, are metal, which raises the cost, but also result in several metal on metal interfaces that can lead to alignment and seating issues. While the idea is that the fixed appliance 2000 is tightly coupled to the base assemblies, i.e., abutments 2004, b, c, and d, and implants 2006, b, c, and d, such that the appliance 2000 cannot move, there are always, e.g., cantilever and other forces that act on the appliance 2000. Moreover, it is sometimes necessary to remove a fixed dental appliance, which can create wear on the metal on metal interfaces. Because the metal on metal interfaces are so rigid, and the appliance is not supported by soft tissue as in the case of removable, these forces are dissipated through the weaker appliance 2000, which can eventually lead to cracking of the appliance 2000.
Another problem with conventional fixed denture assemblies is the need to remove up to 15 mm of vertical bone height to accommodate the stacked components and make room for the prosthesis.
Another problem with conventional fixed denture assemblies is related to the labor intensive clinician appointment for hygiene. Retaining screws must be located, uncovered and removed to free the appliance for cleaning. The process then must be repeated in reverse to reattach the appliance. This procedure has a risk of appliance fracture due to the through holes required for screw access and is often avoided unless another problem requires it. This is a disadvantage for the patient and their overall oral hygiene.
According to one aspect, a dental assembly for a mouth of a patient is provided. The dental assembly can comprise an implant having an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the upper portion comprises a threaded portion configured to screw into a threaded recess of an abutment, and wherein the lower portion comprises an angled platform and a threaded post extending from the platform, the threaded post configured for threaded engagement with bone or tissue in the mouth of the patient, and the angled platform being angled relative to a line that is orthogonal to a length of the threaded post. It is contemplated that the threaded post can be angled relative to the threaded portion of the upper portion, for example, about 15 degrees, about 20 degrees, about 30 degrees, between 5-35 degrees, between 10-35 degrees, between 10-30 degrees, or between 15-30 degrees. In some aspects, the angled platform can be angled, for example, about 15 degrees, about 20 degrees, about 30 degrees, between 5-35 degrees, between 10-35 degrees, between 10-30 degrees, or between 15-30 degrees relative to a line that is orthogonal to a length of the threaded post. In some embodiments, the threaded post can comprise a single lead thread or multiple lead threads. In some embodiments, the threaded post can comprise opposing axial cuts adapted for self-tapping into the bone or tissue. In some embodiments, the implant can comprise a maximum outside diameter between about 1.5 mm and about 7 mm, between about 1.5 mm and about 6 mm, between about 2.4 mm and about 4.9 mm, or between about 1.5 mm and about 4.0 mm. In some embodiments, the threaded post can comprise two successive threads of different pitch. The dental assembly can further comprise a retention member having a first end and a continuous, unbroken skirt extending from the first end defining an inner surface for engagement over an outer locating surface of the abutment. In some aspects, the retention member can comprise a first end and a continuous, unbroken skirt extending from the first end defining an inner surface for fixed, non-patient removable engagement over an outer locating surface of the abutment. The retention member can be constructed of any suitable material(s), and in some embodiments can be constructed from a rigid material such that it provides a retentive force of about 10 to 75 pounds (e.g., PEEK). The dental assembly can further comprise a cap configured for securing in a dental appliance and engaging the retention member.
According to one aspect, a dental attachment assembly comprises an abutment member for attachment to a tooth root, implant, or adjacent tooth, a retention member for fixed, non-patient removable attachment to the abutment member, and a cap configured for securing in the recess in a dental appliance. The abutment member may have an upper end, and an outer locating surface portion projecting downwardly from the upper end, the outer locating surface portion being positioned to project above a tissue level when the abutment member is secured in a tooth root or implant. The retention member may have an upper end configured for engagement within a cap in a recess in a dental appliance, and a continuous, unbroken skirt projecting from the upper end of the retention member for engagement over the outer locating surface of the abutment member, the skirt having a rounded, convex outer surface, the retention member being constructed from a polyetheretherketone (PEEK) material or other rigid material such that it provides a retentive force of about 10 to 75 pounds. The abutment member and retention member may have mateable snap-engaging formations for releasable snap engagement when the retention member is attached to the abutment member. The cap may comprise a cavity for containing the upper end of the retention member, the cavity having a rounded concave inner surface. The concave inner surface of the cavity may allow for releasable snap engagement over the rounded outer surface of the skirt.
In some embodiments, the abutment member may have a head portion at the upper end and a shaft depending downwardly from the head portion. The shaft may be at a predetermined angle to the head portion (e.g., 10 degrees relative to a shaft extending straight downward, 20 degrees relative to a shaft extending straight downward, 30 degrees relative to a shaft extending straight downward, between 10-30 degrees relative to a shaft extending straight downward, or aligned with the head portion and extending straight down from the head portion). In some embodiments, the abutment member may have a socket projecting inwardly from the upper end of the abutment member and a retention head may project from the upper end of the retention member for releasable snap engagement in the socket. The retention head may have a lower end, with the skirt extending downwardly beyond the lower end of the retention head, whereby the skirt will contact the abutment member before the lower end of the retention head reaches the socket on re-insertion of the retention member into the abutment member. The abutment member may have a weep hole connecting the socket to the outside of the abutment member for allowing saliva to escape. In some embodiments, the mateable snap-engaging formations may comprise an outwardly bulging portion of the outer locating surface portion of the abutment member and a corresponding concave ring portion of an inner surface of the skirt of the retention member. In some aspects, the cap may comprise a generally cup shaped member having a central longitudinal axis, a top wall and an annular side wall extending away from the top wall, the top wall and side wall having an outer surface shaped to engage with the recess in the dental appliance, and wherein the cavity is configured for swivel engagement with the retention member adapted for non-swivel engagement over the outer locating surface of the abutment member attached to the tooth root, implant, or adjacent tooth. The top wall may have an interior top surface with a concave recess extending radially in an annular path along an outer annular peripheral portion of the interior top surface, the concave recess forming a curve having a first radius of curvature. The curve of the concave recess may continue along at least part of the inner surface of the side wall towards an open end of the rounded, concave inner surface of the cavity. The curve may be configured to provide swivel engagement with the retention member between a non-swiveled position in axial alignment with the central longitudinal axis of the retention member and a fully-swiveled position in which the central longitudinal axis of the cavity is at an angle to the central longitudinal axis of the retention member. The range of swivel of the cap over the retention member may be between 10-30 degrees, between 15-20 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, or at least 30 degrees.
According to one aspect, a dental attachment assembly, comprising: an abutment member for attachment to a tooth root, implant, or adjacent tooth, the abutment member having an upper end, and an outer locating surface portion projecting downwardly from the upper end, the outer locating surface portion being positioned to project above a tissue level when the abutment member is secured in a tooth root or implant; a male member (also referred to herein as retention member) for attachment to the abutment member, the male member having an upper end comprising a swivel joint for swivel engagement within a cap in a recess in a dental appliance, and a continuous, unbroken skirt projecting from the upper end of the male member for engagement over the outer locating surface of the abutment member, the skirt having a rounded, convex outer surface, the male member being constructed from a rigid material; the abutment member and male member having mateable snap-engaging formations for releasable snap engagement when the male member is attached to the abutment member; and a cap for securing in a recess in a dental appliance, the cap having a cavity for containing said swivel joint, the cavity having a rounded, concave inner surface for releasable snap engagement over the rounded outer surface of the skirt, the swivel joint and cap cavity together comprising means for permitting swivelling of the cap over the male retention member relative to the dental appliance. In some aspects, the outer locating surface portion can be outwardly tapered at least adjacent the upper end of the abutment member for centering the male member over the abutment member as the members are secured together. In some aspects, the rigid material is PEEK. In some aspects, the male member is constructed from a rigid material such that it provides a retentive force of about 10 to 75 pounds.
According to another aspect, a dental attachment assembly comprises: an abutment member with a first end shaped to attach to a tooth root, implant or adjacent tooth, and a second end with an outer locating surface, wherein the outer locating surface of the abutment member has at least two axially spaced retention portions comprising two generally rounded, annular projections; a retention member having a first end and a continuous, unbroken skirt extending from the first end defining an inner surface for engagement over the outer locating surface of the abutment member, the retention member being constructed from a rigid material (e.g., PEEK) such that it provides a retentive force of about 10 to 75 pounds, wherein the retention member has at least two axially spaced, snap engaging formations on the inner surface of the skirt for releasable snap engagement with the respective retention portions of the abutment member, and wherein the axially spaced, snap engaging formations on the inner surface of the skirt comprise two spaced, annular grooves for snap engagement over the annular projections on the abutment member; and a cap with a rounded, concave inner surface defining a cavity to receive the retention member, wherein the cap is configured for securing in a dental appliance. In some embodiments, the cavity can be configured to receive a swivel engagement with the retention member, for example, wherein an interior top surface of the cavity includes a concave recess extending radially along an outer periphery of the interior top surface of the cavity. In some embodiments, the at least two axially spaced retention portions of the abutment member can comprise two spaced, annular grooves, and the at least two axially spaced, snap engaging formations on the inner surface of the skirt can comprise two generally rounded, annular projections. In some embodiments, the assembly can comprise a central portion of the interior top surface that protrudes vertically into the cavity, and the retention member can be in direct contact with the central portion. In some embodiments, a curve of the concave recess continues along a side wall of the rounded, concave inner surface defining the cavity. The concave recess can curve at a plurality of varying angles along the side wall and the interior top surface of the cavity. The concave recess can be composed of a series of consecutive tangent circular arcs, which can one or more of increase in size from the interior top surface to the bottom portion of the cap, and comprised of circles of increasing size from a top portion of the cap to a bottom portion of the cap. The concave recess can provide a retention member with an angle correction of up to, for example, approximately 30 degrees. The cap can have any suitable diameter and height, including for example, an outer diameter of approximately 5.4 mm, and a height of approximately 2.3 mm.
According to another aspect, a dental assembly comprises: an endosseous dental implant comprising: (i) a first end portion having a top and a bottom, the first end portion comprises: (1) an external projection extending from the top of the first end portion for releasable engagement with an abutment member, wherein the abutment member has a lower portion; and (2) an annular cuff portion defining an annular seat; and wherein the lower portion of the abutment member contacts and seats on the annular seat to form a line of connection when the abutment member is releasably engaged with the external projection, wherein the line of connection is located slightly below a patient's gum line when the implant is secured in the mouth of the patient; and (ii) a threaded post which extends from the bottom of the first end portion for direct engagement into the patient's bone or tissue; b) a retention member having a first end and a continuous, unbroken skirt extending from the first end defining an inner surface for fixed, non-patient removable, engagement over an outer locating surface of the abutment member, the retention member being constructed from a rigid material such that it provides a retentive force of between 10 to 75 pounds, wherein the rigid material comprises PEEK; and c) a cap configured for securing in a dental appliance and engaging the retention member. In some aspects, the threaded post can be angled relative to at least one of the first end portion, the external projection, and the abutment member. In some aspects, the threaded post can be angled relative to the annular seat.
According to another aspect, a dental assembly comprises: a) an endosseous dental implant comprising: (i) a first end portion having a top and a bottom, the first end portion comprises: (1) an external projection extending from the top of the first end portion for releasable engagement with an abutment member, wherein the abutment member has an external lower bevel portion; and (2) an annular cuff portion defining an annular seat having a recessed, inwardly tapered bevel surface, wherein the tapered bevel surface surrounds the external projection; and wherein the lower bevel of the abutment member contacts and seats on tapered bevel surface of the annular seat to form a line of connection when the abutment member is releasably engaged with the external projection, wherein the line of connection is located slightly below a patient's gum line when the implant is secured in the mouth of the patient; and (ii) a threaded post which extends from the bottom of the first end portion for direct engagement into the patient's bone or tissue; b) a retention member having a first end and a continuous, unbroken skirt extending from the first end defining an inner surface for engagement over the outer locating surface of the abutment member, the retention member being constructed from a rigid material (e.g., PEEK) such that it provides a retentive force of about 10 to 75 pounds; and c) a cap configured for securing in a dental appliance and engaging the retention member. It is contemplated that the threaded post can be straight, or can be angled relative to at least one of the first end portion and the abutment member. For example, the threaded post can be angled between 10-20 degrees, about 15 degrees, between 25-35 degrees, or about 30 degrees relative to at least one of the first end portion and the abutment member. In some embodiments, the threaded post comprises a single lead thread or multiple lead threads. In some embodiments, the threaded post comprises opposing axial cuts adapted for self-tapping into the patient's bone or tissue. In some embodiments, the dental implant has a maximum outside diameter between about 1.5 mm and about 4.0 mm. In some embodiments, the threaded post comprises two successive threads of different pitch. In some embodiments, the annular cuff portion may be of different heights to accommodate different tissue depths. In some embodiments, the external projection can include a tool-receiving bore extending inwardly from an upper end of the projection.
According to another aspect, a dental assembly comprises: a dental appliance comprising a first recess and a second recess; a first cap for securing in the first recess and a second cap for securing in the second recess; a first abutment member for attaching to a first tooth root, implant, or adjacent tooth, and a second abutment member for attaching to a second tooth root, implant, or adjacent tooth; a first retention member sized for engagement within the first cap, the first retention member having a first end and a continuous, unbroken skirt extending from the first end defining an inner surface for engagement (e.g., non-patient removable, fixed engagement) over the outer locating surface of the first abutment member, the retention member being constructed from a rigid material (e.g., PEEK) such that it provides a retentive force of about 10 to 75 pounds; and a second retention member sized for engagement within the second cap. In some embodiments, the second retention member comprise a first end and a continuous, unbroken skirt extending from the first end defining an inner surface for engagement over the outer locating surface of the second abutment member, the retention member being constructed from a rigid material (e.g., PEEK) such that it provides a retentive force of about 10 to 75 pounds. All suitable abutment members, caps, and retention members are contemplated, including any or all of the abutment members, caps, and retention members described above or in the detailed description. In some aspects, a first attachment assembly can have at least one component that is of a different type than a component of the second attachment assembly. For example, a retention member of the first attachment assembly can be of a different type than a retention member of the second attachment assembly. In some aspects, a first attachment assembly can have all of the same component types as the second attachment assembly.
In some aspects of embodiments comprising a dental appliance, the first abutment member comprises an upper end, and the outer locating surface of the first abutment member is positioned to project about a tissue level when the abutment member is secured in the first tooth root, implant, or adjacent tooth, wherein the first retention member comprises an upper end for engagement within the first cap, wherein the first abutment member and first retention member have mateable snap-engaging formations for releasable snap engagement when the first retention member is attached to the first abutment member, and wherein the first cap comprises a cavity for containing the swivel joint, the cavity having a rounded, concave inner surface for releasable snap engagement over the rounded outer surface of the skirt, the swivel joint and cap cavity together comprising means for permitting swivelling of the first cap over the first retention member relative to the dental appliance. In some aspects, the outer locating surface of the first abutment member may be outwardly tapered at least adjacent the upper end of the first abutment member for centering the first retention member over the first abutment member as they are secured together. In some aspects, the first abutment member may have a socket projecting inwardly from the upper end of the abutment member and a retention head may project from the upper end of the first retention member for releasable snap engagement in the socket. In some aspects, the outer locating surface may have an outward taper from the upper end of the first abutment member and terminate at a predetermined location above the tissue level when the first abutment member is secured in a patient's mouth. In some aspects, the first abutment member may comprise a generally cylindrical head having a lower end spaced below the upper end of the first abutment member. In some aspects, the skirt of the first retention member may have an inner surface of predetermined height which is concave and does not contact the outer locating surface portion of the first abutment member along at least a major portion of the height of the inner surface when the first retention member and first abutment members are secured together. In some aspects, the first cap can comprise a generally cup shaped member having a central longitudinal axis, a top wall and an annular side wall extending away from the top wall, the top wall and side wall having an outer surface shaped to engage with the first recess in the dental appliance.
In some aspects of embodiments comprising a dental appliance, the first abutment member may comprise a first end shaped to attach to the first tooth root, implant or adjacent tooth, and a second end with the first outer locating surface, wherein the first outer locating surface of the first abutment member has at least two axially spaced retention portions comprising two generally rounded, annular projections, wherein the first retention member has at least two axially spaced, snap engaging formations on the inner surface of the skirt for releasable snap engagement with the respective retention portions of the abutment member, and wherein the axially spaced, snap engaging formations on the inner surface of the skirt comprise two spaced, annular grooves for snap engagement over the annular projections on the first abutment member, and wherein the first cap comprises a rounded, concave inner surface defining a cavity to receive a swivel engagement with the first retention member; wherein an interior top surface of the cavity includes a concave recess extending radially along an outer periphery of the interior top surface of the cavity. A central portion of the interior top surface may protrude vertically into the cavity, and the first retention member may be in direct contact with the central portion. In some aspects, a curve of the concave recess may continue along a side wall of the rounded, concave inner surface defining the cavity. The concave recess may curve at a plurality of varying angles along the side wall and the interior top surface of the cavity. Additionally or alternatively, the concave recess may be composed of a series of consecutive tangent circular arcs.
In some aspects of embodiments comprising a dental appliance, the assembly further comprises an endosseous dental implant. The implant may comprise (i) a first end portion having a top and a bottom, the first end portion comprises: (1) an external projection extending from the top of the first end portion for releasable engagement with the first abutment member, wherein the first abutment member has an external lower bevel portion; and (2) an annular cuff portion defining an annular seat having a recessed, inwardly tapered bevel surface, wherein the tapered bevel surface surrounds the external projection; and wherein the lower bevel of the first abutment member contacts and seats on tapered bevel surface of the annular seat to form a line of connection when the abutment member is releasably engaged with the external projection, wherein the line of connection is located slightly below a patient's gum line when the implant is secured in the mouth of the patient; and (ii) a threaded post which extends from the bottom of the first end portion for direct engagement into the patient's bone or tissue. The threaded post may be angled (e.g., between 10-20 degrees, about 15 degrees, between 25-35 degrees, about 30 degrees) relative to at least one of the first end portion and the first abutment member.
In some aspects of embodiments comprising a dental appliance, the assembly further comprises an implant comprising an upper portion and a lower portion; wherein the upper portion comprises a threaded portion configured to screw into a threaded recess of the first abutment member; and wherein the lower portion comprises an angled platform and a threaded post extending from the angled platform, the threaded post configured for threaded engagement with bone or tissue in the mouth of the patient, wherein the angled platform is angled relative to a line that is orthogonal to a length of the threaded post.
The details of embodiments of the present disclosure, both as to their structure and operation, may be gleaned in part by study of the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts, and in which:
The detailed description set forth below, in connection with the accompanying drawings, is intended as a description of various embodiments, and is not intended to represent the only embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that embodiments of the invention can be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and components are shown in simplified form for brevity of description.
The dental attachment assembly described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,931,181 (the '181 Patent), which is incorporated herein by reference as if set forth in full, functions similar to a fixed dental attachment system as described above, yet can be more easily removed by a dental professional using a special tool and which overcomes many of the problems of conventional fixed dental attachment assemblies. The dental attachment assembly described in the '181 Patent is useful to attach a dental appliance, not intended to be removable by the patient, such as a denture, with an implant and provide a retentive force of about 8 to 75 pounds, while also providing ease of engagement of the retention member with the abutment due to the compressible nature of the materials used and the friction-retained snap-fit of the ball and socket components included within the assembly.
As will be described in detail below, the retention member is formed from a compressible material—such as a polymer or soft metal—to allow the retention member to compress and flex while being attached or detached from an abutment secured to the implant. The compressible and flexible retention member can then be secured with the abutment at a variety of angles, which is often necessary when securing a dental appliance to a plurality of implants extending at different angles across a person's upper or lower mandible. Additionally, the compressible ball eliminates the need for a separate compressible annular ring to be positioned in the socket of the abutment between the retention member and interior abutment walls, as well as the need for a securing mechanism for securing the annular ring to the abutment walls. The dental attachment assembly is therefore easier to manufacture and requires less maintenance once inserted.
The head 112 includes a curved surface 118 configured to frictionally engage an annular inward projection 120 in the socket 114, and a flat lower end face 119 with, e.g., an inwardly directed hexagonal or polygonal shaped recess 121 for engagement with a suitable tool when the retention member 106 is threadably engaged in bore 111 of cap 104. The inward projection 120 has an undercut 123 that is engaged with the head 112. The socket 114 does not necessarily need to be curved to match the curved surface 118 of the head 112. Instead, the head 112 is in contact with the socket 114 only at projection 120 in most or all attachment orientations. In the embodiment of
One benefit of the compressible material for the retention member 106 is that the diameter of the head 112 can be altered to increase or decrease the retentive force provided by the frictional-fit or compression of the head 112 engaging with undercut barb 123 of annular projection 120. The greater the maximum diameter of head 112, the higher the retentive force, since the inward projection 120 cuts further into the head when fully engaged. A smaller diameter head 112 provides less retentive force. Retention force may also be varied by using different, softer or harder compressible materials for head 112, as described in more detail in the '181 Patent in connection with the modified embodiment of
The cap 104 is configured with an annular internal surface 122 which may be curved to engage with a corresponding curved outer surface 124 of the abutment, providing an additional frictional fit for the dental attachment assembly.
In one embodiment, a ball flange 126 is provided on shaft 108 at a predetermined spacing below threaded portion 110. Flange 126 extends perpendicular to the axial direction of the shaft 108 and acts as a stop by engaging an opposing surface 127 of the cavity in cap 104 when threaded stem 110 is threaded into bore 111. The ball flange 126 serves to help locate the ball 112 within the socket 114 and cap 104 and prevent vertical movement of the assembly.
In the embodiment described herein, the retention member 106 can be formed from a compressible or elastomeric material such as a polymer or a soft metal, non-limiting examples of which include polymers such as polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polyoxymethylene or acetal polymers such as Delrin®, and soft metals such as nickel titanium (nitinol), pink TiCN (titanium carbo nitride) or titanium. The soft metal can be a coating on the surface of the head portion in some embodiments. In one embodiment, the surfaces may be coated with a gold nitride coating to reduce friction.
While the dental attachment assembly was a huge step forward for fixed dental assemblies in that it eliminated weakening through holes in the appliance and replaced the screwed together interfaces with the retention member 106 made of compressible or elastomeric material such as a polymer or a soft metal, non-limiting examples of which include polymers such as polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polyoxymethylene or acetal polymers such as Delrin®, and soft metals such as nickel titanium (nitinol), pink TiCN (titanium carbo nitride) or titanium, it is not interchangeable with a removable or fixed appliance and still requires expensive component swaps to convert from one to the other, and can have a restoration height of 15-18 mm.
The upwardly facing socket 26 is of suitable shape and dimensions for releasable snap engagement with a downwardly depending retention head 28 on the male element 16. The mating shapes of the socket 26 and head 28 are similar to that described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,417,570 (the '570 Patent), the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, and will have a similar action. An outer locating surface 30 of the upper end portion 20 projects upwardly above the tissue level 32 when the female element is secured to an implant or tooth root, as best illustrated in
A pair of diametrically opposed, axially extending notches 36 can be provided on the locating surface 30. These are designed for engagement with an insertion tool (not illustrated) for holding the implant or female element 14 and threading it into a matching socket in an implant fixture 12. The female element or abutment 14 also can have a weep hole 38 connecting the socket 26 to the outer surface of element 14, as best illustrated in
Unlike retention member 106 described above, which must be fairly inelastic in order to provide the retentive force needed for a fixed assembly, the male element 16 is formed of a material having some resilience, preferably nylon plastic that provides for some level of elastic reformation when the denture is removed and reattached.
The upper surface 40 is generally flat, and a skirt 42 projects downwardly from the upper surface 40 to surround the retention head 28. The retention head 28 has an outer shape substantially matching that of the socket 26. Socket 26 has a tapered leading edge or rim 44, a reduced diameter portion 45, an enlarged ring groove portion 46, and a lower chamfer edge portion 48. Head 28 of the male element has a matching shape with a chamfer 50 at the lower end, an annular ring portion 52 of enlarged diameter for snap engagement in groove portion 46, a reduced diameter portion 53, and an outwardly tapered upper end portion 54.
The skirt 42 has a lower end 56 which projects below the lower end of head 28, and an inner surface 60 which is tapered, preferably at an angle of around 10°, and is also concave, as best illustrated in
The denture or appliance can be removed repeatedly for cleaning, simply by snapping male head 28 out of socket 26, and can then be re-inserted. On re-insertion in the direction of the arrow 65 in
The female element 14 can be provided in several tissue cuff heights to match the surrounding gingival level 32. The minimum height of the overall attachment assembly is much lower than that of the arrangement as described in the '570 Patent and that of a fixed assembly such as described with respect to
By providing external notches 36 for engagement with an insertion tool, rather than an internal hex indent or the like as in the '570 Patent, the height of the female element can be reduced. The notches allow the female element to be held firmly for threading into the implant fixture 12.
The weep hole 38 can be located above the tissue level, which makes it easier for saliva to escape from socket 26, reducing hydraulic pressure as a result of the male head engaging in the socket. This also allows easier connection of the male and female elements. Once the head 28 is in snap engagement in the socket, as in
FIGS. 1-5 of U.S. Pat. No. 10,687,920 (the '920 Patent), which is incorporated herein in its entirety as if set forth in full, and recreated here as
In the embodiment illustrated in
In one embodiment, the concave recess 1110 is specifically designed with a curvature 114 which may be formed using a series of consecutive tangent circular arcs formed from multiple circles of varying radii, as illustrated in
As with the assembly of
It is generally understood that harder, less resilient material such as PEEK will not work for the retention member in a removable denture assembly, because whatever material is used, it needs to repeatedly deform and then reform as the dentures are removed and then reinstalled. PEEK simply is not resilient enough. Certain manufacturers have used PEEK for the retention member such with the Straumann® Novaloc® retentive system. But as illustrated in
While using a solid PEEK retaining member in a removable assembly is counter intuitive, and would not work for a removable assembly, testing has shown that the use of a solid PEEK retaining member with caps and abutments as illustrated, e.g., with respect to the embodiments of
This represents a major leap forward for fixed assemblies as it not only allows for the advantages of removable assemblies, but it provides huge flexibility in restorative plans. In other words, the patient may start with removable and transition to fixed (or vice versa), although a retrofit is likely required as noted below. But maybe more importantly, it allows for a transition in the event of a failed fixed restoration to a successful removable restoration with minimal procedures and cost. A failed conventional fixed restoration failure can be emotionally and financially devastating as there is currently no ability to transition. The restoration plan can even change on the fly depending on surgical outcomes.
If a user has a removable assembly, then switching to a fixed implementation, then additional implants (e.g., 1904) may be required. The flange 1910 can be removed in the short term and the same removable prosthesis 1900 can be used at least in the short term, while a fixed prosthesis is made.
As noted above, the placement of the implants is important, as the placement and other factors can results in cantilever forces that can cause the prosthesis to crack. In certain instances, the patient's jaw may not allow an implant to be positioned far enough back in the patient's jaw to sufficiently address the potential for such forces. While the retention member 1106 of the embodiments described with respect to
For example,
In some embodiments, assembly 1700 can be similar to that described in, e.g., FIGS. 27-49 in U.S. Pat. No. 9,314,318, which is incorporated herein by reference as if set forth in full. The upper portion of implant 1702 can comprise the threaded portion 1710, which is not visible in
The retention member 2106 may have an upper end configured for engagement within a cap in a recess in a dental appliance, and a continuous, unbroken skirt projecting from the upper end of the retention member for engagement over the outer locating surface of the abutment member, the skirt having a rounded, convex outer surface, the retention member being constructed partially or entirely from a PEEK material or other rigid material such that it provides a retentive force of about 10 to 75 pounds, for example about 25-75 pounds or about 50-75 pounds. The abutment member 2104 and retention member 2106 may have mateable snap-engaging formations for releasable snap engagement when the retention member is attached to the abutment member. In some embodiments, the abutment member may have a socket projecting inwardly from the upper end of the abutment member and a retention head can project from the upper end of the retention member for releasable snap engagement in the socket. The retention head may have a lower end, with the skirt extending downwardly beyond the lower end of the retention head, whereby the skirt will contact the abutment member before the lower end of the retention head reaches the socket on re-insertion of the retention member into the abutment member. The abutment member may have a weep hole connecting the socket to the outside of the abutment member for allowing saliva to escape. As shown in
The cap 2108 may comprise a cavity having a rounded concave inner surface for containing the upper end of the retention member. The concave inner surface of the cavity may allow for releasable snap engagement over the rounded outer surface of the skirt. In some aspects, the cap may comprise a generally cup shaped member having a central longitudinal axis, a top wall and an annular side wall extending away from the top wall, the top wall and side wall having an outer surface shaped to engage with the recess in the dental appliance. The cavity may be configured for swivel engagement or non-swivel engagement with the retention member, and the retention member may be adapted for swivel engagement or non-swivel engagement over the outer locating surface of the abutment member attached to the tooth root, implant, or adjacent tooth. In some contemplated embodiments, the top wall may have an interior top surface with a concave recess extending radially in an annular path along an outer annular peripheral portion of the interior top surface, the concave recess forming a curve having a first radius of curvature. The curve of the concave recess may continue along at least part of the inner surface of the side wall towards an open end of the rounded, concave inner surface of the cavity. The curve may be configured to provide swivel engagement with the retention member between a non-swiveled position in axial alignment with the central longitudinal axis of the retention member and a fully-swiveled position in which the central longitudinal axis of the cavity is at an angle to the central longitudinal axis of the retention member. The range of swivel of the cap over the retention member may be between 10-30 degrees, between 15-20 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, or at least 30 degrees. The concave recess may curve at a plurality of varying angles along the side wall and the interior top surface of the cavity. The concave recess may be composed of a series of consecutive tangent circular arcs, which can one or more of increase in size from the interior top surface to the bottom portion of the cap, and comprised of circles of increasing size from a top portion of the cap to a bottom portion of the cap. The concave recess can provide a retention member with an angle correction of up to, for example, approximately 30 degrees. The cap can have any suitable diameter and height, including for example, an outer diameter of approximately 5.4 mm, and a height of approximately 2.3 mm.
Assembly 2100 may also include implant 2102, and similarly to assembly 1700, the threaded post 2101 of the lower portion of implant 2102 can be configured to be straight, or at various angles as described above, such as between 15-32 degrees relative to straight, especially where the implant comprises an external projection extending from the top portion for releasable engagement with an abutment member. For example, implant 2102 can comprise an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion comprising threaded portion 2105 configured to screw into a threaded recess of an abutment, and wherein the lower portion comprises a platform 2103, which can be an angled platform, and a threaded post 2101 extending down from the platform, the threaded post configured for threaded engagement with bone or tissue in the mouth of the patient. The threaded post 2101 of implant 2102 can be configured to be straight as shown in
The lower portion of implant 2102 can comprise a platform 2103 and a threaded post 2101 extending from the platform for threaded engagement with a patient's bone or tissue. In some aspects, implant 2101 can comprise a lower portion that includes an angled platform. Threaded portion 2105 can be positioned above platform 2103 and screwed into the abutment (e.g., 2104), as shown in
According to another aspect, contemplated implants can comprise a) an endosseous dental implant comprising: (i) a first end portion having a top and a bottom, the first end portion comprises: (1) an external projection extending from the top of the first end portion for releasable engagement with an abutment member, wherein the abutment member has an external lower bevel portion; and (2) an annular cuff portion defining an annular seat having a recessed, inwardly tapered bevel surface, wherein the tapered bevel surface surrounds the external projection; and wherein the lower bevel of the abutment member contacts and seats on tapered bevel surface of the annular seat to form a line of connection when the abutment member is releasably engaged with the external projection, wherein the line of connection is located slightly below a patient's gum line when the implant is secured in the mouth of the patient; and (ii) a threaded post which extends from the bottom of the first end portion for direct engagement into the patient's bone or tissue. It is contemplated that the threaded post can be straight, or can be angled relative to at least one of the first end portion and the abutment member. For example, the threaded post can be angled between 10-20 degrees, about 15 degrees, between 25-35 degrees, or about 30 degrees relative to at least one of the first end portion and the abutment member. In some embodiments, the threaded post comprises a single lead thread or multiple lead threads. In some embodiments, the threaded post comprises opposing axial cuts adapted for self-tapping into the patient's bone or tissue. In some embodiments, the dental implant has a maximum outside diameter between about 1.5 mm and about 4.0 mm. In some embodiments, the threaded post comprises two successive threads of different pitch. In some embodiments, the annular cuff portion may be of different heights to accommodate different tissue depths. In some embodiments, the external projection can include a tool-receiving bore extending inwardly from an upper end of the projection.
However, it should be appreciated that assembly 2100 or a component/components thereof (e.g., cap 2108, retention member 2106) can be used in connection with any of the components of any of the assemblies and dental appliances described herein.
In some aspects, a dental assembly can comprise a dental appliance and any suitable number of attachment assemblies (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5). The dental appliance may have at least as many recesses as the number of attachment assemblies included in the dental assembly. Each attachment assembly may comprise a cap, a retention member, and an abutment. Each attachment assembly can optionally comprise an implant. The attachment assemblies of the dental assembly can comprise the same or different attachment assemblies. For example, the attachment assemblies can comprise one or more of any combination of dental assemblies described herein, including the dental assemblies described and shown in
Embodiment 1. A dental assembly for a mouth of a patient, comprising: an implant comprising an upper portion and a lower portion; wherein the upper portion comprises a threaded portion configured to screw into a threaded recess of an abutment; and wherein the lower portion comprises an angled platform and a threaded post extending from the angled platform, the threaded post configured for threaded engagement with bone or tissue in the mouth of the patient, wherein the angled platform is angled relative to a line that is orthogonal to a length of the threaded post.
Embodiment 2. The dental assembly of embodiment 1, further comprising a retention member having a first end and a continuous, unbroken skirt extending from the first end defining an inner surface for engagement over an outer locating surface of the abutment.
Embodiment 3. The dental assembly of embodiment 1 or embodiment 2, wherein the retention member is constructed from a rigid polyetheretherketone (PEEK) material such that it provides a retentive force of about 10 to 75 pounds.
Embodiment 4. The dental assembly of embodiment 1, embodiment 2 or embodiment 3, further comprising a cap configured for securing in a dental appliance and engaging the retention member.
Embodiment 5. The dental assembly of any of embodiments 1-4, wherein the threaded post is angled relative to the threaded portion of the upper portion.
Embodiment 6. The dental assembly of any of embodiments 1-5, wherein the threaded post is angled about 15 degrees relative to the threaded portion of the upper portion.
Embodiment 7. The dental assembly of any of embodiments 1-5, wherein the threaded post is angled about 30 degrees relative to the threaded portion of the upper portion.
Embodiment 8. The dental assembly of any of embodiments 1-5, wherein the threaded post is angled about 20 degrees relative to the threaded portion of the upper portion.
Embodiment 9. The dental assembly of any of embodiments 1-5, wherein the angled platform is angled between 10-35 degrees relative to the line that is orthogonal to the length of the threaded post.
Embodiment 10. The dental assembly of embodiment 1, wherein the threaded post comprises a single lead thread or multiple lead threads.
Embodiment 11. The dental assembly of embodiment 1, wherein the threaded post comprises opposing axial cuts adapted for self-tapping into the bone or tissue.
Embodiment 12. The dental assembly of embodiment 9, wherein the threaded post comprises a single lead thread or multiple lead threads.
Embodiment 13. The dental assembly of embodiment 9, wherein the threaded post comprises opposing axial cuts adapted for self-tapping into the bone or tissue.
Embodiment 14. The dental assembly of embodiment 1, wherein the implant has a maximum outside diameter between about 1.5 mm and about 4.0 mm.
Embodiment 15. The dental assembly of embodiment 9, wherein the implant has a maximum outside diameter between about 1.5 mm and about 4.0 mm.
Embodiment 16. The dental assembly of embodiment 6, wherein the threaded post comprises a single lead thread or multiple lead threads.
Embodiment 17. The dental assembly of embodiment 7, wherein the threaded post comprises a single lead thread or multiple lead threads.
Embodiment 18. The dental assembly of embodiment 6, wherein the threaded post comprises opposing axial cuts adapted for self-tapping into the bone or tissue.
Embodiment 19. The dental assembly of embodiment 7, wherein the threaded post comprises opposing axial cuts adapted for self-tapping into the bone or tissue.
Embodiment 20. The dental assembly of embodiment 6, wherein the implant has a maximum outside diameter between about 1.5 mm and about 4.0 mm.
Embodiment 21. The dental assembly of embodiment 7, wherein the implant has a maximum outside diameter between about 1.5 mm and about 4.0 mm.
Embodiment 22. A dental attachment assembly, comprising: an abutment member for attachment to a tooth root, implant, or adjacent tooth, the abutment member having an upper end, and an outer locating surface portion projecting downwardly from the upper end, the outer locating surface portion being positioned to project above a tissue level when the abutment member is secured in a tooth root, implant, or adjacent tooth; a retention member for fixed, non-patient removable, attachment to the abutment member, the retention member having an upper end comprising a swivel joint for swivel engagement within a cap in a recess in a dental appliance, and a continuous, unbroken skirt projecting from the upper end of the retention member for engagement over the outer locating surface of the abutment member, the skirt having a rounded, convex outer surface, the retention member being constructed from a rigid material such that it provides a retentive force of about 10 to 75 pounds; the abutment member and retention member having mateable snap-engaging formations for releasable snap engagement when the retention member is attached to the abutment member; and a cap for securing in a recess in a dental appliance, the cap having a cavity for containing said swivel joint, the cavity having a rounded, concave inner surface for releasable snap engagement over the rounded outer surface of the skirt, the swivel joint and cap cavity together comprising means for permitting swivelling of the cap over the retention member relative to the dental appliance.
Embodiment 23. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 22, wherein the outer locating surface portion is outwardly tapered at least adjacent the upper end of the abutment member for centering the retention member over the abutment member as the members are secured together.
Embodiment 24. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 22, wherein the rigid material is PEEK.
Embodiment 25. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 22, wherein the abutment member has a socket projecting inwardly from the upper end, of the abutment member and a retention head projects from the upper end of the retention member for releasable snap engagement in the socket.
Embodiment 26. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 25, wherein the retention head has a lower end, and the skirt extends downwardly beyond the lower end of the retention head, whereby the skirt will contact the abutment member before the lower end of the retention head reaches the socket on re-insertion of the retention member into the abutment member.
Embodiment 27. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 25, wherein the retention head does not project downwardly beyond the lower end of the skirt, whereby the lower end of the skirt contacts the abutment member prior to any other part of the attachment assembly.
Embodiment 28. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 25, wherein the abutment member has a weep hole connecting the socket to the outside of the abutment member for allowing saliva the escape.
Embodiment 29. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 22, wherein the outer locating surface portion has an outward taper from said upper end and terminates at a predetermined location above the tissue level when the abutment member is secured in a patient's mouth.
Embodiment 30. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 22, wherein the abutment member comprises a generally cylindrical head having a lower end spaced below said upper end.
Embodiment 31. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 22, wherein the skirt has an inner surface of predetermined height which is concave and does not contact the outer locating surface portion of the abutment member along at least a major portion of the height of the inner surface when the male and abutment members are secured together.
Embodiment 32. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 22, wherein the outer locating surface portion of the abutment member has a pair of diametrically opposed elongated notches for engagement with an insertion tool for engaging the abutment member with an implant
Embodiment 33. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 22, wherein the abutment member comprises means for attachment to a non-hexed implant, and the abutment member has a minimum height of 1.75 mm.
Embodiment 34. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 22, wherein the abutment member comprises means for attachment to a hexed implant, and the abutment member has a minimum height of 2.75 mm.
Embodiment 35. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 22, wherein the abutment member comprises a generally cylindrical head 40 having a convex outer surface portion adjacent said upper end, and the retention member is generally cup-shaped with an internal cavity for fitting over said head, the skirt having a concave inner surface portion for snap engagement over said convex outer surface portion to releasably secure the members together, said convex and concave surface portions comprising said mateable snap engaging formations.
Embodiment 36. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 22, wherein the abutment member has a head portion at the upper end and a shaft depending downwardly from the head portion.
Embodiment 37. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 36, wherein the shaft is at a predetermined angle to the head portion.
Embodiment 38. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 37, including a plurality of abutment members for selective engagement with a tooth root or implant, including a first abutment member having a shaft aligned with said head portion, a second, angled abutment member having a shaft at an angle of 10° to said head portion, and a third, angled abutment member having a shaft at an angle of 20° to said head portion.
Embodiment 39. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 38, wherein the outer locating surface portion of said head portion is convex.
Embodiment 40. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 38, wherein said abutment member has a through bore extending from the upper end to said lower end, and the retention member has a retention head projecting from its upper end for releasable snap engagement in said through bore.
Embodiment 41. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 40, wherein said skirt has a lower end extending beyond said retention head for contacting said abutment member before said retention head reaches the upper end of said abutment member.
Embodiment 42. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 41, wherein said skirt and said outer locating surface portion together comprise alignment means for aligning said retention head with said through bore as the male and abutment members are secured together.
Embodiment 43. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 22, wherein the cap comprises a generally cup shaped member having a central longitudinal axis, a top wall and an annular side wall extending away from the top wall, the top wall and side wall having an outer surface shaped to engage with a recess in a dental appliance and a rounded, concave inner surface defining a cavity configured for swivel engagement with a retention member adapted for non-swivel engagement over an outer locating surface of an abutment member attached to a tooth root, implant, or adjacent tooth and having a central longitudinal axis; the top wall having an interior top surface with a concave recess extending radially in an annular path along an outer annular peripheral portion of the interior top surface, the concave recess forming a curve having a first radius of curvature; and the curve of the concave recess continuing along at least part of the inner surface of the side wall towards an open end of the rounded, concave inner surface of the cavity; and wherein the curve is configured to provide swivel engagement with the retention member between a non-swiveled position in axial alignment with the central longitudinal axis of the retention member and a fully-swiveled position in which the central longitudinal axis of the cavity is at an angle to the central longitudinal axis of the retention member.
Embodiment 44. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 43, further comprising a central portion of the top surface which protrudes vertically into the cavity, the protruding central portion adapted to contact a central portion of an opposing surface of the retention member in the non-swiveled position.
Embodiment 45. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 43, wherein the curve of the concave recess and inner surface of the side wall of the cavity comprise a plurality of consecutive tangent circular arcs having different radii of curvature along the length of the curve from the top wall along the side wall.
Embodiment 46. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 45, wherein the radii of curvature of the series of consecutive tangent circular arcs increase in size from the interior top surface towards an open end of the rounded, concave inner surface of the cavity.
Embodiment 47. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 46, wherein the radii of curvature of the series of consecutive tangent circular arcs increase in size from the interior top surface to the open end of the rounded, concave inner surface of the cavity.
Embodiment 48. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 47, wherein there are three consecutive tangent circular arcs along the curve of the concave inner surface of the cavity.
Embodiment 49. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 48, wherein the consecutive tangent circular arcs have radii of 0.034, 0.042 and 0.093 inches, respectively.
Embodiment 50. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 43, wherein an outer diameter of the cap is approximately 5.4 millimeters (mm) and a height of the cap is approximately 2.3 mm.
Embodiment 51. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 43, wherein the swivel engagement of the concave recess of the cap with respect to the retention member between the non-swiveled and fully-swiveled position is up to approximately 30 degrees.
Embodiment 52. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 43, wherein the concave recess in the interior top surface of the cap is adapted to provide a space between the interior top surface and an opposing first end of the retention member in the non-swiveled position and to engage an opposing outer surface portion of the retention member in the fully-swiveled position.
Embodiment 53. A dental attachment assembly, comprising: an abutment member for attachment to a tooth root, implant, or adjacent tooth, the abutment member having an upper end, and an outer locating surface portion projecting downwardly from the upper end, the outer locating surface portion being positioned to project above a tissue level when the abutment member is secured in a tooth root, implant, or adjacent tooth; a retention member for fixed, non-patient removable, attachment to the abutment member, the retention member having an upper end configured for engagement within a cap in a recess in a dental appliance, and a continuous, unbroken skirt projecting from the upper end of the retention member for engagement over the outer locating surface of the abutment member, the skirt having a rounded, convex outer surface, the retention member being constructed from a PEEK material such that it provides a retentive force of about 10 to 75 pounds; the abutment member and retention member having mateable snap-engaging formations for releasable snap engagement when the retention member is attached to the abutment member; and wherein the cap is configured for securing in the recess in the dental appliance, and comprises a cavity for containing said upper end of the retention member, the cavity having a rounded, concave inner surface for releasable snap engagement over the rounded outer surface of the skirt.
Embodiment 54. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 53, wherein the abutment member comprises a head portion at the upper end, and a shaft depending downwardly from the head portion, and wherein the shaft is at a predetermined angle to the head portion that is not aligned with the head portion.
Embodiment 55. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 53, wherein the abutment member has a socket projecting inwardly from the upper end, of the abutment member and a retention head projects from the upper end of the retention member for releasable snap engagement in the socket.
Embodiment 56. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 55, wherein the retention head has a lower end, and the skirt extends downwardly beyond the lower end of the retention head, whereby the skirt will contact the abutment member before the lower end of the retention head reaches the socket on re-insertion of the retention member into the abutment member.
Embodiment 57. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 55, wherein the retention head does not project downwardly beyond the lower end of the skirt, whereby the lower end of the skirt contacts the abutment member prior to any other part of the attachment assembly.
Embodiment 58. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 53, wherein the abutment member has a weep hole connecting a socket projecting inwardly from an upper end of the abutment member to the outside of the abutment member for allowing saliva to escape.
Embodiment 59. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 53, wherein the mateable snap-engaging formations comprises an outwardly bulging portion of the outer locating surface portion of the abutment member and a corresponding concave ring portion of an inner surface of the skirt of the retention member.
Embodiment 60. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 53, wherein the abutment member comprises a generally cylindrical head having a convex outer surface portion adjacent said upper end, and the retention member is generally cup-shaped with an internal cavity for fitting over said head, the skirt having a concave inner surface portion for snap engagement over said convex outer surface portion to releasably secure the members together, said convex and concave surface portions comprising said mateable snap engaging formations.
Embodiment 61. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 54, further comprising a second abutment member and a third abutment member, wherein the abutment member has a shaft aligned with said head portion, wherein the second abutment member has a shaft at an angle of 10° to said head portion, and wherein the third abutment member has a shaft at an angle of 20° to said head portion.
Embodiment 62. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 54, wherein the head portion comprises the outer locating surface portion, and wherein the outer locating surface portion is convex.
Embodiment 63. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 53, wherein the cap comprises a generally cup shaped member having a central longitudinal axis, a top wall and an annular side wall extending away from the top wall, the top wall and side wall having an outer surface shaped to engage with the recess in the dental appliance, and wherein the cavity is configured for swivel engagement with the retention member adapted for non-swivel engagement over the outer locating surface of the abutment member attached to the tooth root, implant, or adjacent tooth; the top wall having an interior top surface with a concave recess extending radially in an annular path along an outer annular peripheral portion of the interior top surface, the concave recess forming a curve having a first radius of curvature; the curve of the concave recess continuing along at least part of the inner surface of the side wall towards an open end of the rounded, concave inner surface of the cavity; and wherein the curve is configured to provide swivel engagement with the retention member between a non-swiveled position in axial alignment with the central longitudinal axis of the retention member and a fully-swiveled position in which the central longitudinal axis of the cavity is at an angle to the central longitudinal axis of the retention member
Embodiment 64. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 53, wherein the upper end of the retention member comprises a swivel joint, and wherein the swivel joint and cap cavity together permit a swivelling of the cap over the retention member.
Embodiment 65. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 64, wherein a range of swivel of the cap over the retention member is between 15-20 degrees.
Embodiment 66. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 64, wherein a range of swivel of the cap over the retention member is approximately 30 degrees.
Embodiment 67. A dental attachment assembly, comprising: an abutment member with a first end shaped to attach to a tooth root, implant or adjacent tooth, and a second end with an outer locating surface, wherein the outer locating surface of the abutment member has at least two axially spaced retention portions comprising two generally rounded, annular projections; a retention member having a first end and a continuous, unbroken skirt extending from the first end defining an inner surface for engagement over the outer locating surface of the abutment member, the retention member being constructed from a rigid material such that it provides a retentive force of about 10 to 75 pounds, wherein the retention member has at least two axially spaced, snap engaging formations on the inner surface of the skirt for releasable snap engagement with the respective retention portions of the abutment member, and wherein the axially spaced, snap engaging formations on the inner surface of the skirt comprise two spaced, annular grooves for snap engagement over the annular projections on the abutment member; and a cap with a rounded, concave inner surface defining a cavity to receive the retention member; wherein the cap is configured for securing in a dental appliance.
Embodiment 68. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 67, wherein the rigid material is PEEK.
Embodiment 69. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 67, wherein an interior top surface of the cavity includes a concave recess extending radially along an outer periphery of the interior top surface of the cavity.
Embodiment 70. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 69, further comprising a central portion of the interior top surface which protrudes vertically into the cavity.
Embodiment 71. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 70, wherein the retention member is in direct contact with the central portion of the interior top surface.
Embodiment 72. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 68, wherein a curve of the concave recess continues along a side wall of the rounded, concave inner surface defining the cavity.
Embodiment 73. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 72, wherein the concave recess curves at a plurality of varying angles along the side wall and the interior top surface of the cavity.
Embodiment 74. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 72, wherein the concave recess is composed of a series of consecutive tangent circular arcs.
Embodiment 75. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 74, wherein the series of consecutive tangent circular arcs increase in size from the interior top surface to the bottom portion of the cap.
Embodiment 76. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 73, wherein the series of consecutive tangent circular arcs are comprised of circles of increasing size from a top portion of the cap to a bottom portion of the cap.
Embodiment 77. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 67, wherein an outer diameter of the cap is approximately 5.4 millimeters (mm) and a height of the cap is approximately 2.3 mm.
Embodiment 78. The dental attachment assembly of embodiment 68, wherein the concave recess provides a retention member with an angle correction of up to approximately 30 degrees.
Embodiment 79. A dental assembly, comprising: (a) an endosseous dental implant comprising: (i) a first end portion having a top and a bottom, the first end portion comprises: (1) an external projection extending from the top of the first end portion for releasable engagement with an abutment member, wherein the abutment member has a lower portion; and (2) an annular cuff portion defining an annular seat; and wherein the lower portion of the abutment member contacts and seats on the annular seat to form a line of connection when the abutment member is releasably engaged with the external projection, wherein the line of connection is located slightly below a patient's gum line when the implant is secured in the mouth of the patient; and (ii) a threaded post which extends from the bottom of the first end portion for direct engagement into the patient's bone or tissue; (b) a retention member having a first end and a continuous, unbroken skirt extending from the first end defining an inner surface for fixed, non-patient removable, engagement over an outer locating surface of the abutment member, the retention member being constructed from a rigid material such that it provides a retentive force of between 10 to 75 pounds, wherein the rigid material comprises PEEK; and (c) a cap configured for securing in a dental appliance and engaging the retention member.
Embodiment 80. A dental assembly, comprising: (a) an endosseous dental implant comprising: (i) a first end portion having a top and a bottom, the first end portion comprises: (1) an external projection extending from the top of the first end portion for releasable engagement with an abutment member, wherein the abutment member has an external lower portion; and (2) an annular cuff portion defining an annular seat having a recessed, inwardly tapered bevel surface, wherein the tapered bevel surface surrounds the external projection; and wherein the lower bevel of the abutment member contacts and seats on tapered bevel surface of the annular seat to form a line of connection when the abutment member is releasably engaged with the external projection, wherein the line of connection is located slightly below a patient's gum line when the implant is secured in the mouth of the patient; and (ii) a threaded post which extends from the bottom of the first end portion for direct engagement into the patient's bone or tissue; (b) a retention member having a first end and a continuous, unbroken skirt extending from the first end defining an inner surface for engagement over the outer locating surface of the abutment member, the retention member being constructed from a rigid material such that it provides a retentive force of about 10 to 75 pounds; and (c) a cap configured for securing in a dental appliance and engaging the retention member.
Embodiment 81. The dental assembly of embodiment 79 or embodiment 80, wherein the threaded post is angled relative to at least one of the external projection, the first end portion, and the abutment member.
Embodiment 82. The dental assembly of embodiment 81, wherein the threaded post is angled between 10-20 degrees relative to the at least one of the first end portion and the abutment member.
Embodiment 83. The dental assembly of embodiment 82, wherein the threaded post is angled about 15 degrees relative to the at least one of the first end portion and the abutment member.
Embodiment 84. The dental assembly of embodiment 81, wherein the threaded post is angled between 25-35 degrees relative to the at least one of the first end portion and the abutment member.
Embodiment 85. The dental assembly of embodiment 84, wherein the threaded post is angled about 30 degrees relative to the at least one of the first end portion and the abutment member.
Embodiment 86. The dental assembly of embodiment 79 or embodiment 80, wherein the rigid material is polyetheretherketone (PEEK).
Embodiment 87. The dental assembly of embodiment 79 or embodiment 80, wherein the threaded post comprises a single lead thread or multiple lead threads.
Embodiment 88. The dental assembly of embodiment 79 or embodiment 80, wherein the threaded post comprises opposing axial cuts adapted for self-tapping into the patient's bone or tissue.
Embodiment 89. The dental assembly of embodiment 79 or embodiment 80, wherein the dental implant has a maximum outside diameter between about 1.5 mm and about 4.0 mm.
Embodiment 90. The dental assembly of embodiment 79 or embodiment 80, wherein the threaded post comprises two successive threads of different pitch.
Embodiment 91. The dental assembly of embodiment 79 or embodiment 80, wherein the annular cuff portion may be of different heights to accommodate different tissue depths.
Embodiment 92. The dental assembly of embodiment 79 or embodiment 80, wherein the external projection has a tool-receiving bore extending inwardly from an upper end of the projection.
Embodiment 93. A dental assembly, comprising: a dental appliance comprising a first recess and a second recess; a first cap for securing in the first recess and a second cap for securing in the second recess; a first abutment member for attaching to a first tooth root, implant, or adjacent tooth, and a second abutment member for attaching to a second tooth root, implant, or adjacent tooth; a first retention member sized for engagement within the first cap, the first retention member having a first end and a continuous, unbroken skirt extending from the first end defining an inner surface for engagement over the outer locating surface of the first abutment member, the retention member being constructed from a rigid material such that it provides a retentive force of about 10 to 75 pounds; and a second retention member sized for engagement within the second cap, the second retention member having a first end and a continuous, unbroken skirt extending from the first end defining an inner surface for engagement over the outer locating surface of the second abutment member, the retention member being constructed from a rigid material such that it provides a retentive force of about 10 to 75 pounds.
Embodiment 94. The dental assembly of embodiment 93, wherein the first abutment member comprises an upper end, and the outer locating surface of the first abutment member is positioned to project about a tissue level when the abutment member is secured in the first tooth root, implant, or adjacent tooth, wherein the first retention member comprises an upper end comprising a swivel joint for swivel engagement within the first cap, wherein the first abutment member and first retention member have mateable snap-engaging formations for releasable snap engagement when the first retention member is attached to the first abutment member; and wherein the first cap comprises a cavity for containing the swivel joint, the cavity having a rounded, concave inner surface for releasable snap engagement over the rounded outer surface of the skirt, the swivel joint and cap cavity together comprising means for permitting swivelling of the first cap over the first retention member relative to the dental appliance.
Embodiment 95. The dental assembly of embodiment 94, wherein the outer locating surface of the first abutment member is outwardly tapered at least adjacent the upper end of the first abutment member for centering the first retention member over the first abutment member as they are secured together
Embodiment 96. The dental assembly of embodiment 93, wherein the first abutment member comprises a first end shaped to attach to the first tooth root, implant or adjacent tooth, and a second end with the first outer locating surface, wherein the first outer locating surface of the first abutment member has at least two axially spaced retention portions comprising two generally rounded, annular projections, wherein the first retention member has at least two axially spaced, snap engaging formations on the inner surface of the skirt for releasable snap engagement with the respective retention portions of the abutment member, and wherein the axially spaced, snap engaging formations on the inner surface of the skirt comprise two spaced, annular grooves for snap engagement over the annular projections on the first abutment member, and wherein the first cap comprises a rounded, concave inner surface defining a cavity to receive a swivel engagement with the first retention member; wherein an interior top surface of the cavity includes a concave recess extending radially along an outer periphery of the interior top surface of the cavity.
Embodiment 97. The dental assembly of embodiment 93, further comprising: an implant comprising an upper portion and a lower portion; wherein the upper portion comprises a threaded portion configured to screw into a threaded recess of the first abutment member; and wherein the lower portion comprises an angled platform and a threaded post extending from the angled platform, the threaded post configured for threaded engagement with bone or tissue in the mouth of the patient, wherein the angled platform is angled relative to a line that is orthogonal to a length of the threaded post.
Embodiment 98. The dental assembly of embodiment 93, wherein the rigid material is PEEK.
Embodiment 99. The dental assembly of embodiment 94 or embodiment 95, wherein the first abutment member has a socket projecting inwardly from the upper end of the abutment member and a retention head projects from the upper end of the first retention member for releasable snap engagement in the socket.
Embodiment 100. The dental assembly of embodiment 94 or embodiment 95, wherein the outer locating surface has an outward taper from the upper end of the first abutment member and terminates at a predetermined location above the tissue level when the first abutment member is secured in a patient's mouth.
Embodiment 101. The dental assembly of embodiment 94 or embodiment 95, wherein the first abutment member comprises a generally cylindrical head having a lower end spaced below the upper end of the first abutment member.
Embodiment 102. The dental assembly of embodiment 94 or embodiment 95, wherein the skirt of the first retention member has an inner surface of predetermined height which is concave and does not contact the outer locating surface portion of the first abutment member along at least a major portion of the height of the inner surface when the first retention member and first abutment members are secured together.
Embodiment 103. The dental assembly of embodiment 94 or embodiment 95, wherein the first cap comprises a generally cup shaped member having a central longitudinal axis, a top wall and an annular side wall extending away from the top wall, the top wall and side wall having an outer surface shaped to engage with the first recess in the dental appliance.
Embodiment 104. The dental assembly of embodiment 93, wherein the first abutment member comprises a first end shaped to attach to the first tooth root, implant or adjacent tooth, and a second end with the first outer locating surface, wherein the first outer locating surface of the first abutment member has at least two axially spaced retention portions comprising two generally rounded, annular projections, wherein the first retention member has at least two axially spaced, snap engaging formations on the inner surface of the skirt for releasable snap engagement with the respective retention portions of the abutment member, and wherein the axially spaced, snap engaging formations on the inner surface of the skirt comprise two spaced, annular grooves for snap engagement over the annular projections on the first abutment member, and wherein the first cap comprises a rounded, concave inner surface defining a cavity to receive a swivel engagement with the first retention member; wherein an interior top surface of the cavity includes a concave recess extending radially along an outer periphery of the interior top surface of the cavity.
Embodiment 105. The dental assembly of embodiment 104, further comprising a central portion of the interior top surface which protrudes vertically into the cavity.
Embodiment 106. The dental assembly of embodiment 105, wherein the first retention member is in direct contact with the central portion of the interior top surface.
Embodiment 107. The dental assembly of embodiment 104, wherein a curve of the concave recess continues along a side wall of the rounded, concave inner surface defining the cavity.
Embodiment 108. The dental assembly of embodiment 107, wherein the concave recess curves at a plurality of varying angles along the side wall and the interior top surface of the cavity.
Embodiment 109. The dental assembly of embodiment 108, wherein the concave recess is composed of a series of consecutive tangent circular arcs.
Embodiment 110. The dental assembly of embodiment 93, further comprising an endosseous dental implant, comprising: (i) a first end portion having a top and a bottom, the first end portion comprises: (1) an external projection extending from the top of the first end portion for releasable engagement with the first abutment member, wherein the first abutment member has an external lower bevel portion; and (2) an annular cuff portion defining an annular seat having a recessed, inwardly tapered bevel surface, wherein the tapered bevel surface surrounds the external projection; and wherein the lower bevel of the first abutment member contacts and seats on tapered bevel surface of the annular seat to form a line of connection when the abutment member is releasably engaged with the external projection, wherein the line of connection is located slightly below a patient's gum line when the implant is secured in the mouth of the patient; and (ii) a threaded post which extends from the bottom of the first end portion for direct engagement into the patient's bone or tissue.
Embodiment 111. The dental assembly of embodiment 110, wherein the threaded post is angled relative to at least one of the first end portion and the first abutment member.
Embodiment 112. The dental assembly of embodiment 111, wherein the threaded post is angled between 10-20 degrees relative to the at least one of the first end portion and the abutment member.
Embodiment 113. The dental assembly of embodiment 112, wherein the threaded post is angled about 15 degrees relative to the at least one of the first end portion and the abutment member.
Embodiment 114. The dental assembly of embodiment 111, wherein the threaded post is angled between 25-35 degrees relative to the at least one of the first end portion and the abutment member.
Embodiment 115. The dental assembly of embodiment 114, wherein the threaded post is angled about 30 degrees relative to the at least one of the first end portion and the abutment member.
Embodiment 116. The dental assembly of embodiment 93, wherein the rigid material is polyetheretherketone (PEEK).
Thus, specific examples of dental attachment assemblies have been disclosed. The above description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles described herein can be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, it is to be understood that the description and drawings presented herein represent a presently preferred embodiment of the invention and are therefore representative of the subject matter which is broadly contemplated by the present invention. It is further understood that the scope of the present invention fully encompasses other embodiments that may become obvious to those skilled in the art and that the scope of the present invention is accordingly not limited.
It will be understood that the benefits and advantages described above may relate to one embodiment or may relate to several embodiments. Aspects described in connection with one embodiment are intended to be able to be used with the other embodiments. Any explanation in connection with one embodiment applies to similar features of the other embodiments, and elements of multiple embodiments can be combined to form other embodiments. The embodiments are not limited to those that solve any or all of the stated problems or those that have any or all of the stated benefits and advantages.
The preceding detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the invention or the application and uses of the invention. The described embodiments are not limited to usage in conjunction with a particular type of dental attachment assembly for anchoring a dental appliance with a base structure such as a tooth root or dental implant. Hence, although the present embodiments are, for convenience of explanation, depicted and described as being implemented in a dental attachment assembly for anchoring a dental appliance with a base structure such as a tooth root or dental implant, it will be appreciated that it can be implemented in various other types of dental attachment assembly for anchoring a dental appliance with a base structure such as a tooth root or dental implant. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in any preceding section. It is also understood that the illustrations may include exaggerated dimensions and graphical representation to better illustrate the referenced items shown, and are not considered limiting unless expressly stated as such.
Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced.
As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It is further noted that the claims can be drafted to exclude any optional element. As such, this statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for use of such exclusive terminology as “solely,” “only” and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements, or use of a “negative” limitation.
Reference throughout this specification to “an embodiment” or “an implementation” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment or implementation. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment or a single exclusive embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics described herein may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or one or more implementations.
The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any aspect described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects. Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term “some” refers to one or more.
Unless the context dictates the contrary, all ranges set forth herein should be interpreted as being inclusive of their endpoints and open-ended ranges should be interpreted to include only commercially practical values. Similarly, all lists of values should be considered as inclusive of intermediate values unless the context indicates the contrary. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.
Certain numerical values and ranges are presented herein with numerical values being preceded by the term “about.” The term “about” is used herein to provide literal support for the exact number that it precedes, as well as a number that is near to or approximately the number that the term precedes. In determining whether a number is near to or approximately a specifically recited number, the near or approximating un-recited number may be a number which, in the context in which it is presented, provides the substantial equivalent of the specifically recited number.
Combinations, described herein, such as “at least one of A, B, or C,” “one or more of A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B, and C,” “one or more of A, B, and C,” and “A, B, C, or any combination thereof” include any combination of A, B, and/or C, and may include multiples of A, multiples of B, or multiples of C. Specifically, combinations such as “at least one of A, B, or C,” “one or more of A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B, and C,” “one or more of A, B, and C,” and “A, B, C, or any combination thereof” may be A only, B only, C only, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C, and any such combination may contain one or more members of its constituents A, B, and/or C. For example, a combination of A and B may comprise one A and multiple B's, multiple A's and one B, or multiple A's and multiple B's.
All structural and functional equivalents to the components of the various aspects described throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims.
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/926,478, filed Nov. 18, 2022, which is a 371 of U.S. International Application No. PCT/US22/39293, filed on Aug. 3, 2022, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/703,512, filed Mar. 24, 2022, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/499,683, filed Oct. 12, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/478,320, filed on Sep. 17, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/394,275, filed on Aug. 4, 2021. U.S. International Application No. PCT/US22/39293, filed on Aug. 3, 2022, is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/499,665, filed on Oct. 12, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/478,320, filed on Sep. 17, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/394,275, filed on Aug. 4, 2021. U.S. International Application No. PCT/US22/39293, filed on Aug. 3, 2022, is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/499,671, filed on Oct. 12, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/478,320, filed on Sep. 17, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/394,275, filed on Aug. 4, 2021. All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 17926478 | Jan 0001 | US |
| Child | 18106976 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 17703512 | Mar 2022 | US |
| Child | 17926478 | US | |
| Parent | 17499683 | Oct 2021 | US |
| Child | 17703512 | US | |
| Parent | 17478320 | Sep 2021 | US |
| Child | 17499683 | US | |
| Parent | 17394275 | Aug 2021 | US |
| Child | 17478320 | US | |
| Parent | 17499665 | Oct 2021 | US |
| Child | PCT/US22/39293 | US | |
| Parent | 17478320 | Sep 2021 | US |
| Child | 17499665 | US | |
| Parent | 17394275 | Aug 2021 | US |
| Child | 17478320 | US | |
| Parent | 17499671 | Oct 2021 | US |
| Child | PCT/US22/39293 | US | |
| Parent | 17478320 | Sep 2021 | US |
| Child | 17499671 | US | |
| Parent | 17394275 | Aug 2021 | US |
| Child | 17478320 | US |
