A support element for supporting a mandible or a maxilla of a subject

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a support element (1) for supporting at least a portion (2a) of a mandible (2) or a maxilla of a subject. The support element (1) comprises a body (3) and at least one tie. The body (3) extends apically to cover a cervical line of the dentition. The body (3) is defined with an inner surface (4a) and a plurality of holes (5). The inner surface (4a) is contoured in the shape of an occlusal morphology of the dentition. The plurality of holes (5) is configured to permit a flow of a cleaning fluid towards the inner surface (4a). The at least one tie is receivable within the plurality of holes (5) and tie configured to secure the support element (1) with the at least the portion (2a).

Description

A SUPPORT ELEMENT FOR SUPPORTING A MANDIBLE OR A MAXILLA OF A SUBJECTTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Present disclosure generally relates to the field of medical devices. Particularly, but not exclusively, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a support element for supporting a mandible or a maxilla of a subject.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] Generally, a significant injury to a mandible or a maxilla may cause a significant portion to be separated from them. The condition where the separated portion of the mandible or the maxilla becomes free is life threatening as the separated portion may slide towards the windpipe and may block the windpipe of the subject while performing the corrective procedure.

[0003] Currently, there are various techniques known in the art that may be used to hold the fractured parts of the mandible or the maxilla at its position such as arch bars. The arch bars use stainless steel wires around the upper and lower teeth, locking the jaw in place while it heals. However, it is a time-consuming technique and may poses risk for wire prick injuries to the medical practitioner. Most important is that the use of such techniques might pose a problem when being used in critical trauma cases which need MRI. The arch bar needs to be removed if the patient needs MRI which is a very common problem. The other known technique comprises the use of a reconstruction plate to fix the portion of the mandible or the maxilla. However, like the arch bars, the use of the reconstruction plate is also time-consuming and poses anaesthesia drug-related life-threatening risk in the subject, and many times, it is not possible to take the subject to the operating room due to other life-threatening injuries.

[0004] In addition, there are further known techniques in the art that uses splints that may be used by the dentist to cure particular diseases for example the splints may be used to treat the bruxism. The fabrication of splints involves capturing an impression of the mandibular arch, followed by creating a plaster cast. The plaster cast is then deliberately fractured and realigned to replicate a clinical fracture pattern of a patient. Using the realigned model, an acrylic cap splint is fabricated to preserve a pre-injury occlusal relationship. The final splint is securedintraorally by circumferentially wiring the splint around the teeth. Patients often experience difficulty tolerating intraoral impressions due to factors such as limited cooperation, a pronounced gag reflex, or general discomfort. Additionally, the procedure is highly techniquesensitive and relies solely on occlusal alignment as a reference point, thereby overlooking the internal bony architecture. Furthermore, because developing dentition is dynamic, static acrylic splints may not maintain an accurate fit over time, potentially interfering with normal dental eruption and occlusal development. Furthermore, prolonged use of the splints can hinder oral hygiene and nutritional intake, leading to patient discomfort and an increased risk of postoperative complications.

[0005] The drawbacks / difficulties / disadvantages / limitations of the conventional techniques explained in the background section are just for exemplary purpose and the disclosure would never limit its scope only such limitations. A person skilled in the art would understand that this disclosure and below mentioned description may also solve other problems or overcome the other drawbacks / disadvantages of the conventional arts which are not explicitly captured above.

[0006] The present disclosure is directed to overcome one or more limitations stated above or any other limitation associated with the conventional arts.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0007] One or more shortcomings of the conventional systems are overcome by the system of the present disclosure.

[0008] In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a support element for supporting at least a portion of a mandible or a maxilla of a subject is disclosed. The support element comprises a body configured to encompass an occlusal surface of a dentition of the subject. The body extends apically to cover a cervical line of the dentition. The body has an inner surface contoured in the shape of an occlusal morphology of the dentition. Further, the body has a plurality of holes defined in the body. The plurality of holes is configured to permit a flow of a cleaning fluid towards the inner surface. The support element comprises at least one tie receivable within the plurality of holes. The at least one tie is configured to secure the support element with the at least the portion of the mandible or the maxilla of the subject. Thus, the support element secure retention of the at least the portion of the mandible or the maxillawithout exerting pressure on the gingival tissues of subject. Further, the plurality of holes facilitates the flow of cleaning fluid to the inner surface, thereby enabling the subject to maintain optimal oral hygiene.

[0009] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the inner surface is defined with cavities structured to encompass the teeth of the subject. Thus, the support element prevents micromovements at a fracture site and promotes primary bone healing.

[0010] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the body comprises a palatal flange integrally formed with and extending from the body. The palatal flange is configured to span a palatal of the subject. The palatal flange provides enhanced rigidity and improved load distribution across a maxillary arch. By spanning the palate, the support element converts an upper structure of a jaw of the subject into a single rigid unit, thereby minimizing differential movement among fracture fragments. The palatal flange also aids in preventing inward collapse of the maxillary arch and stabilizes transverse expansion during healing.

[0011] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the body is made of a biocompatible material.

[0012] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one tie is a wire or a screw.

[0013] In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the body has an outer surface. The outer surface being evenly shaped and continuously contoured. Thus, the support element minimizes intraoral irritation.

[0014] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of manufacturing a support element for supporting at least a portion of a mandible or a maxilla of a subject is disclosed. The method comprises a step of acquiring, by a data acquisition module, an anatomical data of the mandible or the maxilla of the subject. The method comprises a step of generating, by an image segmentation and model generation module, a three-dimensional anatomical model based on the anatomical data of the mandible or the maxilla of the subject. The method comprises a step of designing, by a designing module, a design model of the support element based on the three-dimensional anatomical model. The design model has a geometry of the support element conforming to subject anatomy. The method comprises a step of fabrication, by a 3D printer, the support element comprising a body defined with a plurality of holes.

[0015] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method comprises a step of cleaning the fabricated support element by immersing the fabricated support element in a cleaning solution. The method comprises a step of curing the cleaned support element by exposing the cleaned support element to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

[0016] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the support element is fabricated from a biocompatible material.

[0017] It is to be understood that the aspects and embodiments of the disclosure described above may be used in any combination with each other. Several of the aspects and embodiments may be combined to form a further embodiment of the disclosure.

[0018] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWING

[0019] The novel features and characteristic of the disclosure are set forth in the appended description. The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives, and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

[0020] Fig. 1 illustrates an exemplary schematic view of a support element positioned above a mandible of a subject, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0021] Fig. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the support element of Fig. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0022] Fig. 3 illustrates a bottom view of the support element of Fig. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0023] Fig. 4 illustrates a schematic view of the support element of Fig.l, positioned on a maxilla of the subject, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure; and

[0024] Fig. 5 illustrates a flow diagram of a method of manufacturing the support element of Fig. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0025] The figures depict embodiments of the disclosure for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the assembly illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.DESCRIPTION

[0026] The foregoing has broadly outlined the features and technical advantages of the present disclosure in order that the detailed description of the present disclosure that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of the present disclosure will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the present disclosure. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and specific embodiments disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying other systems, mechanisms, devices, and assemblies for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the appended claims. The novel features which are believed to be characteristics of the present disclosure, to its system and method, together with further objects and advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration and description only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the present disclosure.

[0027] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions, such that a mechanism, an assembly, or a device that comprises a list of components does not include only those components but may include other components not expressly listed or inherent to such device or method. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus proceeded by “comprises... a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.

[0028] Unless the context of the present disclosure describes or indicates a different interpretation, any reference to an object in the specification that is preceded by a definite or indefinite article, such as “the”, “a”, or “an”, should be understood to encompass both the singular and the plural forms of the object”. Accordingly, “a” means “at least one / one or more”. The phrase “a / an X” may be construed as “at least one / one or more X”.

[0029] In accordance with the present disclosure, a support element for supporting at least a portion of a mandible or a maxilla of a subject is disclosed. The support element comprises a body configured to encompass an occlusal surface of a dentition of the subject. The body extends apically to cover a cervical line of the dentition. The body has an inner surface contoured in the shape of an occlusal morphology of the dentition. Further, the body has a plurality of holes defined in the body. The plurality of holes is configured to permit a flow of a cleaning fluid towards the inner surface. The support element comprises at least one tie receivable within the plurality of holes. The at least one tie is configured to secure the support element with the at least the portion of the mandible or the maxilla of the subject.

[0030] Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts. The following paragraphs describe the present disclosure with reference to Figs. 1 to 5.

[0031] Fig. 1 illustrates an exemplary schematic view of a support element (1) positioned above a mandible (2). The mandible (2) herein defined as a lower jawbone of a subject. In an embodiment, the support element (1) may be positioned above a maxilla of the subject. The maxilla herein is defined as an upper jawbone of the subject. At least a portion (2a) of the mandible (2) or the maxilla may be detached from the mandible (2) or the maxilla due to an impact load. In the illustrative embodiment, the portion (2a) of the mandible (2) is detached from the mandible (2) at a substantially central portion of the mandible (2). However, the at least the portion (2a) may be detached from anywhere throughout the length of the mandible (2) or the maxilla. The support element (1) is structured to support and immobilize the at least the portion (2a) of the mandible (2) or the maxilla.

[0032] Referring to Figs. 2 to 4, the support element (1) comprises a body (3). The body (3) may contemplate a shape of the mandible (2) or the maxilla of the subject. The body (3) isconfigured to encompass an occlusal surface of a dentition of the subject. The body (3) may extend apically to cover a cervical line of the dentition. In an embodiment, the body (3) extends slightly apical to cover a cervical margin of mandibular teeth, thereby ensuring adequate retention of the support element (1) on the mandibular teeth and counteracting displacing forces occurring during movement of the mandible (2). In another embodiment, the body (3) extends apically to a cervical third of crowns of maxilla teeth, thereby ensuring secure retention of the support element (1) on the maxilla teeth without impinging upon gingival tissues. The body (3) may be a unitary structure and may be fabricated using a 3D printing machine, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. The body (3) is fabricated from a biocompatible material, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. The biocompatible material is defined as a material that can be used in contact with living tissues without causing an adverse reaction. In a preferred embodiment, the body (3) is fabricated from a biocompatible resin.

[0033] Referring to Figs. 2 and 3, the body (3) has an outer surface (4b) and an inner surface (4a). The outer surface (4b) may be evenly shaped and continuously contoured, thus minimizing intraoral irritation. The inner surface (4a) is contoured in the shape of an occlusal morphology of the dentition, as depicted in Fig. 3. The inner surface (4a) may be defined with a plurality of cavities (4c). Each of the plurality of cavities (4c) may contemplate a shape of tooth of the subject, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. The plurality of cavities (4c) may be juxtaposed on tooth of the subject and may encompass tooth of the subject.

[0034] Referring to Fig. 2 to Fig. 4, the support element (1) is defined with a plurality of holes (5). In an embodiment, the plurality of holes (5) is defined at a peripheral position on the body (3) of the support element (1) Further, the plurality of holes (5) may be positioned throughout a length of the support element (1). In an embodiment, the plurality of holes (5) is positioned in central incisors and premolar-molar regions of the dentition. In another embodiment, the plurality of holes (5) is positioned in incisor-canine region and premolar-molar region. The plurality of holes (5) extends from the outer surface (4b) to the inner surface (4a). The plurality of holes (5) is configured to permit a flow of a cleaning fluid towards the inner surface (4a) of the body (3). The cleaning fluid may be defined as any ointment or solution suitable for cleaning the mandible (2) or maxilla, helping to prevent infection, maintain hygiene, and support healing without removing the support element (1). In an embodiment, the cleaning fluid is dispensed through the plurality of holes (5) using a needle, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0035] In an embodiment, the support element (1) comprises at least one tie (not shown in Figs.). The at least one tie is receivable within the plurality of holes (5). The tie may be made of any material having high strength such as titanium, aluminium, stainless steel, etc., without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. The at least one tie may be selected from, but not limited, to a wire or a screw. The at least one tie is configured to secure the support element (1) with at least the portion (2a) of the mandible (2) or the maxilla of the subject. The at least one tie ensures that the at least the portion (2a) of the mandible (2) or the maxilla remains in an original anatomical position, thereby preventing obstruction of air passage of the subject. The original position is defined as the position in which the at least the portion (2a) of the mandible (2) or the maxilla was before the impact load.

[0036] Referring to Fig. 4, the support element (1) may comprise a palatal flange (6) extending from the body (3). In an embodiment, the palatal flange (6) is integrally formed with the body (3). The palatal flange (6) is configured to span a palatal (7) of the subject. The palatal flange (6) may be shaped according to the shape of the palatal (7) of the subject, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. The palatal flange (6) provides an extra coverage to the maxilla, thus enhancing the rigidity and improved load distribution across a maxillary arch of the subject. The palatal flange (6) also aids in preventing inward collapse of the maxillary arch and stabilizes transverse expansion during healing.

[0037] Referring to Fig. 5, a method of manufacturing the support element (1) is illustrated. The method begins with a step of data acquisition (SOI). The step of data acquisition (SOI) comprises acquiring an anatomical data of the subject that is acquired by a data acquisition module. The data acquisition module may be selected from at least one of a computed tomography (CT) imaging module, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) module, an ultrasound imaging module, an X-ray imaging module and any other module that can acquire the anatomical data of the subject, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. In a preferred embodiment, the anatomical data of the subject is acquired by the CT imaging module and then exported a Digital Imaging and Communications (DICOM) files for digital modelling. Subsequently, the method comprises a step of image segmentation and model generation (S02). In the step of image segmentation and model generation (S02), the anatomical data of the subject is imported from the data acquisition module by an image segmentation and model generation module. The image segmentation and model generation module may isolate regionsof interest and generates a three dimensional (3D) anatomical model based on the anatomical data. The region of interest corresponds to a specific anatomical area of the mandible (2) or maxilla affected by trauma or fracture. The 3D anatomical model represents a pre-injury anatomical structure of the mandible (2) or maxilla. Subsequently, the method comprises a step of designing the support element (S03). In the step of designing the support element (S03), the generated 3D anatomical model is imported from the image segmentation and model generation module by a design module. The design module is configured to design a design model of the support element (1) based on the 3D anatomical model. The design model has a geometry of the support element (1) conforming to the anatomy of the subject. The design model may incorporate retention zones, relief features, and ventilation structures. Subsequently, the method comprises a step of pre-processing (S04). In the step of preprocessing (S04), the design model is imported by a pre-processing module. The preprocessing module is configured to prepare the design for fabrication by setting layer height, print orientation, and support structures to optimize print quality and anatomical accuracy. The pre- processing module may select a suitable biocompatible material and exporting the finalized design as a printer-ready file format, such as G-code, compatible with a 3D printer. Subsequently, the method comprises a step of fabrication (S05). In the step of fabrication (S05), the support element (1) is fabricated by the 3D printer, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the support element (1) is fabricated using a Stereolithography (SLA) process.

[0038] Referring again to Fig. 5, the method of manufacturing the support element (1) may comprise a step of post processing (S06). The post processing (S06) comprises removal of the supports from the fabricated support element (1) and cleaning the fabricated support element (1) in a cleaning liquid. In an embodiment, the fabricated support element (1) is cleaned in 99% isopropyl alcohol, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Subsequently, the cleaned support element (1) is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation to achieve complete polymerization.

[0039] In an embodiment, the method of manufacturing the support element (1) may comprise a step of quality control and verification (S07). The step of quality control and verification (S07) involves comparing the fabricated support element (1) to the design model using metrology techniques. The metrology techniques involve the use of advanced measurement tools and methods to verify the dimensional accuracy, surface integrity, and structuralconformity of the support element (1). The metrology techniques may comprise at least one of a contact measurement (like using callipers or coordinate-measuring machines), a non-contact measurement (using optical methods like laser scanning or interferometry), dimensional metrology for size and distance, surface metrology for texture and roughness, and techniques like X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning probe microscopy, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. The fit of the support element (1) is validated either on a digital anatomical model or a physical jaw replica of the support element (1). In an embodiment, all quality control results are documented in accordance with ISO 13485 procedures, ensuring compliance with medical device manufacturing standards.

[0040] In an embodiment, the method of manufacturing the support element (1) may comprise a step of sterilization and packaging (S08). The sterilization may be carried out using methods such as ethylene oxide (EtO) treatment, gamma irradiation, or low-temperature autoclaving, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. After sterilization, the support element (1) is sealed in a sterile package. The sterile package includes patient identification details and version number for traceability of the sterile package. At last, the method comprises a step of final delivery and clinical application (S09). In the step of final delivery and clinical application (S09), the sterilized support element (1) may be delivered to the clinic where final fitting and minor chairside adjustments are performed, if required.

[0041] In an embodiment, the present disclosure provides the support element (1) for supporting at least a portion (2a) of the mandible (2) or the maxilla of the subject. The intimate fit of the support element (1) along the cervical margins allows the support element (1) to resist rotational and translational forces generated during masticatory function. The outer surface (4b) being evenly shaped and continuously contoured, minimizes intraoral irritation.

[0042] The support element (1) prevents micromovements at the fracture site and promotes primary bone healing. Biomechanically, the support element (1) supports axial load transfer from the teeth to the alveolar bone, ensuring that functional forces do not cause shear or torsional displacement of the fractured segments. The incorporation of anatomical curvature and precise adaptation in the support element (1) minimizes micromovements at the fracture site, thereby promoting primary bone healing.

[0043] The plurality of holes (5) defined in the support element (1) serve multiple functional purposes. They facilitate intermaxillary fixation (IMF) by allowing the insertion of at least onetie, thereby ensuring stable coupling between the maxillary and mandibular splints. Additionally, these holes (5) enable postoperative irrigation, which helps reduce the risk of bacterial accumulation beneath the support element (1) and supports better oral hygiene during recovery. Furthermore, the presence of holes (5) contributes to aesthetic lightness and improved ventilation, which is particularly beneficial in cases requiring long-term immobilization, enhancing comfort of the subject and reducing intraoral irritation.

[0044] The palatal flange (6) provides enhanced rigidity and improved load distribution across the maxillary arch. By spanning the palate, the support element (1) converts the upper structure of the jaw of the subject into a single rigid unit, thereby minimizing differential movement among fracture fragments. The palatal flange (6) also aids in preventing inward collapse of the maxillary arch and stabilizes transverse expansion during healing.

[0045] The design model is digitally contoured to maintain a uniform wall thickness ranging from 2.0 to 2.5 mm along its entire length. This uniformity ensures consistent mechanical strength throughout the support element (1), which is critical for withstanding functional loads during mastication and fixation. Additionally, maintaining a controlled wall thickness optimizes printing resolution and accuracy. Further, pre-print simulations such as isolate regions of interest and dimensional verification are conducted to ensure biomechanical reliability. These steps collectively ensure that the final support element (1) conforms accurately to the anatomy of the subject and withstands the functional demands of mastication, fixation, and bone regeneration.

[0046] Further, the method of manufacturing the support element (1) enables surgeons to plan the fixation strategy, digitally assess the splint fit, and identify and correct deviations prior to fabrication. Thus, the method minimizes the need for intraoperative adjustments, thereby improving surgical efficiency and ensuring a more precise anatomical fit. Further, the method eliminates the need for traditional impression-taking and manual cast fabrication, thereby streamlining the preparation process. The method allows for improved control over fracture reduction, guided by both occlusal and skeletal anatomy, ensuring precise anatomical alignment. Additionally, the method significantly reduces surgical fixation and fabrication time, enhancing procedural efficiency and improves comfort and fit. Moreover, the method ensures consistency, repeatability, and ease of sterilization, contributing to reliable outcomes and regulatory compliance.

[0047] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and / or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and / or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and / or application. The various singular / plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity. While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purpose of illustration and are not intended to be limiting.Equivalents:Embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and / or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within scope of the embodiments as described herein.Throughout this specification the word “comprise”, or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers, or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers, or steps.The use of the expression “at least” or “at least one” suggests the use of one or more elements or ingredients or quantities, as the use may be in the embodiment of the present disclosure to achieve one or more of the desired objects or results.Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles and the like that has been included in this specification is solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present disclosure. It is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form a part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present disclosure as it existed anywhere before the priority date of this application.The numerical values mentioned for the various physical parameters, dimensions or quantities are only approximations and it is envisaged that the values higher / lower than the numerical values assigned to the parameters, dimensions or quantities fall within the scope of the present disclosure, unless there is a statement in the specification specific to the contrary.While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the particular features of this disclosure, it will be appreciated that various modifications can be made, and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the present disclosure. These and other modifications in the nature of the disclosure or the preferred embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.REFERENCE NUMERALSReference Number Description1 Support element2 Mandible2a Portion of the mandible 3 Body4a Inner surface4b Outer surface4c Plurality of cavities 5 Plurality of holes6 Palatal Flange7 Palatal

Claims

WE CLAIM:

1. A support element (1) for supporting at least a portion (2a) of a mandible (2) or a maxilla of a subject, the support element (1) comprising:a body (3) configured to encompass an occlusal surface of a dentition of the subject, the body (3) extending apically to cover a cervical line of the dentition, the body (3) having:an inner surface (4a) contoured in the shape of an occlusal morphology of the dentition, anda plurality of holes (5) defined in the body (3), the plurality of holes (5) configured to permit a flow of a cleaning fluid towards the inner surface (4a); and at least one tie receivable within the plurality of holes (5), the at least one tie configured to secure the support element (1) with the at least the portion (2a) of the mandible (2) or the maxilla of the subject.

2. The support element (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the inner surface (4a) is defined with cavities (4c) structured to encompass the teeth of the subject.

3. The support element (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the body (3) comprises a palatal flange (6) integrally formed with and extending from the body (3), the palatal flange (6) configured to span a palatal (7) of the subject.

4. The support element (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the body (3) is made of a biocompatible material.

5. The support element (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one tie is a wire or a screw.

6. The support element (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the body (3) having an outer surface (4b), the outer surface (4b) being evenly shaped and continuously contoured.

7. A method of manufacturing a support element (1) for supporting at least a portion (2a) of a mandible (2) or a maxilla of a subject, the method comprising:acquiring, by a data acquisition module, an anatomical data of the mandible (2) or the maxilla of the subject;generating, by an image segmentation and model generation module, a three-dimensional anatomical model based on the anatomical data of the mandible (2) or the maxilla of the subject;designing, by a design module, a design model of the support element (1) based on the three-dimensional anatomical model, the design model having a geometry of the support element (1) conforming to subject anatomy; andfabrication, by a 3D printer, the support element (1) comprising a body (3) defined with a plurality of holes (5).

8. The method as claimed in claim 7, the method comprises:cleaning the fabricated support element (1) by immersing the fabricated support element (1) in a cleaning solution; andcuring the cleaned support element (1) by exposing the cleaned support element (1) to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

9. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the support element (1) is fabricated from a biocompatible material.

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