System and method for releasing tooth positioning appliances

a technology for positioning appliances and teeth, applied in the field of orthodontics, can solve problems such as temperature not being a good choi

Inactive Publication Date: 2002-05-02
ALIGN TECH
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  • Summary
  • Abstract
  • Description
  • Claims
  • Application Information

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0013] Use of such removal mechanisms is advantageous in a number of respects. Environmental changes can be easily implanted by a practitioner or patient. For example, the practitioner or patient can wash the mouth with an appropriately heated, pH-modified, ionic strength controlled, or other solution which can induce the desired change in the removal mechanism. While the use of mechanically, electrically, or optically triggered removal mechanisms may require additional equipment, such mechanisms can also be very simple and suitable for use by the patient as well as the practitioner. In all cases, the removal mechanisms can usually be made reversible, i.e. the appliance can be "switchable" between attached configurations where the appliance will remain in place on the teeth and a release configuration where the appliance can be removed form the teeth. This is a particular advantage since is allows the appliance to be temporarily "reconfigured" and removed for any purpose and then repositioned over the teeth to continue the treatment.

Problems solved by technology

For example, temperature would not be a good choice unless it is intended that the appliance be removed when eating or drinking hot foods and drinks.

Method used

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  • System and method for releasing tooth positioning appliances
  • System and method for releasing tooth positioning appliances
  • System and method for releasing tooth positioning appliances

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Embodiment Construction

[0028] Referring to FIG. 1, the apparatus, systems, and methods according to the present invention will include at least one appliance 100 removably replaceable over the teeth. Usually, appliance 100 is one of a plurality of incremental position adjustment appliances. The appliances are intended to effect incremental repositioning of individual teeth in the jaw. The appliance 100 may be used in place of any of the known positioners, retainers, or other removable appliances which are known for finishing and maintaining teeth positions in connection with orthodontic treatment. The appliances of the present invention, in contrast with prior apparatus and systems, are particularly suitable for use by a patient successively in order to achieve gradual tooth repositioning. A full description of an exemplary repositioning appliance is described in co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 08 / 947,080 (Attorney Docket No. 18563-000110), filed Oct. 10, 1997, which is herein incorporated by referen...

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PUM

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Abstract

An improved dental appliance system, and methods for using and fabricating the improved appliance, including a polymeric overlay or shell having a teeth-receiving cavity formed therein. The dental appliance having the necessary stiffness or strength to firmly secure the appliance on the teeth and provide controlled forces required for repositioning the teeth, until such time as removal of the appliance is desired. The appliance may be configured for use with a removal mechanism. The removal mechanism provides for selective release of the appliance from the teeth as the removal mechanism undergoes a state change stimulated by an environmental stimulus or environmental switch.

Description

[0001] The present application is a continuation of Application No. 09 / 250,962, filed Feb. 16, 1999, which claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 110,189, filed Nov. 30, 1998. The full disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.[0002] 1. Field of the Invention[0003] The present invention is related generally to the field of orthodontics. More particularly, the present invention is related to improved dental appliances and systems, and methods for using and making the same.[0004] Elastic positioners optionally in combination with attachments to the patient's teeth are employed in orthodontic treatments for controlled tooth movement to a pre-determined position. In providing such appliances and treatments, it is important to move teeth to an ideal pre-determined position with gentle controlled forces. Typically, the appliance is fabricated to provide accuracy of placement in compliance with the exact shape of the t...

Claims

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Application Information

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Patent Type & Authority Applications(United States)
IPC IPC(8): A61C7/00A61C7/08A61C13/00A61C13/007A61C13/01A61C13/12
CPCA61C7/00A61C7/002A61C2201/007A61C13/0004A61C7/08
Inventor CHISHTI, MUHAMMADPHAN, LOC X.
Owner ALIGN TECH
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