Shell-shaped appliance, generation method, correction system, dental model and design method

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a shell-shaped appliance, a generation method thereof, an orthodontic system, a dental model and a design method, and solves the problem of stress concentration of an occlusal surface when a convex part is provided with a reinforcing ridge in an alignment manner. The shell-shaped appliance comprises a shell-shaped body used for containing teeth, the shell-shaped body is of an integrally-formed structure, and the shell-shaped body is provided with a first protruding part for reconstructing the occlusal position of the upper jaw and the lower jaw in a protruding mode in the occlusal direction of a rear tooth area. The cheek side face of the first protruding part is provided with a first reinforcing ridge for improving the deformation resistance of the first protruding part, the cheek side face of the first protruding part is concaved inwards to form the first reinforcing ridge, and the tongue side face of the first protruding part is provided with a second reinforcing ridge for improving the deformation resistance of the first protruding part. The tongue side face of the first protruding part is concaved inwards to form the second reinforcing ridge, and at least two adjacent first reinforcing ridges and second reinforcing ridges are arranged in a staggered mode in the buccal tongue direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of orthodontic technology, and in particular to a shell-shaped orthodontic appliance and its generation method, an orthodontic system, a dental model and its design method. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, in the field of orthodontic treatment, functional orthodontic treatment is a routine treatment for malocclusion symptoms in children and adolescents during the primary and mixed dentition stages. Single-plate or twin-block orthodontic techniques are among the routine treatment methods.

[0003] Since their development, invisible orthodontic appliances have been increasingly chosen by many due to their comfortable wear, convenient removal, and aesthetic appeal. With the continuous improvement of invisible orthodontic technology, functional invisible orthodontic treatments have also emerged, such as the invisible single-plate appliance and the invisible Twin-Block appliance. The invisible single-plate appliance, through its designed raised structure in the posterior teeth area, can open the bite while simultaneously leveling the SPEE curve and treating mild cases of mandibular retrusion. The invisible Twin-Block appliance guides mandibular protrusion through the mesial and distal slopes of the two raised occlusal pads during occlusion. The reverse invisible Twin-Block appliance guides mandibular retrusion through the mesial and distal slopes of the two raised occlusal pads during occlusion.

[0004] Currently, most existing clear occlusal appliances, whether single-plate or Twin-Block, are molded using a pressure-molding process, resulting in hollow occlusal pads. This leads to several issues during use. First, the occlusal pad may deform after repeated biting due to insufficient rigidity or support. Existing technologies address this by adding reinforcing ridges on both sides of the occlusal pad (e.g., Chinese Patent 202320657561.3). To provide better vertical support, these ridges are positioned at the interdental spaces. However, this placement introduces new problems. It results in a significant difference in width between the occlusal surface of the occlusal pad at the ridges and the adjacent occlusal pad. Due to the hollow structure of the occlusal pad, stress concentration is more likely to occur at these wider areas during biting, making the occlusal pad more prone to collapse. Continuing to use an orthodontic appliance with deformed protrusions can lead to: (1) insufficient orthodontic force, failing to achieve the preset occlusal position, and subsequent orthodontic steps being unable to proceed normally; (2) the direction of the predetermined force being altered, with unwanted force causing the teeth to move in an unwanted direction, ultimately disrupting the entire orthodontic plan. On the other hand, the two hollow protruding occlusal pads may be directly bitten and damaged by the patient during use, rendering them unusable. In this case, a new mold needs to be made for the clear aligner required by the patient for this step, which will increase the cost of orthodontic treatment and prolong the treatment period. At the same time, while the patient is waiting for the new clear aligner to be made, the teeth may move undesirably due to the interruption of treatment and lack of proper orthodontic force. The subsequent clear aligner may not be able to match the teeth that have already moved, which may eventually lead to a restart of the orthodontic treatment. Furthermore, given the presence of unwanted force, the occlusal pads may slide in the buccal-lingual direction during use, and the upper and lower jaws may not be able to accurately achieve the preset occlusal position, which will cause malocclusion.

[0005] Therefore, it is of great significance to research a dental instrument that combines the comfort and convenience of clear aligners with the corrective power of functional orthodontics. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this application is to provide a shell-shaped orthodontic appliance and its manufacturing method, orthodontic system, dental model and design method that effectively solve the above problems, so as to avoid stress concentration on the occlusal surface when the protrusion is set with a reinforcing ridge.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, embodiments of this application provide a shell-shaped orthodontic appliance, including a shell-shaped body for accommodating teeth. The shell-shaped body is a one-piece molded structure. The shell-shaped body has a first protrusion on the occlusal surface of the posterior tooth region that protrudes in the opposing direction to reconstruct the occlusal position of the upper and lower jaws. The buccal side of the first protrusion has a first reinforcing ridge to improve the deformation resistance of the first protrusion. The first reinforcing ridge is formed by the buccal side of the first protrusion being recessed inward. The lingual side of the first protrusion has a second reinforcing ridge to improve the deformation resistance of the first protrusion. The second reinforcing ridge is formed by the lingual side of the first protrusion being recessed inward. At least two adjacent first reinforcing ridges and second reinforcing ridges are staggered in the buccal-lingual direction.

[0008] Preferably, the projections of the adjacent first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge in the sagittal plane overlap.

[0009] Preferably, the width of the overlapping portion of the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge in the mesiodistal direction is less than or equal to 1 / 2 of the width of the first reinforcing ridge in the mesiodistal direction; and / or, the width of the overlapping portion of the second reinforcing ridge and the first reinforcing ridge in the mesiodistal direction is less than or equal to 1 / 2 of the width of the second reinforcing ridge in the mesiodistal direction.

[0010] Preferably, the projections of adjacent first reinforcing ridges and second reinforcing ridges on the sagittal plane do not overlap.

[0011] Preferably, the shortest distance between the contour edge where the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge are located is the first distance, and the shortest distance between the contour edge where the second reinforcing ridge and the first reinforcing ridge are located is the second distance. The difference between any one of the first distances and any one of the second distances is within a predetermined range, wherein the predetermined range is 0-4mm.

[0012] Preferably, all adjacent first reinforcing ridges and second reinforcing ridges are staggered in the buccal-lingual direction.

[0013] Preferably, the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge have the same shape and size.

[0014] Preferably, there are multiple first reinforcing ridges and multiple second reinforcing ridges, and the number of first reinforcing ridges is the same as the number of second reinforcing ridges.

[0015] Preferably, the plurality of first reinforcing ridges and the plurality of second reinforcing ridges are arranged alternately in the mesial-distal direction.

[0016] Preferably, the depth of the inward indentation of the first reinforcing ridge and / or the second reinforcing ridge is between 1 / 4 and 1 / 3 of the average width of the first protrusion in the buccal-lingual direction.

[0017] Preferably, the depth of the inward indentation of the first or second reinforcing ridge is between 1.0 mm and 2.0 mm.

[0018] Preferably, the width of the first reinforcing ridge in the meso-distal direction gradually decreases from the buccal side to the lingual side; and / or, the width of the second reinforcing ridge in the meso-distal direction gradually decreases from the lingual side to the buccal side.

[0019] Preferably, the maximum width of the first reinforcing ridge in the mesiodistal direction is between 2.0 mm and 3.0 mm; the maximum width of the second reinforcing ridge in the mesiodistal direction is between 2.0 mm and 3.0 mm.

[0020] Preferably, when worn, the lower contour edge of the first protrusion on the side adjacent to the main jaw supports the occlusal surface of the main jaw teeth; the upper contour edge of the first protrusion on the side adjacent to the opposing jaw supports the occlusal surface of the opposing teeth; the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge respectively penetrate the upper contour edge and the lower contour edge.

[0021] Another embodiment of this application provides a shell-shaped orthodontic appliance, including a first shell-shaped body that at least partially accommodates maxillary teeth and a second shell-shaped body that at least partially accommodates mandibular teeth. The first shell-shaped body is as described in any of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliances above. The second shell-shaped body has a second protrusion in the occlusal surface of the posterior tooth region that protrudes in the opposing direction and cooperates with a first protrusion in the first shell-shaped body to move the mandible in a sagittal direction. When the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance is worn, the mesial surface of the first protrusion and the distal surface of the second protrusion interact to move the mandible forward or backward in a sagittal direction to a target occlusal position.

[0022] Preferably, the cheek side of the second protrusion has a third reinforcing ridge to improve the deformation resistance of the second protrusion, the third reinforcing ridge being formed by the cheek side of the second protrusion being recessed inward, and the tongue side of the second protrusion has a fourth reinforcing ridge to improve the deformation resistance of the second protrusion, the fourth reinforcing ridge being formed by the tongue side of the second protrusion being recessed inward, wherein at least two adjacent third reinforcing ridges and fourth reinforcing ridges are staggered in the cheek-tongue direction.

[0023] Preferably, the projections of the adjacent third reinforcing ridge and the fourth reinforcing ridge in the sagittal plane may or may not overlap.

[0024] Preferably, the shortest distance between the contour edge where the third reinforcing ridge and the fourth reinforcing ridge are located is the third distance, and the shortest distance between the contour edge where the fourth reinforcing ridge and the third reinforcing ridge are located is the fourth distance. The difference between any third distance and any fourth distance is within a predetermined range, wherein the predetermined range is 0-4mm.

[0025] Preferably, the mid-surface of the first protrusion is parallel to the far-surface of the second protrusion.

[0026] Preferably, when the mid-surface of the first protrusion and the distal-surface of the second protrusion are planar, the mid-surface of the first protrusion or the distal-surface of the second protrusion is set at an angle to the cheek-tongue direction at the corresponding position, and the angle is between 30°-75° or 105°-150°.

[0027] Preferably, when the mid-surface of the first protrusion and the distal-surface of the second protrusion are curved surfaces, the tangent at the highest point of the mid-surface of the first protrusion or the tangent at the highest point of the distal-surface of the second protrusion is set at an angle to the cheek-tongue direction at the corresponding position, and the angle is between 30°-75° or 105°-150°.

[0028] Preferably, the first shell-shaped body has a first protrusion on the left and a first protrusion on the right, the distal surface of the first protrusion on the left and the distal surface of the first protrusion on the right being axially symmetrical about the dental midline, and / or, the second shell-shaped body has a second protrusion on the left and a second protrusion on the right, the distal surface of the second protrusion on the left and the distal surface of the second protrusion on the right being axially symmetrical about the dental midline.

[0029] Another embodiment of this application provides an orthodontic system comprising multiple sets of shell-shaped appliances as described in any one of the above, wherein the multiple sets of shell-shaped appliances correspond to multiple successive orthodontic steps, and wherein the sagittal target positions corresponding to the multiple sets of shell-shaped appliances are consistent.

[0030] Preferably, the protrusion height of the first protrusion in the direction of the opposing jaw and the protrusion height of the second protrusion in the direction of the opposing jaw on the shell-shaped appliance corresponding to different treatment stages are set in relation to the treatment stage.

[0031] Preferably, the height of the first and second protrusions on the multiple sets of shell-shaped orthodontic appliances in the direction of the opposing jaw gradually decreases as the orthodontic treatment progresses.

[0032] Another embodiment of this application provides an orthodontic system comprising N shell-shaped appliances worn on a single jaw, wherein the N shell-shaped appliances correspond to N successive orthodontic steps, and each of the N shell-shaped appliances is capable of repositioning the teeth from the initial layout of the corresponding orthodontic step to the target layout of the corresponding orthodontic step, wherein at least M of the N shell-shaped appliances are shell-shaped appliances as described in any one of claims 1-14, and the M shell-shaped appliances correspond to M consecutively arranged orthodontic steps, wherein M is greater than or equal to 2 and less than or equal to N.

[0033] Preferably, the first protrusions on at least two of the M shell-shaped orthodontic appliances are not at the same position or size in terms of their maximum width in the buccal-lingual direction.

[0034] Another embodiment of this application provides a dental model for use as a mold for thermoforming shell-shaped orthodontic appliances. The model includes a dental model body. A first protruding solid model for reconstructing the occlusal position of the upper and lower jaws is provided on the posterior occlusal surface of the dental model body in the direction of opposition. The buccal side of the first protruding solid model has a first reinforcing ridge solid model, which is formed by extending inward from the buccal side of the first protruding solid model. The lingual side of the first protruding solid model has a second reinforcing ridge solid model, which is formed by extending inward from the lingual side of the first protruding solid model. At least two adjacent first reinforcing ridge solid models and second reinforcing ridge solid models are staggered in the buccal-lingual direction.

[0035] Another embodiment of this application provides a method for designing a digital dental model, which involves obtaining a basic digital dental model and the height of the protrusion; generating a first digital model of the protrusion to reconstruct the occlusal position of the maxilla and mandible in a designated area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior teeth region of the basic digital dental model based on the basic digital dental model and the height of the protrusion; wherein the buccal side of the first digital model of the protrusion has an inwardly recessed first reinforcing ridge, and the lingual side of the first protrusion has an inwardly recessed second reinforcing ridge, and at least two adjacent first reinforcing ridges and second reinforcing ridges are staggered in the buccal-lingual direction; and merging the basic digital dental model and the first digital model of the protrusion to generate a digital dental model with the protrusion.

[0036] Preferably, the step of generating a first digital model of the protrusion reconstructing the occlusal position of the maxilla and mandible within a designated area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior region of the basic digital dental model, based on the basic digital dental model and the height of the protrusion, includes: obtaining the occlusal surface morphology and size of the tooth model within the designated area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior region of the basic digital dental model; and generating the first digital model of the protrusion within the designated area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior region of the basic digital dental model based on the height of the protrusion and the occlusal surface morphology and size of the tooth model.

[0037] Preferably, generating a first digital model of a protrusion in a designated area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior teeth of the basic digital dental model, based on the height of the protrusion and the occlusal surface morphology and size of the tooth model, includes: obtaining a preset initial protrusion model corresponding to the first digital protrusion model; and adjusting the morphology and size of the initial protrusion model according to the occlusal surface morphology and size of the tooth model to obtain the first digital model of the protrusion.

[0038] Preferably, the step of adjusting the shape and size of the initial protrusion model according to the occlusal surface shape and size of the tooth model to obtain the digital model of the first protrusion includes:

[0039] The dimensions and shapes of the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge are obtained respectively. A digital model of the first protrusion with the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge is generated on the side surface of the adjusted initial protrusion model according to the dimensions and shapes of the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge.

[0040] Preferably, the step of generating a first digital model of the protrusion, reconstructing the occlusal position of the maxilla and mandible, within a designated area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior teeth region of the basic digital dental model, based on the basic digital dental model and the height of the protrusion, includes:

[0041] The occlusal surface of the tooth model in a specified area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior tooth region of the basic digital dental model is obtained as the lower surface of the initial protrusion model, and the occlusal surface of the opposing tooth model in the specified area is obtained as the upper surface of the initial protrusion model. Alternatively, the lower surface is copied and the surface obtained by copying the lower surface is used as the upper surface of the initial protrusion model.

[0042] The side surfaces of the initial protrusion model are generated based on the upper surface and the lower surface;

[0043] The initial protrusion model is generated based on the upper surface, the lower surface, and the side surface;

[0044] The dimensions and shapes of the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge are obtained respectively. A digital model of the first protrusion with the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge is generated on the side surface of the initial protrusion model according to the dimensions and shapes of the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge.

[0045] Preferably, generating the side surface of the initial protrusion model based on the upper surface and the lower surface further includes scaling the upper surface and / or the lower surface to generate the side surface of the initial protrusion model, wherein the scaling ratio is between 0.5 and 0.9.

[0046] Another embodiment of this application provides a method for generating a shell-shaped orthodontic appliance. This method involves manufacturing a physical model of the digital dental model obtained by the design method of any one of the aforementioned methods using additive manufacturing. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance is then manufactured using a thermoforming method based on the physical model. Alternatively, a digital model of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance is generated from the digital dental model obtained by the design method of any one of the aforementioned methods, and the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance is manufactured using additive manufacturing based on the digital model of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance.

[0047] This invention provides a shell-shaped orthodontic appliance and its manufacturing method, an orthodontic system, a dental model, and a design method, which, compared with existing technologies:

[0048] In various embodiments of this application, the shell-like body has a first protrusion that addresses jaw position issues such as mandibular retrusion, deep overbite, and deep overjet. Furthermore, to avoid localized stress concentration caused by significant width differences across the occlusal surface of the first protrusion due to the use of a hollow structure with reinforcing ridges, the reinforcing ridges on both sides of the first protrusion are staggered. This reduces the ratio of the buccal-lingual width of the first protrusion, thereby increasing its ultimate load capacity in the occlusal direction and making it less prone to buckling deformation under pressure. Therefore, the structural improvement of the reinforcing ridges on the first protrusion in this application enhances its resistance to deformation in the occlusal direction, ensuring the accuracy and stability of the orthodontic treatment.

[0049] In another embodiment of this application, the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance includes a first shell-shaped body for the maxilla and a second shell-shaped body for the mandible. The first shell-shaped body has a first protrusion, and the second shell-shaped body has a second protrusion. The mesial surface of the first protrusion and the distal surface of the second protrusion interact to move the mandible forward or backward in the sagittal direction to the target occlusal position. Both the first and second protrusions have reinforcing ridges that are staggered on both sides, which improves the resistance to deformation of the first and second protrusions in the occlusal direction, making it less likely for the first and second shell-shaped bodies to deform in the occlusal direction during use.

[0050] This application also provides an orthodontic system. In one embodiment, the orthodontic system includes multiple sets of shell-shaped appliances, each comprising a first shell-shaped body and a second shell-shaped body. Throughout the orthodontic process, the heights of the first and second protrusions gradually decrease as the orthodontic process progresses, gradually adjusting the maxillary-mandibular relationship. Furthermore, the N sets of shell-shaped appliances simultaneously adjust the maxillary-mandibular relationship and align the teeth, achieving simultaneous orthodontic treatment. In another embodiment, the orthodontic system includes N shell-shaped appliances, wherein at least M of the N shell-shaped appliances are continuously arranged with first shell-shaped bodies. The maximum buccal-lingual width of the first protrusions on different first shell-shaped bodies can be inconsistent. This arrangement has the advantage of avoiding these positions where the occlusal force on the occlusal surface of the first protrusion varies at different stages, thereby preventing the first protrusion from undergoing compressive bending deformation in the occlusal direction during use.

[0051] This application also provides a design method for digital dental models. By retrieving an initial model of the protrusion from the occlusal surface morphology of the posterior teeth or from an accessory library, the size of the initial model of the protrusion is further adjusted, and a first reinforcing ridge and a second reinforcing ridge are set in a staggered manner on both sides of the initial model of the protrusion as required, thereby realizing the design and manufacture of a shell-shaped orthodontic appliance with a first protrusion. Furthermore, the first protrusion has a first reinforcing ridge and a second reinforcing ridge in a staggered manner. Attached Figure Description

[0052] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference numerals in the accompanying drawings. These illustrations do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements with the same reference numerals in the drawings are denoted as similar elements. Unless otherwise stated, the figures in the drawings are not to be limited by scale.

[0053] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a shell-shaped orthodontic appliance with protrusions in the prior art;

[0054] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure in the prior art where the reinforcing ridges on both sides of the protrusion are aligned.

[0055] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0056] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first protrusion in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0057] Figure 5 This is a simplified schematic diagram of the force exerted on the first protrusion in some embodiments of this application;

[0058] Figure 6These are schematic diagrams showing the shapes of the first protrusion engagement surfaces in different embodiments of this application;

[0059] Figures 7-11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first protrusion in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0060] Figure 12 and Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance in Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0061] Figures 14-16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second protrusion in Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0062] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the corrective system in Embodiment 3 of this application;

[0063] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the corrective system in Embodiment 4 of this application;

[0064] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first protrusion on at least two of the M shell-shaped orthodontic appliances in Embodiment 4 of this application;

[0065] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of the dental model in Embodiment 5 of this application;

[0066] Figure 21 This is a flowchart of the design method for a digital dental model according to Embodiment Six of this application;

[0067] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of an electronic device provided in one embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0068] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the various embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, those skilled in the art will understand that many technical details have been presented in the various embodiments of this application to enable readers to better understand this application. However, the technical solutions claimed in this application can be implemented even without these technical details and various changes and modifications based on the following embodiments. The division of the various embodiments below is for the convenience of description and should not constitute any limitation on the specific implementation of this application. The various embodiments can be combined with and referenced by each other without contradiction.

[0069] The term "posterior tooth region" mentioned in the various embodiments of this application is defined according to the classification of teeth in the 2nd edition of *Introduction to Stomatology* published by Peking University Medical Press, pages 36-38. It includes premolars and molars, teeth marked as 4-8 using the FDI notation, and teeth marked as 1-3 using the FDI notation for the anterior tooth region. Teeth in the anterior tooth region include central incisors, lateral incisors, and canines. Furthermore, regarding teeth in the deciduous dentition stage, the term "posterior tooth region" is defined according to the classification of deciduous teeth in the 2nd edition of *Introduction to Stomatology* published by Peking University Medical Press, pages 40-41. It includes three categories: deciduous incisors, deciduous canines, and deciduous molars. Deciduous incisors include deciduous central incisors and deciduous lateral incisors, and deciduous molars include first and second deciduous molars.

[0070] The shell-like body contains several cavities to accommodate multiple teeth and is divided into lingual and labial surfaces, as well as mesial and distal surfaces. The term "lingual surface" is based on the nomenclature of the crown surfaces in the 2nd edition of *Introduction to Stomatology*, published by Peking University Medical Press, on pages 35-36. The labial and buccal surfaces are the surfaces of the crowns of anterior teeth that are closest to the lips, called the labial surface; the buccal surfaces are the surfaces of the crowns of posterior teeth that are closest to the buccal surface. The lingual surface is the surface of the crowns of both anterior and posterior teeth that is closest to the tongue. The mesial and distal surfaces are the two surfaces of the crown that meet adjacent teeth, collectively called the proximal surfaces. The surface closer to the facial midline is called the mesial surface, and the surface farther from the facial midline is called the distal surface.

[0071] Shell-shaped orthodontic appliances are invisible and aesthetically pleasing mechanical devices for teeth straightening, manufactured using computer-aided 3D design. They are typically worn on the teeth and are made of polymer materials such as TPU, PETG, or a combination of both. These appliances exert forces that cause changes in the deformed jawbone, misaligned teeth, and periodontal tissues, promoting normal dentofacial growth and development. Shell-shaped appliances utilize biomechanical principles to correct deformed teeth. Through a system consisting of a series of shell-shaped appliances, gentle and sustained biomechanical forces are applied to gradually move the teeth, restoring them to their normal positions and aligning them properly. In this application, in addition to teeth alignment, the shell-shaped appliances can also adjust the jaw relationship between the upper and lower jaws by incorporating raised structures.

[0072] The core technical problem addressed in the various embodiments of this application is that, for clear aligners with raised sections, in order to simplify and expedite manufacturing and ensure patient comfort during wear, the raised section and the shell-like body are designed as a single molded structure. However, this design results in the raised section having an empty cavity structure that does not contact the teeth during wear, which can lead to problems such as collapse and deformation of the raised section during use. In existing technologies, reinforcing ridges are typically added to both sides of the raised section to address this issue. (Refer to...) Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown in the existing technical solutions, under normal circumstances, the protrusion has sufficient width in the buccal-lingual direction to ensure its stability during use. Therefore, in order to ensure that the upper and lower edges of the protrusion receive more support from the occlusal surfaces of the primary and opposing teeth, especially at the interdental spaces, so that the upper and lower edges of the protrusion are not suspended and are also supported on the occlusal surfaces, lateral reinforcing ridges need to be set at the corresponding interdental spaces. The interdental spaces on both sides of the tooth are symmetrical, meaning that the lateral reinforcing ridges will be aligned in the buccal-lingual direction.

[0073] The inventors of this application have discovered that when the reinforcing ridges on both sides are aligned, the buccal-lingual width of the reinforcing ridges is much smaller than the buccal-lingual width of the non-reinforcing ridges on the occlusal surface. This leads to stress concentration in areas with a larger buccal-lingual width on the occlusal surface of the protrusion, making the protrusion prone to deformation during occlusion. In the various embodiments of this application, the reinforcing ridges on both sides of the protrusion are staggered. Compared with the above-mentioned prior art, this effectively reduces the width of the easily deformable areas in the buccal-lingual direction or the length of the mesiodistal upward direction. This arrangement can increase the ultimate load of the protrusion in the occlusal direction, improve the overall deformation resistance of the protrusion, and ensure the stability of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance during use.

[0074] The various embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0075] Example 1

[0076] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, an embodiment of this application provides a shell-shaped orthodontic appliance, including a shell-shaped body 1 for accommodating teeth. The shell-shaped body 1 is an integrally molded structure and has multiple tooth receiving cavities 11. The multiple tooth receiving cavities 11 enclose all the teeth of the jaw on which the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance is worn. The shell-like body 1 has a first protrusion 12 protruding in the occlusal direction of the tooth receiving cavity 11 that encloses the posterior teeth, providing a first protrusion 12 for reconstructing the occlusal position of the upper and lower jaws. The buccal side of the first protrusion 12 has a first reinforcing ridge 121 that improves the deformation resistance of the first protrusion 12. The first reinforcing ridge 121 is formed by inward indentation from the buccal side of the first protrusion 12. The lingual side of the first protrusion 12 has a second reinforcing ridge 122 that improves the deformation resistance of the first protrusion 12. The second reinforcing ridge 122 is formed by inward indentation from the lingual side of the first protrusion 12. At least two adjacent first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 are staggered in the buccal-lingual direction, thereby improving the ultimate load of the first protrusion 12 in the occlusal direction and improving the overall compressive strength of the first protrusion 12. The inward indentation is specifically inward towards the interior of the cavity structure of the first protrusion 12.

[0077] In some embodiments, the projections of adjacent first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 in the sagittal plane partially overlap, that is, adjacent first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 are misaligned in the buccal-lingual direction. Alternatively, the projections of adjacent first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 in the sagittal plane do not overlap. That is, adjacent first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 are completely misaligned in the buccal-lingual direction. Compared to the prior art where the reinforcing ridges on both sides of the protrusion are aligned, the complete or partial misalignment of the first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 in the buccal-lingual direction can reduce the mesiodistal upward length and / or buccal-lingual upward width of the region where stress concentration is likely to occur. Therefore, the ultimate load of the protrusion in the occlusal direction can be increased, thereby improving the deformation resistance of the first protrusion 12.

[0078] Based on analysis of existing technologies, the inventors of this application have discovered that by misaligning the reinforcing ridges on both sides in the buccal-lingual direction (partial and complete misalignment), the ultimate load-bearing capacity of the protrusion in the biting direction can be increased, making it less prone to deformation. For detailed analysis, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, Figure 5 A simplified diagram of the forces acting on the protrusion. In the diagram, the X-axis is the mesiodistal direction, the Z-axis is the occlusal direction, and F is the force acting on the protrusion during occlusion. Figure 6 The shapes of the occlusal surfaces of different protrusions are shown, wherein the Y-axis is parallel to the buccal-lingual direction. Figure A shows the shape of the reinforcing ridges on both sides of the protrusion in the prior art. Figure B shows the occlusal surface shape of the protrusion when the first reinforcing ridge 121 and the second reinforcing ridge 122 on both sides of the protrusion are completely misaligned in some embodiments of this application. Figure C shows the occlusal surface shape of the protrusion when the first reinforcing ridge 121 and the second reinforcing ridge 122 on both sides of the protrusion are partially misaligned in some embodiments of this application.

[0079] When the cusps of the opposing teeth act on the occlusal surface of the protrusion, the occlusal surface of the protrusion is compressed. Since the protrusion is a hollow structure, the edge of the occlusal surface of the protrusion can be approximated as a thin plate. The ultimate load for buckling of a rectangular thin plate fixed on four sides under a central vertical load is:

[0080]

[0081] E is the elastic modulus of the material, v is the Poisson's ratio of the material, a is the width of the rectangle, b is the length of the rectangle, and t is the material thickness (in the various embodiments of this application, it refers to the thickness of the diaphragm corresponding to the protrusion).

[0082] The above formula reveals a trend: for rectangular thin plates, the longer the side length, the smaller the ultimate load. The interlocking surfaces of the protrusions with symmetrical reinforcing ridges on both sides and the protrusions with staggered reinforcing ridges on both sides can be regarded as several rectangular thin plates spliced ​​together.

[0083] Based on the above, comparing Figure A and Figure B, HA is greater than HB. This means that when the first reinforcing ridge 121 and the second reinforcing ridge 122 are misaligned, the ultimate load on the interlocking surface of the protrusion is greater than the ultimate load on the interlocking surface of the protrusion when the two reinforcing ridges are aligned. Therefore, the misalignment of the first reinforcing ridge 121 and the second reinforcing ridge 122 compared to the arrangement in Figure A can improve the deformation resistance of the protrusion. Comparing Figure A and Figure C, it is clear that when the first reinforcing ridge 121 and the second reinforcing ridge 122 are misaligned, the ultimate load on the interlocking surface of the protrusion is greater than the ultimate load on the interlocking surface of the protrusion when the two reinforcing ridges are aligned. Therefore, the misalignment of the first reinforcing ridge 121 and the second reinforcing ridge 122 compared to the arrangement in Figure A can improve the deformation resistance of the protrusion.

[0084] The occlusal surface of the first protrusion 12 in various embodiments of this application refers to the surface that contacts the occlusal surface of the opposing teeth or the occlusal surface of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance worn by the opposing teeth during the wearing of the shell-shaped appliance.

[0085] In some embodiments, when the projected portions of adjacent first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 overlap in the sagittal plane, in order to further improve the ultimate load of the interlocking surface of the first protrusion 12, i.e., the less the projected portions of adjacent first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 overlap in the sagittal plane, the greater the ultimate load of the interlocking surface of the first protrusion 12. Therefore, under the premise that the overlapping portion of the projected portions of adjacent first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 in the sagittal plane is as small as possible, and the first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 have a sufficient number on both sides of the first protrusion 12 to ensure the deformation resistance of the first protrusion 12 in the mesiodistal direction, the width of the overlapping portion of the first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 in the mesiodistal direction is less than or equal to 1 / 2 of the width of the first reinforcing ridge 121 in the mesiodistal direction. For example, see specific reference. Figure 7 As shown in the figure, line P is the boundary line parallel to the buccal-lingual direction through the farthest point of the first reinforcing ridge 121 in the mesial direction, and line P' is the boundary line parallel to the buccal-lingual direction through the farthest point of the second reinforcing ridge 122 in the mesial direction. The shaded part D in the figure is the overlapping part of the first reinforcing ridge 121 and the second reinforcing ridge 122. The width h1 of the overlapping part in the mesial-distal direction is less than or equal to 1 / 2 of the width H1 of the first reinforcing ridge 121 in the mesial-distal direction.

[0086] In other embodiments, when the projected portions of adjacent first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 overlap in the sagittal plane, in order to further improve the ultimate load of the interlocking surface of the first protrusion 12, i.e., the less the projected portions of adjacent first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 overlap in the sagittal plane, the greater the ultimate load of the interlocking surface of the first protrusion 12. Therefore, under the premise that the overlapping portion of the projected portions of adjacent first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 in the sagittal plane is as small as possible, and the first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 have a sufficient number on both sides of the first protrusion 12 to ensure the deformation resistance of the first protrusion 12 in the mesiodistal direction, the width of the overlapping portion of the second reinforcing ridge 122 and the first reinforcing ridge 121 in the mesiodistal direction is less than or equal to 1 / 2 of the width of the second reinforcing ridge 122 in the mesiodistal direction. For example, see specific reference. Figure 8 As shown in the figure, line P is the boundary line parallel to the buccal-lingual direction through the farthest point of the first reinforcing ridge 121 in the mesial direction, and line P' is the boundary line parallel to the buccal-lingual direction through the farthest point of the second reinforcing ridge 122 in the mesial direction. The shaded area E in the figure is the overlapping part of the first reinforcing ridge 121 and the second reinforcing ridge 122. The width h2 of the overlapping part in the mesial-distal direction is less than or equal to 1 / 2 of the width H2 of the second reinforcing ridge 122 in the mesial-distal direction.

[0087] In some embodiments, reference Figure 9As shown, the projections of adjacent first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 on the sagittal plane do not overlap. That is, the first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 are completely offset in the buccal-lingual direction. In a further preferred embodiment, the shortest distance between the contour edges where the first reinforcing ridge 121 and the second reinforcing ridge 122 are located is a first distance L1, and the shortest distance between the contour edges where the second reinforcing ridge 122 and the first reinforcing ridge 121 are located is a second distance L2. The difference between any one of the first distances and any one of the second distances is within a predetermined range, wherein the predetermined range is 0-4 mm, and the difference between any one of the first distances and any one of the second distances can be 0 mm, 2 mm, or 4 mm. The optimal embodiment is that the difference between any one of the first distances and any one of the second distances is 0 mm. However, since the width of the first protrusion 12 in the buccal-lingual direction needs to be as small as possible less than or equal to the buccal-lingual width of the occlusal surface of the tooth, the width of the first protrusion 12 in the buccal-lingual direction is generally not completely equal in all places. However, in order to ensure that the occlusal surface of the first protrusion 12 does not have a local width that is too large and causes stress concentration, in this embodiment, the difference between any first distance L1 and any second distance L2 is within a predetermined range. This ensures that the difference between the buccal-lingual width at any first reinforcing ridge 121 and the buccal-lingual width at any second reinforcing ridge 122 on the occlusal surface of the first protrusion 12 is not too large. This prevents the first protrusion 12 from having a local limit load that is too small at the corresponding first reinforcing ridge 121 or second reinforcing ridge 122, thus avoiding the problem of stress concentration and deformation in local areas.

[0088] In some embodiments, all adjacent first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 are staggered in the buccal-lingual direction. This further ensures that when multiple first reinforcing ridges 121 and multiple second reinforcing ridges 122 are provided on both sides of the first protrusion 12, the width difference of the occlusal surface of the first protrusion 12 in the buccal-lingual direction is not too large, avoiding the problem of excessively small local ultimate load, which can easily lead to stress concentration and further local deformation, resulting in the inability to achieve the corrective effect of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance.

[0089] In some embodiments, reference Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, there are multiple first reinforcing ridges 121 and multiple second reinforcing ridges 122, with the number of first reinforcing ridges 121 being the same as the number of second reinforcing ridges 122. This arrangement has the advantage that the flexural section modulus of the side surfaces where the first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 are located on the first protrusion 12 is essentially the same. More preferably, the multiple first reinforcing ridges 121 and multiple second reinforcing ridges 122 are arranged alternately in the mesiodistal direction. Similarly, this arrangement ensures that the width difference of the occlusal surface of the first protrusion 12 in the buccal-lingual direction is not too large.

[0090] In some embodiments, the first reinforcing ridge 121 and the second reinforcing ridge 122 have the same shape and size. This ensures that the bending section modulus of the side surfaces where the first reinforcing ridge 121 and the second reinforcing ridge 122 are located are substantially the same, so that the first protrusion 12 has stable resistance to deformation during use.

[0091] Furthermore, the width of the first reinforcing ridge 121 in the mesiodistal direction gradually decreases from the buccal side to the lingual side; and / or, the width of the second reinforcing ridge 122 in the mesiodistal direction gradually decreases from the lingual side to the buccal side. The advantage of this design is that, during the fabrication of the shell-shaped appliance using a thermoforming process, the gradual decrease in width from the lingual side to the buccal side facilitates adsorption and molding, and it also makes demolding easier during the removal of the shell-shaped appliance from the dental model. Specifically, refer to... Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the first reinforcing ridge 121 and the second reinforcing ridge 122 have polygonal or semi-circular cross-sectional shapes on the horizontal plane. Different cross-sectional shapes result in different resistance to deformation for the first protrusion 12. The trapezoidal shape has the highest bending section modulus, followed by the semi-circular shape, and then the V-shape (triangular). However, the trapezoidal first and second reinforcing ridges 121 and 122 require the side surfaces of the first protrusion 12 to have a certain length in the near-far direction. In some embodiments, refer to... Figure 10 As shown, the maximum width Y1 of the first reinforcing ridge 121 in the mesiodistal direction is between 2.0mm and 3.0mm (including the endpoint value); the maximum width Y2 of the second reinforcing ridge 122 in the mesiodistal direction is between 2.0mm and 3.0mm (including the endpoint value). Here, the maximum width values ​​of the first reinforcing ridge 121 and the second reinforcing ridge 122 in the mesiodistal direction refer to the width values ​​near the edge of the first protrusion 12. Through extensive verification, the inventors of this application have found that this width setting can ensure that the first reinforcing ridge 121 and the second reinforcing ridge 122 have greater bending resistance. Furthermore, in the process of manufacturing the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance using the hot-pressing film process, such a width value can ensure the consistency of the thickness of the first protrusion 12 at all points, making the overall thickness of the first protrusion 12 relatively uniform. During use, the problem of deformation occurring more easily in thinner areas will not occur.

[0092] In other words, in this case, the preferred implementation method is referred to Figure 3As shown, the first protrusion 12 preferably covers the occlusal surface of three teeth between the third and seventh teeth, and is provided with an equal number of first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122. The first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 are arranged alternately in the mesiodistal direction, and the cross-sectional shape of the first reinforcing ridges 121 and second reinforcing ridges 122 on the horizontal plane is trapezoidal.

[0093] In some embodiments, reference Figure 11 As shown, the inward recessed depth X1 of the first reinforcing ridge 121 is between 1 / 4 and 1 / 3 of the average width of the first protrusion 12 in the buccal-lingual direction, and / or the inward recessed depth X2 of the second reinforcing ridge 122 is between 1 / 4 and 1 / 3 of the average width of the first protrusion 12 in the buccal-lingual direction. The inward recessed depth of the first reinforcing ridge 121 and / or the second reinforcing ridge 122 refers to the recessed depth from the side surface of the first protrusion 12 towards the hollow interior of the first protrusion 12. The advantage of this configuration in this embodiment is that, during the manufacturing process of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance using a hot-pressing film process, if the first reinforcing ridge 121 or the second reinforcing ridge 122 is recessed too deeply, the thickness of the film will be thinner at the recessed areas of the first and second reinforcing ridges 121 and 122 than at other locations. This results in uneven overall thickness of the first protrusion 12, making the thinner areas more prone to deformation during use. Therefore, after extensive research and experimental verification, the inventors of this application have determined that the depth X1 of the first reinforcing ridge 121 is between 1 / 4 and 1 / 3 of the average width of the first protrusion 12 in the buccal-lingual direction, and / or the depth X2 of the second reinforcing ridge 122 is between 1 / 4 and 1 / 3 of the average width of the first protrusion 12 in the buccal-lingual direction. The first reinforcing ridge 121 and / or the second reinforcing ridge 122 have a certain depth of indentation to ensure the bending resistance of the side surface of the first protrusion 12. Similarly, the depth of indentation should not be too large to avoid the inconsistency of the thickness of the first protrusion 12 at various points during the production of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance using the hot-pressing film process.

[0094] To further explain, the inward concavity depth X1 of the first reinforcing ridge 121 can be the average inward concavity depth of the first reinforcing ridge 121 or the inward concavity depth of the first reinforcing ridge 121 on the occlusal surface of the first protrusion 12. Similarly, the inward concavity depth X2 of the second reinforcing ridge 122 can be the average inward concavity depth of the second reinforcing ridge 122 or the inward concavity depth of the second reinforcing ridge 122 on the occlusal surface of the first protrusion 12.

[0095] In some embodiments, the width of the first protrusion 12 in the buccal-lingual direction is 5mm-10mm, and the inward recessed depth of the first reinforcing ridge 121 or the second reinforcing ridge 122 is between 1.0mm-2.0mm. This arrangement ensures that the first reinforcing ridge 121 and / or the second reinforcing ridge 122 have a certain inward recessed depth, giving the side surface of the first protrusion 12 a certain bending resistance. Furthermore, the inward recessed depth of the first reinforcing ridge 121 or the second reinforcing ridge 122, between 1.0mm and 2.0mm, is not excessive, thus avoiding inconsistent thickness of the first protrusion 12 during the fabrication of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance using a hot-pressing process.

[0096] In some embodiments, reference Figure 3 As shown, when worn, the lower contour edge of the first protrusion 12 adjacent to the main jaw supports the occlusal surface of the main jaw teeth; the upper contour edge of the first protrusion 12 adjacent to the opposing jaw supports the occlusal surface of the opposing teeth; the first reinforcing ridge 121 and the second reinforcing ridge 122 respectively penetrate the upper contour edge and the lower contour edge. The advantage of this arrangement is that, in each embodiment, the supporting edge of the first protrusion 12 of the first reinforcing ridge 121 and the second reinforcing ridge 122 in the occlusal direction / vertical direction is sufficiently long, thereby improving the supporting force of the first protrusion 12 in the occlusal direction or vertical direction during use, and further avoiding problems such as collapse or upward compression deformation of the hollow structure of the first protrusion 12 during use. More preferably, to ensure the consistency of the bending resistance of the side surface of the first protrusion 12, the inward concavity depth of the first reinforcing ridge 121 is equal everywhere in the occlusal direction / vertical direction, and the inward concavity depth of the second reinforcing ridge 122 is equal everywhere in the occlusal direction / vertical direction.

[0097] Example 2

[0098] This embodiment provides a shell-shaped orthodontic appliance, see reference. Figure 12 As shown and Figure 13As shown, the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance includes a first shell-shaped body 10 that at least partially accommodates the maxillary teeth and a second shell-shaped body 20 that at least partially accommodates the mandibular teeth. The first shell-shaped body 10 is as described in Embodiment 1 above. The second shell-shaped body 20 has a second protrusion 22 on the occlusal surface of the posterior teeth area that cooperates with the first protrusion 12 in the first shell-shaped body 10 to move the mandible in a sagittal direction. When the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance is worn, the mesial surface of the first protrusion 12 and the distal surface of the second protrusion 22 interact to move the mandible forward or backward in a sagittal direction to the target occlusal position. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the tooth receiving cavities of the first shell-shaped body 10 and the second shell-shaped body 20 have a geometric structure that moves the patient's teeth from a first layout to a second layout, so that the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance of this application can complete orthodontic treatment simultaneously, shortening the treatment process.

[0099] In some embodiments, the first protrusion 12 and the first shell-shaped body 10 are integrally formed, and the second protrusion 22 and the second shell-shaped body 20 are integrally formed.

[0100] The design of the first shell-shaped body 10 of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance in the various embodiments of this application, as well as the design of the first reinforcing ridge 121 and the second reinforcing ridge 122 on the first protrusion 12 of the first shell-shaped body 10, is the same as that of the first reinforcing ridge 121 and the second reinforcing ridge 122 in the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance worn on a single jaw in Embodiment 1, and will not be described in detail here. The second shell-shaped body 20 of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance in the various embodiments of this application has multiple tooth receiving cavities, which enclose all the erupted teeth of the opposing jaw of the jaw to which the first shell-shaped body 10 is worn.

[0101] In some embodiments, the buccal side of the second protrusion 22 has a third reinforcing ridge 221 that improves the deformation resistance of the second protrusion 22, the third reinforcing ridge 221 being formed by inward indentation from the buccal side of the second protrusion 22, and the lingual side of the second protrusion 22 has a fourth reinforcing ridge 222 that improves the deformation resistance of the second protrusion 22, the fourth reinforcing ridge 222 being formed by inward indentation from the lingual side of the second protrusion 22, wherein at least two adjacent third reinforcing ridges 221 and fourth reinforcing ridges 222 are staggered in the buccal-lingual direction.

[0102] The occlusal surface of the second protrusion 22 in various embodiments of this application refers to the surface that contacts the occlusal surface of the opposing teeth or the occlusal surface of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance worn by the opposing teeth during the wearing of the shell-shaped appliance.

[0103] In some embodiments, when the projected portions of adjacent third reinforcing ridges 221 and fourth reinforcing ridges 222 overlap in the sagittal plane, in order to further improve the ultimate load of the interlocking surface of the second protrusion 22, i.e., the less the projected portions of adjacent third reinforcing ridges 221 and fourth reinforcing ridges 222 overlap in the sagittal plane, the greater the ultimate load of the interlocking surface of the second protrusion 22. Therefore, under the premise that the overlapping portion of the projected portions of adjacent third reinforcing ridges 221 and fourth reinforcing ridges 222 in the sagittal plane is as small as possible, and the third reinforcing ridges 221 and fourth reinforcing ridges 222 have a sufficient number on both sides of the second protrusion 22 to ensure the deformation resistance of the second protrusion 22 in the mesiodistal direction, the width of the overlapping portion of the third reinforcing ridges 221 and fourth reinforcing ridges 222 in the mesiodistal direction is less than or equal to 1 / 2 of the width of the third reinforcing ridge 221 in the mesiodistal direction. For example, see specific reference. Figure 14 As shown in the figure, line R is the boundary line parallel to the buccal-lingual direction at the farthest point of the third reinforcing ridge 221 in the mesial direction, and line R' is the boundary line parallel to the buccal-lingual direction at the farthest point of the fourth reinforcing ridge 222 in the mesial direction. The shaded part F in the figure is the overlapping part of the third reinforcing ridge 221 and the fourth reinforcing ridge 222. The width h3 of the overlapping part in the mesial-distal direction is less than or equal to 1 / 2 of the width H3 of the third reinforcing ridge 221 in the mesial-distal direction.

[0104] In other embodiments, when the projection portions of adjacent third reinforcing ridges 221 and fourth reinforcing ridges 222 overlap in the sagittal plane, in order to further improve the ultimate load of the interlocking surface of the second protrusion 22, i.e., the less the projection portions of adjacent third reinforcing ridges 221 and fourth reinforcing ridges 222 overlap in the sagittal plane, the greater the ultimate load of the interlocking surface of the second protrusion 22. Therefore, under the premise that the overlapping portion of the projection portions of adjacent third reinforcing ridges 221 and fourth reinforcing ridges 222 in the sagittal plane is as small as possible, and that the third reinforcing ridges 221 and fourth reinforcing ridges 222 have a sufficient number on both sides of the second protrusion 22 to ensure the deformation resistance of the second protrusion 22 in the mesiodistal direction, the width of the overlapping portion of the fourth reinforcing ridge 222 and the third reinforcing ridge 221 in the mesiodistal direction is less than or equal to 1 / 2 of the width of the fourth reinforcing ridge 222 in the mesiodistal direction. For example, see specific reference. Figure 15 As shown in the figure, line R is the boundary line parallel to the buccal-lingual direction through the farthest point of the third reinforcing ridge 221 in the mesial direction, and line R' is the boundary line parallel to the buccal-lingual direction through the farthest point of the fourth reinforcing ridge 222 in the mesial direction. The shaded area G in the figure is the overlapping part of the third reinforcing ridge 221 and the fourth reinforcing ridge 222. The width h4 of the overlapping part in the mesial-distal direction is less than or equal to 1 / 2 of the width H4 of the fourth reinforcing ridge 222 in the mesial-distal direction.

[0105] In some embodiments, reference Figure 16As shown, the projections of adjacent third reinforcing ridges 221 and fourth reinforcing ridges 222 on the sagittal plane do not overlap. That is, the third reinforcing ridges 221 and fourth reinforcing ridges 222 are completely misaligned in the buccal-lingual direction. In a further preferred embodiment, the shortest distance between the contour edges where the third reinforcing ridge 221 and the fourth reinforcing ridge 222 are located is the third distance L3, and the shortest distance between the contour edges where the fourth reinforcing ridge 222 and the third reinforcing ridge 221 are located is the fourth distance L4. The difference between any third distance and any fourth distance is within a predetermined range, wherein the predetermined range is 0-4 mm, and the difference between any third distance and any fourth distance can be 0 mm, 2 mm, or 4 mm. The optimal embodiment is that the difference between any third distance and any fourth distance is 0 mm. However, since the width of the second protrusion 22 in the buccal-lingual direction needs to be as small as possible less than or equal to the buccal-lingual width of the occlusal surface of the tooth, the width of the second protrusion 22 in the buccal-lingual direction is generally not completely equal in all places. However, in order to ensure that the occlusal surface of the second protrusion 22 does not have a local width that is too large and causes stress concentration, in this embodiment, the difference between any third distance L3 and any fourth distance L4 is within a predetermined range. This ensures that the difference between the buccal-lingual width at any third reinforcing ridge 221 and the buccal-lingual width at any fourth reinforcing ridge 222 on the occlusal surface of the second protrusion 22 is not too large. This prevents the second protrusion 22 from having a local ultimate load that is too small at the corresponding third reinforcing ridge 221 or fourth reinforcing ridge 222, thus avoiding the problem of stress concentration and deformation in local areas.

[0106] In some embodiments, all adjacent third reinforcing ridges 221 and fourth reinforcing ridges 222 are staggered in the buccal-lingual direction. This further ensures that when multiple third reinforcing ridges 221 and multiple fourth reinforcing ridges 222 are provided on both sides of the second protrusion 22, the width difference of the occlusal surface of the second protrusion 22 in the buccal-lingual direction is not too large, avoiding the problem of excessively small local ultimate load, which can easily lead to stress concentration and further local deformation, resulting in the inability to achieve the corrective effect of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance.

[0107] In some embodiments, the mesial surface of the first protrusion 12 and the distal surface of the second protrusion 22 are parallel to each other. When the mesial surface of the first protrusion 12 and the distal surface of the second protrusion 22 are planar, the mesial surface of the first protrusion 12 or the distal surface of the second protrusion 22 is angled to the buccal-lingual direction at the corresponding position, and the angle is between 30°-75° or 105°-150°.

[0108] In other embodiments, when the proximal surface of the first protrusion 12 and the distal surface of the second protrusion 22 are mutually parallel curved surfaces, for example, the proximal surface of the first protrusion 12 is provided with a protruding or recessed reinforcing structure, and the reinforcing structure matches the distal surface of the second protrusion 22, in this embodiment, the tangent at the highest point of the proximal surface of the first protrusion 12 or the tangent at the highest point of the distal surface of the second protrusion 22 is set at an angle to the cheek-tongue direction at the corresponding position, and the angle is between 30°-75° or 105°-150°.

[0109] In some embodiments, the first shell-shaped body 10 has a left first protrusion 12 and a right first protrusion 12, the distal surface of the left first protrusion 12 and the distal surface of the right first protrusion 12 being axially symmetrical about the dental midline. The second shell-shaped body 20 has a left second protrusion 22 and a right second protrusion 22, the distal surface of the left second protrusion 22 and the distal surface of the right second protrusion 22 being axially symmetrical about the dental midline.

[0110] Preferably, when the first shell-shaped body 10 and the second shell-shaped body 20 are used together, the left first protrusion 12 and the left second protrusion 22, and the right first protrusion 12 and the right second protrusion 22 are in the following configuration: The mesial surface of the left first protrusion 12 and the distal surface of the left second protrusion 22 are parallel to each other, and the angle between the corresponding buccal-lingual direction of the mesial surface of the left first protrusion 12 and the distal surface of the left second protrusion 22 is 30°-75°; the mesial surface of the right first protrusion 12 and the distal surface of the right second protrusion 22 are parallel to each other, and the angle between the corresponding buccal-lingual direction of the mesial surface of the right first protrusion 12 and the distal surface of the right second protrusion 22 is 105°-150°. This design allows for the restriction of lateral movement of the mandible by matching the bevel angles of the left and right first protrusions 12 and second protrusions 22. It achieves the function of mandibular preposition and positioning, preventing left and right malocclusion during the orthodontic process and playing a good positioning role.

[0111] The directional descriptions of "left" and "right" in this application only indicate the positions shown in the diagram and do not represent the actual positions where the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance is used.

[0112] In some embodiments, reference Figure 13As shown, the second protrusion 22 is located at the position corresponding to tooth number 4. The upward mesiodistal length of the second protrusion 22 is equal to the upward mesiodistal length of its corresponding tooth number 4. When using the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance of this application to guide the mandible forward, the first protrusion 12 and the second protrusion 22 work together. The second protrusion 22 mainly serves as the force-bearing point for the forward movement of the mandible. The size of the second protrusion 22 only covers the position of tooth number 4. The smaller size allows for better mandibular mobility and also prevents the second protrusion 22 from deforming under force. Of course, the second protrusion 22 can also be located between the positions corresponding to teeth number 3 and 4. Generally, this is the position where the Spee curve is deepest. The advantage of this setting is that during the wearing of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance in this embodiment, the patient's Spee curve will not be suspended, ensuring the occlusal stability of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance during wearing.

[0113] In some embodiments, the length of the first protrusion 12 in the mesiodistal direction is greater than the length of the second protrusion 22 in the mesiodistal direction. In order to make the support force of the first protrusion 12 and the second protrusion 22 in the occlusal direction more uniform and stable during the use of the shell orthodontic appliance, the maximum width of the auxiliary support portion on the first protrusion 12 in the mesiodistal direction is greater than the maximum width of the auxiliary support portion on the second protrusion 22 in the mesiodistal direction.

[0114] In some embodiments, the occlusal surfaces of the first protrusion 12 and the second protrusion 22 have bite marks that match the occlusal surfaces of the opposing teeth at the target occlusal position.

[0115] Example 3

[0116] This embodiment provides an orthodontic system comprising multiple sets of shell-shaped appliances as described in Embodiment 2. Each set of shell-shaped appliances corresponds to a series of successive orthodontic steps, wherein the sagittal target position corresponding to each set of shell-shaped appliances is consistent. Reconstruction of jaw position refers to changing the relative positional relationship between the upper and lower jaws and maintaining it in the target position. Therefore, sagittal reconstruction of jaw position requires multiple sets of shell-shaped appliances to maintain the upper and lower jaws in the same sagittal position. This allows for the reconstruction of muscle memory, enabling the patient to complete sagittal reconstruction of jaw position by wearing multiple sets of shell-shaped appliances. Furthermore, the multiple sets of shell-shaped appliances can simultaneously and gradually align the teeth, allowing for simultaneous orthodontic treatment and shortening the treatment time.

[0117] In some embodiments, the protrusion height of the first protrusion in the direction of the opposing jaw and the protrusion height of the second protrusion in the direction of the opposing jaw on the shell-shaped appliance corresponding to different treatment stages are set in association with the treatment stage.

[0118] Continue to refer to Figure 17As shown, the height of the first protrusion 12 and the second protrusion 22 on the multiple sets of shell-shaped orthodontic appliances gradually decreases in the direction of the opposing jaw as the orthodontic treatment progresses. This has the advantage of gradually leveling the dentition to the target state and assisting in the gradual elevation of the posterior teeth. For details, refer to... Figure 17 The image shows at least two sets of shell-shaped orthodontic appliances from a plurality of shell-shaped orthodontic appliances. Shell-shaped orthodontic appliance 200 is a shell-shaped orthodontic appliance that is required for subsequent orthodontic steps of shell-shaped orthodontic appliance 100. The height of the first protrusion 12 and the height of the second protrusion 22 in shell-shaped orthodontic appliance 200 are less than the height of the first protrusion 12 and the height of the second protrusion 22 in shell-shaped orthodontic appliance 100.

[0119] Example 4

[0120] Another embodiment of this application provides a correction system, with reference to Figure 18 As shown, the treatment includes N shell-shaped orthodontic appliances worn on a single jaw. Each of the N shell-shaped appliances corresponds to one of N successive orthodontic steps. Each of the N shell-shaped appliances can reposition the teeth from the initial layout of the corresponding orthodontic step to the target layout of that step. At least M of the N shell-shaped appliances are as shown in Example 1, and the M shell-shaped appliances correspond to M consecutively arranged orthodontic steps. M is greater than or equal to 2 and less than or equal to N. The M shell-shaped appliances can be used in the initial, intermediate, or final stage of the orthodontic system, specifically determined by the specific setup in the treatment plan.

[0121] In some embodiments, the first protrusions on at least two of the M shell-shaped orthodontic appliances are not at the same position or size in terms of their maximum width in the buccal-lingual direction. For example, see reference. Figure 19As shown, in some embodiments, at least two of the M shell-shaped orthodontic appliances are shell-shaped appliance 300 and shell-shaped appliance 400. The maximum width of the first protrusion 12 on shell-shaped appliance 300 in the buccal-lingual direction is the width Q1 near the anterior teeth area, and the maximum width of the first protrusion 12 on shell-shaped appliance 400 in the buccal-lingual direction is the width Q2 near the posterior teeth area. This is because, in order to prevent the M first protrusions in the corresponding M orthodontic steps from collapsing and deforming during treatment, and to avoid treatment interruption, it is necessary to adjust the position or size of the maximum width of the first protrusion in the buccal-lingual direction in different steps for different situations. The purpose is to avoid the area with the greatest occlusal force being the area with the minimum ultimate load of the first protrusion, which would make the first protrusion prone to collapsing and deforming. Therefore, during the design process, the first protrusion is positioned so that its maximum width in the buccal-lingual direction avoids the area of ​​maximum occlusal force in the patient's posterior teeth. During orthodontic treatment, the area of ​​maximum occlusal force in the patient's posterior teeth may change. In other words, the position or size of the maximum width in the buccal-lingual direction on the M first protrusions also needs to change. Specifically, the position or size of the maximum width in the buccal-lingual direction on the first protrusion is adjusted by adjusting the position or size of the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge on different first protrusions.

[0122] Example 5

[0123] refer to Figure 20 As shown, this embodiment provides a dental model used as a mold for thermoforming shell-shaped orthodontic appliances. It includes a dental model body 1000. The posterior occlusal surface of the dental model body 1000 has a first protruding solid model 1012 protruding in the opposing direction to reconstruct the occlusal position of the upper and lower jaws. The buccal side of the first protruding solid model 1012 has a first reinforcing ridge solid model 1111, which is formed by the inward concavity of the buccal side of the first protruding solid model 1012. The lingual side of the first protruding solid model 1012 has a second reinforcing ridge solid model 1112, which is formed by the inward concavity of the lingual side of the first protruding solid model 1012. At least two adjacent first reinforcing ridge solid models 1111 and second reinforcing ridge solid models 1112 are staggered in the buccal-lingual direction.

[0124] Specifically, the dentition body includes a tooth portion 1001 and a support portion 1002. The tooth layout on the tooth portion 1001 is arranged in the same way as the tooth layout at the patient's target location. The support portion 1002 is located at the bottom of the tooth portion 1001 and is used to provide support for the tooth portion 1001 during the thermoforming process. A first protrusion solid model 1012 is provided on the occlusal surface of the posterior tooth region of the tooth portion 1001 between the 3rd and 7th teeth. In some embodiments, the first protrusion solid model 1012 is located on the left and / or right side of the tooth portion 1001. The arrangement of the first protrusion solid model 1012 extending inward from the buccal side to form a first reinforcing ridge solid model 1111 and extending inward from the lingual side to form a second reinforcing ridge solid model 1112 is consistent with the arrangement of the first and second reinforcing ridges on the first protrusion in the embodiments, or consistent with the arrangement of the third and fourth reinforcing ridges in Embodiment 2, which will not be elaborated further here.

[0125] Example 6

[0126] This embodiment provides a method for designing digital dental models, such as... Figure 21 As shown.

[0127] Step 101: Obtain the basic digital dental model and the height of the protrusion.

[0128] Generally, a three-dimensional model of the patient's current tooth layout is obtained based on intraoral scan data or plaster model. Then, the three-dimensional model of the current teeth is adjusted according to the orthodontic plan to obtain a basic digital dental model. In other words, the basic digital dental model corresponds to the tooth layout under the stage goal.

[0129] The height of the protrusion can be obtained based on the relative positional relationship of the upper and lower jaws as set by the doctor in clinical practice, or it can be calculated based on the relative positional relationship of the upper and lower jaws in a three-dimensional digital model.

[0130] Step 102: Based on the basic digital dental model and the height of the protrusion, generate a first digital model of the protrusion to reconstruct the occlusal position of the maxilla and mandible in a designated area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior teeth of the basic digital dental model; wherein, the buccal side of the first digital model of the protrusion has an inwardly recessed first reinforcing ridge, the lingual side of the first protrusion has an inwardly recessed second reinforcing ridge, and at least two adjacent first reinforcing ridges and second reinforcing ridges are staggered in the buccal-lingual direction.

[0131] In some embodiments, generating a first digital model of the protrusion in a designated area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior teeth region of the basic digital dental model to reconstruct the occlusal position of the maxilla and mandible, based on the basic digital dental model and the height of the protrusion, includes: obtaining the occlusal surface morphology and size of the tooth model in the designated area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior teeth region of the basic digital dental model; and generating the first digital model of the protrusion in the designated area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior teeth region of the basic digital dental model based on the height of the protrusion and the occlusal surface morphology and size of the tooth model.

[0132] In some embodiments, a preset initial protrusion model corresponding to the digital model of the first protrusion is obtained. This preset initial protrusion model is obtained by the operator from a model library and has a frustum structure. The region corresponding to the teeth on the occlusal surface of the posterior teeth of the basic digital dental model is selected as the designated region for generating the first protrusion model. Then, the shape and size of the initial protrusion model are adjusted according to the occlusal surface morphology and size of the tooth model within the designated region to obtain the first digital protrusion model. This includes adjusting the height of the initial protrusion model in the gingival direction according to the protrusion height, and then adjusting the surface morphology of the initial protrusion model located within the designated region according to the occlusal surface morphology of the tooth model within the designated region, so that the surface morphology of the initial protrusion model located within the designated region matches the occlusal surface concavity and convexity of the teeth within the designated region. In some embodiments, the surface in the initial protrusion model opposite to the surface located within the designated region (i.e., the surface adjacent to the opposing tooth) can be set as a surface parallel to the horizontal plane or the occlusal plane, or a surface that matches the occlusal surface concavity and convexity of the opposing tooth.

[0133] In some implementations, adjusting the size of the initial protrusion model based on the occlusal surface size of the tooth model within the specified region includes adjusting the width of the initial protrusion model in the buccal-lingual direction such that the width of the surface of the initial protrusion model located within the specified region in the buccal-lingual direction is less than or equal to the width of the corresponding occlusal surface of the tooth within the specified region in the buccal-lingual direction.

[0134] In some embodiments, the process of adjusting the shape and size of the initial protrusion model according to the occlusal surface morphology and size of the tooth model to obtain the first protrusion digital model further includes: acquiring the size and shape of the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge respectively, and generating the first protrusion digital model with the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge on the side surface of the adjusted initial protrusion model according to the size and shape of the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge. Adjacent first reinforcing ridges and second reinforcing ridges are staggered.

[0135] In other embodiments, based on the basic digital dental model and the height of the protrusion, a first digital model of the protrusion, reconstructing the occlusal position of the maxilla and mandible, is generated within a designated area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior region of the basic digital dental model. This includes: obtaining the occlusal surface of a tooth model within the designated area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior region of the basic digital dental model as the lower surface of the initial protrusion model; obtaining the occlusal surface of the opposing tooth model within the designated area as the upper surface of the initial protrusion model; or, copying the lower surface and using the surface obtained by copying the lower surface as the upper surface of the initial protrusion model; then generating the lateral surface of the initial protrusion model based on the upper and lower surfaces; finally, generating the initial protrusion model using the upper surface, lower surface, and lateral surface. Further, the dimensions and shapes of the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge are obtained, and a first digital model of the protrusion with the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge is generated on the lateral surface of the initial protrusion model based on the dimensions and shapes of the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge.

[0136] Specifically, obtaining the occlusal surface of the tooth model within a designated area of ​​the posterior occlusal surface of the basic digital dental model as the lower surface of the initial protrusion model includes: obtaining the two furthest points on the occlusal surface of the tooth model within the designated area of ​​the posterior occlusal surface in the buccal direction; these two points serve as two control points for each tooth. Finally, uniform interpolation is performed between all obtained control points to obtain the boundary of the lower surface mesh of the initial protrusion model; wherein, parameters such as the spacing of the uniform interpolation can be adaptively adjusted according to actual conditions. After obtaining the boundary of the lower surface mesh, mesh filling can be performed inside the boundary selection to obtain the lower surface mesh of the initial protrusion model.

[0137] Similarly, the upper surface of the initial protrusion model can be obtained by copying the upper surface, or by acquiring the occlusal surface of the opposing tooth model within the specified region as the upper surface of the initial protrusion model. Specifically, this involves obtaining the two furthest points on the occlusal surface of the opposing tooth model within the specified region of the occlusal surface of the posterior tooth area in the buccal direction; these two points serve as two control points for each tooth. Finally, uniform interpolation is performed between all acquired control points to obtain the boundary of the upper surface mesh of the initial protrusion model; the spacing and other parameters of the uniform interpolation can be adaptively adjusted according to the actual situation. After obtaining the boundary of the upper surface mesh, the area within the boundary selection can be filled with mesh to obtain the upper surface mesh of the initial protrusion model.

[0138] In some embodiments, generating the side surface of the initial protrusion model based on the upper and lower surfaces further includes scaling the upper and / or lower surfaces to generate the side surface of the initial protrusion model, wherein the scaling ratio is between 0.5 and 0.9. Specifically, the scaling method includes having two control points on the lower surface edge of the initial protrusion model corresponding to each tooth in the buccal-lingual direction, and scaling the lower surface by adjusting the positions of these control points on the occlusal surfaces of the corresponding teeth. Similarly, the upper surface edge of the initial protrusion model corresponding to each tooth in the buccal-lingual direction has two control points, and scaling the upper surface by adjusting the positions of these control points on the occlusal surfaces of the opposing teeth. The width of the scaled initial protrusion model in the buccal-lingual direction is smaller than the width of the occlusal surface of the tooth at the corresponding position within the specified area in the buccal-lingual direction, allowing the first protrusion digital model to be supported on the occlusal surface of the teeth.

[0139] Step 103: Merge the basic digital dental model and the first digital model of the protrusion to generate a digital dental model with the protrusion.

[0140] A digital dental model with the protrusion is generated by merging the basic digital dental model and the digital model of the first protrusion using Boolean operations. The acquisition process is simple and direct, and can quickly obtain a composite model of the basic digital dental model and the digital model of the first protrusion.

[0141] In some implementations, the digital model of the first protrusion may be generated directly from the basic digital dental model and is also included in the scope of protection of this step.

[0142] Example 7

[0143] This embodiment provides a method for generating a shell-shaped orthodontic appliance. In some embodiments, a physical model of the digital dental model obtained by the design method of the digital dental model described in Embodiment Six is ​​manufactured using additive manufacturing. Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, integrates computer-aided design, material processing and forming technology, and uses a digital model file as a basis. Through software and a numerical control system, specialized metallic materials, non-metallic materials, and medical biomaterials are layered and deposited using methods such as extrusion, sintering, melting, photopolymerization, and spraying to create a physical object. Then, a shell-shaped orthodontic appliance is manufactured using a thermoforming method based on the physical model.

[0144] In other embodiments, a digital model of a shell-shaped orthodontic appliance is generated from the digital dental model obtained according to the design method of the digital dental model described in Example 6. The digital model of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance is a negative mold of the digital dental model and has a certain thickness, generally between 0.5mm and 1.5mm. Then, the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance is manufactured using additive manufacturing based on the digital model of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance.

[0145] It is worth mentioning that all modules involved in this embodiment are logical modules. In practical applications, a logical unit can be a physical unit, a part of a physical unit, or a combination of multiple physical units. Furthermore, to highlight the innovative aspects of this invention, this embodiment does not introduce units that are not closely related to solving the technical problem proposed by this invention; however, this does not mean that other units are absent from this embodiment.

[0146] One embodiment of the present invention relates to an electronic device, such as... Figure 22 As shown, it includes at least one processor 1101; and,

[0147] A memory 1102 is communicatively connected to the at least one processor 1101; wherein,

[0148] The memory 1102 stores instructions that can be executed by the at least one processor 1101, which enable the at least one processor 1101 to execute a design method for a digital dental model or a method for generating a shell-shaped orthodontic appliance.

[0149] The memory and processor are connected via a bus, which can include any number of interconnecting buses and bridges, connecting various circuits of one or more processors and memories. The bus can also connect various other circuits, such as peripheral devices, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art and will not be described further herein. The bus interface provides an interface between the bus and the transceiver. The transceiver can be a single element or multiple elements, such as multiple receivers and transmitters, providing a unit for communicating with various other devices over a transmission medium. Data processed by the processor is transmitted over the wireless medium via an antenna, which further receives data and transmits it to the processor.

[0150] The processor manages the bus and general processing, and also provides various functions, including timing, peripheral interfaces, voltage regulation, power management, and other control functions. Memory is used to store data used by the processor during operation.

[0151] One embodiment of the present invention relates to a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program. When executed by a processor, the computer program implements the method embodiments described above.

[0152] That is, those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the steps in the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by a program instructing related hardware. This program is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a device (which may be a microcontroller, chip, etc.) or processor to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of the present invention. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as a USB flash drive, a portable hard drive, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a magnetic disk, or an optical disk.

[0153] It should be noted that the above embodiments can be freely combined as needed to form different new implementation schemes without causing contradictions. All implementation schemes formed by such combinations are within the protection scope of this invention. In order to save space in the application text, they will not be described in detail here.

[0154] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that for those skilled in the art, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the principle of the present invention, and these improvements and modifications should also be considered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0155] Similarly, the above descriptions are merely specific embodiments of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A shell-shaped orthodontic appliance, comprising a shell-shaped body for accommodating teeth, said shell-shaped body being a one-piece molded structure, characterized in that: The shell-like body has a first protrusion on the occlusal surface of the posterior tooth region that protrudes in the direction of the opposing jaw to reconstruct the occlusal position of the upper and lower jaws. The buccal side of the first protrusion has a first reinforcing ridge to improve the deformation resistance of the first protrusion. The first reinforcing ridge is formed by the buccal side of the first protrusion being recessed inward. The lingual side of the first protrusion has a second reinforcing ridge to improve the deformation resistance of the first protrusion. The second reinforcing ridge is formed by the lingual side of the first protrusion being recessed inward. At least two adjacent first reinforcing ridges and second reinforcing ridges are staggered in the buccal-lingual direction.

2. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The projections of the adjacent first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge in the sagittal plane overlap.

3. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to claim 2, characterized in that, The width of the overlapping portion of the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge in the mesiodistal direction is less than or equal to 1 / 2 of the width of the first reinforcing ridge in the mesiodistal direction; and / or, the width of the overlapping portion of the second reinforcing ridge and the first reinforcing ridge in the mesiodistal direction is less than or equal to 1 / 2 of the width of the second reinforcing ridge in the mesiodistal direction.

4. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The projections of the adjacent first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge on the sagittal plane do not overlap.

5. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to claim 4, characterized in that, The shortest distance between the first reinforcing ridge and the contour edge where the second reinforcing ridge is located is the first distance, and the shortest distance between the second reinforcing ridge and the contour edge where the first reinforcing ridge is located is the second distance. The difference between any one of the first distances and any one of the second distances is within a predetermined range, wherein the predetermined range is 0-4mm.

6. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, All adjacent first and second reinforcing ridges are staggered in the buccal-lingual direction.

7. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The first reinforcing ridge has the same shape and size as the second reinforcing ridge.

8. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge each have multiple ridges, and the number of the first reinforcing ridges is the same as the number of the second reinforcing ridges.

9. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to claim 8, characterized in that, Multiple first reinforcing ridges and multiple second reinforcing ridges are arranged alternately in the mesial-distal direction.

10. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The depth of the inward indentation of the first reinforcing ridge and / or the second reinforcing ridge is between 1 / 4 and 1 / 3 of the average width of the first protrusion in the buccal-lingual direction.

11. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to claim 10, characterized in that, The depth of the inward indentation of the first or second reinforcing ridge is between 1.0 mm and 2.0 mm.

12. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The width of the first reinforcing ridge in the meso-distal direction gradually decreases from the buccal side to the lingual side; and / or, the width of the second reinforcing ridge in the meso-distal direction gradually decreases from the lingual side to the buccal side.

13. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to claim 12, characterized in that, The maximum width of the first reinforcing ridge in the mesiodistal direction is between 2.0 mm and 3.0 mm; the maximum width of the second reinforcing ridge in the mesiodistal direction is between 2.0 mm and 3.0 mm.

14. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, When worn, the lower contour edge of the first protrusion on the side adjacent to the main jaw supports the occlusal surface of the main jaw teeth; the upper contour edge of the first protrusion on the side adjacent to the opposing jaw supports the occlusal surface of the opposing teeth; the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge respectively penetrate the upper contour edge and the lower contour edge.

15. A shell-shaped orthodontic appliance, characterized in that: The appliance comprises a first shell-shaped body that at least partially accommodates the maxillary teeth and a second shell-shaped body that at least partially accommodates the mandibular teeth. The first shell-shaped body is a shell-shaped appliance as described in any one of claims 1-14. The second shell-shaped body has a second protrusion protruding in the occlusal direction of the posterior dentition area, which cooperates with a first protrusion in the first shell-shaped body to move the mandible in a sagittal direction. When the shell-shaped appliance is worn, the mesial surface of the first protrusion and the distal surface of the second protrusion interact to move the mandible forward or backward in a sagittal direction to the target occlusal position.

16. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to claim 15, characterized in that, The cheek side of the second protrusion has a third reinforcing ridge to improve the deformation resistance of the second protrusion. The third reinforcing ridge is formed by the cheek side of the second protrusion being recessed inward. The tongue side of the second protrusion has a fourth reinforcing ridge to improve the deformation resistance of the second protrusion. The fourth reinforcing ridge is formed by the tongue side of the second protrusion being recessed inward. At least two adjacent third reinforcing ridges and fourth reinforcing ridges are staggered in the cheek-tongue direction.

17. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to claim 16, characterized in that, The projections of the adjacent third reinforcing ridge and the fourth reinforcing ridge on the sagittal plane may or may not overlap.

18. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to claim 17, characterized in that, The shortest distance between the contour edge where the third reinforcing ridge and the fourth reinforcing ridge are located is the third distance, and the shortest distance between the contour edge where the fourth reinforcing ridge and the third reinforcing ridge are located is the fourth distance. The difference between any third distance and any fourth distance is within a predetermined range, wherein the predetermined range is 0-4mm.

19. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to claim 15, characterized in that, The mid-surface of the first protrusion is parallel to the far-surface of the second protrusion.

20. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to claim 19, characterized in that, When the proximal surface of the first protrusion and the distal surface of the second protrusion are planar, the proximal surface of the first protrusion or the distal surface of the second protrusion is set at an angle to the cheek-tongue direction at the corresponding position, and the angle is between 30°-75° or 105°-150°.

21. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to claim 19, characterized in that, When the mid-surface of the first protrusion and the distal-surface of the second protrusion are curved surfaces, the tangent at the highest point of the mid-surface of the first protrusion or the tangent at the highest point of the distal-surface of the second protrusion is set at an angle to the cheek-tongue direction at the corresponding position, and the angle is between 30°-75° or 105°-150°.

22. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance according to claim 15, characterized in that, The first shell-shaped body has a first protrusion on the left and a first protrusion on the right, the distal surface of the first protrusion on the left and the distal surface of the first protrusion on the right being axially symmetrical about the dental midline, and / or the second shell-shaped body has a second protrusion on the left and a second protrusion on the right, the distal surface of the second protrusion on the left and the distal surface of the second protrusion on the right being axially symmetrical about the dental midline.

23. A corrective system, characterized in that, The treatment includes multiple sets of shell-shaped appliances as described in any one of claims 15-22, each set of shell-shaped appliances corresponding to multiple successive treatment steps, wherein the sagittal target positions corresponding to the multiple sets of shell-shaped appliances are consistent.

24. The orthodontic system according to claim 23, characterized in that, The height of the first protrusion in the direction of the opposing jaw and the height of the second protrusion in the direction of the opposing jaw on the shell-shaped appliance corresponding to different treatment stages are set in relation to the treatment stage.

25. The orthodontic system according to claim 24, characterized in that, The height of the first and second protrusions on the multiple sets of shell-shaped orthodontic appliances in the direction of the opposing jaw gradually decreases as the orthodontic treatment progresses.

26. An orthodontic system comprising N shell-shaped appliances worn on a single jaw, characterized in that, The N shell-shaped orthodontic appliances correspond to N successive orthodontic steps. Each of the N shell-shaped orthodontic appliances can reposition the teeth from the initial layout of the corresponding orthodontic step to the target layout of the corresponding orthodontic step. Among the N shell-shaped orthodontic appliances, at least M are shell-shaped orthodontic appliances as described in any one of claims 1-14. The M shell-shaped orthodontic appliances correspond to M consecutively arranged orthodontic steps, where M is greater than or equal to 2 and less than or equal to N.

27. The orthodontic system according to claim 26, characterized in that, The position or size of the first protrusion on at least two of the M shell-shaped orthodontic appliances is inconsistent in the buccal-lingual direction.

28. A dental model for use as a mold for thermoforming shell-shaped orthodontic appliances, comprising a dental model body, characterized in that, The posterior occlusal surface of the dental model body has a first protruding solid model protruding in the direction of the opposing jaw to reconstruct the occlusal position of the upper and lower jaws. The buccal side of the first protruding solid model has a first reinforcing ridge solid model, which is formed by extending inward from the buccal side of the first protruding solid model. The lingual side of the first protruding solid model has a second reinforcing ridge solid model, which is formed by extending inward from the lingual side of the first protruding solid model. At least two adjacent first reinforcing ridge solid models and second reinforcing ridge solid models are staggered in the buccal-lingual direction.

29. A method for designing a digital dental model, characterized in that: Obtain a basic digital dental model and the height of the protrusion; Based on the basic digital dental model and the height of the protrusion, a first digital model of the protrusion is generated in a designated area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior teeth region of the basic digital dental model to reconstruct the occlusal position of the maxilla and mandible; wherein, the buccal side of the first digital model of the protrusion has an inwardly recessed first reinforcing ridge, the lingual side of the first protrusion has an inwardly recessed second reinforcing ridge, and at least two adjacent first reinforcing ridges and second reinforcing ridges are staggered in the buccal-lingual direction. The basic digital dental model and the first protrusion digital model are combined to generate a digital dental model with the protrusion.

30. The method for designing a digital dental model according to claim 29, characterized in that, The step of generating a first digital model of the protrusion, reconstructing the occlusal position of the maxilla and mandible, within a designated area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior teeth region of the basic digital dental model based on the basic digital dental model and the height of the protrusion includes: Obtain the occlusal surface morphology and size of the teeth in a designated area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior region of the basic digital dental model; Based on the height of the protrusion and the occlusal surface morphology and size of the tooth model, a first protrusion digital model is generated within a designated area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior teeth region of the basic digital dental model.

31. The method for designing a digital dental model according to claim 30, characterized in that, The step of generating a first digital model of a protrusion within a designated area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior teeth of the basic digital dental model, based on the height of the protrusion and the morphology and size of the occlusal surface of the tooth model, includes: Obtain the preset initial protrusion model corresponding to the digital model of the first protrusion; The shape and size of the initial protrusion model are adjusted according to the occlusal surface shape and size of the tooth model to obtain the digital model of the first protrusion.

32. The method for designing a digital dental model according to claim 31, characterized in that, The step of adjusting the shape and size of the initial protrusion model according to the occlusal surface shape and size of the tooth model to obtain the first protrusion digital model includes: The dimensions and shapes of the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge are obtained respectively. A digital model of the first protrusion with the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge is generated on the side surface of the adjusted initial protrusion model according to the dimensions and shapes of the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge.

33. The method for designing a digital dental model according to claim 29, characterized in that, The step of generating a first digital model of the protrusion, reconstructing the occlusal position of the maxilla and mandible, within a designated area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior teeth region of the basic digital dental model based on the basic digital dental model and the height of the protrusion includes: The occlusal surface of the tooth model in a specified area of ​​the occlusal surface of the posterior tooth region of the basic digital dental model is obtained as the lower surface of the initial protrusion model, and the occlusal surface of the opposing tooth model in the specified area is obtained as the upper surface of the initial protrusion model. Alternatively, the lower surface is copied and the surface obtained by copying the lower surface is used as the upper surface of the initial protrusion model. The side surfaces of the initial protrusion model are generated based on the upper surface and the lower surface; The initial protrusion model is generated based on the upper surface, the lower surface, and the side surface; The dimensions and shapes of the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge are obtained respectively. A digital model of the first protrusion with the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge is generated on the side surface of the initial protrusion model according to the dimensions and shapes of the first reinforcing ridge and the second reinforcing ridge.

34. The method for designing a digital dental model according to claim 33, characterized in that, The step of generating the side surface of the initial protrusion model based on the upper surface and the lower surface further includes generating the side surface of the initial protrusion model by scaling the upper surface and / or the lower surface, wherein the scaling ratio is between 0.5 and 0.

9.

35. A method for manufacturing a shell-shaped orthodontic appliance, characterized in that, A physical model of the digital dental model obtained by the design method of the digital dental model according to any one of claims 29-34 is manufactured using additive manufacturing. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance is manufactured using a hot-pressing method based on the physical model. Alternatively, a digital model of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance is generated from the digital dental model obtained by the design method of the digital dental model according to any one of claims 29-34. The shell-shaped orthodontic appliance is manufactured using additive manufacturing based on the digital model of the shell-shaped orthodontic appliance.

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