Method for producing a laboratory analog for dental implants

Abstract

Method for the production of a laboratory analog (1, 21, 31) for dental implants comprising the steps: Providing at least one sleeve (11) comprising a cylindrical recess (4) with an internal thread; Providing a three-dimensional model (6, 16, 26, 36) of at least a partial area of ​​a patient's jaw who has at least one dental implant; Inserting at least one sleeve (11) into at least one recess (7) of the model (6, 16, 26, 36) that is suitable for the sleeve (11), wherein each recess (7) is arranged in a region of the model (6, 16, 26, 36) in which a dental implant is located in the patient's jaw; and computer-assisted fully automatic removal of at least one inserted sleeve (11), wherein the removal is controlled by the data of a three-dimensional scan of the patient's oral cavity, the data having been previously recorded, and the sleeve (11) is abraded with the help of the data to such an extent that the crestal end of the laboratory analog (1, 21, 31) produced from the sleeve (11) matches the crestal end of the dental implant in the patient's jaw.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to methods for producing a laboratory analogue using data from a three-dimensional scan of the patient's oral cavity, the data having been previously recorded.

[0002] The invention also relates to methods for producing a three-dimensional model of at least a partial region of a patient's jaw for at least one laboratory analogue with at least one recess for receiving at least one laboratory analogue with the aid of data from a three-dimensional scan of the patient's oral cavity, the data having been previously recorded.

[0003] Finally, the invention also relates to a laboratory analogue and a model produced by such a method.

[0004] Dental implants are used in dentistry to replace extracted or missing teeth. For this purpose, the dental implants are inserted into the jawbone. DE 10 2007 029 105 A1 describes dental implants that are inserted into the jawbone. The dental implant comprises a cylindrical bore with an internal thread. Furthermore, the dental implant is structured with indexing to prevent the abutment from being inserted into the dental implant at any angle.

[0005] EP 2 389 891 A2 discloses an analog implant with a proximal section. US 2011 / 0129800 A1 relates to analogs based on computer-generated models for the production of prosthetic analogs for preoperative planning of cranial and facial reconstructions, which are produced using stereolithography. US 5,350,297 relates to a method and device for recording the position of bone-anchored implants. WO 2009 / 024838 A2 relates to an impression and model component for easily and extremely precisely determining the location of the metal superstructure of implant-supported prostheses.

[0006] Laboratory analogues are required to enable a dental technician to model a denture on an implant abutment in the laboratory, which is then later inserted into the patient. Laboratory analogues have a material-specific geometry and shape. Usually, an impression is taken using an impression material, which is then used to create a plaster model of the patient's jaw by pouring the impression in plaster. The laboratory analogue is integrated into the jaw model in the appropriate position. The geometry and shape of the laboratory analogue must be adapted to the plaster. This jaw model, along with the integrated laboratory analogue, is used by the dental technician to shape the implant abutment and denture to suit the situation in the patient's mouth.

[0007] For some time now, a different method has been used instead of this procedure to create a model of the jaw and the installation situation. Using an intraoral scanner, for example, the three-dimensional situation in the patient's mouth is first recorded and digitally stored in a computer's electronic memory. CAD programs are usually used for this purpose. A model of the jaw is then created using a light-curing plastic in the usual way with the aid of a laser. The laboratory analogues are then inserted into these plastic models of the jaw. The plastic model of the jaw with the laboratory analogue can then be used by the dental technician to construct the denture.

[0008] The disadvantage of this is that the installation situation on the jaw model is not precisely defined for the dental technician. Particularly with superstructures that must be fixed to multiple dental implants in the patient's jaw, if the position and alignment of the laboratory analogues in the model do not correspond precisely enough to the situation in the oral cavity, unwanted tensions can arise in the jawbone. This can lead to pain for the patient and also to strain on the jawbone, which in the worst case scenario could lead to the loss of the implants. Therefore, it is crucial to carry out everything with the greatest possible accuracy, even during the fabrication of the model and the positioning and alignment of the laboratory analogues relative to one another.

[0009] If, during the placement of the denture, the dentist discovers that the denture does not fit the patient's oral cavity precisely, the dentist must adjust the denture on-site or, in the worst case, the denture must be completely remade. Furthermore, the laboratory analog cannot be easily fixed in the correct position, so that changes in position can occur during the fabrication of the denture, resulting in an incorrect fit. The laboratory analog is rotatable and can be moved longitudinally within the model.

[0010] The object of the invention is therefore to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, a method is to be found for producing a jaw model or a laboratory analogue, especially a plastic jaw model produced using rapid prototyping, with inserted laboratory analogues for the fabrication of a denture as precisely as possible, so that less waste occurs during the fabrication of a denture and the dentist no longer has to make any additional adjustments when inserting the denture. Furthermore, modern methods should be applicable to the fabrication of the jaw model.

[0011] The object of the invention with regard to the method is achieved by a method for producing a laboratory analogue for dental implants comprising the steps: Providing at least one sleeve comprising a cylindrical recess with an internal thread; Providing a three-dimensional model of at least a portion of a jaw of a patient having at least one dental implant; Inserting at least one sleeve into at least one recess of the model that matches the sleeve, each recess being arranged in a region of the model in which a dental implant is arranged in the patient's jaw; and Computer-assisted, fully automatic removal of at least one inserted sleeve, wherein the removal is controlled by the data of a three-dimensional scan of the patient's oral cavity, the data having been previously recorded, and the sleeve is removed with the aid of the data until the crestal end of the laboratory analogue produced from the sleeve coincides with the crestal end of the dental implant in the patient's jaw.

[0012] It can be provided that the sleeve is removed from the crestal direction, in particular cut, ground and / or milled.

[0013] The object of the invention with regard to the method is also achieved by a method for producing a three-dimensional model of at least a partial area of ​​a jaw for producing a dental prosthesis, comprising the steps: Providing data of a three-dimensional scan of an oral cavity of a patient having at least one dental implant, the data having been previously recorded; Creating a three-dimensional model of at least the partial region of the jaw; and computer-assisted, fully automatic shaping of at least one recess for receiving a laboratory analogue in the jaw saddle of the model, wherein the data from the three-dimensional scan are used during shaping and the depth, position and orientation of the at least one recess are shaped such that the crestal end of this laboratory analogue inserted into the recess coincides with the crestal end of a dental implant in the patient's jaw, wherein the laboratory analogue is produced by computer-assisted, fully automatic removal from a sleeve inserted into the recess, and the data from the three-dimensional scan are used in the process.

[0014] It can be provided that the laboratory analogue, in particular a standard laboratory analogue, is inserted into the recess or a sleeve is inserted into the recess, wherein a laboratory analogue is produced by ablation from the sleeve, wherein preferably the data of the three-dimensional scan are used to ablate the sleeve fully automatically.

[0015] This method combines the advantages of a method according to the invention for producing the laboratory analogue and the recess in the model.

[0016] The object of the invention with regard to the method is further achieved by a method for producing a three-dimensional model of at least a partial area of ​​a jaw for producing a dental prosthesis, comprising the steps: Providing data of a three-dimensional scan of an oral cavity of a patient having at least one dental implant, the data having been previously recorded. Creating a three-dimensional model of at least the partial area of ​​the jaw with at least one recess for receiving a laboratory analogue, optionally with an opening, wherein each of the at least one recess is arranged in a region of the model in which a dental implant is arranged in the patient's jaw; and Computer-assisted, fully automatic shaping of at least one vestibular, lingual, or palatal passage through the model into the at least one recess, wherein the data of the three-dimensional scan are used during shaping and the arrangement of the passage is placed such that the crestal end of a laboratory analogue corresponds to the crestal end of the dental implant in the patient's jaw when the laboratory analogue is fixed with a pin which is inserted through the passage in the model into an opening in the laboratory analogue.

[0017] It can be provided that the feedthrough is shaped to fit the pin and the opening fits the pin, preferably a recess in the laboratory analogue arranged behind the opening fits the pin.

[0018] In methods according to the invention for producing models, it can further be provided that the fully automatic shaping takes place by drilling, turning, grinding, cutting and / or milling.

[0019] These manufacturing methods can be implemented particularly precisely and efficiently using fully automated computer-aided methods.

[0020] According to the invention, it can also be provided that the fully automatic shaping and / or removal, which is carried out in particular with computer support, is carried out with an accuracy of at least ± 10 µm, preferably with an accuracy of at least ± 5 µm.

[0021] This accuracy is sufficient to securely attach abutments, abutment superstructures, and other structures to the dental implants without stress. Furthermore, with this level of accuracy, scanning of the oral cavity can be performed without significant effort using conventional methods.

[0022] Furthermore, it can be provided that the data of the three-dimensional scan of the patient's oral cavity are used to produce the three-dimensional model of the jaw or jaw region, in particular to produce it fully automatically, wherein the model is preferably produced by rapid prototyping (rapid model construction), particularly preferably with an accuracy of at least ± 100 µm, very particularly preferably with an accuracy of at least ± 60 µm.

[0023] The simple and cost-effective production of the model, coupled with the refinement through the fully automatic removal of the sleeve or shaping of the recess or the opening, results in a fast and, if possible, cost-effective process, which at the same time offers a high level of accuracy and a precise starting situation for the dental technician.

[0024] A further embodiment of the invention can provide that a CAD-supported stereolithographic process is used to obtain the data for producing the model and / or the laboratory analogue and that the model is preferably made of plastic, particularly preferably of a light-curing plastic.

[0025] The previously recorded data from the scan of the patient's oral cavity can be used twice, and a largely automated production of the model with the laboratory analogue(s) is possible.

[0026] Particularly preferably, it can be provided that a five-axis machining, in particular a five-axis CNC milling machine, is used during shaping and / or removal, in particular for milling and / or grinding.

[0027] Five-axis machining enables greater machining accuracy than rapid prototyping, thus leading to improved models.

[0028] Furthermore, it can be provided that at least two recesses are created or are present in the three-dimensional model and preferably a sleeve or a laboratory analogue is inserted into each of the recesses, wherein the position of the recess or the feedthroughs and / or the crestal ends of the laboratory analogues relative to one another is preferably adjusted by shaping and / or ablation based on the data of the scan.

[0029] The advantages of the procedures are particularly evident when several laboratory analogues are used to build a superstructure that is attached to several dental implants, since the procedure allows the position of the laboratory analogues to be precisely adjusted relative to one another.

[0030] Furthermore, it can be provided according to the invention that at least one cylindrical or conical recess is created or is present in the model, wherein the recess is created or is present with a single-fold or multiple-fold rotational symmetry about the longitudinal axis of the recess and a sleeve or a laboratory analogue is inserted into the recess, which has the same rotational symmetry at least in some regions and thus fits into the recess only in one orientation or in the multiple orientation.

[0031] This is to ensure that the abutments are always fixed in the correct position in the model and later in the oral cavity on the dental implants.

[0032] It can be provided that at least one sleeve or a laboratory analogue is used, which preferably fits precisely into the recess.

[0033] Methods according to the invention can also be characterized in that, during the production of the model, a fixed predetermined shape is specified for the at least one recess, which fits a specific shape of a sleeve or a laboratory analogue, and / or a shape for the recess is selected from a plurality of different shapes that fit a plurality of different sleeves or laboratory analogues, wherein preferably before the production of the model, the shape is integrated into a measured virtual digitized model of the jaw as a recess.

[0034] It can also be provided that at least one sleeve or at least one laboratory analogue engages with a locking mechanism into a counter-locking mechanism in at least one recess or is connected with a bayonet lock in an angled recess of at least one recess.

[0035] The longitudinal axis of the recess is the axis along which the laboratory analog can be inserted and removed from the recess. It usually lies along the central axis of the recess. A crestal direction is defined as a direction from the alveolar ridge of molars in an occlusal direction, i.e., oriented toward the chewing surface. Also related to the jaw are the vestibular (toward the oral vestibule), lingual (toward the tongue in the lower jaw), and palatal (toward the palate in the upper jaw).

[0036] In the case of single-fold rotational symmetry axes, this refers to the single-fold rotational symmetry axis that coincides with the rotational symmetry axis of the cylindrical or conical basic shape of the sleeve or laboratory analogue. Typically, a cylindrical or conical shape is chosen as the basic shape of the laboratory analogue and thus of the recess, in which the symmetry of this basic shape is then broken by grooves, depressions, or projections. The axis of symmetry is therefore understood to be the rotational symmetry axis of the basic shape.

[0037] Furthermore, it can be provided that a CAD-supported stereolithographic process is used to produce the model and that the model is preferably made of plastic, particularly preferably of a light-curing plastic.

[0038] Such methods are particularly well suited for the implementation of the methods according to the invention, since the recesses can be integrated into the jaw models very easily and without great computational effort, even with simple, readily available computers.

[0039] The final step of the procedure may also involve screwing the denture directly to a laboratory analogue. Alternatively, an abutment or implant superstructure can be mounted and finalized on the laboratory analogue.

[0040] In methods according to the invention, it can preferably also be provided that a computer is used in the production of the recess or the passage, in particular a digitization of the oral cavity of the patient, wherein the shape of the recess is read from a memory unit of the computer and wherein in particular different laboratory analogues are assigned different suitable shapes of the recesses, which are preferably selected by the computer and / or a user using an input unit.

[0041] Using a computer to create the model results in the special combinatorial effect that all the data for creating the model is already stored in the computer, and therefore the surface of the model is already stored. The surface of the jaw model only needs to be modified in such a way that the recess is now positioned in the correct location, matching the laboratory analogue that is most suitable, that was previously selected by the computer, or that is the only one stored. The model can then be created immediately with the modified surface, i.e., together with the appropriate recess.

[0042] It can also be provided that a laboratory analogue is used which has the same rotational symmetry as the recess at least in some areas along its longitudinal axis and which preferably fits precisely into the recess or whose thread fits exactly to the counter thread of the recess.

[0043] When using such a laboratory analogue, it is ensured that the recess fits the area of ​​the laboratory analogue and therefore the laboratory analogue is well fixed in the model.

[0044] It can be provided that during the production of the model a fixed predetermined shape is specified for the recess which fits a specific laboratory analogue, and / or a shape for the recess is selected from a plurality of different shapes which fit a plurality of different laboratory analogues, wherein preferably before the production of the model the shape is integrated into a measured virtual digitized model of the jaw as a recess.

[0045] This allows for a particularly user-friendly and / or flexible process. The strength of the invention can be effectively utilized precisely with such possibilities.

[0046] The use of computers for implementing the methods according to the invention is particularly suitable since, in particular, the newer methods for producing such models are already used in a computer-aided manner, so that only a simple addition to the software together with the data relating to the surfaces of the recesses or the laboratory analogues has to be recorded in order to achieve an improvement in the dental prosthesis produced.

[0047] It can be provided that several shapes of different recesses are stored in the memory unit and a recess can be selected via an input device and / or is predetermined by the computer depending on the data for creating the model, wherein in particular the recess can be selected from a preselection of laboratory analogues suitable for the recesses determined by the computer.

[0048] The object of the invention is also achieved by a laboratory analogue produced according to a method according to the invention for producing a laboratory analogue, in which the crestal end of the laboratory analogue corresponds to the data of the three-dimensional scan of the patient's oral cavity with an accuracy of at least ± 10 µm, preferably with an accuracy of at least ± 5 µm, when it is inserted into an associated model of the jaw.

[0049] The object of the invention is also achieved by a model of at least a partial area of ​​a jaw produced according to such a method for producing a model comprising at least one recess, in which the dimension of the at least one recess and preferably the orientation and the position of all recesses relative to one another has or have an accuracy of at least ± 10 µm, preferably with an accuracy of at least ± 5 µm with respect to the data of the three-dimensional scan of the patient's oral cavity, so that the orientation and position of the crestal ends of the laboratory analogues used in the model corresponds with this accuracy to the orientation and position of all crestal ends of the dental implants.

[0050] A model of at least a partial region of a jaw is disclosed, produced according to such a method for producing a model comprising at least one leadthrough and at least one recess, in which the position of the at least one leadthrough and preferably the orientation and position of all leadthroughs relative to one another has or have an accuracy of at least ± 10 µm, preferably with an accuracy of at least ± 5 µm with respect to the data of the three-dimensional scan of the patient's oral cavity, so that the orientation and position of the crestal ends of the laboratory analogues fixed by the pins through the leadthroughs in the model corresponds with this accuracy to the orientation and position of all crestal ends of the dental implants.

[0051] Such a model provides a basis for the use of a rotationally fixed or even positionally fixed abutment to produce a high-quality dental prosthesis.

[0052] It can be provided that a counter-locking mechanism is provided in the recess, which engages with a locking mechanism on the laboratory analogue and holds the laboratory analogue in position.

[0053] This again serves to better and more precisely fix a laboratory analogue that is inserted into the recess of the model.

[0054] The possible application of different laboratory analogues and the selection of a particularly suitable laboratory analogue opens up the possibility of further improving the final result produced.

[0055] The invention is based on the surprising discovery that, when using modern methods such as rapid prototyping and / or stereolithographic methods for producing jaw models, it is possible to improve the quality and, above all, the accuracy of the dental prosthesis. The high accuracy of the scan can be reproduced for the model or the laboratory analogue(s) by using the scan data during automatic shaping or removal during the production of the model or the laboratory analogue(s). According to the invention, this can preferably be achieved using five-axis methods such as five-axis grinders, milling machines, cutters, and / or drills, which are controlled based on the data from the scan of the patient's oral cavity.By means of various other measures according to the invention, it is possible to arrange the laboratory analogue in the model with particular precision, i.e., rotationally fixed or even positionally fixed.

[0056] The methods according to the invention not only make it possible to precisely specify the position of a single crestal end of a single laboratory analogue, but above all also to precisely adjust the position, alignment, and relative position of various crestal ends of multiple laboratory analogues. This offers advantages when fabricating superstructures that are attached to multiple dental implants.

[0057] In addition, the appropriate shape of the recess can be created immediately during the creation of the recess in the jaw model if the surface required for the recess is integrated into a virtual model and each recess is created accordingly during manufacturing. Furthermore, a particularly well-fitting recess can be selected immediately using a matching laboratory analogue if several different laboratory analogues and the corresponding recesses are stored and thus available for selection.

[0058] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained with reference to eight schematically illustrated figures, without, however, limiting the invention. In the following, Fig. 1: a schematic perspective view of a laboratory analogue with a projection for forming a bayonet closure for implementing a method according to the invention; Fig. 2: a schematic perspective and transparent partial view of a model of a jaw for the inclusion of the laboratory analogue according to Fig. 1 for implementing a method according to the invention; Fig. 3: a schematic perspective view of a sleeve with rotational symmetry breaking for implementing a method according to the invention; Fig. 4: a schematic perspective and transparent partial view of a model of a jaw for receiving a sleeve according to Fig. 3 for implementing a method according to the invention; Fig. 5: a schematic perspective view of an alternative laboratory analogue for implementing a method according to the invention; Fig. 6: a schematic perspective transparent partial view of a model of a jaw with a lead-through for fixing a laboratory analogue according to Fig. 5 for implementing a method according to the invention; Fig. 7: a schematic perspective view of another laboratory analogue for implementing a method according to the invention; Fig. 8: a section of a schematic cross-sectional view of a model of a jaw for implementing a method according to the invention.

[0059] Fig. Figure 1 shows a laboratory analogue 1 suitable for implementing a method according to the invention. The laboratory analogue 1 has a cylindrical base 2 made of metal. The laboratory analogue 1 can, for example, be made of metal. A hexagonal structure 3 is arranged on the top of the laboratory analogue 1.

[0060] If a laboratory analogue 1 or a sleeve with a hexagonal abutment 3 is used, the abutment has a sixfold rotational symmetry on the base side, meaning that the area and surface of the abutment can be geometrically transformed into itself through six different rotations around the longitudinal axis of less than or equal to 360°. An abutment can also be understood as an implant abutment with a connection geometry. A rectangular or elliptical abutment would result in a twofold symmetry and can also be used. Thus, the abutment can only be placed on the laboratory analogue 1 at defined angles.

[0061] A cylindrical hole 4 with an internal thread 4 is located in the center of the laboratory analogue 1. The hole 4 extends deep into the interior of the base 2 along the axis of symmetry of the cylindrical base 2. However, the hole 4 does not reach the opposite side of the laboratory analogue 1.

[0062] A projection 5, which may be hemispherical in shape, is attached to the lateral surface of the cylindrical base 2. The projection 5 is intended to form a bayonet lock with a corresponding recess in a model of a patient's jaw.

[0063] A part of such a Model 6 is in Fig. 2 in a transparent schematic view. Model 6 continues to the right and left, as shown by the incomplete straight lines in Fig. 2. In fact, Model 6 will not have such edges as represented by the straight lines, but will show a jaw saddle with or without teeth, depending on the situation in the patient's mouth.

[0064] In the model 6 there is a recess 7, which extends as a cylindrical hole into the model 6. The diameter of the recess 7 is slightly larger than that of the laboratory analogue 1 according to Fig. 1, so that the laboratory analogue 1 can be inserted into the recess. In the cylinder wall of the recess 7, an angled groove 8 is provided, which is aligned with the projection 5 Fig. 1 forms a bayonet lock. The laboratory analogue 1 can be secured in the model 6 by inserting the laboratory analogue 1 into the recess 7, with the projection 5 being guided in the groove 7. At the angle of the groove 7, the laboratory analogue 1 cannot be inserted any further, but is rotated clockwise until the stop of the groove 7 is reached and the projection 5 blocks further rotation.

[0065] The laboratory analogue 1 is manufactured from a sleeve (not shown) that is slightly longer than the laboratory analogue 1 shown, but already has the same diameter of the base 2 and a hexagonal structure 3, and also already has the projection 5. The sleeve is firmly connected to the model 6 via the bayonet lock 5, 8.

[0066] The sleeve is then milled using a five-axis milling machine, which is automatically controlled using previously recorded data from a three-dimensional scan of the patient's oral cavity. The position and location of the crestal end of the sleeve are milled with high precision, so that after milling, this end corresponds very precisely to the position and location of the crestal end of the dental implant in the patient's jaw. In particular, the position and alignment of several dental implants relative to one another are reproduced very precisely in model 6. The laboratory analogues 1 produced from the sleeves in model 6 are therefore very precisely suitable for fabricating the superstructure, in particular a superstructure anchored to several dental implants.

[0067] Model 6, on the other hand, can initially be manufactured by simple rapid prototyping, since the inaccuracies in the production of the model are compensated for by post-processing with the five-axis milling machine.

[0068] Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic perspective view of a sleeve 11 for an alternative laboratory analogue, which has a base 2 with a flattening 15. The flattening 15 serves to ensure that the sleeve 11 and the laboratory analogue made from the sleeve 11 can only be inserted into the matching model 16 in one position according to Fig. 4 can be inserted. The sleeve 11 also has a hexagonal structure 3 for the orientation of an abutment and a hole 4 with an internal thread for fastening the abutment. The sleeve 11 is therefore similar to the laboratory analogue 1 according to Fig. 1. In principle, it is conceivable, although unlikely, that the sleeve 11 in its unprocessed form will precisely fit the situation in the patient's oral cavity. In this case, the sleeve 11 can be used directly as a laboratory analogue. Therefore, there is no fundamental difference between the sleeve 11 and the finished laboratory analogue. However, the sleeve 11 should normally be longer, as it cannot be artificially lengthened but is milled or otherwise removed to enable the production of any possible length of different laboratory analogues from the sleeve 11.

[0069] The model 16 has a recess 7, which also includes a flattening 18, so that the shape of the recess 7 matches the shape of the base 2 of the sleeve 11. After inserting the sleeve 11, the inserted sleeve 11 is machined at the crestal end (in Fig. 3 above) is milled fully automatically. The five-axis CNC milling machine receives the data for this from an electronic memory containing the data from a scan of the patient's oral cavity. During the scan, the situation in the oral cavity, and in particular the position and location of all dental implants in the jaw of the patient to be treated, was recorded with high precision (with an error of less than 10 µm).

[0070] While model 16 was manufactured using rapid prototyping from the same data but with less precision, by removing the sleeves 11 using more precise five-axis machining, laboratory analogues can be created whose position and orientation correspond to the situation, particularly the position and orientation of the dental implants in the patient's mouth, to within at least 10 µm. Especially when a superstructure is to be attached to multiple dental implants, the high accuracy of this method is advantageous for avoiding stresses exerted on the jaw by the dental implants due to insufficiently manufactured superstructures.

[0071] Fig. 5 shows a schematic perspective view of an alternative laboratory analogue 21 for implementing a method according to the invention. The laboratory analogue 21 has a cylindrical base 2, at the upper crestal end of which a recess 23 is provided. The recess 23 serves to receive an abutment for producing a structure which is to be inserted, for example, as a dental prosthesis or as a superstructure in the oral cavity of a patient on a dental implant with the same crestal end. In the recess 23 there is a hole with an internal thread (not shown) for attaching the abutment. In the cylindrical jacket of the laboratory analogue 21 there is a receiving opening 25 which opens into a cylindrical recess in the base 2 of the laboratory analogue 21.

[0072] The laboratory analogue 21 is a standard part in which the position and alignment of the receiving opening 25 and the cylindrical recess in the casing of the base 2 were manufactured with a high accuracy, for example, to at least 6 µm.

[0073] Fig. 6 shows a schematic perspective and transparent partial view of a model 26 of a jaw with a passage 28 for fixing a laboratory analogue 21 according to Fig. 5 in a recess 7 of the model 26 for implementing a method according to the invention. The feedthrough 28 has the same geometry as the cylindrical depression in the jacket of the base 2 of the laboratory analogue 21. The laboratory analogue 21 is inserted from above into the recess 7 so that the cylindrical depression in the jacket of the base 2 forms the extension of the feedthrough 28. The laboratory analogue 21 can then be fixed with a pin (not shown) that matches the geometry of the feedthrough 28 and the cylindrical depression in the jacket of the base 2, by inserting the pin through the feedthrough 28 into the cylindrical depression in the cylindrical jacket of the base 2.

[0074] A marking may be provided on the laboratory analogue 21 indicating the position of the opening 25 in order to facilitate the dental technician's insertion of the laboratory analogue 21.

[0075] Model 26 is initially manufactured without the through-hole 28 using rapid prototyping. This gives model 26 an accuracy of approximately 60 µm. The data from which model 26 was manufactured using rapid prototyping is more precise, for example, accurate to within 3 µm. Model 26 without the through-hole 28 is then clamped and fixed in a holder of a drilling machine or other device for creating a through-hole 28 with high precision. This enables drilling with high precision, for example, with an accuracy as high as the accuracy of the position of the cylindrical recess in the shell of base 2 in laboratory analogue 21 (6 µm). A computer calculates the position of the hole from the data in order to position laboratory analogue 21 when fixed with the pin so that the position of the crestal end of laboratory analogue 21 matches the position of the crestal end of the dental implant in the patient's jaw.Subsequently, the bushing 28 is created in the model 26.

[0076] In the same way, if necessary, the other passages (not shown) are also created in the same model 26 and thus the position and location of the crestal ends of the laboratory analogues 21 are adjusted to one another so that they correspond to the position and location of the crestal ends of all dental implants in the patient's jaw.

[0077] Fig. Figure 7 shows a schematic perspective view of another laboratory analogue 31 for implementing a method according to the invention. The laboratory analogue 31 is a cylindrical body with a groove 35. A hole 4 with an internal thread is provided along the cylindrical axis of the laboratory analogue 31. An abutment can be screwed into the internal thread. The crestal end is in Fig. 7 in contrast to the Fig. 1, Fig. 3 and Fig. 5 so below.

[0078] Fig. Figure 8 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a section of a jaw model 36 according to the invention. A recess 7 for receiving a laboratory analogue 31 is arranged in the model 36. As a suitable counterpart to the laboratory analogue 31 according to Fig. 7, the model 36 includes a projection 38 which fits into the groove 35 of the laboratory analogue 31 and thus clearly defines the position of the laboratory analogue 31.

[0079] Model 36 includes gums 45, jaw saddle 46, and teeth 47, or more precisely, models of them. Model 36 is made of plastic and created using data obtained using a stereolithographic process by scanning a patient's oral cavity. The opposing jaw section (not shown) can also be part of Model 36 to represent the situation during chewing or with the mouth closed. Thus, Model 36 of the jaw can extend beyond the right and left sides, as indicated by the dashed lines.

[0080] The model 36 includes the recess 7 in the form of a cylindrical hole at a point between the teeth 47. The cylindrical rotational symmetry of the recess 7 is broken by the projection 38. This allows the exact position of a laboratory analogue 31, such as the one according to Fig. 7, fixed in model 36, which means both rotationally fixed and positionally fixed.

[0081] For a laboratory analogue 21 or a sleeve 11, as in Fig. 3 or Fig. 5, the recess 7 in a suitable model would be constructed as a cylindrical hole with a flattening or a passage through the gum 45 at the jaw saddle 46, whereby the laboratory analogue 21 or the sleeve 11 is held rotationally fixed. The advantage of this construction is that the laboratory analogue 31 can be removed quickly, while the laboratory analogue 21 Fig. 5 can be fixed better and more precisely.

[0082] A further particularly preferred embodiment of a method according to the invention is explained below. The oral cavity of a patient is measured in order to create a suitable denture. For this purpose, a three-dimensional image of the oral cavity, or in particular of the affected part of the jaw, is taken. This data is stored in a computer memory. During the acquisition, the positions of all dental implants in the patient's jaw are precisely determined by inserting standard position markers into the dental implants for the scan. These markers are clearly identifiable during the scan, thus allowing the position and orientation of the dental implants to be precisely determined by the scan.

[0083] From the data, a virtual three-dimensional CAD model of the jaw or part of the jaw is calculated in a computer. Various recesses 7 or basic recess shapes are stored in the computer's memory, which are assigned to various laboratory analogues 1, 21, 31 or sleeves 11. The computer calculates how the various recesses 7 could be arranged in the model 6, 16, 26, 36. The most stable or sensible variant is selected, or the most stable or sensible variants are suggested via a display device. As a criterion, for example, the wall thickness of the model 6, 16, 26, 36 in the area of ​​the recess 7 in the jaw saddle 46 for the various recesses 6, 16, 26, 36 can be used, or which laboratory analogue 1, 21, 31 or sleeve 11 is most suitable for the position in the jaw can be used.

[0084] The user can also alternatively select the recess 7 they consider most suitable from all the existing stored recesses 7. It can also be provided that the computer indicates through calculations if a selected recess 7 appears to be impossible or impractical, for example, if it does not appear stable enough. Likewise, only one possible shape of a recess 7 can be stored for a specific type of laboratory analogue 1, 21, 31 or sleeve 11.

[0085] Subsequently, the selected recess 7 or the predefined recess 7 is combined with the virtual jaw model via an input device. For this purpose, the recess 7 is calculated as the surface of the virtual model at the location where the dental implant is positioned in the patient's jaw. An actual model 6, 16, 26, 36 is then created from the new virtual model using known methods, such as rapid prototyping. For this purpose, the computer is connected to a manufacturing facility capable of implementing such processes.

[0086] Recess 7 may not even be included in model 6, 16, 26, 36, or may only be designed as a preform, i.e., too small. The final shaping of recess 7 is carried out using a more precise manufacturing process than rapid prototyping. For example, five-axis machining processes can be used, which utilize the higher accuracy of the scan data to create recess 7 and, if applicable, their position and alignment with respect to one another with greater precision. Thus, fine machining of recess 7 is carried out so that the position, alignment, and depth of recess 7 in the model and, if applicable, of the recesses relative to one another are manufactured in such a way that the crestal ends of the inserted laboratory analogues 1, 21, 31 exactly match the alignments, positions, and orientations of the crestal ends of the dental implants in the jaw and, if applicable, of the dental implants relative to one another.

[0087] Subsequently, the recess 7 can either be machined with a precision tool, for example, by five-axis machining based on the more precise scan data, or alternatively, a feedthrough can be precisely drilled to define the position and orientation of a prefabricated laboratory analogue 1, 21, 31 with high accuracy. Another alternative allows a sleeve 11 inserted into the recess 7 to be additionally or alternatively removed with a precision tool, for example, by five-axis machining based on the more precise scan data, in order to produce the precisely correct length and arrangement of the resulting laboratory analogue 1, 21, 31.

[0088] The actual denture can then be created on abutment 3 of the laboratory analogue 1, 21, 31 in a realistic environment with precise positioning. Whenever the laboratory analogue 1, 21, 31 or sleeve 11 is removed and reinserted from the model 6, 16, 26, 36, it will be in the same position in the jaw model 6, 16, 26, 36. This ensures that the denture has exactly the right shape. Furthermore, the denture will also be positioned in the same position in the patient's mouth on the actual dental implant, ensuring a particularly good fit.

[0089] The features of the invention disclosed in the foregoing description, as well as in the claims, figures and embodiments, may be essential both individually and in any combination for the realization of the invention in its various embodiments. List of reference symbols 1, 21, 31 Laboratory analogue 2 Base 3 Structure 4 holes 5 lead 6, 16, 26, 36 model 7 Recess 8 grooves 11 sleeve 15 Flattening 18 Flattening 23 Deepening 25 Receiving opening 28 Implementation 35 groove 38 lead 45 Gums 46 pine saddle 47 tooth

Claims

[1] Method for producing a laboratory analogue (1, 21, 31) for dental implants comprising the steps: Providing at least one sleeve (11) comprising a cylindrical recess (4) with an internal thread; Providing a three-dimensional model (6, 16, 26, 36) of at least a partial region of a jaw of a patient who has at least one dental implant; Inserting at least one sleeve (11) into at least one recess (7) of the model (6, 16, 26, 36) that matches the sleeve (11), each recess (7) being arranged in a region of the model (6, 16, 26, 36) in which a dental implant is arranged in the patient's jaw; and computer-assisted fully automatic removal of at least one inserted sleeve (11), wherein the removal is controlled by the data of a three-dimensional scan of the patient's oral cavity, the data having been previously recorded, and the sleeve (11) is removed with the aid of the data to such an extent that the crestal end of the laboratory analogue (1, 21, 31) produced from the sleeve (11) corresponds to the crestal end of the dental implant in the patient's jaw. [2] Method according to claim 1, characterized by that the sleeve (11) is removed from the crestal direction, in particular cut, ground and / or milled. [3] Method for producing a three-dimensional model (6, 16, 26, 36) of at least a partial region of a jaw for producing a dental prosthesis, comprising the steps: Providing data of a three-dimensional scan of an oral cavity of a patient having at least one dental implant, the data having been previously recorded; Creating a three-dimensional model (6, 16, 26, 36) of at least the partial area of the jaw; and computer-assisted fully automatic forming of at least one recess (7) for receiving a laboratory analogue (1, 21, 31) in the jaw saddle of the model (6, 16, 26, 36), wherein the data of the three-dimensional scan are used during the forming process and the depth, position and orientation of the at least one recess (7) is formed in such a way that a sleeve inserted into the recess (7) is removed fully automatically with computer support, whereby a laboratory analogue (1, 21, 31) is produced by the removal from the sleeve (11), and the data from the three-dimensional scan are used, wherein the crestal end of this laboratory analogue (1, 21, 31) inserted into the recess (7) corresponds to the crestal end of a dental implant in the patient's jaw. [4] Method according to claim 3 for producing a three-dimensional model (6, 16, 26, 36) characterized bythat each of the at least one recess (7) is arranged in a region of the model (6, 16, 26, 36) in which a dental implant is arranged in the patient's jaw; and computer-assisted, fully automatic shaping of at least one vestibular, lingual, or palatal passage (28) through the model (6, 16, 26, 36) into the at least one recess (7), wherein the data from the three-dimensional scan are used during shaping and the arrangement of the passage (28) is placed such that the crestal end of a laboratory analogue (1, 21, 31) corresponds to the crestal end of the dental implant in the patient's jaw when the laboratory analogue (1, 21, 31) is fixed with a pin which is inserted through the passage (28) in the model (6, 16, 26, 36) into an opening (25) in the laboratory analogue (1, 21, 31). [5] Method according to claim 4, characterized bythat the passage (28) is shaped to fit the pin and the opening (25) fits the pin, preferably a recess in the laboratory analogue (1, 21, 31) arranged behind the opening (25) fits the pin. [6] Method according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized by that the fully automatic forming takes place by drilling, turning, grinding, cutting and / or milling. [7] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the fully automatic shaping and / or removal, which is carried out in particular with computer support, is carried out with an accuracy of at least ± 10 µm, preferably with an accuracy of at least ± 5 µm. [8] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the data of the three-dimensional scan of the patient's oral cavity are used to produce the three-dimensional model (6, 16, 26, 36) of the jaw or jaw region, in particular to produce it fully automatically, wherein the model (6, 16, 26, 36) is preferably produced by rapid prototyping (rapid model construction), particularly preferably with an accuracy of at least ± 100 µm, very particularly preferably with an accuracy of at least ± 60 µm. [9] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a CAD-supported stereolithographic process is used to obtain the data for producing the model (6, 16, 26, 36) and / or the laboratory analogue (1, 21, 31) and that the model (6, 16, 26, 36) is preferably made of plastic, particularly preferably of a light-curing plastic. [10] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat a five-axis machining operation, in particular a five-axis CNC milling machine, is used for forming and / or removing, in particular for milling and / or grinding. [11] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a virtual three-dimensional CAD model of the jaw or part of the jaw is calculated from the data in a computer, wherein various recesses (7) are stored in a memory of the computer, which are assigned to various laboratory analogues (1, 21, 31), and wherein the computer calculates how the various recesses (7) can be arranged in the model (6, 16, 26, 36), i) the most stable or most sensible variant is selected or ii) the most stable or most sensible variants are suggested via a display device, or iii) a user can select from all existing stored recesses (7) the one he considers appropriate. [12] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least two recesses (7) are produced or are present in the three-dimensional model (6, 16, 26, 36) and preferably a sleeve (11) or a laboratory analogue (1, 21, 31) is inserted into each of the at least one recess (7), wherein preferably the position of the recess (7) or the passages (28) and / or the crestal ends of the laboratory analogues (1, 21, 31) relative to one another is adjusted by shaping and / or ablation based on the data of the scan. [13] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat at least one cylindrical or conical recess (7) is produced or is present in the model (6, 16, 26, 36), wherein the recess (7) is produced or is present with a single-fold or multiple-fold rotational symmetry about the longitudinal axis of the recess (7) and a sleeve (11) or a laboratory analogue (1, 21, 31) is inserted into the recess (7), which has the same rotational symmetry at least in some regions and thus fits into the recess (7) only in one orientation or in the multiple orientation. [14] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat during the production of the model (6, 16, 26, 36) a fixed predetermined shape is specified for the at least one recess (7), which fits a specific shape of a sleeve (11) or a laboratory analogue (1, 21, 31), and / or a shape for the recess (7) is selected from a plurality of different shapes that fit a plurality of different sleeves (11) or laboratory analogues (1, 21, 31), wherein preferably before the production of the model (6, 16, 26, 36) the shape is integrated into a measured virtual digitized model (6, 16, 26, 36) of the jaw as a recess (7).

Images