Movable bite guard appliance and method of making same

Abstract

The application provides a movable bite pad appliance and a manufacturing method thereof, which is suitable for orthodontic treatment of tooth tilting caused by long-term absence of first permanent molar on one side. The appliance is provided with a retaining component and a righting and shifting component. The retaining component comprises an integrally formed retaining base and a bite pad. The righting and shifting component comprises a shifting multi-coil spring for being placed in the edentulous area, a buccal tube for being bonded to the buccal side of the second permanent molar on the edentulous side, and a righting force applying member. One end of the righting force applying member is embedded in the retaining base, and the other end is inserted into the buccal tube. The integrally formed retaining base and bite pad are used as a whole anchorage, the shifting multi-coil spring and the righting force applying member are used to apply force to the tilted molar, and the bite pad is used to eliminate the occlusal interference caused by the righting of the tilted molar, so as to achieve the purpose of righting and lowering of the tooth tilting caused by long-term absence of first permanent molar on one side. The appliance retains the advantages of the traditional bite pad appliance, and also has the anchorage and force applying function of the fixed appliance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of medical device technology and relates to occlusal splint-type orthodontic appliances used in the field of oral medicine. Specifically, it relates to a removable occlusal splint-type orthodontic appliance and its manufacturing method, which is suitable for orthodontic correction when the adjacent teeth are tilted due to long-term loss of the first permanent molar on one side. Background Technology

[0002] In clinical practice of dentistry, a common situation is the dental problems caused by the failure to promptly repair the missing first permanent molar on one side. In addition to a small area of ​​alveolar ridge atrophy at the site of the missing tooth, the main issue is the impact on the remaining teeth. Long-term loss of the first permanent molar can cause the remaining teeth to tilt towards the side of the missing tooth, elongating the gap in the occlusal direction, causing premature contact between the upper and lower teeth, resulting in occlusal interference, which brings great trouble to the prosthodontist. If not repaired in time, it can also affect several other teeth.

[0003] Currently, prosthodontists often encounter patients who have long-term missing first permanent molars, resulting in insufficient implant space and tilted adjacent teeth on the missing side, making tooth restoration difficult. Therefore, orthodontic treatment is usually recommended first. Patients typically wear full-mouth fixed braces to align and level the upper and lower teeth, using push springs to create space, and implant anchorage screws to indent elongated molars and restore interocclusal height. However, orthodontic treatment often involves long treatment periods, frequent follow-up visits, high costs, and impacts on patient aesthetics, causing many patients to reject treatment, miss the opportunity for tooth restoration, further reduce chewing efficiency, worsen facial asymmetry, and even seriously affect the patient's physical and mental health.

[0004] For cases where the long-term loss of the first permanent molar on one side causes adjacent teeth to tilt, the current clinical orthodontic treatment before implant restoration generally uses fixed appliances. This involves implanting an anchorage screw into the alveolar bone and using elastic bands to pull the tilted tooth distally and indent it. This orthodontic method requires high standards of oral hygiene from the patient, involves a long treatment period, requires the patient to adapt to wearing the appliance for an extended period, and also requires the patient to endure the invasive treatment and risks associated with implant placement. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the aforementioned issues, this invention provides a removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance suitable for cases where the long-term loss of the first permanent molar on one side causes adjacent teeth to tilt. It is used to straighten the tilted adjacent teeth and adjust the gap at the missing tooth site, preparing conditions for subsequent dental implantation.

[0006] The above objective is achieved through the following technical solutions:

[0007] A removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance is suitable for orthodontic treatment of adjacent teeth tilted due to long-term loss of the first permanent molar on one side. It comprises a retention component (1) and a straightening and displacement component (2). The retention component (1) includes an integrally molded retention base (11) and an occlusal splint (12), which together form an arc-shaped dentistry with an open end. The arc-shaped dentistry has a U-shaped cross-section. The shape and size of the retention base (11) are suitable for covering the crowns of all dentition teeth except the second permanent molar (04) on the side with the missing tooth. The occlusal splint (12) is located on the occlusal surface of the dentition covered by the retention base (11). The straightening and displacement component (2) includes a displacement... The device uses a multi-curved spring (21), a straightening force-applying component, and a buccal tube (23). The multi-curved spring (21) is a multi-curved structure made of stainless steel round wire. It is placed in the edentulous area, with one end embedded in the retention base (12) and the other end used to abut against the mesial proximal surface of the second permanent molar (04) on the edentulous side. The buccal tube (23) is a round tube used to bond to the buccal side of the second permanent molar (04) on the edentulous side. The axial direction of the round tube is consistent with the transverse long axis direction of the second permanent molar (04) on the edentulous side. The straightening force-applying component is used to apply a force to the second permanent molar (04) on the edentulous side in the opposite direction of its inclination. One end of it is embedded in the retention base (11) and the other end is inserted into the buccal tube (23).

[0008] In the above-mentioned removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance, the retention component (1) further includes a plurality of interproximal hooks (13) located on the buccal side of the retention base (11). The interproximal hooks (13) are provided with connectors. The head end of the connector is embedded in the retention base (11), and the end of the connector is bent into a hook shape to form a hook portion. The end where the hook portion is located is a free end, which is used to extend into the gap between adjacent teeth.

[0009] In the above-mentioned removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance, the plurality of interproximal hooks (13) include a first interproximal hook (131) for placement between adjacent teeth on the side of edentulousness and a second interproximal hook (132) for placement between adjacent teeth on the opposite side of edentulousness; preferably, the first interproximal hook (131) and the second interproximal hook (132) are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the retention base (11).

[0010] In the above-mentioned removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance, the retention base (11) does not cover the incisal edge of the anterior teeth, and the occlusal splint (12) is divided into two parts, including a first occlusal splint (121) located on the occlusal surface of the dentition on the side of the edentulous tooth of the retention base (11) and a second occlusal splint (122) located on the occlusal surface of the dentition on the opposite side of the edentulous tooth.

[0011] In the above-mentioned removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance, the retention base (11) and the occlusal splint (12) are integrally solidified from self-curing plastic in a mandibular or maxillary model. The retention base (11) wraps around the complete crown on the lingual side and around the upper 2 / 3 of the crown on the buccal side, leaving a distance between the retention base (11) and the buccal gingiva.

[0012] In the above-mentioned removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance, the displacement spring (21) is a sinusoidal or cosine-shaped multi-curved structure made of stainless steel round wire with a diameter of 0.40 mm. It has a mesial end (211), a distal end (213), and multiple parabolic curves (212) connected sequentially between the mesial end (211) and the distal end (213). The curvature of the parabolic curve (212) is the reciprocal of the radius of the top arc or bottom arc of the parabolic curve (212). The smaller the curvature value, the greater the force exerted by the displacement spring (21) on the second permanent molar (04) on the edentulous side.

[0013] Preferably, the displacement spring (21) is placed in the edentulous area (H), with its distal end (213) closely attached to the mesial proximal surface of the second permanent molar, so that the point of force application of the displacement spring (21) is located at the resistance center of the tilted tooth.

[0014] In the above-mentioned removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance, the straightening force-applying component is a backward-tilting T-shaped bend (22). The backward-tilting T-shaped bend (22) is a T-shaped structure made of stainless steel square wire with a cross-sectional dimension of 0.017mm×0.025mm. It includes a T-shaped bend and a mesial arm (221) and a distal arm (227) connected to the T-shaped bend. The mesial arm (221) is embedded in the retention base (11), and the distal arm (227) is inserted into the buccal tube (23).

[0015] Preferably, the T-shaped bend is composed of a rounded rectangular bend (224) made of stainless steel wire and two parallel connecting arms perpendicular to the rounded rectangular bend. The connecting arm connected to the mesial arm (221) is the first connecting arm (223), and the connecting arm connected to the distal arm (227) is the second connecting arm (225). The mesial arm (221) is perpendicular to the first connecting arm (223). The backward tilt angle δ is the angle between the perpendicular line of the distal arm (227) bending towards the rounded rectangular bend (224) and the second connecting arm (225). The larger the backward tilt angle δ, the greater the force exerted by the backward tilted T-shaped bend (22) on the second permanent molar (04) on the edentulous side.

[0016] In the above-mentioned removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance, the straightening force-applying component is a herringbone-shaped small loop (24), which is made of 0.45mm stainless steel round wire and includes a small loop part (241), a herringbone-shaped mesial arm (242) connected to the small loop part (241) and forming an angle, and a herringbone-shaped distal arm (243). The herringbone-shaped mesial arm (242) is embedded in the retention base (11), and the herringbone-shaped distal arm (243) is inserted into the buccal tube (23). The herringbone angle β is the angle between the herringbone-shaped mesial arm (242) and the herringbone-shaped distal arm (243). The larger the herringbone angle β, the greater the force exerted by the herringbone-shaped small loop (24) on the second permanent molar (04) on the edentulous side.

[0017] In the aforementioned removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance, the herringbone angle β is 95°-135°.

[0018] The present invention also provides a method for manufacturing the above-mentioned removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance, comprising the following steps:

[0019] According to the patient's mandible or maxilla, a plaster model of the mandible or maxilla with the position of the missing tooth is made. The bent force-applying component, interproximal hook (13), and displacement multi-curved spring (21) are placed in the predetermined position of the abutment tooth area of ​​the plaster model. The predetermined base area and occlusal pad area on the plaster model are filled with the prepared self-curing material. After the self-curing material solidifies, it is demolded to make an integral orthodontic appliance model. The force-applying component is a backward tilting T-shaped bend (22) or a herringbone small loop bend (24).

[0020] By employing the above technical means, this invention has the following technical effects: This invention uses an integrated retention base and occlusal pad as overall anchorage to ensure that the position of teeth not subjected to force remains unchanged. Force is applied to tilted teeth through a straightening force-applying component and a multi-curved spring for displacement. The straightening force-applying component straightens the tilted teeth, and the occlusal pad relieves the occlusal interference caused by the straightening of the tilted teeth, providing occlusal space and facilitating the indentation of the tilted teeth. This achieves the orthodontic purpose of straightening and indenting adjacent teeth caused by the long-term absence of the first permanent molar on one side. The magnitude of the applied force is adjusted by adjusting the posterior tilt angle δ of the T-shaped bend or the V-shaped angle β of the V-shaped small loop bend. The curvature of the parabolic curve of the displacement multi-curved spring is adjusted to assist in straightening the tilted teeth, while simultaneously expanding the space in the edentulous area to prepare for subsequent dental implantation. The retention base does not cover the incisal edge of the anterior teeth, and the retention base in the labial region of the anterior teeth is not visible. The occlusal pad is only placed on the occlusal surface of the molar region, ensuring that the patient's appearance is not affected when wearing this orthodontic appliance. The orthodontic appliance of this invention retains the advantages of traditional occlusal pad appliances while also leveraging the anchorage and force application of fixed appliances. The retention base structure is relatively small, resulting in less of a foreign body sensation when installed in the patient's mouth, making it more comfortable for the patient and facilitating the maintenance of oral hygiene. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a plaster model of the mandible with one side missing the first permanent molar;

[0022] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of one embodiment of the removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the A-direction structure;

[0024] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the B-direction structure;

[0025] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a bent multi-curved spring for displacement.

[0026] Figure 6A This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a bent, backward-sloping T-shaped curve.

[0027] Figure 6B This is a schematic diagram of the T-shaped backward tilt after the orthodontic appliance is properly fitted.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of another embodiment of the removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a bent herringbone-shaped small loop.

[0030] The reference numerals in the figure are as follows:

[0031] 100-Removable Occlusal Splint Orthodontic Appliance;

[0032] 01-Canine on the side of missing tooth, 02-First premolar on the side of missing tooth, 03-Second premolar on the side of missing tooth, 04-Second permanent molar on the side of missing tooth; 05-Canine on the side of missing tooth, 06-First premolar on the side of missing tooth, 07-Second premolar on the side of missing tooth, 08-First permanent molar on the side of missing tooth, 09-Second permanent molar on the side of missing tooth;

[0033] 1-Fixing component, 2-Straightening and shifting component;

[0034] 11-Retention base; 12-Occlusal pad; 121-First occlusal pad; 122-Second occlusal pad; 13-Interproximal hook; 131-First interproximal hook; 132-Second interproximal hook;

[0035] 21-Displacement multi-curved spring, 211-Proximal end, 212-Parabolic curve, 213-Distal end;

[0036] 22-Backward tilt T-shaped curve, 221-Proximal midarm, 222-First curve, 223-First connecting arm, 224-Rounded rectangular curve, 225-Second connecting arm, 226-Second curve, 227-Distal midarm, δ-Backward tilt angle;

[0037] 23-Buccal tube;

[0038] 24- Herringbone small loop curve, 241- Small loop curve part, 242- Herringbone near midarm, 243- Herringbone far midarm, β- Herringbone included angle;

[0039] H - Toothless area. Detailed Implementation

[0040] The following detailed description of the removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance of the present invention and its manufacturing method, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific implementation examples, is provided in detail.

[0041] For cases where the long-term loss of the first permanent molar on one side causes adjacent teeth to tilt, the commonly used orthodontic appliances in clinical practice are fixed appliances, such as invasive methods involving implant placement into the alveolar bone. These methods typically involve long treatment periods, frequent follow-up visits, high treatment costs, and impact on the patient's aesthetics. To address these issues, this invention provides a removable occlusal splint appliance. This appliance provides sufficient space for implant placement in the edentulous area, while simultaneously straightening the tilted adjacent teeth and correcting the occlusal height to eliminate occlusal interference, thus providing the necessary conditions for implant-supported tooth restoration. Figures 2 to 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the removable occlusal splint appliance 100 includes a retention component 1 and a repositioning component 2 for correcting tilted adjacent teeth at the site of edentulism, wherein:

[0042] See Figures 2 to 4 In this embodiment, the retention component 1 includes an integrally formed retention base 11 and an occlusal pad 12. The retention base 11 and the occlusal pad 12 form an arc-shaped dental crown with an open end. The cross-section of the arc-shaped dental crown is U-shaped. The arc-shaped dental crown can be fitted onto all dentition except for the second permanent molar 04 on the edentulous side, so that the retention base 11 can surround the crown of all dentition except for the second permanent molar 04 on the edentulous side. The occlusal pad 12 can be placed on the occlusal surface of the dentition surrounded by the retention base 11. The retention component 1 can connect all teeth except the second permanent molar 04 on the edentulous side into a whole, providing stable support and retention for straightening the tilted second permanent molar 04 on the edentulous side. At the same time, it avoids occlusal interference during the process of straightening the tilted adjacent teeth and opening the bite, and has a certain protective effect on the temporomandibular joint.

[0043] Furthermore, the thickness of the occlusal splint 12 is usually around 3mm. Whether the thickness of the occlusal splint 12 is appropriate needs to be confirmed and adjusted after wearing the orthodontic appliance, so as to eliminate the gap between adjacent teeth, straighten and indent the tilted molars, and not cause discomfort to the patient's temporomandibular joint.

[0044] Furthermore, the retention component 1 is also provided with multiple interproximal hooks 13 for assisting in the retention of the orthodontic appliance. The interproximal hook 13 includes a connector, the head end of which is embedded in the retention base 11, and the end of which is bent into a hook shape to form a hook portion. The end where the hook portion is located is a free end, which is used to extend into the gap between adjacent teeth to play a retention role. On the other hand, the fact that one end of the connector of the interproximal hook 13 is embedded in the retention base 11 can strengthen the retention base 11 itself. Preferably, the hook portion of the interproximal hook 12 is a smooth arc shape to prevent pricking the gums at the gap between teeth or to reduce patient discomfort.

[0045] In one embodiment, the plurality of interproximal hooks 13 include a first interproximal hook 131 for placement between adjacent teeth on the side of the missing tooth and a second interproximal hook 132 for placement between adjacent teeth on the opposite side of the missing tooth. Preferably, the first interproximal hook 131 and the second interproximal hook 132 are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the retention base 11, such that the first interproximal hook 131 and the second interproximal hook 132 can be placed at the interdental spaces at corresponding positions on the side of the missing tooth and the opposite side of the missing tooth, respectively.

[0046] In another embodiment, the retention component 1 is further provided with an arrow clasp embedded in the retention base 11 for wrapping around the posterior tooth on the opposite side of the missing tooth. The arrow clasp is a commonly used retention component in removable orthodontic appliances to enhance the retention effect of the orthodontic appliance.

[0047] Figures 2 to 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the removable occlusal splint appliance 100 is used on a mandibular model (see [reference]). Figure 1 The retention base 11 and occlusal pad 12 are both made of self-curing plastic and are solidified in one piece. The retention base 11 surrounds the crown of the tooth. The retention base 11 surrounds the complete crown on the lingual side and the upper 2 / 3 of the crown on the buccal side (leaving a distance between the retention base 11 and the buccal gingiva), which makes the retention base 11 compact, reduces the feeling of foreign body, and ensures that the straightening and displacement component 2 is installed in place.

[0048] To ensure the aesthetics of the teeth during orthodontic treatment, the retention base 11 does not cover the incisal edge of the anterior teeth (in this embodiment, the anterior teeth are the mandibular anterior teeth). (That is, after wearing, the retention base 11 is generally not visible when the patient speaks or opens their mouth normally, and does not affect the aesthetics of the teeth.) Correspondingly, the occlusal pad 12 is divided into two parts, including a first occlusal pad 121 located on the occlusal surface of the dentition on the side of the missing tooth on the retention base 11 and a second occlusal pad 122 located on the occlusal surface of the dentition on the opposite side of the missing tooth. For example, in one case, the first occlusal pad 121 and the second occlusal pad 122 do not cover the occlusal surfaces of the anterior teeth. That is, the first occlusal pad 121 is located on the occlusal surfaces of the continuous row of teeth from the second premolar 03 to the canine 01 on the side of the missing tooth, and the second occlusal pad 122 is located on the occlusal surfaces of the continuous row of teeth from the second permanent molar 09 to the canine 05 on the side of the missing tooth. In another case, the first occlusal pad 121 and the second occlusal pad 122 are continuously connected and cover the occlusal surfaces of all rows of teeth from the second premolar 03 on the side of the missing tooth to the second permanent molar 09 on the side of the missing tooth.

[0049] See Figure 2 and Figure 3 The straightening and displacement assembly 2 includes a multi-curved spring 21 for displacement, a straightening force-applying element, and a buccal tube 23. The straightening force-applying element is used to apply a force in the opposite direction to the tilting direction to the tilted molar (second permanent molar 04 on the edentulous side), wherein:

[0050] The purpose of setting up the multi-curved spring 21 for tooth displacement is to slowly release the force and adjust the force in a timely manner, so that the tilted tooth can be moved slowly, preventing the tilted tooth from becoming loose or even falling out due to excessive force or too rapid force, and preventing the force from being too weak to move the tilted tooth. Figure 5As shown, the displacement spring 21 is a sinusoidal or cosine-shaped multi-curved structure made of stainless steel round wire (e.g., stainless steel round wire with a diameter of 0.40 mm). There are multiple parabolic curves 212 connected in sequence between the proximal end 211 and the distal end 213 of the displacement spring 21. The number of parabolic curves 212 and the curvature value of the parabolic curves 212 (i.e., the reciprocal of the radius of the top or bottom arc of the parabolic curve 212) are determined according to the tooth gap H and the required force. Once the number of parabolic curves 212 is determined, the force of the displacement spring 21 can be adjusted by adjusting the curvature value of the parabolic curves 212. Generally, the larger the curvature value, the smaller the force. The mesial end 211 of the displacement spring 21 is embedded in the retention base 11, while the distal end 213 is a free end used to abut against the mesial proximal surface of the inclined molar to apply force to the inclined molar. During installation, the displacement spring 21 is placed in the edentulous area H, with the distal end 213 tightly against the mesial proximal surface of the inclined molar (the distal end 213 is bent according to the shape of this proximal surface), so that the force application point of the displacement spring 21 is located at the resistance center of the inclined tooth, to ensure the overall distal movement of the inclined molar. Preferably, the force of the displacement spring 21 is adjusted to about 50g by adjusting the curvature value of the parabolic curve 212 (the specific value of the force is adjusted according to the condition of the inclined molar; generally, the greater the inclination of the tooth, the smaller the force of the displacement spring 21, to prevent damage to the periodontal tissue of the inclined molar).

[0051] The straightening force-applying component is used to apply a force opposite to the direction of inclination to the tilted molar (second permanent molar 04 on the edentulous side) to straighten the tilted molar and simultaneously depress the displaced tilted molar to adjust the occlusal relationship of the posterior teeth. It is used in conjunction with the buccal tube 23 bonded to the buccal side of the tilted molar (i.e., the second permanent molar 04 on the edentulous side). The straightening force-applying component transmits the applied force to the tilted molar through the buccal tube 23.

[0052] like Figure 3 As shown ( Figure 3 Lighter-colored displacements are indicated by multi-curved springs 21, representing displacements further from the observer, while darker-colored backward-tilting T-shaped curves 22 represent displacements closer to the observer. The varying shades of the lines indicate the distance between teeth (see the diagram below). The buccal tube 23 includes a base plate and a circular tube welded to the base plate. The base plate is fixed to the buccal side of the inclined molar, and the axial direction of the circular tube is aligned with the transverse long axis of the inclined molar. Typically, the buccal tube 23 is a commonly used component in fixed orthodontic appliances. Here, it is used in a removable orthodontic appliance for distal interdental space adjustment.

[0053] Figure 6AIn the embodiment shown, the straightening force-applying component is a backward-tilting T-shaped curve 22. The backward-tilting T-shaped curve 22 is a T-shaped structure bent from stainless steel square wire (e.g., stainless steel square wire with a cross-sectional size of 0.017mm × 0.025mm). It includes a T-shaped curve and a near-middle arm 221 and a far-middle arm 227 connected to the T-shaped curve. The T-shaped curve is composed of a rounded rectangular curve 224 bent from stainless steel wire and two parallel connecting arms perpendicular to the rounded rectangular curve. The connecting arm connected to the near-middle arm 221 is the first connecting arm 223. The connection between the near-middle arm 221 and the first connecting arm 223 forms the first curve 222. The connecting arm connected to the far-middle arm 227 is the second connecting arm 225. The connection between the far-middle arm 227 and the second connecting arm forms the second curve 226. The rounded rectangular curve 224 serves as a force-applying mechanism. In the standard state of a T-shaped bend, the mesial arm 221 and distal arm 227 are perpendicular to the first connecting arm 223 and the second connecting arm 225, respectively, meaning both the first bend 222 and the second bend 226 are at 90°. Teeth connected by a T-shaped bend in the standard state are in a normal position. Based on this principle, when applying it to straighten tilted teeth, the angle of the second bend 226 (i.e., the angle between the perpendiculars of the distal arm 227 and the second connecting arm 225) should be adjusted according to the tilt of the tooth. This allows the T-shaped bend to apply a force to the tilted tooth, restoring it to a normal state. The magnitude of this force is determined by the angle of the second bend 226. Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, a backward-tilted T-shaped bend 22 is used to straighten and depress the tilted molar (second permanent molar 04 on the edentulous side). The magnitude of the force exerted by the backward-tilted T-shaped bend 22 is adjusted by the backward-tilting angle δ, where the backward-tilting angle δ is the angle between the distal arm 227 bending towards the rounded rectangular bend 224 and the perpendicular line of the second connecting arm 225.

[0054] Because the molar (i.e., the second permanent molar 04 on the edentulous side) is tilted towards the edentulous area H, the posterior tilting T-shaped bend 22 aims to straighten the tilted molar while simultaneously indenting it. During fabrication, the distal arm 227 is bent at a certain angle towards the T-shaped bend 224, so that the posterior tilt angle δ of the distal arm 227 (i.e., the angle between the perpendicular of the distal arm 227 and the second connecting arm 225) is 15°-30°, generating a force of approximately 50g-100g. Meanwhile, the mesial arm 221 remains perpendicular to the first connecting arm 223. During appliance fabrication, the mesial arm 221 is embedded within the retention base 11, the distal arm 227 is a free end, and the posterior tilt angle δ of the distal arm 227 is 15°-30°. During appliance installation, the distal arm 227 is inserted into the round tube of the buccal tube 23, causing the posterior tilt T-shaped bend 22 to cross the edentulous area H and connect the retention base 11 on both sides of the edentulous area and the buccal tube 23. The shape of the posterior tilt T-shaped bend 22 after installation is as follows: Figure 6BAs shown (since the mesial arm 221 is embedded in the retention base 11 and its position remains unchanged, in order to insert the distal arm 227 into the buccal tube 23, it is necessary to change the angles of the first curve 222 and the second curve 226, so that the distal arm 227 changes from its original position W1 to its position W2, thereby changing the posterior tilt angle δ of the distal arm 227), this T-shaped curve has the memory to return to its original curved shape. It applies a reaction force to the tilted molar, pushing the tilted molar to move in the opposite direction of tilting, while pressing down on the tilted tooth so that the T-shaped curve returns to its original state. As the tilt of the tilted molar becomes smaller and smaller, the force of the posterior tilt T-shaped curve can be further increased by increasing the posterior tilt angle δ of the distal arm 227 (generally, the greater the tilt of the tilted molar towards the mesial, the smaller the force required by the T-shaped curve should be to prevent damage to the gingiva and root of the tooth).

[0055] In another embodiment, the straightening force-applying component is a herringbone-shaped small loop 24, such as... Figure 8 As shown, the herringbone-shaped small loop 24 is made of 0.45mm stainless steel round wire and includes a small loop portion 241, a herringbone-shaped proximal arm 242 connected to the small loop portion 241 and forming an angle with it, and a herringbone-shaped distal arm 243. The small loop portion 241 serves as a force-applying mechanism and includes at least one loop, or more than two loops. The more loops there are, the greater the applied force. The magnitude of the force exerted by the herringbone-shaped small loop 24 is adjusted by the herringbone angle β, where the herringbone angle β is the angle between the herringbone proximal arm 242 and the herringbone distal arm 243.

[0056] During appliance fabrication, one end of the herringbone-shaped mesial arm 242 is embedded within the retention base 11, while the herringbone-shaped distal arm 243 is a free end, with the herringbone angle β ranging from 95° to 135°. During appliance installation, the herringbone-shaped distal arm 243 is inserted into the round tube of the buccal tube 23, allowing the herringbone-shaped small loop 24 to cross the edentulous area H and connect the retention base 11 and buccal tube 23 on both sides of the edentulous area. The shape of the installed herringbone-shaped small loop 24 is as follows: Figure 7 As shown, the herringbone-shaped small loop 24 has the memory to return to its original curved shape. It applies a reaction force to the tilted molar, pushing the tilted molar to move in the opposite direction of tilting, so that the T-shaped curve returns to its original state. As the tilt of the tilted molar becomes smaller, the force of the herringbone-shaped small loop 24 can be further increased by adjusting the herringbone angle β (generally, the greater the tilt of the tilted molar towards the mesial direction, the smaller the herringbone angle β, and the smaller the force required by the herringbone small loop, so as to prevent damage to the gums and root of the tooth).

[0057] Obviously, the removable occlusal splint appliance 100 of the present invention is not limited to the case of missing first permanent molars on one side of the mandible, but can also be applied to the case of missing first permanent molars on either side of the maxilla.

[0058] The manufacturing method of the above-mentioned removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance 100 includes the following steps:

[0059] Fabricating a removable occlusal splint appliance 100 on a plaster model: A mandibular or maxillary plaster model with the missing tooth positions is created based on the patient's mandible or maxilla (e.g., ...). Figure 1 For a mandibular plaster model, the bent and shaped straightening force-applying component, interproximal hook 13, and displacement multi-curved spring 21 are respectively placed in the predetermined positions of the abutment tooth area of ​​the plaster model (e.g., the complete tooth area from the second premolar 03 on the side of the missing tooth to the second permanent molar 09 on the opposite side of the missing tooth). The prepared self-curing material is filled into the predetermined base area (i.e., the designed base coverage area) and occlusal pad area (i.e., the designed occlusal pad coverage area) on the plaster model. After the self-curing material solidifies, it is demolded to form an integral orthodontic appliance model.

[0060] Specifically, this includes (taking the T-shaped curve 22 as an example):

[0061] 1) Create a plaster model showing the location of the missing teeth according to the shape of the patient's mandible or maxilla;

[0062] 2) Apply a layer of separating agent to the abutment tooth area of ​​the dried plaster model. Then, place the following components in sequence at the predetermined positions: a backward-tilting T-shaped bend 22 (made of 0.017×0.025mm stainless steel square wire), an interproximal hook 13 (made of 0.7mm diameter stainless steel wire), and a displacement multi-curved spring 21 (made of 0.40mm stainless steel round wire). (See [reference]) Figures 1 to 2 (as shown in the image) and temporarily fixed with wax drops, fill the predetermined base area and occlusal pad area on the plaster model with prepared self-curing material (e.g., base resin), and after the self-curing material solidifies, form an integral retention base 11 and occlusal pad 12, while fixing the posterior tilt T-shaped bend 22, interproximal hook 13 and displacement multi-curved spring 21 integrally with the retention base 11.

[0063] 3) Demolding, which involves removing the one-piece molded orthodontic appliance from the mold and then trimming, grinding, and polishing it.

[0064] The process of wearing the pre-made removable occlusal splint appliance is as follows (using a mandibular model as an example):

[0065] The buccal tube 23 is bonded to the buccal side of the second permanent molar 04 on the edentulous side, so that the long axis of the buccal tube 23 is aligned with the transverse long axis of the inclined molar. Then, the free end of the straightening force-applying component of the orthodontic model is inserted into the buccal tube 23. The displacement spring 21 is placed in the edentulous area H, so that the distal end 213 of the displacement spring 21 is in close contact with the proximal surface of the edentulous area of ​​the second permanent molar 04 on the edentulous side, and the force application point of the displacement spring 21 is located at the resistance center of the second permanent molar 04 on the edentulous side. The edentulous side is installed first, and then the opposite side is installed. The thickness of the occlusal pad 12 is checked to achieve the goal of releasing the occlusion of the adjacent tooth (inclined molar) while straightening and depressing the inclined molar, without causing discomfort to the patient's temporomandibular joint, and ensuring that it does not affect the occlusion of the opposite side of the edentulous tooth. Otherwise, the thickness of the occlusal pad 12 is readjusted, i.e., the occlusal pad 12 is ground or relined.

[0066] Clinical trials were conducted using the removable occlusal splint appliance 100 of this invention. From 2016 to 2019, 50 patients aged 22-58 years with unilateral missing first permanent molars underwent clinical trials wearing this appliance. Full-mouth panoramic radiographs and plaster models were taken before and after treatment. Changes in the edentulous space and restoration of interocclusal height were analyzed using the panoramic radiographs and plaster models. Results showed that the total treatment duration varied among all patients depending on the duration of tooth loss, with the longest treatment duration being nine months and the shortest three and a half months. Wearing the appliance provided conditions for implant restoration of the missing teeth, did not affect aesthetics, and caused relatively mild discomfort.

[0067] This invention retains the advantages of traditional occlusal pad-type orthodontic appliances while leveraging the anchorage and force application of fixed orthodontic appliances, making it more comfortable for patients and facilitating oral hygiene maintenance.

[0068] The removable occlusal splint appliance 100 of this invention uses an integrated retention base 11 and occlusal splint 12 as overall anchorage to ensure that the position of teeth not subjected to force remains unchanged. The tilted teeth are exerted force by the straightening force-applying component and the displacement multi-curved spring 21, and the tilted molars are depressed by the straightening force-applying component and the occlusal splint 12, so as to straighten and depress the tilted teeth caused by the long-term absence of the first permanent molar on one side. The magnitude of the force of the straightening force-applying component can be adjusted by adjusting the back tilt angle δ, and the curvature β of the parabolic curve 212 of the displacement multi-curved spring 21 can be adjusted to assist in straightening the tilted teeth, while expanding the space in the edentulous area to prepare for subsequent dental implants. The retention base 11 does not cover the incisal edge of the anterior teeth, and the retention base 11 in the labial area of ​​the anterior teeth is not visible. The occlusal splint 12 is only set on the occlusal surface of the molar area, so that the patient wearing this appliance does not affect the appearance.

[0069] The free end of the aligning force-applying component of the removable occlusal splint appliance 100 of this invention can enter and exit the buccal tube 23, while the displacement spring 21 placed in the edentulous area H only abuts against the second permanent molar 04 on the edentulous side and is not fixed, thus forming a removable appliance. During use, it can be removed for further cleaning before wearing the appliance again, which is beneficial for oral hygiene and care. The retention base 11 of the appliance of this invention has a relatively small structure, and the foreign body sensation in the patient's mouth is relatively weak. The appliance is easy to remove and only requires periodic adjustment of the force.

[0070] Those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments are only for illustrating the present invention and do not limit the scope of the present invention. All equivalent variations and modifications made to the present invention are within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A removable occlusal splint appliance, suitable for orthodontic treatment of adjacent teeth tilted due to long-term loss of the first permanent molar on one side, characterized in that, Given: The retention component (1) includes an integrally molded retention base (11) and an occlusal pad (12). The retention base (11) and the occlusal pad (12) form an arc-shaped dental crown with one open end. The cross-section of the arc-shaped dental crown is U-shaped. The shape and size of the retention base (11) are suitable for covering the crowns of all dentition teeth except for the second permanent molar (04) on the edentulous side. The occlusal pad (12) is located on the occlusal surface of the dentition covered by the retention base (11). The edentulous repositioning assembly (2) includes a repositioning multi-curved spring (21), an edentulous force-applying component, and a buccal tube (23). The repositioning multi-curved spring (21) is a multi-curved structure made of stainless steel round wire. It is placed in the edentulous area, with one end embedded in the retention base (11) and the other end used to abut against the mesial proximal surface of the edentulous second permanent molar (04). The buccal tube (23) is a round tube used to bond to the buccal side of the edentulous second permanent molar (04). The axial direction of the round tube is consistent with the transverse long axis direction of the edentulous second permanent molar (04). The edentulous force-applying component is used to apply a force to the edentulous second permanent molar (04) in the opposite direction of its inclination. One end of the component is embedded in the retention base (11), and the other end is inserted into the buccal tube (23). The retention base (11) does not cover the incisal edge of the anterior teeth, and the occlusal pad (12) is divided into two parts, including a first occlusal pad (121) located on the occlusal surface of the dentition on the side of the edentulous tooth of the retention base (11) and a second occlusal pad (122) located on the occlusal surface of the dentition on the opposite side of the edentulous tooth. The retention base (11) and occlusal pad (12) are integrally solidified from self-curing plastic in a mandibular or maxillary model. The retention base (11) wraps around the complete crown on the lingual side and around the upper 2 / 3 of the crown on the buccal side, leaving a distance between the retention base (11) and the buccal gingiva.

2. The removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The retention assembly (1) also includes a plurality of interproximal hooks (13) disposed on the buccal side of the retention base (11). The interproximal hooks (13) are provided with connectors. The head end of the connector is embedded in the retention base (11), and the end of the connector is bent into a hook shape to form a hook portion. The end where the hook portion is located is a free end, which is used to extend into the gap between adjacent teeth.

3. The removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance according to claim 2, characterized in that, The plurality of interproximal hooks (13) includes a first interproximal hook (131) for placement between adjacent teeth on the side of the missing tooth and a second interproximal hook (132) for placement between adjacent teeth on the opposite side of the missing tooth.

4. The removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first adjacent hook (131) and the second adjacent hook (132) are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the fixation base (11).

5. The removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The displacement spring (21) is a sinusoidal or cosine-shaped multi-curved structure made of stainless steel round wire with a diameter of 0.40 mm. It has a near-middle end (211), a far-middle end (213), and multiple parabolic curves (212) connected sequentially between the near-middle end (211) and the far-middle end (213). The curvature of the parabolic curve (212) is the reciprocal of the radius of the top arc or bottom arc of the parabolic curve (212).

6. The removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance according to claim 5, characterized in that, The displacement spring (21) is placed in the edentulous area (H), with its distal end (213) closely attached to the mesial proximal surface of the second permanent molar on the edentulous side, so that the point of force application of the displacement spring (21) is located at the resistance center of the tilted tooth.

7. The removable occlusal splint appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The straightening force-applying component is a backward-tilting T-shaped bend (22). The backward-tilting T-shaped bend (22) is a T-shaped structure made of stainless steel square wire with a cross-sectional size of 0.017mm×0.025mm. It includes a T-shaped bend and a proximal arm (221) and a distal arm (227) connected to the T-shaped bend. The proximal arm (221) is embedded in the fixation base (11), and the distal arm (227) is inserted into the cheek tube (23).

8. The removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance according to claim 7, characterized in that, The T-shaped curve is composed of a rounded rectangular curve (224) made of stainless steel wire and two parallel connecting arms perpendicular to the rounded rectangular curve. The connecting arm connected to the near middle arm (221) is the first connecting arm (223), and the connecting arm connected to the far middle arm (227) is the second connecting arm (225). The near middle arm (221) is perpendicular to the first connecting arm (223), and the back tilt angle δ is the angle between the far middle arm (227) bending towards the rounded rectangular curve (224) and the perpendicular line of the second connecting arm (225).

9. The removable occlusal splint appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The straightening force-applying component is a herringbone-shaped small loop (24), which is made of 0.45mm stainless steel round wire. It includes a small loop part (241), a herringbone-shaped proximal arm (242) connected to the small loop part (241) and forming an angle with it, and a herringbone-shaped distal arm (243). The herringbone-shaped proximal arm (242) is embedded in the fixation base (11), and the herringbone-shaped distal arm (243) is inserted into the cheek tube (23). The herringbone angle β is the angle between the herringbone-shaped proximal arm (242) and the herringbone-shaped distal arm (243).

10. The removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance according to claim 9, characterized in that, The included angle β of the herringbone shape is 95°-135°.

11. A method for manufacturing a removable occlusal splint orthodontic appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising the following steps: According to the patient's mandible or maxilla, a plaster model of the mandible or maxilla with the position of the missing tooth is made. The bent force-applying component, interproximal hook (13), and displacement multi-curved spring (21) are placed in the predetermined position of the abutment tooth area of ​​the plaster model. The predetermined base area and occlusal pad area on the plaster model are filled with the prepared self-curing material. After the self-curing material solidifies, it is demolded to make an integral orthodontic appliance model. The force-applying component is a backward tilting T-shaped bend (22) or a herringbone small loop bend (24).

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