Orthodontic device, system for tracking progress of orthodontic treatment, and method for manufacturing orthodontic device

Abstract

An orthodontic aligner for changing or maintaining the position of a user's teeth includes a mouthpiece body including a tooth receiving portion, a pressure sensing device, and a wireless communication and power transfer device. The pressure sensing device includes a pressure chamber containing a fluid coupled to the tooth receiving portion. The pressure sensor is arranged to sense a pressure of the pressure chamber. The pressure sensor is configured to generate an output pressure signal indicative of a pressure associated with the pressure chamber. The wireless communication and power transfer apparatus includes an antenna and is configured to supply power to the pressure sensor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an orthodontic device for maintaining or changing the position of a user's teeth, a system for tracking the progress of an orthodontic treatment, and a method of manufacturing the orthodontic device. In particular, the present invention relates to an orthodontic device for straightening teeth - an orthodontic "aligner". Background Art

[0002] Orthodontic devices include devices for maintaining or changing the position of a user's teeth. Orthodontic aligners are closely fitting retainers worn over a user's teeth. They are used to remedy overcrowding problems and / or spacing problems, and can also be used to straighten teeth. Aligners are custom-made; based on the user's teeth, they are designed to gradually change the position of the user's teeth to a desired position. A set of aligners is worn consecutively, where each aligner gradually moves the teeth closer to the desired position.

[0003] The rate of progress of an orthodontic treatment using aligners depends on a number of factors and varies between patients. It would be desirable to provide a way to monitor an orthodontic treatment in a convenient and cost-effective manner. In addition, it would be desirable to accurately monitor the progress of the treatment and support the detection of potential treatment problems at an early stage. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention is defined by the claims.

[0005] According to an example of one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an orthodontic device for changing or maintaining the position of a user's teeth, the orthodontic device comprising:

[0006] A mouthpiece body, the mouthpiece body comprising:

[0007] A tooth receiving portion;

[0008] A pressure sensing device, which includes a pressure chamber and a pressure sensor, the pressure chamber containing a fluid and being coupled to the tooth receiving portion, the pressure sensor being configured to generate an output pressure signal indicative of the fluid pressure inside the pressure chamber; and

[0009] A wireless communication and power transmission device, which includes an antenna, the wireless communication and power transmission device being configured to:

[0010] Wirelessly supply power to the pressure sensor; and

[0011] Wirelessly transmit the output pressure signal from the pressure sensing device.

[0012] The provision of a pressure chamber facilitates the use of a pressure sensor (i.e., a low-power pressure sensor) that can be powered by wireless power transfer to sense pressure changes corresponding to the force applied to the aligner. The pressure chamber is fluidly isolated from the tooth receiving portion. By sensing the change in pressure, treatment / treatment progress can be monitored. The change in pressure over time can be correlated with treatment progress, lack of progress, or abnormal results. In particular, during orthodontic aligner treatment, as the teeth move towards the desired position, the force applied to the aligner decreases, thereby reducing the pressure in the pressure chamber. By measuring the pressure of the pressure chamber containing the fluid, the need for complex electronic components with high energy consumption can be avoided without the need for multiple sensors. Thus, treatment can be monitored without the need to provide a bulky / complex integrated power source (such as a battery) in the mouthpiece. This is advantageous both in terms of user safety and in terms of providing an environmentally friendly device. The fluid in the pressure chamber can be a liquid or a gas, such as air. Preferably, the fluid in the pressure chamber is air, and the pressure sensor is configured to sense the air pressure in the chamber.

[0013] The pressure sensing device may include a pressure sensor and a single pressure chamber, and the pressure sensor is arranged to measure the pressure associated with the pressure chamber.

[0014] The tooth receiving portion is for receiving maxillary teeth (i.e., the teeth of the upper jaw) or mandibular teeth (i.e., the teeth of the lower jaw). The pressure sensing device includes a pressure sensor and a single pressure chamber. Such a relatively simple device facilitates treatment progress tracking while also avoiding the need for a relatively complex design, thereby facilitating cost-effective manufacturing. The pressure chamber is coupled to the tooth receiving portion such that the force applied to the orthodontic device by the user's teeth (which creates stress in the structure of the orthodontic aligner) is transmitted to the pressure chamber, thereby causing a pressure change inside the pressure chamber. The single pressure chamber can be arranged such that the force applied to the orthodontic device by the user's teeth is applied to the pressure chamber; thus, as a result of treatment progress, the pressure chamber will undergo a change in pressure corresponding to the force applied to the orthodontic device. In some embodiments, the orthodontic device may include a single pressure sensor.

[0015] The pressure sensing device may include a first pressure chamber and a second pressure chamber, each of the first pressure chamber and the second pressure chamber is fluidly coupled to the pressure sensor housing, and at least one valve is operable to fluidly couple the pressure sensor to the first pressure chamber or the second pressure chamber.

[0016] The provision of multiple individual chambers can facilitate the collection of pressure data corresponding to different regions of the mouthpiece, which can contribute to a relatively detailed assessment of treatment progress. Each chamber can be associated with a different set of the user's teeth.

[0017] The tooth receiving portion may include a front section for receiving teeth in the front of the user's mouth, a first rear section for receiving teeth in the first rear side of the user's mouth, and a second rear section for receiving teeth in the second rear side of the user's mouth. Both the pressure sensor and the antenna may be disposed in the first rear section or the second rear section of the tooth receiving portion.

[0018] By arranging the pressure sensor and the antenna close to the second rear section of the tooth receiving portion, the pressure sensor will be located near the user's cheek during use, which can enable the user to conveniently trigger the pressure sensing device for pressure measurement, for example, by holding a mobile phone to their face in a similar manner as they would when making a phone call.

[0019] The tooth receiving portion and the pressure chamber may be formed of the same material. Thus, the orthodontic aligner can be conveniently and cost-effectively manufactured. In the case where the mouthpiece body includes a plurality of pressure chambers, the pressure chambers and the tooth receiving portion may be formed of the same material. The shape and strength of the tooth receiving portion and the (one or more) pressure chambers should be stable throughout the treatment; thus, both the tooth receiving portion and the pressure chamber are formed of a suitable material.

[0020] (One or more) pressure chambers may be integrally formed with the tooth receiving portion.

[0021] When one or more pressure chambers are integrally formed with the mouthpiece body, the orthodontic device can be conveniently and cost-effectively manufactured. For example, the tooth receiving portion and the (one or more) pressure chambers may be molded as a single piece.

[0022] The pressure sensing device may further include a temperature sensor for monitoring the temperature inside the user's mouth, wherein the pressure sensing device is configured to:

[0023] Obtain a pressure reading from the pressure sensor;

[0024] Obtain a temperature reading from the temperature sensor;

[0025] Adjust the pressure reading based on the temperature reading to obtain an adjusted pressure reading; and

[0026] Output the temperature reading and the adjusted pressure reading.

[0027] Temperature data can be used to compensate pressure readings for changes in temperature to improve accuracy. The inventors have recognized that using temperature readings from a temperature sensor not only compensates pressure readings, but also provides insight into the temperature in a user's mouth, thereby providing additional information that can be used by dental practitioners to evaluate treatment. The combined pressure and temperature data can be used to determine whether there is a problem with the treatment - for example, this information can be used to identify abnormal responses (such as excessive inflammation) or lack of treatment progress. The temperature sensor can form part of the pressure sensing device.

[0028] A wireless communication and power transfer device can be configured to receive power via inductive coupling. Preferably, the wireless communication and power transfer device uses near field communication (NFC) technology to provide wireless communication and power transfer.

[0029] The wireless communication and power transfer device can include a single antenna positioned at one end of the retainer and in the rear of the tooth receiving portion. Alternatively, the wireless communication and power transfer device can include two antennas - one antenna near each end of the tooth receiving portion.

[0030] According to an example of another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for tracking orthodontic treatment progress, the system comprising:

[0031] An orthodontic device as described above; and

[0032] A remote power device configured to:

[0033] Wirelessly transfer power to the orthodontic device via the wireless communication and power transfer device to trigger the pressure sensor to make a pressure measurement; and

[0034] Receive an output pressure signal from the pressure sensor.

[0035] The remote power device can include a processor configured to:

[0036] Determine pressure data associated with a first measurement period based on the output pressure signal corresponding to the first measurement period;

[0037] Determine pressure data for a second measurement period based on the output pressure signal corresponding to the second measurement period; and

[0038] Determine a pressure gradient based on the pressure data for the first measurement period and the pressure data for the second measurement period.

[0039] Determining whether the pressure is increasing or decreasing relative to previously obtained pressure data facilitates the evaluation of treatment progress. When the treatment is on track, if the teeth become more aligned, the pressure gradient will be negative.

[0040] The processor may be configured to:

[0041] Receive environmental data corresponding to the first measurement period and / or the second measurement period; and

[0042] Adjust the pressure data based on the environmental data corresponding to the same measurement period as the pressure data.

[0043] In this way, the system can compensate for environmental factors, enabling more accurate comparison of historical pressure data and current pressure data.

[0044] The processor may be configured to:

[0045] Obtain a pressure reading from a pressure sensor;

[0046] Obtain a temperature reading from a temperature sensor;

[0047] Adjust the pressure reading based on the temperature reading to obtain an adjusted pressure reading; and

[0048] Output the temperature reading and the adjusted pressure reading.

[0049] The remote power device may further include a temperature sensor, and the processor may be configured to receive temperature data from the temperature sensor and adjust the pressure data based on the temperature data. Alternatively, the pressure sensing device may include an integrated temperature sensor, and the pressure reading may be adjusted by the pressure sensing device based on the temperature data.

[0050] The environmental data may include weather data, altitude data (e.g., location data), measured air pressure data from sensors integrated into the remote power device, or location-based predicted air pressure data.

[0051] The remote device may be a smart phone including an integrated temperature sensor and an air pressure sensor.

[0052] The remote power device may be configured to receive pressure data from an orthodontic device and process the pressure data to obtain heart rate information.

[0053] The remote power device may be configured to initiate a readout by transmitting power to the orthodontic device via a wireless communication and power transfer device, and the orthodontic device is configured to sense pressure via a pressure sensing device and output a signal indicating the sensed pressure to the remote power device in response to receiving power via the wireless communication and power transfer device.

[0054] The remote power device can be a mobile phone. The mobile phone can be a smart phone. The smart phone can have a software application installed for receiving, storing, and analyzing pressure data to evaluate treatment progress. The mobile phone can be configured to communicate wirelessly with the orthodontic device. For example, the mobile phone can include an NFC reader for wireless communication with the pressure sensor.

[0055] According to an example of a further aspect of the present invention, a method of manufacturing the above orthodontic device is provided, the method comprising:

[0056] Generating a mold based on a representation of the user's teeth, the pressure sensing device including a pressure chamber;

[0057] Molding the orthodontic device using the mold, wherein the mouthpiece body and the pressure chamber are integrated in the orthodontic device;

[0058] Coupling a pressure sensor to the pressure chamber; and

[0059] Coupling a first antenna to the mouthpiece body.

[0060] The method may further comprise printing the first antenna and an optional second antenna on the mouthpiece body. Alternatively, the first antenna and / or the second antenna may be an injection molded part.

[0061] The antenna may be coupled to the rear side of the mouthpiece body to facilitate convenient wireless charging in use (e.g., using a mobile phone).

[0062] The pressure chamber may be custom designed for the intended user. In particular, the pressure inside the pressure chamber can be controlled such that when the user first inserts the orthodontic device, the pressure inside the pressure chamber is less than the maximum pressure that the pressure sensor can sense.

[0063] The mold may be generated based on a 3D scan of the user's teeth.

[0064] These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent from and be elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0065] For a better understanding of the present invention, and to more clearly show how the present invention can be implemented, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0066] Figure 1A is a perspective view of an orthodontic device according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing a left hand view of the device;

[0067] Figure 1B is Figure 1A a perspective view of the orthodontic device of, showing a right hand view of the device;

[0068] Figure 2 is a schematic view of an orthodontic device according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0069] Figure 3 is a schematic view of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0070] Figure 4 illustrates a Figure 3 processor of the system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0071] Figure 5 illustrates the functions of a processor according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0072] Figure 6 illustrates a method of manufacturing an orthodontic device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0073] Figure 7 illustrates another method of manufacturing an orthodontic device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0074] Figure 8 illustrates another method of manufacturing an orthodontic device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0075] Figure 9 shows an example of information output by a processor according to some embodiments, and particularly shows the aligner progress within 33 days; and

[0076] Figure 10 shows the raw pressure data obtained by a pressure sensor of an orthodontic device. Detailed Description

[0077] The present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0078] It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, although indicating exemplary embodiments of the apparatus, systems and methods, are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. These and other features, aspects and advantages of the apparatus, systems and methods of the present invention will become better understood from the following description, the appended claims and the drawings. It should be understood that the drawings are merely schematic and are not drawn to scale. It should also be understood that the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to indicate the same or similar parts.

[0079] The present invention provides an orthodontic device for changing or maintaining the position of a user's teeth. The orthodontic device is an orthodontic aligner and includes a mouthpiece body that includes a tooth receiving portion, a pressure sensing device, and a wireless communication and power transfer device. The wireless communication and power transfer device is coupled to the pressure sensing device to wirelessly supply power to the pressure sensing device. The pressure sensing device includes a pressure chamber containing a fluid (e.g., air) that is coupled to the tooth receiving portion. A pressure sensor is disposed inside the pressure chamber and is configured to generate an output pressure signal indicative of the pressure inside the pressure chamber. The wireless communication and power transfer device includes an antenna and is configured to supply power to the pressure sensor. The wireless communication and power transfer device is also configured to transfer readings output by the pressure sensor to an external device.

[0080] Figure 1A An orthodontic device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated and shows a left perspective view of the orthodontic device 1. Figure 1B is illustrated Figure 1A of the orthodontic device, but shows a right side view. The orthodontic device 1 is an aligner that includes a mouthpiece 2 having a base 3 and a tooth receiving portion 5 into which the user inserts their teeth when the orthodontic device 1 is worn. The tooth receiving portion 5 has two rear sections for receiving teeth (e.g., wisdom teeth, molars) towards the back of the user's mouth and a central section between the two rear sections for receiving teeth (e.g., front teeth) towards the front of the user's mouth.

[0081] A pressure chamber 7 is integrated into the base 3 and is disposed on the front side of the aligner; the pressure chamber 7 extends along the tooth receiving portion 5. The pressure chamber 7 is a housing that is integrally formed with the tooth receiving portion 5 and that contains a pressurized fluid (e.g., air). A first pressure sensor 9 for sensing the pressure in the pressure chamber 7 is disposed in a first pressure sensor housing (not shown) that is fluidly coupled to the pressure chamber housing. The first pressure sensor 9 is disposed near the left hand side rear section of the tooth receiving portion. A second pressure sensor 10 for sensing the pressure in the pressure chamber 7 is disposed in a second pressure sensor housing that is fluidly coupled to the housing and is disposed near the right hand side rear section of the tooth receiving portion. When the fluid inside the pressure chamber is air, the pressure sensor is an air pressure sensor. If the fluid inside the pressure chamber is a liquid, a suitable pressure sensor can be provided. The pressure sensors 9, 10 can be, for example, barometric pressure sensors. The barometric pressure sensor can have, for example, a resolution of + / - 0.01 hPa.

[0082] The pressure chamber 7 is mechanically coupled to the tooth receiving portion 5 such that when in use the user's teeth apply a force on the mouthpiece via the tooth receiving portion 5, stress in the structure of the mouthpiece is transmitted to the pressure chamber 7, causing the pressure chamber 7 to deform and change the pressure inside the pressure chamber 7. By monitoring the pressure in the pressure chamber 7 using the first pressure sensor 9, how the force applied to the aligner changes over time can be monitored. This can assist dental practitioners in monitoring and evaluating orthodontic treatment progress.

[0083] The wireless communication and power transfer device 11 including the first antenna 13 and the second antenna 15 is electrically coupled to the first pressure sensor 9 to supply power to the first pressure sensor 9. The first antenna 13 is disposed on the left rear side of the tooth receiving portion 5 near the first pressure sensor 9. The second antenna 15 is disposed on the right rear side of the tooth receiving portion 5 near the second pressure sensor 10.

[0084] The inventors have recognized that by integrating the pressure sensors 9, 10 connected to the pressure chamber into the orthodontic device, the orthodontic device can facilitate treatment progress monitoring in a convenient and cost-effective manner.

[0085] In particular, since the pressure sensors are arranged to sense the pressure associated with the pressure chamber containing the pressurized fluid, low-power pressure sensors can be used to detect the force applied to the orthodontic device with sufficient accuracy to monitor orthodontic treatment progress. Even small pressure changes associated with the pressurized environment can be detected by the low-power pressure sensors. The deformation of the pressure chamber causes the pressure sensors to detect relatively large pressure changes. The inventors have recognized that this effect can be utilized to monitor orthodontic treatment in a convenient and accurate manner. By providing a pressure chamber as part of the aligner structure and sensing the pressure in the pressure chamber, treatment progress can be tracked by tracking the pressure over time.

[0086] Furthermore, the amount of deformation of the pressure chamber required to produce a measurable change in the pressure reading is much less than the pressure applied to the aligner due to treatment. Thus, the pressure chamber 7 can be made of the same material as the tooth receiving portion and does not affect the treatment. For example, treatment can cause tooth movement in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm (and thus aligner deformation), while a deformation as little as 100 nm can produce a detectable pressure change.

[0087] In addition, the present inventors have recognized that using a low-power pressure sensor in the pressure chamber not only enables sufficiently accurate measurements for monitoring orthodontic treatment, but also conveniently facilitates the use of a wireless power supply. That is, since the measurements are made with a low-power pressure sensor and the progress in orthodontic treatment is typically slow (treatment is usually carried out over weeks or months), an aligner in which the pressure sensor is wirelessly powered can be used to monitor orthodontic treatment. In particular, since the treatment progress is slow, the treatment can be monitored by making spot measurements periodically (e.g., once a day or once a week). The low-power requirement of the pressure sensor for the required measurements means that appropriate measurements can be obtained while powering the pressure sensor with a small integrated coil / antenna. Thus, there is no need to incorporate a battery into the aligner (which could potentially compromise user safety).

[0088] The pressure sensor can be powered by a smart phone using NFC technology. A typical smart phone can generate very low power. However, the pressure sensor only needs to use power in the micro-watts (uW) for a very limited time. For example, the pressure sensor can use 1.65 V, where the current varies between 1 uA and 660 uA and the power-on time is 3 ms, with a maximum measurement time of 78 ms. Since the treatment progress is slow, only a few measurements are needed. The treatment can be monitored by making pressure readings initiated and powered by the smart phone several times a day, once a day, or even once a week.

[0089] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the wireless communication and power transfer device includes two antennas. The first antenna 13 and the second antenna 15 are arranged at corresponding rear sections of the tooth receiving portion 5. Similarly, the first pressure sensor 9 and the second pressure sensor 10 are arranged close to the corresponding rear sections of the tooth receiving portion 5. The positioning of the first antenna 13 and the second antenna 15 can facilitate convenient wireless power transfer. For example, it is convenient to use a smart phone to transfer power to the pressure sensors 9, 10 because when making / receiving a phone call, the user typically holds their smart phone next to their cheek (and thus close to the rear section of the tooth receiving portion where the antennas are located). By providing pressure sensors and corresponding antennas on each side of the orthodontic device, pressure measurements can be triggered from either side. This can be particularly convenient when using a smart phone to supply power to the orthodontic device.

[0090] Alternatively, since the aligner is customized, the user can choose the side on which to place the pressure sensor and the antenna. In such an embodiment where only a single pressure sensor and antenna are provided, the orthodontic device is relatively inexpensive because fewer electronic components are required.

[0091] In FIG. 1, the orthodontic device includes a single pressure chamber. The inventors have recognized that orthodontic treatment progress can be monitored without measuring the pressure associated with individual teeth. The pressure exerted on the aligner by the teeth treated by the aligner causes stress in the body of the aligner. The stress in different regions of the aligner is exerted on the pressure chamber such that the pressure inside the pressure chamber indicates the combined stress. Thus, it is not necessary to separately monitor the pressure associated with each tooth in order to evaluate treatment progress.

[0092] The orthodontic device 1 further includes a temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the local environment (e.g., inside the user's mouth when in use). The temperature sensor may be arranged such that it is close to or in contact with the user's teeth and / or gums when in use. The temperature sensor is configured to generate output temperature data, which can be monitored to gain further insight into treatment progress and / or potential treatment problems. For example, in the case where the output pressure data indicates an abnormal treatment progress, the temperature data can be used to assist the dental practitioner in identifying potential treatment problems (e.g., a 1°C increase in temperature may indicate that inflammation in the mouth is hindering the treatment).

[0093] In some embodiments, the temperature sensor is part of a pressure sensing device. That is, the pressure sensing device is configured to output synchronized pressure data and temperature data. The temperature data can be used to adjust the pressure measurement in order to improve accuracy. The same temperature data can be monitored to gain further insight into treatment progress and / or potential treatment problems.

[0094] Figure 2 Another embodiment of the orthodontic device is illustrated. In Figure 2 the embodiment, the orthodontic device 200 includes a plurality of separate pressure chambers: a first pressure chamber 201, a second pressure chamber 203, a third pressure chamber 205, and a fourth pressure chamber 207, which are fluidly isolated from each other. By providing a plurality of pressure chambers, the pressure corresponding to different regions of the user's mouth can be monitored. In some embodiments including a plurality of pressure chambers, each pressure chamber has a corresponding pressure sensor. Alternatively, as Figure 2 illustrated in Figure 2In the first configuration (shown in solid lines), the valve is configured to fluidly isolate the second pressure chamber 203 from the first pressure sensor housing 210 and permit fluid communication between the first pressure chamber 201 and the first pressure sensor housing 210, thereby allowing the pressure chamber to sense the pressure associated with the first pressure chamber. In the second configuration (illustrated by the dashed lines), the valve is configured to fluidly isolate the first pressure chamber 201 from the first pressure sensor housing 210 and permit fluid communication between the second pressure chamber 203 and the first pressure sensor housing 210, thereby allowing the pressure chamber to sense the pressure associated with the second pressure chamber. In both valve configurations, the first pressure chamber 201 and the second pressure chamber 203 are fluidly isolated from each other.

[0095] The third pressure chamber 205 and the fourth pressure chamber 207 can be coupled to a second pressure sensor housing (not shown) in the same manner using respective valve means. Alternatively, the third pressure chamber 205 and the fourth pressure chamber 207 can also be coupled to the first pressure sensor housing via valve means. In that case, the valve means is operable to allow each of the four pressure chambers to be individually fluidly connected to the first pressure sensor housing. That is, the valve means is operable to allow each pressure chamber to be fluidly connected to the first pressure sensor housing while the other three pressure chambers are fluidly isolated from the first pressure sensor housing.

[0096] Figure 3 Illustrated is a system 300 for monitoring an orthodontic treatment according to an embodiment of the present invention. The system includes an orthodontic device 301 and a remote power device 303. The remote power device includes a wireless communication and power transmission device, a display, and a processor.

[0097] In some embodiments, the remote power device 303 is a smart phone. The smart phone can have a software application installed for receiving, storing, and analyzing pressure data from the orthodontic device 301. Thus, a user can monitor the progress of the orthodontic treatment using the smart phone 303.

[0098] The smart phone 303 is configured to wirelessly supply power to the orthodontic device 301 using NFC technology. The smart phone 303 is also configured to wirelessly communicate with the orthodontic device using NFC technology. Thus, the smart phone 303 includes an NFC unit 304, which is configured to supply power to the orthodontic device 301 and receive information (e.g., pressure data) from the orthodontic device 301. The smart phone 303 further includes a processor 305 configured to process the information received from the orthodontic device.

[0099] In use, the user places the smart phone within the range of the orthodontic device 301 - i.e., the user brings the smart phone close to the antenna of the device - for example, by holding the smart phone against their cheek while wearing the orthodontic device. Placing the smart phone 303 within range triggers the smart phone to initiate wireless power transfer. Thus, the smart phone 303 wirelessly transfers power to the pressure sensing device via the antenna of the wireless communication and power transfer means.

[0100] This causes the pressure sensor to perform a pressure measurement and generate an output pressure signal indicative of the fluid pressure (e.g., air pressure) inside the pressure chamber. The smart phone 303 receives the output pressure signal from the orthodontic device 301 and stores the pressure data (e.g., in a local storage device or in the cloud). By repeating this process (e.g., daily, weekly), the user obtains time - pressure data, which can be analyzed to evaluate orthodontic treatment progress.

[0101] The system may further include an electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor. The processor may be configured to receive data from the ECG sensor and synchronize the ECG data with the aligner pressure data. For example, the system 300 may further include a personal device 307, the personal device 307 including an ECG sensor. For example, the personal device may be a wearable device such as a smart watch, which is configured to transfer the ECG data to the smart phone 303. The ECG data from the wearable device and the pressure data from the aligner can be combined to determine a pulse transit time - estimated blood pressure (e.g., based on the timing difference between the heartbeat represented in the pressure data and the heartbeat measured from the ECG data).

[0102] The time - pressure data obtained from the aligner can be used to evaluate treatment progress and identify potential treatment problems. At the start of treatment using the orthodontic device, the device applies a relatively large force to straighten the teeth. When this force is no longer present, it can be assumed that the aligner is no longer effectively straightening the teeth. This can indicate that it is time to replace the aligner. Additionally, during normal treatment, the pressure exerted by the user's teeth on the aligner should gradually decrease over time. If the pressure data does not gradually decrease over time, this can indicate a problem with the treatment (e.g., a problem regarding user compliance). The pressure data can be used in combination with other physiological data (e.g., oral temperature, blood pressure, heart rate) to help dental practitioners evaluate orthodontic treatment progress.

[0103] Figure 4 illustrates steps of a method that a processor 305 according to some embodiments is configured to perform. As Figure 3 the Figure 4As illustrated, the processor 305 can be configured to receive pressure data 401 within a first measurement period from a pressure sensing device. The processor receives 403 environmental data corresponding to the first measurement period and adjusts 405 the pressure data based on the environmental data. Based on the adjusted pressure data, the processor determines 408 a pressure value associated with the first measurement period. Then the processor outputs 410 time pressure information related to the pressure.

[0104] The information output by the processor can include information representing the pressure value associated with the first measurement period. For example, the processor can output a graph (each point measured corresponding to a different measurement period) representing time pressure value information. Figure 9 An example of a graph showing time pressure value information is illustrated.

[0105] Alternatively, the processor can be configured to determine 408 and output 410 a time pressure gradient based on the pressure value associated with the first measurement period and a previously obtained pressure value associated with a different measurement period. In this case, the processor calculates the pressure gradient based on the pressure value obtained from the pressure data obtained within a second measurement period earlier than the first measurement period and the pressure value associated with the first measurement period.

[0106] The time pressure information can indicate the change in pressure over a period of days / weeks and can be used to evaluate whether the pressure is stable, increasing, or decreasing over time. The time pressure information can help dental practitioners evaluate treatment progress. The processor can output the information representing the pressure gradient to a display (such as a display integrated in a remote power device).

[0107] As discussed above, in some embodiments, the processor is configured to receive time environmental data 403 corresponding to the same (one or more) time periods as the pressure data. In the compensation step 405, the processor adjusts the pressure data based on the environmental data to compensate for environmental factors that can affect the pressure measurement by the pressure sensor of the orthodontic device.

[0108] For example, in some embodiments, the orthodontic device can include a temperature sensor configured to sense local temperature (e.g., the temperature inside the user's mouth during use). Thus, the environmental data can include temperature data output by the temperature sensor that forms part of the pressure sensing device.

[0109] Alternatively / additionally, it may be desirable to compensate the pressure data to account for other environmental factors, such as changes in air pressure due to perturbations. For example, the processor may be configured to filter out contributions from external environmental sources (e.g., closing of doors, elevators, wind). Environmental compensation may also be performed to account for the effects of weather or altitude on the pressure measurement. Thus, the processor may be configured to compensate the pressure data to account for weather conditions / altitude. In cases where the pressure data is compensated based on changes in air pressure from weather or altitude, the environmental data may include location data, local weather information, air pressure data.

[0110] The system may further include a venting reference sensor (e.g., an air pressure sensor included in a smart phone), which is configured to generate reference data indicative of the ambient air pressure at the time of measurement.

[0111] In addition, the processor may be configured to determine the heart rate and / or respiratory rate based on the output pressure data. Since the orthodontic device is worn inside the user's mouth, close to the user's gums, it is also positioned close to the user's blood vessels. Thus, blood pressure changes associated with the heart rhythm can be detected by the pressure sensor. The pressure data obtained by the pressure sensor can be analyzed to extract the user's heart rate.

[0112] During orthodontic treatment, compared to the pressure exerted by the teeth on the orthodontic device, the pressure changes associated with blood pumping through the user's blood vessels are relatively small according to the user's heart rate. However, if pressure readings are provided at a high enough frequency (e.g., at least 15 Hz) and for a long enough period (e.g., 30 s), the user's heart rate can be detected. The pumping of blood through the blood vessels in the user's mouth will appear as small, repetitive changes in the measured pressure of the pressure chamber. The pressure data output by the pressure sensor can be used to obtain heart rate information, which can be provided to the user / dental practitioner. Thus, the processor may be configured to receive pressure data from the pressure sensor, analyze the pressure data to extract heart rate information, and output the heart rate information.

[0113] Figure 10 Illustrated is the raw pressure data obtained at a sampling rate of 100 Hz over a 30 - second measurement period. This data can be used to detect the user's heart rate: the data includes distinct peaks corresponding to heartbeats. In some embodiments, the processor 305 is configured to receive the raw pressure data and execute an algorithm for extracting the user's heart rate from this data.

[0114] Figure 5 Illustrated is a method of using an orthodontic device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the method including steps that illustrate the functionality of a processor (e.g., Figure 3 processor 305) according to one or more embodiments of the present invention.

[0115] When the remote device is within the range of the wireless communication and power transfer device, pressure measurement is triggered. Wireless power transfer from the remote device to the pressure sensor and temperature sensor of the orthodontic device enables the pressure sensor to perform pressure measurement and temperature measurement.

[0116] During a measurement time interval (e.g., 30 seconds), the pressure and temperature are monitored at a frequency of, for example, 100 Hz.

[0117] The raw pressure data and raw temperature data are sent 502 to a processor, which is configured to adjust the raw pressure data based on the corresponding temperature data.

[0118] The processor calculates 503 the adjusted pressure data based on the raw pressure data and temperature data. In addition, the processor receives 504 environmental compensation data and further adjusts 505 the pressure data to compensate for environmental fluctuations (e.g., weather changes).

[0119] Based on the adjusted pressure data, the processor determines 506 treatment progress information, such as a pressure gradient determined over a time period indicating treatment progress.

[0120] In addition, the processor determines 507 heart rate information based on the raw pressure data obtained during the measurement period. For example, based on 30 seconds of pressure samples (measured at 100 Hz), the processor filters the raw pressure data to obtain a frequency associated with the user's heart rate.

[0121] The processor outputs 508 data to assist the dental practitioner in evaluating treatment progress. For example, the processor may output: raw pressure and temperature readings, pressure gradient during treatment time, temperature of the pressure chamber during measurement, and / or heart rate information.

[0122] Figure 6Illustrated is a method 600 of manufacturing an orthodontic device. The orthodontic device is customized for a user. Thus, in order to manufacture the device, information about the user's teeth (e.g., a 3D scan) must first be obtained. Then, based on the 3D scan, a mold 601 for the orthodontic device is generated, which includes a mold portion corresponding to the mouthpiece body (including the tooth receiving portion) of the orthodontic device and a mold portion corresponding to the pressure chamber of the orthodontic device. In a molding step 602, the orthodontic device is produced - including the tooth receiving portion and the pressure chamber coupled to the tooth receiving portion. The present inventors have recognized that the same molding techniques commonly used to manufacture orthodontic aligners can be used to incorporate one or more pressure chambers. Thus, no special techniques are required. A pressure sensor is arranged to sense the pressure in the pressure chamber. In addition, a first antenna for wirelessly receiving power is coupled 603 to the mouthpiece body. Preferably, the first antenna is coupled to a rear portion of the tooth receiving portion such that in use the first antenna is located at the rear of the user's mouth, adjacent to the user's cheek.

[0123] Using this method, the mouthpiece body and the pressure chamber can be integrally molded using the same material. This can help ensure that the device is cost-effective and convenient to manufacture. The mouthpiece body and the pressure chamber should be formed of a material that does not deform during disposal in order to ensure that it provides effective treatment.

[0124] The pressure in the pressure chamber can be customized to ensure that during use, the pressure in the chamber during treatment is within the measurable range of the pressure sensor. In particular, the pressure inside the pressure chamber can be controlled such that when the user inserts the orthodontic device, the pressure inside the pressure chamber is less than the maximum pressure that the pressure sensor can sense and greater than the minimum pressure that the pressure sensor can sense.

[0125] Generally, the first antenna can be formed by overmolding, laser printing, or any alternative means of forming an antenna. The antenna can be attached to the mouthpiece body in a separate step.

[0126] Figure 7 Illustrated is another method 700 of manufacturing an orthodontic device. Method 700 includes generating 701 a mold for an orthodontic device customized for a user. Once the mold for the orthodontic device has been generated, device electronics including a pressure sensor are placed 702 in the mold. In a molding step 703, a molded mouthpiece body is formed. In another step, a first antenna is formed by printing 704 a coil onto the molded mouthpiece body.

[0127] Figure 8Illustrated is another method of forming an orthodontic device, where an antenna is overmolded. Method 800 includes generating 801 a mold for an orthodontic device customized for a user. In an initial molding step 802, a molded mouthpiece body is formed. Device electronics including a pressure sensor are placed 803 inside the molded mouthpiece body. Then, an antenna is added 804 by printing the antenna on the mouthpiece body or by positioning the antenna in a suitable location on the mouthpiece body. In a subsequent overmolding step 804, an aligner and the device electronics are molded to the mouthpiece body.

[0128] By studying the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art can understand and realize variations of the disclosed embodiments when practicing the claimed invention. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the words "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality.

[0129] In particular, the wireless communication and power transfer device can be configured to transfer power by alternative means of NFC. For example, other methods of RF wireless power transfer or inductive power transfer (e.g., Qi).

[0130] The orthodontic device can include a single pressure sensor and a single antenna, or it can include multiple pressure sensors and multiple antennas. In the case where the orthodontic device includes a single pressure sensor and a single antenna, they can be arranged on the right or left side of the orthodontic device (e.g., in Figure 1A and Figure 1B only one of the two positions illustrated in).

[0131] (One or more) pressure chambers can be located anywhere on the orthodontic device as long as it / they are mechanically coupled to the tooth receiving portion in such a way that the stress in the structure of the orthodontic device generated by the force applied by the user's teeth on the device is transmitted to the (one or more) pressure chambers. In particular, the pressure chambers are not necessarily arranged on the front side of the aligner. It can alternatively be arranged on the rear side, or at the top of the tooth receiving portion, or inside the opening portion of the aligner for receiving the user's teeth.

[0132] The pressure chamber can be directly connected to the tooth receiving portion or indirectly connected to the tooth receiving portion.

[0133] The orthodontic device can include a single antenna or multiple antennas.

[0134] The orthodontic device can include a single pressure chamber among multiple separate pressure chambers. Figure 2 An aligner including multiple pressure chambers is shown. In Figure 2Four pressure chambers are illustrated. However, it will be appreciated that a different number of pressure chambers may be provided. That is, the aligner may include two or more pressure chambers.

[0135] The pressure chambers and the tooth receiving portions may be of the same material or different materials.

[0136] The remote power device includes wireless communication and power transfer means. Optionally, it may also include a display and a processor. The remote power device is not necessarily a smart phone. Instead, it may be a personal computing device, such as a wearable personal computing device.

[0137] It will be appreciated that the orthodontic device may be manufactured by alternative methods to the above methods.

[0138] The functions implemented by the processor may be implemented by a single processor or by multiple separate processing units, which may together be considered to constitute a "processor". Such processing units may in some cases be remote from each other and communicate with each other in a wired or wireless manner.

[0139] The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously.

[0140] If the term "adapted to" is used in the claims or the specification, it should be noted that the term "adapted to" is intended to be equivalent to the term "configured to". If the term "arrangement" is used in the claims or the specification, it should be noted that the term "arrangement" is intended to be equivalent to the term "system", and vice versa.

[0141] Any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. An orthodontic device for changing or maintaining the position of a user's teeth, the orthodontic device comprising: a mouthpiece body, the mouthpiece body comprising: a tooth receiving portion; a pressure sensing device, which includes a pressure chamber and a pressure sensor, the pressure chamber containing a fluid and being coupled to the tooth receiving portion, the pressure sensor being configured to generate an output pressure signal indicative of the fluid pressure inside the pressure chamber; and a wireless communication and power transfer device, which includes an antenna, the wireless communication and power transfer device being configured to: wirelessly supply power to the pressure sensor; and wirelessly transmit the output pressure signal from the pressure sensing device.

2. The orthodontic device according to claim 1, wherein the pressure sensing device includes a pressure sensor and a single pressure chamber, the pressure sensor being arranged to measure the pressure associated with the pressure chamber.

3. The orthodontic device according to claim 1, wherein the pressure sensing device includes a first pressure chamber and a second pressure chamber, each of the first pressure chamber and the second pressure chamber being fluidly coupled to a pressure sensor housing, and at least one valve being operable to fluidly couple the pressure sensor to the first pressure chamber or the second pressure chamber.

4. The orthodontic device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tooth receiving portion includes a front section for receiving the teeth in the front of the user's mouth, a first rear section for receiving the teeth in the first rear side of the user's mouth, and a second rear section for receiving the teeth in the second rear side of the user's mouth, and wherein both the pressure sensor and the antenna are arranged in the first rear section or the second rear section of the tooth receiving portion.

5. The orthodontic device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tooth receiving portion and the pressure chamber are formed of the same material.

6. The orthodontic device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one or more of the pressure chambers are integrally formed with the tooth receiving portion.

7. The orthodontic device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pressure sensing device further includes a temperature sensor for monitoring the temperature inside the user's mouth, wherein the pressure sensing device is configured to: obtain a pressure reading from the pressure sensor; obtain a temperature reading from the temperature sensor; adjust the pressure reading based on the temperature reading to obtain an adjusted pressure reading; and output the adjusted pressure reading and the temperature reading.

8. The orthodontic device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the wireless communication and power transfer device is configured to receive power via inductive coupling, and preferably wherein the wireless communication and power transfer device is a near field communication (NFC) wireless communication and power transfer device.

9. A system for tracking the progress of an orthodontic treatment, the system comprising: an orthodontic device according to any one of claims 1 to 8; and a remote power device, the remote power device being configured to: Wirelessly transmit power to the orthodontic device via the wireless communication and power transfer device to trigger the pressure sensor to perform a pressure measurement; and Receive the output pressure signal from the pressure sensor.

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein the remote power device includes a processor configured to:[[]] Determine pressure data associated with the first measurement period based on the output pressure signal corresponding to the first measurement period; Determine pressure data for the second measurement period based on the output pressure signal corresponding to the second measurement period; And Determine a pressure gradient based on the pressure data for the first measurement period and the pressure data for the second measurement period.

11. The system according to claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the processor is configured to:[[]] Receive environmental data corresponding to the first measurement period and / or the second measurement period; and Adjust the pressure data based on the environmental data corresponding to the same measurement period as the pressure data.

12. The system according to claim 10, wherein the remote power device is configured to receive pressure data from the orthodontic device and process the pressure data to obtain heart rate information.

13. The system according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the remote power device is configured to initiate a readout by transmitting power to the orthodontic device via the wireless communication and power transfer device, and the orthodontic device is configured to sense pressure via the pressure sensing device in response to receiving power via the wireless communication and power transfer device and output a signal indicating the sensed pressure to the remote power device.

14. The system according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the remote power device is a mobile phone.

15. A method of manufacturing an orthodontic device according to any one of claims 1 to 8,[[]] Comprising:[[]] Generate a mold based on a representation of the user's teeth, the pressure sensing device including a pressure chamber; Use the mold to form the orthodontic device, the mouthpiece body and the pressure chamber being integrated in the orthodontic device; Couple a pressure sensor to the pressure chamber; And Couple a first antenna to the mouthpiece body.

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