Orthodontic treatment system, orthodontic appliance and orthodontic fixing member

Abstract

Disclosed herein is an orthodontic treatment system comprising: an appliance comprising: an anchor configured to be positioned proximate a tooth of a patient; and an arm extending away from and coupled to the anchor, the arm including a first end portion at the anchor and a second end portion remote from the first end portion, the first end portion and the second end portion defining a longitudinal axis therebetween, the second end portion includes a first region, a second region protruding from the first region, and a third region extending from the second region toward the anchor, the second end portion including an opening; and a fixation member including a base configured to be coupled to a patient's tooth and a coupling protrusion including a coupling portion spaced apart from the base. The present disclosure also relates to an orthodontic appliance and an orthodontic fixation member.

Description

[0001] This invention is a divisional application of the invention application with the filing date of May 2, 2020; the application number of 2020800490061; and the invention name of Orthodontic Appliance.

[0002] Related Applications

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 842,391, filed May 2, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 956,290, filed January 1, 2020, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0004] This application is also related to the following applications, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety: U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 865,323, filed May 2, 2020, titled Dental Appliances, Systems, and Methods; International Patent Application No. PCT / US20 / 31211, filed May 2, 2020, titled Dental Appliances, Systems, and Methods; U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 929,443, filed May 2, 2020, titled Dental Appliances and Related Systems and Methods of Use; U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 929,444, filed May 2, 2020, titled Dental Appliances and Related Systems and Methods of Use; U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 929,442, filed May 2, 2020, titled Dental Appliances and Related Manufacturing Methods; International Application No. PCT / US20 / 70016, filed May 2, 2020, titled Dental Appliances and Related Manufacturing Methods. Technical Field

[0005] The present technology relates to the field of orthodontics, and more particularly, to devices, systems, and methods for attaching orthodontic appliances to a patient's teeth. Background Art

[0006] A common goal of orthodontics is to move a patient's teeth to a position where they function optimally and are aesthetically pleasing. To move the teeth, an orthodontist first obtains multiple scans and / or impressions of the patient's teeth to determine a series of correction paths between the initial position and the desired final position of the teeth. The orthodontist then has the patient wear one of two main types of corrective appliances: braces or aligners.

[0007] Traditional braces consist of brackets and an archwire that is disposed across the front of the teeth, with the archwire secured to the brackets using elastic ties or ligature wires. In some cases, self-ligating brackets may be used instead of ties or wires. The shape and stiffness of the archwire, as well as the interaction between the archwire and the brackets, determine the forces applied to the teeth and thus the direction and extent of tooth movement. To apply the desired forces to the teeth, orthodontists often manually bend the archwire. Orthodontists monitor the patient's treatment progress through regular office visits, during which the orthodontist visually assesses the treatment progress and manually adjusts the archwire (such as making new bends) and / or replaces or repositions the brackets. The adjustment process is time-consuming and tedious for the patient and often causes discomfort to the patient for several days after the office visit. In addition, braces are not aesthetically pleasing and make it difficult to brush, floss, and perform other dental hygiene procedures.

[0008] Aligners include a transparent, removable polymeric shell having cavities for receiving and repositioning teeth to produce a final tooth alignment. Aligners, known as "invisible braces," provide a significant aesthetic advantage over braces for patients. Aligners do not require an orthodontist to bend wires or reposition brackets and are generally more comfortable than braces. However, unlike braces, aligners cannot effectively treat all malocclusions. It may be difficult or impossible to achieve certain tooth repositioning steps (such as extrusion, translation, and certain rotations) using aligners. In addition, since aligners are removable, the success of treatment depends largely on patient compliance, which can be unpredictable and inconsistent.

[0009] Lingual braces are an alternative to aligners and traditional (buccal) braces and have become increasingly popular in recent years. Two examples of existing lingual braces are the Incognito TM Orthodontic System (3M, USA) and (Swift Health Systems, Inc., Irvine, California, USA), each of which includes brackets and an archwire that is placed on the lingual or tongue side of the teeth. Compared to traditional braces, lingual braces are nearly invisible, and, unlike aligners, lingual braces are fixed to the patient's teeth and enforce patient compliance. However, these existing lingual techniques also have some drawbacks. Most notably, traditional lingual orthodontics still rely on a bracket-archwire system to move teeth and thus require multiple office visits and painful adjustments. For example, lingual techniques have a relatively short interbracket spacing, which generally makes the archwire stiffer in flexibility. As a result, the entire lingual aligner is more sensitive to archwire adjustments, causing more pain to the patient. In addition, the lingual side of the orthodontic appliance irritates the tongue, affects speech, and makes the orthodontic appliance difficult to clean.

[0010] Therefore, there is a need to improve orthodontic appliances. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The subject technology will be described in accordance with the various aspects described below, including reference Figure 1A-134 , by way of example. For convenience, examples of the various aspects of the subject technology are described as numbered items (1, 2, 3, etc.). These are provided as examples and do not limit the subject technology.

[0012] 1. An appliance for mounting on a patient's teeth, the appliance comprising:

[0013] At least one first rigid segment having a length dimension and at least one second rigid segment having a length dimension, wherein each of the first and second rigid segments is configured to extend along two or more adjacent teeth in the patient's jaw when the appliance is mounted;

[0014] At least one arm extending from the at least one first rigid segment;

[0015] At least one loop or curved feature formed along the length dimension of the second segment; and

[0016] A plurality of bracket connectors, each bracket connector being configured to selectively connect to a bracket that can be fixed to a respective one of the patient's teeth, the plurality of bracket connectors including at least one first bracket connector on at least one arm and at least one second bracket connector on at least one second rigid segment.

[0017] 2. The appliance according to item 1, wherein, when the appliance is mounted, the first and second rigid segments are configured to extend along the same two or more adjacent teeth in the patient's jaw.

[0018] 3. The appliance according to item 1, wherein, when the appliance is mounted, at least one first rigid segment is configured to extend along two or more adjacent tooth groups in the patient's jaw that are different from the teeth along which at least one second rigid segment is configured to extend.

[0019] 4. The appliance according to item 1, wherein at least a portion of the first segment includes an arcuate member having an arcuate or partially arcuate shape and configured to extend along two or more adjacent teeth in the patient's jaw.

[0020] 5. The aligner according to item 4, wherein the at least one arm includes a first arm extending from a first rigid segment to a first first bracket connector and a second arm extending from the first rigid segment to a second first bracket connector, and wherein the at least one second rigid segment extends from the first first bracket connector to the second first bracket connector.

[0021] 6. The aligner according to item 5, wherein the at least one second bracket connector includes a plurality of second bracket connectors along the at least one second rigid segment, located between the first first bracket connector and the second first bracket connector.

[0022] 7. The aligner according to item 6, wherein the at least one first bracket connector includes one or more additional bracket connectors located on the at least one first rigid segment.

[0023] 8. The aligner according to item 4, wherein each of the first arm and the second arm includes a spring member.

[0024] 9. The aligner according to item 4, wherein the at least one second rigid segment has a length dimension extending from one end of the arcuate member of the first rigid segment.

[0025] 10. The aligner according to item 9, wherein the at least one arm extending from the at least one first rigid segment includes a plurality of arms, the at least one first bracket connector includes a plurality of first bracket connectors located on the plurality of arms, and the at least one second bracket connector includes a plurality of bracket connectors along the length dimension of the second rigid segment.

[0026] 11. The aligner according to item 9, wherein the at least one second rigid segment has a length dimension extending from a second end of the arcuate member of the first rigid segment.

[0027] 12. The aligner according to item 11, wherein the at least one arm extending from the at least one first rigid segment includes a plurality of arms, the at least one first bracket connector includes a plurality of first bracket connectors located on the plurality of arms, and the at least one second bracket connector includes a plurality of bracket connectors along the length dimension of each second rigid segment.

[0028] 13. The aligner according to item 1, wherein the at least one arm includes a first arm extending from a first rigid segment to a first first bracket connector and a second arm extending from the first rigid segment to a second first bracket connector, and wherein the at least one second rigid segment extends from the first first bracket connector to the second first bracket connector.

[0029] 14. The aligner according to item 13, wherein the at least one arm includes at least one additional arm positioned between the first arm and the second arm along the length of the first rigid segment, each additional arm extending from the first rigid segment to a respective other first bracket connector located between the first first bracket connector and the second second bracket connector.

[0030] 15. The aligner according to item 1, wherein at least a portion of the second rigid segment includes an arcuate member having an arcuate or partially arcuate shape and configured to extend along two or more adjacent teeth in a patient's jaw.

[0031] 16. The aligner according to item 1, wherein the aligner is formed from a single piece of material as a single integral structure.

[0032] 17. An aligner for mounting on a patient's teeth, the aligner comprising:

[0033] At least one first rigid segment having a length dimension and at least one second rigid segment having a length dimension, wherein at least one of the first rigid segment and the second rigid segment is configured to extend along two or more adjacent teeth in a patient's jaw when the aligner is mounted;

[0034] At least one arm extending from the at least one first rigid segment;

[0035] At least one annular or curved feature formed along the length dimension of the second rigid segment; and

[0036] A plurality of bracket connectors, each bracket connector being configured to selectively connect to a bracket that can be fixed to a respective one of the patient's teeth, the bracket connectors being provided along the length dimension of the second rigid segment, the plurality of bracket connectors including at least one bracket connector connected to the at least one arm extending from the at least one first rigid segment.

[0037] 18. The aligner according to item 17, wherein the at least one arm includes a spring member located between the at least one first rigid segment and the bracket connector to which the at least one arm is connected.

[0038] 19. The aligner according to item 17, wherein two or more bracket connectors are connected to two or more arms extending from the at least one first rigid segment.

[0039] 20. The aligner according to item 18, wherein each of the two or more arms includes a spring member located between the at least one first rigid segment and the bracket connector to which the arm is connected.

[0040] 21. An orthodontic aligner, comprising:

[0041] An anchor configured to be located near a patient's tooth; and

[0042] An arm extending away from and coupled to the anchor, the arm including a first end portion at the anchor and a second end portion configured to be coupled to a fixation member that adheres to the patient's tooth, wherein the second end portion includes a first region and a second region extending at an angle from the first region, the first region being farther from the anchor than the second region,

[0043] wherein, when the aligner is located near the patient's tooth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixation member, (a) the second region extends in a generally mesial-distal direction and abuts a coupling arm of the fixation member, and (b) the first region abuts a portion of the coupling arm, thereby inhibiting rotation of the second end portion relative to the fixation member.

[0044] 22. The aligner according to item 1, wherein, when the aligner is positioned near the patient's tooth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixation member, the first region extends in a generally occlusal-gingival direction.

[0045] 23. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein, when the aligner is positioned near the patient's tooth, the second region extends in a generally mesial-distal direction under a coupling arm of the fixation member.

[0046] 24. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein, when the aligner is positioned near the patient's tooth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixation member, the first region prevents translation of the second end portion relative to the fixation member.

[0047] 25. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein:

[0048] The second end portion further includes a third region that is closer to the anchor than the second region, a portion of the coupling arm is a first portion of the coupling arm, and

[0049] when the aligner is located near the patient's tooth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixation member, the third region extends in a generally occlusal-gingival direction and abuts a second portion of the coupling arm that is closer to the patient's gingiva than the second region of the second end portion.

[0050] 26. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein:

[0051] The coupling arm is a first coupling arm, and the fixation member further includes a second coupling arm,

[0052] The first region has a first side and a second side, and

[0053] When the aligner is positioned near the patient's teeth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixation member, a first side of the first region abuts the first coupling arm, and a second side of the first region abuts the second coupling arm such that the first region resists mesial and distal rotation and / or translation relative to the fixation member.

[0054] 27. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein:

[0055] The second end portion of the arm further includes a third region that is closer to the anchor than the second region.

[0056] The coupling arm is the first coupling arm, and the fixation member further includes a second coupling arm, and

[0057] When the aligner is positioned near the patient's teeth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixation member, the third region abuts a region of each of the first and second coupling arms that is closer to the patient's tooth root than a region of each of the first and second coupling arms extending throughout the second region of the second end portion.

[0058] 28. The aligner according to entry 26 or entry 27, wherein when the aligner is positioned near the patient's teeth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixation member, the second region extends beneath the first and second coupling arms in a generally mesiodistal direction.

[0059] 29. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein:

[0060] A portion of the coupling arm is a first portion of the coupling arm.

[0061] The second end portion further includes a third region extending from the second region toward the anchor, the third region having first and second legs, and

[0062] When the aligner is positioned near the patient's teeth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixation member, one or both of the first and second legs of the third region abut a second portion of the coupling arm that is closer to the patient's tooth root than the first portion.

[0063] 30. The aligner according to entry 29, further including a fourth region extending between the first and second legs, wherein the first and second legs, the second region, and the fourth region together define an opening.

[0064] 31. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein:

[0065] The second end portion further includes a third region extending from the second region, the third region being farther from the anchor than the second region, and

[0066] When the aligner is positioned near the patient's teeth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixing member, the first region is near the first side of the connecting arm, and the third region is near the opposite second side of the connecting arm.

[0067] 32. The aligner according to item 31, wherein each of the first and third regions extends at an angle greater than 90° relative to the second region.

[0068] 33. The aligner according to item 31, further comprising a fourth region extending between the first and third regions, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth regions together define an opening.

[0069] 34. The aligner according to item 33, wherein:

[0070] A part of the connecting arm is the first part of the connecting arm,

[0071] The aligner further comprises a fifth region extending from the second region towards the anchor, and the fifth region has first and second legs,

[0072] When the aligner is positioned near the patient's teeth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixing member, one or both of the first and second legs of the fifth region are adjacent to the second part of the connecting arm, and the second part is closer to the patient's tooth root than the first part.

[0073] 35. The aligner according to item 34, wherein:

[0074] The opening is the first opening,

[0075] The aligner further comprises a sixth region extending between the first and second legs of the fifth region, and

[0076] The second, fifth, and sixth regions together define a second opening.

[0077] 36. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the anchor is configured to be located near the lingual side of the patient's tooth.

[0078] 37. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the anchor is configured to be located near the buccal side of the patient's tooth.

[0079] 38. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the arm is one of a plurality of arms, and each of the plurality of arms has a corresponding second end portion having first and second regions.

[0080] 39. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the anchor and the arm are formed of a single unitary member.

[0081] 40. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the anchor and the arm are integral with each other.

[0082] 41. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the anchor and the arm comprise a continuous surface.

[0083] 42. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the angle is between 70° and 110°.

[0084] 43. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the anchor is arcuate.

[0085] 44. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the anchor and the arm are made of a superelastic material.

[0086] 45. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the arm comprises a biasing region located between a first and a second end portion, wherein the biasing region is configured to provide a rotational force and / or a longitudinal force to at least one tooth of a patient when the second end portion is fixed to a fixing member.

[0087] 46. The aligner according to entry 45, wherein the biasing region comprises a serpentine shape.

[0088] 47. The aligner according to entry 45, wherein the biasing region comprises a first portion having a first inflection point and a second portion having a second inflection point, the second portion being farther from the anchor than the first portion.

[0089] 48. The aligner according to entry 45, wherein the biasing region comprises a first concave region facing a first direction and a second concave region facing a second direction different from the first direction, the first concave region being farther from the anchor than the second concave region.

[0090] 49. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the fixing member is a lingual bracket.

[0091] 50. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein at least one of the anchor, the arm or the fixing member comprises nitinol, stainless steel, beta-titanium, cobalt chrome, other metal alloys, polymers, ceramics, and / or combinations thereof.

[0092] 51. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the connecting arm of the fixing member is bent at a second region of the second end portion.

[0093] 52. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the connecting arm of the fixing member is plastically deformed on a second region of the second end portion.

[0094] 53. An orthodontic aligner comprising:

[0095] An anchor configured to be positioned near a patient's tooth; and

[0096] An arm extending away from the anchor, the arm including a first end portion at the anchor and a second end portion configured to be coupled to a fixing member adhered to the patient's tooth, wherein the second end portion includes an extension and first and second shoulder regions adjacent to the extension;

[0097] Wherein, when the aligner is positioned near the patient's tooth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixing member, (a) the extension extends in a generally mesiodistal direction and abuts a coupling means of the fixing member, and (b) the first and second shoulder regions respectively abut the mesial side and the distal side of the coupling means, thereby inhibiting rotation and / or translation of the second end portion relative to the fixing member.

[0098] 54. The aligner according to entry 53, wherein, when the aligner is positioned near the patient's tooth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixing member, the first region extends in a generally occlusogingival direction.

[0099] 55. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the anchor is configured to be positioned on the lingual side of the patient's tooth.

[0100] 56. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the anchor is configured to be positioned on the buccal side of the patient's tooth.

[0101] 57. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the arm is one of a plurality of arms, each of the plurality of arms having a respective second end portion with respective first and second shoulder regions.

[0102] 58. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the anchor and the arm are formed of a single integral member.

[0103] 59. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the anchor and the arm are integral with each other.

[0104] 60. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the anchor and the arm include a continuous surface.

[0105] 61. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the anchor is arcuate.

[0106] 62. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the anchor and the arm are formed of a superelastic material.

[0107] 63. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein at least one of the anchor, the arm, or the fixing member comprises nitinol, stainless steel, beta-titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy, other metal alloys, polymers, ceramics, and / or combinations thereof.

[0108] 64. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the arm comprises a biasing region between the first and second end portions, and the biasing region is configured to provide a rotational force and / or a longitudinal force to at least one tooth of the patient when the distal portion is fixed to the fixing member.

[0109] 65. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the fixing member is a lingual bracket.

[0110] 66. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the connecting arm of the fixing member is bent on the second region of the distal portion.

[0111] 67. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the connecting arm of the fixing member is plastically deformed on the second region of the distal portion.

[0112] 68. An orthodontic system, comprising:

[0113] an anchor configured to be implanted near a patient's tooth;

[0114] a plurality of arms connected to the anchor and spaced apart from each other, the plurality of arms including a first arm, the first arm including (i) an end portion; (ii) a first member located at the end portion and extending in a first direction; and (iii) a second member located at the end portion and extending from the first member in a second direction at an angle relative to the first member, the first member being farther from the anchor than the second member; and

[0115] a plurality of fixing members configured to be disposed on a patient's tooth, the plurality of fixing members including a first fixing member, the first fixing member including a connecting arm configured to fix the end portion of the first arm to the first fixing member such that rotation and / or translation of the end portion relative to the first fixing member is inhibited by the connecting arm.

[0116] 69. The system according to entry 66, wherein when the first arm is connected to the first fixing member, the first arm is generally oriented in the occlusogingival direction such that the end portion of the first arm is juxtaposed with the lingual surface of at least one patient tooth.

[0117] 70. The system according to any entry herein, wherein the connecting arm is configured to be disposed on the second member and fix the first arm to the first fixing member therein.

[0118] 71. The system according to any entry herein, wherein the first fixing member includes a base, the base is attached to the connecting arm, and is configured to be fixed to the lingual side of a tooth of a patient.

[0119] 72. The system according to entry 71, wherein a part of the connecting arm includes a curved surface, and at least a part of the curved surface is separated from the base.

[0120] 73. The system according to any entry herein, wherein the connecting arm is a first connecting arm, the system further includes a second connecting arm, and when the first arm is connected to the first fixing member, the first connecting arm is separated from the second connecting arm by a base area at the end portion of the first arm.

[0121] 74. The system according to entry 73, wherein the first connecting arm abuts against the first side of the first member, and the second connecting arm abuts against the second side of the first member, and the first side is opposite to the second side.

[0122] 75. The system according to any entry herein, wherein the first arm includes a frame portion, the frame portion defines an opening and includes a second member, and when the first arm is connected to the first fixing member, a part of the connecting arm is disposed within the opening.

[0123] 76. The system according to any entry herein, wherein the angle is in the range of 70° to 110°.

[0124] 77. An orthodontic system, comprising:

[0125] An anchor, which is configured to be disposed near a patient's tooth;

[0126] An arm, which is connected to the anchor and extends from the anchor, and the arm includes:

[0127] A biasing portion, and

[0128] An attachment portion, which extends from the biasing portion, and the attachment portion includes (i) a first member extending in a first direction and (ii) a second member extending in a second direction at an angle relative to the first member; and

[0129] A fixing member, which is configured to be attached to a patient's tooth, and the fixing member includes a connecting arm, and the connecting arm is configured to fix the attachment portion to the fixing member, so that rotation and / or translation of the attachment portion relative to the fixing member is inhibited.

[0130] 78. The system according to entry 77, wherein the first member is farther from the anchor than the second member.

[0131] 79. The system according to any entry herein, wherein the anchor includes an arch and is configured to be disposed on the lingual side of a patient's tooth.

[0132] 80. The system according to any entry herein, wherein at least one of the anchor, the arm, or the fixing member includes nitinol, stainless steel, beta-titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy, other metal alloys, polymers, ceramics, and / or combinations thereof.

[0133] 81. The system according to any entry herein, wherein the first direction is substantially orthogonal to the second direction.

[0134] 82. The system according to any entry herein, wherein the coupling arm is attached to the base of the fixing member and includes a coupling portion, and wherein the coupling portion is disposed on the second member of the attachment portion to fix the attachment portion to the fixing member when the attachment portion is coupled to the fixing member.

[0135] 83. The system according to any entry herein, wherein the arm includes a frame portion that defines an opening and includes a second member, and wherein a portion of the coupling arm is disposed within the opening when the attachment portion is fixed to the fixing member.

[0136] 84. The system according to any entry herein, wherein the first member of the attachment portion is juxtaposed or adjacent to the coupling arm when the attachment portion is coupled to the fixing member.

[0137] 85. The system according to any entry herein, wherein the arm includes a third member extending in the second direction, the third member being farther from the anchor than the second member, and wherein the third member abuts the end portion of the coupling arm when the attachment portion is fixed to the fixing member.

[0138] 86. The system according to any entry herein, wherein the arm includes a third member extending in the first direction, the third member being farther from the anchor than the second member, wherein the second member extends from the first member to the third member, and wherein the coupling arm is located between the first member and the third member when the attachment portion is fixed to the fixing member.

[0139] 87. The system according to entry 86, wherein the arm includes a fourth member extending from the first member to the third member, the fourth member being farther from the anchor than the second member, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth members together define an opening, and wherein a portion of the coupling arm is disposed within the opening when the attachment portion is fixed to the fixing member.

[0140] 88. A method of attaching an orthodontic appliance to a patient's tooth, the method comprising:

[0141] Providing an orthodontic appliance, the orthodontic appliance including:

[0142] Anchorage; and

[0143] An arm extending from and coupled to the anchorage, the arm including a first end portion at the anchorage and a second end portion further from the anchorage than the first end portion, wherein the second end portion includes a first region and a second region extending at an angle to the first region, the first region being further from the anchorage than the second region;

[0144] Coupling a fixing member to a patient's tooth; and

[0145] Coupling an aligner to the fixing member so as to inhibit rotation and / or translation of the second end portion relative to the fixing member.

[0146] 89. The method according to item 88, wherein the fixing member includes a coupling arm, and wherein coupling the aligner to the fixing member includes:

[0147] Positioning the second end portion of the aligner in juxtaposition with the fixing member such that the second region of the second end portion extends beneath the coupling arm of the fixing member in a generally mesiodistal direction.

[0148] 90. The method according to item 89, wherein coupling the aligner to the fixing member further includes:

[0149] Prior to positioning the second end portion, temporarily moving a portion of the coupling arm to an open position so as to position the second region beneath the coupling arm.

[0150] 91. The method according to any item herein, wherein:

[0151] The second end portion of the arm includes a base region extending from the second region of the second end portion towards the anchorage,

[0152] The fixing member includes a first coupling arm and a second coupling arm spaced apart from the first coupling arm, and

[0153] Coupling the aligner to the fixing member includes:

[0154] Positioning the second end portion of the aligner in juxtaposition with the fixing member such that (i) the second region of the second end portion extends beneath each of the first and second coupling arms of the fixing member in a generally mesiodistal direction, and (ii) the base region is located between the first and second coupling arms.

[0155] 92. The method according to any item herein, wherein the aligner is the aligner according to any item herein.

[0156] 93. An orthodontic aligner, comprising:

[0157] Positioning member, the positioning member comprising: a first portion shaped to elastically receive a patient's tooth; and a second portion shaped to receive a bracket configured to adhere to one of the patient's teeth, the second portion defining a channel positioned to receive a coupling arm of the bracket.

[0158] 94. The orthodontic appliance according to item 93, wherein the second portion includes a first region extending in a first direction and a second region extending in a second direction different from or at an angle to the first region, the first and second regions at least partially defining the channel.

[0159] 95. The orthodontic appliance according to any item herein, wherein when the orthodontic appliance is disposed above the patient's tooth, the first direction extends in a generally occlusogingival direction.

[0160] 96. The orthodontic appliance according to any item herein, wherein when the orthodontic appliance is disposed above the patient's tooth, the second direction extends in a generally mesiodistal direction.

[0161] 97. The orthodontic appliance according to any item herein, wherein the channel is one of two channels, and wherein the second portion includes a first region extending between the two channels in a first direction and a second region extending in a second direction different from the first direction, the first and second regions at least partially defining the two channels.

[0162] 98. The orthodontic appliance according to any item herein, wherein the channel is a first channel, and wherein the second portion further defines a second channel spaced apart from the first channel, each of the first channel and the second channel being positioned to receive a coupling arm of the bracket.

[0163] 99. The orthodontic appliance according to any item herein, further comprising a third region located peripherally of the first region and extending in the first direction.

[0164] 100. The orthodontic appliance according to any item herein, wherein the channel is a first channel, the orthodontic appliance further comprising (i) a second channel and (ii) a fourth region located peripherally of the first region and extending in the first direction, the first channel being located between the first and third regions, and the second channel being located between the first and fourth regions.

[0165] 101. The orthodontic appliance according to any item herein, the second portion further comprising a bracket receiving portion disposed in the channel.

[0166] 102. The orthodontic appliance according to any item herein, wherein the bracket receiving portion includes a groove shaped to receive the coupling arm of the bracket or an end portion of the coupling arm.

[0167] 103. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the bracket receiving portion extends a first distance from the base surface of the second portion, and wherein the outermost surface of the second portion extends a second distance from the base surface, the second distance being greater than the first distance.

[0168] 104. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the second portion includes a first side and a second side generally opposite the first side, and the bracket receiving portion is disposed on and / or faces the first side.

[0169] 105. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein:

[0170] the second portion includes a first side and a second side generally opposite the first side, and

[0171] when the aligner is disposed over the patient's teeth, the first side faces at least partially in the lingual direction and the second portion faces at least partially in the buccal direction.

[0172] 106. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the second side of the second portion includes a cavity for receiving a base portion of a bracket, and a coupling arm is fixed to the base portion.

[0173] 107. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the second side of the second portion includes a cavity for receiving a base of a bracket, the base being configured to adhere directly to the lingual surface of a patient's tooth.

[0174] 108. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the second portion projects from the outermost surface of the first portion.

[0175] 109. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the first portion and the second portion are integral with each other.

[0176] 110. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the first portion and the second portion comprise a single piece.

[0177] 111. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the first portion and the second portion comprise a structure formed integrally.

[0178] 112. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the first portion and the second portion comprise a continuous surface.

[0179] 113. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the first portion and the second portion comprise a polymer, plastic or composite material.

[0180] 114. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the first part and the second part comprise a flexible, elastic, and / or non-rigid material.

[0181] 115. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the positioning member is a calibrator.

[0182] 116. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the positioning member is configured to perform indirect bonding of brackets.

[0183] 117. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the positioning member is not configured to reposition the patient's teeth.

[0184] 118. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein when the second part is disposed above the patient's teeth, the second part generally has an orientation corresponding to the occlusal gingival axis.

[0185] 119. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein when the positioning member is disposed above the patient's teeth, the second part is generally positioned near or lingual to the lingual surface of one of the patient's teeth.

[0186] 120. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the second part of the positioning member is one of a plurality of second parts, each second part corresponding to a different tooth of the patient.

[0187] 121. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the bracket is the fixing member according to any entry herein.

[0188] 122. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the first part includes a cavity that is arranged on the patient's teeth.

[0189] 123. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the first part includes a plurality of separate cavities, each cavity configured to be arranged on one of the patient's teeth.

[0190] 124. An orthodontic aligner, comprising:

[0191] A positioning member, the positioning member including a first part and a second part, the first part being shaped to elastically receive the patient's teeth, the second part being shaped to receive a bracket to be adhered to one of the patient's teeth, the second part including a first region extending in a first direction and a second region extending in a second direction at an angle relative to the first direction, wherein the first and second regions partially define a portion configured to receive a coupling arm.

[0192] 125. The appliance according to item 124, wherein the site is a first site on a first side of the first region, the connecting arm is a first connecting arm, and wherein the first region and the second region partially define a second site on a second side of the first region, the second site being configured to receive a second connecting arm.

[0193] 126. The appliance according to any item herein, wherein the first region and the second region form a "T" shape.

[0194] 127. A method of using an orthodontic appliance to secure one or more brackets to a patient's tooth, the method comprising:

[0195] providing a positioning member comprising (i) a first portion shaped to elastically receive a patient's tooth, and (ii) a second portion shaped to receive a bracket to be secured to the patient's tooth, the second portion defining a channel;

[0196] positioning the bracket in the second portion; and

[0197] positioning the positioning member over the patient's tooth.

[0198] 128. The method according to item 127, wherein the positioning member comprises the positioning member according to any item herein.

[0199] 129. The method according to any item herein, wherein positioning the positioning member over the patient's tooth comprises positioning the positioning member over the patient's tooth such that the bracket in the second portion of the positioning member is located near the lingual side of the patient's tooth.

[0200] 130. The method according to any item herein, further comprising, after positioning the positioning member over the patient's tooth, exposing the bracket to a light source such that the bracket adheres to the patient's tooth.

[0201] 131. The method according to any item herein, further comprising:

[0202] after positioning the positioning member over the patient's tooth, exposing the bracket to a light source such that the bracket adheres to the patient's tooth; and

[0203] after exposing the bracket, removing the positioning member from the patient's tooth such that the bracket remains adhered to the patient's tooth.

[0204] 132. The method according to any item herein, wherein positioning the bracket in the second portion comprises sliding the bracket into the second portion such that the connecting arm of the bracket is received in the channel of the second portion.

[0205] 133. The method according to any entry herein, wherein positioning the bracket in the second portion includes sliding the bracket into the second portion such that the coupling arm of the bracket (i) is received in a channel of the second portion and (ii) is coupled to a positioning member.

[0206] 134. The method according to any entry herein, wherein positioning the bracket in the second portion includes coupling the coupling arm of the bracket to a positioning member.

[0207] 135. The method according to any entry herein, wherein the second portion includes a bracket receiving portion having a groove, and positioning the bracket in the second portion includes coupling the bracket to the positioning member by moving the bracket into the second portion and snapping the coupling arm of the bracket into the groove.

[0208] 136. The method according to any entry herein, wherein:

[0209] the positioning member includes a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the second side including a generally flat base surface,

[0210] the bracket includes a base portion and a coupling arm disposed above the base portion, and

[0211] positioning the bracket in the second portion includes positioning the bracket such that the coupling arm is received in a channel of the second portion at the first side.

[0212] 137. The method according to any entry herein, wherein:

[0213] the positioning member includes a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the second side including a generally flat base surface,

[0214] the bracket includes a base portion and a coupling arm disposed above the base portion, and

[0215] positioning the bracket in the second portion includes positioning the bracket such that the base portion is received at the second side of the positioning member.

[0216] 138. An orthodontic appliance, comprising:

[0217] an anchor configured to be positioned near a patient's tooth; and

[0218] an arm extending away from the anchor and connected to the anchor, the arm including a first end portion at the anchor and a second end portion configured to be coupled to a fixed member adhered to a patient's tooth, wherein the second end portion includes a first region and a second region extending at an angle from the first region, the first region being farther from the anchor than the second region,

[0219] Wherein, the second end portion includes an opening extending through the second end portion.

[0220] 139. The aligner according to item 138, wherein when the aligner is near the patient's teeth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixing member, (a) the second region extends in a substantially mesiodistal direction and abuts the connecting arm of the fixing member, and (b) the first region abuts a portion of the connecting arm, thereby inhibiting rotation of the second end portion relative to the fixing member.

[0221] 140. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the opening is an elongated opening such that when the aligner is near the patient's teeth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixing member, the opening extends in a substantially occlusogingival direction.

[0222] 141. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the opening is an elongated opening extending through a portion of the first region.

[0223] 142. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the opening has a first dimension such that the opening is configured to receive an orthodontic tool.

[0224] 143. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the opening has first and second dimensions such that the opening is configured to receive an orthodontic tool.

[0225] 144. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the arm further includes a notch extending from a position of the arm, the notch being angled with respect to the arm at that position.

[0226] 145. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the notch is generally perpendicular to the arm at that position.

[0227] 146. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the angle is between 60 - 120 degrees.

[0228] 147. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the notch is a first notch extending in a first direction, and the arm further includes a second notch extending from that position of the arm in a second direction different from the first direction.

[0229] 148. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the first direction is generally opposite to the second direction.

[0230] 149. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein when the aligner is near the patient's teeth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixing member, at least one of the first notch or the second notch extends in a substantially mesiodistal direction.

[0231] 150. An orthodontic appliance, comprising:

[0232] An anchor configured to be located near a patient's tooth; and

[0233] An arm extending away from and coupled to the anchor, the arm including a first end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion being located at the anchor, the second end portion configured to be coupled to a fixing member adhered to the patient's tooth, wherein the second end portion includes a first region and a second region extending at an angle from the first region, the first region being further from the anchor than the second region,

[0234] wherein the arm further includes a notch extending from a position of the arm at which the notch is angled with respect to the arm.

[0235] 151. The appliance according to item 150, wherein the notch is a first notch extending in a first direction, and the arm further includes a second notch extending from this position of the arm in a second direction different from the first direction.

[0236] 152. The appliance according to any item herein, wherein the first direction is generally opposite to the second direction.

[0237] 153. The appliance according to any item herein, wherein when the appliance is located near the patient's tooth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixing member, at least one of the first notch or the second notch extends in a generally mesiodistal direction.

[0238] 154. An orthodontic appliance, comprising:

[0239] An anchor configured to be located near a patient's tooth; and

[0240] An arm extending away from and coupled to the anchor, the arm including a first end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion being located at the anchor, the second end portion configured to be coupled to a fixing member adhered to the patient's tooth, the second end portion being further from the anchor than the first end portion, wherein the second end portion includes first and second extensions extending from a common point, each of the first and second extensions including (i) a first region and (ii) a second region spaced from the first region,

[0241] wherein the first and second regions of the first extension extend in a first direction, and the first and second regions of the second extension extend in a second direction different from the first direction.

[0242] 155. The aligner according to item 93, wherein when the aligner is near the patient's teeth and the second end portion is coupled to the fixing member, the first extension is biased in the mesial direction and the second extension is biased in the distal direction.

[0243] 156. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein when the second end portion is coupled to the fixing member, the first region and the second region generally extend in the mesiodistal direction.

[0244] 157. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein at least one of the first extension or the second extension is biased away from the other extension.

[0245] 158. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the second region is farther from the common point than the first region.

[0246] 159. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the first extension is generally a reflection (image) of the second extension about an axis.

[0247] 160. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the second region is located at the terminal portion of the corresponding extension.

[0248] 161. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the first region is separated from the corresponding second region such that the first and second regions and a portion of the corresponding extension define a three-sided opening.

[0249] 162. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the first region is separated from the corresponding second region such that the first and second regions and a portion of the corresponding extension define a U-shaped opening.

[0250] 163. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein the arm includes a biasing region located between the proximal portion and the distal portion, and wherein the biasing region is configured to provide a rotational force and / or a longitudinal force to at least one tooth of the patient when the distal portion is fixed to the fixing member.

[0251] 164. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein at least one of the anchor, the arm, or the fixing member includes nitinol, stainless steel, beta-titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy, other metal alloys, polymers, ceramics, and / or combinations thereof.

[0252] 165. The aligner according to any item herein, wherein when the aligner is near the patient's teeth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixing member, the first and second regions of each of the first and second extensions are configured to abut corresponding protrusions of the fixing member.

[0253] 166. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein when the aligner is located near the patient's teeth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixing member, the first extension portion is biased in the occlusal direction.

[0254] 167. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein when the aligner is located near the patient's teeth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixing member, the second extension portion is biased in the gingival direction.

[0255] 168. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein at least one of the first extension portion or the second extension portion is biased away from the other extension portion.

[0256] 169. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the first extension portion includes a biasing region, and when the second end portion is coupled to the fixing member, the biasing region is configured to bias the first and second regions in the occlusal-gingival direction.

[0257] 170. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the first and second regions of the first extension portion are farther from the common point than the first and second regions of the second extension portion.

[0258] 171. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the first and second regions are located at the terminal portions of their respective extension portions.

[0259] 172. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the first region is separated from the corresponding second region such that the first and second regions and a portion of the corresponding extension portion define a three-sided opening.

[0260] 173. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the first region is separated from the corresponding second region such that the first and second regions and a portion of the corresponding extension portion define a U-shaped opening.

[0261] 174. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the first extension portion includes a biasing region, and when the aligner is located near the patient's teeth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixing member, the biasing region of the first extension portion is configured to bias the patient's teeth in the occlusal direction.

[0262] 175. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the arm includes a biasing region located between the first and second end portions, and when the second end portion is fixed to the fixing member, the biasing region is configured to provide a rotational force and / or a translational force to at least one tooth of the patient.

[0263] 176. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein when the aligner is located near the patient's teeth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixing member, the first and second regions of each of the first and second extensions are configured to be adjacent to the corresponding protrusions of the fixing member.

[0264] 177. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein at least one of the anchor, the arm, or the fixing member comprises nitinol, stainless steel, beta-titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy, other metal alloys, polymers, ceramics, and / or combinations thereof.

[0265] 178. An orthodontic aligner comprising:

[0266] An anchor configured to be located near the patient's teeth; and

[0267] An arm extending away from the anchor and coupled to the anchor, the arm including a first end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion being located at the anchor, the second end portion being configured to be coupled to a fixing member adhered to the patient's teeth, the second end portion being farther from the anchor than the first end portion, wherein the second end portion includes a first region, a second region extending from the first region, and a third region extending from the second region, wherein at least a portion of each of the first and third regions is biased away from each other in opposite directions.

[0268] 179. The aligner according to entry 177, wherein the second end portion is configured to be coupled to the fixing member through the first and third regions.

[0269] 180. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein at least one of the first region or the third region includes a first protrusion, a second protrusion spaced apart from the first protrusion, and an opening defined by the first and second protrusions, wherein when the aligner is coupled to the fixing member, the first and second protrusions are disposed on opposite sides of the protrusion of the fixing member.

[0270] 181. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein when the aligner is coupled to the fixing member, the first and second protrusions extend substantially in the mesiodistal direction.

[0271] 182. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the second region has a curved surface and / or a semi-circular shape.

[0272] 183. The aligner according to any entry herein, wherein the first, second, and third regions include a single component and / or a continuous surface.

[0273] 184. An orthodontic fixing member comprising:

[0274] A base region configured to be coupled to the patient's teeth; and

[0275] The first and second protrusions are provided on the base area, and each of the first and second protrusions includes a first portion extending away from the base area and a second portion extending from the first portion towards the central part of the base area.

[0276] 185. The fixing member according to item 184, wherein the first and second portions of each of the first and second protrusions define an opening for receiving an end portion of an orthodontic appliance.

[0277] 186. The fixing member according to any item herein, wherein when the base area is coupled to a patient's tooth, the first portions of the first and second protrusions extend away from the patient's tooth in a generally buccal direction.

[0278] 187. The fixing member according to any item herein, wherein when the base area is coupled to a patient's tooth, the second portions of the first and second protrusions extend in a generally mesial or distal direction.

[0279] 188. The fixing member according to any item herein, wherein when the base area is coupled to a patient's tooth, (i) the second portion of the first protrusion extends in a generally mesial direction and (ii) the first portion of the first protrusion extends in a generally distal direction.

[0280] 189. The fixing member according to any item herein, further comprising a third protrusion provided on an upper portion of the base area, the third protrusion extending from the upper portion of the base area towards the central part of the base area.

[0281] 190. The fixing member according to any item herein, wherein the third protrusion includes a first portion extending away from the central part and a second portion extending from the first portion towards the central part.

[0282] 191. The fixing member according to any item herein, wherein the end portion of the third protrusion is spaced apart from the base area.

[0283] 192. The fixing member according to any item herein, wherein the second portion extends in a lateral direction, and the appliance further comprises a third protrusion provided on an upper portion of the base area, the third protrusion extending in a lateral direction to the base area.

[0284] 193. The fixing member according to any item herein, wherein the third protrusion defines a surface facing the first and second protrusions.

[0285] The fixing member according to any entry herein further includes third and fourth protrusions disposed above the base region, each of the third and fourth protrusions including a first portion extending away from the base region and a second portion extending from the first portion toward the central portion of the base region.

[0286] The fixing member according to any entry herein, wherein the third protrusion is spaced apart from the first protrusion to define a first opening, and the fourth protrusion is spaced apart from the second protrusion to define a second opening.

[0287] The fixing member according to any entry herein, wherein when the fixing member is coupled to a patient's tooth, the second portions of the first and second protrusions extend in a generally occlusal-gingival direction.

[0288] The fixing member according to any entry herein, wherein when the base region is coupled to a patient's tooth, (i) the second portion of the first protrusion extends in a generally gingival-side direction, and (ii) the first portion of the first protrusion extends in a generally occlusal-side direction.

[0289] An orthodontic fixing member, comprising:

[0290] A body region configured to adhere to a patient's tooth, the body region including a slot; and

[0291] A clip portion coupled to the body region, the clip portion being movable relative to the body region from a closed position to an open position, wherein when the clip portion is in the open position the slot is configured to receive a portion of an orthodontic appliance.

[0292] The fixing member according to entry 198, wherein when the clip portion is in the closed position, the slot is not configured to receive an orthodontic appliance.

[0293] The fixing member according to any entry herein further includes a biasing element that biases the clip portion toward the closed position.

[0294] The fixing member according to any entry herein, wherein when the body region adheres to a patient's tooth, the movement of the clip portion from the closed position to the open position generally occurs in the occlusal-gingival direction.

[0295] The fixing member according to entry 191, wherein the biasing element is disposed between the body region and the clip portion.

[0296] 203. The fixing member according to any entry herein, wherein the body region further includes a lip portion located on the outer periphery of the clip portion, and when the body region adheres to the patient's teeth, the lip portion inhibits the movement of the clip portion in the lingual or buccal direction.

[0297] 204. An orthodontic system comprising:

[0298] An aligner according to any entry herein; and

[0299] A fixing member according to any entry herein.

[0300] 205. An orthodontic fixing member comprising:

[0301] A cured structure configured to directly adhere to the patient's teeth, the cured structure having at least a first portion and a second portion spaced apart from each other to define a continuous gap configured to receive an attachment portion of an orthodontic aligner,

[0302] wherein the cured structure is configured to fix the attachment portion to the tooth.

[0303] 206. The fixing member according to entry 205, wherein the fixing member fixes the attachment portion to the tooth such that the patient cannot remove the orthodontic aligner.

[0304] 207. The fixing member according to any entry herein, wherein the fixing member only includes the cured structure.

[0305] 208. The fixing member according to any entry herein, wherein the fixing member does not include metal.

[0306] 209. The fixing member according to any entry herein, wherein the cured structure includes a cured composite resin or a synthetic material.

[0307] 210. The fixing member according to any entry herein, wherein the cured structure further includes a third portion, and the first, second, and third portions are spaced apart from each other to define a gap.

[0308] 211. The fixing member according to any entry herein, wherein the cured structure further includes a third portion and a fourth portion, and the first, second, third, and fourth portions are spaced apart from each other to define a gap.

[0309] 212. The fixing member according to any entry herein, wherein:

[0310] The cured structure further includes a third portion and a fourth portion,

[0311] The first, second, third, and fourth portions are spaced apart from each other to define a gap,

[0312] The first part has a first adjacent part, and the first adjacent part includes a surface facing the gingival side and a surface facing the mesial side.

[0313] The second part has a second adjacent part, and the second adjacent part includes a surface facing the gingival side and a surface facing the distal side.

[0314] The third part has a third adjacent part, and the third adjacent part includes a surface facing the occlusal side and a surface facing the mesial side.

[0315] The fourth part has a fourth adjacent part, and the fourth adjacent part includes a surface facing the occlusal side and a surface facing the distal side, and

[0316] when the appliance is near the patient's teeth and the attachment part engages with the cured structure, the first, second, third, and fourth adjacent parts are adjacent to adjacent regions of the attachment part, thereby resisting rotation and / or translation of the attachment part relative to the fixed member.

[0317] 213. The fixed member according to any entry herein, wherein the gap defines a pattern complementary to the part of the orthodontic appliance to be received by the gap.

[0318] 214. A method of attaching an orthodontic fixed member to a patient's tooth, the method comprising:

[0319] Positioning a support member containing a curable material adjacent to the patient's tooth such that the curable material on the support member engages the patient's tooth;

[0320] After positioning the support member, curing the curable material so that the curable material obtains a cured structure and / or adheres to the patient's tooth; and

[0321] Removing the support member from the cured structure.

[0322] 215. The method according to entry 213, further comprising engaging an orthodontic appliance with an indentation or opening defined by the cured structure.

[0323] 216. The method according to entry 215, further comprising: after engaging the orthodontic appliance, fixing the orthodontic appliance to the cured structure by a moldable material.

[0324] 217. The method according to entry 216, wherein the moldable material comprises a composite resin or a synthetic material.

[0325] 218. The method according to any entry herein, wherein the curable material is a composite resin or a synthetic material.

[0326] 219. The method according to any entry herein, wherein the curable material comprises a photoinitiator.

[0327] 220. An orthodontic appliance system, comprising an orthodontic appliance for mounting on a patient's teeth, and comprising:

[0328] At least one rigid segment, the length dimension of which is configured to extend along two or more adjacent teeth in the patient's jaw when the orthodontic appliance is mounted;

[0329] At least one bracket connector, supported by the at least one rigid segment and configured to selectively connect to a tooth bracket, the at least one bracket connector comprising:

[0330] A body portion having first and second arm segments connected to each other at an interface and each having a free end, the body portion having sufficient flexibility and elasticity such that when sufficient squeezing force is applied to the first and second arm segments, the free ends of the first and second arm segments are forced to move towards each other into a compressed state, and when the force is removed, elastically move backward away from each other, moving from the compressed state to an uncompressed or partially uncompressed state;

[0331] Wherein, when the first and second arm segments are in the compressed state, at least a portion of the body portion has a first width dimension, and when the first and second arm segments are in the uncompressed state, at least a portion of the body portion has a second width dimension, and wherein the second width dimension is greater than the first width dimension.

[0332] 221. The orthodontic appliance system according to entry 220, wherein when the first and second arm segments are in the compressed state, the body portion is configured to be received by the bracket, and when the first and second arm segments are in the uncompressed state, the body portion is configured to be locked to the bracket in which the body portion is received.

[0333] 222. The orthodontic appliance system according to any entry herein, wherein the interface at which the first and second arm segments are connected is a U-shaped interface.

[0334] 223. The orthodontic appliance system according to any entry herein, wherein each of the first and second arm segments has a free end and one or more protrusions extending from the arm segment at or near the free end.

[0335] 224. The orthodontic appliance system according to any entry herein, wherein each of the first and second arm segments has a free end and a plurality of protrusions extending from the arm segment at or near the free end.

[0336] 225. The aligner system according to item 224 further includes a bracket, which includes a base configured to be fixed to a tooth, and a plurality of protrusions extending from the base, including at least two protrusions, and the at least two protrusions are arranged to define a gap therebetween. Wherein, when the first and second arm segments are in a compressed state, the size of the gap is sufficient to receive the first and second arm segments of the bracket connector between the at least two protrusions, and wherein, when the first and second arm segments are received in the gap and in an uncompressed state, a plurality of protrusions extending from each arm segment are arranged to extend on two corresponding sides of one of the two protrusions.

[0337] 226. The aligner system according to any item herein further includes a bracket, which includes a base configured to be fixed to a tooth, and a plurality of protrusions extending from the base, including at least two protrusions, and which are arranged to define a gap between the at least two protrusions.

[0338] 227. The aligner system according to item 226, wherein, when the first and second arm segments are in a compressed state, the size of the gap is sufficient to receive the body portion between the at least two protrusions, and when the first and second arm segments are in an uncompressed state, the body portion is locked in the bracket in which the body portion is received.

[0339] 228. The aligner system according to item 226, wherein each of the at least two protrusions has an extension portion that extends in a direction away from the gap.

[0340] 229. The aligner system according to item 226, wherein the at least two protrusions include a plurality of protrusions on a first side of the gap and a plurality of protrusions on a second side of the gap.

[0341] 230. The aligner system according to item 229, wherein the plurality of protrusions on the first side of the gap include a first protrusion and a second protrusion, and the first protrusion and the second protrusion are separated by a distance at least equal to the width dimension of the protrusion extending from the first or second arm segment.

[0342] 231. The aligner system according to any item herein further includes any one of the following: (a) at least one arm extending from at least one first rigid segment, (b) at least one annular or curved feature formed along the length dimension of the second rigid segment, or (c) at least one arm extending from the at least one first rigid segment and at least one annular or curved feature formed along the length dimension of the second rigid segment.

[0343] 232. The aligner system according to any item herein, wherein the aligner is configured to be a single integral structure made of a single piece of material.

[0344] 233. A bracket connector for a dental orthosis, comprising:

[0345] A body portion having a first arm segment and a second arm segment, the first arm segment and the second arm segment being connected to each other at an interface and each having a free end, the body portion having sufficient flexibility and elasticity such that when sufficient squeezing force is applied to the first and second arm segments, the free ends of the first and second arm segments are forced to move towards each other into a compressed state, and when the force is removed, elastically move backward away from each other, moving from the squeezed state to an uncompressed or partially uncompressed state;

[0346] Wherein, when the first and second arm segments are in the compressed state, at least a portion of the body portion has a first width dimension, and when the first and second arm segments are in the uncompressed state, at least a portion of the body portion has a second width dimension, and wherein the second width dimension is greater than the first width dimension.

[0347] 234. The bracket connector according to item 233, wherein when the first and second arm segments are in the compressed state, the body portion is configured to be received by a bracket, and when the first and second arm segments are in the uncompressed state, the body portion is configured to be locked to the bracket in which the body portion is received.

[0348] 235. The bracket connector according to item 233 or 234, wherein the interface where the first and second arm segments are connected is a U-shaped interface.

[0349] 236. The bracket connector according to any item herein, wherein each of the first and second arm segments has a free end and one or more protrusions extending from the arm segment at or near the free end.

[0350] 237. The bracket connector according to any item herein, wherein each of the first and second arm segments has a free end and a plurality of protrusions extending from the arm segment at or near the free end.

[0351] 238. The bracket connector according to any item herein, wherein the bracket connector is configured as a single integral structure made of a single piece of material.

[0352] 239. A bracket for a dental orthosis, comprising:

[0353] A base configured to be fixed to a tooth;

[0354] A plurality of protrusions extending from the base, including at least two protrusions, arranged to define a gap between the at least two protrusions, wherein when the first and second arm segments are in the compressed state, the size of the gap is sufficient to receive the first and second arm segments of the bracket connector between the at least two protrusions, and

[0355] Wherein, when the first and second arm segments are received in the gap and in an uncompressed state, a plurality of protrusions extending from each arm segment are arranged to extend on two corresponding sides of one of the two protrusions.

[0356] 240. An orthodontic appliance, comprising:

[0357] An anchor configured to be positioned near a patient's tooth; and

[0358] A connector extending away from the anchor and coupled to the anchor, the connector including an attachment portion and a biasing portion disposed between the anchor and the attachment portion along a longitudinal axis of the connector, wherein the attachment portion is configured to releasably secure to an orthodontic bracket adhered to the patient's tooth, and wherein the attachment portion includes: (a) a base extending along a generally occlusogingival dimension when the appliance is installed in the patient's mouth, (b) an arm extending away from the base at an angle, wherein the arm is disposed at an intermediate position along the length of the base, and wherein the base includes a proximal region near the intermediate position and a distal region away from the intermediate position.

[0359] Wherein, when the appliance is near the patient's tooth and the attachment portion is secured to a fixed member, (a) the arm extends in a generally mesiodistal direction and abuts a coupling arm of the fixed member, and (b) each of the proximal and distal regions abuts a portion of the coupling arm, thereby inhibiting rotation of the connector relative to the fixed member. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0360] Many aspects of the present disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale. Instead, the emphasis is on clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure.

[0361] Figure 1A And 1B Schematically shows a directional reference relative to a patient's dentition.

[0362] Figure 2A Shows a schematic view of an orthodontic appliance configured according to the present technology, the orthodontic appliance being installed near a patient's dentition in a patient's mouth.

[0363] Figure 2B Is a schematic view of a connection configuration option configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0364] Figure 2C Is a schematic view of a portion of an appliance configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0365] Figure 3A And 3BIs a front view of an aligner configured according to several embodiments of the present technology, the aligner being installed in the upper and lower jaws of a patient's oral cavity, with the patient's teeth in their original tooth alignment and final tooth alignment, respectively.

[0366] Figure 3C Is a stress-strain curve graph showing Nitinol and steel.

[0367] Figure 4A-4I Depicts an example method of manufacturing an orthodontic aligner according to the present technology.

[0368] Figure 5 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0369] Figure 6 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0370] Figure 7 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0371] Figure 8 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0372] Figure 9 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0373] Figure 10 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0374] Figure 11 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0375] Figure 12 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0376] Figure 13 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0377] Figure 14 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0378] Figure 15 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0379] Figure 16 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0380] Figure 17 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0381] Figure 18Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0382] Figure 19 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0383] Figure 20 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0384] Figure 21 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0385] Figure 22 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0386] Figure 23 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0387] Figure 24 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0388] Figure 25 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0389] Figure 26 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0390] Figure 27 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0391] Figure 28 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0392] Figure 29 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0393] Figure 30 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0394] Figure 31 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0395] Figure 32 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0396] Figure 33 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0397] Figure 34 Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0398] Figure 35Is an isometric view of a connection configuration according to an example of the present technology.

[0399] Figure 36 Shows an arm of an orthodontic appliance configured according to an example of the present technology.

[0400] Figure 37-73 Shows various arm configurations for use with an orthodontic appliance of the present technology.

[0401] Figure 74 Is an isometric top view of an orthodontic appliance configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0402] Figure 75 Is an isometric top view of an orthodontic appliance configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0403] Figure 76 Is installed in the patient's oral cavity Figure 75 Is a perspective view of the orthodontic appliance.

[0404] Figure 77-85 Shows various configurations of an orthodontic appliance configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0405] Figure 86 Shows various arm configurations configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0406] Figure 87 And 88 Shows different arm configurations for use with an orthodontic appliance of the present technology.

[0407] Figure 89 Shows various arm configurations configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0408] Figure 90 Shows an example appliance configuration according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0409] Figure 91 Shows various arm configurations configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0410] Figure 92 Shows various arm configurations configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0411] Figure 93A Is a plan view of a planar version of an orthodontic appliance configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0412] Figure 93B Is Figure 93A The treatment configuration of the shown appliance.

[0413] Figure 94Depicts an orthodontic appliance configured according to an embodiment of the present technology, shown as installed in a patient's oral cavity.

[0414] Figure 95 Is an enlarged front view of an exemplary arm of an orthodontic appliance according to the present technology.

[0415] Figure 96 And 97 Are isometric views of a fixing member configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0416] Figure 98A , 98B , 98C and 98D are respectively the isometric view, front view, top view and side view of the Figure 95 Shown attachment part and Figure 96 Shown fixing member according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0417] Figure 99-104 Is a front view of various embodiments of an attachment part and a fixing member configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0418] Figure 105 Is an isometric view of an orthodontic device configured according to an embodiment of the present technology and disposed above a patient's tooth.

[0419] Figure 106A-106E Is Figure 105 An enlarged view of the shown device part.

[0420] Figure 107A-107C Illustrates a method of attaching a fixing member to a patient's tooth.

[0421] Figure 108 Is an isometric view of an exemplary orthodontic device configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0422] Figure 109A Is an isometric view of an exemplary orthodontic device configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0423] Figure 109B Is Figure 109A An enlarged view of a part of the shown device.

[0424] Figure 110-113 Is an isometric view of an exemplary arm of an orthodontic appliance configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0425] Figure 114 And 115 Is a front view of an orthodontic tool to be used with the orthodontic appliance of the present technology.

[0426] Figure 116 Is Figure 114 And 115 An enlarged view of the orthodontic tool shown in

[0427] Figure 117 and 118 are views of an orthodontic tool for use with the orthodontic appliance of the present technology.

[0428] Figure 119A is an isometric view of a fixed member configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0429] Figure 19B is an isometric view of an orthodontic appliance configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0430] Figure 119C is Figure 119A the fixed member shown and Figure 119B an isometric view of the attachment portion shown.

[0431] Figure 120A is an isometric view of a fixed member configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0432] Figure 120B is Figure 120A the fixed member shown and Figure 119B an isometric view of the orthodontic appliance shown.

[0433] Figure 121A is an isometric view of a fixed member configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0434] Figure 121B is an isometric view of an orthodontic appliance configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0435] [[ID=X]]Figure 121C is Figure 121A the fixed member shown and Figure 121B an isometric view of the orthodontic appliance shown.

[0436] Figure 122 and 123 are isometric views of various embodiments of a fixed member configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0437] Figure 124A is an isometric view of a fixed member configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0438] Figure 124B is an isometric view of an orthodontic appliance configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0439] Figure 124C is Figure 124A the fixed member shown and Figure 124B an isometric view of the orthodontic appliance shown.

[0440] Figure 125A is an isometric view of a fixed member configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0441] Figure 125B Is an isometric view of an orthodontic appliance configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0442] Figure 125C Is Figure 125A The fixed member shown and Figure 125B Is an isometric view of the orthodontic appliance shown.

[0443] Figure 126A Is an isometric view of a fixed member formed of a curable material configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0444] [[ID=D]]Figure 126B Is configured according to an embodiment of the present technology Figure 126A Is a front view of the fixed member and the orthodontic appliance shown.

[0445] Figure 127A Is an isometric view of a fixed member formed of a curable material configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0446] Figure 127B Is an isometric view of an orthodontic appliance configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0447] Figure 128A Is an isometric view of an orthodontic appliance configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0448] Figure 128B Is configured according to an embodiment of the present technology Figure 128A Is an isometric view of the appliance and the pad shown.

[0449] Figure 129 Is an isometric view of a fixed member configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0450] Figure A And 130B Are respectively a front view and a rear view of a fixed member configured according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0451] Figure 130C Is configured according to an embodiment of the present technology Figure 130A And 130B Is an isometric view of the fixed member and the orthodontic appliance shown in

[0452] Figure 131 Shows an orthodontic appliance of the present technology positioned in a patient's oral cavity.

[0453] Figure 132-134 Shows a number of devices configured according to an embodiment of the present technology. Detailed Description

[0454] I. Definitions

[0455] Figure 1A and 1B Schematically describes several directional terms related to a patient's dentition. The terms used herein to provide anatomical directions or orientations are intended to cover different orientations of an appliance installed in a patient's oral cavity, regardless of whether the structures described in the figures are shown installed in the oral cavity. As Figure 1A and 1B shown: "Mesial" refers to the direction along the patient's curved dental arch towards the midline of the patient's face; "Distal" refers to the direction along the patient's curved dental arch away from the midline of the patient's face; "Occlusal" refers to the direction towards the chewing surface of the patient's teeth; "Gingival" refers to the direction towards the patient's gum or gingiva; "Facial" refers to the direction towards the patient's lips or cheeks (which may be used interchangeably herein with "buccal" and "labial"); "Lingual" refers to the direction towards the patient's tongue.

[0456] As used herein, the terms "proximal" and "distal" refer respectively to positions closer to and farther from a given reference point. In many cases, the reference point is a connector, such as an anchor, and "proximal" and "distal" refer to positions along a line through the centroid of a cross-section of a portion of the appliance branching from the reference connector that are closer to and farther from the reference connector, respectively.

[0457] As used herein, the terms "generally", "substantially", "about" and similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than terms of degree, and are intended to account for the inherent variations in measured or calculated values that would be recognized by a person of ordinary skill in the art.

[0458] As used herein, the term "operator" refers to a clinician, practitioner, technician, or any person or machine that designs and / or manufactures an orthodontic appliance or a part thereof and / or assists in the design and / or manufacture of an appliance or a part thereof, and / or any person or machine associated with installing the appliance in a patient's oral cavity and / or performing any subsequent treatment of the patient associated with the appliance.

[0459] As used herein, the term "force" refers to the magnitude and / or direction of a force, torque, or a combination thereof.

[0460] II. Review of Current Orthodontic Appliances

[0461] Figure 2AFIG. 0 is a schematic view of an orthodontic appliance 100 (or “appliance 100”) configured according to an embodiment of the present technology, showing the appliance positioned in a patient's mouth, adjacent to the patient's teeth. Figure 2B FIG. 1 is an enlarged view of a portion of the appliance 100. The appliance 100 is configured to be installed in a patient's mouth to apply a force on one or more teeth to reposition all or some of the teeth. In some cases, the appliance 100 may additionally or alternatively be configured to hold the position of one or more teeth. As Figure 2A and 2B shown, the appliance 100 may include a deformable member that includes one or more attachment portions 140 (each attachment portion is schematically represented by a box), each attachment portion being configured to be directly or indirectly fixed to a tooth surface by a fixing member 160. The appliance 100 may also include one or more connectors 102 (also schematically shown), each connector extending directly between attachment portions 140 (“first connector 104”), between an attachment portion 140 and one or more other connectors 102 (“second connector 106”), or between two or more other connectors 102 (“third connector 108”). Figure 2A Only two attachment portions 140 and two connectors 102 are labeled in FIG. 1 for ease of illustration. As described herein, the number, configuration, and position of the connectors 102 and attachment portions 140 may be selected to provide a desired force on one or more teeth when the appliance 100 is installed. Additional details regarding different configurations of the connectors 102 are provided elsewhere herein (e.g., below with reference to Figures 5-35 ).

[0462] The attachment portion 140 can be configured to removably couple to a fixation member 160 that is bonded, adhered, or otherwise fixed to the surface of a tooth to be moved. In some embodiments, one or more attachment portions 140 can be directly bonded, adhered, or otherwise fixed to the corresponding tooth without a fixation member or other connection interface at the tooth. Herein, the attachment portion 140 can also be referred to as a "bracket connector" or a "male connector element". Different attachment portions 140 of a given aligner 100 can have the same or different shapes, the same or different sizes, and / or the same or different configurations. The attachment portion 140 can include any one or combination of the attachment portions disclosed herein (including but not limited to attachment portions 9540, 9940, 10040, 10140, 10240, 10340, 10440, 11040, 11140, 11240, 11340, 11940, 12140, 12440, 12540, 12640, 12740, 12840, 12940, 13040), any bracket connector and / or male connector element disclosed herein, and any attachment portion, bracket connector, and / or male connector element disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 370,704, filed December 6, 2016 (Publication No. 2017 / 0156823), the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0463] The aligner 100 can include any number of attachment portions 140 that are adapted to securely attach the aligner 100 to one or more teeth of a patient to effect a desired movement. In some examples, multiple attachment portions 140 can be attached to a single tooth. The aligner 100 can include an attachment portion for each tooth, fewer attachment portions than teeth, or more attachment portions 140 than teeth. In these and other embodiments, one or more attachment portions 140 of the aligner 100 can be configured to couple to one, two, three, four, five, or more connectors 102.

[0464] As previously described, the connector 102 can include one or more first connectors 104 that extend directly between the attachment portions 140. When the aligner 100 is installed in a patient's mouth, the one or more first connectors 104 can extend along a generally mesiodistal dimension. In these and other embodiments, the aligner 100 can include one or more first connectors 104 that extend along a generally occlusogingival and / or buccolingual dimension when the aligner 100 is installed in a patient's mouth. In some embodiments, the aligner 100 does not include any first connectors 104.

[0465] Additionally or alternatively, the connector 102 may include one or more second connectors 106 that extend between one or more attachment portions 140 and the one or more connectors 102. When the aligner 100 is installed in a patient's mouth, the one or more second connectors 106 may extend along a dimension generally occlusogingival. In these and other embodiments, the aligner 100 may include one or more second connectors 106 that extend along a dimension generally mesiodistal and / or buccolingual when the aligner 100 is installed in a patient's mouth. In some embodiments, the aligner 100 does not include any second connectors 106. In such embodiments, the aligner 100 will only include the first connector 104 that extends between the attachment portions 140. The second connectors 106 and the attachment portions 140 to which they are attached may include an "arm" as used herein (such as Figure 2A and 2B the arm 130). In some embodiments, multiple second connectors 106 may extend from the same location along the aligner 100 to the same attachment portion 140. In such cases, the multiple second connectors 106 and the attachment portions 140 together include an "arm" as used in this application. Using two or more connectors to connect two points on the aligner 100 can apply a greater force (relative to using a single connector to connect the same points) without increasing the strain on a single connector. Given the spatial constraints of fixed displacement treatment herein, this configuration is particularly beneficial. Additional details regarding the use of multiple connectors for discrete connections (such as arms) are provided elsewhere in this application (for example, below with reference to Figures 36-57 ).

[0466] Additionally or alternatively, the connector 102 may include one or more third connectors 108 that extend between two or more other connectors 102. When the aligner 100 is installed in a patient's mouth, the one or more third connectors 108 may extend along a generally mesiodistal dimension. In these and other embodiments, the aligner 100 may include one or more third connectors 108 that, when the aligner 100 is installed in a patient's mouth, extend along a generally occlusogingival and / or buccolingual dimension. In some embodiments, the aligner 100 does not include any third connectors 108. One, some, or all of the third connectors 108 may be positioned gingivally relative to one, some, or all of the first connectors 104. In some embodiments, the aligner 100 includes a single third connector 108 that extends along at least two adjacent teeth and provides a common connection for two or more second connectors 106. In several embodiments, the aligner 100 includes a plurality of discontinuous third connectors 108, each of which extends along at least two adjacent teeth.

[0467] As Figure 2A shown, in some embodiments, the aligner 100 may be configured such that when the aligner 100 is installed in a patient's mouth, all or a portion of one, some, or all of the connectors 102 are disposed near the patient's gingiva. For example, one or more third connectors 108 may be configured such that all or a portion of the one or more third connectors 108 are located below the patient's gingival line and near but spaced from the gingiva. In many instances, it may be beneficial to provide a small gap (e.g., 0.5 mm or less) between the third connector 108 and the patient's gingiva because contact between the third connector 108 (or any part of the aligner 100) and the gingiva can cause irritation and patient discomfort. In some embodiments, when the aligner 100 is disposed in a patient's mouth, all or a portion of the third connector 108 is configured to contact the gingiva directly. Additionally or alternatively, all or a portion of one or more first connectors 104 and / or second connectors 106 may be configured to be disposed in a position close to the gingiva.

[0468] According to some embodiments, one or more connectors 102 may extend between an attachment portion 140 or between the connector 102 and a joint, the joint including (a) two or more connectors 102, (b) two or more attachment portions 140, or (c) at least one attachment portion 140 and at least one connector 102. According to some embodiments, one or more connectors 102 may extend between a first joint and a second joint, the first joint including (a) two or more connectors 102, (b) two or more attachment portions 140, or (c) at least one connection member and at least one connector 102, the second joint including (a) two or more connectors 102, (b) two or more attachment portions 140, or (c) at least one attachment portion 140 and at least one connector 102. In Figure 2B an example of a connector 102 extending between a joint between a second connector 106 and a third connector 108 and (b) a joint between the second connector 106 and an attachment portion 140 is schematically depicted and labeled 109 in the figure.

[0469] Each connector 102 may be designed to have a desired stiffness such that a single connector 102 or a combination of connectors 102 exerts a desired force on one or more teeth. In many cases, the force exerted by a given connector 102 may be controlled by Hooke's Law or F = k × x, where F is the restoring force exerted by the connector 102, k is the stiffness coefficient of the connector 102, and x is the displacement. In the most basic example, if there is no connector 102 between two points on the orthodontic appliance 100, the stiffness coefficient along that path is zero and no force is exerted. In this example, the various connectors 102 of the present technology may have different non-zero stiffness coefficients. For example, one or more connectors 102 may be "rigid" (i.e., the stiffness coefficient is infinite) such that the connector 102 does not bend or flex between its two endpoints. In some embodiments, one or more connectors 102 may be "flexible" (i.e., the stiffness coefficient is non-zero and positive) such that the connector 102 can deform to exert (or absorb) a force on the associated one or more teeth or other connectors 102.

[0470] In some embodiments, it may be beneficial to include one or more rigid connectors between two or more teeth. The rigid connector 102 is sometimes referred to herein as a "rigid bar" or an "anchor". Each rigid connector 102 may have sufficient rigidity to maintain and hold its shape and resist bending. The rigidity of the connector 102 can be achieved by selecting a particular shape, width, length, thickness, and / or material. For example, when the teeth to which the connector 102 or arm is to be attached will not move (or move a limited amount) and are available for anchorage, a connector 102 configured to be relatively rigid can be used. For example, molar teeth can provide good anchorage because the roots of molar teeth are larger than most teeth and thus require a greater force to move. Additionally, anchoring one or more portions of the orthodontic appliance 100 to multiple teeth is more secure than anchoring to a single tooth. As another example, a rigid connection may be desired when moving a group of teeth relative to one or more other teeth. For example, consider a patient having five teeth separated by a gap from a single tooth, and the treatment plan is to close the gap. The best treatment is typically to move the single tooth towards the five teeth rather than the reverse. In such a case, it may be beneficial to provide one or more rigid connectors between the five teeth. For all of the above reasons and many others, the orthodontic appliance 100 may include one or more rigid first connectors 104, one or more rigid second connectors 106, and / or one or more rigid third connectors 108.

[0471] In these and other embodiments, the orthodontic appliance 100 may include one or more flexible first connectors 104, one or more flexible second connectors 106, and / or one or more flexible third connectors 108. Each flexible connector 102 may have a particular shape, width, thickness, length, material, and / or other parameters to provide a desired degree of flexibility. According to some embodiments of the present technology, the stiffness of a given connector 102 can be adjusted by incorporating one or more resilient flexible biasing portions 150. As Figure 2B schematically illustrated, one, some, or all of the connectors 102 may include one or more biasing portions 150, such as springs, each biasing portion being configured to apply a particular customized force to the teeth to which it is attached.

[0472] As Figure 2C schematically illustrated, the biasing portion 150 may extend along all or a portion of the longitudinal axis L1 of the corresponding connector 102 ( Figure 2C(Only the longitudinal axis L1 for the second connector 106 and the longitudinal axis L2 for the third connector 108 are marked). The direction and magnitude of the force and torque applied to the teeth by the biasing portion 150 depend at least in part on the shape, width, thickness, length, material, sizing conditions, and other parameters of the biasing portion 150. Accordingly, one or more aspects of the biasing portion 150, including the foregoing parameters, can be varied such that when the orthodontic appliance 100 is installed in a patient's mouth, the corresponding arm 130, connector 102, and / or biasing portion 150 produce a desired tooth movement. Each arm 130 and / or biasing portion 150 can be designed to move one or more teeth in one, two, or all three translational directions (i.e., mesiodistal, buccolingual, and occlusogingival) and / or in one, two, or all three rotational directions (i.e., buccolingual root torque, mesiodistal angulation, and mesial out-in rotation).

[0473] The biasing portion 150 of the present technology can have any length, width, shape, and / or size sufficient to move the corresponding tooth to the desired position. In some embodiments, one, some, or all of the connectors 102 can have one or more inflection points along the corresponding biasing portion 150. The connector 102 and / or biasing portion 150 can have a serpentine configuration such that the connector 102 and / or biasing portion 150 doubles back on itself at least once or multiple times before extending toward the attachment portion 140. For example, in some embodiments, the second connector 106 doubles back on itself twice along the biasing portion 150, thereby forming a first concave region and a second concave region that generally face different directions relative to each other (e.g., see Figure 13 B). The open-loop or overlapping portion of the connector 102 corresponding to the biasing portion 150 can be disposed on either side of a plane P ( Figure 2C ) that bisects the total width W ( Figure 2C ) of the arm 130 and / or connector 102, such that the additional length of the arm 130 and / or connector 102 is received by the medial and / or distal space of the arm 130 and / or connector 102. This allows the arm 130 and / or connector 102 to have a longer length (compared to a linear arm) to accommodate greater tooth movement, despite limited space in the occlusogingival or vertical dimension between any associated third connector 108 and the location where the arm 130 is attached to the tooth.

[0474] It should be understood that the biasing portion 150 may have other shapes or configurations. For example, in some embodiments, the connector 102 and / or the biasing portion 150 may include one or more linear regions that are zig-zag toward the attachment portion 140. One, some, or all of the connectors 102 and / or the biasing portion 150 may have only linear segments or regions, or may have a combination of curved regions and linear regions. In some embodiments, one, some, or all of the connectors 102 and / or the biasing portion 150 do not include any curved portions.

[0475] According to some examples, a single connector 102 may have multiple biasing portions 150 in series along the longitudinal axis of the corresponding connector 102. In some embodiments, multiple connectors 102 may extend between two points along the same or different paths. In these embodiments, the different connectors 102 may have the same stiffness or different stiffnesses. Additional details regarding the later embodiments are provided elsewhere in this application (e.g., below with reference to Figures 36-57 ).

[0476] In those embodiments where the orthodontic appliance 100 has two or more connectors 102 with biasing portions 150, some, none, or all of the connectors 102 may have the same or different lengths, the same or different widths, the same or different thicknesses, the same or different shapes, and / or may be made of the same or different materials, among other characteristics. In some embodiments, less than all of the connectors 102 have biasing portions 150. For example, the connectors 102 without biasing portions 150 may include one or more rigid connections between the rigid third connector 108 and the attachment portion 140. In some embodiments, none of the connectors 102 of the orthodontic appliance 100 have biasing portions 150.

[0477] According to some embodiments, for example, as Figure 2AAs schematically depicted, the aligner 100 may include a single, continuous, substantially rigid third connector (referred to as "anchor 120") and a plurality of flexible arms 130 extending away from the anchor 120. When the aligner 100 is installed in a patient's mouth, each arm 130 may be connected to a different tooth to be moved and apply a specific force on its corresponding tooth, thereby allowing the operator to move each tooth independently. Compared with traditional braces, this configuration provides significant improvements. In traditional braces, all teeth are connected by a single arch wire, so the movement of one tooth may cause the unexpected movement of one or more nearby teeth. As discussed in more detail herein, the independent and customized tooth movement performed by the aligners of the present technology allows the operator to more effectively move the teeth from the original tooth arrangement ("OTA") to the final tooth arrangement ("FTA"), thereby avoiding periodic adjustments, reducing the number of follow-up visits, reducing or eliminating patient discomfort, and reducing the overall treatment time (i.e., the length of time the aligner is installed in the patient's mouth) by at least 50% compared to the overall treatment time of traditional braces.

[0478] The anchor 120 may include any structure having any shape and size, configured to fit comfortably within the patient's mouth and provide a common support for one or more arms 130. In many embodiments, for example, as Figure 2B shown, when the aligner 100 is installed in the patient's mouth, the anchor 120 is disposed near the patient's gums. For example, the aligner may be designed such that, when installed in the patient's mouth, all or a portion of the anchor 120 is located below the patient's gum line, near but spaced apart from the gums. In many cases, it may be beneficial to provide a small gap (e.g., 0.5 mm or less) between the anchor 120 (or any part of the aligner 100) and the patient's gums, because contact between the anchor 120 and the gums may cause irritation and patient discomfort. In some embodiments, when the aligner 100 is disposed in the patient's mouth, all or a portion of the anchor 120 is configured to contact the gums.

[0479] The rigidity of the anchor 120 may be much greater than that of the arms 130. Thus, when a force is applied on its corresponding tooth, the equal and opposite forces borne by each arm 130 are counteracted by the rigidity of the anchor 120 and the forces applied by the other arms 130, and do not have a significant impact on the forces on other teeth. Therefore, the anchor 120 effectively isolates the forces borne by each arm 130 from the remaining arms 130, thereby enabling independent tooth movement.

[0480] According to some embodiments, for example, as Figure 2A and 2BAs schematically shown, the anchor 120 includes an elongate member having a longitudinal axis L2 (see Figure 2C ) and forming an arcuate shape configured to extend along the patient's chin when the aligner 100 is installed. In these and other embodiments, the shape and size of the anchor 120 can be designed to span two or more teeth of the patient when positioned in the patient's mouth. In some examples, the anchor 120 includes a rigid linear rod or may include a structure having both a linear segment and a curved segment. In these and other embodiments, the anchor 120 can extend laterally through all or a portion of the patient's mouth (e.g., through all or a portion of the upper jaw, through all or a portion of the lower jaw, etc.) and / or in a generally anterior-posterior direction. Additionally, the aligner 100 can include a single anchor or multiple anchors. For example, the aligner 100 can include a plurality of discrete, spaced-apart anchors, each having two or more arms 130 extending therefrom. In these and other embodiments, the aligner 100 can include one or more other connectors extending between adjacent arms 130.

[0481] Any and all features discussed above with respect to the anchor 120 apply to any of the third connectors 108 disclosed herein.

[0482] As Figure 2B shown, each arm 130 can extend between a proximal or first end portion 130a and a distal or second end portion 130b and can have a longitudinal axis L extending between the first end portion 130a and the second end portion 130b. The first end portion 130a of one, some, or all of the arms 130 can be disposed at the anchor 120. In some embodiments, one, some, or all of the arms 130 are integrally formed with the anchor 120 such that the first end portion 130a of these arms is continuous with the anchor 120. The arms 130 can extend from the anchor 120 at intervals along the longitudinal axis L2 of the anchor, as Figure 2A shown. In some embodiments, the arms 130 can be spaced apart from each other at uniform intervals or at non-uniform intervals along the longitudinal axis L2 of the anchor 120.

[0483] One, some, or all of the arms 130 can include an attachment portion 140 at or near the second end portion 130b. In some embodiments, for example, as Figures 2A-2CAs shown, one or more arms 130 project cantilever - style from the anchor 120 such that the second end portion 130b of the cantilevered arm 130 has a free distal portion 130b. In these and other embodiments, the distal end of the attachment portion 140 may coincide with the distal end of the arm 130. The attachment portion 140 may be configured to removably couple the respective arm 130 to a fixed member (e.g., a bracket) that is adhesively bonded, adhered, or otherwise fixed to the surface of a tooth to be moved. In some embodiments, the attachment portion 140 may be directly adhesively bonded, adhered, or otherwise fixed to the respective tooth without a fixed member or other connection interface at the tooth.

[0484] Still referring to Figure 2A and 2B , one, some, or all of the arms 130 may include one or more elastic, flexible biasing portions 150, such as springs, each configured to apply a specific, customized force, torque, or combination of force and torque to the tooth to which it is attached. The biasing portion 150 may extend between the anchor 120 and the attachment portion 140 along all or a portion of the longitudinal axis L1 of the respective arm 130. The direction and magnitude of the force and torque applied by the biasing portion 150 to the tooth depend at least in part on the shape, width, thickness, length, material, conditioning, and other parameters of the biasing portion 150. Thus, one or more aspects of the arm 130 and / or the biasing portion 150 (including the foregoing parameters) may be varied such that when the orthodontic appliance 100 is installed in a patient's mouth, the arm 130 and / or the biasing portion 150 produce the desired tooth movement. Each arm 130 and / or biasing portion 150 may be designed to move one or more teeth in one, two, or all three translational directions (i.e., mesiodistal, buccolingual, and occlusogingival) and / or in one, two, or all three rotational directions (i.e., buccolingual root torque, mesiodistal angulation, and mesio - distal - inner - outer rotation).

[0485] The biasing portion 150 of the present technology may have any length, width, shape, and / or size sufficient to move the respective tooth toward the desired FTA. In some embodiments, one, some, or all of the arms 130 may have one or more inflection points along the respective biasing portion 150. The arm 130 and / or the biasing portion 150 may have a meandering configuration such that the arm 130 and / or the biasing portion 150 folds back on itself at least once or multiple times before extending toward the attachment portion 140. In Figure 2BIn [description], the arm 130 folds itself in half twice along the biasing portion 150, thereby forming a first concave region and a second concave region that generally face different directions relative to each other. The open-loop or overlapping portion of the arm 130 corresponding to the biasing portion 150 can be disposed on either side of a plane P that bisects the total width W of the arm 130, such that the additional length of the arm 130 is received by the central and / or distal space of the arm 130. This allows the arm 130 to have a longer length (compared to a linear arm) to accommodate greater tooth movement, despite limited space in the occlusal gingiva or vertical dimension between the anchor 20 and the location where the arm 130 is attached to the tooth.

[0486] It should be understood that the biasing portion 150 can have other shapes or configurations. For example, in some embodiments, the arm 130 and / or the biasing portion 150 can include one or more linear regions that are zigzagged toward the attachment portion 140. One, some, or all of the arms 130 and / or the biasing portion 150 can have only linear segments or regions, or can have a combination of curved regions and linear regions. In some embodiments, one, some, or all of the arms 130 and / or the biasing portion 150 do not include any curved portions.

[0487] According to some examples, a single arm 130 can have multiple biasing portions 150. The multiple biasing portions 150 can be in series along the longitudinal axis L1 of the corresponding arm 120. In some embodiments, multiple arms 130 can extend parallel to each other between two points along the same path or different paths. In these embodiments, the different arms 130 can have the same stiffness or different stiffnesses.

[0488] In embodiments where the orthodontic appliance 100 has two or more arms 130 with biasing portions 150, some, none, or all of the arms 130 can have the same or different lengths, the same or different widths, the same or different thicknesses, the same or different shapes, and / or can be made of the same or different materials, among other characteristics. In some embodiments, less than all of the arms 130 have biasing portions 150. For example, an arm 130 without a biasing portion 150 can include one or more rigid connections between the anchor 120 and the attachment portion 140. In some embodiments, none of the arms 130 of the orthodontic appliance 100 have biasing portions 150.

[0489] The aligners of the present technology may include any number of arms 130 adapted to reposition a patient's teeth while considering patient comfort. Unless specifically limited to a particular number of arms in the specification, the aligners of the present technology may include a single arm, two arms, three arms, five arms, ten arms, sixteen arms, etc. In some examples, one, some, or all of the arms 130 of the aligner may be configured to connect to more than one tooth individually (i.e., a single arm 130 may be configured to couple to two teeth simultaneously). In these and other embodiments, the aligner 100 may include two or more arms 130 configured to connect to the same tooth simultaneously.

[0490] Any portion of the aligners of the present technology may include a biasing portion 150. For example, in some embodiments, portions thereof (e.g., anchors, arms, biasing portions, attachment portions, linkages, etc.) may include one or more superelastic materials.

[0491] Additional details regarding a single directional force applied through the biasing portion 150 (or more generally, through the arm 130) are described in U.S. Application No. 15 / 370,704 (now U.S. Patent No. 10,383,707, issued on August 20, 2019), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0492] The aligners disclosed herein and / or any portion thereof (e.g., anchors, arms, biasing portions, attachment portions, linkages, etc.) may include one or more superelastic materials. The aligners disclosed herein and / or any portion thereof (e.g., anchors, arms, biasing portions, attachment portions, linkages, etc.) may include nitinol, stainless steel, beta-titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy, MP35N, 35N LT, one or more metal alloys, one or more polymers, one or more ceramics, and / or combinations thereof.

[0493] Figure 3A and 3B is a front view of the aligner 100 mounted on both the upper and lower dental arches of a patient's oral cavity M, with the arms 130 coupled to a fixed member 160 that is attached to the lingual surface of the teeth. It should be understood that the aligner 100 for one or both of the upper and lower dental arches may be located adjacent the buccal side of the patient's teeth, and the fixed member 160 and / or the arms 130 may alternatively be coupled to the buccal surface of the teeth.

[0494] Figure 3A shows the teeth in an OTA where the arms 130 are in a deformed or loaded state, Figure 3BShows a tooth in the FTA, where arm 130 is in a substantially unloaded state. When the tooth is in the OTA, when arm 130 is initially fixed to the fixed member 160, arm 130 is forced to assume a shape or path different from its "designed" configuration. Due to the inherent memory of the elastic biasing portion 150, arm 130 applies a continuous corrective force on the tooth to move the tooth towards the FTA, which is the position where the biasing portion 150 is in its designed or unloaded configuration. Thus, an aligner using the present technique can complete tooth repositioning in a single step using a single aligner. Compared to braces, the aligner of the present technique not only achieves fewer follow-up visits and a shorter treatment time, but also greatly reduces or eliminates the pain experienced by the patient due to tooth movement. When using traditional braces, each time the orthodontist makes an adjustment (such as installing a new arch wire, bending an existing arch wire, repositioning brackets, etc.), the affected teeth are subjected to a large force, which is very painful for the patient. Over time, the applied force gradually weakens until finally a new arch wire is needed. However, the aligner of the present technique continuously applies a force that generates movement on the teeth when the aligner is installed, which allows the teeth to move at a slower speed, which is much less painful (if at all) for the patient. Even though the aligner disclosed herein applies a lower and less painful force to the teeth, because the applied force is continuous and the teeth can move independently (and thus more effectively), the aligner of the present technique also reaches the FTA faster than traditional braces or calibrators, because both of these traditional braces or calibrators require intermediate adjustments.

[0495] In many embodiments, the movement generating force is lower than the force applied by traditional braces. In those embodiments where the aligner comprises a superelastic material (such as Nitinol), the superelastic material behaves like a constant force spring within a certain strain range, and thus the applied force does not decrease significantly as the tooth moves. For example, as Figure 3C shown by the stress-strain curves of Nitinol and steel, the curve of Nitinol is relatively flat compared to steel. Thus, the superelastic connectors, biasing portions, and / or arms of the present technique apply substantially the same stress for many different strain levels (e.g., deflection). Thus, during treatment as the tooth moves, the force applied to a given tooth remains constant, at least until the tooth is very close to or in its final alignment state. The aligner of the present technique is configured to apply a force just below the pain threshold, such that the aligner always applies the maximum non-painful force to the tooth (or teeth) during tooth movement. This will result in the most effective (i.e., fastest) tooth movement without pain.

[0496] In some embodiments, tooth repositioning may involve multiple steps performed progressively using multiple aligners. Embodiments involving multiple steps (or multiple aligners, or both) may include one or more intermediate tooth arrangements (ITAs) positioned between the original tooth alignment (OTA) and the desired final tooth alignment (FTA). Similarly, the aligners disclosed herein may be designed to be installed after a first or subsequently used aligner has moved the teeth from the OTA to an ITA (or from one ITA to another ITA) and has then been removed. Thus, the aligners of the present technology may be designed to move the teeth from an ITA to the FTA (or to another ITA). Additionally or alternatively, the aligner may be designed to move the teeth from the OTA to an ITA, or from the OTA to the FTA, without changing the aligner at the ITA.

[0497] In some embodiments, the aligners disclosed herein may be configured such that once installed on a patient's teeth, the patient cannot remove the aligner. In some embodiments, the aligner may be removable by the patient.

[0498] Any of the exemplary aligners or aligner portions described herein may be made of any suitable material, such as but not limited to nickel-titanium alloy (NiTi), stainless steel, beta-titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy, or other metal alloys, polymers, or ceramics, and may be made as a single monolithic structure, or alternatively, as multiple separately formed components that are joined together to form a single structure. However, in a specific example, the rigid rods, bracket connectors, and loop or curved features of the aligners (or portions of the aligners) described in these examples are made by cutting a two-dimensional (2D) shape of the aligner from a sheet of 2D material and bending the 2D shape into the desired three-dimensional shape of the aligner, according to the process described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 370,704, filed December 6, 2016 (Publication No. 2017 / 0156823), or other suitable processes.

[0499] Manufacturing method

[0500] Figure 4A–4I illustrates an example method of designing and fabricating the orthodontic appliance described herein. The specific processes described herein are merely exemplary processes and may be modified as needed to achieve the desired results (e.g., the desired forces applied by the appliance to each tooth, the desired material properties of the appliance, etc.). In various embodiments, other suitable methods or techniques may be used to fabricate the orthodontic appliance. Additionally, although aspects of the methods disclosed herein relate to the order of steps, in various embodiments, the steps may be performed in a different order, two or more steps may be combined, certain steps may be omitted, and additional steps not explicitly discussed may be included in the process as needed.

[0501] As described above, in some embodiments, the orthodontic appliance is configured to be coupled to a patient's teeth when the teeth are in the OTA. In this position, the elements of the appliance apply a customized load on each tooth, pushing them towards the desired FTA. For example, the arm 130 of the appliance 100 may be coupled to a tooth and configured to apply a force to push the tooth in a desired direction towards the FTA. In one example, the arm 130 of the appliance 100 may be configured to apply a pulling force that pushes the tooth lingually along the facial-lingual axis. By selecting appropriate dimensions, shapes, shape sets, material properties, and other aspects of the arm 130, a customized load can be applied to each tooth to move each tooth from its OTA towards its FTA. In some embodiments, each arm 130 is configured such that once the tooth to which the arm 130 is coupled reaches its FTA, very little or no force is applied to that tooth. In other words, the appliance 100 may be configured such that the arm 130 is at rest in the FTA state.

[0502] The method may begin with obtaining data that characterizes the patient's OTA (e.g., position data). As Figure 4A shown, in some embodiments, an operator may obtain a digital representation 400 of the patient's OTA, for example, using optical scanning, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), patient impression scanning, or other suitable imaging techniques, thereby obtaining position data of the patient's teeth, gums, and optionally other adjacent anatomical structures when the patient's teeth are in their original or pre-treatment state.

[0503] The method may further include obtaining data that characterizes the patient's anticipated or desired FTA (e.g., position data) and, in many cases, generating a digital representation of the patient's FTA. The data that characterizes the FTA may include the coordinates (e.g., X, Y, Z coordinates) of each tooth and gum of the patient. Additionally or alternatively, such data may include the positioning of each tooth of the patient relative to the patient's other teeth and / or gums.

[0504] In some embodiments, segmentation software (e.g., iROK Digital Dental Studio) can be used to create individual virtual teeth and gums from OTA data. A suitable software can be used to move the virtual teeth to their FTA positions. As Figure 4B shown, in some cases, a digital model of the fixation member 404 can be added to the OTA digital model 400 (e.g., by an operator selecting a location on the tooth surface for placement of the fixation member 404). A suitable software can be used to move the virtual tooth with the attached fixation member 404 from OTA to the desired final position. Figure 4C An example of a digital FTA model with an attached virtual fixation member model 404 is shown.

[0505] As Figure 4D shown, in some embodiments, a heat treatment jig digital model 408 can be obtained. In some embodiments, the heat treatment jig digital model 408 can correspond to and / or be derived from the FTA digital model (such as, Figure 4C the FTA digital model). For example, the FTA digital model can be modified in a variety of ways (e.g., using MeshMixer or other suitable modeling software) to render a model suitable for manufacturing the heat treatment jig. In some embodiments, the FTA digital model can be modified to replace the fixation member 404 (which is configured to couple to the arm 130 of the aligner 100 ( Figure 2A )) with a member 410 (which can be configured to facilitate temporary attachment of the heat treatment jig to the aligner for shaping). Additionally or alternatively, the FTA digital model can be modified to enlarge or thicken the gums, to move one or more teeth, and / or to add structural components to increase stiffness. In some embodiments, the gums can be enlarged or thickened to ensure that portions of the aligner manufactured at least in part based on the FTA digital model (e.g., the anchors) do not engage or contact the patient's gums when the aligner is installed. Thus, the FTA digital model can be modified as described herein to provide the patient with a less painful tooth repositioning experience.

[0506] The method may also include obtaining a digital model of an orthotic device. As used herein, the terms "digital model" and "model" mean a virtual representation of an object or a collection of objects. For example, the term "digital model of an orthotic device" refers to a virtual representation of the structure and geometry of an orthotic device (including its various components (e.g., anchors, arms, biasing portions, attachment portions, etc.)). In some embodiments, a basic planar digital model of the orthotic device is generated at least in part based on a digital model of a heat treatment fixture (and / or an FTA digital model). According to some examples, a contoured or 3D digital model of the orthotic device that generally corresponds to the FTA may be generated first, which conforms to the surface and attachment features of the digital model of the heat treatment fixture. In some embodiments, the 3D digital model of the orthotic device may include a general arm portion and a fixed member without selecting or defining a specific geometry, size, or other characteristics of the arm for a particular patient. The 3D digital model of the orthotic device may then be flattened to generate a substantially planar digital model of the orthotic device. In some embodiments, a specific configuration of the arm 130 (e.g., the geometry of the biasing portion 150, the position along the anchor 120 ( Figure 2A ), etc.) may then be selected in order to apply a desired force to push the corresponding tooth (the tooth to which the arm 130 is attached) from its OTA towards its FTA. As previously described, in some embodiments, the arm is configured to be substantially at rest or in a substantially stress-free state when in the FTA. The selected arm configuration may then be replaced or incorporated into the planar digital model of the orthotic device.

[0507] In some cases, it may be beneficial to evaluate an expected orthotic device design before manufacturing a physical orthotic device based on the expected orthotic device design to assess the performance of the physical orthotic device during treatment. For example, since the pre-installed form of the orthotic device is at least partially based on the desired FTA, once the physical orthotic device is installed in a patient's mouth (e.g., the patient's teeth are in the OTA), the position of one or more portions of the orthotic device may move relative to the gums. As a result, one or more displaced positions of the physical orthotic device may cause pain to the patient, thereby reducing treatment compliance and / or satisfaction.

[0508] In some embodiments, finite element analysis (or other suitable computational techniques) may be used to manipulate the 3D digital model of the orthotic device to evaluate its performance before manufacturing. For example, as Figure 4E shown, the 3D digital model 414 of the orthotic device may be virtually deformed (e.g., using finite element analysis) to a position that engages with the patient's teeth in the OTA. As Figure 4EAs shown, the generated virtual model 412 represents an orthodontic digital model 414 that has been deformed to a position where it engages with the patient's teeth in the OTA. The output of the virtual deformation can be evaluated to assess whether the physical orthodontic appliance will work as expected. Based on the evaluation of the output, the expected orthodontic appliance design can be modified as needed, or the final orthodontic appliance design can be obtained. In Figure 4E the example shown, a portion of the orthodontic digital model 414 impinges on the gingival digital model. Accordingly, the design of the orthodontic appliance can be modified, and the evaluation can be repeated until the orthodontic digital model 414 no longer impinges on the gingiva. This process can be repeated iteratively until a satisfactory orthodontic appliance design is obtained.

[0509] Next, a heat treatment fixture can be manufactured. For example, using a heat treatment fixture digital model, a heat treatment fixture can be cast, molded, 3D printed, or otherwise manufactured using a suitable material configured to withstand the heat for shaping the orthodontic appliance.

[0510] In some embodiments, manufacturing the orthodontic appliance includes first manufacturing the orthodontic appliance in a planar configuration based on a planar orthodontic digital model. For example, as Figure 4F and 4G shown, a pattern 424 of the planar form of the final orthodontic appliance can be cut out from a sheet of material 424 to obtain a planar member 426. In some embodiments, the orthodontic appliance is cut from a nitinol or other metal sheet using laser cutting, water jet, stamping, or other suitable techniques. For example, the material thickness of the orthodontic appliance can be varied by electro-polishing, etching, depositing, or otherwise manipulating the material of the orthodontic appliance to achieve the desired material properties.

[0511] According to some embodiments, the planar member 426 (e.g., as a 3D print or cut from a sheet of material) can be bent or otherwise manipulated into the desired arrangement (e.g., substantially corresponding to the FTA) to form a 3D orthodontic appliance for treatment. In some embodiments, as Figure 4H shown, the planar member 426 can be bent into place by attaching the planar member 426 to a heat treatment fixture 432. The heat treatment fixture 432 can be, for example, the physical form of a previously obtained heat treatment fixture digital model 408. For example, the arms of the planar member 426 can be removably attached to hook members of the heat treatment fixture, and optionally, ligature wires or other temporary fasteners can be used to secure the arms or other parts of the orthodontic appliance to the heat treatment fixture 432. Then, the resulting assembly (i.e., the orthodontic appliance secured to the heat treatment fixture) can be heated to shape the orthodontic appliance into its final shape, which can correspond to or substantially correspond to the FTA. Accordingly, the orthodontic appliance is configured to be in a stress-free state at the FTA. The shaped orthodontic appliance can then be removed from the heat treatment fixture 432.

[0512] In operation, the appliance can then be installed in the patient's mouth (e.g., by bending or otherwise manipulating the arms of the appliance to attach it to brackets on the patient's teeth at the OTA). Due to the shaping of the appliance and the geometry of the arms and anchors, the arms will tend to push each tooth away from its OTA and towards the FTA.

[0513] III. Selected Examples of Orthodontic Appliance Configurations

[0514] The appliance of the present technology can include any combination of structural elements to directly or indirectly connect a first tooth (or teeth) to a second tooth (or teeth) and / or to another anatomical structure or location within or near the mouth. A particular configuration can be selected based on one or more desired functional characteristics such as flexibility, biasing force magnitude, biasing force direction, durability, etc. Figures 5-34 Several examples of configurations for use with the appliance of the present technology are described. Although each configuration is explained with reference to two attachment portions 140, the appliance of the present technology can:

[0515] As Figure 5 shown, the appliance 100 can include one or more connection configurations including a first connector 106a extending gingivally from a first attachment portion 140a, a first connector 106b extending gingivally from a second attachment portion 140b, and a third connector 108 extending between the gingival end portions of the first connectors 106a, 106b. The attachment portions 140a, 140b are not connected by the first connector 104. In Figure 5 this, all three connectors 106a, 106b, and 108 are generally linear, have a relatively large width w, and do not include any biasing portions. Thus, each of the connectors 106a, 106b, and 108 includes a rigid connector (i.e., having an infinite stiffness coefficient k) such that the first tooth T1 and the second tooth T2 do not move relative to each other.

[0516] The attachment portions 140a, 140b used in a given connection configuration can have the same or different shapes, sizes, and / or configurations and can include any attachment portion, bracket connector, and / or male connector element disclosed herein, as well as any attachment portion, bracket connector, and / or male connector element disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,383,707, filed December 6, 2016, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Similarly, the appliance carrying the attachment portions 140a, 140b can be any appliance disclosed herein, as well as any appliance disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,383,707, filed December 6, 2016.

[0517] As Figure 6As shown, the aligner 100 may include one or more connection configurations, including a second connector 106a extending gingivally from the first attachment portion 140a, a second connector 106b extending gingivally from the second attachment portion 140b, and a third connector 108 extending between the gingival end portions of the first connector 106a and the second connector 106b. The attachment portions 140a, 140b are not connected by the first connector 104. In Figure 6 , the second connectors 106a, 106b are generally linear, have a relatively large width w, and do not include any biasing portions. Thus, each of the second connectors 106a, 106b includes a rigid connector (i.e., having an infinite stiffness coefficient k). However, the first connector 104 has a smaller width and two biasing portions 150 along its longitudinal axis. Thus, the first connector 104 has a positive non-zero stiffness coefficient. Each biasing portion 150 includes an open-loop / U-shaped portion of the first connector 104 that extends in a generally occlusal side direction such that each biasing portion 150 has a recess facing the gingival side direction.

[0518] As Figure 7 shown, the aligner 100 may include one or more connection configurations, including a first connector 104 having a biasing portion 50 such that the first connector 104 has a non-zero positive stiffness coefficient. Thus, the first connector 104 is relatively flexible and allows movement between the first tooth T1 and the second tooth T2. Figure 7 The connection configuration of does not include any second or third connectors, so the attachment portions 140a, 140b (and associated teeth) are connected only by the first connector 104.

[0519] As Figure 8 shown, in some embodiments, the aligner 100 may include one or more connection configurations, including a first connector 104 that is generally rigid, e.g., as Figure 8 shown. The first connector 104 does not have a biasing portion and has a relatively large width. Contrary to the configuration of Figure 7 , Figure 8 the first connector 104 of does not allow relative movement between teeth. Such a configuration may be beneficial, for example, when moving two or more teeth as a group, or when two or more teeth do not require any movement between the OTA and the FTA, and thus can be used to help anchor the anchorage.

[0520] As Figure 9As shown, the aligner 100 may include one or more connection configurations, including a second connector 106a extending gingivally from the first attachment portion 140a, a second connector 106b extending gingivally from the second attachment portion 140b, a third connector 108 extending between the gingival end portions of the second connectors 106a, 106b, and a first connector 104 extending between the first and second attachment portions 140a, 140b. In Figure 9 , the second connector 106a, the second connector 106b, and the third connector 108 are generally linear, have a relatively large width w, and do not include any biasing portions. As a result, each of the connectors 106a, 106b, and 108 includes a rigid connector (i.e., having an infinite stiffness coefficient k). The first connector 104 includes a single biasing portion 50 and thus has a non-zero positive stiffness coefficient. However, the overwhelming stiffness provided by the second connector 106a, the second connector 106b, and the third connector 108 controls the first tooth T1 and the second tooth T2 from moving relative to each other.

[0521] As Figure 10 shown, the aligner 100 may include one or more connection configurations, including a second connector 106a extending gingivally from the first attachment portion 140a, a second connector 106b extending gingivally from the second attachment portion 140b, a third connector 108 extending between the gingival end portions of the second connectors 106a, 106b, and a first connector 104 extending between the first attachment portion 140a and the second attachment portion 140b. In Figure 10 , the second connector 106a and the second connector 106b are generally linear, have a relatively large width w, and do not include any biasing portions. As a result, each of the connectors 106a, 106b includes a rigid connector (i.e., having an infinite stiffness coefficient k). The first connector 104 includes a single biasing portion 50 and thus has a non-zero positive stiffness coefficient, and the third connector 108 includes two biasing portions 150 in series and thus also has a non-zero positive stiffness coefficient.

[0522] As Figure 11 shown, the aligner 100 may include one or more connection configurations including a second connector 106a extending gingivally from the first attachment portion 140a, a second connector 106b extending gingivally from the second attachment portion 140b, a first connector 104 extending between the first attachment portion 140a and the second attachment portion 140b, and a third connector 108 extending between the gingival end portions of the second connectors 106a, 106b. In Figure 11In this case, all the connectors 106a, 106b, 108, and 104 are generally linear, have a relatively large width w, and do not include any biasing portions. As a result, each of the connectors 106a, 106b, 108, 104 includes a rigid connector (i.e., having an infinite stiffness coefficient k) such that the first tooth T1 and the second tooth T2 do not move relative to each other.

[0523] As Figure 12 shown, the aligner 100 can include one or more connection configurations including a second connector 106a extending gingivally from the first attachment portion 140a, a second connector 106b extending gingivally from the second attachment portion 140b, a first connector 104 extending between the first attachment portion 140a and the second attachment portion 140b, and a third connector 108 extending between the gingival end portions of the second connectors 106a, 106b. In Figure 12 this case, the second connector 106a, the second connector 106b, and the first connector 104 are generally linear, have a relatively large width w, and do not include any biasing portions. As a result, each of the connectors 106a, 106b, 104 includes a rigid connector (i.e., having an infinite stiffness coefficient k). The third connector 108 has a relatively small width and two biasing portions 150 in series and thus has a positive non-zero stiffness coefficient. However, the great stiffness provided by the second connector 106a, the second connector 106b, and the first connector 104 controls the first tooth T1 and the second tooth T2 from moving relative to each other.

[0524] As Figure 13 shown, the aligner 100 can include one or more connection configurations including a second connector 106a extending gingivally from the first attachment portion 140a, a second connector 106b extending gingivally from the second attachment portion 140b, and a third connector 108 extending between the gingival end portions of the second connectors 106a, 106b. This configuration does not include a first connector 104 extending between the attachment portions 140a, 140b. In Figure 13 this case, each of the second connector 106a and the second connector 106b includes a single S-shaped biasing portion 150 along its respective longitudinal axis, while the third connector 108 is generally linear, has a relatively large width w, and does not include any biasing portions. As a result, the third connector 108 includes a rigid connector (i.e., having an infinite stiffness coefficient k). As a result, the first tooth T1 and the second tooth T2 can move relative to each other.

[0525] As Figure 14As shown, the aligner 100 may include one or more connection configurations, including a second connector 106a extending gingivally from the first attachment portion 140a, a second connector 106b extending gingivally from the second attachment portion 140b, and a third connector 108 extending between the gingival end portions of the second connectors 106a, 106b. This configuration does not include a first connector 104 extending between the attachment portions 140a, 140b. In Figure 14 , each of the second connector 106a and the second connector 106b includes a single S-shaped biasing portion 150 along its respective longitudinal axis, and the third connector 108 includes two U-shaped biasing portions 150 in series. As a result, the first tooth T1 and the second tooth T2 may move relative to each other.

[0526] As Figure 15 shown, the aligner 100 may include one or more connection configurations, including a second connector 106a extending gingivally from the first attachment portion 140a, a second connector 106b extending gingivally from the second attachment portion 140b, a first connector 104 extending between the attachment portions 140a, 140b, and a third connector 108 extending between the gingival end portions of the second connectors 106a, 106b. In Figure 15 , each of the second connector 106a and the second connector 106b includes a single S-shaped biasing portion 150 along its respective longitudinal axis, and the first connector 104 includes a single U-shaped biasing portion 150. The third connector 108 is generally linear, has a relatively large width w, and does not include any biasing portions. As a result, the third connector 108 includes a rigid connector (i.e., having an infinite stiffness coefficient k).

[0527] As Figure 16 shown, the aligner 100 may include one or more connection configurations, including a second connector 106a extending gingivally from the first attachment portion 140a, a second connector 106b extending gingivally from the second attachment portion 140b, a first connector 104 extending between the attachment portions 140a, 140b, and a third connector 108 extending between the gingival end portions of the second connectors 106a, 106b. In Figure 16 , each of the second connector 106a and the second connector 106b includes a single S-shaped biasing portion 150 along its respective longitudinal axis, the first connector 104 includes a single U-shaped biasing portion 150, and the third connector 108 includes two U-shaped biasing portions 150 in series. The U-shaped biasing portion 150 of the first connector 104 may be recessed in the occlusal direction, and the two U-shaped biasing portions 150 of the third connector 108 may be recessed in the gingival direction.

[0528] AsFigure 17 As shown, the aligner 100 may include one or more connection configurations, including a second connector 106a extending gingivally from the first attachment portion 140a, a second connector 106b extending gingivally from the second attachment portion 140b, a first connector 104 extending between the attachment portions 140a, 140b, and a third connector 108 extending between the gingival end portions of the second connectors 106a, 106b. In Figure 17 , each of the second connectors 106a, 106b may include a single S-shaped biasing portion 150 along its respective longitudinal axis, while the first connector 104 and the third connector 108 are generally linear, have a relatively large width w, and do not include any biasing portions. As a result, each of the first connector 104 and the third connector 108 includes a rigid connector (i.e., having an infinite stiffness coefficient k).

[0529] As Figure 18 As shown, the aligner 100 may include one or more connection configurations, including a second connector 106a extending gingivally from the first attachment portion 140a, a second connector 106b extending gingivally from the second attachment portion 140b, a first connector 104 extending between the attachment portions 140a, 140b, and a third connector 108 extending between the gingival end portions of the second connectors 106a, 106b. In Figure 18 , each of the second connector 106a and the second connector 106b includes a single S-shaped biasing portion 150 along its respective longitudinal axis, and the third connector 108 includes two U-shaped biasing portions 150 in series. The U-shaped biasing portions 150 of the third connector 108 may be recessed in the gingival direction. The first connector 104 is generally linear, has a relatively large width w, and does not include any biasing portions. As a result, the first connector 104 includes a rigid connector (i.e., having an infinite stiffness coefficient k).

[0530] As Figure 19 As shown, the aligner 100 may include one or more connection configurations, including a second connector 106a extending gingivally from the first attachment portion 140a, a second connector 106b extending gingivally from the second attachment portion 140b, a first connector 104 extending between the attachment portions 140a, 140b, and a third connector 108 extending between the gingival end portions of the second connectors 106a, 106b. In Figure 19In [description], the second connector 106b includes a single S-shaped biasing portion 150 along its respective longitudinal axis, and the first connector 104 includes a single U-shaped biasing portion 150. The second connectors 106a and the third connector 108 are generally linear, have a relatively large width w, and do not include any biasing portions. As a result, each of the second connectors 106a and the third connector 108 includes a rigid connector (i.e., having an infinite stiffness coefficient k).

[0531] As Figure 20 shown, the aligner 100 may include one or more connection configurations, including a second connector 106a extending from the first attachment portion 140a toward the gingival side, a second connector 106b extending from the second attachment portion 140b toward the gingival side, a first connector 104 extending between the attachment portions 140a, 140b, and a third connector 108 extending between the gingival-side end portions of the second connectors 106a, 106b. In Figure 20 [description], the second connector 106b includes a single S-shaped biasing portion 150 along its respective longitudinal axis, the first connector 104 includes a single U-shaped biasing portion 150, and the third connector 108 includes two U-shaped biasing portions 150 in series. The U-shaped biasing portion 150 of the first connector 104 may be recessed in the occlusal-side direction, while the two U-shaped biasing portions 150 of the third connector 108 may be recessed in the gingival-side direction. The second connector 106a is generally linear, has a relatively large width w, and does not include any biasing portions. As a result, the second connector 106a includes a rigid connector (i.e., having an infinite stiffness coefficient k).

[0532] As Figure 21 shown, the aligner 100 may include one or more connection configurations, including a second connector 106a extending from the first attachment portion 140a toward the gingival side, a second connector 106b extending from the second attachment portion 140b toward the gingival side, and a third connector 108a extending between the gingival-side end portions of the second connectors 106a, 106b. Figure 21 The configuration shown does not include a first connector 104 extending between the attachment portions 140a, 140b and does not include any rigid connectors. Each of the second connectors 106a, 106b may include a single S-shaped biasing portion 150 along its respective longitudinal axis, and the third connector 108a may include two U-shaped biasing portions 150 in series. The two U-shaped biasing portions 150 of the third connector 108a may be recessed in the gingival-side direction. In some embodiments, one or both of the biasing portions 150 of the third connector 108a are recessed in the occlusal-side direction. Figure 21The connection configuration shown also includes a third connector 108c extending gingivally from the gingival end portion of the second connector 106, a third connector 108d extending gingivally from the gingival end portion of the second connector 106b, and a third connector 108b extending between the gingival end portions of the third connectors 108c, 108d. The entire length of the third connector 108b may be gingivally positioned relative to the entire length of the third connector 108a. The third connector 108b may include a single S-shaped biasing portion 150 having opposing recesses facing the mesial and distal directions, such that the third connector 108b includes two generally linear portions spaced apart from each other in the occlusal-gingival direction. The third connectors 108a - 108d together enclose a cell.

[0533] As Figure 22 shown, the aligner 100 may include one or more connection configurations, including a second connector 106a extending gingivally from the first attachment portion 140a, a second connector 106b extending gingivally from the second attachment portion 140b, and a third connector 108a extending between the gingival end portions of the second connectors 106a, 106b. Figure 22 The configuration shown does not include a first connector 104 extending between the attachment portions 140a, 140b and does not include any rigid connectors. Each of the second connectors 106a, 106b may include a single S-shaped biasing portion 150 along its respective longitudinal axis, and the third connector 108a may include two U-shaped biasing portions 150 in series. The two U-shaped biasing portions 150 of the third connector 108a may be recessed in the gingival direction. In some embodiments, one or both of the biasing portions 150 of the third connector 108a are recessed in the occlusal direction. Figure 22 The connection configuration shown also includes a third connector 108c extending gingivally from the gingival end portion of the second connector 106, a third connector 108d extending gingivally from the gingival end portion of the second connector 106b, and a third connector 108b extending between the gingival end portions of the third connectors 108c, 108d. The entire length of the third connector 108b may be located gingivally relative to the entire length of the third connector 108a. The third connector 108b may include a single, vertically oriented S-shaped biasing portion 150 having two generally linear portions on either side thereof, which are generally aligned with each other along the occlusal-gingival dimension. The third connectors 108a - 108d together enclose a cell.

[0534] As Figure 23As shown, the aligner 100 may include one or more connection configurations, including a second connector 106a extending gingivally from the first attachment portion 140a, a second connector 106b extending gingivally from the second attachment portion 140b, a third connector 108a extending between the gingival end portions of the second connectors 106a, 106b, and a rigid first connector 104 extending between the first attachment portion 140a and the second attachment portion 140b. Each of the second connectors 106a, 106b includes a single S-shaped biasing portion 150 along its respective longitudinal axis, and the third connector 108a includes two U-shaped biasing portions 150 in series. The two U-shaped biasing portions 150 of the third connector 108a may both be recessed in the gingival direction. In some embodiments, the U-shaped biasing portion 150 may be recessed in the occlusal direction. The first connector 104 is generally linear, has a relatively large width w, and does not include any biasing portions. Figure 23 The connection configuration shown in Figure 23 further includes a third connector 108c extending gingivally from the gingival end portion of the second connector 106a, a third connector 108d extending gingivally from the gingival end portion of the second connector 106b, and a third connector 108b extending between the gingival end portions of the third connectors 108c, 108d. The entire length of the third connector 108b may be gingival relative to the entire length of the third connector 108a. The third connector 108b may include a single S-shaped biasing portion 150 having opposing recesses facing the mesial and distal directions, such that the third connector 108b includes two generally linear portions spaced apart from each other in the occlusal-gingival direction. The third connectors 108a-108d together enclose a unit.

[0535] As Figure 24 As shown, the aligner 100 may include one or more connection configurations, including a flexible second connector 106a extending gingivally from the first attachment portion 140a, a flexible second connector 106b extending gingivally from the second attachment portion 140b, a flexible third connector 108a extending between the gingival end portions of the second connectors 106a, 106b, and a rigid first connector 104 extending between the first attachment portion 140a and the second attachment portion 140b. Each of the second connectors 106a, 106b may include a single S-shaped biasing portion 150 along its respective longitudinal axis, and the third connector 108a may include two U-shaped biasing portions 150 in series. The two U-shaped biasing portions 150 of the third connector 108a may be recessed in the gingival direction. In some embodiments, one or both of the U-shaped biasing portions 150 of the third connector 108a may be recessed in the occlusal direction. The first connector 104 is generally linear, has a relatively large width w, and does not include any biasing portions. Figure 24The connection configuration shown also includes a third connector 108c extending gingivally from the gingival-side end portion of the second connector 106a, a third connector 108d extending gingivally from the gingival-side end portion of the second connector 106b, and a third connector 108b extending between the gingival-side end portions of the third connectors 108c, 108d. The third connector 108b may include a single, vertically oriented S-shaped biasing portion 150 having two generally linear portions on either side thereof, generally aligned with each other along the occlusal-gingival dimension. The entire length of the third connector 108b may be on the gingival side relative to the entire length of the third connector 108a. The third connectors 108a-108d together enclose a unit.

[0536] As Figure 25 shown, the aligner 100 may include one or more connection configurations including a second connector 106a extending gingivally from the first attachment portion 140a, a second connector 106b extending gingivally from the second attachment portion 140b, and a third connector 108a extending between the gingival-side end portions of the second connectors 106a, 106b. Figure 25 The configuration shown does not include a first connector 104 extending between the attachment portions 140a, 140b and does not include any rigid connectors. Each of the second connectors 106a, 106b may include a relatively short segment. The third connector 108a may include a single U-shaped biasing portion 150 that is recessed in the gingival-side direction. In some embodiments, the biasing portion 150 of the third connector 108a is recessed in the occlusal-side direction. Figure 25 The connection configuration shown also includes a third connector 108c extending gingivally from the gingival-side end portion of the second connector 106a, a third connector 108d extending gingivally from the gingival-side end portion of the second connector 106b, and a third connector 108b extending between the gingival-side end portions of the third connectors 108c, 108d. For example, as opposed to Figure 24 the configuration shown, only a portion of the length of the third connector 108b may be on the gingival side relative to the entire length of the third connector 108a. The third connector 108b may include a single, vertically oriented S-shaped biasing portion 150 having two generally linear portions on either side thereof, generally aligned with each other along the occlusal-gingival dimension. The third connectors 108a-108d together enclose a unit.

[0537] Figures 25-33 Several additional example configurations are described in accordance with the current art.

[0538] As Figure 34As shown, in some embodiments, the aligner 100 may include a portion where a single flexible third connector 3402 extends from the anchor 120 (or another more rigid third connector 108) and divides into two flexible second connectors 3406, 3400, each terminating at a respective attachment portion 140a, 140b. The third connector 3402 and each second connector 3406, 3400 may each include a biasing portion (as shown). In some embodiments, the third connector 3402 and / or one or both of the second connectors 3406, 3000 do not include a biasing portion and / or are rigid.

[0539] It should be understood that the first connector 104, second connector 106, third connector 108, and other connectors of the present technology may include zero, three, four, five, six, or more biasing portions. Similarly, even if a particular connector may be shown or described as having a particular type of biasing portion, it will be understood that the connector may have any type of shape or biasing portion.

[0540] In some embodiments, one or more arms of the aligner 100 may include a plurality of second connectors 106 that extend from another, stiffer connector to the same attachment portion 140. Connecting two points on the aligner 100 (such as an anchor and an attachment portion) using two or more connectors can apply a greater force (relative to a single connector connecting the same points) without increasing the strain on a single connector. Given the spatial constraints of fixed displacement treatment herein, this configuration is particularly beneficial. Additional details regarding the use of multiple connectors for discrete connections (such as arms) are provided below.

[0541] Figure 36 is an isolated view of a portion of an aligner having an arm 130 that includes two second connectors 150a, 150b that extend between an anchor 120 and an attachment portion (not shown). Each connector 150a, 150b may have a first end 130a located at the anchor 120 and a second end 130b located at the attachment portion. The connectors 150a, 150b may be separated by a gap 172 between their first end 130a and second end 130b. In Figure 36 the embodiment shown, each 150a, 150b also includes a biasing portion. Although the arm 130 is shown having two serpentine connectors 150a, 150b that extend parallel to each other, in some embodiments, the arm may include more than two connectors. In these and other embodiments, the respective connectors may extend along the same or different paths and / or have the same or different shapes.

[0542] As Figure 37As shown, in some embodiments, the arm 130 includes one or more bridging members 170 that extend across a gap 172 and connect the second connectors 150a, 150b at different positions along the length of the connectors 150a, 150b. Including one or more bridging members 170 can increase the overall stiffness of the arm. For example, arm 130a has more bridging members 170 than arm 130b and is thus stiffer, and arm 130b has more bridging members than arm 130c and is thus stiffer. For those embodiments having more than one bridging member, the multiple bridging members 170 can have the same or different lengths. As Figure 38 shown, the width of one or both of the connectors 150a, 150b can be increased to increase the stiffness of a single connector, or the width can be decreased to reduce the stiffness of a single connector. The different connectors 150a, 150b can have the same or different widths.

[0543] As Figures 39-42 shown, the bridging members 170 can be spaced at uniform intervals along the length of the arm, or positioned at random or non-uniform intervals. In some embodiments, the arm 130 can include a first bridging member closer to the anchor and a second bridging member closer to the attachment portion 140.

[0544] Figure 43 Additional examples of multiple connector-arm configurations are shown. It should be understood that any attachment portion herein can be coupled to an anchor (or another connector) via multiple connectors.

[0545] As Figure 44 shown, the width of one or both of the connectors 150a, 150b can be increased to increase the stiffness of a single connector, or the width can be decreased to reduce the stiffness of a single connector. The different connectors 150a, 150b can have the same or different widths.

[0546] Figure 45 An example arm 130 including multiple connectors 150a - 150c is shown. As Figure 45 shown, less than all of the connectors extend the entire length between the anchor 120 and the attachment portion 140. For example, connectors 150a, 150b, and another connector (not labeled) all start at the anchor 120, but only connector 150b travels the entire length of the arm to the attachment portion 140. As Figure 46 shown, in some embodiments, the arm can include three or more connectors, all of which extend the entire length of the arm between the anchor and the attachment portion.

[0547] According to some embodiments, for example as Figure 47 and Figure 48As shown, multiple connectors can create a path between the anchor 120 and the attachment portion 140 that includes one or more substantially linear segments. The substantially linear segments can extend in an occlusogingival direction or a mesiodistal direction.

[0548] As Figures 49-57 shown, multiple connectors can form multiple turns between the anchor 120 and the attachment portion 140. These turns can be stacked in a mesiodistal direction or in an occlusogingival direction. The peaks (closer to the occlusal side) of consecutive turns can be aligned along the occlusogingival axis or can be offset. In these and other embodiments, the valleys (closer to the gingival side) of consecutive turns can be aligned along the occlusogingival axis or can be offset.

[0549] Figure 58 Two arms 130a, 130b of the present technology are depicted, each arm having a flexible connector 150 with a plurality of openings 5800 along its length. The thickness of the sidewalls 5802 of the openings 5800 can be increased or decreased to affect the flexibility of the arm.

[0550] As Figures 59-74 shown, a single flexible connector can form multiple turns between the anchor 120 and the attachment portion 140. For example, an arm can form two or more turn stacks 5900a, 5900b where the turns are stacked in an occlusogingival direction. The stack can be separated by a substantially linear portion of the arm. In some embodiments, the arm can form two or more turn stacks where the turns are stacked in a mesiodistal direction. In some embodiments, the arm can include both a mesiodistal stack and an occlusogingival side stack. The peaks (closer to the occlusal side or closer to the mesial side) of consecutive turns can be aligned along the occlusogingival axis or can be offset. In these and other embodiments, the valleys (closer to the gingival side or closer to the mesial side) of consecutive turns can be aligned along the occlusogingival axis or can be offset.

[0551] Figure 74 The exemplary aligner 7400 shown in includes an anchor 7412 and a plurality of arms 7414 extending from the anchor 7412. The anchor 7412 is formed in an arch (an arch-shaped member having a substantially arch-shaped configuration). As described herein, when the aligner 7400 is installed, the anchor 7412 is configured to extend along two or more (or multiple) adjacent teeth in one jaw of a patient.

[0552] The anchor 7412 has a longitudinal dimension that includes a first portion 7412a configured to extend along incisors, lateral incisors, and cuspids (canines). The longitudinal dimension of the anchor 7412 also includes a second portion 7412b and a third portion 7412c configured to extend along some or all of the bicuspids and molars. In other embodiments, the length of the anchor 7412 can be smaller and can include, for example, the first portion 7412a (or a portion of the first portion 7412a) but not the second portion 7412b and the third portion 7412c. In other embodiments, the anchor 7412 can include a portion of the length of one or each of the second portion 7412b and the third portion 7412c and the first portion 7412a. In some embodiments, the aligner can include one or more (any appropriate length) second and third portions 7412b, 7412c and not include the first portion 7412a. In additional embodiments, the aligner can include one or more anchors, (any appropriate length) second and third portions 7412b, 7412c, and a Z embodiment aligner feature or other aligner feature located in a position of the first portion 7412a (rather than the anchor portion) that connects the second portion 7412b and the third portion 7412c.

[0553] A plurality of arms 7414 can extend along the anchor 7412 at intervals along the longitudinal axis L2 of the anchor 7412. The plurality of arms 7414 can be spaced apart from each other at uniform intervals along the length dimension of the anchor 7412 or spaced apart from each other at uniform intervals. In a specific example, the arms 7414 are disposed at positions along the length dimension of the anchor 7412 that correspond to or are associated with the positions of the teeth to which the arms are connected when the aligner is installed (or, in a subsequent specific example, the FTA of each tooth).

[0554] Each arm 7414 includes a spring portion (or spring member) 7414a and a bracket connector element (or male connector element) 7414b. Each spring member 7414a in the aligner 7400 can correspond to the spring member or spring portion on the arm of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 370,704 (Publication No. 2017 / 0156823) or any spring member or spring portion described herein. Each bracket connector element (or male connector element) 7414b in the aligner 7400 can correspond to any bracket connector (or male connector element) described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 370,704 (Publication No. 2017 / 0156823) or this application.

[0555] In Figure 74In the example of [description], the aligner 7400 includes ten arms 7414 extending from the anchor 7412, including five arms on the right side of the aligner and five arms on the left side. Each arm 7414 is located at each corresponding distal end of the anchor 7412. The five arms on the right side of the aligner 7400 are separated and positioned along the length section 7412b, and the five arms on the left side of the aligner 74100 are separated and positioned along the length section 7412c of the anchor 7412. In other examples, the aligner 7400 may include fewer or more arms along one or both of the length sections 7412b and 7412c. In these or other examples, some or all of the arms 7414 may extend from the section 7412a of the anchor 7412.

[0556] In Figure 74 the example shown, the arm 7414 closest to the section 7412a on the right side of the aligner and the arm 7414 closest to the section 7412a on the left side of the aligner are respectively connected (by coupling or integration) to the corresponding ends of an additional rigid section (or second rigid rod) 7416 of additional rigid material. The additional rigid section 7416 extends along and adjacent to the section 7412a of the anchor 7412. In other examples, the additional rigid section 7416 may also or alternatively extend along and adjacent to some or all of the length of the section 7412b or section 7412c (or both sections 7412b and 7412c) of the anchor 7412. Although Figure 74 the aligner 7400 in [description] includes one additional rigid section 7416, other examples may include two or more additional rigid sections 7416 of additional rigid material (e.g., arranged above and adjacent to two or more of the sections 7412a, 7412b, and 7412c or portions of these sections).

[0557] The additional rigid section 7416 has a plurality of bracket connectors 7417 along its length dimension. The additional rigid section 7416 also has a plurality of annular or curved features 7418 formed along its length dimension.

[0558] Each bracket connector 7417 can be a bracket connector (or male connector element) corresponding to U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 370,704 (Publication No. 2017 / 0156823) or any bracket connector (or male connector element) described herein. Alternatively, some or all of the bracket connectors 7417 may have other suitable bracket connector configurations. In Figure 74 the example of [description], the bracket connector 7417 has a configuration corresponding to the bracket connectors 266, 267, 268, or 269 described in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 865323 with respect to Figure 29 the description.

[0559] In Figure 74In the example, four bracket connectors 7417 extend from additional rigid segment 7416. The bracket connectors 7417 are spaced apart and positioned along the length dimension of the additional rigid segment 7416 (and thus along at least a portion of the corresponding length dimension of segment 7412a of the anchor 7412). In other examples, the aligner 100 may include fewer or more bracket connectors 7417. In a specific example, the bracket connectors 7417 are disposed at locations along the length dimension of the additional rigid segment 7416 that correspond to or are associated with the locations of the teeth to which the bracket connectors 7417 are connected when the aligner is installed.

[0560] One or more (or each) of the annular or curved features 7418 in the additional rigid segment 7416 may be configured to provide flexibility or biasing or spring force (or both) in one or more directions, with the force level, durability, or other characteristics being based in part on the shape, material, and construction of the feature 7418. In certain examples, as Figure 74 shown, the aligner 7400 includes five annular or curved features 7418 along the length of the additional rigid segment 7416. Additionally, in certain examples, as Figure 74 shown, one bracket connector 7417 is located between each adjacent pair of the annular or curved features 7418.

[0561] The annular or curved features 7418 may include an annular or curved feature 7418a located at the left end of the additional rigid segment 7416 and an annular or curved feature 7418b located at the right end of the additional rigid segment 7416. In such examples, the additional rigid segment 7416 may be connected to the arm 7414 extending from the anchor 7412 by the annular or curved features 7418a and 7418b. Thus, one or both of the annular or curved features 7418a or 7418b may be configured to provide one or more of the desired flexibility, biasing force magnitude, biasing force direction, durability, or other characteristics at the interface between the arm extending from the anchor 7412 and the additional rigid segment 7416.

[0562] In Figure 74 the example, all of the bracket connectors 7417 on the additional rigid segment 7416 are located between the annular or curved features 7418a and 7418b. In other examples, one or more of the bracket connectors 7417 may be located between one or both of the features 7418a or 7418b and the corresponding arm 7414 connected to the end of the additional rigid segment 7416.

[0563] Other examples can include more or fewer than five annular or curved features along the length of an additional rigid segment 7416, more or fewer than one bracket connector 7417 between each adjacent pair of annular or curved features 7418, or more than one annular or curved feature 7418 between two adjacent bracket connectors 7417. As described herein, the number, configuration, and location of bracket connectors 7417 and annular or curved features 7418 can be selected for the aligner 7400 to provide the desired tooth attachment locations and the desired forces on the teeth (when the aligner is installed). For example, the number, configuration, and location of bracket connectors 7417 and annular or curved features 7418 can be selected to move one or more teeth from an original tooth alignment (OTA) to a final tooth alignment (FTA), or to an intermediate tooth alignment (ITA), or from an ITA to an FTA or another ITA.

[0564] The aligner 7400 is configured to be installed on a patient by connecting the bracket connector element 7414b and the bracket connector 7417 to corresponding brackets (or female connector elements) that are fixed to the patient's teeth (or a selected number of teeth) in one jaw of the patient. The brackets or female connector elements can have any suitable configuration and can be fixed to the patient's teeth in any suitable manner, including but not limited to the configurations and fixing manners described for the brackets or female connector elements denoted by reference numerals 700, 1300, 1501, 1601, 1706, 2600, and 2610 in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 370,704 (Publication No. 2017 / 0156823).

[0565] The aligner 7400 and the associated bracket (or female connector element) can be manufactured in any suitable manner, including but not limited to any of the manners of manufacturing an aligner or bracket (or female connector element) described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 370,704 (Publication No. 2017 / 0156823), including but not limited to molding, casting, machining, 3D printing, stamping, extrusion, etc. However, in a particular example, according to the process described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 370,704 (Publication No. 2017 / 0156823) or other suitable processes, the aligner 7400 or the female connector element (or both) is manufactured by cutting out a two-dimensional (2D) shape of the aligner from a 2D material sheet and bending the 2D shape into the desired 3D shape. In these or other examples, the aligner 100 can be configured from a single piece (or type) of material into a single integral structure. In other examples, the aligner 7400 can be composed of multiple components connected together in any suitable manner, such as but not limited to welding, soldering, adhesive bonding, pressing, or friction fitting, mechanical connectors, etc.

[0566] In the example described with reference to Figure 74 the aligner 7400 includes a combination of X and Z features (including one or more features according to one or more examples of Embodiment Z and one or more features according to one or more examples of Embodiment X). Regarding the features according to Embodiment X, the aligner 7400 includes one or more (or a plurality of) independent arms 7414 extending from one or more rigid rods 7412. Regarding an example of the features according to Embodiment Z, the aligner 7400 further includes one or more rigid rods 7416 formed along its length dimension and one or more annular or curved features 7418 (force-applying features), and the rigid rod has one or more bracket connectors 7417.

[0567] Another example of an aligner 7500 having a combination of X and Z features is as Figure 75 and 76 shown. The aligner 7500 shown as Figure 75 is in an uninstalled state (not installed on a patient). As Figure 76The shown orthodontic appliance 7500 is in an installed state (installed on a patient's teeth). The orthodontic appliance 7500 includes an anchor 7522 corresponding to the anchor 7412 of the orthodontic appliance 7400. However, the anchor 7522 has a longitudinal dimension including a segment 7522a configured to extend along incisors, lateral incisors, and canines when the orthodontic appliance is installed, and additional segments 7522b and 7522c configured to extend along some but not all of the premolars or molars. In other embodiments, the length of the anchor 7522 may be smaller and may include, for example, segment 7522a (or a portion of segment 7522a), but not portions of segment 7522b or 7522c. In other embodiments, the anchor 7522 may include segment 7522a and a longer segment 7522b or a longer segment 7522c that extends to a molar on one side of the orthodontic appliance 7522 when the orthodontic appliance is installed. The anchor 7522 may be formed as an arch (an arch member having a generally arched configuration) configured to extend along two or more (or multiple) adjacent teeth in one jaw of a patient when the orthodontic appliance 7500 is installed.

[0568] A plurality of arms 7530 extend from the anchor 7522. The arms 7530 of the orthodontic appliance 7500 may correspond in structure and function to the description of the arms 7414 for the orthodontic appliance 7400. For example, the arms 7530 may include spring members and bracket connectors (or male connector elements) similar to those described for the arms 7414 of the orthodontic appliance 7400. The arms 7530 may be spaced along the length dimension of the anchor 7522 in a manner similar to the spacing described for the arms 7414 on the anchor 7412. However, in the orthodontic appliance 7500, at least some of the arms 7530 are positioned along the anchoring segment 7522a, which is configured to extend along some or all of the incisors, lateral incisors, and canines. In other examples, the orthodontic appliance 7500 may include additional rigid segments (such as, but not limited to, the additional rigid segments 7416 of the orthodontic appliance 7400) that extend along the anchoring segment 7522a or along some or all of the anchoring segments 7522b or 7522c to replace or supplement one or more (or all) of the arms 7530 positioned along the anchor segment 7522a (or along segment 7522b or 7522c).

[0569] In Figure 75 the example of, the orthodontic appliance 7500 includes ten arms 7530 extending from the anchor 7522, including six arms extending from the anchoring segment 7522a, two arms extending from the anchoring segment 7522b, and two arms extending from the anchoring segment 7522c. In other examples, the orthodontic appliance 7500 may include fewer or more arms along one or more of the length segments 7522a, 7522b, and 7522c.

[0570] The aligner 7500 further includes additional rigid segments (or second rigid rods) 7526 and 7527 that extend from the right and left ends of the anchor 7522, respectively. Each additional rigid segment 7526 and 7527 has a longitudinal dimension that extends from one end of the anchor 7522 to the distal ends 7526a and 7527a. In other examples, the aligner 7500 may include one of the additional rigid segments 7526 or 7527, but not the other additional rigid segment 7527 or 7526. In these or other examples, the aligner 7500 may include one or more additional rigid segments (similar to the additional rigid segments 7526 and 7527) positioned along a portion (or all) of the length of the anchor segment 7522a, replacing (substituting for) the anchor segment 7522a.

[0571] In Figure 75 the examples, the shape of the additional rigid segment 7526 corresponds to (or is a mirror image of) the shape of the additional rigid segment 7527. In other examples, the shape and configuration of the additional rigid segment 7526 may be different from the shape and configuration of the additional rigid segment 7527.

[0572] Each additional rigid segment 7526 and 7527 has a plurality of annular or curved features 7529 formed along its length dimension and a plurality of bracket connectors 7528. The distal ends of each additional rigid segment 7526 and 7527 may include a portion of the bracket connector 7528a. Each of the bracket connectors 7528 and the annular or curved features 7529 may correspond to any one of the various examples described with respect to the bracket connectors 7417 and the annular or curved features 7418 of the aligner 7400 in terms of structure, arrangement, and function. In other examples, one or more (or all) of the bracket connectors 7528 or the features 7529 may have other suitable structures, configurations, or functions.

[0573] In certain examples, such as Figure 75As shown, the annular or curved feature 7529 can include an annular or curved feature 7529a located at or adjacent to the location where another rigid segment 7526 extends from the anchor 7522, and another annular or curved feature 7529b located at or adjacent to the location where another rigid segment 7527 extends from the anchor 7522. In such examples, the other rigid segments 7526 and 7527 can be connected to the anchor 7522 by the annular or curved feature 7529a or 7529b. In some examples, the annular or curved features 7529a and 7529b can be curved or annular features on an arm (e.g., similar to arm 30) extending from the anchor 7522. Thus, one or both of the annular or curved features 7529a or 7529b can be configured to provide one or more of a desired flexibility, a magnitude of biasing force, a direction of biasing force, durability, or other characteristics at the interface of the anchor 7522 with the other rigid segments 7526 and 7527.

[0574] In Figure 75 the example of, all bracket connectors 7528 on the left side of the aligner 7500 are located between the annular or curved feature 7529a and the distal end 7526a of the other rigid segment 7526. Similarly, all bracket connectors 7528 on the right side of the aligner 7500 are located between the annular or curved feature 7529b and the distal end 7527a of the other rigid segment 7527. In other examples, one or more of the bracket connectors 7528 can be located between the annular or curved feature 7529a or 7529b and the distal end 7526a or 7527a of the anchor, respectively.

[0575] Similar to the aligner 7400, the number, configuration, and location of the arms 7530, bracket connectors 7528, and annular or curved features 7529 can be selected for the aligner 7500 to provide the desired tooth connection locations and the desired forces on the teeth (when the aligner is installed), as described herein. For example, the number, configuration, and location of the arms, bracket connectors, and annular or curved features can be selected such that one or more teeth move from an original tooth alignment (OTA) to a final tooth alignment (FTA), or to an intermediate tooth alignment (ITA), or from an ITA to an FTA or another ITA.

[0576] Regarding the features according to Embodiment X, the aligner 7500 includes one or more (or a plurality of) independent arms 30 extending from one or more rigid rods 7522. Regarding an example of the features according to Embodiment Z, the aligner 7500 further includes one or more rigid rods 7526 or 7527 having one or more annular or curved features 7529 (force-applying features) formed along their length dimensions and one or more bracket connectors 7528.

[0577] As Figure 77As shown, another example of an orthotic having a combination of X and Z features is described with respect to the 2D member 7700 for forming an orthotic. Figure 77 The 2D orthotic member 7700 in Figure 77 is configured to be bent or otherwise formed into a 3D orthotic in any suitable manner, including the processes described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 370,704 (Publication No. 2017 / 0156823). However, an orthotic having the features described in the example of Figure 77 can be manufactured according to other suitable processes. Figure 77 An orthotic having the features described in the example of Figure 77 can be manufactured and used in a manner similar or corresponding to the manner described herein for orthotics 7400 and 7500. An orthotic having the features described in the example of Figure 77 can include certain features that correspond, in structure or function (or both), to some of the features of orthotic 7400 or orthotic 7500. [[ID=⑥]]

[0578] [[ID=⑦]]For example, [[ID=⑧]] Figure 77 [[ID=⑨]]An orthotic according to the example of Figure 77 can be manufactured and used in a manner similar or corresponding to the manner described herein for orthotics 7400 and 7500. For example, [[ID=⑩]] Figure 77 [[ID=⑪]]An orthotic having the features described in the example of Figure 77 can include certain features that correspond, in structure or function (or both), to some of the features of orthotic 7400 or orthotic 7500. [[ID=⑫]] [[ID=⑬]]

[0579] [[ID=⑭]]For example, the orthotic member 7700 includes an anchor 7742 corresponding to the anchor 7412 of the orthotic 7400. The anchor 7742 has a longitudinal dimension including a segment 7742a configured to extend along the incisors, lateral incisors, and canines (cuspids) when the orthotic formed from the orthotic member 7700 is installed, and additional segments 7742b and 7742c configured to extend along some but not all of the bicuspids or molars. In other embodiments, the length of the anchor 7742 can be smaller and can include, for example, segment 7742a (or a portion of segment 7742a), but not portions of segments 7742b or 7742c. In other embodiments, the anchor 7742 can include segment 7742a and a longer segment 7742b or a longer segment 7742c that extends to a molar on one side of the orthotic when the orthotic is formed and installed. In other embodiments, the orthotic can include an anchor 7742 having a length dimension and having one or two second rigid rods (or additional rigid rod segments) having the features of the Z embodiment (e.g., corresponding to the second rigid rods 7526 or 7527 of the orthotic 7500). [[ID=⑮]] [[ID=⑯]]

[0580] [[ID=⑰]]The anchor 7742 can have an arch (an arch member having a generally arched configuration) configured to extend along two or more (or multiple) adjacent teeth in one jaw of a patient when the orthotic is formed and installed. A plurality of arms 7744 extend from the anchor 7742. The arms 7744 can correspond in structure and function to the structure and function described for the arms 7414 or 7530 of the orthotic 7400 or 7500. For example, the arms 7744 can include spring members and bracket connectors (or male connector elements) similar to those described for the arms 7414 and 7530. [[ID=⑱]] [[ID=⑲]]

[0581] The arms 7744 can be spaced along the length dimension of the anchor 7742 in a manner similar to the spacing described for the arms 7414 on the anchor 7412. However, in the orthodontic member 7700, at least some of the arms 7744 are positioned along the anchoring segment 7742a, which is configured to extend along some or all of the incisors, lateral incisors, and canines. In other examples, the orthodontic member 7700 can include an additional rigid segment (such as, but not limited to, the additional rigid segment 7416 of the orthodontic member 7400) that extends along the anchoring segment 7742a or along some or all of the anchoring segments 7742b or 7742c, instead of one or more (or all) of the arms 7744 being positioned along the anchoring segment 7742a (or along segments 7742b or 7742c).

[0582] exist Figure 77 In the example shown in FIG. 7 , the orthotic member 7700 includes sixteen arms 7744 extending from an anchor 7742 to fourteen bracket connectors 7745a-7745n. Figure 77 As shown in Figure 1 with respect to bracket connectors 7745a and 7745b, one or more (or all) bracket connectors may be connected to or part of two corresponding arms 7744. Figure 77 As shown with respect to bracket connectors 7745c-7745n, one or more (or all) other bracket connectors can be connected to or part of a single arm 7744. In other examples, the orthotic member 7700 can include fewer or more arms along one or more length segments 7742a, 7742b, and 7742c. Furthermore, other examples of the orthotic member 7700 can include fewer or more bracket connectors.

[0583] according to Figure 77 The example orthotic component of includes one or more second rigid rods extending to and between two or more bracket connectors. Figure 77 In the example of FIG, the orthotic member 7700 includes a second rigid rod having segments 7746a, 7746b, and 7746c extending between bracket connectors 7745b, 7745c, 7745d, and 7745e. The orthotic 7740 includes another second rigid rod having segments 7746d, 7746e, 7746f, and 7746g extending between bracket connectors 7745j, 7745k, 7745l, 7745m, and 7745n. In other examples, the number and configuration of the second rigid rod and segments 7746a-g, as well as the number and location of the bracket connectors 7745a-7745n to which the second rigid rod segments extend and between which they extend, are selected to provide a desired flexibility or force, or both, as described herein.

[0584] Each second rigid rod segment 7746a - 7746g may have one or more (or multiple) annular or curved features 7748 formed along its length dimension. Each of the bracket connectors 7745a - 7745n and the annular or curved features 7748 may correspond in structure, arrangement, and function to any of the various examples described for the bracket connectors 7417 and the annular or curved features 7418 of the orthodontic appliance 7400. In other examples, one or more (or all) of the bracket connectors 7745a - 7745n or the features 7748 may have other suitable structures, configurations, or functions. One or more annular or curved features 7748 may be configured to provide one or more of a desired flexibility, a biasing force strength, and a biasing force direction between two or more bracket connectors 7745a - 7745n.

[0585] In some examples, as Figure 77 shown, the orthodontic appliance member (or orthodontic appliance) may include an anchor holder for anchoring the orthodontic appliance to the patient's palate. In Figure 77 the example of, the orthodontic appliance member 7700 includes an anchor holder 7749 or a Nance (palatal arch type) appliance. The anchor holder 7749 is connected to the anchor 7742 (by being coupled or integrated with the anchor 7742). In Figure 77 the example of, the anchor holder 7749 has a circular plate - shaped head portion 7749a that is connected to the anchor 7742 by a narrow neck portion 7749b. A plurality of apertures are provided in the head portion 7749a and the neck portion 7749b of the anchor holder 7749. When the orthodontic appliance is formed and installed, one or more temporary anchorage devices (TADs) (or other suitable anchorage devices) may extend through one or more of the apertures in the anchor holder 7749 and into the patient's palate (soft and hard tissues) to anchor the orthodontic appliance to the patient's palate. In a particular example, the anchor holder 7749 is for soft - tissue anchoring, where the soft tissue is used to help anchor the orthodontic appliance. In some examples, when the orthodontic appliance is installed, the orthodontic appliance member (or orthodontic appliance) including the anchor holder may rest on the soft tissue of the patient's palate without using a TAD (or other suitable anchorage device). In other examples, a TAD or other suitable anchor holder may be used. The anchor holder (such as, but not limited to, the anchor holder 7749) may be included in any of the example embodiments described herein.

[0586] As Figure 78 shown, another example of an orthodontic appliance having a combination of X and Z features is described with respect to the 2D member 7800 for forming the orthodontic appliance. Figure 78The 2D orthodontic appliance member 7800 therein is configured to be bent or formed into a 3D orthodontic appliance in any suitable manner, including the process described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 370,704 (Publication No. 2017 / 0156823). However, an orthodontic appliance having the features described in the examples of Figure 78 can be manufactured according to other suitable processes.

[0587] According to Figure 78 the examples of, an orthodontic appliance can be manufactured and used in a manner similar to or corresponding to the manner described herein for orthodontic appliance 7400 or 7500 or orthodontic appliance member 7700. According to Figure 78 the examples of, an orthodontic appliance can include certain features that correspond in structure or function (or both) to some of the features of orthodontic appliance 7400 or orthodontic appliance 7500 or orthodontic appliance member 7700.

[0588] For example, the orthodontic appliance member 7800 includes an anchor 7852, which corresponds to the anchor 7412 of orthodontic appliance 7400, the anchor 7522 of orthodontic appliance 7500, or the anchor 7742 of orthodontic appliance member 7700. The anchor 7852 has a longitudinal dimension configured to extend along the incisors, lateral incisors, and canines (cuspids) when the orthodontic appliance is formed and installed. When the orthodontic appliance is formed from orthodontic appliance member 7850 and installed, additional rigid rods or rod segments 7853 and 7854 are connected to the anchor 7852 (coupled to or extending from the anchor) to extend along some or all of the bicuspids or molars. In other examples, the length of the anchor 7852 can be less than Figure 78 as shown, and for example, when the orthodontic appliance is formed and installed, the anchor 7852 can extend along some (but not all) of the incisors, lateral incisors, and canines (cuspids). In other examples, when the orthodontic appliance is formed and installed, the anchor 7852 can extend further along the bicuspids or molars (instead of one or both of some or all of the rods or rod segments 7853 and 7854). In other examples, one or both of the segments 7853 and 7854 can be omitted or less than Figure 78 as shown in.

[0589] The anchor 7852 can have an arch (an arch member having a generally arched configuration) configured to extend along two or more (or multiple) adjacent teeth in one jaw of the patient when the orthodontic appliance is formed and installed. A plurality of arms 7856 extend from the anchor 7852. The arms 7856 can correspond in structure and function to the arms 7414, 7530, or 7744 described for orthodontic appliance 7400 or 7500 or orthodontic appliance member 7700. For example, the arms 7856 can include spring members and bracket connectors (or male connector elements) similar to those described for the arms 7414, 7530, or 7744.

[0590] The arms 7856 may be spaced along the length dimension of the anchor 7852 in a manner similar to Figure 74 that described for the arms 7414 on the anchor 7412 or Figure 77 that described for the arms 7744 on the anchor 7742 in

[0591] In Figure 78 the example of, the orthodontic component 7800 includes six arms 7856 extending from the anchor 7852 to six corresponding bracket connectors 7857. As Figure 78 shown, each corresponding bracket connector 7857 may be connected to a single corresponding arm 7856 or a portion thereof. In other examples, one or more (or all) of the bracket connectors may be connected to two corresponding arms or portions thereof (e.g., in a manner similar to Figure 77 that shown for the bracket connectors 7745a and 7745b in

[0592] According to Figure 78[[ the example of, the orthodontic component includes one or more additional rigid rods or rod segments 7853 and 7854 connected to the anchor 7852. Each additional rigid rod 7853 and 7854 may have one or more (or multiple) annular or curved features and one or more (or multiple) bracket connectors (or male connector elements) along its length dimension. In ​ the example of, the anchors 7853 and 7854 have a total of eight annular or curved features 7858a - 7858h and eight bracket connectors (or male connector elements) 7859a - 7859h. In other examples, each rigid rod 7853 and 7854 may have more or fewer annular or curved features or bracket connectors than shown in ​ the example of

[0593] Each bracket connector 7859 and the loop or bend feature 7858 can correspond in structure, arrangement, and function to any one of the various examples described for the bracket connector 7417 and the loop or bend feature 7418 of the orthodontic appliance 7400 or the bracket connectors 7745a - 7745n and the loop or bend feature 7748 of the orthodontic appliance member 7700. In other examples, one or more (or all) of the bracket connectors 7859 or features 7858 can have other suitable structures, configurations, or functions. One or more of the loop or bend features 58 can be configured to provide one or more of a desired flexibility, biasing force strength, and biasing force direction between two or more bracket connectors 7859.

[0594] In some examples, as ​ shown, the loop or bend feature 7858 can include a loop or bend feature 7858a located at or adjacent to the location where the additional rigid rod 7853 extends from the anchor 7852, and an additional loop or bend feature 7858e located at or adjacent to the location where the additional rigid rod 7854 extends from the anchor 7852. In such examples, the additional rigid rods 7853 and 7854 can be connected to the anchor 7852 by the loop or bend feature 7858a or 7858e. Thus, one or both of the loop or bend features 7858a or 7858e can be configured to provide one or more of a desired flexibility, biasing force magnitude, biasing force direction, durability, or other characteristics at the interface of the anchor 7852 and the additional rigid rods 7853 and 7854.

[0595] Other example orthodontic appliances (or orthodontic appliance members) 7900, 8000, 8100, and 8200 having combinations of X and Z features are shown respectively as ​ shown. And are manufactured and used in a manner similar or corresponding to that described for the orthodontic appliance 7400 or 7500 or the orthodontic appliance member 7700 or 7800. An orthodontic appliance according to any instance of Figures 79 - 82 can include certain features that correspond in structure or function (or both) to some features of the orthodontic appliance 7400 or 7500 or the orthodontic appliance member 7700 or 7800.

[0596] Specifically, for example, according to the features of the X embodiment described in the present application, each aligner (or aligner component) 7900, 8000, 8100, and 8200 includes one or more rigid rods and one or more (or a plurality of) individual arms extending from the one or more rigid rods. Specifically, the aligner (or aligner component) 7900 includes two rigid rods 7962 and 7963. The aligner 8000 (or aligner component) includes an anchor 8072. The aligner 8100 includes an anchor 8182, and the aligner 8200 (or aligner component) includes an anchor 8292. Each of the anchors 7962, 8182, and 8292 has a longitudinal dimension configured to extend along two or more teeth when the aligner is formed and installed. However, each of the anchors 7963 and 8072 has a longitudinal dimension configured to extend along one tooth when the aligner is formed and installed. Each of the anchors 7962, 7963, 8072, 8183, and 8292 structurally corresponds to the anchor 7412 of the aligner 7400, the anchor 7522 of the aligner 7500, the anchor 7742 of the aligner component 7700, or the anchor 7852 of the aligner component 7800. Other examples may include any suitable number, size, and location of rigid rods.

[0597] Each aligner (or aligner component) 7900, 8000, 8100, and 8200 includes one or more (or a plurality of) arms extending from the one or more rigid rods. For example, the aligner (or aligner component) 7900 includes two arms 7964a and 7964b extending from the anchor 7962, and a third arm 7964c extending from the anchor 7963. The aligner (or aligner component) 8000 includes one arm 8074 extending from the anchor 8072. The aligner (or aligner component) 8100 includes arms 8184a and 8184b extending from the anchor 8182. The aligner 8200 (or aligner component) includes one arm 8294 extending from the anchor 8292. Each arm extends to a corresponding bracket connector (or male connector element).

[0598] Each aligner (or aligner component) 7900, 8000, 8100, and 8200 includes one or more additional rigid segments having the features of the Z embodiment and is connected (coupled or integrated) to an anchor 7962, 7963, 8072, 8183, or 8292 by one or more arms. For example, aligner (or aligner component) 7900 includes an additional rigid segment 7966 connected to anchor 7962 by arms 7964a and 7964b and connected to anchor 7963 by arm 7964c. Similarly, aligner (or aligner component) 8000 includes an additional rigid segment 8076 that is connected to anchor 8072 by arm 8074. Likewise, aligner (or aligner component) 8100 includes an additional rigid segment 8186 that is connected to anchor 8182 by arm 8184b. Likewise, aligner (or aligner component) 8200 includes an additional rigid segment 8296 that is connected to anchor 8292 by arm 8294.

[0599] Each of the additional rigid segments 7966, 8076, 8186, and 8296 has a length dimension that extends in a generally arcuate configuration. One or more bracket connectors and one or more annular or curved features (force application features) are provided along the length dimension of one or more of the additional rigid segments 7966, 8076, 8186, and 8296. For example, rigid segment 7966 of aligner (or aligner component) 7900 has eight bracket connectors 7968 and seven annular or curved features 7969. Similarly, rigid segment 8076 of aligner (or aligner component) 8000 has eight bracket connectors 8078 and seven annular or curved features 8079, rigid segment 8186 of aligner (or aligner component) 8180 has eight bracket connectors 8188 and seven annular or curved features 8189, and rigid segment 8296 of aligner (or aligner component) 8290 has eight bracket connectors 8298 and seven annular or curved features 8299. Any example described herein may include one or more additional bracket connectors that are connected to an anchor but not to an additional rigid segment, such as Figure 81 the bracket connector at the distal end of arm 8184a in aligner (or aligner component) 8100 as shown.

[0600] In Figure 79– In the examples shown in [[ID=]], each annular or curved feature (7969, 8079, 8189, or 8299) is dimensioned along the length of an additional rigid segment (7966, 8076, 8186, or 8296 respectively) and positioned between a pair of adjacent bracket connectors (7968, 8078, 8188, or 8298). In other examples, an annular or curved feature may not be included (or two or more annular or curved features may be included) between any adjacent pair of bracket connectors of the additional rigid segment. As described herein, the number, configuration, and position of the annular or curved features on the additional rigid rods 7966, 8076, 8186, or 8296 can be selected to provide the desired tooth connection locations and the desired forces on the teeth when the orthotic is installed.

[0601] Figure 83 – [[ID=]] shows other examples of an orthotic (or orthotic component), each including a plurality of additional rigid segments, each having a Z embodiment feature. In Figure 83 the example, the orthotic (or orthotic component) 8300 has four additional rigid segments 8352, 8353, 8354, and 8355 extending from a T-shaped central rigid rod 8356. The central rigid rod 8356 is generally T-shaped. Figure 84 In the example orthotic (or orthotic component) 8400, there are four additional rigid segments 8462, 8463, 8464, and 8465 extending from a central rigid palatal plate 8466. The shape of the central rigid palatal plate 8466 is adapted to the palate of the patient. Figure 85 In the example, the orthotic (or orthotic component) 8500 has four additional rigid segments 8572, 8573, 8574, and 8575 extending from a central annular rigid rod 8576. In any of the orthotics described herein, one or more arms or annular or curved features or bracket connector elements can be omitted and replaced with a portion of an anchor or an additional rigid segment, the portion of the anchor or the additional rigid segment being formed to be rigid, having minimal flexibility or no flexibility, for example for improved anchoring.

[0602] In Figure 74 each example of [[ID=]], the orthotic (or orthotic component) includes one or more X embodiment features (in combination with one or more Z embodiment features), including one or more (or multiple) arms extending to one or more (or multiple) bracket connectors (or male connector elements). One or more (or each) of the arms can include one or more spring member features. Figures 74 - 85 Any of the arms, spring members, and bracket connectors (or male connector elements) in [[ID=]] can have any suitable construction, including those in Figure 74–85, as shown in the corresponding drawings. In other examples, any one or more of the arms, spring members, or bracket connectors (or male connector elements) in any of these or other aligners (or aligner elements) described herein may have other suitable configurations of any other arms, spring members, or bracket connectors (or male connector elements) described herein.

[0603] Reference Figure 86 –90 describes other examples of arms that can be used as one or more arms in any of the examples described herein or in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 370,704 (Publication No. 2017 / 0156823) or other aligner examples. The arm of each example extends from an anchor to a related bracket connector (or male connector element). The anchor can correspond to the anchor in any of the examples in Figures 74 - 85 , or the anchor of any other example described herein, or the anchor in other aligner or aligner component examples.

[0604] Each of the arms 8600 - 8608, 8909 - 8930, 9031, and 9032 includes spring members 860 ob - 8608b, 8909b - 8930b, 9031b, and 9032b. In other examples, an arm can include more than one spring member. In a particular example, each spring member has a configuration (including shape, material, and dimensions) that provides one or more of the desired elasticity, biasing force magnitude, biasing force direction, durability, or other properties. The number, configuration, and location of the spring members can be selected to provide the desired force on the teeth when the aligner is installed, with the bracket connector of the aligner connected to the teeth when the aligner is installed as described herein. For example, the number, configuration, and location of the spring members can be selected to move one or more teeth from the original tooth alignment (OTA) to the final tooth alignment (FTA), or to an intermediate tooth alignment (ITA), or from the ITA to the FTA or another ITA.

[0605] Arm 8600 includes spring member 8600b, which has a shape with two open - loop portions arranged adjacent to each other in a horizontal direction (generally parallel to the length dimension of anchor 8633), forming an "S" shape laid in that horizontal direction. In other examples, the spring member can have one open - loop or more than two open - loops. In Figure 86 the example, the bracket connector 8600a of arm 8600 is vertically above the location where the arm is coupled to or extends from anchor 8633 (and is centered along axis A perpendicular to the length dimension of anchor 8633 at the location where arm 8600 is connected to anchor 8633). In other examples, bracket connector 8600a can be located at a position laterally offset from axis A (e.g., to the right or left of axis A).

[0606] Figure 86 In the example of, the arm 8600 includes a linear arm segment 8600c extending from a spring member 8600b to a bracket connector 8600a. In some examples, as Figure 86 shown, the linear arm segment 8600c may extend along axis A. In other examples, the linear arm segment 8600c may be laterally spaced from and parallel to axis A, or may extend at an angle transverse (non-parallel) to axis A. In other examples, the arm segment 8600c may be non-linear (curved or other suitable shape) or may be omitted (such that the spring member 8600b extends directly to the bracket connector 8600a). In certain examples, the arm segment 8600c (or the corresponding arm segment of other arms described herein) has a sufficient length dimension such that, during orthodontic appliance installation, it can be grasped by an operator, doctor, or other trained person (e.g., using a tool such as, but not limited to, the end-bent multi-purpose pliers (Weingart tool) described herein) to assist in guiding the bracket connector 8600a into engagement with a bracket.

[0607] The two open-loop portions of the spring member 8600b of the arm 8600 have a generally rectangular shape, including one or more straight edges intersecting at rounded corners (e.g., Figure 86 the horizontal and vertical edges of the spring member 8600b in ). In other examples, the open-loop portions of the spring member may have curved edges, or may be elongated in the vertical direction (axis A) or the horizontal direction (perpendicular to axis A), or in a direction at an obtuse angle relative to axis A.

[0608] For example, Figure 86 the arm 8601 in has a spring member 8601b and an arm segment 8601c that are similar in shape and configuration to the spring member 8600b and the arm segment 8600c of the arm 8600. However, the two open-loop portions of the spring member 8601b of the arm 8601 have rounded edges. Additionally, the two open-loop portions of the spring member 8601b are more elongated in the vertical direction (the direction of axis A) than in the horizontal direction (perpendicular to axis A). In other examples, the open-loop portions of the spring member 8601b may be more elongated in the horizontal direction than in the vertical direction or in a direction at an obtuse angle relative to axis A. Similarly, in other examples, the annular portion of the spring member 8600b of the arm 8600 may be more elongated in the vertical direction, the horizontal direction, or in a direction at an obtuse angle relative to axis A.

[0609] Figure 86Another example of the arm 8602 is shown. The arm 8602 includes a spring member 8602b having a shape with two open-loop portions arranged adjacent to each other in the horizontal direction (a direction substantially parallel to the length dimension of the anchor 8633), forming an "S" shape laid in this horizontal direction. However, the center of the bracket connector 8602a of the arm 8602 is laterally offset from the shaft A side, such that the bracket connector 8602a is mostly or entirely located on one side of the shaft A ( Figure 86 the left side in Figure 86 ). In other examples, the spring member 8602b can be oriented in the opposite direction as shown, such that the bracket connector 8602a is mostly or entirely located on the other side of the shaft A (

[0610] the right side in ).

[0610] In the arm 8602, the spring member 8602b is configured such that the entire spring member 8602b (or substantially the entire spring member 8602b) is vertically located below the bracket connector 8602a (between the bracket connector 8602a and the anchor 8633). In other examples, part or all of the spring member 8602b can be located at a position laterally offset from the bracket connector 8602a (in a direction perpendicular to the shaft A).

[0611] For example, Figure 86 the arm 8603 in has a spring member 8603b and an arm segment 8603c, whose shape and structure are similar to those of the spring member 8602b and the arm segment 8602c of the arm 8602. However, the two open-loop portions of the spring member 8603b are more spread out in the lateral direction than the open-loop portions of the spring member 8602b. As a result, a substantial part (e.g., an annular portion) of the spring member 8603b is laterally offset from the bracket connector 8603a in a direction perpendicular to the shaft A.

[0612] The arm 8604 has a spring member 8604b and an arm segment 8604c, whose shape and structure are similar to those of the spring member 8603b and the arm segment 8603c of the arm 8603. However, the shape of the two annular portions of the spring member 8604b is different from that of the annular portion 8603b. Specifically, one open-loop feature of the spring member 8604b has a "U" shape, where one side or arm of the "U" - shaped ring extends to the bracket connector 8604a, and the other side or arm of the "U" - shaped ring extends from another ring of the spring member 8604b. In addition, the length of the arm segment 8604c is less than the length of the arm segment 8603c. In certain examples, the lengths of the arm segments 8600c - 8630c can be selected to provide a desired distance between the bracket connectors 8600a - 8630a and the anchor 8633. The arm segment lengths can be selected to accommodate or fit a desired or specific patient tooth arrangement.

[0613] Figure 86Other example arms 8605, 8605', 8606, 8607, and 8608 are shown, which include spring members having a shape with two or more open-loop portions arranged adjacent to each other in a horizontal direction (generally a direction parallel to the length dimension of the anchor 8633), forming an "S" shape laid in this horizontal direction.

[0614] Figure 86 The arms 8605 and 8605' in [[ ]] are respectively connected to the same (common) bracket connector, so that the bracket connector 8605a is connected to the anchor 8633 through these two arms 8605 and 8605'. The arm 8605 has a spring member 8605b, whose shape is similar to that of the spring member 8603b but is oriented in the opposite direction. The arm 8605' has a spring member 8605b', whose shape is similar to that of the spring member 8602b. In other examples, the arms 8605 and 8605' may include spring members having any suitable construction, shape, and size, such as, but not limited to, other examples of the spring members described herein or in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 370,704 (Publication No. 2017 / 0156823).

[0615] Figure 86 The arm 8606 in [[ ]] includes a spring member 8606b having more than two (i.e., four) open-loop portions. Other examples of this spring member or other spring members described herein may include any suitable number of annular portions. Figure 86 The spring member 8607b of the arm 8607 in [[ ]] has an annular portion extending in a direction that forms an obtuse angle with respect to the axis A. Figure 86 The arm 8608 in [[ ]] has a spring member 8608b, whose shape is similar to that of the spring member 8603b. However, the arm 8608 has an arm segment 8608c that is wider (in the horizontal dimension) than other components of the arm 8608. Other examples of any arm member described herein or in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 370,704 (Publication No. 2017 / 0156823) may include an arm segment (similar to the arm segment 8608c) that is wider than other components of the arm.

[0616] Figure 87 and 88 show an example configuration in which the attachment portion is connected to the anchor through a single connector or directly through multiple connectors ( Figure 87 not shown in [[ ]]).

[0617] Figure 89 Other examples of arms 8909, 8914, 8915, and 8922 - 8930 are shown, which include spring members having a shape with at least two open-loop portions arranged adjacent to each other in a horizontal direction (generally a direction parallel to the length dimension of the anchor 8933), forming an "S" shape laid in this horizontal direction. Figure 89Examples of arms 8910, 8912, and 8917 - 8921 are also shown, which include a spring member having a shape with at least two open - loop portions that are arranged adjacent to each other in a vertical direction (generally a direction perpendicular to the length dimension of the anchor 8933), and one or more "S" - shapes are formed in this vertical direction. Figure 89 Another example of an arm 8911 with a "U" - shaped spring member 8911b is shown. Figure 89 Another example of the arm 8913 in [reference] has a spring member 8913b formed by two right - angled bends along the length dimension of the arm.

[0618] In any of the examples described herein, the width dimension of an arm or one or more selected portions of an arm can be chosen to provide one or more of the desired flexibility, biasing force magnitude, biasing force direction, durability, or other characteristics. For example, arms 8915 and 8916 have similar shapes, but the width dimension of arm 8915 is greater than that of arm 8916. As another example, Figure 89 arms 8922, 8923, and 8924 in [reference] have similar shapes, but the width dimension of arm 8924 is greater than that of arm 8923. Similarly, the width dimension of arm 8923 is greater than that of arm 8922. In other examples, as an alternative or in addition to different width dimensions, one or more arms (or selected portions of an arm) can have different thickness dimensions (in the dimension direction in and out of Figure 89 the page plane) to obtain the desired flexibility, biasing force magnitude or direction, durability, or other characteristics. In some examples, the arms can be smaller than the anchor 8933 from which they extend in width or thickness dimension (or both), such that the anchor 8933 can provide a more rigid anchoring while the arms provide the required flexibility and elastic force. The change in width or thickness dimension can be provided by any suitable process, including but not limited to machining, molding, laser cutting, 3D printing, or sinker EDM (Electronic Discharge Machining) to change the thickness of the orthotic member portion cut from the sheet. Alternatively or in addition to selecting or changing the width or thickness dimension, the length of the arm can be chosen to provide or contribute to the desired flexibility, biasing force magnitude or direction, durability, or other characteristics.

[0619] As another example, Figure 89 arms 8925, 8926, and 8927 in [reference] have similar shapes to each other, but the width dimension of arm 8927 is greater than that of arm 8926, and the latter's width dimension is greater than that of arm 8925. As yet another example, Figure 89The arms 8928, 8929, and 8930 therein have similar shapes to each other, but the width dimension of arm 8930 is greater than the width of arm 8929, and the width dimension of the latter is greater than the width of arm 8928. Figure 89 Each exemplary arm 8909 - 8930 shown therein has a uniform width dimension that is constant throughout the arm. In other examples, the width dimension of one or more portions of any of the arms 8900 - 8932 can be greater than or less than the width dimension of one or more other portions of the same arm.

[0620] Figure 90 Other examples are shown of two adjacent arms 9031 and 9032 extending from an anchor 9033 of an orthodontic appliance, an orthodontic appliance member (or a portion of an orthodontic appliance or orthodontic appliance member). Each of the arms 9031 and 9032 extends to a respective bracket connector (or male connector element) 9031a or 9031b. Each of the arms 9031 and 9032 includes a spring member 9031b or 9032b, and an arm segment 9031c or 9032c extending from the spring member to the bracket connector 9031a or 9032a.

[0621] The bracket connector 9031a is configured to connect to a bracket fixed to a first tooth 9034 in a patient's jaw, and the bracket connector 9032a is configured to connect to a bracket fixed to a second tooth 9035 in the patient's jaw. The first tooth 9034 and the second tooth 9035 can be adjacent teeth in the patient's jaw. In other examples, one or more other teeth (or the location of an extracted tooth) can be located between the first tooth 9034 and the second tooth 9035. In one example, the tooth 9034 can be a canine tooth, and the tooth 9035 can be a second premolar. In other examples, the teeth 9034 and 9035 can be other teeth in the patient's jaw (upper or lower jaw).

[0622] In certain examples, the arm configuration can be selected to provide one or more of a desired flexibility, biasing force magnitude, biasing force direction, durability, or other characteristics. For example, arms configured according to Examples 8600 and 8601 can provide sufficient force (magnitude and direction) to provide some movement (but a limited amount of movement) in the gingival - occlusal direction or the buccal - lingual direction when the orthodontic appliance is installed. Arms configured according to Examples 8602, 8603, and 8604 can provide sufficient force (magnitude and direction) to move an extrusion or move in the gingival - occlusal direction. When the teeth to which the arms are to be connected do not move (or move a limited amount), relatively rigid arms can be used and can be used for anchoring. In certain examples, arms configured according to Examples 8606, 8607, and 8608 can be used in extraction cases to apply force closer to the center of resistance of the tooth and prevent tooth tipping, because the arm segments 8606c, 8607c, and 8608c in these examples are wider than other portions of the arm, such that the arm can act as a power arm.

[0623] In some examples, Figure 86 , 89 any one of the arms 90, or other arms described herein, may be configured to provide a biasing force direction and magnitude at a desired position along the length of the arm, and thus at a desired position relative to the patient's tooth structure. For example, Figure 90 the arms shown may be configured to provide a force on one or both of teeth 9034 and 9035 (when bracket connectors 9031a and 9032a are connected to corresponding brackets on teeth 9034 and 9035), where the force on each tooth is directed towards an adjacent tooth. In a particular example, arms 9031 and 9032 are configured to apply a force on one or both of teeth 9034 and 9035 at a position along the length dimension of each tooth corresponding to the center of the resistance position. In Figure 90 , teeth 9034 and 9035 are shown laterally adjacent to corresponding arms 9031 and 9032. However, it should be understood that when bracket connectors 9031a and 9032a are connected to brackets on corresponding teeth 9034 and 9035, each bracket connector 9031a and 9032a will be placed on or directly adjacent to the surface of the corresponding tooth 9034 and 9035 to which the bracket is fixed ( Figure 90 not shown in), as described herein.

[0624] In Figure 90 the example of, arm 9031 is configured such that arm segment 9031c generally extends parallel to (and laterally offset from) axis A1 (the axial direction perpendicular to the length dimension of anchor 9033 at the position where arm 9031 is connected to anchor 9033). Similarly, arm 9032 is configured such that arm segment 9032c generally extends parallel to (and laterally offset from) axis A2 (the axial direction perpendicular to the length dimension of anchor 9033 at the position where arm 9031 is connected to anchor 9033).

[0625] More specifically, the arm segment 9031c is laterally offset from the axis A1 side in the direction towards the left side of A1, such that the spring member 9031b of the arm 9031 and the axis A1 are located between the arm segment 9031c and the arm 9032. Similarly, the arm segment 9032c is laterally offset from the axis A2 side in the direction towards the left side of A2, such that the spring member 9032b of the arm 9032 and the axis A2 are located between the arm segment 9032c and the arm 9031. Additionally, the spring members 9031b and 9032b of the arms 9031 and 9032 are configured such that (when the arms 9031 and 9032 are connected to the respective teeth 9034 and 9035), the arm 9031 applies a force F1 to the tooth 9034 in the direction towards the arm 9032, and the arm 9032 applies a force F2 to the tooth 9035 in the direction towards the arm 9033. The magnitudes of the forces F1 and F2 depend on one or more (or a combination) of the shape and construction of the arms 9031 and 9032 (including the spring members 9031b and 9032b), the lateral spacing between the arms 9031 and 9033, and the thickness and material of the arms 9031 and 9032.

[0626] In Figure 90 the example of, the spring members 9031b and 9032b of the arms 9031 and 9032 are located near (or relatively close to) the anchor 9033. Additionally, the lengths of the arm segments 9031c and 9032c can be configured to position the anchor 9033 at or near the centers of resistance 9034a and 9035a of the respective teeth 9034 and 9035. In this way, the spring members 9031b and 9032b can be located at or near the centers of resistance 9034a and 9035a of the respective teeth 9034 and 9035 (to apply the force F1 or F2 to the tooth 9034 or 9035 at or near the center of resistance 9034a or 9035a of the tooth 9034 or 9035). In other examples, the arms 9031 and 9032 can be configured to be spaced from the centers of resistance 9034a or 9035a of the tooth 9034 or 9035 (e.g., at Figure 90Force F1 or F2 is applied to tooth 9034 or 9035 at a position offset vertically upward in the specified direction by a specified distance. In such other examples, force F1 or F2 may have a levering action on tooth 9034 or 9035, with the center of resistance as the fulcrum. The center of resistance of a tooth may depend on various factors, including the depth and angle of the tooth root, the type of tooth, or other factors. In the specific examples described herein, the orthodontic appliance (or method) may include one or more arms configured to apply one or more forces on one or more teeth, wherein the direction and magnitude of the one or more forces and the position of the forces (relative to the center of resistance of the tooth) may be selected in part based on the configuration of the arms (e.g., including the configuration of spring members 9031b, 9032b, the distance and position of the spring members relative to the anchor 9033, and the lengths of arm segments 9031c, 9032c).

[0627] Figure 86 In the examples of arms 8600 - 8608 and Figure 90 Each of arms 9031 and 9032 in is shown as extending to a bracket connector 100a - 108a (formed integrally with or coupled to the bracket connector), the bracket connector having a ring or loop shape, particularly a square loop shape (having a generally square outer perimeter and a generally square opening). In other examples, the bracket connector having a ring or loop shape may have a generally circular or round shape, an oval shape (having a circular or oval outer perimeter and a circular or oval opening), or other suitable shapes.

[0628] Figure 89 In each example of arms 8909 - 8930 in, they extend to a bracket connector 8900a - 8908a having a T - shaped configuration. In certain examples, such T - shaped bracket connectors may correspond to the T - shaped male connector elements described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 370,704 (Publication No. 2017 / 0156823) (as shown by reference numerals 1802, 1822, or 2500 in that publication).

[0629] In other examples, with respect to Figure 86 and 90 Any of the arms described may extend to Figure 89 a T - shaped bracket connector (formed integrally with or coupled to the bracket connector), or any other bracket connector (or male connector element) described herein or in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 370,704 (Publication No. 2017 / 0156823) in place of bracket connectors 8600a–8608a. Similarly, in other examples, any of the arms described with respect to Figure 89 may extend to that described with respect to Figure 86The bracket connectors of the shape of a ring or loop described in the examples, or any other bracket connectors (or male connector elements) described herein or in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 370,704 (Publication No. 2017 / 0156823), are used in place of bracket connectors 8909a–8930a.

[0630] Figure 91 and 92 illustrates certain examples of Z embodiment features, including having a ring or curved feature between associated pairs of bracket connectors (or male connector elements) ( Figure 91 9131 - 9138 in Figure 92 and Figure 91 9241 - 9248 in Figure 92 ) of a rigid rod (

[0631] Figure 91 9130 in 92 and Figure 91 9240 in Figure 91 and 92 Each ring or curved feature 9131–9138 and 9241–9248 includes a pair of linear arm segments joined by one or more curved segments. For example, Figure 91 the ring or curved feature 9131 in

[0632] includes a first linear arm segment 9131a and a second linear arm segment 9131b that extend from the remainder of the rigid rod 9130 to the curved segment 9131c. In

[0633] The annular or curved feature 9131 includes a curved section 9131c having a generally U-shaped portion 9131d (in the inverted U-shaped direction in Figure 91 ), and two laterally extending curved annular portions 9131e and 9131f (located on two respective sides of the U-shaped portion 9131d). The U-shaped portion 9131d extends along and between a first arm segment 9131a and a second arm segment 9131b. The curved annular portion 9131e connects one end of the U-shaped portion 9131d to the first arm segment 9131a, while the curved annular portion 9131f connects the other end of the U-shaped portion 9131d to the second arm segment 9131b. Each of the curved annular portions 9131e and 9131f has a circular closed end that is wider (in the horizontal dimension in Figure 91 ) than the remainder of the curved annular portions of the feature 9131. The wider circular ends (9131e' and 9131f') can provide increased flexibility while reducing the risk of breakage.

[0634] The construction of the annular or curved feature 9132 is similar to the construction described with respect to feature 9131. For example, the annular or curved feature 9132 can include a first linear arm segment 9132a and a second linear arm segment 9132b, and a curved section 9132c having a U-shaped portion 9132d and curved annular portions 9132e and 9132f (corresponding to segments 9131a, 9131b, and 9132c and portions 9131d, 9131e, and 9131f of feature 9131). However, the U-shaped portion 9132d of the annular or curved feature 9132 is smaller than the U-shaped portion 9131d of the annular or curved feature 9131. In the example in Figure 91 , the U-shaped portion 9131d extends along approximately 75% of the lengths of the first arm segment 9131a and the second arm segment 9131b, while the U-shaped portion 9132d extends along approximately 25% of the lengths of the first arm segment 9132e and the second arm segment 9132f. In other examples, the U-shaped portion 9131d or 9132d can extend along any suitable portion of the lengths of the first and second arm segments. A longer U-shaped portion (as shown at 9131d) may be more flexible than a shorter U-shaped portion (as shown at 9132d).

[0635] Another example of the annular or curved feature 9133 also includes a first linear arm segment 9133a and a second linear arm segment 9133b, and a curved segment 9133c (e.g., corresponding to the arm segments 9131a and 9131b and the curved segment 9131c of the feature 9131). However, the lengths of the linear arm segments 9133a and 9133b are less than the lengths of the linear arm segments 9131a and 9131b of the feature 9131. The linear arm segments of any of the annular or curved features 9131–9138 or 9241–9248 can have any suitable length (or the first and second arm segments have different lengths). The length of the linear arm segments of the annular or curved feature can at least partially determine the amount of force applied to adjacent teeth.

[0636] The curved segment 9133c of the annular or curved feature 9133 has a generally U-shaped portion 9133d (in the Figure 91 inverted U-shaped direction) and two laterally extending curved annular portions 9133e and 9133f (located on two respective sides of the U-shaped portion 9133d). However, the generally U-shaped portion 9133d has an enlarged segment 9133d' near the location where the curved annular portions 9133e and 9133f are connected to the generally U-shaped portion 9′133d. At least one dimension of the enlarged segment 9133d' (the horizontal dimension in the Figure 91 orientation) is larger (e.g., wider) than the remainder of the generally U-shaped portion 9133d. The curved annular portions 9133e and 9133f generally correspond to the curved annular portions 9131e and 9131f of the feature 9131. However, relative to the lateral extension of the curved or annular portions 9131e and 9131f, the curved annular portion 9133e does not laterally extend beyond the left side of the first arm segment 9133a, and the curved annular portion 9133f does not laterally extend beyond (or extends far beyond) the right side of the second arm segment 9133b. The narrower profile provided by the curved annular portions 9133e and 9133f (relative to the curved or annular portions 9131e or 9131f) is beneficial in cases where the bracket connectors are closer together (e.g., for anterior teeth or other cases where there is limited space for the mesiodistal dimension or the lateral width dimension).

[0637] Another example of the annular or curved feature 9135 also includes a first linear arm segment 9135a, a second linear arm segment 9135b, and a curved segment 9135c. The linear arm segments 9135a and 9135b are similar to the linear arm segments 9133a and 9133b of the feature 9133. However, the curved segment 9135c has a C-shaped or open circular portion 9135d (a circle with an open edge), rather than the U-shape described for the feature 9133. The curved segment 9135c also has two laterally extending curved annular portions 9135e and 9135f located on two corresponding sides of the C-shaped portion 9135d (corresponding to the curved annular portions 9133e and 9133f of the feature 9133).

[0638] Another example of the annular or curved feature 9134 also includes a first linear arm segment 9134a, a second linear arm segment 9134b, and a curved segment 9134c. The linear arm segments 9134a and 9134b are similar to the linear arm segments 9133a and 9133b of the feature 9133. However, the curved segment 9134c has a C-shape or an open circle (a circle with an open edge). The radius of the circle of the curved segment 9134c can be selected to provide desired performance characteristics. For example, each of the annular or curved features 9136, 9137, and 9138 has a shape and configuration similar to the annular or curved feature 9134, but includes a circle with a different diameter. More specifically, the annular or curved feature 9136 includes a first linear arm segment 9136a, a second linear arm segment 9136b, and a curved segment 9136c, and the diameter of the curved segment 9136c is smaller than that of the curved segment 9134c of the feature 9134. Similarly, the annular or curved feature 9137 includes a first linear arm segment 9137a, a second linear arm segment 9137b, and a curved segment 9137c, and the diameter of the curved segment 9137c is smaller than that of the curved segment 9136c of the feature 9136. Similarly, the annular or curved feature 9138 includes a first linear arm segment 9138a, a second linear arm segment 9138b, and a curved segment 9138c, and the diameter of the curved segment 9138c is smaller than that of the curved segment 9137c of the feature 9137. A smaller diameter may be beneficial in some cases, for example, for certain types of teeth or when there is limited space in the lateral width dimension.

[0639] Figure 92 Another example of the annular or curved feature 9241 in has a configuration that is the same as Figure 91The configurations of the annular or curved features 9131 have some similarities. Specifically, the annular or curved feature 9241 includes a first linear arm segment 9241a and a second linear arm segment 9241b, as well as a curved segment 9241c. The linear arm segments 9241a and 9241b are similar to the linear arm segments 9131a and 9131b of the feature 9131. In addition, the curved segment 9241c has a generally U-shaped portion 9241d (similar to the generally U-shaped portion 9131d of the feature 9131). However, the curved segment 9241c of the feature 9240 has two laterally extending curved annular portions 9241e and 9241f, each of the curved annular portions 9241e and 9241f having a C-shaped or open circular shape (a circle with an open edge), rather than the curved annular shape of the feature 9131. The annular or curved feature 9248 has a configuration similar to that of the annular or curved feature 9241.

[0640] Figure 92 Another example of the annular or curved feature 9245 in has a configuration that Figure 91 has some similarities with the configuration of the annular or curved feature 9131 in. Specifically, the annular or curved feature 9245 includes a first linear arm segment 9245a and a second linear arm segment 9245b, as well as a curved segment 9245c. The linear arm segments 9245a and 9245b are similar to the linear arm segments 9131a and 9131b of the feature 9131. In addition, the curved segment 9245c has a generally U-shaped portion 9245d (corresponding to the generally U-shaped portion 9131d of the feature 9131). However, the generally U-shaped portion 9245d has an enlarged segment 9245d' at the closed end of the U-shaped portion 9245d, and a second enlarged segment 9245d'' at the connection of the curved annular portions 9245e and 9245f to the generally U-shaped portion 9245d. At least one dimension ( Figure 92 the horizontal dimension in the orientation of) of each of the enlarged segments 9245d' and 9245d'' is larger (e.g., wider) than the other segments of the generally U-shaped portion 9245d. The curved annular portions 9245e and 9245f generally correspond to the curved annular portions 9131e and 9131f of the feature 9131.

[0641] Figure 92 Another example of the annular or curved feature 9246 in has a configuration corresponding to that of the feature 9245 (including a first arm segment 9246a and a second arm segment 9246b, and a curved segment 9246c having a generally U-shaped portion 9246d similar to the corresponding part of the feature 9245). However, the annular or curved feature 9246 has curved annular portions 9246e and 9246f that correspond in shape to the curved annular portions 9241e and 9241f of the feature 9241.

[0642] Figure 92Another example of the annular or curved feature 9247 in [the text] has a configuration corresponding to that of feature 9241 (including a first arm segment 9247a, a second arm segment 9247b, and a curved segment 9247c, whose curved annular portions 9247e and 9247f are corresponding in shape to the curved annular portions 9241e and 9241f of feature 9241). However, the curved segment 9247c of the annular or curved feature 9247 has a C-shaped or open circular portion 9247d (a circular shape with an open edge), rather than the substantially U-shaped as described for feature 9241d.

[0643] Figure 92 Other examples of the annular or curved features 9242, 9243, and 9244 in [the text] also include first and second linear arm segments and a curved segment. The curved segment of each of the annular or curved features 9242, 9243, and 9244 includes various combinations of a substantially U-shaped portion and a C-shaped or open circular portion, configured to provide desired flexibility, biasing force or spring force (or both) in one or more directions, magnitude of force, durability, or other characteristics.

[0644] Figure 93A is a plan view of a planar version of an orthodontic appliance configured according to an embodiment of the present technology, Figure 93B is Figure 93A the treatment configuration of the shown appliance.

[0645] Figure 94 depicts an orthodontic appliance configured according to an embodiment of the present technology, as shown installed in a patient's oral cavity.

[0646] IV. Selecting Devices, Systems, and Methods for Tooth Attachment

[0647] According to some aspects of the present technology, one or more portions of the orthodontic appliance and / or the fixation member disclosed herein can be configured to have a low profile (e.g., in dimensions extending away from the teeth, including buccolingual, mesiodistal, and / or occlusogingival directions). The lower profile can improve the patient experience because the patient generally perceives the appliance and / or the fixation member less, and it is less likely to agitate the surrounding tissues.

[0648] For example, Figure 95 shows a low-profile attachment portion 9540 configured according to an embodiment of the present technology. In Figure 95 it, the attachment portion 9540 is depicted as connected to a meandering biasing portion 9550, which together with the attachment portion 9540 includes an arm 9530 extending from an anchor 9520. It should be understood that the attachment portion 9540 can be used with any of the arm configurations described herein, and / or can be coupled to any of the biasing portions and / or connectors described herein.

[0649] As shown Figure 95 As shown, the attachment portion 9540 can include a base 9551 and first and second arms 9556a and 9556b (collectively referred to as "arms 9556"), which are connected to the base 9551 and extend laterally away from the base 9551. The base 9551 can include a proximal region 9552 and a distal region 9554. The proximal region is close to the location where the arms 9556 are connected to the base 9551, and the distal region is away from the location where the arms 9556 are connected to the base 9551 (and away from the proximal region 9552). The first arm 9556a can be arranged at a first angle θ1 relative to the base 9551, and the second arm 9556b can be arranged at a second angle θ2 relative to the base 9551. The base 9551 can extend in a first direction A1, and the arms 9556 can extend in a second direction A2 that is angled relative to the first direction A1. In some embodiments, the arms 9556 extend away from the base 9551 with substantially the same longitudinal orientation and / or at substantially the same angle. In some embodiments, the arms 9556 extend away from the base 9551 with different longitudinal orientations and / or angles.

[0650] The first angle θ1 and the second angle θ2 can be the same or different. In some embodiments, the first angle θ1 is (i) at least 30 degrees, (ii) not more than 120 degrees, or (iii) in the range of 30 - 120 degrees, or any incremental value between these ranges (e.g., 35 degrees, 90 degrees, 110 degrees, etc.). In these and other embodiments, the second angle θ2 is (i) at least 30 degrees, (ii) not more than 120 degrees, or (iii) in the range of 30 - 120 degrees, or any incremental value between these ranges (e.g., 35 degrees, 90 degrees, 110 degrees, etc.). In some embodiments, the first region 9554 is generally orthogonal to the second region 9556.

[0651] As described herein, the attachment portion 9540 is configured to detachably couple the arm 9530 to a fixing member disposed on a patient's tooth. The attachment portion 9540 can be configured to engage the fixing member in a manner that substantially inhibits longitudinal (e.g., translational) and / or rotational movement of the attachment portion 9540 relative to the corresponding fixing member. Thus, the orthodontic appliance of the present technology can effectively transfer all or substantially all of the force provided by the arm (e.g., arm 9530) to the tooth through the corresponding fixing member. By restricting or inhibiting movement of the attachment portion 9540 relative to the corresponding fixing member, the orthodontic appliance of the present technology is configured to move the tooth with a smaller force than that required for traditional braces.

[0652] Figure 96 and 97Is an isometric view of exemplary fixation members 9600, 9700 configured to be used with an aligner of the present technology. The arms and / or attachment portions described herein may be configured to removably connect to one or both of the fixation members 9600, 9700 to secure the aligner to a patient's dentition during treatment. As Figure 96 shown, the fixation member 9600 may include a base 9610 and coupling arms 9680a, 98680b (collectively referred to as "coupling arms 9680") coupled to the base 9610. The base 9610 may include a first side 9612 and a second side 9614, with the coupling arms 9680 disposed on the first side and the second side configured to be directly or indirectly connected to one or more teeth of a patient, for example, by an adhesive such as composite resin. The base 9610 may be connected to a patient's tooth such that the coupling arms 9680 are disposed in a generally vertical orientation (e.g., an occlusal-gingival direction). In some embodiments, the base 9610 may be coupled to a patient's tooth such that the coupling arms 9680 may be disposed in another orientation, such as a horizontal orientation (e.g., a mesial-distal direction) or a diagonal orientation (e.g., a partial mesial-distal direction or a partial occlusal-gingival direction). In some embodiments, the coupling arms 9680 may be disposed at the same angle and / or different angles with respect to each other. The surface of the second side 9614 may be generally flat and / or rough to increase its surface area, thereby enhancing adhesion to one or more teeth of the patient. In some embodiments, the surface of the second side 9614 may have a shape or slope that is generally complementary to the shape or slope of one or more teeth to which the base 9610 is configured to be coupled (e.g., the lingual surface of one or more teeth of the patient). The base 9610 may include a border or perimeter 9616 within which one or more of the coupling arms 9680 are generally located. In some embodiments, the fixation member 9600 may be a commercially available lingual bracket (Bernhard Foerster GmbH).

[0653] Each connecting arm 9680a, 9680b may include a base portion 9622a, 9622b (collectively referred to as "base portion 9622") and a connecting portion 9624a, 9624b (collectively referred to as "connecting portion 9624"). The base portion is fixed to the base 9610 (e.g., by adhesion, welding, soldering, etc.), and the connecting portion extends from the base portion 9622. When disposed within a patient's oral cavity, the connecting portion 9624 may be farther from the patient's gums than the base portion 9622. Each connecting portion 9624 may include a curved surface spaced apart from a first side 9612 of the base 9610, or other configurations substantially similar to a hook or similar shape. In some embodiments, the connecting portion 9624 may have sufficient flexibility, plasticity, and / or deformability such that the connecting portion 9624 can be temporarily moved from a closed state to an open state, in which an attachment portion (e.g., attachment portion 9540) can be moved to a position below the connecting portion 9624.

[0654] As Figure 97 shown, the fixing member 9700 may have features similar to those of the Figure 96 fixing member 9700 shown. For example, the fixing member 9700 may include a base 9710 having a first side 9712, a second side 9714, and a perimeter 9716. A connecting arm 9780 including a base portion 9722 and a connecting portion 9724 may be disposed on the first side 9712 of the base 9710. As Figure 96 and 97 shown, the fixing members 9600 and 9700 may include two connecting arms 9680 or one connecting arm 9780. In some embodiments, the fixing members of the present technology may include more than two connecting arms (e.g., three connecting arms, four connecting arms, etc.).

[0655] Figure 98A –98D are isometric, front, top, and side views of the attachment portion 9540 and the fixing member 9600 shown, respectively, configured according to an embodiment of the present technology. First, refer to Figure 95 the attachment portion 9540 shown and Figure 96 the fixing member 9600 shown. Figure 98A, the coupling portion 9624 of the coupling arm 9680 is disposed on the second region 9556 of the attachment portion 9540, where one coupling arm 9680 is disposed above the second region 9556 on the first side of the first region 9554, and the other coupling arm 9680 is disposed above the arm 9556 on the opposite second side of the distal region 9554. In some embodiments, when the orthodontic appliance is disposed near the patient's teeth and the attachment portion 9540 is fixed to the fixing member 9600, (i) the arm 9556 extends below the coupling arm 9680 in a generally mesiodistal direction, and (ii) the distal region 9554 extends in a generally occlusogingival direction and abuts (e.g., is close to) a portion of the coupling arm 9680. By doing so, the configuration of the fixing member 9600 and the attachment portion 9540 prevents or inhibits longitudinal and / or rotational movement of the attachment portion 9540 relative to the fixing member 9600, for example, in or about the occlusogingival direction (as shown by axis A1), the mesiodistal direction (as shown by axis A2), and / or the linguo-buccal direction (as shown by axis A3). Thus, when the orthodontic appliance is attached to the patient's teeth through the fixing member 9600, the specific magnitude and direction of the force provided by each arm 9530 can be substantially fully transferred to the corresponding tooth. Moreover, because the magnitude and direction of the force provided by each arm 9530 can be substantially fully transferred to the corresponding tooth, movement of the teeth from the original tooth alignment to the final tooth alignment can be achieved with a magnitude of force less than that which might be required by other means.

[0656] Each coupling arm 9680 may include side surfaces 9625a, 9625b (collectively referred to as "side surfaces 9625"), configured to be disposed in apposition with the distal region 9554 and / or the proximal region 9552 of the attachment portion 9540 such that the coupling arms 9680 are spaced apart from each other by the distal region 9554 and / or the proximal region 9552. As Figure 98B and 98CAs shown, when the attachment portion 9540 is coupled to the fixed member 9600, the side surface 9625 of the coupling arm 9680 can be juxtaposed with the attachment portion 9540. In some embodiments, the attachment portion 9540 can be in direct contact with one or both of the coupling arms 9680, or spaced from one or both of the coupling arms 9680 by no more than a predetermined distance, e.g., to ensure that longitudinal movement and / or rotation of the fixed member 9600 relative to the attachment portion 9640 is sufficiently inhibited. The predetermined distance can be, for example, less than about 0.01 millimeters (mm), about 0.1 mm, about 1 mm, about 2 mm, or about 3 mm, or less than any incremental value between about 0.01 and 3 mm. The juxtaposition of the coupling arm 9680 and the attachment portion 9540 can help ensure that when the orthodontic appliance is implanted near a patient's tooth and coupled to the fixed member 9600, the magnitude and direction of the force provided (e.g., at least partially along or with respect to the mesiodistal central axis and / or with respect to the occlusogingival axis) via the arm 9530 is substantially transferred to the corresponding tooth.

[0657] As Figure 98C shown, the distal region 9554 of the attachment portion 9540 and the thickness of the arm 9556 are substantially the same. In some embodiments, the thickness of the distal region 9554 and the arm 9556 can be different from each other, e.g., the thickness of the distal region 9554 is greater than the thickness of the arm 9556, or vice versa. The thickness of the base 9610 of the fixed member 9600 can generally be less than the thickness of the attachment portion 9540 and / or the coupling arm 9680. Also as Figure 9 shown in C, the distal region 9554 and the arm 9556 are positioned closely adjacent to the base 9610, which can inhibit movement of the attachment portion 9540 relative to the fixed member 9600 in the lingual direction and / or with respect to the mesiodistal axis.

[0658] Figure 98D is Figure 98A –98C is a side view of the attachment portion 9540 and the fixed member 9600 shown. As Figure 98D shown, the coupling arm 9680 can be configured to be positioned juxtaposed with the first side 9612 of the base 9610. The surface 9625c at the end of the coupling arm 9680 near the base 9610 (e.g., the occlusal end) and / or the surface 9625d at the other end of the coupling arm 9680 near the base 9610 (e.g., the gingival end) can respectively abut the first surface 9612 of the base 9610. As Figure 98D shown, the coupling arm 9680 can be configured to be positioned juxtaposed with a portion of the arm 9556 of the attachment portion 9540. That is, the innermost surface 9625e of the coupling portion 9624 of the coupling arm 9680 can abut the arm 9556 of the attachment portion 9540. Positioning the coupling arm 9680 around the arm 9556 in this manner can inhibit movement of the attachment portion 9540 relative to the fixed member 9600, e.g., in the occlusogingival direction and / or with respect to the mesiodistal axis.

[0659] Still referring ​ , the second side 9614 of the base 9610 can be configured to abut against and / or be fixed to one or more teeth of the patient. For example, in some embodiments, the second side 9614 can be fixed to the lingual or buccal side of one or more teeth of the patient. Thus, when the attachment portion 9540 is fixed to the fixing member 9600, the base 9610, and more generally the fixing member 9600 and the attachment portion 9540 can be at least partially arranged in the occlusal gingival direction (e.g., having a vertical orientation). For example, the fixing member 9600 and the attachment portion 9540 or a portion thereof can be arranged generally parallel to the lingual or buccal side of one or more teeth of the patient.

[0660] ​ is a front view of various embodiments of an attachment portion and a fixing member configured according to an embodiment of the present technology. The attachment portion of the present invention can be configured to be coupled to a fixing element, for example, a fixing member 9600 having a plurality of coupling arms 9680, a fixing member 9700 having a single coupling arm 9780, or another suitable coupling configuration. Referring ​ The attachment portion shown and described can be a part of a corresponding arm (e.g., arm 9530) of an aligner as described elsewhere herein. Additionally, referring ​ –104 Each attachment portion described can be configured to inhibit or prevent longitudinal movement and / or rotation of the attachment portion relative to the corresponding fixing member such that the load and / or direction applied through the attachment portion is substantially transferred to the patient's teeth through the corresponding fixing member. Referring ​ –104 The attachment portion shown and described at least partially achieves this by abutting or placing the contact area of the attachment portion against the surface of the corresponding fixing member 9600 or 9700.

[0661] ​The attachment portion 9940 shown in the figure can be configured to minimize the translation and / or rotation of the attachment portion 9940 relative to a corresponding fixed member (such as the fixed member 9600). The attachment portion 9940 can have a generally rectangular shape, defined by an inner perimeter 9902 and an outer perimeter 9904 that jointly define the width of the rectangular shape. The attachment portion 9940 can include a distal region 9956a, lateral regions 9956b, 9956c, and / or a proximal region 9956d (collectively referred to as "regions 9956"). In some embodiments, the attachment portion 9940 can have a frame portion 9970 located between the regions 9956a, 9956b, 9956c, and 9956d. The distal arm 9954 can extend distally from the distal region 9956a and be configured to be positioned between the coupling arms 9680. Thus, the distal arm 9954 can be configured to engage the inner surfaces 9625a and / or 9625b of at least one coupling arm 9680 to prevent excessive lateral translation of the attachment portion 9940 relative to the fixed member 9600. Similarly, the lateral regions 9956b and / or 9956c can be configured to engage the outer surfaces 9662 of the coupling arms 9680 to prevent excessive lateral translation of the attachment portion 9940. The intersection of the lateral regions 9956b and / or 9956c with the distal arm 9954 forms a shoulder region that can be configured to limit the proximal and / or distal translation of the attachment portion 9940. In some embodiments, the proximal arm 9964 can extend proximally from the proximal region 9956d.

[0662] As ​ shown, according to some embodiments, the coupling arms 9680 can be configured to be spaced apart from the attachment region 9940. In some embodiments, one or more regions of the attachment portion 9940 can be configured to contact one or more regions of the fixed member 9600. For example, when the attachment portion 9940 is coupled to the fixed member 9600, a portion of the inner perimeter 9902 of the lateral regions 9956b, 9956c of the attachment portion 9940 can be configured to contact the corresponding outer surfaces 9962a, 9962b of the fixed member 9600.

[0663] ​ An embodiment of an attachment portion 10040 having a plurality of distal arms 10054 is depicted, the distal arms being configured to further limit the lateral translation of the attachment portion 10040 relative to the fixed member 9600. As ​ shown, the attachment portion 10040 can include a distal region, lateral regions, and a proximal region 10056a, 10056b, 10056c, 10064, such as the regions 9956 <> ​ described. In some embodiments, as ​As shown, the attachment portion 10040 may have two distal arms 10054. In some embodiments, the attachment portion 10040 may include more than two distal arms 10054. According to some aspects of the present technology, for example, as ​ shown, the distal arm 10054 may be configured to be spaced apart from or positioned near the outer surface 9662 of the coupling arm 9680. The distal arm 10054, the distal region 10056a, and / or the lateral regions 10056b, 10056c may be configured to engage the coupling arm 9680 of the fixing member 9600 to limit the translation and / or rotation of the attachment portion 10040 relative to the fixing member 9600.

[0664] In some embodiments, for example, as ​ shown, the attachment portion 10140 may include a plurality of frame portions 10170, 10172, which are configured to surround the coupling arm 9680 of the fixing member 9600 to further limit the proximal and / or distal translation of the attachment portion 10140 relative to the fixing member 9600. ​ The attachment portion 10140 shown in includes a distal region 10156a, lateral regions 10156b, 10156c, and a proximal region 10156d (collectively referred to as "region 10156"), as described above. In addition, the attachment region 10140 has an intermediate region 10156e that extends between the lateral regions 10156b, 10156c and is located between the distal region 10156a and the proximal region 10156d. The intermediate region 10156e may be configured to be located near the coupling region 9624 of the coupling arm 9680 of the fixing member 9600. As previously referenced ​ and 100 described, the region 10156 may be configured to contact or be adjacent to the coupling arm 9680 based on the desired firmness of the connection. By positioning the region 10156 adjacent to each surface of the coupling arm 9680, the attachment portion 10140 may be configured to inhibit the translation and / or rotation of the attachment portion 10140 relative to the fixing member 9600. The proximal arm 10164 may extend proximally from the proximal region 10156d and may be coupled to a connector of the present technology to form an arm as described elsewhere herein.

[0665] As ​ –104 shows an embodiment of the present technology, including a fixing member 9700 having a single coupling arm 9780. First, refer to ​, the attachment portion 10240 may include a distal region 10256a, lateral regions 10256b, 10256c, and a proximal region 10256d (collectively referred to as "region 10256"). The attachment portion 10240 may be attached to the connector of the present technology via a proximal protrusion 10264 to form an arm. The attachment portion 10240 may include distal arms 10254a, 10254b that extend distally from the distal portion 10256a. The distal arms 102 may be configured to engage surfaces 9756a, 9756b of the coupling arm 9780 to limit lateral translation of the attachment portion 10240 relative to the fixed member 9700. Although the attachment portion 10240 is depicted as having a region 10256 spaced from the coupling arm 9780, in some embodiments, one or more regions 10256 may be configured to be in direct contact with the coupling arm 9780.

[0666] An attachment portion configured to be used with a fixed member having a single coupling arm 9700 (e.g., ​ the attachment portion 10340 shown in) may include a plurality of frame regions 9770 such that when the attachment portion 10340 is coupled to the fixed member 9700, each surface of the coupling arm 9780 of the fixed member 9700 abuts a region of the attachment portion 10340 to reduce translation of the attachment portion 10340. The attachment portion 10340 may include a distal region 10356a, a proximal region 10356d, and an intermediate region 10356e located between the distal region 10356a and the proximal region 10356d (collectively referred to as "region 10356"). As ​ shown, each of the distal region, the proximal region, and the intermediate region 10356a, 10356d, 10356e may extend between the lateral regions 10256b, 10256c. In some embodiments, each region of the attachment portion 10340 may be configured to abut a corresponding surface of the coupling arm 9780 to provide a limitation to the translation of the attachment region 10340. For example, the distal region 10356a and the proximal region 10356d may be configured to be located near the distal surface 9756c and the proximal surface 9756d of the coupling arm 9780, respectively, to limit proximal and / or distal translation of the attachment portion 10340. The lateral regions 10356b, 10356c may abut the lateral surfaces 9756a, 9756b of the coupling arm 9780 to limit translation of the attachment portion 10340 toward the central and / or lateral sides. The intermediate portion 10356e may abut the inner surface 9756e of the coupling arm 9780, e.g., as ​As shown, to limit proximal and / or distal translation of the attachment portion 10340. In some embodiments, the dimensions of the frame portions 9770, 9772 may be selected such that when coupled to the fixed member 9700, the region 10356 is spaced from the surface of the coupling arm 9780. Whether there is a spacing between the region 10356 and the surface of the coupling arm 9780 may be based on the desired firmness of the coupling between the attachment portion 10340 and the fixed member 9700.

[0667] According to some embodiments, the attachment portion (such as ​ the attachment portion 10440 shown) may be configured to contact a larger area of the fixed member (e.g., the fixed member 10400) to enhance the firmness of the connection. In some embodiments, as ​ shown, the fixed member 10400 may have a generally rounded shape and a single coupling arm 10480. The attachment portion 10440 may have features generally similar to those of the attachment portion 10240 shown in ​ . For example, the attachment portion 10440 may include a distal region 10456a, lateral regions 10456b, 10456c, and a proximal region 10456d (collectively referred to as "region 10456"). The regions 10456 together may define a frame region 10470. The attachment portion 10440 may further include a proximal arm 10464 extending proximally from the proximal region 10456d and / or distal arms 10454a, 10454b extending distally from the distal region 10456a. As ​ shown, the distal arms 10454a, 10454b may be positioned at an angle relative to the distal region 10456a. In some embodiments, the angle may be greater than 90 degrees (e.g., 95 degrees, 100 degrees, 105 degrees, 110 degrees, etc.). The angle may be increased to increase the area of the attachment portion 10440 such that when the attachment portion 10440 is coupled to the fixed member 10400, the attachment portion 10440 engages a larger area of the fixed member 10400, further inhibiting translation of the attachment portion, and / or increasing the firmness of the connection.

[0668] ​ is an isometric view of a positioning device 10500 configured according to an embodiment of the present technology. The positioning device 10500 is configured to hold one or more fixed members in a desired position relative to a patient's tooth to facilitate bonding the fixed member to the desired position on the tooth. In some embodiments, for example, as ​As shown, the positioning device 10500 may include a first portion 10505 and one or more second portions 10510. The first portion is configured to releasably secure to one or more teeth of a patient. The second portions are coupled to the first portion 10505, and each second portion is configured to hold a fixation member. The positioning device 10500 may include a cover configured to be disposed over all or a portion of the patient's teeth. In some embodiments, the cover generally conforms to the patient's tooth morphology to provide a comfortable fit. In some embodiments, the device 10500 is configured to be disposed on the patient's tooth T such that the surface of the device 10500 closest to the gum and adjacent to the lingual side of the patient's tooth T is positioned at an intermediate portion of the patient's tooth T (e.g., not at or below the patient's gum).

[0669] As ​ shown, the fixation member 9600 corresponds to the member shown and described with reference ​ and 98A –98D. However, in some embodiments, the fixation member 9600 may correspond to the member shown in ​ . Additionally, the fixation member 9600 may correspond to any fixation member described herein. In such embodiments, the second portion 10510 may have a shape configured to receive such a fixation member.

[0670] The device 10500 may include silicone, plastic, polymer, and / or other flexible non-metallic materials. The first and second portions 10505, 10510 may include the same material or different materials. For example, the first portion 10505 may include a first material, and the second portion 10510 may include a second material different from the first material. Additionally or alternatively, the first and second portions 10505, 10510 of the device 10500 may be formed from a single, unitary structure. As ​ shown, the second portion 10510 may project from and / or be disposed on the first portion 10505 such that when the device 10500 is disposed on the patient's tooth T, the second portion 10510 faces generally in the lingual direction. The first portion 10505 may include a plurality of regions, each region corresponding to one or more of the patient's teeth T. In some embodiments, the device 10500 may be customized for a particular patient tooth T. For example, the occlusal-facing surface of each region of the first portion 10505 may correspond to the respective occlusal surface S of the tooth on which the device 10500 is configured to be positioned. In such embodiments, the device 10500 may be securely mounted on the patient's tooth T, e.g., to ensure that the fixation member 9600 received by the second portion 10510 is properly positioned, e.g., adjacent to the lingual side of the patient's tooth T.

[0671] As described elsewhere herein, once the device 10500 is positioned above the patient's tooth T, and / or the fixing member 9600 is correctly positioned, for example, above the lingual side of the patient's tooth T, the fixing member 9600 can be adhered to the corresponding tooth T of the patient (e.g., by exposing the fixing member 9600 to energy or ultraviolet (UV) light), after which the device 10500 can be removed from the patient's tooth T so that the fixing member 9600 remains on the patient's tooth. This process for positioning and / or adhering the fixing member 9600 to the patient's tooth T is generally referred to as "indirect bonding" or IDB. After adhering the fixing member 9600 to the patient's tooth T, an orthodontic appliance (e.g., any appliance 100 described elsewhere herein) can be coupled to the fixing member 9600 to reposition the patient's teeth to a desired alignment (e.g., the final tooth alignment). In these embodiments, the device 10500 itself is not primarily used to shape or reposition the patient's teeth.

[0672] ​ Is ​ An enlarged view of a portion of the device 10500 shown. For illustrative purposes, the fixing member 9600 is removed in ​ . As ​ shown, the device 10500, or more specifically, the first portion 10505 of the device 10500, can include one or more cavities 10515a, 10515b, 10515c. As described elsewhere herein, each cavity 10515a–c can correspond to a respective tooth of the patient, and the respective cavity 10515a–c will be placed on the respective tooth of the patient. The individual cavities 10515a–c together can form a single cavity configured to receive all of the patient's teeth along the upper or lower jaw.

[0673] ​ Is ​ An isometric view enlarged of the second portion 10510 shown. For illustrative purposes, ​ the first portion 10505 is not shown in ​ . As ​ shown, the fixing member 9600 is coupled to and received by the second portion 10510. As previously mentioned, the fixing member 9600 includes a base 9610 and one or more coupling arms 9680, the coupling arms being fixed to the base 9610 and spaced apart from each other. As explained elsewhere herein (e.g., with reference to

[0674] 106C and 106D are ​An isometric view of the second portion 10510 as shown, without the fixation member 9600. ​ The first side 10512a of the device 10500 is shown. ​ The opposite second side 10512b of the device 10500 is shown. When the device 10500 is arranged above the patient's tooth, the first side 10512a of the device 10500 can generally face the lingual direction, and the second side 10512b of the device 10500 can generally face the buccal (or facial) direction. First, referring to ​ , the second portion 10510 can include a first region 10516 (e.g., an intermediate region or member) extending in a first direction, and a second region 10520 (e.g., a lateral region or member) extending in a second direction angled relative to the first direction. In some embodiments, the first region 10516 can be substantially orthogonal to the second region 10520, or at an angle between about 60 - 120 degrees. The second portion 10510 can also include one or more third regions 10518a, 10518b (e.g., peripheral regions or members) that surround the first region 10516 and generally extend in the first direction. In use, for example when the device 10500 is arranged on the patient's tooth, the first region 10516 and the third regions 10518a - b can generally extend in the occlusal - gingival direction, and the second region 10520 can generally extend in the mesio - distal direction. The first region 10516 and the second region 10520 (and in some embodiments the third regions 10518a - b) can generally define one or more channels 10522a, 10522b. As ​ shown, a portion of the first region 10516, the third region 10518a, and the second region 10520 can define a first channel 10522a, and a portion of the first region 10516, the third region 10518b, and the second region 10520 can define a second channel 10522b. The second channel 10522b is spaced apart from the first channel 10522a. Each of the first and second channels 10522a - b can be configured to receive a corresponding portion of a fixation member (e.g., fixation member 9600; ​ ) (e.g., coupling arm 9680; ​ ).

[0675] As ​As further shown in FIG, the second portion 10510 can include a bracket receiving portion 10530 disposed within each channel 10522a-b. The bracket receiving portion 10530 can include a recess 10532 configured to receive a portion of a fixation member and / or secure the fixation member to the second portion 10510 (and thereby to the device 10500). In some embodiments, the bracket receiving portion 10530 can also include a curved surface 10534 adjacent to the recess 10532 and closer to the entrance of the channel 10522a-b. The outermost surface of the bracket receiving portion 10530 can be spaced apart from the base surface 10514a of the second portion 10510 by a distance D2, which can be less than the distance D1 spanned between the base surface 10514a and the outermost surface of the first region 10516 or the third region 10518a-b.

[0676] In operation, the bracket receiving portion 10530 slidably receives the fixing member 9600 ( ​ ), so that each connecting arm 9680 of the fixing member 9600 ( ​ ) are received by the corresponding channels 10522a-b and engage the corresponding bracket receiving portion 10530. When the connecting arm 9680 approaches the corresponding groove 10532, the curved surface 10534 causes the corresponding connecting arm 9680 to move from the base 9610 ( ​ ) until the corresponding coupling arm 9680 reaches the corresponding groove 10532, at which point the corresponding coupling arm 9680 snaps into the groove 10532 and / or is secured to the second portion 10510 (and therein to the device 10500) via the groove 10532. When each coupling arm 9680 snaps into and / or couples to the groove 10532, the coupling arm may plastically deform relative to its default resting position.

[0677] As mentioned earlier, ​ The second side 10512b of the second portion 10510 of the device 10500 is shown. The second side 10512b is configured to receive the securing member 9600 ( ​ ), so that the base 9610 ( ​ ) is arranged proximate to the base surface 10514a. That is, the second portion 10510 is configured to receive the fixing member 9600 such that the base 9610 is arranged on one side of a plane defined by the base surface 10514a and the coupling arm 9680 is arranged on the other opposite side of the plane.

[0678] ​ is another view of the second side 10512b of the second portion 10510 and illustrates the second portion 10510 integrated with the first portion 10505 of the device 10500 . ​Also shown is a portion of the first side 10512a of the device 10500, which includes a first region 10516, third regions 10518a-b, channels 10522a-b, and a bracket receiving portion 10530. The second side 10512b of the second portion 10510 includes a cavity 10540 extending from the base surface 10514a, which is configured to receive the fixation member 9600. In some embodiments, the cavity 10540 and / or the outermost surface of the second side 10512b may be spaced apart from the base surface 10514a by a distance D3, which may taper in a direction toward the entrances of the channels 10522a-b. The distance D3 may be equal to or less than the thickness of the fixation member 9600, or in some embodiments less than the thickness of the base 9610 of the fixation member 9600, such that the rear surface of the fixation member 9600 to be adhered to the patient's tooth may protrude from the cavity 10540, e.g., beyond the outermost surface of the second side 10512b. Thus, the distance D3 and / or the taper of the outermost surface may better ensure that when the fixation member 9600 is received by the second portion 10510 and the device 10500 is positioned over the patient's tooth, the rear surface of the fixation member may engage (e.g., directly engage) the corresponding tooth of the patient.

[0679] ​ –107C illustrates a method of attaching the fixation member 9600 to a patient's tooth. ​ is an isometric view of the device 10500 as described elsewhere herein. As ​ shown, the device 10500 includes a first portion 10505 and a second portion 10510. Additionally, a plurality of fixation members 9600 are located within and / or coupled to the second portion 10510. As previously described, each fixation member 9600 may be slidably received by the corresponding second portion 10510 such that the coupling arm 9680 of the fixation member 9600 is disposed on the first side (e.g., facing lingually) of the second portion 10510, and the base 9610 of the fixation member 9600 is disposed on the second side (e.g., buccally or labially) of the second portion 10510. As described elsewhere herein, the fixation member 9600 may include a plurality of coupling arms or portions (e.g., as ​ shown) or a single coupling arm or portion (e.g., as ​ shown).

[0680] ​Is an isometric view of the device 10500 disposed above the patient's tooth or dentition T. For example, the first portion 10505 of the device 10500 is disposed above the patient's tooth T, and the second portion 10510 of the device 10500 is generally disposed above or near the lingual side of the patient's tooth T. In addition, the fixing member 9600 disposed within the second portion 10510 is positioned or arranged on the lingual surface of the patient's tooth T such that the rear surface of each fixing member 9600 engages (e.g., directly engages) the corresponding portion of the patient's tooth T, where the fixing member will be adhered to the corresponding portion. Thus, as described elsewhere herein, when the device 10500 is disposed above the patient's tooth T, the second portion 10510 and / or the fixing member 9600 are generally oriented in the occlusal gingival direction. Once the device 10500 is disposed on the patient's tooth T, the fixing member 9600 can be adhered (e.g., directly adhered) to the patient's tooth T, for example, by an adhesive and / or curable material disposed on the rear surface of each fixing member 9600. The curable material can include composite resin, ceramic, and / or other synthetic materials. In some embodiments, the curable material can include dimethacrylate monomers, filler materials (e.g., silica), and / or photoinitiators (e.g., for adhesion) that can be activated by ultraviolet light. In some embodiments, adhering the fixing member 9600 to the patient's tooth T can include exposing the fixing member 9600 (including the curable material disposed on the fixing member 9600) to an energy source (e.g., UV light).

[0681] After adhering the fixing member 9600 to the patient's tooth T, the device 10500 can be removed from the patient's tooth T such that the fixing member 9600 remains adhered to the patient's tooth T. ​ Is an isometric view of the patient's tooth T with the adhered fixing member after the device 10500 is removed. In some embodiments, removing the device 10500 such that the fixing member 9600 remains adhered to the patient's tooth T can include separating the device 10500 from the fixing member 96 by moving or sliding the device 10500 away from the patient's gingiva and / or the fixing member 960 adhered to the patient's tooth T in a generally occlusal side direction. In some embodiments, before moving the device 10500 away from the fixing member 9600, each fixing member 9600 can be separated from its respective second portion 10510 and / or the device 10500 by pushing down on the end portion of the coupling arm (e.g., the end portion of the coupling arm closer to the patient's gingiva), such that the opposite end of the coupling arm is separated from the second portion 10510 (e.g., separated from the groove 10532 ( ​ ) of the second portion 10510). Once the device 10500 has been removed such that the fixing member 9600 remains adhered to the patient's tooth T, an orthodontic appliance (as described elsewhere herein) can be coupled to the fixing member 9600 to reposition the patient's tooth to a desired position.

[0682] ​ An isometric view of an exemplary orthodontic device 10800 configured according to an embodiment of the present technology. Device 10800 includes features generally similar to those of device 10500 as described with reference ​ –107C. For example, device 10800 includes a housing, lid, or shell-type aligner configured to be disposed over a patient's teeth and includes a second portion 10510 configured to receive one or more fixation members. Additionally, device 1800 includes a first portion 10805 generally similar to the first portion 10505 described previously. However, as ​ shown, an area 10810 of the first portion 10805 located between adjacent second portions 10510a, 10510b is removed. In other words, the area 10810 between adjacent second portions 10510a-b of device 10800 is substantially devoid of material such that the corresponding teeth of adjacent second portions 10510 are more exposed relative to the teeth covered by device 10500 and / or the first portion 10505 (as previously described). In such an embodiment, the fixation members (or more specifically, the rear surfaces of the fixation members) are more exposed for device 1800 relative to device 10500. Thus, for device 10800, when the fixation members are adhered to the patient's corresponding teeth by exposing the fixation members to ultraviolet light or an energy source, a practitioner can more easily position the fixation members adjacent to or expose the fixation members to the ultraviolet light or energy source, thereby ensuring that the fixation members are properly adhered to the patient's teeth.

[0683] ​ An isometric view of an orthodontic device 10900 configured according to an embodiment of the present technology. Device 10900 includes features generally similar to those of device 10500 as described with reference ​ –107C. For example, device 10900 includes a housing, lid, or shell-type aligner configured to be disposed over a patient's teeth and includes a first portion 10505 (or first portion 10805) configured to receive the patient's teeth, as previously described. Additionally, device 10900 includes a second portion 10910 generally similar to the second portion 10510 described previously. However, as ​ shown, certain portions of the second portion 10510 are omitted from the second portion 10910. As ​ shown (which is ​(Enlarged view of a portion of the device 10900 shown), the second portion 10910 of the device 10900 includes a first region 10516 (e.g., a middle region or member) and a second region (e.g., a lateral region or member) 10520, the first region extending in a first direction and the second region extending in a second direction that is angled (e.g., 60 - 120 degrees) relative to the first direction. As previously described, in some embodiments, the first region 10516 can generally be orthogonal to the second region 10520. Relative to the reference ​ –107C described second portion 10510, ​ the second portion 10910 of ​ omits the third regions 10518a - b. As ​ shown, the second portion 10910 can also include a bracket receiving portion 10530 adjacent to the first and second regions 10516, 10520 (e.g., near the intersection of the first and second regions 10516, 10520). Advantageously, the second portion 10910 enables the fixing member and / or the rear surface of the fixing member to be more visible. Thus, as described elsewhere herein, it may be easier for a practitioner to adhere a fixing member to a patient's tooth using the device 10900 as compared to the device 10500.

[0684] ​ –113 is an isometric view of an exemplary arm 130 of an orthodontic appliance 100 configured according to an embodiment of the present technology. First referring to ​ , the arm 130 includes many features that are generally similar to those described previously with reference to ​ and elsewhere herein. For example, as ​ shown, the arm 130 is connected to an anchor 120 and includes a biasing portion 150 extending from the anchor 120 and an attachment portion 11040 extending from the biasing portion 150. The arm 130 (or more specifically, the attachment portion 11040) can further include an opening or slot 11090. The opening 11090 can extend through the attachment portion 11040 and / or the base region 9652 of the attachment portion 11040. Additionally or alternatively, the opening 11090 can be located between second regions 11056 of the attachment portion 11040. In some embodiments, the opening 11090 can be an elongated opening such that when the appliance 100 is installed in a patient's mouth, the opening 11090 generally extends in the occlusal - gingival direction. As described elsewhere herein, the opening 11090 can be configured to receive a portion (e.g., an end portion) of an orthodontic tool to assist an operator in positioning the appliance 100 and / or an individual arm 130 relative to the patient's teeth.

[0685] ​ is another exemplary arm 130 similar to the ​ arm 130 but further includes a protrusion or member 11194. As​ As shown, the protrusion 11194 is located on the arm 130 between the anchor 120 and the attachment portion 11040. The protrusion 11194 may extend at an angle (e.g., about 90 degrees or between 60 - 120 degrees) from the portion of the arm 130 to which the protrusion is attached. As ​ shown, the protrusion 11194 may be an elongate straight arm. In other embodiments, the protrusion 11194 may have a bend or curvature and / or be in an "L" or "T" shape. When the aligner 100 is installed in a patient's mouth, the protrusion 11194 generally extends in the mesial direction. As described elsewhere herein, the protrusion 11194 can be used as a support such that an orthodontic tool (e.g., the same orthodontic tool configured to be received by the opening 11090) can position the aligner 100 and / or the individual arm 130 via the protrusion 11194.

[0686] ​ is similar to ​ the arm 130, but further includes another protrusion 11294. As ​ shown, each protrusion 11294 is located on an opposite side of the arm 130 and is spaced the same distance from the attachment portion 11040 and / or the biasing portion. Each of the protrusions 11294 (e.g., one or both) may extend at an angle (e.g., about 90 degrees or 60 - 120 degrees) from the portion of the arm 130 to which the respective protrusion 11294 is attached. As shown in FIG. 1112, each of the protrusions 11294 can be an elongate straight arm. In other embodiments, each protrusion 11294 may have a bend or curvature and / or be in an "L" or "T" shape. When the aligner 100 is installed in a patient's mouth, the protrusions 11294 generally extend in the mesial direction. As described elsewhere herein, the protrusions 11294 can be used as supports such that an orthodontic tool (e.g., the same orthodontic tool configured to be received by the opening 11090) can position the aligner 100 and / or the individual arm 130 via the protrusions 11294. ​ is similar to ​ the arm 130 but without the opening 11090.

[0687] ​ and 115 are front views of orthodontic tools 11400, 11500 used with the orthodontic aligner of the present technology. As ​ shown, the tool 11400 includes a handle 11410 and a distal region 11420 extending from the handle 11410. The distal region 11420 may include an end portion 11430. As ​As shown, tool 11500 includes a handle 11410 and a distal region 11520 extending from handle 11410. Distal region 11520 can include a bend or swivel, for example, which enables a practitioner to better manipulate, position, and / or control an orthodontic appliance. In some embodiments, the bend or swivel can be movable relative to another portion of distal region 11520. Distal region 11520 can also include an end portion 11530.

[0688] like ​ As shown in the enlarged view of the end portion 11430 / 11530 in FIG, the end portion 11430 / 11530 may include a notch 11602 formed by a recessed end surface 11650 of the device. The notch 11602 may extend through all or part of the thickness (or depth) of the device and have a width defined by the sidewalls 11645a, 11645b. The end portion 11430 / 11530 may include an outermost width W1 and a depth D1, and the notch 11602 may include a width W2. In some embodiments, the width W1 may be approximately equal to the size of the opening 11090 of the arm 130 (e.g., as shown in FIG. ​ ), thereby enabling the end portion 11430 / 11530 of the tool 11400 or 11500 to manipulate, position and / or control the arm 130 of the orthosis 100. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the width W2 may be substantially equal to the width of the arm 130 (e.g., ​ Such a configuration enables the end portion 11430 / 11530 of the corresponding device to manipulate, position and / or control the arm 130 of the orthosis 100.

[0689] ​ and 118 1 is a diagram of an orthodontic tool 11700 (e.g., orthodontic tool 11400 or 11500) being used with an orthodontic appliance of the present technology. ​ As shown, the end portion of the tool 11700 can be at least partially located within the opening of the arm 130 of the brace 100. ​ As shown, the end portion of the tool 11700 can be positioned against the corresponding attachment portion and / or protrusion of the arm, thereby enabling the practitioner to push the arm 130 in a desired direction via the tool 11700.

[0690] According to some embodiments, the attachment portion of the present technology may be configured for use with a fixed member that is specifically adapted to move a patient's teeth in a preferred direction. For example, ​Depicts a fixation member 11900 designed to move a patient's tooth to a greater extent in the mesiodistal direction than in the occlusogingival direction and / or the buccolingual direction. In some embodiments, the preferred direction may be the occlusogingival direction, the buccolingual direction, and / or a direction oblique to the mesiodistal axis, the occlusogingival axis, and / or the buccolingual axis. The attachment portion of the present technology (e.g., ​ the attachment portion 11940 shown in) may be configured to be used with the fixation member 11900, as shown in ​ . Portions of the fixation member 11900 and / or the attachment portion 11940 may have a first stiffness that allows the tooth to move in the mesiodistal direction, while other portions of the fixation member 11900 and / or the attachment portion 11940 have a greater second stiffness that inhibits movement in the occlusogingival direction and / or the buccolingual direction.

[0691] ​ is an isometric view of the fixation member 11900, which, as previously described, is configured to move the tooth in the mesiodistal direction. The fixation member 11900 includes a base region 11905 having a first side 11907 and a second side 11909, and first and second protrusions 11910a, 11910a (collectively referred to as "protrusions 11910") disposed on and connected to the first side 11907 of the base region 11905. In some embodiments, the base region 11905 and the protrusions 11910 may...

Claims

1. An orthodontic treatment system, comprising: An appliance, the appliance comprising: An anchor configured to be located near a patient's tooth; and An arm extending away from and coupled to the anchor, the arm including a first end portion at the anchor and a second end portion remote from the first end portion, a longitudinal axis being defined between the first end portion and the second end portion, wherein the second end portion includes a first region, a second region protruding from the first region, and a third region extending from the second region toward the anchor, and wherein the second end portion includes an opening; and A fixing member including a base configured to be coupled to a patient's tooth and a coupling protrusion, wherein the coupling protrusion includes a coupling portion spaced apart from the base, Wherein when the appliance is located near a patient's tooth, the second region extends away from the longitudinal axis in a generally mesiodistal direction and is configured to abut a side surface of the coupling portion facing the base, thereby inhibiting rotation of the second end portion relative to the fixing member.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein When the appliance is positioned near a patient's tooth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixing member, the first region extends in a generally occlusogingival direction.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein When the appliance is positioned near a patient's tooth and the second end portion is fixed to the fixing member, the first region is configured to prevent translation of the second end portion relative to the fixing member.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The coupling protrusion of the fixing member is configured to abut the first region of the second end portion.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The coupling arm of the fixing member is configured to abut the third region of the second end portion.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein The coupling protrusion is a first coupling protrusion, and the fixing member further includes a second coupling protrusion.

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein, A first portion of the second region extends under the first coupling protrusion, and a second portion of the second region extends under the second coupling protrusion.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein The third region includes a first leg and a second leg, the first leg and the second leg extending in a generally occlusogingival direction.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein The first region is generally orthogonal to the second region.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The opening includes an elongate shape extending in the occlusogingival direction.

11. An orthodontic treatment system, comprising: An appliance, the appliance comprising: An anchor configured to be located near a patient's tooth; and An arm extending away from the anchor, the arm including a first end portion at the anchor and a second end portion remote from the first end portion, a longitudinal axis being defined between the first end portion and the second end portion, wherein the second end portion includes an extension and a first shoulder region and a second shoulder region adjacent to the extension, and wherein the second end portion includes an opening; and A fixing member including a base configured to be coupled to a patient's tooth and a coupling protrusion, wherein the coupling protrusion includes a coupling portion spaced apart from the base, Wherein, when the corrector is near the patient's tooth, (a) the extension extends away from the longitudinal axis in a generally mesiodistal direction and abuts the side surface of the fixing member facing the base, and (b) the first shoulder region and the second shoulder region abut the fixing member, thereby inhibiting rotation and / or translation of the second end portion relative to the fixing member.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein, The anchor is configured to be positioned on the lingual side of the patient's tooth.

13. The system according to claim 11, wherein, The coupling protrusion is oriented in the mesiodistal direction.

14. The system according to claim 11, wherein, The arm is one of a plurality of arms, each of the plurality of arms having a respective second end portion with a respective first shoulder region and second shoulder region.

15. The system according to claim 11, wherein The anchor and the arm are formed of a single integral member.

16. The system according to claim 11, wherein, The coupling protrusion is a first coupling protrusion, and the fixing member further includes a second coupling protrusion.

17. The system according to claim 16, wherein, The extension is a first extension, and the corrector further includes a second extension, and wherein the first extension extends below the first coupling protrusion and the second extension extends below the second coupling protrusion.

18. The system according to claim 11, wherein The anchor and the arm are formed of a superelastic material.

19. The system according to claim 11, wherein, The arm includes a biasing region located between the first end portion and the second end portion, wherein the biasing region is configured to provide a rotational force and / or a longitudinal force to at least one tooth of the patient when the second end portion is fixed to the fixing member.

20. The system according to claim 11, wherein The opening includes an elongated shape extending in the occlusogingival direction.

21. An orthodontic corrector, comprising: A positioning member, the positioning member including: a first portion shaped to elastically receive a patient's tooth; and a second portion shaped to receive a bracket configured to adhere to one of the patient's teeth, the second portion defining a channel positioned to receive a coupling arm of the bracket.

22. The corrector according to claim 21, wherein, The second portion includes a first region extending in a first direction and a second region extending in a second direction different from or angled relative to the first region, the first region and the second region at least partially defining the channel.

23. The corrector according to claim 22, wherein, When the corrector is disposed above the patient's tooth, the first direction extends in a generally occlusogingival direction.

24. The aligner according to claim 22, wherein, When the corrector is disposed above the patient's tooth, the second direction extends in a generally mesiodistal direction.

25. The corrector according to claim 21, wherein, The channel is one of two channels, and wherein the second portion includes a first region extending between the two channels in a first direction and a second region extending in a second direction different from the first direction, the first region and the second region at least partially defining the two channels.

26. The corrector according to claim 21, wherein, The channel is a first channel, and wherein the second portion further defines a second channel spaced apart from the first channel, each of the first channel and the second channel being positioned to receive a coupling arm of the bracket.

27. The corrector according to claim 22, further comprising a third region located peripherally of the first region and extending in the first direction.

28. The orthosis according to claim 27, wherein, The channel is a first channel, and the aligner further includes (i) a second channel and (ii) a fourth region that is located peripherally to the first region and extends in the first direction, the first channel being located between the first region and the third region, and the second channel being located between the first region and the fourth region.

29. The aligner according to claim 21, wherein the second portion further includes a bracket receiving portion disposed in the channel.

30. The orthosis according to claim 29, wherein, The bracket receiving portion includes a recess configured to receive a coupling arm of the bracket or an end portion of the coupling arm.

31. The orthosis according to claim 29, wherein, The bracket receiving portion extends a first distance from a base surface of the second portion, and wherein an outermost surface of the second portion extends a second distance from the base surface, the second distance being greater than the first distance.

32. The corrector according to claim 29, wherein, The second portion includes a first side and a second side generally opposite the first side, and the bracket receiving portion is disposed on and / or faces the first side.

33. The aligner according to claim 21, wherein: The second portion includes a first side and a second side generally opposite the first side, and when the aligner is disposed over a patient's tooth, the first side faces at least partially in a lingual direction and the second portion faces at least partially in a buccal direction.

34. The corrector according to claim 33, wherein, The second side of the second portion includes a cavity for receiving a base portion of the bracket to which the coupling arm is secured.

35. The aligner according to claim 33, wherein, The second side of the second portion includes a cavity for receiving a base of the bracket configured to be directly adhered to a lingual surface of a patient's tooth.

36. The corrector according to claim 21, wherein, The second portion projects from an outermost surface of the first portion.

37. The aligner according to claim 21, wherein, The first portion and the second portion are integral with each other.

38. The aligner according to claim 21, wherein, The first portion and the second portion comprise a single piece.

39. The aligner according to claim 21, wherein, The first portion and the second portion comprise a monolithic structure.

40. The orthosis according to claim 21, wherein, The first portion and the second portion include a continuous surface.

41. The aligner according to claim 21, wherein, The first portion and the second portion include a polymer, plastic, or composite material.

42. The corrector according to claim 21, wherein, The first portion and the second portion include a flexible, elastic, and / or non-rigid material.

43. The aligner according to claim 21, wherein, The positioning member is a calibrator.

44. The orthosis according to claim 21, wherein, The positioning member is configured to perform indirect engagement of the bracket.

45. The corrector according to claim 21, wherein, The positioning member is not configured to reposition a patient's tooth.

46. The aligner according to claim 21, wherein, When the second portion is disposed over a patient's tooth, the second portion generally has an orientation corresponding to an occlusal-gingival axis.

47. The orthosis according to claim 21, wherein, When the positioning member is disposed over a patient's tooth, the second portion is generally positioned adjacent to or lingual to a lingual surface of one of the patient's teeth.

48. The aligner according to claim 21, wherein, The second portion of the positioning member is one of a plurality of second portions, each second portion corresponding to a different tooth of the patient.

49. The aligner according to claim 21, wherein, The bracket is a fixing member.

50. The orthosis according to claim 21, wherein, The first portion includes a cavity disposed over a patient's tooth.

51. The aligner according to claim 21, wherein, The first portion includes a plurality of separate cavities, each cavity configured to be disposed over one of the patient's teeth.

52. An orthodontic aligner, comprising: A positioning member, the positioning member including a first part and a second part, the first part being shaped to elastically receive a patient's tooth, the second part being shaped to receive a bracket to be adhered to one of the patient's teeth, the second part including a first region extending in a first direction and a second region extending in a second direction at an angle relative to the first direction, wherein the first region and the second region partially define a site configured to receive a coupling arm.

53. The orthosis according to claim 52, wherein, The site is a first site located on a first side of the first region, the coupling arm being a first coupling arm, and wherein the first region and the second region partially define a second site located on a second side of the first region, the second site being configured to receive a second coupling arm.

54. The orthosis according to claim 52, wherein, The first region and the second region form a "T" shape.

55. An orthodontic fixation member, comprising: A body region configured to adhere to a patient's tooth, the body region including a slot; and A clip portion coupled to the body region, the clip portion being movable relative to the body region from a closed position to an open position, wherein when the clip portion is in the open position the slot is configured to receive a portion of an orthodontic appliance.

56. The fixing member according to claim 55, wherein, When the clip portion is in the closed position, the slot is not configured to receive the orthodontic appliance.

57. The fixation member according to claim 55, further comprising a biasing element that biases the clip portion toward the closed position.

58. The fixing member according to claim 55, wherein, When the body region is adhered to the patient's tooth, the movement of the clip portion from the closed position to the open position generally occurs in the occlusal gingival direction.

59. The fixing member according to claim 57, wherein, The biasing element is disposed between the body region and the clip portion.

60. The fixing member according to claim 55, wherein, The body region further includes a lip located peripherally of the clip portion, wherein when the body region is adhered to the patient's tooth, the lip inhibits movement of the clip portion in the lingual or buccal direction.

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