FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention generally relates to orthodontic appliances, more particularly to a system of orthodontic appliances for the comprehensive treatment of malocclusions, which allows for the application of substantially statically determinate forces and moments to generate controlled and predictable orthodontic correction of a malocclusion.
BACKGROUND ART
Malocclusion of the dentition and jaws are commonly seen in the general population. While the degree or severity may vary from person to person, it is estimated that roughly two out of every three individuals suffer from malocclusions of some type. Malocclusions are generally corrected to improve aesthetics, restore normal oral function, establish improved relationships of the teeth in their bony housing and gum tissue. These measures generally result in better oral health. Malocclusions manifest themselves in three reference planes of space namely the transverse, the vertical and the sagittal plane of space. Some common malocclusions include crowded or misaligned teeth, cross bite, deep bite, open bite, overjet, under bite, etc. Over the years a number of strategies have evolved to treat the malocclusions. For instance, crowding is commonly managed by creating space in the dental arches. This may be achieved by extraction of selected teeth or by non-extraction approaches which may involve shaving of teeth, to reduce their size, in order to fit them in the dental arches or expansion of the teeth or advancing the teeth forward or pushing the back teeth further back to create space to correct the crowding.
Commonly known treatment methodologies include use of brackets and arch wires and aligners. Arch wires are engaged into bracket slots with the brackets bonded to the teeth, and since they distort elastically, as the arch wires recover to their original shape, they create forces that trigger a biological response to move the teeth. These brackets may be placed on the front of the teeth i.e. labial surfaces located on exposed visible surfaces of teeth or lingual surfaces that are located on the back or inner surfaces of teeth. The location of brackets on the teeth and bends in the arch wire determine the magnitude and direction of forces applied on the teeth. Furthermore, elastically deformable elements such as coil springs, elastomeric chains may also be deployed at key locations to provide additional forces to move teeth Aligners are removable plastic shells that cover the entire surface of teeth and their action is commonly coupled with attachments bonded on teeth. The shells are distorted elastically when they engage the teeth and as they recover their programmed shape they create forces to move teeth.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,431,562 to Andreiko et al. describes a computerized, appliance-driven approach to orthodontics. In this method, first certain shape information of teeth is acquired. A uniplanar target arch form is calculated from the shape information. The shape of customized bracket slots, the bracket base, and the shape of an orthodontic arch-wire, are calculated in accordance with a mathematically-derived target archform. The goal of the Andreiko et al. method is to give more predictability, standardization, and certainty to orthodontics by replacing the human element in orthodontic appliance design with a deterministic, mathematical computation of a target archform and appliance design. Hence the '562 patent teaches away from an interactive, computer-based system in which the orthodontist remains fully involved in patient diagnosis, appliance design, and treatment planning and monitoring.
More recently, in the late 1990's Align Technologies began offering transparent, removable aligning devices as a new treatment modality in orthodontics. In this system, a plaster model of the dentition of the patent is obtained by the orthodontist and shipped to a remote appliance manufacturing center, where it is scanned with a laser. A computer model of the dentition in a target situation is generated at the appliance manufacturing center and made available for viewing to the orthodontist over the Internet. The orthodontist indicates changes they wish to make to individual tooth positions. Later, another virtual model is provided over the Internet and the orthodontist reviews the revised model, and indicates any further changes. After several such iterations, the target situation is agreed upon. A series of removable aligning devices or shells are manufactured and delivered to the orthodontist. The shells, in theory, will move the patient's teeth to the desired or target position.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,632,089 to Rubbert discloses an interactive, software-based treatment planning method to correct a malocclusion. The method can be performed on an orthodontic workstation in a clinic or at a remote location such as a lab or precision appliance manufacturing center. The workstation stores a virtual three-dimensional model of the dentition of a patient and patient records. The virtual model is manipulated by the user to define a target situation for the patient, including a target archform and individual tooth positions in the archform. Parameters for an orthodontic appliance, such as the location of orthodontic brackets and resulting shape of a customized orthodontic archwire, are obtained from the simulation of tooth movement to the target situation and the placement position of virtual brackets. However, the effective use of a customized archwire is limited to a single stage of orthodontic treatment namely finishing.
Additional limitations with the both the bracket wire systems and aligners are that the force system created are largely unknown and indeterminate and can only be controlled to a very limited extent. This commonly results in unpredictable and unintended for large tooth movements such as space closure, expansion, constriction, root correction, distalization, intrusion, extrusion or jaw position correction. Furthermore, many of these devices cannot be used concurrently to control various tooth movements or jaw positioning simultaneously in a predictable way. Additionally, these devices do not easily lend themselves to adjustment in appliance features to generate predictable forces to provide controlled and predictable orthodontic correction.
In light of the discussion above, there is required an orthodontic appliance system that does not suffer from above mentioned deficiencies.
Any discussion of the background art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such background art is prior art nor that such background art is widely known or forms part of the common general knowledge in the field.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In one aspect, an orthodontic appliance is disclosed. The orthodontic appliance includes an elongated receptacle and an elongated member telescopically extending from the receptacle and adapted to couple to one or more teeth. The orthodontic appliance includes an elastic coupled to the elongated member and configured to move the elongated member towards the elongated receptacle. Further, a movement of the elongated member relative to the elongated receptacle facilitates—repositioning of one or more teeth.
In another aspect, an orthodontic appliance is disclosed-comprising a first telescopic assembly including a first elongated receptacle coupled to one or more first teeth and a first elongated member telescopically extending from the first elongated receptacle and adapted to couple one or more second teeth. The first telescopic assembly further including a first elastic member attached to the first elongated member and the first elongated receptacle, and is adapted to move the first elongated member toward the first elongated receptacle. Further, the orthodontic appliance includes a second telescopic assembly having a second elongated receptacle coupled to one or more third teeth and a second elongated member telescopically extending from the second elongated receptacle and adapted to couple one or more fourth teeth. The second telescopic assembly further including a second elastic member attached to the second elongated member and the second elongated receptacle, and is adapted to move the second elongated member toward the second elongated receptacle.
In yet another aspect, an orthodontic appliance is disclosed. The orthodontic appliance includes a telescopic assembly having an elongated receptacle and an elongated member telescopically extending from the receptacle, and adapted to couple to one or more teeth. The telescopic assembly further including an elastic member coupled to the elongated member and configured to urge the elongated member towards the elongated receptacle. A movement of the elongated member relative to elongated receptacle facilitates a first movement of one or more teeth. The orthodontic appliance also has an attachment member coupled to the telescopic assembly and is configured to facilitate a second movement of the one or more teeth.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 3 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 4 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 5 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 6 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 7 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 8 illustrates a ball socket type connector suitable for use in an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 9 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 10 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 11 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 12 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 13 illustrates an orthodontic appliance having a plurality of brackets and a wire, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 14 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 15 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 16 illustrates an orthodontic appliance having a removable tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 17 illustrates an orthodontic appliance for facilitating an intrusion of a tooth, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 18 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 19 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 20 illustrates an orthodontic appliance having two telescopic assemblies, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 21 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 22 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 23A illustrates an orthodontic appliance having a plurality of brackets and a wire for aligning a plurality of front teeth, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 23B illustrates an orthodontic appliance of FIG. 23A with pontics, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 24 illustrates an orthodontic appliance having a lip bumper, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 25 illustrates an orthodontic appliance having an expansion screw, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 26 illustrates an orthodontic appliance having a quad-helix unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 27 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 28 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 29 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 30 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 31 illustrates an orthodontic appliance facilitating bi-expansion, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 32 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 33 illustrates an orthodontic appliance facilitating root corrections, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 34A illustrates an orthodontic appliance facilitating root corrections, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 34B illustrates a side view of the orthodontic appliance of FIG. 34A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 35 illustrates an orthodontic appliance facilitating root corrections, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 36 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 37 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 38A illustrates a mechanism for attaching a first tube, a second tube, and an elongated member of the orthodontic appliance of FIG. 37, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 38B illustrates another mechanism for attaching the first tube, the second tube, and the elongated member of the orthodontic appliance of FIG. 37, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 38C illustrates yet another mechanism for attaching the first tube, the second tube, and the elongated member of the orthodontic appliance of FIG. 37, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 39 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 40 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 41 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 42 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 43 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 44 illustrates an orthodontic appliance having a removable tray for facilitating an alignment of a plurality of front teeth, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 45A illustrates an orthodontic appliance facilitating root correction, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 45B illustrates a side view of the orthodontic appliance of FIG. 45A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 45C illustrates an orthodontic appliance facilitating root correction, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 45D illustrates a side view of the orthodontic appliance of FIG. 45C, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 45E illustrates an exploded view of an arch member of the orthodontic appliance of FIG. 45C, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 46 illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 47A illustrates an orthodontic appliance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 47B illustrates a mono-block system of the orthodontic appliance of FIG. 47A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 47C illustrates another mono-block system of the orthodontic appliance of FIG. 47A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIGS. 48A-48D illustrates bite blocks positioned in a mouth of a patient, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 49A illustrates a teeth attachment mechanism adapted to facilitate coupling of various teeth together, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 49B illustrates an exploded view of teeth attachment mechanism of FIG. 49A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 50A illustrates a teeth attachment mechanism adapted to facilitate coupling of various teeth together, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 50B illustrates an exploded view of teeth attachment mechanism of FIG. 50A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 51A illustrates a teeth attachment mechanism adapted to facilitate coupling of various teeth together, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 51B illustrates an exploded view of teeth attachment mechanism of FIG. 51A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 52A illustrates a retainer assembly for receiving a bracket, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 52B illustrates the retainer assembly with a bracket attached with a retainer member, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 53 illustrates a front view of a mechanism for position a bracket on a tooth, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 54A illustrates a side view of a bracket, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 54B illustrates front view of the bracket of FIG. 54A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 54C illustrates a front view of a designer bracket, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 54D illustrates a side view of a designer bracket of FIG. 54C, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 55 illustrates a front view of a veneer, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and
FIG. 56 illustrates the veneer positioned on one or more teeth, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the words “comprise”, “comprises” and “comprising” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated step or element or group of steps or elements but not the exclusion of any other step or element or group of steps or elements.
Any one of the terms: “including” or “which includes” or “that includes” as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements/features that follow the term, but not excluding others.
It is an objective of the present invention to develop an orthodontic appliance system that include a basic framework with extensions that can be used for space closure, intrusion, root correction, distal movement, expansion, constriction extrusion, alignment, retention and stabilization and jaw position correction. These movements can be performed concurrently or in tandem or staged and sequenced in a manner to provide the most safe, reliable, efficient, and effective care for a patient. In several embodiments, the basic framework is envisaged to include longitudinal, arch shaped and transverse components that may be attached to teeth or the bone of a patient using relatively fixed semi fixed or removable means. The components may include solid and/or tubular bent portions and be combined with each other using several attachment mechanisms. In such scenarios, the framework with its associated members will act as a passive (non-force applying) structure and will be adapted to receive other active elements/member that are capable of force applications. These active elements may include structure that are capable of at least partial elastic or elastomeric deformation. Also, it is envisaged that an orthodontic appliance designed for one region of the teeth (such as buccal, lingual or occlusal) may be implementable to another region with very basic modifications without departing from the scope of the invention. Referring to figures now, the invention will be explained in more detail.
FIG. 1 illustrates an orthodontic appliance 100 for treating malocclusions, such as, space closure, in teeth of a patient, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The orthodontic appliance 100 includes an elongated receptacle 102, for example, a cylindrical tube, and an elongated member 104 telescopically extending from the elongated receptacle 102 and is disposed at least partially inside the elongated receptacle 102. Therefore, the elongated receptacle 102 and the elongated member 104 together define a telescopic assembly 106. The elongated receptacle 102 may be adapted to couple to one or more first teeth 108 of a jaw or a bone of the jaw, while the elongated member 104 may be adapted to couple to one or more second teeth 110 of the jaw. In some embodiments, the one or more first teeth 108 and one or more second teeth 110 are separated by a space 140, and, in such cases, the orthodontic appliance 100 is, at least, configured to reduce the space between the one or more first teeth 108 and the one or more second teeth 110, and therefore, act as a space closure. In certain implementation, as shown in the FIG. 1, the elongated receptacle 102 includes a first portion 142 that defines a tubular member, and a second portion 144 extending from the first portion 142. The second portion 144 may define a shaft portion of the elongated receptacle 102. The first portion 142 and the second portion 144 may be disposed at an angle to each other to define a line of action of the force acting on the first teeth 108. Similar to the elongated receptacle 102, the elongated member 104 may also include a first portion 146 and a second portion 148 extending at an angle to the first portion 146. The second portion 148 is adapted to couple to the one or more second teeth 110, while the first portion 146 is at least partially received inside the elongated receptacle 102 and is adapted to slide relative to the first portion 142 of the elongated receptacle 102. Although, the first portion 142 and the second portion 144 are shown to be integrally formed with each other, it may be appreciated that the first portion 142 and the second portion 144 may be separate elements and may be coupled by using various connectors, for example, tubular connectors, hinge connectors, or ball socket type connectors (shown in FIG. 8).
Further, the orthodontic appliance 100 may include a first hook 150 coupled to the elongated receptacle 102 and a second hook 152 coupled to the elongated member 104. As shown, in an embodiment, the first hook 150 may be coupled to the first portion 142, and may be disposed at the junction of the first portion 142 and the second portion 144, while the second hook 152 may be coupled to the second portion 148 of the elongated member 104. In another embodiment, the first hook may be coupled to the second portion 144 (shaft portion) of the elongated receptacle 102, while the second hook 152 may be coupled to the second portion 148 of the elongated member 104. It may be appreciated that a location of the first hook 150 and a location of the second hook 152 can be varied depending on placement of the orthodontic appliance 100 inside the mouth of the patient, an amount of force needed to move the one or more teeth, a desired line of action of force, or, a positioning of the space 140 between the teeth 108, 110 and type of teeth that needs to be moved to reduce the space between the teeth, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the first hook 150 and the second hook 152 may be integrally formed with the elongated receptacle 102 and the elongated member 104 respectively. Alternatively, the first hook 150 and the second hook 152, respectively, may be removable attached with the elongated receptacle 102 and the elongated member 104 by using various attachment means, such as, but not limited to, fasteners, etc. Further, the hooks 150, 152 may be crimpable or locked with a shape memory coupling device or may be constructed from a shape memory alloy or polymer that is trained to lock with the elongated member 104 and/or elongated receptacle 102. Further, it may be appreciated that a position of the hooks 150, 152 can be changed to influence line of action and distance between hooks 150, 152 can be modified to affect the magnitude of force.
Further, the orthodontic appliance 100 includes an elastic member 160 (also referred to as an active member or force generating member) having a first end coupled to the elongated receptacle 102 and a second end coupled to the elongated member 104. As shown, the first end of the elastic member 160 may be attached to the first hook 150, while the second end may be attached to the second hook 152. In an assembled position, the elastic member 160 may be under tension, and hence applies a force on the elongated member 104 and elongated receptacle 102 to move the elongated member 104 and the elongated receptacle 102 towards each other. In so doing, the elastic member 160 facilitates a sliding movement of the elongated member 104 relative to the elongated receptacle 102 to reduce the space 140 between the one or more first teeth 108 and the one or more second teeth 110. In an embodiment, the elastic member may be a spring or an elastic (elastomer) polymeric chain. In an embodiment, the first end of the elastic member 160 may also be attached to a jaw bone instead of the first hook 150.
FIG. 2 illustrates another implementation of the orthodontic appliance 100 in which the elongated receptacle 102 and the elongated member 104 are affixed to the one or more first teeth 108 and one or more second teeth 110 using the bonding pads 112, 120.
FIG. 3 illustrates another implementation of the orthodontic appliance 100 in which the elongated receptacle 102 and the elongated member 104 are affixed to the one or more first teeth 108 and one or more second teeth 110 using bonding strip 114, 122. As shown, the bonding strip 114 may be extended on the occlusal surface to act as positional devices as well to increase surface area for bonding with the teeth.
FIG. 4 illustrates yet another implementation of the orthodontic appliance 100 in which the elongated receptacle 102 and the elongated member 104 are affixed to the one or more first teeth 108 and one or more second teeth 110 by using an attachment such as orthodontic brackets 116, 124. As shown, the orthodontic bracket 116 is attached to a single first tooth 108 and which in turn is attached to a band 118 which may fully encircle the first tooth 108 or at a minimum engage one surface of the exposed crown of the first tooth 108. The attachment of the elongated receptacle 102 to the first tooth 108 by using the bracket 116 may facilitate an easy removal of the elongated receptacle 102 from the first tooth 108. As shown, the orthodontic bracket 124 may be removably or fixedly attached to a band 126 configured to surround the second tooth 110. The orthodontic bracket 124 may facilitate an easy removal of the elongated member 104 from the second tooth 110, and hence an easy removal of the orthodontic appliance 100 from the mouth of the patient.
FIG. 5 illustrates yet another implementation of the orthodontic appliance 100. As shown in FIG. 5, the elongated receptacle 102 may be directly affixed with the band 116 that is removably attached or cemented to the first tooth 108 for coupling the elongated receptacle 102 to the first tooth 108. The band 116 may include two stops 117, 119 that attaches with the crown of the first tooth 108 and acts as positioning devices.
In certain implementations, a removable device that friction grips the tooth or fits into undercuts of the tooth or attachments on handles bonded to tooth may be utilized for coupling the elongated receptacle 102 to the one or more first teeth 108 and/or elongated member 104 to one or more second teeth 110. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the elongated receptacle 102 is attached or bonded to the one or more first teeth by using a removable crown 130 to be worn by the patient such that the removable crown 130 may envelope the one or more first teeth 108. In an embodiment, the removable crown 130 may be a segmental aligner tray adapted to be worn by the patient to facilitate simultaneous alignment of the teeth of the patient.
In some other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 7, the elongated member 104 and the elongated receptacle 102 are attached using tubular brackets, for example a first tubular bracket 132 is attached or coupled to the one or more second teeth 110 to receive the a portion of the elongated member 104, and hence attach/couple the elongated member 104 to the one or more second teeth 110. Also, a second tubular bracket 134 may be attached to the one or more first teeth 108 to receive a portion of the elongated receptacle 101, and hence attach the elongated receptacle 102 to the one or more first teeth 108. As shown, the first tubular bracket 130 may include a slit 136 to facilitate an insertion of the portion of the elongated member 104 inside the first tubular bracket 130. As shown, the slit 136 may be a partial slit that extend longitudinally along a part length of the first tubular bracket 132 so that a rigidity of the coupling of the elongated member 104 is substantially maintained. Similarly, the second tubular bracket 134 may include a slit 138 to facilitate an insertion of the portion of the elongated receptacle 102 inside the second tubular bracket 134. As shown, the slit 138 may extend longitudinally along a part length of the second tubular bracket 134. Further, the first tubular bracket 132 and the second tubular bracket 134, respectively, are attached to the one or more second teeth 110 and the one or more first teeth 108 using a dental bonding agent. In some other implementations, the tubular brackets 132, 134 may be attached to the respective teeth 108, 110 by using various other coupling means such as, but not limited to, bands, cement, bonding pad, bonding strip.
Referring to FIG. 8, an exemplary ball socket connector 200 is shown. The ball socket connector 200 may facilitate a rotational movement of the second portion 144 relative to the first portion 142 to facilitate a proper positioning of the elongated receptacle 102 on the first teeth 108, enabling a desire line of action of force. Further, usage of connectors for attaching the first portion 142 to the second portion 144 may help in changing a length and/or a height of the elongated receptacle 102 during the treatment. Similarly, the first portion 146 and the second portion 148 are shown to be integrally formed with each other, it may be appreciated that the first portion 146 and the second portion 148 may be separate elements and may be coupled by using various connectors, for example, tubular connectors, hinge connectors, or a ball socket type connector (shown in FIG. 8). The ball socket connector 200 may facilitate a rotational movement of the second portion 148 relative to the first portion 146 to facilitate a proper positioning of the elongated member 102 on the second teeth 110, enabling a desire line of action of force. Further, usage of connectors for attaching the first portion 146 to the second portion 148 may help in changing a length of the elongated member 104 during the treatment. The ball socket connector 200 may be a shape memory element.
It is pertinent to mention here that the orthodontic appliance 100 as illustrated in FIGS. 1-7 acts as a framework to which various other elements or members may be added in order to achieve a desired type and range of tooth movement. These kind of desired movements or restrictions may include, but not limited to, movements in all planes of space including, but not limited to, space closure, intrusion, root correction, distal movement, expansion, extrusion, constriction, alignment, retention and stabilization. Of course, as will be discussed in following discussion through several embodiments and their corresponding illustration these movements and restriction may be achieved either individually or in tandem. In this manner, the orthodontic appliance 100 is made up of passive constituents that are not intended to apply any kind of force on the teeth but to act as a platform on which additional active elements or members, such as springs and elastic bands, capable of applying a force, may be appended. Also, passive members can be attached to accomplish other.
FIG. 9 illustrates an orthodontic appliance 900 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The orthodontic appliance 900 is similar in construction to that of orthodontic appliance 100 except that the second portion 148 of the elongated member 104 extends and is connected with front teeth and the molar and premolars of one side of the jaw (second teeth 110). In this manner, the orthodontic appliance 900 is adapted to bring forward the one or more teeth 108 and reduce the space between the one or more teeth 108 and the one or more teeth 110.
FIG. 10 illustrates an orthodontic appliance 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The orthodontic appliance 1000 is similar in construction to that of orthodontic appliance 100 except that the second portion 148 of the elongated member 104 includes two elements, for example a first element 162 connecting the first portion 146 to a second element 164, and the second element 164 extends along an arch of the front teeth (second teeth 110) and is connected to the second teeth 110. As shown, the first element 162 may extend substantially parallel to the lengths of the teeth, while the second element 164 substantially extend along the width of the teeth. Further, the first element 162 is removably received inside a tube portion 166 of the second element 164 forming/defining a swivel joint. The relative positioning of the second element 164 with respect to the first element 162 ensures that the second teeth 110 moves along an arch in a direction ‘A’ due to a force applied by the elastic spring 160. Further, a stopper 170 disposed at an end of the first element 162 prevents an unintentional disconnection of the first element 162 from the second element 164. Also, this allows the shift of the midline of the front teeth towards the extraction. Also, the elongated receptacle 102 may also include a swivel joint similar to the similar joint of the elongated member 104.
FIG. 11 illustrates the orthodontic appliance 1100, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. The orthodontic appliance 1100 facilitates for achieving protraction in the second teeth 110. As shown, the elongated member 104 of the orthodontic appliance 1100 has a different angle between the first portion 146 and the second portion 148 than that of the first portion 146 and the second portion 148 of the orthodontic appliance 100 to achieve the protraction of the first teeth 108 and retraction of the second teeth 110 so that the space closes equally.
Further, in some embodiments, the orthodontic appliance 100 may include one or more attachments for facilitating one or more additional movement of one or more teeth or jawbone along with the space closure. In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, the orthodontic appliance 1200 includes a telescopic assembly 1202 similar to that of the telescopic assembly 106, and an attachment 1204 including a pin and tube arrangement 1206 for facilitating an intrusion of tooth along with the reduction in space between one or more first teeth 108 and the one or more second teeth 110. For so doing, the attachment 1204 may be coupled to the elongated receptacle 102 or elongated member 104 using a T-shaped coupler 1208. Further, as shown, the pin and tube arrangement 106 includes a pin member 1210 attached to the coupler 1208, and a tubular member 1212 telescopically receiving the pin member 1210 and coupled to one or more third teeth 1214. The tubular member 1212 is configured to slide relative to the pin member 1210 in direction substantially parallel to a length of the third tooth 1214 or in a direction of desired tooth movement. Further, the pin and tube arrangement 1206 may include an elastic band 1216 or a spring coupling the tubular member 1212 and the pin member 1210, and is adapted to apply a force to facilitate a sliding movement of the tubular member 1212 in a downward direction. In so doing, a downward force is applied on the third tooth 1214, thereby causing the intrusion of the third tooth 1214. In some situations, the elastic band 1216 may be attached directly to a bonded attachment without an intervening pin for intrusion and simultaneously torqueing of the third tooth 1216. Further, it may be appreciated that any number of teeth can be intruded by attaching the tubular member to the desired number of teeth various means known in the art.
Referring to FIG. 13, an orthodontic appliance 1300 having a telescopic assembly 1302 and two attachments, for example a first attachment 1304 and a second attachment 1306, respectively, for facilitating an intrusion of the third tooth 1308 and an alignment of a plurality of fourth teeth 1309. As shown, the telescopic assembly 1302 is similar in construction to that of the telescopic assembly 106 and has an elongated receptacle 102, an elongated member 104, and an elastic member to facilitate space closure between one or more first teeth 108 and one or more second teeth 110. As shown, the first attachment 1304 includes a hook member 1310 removably attached to a first end of the elongated receptacle 102. The hook member 1310 may extend substantially parallel to a length of a first portion 142 of the elongated receptacle 102. Further, the first attachment 1304 may include an elastic member 1312 extending from the hook member 1310 to the third tooth 1308. The elastic member 1312 is attached to the third tooth 1308 using a button 1314. It may be appreciated that the elastic member 1312 is under tension so as to provide a downward force on the third tooth 1308 to cause the intrusion of the third tooth 1308. The second attachment 1306 may include a wire 1320 and a plurality of brackets 1322. As shown, one single bracket of the plurality of the brackets 1322 is attached to each single tooth of the one or more fourth teeth 1309, and a positioning and orientation of each bracket 1322 is selected so as to enable a proper alignment of the fourth teeth 1309. Further, a dimension and positioning of a slot present in the bracket 1322 may be selected to control the force applied on the tooth. Also, an end of the wire 1320 is attached to the elongated member 104 and the wire 1320 includes appropriate bends and is attached to each of the plurality of brackets 1322 to apply a suitable amount force in s desired direction on each of the fourth teeth 1309. In this manner, the orthodontic appliance 1300 facilitates treatment of multiple tooth movements in the patient.
Referring to FIG. 14, an orthodontic appliance 1400 is shown according to an alternative embodiment of the disclosure. The orthodontic appliance 1400 may include a telescopic assembly 1402 having a tubular structure 1404 defining a first elongated receptacle 1406 and a second elongated receptacle 1408 disposed substantially parallel to first elongated receptacle 1406. Further, the orthodontic appliance 1400 may include a first elongated member 1410 received partially within the first elongated receptacle 1406 and telescopically extending from the first elongated receptacle 1406, and a second elongated member 1412 received partially within the second elongated receptacle 1408 and telescopically extending from the second elongated receptacle 1408. As illustrated, the first elongated member 1410 and the second elongated member 1412 extend in opposite direction from the tubular structure 1404. The first elongated member 1410 is coupled to the one or more first teeth 1420, while the second elongated member 1412 may be coupled to the one or more second teeth 1422. In an embodiment, both the first elongated member 1410 and the second elongated member 1412 may, respectively, slide inside the first elongated receptacle 1406 and the second elongated receptacle 1408, thereby facilitating a movement of one or more first teeth 1420 and a movement of one or more second teeth 1422 towards each other to reduce a space there between.
For so doing, the orthodontic appliance 1400 may include an elastic member 1430 that may be attached to the first elongated member 1410 and the second elongated member 1412. In an implementation, a first end of the elastic member 1430 may coupled/mounted to a first hook 1432 of the orthodontic appliance 1400, while a second end of the elastic member 1430 may be attached/mounted to a second hook 1434 of the orthodontic appliance 1400. In an embodiment, the first hook 1432 may be constructed/formed by bending the first elongated member 1410, and is disposed at a junction of a first portion 1436 and a second portion 1438 of the first elongated member 1410. Similar to the first hook 1432, the second hook 1434 may be constructed/formed by bending the second elongated member 1412, and is disposed at a junction of a first portion 1440 and a second portion 1442 of the second elongated member 1412. In certain implementation, the first hook 1432 and the second hook 1434 may be removably coupled/attached to the first elongated member 1410 and the second elongated member 1412 respectively.
In certain embodiments, the tubular structure 1404 may include a third hook 1450 disposed at a first longitudinal end, and a fourth hook 1452 disposed at a second longitudinal end. In certain embodiments, the orthodontic appliance 100 may include two elastic members, for example, a first elastic member connecting the first elongated member 1410 and the tubular structure 1404 and a second elastic member connecting the second elongated member 1412 and the tubular structure 1404. In such a case, a first end of the first elastic member is attached to the first hook 1432, while a second end of the first elastic member is attached to the third hook 1450. The first elastic member being under tension facilitates a sliding movement of the first elongated member 1410 relative to the tubular structure 1404 which results into a movement of one or more first teeth 1420 towards the one or more second teeth 1422. Also, a first end of the second elastic member is attached to the second hook 1434 and a second end of the second elastic member is attached to the fourth hook 1452. In this manner, the second elastic member being under tension facilitates a sliding movement of the second elongated member 1412 relative to the tubular structure 1404 which results into a movement of one or more second teeth 1422 towards the one or more first teeth 140. Also, to facilitate a sliding movement of the first elongated member 1410 and the second elongated member 1412, the tubular structure 1404 may be rigidly attached to the jawbone such that the tubular structure 1404 may act as anchorage unit.
Referring to FIG. 15, an orthodontic appliance 1500 according to an alternative embodiment is disclosed. The orthodontic appliance 1500 includes a telescopic assembly 1502 having an elongated receptacle 1504 and an elongated member 1506 telescopically extending from the elongated receptacle 104 and adapted to slide relative to the elongated receptacle 1504. As shown, the elongated receptacle 1504 may include a slit 1508 to facilitate an easy insertion and removal of the elongated member 1506 from the elongated receptacle 1504. The slit 1508 may extend along a longitudinal length of the elongated receptacle 1504. Further, as shown, the elongated member 1506 may be attached to a single second tooth 1510 by using a removable device, such as a tray 1520 or a removable crown 1520. Similarly, elongated receptacle 1504 is attached to one or more first teeth 1512 by using another removable device, such as a tray 1522, or removable crown, or a removable appliance aligner tray. The use of removable devices may enable an easy disengagement and engagement of the orthodontic appliance 1500 from the mouth of the patient. Further, the telescopic assembly 1502 may include a hook 1514 defined by a bend of the elongated member 1506, and a pin 1516 inserted into a jawbone of the mouth of the patient. An elastic member 1518, such as an elastic chain of the orthodontic appliance 1500 is coupled to the pin 1516 and the hook 1514. In the assembled position, the elastic member 1518 is under tension, and therefore the elastic member 1518 applies a force on the elongated member 1506 to slide towards the elongated receptacle 1504. Further, as the elongated receptacle 1506 is coupled to the first teeth 1512 and an end of the elastic member 1518 is attached to the jawbone, both the first teeth 1512 and the jaw bone act as anchorage unit, enabling the movement of the second tooth 1510 towards the first teeth 1512 to reduce a space therebetween.
Referring FIG. 16, an orthodontic appliance 1600 according to an alternative embodiment is disclosed. The orthodontic appliance 1600 includes a telescopic assembly 1602 having an elongated receptacle 1604 and an elongated member 1606 telescopically extending from the elongated receptacle 1604 and adapted to slide relative to the elongated receptacle 1604. As shown, the elongated member 1606 may be attached to a plurality of second teeth 1620 by using a removable device, such as a first tray 1608 or crown. The first tray 1608 may be frictionally locked by fitting the first tray 1608 over the second teeth 1620. In another embodiment, the first tray 1608 may be fixed over the second teeth 1620 by placing a small attachment on the one of the second teeth and elastically deforming the first tray 1608 over the attachment to lock the first tray 1608 in place. The first tray 1608 may also act as a partial aligner to align the plurality of second teeth. In an implementation, the elongated member 1606 may include a first portion 1610 extending from the elongated receptacle 1604 to a second portion 1612 disposed at an angle to the first portion 1610. The second portion 1612 is coupled to the first tray 1610 and is disposed in an angular manner so as to follow a profile of the dental arch of the jawbone. However, the second portion 1612 may attached at any location of the first tray 1610 depending on a desired movement of teeth. The second portion 1612 may be coupled to the first tray 1608 by using a bonding agent or mechanically attached or welded or made as an integral unit. Further, the elongated receptacle 1604 is attached to first teeth 1622 by using another removable device, such as a second tray 1624. Also, the elongated receptacle 1604 may be mechanically attached or welded or made integrally with the second tray 1624. The use of removable devices may enable an easy disengagement and engagement of the orthodontic appliance 1600 from the mouth by the patient also the devices can be gradually changed as alignment is achieved. Further, the orthodontic appliance 1600 may include an elastic member 1630 to apply a force on the first teeth 1622 and the second teeth 1620. For so doing, the elastic member 1630 may be attached to hooks of the elongated member and the elongated receptacle. In an embodiment, the elastic member 1630 may be attached to a pin inserted into a jawbone of the mouth of the patient through the second tray 1624. Further, as the elongated receptacle 1604 is coupled to the first teeth 1622 and an end of the elastic member 1630 may be attached to the jawbone, both the first teeth 1622 and the jaw bone act as anchorage unit, enabling the movement of the second teeth 1620 towards the first teeth 1622 to reduce a space therebetween.
Referring FIG. 17, an orthodontic appliance 1700 according to an alternative embodiment is disclosed. The orthodontic appliance 1700 includes a telescopic assembly 1702 having an elongated receptacle 1704 and an elongated member 1706 telescopically extending from the elongated receptacle 1704 and adapted to slide relative to the elongated receptacle 1704. The telescopic assembly 1702 is configured to facilitate an extrusion of a single tooth, and is disposed along a length of the tooth 1710. In such a case, the elongated member 1706 may be attached to the tooth 1710 (hereinafter referred to as second tooth 1710), while the elongated receptacle 1704 is coupled to a plurality of first teeth 1712 by using a removable tray 1714 that may act as an aligner. In an embodiment, the elongated receptacle 1704 may be integrally built with the removable tray 1714. Therefore, the plurality of first teeth 1712 act as an anchorage against active extrusive forces applied to tooth 1710. Further, an elastic member 1720 of the orthodontic appliance 1700 may extend substantially parallel to the telescopic assembly 1702 and is connected to a first hook 1722 and a second hook 1724. The elastic member 1720 applies a force on the elongated member 1706 to enable a sliding movement of the elongated member 1706 in a downward direction. In so doing, an extrusion of the second teeth 1710 is enabled. The telescopic assembly 1702 may be bonded or integrally built into the tray 17124 or mechanically attached or welded to the tray 1714. A direction, location, and size of the telescopic assembly 1702 may vary depending on the movement and line of action of force and amount of force required.
Referring to FIG. 18, the orthodontic appliance 1800 in accordance with another embodiment is shown. As illustrated, the orthodontic appliance 1800 includes a telescopic assembly 1802 having an elongated receptacle 1804 and an elongated member 1806 telescopically extending from the elongated receptacle 1804. An elastic member 1810 is coupled to the elongated receptacle 1804 and the elongated member 1806 to apply a force on the elongated receptacle 1804 and the elongated member 1806 to cause a sliding movement between the elongated receptacle 1804 and the elongated member 1806. Further, as shown, the elongated member 1806 is coupled to the second tooth 1812, while the elongated receptacle 1804 is coupled to the two first teeth 1814. In this manner, the first teeth 1814 act as anchorage unit, while the second tooth 1812 moves in response to the sliding movement of the elongated member 1806. As illustrated, the elongated receptacle 1804 includes a tubular portion 1820 for receiving the elongated member 1806, and a strip portion 1822 disposed at an angle relative to the tubular portion 1820. The shape of the device can be altered in any way to meet the structural needs of the device based upon the material used. The device in its entirety can be made from one material or a selection of different materials. Further the strip portion 1822 is coupled to the first teeth 1814, and may be made from a polymer material using any additive manufacturing printing techniques such as stereolithography. Furthermore, any of the components may be coated to reduce friction or electroplated with different materials to increase strength. Other materials such as fiber reinforced composites, polymers or metal such as, stainless steel titanium and its alloys, composites and ceramics may also be used. A width of the strip portion 1822 may facilitate additional rigidity with the first teeth 1814. The strip portion 1822 may take any shape such as a rod, a wire, etc. In an embodiment, the strip portion 1822 may extend to occlusal surface of the teeth and thereby include occlusal coverage. The strip portion 1822 may also facilitate location of the orthodontic appliance 1800 on the teeth and also increases the anchorage and retention and stability of the device. Also, a dimensions and material of strip portion 182 may selected based on the desired structural rigidity.
Referring to FIG. 19, an orthodontic appliance 1900 according to an alternative embodiment is shown. The orthodontic appliance 1900 is similar in structure and function to the orthodontic appliance 100 except that of a positioning of the elastic member 160. The elastic member 160 is positioned inside the elongated receptacle 102 and is coupled to both the elongated receptacle 102 and the elongated member 104. The elastic member 160, being in tension, applies a force on the elongated member 104 such that the elongated member 104 moves/slides, thereby causing a movement of the second tooth 110 towards the first teeth 108. In this manner the orthodontic appliance 1900 causes a reduction in the space 140 existing between the first teeth 108 and the second tooth 110. Further, a crimpable stopper may be attached or disposed on the elongated member 104 and/or the elongated receptacle 102 to restrict the sliding movement of the elongated member 104 towards the elongated receptacle 102 and hence limit an amount of space closing.
Referring to FIG. 20, an orthodontic appliance 2000 is shown according to an alternative embodiment of the disclosure. The orthodontic appliance 2000 may be utilized for moving a plurality of front teeth 2010, for example, six front teeth, together in a backward direction for closing space between teeth. For so doing, the orthodontic appliance 2000, as shown, includes a first telescopic assembly 2002 and a second telescopic assembly 2004 disposed symmetrically opposite to the first telescopic assembly 2002. The first telescopic assembly 2002 includes a first elongated receptacle 2006 and a first elongated member 2008 telescopically extending from the first elongated receptacle 2006. The first elongated receptacle 2006 may be coupled to first teeth 2012 that act as a first anchorage unit 2014 for the orthodontic appliance 2000, while the first elongated member 2008 may be coupled to one or more teeth (herein after referred as second teeth 2016) of the plurality of front teeth 2010. Further, a first elastic member 2018 of the first telescopic assembly 2002 is coupled to the first elongated receptacle 2006 via a first hook 2020. The first elastic member 2018 is also coupled to the first elongated member 2008 via a second hook 2022, and applies a pull force on the first elongated member 2008 for slidably and telescopically moving the first elongated member 2008 relative to the first elongated receptacle 2006 in a direction ‘A’.
Similar to the first telescopic assembly 2002, the second telescopic assembly 2004 includes a second elongated receptacle 2050 and a second elongated member 2052 telescopically extending from the second elongated receptacle 2050. The second elongated receptacle 2050 may be coupled to third teeth 2054 that act as a second anchorage unit 2056 for the orthodontic appliance 2000, while the second elongated member 2052 may be coupled to one or more teeth (herein after referred as fourth teeth 2056) of the plurality of front teeth 2010. Further, a second elastic member 2060 of the second telescopic assembly 2004 is coupled to the second elongated receptacle 2050 via a third hook 2062. The second elastic member 2060 is also coupled to the second elongated member 2052 via a fourth hook 2064, and applies a pull force on the second elongated member 2052 for slidably and telescopically moving the second elongated member 2052 relative to the second elongated receptacle 2050 in the direction ‘A’.
Further, the orthodontic appliance includes a third elongated member 2070 extending along a width of each of the plurality of front teeth 2010. The third elongated member 2070 may be coupled to each of the plurality of front teeth 2010, and a first end portion 2072 and a second end portion 2074 of the third elongated member 2070 are, respectively, attached to the first elongated member 2008 and the second elongated member 2052. Due to attachment of the third elongated member 2070 with the first elongated member 2008 and the second elongated member 2052, the third elongated member 2070 moves in the direction ‘A’ due to the sliding movements of the first elongated member 2008 and the second elongated member 2052. As the third elongated member 2070 is attached to each of the plurality of front teeth 2010, the front teeth 2010 move together in a backward direction, thereby reducing a space existing between the first teeth 2012 and the second teeth 2016, and also reducing a space between the third teeth 2054 and the fourth teeth 2056. Although, the third elongated member 2070 is contemplated as a separate member, it may be appreciated that the third elongated member 2070 may be integrally formed with the first elongated member 2008 and/or the second elongated member 2052.
Referring to FIG. 21, an orthodontic appliance 2100 is shown according to an alternative embodiment of the disclosure. The orthodontic appliance 2100 is similar to structure, construction, and functionality to that of the orthodontic appliance 2000 except that the orthodontic appliance 2100 includes an additional anchorage unit 2102 connecting the first elongated receptacle 2004 and the second elongated receptacle 2050. Further, the additional anchorage unit 2104 is attached to the jawbone via a screw 2104.
Referring to FIG. 22, an orthodontic appliance 2200 is shown according to an alternative embodiment of the disclosure. The orthodontic appliance 2200 may be utilized for moving a plurality of front teeth 2202, for example, eight front teeth, together in a backward direction for closing space between teeth. In addition, the orthodontic appliance 2200 may facilitate an alignment of the front teeth 2202. For so doing, the orthodontic appliance 2200, as shown, includes a first telescopic assembly 2204 and a second telescopic assembly 2206 disposed symmetrically opposite to the first telescopic assembly 2204. The first telescopic assembly 2204 includes a first elongated receptacle 2208 and a first elongated member 2210 telescopically extending from the first elongated receptacle 2208. The first elongated receptacle 2208 may be coupled to first teeth 2212 that act as a first anchorage unit 2214 for the orthodontic appliance 2200, while the first elongated member 2210 may be coupled to one or more teeth (herein after referred as second teeth 2216) of the plurality of front teeth 2202. Further, a first elastic member 2218 of the first telescopic assembly 2204 is coupled to the first elongated receptacle 2208 via a first hook 2220. The first elastic member 2218 is also coupled to the first elongated member 2210 via a second hook 2222, and applies a pull force on the first elongated member 2210 for slidably and telescopically moving the first elongated member 2210 relative to the first elongated receptacle 2208 in a direction ‘A’.
Similar to the first telescopic assembly 2204, the second telescopic assembly 2206 includes a second elongated receptacle 2240 and a second elongated member 2242 telescopically extending from the second elongated receptacle 2240. The second elongated receptacle 2240 may be coupled to third teeth 2244 that act as a second anchorage unit 2246 for the orthodontic appliance 2200, while the second elongated member 2242 may be coupled to one or more teeth (herein after referred as fourth teeth 2248) of the plurality of front teeth 2202. Further, a second elastic member 2250 of the second telescopic assembly 2206 is coupled to the second elongated receptacle 2240 via a third hook 2252. The second elastic member 2250 is also coupled to the second elongated member 2242 via a fourth hook 2254, and applies a pull force on the second elongated member 2242 for slidably and telescopically moving the second elongated member 2242 relative to the second elongated receptacle 2240 in the direction ‘A’.
Further, the orthodontic appliance 2200 includes a removable tray 2270 extending along a width of each of the plurality of front teeth 2202 and enveloping each of the plurality of front teeth 2202. In this embodiment, the tray 2270 may act as a partial aligner to facilitate an alignment of front teeth 2202. As the tray 2270 is attached to the each of the plurality of front teeth 2202, and the first elongated member 2210 and the second elongated member 2242 are attached to second tooth 2216 and fourth tooth 2248, each of the plurality of front teeth 2202 moves in the direction ‘A’ due to the sliding movements of the first elongated member 2210 and the second elongated member 2242. In this manner, a space existing between the first teeth 2212 and the second tooth 2216 and a space exiting between the third teeth 2244 and fourth tooth 2248 is reduced. It may be appreciated that a coverage of teeth by removable tray 2270 may be changed to effect nature of retraction of teeth and alignment of teeth simultaneously.
Referring to FIG. 23A, FIG. 23B, an orthodontic appliance 2300 is shown according to an alternative embodiment of the disclosure. The orthodontic appliance 2300 is similar in structure and construction to that of the orthodontic appliance 2200 except that the orthodontic appliance 2300 includes an arch wire assembly 2304 for aligning the plurality of front teeth 2202 instead of the removable tray 2270. The arch wire assembly 2304 includes a plurality of brackets 2306 coupled to the plurality of front teeth 2202 such that one bracket 2306 is coupled to one tooth of the plurality of front teeth 2202. Further, a location and orientation of each bracket 2306 is selected based on the type of movement to generated on the tooth 2202 so that a proper alignment of the all the plurality of front teeth 2202 is enabled. Further, as shown, a first bracket 2310 of the plurality of brackets 2306 is also coupled to the first telescopic assembly 2204 and a second tubular bracket 2312 of the plurality of brackets 2306 is coupled to the second telescopic assembly 2206. Further, the arch wire assembly 2304 includes an arch wire 2320 that passes through each of the bracket 2306 and applies a force on the brackets 2306 and hence corresponding tooth 2202 to enable the alignment of the plurality of teeth 2202. Therefore, the orthodontic appliance 2300 acts as a space closure and aligner device. Further, as shown in FIG. 23B, the orthodontic appliance 2300 may also include a first pontic 2350 and a second pontic 2352 for hiding the spaces between the teeth to enhance the aesthetic of the jaw.
Referring to FIG. 24, an orthodontic appliance 2400 is shown according to an alternative embodiment of the disclosure. The orthodontic appliance 2400 may be utilized for moving premolars for space closing. For so doing, the orthodontic appliance 2400, as shown, includes a first telescopic assembly 2402 and a second telescopic 2404 assembly disposed symmetrically opposite to the first telescopic assembly 2402. The first telescopic assembly 2402 and the second telescopic assembly 2404 are attached at the buccal side of the jaw. The first telescopic assembly 2402 includes a first elongated receptacle 2406 and a first elongated member 2408 telescopically extending from the first elongated receptacle 2406. The first elongated receptacle 2406 may be coupled to first tooth 2410 (i.e. molar) using a band 2412, while the first elongated member 2408 may be coupled to second tooth 2414 (i.e. premolar). Further, a first elastic member 2416 of the first telescopic assembly 2402 is coupled to the first elongated receptacle 2406 via a first hook 2418. The first elastic member 2416 is also coupled to the first elongated member 2408 via a second hook 2420, and applies a pull force on the first elongated member 2408 and the first elongated receptacle 2406 for slidably and telescopically moving the first elongated member 2408 relative to the first elongated receptacle 2406 in a direction ‘A’.
Similar to the first telescopic assembly 2402, the second telescopic assembly 2404 includes a second elongated receptacle 2430 and a second elongated member 2432 telescopically extending from the second elongated receptacle 2430. The second elongated receptacle 2430 may be coupled to third tooth 2434 (i.e. molar) via a band 2436, while the second elongated member 2432 may be coupled to fourth tooth 2438 (i.e. premolar). Further, a second elastic member 2440 of the second telescopic assembly 2404 is coupled to the second elongated receptacle 2430 via a third hook 2442. The second elastic member 2440 is also coupled to the second elongated member 2432 via a fourth hook 2444, and applies a pull force on the second elongated member 2432 for slidably and telescopically moving the second elongated member 2432 relative to the second elongated receptacle 2430 in the direction ‘A’.
Further, the orthodontic appliance 2400 includes a lip bumper 2460 extending from the first telescopic assembly 2402 to the second elongated assembly 2404. As shown, an end of the lip bumper 2460 is coupled to the first elongated receptacle 2406, while another end of the lip bumper 2460 is coupled to the second elongated receptacle 2430. The lip bumper 2460 is adapted to push the lip away from the teeth and as a result lip bumper 2460 applies a pressure on the molars (i.e. the first tooth 2410 and the third tooth 2434). Therefore, the lip bumper 2460 holds the first tooth 2410 and the third tooth 2434 in position and prevents a forward movement of the molars 2410, 2434 due to the forces applied by the first elastic member 2416 and the second elastic member 2440. Therefore, the lip bumper 2460 facilitates in preserving or holding anchorage the molars. In an embodiment, the lip bumper 2560 may be designed as a separate device or integrally built with 2412. Further, a size and dimensions of the lip bumper 2460 may be adjusted.
Referring to FIG. 25, an orthodontic appliance 2500 is shown according to an alternative embodiment of the disclosure. The orthodontic appliance 2500 may be utilized for space closure as well as expansion. For so doing, the orthodontic appliance 2500, as shown, includes a first telescopic assembly 2502 and a second telescopic assembly 2504 disposed symmetrically opposite to the first telescopic assembly 2502. The first telescopic assembly 2502 includes a first elongated receptacle 2506 and a first elongated member 2508 telescopically extending from the first elongated receptacle 2506. The first elongated receptacle 2506 may be coupled to first teeth 2510 that act as a first anchorage unit 2512 for the orthodontic appliance 2500, while the first elongated member 2508 may be coupled to second tooth 2514. Further, a first elastic member 2516 of the first telescopic assembly 2502 is coupled to the first elongated receptacle 2502 via a first hook 2518. The first elastic member 2516 is also coupled to the first elongated member 2508 via a second hook 2520, and applies a pull force on the first elongated member 2508 for slidably and telescopically moving the first elongated member 2508 relative to the first elongated receptacle 2506 in a direction ‘A’
Similar to the first telescopic assembly 2502, the second telescopic assembly 2504 includes a second elongated receptacle 2530, and a second elongated member 2532 telescopically extending from the second elongated receptacle 2530. The second elongated receptacle 2530 may be coupled to third teeth 2534 that act as a second anchorage unit 2536 for the orthodontic appliance 2500, while the second elongated member 2532 may be coupled to fourth tooth 2538. Further, a second elastic member 2540 of the second telescopic assembly 2504 is coupled to the second elongated receptacle 2532 via a third hook 2542. The second elastic member 2542 is also coupled to the second elongated member 2532 via a fourth hook 2544, and applies a pull force on the second elongated member 2532 for slidably and telescopically moving the second elongated member 2532 relative to the second elongated receptacle 2530 in the direction ‘A’.
Further, the orthodontic appliance 2500 includes an expansion screw 2550 attached to the first elongated receptacle 2506 and the second elongated receptacle 2530. In some embodiments, the expansion screw 2550 may be removably attached or fixedly attached to the first elongated receptacle 2506 and the second elongated receptacle 2530. In certain implementations, expansion screw 2550 may be threadably attached to the first elongated receptacle 2506 and the second elongated receptacle 2530. The expansion screw 2550 may be operated to apply suitable force on the first telescopic assembly 2502 and the second telescopic assembly 2504 to enable expansion movement of teeth.
Referring to FIG. 26, an orthodontic appliance 2600 is shown according to an alternative embodiment of the disclosure. The orthodontic appliance 2600 is similar to structure, construction, and functionality to that of the orthodontic appliance 2500 except that the orthodontic appliance 2600 includes a quad-helix unit 2610 connecting the first elongated receptacle 2506 and the second elongated receptacle 2530 instead of the expansion screw 2550. The quad-helix unit 2610 may be operated to apply suitable force on the first telescopic assembly 2502 and the second telescopic assembly 2504 to enable expansion movement of teeth.
Referring to FIG. 27, an orthodontic appliance 2700 is shown according to an alternative embodiment of the disclosure. The orthodontic appliance 2700 may be utilized for space closure as well as expansion. For so doing, the orthodontic appliance 2700, as shown, includes a first telescopic assembly 2702 and a second telescopic assembly 2704 disposed symmetrically opposite to the first telescopic assembly 2702. The first telescopic assembly 2702 includes first tubular structure 2706 having a first elongated receptacle 2708, and a first elongated member 2710 telescopically extending from the first elongated receptacle 2708. The first elongated receptacle 2708 may be coupled to first teeth 2712 that act as a first anchorage unit 2714 for the orthodontic appliance 2700, while the first elongated member 2710 may be coupled the second tooth 2716. Further, a first elastic member 2718 of the first telescopic assembly 2702 is coupled to the first elongated receptacle 2708 via a first hook 2720. The first elastic member 2718 is also coupled to the first elongated member 2710 via a second hook 2722, and applies a pull force on the first elongated member 2710 for slidably and telescopically moving the first elongated member 2710 relative to the first elongated receptacle 2708 in a direction ‘A’.
Similar to the first telescopic assembly 2702, the second telescopic assembly 2704 includes a second tubular structure 2730 having a second elongated receptacle 2732, and a second elongated member 2734 telescopically extending from the second elongated receptacle 2732. The second elongated receptacle 2732 may be coupled to third teeth 2736 that act as a second anchorage unit 2738 for the orthodontic appliance 2700, while the second elongated member 2734 may be coupled to fourth tooth 2740. Further, a second elastic member 2742 of the second telescopic assembly 2704 is coupled to the second elongated receptacle 2732 via a third hook 2744. The second elastic member 2742 is also coupled to the second elongated member 2734 via a fourth hook 2746, and applies a pull force on the second elongated member 2734 for slidably and telescopically moving the second elongated member 2734 relative to the second elongated receptacle 2732 in the direction ‘A’.
Further, the orthodontic appliance 2700 includes a third elongated member 2770 attached to the first tubular structure 2706 and the second tubular structure 2730. In an embodiment, the first tubular structure 2706 may include a third elongated receptacle 2772 to receive an end portion of the third elongated member 2770, and the second tubular structure 2770 may include a fourth elongated receptacle 2774 to receive another end portion of the third elongated member 2770. As shown, the third elongated receptacle 2772 and the fourth elongated receptacle 2774, respectively, are attached to the first elongated receptacle 2708 and the second elongated receptacle 2732. In some embodiments, the end portions of the third elongated member 2770 may be press fitted inside the third elongated receptacle 2772 and the fourth elongated receptacle 2774. In certain implementations, the end portions of the third elongated member 2770 may be threadably attached to the third elongated receptacle 2772 and the fourth elongated receptacle 2774. As shown, in an assembled position, the third elongated member 2770 may be under compression due to a presence of bend. Therefore, the third elongated member 2770 may apply a force on the first telescopic assembly 2702 in a direction ‘B’, and may apply a force on the second telescopic assembly 2704 in a direction ‘C’. In response to force in the directions ‘B’ and ‘C’, the first teeth 2712 and the third teeth 2736 may move away from each other, resulting into an expansion. In an embodiment, the third elongated member 2770 may be made of a shape memory alloy, stainless steel, chrome cobalt, fiber reinforced composite, polymer, titanium molybdenum alloy, or any other material commonly used in orthodontics. The third elongated member 2770 may be removably or fixedly attached to the first telescopic assembly 2702 and/or the second telescopic assembly 2704 and can also be used for facilitating constriction when the third elongated member 2770 is coupled under tension.
Referring to FIG. 28, an orthodontic appliance 2800 is shown according to an alternative embodiment of the disclosure. The orthodontic appliance 2800 is similar in structure, construction, and functionality to that of the orthodontic appliance 2700 except that the first elongated member 2710, the second elongated member 2734, the first elongated receptacle 2708, and the second elongated receptacle 2732, each may be formed modularly by attaching various portions of each component by using removable couplers 2802, 2804. For example, as shown, the first elongated member 2710 may include a first portion 2806 coupled to the first elongated receptacle 2706, and a second portion 2810 coupled to the second tooth 2716. As shown, the first portion 2806 and the second portion 2810 are attached using the tubular coupler 2802. The use of removable couplers 2802, 2804 facilitates in changing a length of the component, a line of action of force on the teeth, etc. Further, the removable couplers 2802, 2804 may made of shape memory alloys. Also, the removable couplers may facilitate a formation of a hinge joint or ball joint to facilitate a proper positioning on the telescopic assemblies 2702, 2704 and may facilitate changing a line of action of force on a chair side or an assembly at the chairside. Various components may come in different configurations, for example, the elongated receptacles may have shaft in tube configuration or a tube in tube arrangement.
Referring to FIG. 29, an orthodontic appliance 2900 is shown according to an alternative embodiment of the disclosure. The orthodontic appliance 2900 is similar to structure, construction, and functionality to that of the orthodontic appliance 2700 except that the orthodontic appliance 2900 additionally includes an alignment assembly 2902 for facilitating the alignment of teeth 2904. Further, to facilitate an attachment of the alignment assembly 2904, the first elongated member 2710 and the second elongated member 2734 may be tubular structures. The alignment assembly 2902 may include a plurality of brackets 2910 attached to the plurality of teeth 204, and a wire 2912 having a first end portion received by the first elongated member 2710, a second end portion received by the second elongated member 2734, and a middle portion engaged with the each of plurality of teeth 2902. A size and orientation of the brackets 2902 may be selected to apply desired amount of force in a desired direction to enable alignment of the teeth 2902. Further, in an embodiment, the wire 2912 may be a tubular wire.
Referring to FIG. 30. an orthodontic appliance 3000 is shown according to an alternative embodiment of the disclosure. The orthodontic appliance 3000 is similar to structure, construction, and functionality to that of the orthodontic appliance 2900 except that the orthodontic appliance 3000 additionally includes a third attachment 3002 coupled to the first telescopic assembly 2702 for intruding a tooth 3004. The third attachment 3002 may include a hook member 3006 coupled to the first elongated receptacle 2708 and extending in direction opposite to the first elongated member 2710. The hook member 3006 may be removable coupled to the first elongated receptacle 2708 by using various attachment means explained earlier. The third attachment 3002 further include a third elastic member 3010 extending from the hook member 3006 and coupled to the tooth 3004 using a pin 3012. As the elastic member 3010 is under tension, the elastic member 3010 may apply a force on the tooth 3004 to cause an intrusion of the tooth 3004. Further, the orthodontic appliance 3000 may include a fourth elastic member 3020 extending from the second telescopic assembly 2704 and extending in a direction opposite to an extension of the second elongated member 2734. The fourth elastic member 3020 is attached to the second elongated receptacle 2732 at one end and attached to the tooth 3022. The fourth elastic member 3020 may facilitate a movement of tooth 3024 in a backward direction or a move the tooth in forward direction due to a reaction force. Therefore, the orthodontic appliance 3004 may facilitate multiple tooth movements, such as space closure, alignment, expansion, intrusion, etc. Also, the fourth elastic member 3020 may be an open coil spring in a pin and tube arrangement used in compression mode.
Referring to FIG. 31, an orthodontic appliance 3100 is shown according to an alternative embodiment of the disclosure. The orthodontic appliance 3100 may be utilized for space closure as well as expansion. For so doing, the orthodontic appliance 3100, as shown, includes a first telescopic assembly 3102 and a second telescopic assembly 3104 disposed symmetrically opposite to the first telescopic assembly 3102. The first telescopic assembly includes a first elongated receptacle 3106 and a first elongated member 3108 telescopically extending from the first elongated receptacle 3106. The first elongated receptacle 3106 may be coupled to first teeth 3110 that act as a first anchorage unit 3112 for the orthodontic appliance 3100, while the first elongated member 3108 may be coupled to the second tooth 3114. Further, a first elastic member 3116 of the first telescopic assembly 3102 is coupled to the first elongated receptacle 3106 via a first hook 3118. The first elastic member 3116 is also coupled to the first elongated member 3108 via a second hook 3120, and applies a pull force on the first elongated member 3108 for slidably and telescopically moving the first elongated member 3108 relative to the first elongated receptacle 3106 in a direction ‘A’.
Similar to the first telescopic assembly 3102, the second telescopic assembly 3104 includes a second elongated receptacle 3130 and a second elongated member 3132 telescopically extending from the second elongated receptacle 3130. The second elongated receptacle 3130 may be coupled to third teeth 3134 that act as a second anchorage unit 3136 for the orthodontic appliance 3100, while the second elongated member 3132 may be coupled to fourth tooth 3136. Further, a second elastic member 3138 of the second telescopic assembly 3104 is coupled to the second elongated receptacle 3130 via a third hook 3140. The second elastic member 3138 is also coupled to the second elongated member 3132 via a fourth hook 3142, and applies a pull force on the second elongated member 3132 for slidably and telescopically moving the second elongated member 3132 relative to the second elongated receptacle 3130 in the direction ‘A’.
Further, the orthodontic appliance 3100 includes a third elongated member 3150 extending from the first elongated receptacle 3106 to the second elongated receptacle 3130, and integrally attached to the first elongated receptacle 3106 and the second elongated receptacle 3130. Although, the third elongated member 3150 is contemplated as integral to the first elongated receptacle 3106 and the second elongated receptacle 3130, it may be appreciated that the third elongated member 3150 be removably attached to the first elongated receptacle 3106 and the second elongated receptacle 3130 by using various couplers. The third elongated member 3150 includes a bend portion 3152 for exerting a force on the first elongated receptacle 3106 in a first direction and a force on the second elongated receptacle 3130 in a second direction opposite to the first direction. Due to the forces acting on the first elongated receptacle 3106 and the second elongated receptacle 3130, the first teeth 3110 and the third teeth 3134 may move away from each other, resulting into an parallel expansion movement for the front or back or constriction or combination to change line of action.
Furthermore, the orthodontic appliance 3100 includes a fourth elongated member 3154 extending from the first elongated member 3108 to the second elongated member 3132 and integrally attached to the first elongated member 3108 and the second elongated member 3132. Although, the fourth elongated member 3154 is contemplated as integral to the first elongated member 3108 and the second elongated member 3132, it may be appreciated that the fourth elongated member 3154 be removably attached to the first elongated member 3108 and the second elongated member 3132 by using various couplers The fourth elongated member 3154 includes a bend portion 3156 for exerting a force on the first elongated member 3108 in a first direction and a force on the second elongated member 3132 in a second direction opposite to the first direction. Due to the forces acting on the first elongated member 3108 and the second elongated member 3132, the second teeth 3114 and the fourth teeth 3136 may move away from each other, resulting into an expansion movement. In this manner, the orthodontic appliance 3100 may provide bi-expansion movement in different segments along with space closure. Further, a similar appliance may be using for constriction. In such a case, the third elongated member 3150 and the fourth elongated member 3154 are under tension in assembled position, thereby pulls the teeth towards each other.
Referring to FIG. 32, an orthodontic appliance 3200 according to an yet another embodiment is shown. The orthodontic appliance 3200 includes a first elongated receptacle 3202 coupled to a plurality of first teeth 3204, an elongated member 3206 coupled to a plurality of second teeth 3208 and telescopically extending from the first elongated receptacle 3202, and a second elongated receptacle 3210 coupled to a plurality of third teeth 3212. The plurality of first teeth 3204 are disposed opposite to the plurality of third teeth 3212, while the plurality of second teeth 3208 defines front teeth of the patient and are located between the first teeth 3204 and the third teeth 3212. Also, the elongated member 3206 is also telescopically arranged relative to the second elongated receptacle 3210. A shown, the elongated member 3210 is an arch shaped member having a first end portion 3214 telescopically extending from the first elongated receptacle 3202, a second end portion 3216 telescopically extending from the second elongated receptacle 3210, and a curved middle portion 3218 extending from the first end portion 3214 to the second end portion 3216 and attached to the plurality of the second teeth 3208.
Further, the orthodontic appliance 3200 includes a plurality of brackets 3220 coupled to the plurality of second teeth 3208 such that one bracket is coupled to one tooth of the plurality of second teeth 3208. Further, a location and orientation of each bracket 3220 is selected based on the type of movement to be generated on the tooth so that a proper alignment of at least a set of teeth of the plurality of second teeth 3208 is enabled. To exert forces on the second teeth 3208, the middle portion 3218 of the elongated member 3206 passes through each of the bracket 3220, hence enable a movement of a corresponding tooth to facilitate a proper alignment of the plurality of second teeth 3208. Also, the orthodontic appliance 3200 includes a first elastic member 3230 connected the first elongated receptacle 3202 and the first portion 3214, and a second elastic member 3232 connected to the second elongated receptacle 3210 and the second portion 3216. As both the elastic members 3230, 3232 are attached under tension, the elastic members 3230, 3232 apply a force to cause a movement of the first elongated member 3206 in a direction ‘A’. In response to the movement of the first elongated member 3206 in the direction ‘A’, space existing between the first teeth 3204 and second teeth 3208 and a space existing between the second teeth 3208 and the third teeth 3212 are reduced. Also, the middle portion 3218 exerts force on the brackets 3220, which in turn apply forces on the second teeth 3208, thereby facilitating the alignment of the second teeth. 3208. The orthodontic appliance 3200 may acts as a building block of a framework to which various other devices or attachments may be added by using couplers, threaded devices, clamping, or shape memory coupling. This adds modularity to the system and therefore allows for attachment or detachment of devices as desired.
Referring to FIG. 33, an orthodontic appliance 3300 according to an yet another embodiment is shown. The orthodontic appliance 3300 is adapted to facilitate root correction of one or more teeth 3302. The orthodontic appliance 3300 includes a first telescopic assembly 3304 having a first elongated receptacle 3306 and a first elongated member 3308 telescopically extending from the first elongated receptacle 3306, and a second telescopic assembly 3310 having a second elongated receptacle 3312 and a second elongated member 3314 telescopically extending from the second elongated receptacle 3312. The first elongated receptacle 3306 and the second elongated receptacle 3312 are attached to a plurality of first teeth 3302 via a removable tray 3320. The first elongated receptacle 3306 and the second elongated receptacle 3312 are either bonded with the tray 3320 or integrally built with the tray 3320 or removably attached to the tray 3320 using couplers. A size and dimensions of the tray 3320 and the elongated receptacles 3306, 3312 may controlled based on the space limitation and amount of desired force. Further, the tray 3320 may be stabilized relative to the first teeth 3302 by using a series of snap fit attachments that prevent slipping of the tray 3320. In an embodiment, the removable tray 3320 may also act as a partial aligner for aligning the first teeth 3302. The orthodontic appliance 3300 may include an arch member 3330 having a first end portion 3332 coupled to one or more premolars 3334 disposed on a first side to a midline, a second end portion 3336 coupled to one or more premolars 3338 disposed on a second side to the midline, and a curved middle portion 3340 extending from the first end portion 3332 to the second portion 3336, and disposed substantially parallel to the first teeth 3302. In an embodiment, the first elongated member 3308 and the second elongated member 3314 may be attached to the middle portion 3340, and therefore, the arch member 3330 provides necessary anchorage to the first telescopic assembly 3304 and the second telescopic assembly 3310.
Further, the first telescopic assembly 3304 includes a first elastic member 3342 connected to the first elongated receptacle 3306 and the first elongated member 3308. Similarly, the second telescopic assembly 3310 includes a second elastic member 3344 connected to the second elongated receptacle 3312 and the second elongated member 3314. As shown, the first telescopic assembly 3304 extends in a vertical direction at an angle to a length of the tooth, and the first elastic member 3342 applies a force on the first teeth 3302 so as to move the first teeth 3302 in an angular orientation. Similarly, the second telescopic assembly 3310 extends in a vertical direction at an angle to a length of the tooth, and the second elastic member 3344 applies a force on the first teeth 3302 so as to move the first teeth 3302 in an angular orientation. In such a manner, the orthodontic appliance 3300 facilitates in moving roots of first teeth 3302 from a first position to a second position. Therefore, the orthodontic appliance 3300 acts a combined aligner and root correction device. Also, the orthodontic appliance 330 may include other devices such as, telescopic assemblies for space closure, tray for alignment, and nay other device for facilitating concurrent orthodontic movements
Referring to FIGS. 34A and 34B an orthodontic appliance 3400 according to an yet another embodiment is shown. The orthodontic appliance 3400 may be adapted to facilitate a root correction along with alignment of front teeth 3402. The orthodontic appliance 3400 may include a removable tray 3404 adapted to be coupled to the front teeth 3402 and facilitate an alignment of the front teeth 3402. The tray 3404 is stabilized on the front teeth 3402 by using snap fit attachments. Further, the orthodontic appliance 3400 may include a first telescopic assembly 3410 having a first elongated receptacle 3412 attached to a first side of the tray 3404 and extending in a vertical direction that may be substantially parallel to a length of the front teeth 3402. The first telescopic assembly 3410 further includes a first elongated member 3414 received at least partly into the first elongate receptacle 3412 and extending outwardly from the first elongated receptacle 3412. The first elongated member 3414 may include a first portion 3416 and a second portion 3418 extending at an angle to the first portion 3416. The second portion 3418 may include a first hook 3420 that engages with a first shaft member 3422 coupled to second teeth 3424. The first shaft member 3422 is disposed substantially horizontally and an engagement of the first shaft member 3422 with the first hook 3420 results into an application of force on the front teeth 3402. The first shaft member 3422 may be coupled to the second teeth 3424 by using dental bonding agent or any other means known in the art. In an embodiment, the first shaft member 3422 is integrally built with the tray 3404 or may be attached to the removably tray 3404. Also, the first elongated member 3414 may be made of any material, such as, niti alloy, stainless steel, or any other material known in the art.
Similar to the first telescopic assembly 3410, the orthodontic appliance 3400 may include a second telescopic assembly 3430 disposed on a second side of the tray 3404. The second telescopic assembly 3430 may include a second elongated receptacle 3432 attached to the second side of the tray 3404 and extending in a vertical direction that may be substantially parallel to along an axis of the front teeth 3402. The second telescopic assembly 3430 further includes a second elongated member 3434 received at least partly into the second elongate receptacle 3432 and extending outwardly from the second elongated receptacle 3432. The second elongated member 3434 may include a first portion 3436 and a second portion extending 3438 at an angle to the first portion. The second portion 3438 may include a second hook 3440 that engages with a second shaft member 3442 and is coupled to third teeth 3444. The second shaft member 3442 is disposed substantially horizontally, and an engagement of the second shaft member 3442 with the second hook 3440 results into an application of force on the front teeth 3402. The force applied by the first telescopic assembly 3410 and the second telescopic assembly 3430 on the anterior teeth 3402 (i.e. the front teeth) results into the movements of the root of the anterior teeth, resulting into the root correction of the anterior teeth 3402.
Referring to FIG. 35 an orthodontic appliance 3500 according to an yet another embodiment is shown. The orthodontic appliance 3500 may be adapted to facilitate a root correction of first teeth 3502. The orthodontic appliance 3500 may include a telescopic assembly 3504 having a first elongated receptacle 3506 attached to the first teeth 3502 and extending in a horizontal direction along a length of the first teeth 3502. The first telescopic assembly 3504 further includes a first elongated member 3508 received at least partly into the first elongate receptacle 3506 and extending outwardly from the first elongated receptacle 3506. The first elongated member 3508 may include a first portion 3510 and a second portion 3512 extending at an angle to the first portion 3510. The second portion 3512 may include a hook 3514 that engages with a shaft member 3516 coupled to second teeth 3518. The shaft member 3516 is disposed substantially horizontally and an engagement of the shaft member 3516 with the hook 3514 results into an application of force or torque on the first teeth 3502. In this manner, the force or torque applied by the first telescopic assembly 3504 on the first teeth 3502 results into the movements of the root of the first teeth 3502, resulting into the root correction of the first teeth 3502.
Referring to FIG. 36 an orthodontic appliance 3600 according to an yet another embodiment is shown. The orthodontic appliance 3600 may be adapted to facilitate a space closure along with a root correction. The orthodontic appliance 3600 includes a telescopic assembly 3602 having an elongated receptacle 3604 coupled to first tooth 3606 and an elongated member 3608 attached to second tooth 3610. A space 3612 may exist between the first tooth 3606 and the second tooth 3610 that is reduced by the telescopic assembly 3602. The telescopic assembly 3602 further includes an elastic member 3614 coupling the elongated member 3608 to the elongated receptacle 3604. The elastic member 3614 applies a force on the elongated member 3608 and the elongated receptacle 3604 such that the space 3612 reduces. Further, the orthodontic appliance 3600 may include a shape memory wire 3620 extending between the elongated receptacle 3604 and the elongated member 3608 to facilitate the root correction. In an embodiment, the shape memory wire 3620 may be attached to the tubular portions of the elongated receptacle 3604 and elongated member 3608. In an embodiment, the wire 3620 may attached to the elongated receptacle 3604 and the elongated member 3608 using brackets 3622, 3624. In an embodiment, the wire 3620 may be made of a material, such as, niti alloy, stainless steel, or any other material known in the art. In certain implementations, the shape memory wire 3620 may be attached to brackets coupled to the first tooth 3606 and the second tooth 3610. In an embodiment, the elongated member 3608 may include two shafts joined together using a coupler. In this manner, the elongated member 3608 can be removed easily to facilitate root correction after space closure has been performed.
Referring to FIG. 37, an orthodontic appliance 3700 according to an yet another embodiment is shown. The orthodontic appliance 3700 is adapted for alignment as well as anterior retraction. The orthodontic appliance 3700 may include a telescopic assembly 3702 having a first elongated receptacle 3704 attached to first tooth 3706, a second elongated receptacle 3708 disposed symmetrically opposite to the first elongated receptacle 3704 and attached to third tooth 3710, and a first elongated member 3712 extending from the first elongated receptacle 3704 to the second elongated receptacle 3708. The elongated member 3712 extends telescopically from both the first elongated receptacle 3704 and the second elongated receptacle 3708, and includes a U shape. Further, the orthodontic appliance 3700 includes a first elastic member 3714, a second elastic member 3716, a first hook 3718 attached to the first elongated receptacle 3704, a second hook 3720 slidably attached to the elongated member 3712, a third hook 3722 attached to the second elongated receptacle 3708, and a fourth hook 3724 slidable attached to the elongated member 3712. The first elastic member 3714 is attached to the first hook 3718 and the second hook 3720, while the second elastic member 3716 is attached to the third hook 3722 and the fourth hook 3724. The slidable attachment of the second hook 3720 and the fourth hook 3724 may facilitate a relative positioning of the hooks 3720, 3724, and also enable a desired line of action of force. Further, the orthodontic appliance 3700 may include a first tube 3750 coupled to the second teeth 3752 (anterior teeth) via a plurality of brackets 3754, and a second tube 3756 extending through the first tube 3750 and coupled to the elongated member 3712. It may be noted that the second hook 3720 and the fourth hook 3744 are integrally formed on the second tube 3756. Due to the force applied by the elastic members 3714, 3716 on the second tube 3756, the second tube 3756 may retract that may cause a retraction of the first tube 3750, which in turn results into retraction of the second teeth 3752 in direction ‘A’. In this manner, the orthodontic appliance 3700 may facilitate the closure of the space between the first tooth 3706 and second teeth 3752, and the space between second teeth 3752 and the third tooth 3710. Also, as the first tube 3750 is attached to the second teeth 3752 using brackets 3760, an alignment and positioning of each bracket 3760 is selected in such a manner that a desired amount of force in a desired direction is applied on each tooth of the second teeth 3752 by the first tube 3750 to facilitate an alignment of the second teeth 3752. In an embodiment, the first tube 3750 and the second tube 3756 may be a single member. In an embodiment, the second tube 3756 may include multiple segments joined together various couplers to facilitate an assembly or installation of the second tube within the orthodontic appliance 3700. Further, referring to FIGS. 38A, 38B, and 38C, various mechanism for attaching the first tube 3750, the second tube 3756 and the elongated member 3712 are shown. The elongated member 3712 may slide into a tube in tube assembly, a solid wire into a tube, or a tube or a solid wire into a bracket, or may be attached into a bracket with a tube. The receptacle can be crimped anywhere on elongated member 3712 to effect line of action force magnitude and by changing height can cause intrusive or extrusive forces or if length of either post is changed with respect to other can create couples.
Referring to FIG. 39 an orthodontic appliance 3900 according to an yet another embodiment is shown. The orthodontic appliance 3900 may include a telescopic assembly 3902 having a first elongated receptacle 3904 attached to first tooth 3906, a second elongated receptacle 3908 disposed symmetrically opposite to the first elongated receptacle 3904 and attached to third tooth 3910, and an elongated member 3912 extending from the first elongated receptacle 3904 to the second elongated receptacle 3908. The elongated member 3912 extends telescopically from both the first elongated receptacle 3904 and the second elongated receptacle 3908, and includes a U shape. Further, the orthodontic appliance 3900 may include a first tube 3914 coupled to the second teeth 3916 (anterior teeth) via a plurality of brackets 3920, and a second tube 3922 extending through the first tube 3914 and coupled to the elongated member 3912. As shown, the second tube 3922 includes a first end portion slidably coupled to the elongated member 3912, and a second end portion slidably coupled to the elongated member 3912. In an embodiment, the second tube 3922 may be a solid wire.
Further, the orthodontic appliance 3900 includes a first elastic spring 3930, a second elastic spring 3932, a first hook 3934 disposed at a first side of the first tube 3914, a second hook 3936 disposed at the first end portion, a third hook 3938 disposed at a second side of the first tube 3914, and a fourth hook 3940 disposed at the second end portion of the second tube 3922. The first elastic member 3930 is attached to the first hook 3934 and the second hook 3936, while the second elastic member 3932 is attached to the third hook 3938 and the fourth hook 3940. Due to the force applied by the elastic members 3930, 3932 on the second tube 3922, the second tube 3922 may retract that may cause a retraction of the first tube 3914, which in turn results into retraction of the second teeth 3916 in direction ‘A’. In this manner, the orthodontic appliance 3900 may facilitate the closure of the space between the first tooth 3906 and second teeth 3916, and the space between second teeth 3916 and the third tooth 3910. Also, as the first tube 3914 is attached to the second teeth 3916 using brackets 3920, an alignment and positioning of each bracket 3920 is selected in such a manner that a desired amount of force in a desired direction is applied on each tooth of the second teeth 3916 by the first tube 3920 to facilitate an alignment of the second teeth 3916.
Referring to FIG. 40 an orthodontic appliance 4000 according to an yet another embodiment is shown. The orthodontic appliance 4000 may include a telescopic assembly 4002 having a first elongated receptacle 4004 attached to first teeth 4006, a second elongated receptacle 4008 disposed symmetrically opposite to the first elongated receptacle 4004 and attached to third teeth 4010, and an elongated member 4012 extending from the first elongated receptacle 4004 to the second elongated receptacle 4008. The elongated member 4012 extends telescopically from both the first elongated receptacle 4004 and the second elongated receptacle 4008, and includes a U shape. Further, the orthodontic appliance 4000 includes a first elastic spring 4014, a second elastic spring 4016, a first hook attached 4018 to the first elongated receptacle 4004, a second hook 4020 attached to the elongated member 4012, a third hook 4022 attached to the second elongated receptacle 4008, and a fourth hook 4024 attached to the elongated member 4012. The first elastic member 4014 is attached to the first hook 4018 and the second hook 4020, while the second elastic member 4016 is attached to the third hook 4022 and the fourth hook 4024. Further, the orthodontic appliance 4000 may include a first tube 4030 coupled to second teeth 4032 (anterior teeth) via a plurality of brackets 4034, and a middle portion of the elongated member 4012 extends through the first tube 4032. Due to the force applied by the elastic members 4014, 4016 on the elongated member 4012, the elongated member 4012 may retract that may cause a retraction of the first tube 4030, which in turn results into retraction of the second teeth 4032 in direction ‘A’. In this manner, the orthodontic appliance 4000 may facilitate the closure of the space between the first teeth 4006 and second teeth 4032, and the space between second teeth 4032 and the third teeth 4010. Also, as the first tube 4030 is attached to the second teeth 4032 using brackets 4034, an alignment and positioning of each bracket 4034 is selected in such a manner that a desired amount of force in a desired direction is applied on each tooth of the second teeth 4032 by the first tube 4030 to facilitate an alignment of the second teeth 4032. Also, as the elongated member 4012 is attached to a tooth 4050 and a tooth 4052, the orthodontic appliance 4000 also facilitates retraction of the tooth 4050 and the tooth 4052.
Referring to FIG. 41, an orthodontic appliance 4100 is shown according to an alternative embodiment of the disclosure. The orthodontic appliance 4100 may be utilized for space closure and alignment of teeth. For so doing, the orthodontic appliance 4100, as shown, includes a first telescopic assembly 4102 and a second telescopic assembly 4104 disposed symmetrically opposite to the first telescopic assembly 4102. The first telescopic assembly 4102 includes first tubular structure 4106 having a first elongated receptacle 4108, and a first elongated member 4110 telescopically extending from the first elongated receptacle 4108. The first elongated receptacle 4108 may be coupled to first tooth 4112 that act as a first anchorage unit for the orthodontic appliance 4100, while the first elongated member 4110 may be coupled second tooth 4114 of the plurality of front teeth. Further, a first elastic member 4116 of the first telescopic assembly 4102 is coupled to the first elongated receptacle 4108 via a first hook 4118. The first elastic member 4116 is also coupled to the first elongated member 4110 via a second hook 4120, and applies a pull force on the first elongated member 4110 for slidably and telescopically moving the first elongated member 4110 relative to the first elongated receptacle 4108 in a direction ‘A’.
Similar to the first telescopic assembly 4102, the second telescopic assembly 4104 includes a second tubular structure 4130 having a second elongated receptacle 4132, and a second elongated member 4134 telescopically extending from the second elongated receptacle 4132. The second elongated receptacle 4132 may be coupled to third tooth 4136 that act as a second anchorage unit for the orthodontic appliance 4100, while the second elongated member 4134 may be coupled to fourth tooth 4136 of the plurality of front teeth. Further, a second elastic member 4138 of the second telescopic assembly 4104 is coupled to the second elongated receptacle 4132 via a third hook 4140. The second elastic member 4138 is also coupled to the second elongated member 4134 via a fourth hook 4142, and applies a pull force on the second elongated member 4134 for slidably and telescopically moving the second elongated member 4234 relative to the second elongated receptacle 4132 in the direction ‘A’.
Further, the orthodontic appliance 4100 includes a third elongated member 4160 attached to the first tubular structure 4106 and the second tubular structure 4130. In an embodiment, the first tubular structure 4106 may include a third elongated receptacle 4162 to telescopically receive a first end portion of third elongated member 4160, and the second tubular structure 4130 may include a fourth elongated receptacle 4164 to telescopically receive a second end portion of the third elongated member 4160. As shown, the third elongated receptacle 4162 and the fourth elongated receptacle 4164, respectively, are attached to the first elongated receptacle 4108 and the second elongated receptacle 4132. Further, a middle portion of the third elongated member 4160 passes through a first tube 4170 attached to anterior teeth 4172 via a plurality of brackets 4174. Further, a third spring 4178 extends between the first end portion of third elongated member 4160 and the third receptacle 4162 and applies a pull force on the anterior teeth 4172 vis the first tube 4170. Similarly, a fourth spring 4180 may extend between the second end portion of the third elongated member 4160 and the fourth receptacle 4164 and applies a pull force on the anterior teeth 4172 via the first tube 4170. In this manner, in response to the forces applied by the springs 4178, 4180 the orthodontic appliance 4100 may cause retraction of the anterior teeth in direction ‘A’, thereby enabling the space closure. Also, as the first tube 4170 is attached to the anterior teeth 4172 using brackets 4174, an alignment and positioning of each bracket 4174 is selected in such a manner that a desired amount of force in a desired direction is applied on each tooth of the anterior teeth 4172 by the first tube 4170 to facilitate an alignment of the anterior teeth 4172.
Referring to FIG. 42, an orthodontic appliance 4200 is shown according to an alternative embodiment of the disclosure. The orthodontic appliance 4200 facilitates a space closure and an alignment of teeth. The orthodontic appliance 4200 includes a telescopic assembly 4202 having an elongated receptacle 4204, and an elongated member 4206 telescopically extending from the elongated receptacle 4204. The elongated receptacle 4204 may be coupled to first tooth 4208 that act as an anchorage unit for the orthodontic appliance 4200, while the elongated member 4206 may be coupled to one or more teeth (herein after referred as second teeth 4210) of the plurality of front teeth. Further, an elastic member 4212 of the telescopic assembly 4202 is coupled to the elongated receptacle 4204 via a first hook 4218. The elastic member 4212 is also coupled to the elongated member 4206 via a second hook 4220, and applies a pull force on the elongated member 4208 for slidably and telescopically moving the elongated member 4208 relative to the elongated receptacle 4206 in a direction ‘A. Further, the orthodontic appliance 4200 may include a aligner tray 4230 enveloping the second teeth 4210 for facilitating the alignment of second teeth 4210. Due to attachment of the aligner tray 4230 on the front teeth 4210, all the front teeth 4210 may move together due to the pull force applied by the telescopic assembly 4202 for space closure. Therefore, the orthodontic appliance 4200 may facilitate a simultaneous alignment and space closure.
Referring to FIG. 43, an orthodontic appliance 4300 according to an yet another embodiment is shown. The orthodontic appliance 4300 is adapted to facilitate alignment of front teeth along with space closure. The orthodontic appliance 4300 includes a first elongated receptacle 4302 coupled to first tooth 4304, an elongated member 4306 coupled to a plurality of second teeth 4308 and telescopically extending from the first elongated receptacle 4302, and a second elongated receptacle 4310 coupled to third tooth 4312. The first tooth 4304 is disposed opposite to the third tooth 4312, while the plurality of second teeth 4308 defines front teeth of the patient and are located between the first tooth 4304 and the third tooth 4312. Also, the elongated member 4306 is also telescopically arranged relative to the second elongated receptacle 4310. As shown, the elongated member 4306 is an arch shaped member having a first end portion 4314 telescopically extending from the first elongated receptacle 4320, a second end portion 4316 telescopically extending from the second elongated receptacle 4310, and a curved middle portion 4318 extending from the first end portion 4314 to the second end portion 4316 and attached to the plurality of the second teeth 4308. In an embodiment, the elongated member 4306 may be solid wire, or a tubular member.
Further, the orthodontic appliance 4300 includes a plurality of brackets 4320 coupled to the plurality of second teeth 4308 such that one bracket is coupled to one tooth of the plurality of second teeth 4320. Further, a location and orientation of each bracket 4320 is selected based on the type of movement to be generated on the tooth so that a proper alignment of at least a set of teeth of the plurality of second teeth 4320 is enabled. To exert forces on the second teeth 4308, a wire 4322, which may be a shape memory wire, passes through each of the bracket 4320, hence enabling a movement of a corresponding tooth to facilitate a proper alignment of the plurality of second teeth 4320. Also, the orthodontic appliance 4300 includes a first elastic member 4330 connected the first elongated receptacle 4302 and the first portion 4314, and a second elastic member 4332 connected to the second elongated receptacle 4310 and the second portion 4316. As both the elastic members 4330, 4332 are attached under tension, the elastic members 4330, 4332 apply a force to cause a movement of the first elongated member 4306. In response to the movement of the elongated member 4306 in the direction ‘A’, space existing between the first tooth 4304 and second teeth 4308 and space existing between the second teeth 4308 and the third tooth are reduced 4312.
Referring FIG. 44, an orthodontic appliance 4400 according to an alternative embodiment is disclosed. The orthodontic appliance 4400 includes a first removable tray 4402 attached to first teeth 4404 and a second removable tray 4406 attached to second teeth 4408. The first removable tray 4402 includes a first portion 4410 covering a first set of first teeth 4404, a second portion 4412 disposed substantially parallel to the first portion 4410 and positioned laterally spaced apart from the first portion 4410, and a middle portion 4414 extending laterally and connecting the first portion 4410 to the second portion 4412. Similar to the first removable tray 4402, the second removable tray 4406 may include a third portion 4416 covering the second teeth 4408 and a fourth portion 4418 extending laterally and connecting an end of third portion 4416 to another end of the third portion 4416. The third portion 4416 may act as a partial aligner adapted to facilitate an alignment of the second teeth 4408. Although, the third portion 4416 is shown to be extended over the entire arch, it may be appreciated that the third portion 4416 or the second removable tray 4406 may extend to one quadrant only. In an embodiment, the third portion 4416 and the fourth portion 4418 are separate trays.
Further, the orthodontic appliance 4400 includes a first telescopic assembly 4420 and a second telescopic assembly 4422 disposed substantially parallel and position spaced apart from each other. The first telescopic assembly 4420 has a first elongated receptacle 4424 and a first elongated member 4426 telescopically received and the extending from the first elongated receptacle 4424 and adapted to slide relative to the first elongated receptacle 4424. The first elongated receptacle 4424 is coupled or attached or bonded to the middle portion 4414 of the first removable tray 4402, while the first elongated member 4426 is coupled to the fourth portion 4418 of the second removable tray 4406. In an embodiment, the first telescopic assembly 4420 may include a first coupler 4428 in a shape of a receptacle attached to the fourth portion 4418 of the second removable tray 4406. In such a case, the first coupler 4428 may telescopically receive the first elongate member 4426 and may attach the first elongated member 4426 to the second removable tray 4406, and hence second teeth 4408. In an embodiment, the first coupler 4428 and the first elongated member 4426 are integral to each other. Further, a first elastic spring 4430 may extend from the middle portion 4414 of the first removable tray 4402 to the fourth portion 4418 of the second removable tray 4406 and is connected to the first removable tray 4402 and the second removal tray 4406 via pins 4432, 4434. The pin 4432, 4434 may be snap fitted.
Similar to the first telescopic assembly 4420, the second telescopic assembly 4422 includes a second elongated receptacle 4440 and a second elongated member 4442 telescopically received and the extending from the second elongated receptacle 4440 and adapted to slide relative to the second elongated receptacle 4440. The second elongated receptacle 4440 is coupled or attached or bonded to the middle portion 4414 of the first removable tray 4402, while the second elongated member 4442 is coupled to the fourth portion 4418 of the second removable tray 4406. In an embodiment, the second telescopic assembly 4422 may include a second coupler 4444 in a shape of a receptacle attached to the fourth portion 4418 of the second removable tray 4406. In such a case, the second coupler 4444 may telescopically receive the second elongate member 4442 and may attach the second elongated member 4442 to the second removable tray 4406, and hence second teeth 4408. In an embodiment, the second coupler 4444 and the second elongated member 4428 are integral to each other. Further, a second elastic spring 4446 extend from the middle portion 4414 of the first removable tray 4402 to the fourth portion 4418 of the second removable tray 4406, and is connected to the first removable tray 4402 and the second removal tray 4406 via pins 4448, 4450. Due to force applied by the elastic members 4430, 4446, the anterior teeth (second teeth) 4408 are retracted towards the first teeth 4404, resulting into reduction into space there between. In this manner, the orthodontic appliance 4400 may act as a combined space closure and aligner. Further one or more components of the first telescopic assembly 4420 may integrally formed with the first tray 4402 and/or the second tray 4406. Similarly, one or more components of the second telescopic assembly 4422 may be integrally formed with the first tray 4402 and/or the second tray 4406.
Referring FIGS. 45A and 45B, an orthodontic appliance 4500 according to an alternative embodiment is disclosed. The orthodontic appliance 4500 may include an arch member 4502 having an inverted U shape connected to first tooth 4504 and a third tooth 4506 disposed symmetrically opposite to the first tooth 4504. The arch member 4502 includes a first end portion 4508 connected to the first tooth 4504, a second end portion 4510 connected to the third tooth 4506, and a middle portion 4512 having an arch shape and disposed substantially parallel to a plurality of front teeth 4514 (hereinafter referred to as second teeth 4514). Further, the orthodontic appliance 4500 may include a first member 4520 extending from the arch member 4502 towards one or more of the second teeth 4514, and a second member 4522 disposed spaced apart and symmetrically opposite to the first member 4520. The second member 4522 also extends from the arch member 4502 towards one or more of the second teeth 4514. As shown, both the first member 4520 and the second member 4522 include tubular portions 4524, 4526 to receive the arch member 4502 such that first member 4520 and the second member 4522 may slide relative to the arch member 4502. Further, a height of the first member 4520 and/or the second member 4522 may be increased or decreased depending on a force on teeth and type of movement of teeth, such as extrusion or intrusion. Further, the first member 4520 and the second member 4522, each may include a split design to facilitate removal of the first member 4520 and/or the second member 4522 from the arch member 4502 without dismantling or removing the arch member 4502 or any other component of the orthodontic appliance 4500 from the mouth of the patient. Further, the orthodontic appliance 4500 may include a wire 4530 attached to front teeth 4514 through a plurality of brackets 4532. In an embodiment, a positioning and orientation of each bracket 4532 is selected in such a manner so as to facilitate an alignment of the front teeth 4514. Further, one end of the wire 4530 is attached to first member 4520, while another end of the wire 4530 may be attached to the second member 4522. In an embodiment, the wire 4530 be a shape memory wire, or a stainless-steel wire or a wire of any other material known in the art. In an embodiment, the wire 4530 may be a tubular wire. It may be appreciated that the arch member 4502 may be positioned proximate to a lower surface of the jaw, hence the first member 4520 and the second member 4522 may extend in a vertical direction from the arch member 4502 to the second teeth 4514. Therefore, the arch member 4502 and the brackets 4532 may positioned at different heights elevations, and the relative heights elevation of the arch member 4502 and the brackets 4532 may be selected based on the type of tooth movement and desired force for facilitating tooth movement.
Referring FIGS. 45C, 45D, and 45E, an orthodontic appliance 4550 according to an alternative embodiment is disclosed. The orthodontic appliance 4550 may include an arch member 4552 having an inverted U shape connected to first tooth 4554 and a third tooth 4556 disposed symmetrically opposite to the first tooth 4554. The arch member 4552 includes a first end portion 4558 connected to the first tooth 4554, a second end portion 4560 connected to the third tooth 4556, and a middle portion 4562 having an arch shape and disposed substantially parallel to a plurality of front teeth 4564 (hereinafter referred to as second teeth 4564). In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 45E, the first portion 4558 and the middle portion 4562 are separate segments, and may be joined together using a first coupler 4566. Similarly, the second portion 4560 and the middle portion 4562 are separate segment, may be joined together using a second coupler 4568. In an embodiment, the middle portion 4562 may telescopically move relative to the first portion 4558 and the second portion 4560.
Further, the middle portion 4562 may include one or more hooks 4570 for facilitating an attachment of one or more elastic members 4572. Each elastic member 4572 extend between the hook 4570 and one of the second teeth 4564. The elastic member may be connected the second teeth via a cross arch connecting member on a removable tray 4574 (partial aligner) enwrapped over the second teeth 4564. In an embodiment, the elastic member 4572 may be attached directly to one of the second teeth 4564 using buttons. In another embodiment, the elastic member 4572 may be attached to the second teeth using an anterior stabilizer bar having hooks. The elastic member 4572 is attached under tension and therefore applies a force on the second tooth 4564 to facilitate an intrusion of the second tooth 4564. In an embodiment, a length, a shape, and a dimension of the first portion 4458, the second portion 4560, and the middle portion 4562 may be selected based on a desired amount of force and/or a desired line of action of force to be applied on the second tooth 4564. Similarly, a location of the one or more hooks 4570 may also be changed.
Referring FIG. 46, an orthodontic appliance 4600 according to an alternative embodiment is disclosed. The orthodontic appliance 4600 includes a telescopic assembly 4602 for facilitating a reduction in space between teeth. The telescopic assembly 4602 includes an elongated receptacle 4604 coupled to one or more first teeth 4606 and an elongated member 4608 telescopically extending from the elongated receptacle 4604 and coupled to the one or more second teeth 4610. The elongated member 4608 is adapted to slide relative to the elongated receptacle 4604 under a force to move the second teeth 4610 towards the first teeth 4606. To enable a sliding movement of the second tooth 4610 relative to the first teeth 4606, an elastic member 4612 is coupled to the elongated member 4608 and the elongated receptacle 4604. In the assembly, the elastic member 4612 is under tension, thereby causing a movement of the second tooth 4610 towards the first teeth 4606.
Further, the orthodontic appliance 4600 may include an arch member 4620 having an inverted U shape connected to elongated receptacle 4604 and a third tooth 4622 disposed symmetrically opposite to the first tooth 4606. The arch member 4620 includes a first end portion 4624 connected to the first tooth 4606, a second end portion 4626 connected to third tooth 4622, and a middle portion 4628 having an arch shape and disposed substantially parallel to a plurality of front teeth 4630. Further, the orthodontic appliance 4600 may include a first member 4632 extending from the arch member 4620 towards one of the front teeth 4630, and a second member 4634 disposed spaced apart and symmetrically opposite to the first member 4632. The second member 4634 also extends from the arch member 4620 towards one of the front teeth 4630. As shown, both the first member 4632 and the second member 4634 include tubular portions 4636, 4638 to receive the arch member 4620 such that first member 4632 and the second member 4634 may slide relative to the arch member 4620. Further, the orthodontic appliance 4600 may include a wire 4640 attached to front teeth 4630 through a plurality of brackets 4642. In an embodiment, a positioning and orientation of each bracket 4642 is selected in such a manner so as to facilitate an alignment of the front teeth 4630. Further, one end of the wire 4640 is attached to first member 4632 and another end of the wire 4640 may be attached to the second member 4634. In an embodiment, the wire 4640 be a shape memory wire, or a stainless-steel wire. In an embodiment, the wire 4640 may be tubular wire. In an embodiment, the wire may include any cross-sectional shape, such as, but not limited to, a circular, rectangular, an elliptical, D-shape, or any other shape known in the art. Further, it may be appreciated that the arch member 4620 may be positioned proximate to a lower surface of the jaw, hence the first member 4632 and the second member 4634 may extend in a vertical direction from the arch member 4620 to the front teeth 4630. Therefore, the arch member 4620 and the brackets 4642 may positioned at different elevations, and the relative elevation of the arch member 4620 and the brackets 4642 may be selected based on the type of tooth movement and desired force for facilitating tooth movement.
Referring FIG. 47A. an orthodontic appliance 4700 according to an alternative embodiment is disclosed. The orthodontic appliance 4700 includes a first telescopic assembly 4704 and a second telescopic assembly 4706 disposed symmetrically opposite to the first telescopic assembly 4704. The first telescopic assembly 4704 includes a first elongated receptacle 4708 and a first elongated member 4710 telescopically extending from the first elongated receptacle 4708. The first elongated receptacle 4708 may be coupled to first teeth 4712, while the first elongated member 4710 may be coupled to one or more teeth 4714 (herein after referred as second teeth 4714) of the plurality of front teeth 4714. Further, a first elastic member 4724 of the first telescopic assembly 4704 is coupled to the first elongated receptacle 4708 via a first hook 4726. The first elastic member 4724 is also coupled to the first elongated member 4710 via a second hook 4728, and applies a pull force on the first elongated member 4710 for slidably and telescopically moving the first elongated member 4710 relative to the first elongated receptacle 4708 in a direction ‘A’.
Similar to the first telescopic assembly 4704, the second telescopic assembly 4706 includes a second elongated receptacle 4740 and a second elongated member 4742 telescopically extending from the second elongated receptacle 4740. The second elongated receptacle 4740 may be coupled to third teeth 4744 that act as a second anchorage unit for the orthodontic appliance 4700, while the second elongated member 4742 may be coupled to one or more teeth (herein after referred as fourth teeth 4746) of the plurality of front teeth. Further, a second elastic member 4750 of the second telescopic assembly 4706 is coupled to the second elongated receptacle 4740 via a third hook 4752. The second elastic member 4750 is also coupled to the second elongated member 4742 via a fourth hook 4754, and applies a pull force on the second elongated member 4742 for slidably and telescopically moving the second elongated member 4742 relative to the second elongated receptacle 4740 in the direction ‘A’.
Further, the orthodontic appliance 4700 includes a third elongated member 4760 connecting the first elongated member 4710 to the second elongated member 4742, and extending substantially parallel to front teeth 4762 (anterior teeth). Also, a first slidable hook 4764 is attached to a first end of the third elongated member 4760 and a second slidable hook 4768 is attached to a second end of the third elongated member 4760. The orthodontic appliance 4700 further includes an aligner assembly 4770 having a plurality of brackets 4772 attached to the front teeth 4762 and a wire 4774 passing through and connecting each of the brackets 4772 and connected to the first slidable hook 4764 and the second slidable hook 4768. A positioning and an orientation of each bracket 4774 is selected so as to apply a suitable force on each tooth to enable an alignment of front teeth 4764. Further, the sliding movement of the sliding hooks 4764, 4768 may facilitate in controlling an amount of force applied on the brackets 4774, and consequently on the teeth by the wire 4772. In an embodiment, the wire 4772 may be a tubular wire and may include any cross-sectional shape. Also, as both the telescopic assemblies 4704, 4706 and the brackets 4774 are coupled to the removable tray 4702, the orthodontic appliance 4702 may be easily removed by the patient.
Referring to FIG. 47B, a mono-block system 4790 of the orthodontic appliance 4700 is shown. The mono-block system 4790 is a framework that is assembled or manufactured separately an includes various jigs to position the various components of orthodontic appliance 4700 inside the mouth. The mon-block system 4790 may include two telescopic assembly, a removable tray with brackets attached or inbuilt to the removable tray, crown and bands having positioning devices. In an embodiment, the removable tray may include single or double pins to hold the brackets firmly. FIG. 47C disclosed another mono-block system 4792 similar to the mono-block system 4790 except that instead of pins, the mono-block system 4792 include U shaped female attachments for to stably holding the brackets.
Referring to FIGS. 48A, 48B, 48C, and 48D, bite blocks 4802, 4804, 4806, 4808 are shown that facilitate displacement of tooth and the jaw. In an embodiment, a position, a size and an inclination of the bite blocks may influence a displacement of lower tooth, upper tooth, or the lower jaw, or the upper jaw, etc. Referring to FIG., an exemplary positioning of a bite block is shown to facilitate a lower jaw forward. Further, the bite blocks may be attached to the telescopic assembly or any other attachments for facilitating concurrent movement of various teeth and jaw. The bite blocks may be attached to any assembly, sub-assembly, or component of the any orthodontic appliance discussed above.
Referring to FIG. 49A and FIG. 49B, a teeth attachment mechanism 4900 adapted to facilitate holding of one or more teeth together. The teeth attachment mechanism 4900 may be used as a part of any orthodontic appliance. The teeth attachment mechanism 4900 may include one or more first female members 4902, each adapted to attach with a single tooth. Each first member 4902 may be in the shape of a U-shaped receptacle having a U-shaped groove 4904 for receiving a portion of a second member 4906 of the teeth attachment mechanism 4900. As illustrated, the second member 4906 is adapted to extend across an entire width of all the teeth that are combined together as a single unit. Further, for accurately positioning the first member 4902 on to a respective tooth, a jig 4908 (best shown in FIG. 49B) may be utilized. The first member 4902 may be attached to the tooth by using various means known in the art. The teeth attachment mechanism 4900 may act as a fixed removeable attachment 4906 that can be removed as needed. The s first members 4902 may remain fixed with the teeth or can be changed as needed.
Referring to FIG. 50A and FIG. 50B, a teeth attachment mechanism 5000 according to an alternative embodiment is shown. The teeth mechanism 5000 may act as a stabilizing attachment or a retainer, and may include one or more first members 5002, each adapted to attach with a single tooth. The first member 5002 may include a cylindrical tubular female shape, and may include a groove 5004 extending longitudinally for receiving a portion of a second member 5006 of the teeth attachment mechanism 5000. As illustrated, the second member 5006 is adapted to extend across an entire width of all the teeth that are combined together as a single unit. The second member 5006, as shown, may be in shape of a wavy wire and can be made of polymers composites, steel, titanium alloy, or niti alloy, using 3d printing additive or subtractive technologies or any other manufacturing technology known in the art. In this manner, the second member 5006 facilitates an easy flossing of the teeth. Further, for accurately positioning the first member 5002 on to a respective tooth, a jig 5008 (best shown in FIG. 50B) may be utilized. The first members 5002 may be attached to the tooth by using various means known in the art such as bonding.
Referring to FIG. 51A and FIG. 51B, a teeth attachment mechanism 5100 according to an alternative embodiment is shown. The teeth attachment mechanism 5100 may include one or more first members 5102 in a shape of an arc, each adapted to each of the teeth. The first members 5102 are adapted to attach with the second female members 5104 of the teeth attachment mechanism 5100. As illustrated, the second member 5104 is adapted to extend across an entire width of all the teeth that are combined together as a single unit. The second member 5104 (best shown in FIG. 51B) may include an arch shaped elongated member 5106 and two hollow female hemispherical members 5108 attached at ends of the elongated member 5106. The hollow hemispherical members 5108 are adapted to receive and attach with the first members 5102. Further, for accurately positioning the first member 5102 on to a respective tooth, a jig (not shown) may be utilized. The first members 5102 may be attached to the tooth by using various means known in the art.
Referring to FIG. 52A and FIG. 52B, a retainer assembly 5200 for fixed removeable attachment of a bracket 5206 to a tooth is disclosed. The bracket 5206 is configured to receive tubular members or wire for facilitating alignment or movement of various teeth. As shown, the retainer assembly 5200 may include a retainer member 5202 having a U-shaped groove 5204 for receiving a portion of the bracket 5206. The bracket 5206 may form a snap-fit connection with the retainer member 5202. In another embodiment, the bracket 5206 may be secured by using a post attached with the bracket. The post may be inserted into a hole and a stop is crimped to prevent the dislodgment of the bracket 5206. In an embodiment, the bracket 5206 may include a locking mechanism to lock the bracket 5206 with the retainer 5202 to prevent a disconnection or relative movement between the bracket 5206 and the retainer 5202. Further, the retainer assembly 5200 may include a jig 508 for positioning the retainer 5202 at a desired location on the tooth.
Referring to FIG. 53, another mechanism of positioning a plurality of brackets 5300 on the teeth is shown. The mechanism includes a removable tray 5302 having the plurality of brackets 5300 made of the same material as a jig 5304 in the shape of J shaped. Once the bracket 5300 is positioned in place and bonded the jig 5304 is cut off from the bracket 5300 or snapped off. Referring to FIGS. 54A and 54B, a bracket 5400 is shown. The bracket 5400 may include a plurality of slots 5402, 5404 for receiving wire or tubular member for facilitating alignment of teeth. Also, the bracket 5400 may include locking elements to facilitate a locking of the bracket 5400 with a retainer that retains the bracket 5400 with a tooth. Also, a shape and size of any of the feature of the bracket 5400 can be customized. In an embodiment, the bracket 5400 may be manufactured using additive manufacturing technique, such as three-dimensional printing Further, in an embodiment, the bracket 5400 may include a slot that can be hardened by depositing different materials by electroplating or any other technique well known in the art. Also, a shape and size of any of the feature of the bracket 5400 can be customized such as hooks or number of slots or tubes, etc.
Referring to FIG. 54C and FIG. 54D, a front view and a side view of the bracket 5400 with a cap 5410 are shown. The cap 5410 is adapted to cover a front on the bracket 5400 and may include various designs such as, photographs, prints, gemstones, coating, etc. to make the bracket aesthetically appealing. The photographs may be etched or printed on the cap 5410 of the bracket 5400. In an embodiment, the cap 5410 may be omitted. In such a case, various designs are may be applied directly on the bracket 5400 and thereby a decorative bracket is provided.
Referring to FIGS. 55 and 56, a veneer 5500 is shown. The veneer 5500 is adapted to be positioned on a lingual or buccal side of the jaw and adapted to act as mask to make an appearance of the jaw more aesthetic. As shown in FIG. 55, the veneer 5500 may include a shape according to the teeth which needs to be masked. FIG. 56 depict the veneer 5500 positioned on the front side of the teeth so that the tooth 5502 can be hidden. In an embodiment, the veneer 50 may be integrally formed into the removable tray or aligner, and mask the underlying malocclusion being treated. A color of the veneer 5500 may be selected to match the color of the teeth. Also, the veneer 5500 can be made as singular shells that can be bonded on the visible surfaces of the tray on the inside or outside wall using a masking tape.
Further, although the elongated members may be a shaft member or a tubular member, may include any cross-sectional shape known in the art. For example, the elongated members may include a circular shape, a square shape, a polygon shape, D-shape, etc. Further, the elongated members and elongated receptacles may include a tube in tube or shaft in tube kind of configuration. Therefore, each of the elongated member and elongated receptacle may be of telescopic configuration. Further, the wires may be a solid wire or a tubular wire, and may also include any shape, such as, but not limited to, a circular shape, a rectangular shape, a polygon shape, a D shape, or any other configuration. Further, the wire may include a tube in tube configuration or shaft in a tube configuration.
Further, one or more orthodontic appliances, discussed above, may include one or more pontics for aesthetically hiding a space between teeth. The pontics can be integrated with the removable tray or attached with the telescopic assemblies. Further, various components of the orthodontic appliances can be prepared by various additive manufacturing techniques, for example, three-dimensional printing. Further, the orthodontic appliances are used at various stages of treatment for treating the teeth of patient to correct the positioning and alignment of teeth.
Patent Application
20200060789
