Alternative bite adjustment structure

Abstract

A dental appliance includes a first appliance and a second appliance. The first appliance has a first housing having a plurality of cavities therein, and each cavity is configured to accommodate at least one tooth of a first jaw, and the first appliance has a first number of bite adjustment structures. The first number of bite adjustment structures are formed as part of the first housing and extend from a lingual surface of at least one of the plurality of cavities. The second appliance has a second housing having a plurality of cavities therein, and each cavity is configured to accommodate at least one tooth of a second jaw, and the second appliance has a second number of bite adjustment structures formed as part of the second housing and extend from at least one of the plurality of cavities. The second number of bite adjustment structures are designed to contact the first number of bite adjustment structures.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with Chinese application number 201880070010.9 (corresponding to PCT international application number PCT / US2018 / 057594), application date October 25, 2018, and invention name “Alternative occlusal adjustment structure”. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of dental treatment and more particularly to systems, methods, computing device readable media, and devices for providing alternative bite adjustment structures. Background Art

[0003] In certain dental cases, a patient may have a malocclusion, where the patient's teeth are not aligned properly. An example of a malocclusion is a deep bite, which is a severe overbite where the patient's lower teeth are covered by the upper teeth and the lower incisors may be in contact with the gum tissue of the upper arch. A deep bite may be an aesthetic and / or health problem, such as damage to the roots of the upper teeth, damage to the gum tissue of the upper arch, and / or wear of the lower teeth due to frictional contact with the upper teeth.

[0004] Some previous methods of correcting a patient's deep bite condition may include intrusion of the anterior teeth (e.g., incisors and / or canines) and / or extrusion of the posterior teeth (e.g., premolars and / or molars). The extrusion of the posterior teeth may be facilitated by the use of bite turbos (e.g., metal blocks adhered to the posterior (lingual) surface of the upper anterior teeth to reduce contact between the posterior teeth of the opposing jaw and allow more teeth to erupt), anterior bite plates contacting the anterior dentition (e.g., in non-adult patients) while allowing the posterior teeth to erupt. However, extending the posterior teeth of adult patients may result in unstable results. Intrusion of the anterior teeth may be facilitated by anchors (e.g., metal anchors on the molars used to apply an upward force to the incisors), J-hooks, expansion screws, or bypass archwires that bypass the premolars and / or canines to maintain the reduced force by extending the span between the molars and incisors. Another previous method of correcting a patient's deep bite condition may be orthognathic surgery, in which the jaws are surgically modified to reduce or correct the malocclusion.

[0005] These methods may be effective, but they may have to be completed before alignment of the teeth of the jaws can be initiated and / or the patient may have to recover from surgery before occlusal treatment can be initiated. Additionally, in some cases, crooked or tilted teeth may not allow the use of these types of devices or may render them ineffective. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1A perspective view of a first dental position adjustment appliance and a second dental position adjustment appliance are shown according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0007] Figure 2 A perspective view of a virtual model of a jaw is shown in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 3A A perspective view of a portion of a virtual model of a jaw including several virtual bite adjustment structures disposed thereon corresponding to a first treatment stage in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0009] Figure 3B A perspective view of a portion of a virtual model of a jaw corresponding to a second treatment stage is shown in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 3C A perspective view of a portion of a virtual model of a jaw corresponding to a third treatment stage is shown in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 3D A perspective view of a portion of a virtual model of a jaw corresponding to a fourth treatment stage is shown in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 4 A perspective view of a virtual model of a jaw is shown in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 5 A view showing a portion of a dental position adjustment appliance according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0014] Fig. 6A A first view of a portion of a first dental position adjustment appliance and a second dental position adjustment appliance is shown according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 6B The present invention shows a plurality of embodiments according to the present invention. Fig. 6A A second view of a portion of a first dental position adjustment appliance and a second dental position adjustment appliance is shown in FIG.

[0016] Figure 7 Views showing a portion of a first dental position adjustment appliance and a second dental position adjustment appliance according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 8 Views showing a portion of a first dental position adjustment appliance and a second dental position adjustment appliance according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] Fig. 9 A view showing a portion of a dental position adjustment appliance according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] Fig.10 A view showing a portion of a dental position adjustment appliance according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] Fig.11 Views showing a portion of a first dental position adjustment appliance and a second dental position adjustment appliance according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] Fig.12 Contact between several bite adjustment structures on a dental position adjustment appliance and several teeth on an opposing jaw is illustrated according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] Fig.13A The jaws of a patient are shown in a first longitudinal relationship in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] Fig. 13B The jaws of a patient are shown in a second longitudinal relationship in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] Fig.14 Correction of overbite and overbite according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0025] Fig.15 A computing system is shown for use in various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] Fig.16 A method of forming a dental appliance according to some embodiments is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Dental appliance with alternative bite adjustment structure

[0028] Compared to some previous approaches, embodiments of the present disclosure address conditions such as deep bites by using one or more alternative bite structures to urge the jaws into alternative bite configurations. Also disclosed herein are methods, systems, and apparatus utilizing computer readable media for designing and determining the positioning of such structures.

[0029] Examples of device embodiments utilizing alternative bite adjustment structures include dental positioning appliances (e.g., aligners) that include a number of bite adjustment structures that are positioned on one or more teeth other than traditional incisors. For example, as described herein, a bite adjustment structure can be placed on a tooth based on a number of factors that indicate that traditional positioning of the structure would be ineffective (e.g., the incisor is crooked or tilted relative to the teeth of the opposing jaw, the distance between the proposed position of the bite adjustment structure and the teeth of the opposing jaw is too large, etc.).

[0030] Additionally, in addition to providing bite adjustment functionality, the dental positioning appliance may also be used to incrementally implement a treatment plan for movement of other teeth in the patient's jaw.

[0031] In the dental industry, dental treatment may involve, for example, restorative and / or orthodontic procedures. Restorative procedures may be designed to implant dental prostheses (e.g., crowns, bridges, inlays, onlays, veneers, etc.) into a patient's mouth. Orthodontic procedures may include repositioning misaligned teeth and changing bite configurations to improve aesthetics and / or dental function. Orthodontic repositioning may be accomplished, for example, by applying a controlled force to one or more teeth over a period of time.

[0032] As an example, orthodontic repositioning can be provided by a dental procedure that uses positioning appliances to realign the teeth. Such appliances can utilize a thin, resilient shell of material, called an "aligner," that generally conforms to the user's teeth, but is slightly misaligned with the current tooth configuration.

[0033] Positioning such an appliance on the teeth can provide controlled forces at specific locations to gradually move the teeth to a new configuration. Repeating this process with successive appliances of progressive configuration can move the teeth through one or more intermediate arrangements to a final and / or desired arrangement.

[0034] Such a system may utilize lightweight and / or transparent materials to provide a set of appliances that may be used in succession so that as teeth move, new appliances may be implemented to further move the teeth.

[0035] One, more than one, or all of a series of appliances for moving other teeth in a patient's jaw may include a bite adjustment structure positioned (e.g., having a shape and position) that is specific to the corresponding stage of the treatment plan associated with each appliance. In some embodiments, the bite adjustment structure may be formed of the same material as the appliance and / or formed simultaneously with the appliance.

[0036] In the following detailed description of the present disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof and in which are shown by way of illustration how a number of embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to practice the embodiments of the present disclosure, and it is understood that other embodiments may be utilized and process and / or structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, as used herein, "several" particular things may refer to one or more such things (e.g., several bite adjustment structures may refer to one or more bite adjustment structures).

[0037] Figure 1A perspective view of a first dental position adjustment appliance 102-1 and a second dental position adjustment appliance 102-2 is shown according to several embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, appliances according to the present disclosure may include multiple progressive dental position adjustment appliances. Figure 1 Appliances such as appliances 102-1 and 102-2 shown in the figure can be used to implement a treatment plan for moving teeth on a patient's jaw relative to each other in a progressive manner, such as by affecting a progressive repositioning of individual teeth within the jaw, and other appropriate uses. Appliances such as appliances 102-1 and 102-2 can be manufactured based on a virtual dental model having the positions of several teeth adjusted according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0038] The appliances may include any positioners, retainers, and / or other removable appliances to accomplish and maintain tooth positioning associated with dental treatment. These appliances may be used by a treatment professional when executing a treatment plan. For example, a treatment plan may include the use of a set of appliances created according to the description herein.

[0039] Equipment (e.g. Figure 1 The device 102-1 and the device 102-2 in the embodiment of the present invention can be made of, for example, a polymer shell, and / or formed of other materials, with multiple cavities (e.g., cavity 107-1, cavity 107-2, cavity 107-3, cavity 107-4, cavity 107-5, cavity 107-6, and cavity 107-7, collectively referred to as cavity 107 herein). The cavity 107 can be designed (e.g., shaped) to accommodate one or more teeth 104 and / or to apply force to reposition one or more teeth 104 on the jaw from one tooth arrangement to a successive tooth arrangement. The shell can be designed to be mounted on several teeth 104 present in the upper and / or lower jaws, or in many cases, all teeth 104.

[0040] The appliance 102-1 may include a first number of bite adjustment structures 106-1 formed as part of a first shell, extending from a tongue surface 126-1 of at least one of the plurality of cavities 107. The first number of bite adjustment structures 106-1 may be formed of the same material as the shell. In some embodiments, the first bite adjustment structure 106-1 may be formed of the same material as the shell as a continuous body.

[0041] The first bite adjustment structure 106-1 can be formed simultaneously with the shell (e.g., made of the same bulk material), such as in a vacuum forming process, wherein a material is vacuum formed onto a dental model formed based on data representing the user's teeth to form the shell. In such an embodiment, the model will include a shape corresponding to the first bite adjustment structure, such that when the vacuum forming process is performed, the first bite adjustment structure is formed on the surface of one or more cavities of the shell, wherein the cavities of the shell are also formed by the vacuum forming process.

[0042] As described above, the first housing may include cavities 107 (eg, each cavity 107 corresponding to a tooth). The first number of bite adjustment structures 106 - 1 may be part of the cavities 107 .

[0043] Cavities that do not include bite adjustment structure 106-1, such as cavity 107-3, can be shaped to fit a specific tooth. For example, cavity 107-3 can be shaped to fit three surfaces of a corresponding tooth to be received therein.

[0044] In this example, the three surfaces may be the anterior (buccal) surface 128-1, the posterior (lingual) surface 126-1, and the occlusal (incisal) surface 124-1. The cavity 107-3 may be slightly misaligned with the current configuration of the particular tooth (e.g., to facilitate alignment of the particular tooth to a desired position and orientation configuration relative to the patient's other teeth), but the cavity 107-3 may generally conform to the shape of the particular tooth such that there is little space between the cavity 107-3 and the particular tooth when the first appliance 102-1 is worn.

[0045] In contrast, a cavity containing a bite adjustment structure 106-1, such as cavity 107-1, can be shaped to mate with two surfaces of a particular tooth. For an incisor or canine, the two surfaces can be the anterior (buccal) surface 128-1 and the occlusal (incisal) surface 124-1. The posterior (lingual) surface 126-1 of cavity 107-1 can include a bite adjustment structure 106-1 extending therefrom.

[0046] In some embodiments, the front (cheek) surface 128-1 of the cavity 107-1 may include a bite adjustment structure 106-1 extending therefrom. In some embodiments, the bite adjustment structure 106-1 may form a portion of the cavity 107 so that when worn on a particular tooth, there is a space between the tooth and the inner surface of the bite adjustment structure 106-1. In some embodiments, the space between the tooth and the inner surface of the bite adjustment structure 106-1 may be filled with a composite to provide reinforcement and avoid damage to the shell. The space between the tooth and the inner surface of the bite adjustment structure 106-1 may be filled with a polymethylvinylsiloxane (VPS) material.

[0047] In some embodiments, a first number of bite adjustment structures 106-1 may extend from the appliance 102-1 toward the back of the oral cavity (in a buccal-lingual direction) and may be designed to contact a second number of bite adjustment structures 106-2 formed on a second appliance 102-2 that is designed to accommodate teeth on a jaw opposite to the jaw in which the appliance 102-1 is intended to be worn. For example, the appliance 102-1 may be designed to fit over teeth 104-1 on the upper jaw of a user, and the first number of bite adjustment structures 106-1 may be designed to contact a second number of bite adjustment structures 106-2 formed on a second appliance 102-2 that is designed to accommodate teeth 104-2 on the lower jaw of a user.

[0048] In some embodiments, a first number of bite adjustment structures 106-1 can extend from a number of cavities 107 of a first housing that accommodates incisors, canines, premolars, molars, and / or any combination thereof. The first bite adjustment structures 106-1 can extend from the appliance 102-1 toward the back of the oral cavity and can be designed to contact a bite adjustment structure 106-2 that is attached to one or more teeth on a jaw opposite to the jaw in which the first appliance 102-1 is intended to be worn. In this manner, the first number of bite adjustment structures 106-1 can be designed to contact corresponding teeth on the opposite jaw or bite adjustment structures 106-2 on corresponding teeth to provide a no-bite between the first jaw and the second jaw.

[0049] The shape (e.g., size and / or contour and angle(s), etc.) and position (e.g., location on the cavity) of each of the first number of bite adjustment structures 106-1 can be based on one or more factors indicative of ineffective positioning. A specific bite adjustment structure 106-1 can have a shape and position specific to a specific stage of the treatment plan based on, for example, at least one of: contact between a specific first bite adjustment structure 106-1 and a specific second bite adjustment structure 106-2, contact between a specific first bite adjustment structure 106-1 and a specific tooth of an opposing jaw, a number of forces for repositioning a number of teeth on the first and second jaws, and / or an orientation of a tooth on which the bite adjustment structure 106-1 is positioned.

[0050] In addition, the shape (e.g., size and / or profile and (one or more) angles, etc.) and position (e.g., location on the cavity) of each of the first number of bite adjustment structures 106-1 can be specific to the stage of the treatment plan for which the appliance 102-1 is designed. For example, successive appliances created according to a treatment plan may have first number of bite adjustment structures 106-1 with different shapes and / or positions. The first number of bite adjustment structures 106-1 with shapes and positions specific to a particular treatment stage can be advantageous over some previous approaches that use general and / or unified bite adjustment structures that are not specific to a treatment stage and therefore may not accurately provide the desired correction for the treatment stage in which they are used. Among other disadvantages, such inaccurate treatment may also result in extended treatment plans, the need to modify treatment plans, and / or unnecessary user discomfort. In contrast, multiple embodiments of the present disclosure allow for more timely, accurate, and / or comfortable execution of treatment plans.

[0051] In some embodiments, the edge 101-1 of the cavity 107 opposite the occlusal (cut) surface 124-1 of the cavity 107 can be shaped to extend beyond the gum line 108-1 of the user. The portion of the shell extending beyond the gum line 108-1 of the jaw can help distribute the reaction force (e.g., the force opposing the several forces applied to the bite adjustment structure 106-1) to other parts of the jaw.

[0052] The device 102-2 may include a second number of snap adjustment structures 106-2 formed as part of the second shell, extending from at least one of the plurality of cavities and designed to contact the first number of snap adjustment structures 106-1. The second number of snap adjustment structures 106-2 may be formed of the same material as the second shell. In some embodiments, the second snap adjustment structure 106-2 may be formed as a continuous body of the same material as the second shell.

[0053] The second number of bite adjustment structures 106-2 can be formed simultaneously with the shell (e.g., formed from the same base material), such as in a vacuum forming process, in which material is vacuum formed on a dental model formed based on data representing the user's teeth to form the shell. In such an embodiment, as with the appliance used on the upper jaw discussed above, the model will include a shape corresponding to the first bite adjustment structure, so that when the vacuum forming process is performed, the first bite adjustment structure is formed on the surface of one or more cavities of the shell, the cavities of the shell are also formed by the vacuum forming process.

[0054] Likewise, as described above, the second housing may include cavities 107 (eg, each cavity 107 corresponding to a tooth). The second number of bite adjustment structures 106 - 2 may be part of the cavities 107 .

[0055] A cavity that does not include a bite adjustment structure 106-2, such as cavity 107-5, can be shaped to fit a specific tooth. For example, cavity 107-5 can be shaped to fit three surfaces of a corresponding tooth to be received therein.

[0056] In this example, the three surfaces may be the anterior (buccal) surface 128, the posterior (lingual) surface 126, and the occlusal (incisal) surface 124. The cavity 107-5 may be slightly misaligned with the current configuration of the particular tooth (e.g., to facilitate aligning the particular tooth to a desired position and orientation configuration relative to the patient's other teeth). However, the cavity 107-5 may generally conform to the shape of the particular tooth such that when the second appliance 102-2 is worn, there is little or no space between the cavity 107-5 and the particular tooth.

[0057] In contrast, a cavity 107, such as cavity 107-4, containing a bite adjustment structure 106-2 can be shaped to fit two surfaces of a particular tooth. In some embodiments, for an incisor or canine, the two surfaces can be an anterior (buccal) surface 128 and an occlusal (incisal) surface 124. The posterior (lingual) surface 126 of cavity 107-1 can include a bite adjustment structure 106-2 extending therefrom. In some embodiments, for an incisor or canine, the two surfaces can be a posterior (lingual) surface 126 and an occlusal (incisal) surface 124. The anterior (buccal) surface 128 of cavity 107 can include a bite adjustment structure 106-2 extending therefrom.

[0058] As described above, the bite adjustment structure 106-2 can form a portion of the cavity 107 so that when worn on a particular tooth, there is a space between the tooth and the inner surface of the bite adjustment structure 106-2. In some embodiments, the space between the tooth and the inner surface of the bite adjustment structure 106-2 can be filled with a composite to provide reinforcement and avoid damage to the shell. The space between the tooth and the inner surface of the bite adjustment structure 106-2 can be filled with a polymethylvinylsiloxane (VPS) material.

[0059] In some embodiments, the cavities containing the bite adjustment structure 106, such as cavity 107-2 and cavity 107-3, can be shaped to fit with three surfaces of a particular tooth. For an incisor or canine, the three surfaces can be the anterior (buccal) surface 128, the posterior (lingual) surface 126, and the occlusal (incisal) surface 124. The bite adjustment structure 106-2 can be located between the distal (towards the back of the jaw) surface of a first cavity 107 and the mesial (towards the front of the jaw) surface of an adjacent cavity 107.

[0060] In some embodiments, a second number of bite adjustment structures 106-2 can extend from a plurality of cavities of a second housing that accommodates incisors, canines, premolars, molars, and / or any combination thereof. The second number of bite adjustment structures can be designed to contact corresponding teeth on an opposing jaw or bite adjustment structures 106-1 on corresponding teeth to provide a no-bite between the first jaw and the second jaw.

[0061] As described above, the shape (e.g., size and / or contour and (one or more) angles, etc.) and position (e.g., position on the cavity) of each of the second number of bite adjustment structures 106-2 can be based on one or more factors indicative of ineffective positioning. A specific bite adjustment structure 106-2 can have a shape and position specific to a specific stage of the treatment plan based on, for example, at least one of the following: contact between a specific first bite adjustment structure 106-1 and a specific second bite adjustment structure 106-2, contact between a specific first bite adjustment structure 106-1 and a specific tooth on an opposing jaw, a number of forces for repositioning a number of teeth on the first jaw and the second jaw, and an orientation of the tooth on which the bite adjustment structure 106-1 is positioned.

[0062] Likewise, as described above, the shape (e.g., size and / or profile and (one or more) angles, etc.) and position (e.g., location on the cavity) of each of the second number of bite adjustment structures 106-2 can be specific to the stage of the treatment plan for which the appliance 102-2 is designed. For example, successive appliances created according to a treatment plan may have second number of bite adjustment structures 106-2 with different shapes and / or positions. The second number of bite adjustment structures 106-2 having shapes and positions specific to a particular treatment stage can be advantageous over some previous approaches that use universal and / or uniform bite adjustment structures that are not specific to a treatment stage and therefore may not accurately provide the desired correction for the treatment stage in which they are used. Such inaccurate treatment may result in, among other disadvantages, prolonged treatment plans, the need to modify treatment plans, and / or unnecessary user discomfort. In contrast, multiple embodiments of the present disclosure allow for more timely, accurate, and / or comfortable execution of treatment plans.

[0063] As described above, in some embodiments, the edge 101 of the cavity 107 opposite the occlusal (tangential) surface 124 of the cavity 107 can be shaped to extend beyond the user's gum line 108. The portion of the shell extending beyond the gum line 108 of the jaw can help distribute reaction forces (e.g., forces opposing some forces applied to the bite adjustment structure 106-2) to other portions of the jaw.

[0064] Although not specifically shown, in some embodiments, a particular stage in the treatment plan may include a bite adjustment feature on only one of the first appliance 106-1 and the second appliance 106-2. A particular stage in the treatment plan may not include any bite adjustment features on either the first appliance 102-1 or the second appliance 102-2.

[0065] In addition, a specific stage in the treatment plan may include a bite adjustment structure 106 on a cavity corresponding to an incisor, a canine, a premolar, and / or a molar, and / or any combination thereof. A specific stage in the treatment plan may include a bite adjustment structure extending from a lingual surface of a cavity, a buccal surface of a cavity 107, a distal surface of a first cavity 107, and a mesial surface of an adjacent cavity 107, and / or a combination thereof.

[0066] The bite adjustment structure 106-1 on the first appliance 102-1 can be designed to contact one or more teeth 104-2 of the lower jaw, and the bite adjustment structure 106-2 on the lower appliance 102-2 can be designed to contact one or more teeth 104-1 of the upper jaw. As used herein, a bite adjustment structure being "designed to contact teeth of an opposing jaw" can mean that the bite adjustment structure is designed to contact teeth of an opposing jaw that are covered by another appliance or not covered by another appliance.

[0067] The first appliance 102-1 may include a first number of bite adjustment structures 106-1 on the posterior (e.g., lingual) side or the anterior (e.g., buccal) side of a cavity 107 designed to accommodate the upper canines. These bite adjustment structures 106-1 may contact corresponding bite adjustment structures 106-2 on the cavity of the second appliance 102-2 on the mandible and / or the lower canines and receive inherent forces therefrom when the user bites down (e.g., to provide a no-bite between the user's posterior teeth).

[0068] In addition, the second appliance 102-2 may include several bite adjustment structures 106-2 on the posterior (e.g., lingual) side or the anterior (e.g., buccal) side of the cavity 107 designed to accommodate the lower canines. These bite adjustment structures 106-2 may contact the corresponding bite adjustment structures 106-1 on the cavity of the second appliance 102-2 on the upper jaw and / or the upper canines and receive inherent forces therefrom when the user bites (e.g., to provide a no-bite between the user's posterior teeth).

[0069] In some embodiments, the appliances 102-1 and 102-2 can be designed to selectively distribute reaction forces (opposite to the inherent forces generated by the user's bite) to the posterior lower dentition. In some embodiments, if conventional bite adjustment structures do not extend far enough from the incisors to contact the bite adjustment structures 106-1 and 106-2 and / or teeth 104-1 and 104-2 on the opposing jaw, the bite adjustment structures 106-1 and 106-2 can be formed, for example, on the canine cavity of the maxilla, on the canine cavity of the mandible, between the distal surface of the lower canine cavity and the mesial surface of the adjacent first bicuspid cavity, and / or a combination thereof.

[0070] The bite adjustment structures 106-1, 106-2 can be designed to provide a no-bite between the opposing jaws. Providing a no-bite between the opposing jaws can allow for adjustment (e.g., correction) of the longitudinal relationship between the upper and lower jaws. That is, the bite adjustment structures 106-1, 106-2 can be designed and intended for adjusting the longitudinal relationship between the upper and lower jaws and / or the longitudinal relationship between individual teeth in the upper and lower jaws.

[0071] In some embodiments, the appliances 102-1 and 102-2 can be designed to reposition the teeth 104-1 and 104-2 wearing the appliances 102-1 and 102-2, while the bite adjustment structures 106-1 and 106-2 provide a no bite between the opposing jaws. The no bite between the opposing jaws can help prevent the appliances on the opposing jaws (e.g., except at the bite adjustment structures 106-1 and 106-2) from contacting each other (e.g., touching, allowing interaction of forces, etc.).

[0072] The user's bite plane (e.g., overall bite plane) can be adjusted by providing a no-bite between the opposing jaws. Such adjustment can be temporary (e.g., when wearing the devices 102-1 and 102-2) and / or more permanent (e.g., by allowing elongation of teeth such as molars). For example, the bite adjustment structures 106-1 and 106-2 can be designed to provide a no-bite between opposing posterior teeth when the user bites (e.g., in some cases, several of the user's front teeth can contact the bite adjustment structures 106-1 and 106-2 of the device worn on the opposing jaws, which can prevent the user's posterior teeth from biting). As used herein, "no-bite" includes providing space between corresponding teeth of opposing jaws so that the teeth do not constrain and / or contact each other.

[0073] In some embodiments, the bite adjustment structures 106-1 and 106-2 can be designed to adjust the position of the jaw. For example, the bite adjustment structures 106-1 and 106-2 on the cavity of the appliance on the canine can be used to adjust the position of the jaw.

[0074] Adjusting the position of the jaws can help prevent contact between the posterior teeth of the opposing jaws when the lower jaw slides laterally (for example, the contact between the upper and lower canines provides a no-bite between the posterior teeth of the opposing jaws to protect the posterior teeth when the lower jaw slides laterally relative to the upper jaw). The appliances 102-1 and 102-2 having bite adjustment structures 106-1 and 106-2 formed on the canine cavities can adjust the position of the jaws by changing the contact between the canine cavities and the corresponding teeth on the opposing jaws to move one of the canines to a predetermined position relative to the canines on the opposing jaws, so that when the jaws slide laterally relative to each other, the contact between the bite adjustment structures 106-1 and 106-2 and the opposing teeth protects the posterior teeth by providing a no-bite (for example, in the absence of the bite adjustment structures 106-1 and 106-2, the posterior teeth may contact and / or rub against each other when the jaws slide laterally relative to each other).

[0075] Modeling of dental appliances and occlusal adjustment structures

[0076] Figure 2 A perspective view of a virtual model 214 of a jaw according to multiple embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Embodiments of the present disclosure may include instructions (e.g., software) executable by a processor to model a user's jaw (e.g., including teeth, roots, gums, and / or supporting structures, etc.), which may be fixed in a non-transitory computing device readable medium. The instructions may be executed to create and / or modify a treatment plan to progressively adjust the user's teeth and / or bite and make other adjustments by applying a series of appliances described herein. The instructions may be executed to provide a modified model of the user's jaw for each of the various stages of the treatment plan for use in manufacturing (e.g., by rapid prototyping such as stereolithography) a physical model corresponding to the virtual model 214. The physical model may be used to manufacture appliances thereon (e.g., by thermoforming).

[0077] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, instructions may be executed to place a first number of virtual bite adjustment structures 210 on the posterior (lingual) surface of a corresponding number of virtual teeth 212 of a virtual model 214 of a first jaw. Instructions may be executed to determine whether the first number of virtual bite adjustment structures 210 placed on the posterior (lingual) surface of a corresponding number of virtual teeth 212 of a virtual model 214 of a first jaw results in an invalid positioning or orientation between the corresponding number of virtual teeth 212 of the first jaw of the virtual model and several virtual teeth of a virtual model of a second jaw. An invalid positioning or orientation may be a positioning or orientation between the corresponding number of virtual teeth 212 of the virtual first jaw and several virtual teeth of a virtual model of a second jaw that results in misalignment of the patient's teeth. For example, an invalid positioning or orientation may result in malocclusion (e.g., overbite, deep bite, crossbite, etc.).

[0078] Instructions may be executed, wherein, if an invalid positioning or orientation exists, the instructions are executed to determine which one or more of several factors indicate invalid positioning. Instructions may be executed to adjust the positions of a first number of virtual bite adjustment structures on a corresponding number of virtual teeth of a virtual model of a first jaw based on one or more factors indicating invalid positioning. For example, factors indicating invalid positioning include: bending or tilting of the incisors relative to the teeth of the opposing jaw, excessive distance between the suggested position of the bite adjustment structure and the teeth of the opposing jaw, and other factors. Instructions may be executed to provide the virtual model of the first jaw to a manufacturing device for manufacturing a physical model corresponding to the first jaw, for forming a first appliance on the physical model so that the first appliance obtains the shape of the first number of virtual bite adjustment structures.

[0079] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, instructions may be executed to place a second number of virtual bite adjustment structures 210 on a corresponding number of virtual teeth 212 of the virtual model 214 of the second jaw. Instructions may be executed to determine whether the second number of virtual bite adjustment structures 210 placed on the corresponding number of virtual teeth 212 of the virtual model 214 of the second jaw results in an invalid positioning or orientation between the corresponding number of virtual teeth 212 of the second jaw of the virtual model and a number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw.

[0080] Instructions may be executed to determine which one or more of several factors indicate invalid positioning if there is an invalid positioning or orientation. Instructions may be executed to adjust the positions of a second number of virtual bite adjustment structures on a corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the second jaw based on the one or more factors indicating invalid positioning. Instructions may be executed to provide the virtual model of the second jaw to a manufacturing device for manufacturing a physical model corresponding to the second jaw for forming a second appliance on the physical model so that the second appliance is shaped by the second number of virtual bite adjustment structures.

[0081] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, instructions may be executed to place a number of virtual bite adjustment structures 210 on a corresponding number of virtual teeth 212 of a virtual model of a jaw 214. Instructions may be executed to place the virtual bite adjustment structures 210 on the virtual teeth of the virtual model of the jaw 214 at a specific treatment stage and / or to adjust the position of the virtual bite adjustment structures 210 for a subsequent treatment stage. According to the treatment plan, the virtual model of the jaw 214 may be different (e.g., the positioning of the virtual teeth may change) at each stage of treatment. Instructions may be executed to adjust the position of the virtual bite adjustment structures 210 according to changes to the virtual model of the jaw 214 between treatment stages and / or according to expected changes in a subsequent stage of treatment (e.g., to help achieve the desired changes to the virtual model of the jaw 214).

[0082] For each stage of treatment, instructions may be executed to model the forces applied to the virtual model of the jaw 214 by the appliance corresponding to that stage (to simulate the actual forces that would be applied by the physical appliance to the user's physical jaw). These forces may include forces applied to the virtual model of the jaw 214 due to slight misalignment of the appliance with the current configuration of the virtual teeth, and / or include inherent forces applied to the aligner by the user (e.g., when the user bites into the bite adjustment structure). Instructions may be executed to adjust the shape of the virtual model of the jaw 214 so that a corresponding appliance formed thereon will disperse a reaction force (opposite to the inherent forces applied by the user to the bite adjustment structure) to several posterior teeth of the user's physical jaw.

[0083] This article (for example, Figure 2 , Figures 3A-3D and Figure 4 Any of the several virtual models illustrated and / or described in the drawings (etc.) can represent a stage of a treatment plan, can be used to model forces applied to the virtual model, can be used to create a physical model on which a physical implement is formed, can be used to directly manufacture a physical implement (without creating a physical model), etc.

[0084] The positioning and / or adjustment of the positioning of the virtual bite adjustment structure 210 on the virtual model 214 of the jaw can be automatic (e.g., by operation of the software based on force modeling for a specific treatment phase), manual (e.g., by operation of an operator interacting with the virtual model through a computing device interface), or a combination thereof. Similarly, the shape (e.g., size, orientation (e.g., various angles relative to a reference)) and / or attachment position (on the virtual teeth) of the virtual bite adjustment structure 210 can be set automatically by the software, set by manual operation (e.g., the operator can specify the necessary criteria for the virtual bite adjustment structure 210 and / or modify the default criteria provided by the software), or by a combination thereof.

[0085] As described herein, the bite adjustment structure can be used to provide a no-bite and / or adjust the position of the jaw, among other uses. Instructions for placing the virtual bite adjustment structure 210 can incorporate the results of instructions for modeling forces for repositioning the virtual teeth 212. For example, instructions can be executed to model a first number of forces for repositioning a corresponding number of virtual teeth 212 a first distance according to a first stage of a treatment plan ("first" means any stage, not necessarily an initial stage), and instructions can be executed to incorporate the results of modeling the first number of forces in order to place the virtual bite adjustment structure 212. Instructions executed to adjust the position of the virtual bite adjustment structure 212 can be incorporated into the results of instructions executed to calculate a second number of forces for repositioning a number of virtual teeth 212 a second distance according to a second stage of the treatment plan (e.g., a stage after the first stage, not necessarily consecutive thereto).

[0086] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, physical bite adjustment structures do not need to be affixed to the user's physical teeth in order to manufacture an appliance in which the bite adjustment structure is included. Through virtual modeling, an impression of the user's teeth can be made (without physically affixing the structure to the teeth), and a virtual bite adjustment structure 210 can be added through software. Such embodiments can be beneficial in reducing the chairside time a user spends in a professional's office and / or reducing the use of materials associated with physically affixing the structure to the teeth, which can reduce costs. Such embodiments are beneficial in reducing user discomfort that may be associated with physically affixing the structure to the teeth, even temporarily.

[0087] Figure 3A A perspective view of a portion of a virtual model 314 of a jaw corresponding to a first treatment stage according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The virtual model 314 includes a number of virtual teeth 312-1 and 312-2, each virtual tooth containing a corresponding virtual bite adjustment structure 310-1 and 310-2.

[0088] Figure 3B A perspective view of a portion of a virtual model 314 of a jaw corresponding to a second treatment stage is shown, in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 3C A perspective view of a portion of a virtual model 314 of a jaw corresponding to a third treatment stage is shown in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 3D A perspective view of a portion of a virtual model 314 of a jaw corresponding to a fourth treatment stage is shown, in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0089] As used here, "Phase 1" does not necessarily mean the initial phase of a treatment plan, but is a relative term relative to the other phases. For example, "Phase 1" could be Phase 2 of a 50-phase treatment plan, while Figure 3B The "second phase" shown in FIG. 1 may be the tenth phase of a 50-phase treatment plan, while Figure 3C The "third stage" shown in may be the 30th stage of a 50-stage treatment plan, and Figure 3D The "stage 4" shown may be the fortieth stage of a 50-stage treatment plan.

[0090] Embodiments may include Figures 3A-3DMore or fewer bite adjustment structures as shown. For example, some treatment plans may include four bite adjustment structures for the first phase and two bite adjustment structures for the second phase. Each bite adjustment structure can have a shape and position that is specific to the corresponding phase of the treatment plan and based on at least one of: contact between a specific bite adjustment structure and a specific tooth, contact between a first bite adjustment structure and a specific second bite adjustment structure, a number of forces for repositioning a number of teeth of the first jaw and the second jaw, and an orientation of the tooth on which the first bite adjustment structure is positioned.

[0091] Figure 3A A first virtual tooth 312-1 having a first virtual bite adjustment structure 310-1 is included, and the first virtual bite adjustment structure 310-1 is smaller than the second virtual bite adjustment structure 310-2 on the second virtual tooth 312-2. The first virtual bite adjustment structure 310-1 is smaller than the second virtual bite adjustment structure 310-2 in the direction between adjacent teeth in the same jaw (mesio-distal direction) 312 and in the direction between the front of the mouth and the back of the mouth (buccal-lingual direction) 313. In some embodiments, different bite adjustment structures can have different sizes in the direction between the root and the tip of the tooth (gingival-incisal / crown direction) 315.

[0092] The bite adjustment structure can be designed to have different (e.g., smaller) sizes, for example, as corresponding teeth of opposing jaws become closer together during treatment. The bite adjustment structure can be designed to have different (e.g., larger) sizes, for example, as corresponding teeth of opposing jaws become farther apart during treatment. Depending on the proximity to one or more adjacent teeth, the bite adjustment structure can have a smaller or larger size in the direction (mesio-distal direction) 312 between adjacent teeth in the same jaw (e.g., the bite adjustment structure can be designed to be smaller / larger to account for crowding / spacing so that the bite adjustment structure is not connected to the adjacent teeth.)

[0093] The bite adjustment structure can be designed to be in different positions on the teeth for different treatment stages. Figure 3B and Figure 3C As shown in the figure, the edge 323-1 of the virtual bite adjustment structure 310-1 closest to the bite (cut) surface 324-1 moves closer to the bite (cut) surface 324-1 of the virtual tooth 312-1. In addition, between the second stage and the third stage, the size of the virtual bite adjustment structure 310-1 increases in both the direction between adjacent teeth in the same jaw (mesio-distal direction) 312 and the direction between the root and the tip of the tooth (gingival-incisal / crown direction) 315.

[0094] The bite adjustment structure can be designed to change position on the tooth between treatment stages based on, for example, changes in depression or elongation of the tooth (or the corresponding tooth on the opposite jaw) and / or movement of the tooth (or the corresponding tooth on the opposite jaw) (e.g., movement in the direction (mesio-distal direction) 312 between adjacent teeth in the same jaw). For example, if a tooth is depressed during treatment, the bite adjustment structure of the tooth can be moved toward the occlusal (incisal) surface of the tooth in a subsequent treatment stage so that the corresponding tooth on the opposite jaw continues to contact the bite adjustment structure. As used herein, "depression" includes pressing the tooth back into the jaw and / or preventing the tooth from erupting from the jaw.

[0095] from Figures 3A to 3D , the edges 323-1 and 323-2 of the virtual bite adjustment structures 310-1 and 310-2 that are closest to the bite (incisal) surfaces 324-1 and 324-2 of the teeth generally change position toward the bite (incisal) surfaces 324-1 and 324-2 of the virtual teeth 312-1 and 312-2. This position change can be designed for the virtual bite adjustment structures 310-1 and 310-2, for example, as part of a treatment plan in which the virtual teeth 312-1 and 312-2 are being depressed into the jaw (when the teeth are moved upward into the jaw, the occlusal plane defined by contact with the corresponding teeth on the opposite jaw will generally move in the direction between the root and the cusp (gingival-incisal / crown direction) 315 toward the bite (incisal) surfaces 324-1 and 324-2 of the virtual teeth 312-1 and 312-2).

[0096] Figure 4 A perspective view of a virtual model 414 of a jaw is shown in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure. An appliance (e.g., formed based on the virtual model 414) including bite adjustment structures on the canines can be used to provide a bite-free state between respective opposing teeth in the user's jaw when the user wears the appliance (e.g., to allow tooth eruption or other treatment goals).

[0097] The virtual bite adjustment structure 410 may extend from the virtual canine 412 in a direction 413 from the outside of the oral cavity toward the inside of the oral cavity (bucco-lingual). Because the virtual bite adjustment structure 410 extends from the virtual canine 412, the virtual bite adjustment structure 410 is likely (depending on the geometry and arrangement of the particular patient's teeth) to extend in a direction oblique to the occlusal plane. Although the angle of each virtual bite adjustment structure may be specific to the particular virtual tooth from which it extends, and the geometry and arrangement of the patient's teeth will vary, a virtual bite adjustment structure extending from a virtual incisor may be closer to parallel to the occlusal plane, a virtual bite adjustment structure extending from a virtual molar and / or premolar may be closer to perpendicular to the occlusal plane, and a virtual bite adjustment structure extending from a virtual canine may be closer to oblique relative to the occlusal plane.

[0098] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, at a specific treatment stage, a virtual bite adjustment structure 410 may be placed on a corresponding number of virtual teeth 412 of a virtual model 414 of a jaw. The position of the virtual bite adjustment structure 410 may be adjusted for subsequent treatment stages (e.g., to help achieve desired changes to the virtual model 414 of the jaw). For example, a bite adjustment structure on a cavity of an appliance on a canine may be used to adjust the position of the jaw.

[0099] As described above, adjusting the position of the jaws can help prevent contact between the posterior teeth of the opposing jaw when the lower jaw slides laterally (e.g., contact between the upper and lower canines provides a no-bite between the posterior teeth of the opposing jaws to protect the posterior teeth when the lower jaw slides laterally relative to the upper jaw). An appliance having a bite adjustment structure formed on the canine cavity can adjust the position of the jaws by changing the contact between the canine cavity and the corresponding teeth on the opposing jaw, so that when the jaws move laterally relative to each other, the contact between the bite adjustment structure and the opposing teeth protects the posterior teeth by providing a no-bite when the jaws move laterally relative to each other (e.g., in the absence of the bite adjustment structure, the posterior teeth may contact and / or rub against each other when the jaws move laterally relative to each other).

[0100] Although not specifically shown, some embodiments may include virtual bite adjustment structures on several teeth on one side of the jaw (e.g., the left or right side) for a specific treatment stage. Including bite adjustment structures extending from teeth on one side of the jaw can allow several teeth to erupt or passively extend. In some embodiments, a first treatment stage may include several bite adjustment structures extending from the back teeth on the left side of the jaw, and a second stage after the first stage may include several bite adjustment structures extending from the teeth on the right side of the jaw (or vice versa). One of the benefits of changing the side of the jaw from which the virtual bite adjustment structure extends (from the teeth) is that several teeth can be alternately extended or erupted from both sides of the jaw.

[0101] In some embodiments, a first treatment phase may include a bite adjustment structure extending from a first tooth on one side of the jaw (e.g., the left or right side), and a second phase following the first phase may include a bite adjustment structure extending from a second (different) tooth on the same side of the jaw. One of the benefits of changing the teeth on the same side of the jaw from which the bite adjustment structure extends (from the posterior teeth) is that several teeth may be alternately elongated or erupted from the same side of the jaw.

[0102] Examples of bite adjustment structures

[0103] Figure 5 A view of a portion of a dental position adjustment according to multiple embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. A portion of a dental position appliance includes a cavity 507-1 that contains a bite adjustment structure 506-1. For example, the bite adjustment structure 506-1 can be on a cavity above the canines of the upper jaw. The cavity 507-1 can be shaped to cooperate with two surfaces of the teeth therein when worn by a user. It should be noted that the left and right edges of the cavity 507-1 are shown for illustrative purposes and may not be physically part of the appliance (for example, the appliance can have open channels between adjacent cavities contained therein so as not to interfere with the interproximal areas between adjacent teeth of the user). As described herein, the bite adjustment structure may include a shape and position designed to be specific to a specific stage of the treatment plan.

[0104] The bite adjustment structure 506-1 is shown on the posterior (lingual) surface 526-1 of the cavity 507-1. The cavity 507-1 (e.g., the bite adjustment structure 506-1 on the cavity 507-1) can have a first surface 520-1 that extends from the tooth in the cavity 507-1 in the anterior-posterior direction (toward the inside of the patient's mouth) (outward from the page) adjacent to the occlusal (incisal) surface 524-1 of the cavity 507-1. The cavity 507-1 (e.g., the bite adjustment structure 506-1) can have a second surface 522-1 that is connected to the first surface 520-1 at a distance from the tooth in the cavity 507-1. The first surface 520-1 and the second surface 522-1 are both on the same side of the cavity 507-1 (e.g., the first surface 520-1 and the second surface 522-1 are both on the outside of the cavity 507-1 opposite the inside of the cavity 507-1 that houses the teeth). An angle 516 between the first surface 520-1 of the cavity 507-1 and the user's occlusal plane 518-1 is shown.

[0105] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, different cavities (in Figure 51) may have different angles 516 between the first surface 520-1 and the occlusal plane 518-1. Having different angles between different bite adjustment structures 506-1 and the occlusal plane 518-1 may allow for more accurate modeling of the forces applied to the bite adjustment structure 506-1 by the user's opposing teeth. Having different angles 516 between different bite adjustment structures 506-1 and the occlusal plane 518-1 may allow for more forces to be applied to each bite adjustment structure 506-1 by the user's opposing teeth, for example, in the case where the user has differently misaligned teeth in the upper or lower jaw (e.g., the occlusal (tangential) surfaces 524-1 of different teeth approach the occlusal plane 518-1 at different angles). Modifying the angles 516 of the respective bite adjustment structures 506-1 may allow the first surface 520-1 (e.g., the occlusal (tangential) surface) of the respective bite adjustment structures 506-1 (e.g., each bite adjustment structure 506-1) to be substantially parallel to the occlusal (tangential) surface of the opposing teeth. In some embodiments, the bite adjustment structure 506-1 extends from the posterior (lingual) surface 526-1 of the cavity 507-1 of the upper canine to contact a specific lower canine to treat a positive canine overbite, where the overbite is less than or equal to 3 mm.

[0106] Fig. 6A and Figure 6B A first appliance and a portion of a second appliance are shown according to multiple embodiments of the present disclosure. The portion of the first appliance includes a cavity 607-1 that includes a bite adjustment structure 606-1. The cavity 607-1 can be shaped to mate with two surfaces of the teeth therein when worn by a user. It should be noted that the left and right edges of the cavity 607-1 are shown for illustrative purposes and may not be physically part of the appliance (for example, the appliance may have an open channel between adjacent cavities contained therein so as not to interfere with the interproximal area between adjacent teeth of the user). As described herein, the bite adjustment structure may include a shape and position designed to be specific to a specific stage of the treatment plan.

[0107] Fig. 6AThe bite adjustment structure 606-1 is shown on the posterior (lingual) surface 626-1 of the cavity 607-1. The cavity 607-1 (e.g., the bite adjustment structure 606-1 on the cavity 607-1) can have a first surface 620-1 that extends (outward from the page) from the tooth in the cavity 607-1 in the anterior-posterior (toward the interior of the patient's mouth) direction adjacent to the occlusal (incisal) surface 624-1 of the cavity 607-1. The cavity 607-1 (e.g., the bite adjustment structure 606-1) can have a second surface 622-1 that is connected to the first surface 620-1 at a distance from the tooth in the cavity 607-1. The first surface 620-1 and the second surface 622-1 are both on the same side of the cavity 607-1 (eg, the first surface 620-1 and the second surface 622-1 are both on the outside of the cavity 607-1 opposite the inside of the cavity 607-1 housing the tooth).

[0108] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, different cavities (in Fig. 6A and Figure 6B 606-1 and the occlusal plane 618. Having different angles between different bite adjustment structures 606-1 and the occlusal plane 618 can allow for more accurate modeling of the forces applied to the bite adjustment structure 606-1 by the relative bite adjustment structure 606-2 on the cavity 607-2. Having different angles between different bite adjustment structures 606-1 and the occlusal plane 618 can allow for more forces to be applied to each bite adjustment structure 606-1 by the relative bite adjustment structure 606-2, for example, in the event that a user has differently misaligned teeth in the upper or lower jaw (e.g., the occlusal (cut) surfaces 624 of different teeth approach the occlusal plane 618 at different angles). Modifying the angle of each bite adjustment structure 606-1 may allow a first surface 620-1 (eg, a bite (tangent) plane) of each bite adjustment structure 606-1 (eg, each bite adjustment structure 606-1) to be substantially parallel to a surface 620-2 of an opposing bite adjustment structure 606-2.

[0109] The portion of the second appliance includes a first cavity 607-2 and a second cavity 607-3 containing a bite adjustment structure 606-2. The first cavity 607-2 and the second cavity 607-3 can be shaped to cooperate with three surfaces of the teeth therein when worn by the user. The first cavity 607-2 and the second cavity 607-3 can be adjacent cavities in the same jaw. For example, the first cavity 607-2 can be a lower first bicuspid and the second cavity 607-3 can be a lower canine. As described herein, the bite adjustment structure can include a shape and position designed to be specific to a specific stage of the treatment plan.

[0110] The bite adjustment structure 606-2 is shown between the distal (towards the back of the jaw) surface of the first cavity 607-2 and the mesial (towards the front of the jaw) surface of the second cavity 607-3 adjacent to the first cavity 607-2. The bite adjustment structure 606-2 may have a first surface 620-2 that extends in the anterior-posterior (mesio-distal) direction from the occlusal (incisal) surface 624-2 of the tooth in the cavity 607-2 to the occlusal (incisal) surface 624-3 of the second tooth in the cavity 607-3. The bite adjustment structure 606-2 may have a second surface 622-2 that is connected to the first surface 620-2 at a distance between the distal surface of the first cavity 607-2 and the mesial surface of the second cavity 607-3 adjacent to the first cavity 607-2. The occlusal adjustment structure 606-2 may have a third surface 624 opposite to the second surface 622-2, and the third surface 624 is connected to the first surface 620-2 at a distance between the distal surface of the first cavity 607-2 and the mesial surface of the second cavity 607-3 adjacent to the first cavity 607-2. The first surface 620-2, the second surface 622-2, and the third surface 624 are all located on the same side of the first cavity 607-2 and the second cavity 607-3 (for example, the first surface 620-2, the second surface 622-2, and the third surface 624 are all located on the outside of the first cavity 607-2 and the second cavity 607-3, and the outside of the first cavity 607-2 and the second cavity 607-3 is opposite to the inside of the first cavity 607-2 and the second cavity 607-3 that accommodate the first tooth and the second tooth). The occlusal adjustment structure 606-2 between the distal (towards the back of the jaw) surface of the first cavity 607-2 and the mesial (towards the front of the jaw) surface of the second cavity 607-3 can have minimal contact with the anterior (buccal) and posterior (lingual) surfaces of the first cavity and the second cavity to ensure adequate contact of the aligner and / or crown and avoid conflict with the placement of other occlusal adjustment structures.

[0111] As described above, different cavities (not specifically shown in FIG. 6 ) have different angles between the first surface 620-2 and the occlusal plane 618. Having different angles between different bite adjustment structures 606-2 and the occlusal plane 618 can allow for more accurate modeling of the forces applied to the bite adjustment structure 606-2 by the relative bite adjustment structure 606-1. Having different angles between different bite adjustment structures 606-2 and the occlusal plane 618 can allow for more forces to be applied to each bite adjustment structure 606-2 by the relative bite adjustment structure 606-1, for example, in the event that a user has differently misaligned teeth in the upper or lower jaw (e.g., the occlusal (tangential) surfaces 624-2 of different teeth approach the occlusal plane 618 at different angles). Modifying the angle of each bite adjustment structure 606-2 can allow a first surface 620-2 (eg, an occlusal (tangential) plane) of each bite adjustment structure 606-2 (eg, each bite adjustment structure 606-2) to be substantially parallel to a surface of an opposing bite adjustment structure 606-1. The first surface 620-1 can be parallel to the occlusal plane 618.

[0112] In some embodiments, the bite adjustment structure 606-1 extends from the posterior (lingual) surface 626-1 of the upper canine cavity 607-1 to contact the bite adjustment structure 606-2 extending between the distal (towards the back of the jaw) surface of the lower canine cavity 607-2 and the mesial (towards the front of the jaw) surface of the lower first bicuspid cavity 607-3 to treat positive canine overbite.

[0113] Figure 7 A view of a portion of a first appliance 707-1 and a second appliance 707-2 according to multiple embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. A portion of the first dental position appliance 702-1 includes a cavity 707-1 containing a bite adjustment structure 706-1. For example, the bite adjustment structure 706-1 can be in a cavity above the canines of the upper jaw. The cavity 707-1 can be shaped to mate with two surfaces of the teeth therein when worn by a user. As described herein, the bite adjustment structure 706-1 can include a shape and position designed to be specific to a particular stage of a treatment plan.

[0114] As described above, the bite adjustment structure 706-1 is shown on the posterior (lingual) surface 726-1 of the cavity 707-1. The cavity 707-1 (e.g., the bite adjustment structure 706-1 on the cavity 707-1) can have a first surface 720-1 that extends away from the teeth in the cavity 707-1 in an anterior-posterior direction (toward the interior of the patient's mouth) proximate to the occlusal (incisal) surface 724-1 of the cavity 707-1. The cavity 707-1 (e.g., the bite adjustment structure 706-1) can have a second surface 722-1 that is connected to the first surface 720-1 at a distance from the teeth in the cavity 707-1. The first surface 720-1 and the second surface 722-1 are both on the same side of the cavity 707-1 (eg, the first surface 720-1 and the second surface 722-1 are both on the outside of the cavity 707-1 opposite the inside of the cavity 707-1 housing the tooth).

[0115] Likewise, as described above, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, different cavities (in Figure 7 The first surface 720-1 and the occlusal plane 718 may have different angles between them. Having different angles between different bite adjustment structures 706-1 and the occlusal plane 718 may allow for more accurate modeling of the forces applied to the bite adjustment structure 706-1 by the relative bite adjustment structure 706-2. Having different angles between different bite adjustment structures 706-1 and the occlusal plane 718 may allow for more forces to be applied to each bite adjustment structure 706-1 by the relative bite adjustment structure 706-2, for example, in the event that a user has differently misaligned teeth in the upper or lower jaw (e.g., the occlusal (cut) surfaces 724-1 of different teeth approach the occlusal plane 718 at different angles). Modifying the angle of each bite adjustment structure 706-1 may allow a first surface 720-1 (eg, a bite (tangent) plane) of each bite adjustment structure 706-1 (eg, each bite adjustment structure 706-1) to be substantially parallel to a surface of an opposing bite adjustment structure 706-2.

[0116] A portion of the second dental position appliance includes a cavity 707-2 containing a bite adjustment structure 706-2. For example, the bite adjustment structure 706-2 can be on a cavity above the canines of the mandible. The cavity 707-2 can be shaped to cooperate with two surfaces of the teeth therein when worn by the user. As described herein, the bite adjustment structure can include a shape and position designed to be specific to a specific stage of the treatment plan.

[0117] The bite adjustment structure 706-2 is shown on the posterior (lingual) surface 726-2 of the cavity 707-2. The cavity 707-2 (e.g., the bite adjustment structure 706-2 on the cavity 707-2) may have a first surface 720-2 that extends away from the occlusal (incisal) surface 724-2 of the tooth in the cavity 707-2 in an anterior-posterior (facial-lingual) direction proximal to the occlusal (incisal) surface 724-2 of the cavity 707-2. The cavity 707-2 (e.g., the bite adjustment structure 706-2) may have a second surface 722-2 that is connected to the first surface 720-2 at a distance from the tooth in the cavity 707-2. The first surface 720-2 and the second surface 722-2 are both on the same side of the cavity 707-2 (eg, the first surface 720-2 and the second surface 722-2 are both on the outside of the cavity 707-2 opposite the inside of the cavity 707-2 housing the tooth).

[0118] As described above, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, different cavities (in Figure 7 The first surface 720-2 and the occlusal plane 718 may have different angles between them. Having different angles between different bite adjustment structures 706-2 and the occlusal plane 718 may allow for more accurate modeling of the forces applied to the bite adjustment structure 706-2 by the relative bite adjustment structure 706-1. Having different angles between different bite adjustment structures 706-2 and the occlusal plane 718 may allow for more forces to be applied to each bite adjustment structure 706-2 by the relative bite adjustment structure 706-1, for example, in the event that a user has differently misaligned teeth in the upper or lower jaw (e.g., the occlusal (cut) surfaces 724-2 of different teeth approach the occlusal plane 718 at different angles). Modifying the angle of each bite adjustment structure 706-2 may allow a first surface 720-2 (eg, a bite (tangent) plane) of each bite adjustment structure 706-2 (eg, each bite adjustment structure 706-2) to be substantially parallel to a surface of the opposing bite adjustment structure 706-1.

[0119] Figure 8 A view of a portion of a first appliance 807-1 and a second appliance 807-2 according to multiple embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. A portion of a first dental position appliance 802-1 includes a cavity 807-1 containing a bite adjustment structure 806-1. For example, the bite adjustment structure 806-1 can be on the cavity 807-1 above the canines of the upper jaw. The cavity 807-1 can be shaped to mate with two surfaces of the teeth therein when worn by a user. As described herein, the bite adjustment structure 806-1 can include a shape and position designed to be specific to a particular stage of a treatment plan.

[0120] As described above, the bite adjustment structure 806-1 is shown on the posterior (lingual) surface 826-1 of the cavity 807-1. The cavity 807-1 (e.g., the bite adjustment structure 806-1 on the cavity 807-1) can have a first surface 820-1 that extends away from the teeth in the cavity 807-1 in an anterior-posterior direction (toward the interior of the patient's mouth) proximate to the occlusal (incisal) surface 824-1 of the cavity 807-1. The cavity 807-1 (e.g., the bite adjustment structure 806-1) can have a second surface 822-1 that is connected to the first surface 820-1 at a distance from the teeth in the cavity 807-1. The first surface 820-1 and the second surface 822-1 are both on the same side of the cavity 807-1 (eg, the first surface 820-1 and the second surface 822-1 are both on the outside of the cavity 807-1 opposite the inside of the cavity 807-1 housing the tooth).

[0121] Likewise, as described above, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, different cavities (in Figure 8 The first surface 820-1 and the occlusal plane 818 may have different angles between them. Having different angles between different bite adjustment structures 806-1 and the occlusal plane 818 may allow for more accurate modeling of the forces applied to the bite adjustment structure 806-1 by the relative bite adjustment structure 806-2. Having different angles between different bite adjustment structures 806-1 and the occlusal plane 818 may allow for more forces to be applied to each bite adjustment structure 806-1 by the relative bite adjustment structure 806-2, for example, in the event that a user has differently misaligned teeth in the upper or lower jaw (e.g., the occlusal (cut) surfaces 824-1 of different teeth approach the occlusal plane 818 at different angles). Modifying the angle of each bite adjustment structure 806-1 may allow a first surface 820-1 (eg, a bite (tangent) plane) of each bite adjustment structure 806-1 (eg, each bite adjustment structure 806-1) to be substantially parallel to a surface of an opposing bite adjustment structure 806-2.

[0122] A portion of the second dental position appliance 802-2 includes a cavity 807-2 containing a bite adjustment structure 806-2. For example, the bite adjustment structure 806-2 can be on the cavity 807-2 above the canine of the mandible. The cavity 807-2 can be shaped to cooperate with two surfaces of the teeth therein when worn by the user. As described herein, the bite adjustment structure can include a shape and position designed to be specific to a specific stage of the treatment plan.

[0123] The bite adjustment structure 806-2 is shown on the posterior (lingual) surface 826-2 of the cavity 807-2. The cavity 807-2 (e.g., the bite adjustment structure 806-2 on the cavity 807-2) can have a first surface 820-2 that extends away from the teeth in the cavity 807-2 in an anterior-posterior direction (toward the outside of the patient's mouth) proximate to the occlusal (incisal) surface 824-2 of the cavity 807-2. The cavity 807-2 (e.g., the bite adjustment structure 806-2) can have a second surface 822-2 that is connected to the first surface 820-2 at a distance from the teeth in the cavity 807-2. The first surface 820-2 and the second surface 822-2 are both on the same side of the cavity 807-2 (eg, the first surface 820-2 and the second surface 822-2 are both on the outside of the cavity 807-2 opposite the inside of the cavity 807-2 housing the tooth).

[0124] As described above, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, different cavities (in Figure 8 The first surface 820-2 and the occlusal plane 818 may have different angles between them. Having different angles between different bite adjustment structures 806-2 and the occlusal plane 818 may allow for more accurate modeling of the forces applied to the bite adjustment structure 806-2 by the relative bite adjustment structure 806-1. Having different angles between different bite adjustment structures 806-2 and the occlusal plane 818 may allow for more forces to be applied to each bite adjustment structure 806-2 by the relative bite adjustment structure 806-1, for example, in the event that a user has differently misaligned teeth in the upper or lower jaw (e.g., the occlusal (cut) surfaces 824-2 of different teeth approach the occlusal plane 818 at different angles). Modifying the angle of each bite adjustment structure 806-2 may allow a first surface 820-2 (eg, a bite (tangent) plane) of each bite adjustment structure 806-2 (eg, each bite adjustment structure 806-2) to be substantially parallel to a surface of the opposing bite adjustment structure 806-1.

[0125] Fig. 9 A view of a portion of a dental position adjustment appliance 902 according to multiple embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. A portion of the dental position appliance 902 includes a cavity 907 containing a bite adjustment structure 906. For example, the bite adjustment structure 906 can be on the cavity 807 above the canines of the mandible. The cavity 907 can be shaped to mate with two surfaces of the teeth therein when worn by a user. As described herein, the bite adjustment structure 906 can include a shape and position designed to be specific to a particular stage of a treatment plan.

[0126] As described above, the bite adjustment structure 906 is shown on the posterior (lingual) surface 926 of the cavity 907. The cavity 907 (e.g., the bite adjustment structure 906 on the cavity 907) can have a first surface 920 that extends away from the teeth in the cavity 907 in an anterior-posterior direction (toward the interior of the patient's mouth) proximate the occlusal (incisal) surface 924 of the cavity 907. The cavity 907 (e.g., the bite adjustment structure 906) can have a second surface 922 that connects to the first surface 920 at a distance from the teeth in the cavity 907. The first surface 920 and the second surface 922 are both on the same side of the cavity 907 (e.g., the first surface 920 and the second surface 922 are both on the outside of the cavity 907 opposite the inside of the cavity 907 that houses the teeth).

[0127] Likewise, as described above, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, different cavities (in Fig. 9 918). The first surface 920 of the bite adjustment structure 906 (not specifically shown in the figure) can have different angles between the first surface 920 and the occlusal plane 918. Having different angles between different bite adjustment structures 906 and the occlusal plane 918 can allow for more accurate modeling of the forces applied to the bite adjustment structure 906 by the opposing teeth of the user. Having different angles between different bite adjustment structures 906 and the occlusal plane 918 can allow for more forces to be applied to each bite adjustment structure 906 by the opposing teeth of the user, for example, in the case where the user has differently misaligned teeth in the upper or lower jaw (e.g., the occlusal (incisal) surfaces 924 of different teeth approach the occlusal plane 918 at different angles). Modifying the angles of the individual bite adjustment structures 906 can allow the first surface 920 (e.g., the occlusal (incisal) surface) of the individual bite adjustment structures 906 (e.g., each bite adjustment structure 906) to be substantially parallel to the occlusal (incisal) surface 924 of the opposing teeth 904 to treat negative canine overbite.

[0128] Fig.10 A view of a portion of a dental position adjustment appliance 1002 according to multiple embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. A portion of the dental position appliance 1002 includes a cavity 1007 containing a bite adjustment structure 1006. For example, the bite adjustment structure 1006 can be on the cavity 1007 above the canines of the upper jaw. The cavity 1007 can be shaped to mate with two surfaces of the teeth therein when worn by a user. As described herein, the bite adjustment structure 1006 can include a shape and position designed to be specific to a particular stage of a treatment plan.

[0129] As described above, the bite adjustment structure 1006 is shown on the anterior (buccal) surface 1028 of the cavity 1007. The cavity 1007 (e.g., the bite adjustment structure 1006 on the cavity 1007) can have a first surface 1020 that extends away from the teeth in the cavity 1007 in an anterior-posterior direction (toward the outside of the patient's mouth) proximate to the occlusal (incisal) surface 1024 of the cavity 1007. The cavity 1007 (e.g., the bite adjustment structure 1006) can have a second surface 1022 that connects to the first surface 1020 at a distance from the teeth in the cavity 1007. The first surface 1020 and the second surface 1022 are both on the same side of the cavity 1007 (e.g., the first surface 1020 and the second surface 1022 are both on the outside of the cavity 1007 opposite the inside of the cavity 1007 that houses the teeth).

[0130] Likewise, as described above, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, different cavities (in Fig.10 1018). Having different angles between different bite adjustment structures 1006 and the bite plane 1018 can allow for more accurate modeling of the forces applied to the bite adjustment structure 1006 by the user's opposing teeth. Having different angles between different bite adjustment structures 1006 and the bite plane 1012 can allow for more forces to be applied to each bite adjustment structure 1006 by the user's opposing teeth, for example, in the case where the user has differently misaligned teeth in the upper or lower jaw (e.g., the occlusal (tangential) surfaces 1024 of different teeth approach the occlusal plane 1018 at different angles). Modifying the angles of the respective bite adjustment structures 1006 can allow the first surface 1020 (e.g., the occlusal (tangential) surface) of the respective bite adjustment structures 1006 (e.g., each bite adjustment structure 1006) to be substantially parallel to the occlusal (tangential) surface of the opposing teeth.

[0131] Fig.11 A view of a portion of a first dental position adjustment appliance and a second dental position adjustment appliance according to multiple embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. A portion of the first appliance includes a cavity 1107-1 containing a bite adjustment structure 1106-1. The cavity 1107-1 can be shaped to mate with two surfaces of the teeth therein when worn by a user. As described herein, the bite adjustment structure can include a shape and position designed to be specific to a particular stage of a treatment plan.

[0132] Fig.11Bite adjustment structure 1106-1 is shown on the posterior (lingual) surface 1126-1 of cavity 1107-1. Cavity 1107-1 (e.g., bite adjustment structure 1106-1 on cavity 1107-1) can have a first surface 1120-1. First surface 1120-1 can be adapted to mate with a first surface of another bite adjustment structure. For example, Fig.11 As shown, the surface 1120-1 of the bite adjustment structure 1106-1 may be convex to match the concave surface 1120-2 of the bite adjustment structure 1106-2.

[0133] A portion of the second appliance includes a first cavity 1107-2 and a second cavity 1107-3 containing a bite adjustment structure 1106-2. The first cavity 1107-2 and the second cavity 1107-3 can be shaped to match three surfaces of the teeth therein when worn by the user. The first cavity 1107-2 and the second cavity 1107-3 can be adjacent cavities in the same jaw. For example, the first cavity 1107-2 can be a lower first bicuspid and the second cavity 1107-3 can be a lower canine. As described herein, the bite adjustment structure can include a shape and position designed to be specific to a specific stage of the treatment plan.

[0134] The bite adjustment structure 1106-2 is shown between the distal (toward the back of the jaw) surface of the first cavity 1107-2 and the mesial (toward the front of the jaw) surface of the second cavity 1107-3 adjacent to the first cavity 1107-2. The bite adjustment structure 1106-2 can have a surface 1120-2. The first surface 1120-2 can be adapted to mate with the first surface of another bite adjustment structure. For example, Fig.11 As shown, the surface 1120-2 of the bite adjustment structure 1106-2 may be concave to mate with the convex surface 1120-1 of the bite adjustment structure 1106-1.

[0135] Fig.12Contact between several bite adjustment structures 1206-1 and 1206-2 on a dental position adjustment appliance 1202 and several teeth 1204-1 and 1204-2 on an opposing jaw is shown according to multiple embodiments of the present disclosure. The several teeth 1204-1 and 1204-2 of the second jaw may or may not be covered by the appliance. The appliance may or may not include several bite adjustment structures. The several bite adjustment structures 1206-1 and 1206-2 may have shapes and positions specific to a specific stage of the treatment plan that the appliance 1202 is designed to implement. Although only two cavities of the appliance 1202 are shown, the appliance 1202 may include other cavities, and the other cavities (some or all) may contain bite adjustment structures thereon. A specific bite adjustment structure (e.g., bite adjustment structure 1206-1, or more than one bite adjustment structure) can have a shape and position specific to a specific stage of the treatment plan based on at least one of: contact between a specific first bite adjustment structure and a specific second bite adjustment structure, contact between a specific bite adjustment structure and a specific tooth, a plurality of forces for repositioning a number of teeth on the first jaw and the second jaw, and an orientation of the tooth on which the first bite adjustment structure is disposed. The contact between the bite adjustment structure 1206-1 and the tooth 1204-1 can be defined by the relative geometry of a first surface 1220 of the bite adjustment structure 1206-1 and an occlusal (tangential) surface 1224 of the tooth 1204-1 and / or an occlusal (tangential) surface of a cavity of an appliance located thereon. The first surface 1220-1 of the first cavity can be parallel to the local occlusal plane 1232-1 of the tooth 1204-1 opposite to the first surface 1220-1 of the first cavity, and the first surface 1220-2 of the second cavity can be parallel to the local occlusal plane 1232-2 of the tooth 1204-2 opposite to the first surface 1220-2 of the second cavity. The local occlusal plane can be an occlusal plane between a specific upper tooth and a specific lower tooth, which is based only on the occlusion of the specific upper tooth and the specific lower tooth (for example, as opposed to a general occlusal plane based on the overall occlusion of the teeth of the upper and lower jaws). The first surface 1220-1 of the bite adjustment structure 1206-1 and / or the first surface 1220-2 of the bite adjustment structure 1206-2 can be designed to provide a no bite between the opposing posterior teeth when the user bites down.

[0136] Although not specifically shown, in some embodiments, the bite adjustment structure may extend from the surface of the cavity at an affixed position where the cavity contacts the opposing teeth to provide a no bite between the opposing posterior teeth when the user bites in. For example, the bite adjustment structure may extend from the surface of the first canine to contact the opposing canine at a position where the opposing canines contact without using the bite adjustment structure.

[0137] Although not specifically shown, teeth 1204-1 and 1204-2 may be covered by an appliance that may include a bite adjustment structure to contact the occlusal (tangential) surface of the cavity of appliance 1202. Various stages of a treatment plan may include or exclude an appliance that covers teeth 1204-1 and 1204-2 of opposing jaws, and different stages of a treatment plan may include or exclude several bite adjustment structures on the appliance for opposing jaws. For example, a specific stage of a treatment plan may include an appliance on each of the upper and lower jaws of a user, wherein each appliance includes several bite adjustment structures, and wherein the bite adjustment structures are designed to provide a no-bite between opposing posterior teeth to level the teeth of the upper and lower jaws. Each appliance may also include several bite adjustment structures that are designed to adjust the position of the jaws so that when the upper and lower jaws move laterally relative to each other, the contact between the bite adjustment structures and the opposing teeth protects the posterior teeth by providing a no-bite.

[0138] The location of the virtual bite adjustment structure on the virtual model may correspond to the actual location of the physical bite adjustment structure on the device manufactured by the manufacturing device based on the virtual model. Fig.12 As shown, the bite adjustment structures 1206-1 and 1206-2 (e.g., by the user closing his jaw) can apply inherent forces 1234-1 and 1234-2 to the teeth 1204-1 and 1204-2 of the opposing jaws. As also shown, depending on the specific stage of the treatment plan, the orientation of different teeth 1204-1 and 1204-2 relative to the orientation of different bite adjustment structures 1206-1 and 1206-2 can be different based on the geometry of the contact between the bite adjustment structures 1206-1 and 1206-2 and the opposing teeth 1204-1 and 1204-2. Therefore, the bite adjustment structures 1206-1 and 1206-2 can be specific to each tooth 1204-1 and 1204-2 and specific to the specific stage of the treatment plan. The bite adjustment structures 1206-1 and 1206-2 can direct inherent forces (e.g., inherent forces from the user's bite) perpendicular to the local bite planes 1232-1 and 1232-2 where the bite adjustment structures 1206-1 and 1206-2 contact the opposing teeth 1204-1 and 1204-2, the opposing appliances, and / or bite adjustment structures on the opposing appliances. Typically, no lateral forces may be applied to the bite adjustment structures 1206-1 and 1206-2 unless the bite adjustment structures on the opposing appliances have been configured to apply such forces to the bite adjustment structures 1206-1 and 1206-2.

[0139] Jaw positioning

[0140] Fig.13AJaws 1336 - 1 and 1336 - 2 are shown in a first longitudinal relationship 1238 - 1 , according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 13B The jaws 1336-1 and 1336-2 are shown in a second longitudinal relationship 1338-2 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, an appliance (e.g., including a number of bite adjustment structures) worn on the upper jaw 1336-1 can be designed to adjust the longitudinal relationship 1338-1 and 1338-2 between the upper jaw 1336-1 and the lower jaw 1336-2. Fig.13A and Fig. 13B As shown, such adjustment of the longitudinal relationships 1338-1 and 1338-2 can help correct a deep bite to improve the user's dental appearance and reduce problems associated with a deep bite condition, as described herein. Embodiments are not limited to adjusting the position of the mandible 1336-2 relative to the maxilla 1336-1, as the position of either or both of the maxilla 1336-1 and the mandible 1336-2 can be adjusted. Furthermore, the adjustment can be performed by an appliance worn on the maxilla 1336-1 and / or an appliance worn on the mandible 1336-2 (e.g., by contact of several bite pieces on several appliances with several teeth on the opposing jaw).

[0141] Fig.14 1440 and overbite 1442 corrections according to various embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Overbite 1440 may refer to the degree of longitudinal (superior-inferior) overlap of the maxillary central incisor 1404-1 on the mandibular central incisor 1404-2 measured relative to the incisal ridge. Overbite 1442 may be the distance between the maxillary anterior teeth 1404-1 and the mandibular anterior teeth 1404-2 on the anterior-posterior axis. Fig.14 As shown, the maxillary tooth 1404-1 may be adjusted from a first position 1404-1A to a second position 1404-1B and / or the mandibular tooth 1404-2 may be adjusted from a first position 1404-2A to a second position 1404-2B.

[0142] Several appliances in a series of appliances created as part of a treatment plan may perform different functions. Some functions performed by different appliances in the series may overlap, while some functions may be unique to a particular appliance. For example, a first appliance may include a first number of bite adjustment structures designed to provide a no-bite to several teeth of the first jaw and / or the second jaw to help correct at least one of an overbite 1442 and an overbite 1440. A second appliance may include a second number of bite adjustment structures designed to provide a no-bite to several teeth of the first jaw and / or the second jaw to correct at least one of an overbite 1442 and an overbite 1440. In this example, the first appliance may correct either or both of the overbite 1442 and the overbite 1440, and the second appliance may correct either or both of the overbite 1442 and the overbite 1440. Correction of overbite and / or overbite may include adjustment of the position of various teeth and / or relative positioning of the opposing jaws by appliances (e.g., including adjustment by a number of bite adjustment structures, as described herein). Such adjustments may include depression, rotation, tilting, and / or no bite, etc.

[0143] Computing systems for virtual modeling

[0144] Fig.15 A computing system for alternative specific bite adjustment structures according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Fig.15 In the system shown, the system includes a computing device 1544 having several components coupled thereto. The computing device 1544 includes a processor 1546 and a memory 1548. The memory may include various types of information, including data 1550 and executable instructions 1552 as discussed herein.

[0145] In some embodiments, the memory and / or processor may be located on or outside of the computing device 1544. Thus, Fig.15 In the embodiment shown in , the system may include a network interface 1554. Such an interface may allow processing to be performed on another networked computing device, or such a device may be used to obtain information about the patient or executable instructions for use with the various embodiments provided herein.

[0146] like Fig.15 In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the system may include one or more input and / or output interfaces 1556. Such interfaces may be used to connect the computing device to one or more input or output devices.

[0147] For example, in Fig.15In the illustrated embodiment, the system includes connectivity to a scanning device 1558, a camera dock 1560, an input device 1562 (e.g., a keyboard, a mouse, etc.), a display device 1564 (e.g., a monitor), and a printer 1566. The processor 1546 may be configured to provide a visual indication of the virtual model 1574 on the display 1564 (e.g., on a GUI running on the processor 1546 and visible on the display 1564). The input / output interface 1556 may receive data representing the virtual model 1574 (e.g., corresponding to the patient's upper jaw and the patient's lower jaw), which may be stored in a data storage device (e.g., memory 1548).

[0148] In some embodiments, scanning device 1558 can be configured to scan a physical model of the patient's upper jaw and a physical model of the patient's lower jaw. In one or more embodiments, scanning device 1558 can be configured to scan the patient's upper jaw and / or lower jaw directly (e.g., intraorally).

[0149] The camera base 1560 can receive input from an imaging device (eg, a 2D imaging device) such as a virtual camera or a print photo scanner. The input from the imaging device can be stored in the data storage device 1548.

[0150] This connectivity may allow for the input and / or output of virtual model 1574 information or instructions (e.g., via keyboard input) and other types of information. Although some embodiments may be distributed among various computing devices within one or more networks, Fig.15 Such a system as shown may be beneficial in allowing the capture, calculation and / or analysis of information discussed herein.

[0151] The processor 1546 associated with the data storage device 1548 may be associated with data and / or application modules 1568. The processor 1546 associated with the data storage device 1548 may store and / or utilize data and / or execute instructions to provide a number of application modules for alternative bite adjustment structures.

[0152] Such data may include the virtual model 1574 described herein (e.g., including a first jaw, a second jaw, and a number of appliances, etc.). Such application modules may include an adjustment module 1570, a force calculation module 1572, a position occlusion adjustment structure module 1576, a treatment planning module 1578, and / or an invalid positioning detection module 1580.

[0153] The position bite adjustment structure module 1576 can be configured to place a number of bite adjustment structures on a corresponding number of virtual teeth (e.g., canines) of the virtual model of the jaw 1574 at a first stage of the treatment plan. The position module 1576 can be configured to incorporate the results of the forces modeled by the force calculation module 1572 (e.g., forces for repositioning the corresponding number of virtual teeth to a first distance according to the first stage of the treatment plan).

[0154] The invalid positioning detection module 1580 may be configured to determine whether a first number of virtual bite adjustment structures disposed on the lingual surface of a corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw results in invalid positioning or orientation between the corresponding number of virtual teeth of the first jaw of the virtual model and a number of virtual teeth of the second jaw. The invalid position detection module 1580 may be configured to determine which one or more of a number of factors indicate invalid positioning if an invalid positioning or orientation exists. An invalid positioning or orientation may be a positioning or orientation between a corresponding number of virtual teeth of the first jaw and a number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the virtual second jaw that results in misalignment of the patient's teeth. For example, an invalid positioning or orientation may result in malocclusion (e.g., overbite, deep bite, and crossbite, etc.).

[0155] The adjustment model 1570 may be configured to adjust the positions of several virtual bite adjustment structures on the corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model 1574 of the first jaw based on one or more factors indicating invalid positioning. As described above, factors indicating invalid positioning include: the incisor is bent or tilted relative to the teeth of the opposite jaw, the distance between the proposed position of the bite adjustment structure and the teeth of the opposite jaw is too large, and other factors. The adjustment module 1570 may be configured to adjust the positions of several virtual bite adjustment structures on the corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model 1574 of the jaw in the second stage of the treatment plan according to the changes of the virtual model 1574 of the jaw between the first stage and the second stage of the treatment plan. The adjustment module 1570 may be configured to adjust the positions of several virtual bite adjustment structures by changing the shapes (e.g., size and several angles, etc.) and / or attachment positions of several virtual bite adjustment structures on the corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the jaw. The adjustment module 1570 may be configured to adjust the shape of the virtual model 1574 of the jaw at the first stage of the treatment plan so that a corresponding one of the appliances formed thereon disperses a reaction force corresponding to the force modeled by the force calculation module 1572 to a number of posterior teeth of the user's lower jaw. The adjustment module 1576 may be configured to merge the results of the forces modeled by the force calculation module 1572 (e.g., a force for repositioning a corresponding number of virtual teeth to a second distance according to a second stage of the treatment plan).

[0156] The force calculation module 1572 can be configured to model the inherent forces applied to the number of bite adjustment structures by a user wearing a corresponding one of the appliances during the first phase of the treatment plan. The treatment plan module 1578 can be configured to create, edit, delete, revise, or otherwise modify the treatment plan (e.g., based at least in part on the operation of the other application modules 1568).

[0157] The virtual model 1574 can be provided to a manufacturing device (e.g., via the network interface 1554) for use in manufacturing a physical model corresponding to the jaw to form an appliance thereon so that the appliance is shaped by a number of virtual occlusal adjustment structures. The virtual model 1574 can be provided to a manufacturing device (e.g., via the network interface 1554) for use in manufacturing a physical model corresponding to the jaw in the first and second stages of the treatment plan to form an appliance thereon so that the appliance is shaped by a number of virtual occlusal adjustment structures.

[0158] Method for forming a dental appliance including an occlusal adjustment structure

[0159] Fig.16 A flow chart of a method 1600 of forming a dental appliance is shown according to some embodiments. Fig.16 Method 1600 may include more or fewer operations than those explicitly shown in the method. Some or all of the operations of the method may be performed by Fig.15 The computing system shown in and / or Fig.15 The method 1600 may be used to form a dental appliance including a bite adjustment structure. In operation 1682, a first number of virtual bite adjustment structures disposed on the lingual surfaces of a corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw are determined to result in an invalid positioning or orientation between the corresponding number of virtual teeth of the first jaw of the virtual model and a number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the second jaw.

[0160] In operation 1684, if there is an invalid positioning or orientation, it can be determined which one or more of the number of factors indicate the invalid positioning. In operation 1686, based on the one or more factors indicating the invalid positioning, the positions of the first number of virtual bite adjustment structures on the corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw can be adjusted. In operation 1688, a second number of virtual bite adjustment structures can be positioned on the number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the second jaw, extending therefrom and designed to contact the first number of virtual bite adjustment structures.

[0161] In operation 1690, the virtual model of the first jaw is provided to a manufacturing device for manufacturing a physical model corresponding to the first jaw to form a first appliance thereon so that the first appliance obtains the shape of a first number of virtual bite adjustment structures. In operation 1692, the virtual model of the second jaw is provided to a manufacturing device for manufacturing a physical model corresponding to the second jaw to form a second appliance thereon so that the second appliance obtains the shape of a second number of virtual bite adjustment structures. The shape of the first number of virtual bite adjustment structures and the shape of the second number of virtual bite adjustment structures may provide the same intervention on the left and right sides of the first jaw and the second jaw, thereby resulting in no bite between the first jaw and the second jaw. Optionally, the shape of the first number of virtual bite adjustment structures and the shape of the second number of virtual bite adjustment structures may provide different interventions on the left and right sides of the first jaw and the second jaw to adjust the jaw positioning.

[0162] The figures herein follow a numbering convention in which the first one or more digits correspond to the figure number and the remaining digits identify the element or component in the figure. Similar elements or components between different figures can be identified by using similar numerals. For example, 106 can refer to Figure 1 Element “06” in , a similar element in FIG. 6 may be referred to as 606 .

[0163] It will be understood that the elements shown in the various embodiments herein can be added, exchanged and / or removed to provide multiple additional embodiments of the present disclosure. In addition, it will be understood that the ratios and relative scales of the elements provided in the accompanying drawings are intended to illustrate certain embodiments of the present invention and should not be considered limiting.

[0164] Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that any arrangement calculated to achieve the same technique may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all modifications or variations of the various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0165] It should be understood that the use of the term "one", "one", "one or more", "multiple" or "at least one" should be interpreted as the presence of one or more items. In addition, it should be understood that the above description is carried out in an illustrative manner, rather than being restrictive. By reading the above description, the combination of the above embodiments and other embodiments not specifically described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. It should be understood that when a feature or element is referred to as being "located" "on" another element, "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it can be directly located on the other element, directly connected or coupled to the other element, or there may be an intermediate element. On the contrary, when an element is referred to as being "directly located" "on" another element, "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there is no intermediate element or layer. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0166] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, etc. can be used here to describe different elements, these elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are usually only used to distinguish one element from another element. Therefore, without departing from the teaching of the present disclosure, the first element can be called the second element.

[0167] The scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure includes any other applications in which the above structures and methods are used.Thus, the scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure should be determined with reference to the appended claims and the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

[0168] In the foregoing Detailed Description, various features are grouped together in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the disclosed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim.

[0169] Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment.Thus the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment.

Claims

1. A non-transitory computing device readable medium having instructions stored thereon, the instructions being executable by a processor to cause a computing device to: determining whether first one or more virtual bite adjustment structures disposed on a surface of one or more virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw result in an invalid positioning or orientation between the one or more virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw and the one or more virtual teeth of the virtual model of the second jaw; in, If there is invalid targeting or targeting, determine which one or more of several factors indicate invalid targeting or targeting, and then: modifying an angle of a first surface of the first one or more virtual bite adjustment structures based on the one or more factors indicative of an invalid position or orientation; placing a second one or more virtual bite adjustment structures on one or more virtual teeth of the virtual model of the second jaw, the second one or more virtual bite adjustment structures being configured to contact the first surface of the one or more virtual bite adjustment structures; as well as A first dental appliance is manufactured based on the virtual model of the first jaw including the modified first one or more virtual bite adjustment structures, and a second dental appliance is manufactured based on the virtual model of the second jaw including the second one or more virtual bite adjustment structures.

2. The medium according to claim 1, wherein The instructions for manufacturing include providing the virtual model of the first jaw to a manufacturing device, and providing the virtual model of the second jaw to the manufacturing device.

3. The medium according to claim 1, wherein The instructions for determining whether first one or more virtual bite adjustment features disposed on a surface of one or more virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw result in an invalid position or orientation include determining that the invalid position results in a hyperocclusion.

4. The medium according to claim 1, wherein The instructions for modifying the angle of the first surface of the first one or more virtual bite adjustment structures include modifying the angle of different virtual bite adjustment structures disposed on the surfaces of virtual teeth so that the first surfaces of the virtual bite adjustment structures have different angles with the occlusal plane.

5. The medium according to claim 1, wherein Instructions for determining whether the first one or more virtual bite adjustment structures placed on the surface of one or more virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw result in invalid positioning or orientation include: determining whether the first one or more virtual bite adjustment structures extend from the posterior surface of the cavity of the canine of the first jaw to contact the canine of the second jaw resulting in a positive canine overbite of less than or equal to 3 mm.

6. The medium of claim 1, further comprising instructions for repeating the process with successive dental appliances to move the teeth through one or more intermediate arrangements to a desired arrangement.

7. A method for manufacturing a dental appliance, comprising: determining whether first one or more virtual bite adjustment structures disposed on a surface of one or more virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw result in an invalid positioning or orientation between the one or more virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw and the one or more virtual teeth of the virtual model of the second jaw; wherein, if there is invalid positioning or targeting, determining which one or more of several factors indicate invalid positioning or targeting, and then: modifying an angle of a first surface of the first one or more virtual bite adjustment structures based on the one or more factors indicative of an invalid position or orientation; placing a second one or more virtual bite adjustment structures on one or more virtual teeth of the virtual model of the second jaw, the second one or more virtual bite adjustment structures being configured to contact the first surface of the one or more virtual bite adjustment structures; A first dental appliance is manufactured based on the virtual model of the first jaw including the modified first one or more virtual bite adjustment structures, and a second dental appliance is manufactured based on the virtual model of the second jaw including the second one or more virtual bite adjustment structures.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein: Manufacturing comprises providing the virtual model of the first jaw to a manufacturing device and providing the virtual model of the second jaw to the manufacturing device.

9. The method according to claim 7, wherein: Determining whether first one or more virtual bite adjustment features disposed on the surface of one or more virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw results in an invalid position or orientation includes determining that the invalid position results in a hyperocclusion.

10. The method according to claim 7, wherein: Modifying the angle of the first surface of the first one or more virtual bite adjustment structures includes modifying the angle of different virtual bite adjustment structures disposed on the surface of the virtual teeth so that the first surface of the virtual bite adjustment structure has different angles with the occlusal plane.

11. The method according to claim 7, wherein: The first one or more virtual bite adjustment structures extend from a posterior surface of a cavity of the canine of the first jaw to contact the canine of the second jaw to treat a positive canine overbite of less than or equal to 3 mm.

12. The method according to claim 7, further comprising: The process is repeated using successive dental appliances to move the teeth through one or more intermediate arrangements to the desired arrangement.

13. A dental appliance system comprising: a first appliance in a series of appliances configured to progressively implement a treatment plan, the first appliance comprising a first shell having a plurality of cavities therein, and each cavity being configured to receive at least one tooth of a first jaw, and the first shell having a first number of bite adjustment structures formed as part of the first shell, the first number of bite adjustment structures extending from a surface of at least one of the plurality of cavities, wherein the first number of bite adjustment structures each form part of one or more of the plurality of cavities such that a space exists between the tooth and an inner surface of each bite adjustment structure, and wherein the first number of bite adjustment structures have a first shape and position specific to a first stage of the treatment plan; and a second appliance in the series of appliances, the second appliance comprising a second housing having a plurality of cavities therein, each cavity being configured to receive at least one tooth of a second jaw, and the second housing having a second number of bite adjustment structures formed as part of the second housing, the second number of bite adjustment structures extending from at least one cavity of the plurality of cavities and being configured to contact the first number of bite adjustment structures; Wherein, the second number of occlusal adjustment structures includes occlusal adjustment structures extending between the distal surface of a first cavity and the mesial surface of an adjacent cavity.

14. The system of claim 13, further comprising: a third appliance in the series of appliances of the treatment plan, the third appliance comprising a third housing having a plurality of cavities therein, the plurality of cavities being designed to receive teeth of the first jaw, and the third housing having a third number of bite adjustment features formed as part of the third housing, the third number of bite adjustment features extending from a surface of at least one cavity of the plurality of cavities, wherein the third number of bite adjustment features have a third shape and position specific to the second phase of the treatment plan; and A fourth appliance in the series of appliances, the fourth appliance comprising a fourth shell having a plurality of cavities therein, the plurality of cavities being designed to accommodate teeth of the second jaw, and the fourth shell having a fourth number of bite adjustment structures formed as part of the fourth shell, the fourth number of bite adjustment structures extending from at least one of the plurality of cavities and being designed to contact the third number of bite adjustment structures, wherein the fourth number of bite adjustment structures have a fourth shape and position that is specific to the second stage of the treatment plan and is different from the third shape and position.

15. The system of claim 13, wherein: The first number of bite adjustment structures extend from a plurality of cavities of the first housing that receive the canines.

16. The system of claim 13, wherein: The second number of bite adjustment structures extend between cavities of the second housing that house the canines and first bicuspids.

17. The system of claim 13, wherein: The first number of bite adjustment structures extend from a plurality of cavities of the first shell that accommodate the canines, and wherein the first number of bite adjustment structures are designed to contact corresponding teeth on the opposing jaw to provide a no-bite between the first jaw and the second jaw.

18. The system of claim 13, wherein: The second number of bite adjustment structures extend from a plurality of cavities of the second shell that accommodates the canines, and wherein the second number of bite adjustment structures are designed to contact bite adjustment structures on corresponding teeth on the opposing jaw to provide a no-bite between the first jaw and the second jaw.

19. The system of claim 13, wherein: At least one of the first number of snap adjustment structures is designed to contact a specific cavity of the second housing.

20. The system of claim 13, wherein: The bite adjustment features in the first number of bite adjustment features are convex in shape to match the concave in the bite adjustment features in the second number of bite adjustment features.

21. A non-transitory computing device readable medium having instructions stored thereon, the instructions being executable by a processor to cause a computing device to: determining whether a first number of virtual bite adjustment structures disposed on the surface of one or more virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw results in an invalid positioning or orientation between the corresponding one or more virtual teeth of the first jaw of the virtual model and a number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the second jaw, wherein The first number of virtual bite modification structures each form part of one or more cavities of the plurality of cavities such that there is a space between the virtual tooth and an inner surface of each bite modification structure; wherein, if there is invalid positioning or targeting, determining which one or more of several factors indicate invalid positioning, and then: adjusting at least one of positions or orientations of the first number of virtual bite adjustment features on the corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw based on the one or more factors indicative of the invalid positioning or orientation; placing a second number of virtual bite adjustment structures on the number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the second jaw based on determining that an invalid alignment exists between the corresponding number of virtual teeth of the first virtual model of the first jaw and the number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the second jaw; providing the adjusted virtual model of the first jaw for use in manufacturing a first appliance that obtains the shape of the first number of virtual occlusal adjustment structures; and A second virtual model of the second jaw is provided for manufacturing a second appliance, the second appliance obtaining the shape of the second number of virtual bite adjustment structures.

22. The medium according to claim 21, wherein The second number of virtual bite adjustment features includes virtual bite adjustment features extending between a distal surface of a first cavity of the second instrument and a mesial surface of an adjacent cavity.

23. The medium of claim 21, wherein: The instructions for adjusting the positions of the first number of virtual bite adjustment structures include instructions for changing shapes and attachment positions of the first number of virtual bite adjustment structures on a corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw.

24. The medium of claim 21, further comprising instructions to place the first number of virtual bite adjustment structures on a corresponding number of canines of the virtual model of the first jaw.

25. The medium of claim 21, further comprising instructions for: adjusting positions of the number of first virtual occlusal adjustment structures at the second stage of the treatment plan on the corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw according to changes of the virtual model of the first jaw between the first stage of the staged progressive treatment plan and the second stage of the treatment plan; and The virtual model of the first jaw is provided to a manufacturing device for manufacturing physical models corresponding to the first jaw in the first stage and the second stage of the treatment plan, so as to form a first appliance according to the first stage and a second appliance according to the second stage, so that the first appliance obtains the shape of the first number of virtual occlusal adjustment structures.

26. The medium of claim 21, wherein: The instructions for placing the first number of virtual bite adjustment features incorporate results of the instructions for modeling a first number of forces for repositioning a corresponding number of virtual teeth a first distance according to a first stage of a staged progressive treatment plan.

27. A dental appliance system comprising: a first appliance in a series of appliances configured to progressively implement a treatment plan, the first appliance comprising a first housing having a plurality of cavities therein, and each cavity being configured to receive at least one tooth of a first jaw, and the first housing having a first number of bite adjustment structures formed as part of the first housing, the first number of bite adjustment structures extending from a surface of at least one cavity of the plurality of cavities, wherein the first number of bite adjustment structures have a first shape and position specific to a first stage of the treatment plan; and a second appliance in the series of appliances, the second appliance comprising a second housing having a plurality of cavities therein, each cavity being configured to receive at least one tooth of a second jaw, and the second housing having a second number of bite adjustment structures formed as part of the second housing, the second number of bite adjustment structures extending from at least one cavity of the plurality of cavities and being configured to contact the first number of bite adjustment structures; The second number of occlusal adjustment structures include occlusal adjustment structures formed between a distal surface of a first cavity of the second shell and a proximal surface of an adjacent cavity of the second shell.

28. The system of claim 27, wherein: The first shape and position are determined based on at least one of: contact between the first number of first bite adjustment structures and the second number of second bite adjustment structures, a number of forces used to reposition a number of teeth of the first jaw and the second jaw, and an orientation of the teeth relative to the first number of bite adjustment structures.

29. The system of claim 27, wherein: The second shape and position of the bite adjustment structure of the second shell is determined based on at least one of: the contact between the first number of first bite adjustment structures and the second number of second bite adjustment structures, a number of forces for repositioning a number of teeth of the first jaw and the second jaw, and the orientation of the teeth relative to the second number of bite adjustment structures.

30. The system of claim 27, wherein: A specific stage in the treatment plan includes the occlusal adjustment structure of the second shell extending from a surface of at least one of the multiple cavities, and / or from a buccal surface of at least one of the multiple cavities, and / or between a distal surface of at least one of the multiple cavities and a mesial surface of an adjacent cavity, and / or from a combination of the above.

31. The system of claim 27, further comprising: a third appliance in a series of appliances designed to progressively implement a treatment plan, comprising a third housing having a plurality of cavities therein designed to receive teeth of the first jaw, and the third housing having a third number of bite adjustment structures formed as part of the third housing, the third number of bite adjustment structures extending from a surface of at least one of the plurality of cavities, wherein the third number of bite adjustment structures have a third shape and position specific to the second stage of the treatment plan; and A fourth appliance in the series of appliances comprises a fourth shell having a plurality of cavities therein designed to accommodate teeth of a second jaw, and the fourth shell having a fourth number of bite adjustment structures formed as part of the fourth shell, the fourth number of bite adjustment structures extending from at least one of the plurality of cavities and designed to contact the third number of bite adjustment structures, wherein the fourth number of bite adjustment structures have a fourth shape and position specific to the second stage of the treatment plan, the fourth shape and position being different from the third shape and position.

32. The system of claim 27, wherein: The first number of bite adjustment structures extend from a plurality of cavities of the first shell that accommodates the canines, and wherein the first number of bite adjustment structures are designed to adjust jaw positioning by changing contact between the canine cavities and corresponding teeth on the opposing jaw to move one of the canines to a predetermined position relative to the canine on the second jaw.

33. The system of claim 27, wherein: The second number of bite adjustment structures extend between a plurality of cavities of the second shell accommodating the canines and the first bicuspids, and wherein the second number of bite adjustment structures are designed to adjust jaw positioning by changing contact between the canine cavities and corresponding teeth on the opposing jaw to move one of the canines to a predetermined position relative to the canine on the first jaw.

34. The system of claim 27, wherein: The first number of bite adjustment structures extend from a plurality of cavities of the first shell that accommodate the canines, and wherein the first number of bite adjustment structures are designed to contact corresponding teeth on the opposing jaw to provide a no-bite between the first jaw and the second jaw.

35. The system of claim 27, wherein: The second number of bite adjustment structures extend from a number of cavities of the second shell that accommodates the canines, and wherein the second number of bite adjustment structures are designed to contact the bite adjustment structures of the first shell on corresponding teeth on the opposing jaw to provide a no-bite between the first jaw and the second jaw.

36. The system of claim 27, wherein: At least one of the first number of snap adjustment structures is designed to contact a specific cavity of the second housing.

37. A non-transitory computing device readable medium having stored thereon instructions executable by a processor to cause a computing device to: determining whether a first number of virtual bite adjustment structures disposed on surfaces of a corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw results in an invalid positioning or orientation between the corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw and a number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the second jaw; in, If there is invalid targeting or targeting, determine which one or more of several factors indicate invalid targeting, then: adjusting at least one of positions or orientations of the first number of virtual bite adjustment features on the corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw based on the one or more factors indicative of the invalid positioning or orientation; as well as A virtual model of the first jaw after adjustment is provided for manufacturing a first appliance, so that the first appliance obtains the shape of the first number of virtual occlusal adjustment structures.

38. The medium of claim 37, wherein: The instructions for adjusting the positions of the first number of virtual bite adjustment structures include instructions for changing shapes and attachment positions of the first number of virtual bite adjustment structures on a corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw.

39. The medium of claim 37, further comprising instructions for placing the first number of virtual bite adjustment structures on a corresponding number of canines of the virtual model of the first jaw.

40. The medium of claim 37, further comprising instructions for: Based on determining that an invalid alignment exists between the corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw and the number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the second jaw, placing a second number of virtual bite adjustment structures on the number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the second jaw; and The virtual model of the second jaw is provided to a manufacturing device for manufacturing a physical model corresponding to the second jaw, so as to form a second tool on the physical model so that the second tool obtains the shape of the second number of virtual occlusal adjustment structures.

41. The medium of claim 37, further comprising instructions for: adjusting positions of the first number of virtual occlusal adjustment structures on a corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw in the second stage of the treatment plan according to changes in the virtual model of the first jaw between a first stage of a staged progressive treatment plan and a second stage of the treatment plan; and The virtual model of the first jaw is provided to a manufacturing device for manufacturing physical models corresponding to the first jaw in the first stage and the second stage of the treatment plan, so as to form a first appliance according to the first stage and a second appliance according to the second stage, so that the first appliance obtains the shape of the first number of virtual occlusal adjustment structures.

42. The medium of claim 37, wherein: The instructions for placing the first number of virtual bite adjustment features incorporate results of the instructions for modeling a first number of forces for repositioning a corresponding number of virtual teeth a first distance according to a first stage of a staged progressive treatment plan.

43. A method for forming a dental appliance, comprising: determining whether a first number of virtual bite adjustment structures disposed on surfaces of a corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw results in an invalid positioning or orientation between the corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw and a number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the second jaw; wherein, if there is an invalid position or orientation, determining which one or more of several factors indicate the invalid position, and then: adjusting at least one of the positions or orientations of the first number of virtual bite adjustment structures on the corresponding number of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the first jaw based on the one or more factors indicative of the invalid positioning or orientation; placing a second number of virtual bite adjustment structures on the plurality of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the second jaw, the second number of virtual bite adjustment structures extending from the plurality of virtual teeth of the virtual model of the second jaw and designed to contact the first number of virtual bite adjustment structures; providing the adjusted virtual model of the first jaw for manufacturing a first appliance so that the first appliance obtains the shape of the first number of virtual occlusal adjustment structures; and The virtual model of the second jaw is provided for manufacturing a second appliance such that the second appliance obtains the shape of the second number of virtual bite adjustment structures.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein: The shape of the first number of virtual bite adjustment structures and the shape of the second number of virtual bite adjustment structures provide the same intervention on the left and right sides of the first jaw and the second jaw, resulting in no bite between the first jaw and the second jaw.

45. The method of claim 43, wherein: The shape of the first number of virtual bite adjustment structures and the shape of the second number of virtual bite adjustment structures provide different interventions on the left and right sides of the first jaw and the second jaw to adjust jaw positioning.

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