Method for defining different layer elements of a dental prosthesis element

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for defining different layer elements of a dental tooth element, the method having the steps of defining an interface between an inner core element (38) and an outer layer element (50) at least partially surrounding the inner core element (38), selecting an additional layer element (60, 62, 64, 66) from a provided selection list comprising a plurality of additional layer elements, and automatically arranging at least one selected additional layer element (60, 62, 64, 66) in a spatially defined relationship with the core element (38) and / or the outer layer element (50).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for defining different layer elements of an artificial tooth element. Background Technology

[0002] The essential goal in manufacturing artificial tooth components is to make them as similar in appearance to a patient's natural teeth as possible. In natural teeth, dentin is surrounded by enamel in the visible portion. In particular, it is difficult to mimic the appearance of old teeth because they often exhibit additional effects.

[0003] To manufacture dental elements that can be complete artificial teeth, crowns, etc., it is known to produce dental elements from at least two different materials and reproduce the interface between dentin and enamel. For this purpose, DE102010002484A1 discloses the use of X-ray methods to determine the interface between dentin and enamel of a patient's natural teeth, followed by the fabrication of a dental element in which an internal material mimicking dentin has the same geometry as the patient's natural dentin, specifically forming a material that replaces enamel with a layer thickness corresponding to that of natural enamel. Because the material replacing the enamel and dentin in the artificial dental element does not possess the same optical properties as the natural material, the optical appearance of the artificial dental element manufactured in this way still differs from the optical appearance of the patient's other teeth. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The object of the present invention is to provide a method for defining different layers of an artificial tooth element in order to provide an artificial tooth element whose optical properties correspond to or are as close as possible to the optical properties of a patient's natural teeth.

[0005] The objective is achieved by the method according to the present invention.

[0006] According to the method of the invention, a first interface is defined between an inner core element and at least one outer layer element that at least partially surrounds the inner core element. Here, the inner core element corresponds to the portion of the tooth comprising dentin, compared to a natural tooth. The outer layer element specifically corresponds to the portion comprising enamel, compared to a natural tooth.

[0007] The interface can be defined by imaging the actual interface between the enamel and dentin of the natural tooth to be replicated.

[0008] Preferably, at least one interface is defined within the artificial tooth element, wherein this interface does not necessarily correspond to a natural interface. The at least one interface represents the interface between at least two different materials used to manufacture the artificial tooth element. This interface does not correspond to, or at least does not fully correspond to, the interface between the dentin and enamel of the patient's natural tooth, or is defined without regard to the actual interface. By defining at least one other interface, i.e., an interface that is at least partially different from the natural interface, the optical properties of the materials used are utilized to make the optical appearance of the artificial tooth element thus manufactured as close as possible to, and preferably substantially correspond to, the optical appearance of a natural tooth.

[0009] First, the three-dimensional outer contour of the dental element can be determined. Here, the outer contour of the artificial dental element corresponds to the outer contour of the natural tooth to be replaced. For example, this can be accomplished by selecting a suitable outer contour from a dental database, which adapts to the individual's anatomy to meet the functional and aesthetic requirements of the restoration to be manufactured. As an alternative to selecting a shape from a dental database, for example, in the case of a single crown, the dental contour of the relative tooth can also be mirrored. In a step performed particularly prior to the method of the present invention, the three-dimensional outer contour of the dental element can be determined and, in particular, detected. A dataset including the three-dimensional outer contour of the dental element can also be opened.

[0010] Furthermore, to prepare the method of the present invention, the three-dimensional outer contour of the tooth element can be aligned with a coordinate system. The coordinate system is preferably associated with anatomically defined orientations, such that the coordinate system specifically includes mesial, distal, apical, and cutting / occlusal directions. Aligning the tooth element with the coordinate system has the advantage that at least one interface located within the tooth element can be defined in a simple manner based on the three-dimensional outer contour of the tooth element.

[0011] A first boundary curve is defined on the tooth surface. This first boundary curve can be defined based on the tooth equator, which is the maximum circumference of the tooth in the crown region. The first boundary curve can also be based on a preparation boundary, which is the boundary between the artificially treated tooth element and the untreated tooth surface. The first boundary curve can also be defined manually, at least partially. Furthermore, curves that have been, in particular, automatically defined, can be manually adjusted based on the tooth equator and / or the preparation boundary. Preferably, the first boundary curve is defined between the tooth equator and the preparation boundary. Here, for example, the first boundary curve can be defined at a fixed distance from the tooth equator and / or the preparation boundary. Specifically, the first boundary curve can have the same distance from the tooth equator and the preparation boundary, i.e., exactly midway between the tooth equator and the preparation boundary.

[0012] The cutting or occlusal tooth surface is defined with reference to a first boundary constraint. According to the invention, this tooth surface is displaced inward. The displacement occurs in the direction normal to the surface, and specifically in different amounts. Therefore, there are surface regions on the tooth surface that are displayed inward to a higher or lower degree. These different amounts of displacement are based on variable design parameters. The at least one interface is generated by this displacement of the tooth surface.

[0013] In particular, design parameters can vary depending on the patient's teeth. For example, if the restoration is performed on a post of a different color, or if the restoration is designed with different thicknesses, different design parameters may be required because the optical appearance of the post affects the appearance of the artificial tooth element due to the translucency of the material used. In particular, design parameters also depend on the material used. For example, the minimum wall thickness of the material can be predefined. This is especially true for internal materials, particularly dentin-stained materials, which primarily determine stability. Furthermore, the optical properties of polymer-based materials differ from those of pure ceramic materials.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of the method, variable design parameters describe the maximum first displacement of the tooth surface and / or the first length used to define the transition surface.

[0015] Here, the first displacement is preferably selected such that for the front and flank teeth, no direct displacement occurs at the first boundary curve. Additionally, for the flank teeth, no displacement is achieved at the central crack. The amount of the first displacement preferably increases continuously in the surface normal direction from the first boundary curve toward the cutting or biting direction until the displacement reaches its maximum first displacement.

[0016] For example, the transition surface can be defined by setting a design parameter for a first length. Therefore, preferably, the first length defines a transition region starting from a first boundary curve. This transition region is defined from zero to the full first displacement. A transition region is provided to achieve a particularly smooth transition from the first boundary curve to the full first displacement. By defining such a transition surface, the natural appearance of a tooth where the enamel becomes thinner in the apical direction can be replicated.

[0017] The transition surface can also be defined such that the first boundary curve is projected a first length toward the cutting or biting direction, thereby defining the second boundary curve by the projection. In this case, the transition surface is defined between the first and second boundary curves.

[0018] Therefore, it is particularly preferred that the definition of at least one interface within the artificial tooth includes at least the following steps:

[0019] Define the first boundary curve on the tooth surface;

[0020] Determine the cutting / occlusal tooth surface relative to the first boundary curve; and

[0021] The tooth surface is displaced inward by different amounts in the direction of the surface normal to create at least one interface, particularly a first interface.

[0022] The variable design parameters preferably describe the maximum first displacement of the tooth surface and the first length for defining the transition surface, wherein at the first displacement, displacement is not performed directly at the first boundary curve of the anterior and lateral teeth and additionally at the central crack of the lateral teeth, and wherein, starting from the first boundary curve, the amount of the first displacement in the surface normal direction toward the cutting or occlusal direction increases continuously until the maximum first displacement is reached, wherein the first length is set as the design parameter.

[0023] Furthermore, the first boundary curve can be projected with a first length toward the cutting / biting direction to define the second boundary curve, wherein the transition surface is defined between the first boundary curve and the second boundary curve.

[0024] According to the invention, after defining the interface between the inner core element and at least one outer layer element that at least partially surrounds the inner core element, at least one additional layer element is selected. According to the invention, additional layer elements are selected from a provided selection list comprising multiple additional layer elements. Specifically, this can be a selection list or selection box displayed on a monitor, allowing the dentist or dental technician to easily select individual or several additional layer elements included in the selection list, for example, by a simple click or mark. Therefore, the dentist or dental technician does not need to model or otherwise create the additional layer elements, but simply selects them. According to the method of the invention, at least one selected additional layer element is automatically arranged in a spatially defined relationship with the core element and / or outer layer element. Possibly, the automatic arrangement can be displayed directly on a monitor, allowing the dentist or dental technician to gain a first impression as to whether the selection of one or more additional layer elements results in an optical appearance that closely resembles natural teeth.

[0025] The automatic arrangement of at least one selected additional layer element is performed in relation to the spatial definition of the core element and / or outer layer element. Preferably, the automatic arrangement is based on anatomical features and / or auxiliary lines or points. Auxiliary lines and / or points are preferably applied or defined based on anatomical features on the surface. In particular, the anatomical features and definitions of the auxiliary lines and / or points are different for each layer element. Preferably, this is performed as described below with respect to the respective layer elements.

[0026] The selection list can specifically include:

[0027] Enhance the mamelon and / or colored tooth neck and / or translucent effect and / or halo effect and / or horizontal band and / or surface effect.

[0028] The additional layer elements "semi-transparent effect" and "halo effect" are particularly prominent in the subset of the additional layer elements "cutting / biting optical effect".

[0029] To further improve the optical appearance of the additional dental element, it is preferable to select materials and / or colors for at least each additional layer element. The additional layer elements may also be made of different materials and have different colors or color gradients. If the additional layer element is provided multiple times rather than once in the additional dental element, it is preferable to select different materials, colors, etc., for the additional layer elements, so that a corresponding material and / or color selection can be performed individually for each additional layer element.

[0030] When selecting a "reinforced section," it is preferable to arrange the "reinforced section" in the region of the section at the core element. At least one section is preferably defined by an interface. Multiple additional layer elements can be formed, such that different additional layer element "reinforced sections" are arranged at different sections. Particularly preferred is that the additional layer element "reinforced sections" are at least partially arranged in the outer layer element. Specifically, to form the additional layer element "reinforced sections," the interface is displaced at at least one section. This displacement of the interface is particularly achieved in the cutting direction.

[0031] Preferably, the additional layer element "enhanced section" is placed on the section defined by the interface. In particular, the additional layer element "enhanced section" is placed on the section in a manner similar to a cover or cap.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, at least one control point defines a segment. Preferably, the control point is a height point. The height point defines the tip or top portion of the segment. Preferably, particularly, the control point of the height point is displaced in the cutting direction. The low point (i.e., the lowest point between adjacent segments) preferably does not displace. Thus, the polygon defining the outer contour of the segment has a highest point corresponding to the high point of the segment and a lowest point corresponding to the low point in the trough between segments. Therefore, in a preferred embodiment, the highest point of the polygon is displaced in the cutting direction, while the lowest point is not displaced.

[0033] Particularly preferred is the formation of an additional layer element, the "reinforcing slit," in the region between the interfaces before and after the interface displacement. The displacement is preferably in the range of 0 to 1 mm, particularly in the range of 0 to 0.7 mm.

[0034] To define such a polygon, a first boundary curve or another boundary curve can be defined or formed. This is done by projecting the first or second boundary curve onto a second length, wherein the provision of the second boundary curve is optional. In particular, a third or another boundary curve is formed by projecting the first boundary curve onto the cutting or occlusal direction or by projecting the apex of the second boundary curve. Alternatively, the third boundary curve can be formed independently of the first or second boundary curve, either manually or based on other features of the tooth element (e.g., the equator or pre-defined boundaries).

[0035] Furthermore, preferably, a first surface profile for cutting or occlusion is determined. The first surface profile is defined by a highest curve on a first interface generated by a first maximum displacement. If necessary, the highest curve can be automatically determined and manually corrected. Nodes are formed or defined on the first surface profile. Subsequently, the nodes are at least partially displaced at their apex or in the cutting / occlusal direction. The at least partially displaced nodes interconnect to form a second surface profile. The second surface profile thus formed defines a maximum second displacement of the tooth surface (or the first boundary surface) in the region of the cutting or occlusal surface profile. Preferably, two different incisal curves causing the second displacement are formed according to the method steps described below. Here, the two different incisal curves form two different geometries. By “subtracting” the smaller geometry from the larger geometry, space is obtained in which additional layer elements “reinforcing the incisal” are arranged.

[0036] In this preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, in the case of front teeth and side teeth, the amount of the second displacement decreases continuously towards the surface normal in the tip direction by a third length until it reaches at most the third boundary curve or a length defined as the maximum value for this purpose. For side teeth, the amount of the second displacement also decreases continuously towards the central crack until it reaches the central crack. Preferably, the displacement amount directly at the third boundary curve or directly at the central crack is "0". The central crack can also be manually defined and / or automatically defined or pre-defined manually corrected.

[0037] Preferably, the maximum first displacement of the tooth surface is in the range of 0 mm to 4 mm.

[0038] Furthermore, it is preferable that the first length required to form the transition surface has an extension of 0.1 mm to 10 mm.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, in the case of anterior teeth, the boundaries (i.e., the start and end points of the highest curves automatically determined on the first and / or second cutting surface profiles) are defined by an angle. This angle is the angle between the tangent of the cutting surface profile and the tooth axis, wherein the angle is from 0° to 90°, preferably from 10° to 70°, and particularly preferably from 40° to 50°. For teeth, the tooth axis is defined as the line connecting the apex of a single tooth to the center of the cutting edge or the masticatory surface, while for multiple teeth, the tooth axis is defined as the line connecting the bifurcation point to the center of the masticatory surface. In particular, the boundaries (i.e., the start and end points) and the orientation of the cutting surface profiles can also be manually defined or adjusted.

[0040] Preferably, the positions of the nodes on the cutting surface profile of the anterior teeth are indicated or defined relative to the total length of the cutting surface profile. Here, it is preferred that at least five points are defined on the cutting surface profile. It is preferable to define more points, particularly more than 10 points, and especially more than 20 points.

[0041] For lateral teeth, it is preferable to indicate the location of the nodes on the cutting / occlusal surface profile of each cusp relative to the length of the cusp ridge. Specifically, the length of the cusp ridge between the mesial cusp origin and the cusp tip, or between the cusp tip and the distal cusp end, is used. Furthermore, it is preferable that each cusp defines at least five points over the total length of the occlusal surface profile. Preferably, at least 10 points, and particularly at least 20 points, are more preferred.

[0042] The displacement of the nodes on the cutting / engaging surface profile in the apex direction is preferably in the range of -4.0 mm to +4.0 mm.

[0043] As a supplement to or alternative to providing one or more additional layer elements "reinforced incisors," additional layer elements "reinforced incisors" may be selected. To adapt the optical appearance of the artificial tooth element to that of natural teeth, it is generally feasible and necessary to adjust, and particularly enhance, the tooth color in the cervical region. Here, it is particularly preferred to use a material with a hue stronger than that of dentin. Specifically, this is a pale yellow and / or brown staining of the tooth color.

[0044] When the additional layer element "Colored Neck" is selected, the material is at least partially colored in the area where the outer layer element is at the top relative to the boundary curve.

[0045] To form the additional layer element "colored tooth neck," the material of the outer layer element can be colored. Alternatively, another material can be provided as an additional element to design the additional layer element "colored tooth neck." In this case, it is preferably arranged within the outer layer element. It is possible that the outer layer element is not provided in the area where the additional layer element "colored tooth neck" is arranged, because the outer layer element may not extend into the lower region of the tooth neck. In this respect, the additional layer element "colored tooth neck" can also be entirely or partially disposed within the core element, which may form the outer layer of the artificial tooth element in the region of the tooth neck.

[0046] The additional layer element, "colored tooth neck," is preferably limited by the outer contour of the outer layer element. To improve the optical appearance, the additional layer element, "colored tooth neck," can also be partially arranged below the outer layer element, particularly when the outer layer element extends completely to the underside of the tooth and thus at least a portion of the tooth neck is covered by the outer layer element.

[0047] In addition, a continuous color gradient can be designed to change the layer thickness of the additional layer element “colored tooth neck”, so that the layer thickness is reduced specifically at the tip and / or in the cutting or biting direction.

[0048] As a supplement to or alternative to the above-described additional layer elements "enhanced tangent" and / or "colored cervical region", it is preferable to provide the additional layer element "cutting / occlusal optical effect". The additional layer element "cutting / occlusal optical effect" is particularly the additional layer element "translucent effect" or "halo effect".

[0049] A translucent or transparent effect typically occurs in the cut area of ​​a crown or tooth. The additional layer element, representing a "translucent effect," is preferably positioned within the cut edge region of the artificial tooth element within the outer layer element. Preferably, the additional layer element, representing a "translucent effect," is constrained by the outer contour of the outer layer element, particularly positioned at the outer edge of the artificial tooth, such that the additional layer element, representing a "translucent effect," forms the outer contour of the tooth.

[0050] To define the "semi-transparent effect" of the additional layer element, it is preferable to perform control point placement, particularly automatically, on the surface of the outer layer element. These control points are then shifted towards the top.

[0051] The "semi-transparent effect" of the additional layer element is preferably arranged as described in the definition of the additional layer element "enhanced slits" relative to the polygon. However, in this case, it is preferable to reduce the outer contour to a smaller extent.

[0052] The displacement is preferably performed along the surface normal of the outer element. Particularly preferred is a displacement from 0 to 1 mm, especially 0 to 0.5 mm.

[0053] Furthermore, it is preferable to form an additional layer element "semi-transparent effect" in the region between the surfaces of the outer layer element before and after displacement. Here, it is particularly preferable that the outer contour of the additional layer element "semi-transparent effect" is limited by the original outer contour of the outer layer element.

[0054] Another optical effect is a halo effect. Thus, as a supplement to or alternative to the aforementioned additional layer elements, dentists or dental technicians can choose an additional layer element called a "halo effect." A halo effect is a slight brightening enhancement of the cut edges of the artificial tooth element. This is generally less pronounced than translucency. Preferably, the additional layer element "halo effect" is arranged and sized in a similar manner to the additional layer element "translucency effect." The prominence of the additional layer element "halo effect" is preferably less than the prominence of the additional layer element "translucency effect."

[0055] Another additional or alternative additional layer element is the additional layer element "horizontal band".

[0056] For the particularly automated arrangement of the additional layer element "horizontal band," it is preferable to first define a horizontal line on the dental element. Referring to the height of the dental element, it is preferable to arrange the horizontal line approximately in the central region of the dental element. Specifically, the horizontal line is defined relative to ±10% of the height of the dental element. Starting from the horizontal line, the horizontal band extends a predetermined width in both directions. This width is preferably in the range of 0.3 mm to 2 mm. In addition to this cut / apex dimension, the horizontal band preferably also has a depth of 0.2 mm to 1.5 mm. More preferably, the horizontal band is arranged between the core element and the outer layer element, particularly extending into the core element and / or the outer layer element.

[0057] Like other add-on elements, the add-on element "Horizontal Band" can also select a material, possibly a variety of different materials, as well as a color, which can be a color gradient or different colors.

[0058] Another additional layer element is the additional layer element "surface effect". The additional layer element "surface effect" is arranged on the interface in the front (i.e., the surface between the core element and the outer layer element). When the tooth element is in place, the front region is the anterior visible part of the tooth. The additional layer element "surface effect" is particularly relevant to the incisors. For the arrangement of the additional layer element "surface effect", a virtual mesh can be arranged on the interface. This virtual mesh has intersection points or points of intersection. By selecting the corresponding intersection points, the area where the additional layer element "surface effect" is arranged can be defined. The width of the additional layer element "surface effect" is preferably 1 to 8 mm, the height is preferably 1 to 10 mm, and the depth is preferably 0.1 to 1 mm. Furthermore, the additional layer element "surface effect" extends into the core element and / or extends into the outer layer element.

[0059] If needed, the additional layer element "Enhanced Cut" can be overridden by the additional layer element "Surface Effect" or the additional layer element "Horizontal Strip".

[0060] Particularly preferred is to perform the method according to the invention to provide a virtual grid placed on the surface of the outer layer element. This allows for the automatic definition of control points, particularly the intersections of grid lines. These control points can then be used to define the position and extension of each additional layer element. Thus, in particular, good and automatic positioning of each additional layer element is possible.

[0061] Preferably, the vertical and horizontal extension of the virtual mesh is defined by the maximum vertical and horizontal dimensions of the outer contour image of the tooth element. More preferably, the mesh has vertical and horizontal lines that preferably equally divide the tooth contour. Here, the outer contour image is the projected contour of the tooth element in the front view.

[0062] All add-on elements can be arranged individually or in combination with each other. In addition to preferred choices of materials, colors, color gradients, etc., the dentist or dental technician can also define the location and prominence, i.e., the size of each add-on element. Preferably, the system automatically suggests the location and prominence of the corresponding add-on elements based on the type of tooth element and the patient-specific dimensions. The corresponding measures can be specifically and automatically defined, for example, by defining the size or external dimensions of the add-on elements. The system can also automatically suggest designs, materials, etc. This can be done, for example, by automatically comparing photographs or images with the natural tooth to be replaced or other, particularly adjacent, natural teeth of the patient. Attached Figure Description

[0063] The invention will now be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments.

[0064] In the diagram:

[0065] Figure 1 This is a schematic front view of an artificial tooth element for the anterior teeth.

[0066] Figure 2 This is a schematic side view of an artificial tooth element for the anterior teeth.

[0067] Figure 3 and Figure 4 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 Schematic front and side views of the artificial tooth element for the anterior teeth, showing the additional surfaces and curves.

[0068] Figures 5 and 6 are... Figure 1 and Figure 2 Schematic front and side views of the artificial tooth element for the anterior teeth, showing the additional surfaces and curves.

[0069] Figure 7 is a cut view of the tooth element shown in Figure 5.

[0070] Figures 8a to 8c This is an alternative illustration of Figure 5 with different tangent angles.

[0071] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the first and second surface profiles.

[0072] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 A schematic front view of the tooth elements of the anterior teeth, showing the additional surfaces and curves.

[0073] Figure 11 It is along Figure 10 A schematic side view of the cross-sectional plane XI in the diagram.

[0074] Figure 12 This is a schematic side view of an artificial tooth element for lateral teeth.

[0075] Figure 13 It's viewed from the cutting direction. Figure 12 A schematic diagram of an artificial tooth element with lateral teeth is shown.

[0076] Figure 14 This is a schematic front view showing details of the artificial tooth element used to determine the arrangement of the additional layer element, the "reinforced tangent".

[0077] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 The side view of the artificial tooth element shown.

[0078] Figure 16 These are front and side views of the artificial tooth element together with the additional layer element "reinforcing incisor".

[0079] Figure 17 These are front and side views of the artificial tooth element together with the additional layer element "colored tooth neck".

[0080] Figure 18 These are details of the artificial tooth element used to clarify the "colored tooth neck" of the additional layer element.

[0081] Figure 19 These are the front and side views of the artificial tooth element used to clarify the "semi-transparent effect" of the additional layer elements.

[0082] Figure 20 These are front and side views of the artificial tooth element used to clarify the "horizontal band" of the additional layer element.

[0083] Figure 21 These are front and side views of an artificial tooth element used to clarify the "surface effect" of additional layer elements.

[0084] Figure 22 These are front and side views of an artificial tooth element with a virtual mesh.

[0085] Figure 23 These are front and side views of an artificial tooth element with a virtual mesh, created in conjunction with the "semi-transparent effect" of the additional layer elements.

[0086] Figure 24 These are front and side views of an artificial tooth element with a virtual mesh, created in conjunction with the addition of a "surface effect" layer element. Detailed Implementation

[0087] To implement the method of the present invention, the interface between the inner core element and the outer layer element that at least partially surrounds the core element must first be defined. Reference will be made below. Figures 1 to 13 A detailed explanation of the possible methods used to define this interface.

[0088] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The front and side views show the artificial tooth element 10 of the anterior tooth. This is the three-dimensional outer contour of the tooth element, wherein, preferably, a corresponding dataset including data of the three-dimensional outer contour of the tooth element is opened. After the tooth element 10 is aligned with a coordinate system (not shown), a first boundary curve 12 is defined, wherein the first boundary curve 12 can be defined manually and / or based on a pre-defined boundary or based on the tooth equator. The first boundary curve 12 is in the cutting direction (i.e., in...) Figure 1 and Figure 2 The tooth surface 14 is defined above the first boundary curve 12.

[0089] Tooth surface 14 is displaced inward toward the surface normal to form the first interface 16. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Here, the maximum displacement of 17 is shown as an example.

[0090] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, a transition surface 18 extending in the cutting direction 19 can be defined starting from the first boundary curve 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the transition surface 18 is defined such that it defines a second boundary curve 20. The second boundary curve 20 can be obtained by projecting the first boundary curve 12 onto a first length 22.

[0091] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, a third boundary curve 24 is defined (Figures 5 and 6). The third boundary curve 24 can be obtained by projecting the first boundary curve 12 onto a second length 26.

[0092] The highest curve on the first interface 16 generated by the first maximum displacement is defined as the cutting / occlusal first surface profile 28. The first surface profile 28 has two boundaries 30, specifically a start point and an end point. Here, the boundary 30 is defined by a tangent 32. In Figure 5, the tangent 32 is at an angle of approximately 45° relative to the tooth axis 34.

[0093] like Figures 8a to 8c As shown, the position of boundary 30 changes with the change of the tangent angle.

[0094] The orientation of the first surface profile 28 is shown in the top plan view or can be seen from the cut view (Fig. 7).

[0095] Multiple nodes are defined on the surface profile. Figure 9 ).exist Figure 9 In the table, these nodes are designated as nodes 1 to 9 as examples and are listed. As indicated by the arrows, the nodes located on the first surface profile 28 are displaced in the apex direction. Connecting the displaced nodes creates the second surface profile 36.

[0096] In the illustrated embodiment, the above method steps produce a three-dimensional interface defined by the third boundary curve 24, a portion of the first interface 16, and the second surface profile 36. Figure 10 and Figure 11 In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a different material is provided within the three-dimensional surface (i.e., in space 38), rather than within the volume of the artificial tooth element 10 surrounding that space. These two volumes are specifically defined by different materials, with the inner volume 38 mimicking dentin. Here, the interface between the dentin-forming volume and the surrounding volume is different from the corresponding interface of the associated natural tooth.

[0097] Figure 12 and Figure 13 The corresponding contours of the side teeth are shown, where these contours correspond to the contours described for the protruding edges of the front teeth. Additionally, the central crack 40 is shown. Figure 13 The line showing the central fissure 40 has two boundary points 42, representing the start and end points of the cusp, respectively. Furthermore, the cusp tip 44 is marked on the second surface profile 36. Point 46 defines the end point of the cusp and the start point of the next cusp.

[0098] In the three-dimensional interface defined by the above method steps, the inner volume 38 forms the inner core element, and the volume 50 surrounding the inner volume 38 forms the outer layer element.

[0099] For the arrangement of the additional layer element "reinforcement cuts", in a preferred embodiment, a high point 54 is defined on the image curve 52 (i.e., the boundary curve between the inner core element 38 and the outer layer element 50). The high point 54 is displaced in the cutting direction, such that a point 56 is defined. The position of the image curve 52 changes accordingly. Gaps 60 are formed between the image curve 52 and the interface 58 defined by the point 56 after displacement in the cutting direction. The additional layer element "reinforcement cuts" are arranged in these gaps 60. Figure 16 As specifically shown, these additional layer elements can be colored differently or made of different materials.

[0100] Figure 17 and Figure 18 An example of the additional layer element "colored tooth neck" is shown. It can be seen that the artificial tooth element is colored in the area of ​​the tooth neck, thus allowing the additional element to be arranged. Figure 18 As can be seen, the additional layer element "colored tooth neck" 62 can be arranged at least partially within the core element 38. This is specifically defined by the position of the arrangement interface 53. The additional layer element "colored tooth neck" is preferably limited by the outer contour of the outer layer element 50. Similarly, in order to change the optical appearance, the additional layer element "colored tooth neck" 62 can be arranged partially within the outer layer, such that the outer layer element 50 covers the additional layer element "colored tooth neck" 62 with a layer that can be thin.

[0101] Figure 19 Another additional layer element schematically shown is the additional layer element "semi-transparent effect" 64. This is an additional layer element located in the cutting area of ​​the artificial tooth element within the outer layer element 50. To define the position and design of the additional layer element "semi-transparent effect" 64, control points can be defined on the upper surface of the outer layer element, and then the control points are shifted inward (i.e., toward the inner core element).

[0102] In a preferred embodiment, the outer boundary of the additional layer element “semi-transparent effect” represents the outer surface of the outer layer element 50.

[0103] Especially in Figure 20 Another additional layer element shown, the "horizontal band" 66, is a horizontal line generally arranged in the central region of the artificial tooth element. The horizontal band preferably begins from a horizontal line 68, which is generally arranged at the level of the center of the tooth element. The cross-section of the horizontal band 66 may be elliptical. In particular, the horizontal band 66 partially protrudes into the outer layer element 50 and partially is arranged within the inner portion element 38.

[0104] Another additional layer element ( Figure 21The additional layer element "surface effect" 70 is located in the anterior region of the artificial tooth element, preferably between the core element 38 and the outer layer element 50. If there is a vertical overlap between the additional layer element "surface effect" 70 and the additional layer element "reinforced incisor" 60, the additional layer element "surface effect" can be relative to... Figure 1 The front 72 of the incisor in the middle diagram is arranged in front of or behind the additional layer element "reinforced incisor" 60.

[0105] In order to perform the method according to the invention, and in particular to automate the method according to the invention at least partially, a virtual mesh is preferably provided. Figure 23 and Figure 24 The virtual mesh includes, in particular, equidistant horizontal lines 74 and vertical lines 76. As the outer boundary, the mesh has an outer contour image 78 of the artificial tooth element. Nodes 80 may be defined by the contact points between the vertical lines 74 and the horizontal lines 76 and the outer contour image. See, for example... Figure 24 The other node 82 can be located at the intersection of the horizontal line 74 and the vertical line 76.

[0106] Using individual nodes 80 and 82, the alignment, size, and other parameters of each additional layer element can be easily defined and adjusted, especially automatically.

[0107] For example, in Figure 23 As can be seen, nodes 80 arranged on image 78 can be used for semi-transparency effects by displacing individual points.

[0108] from Figure 24 As you can see, node 82 can be used, for example, to define the location of the surface effect. Other nodes can be used to define the remaining additional layer elements.

Claims

1. A computer-implemented method for defining different layer elements of a dental prosthesis element, the method comprising the steps of: determining a three-dimensional outer contour of a dental prosthesis element, defining an interface between a core element (38) and at least one outer layer element (50) at least partially surrounding the core element (38), characterized in that the method further comprises the steps of: selecting at least one additional layer element (60, 62, 64, 66) from a provided selection list comprising a plurality of additional layer elements, the selection list comprising: an additional layer element "enhancing kerf", wherein, when the additional layer element "enhancing kerf" is selected, the additional layer element "enhancing kerf" is automatically arranged at the core element in the area of a kerf defined by the interface, wherein, in the area of at least one kerf defined by the interface, the additional layer element "enhancing kerf" is arranged at the core element (38) and at least partially covers the additional layer element "enhancing kerf" of the at least one kerf defined by the interface, and automatically arranging at least one selected additional layer element (60, 62, 64, 66) in a spatially defined relationship to the core element (38), wherein, for forming the additional layer element "enhancing kerf", the interface at the at least one kerf is displaced in the cutting direction, wherein a control point of the at least one kerf is displaced in the cutting direction, wherein the additional layer element "enhancing kerf" is formed in the area between the interface before the displacement and the interface after the displacement.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, In the area of all kerfs defined by the interface, the additional layer element "enhancing kerf" is arranged at the core element (38) and the additional layer element "enhancing kerf" of all kerfs defined by the interface is arranged at least partially.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The selection list further comprises the following additional layer elements: a colored cervical and / or a translucent effect and / or a halo effect and / or a horizontal band and / or a surface effect, and wherein, when one of these additional layer elements is selected, the selected additional layer element (60, 62, 64, 66) is automatically arranged in a spatially defined relationship to the core element (38) and / or the outer layer element (50).

4. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein, For at least each additional layer element (60, 62, 64, 66) a material and / or a color can be selected.

5. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The additional layer element "enhancing kerf" is at least partially arranged within the outer layer element (50).

6. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the displacement is between 0 and 1.0 mm.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein, The displacement is between 0 and 0.7 mm.

8. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The control point of the at least one kerf defined by the height point is displaced in the cutting direction.

9. The method of claim 3, wherein, When the additional layer element "colored cervical" is selected, a material is at least partially colored in the area of the outer layer element lying at the top relative to the boundary curve.

10. The method of claim 3, wherein, When the additional layer element "colored cervical" is selected, the outer layer element (50) is at least partially replaced by the additional layer element "colored cervical" in the area lying at the top relative to the boundary curve, and / or wherein The outer contour of the additional layer element "colored cervical" is limited by the outer contour of the outer layer element (50).

11. The method of claim 3, wherein, When the additional layer element "cutting / biting optical effect" including the additional layer element "translucent effect" and / or the additional layer element "halo effect" is selected, the additional layer element "cutting / biting optical effect" is arranged in the cutting edge area of the artificial tooth element in the outer layer element (50).

12. The method of claim 11, wherein, The additional layer element "cutting / biting optical effect" is limited by the outer contour of the outer layer element (50), and / or wherein For the definition of the additional layer element "cutting / biting optical effect", a control point defined on the surface of the outer layer element (50) is displaced to the tip.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein, Wherein the displacement occurs along the normal of the surface of the outer layer element (50).

14. The method of claim 11, wherein, A displacement of 0 to 1 mm occurs, and / or wherein the additional layer element "cutting / biting optical effect" is formed in the area between the surface before the displacement and the surface after the displacement, and / or wherein the outer contour of the additional layer element "cutting / biting optical effect" is limited by the outer contour of the outer layer element (50).

15. The method of claim 14, wherein, A displacement of 0 to 0.5 mm occurs.

16. The method of claim 3, wherein, When the additional layer element "horizontal band" is selected, a horizontal center line is defined and the additional layer element "horizontal band" is arranged between the core element (38) and the outer layer element (50) in the area of the center line, wherein the additional layer element "horizontal band" protrudes into the core element (38) and / or the outer layer element (50).

17. The method of claim 16, wherein, The additional layer element "horizontal band" comprises a cutting / tip size of 0.3 to 2 mm and / or a depth of 0.2 to 1.5 mm.

18. The method of claim 3, wherein, When the additional layer element "surface effect" is selected, the additional layer element "surface effect" is arranged on the interface in the front area.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein, The additional layer element "surface effect" partially overlaps the additional layer element "enhanced incisal".

20. The method of claim 18, wherein, Wherein the additional layer element "surface effect" has a width of 1 to 8 mm, a height of 1 to 10 mm and a depth of 0.1 to 1 mm.

21. The method of claim 18, wherein, The additional layer element "surface effect" is arranged in the core element (38) and / or in the outer layer element (50), the additional layer element "surface effect" being limited by the outer contour of the outer layer element (50).

22. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein, For the automatic definition of the control points, a virtual grid is applied on the surface of the outer layer element (50), wherein the vertical and horizontal dimensions of the virtual grid are defined by the maximum dimensions of the outer contour image.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein, Wherein the virtual grid comprises a plurality of vertical and / or horizontal lines that equally divide the tooth contour.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein, The intersection points of the horizontal and vertical lines define the control points, and / or wherein the control points are defined at the intersection points of the vertical and / or horizontal lines with the outer contour image.

Images