Spacer made of flexible material for dental acquisition

Abstract

The invention relates to a flexible spacer (14, 14 ') for acquiring a two-dimensional or three-dimensional representation of a user's teeth by means of a mobile phone (12), the spacer (14, 14') comprising a tubular part (22) made of an elastically deformable material, the tubular part (22) delimiting a chamber (26) and having a longitudinal axis (X), said tubular part (22): having a length (L22) greater than 3 cm, -opening through an acquisition opening (Oa) and an oral cavity opening (Oo) having a width (lOo) and a height (hOo) measured along a general oral cavity opening plane (POo), and-being configured to be removably attachable to the mobile phone (12) in an acquisition position in which an optical lens (18) of the mobile phone (12) at least partially observes the oral cavity opening (Oo) through the acquisition opening (Oa), the spacer (14, 14 ') is notable characterized in that the tubular member (22) is elastically deformable, allowing a centripetal thrust (F, F') to be applied to said tubular member (22) in a direction substantially parallel to the width (lOo) to reduce the width (lOo) of the oral opening by about more than 5%, preferably a reduction in the width (lOo) of the oral opening while causing an increase in the height (hOo) of the oral opening.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a kit for acquiring representations of teeth, particularly dental photographs, especially for implementing methods as described in International Application PCT / EP2015 / 074896. The invention also relates to a spacer for such acquisition, particularly suitable for this kit. Background Technology

[0002] PCT / EP2015 / 074897 describes an acquisition kit that allows users to use a mobile phone to acquire extraoral photographs of their teeth in different orientations, whether their mouth is open or closed.

[0003] There is a persistent need for an acquisition kit, which is

[0004] - Compact, - Simple and inexpensive to manufacture. - Preferably reusable, - It can adapt to the shape of the user's mouth for easy positioning. - And when used with a mobile phone, it allows the user to easily obtain a two-dimensional or three-dimensional representation of themselves outside the mouth, in occlusal or lateral views, under optimal hygiene and comfort conditions, by opening or closing their mouth.

[0005] Two-dimensional or three-dimensional representations of teeth can be extraoral images or three-dimensional digital models.

[0006] Finally, the kit must allow data acquisition from each of the user's teeth, especially the teeth at the back of the mouth.

[0007] However, the size of a user's mouth can vary significantly depending on their shape and especially age. If a user does not use an acquisition kit that is appropriate for their mouth size, the acquisition process will be uncomfortable, and the image quality may be poor.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for an acquisition kit that allows users to use a mobile phone to acquire a two-dimensional representation, such as a photograph, or a three-dimensional representation, such as a three-dimensional model, in an occlusal or lateral view by opening or closing their mouth, and that the kit adapts to the user regardless of their shape or oral cavity size.

[0009] The purpose of this invention is to at least partially satisfy this requirement. Summary of the Invention

[0010] This invention proposes a flexible spacer intended for acquiring a two-dimensional or three-dimensional representation of a user's teeth using a mobile phone. The spacer includes a tubular component made of an elastically deformable material that defines a chamber and has a longitudinal axis. The tubular component: - It has a length greater than 3 centimeters; - By obtaining the opening and the openness of the oral cavity, the oral cavity opening has a width and height measured along the general plane of the oral cavity opening. - Configured to be removably attached to a mobile phone at an acquisition location, in which the optical mirror of the mobile phone has a field of view through an acquisition opening having at least a portion of the oral cavity opening.

[0011] Preferably, the spacer is characterized by: - The tubular component is elastically deformable, allowing the width of the oral cavity opening to be reduced by more than 5% by means of a centripetal thrust applied to the tubular component in a direction substantially parallel to its width. Preferably, this reduction in the width of the oral cavity opening simultaneously causes an increase in the height of the oral cavity opening, and / or - The tubular component is elastically deformable, allowing a reduction in the oral opening area defined by the general oral opening profile included in the overall oral opening plane by more than 10%, more than 15%, more than 20%, more than 25%, more than 30%, more than 35%, more than 40%, more than 50%, more than 60%, more than 70%, more than 80%, more than 90%, preferably 100%, and / or by a centripetal thrust oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. - The tubular component is preferably rigid along its longitudinal axis, and / or - The tubular component is at least partially elastically bendable along two axes included in the sagittal plane of the spacer, preferably under the action of a centripetal thrust applied to the tubular component in a direction substantially parallel to its width, and / or - The general contour of the oral opening (and optionally the contour defining the opening) is elastically deformable, such that all points of the contour can be simultaneously arranged in the sagittal plane of the spacer, and / or - The tubular component is at least partially elastically deformable such that a centripetal thrust oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis allows the width of the oral cavity opening (optionally the width of the acquired opening) to be reduced by more than 5%, more than 10%, more than 15%, more than 20%, more than 25%, more than 30%, more than 35%, more than 40%, more than 50%, more than 60%, more than 70%, more than 80%, more than 90%, preferably 100%, and preferably, the reduction simultaneously causes an increase in the height of the oral cavity opening (correspondingly the height of the acquired opening), and / or - The edges of the oral cavity opening and optionally the edges of the acquisition opening are elastically deformable to completely cover the oral cavity opening and / or the acquisition opening, respectively. - A tubular component, or a section of a tubular component defining an oral cavity opening, between the edge of such a component and a cutting plane (cross-section) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein the distance from the overall oral cavity opening plane to the cutting plane is less than 90%, 80%, 70%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, or 10% of the length of the tubular component, preferably an oral cavity opening having a concave inner surface. Preferably, the concave inner surface is located in a section of a spacer defined by two planes parallel to and on either side of the spacer's sagittal plane, the distance between the two planes being less than 30% of the oral cavity opening width, preferably less than 20%, 15%, 10%, or 5% of the oral cavity opening width.

[0012] As will be seen in more detail in the following description, the spacer is therefore used not only to keep the mobile phone away from the oral cavity opening due to the rigidity of the tubular component along its length (along the longitudinal axis), but also to adapt to the user's shape by deforming the oral cavity opening.

[0013] Advantageously, based on the elements just described, the oral opening can thus be elastically altered according to the action applied to the spacer, allowing the spacer to flexibly adapt to the size of the user's mouth. Therefore, the spacer can be suitable for users with different mouth sizes, such as adults and children. Consequently, it is no longer necessary for each user to select a spacer specifically for themselves. The risk of errors occurring during the purchasing process is advantageously reduced.

[0014] The significant flexibility of the oral opening facilitates the insertion of the spacer into the user's mouth by contracting the oral opening during insertion, preferably by compressing the spacer with one hand, and more preferably by holding the spacer with two fingers. By contracting the oral opening, the shape of the spacer can perfectly conform to the shape of the user's mouth, meaning that the user does not need to open their mouth wide to insert the spacer. Once insertion is complete, the user stops compressing the oral opening, thereby allowing the spacer to expand within the user's mouth.

[0015] The increased oral opening height resulting from a reduced oral opening width offers advantages over existing devices: the spacer does not obstruct the user's incisors when capturing occlusal views. The quality of the acquired images is significantly improved. This is especially true when the user places the spacer in their mouth, as the cheek exerts pressure on the flaps, tending to reduce the width of the oral opening and increase its height. The lips then separate better from the user's incisors.

[0016] The concave structure of the tubular component, a segment of the tubular component, or the inner surface of the oral cavity opening has technical advantages when the user compresses the spacer (i.e., when force is applied to reduce the width of the oral cavity opening): it induces deformation of the tubular component, which manifests as an increase in the height of the oral cavity opening. Furthermore, when acquiring an occlusal view, the spacer obstructs the user's incisors less than with prior art devices, preferably not at all. The quality of the acquired image is significantly improved. This is especially true when the user places the spacer in their mouth, as the cheek applies pressure to the flaps, tending to reduce the width of the oral cavity opening and increase its height. This then allows for better clearance of the lips from the user's incisors.

[0017] In addition, the flexibility of the tubular components improves user comfort during the acquisition process and facilitates the cleaning of the spacer.

[0018] This spacer differs from the spacer in international application PCT / EP2022 / 085370 in that it is made of an elastic, deformable material.

[0019] The spacer according to the present invention may have one or more of the following optional features: - The tubular portion is configured to receive and hold the mobile phone, preferably in a removable manner, optionally via an adapter, such that the mobile phone is secured to the spacer, thereby allowing the lens of the mobile phone's image acquisition device to have a field of view of at least a portion of the oral cavity opening; and / or - The tubular component is elastically deformable in a section between the edge of the tubular component defining the oral cavity opening and a cutting plane (cross-section plane) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein the distance of this cutting plane from the overall oral cavity opening plane is less than 90%, 80%, preferably 75% of the length of the tubular component, and preferably the elastic deformability of this section is greater than that of the rest of the tubular component; and / or - The spacer is integral; and / or - The tubular component is opaque in the section between the edge of the oral cavity opening and a cutting plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein the distance from the cutting plane to the overall oral cavity opening plane is greater than 75%, 80%, or 90% of the length of the tubular component; preferably, the tubular component is opaque overall; and / or - The tubular component has reinforcing ribs, preferably annular, surrounding the tubular component. These reinforcing ribs are located in sections between the edge of the opening and a cutting plane (transverse plane) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The distance from this cutting plane to the overall opening plane is less than 50%, 40%, 30%, preferably 25% of the length of the tubular component; and / or - The tubular component has at least one guide protrusion, preferably two, which are preferably arranged symmetrically with respect to the sagittal plane on the surface of the spacer between the overall oral cavity opening plane and a cutting plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The distance of the cutting plane from the general plane is preferably less than 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, preferably 7% of the length of the tubular component; and / or - The oral opening is at least partially defined by at least one cheek wing, which has one or more of the following optional features: --The oral cavity opening is defined by two wing-like structures; and / or --Multiple fins are arranged symmetrically with respect to the sagittal plane; and / or --Each blade has a free end and a joint that physically connects the blade to the tubular component, preferably a joint that exclusively connects the blade to the tubular component; and / or --Each blade is elastically deformable or bendable under centripetal thrust; and / or --Each wing is shaped to allow a portion of the user's lips and / or a portion of the user's cheek to move away from the user's teeth in the operating position. Preferably, each wing is shaped to allow the user's lips to slide away from the user's teeth in the operating position, preferably by a sliding distance greater than 3 mm, preferably greater than 5 mm, preferably greater than 10 mm, and / or less than 100 mm; and / or - A winglet, preferably each winglet having one or more regions of reduced thickness, preferably zero thickness, referred to as a cutout; And / or, - The oral opening is partially or wholly defined by a lip and / or cheek spacer, which has one or more of the following optional features: - Preferably, the lip support is made of the same material as the edge of the tubular component defining the oral cavity opening; and / or -The lip support preferably has a free end; and / or - Lip supports, preferably each lip support having a central section (around the sagittal plane of the spacer) of reduced thickness or hollow material, the central section being configured to insert between the user's lips and incisors; and / or - Lip support, preferably each lip support has one or more regions with reduced thickness, preferably zero thickness, referred to as windows.

[0020] According to the first variant

[0021] - The oral cavity opening is defined by two lip supports; and / or

[0022] - Multiple lip supports are arranged symmetrically with respect to the sagittal plane; and / or

[0023] - At least one free end of the lip support, preferably each free end having a wavy shape, the wavy shape having a groove or notch (a reduced or empty central section) and two peaks; and / or

[0024] According to the second variant - The oral opening is defined by a lip support comprising two regions; and / or - Multiple regions are arranged symmetrically with respect to the sagittal plane; and / or - Preferably, the maximum distance between the edge of the oral cavity opening and the free end of the lip support is located within a section of the spacer, which is defined by two planes that are parallel to and located on both sides of a plane that is perpendicular to the sagittal plane and includes a longitudinal axis. The distance between the two planes is less than 30% of the oral cavity opening height, preferably less than 15%, 10% or 5% of the oral cavity opening height.

[0025] The flexibility of the tubular component's sections allows for the insertion of flaps or lateral supports into the mouth, these flaps or supports being significantly larger than those in the prior art, and particularly long enough to prop the cheeks away from the teeth, including the molars. The quality of the acquired images is significantly improved.

[0026] The integrated design of the spacer significantly reduces its manufacturing cost and simplifies user acquisition.

[0027] The wing or lip support allows the right and / or left corners of the lips and / or part of the user's cheek to be spaced from the user's teeth in the working position.

[0028] The flexibility of the wing or labial support allows for optimal adaptation to the user's dental arch morphology and, in particular, prevents the wing / support from dislodging from the patient's mouth during acquisition, especially in extreme lateral acquisition positions, while ensuring superior comfort. The flexibility of the wing / labial support also provides sufficient resistance to the forces exerted on the user's cheek in the operating position to prevent the field of view of the image acquisition device from being obstructed by the cheek.

[0029] Reducing or eliminating the thickness of one or more regions of the wing has the advantages of inducing desired deformable movements, improving the flexibility of the wing, and also allowing for an optimized shape for the user's mouth while ensuring superior comfort.

[0030] The wing cut (zero thickness) has the added advantage of improving image acquisition of patient teeth (especially patient molars) by limiting the wing surface area that may obscure the teeth.

[0031] The lip support has the technical advantage of moving the upper central portion and / or lower central portion and / or corners of the user's lips away from the user's teeth.

[0032] A central section with a reduced-thickness or material-free lip support advantageously protects the frenulum during lateral movement of the spacer in the user's mouth: without the lip support, no part of the spacer comes into contact with the frenulum. Furthermore, the absence of a lip support in the central portion of the spacer makes it easier to hold the spacer in the mouth in the working position, especially by minimizing discomfort caused by a foreign object between the incisors and lips, and also allows for better observation of the user's gums.

[0033] Reducing or eliminating the thickness in one or more areas of the lip support has the advantages of inducing desired deformation movements, improving the flexibility of the lip support, and also allowing for an optimized fit to the user's mouth shape while ensuring superior comfort.

[0034] The opacity of the tubular component sections is designed to limit ambient light pollution that could impair image acquisition quality.

[0035] The guide protrusions are designed to guide the user to one or more areas of the spacer to which a compressive force is to be applied, allowing the device to move from a rest position to an operating position. The guide protrusions also encourage the user to position their hands in areas of the spacer that do not interfere with the image acquisition process and prevent the user from handling the spacer in areas intended for contact with their mouth (for hygiene reasons).

[0036] The reinforcing rib is designed to enhance the rigidity of the section by limiting deformation of that section. The reinforcing rib is positioned close to the access opening, facilitating the attachment of a telephone (with or without an adapter) to the spacer.

[0037] According to the first principal aspect: The spacer has a lip stop in a section of the tubular component between a first cutting plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and a second cutting plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The distance of the first cutting plane from the oral cavity opening is preferably between 3% and 8% of the length of the tubular component, and preferably between 5% and 8%. The distance of the second cutting plane from the oral cavity opening is preferably between 12% and 18% of the length of the tubular component, and preferably between 12% and 15%.

[0038] The function of the lip guard is to prevent the spacer from penetrating too deeply into the user's mouth during image acquisition, especially when acquiring lateral views of the inside of the user's mouth. This prevents the flaps or lip supports from contacting the mucous membrane behind the user's mouth, thereby improving user comfort and image acquisition quality.

[0039] Preferably, the lip guard is configured such that it rests at least against the corner of the user's lips.

[0040] Advantageously, each lip stop has a central section (around the sagittal plane of the spacer) that is thinner or is made of empty material.

[0041] This lip shield has the technical advantage of not causing discomfort to the user's nose during image acquisition.

[0042] According to the second main aspect: The spacer includes a telephone attachment, optionally via an adapter using elastic friction.

[0043] Preferably, the tubular component is elastically extendable in a section along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the section being between an edge from which an opening is obtained and a cutting plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the cutting plane being less than 50%, 40%, preferably 35% of the length of the tubular component from the plane from which the opening is generally obtained.

[0044] Advantageously, the tubular component is elastically deformable, allowing the area of ​​the access opening defined by the general access opening profile included in the plane of the general access opening to increase by more than 10%, more than 15%, more than 20%, more than 25%, more than 30%, more than 35%, or more than 40%.

[0045] This extendable segment allows mobile phones to be optionally attached to the spacer via an adapter.

[0046] According to the third main aspect: The tubular component around the sagittal plane of the spacer includes one or more regions with decreasing thickness, preferably zero thickness regions, referred to as slits.

[0047] Preferably, at least one of the regions is located in a segment of the spacer, which is defined by two planes parallel to the sagittal plane of the spacer and located on both sides thereon, the distance between the two planes being less than 30% of the width of the oral cavity opening, preferably less than 20%, 15%, 10% or 5% of the width of the oral cavity opening.

[0048] More preferably, at least one of the regions is located on the surface of the tubular component, between the edge of the oral cavity opening and a cutting plane perpendicular to the X-axis, the distance of which from the general plane of the oral cavity opening is less than 30%, 20%, preferably 10% of the length of the tubular component.

[0049] Reducing or eliminating the thickness in one or more regions of the lip support has advantages: it induces the desired deformation movement, improves the flexibility of the tubular component (especially beneficial for the transition of the fin from a rest position to a retracted position), and also allows for greater user comfort. Generally, the spacer according to the invention preferably has the following optional features: - The edge of the tubular component defining the oral cavity opening has a concave shape toward the longitudinal axis at least at the mid-width of the oral cavity opening, i.e., at the intersection with the sagittal plane, and preferably at any point on the edge; - The section of the tubular member extending from the edge has a length greater than 10 mm, preferably greater than 20 mm, measured parallel to the longitudinal axis, and preferably covers the entire length of the tubular member. It has a concave shape toward the longitudinal axis at least at the midpoint of the chamber, i.e. at any point on its inner surface that intersects the sagittal plane, the inner surface of which is the surface that defines the chamber. - Preferably, the segment has a concave inner surface at each point; - The tubular component has at least one weakened region, that is, a region that is thinner than the adjacent section of the tubular component, preferably more than 1.5 times, more than 2 times or more than 3 times thinner than the adjacent section surrounding it; - Preferably, the thickness is zero, that is, the weakening zone is a through hole; -The at least one weakening region includes: --A window set in the lip support; and / or --Slots set on the winglets; and / or --A slit that provides fluid communication between the chamber and the external environment; - The distance between the lateral end of the tubular component, preferably the top of the lip support, and the edge of the oral cavity opening is: -- Greater than 10mm, preferably greater than 15mm, and / or less than 30mm, and / or --The maximum width of the edge surrounding the oral cavity opening and extending from the edge of the oral cavity opening.

[0050] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a kit for obtaining a two-dimensional or three-dimensional representation of a user's teeth, comprising: - A mobile phone equipped with an acquisition optical lens for acquiring the two-dimensional representation and / or the three-dimensional representation; - The spacer attached to the mobile phone as described above is preferably removable, optionally via an adapter, to which the mobile phone is attached so that the optical lens can at least partially observe the oral cavity opening by acquiring the opening.

[0051] The kit according to the present invention may include one or more of the following optional features: - The kit includes an adapter, and the section from the opening of the tubular component to the spacer that obtains the opening has a shape complementary to the adapter housing, so that it can be inserted therein, the insertion preferably activating a fastener, preferably activated by a snap-fit; - The distance between the lens and the opening is less than 2cm, preferably less than 1cm.

[0052] The present invention also relates to a method for obtaining a two-dimensional or three-dimensional representation using an acquisition kit, the method comprising the following steps: a) The user partially inserts the spacer into the user's mouth to the working position, in which the optical lens of the mobile phone observes the user's teeth through the oral cavity opening, and at least one lip support or flap of the spacer opens the user's lips to expose the teeth. b) Preferably, the user activates the mobile phone to obtain the two-dimensional or three-dimensional representation; c) Modify the position of the oral cavity opening relative to the user by rotating it around the user, and then repeat step b).

[0053] The method according to the present invention may include one or more of the following optional features: - Preferably, at least one of the representations facing the user, and at least one of the representations to the right or left of the user, and / or preferably at least one of the open mouth representations and at least one of the closed mouth representations; - The tubular component of the spacer is configured to be completely outside the teeth in the working position, thereby allowing full occlusion; - In the working position, the teeth are not against the spacers, allowing the user to change the spacing between the teeth visible through the mouth opening and / or the spacing between their dental arches by rotating their head relative to the spacers. - In the working position, the spacer does not press against the teeth to move the two jaws apart; - In the working position, the mobile phone's optical lens observes more than 2, more than 3, more than 5, more than 10, more than 15, more than 20, preferably more than 30 user teeth.

[0054] Of course, the optional or non-optional features and main aspects mentioned above can be combined with each other.

[0055] definition

[0056] A "tubular component" refers to the portion of a spacer that defines a chamber and has a constant or varying cross-section, preferably substantially straight along the X-axis, and particularly has a general shape of a cylindrical tube, such as having a circular, elliptical, or polygonal cross-section, such as a rectangular or truncated conical tube. The opening at one end of the tubular component is an oral cavity opening, and the opening at the opposite end is an access opening. The chamber may have side openings, such as the example slits described below, which allow fluid communication with the environment outside the chamber. The total area of ​​the side openings is less than 10%, or even less than 5%, or even less than 2% of the lateral surface area of ​​the chamber between the oral cavity opening and the access opening. The tubular component may have cut ends, such as beveled, concave, or convex. The cross-section of the tubular component, i.e., the cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the X-axis, preferably has a substantially uniform shape throughout the tube, such as rectangular, elliptical, or circular.

[0057] "Transverse plane" refers to the cutting plane of a tubular component that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0058] The “width of the tubular component” is defined as the maximum distance between two points in the transverse plane, taking into account all transverse planes along the longitudinal axis, marking the intersection of the closed inner contour of the tubular component that defines the chamber with a plane perpendicular to the sagittal plane of the spacer and including the longitudinal axis.

[0059] The “height of the tubular component” is defined as the minimum distance between two points where the closed inner contour of the tubular component defining the chamber intersects with the sagittal plane of the spacer, taking into account all transverse planes along the longitudinal axis in the transverse plane.

[0060] "Length of a tubular component" refers to the dimension of a tubular component measured along its longitudinal axis. When a tubular component has a cut end, the cut end is not included in the length of the tubular component. For example, for an end with a concave cut, the radius of curvature is not considered when expressing the length.

[0061] "The general plane of the oral cavity opening" refers to the first cross-sectional plane (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis) in which the tubular component closes itself, when considering the sequential arrangement of transverse planes starting from the end of the tubular component where the oral cavity opening is located. A cross-sectional plane is a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. "Self-closure" of the tubular component means that it uninterruptedly surrounds the defined tubular cavity within the first cross-sectional plane.

[0062] The closed inner contour of the tubular component that defines the cavity in the general plane of the oral cavity opening is called the "general contour of the oral cavity opening".

[0063] "Edge of the oral opening" or "End of the tubular component defining the oral opening" refers to the end of the tubular component that forms the outline of the oral opening. "Width of the oral opening" refers to the distance between two points where the general outline of the oral opening, marked within the general plane of the oral opening, intersects with a plane perpendicular to the sagittal plane of the spacer and including the longitudinal axis.

[0064] "Height of the oral cavity opening" refers to the distance between two points where the general outline of the oral cavity opening, marked within the general plane of the oral cavity opening, intersects with the sagittal plane of the spacer.

[0065] "The general plane for obtaining the opening" refers to the first cross-sectional plane (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis) in which the tubular component closes itself, when considering the sequential arrangement of transverse planes starting from the end of the tubular component where the opening is located. A cross-sectional plane is a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. "Self-closure" of the tubular component means that it continuously surrounds the defined tubular cavity within the first cross-sectional plane.

[0066] "Obtaining the general profile of the opening" is the closed inner profile of the tubular component that defines the chamber in the general plane of obtaining the opening.

[0067] "Edge of the opening" or "End of the opening defined by the tubular component" or "Edge of the opening defined by the tubular component" refers to the end of the tubular component that forms the outline of the opening.

[0068] The terms “opening edge”, “edge of the opening defined by a tubular component”, and “end of the opening defined by a tubular component” are used interchangeably.

[0069] "A plane perpendicular to the sagittal plane of the spacer and including the longitudinal axis" is defined as a horizontal longitudinal plane of the spacer in its working position, which includes the longitudinal axis of the spacer and divides the spacer into an upper and a lower part.

[0070] In the following text, the terms "plane perpendicular to the sagittal plane of the spacer and including the longitudinal axis" and "horizontal plane" are used interchangeably.

[0071] The "spacer sagittal plane" is defined as a vertical longitudinal plane in the operating position that includes the longitudinal axis of the spacer (the middle longitudinal plane), which divides the spacer into the left and right sections.

[0072] "Operating position" refers to the position where the oral cavity opening extends into the user's mouth, such as... Figure 5 As shown.

[0073] "Assembly location" refers to the location where the mobile phone is rigidly attached to the spacer or adapter, which is attached to the spacer.

[0074] "Acquisition position" refers to the assembly position in which the lens of the mobile phone observes the oral cavity opening at least partially and preferably completely through the acquisition opening and the oral cavity opening.

[0075] "Working configuration" refers to the configuration of the spacer in its working position.

[0076] "Static configuration" refers to the configuration in which the spacer is not subjected to any stress other than gravity and its corresponding reaction forces. In the accompanying drawings, the spacer is shown in a static configuration. Unless otherwise stated, all dimensions of the spacer are measured in the static configuration.

[0077] "Contraction configuration" refers to the configuration of a spacer when subjected to a set of stresses, so that the oral cavity opening reaches the minimum area without damaging the spacer.

[0078] A “section” refers to a portion of a tubular component defined by two planes perpendicular to the X-axis.

[0079] "Protrusion" refers to the part of the spacer that protrudes above the surface.

[0080] A "rib" is a flat strip of material located on a tubular component to reinforce it.

[0081] "Heart-shaped leaf" or "heart-shaped leaf" refers to a heart shape formed by the tip and base, with two lobes at the base.

[0082] A "wing" is a component that rests against a user's cheek to keep it away from their teeth. The wing has a joint and a free end, through which it is attached to a tubular component.

[0083] A spacer is considered "flexible" if it is at least partially made of a deformable material so that it deforms without breaking when a user compresses it between their fingers. A spacer may comprise multiple segments with varying degrees of deformability. Deformation of a segment refers to a change in the shape of that segment, altering its internal volume, particularly reducing it. Deformation of a segment may result in a reduction in its internal volume of more than 5%, more than 10%, more than 15%, more than 20%, more than 25%, more than 30%, more than 35%, more than 40%, more than 50%, more than 60%, more than 70%, more than 80%, more than 90%, preferably 100%.

[0084] The deformation is preferably elastic.

[0085] If an object cannot deform along its axis, then the object is "rigid" along that axis.

[0086] An object is "elastically movable" or "elastically deformable" if its position relative to a reference object, such as another object, can be changed under the action of a force, and if it can return to its initial position when the force is removed.

[0087] The term "applying a centripetal thrust to a tubular component in a direction substantially parallel to the width direction of the oral cavity opening" refers to a force applied to a tubular component in a direction oriented toward the longitudinal axis, forming an angle of less than ±10 degrees, preferably less than ±5 degrees, and preferably less than ±3 degrees with respect to the width direction of the oral cavity opening.

[0088] "Monolithic" means that the spacer is made from a single piece of material.

[0089] The "closed mouth" position refers to the occlusal position where the user's upper and lower teeth are in contact. The "open mouth" position refers to the position where the user's upper and lower teeth are not in contact, preferably the position where the mouth is fully open.

[0090] "Mobile phone" refers to iPhone ®These are typical devices, usually weighing less than 500 grams. They are equipped with cameras capable of capturing video or photographs, and some even feature scanners that allow the acquisition of three-dimensional digital models through optical lenses. The mobile phone can also exchange data with another device more than 500 kilometers away.

[0091] Mobile phones can capture two-dimensional or three-dimensional "outside-mouth" images, meaning there is no need to insert the phone's lens into the user's mouth.

[0092] When a two-dimensional or three-dimensional representation of an object is triggered, causing the recording of that representation, the mobile phone's optical lens "sees" the object.

[0093] "Two-dimensional representation" and "three-dimensional representation" refer to two-dimensional or three-dimensional digital objects captured by a mobile phone through its optical lens, respectively. Two-dimensional representations or images captured by a mobile phone are typically photographs or videos. Three-dimensional representations captured by a mobile phone are three-dimensional digital models or "3D models."

[0094] The term "image" refers to a two-dimensional image, such as a photograph. Images are composed of pixels. "Video" is considered a collection of photographs.

[0095] The three-dimensional model consists of a set of voxels.

[0096] A component made of one material and another material is considered to be rigidly "attached" to the other component.

[0097] The term "user" refers to a person who uses the kit according to the invention to obtain a two-dimensional or three-dimensional representation of at least part of their teeth, regardless of whether the person is ill or undergoing orthodontic treatment.

[0098] Unless otherwise specified, qualifiers used to define position or orientation in space, such as “horizontal,” “vertical,” “low,” “high,” “up,” “down,” “right,” or “left,” are defined for clarity with reference to the user’s observed operating position, with the head upright and the lips positioned around the oral opening of the spacer. For example, a vertical axis is an axis that is vertical in the operating position.

[0099] The terms "sagittal plane" and "vertical plane" are used interchangeably. Similarly, the terms "horizontal plane" and "plane perpendicular to the sagittal plane and including the longitudinal axis" are used interchangeably.

[0100] Unless otherwise stated, the terms “external” and “internal” refer to a closed volume or profile to indicate that an element is outside the volume, such as outside a cavity or outside a closed profile. For example, the external surface of a tubular component is the surface exposed to the outside of the tubular component.

[0101] For clarity, the orthogonal coordinate system Oxyz) is a coordinate system such that, in the operating position, the Ox) axis extends horizontally and perpendicularly to the general plane of the oral cavity opening, the Oz) axis extends vertically, and the Oy) axis extends perpendicularly to both the Ox) and Oz) axes. Therefore, for the user, the Ox), Oy), and Oz) axes are the front-back, right-left, and vertical axes, respectively.

[0102] The axis of an opening is an axis that passes through the center of the opening and is perpendicular to a general plane of the opening.

[0103] When a first plane and a second plane, which are perpendicular to the first line and the second line respectively, are perpendicular to each other, the first line and the second line are said to be perpendicular to each other.

[0104] The terms “include,” “contain,” and “have” should be interpreted broadly and not restrictively, unless otherwise stated.

[0105] "Fixed" to one component means establishing a physical connection between the two components such that any movement of one component ultimately causes the other component to move as well. A component that is translated, rotated, or mounted to another component via a ball joint is considered "fixed" to that other component. The fastening can be "permanent" or "removable," depending on whether the two components are designed to be detachable by the user, preferably by hand. The fastening can be rigid or non-rigid, depending on whether relative movement between the two components fastened to each other is permitted. A component made of the same material as the other component is considered "attached" to that other component. Attached Figure Description

[0106] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description and by viewing the accompanying drawings, wherein: [ Figure 1 ] Figure 1 The illustration shows a perspective view of a kit with a spacer (without a lip) according to a first embodiment in an assembled position, viewed from the upper left rear (1A), from the lower right rear (1B), from the opposite lower right (1C), and from the lower front (1D). [ Figure 2 ] Figure 2 A perspective view of a kit with a spacer according to a second embodiment, as shown in the assembly position, is presented from the upper left rear (2A), from the lower right rear (2B), from the opposite lower right (2C), and from the opposite lower (2D). [ Figure 3 ] Figure 3 Show Figure 1 Perspective view of the kit's adapter; [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4Tests using a conventional spacer (left figure) and a spacer according to the present invention (right figure) are shown; [ Figure 5 ] Figure 5 The diagram illustrates the operating position, where the view is from the front ( Figure 5 A) and from the side ( Figure 5 B) Observe the user; [ Figure 6 ] Figure 6 This shows the view from above of the object in a stationary position. Figure 1 The spacer in the middle; [ Figure 7 ] Figure 7 This shows the static configuration as viewed from above. Figure 2 The spacer; [ Figure 8 ] Figure 8 This illustrates a slit-shaped device in a stationary configuration, as viewed from the front, according to the invention. Figure 2 The spacer; [ Figure 9 ] Figure 9 It shows the static configuration. Figure 1 A perspective view of the spacer; [ Figure 10 ] Figure 10 It shows the static configuration. Figure 2 A perspective view of the spacer; [ Figure 11 ] Figure 11 The invention illustrates a slit-equipped device in a static configuration. Figure 2 A perspective view of the spacer; [ Figure 12 ] Figure 12 This shows the stationary configuration as viewed from the front. Figure 1 The spacer; [ Figure 13 ] Figure 13 This shows the stationary configuration as viewed from the front. Figure 2 The spacer.

[0107] In the accompanying drawings, identical or similar parts are identified by the same reference numerals.

[0108] For clarity, general reference numerals may be used in the specification to refer to components in general, such as flaps, lip guards, lip supports, etc., while the drawings show only specific reference numerals corresponding to variations of the general reference numerals (e.g., identifying the upper, lower, right, or left area of ​​the lip support).

[0109] The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only. They are not restrictive. Detailed Implementation

[0110] Generally, the spacer according to the present invention may include one or more of the following optional features: - In the static configuration, the area of ​​the oral cavity opening is preferably greater than 1000 mm², preferably greater than 1200 mm², preferably greater than 1400 mm², preferably greater than 1500 mm², preferably greater than 1600 mm², and / or less than 3000 mm², preferably less than 2500 mm², preferably less than 2200 mm², preferably less than 2000 mm², preferably less than 1800 mm²; - In the contraction configuration, the area of ​​the oral cavity opening is preferably greater than 300 mm², preferably greater than 400 mm², preferably greater than 500 mm², preferably greater than 600 mm², preferably greater than 650 mm², and / or less than 1700 mm², preferably less than 1400 mm², preferably less than 1200 mm², preferably less than 1000 mm², preferably less than 800 mm², and preferably, the area of ​​the oral cavity opening is equal to 0 mm². - In the static configuration, the height of the oral cavity opening is preferably greater than 10 mm, preferably greater than 15 mm, preferably greater than 20 mm, preferably greater than 25 mm, preferably greater than 30 mm, and / or less than 60 mm, preferably less than 55 mm, preferably less than 50 mm, preferably less than 45 mm, preferably less than 40 mm; - In the static configuration, the width of the oral cavity opening is preferably greater than 20 mm, preferably greater than 30 mm, preferably greater than 40 mm, preferably greater than 50 mm, preferably greater than 55 mm, and / or less than 90 mm, preferably less than 80 mm, preferably less than 70 mm, preferably less than 65 mm, preferably less than 60 mm; - In the contraction configuration, the height of the oral cavity opening is preferably greater than 10 mm, preferably greater than 15 mm, preferably greater than 20 mm, preferably greater than 25 mm, preferably greater than 30 mm, and / or less than 100 mm, preferably less than 90 mm, preferably less than 85 mm, preferably less than 80 mm, preferably less than 75 mm; - In the contraction configuration, the width of the oral cavity opening is preferably less than 60 mm, preferably less than 50 mm, preferably less than 40 mm, preferably less than 30 mm, preferably less than 20 mm, preferably less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, and preferably equal to 0 mm; - The length of the tubular component, measured along the longitudinal axis between the opening and the oral cavity opening, is greater than 3 cm, preferably greater than 4 cm, preferably greater than 5 cm, and / or less than 20 cm, preferably less than 15 cm, preferably less than 10 cm, preferably less than 8 cm. Preferably, the length of the tubular component is 7.5 cm; - The spacer is symmetrical with respect to the vertical plane (or sagittal plane); - The spacer is symmetrical with respect to the horizontal plane (or a plane perpendicular to the sagittal plane and including the longitudinal axis); - In one embodiment, the tubular component has a wall that defines a substantially closed chamber, i.e., it has essentially no openings other than an oral cavity opening and an access opening; - In another embodiment, the chamber may include lateral openings, such as the slits described below, that allow fluid communication with the environment outside the chamber. The total area of ​​the lateral openings is less than 10%, or even less than 5%, or even less than 2% of the lateral surface area of ​​the chamber between the oral cavity opening and the access opening; - The chamber is preferably empty, especially free of any lenses or lighting devices; - The cross-section of the chamber in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X can be constant or variable along the longitudinal axis. The tubular component can, in particular, have the general shape of a cylindrical tube, for example, a circular, elliptical cross-section, or a polygonal cross-section, such as a rectangular or truncated conical tube. The front and / or rear ends of the tubular component cannot be cut into concave, convex, or chamfered shapes; - The inner and / or outer surfaces of the walls defining the chamber are smooth to the touch and preferably free of any roughness or cavities; - A tubular component, or a section of a tubular component defining an oral cavity opening between the edge of the tubular component and a cutting plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (cross-sectional plane), preferably having a concave inner surface in the oral cavity opening, wherein the distance from the cutting plane to the overall oral cavity opening plane is less than 90%, 80%, 70%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, or 10% of the length of the tubular component. Preferably, the concave inner surface is located in a section of the spacer defined by two planes parallel to and on either side of the spacer's sagittal plane, the distance between the two planes being less than 30% of the width of the oral cavity opening, preferably less than 20%, 15%, 10%, or 5% of the width of the oral cavity opening.

[0111] The concave structure of the inner surface of the tubular component, a segment of the tubular component, or the oral opening offers technical advantages: when the user compresses the spacer (i.e., applies force to reduce the width of the oral opening), it induces deformation of the tubular component, resulting in an increase in the height of the oral opening. Compared to prior art devices, the spacer obstructs the user's incisors less or not at all when acquiring an occlusal view. The quality of the acquired image is significantly improved. This is especially true when the user places the spacer in their mouth, as the cheeks exert pressure on the flaps, which tends to reduce the width of the oral opening and increase its height. The lips then separate better from the user's incisors.

[0112] - The inner and / or outer surfaces of the walls defining the chamber are non-reflective. The fact that the inner surface is non-reflective prevents light reflections that could interfere with image acquisition or reflections from inside the patient's mouth.

[0113] - The spacer is configured such that observation through the oral cavity opening does not obstruct access to the opening, and preferably has no tongue support; - The width of the tubular component is preferably greater than 2cm, greater than 3cm, greater than 4cm, and / or less than 9cm, less than 8cm, and less than 7cm. Preferably, the width of the tubular component 3 is 5.5cm; - The spacer has a fastener, by means of which --The mobile phone is attached to the spacer, or --The adapter is attached to the spacer, and the mobile phone is attached to the adapter; - The spacer has a wall with a thickness greater than 0.3 mm, preferably greater than 0.5 mm, preferably greater than 0.8 mm, and / or less than 8 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, preferably less than 3 mm, preferably less than 2 mm, preferably less than 1.5 mm, and preferably constant; The spacer includes a fastener adapted to preferably removably attach a mobile phone or adapter in an acquisition position, wherein the mobile phone is preferably removably attached to the adapter, and in this acquisition position, the optical lens of the mobile phone observes at least partially the oral cavity opening through the acquisition opening.

[0114] wing

[0115] The purpose of these flaps is to open up the user's cheeks.

[0116] - No blades extend into the chamber defined by the tubular component; - A wing, preferably each wing is physically connected to a tubular component via a joint, the wing extending in width greater than 5 mm, preferably greater than 10 mm, preferably greater than 15 mm, preferably greater than 20 mm, and / or less than 55 mm, preferably less than 50 mm, preferably less than 45 mm, preferably less than 40 mm; - The joint of the flaps, preferably each joint having a width-reducing section, is intended to adapt it to fit between the teeth and the corner of the lip in the working position of the spacer, and preferably, its minimum width is less than 90%, 80%, or 60% of the maximum width of the flap, and / or greater than 40% or 50% of the maximum width of the flap. The presence of the width-reducing section facilitates the sequential insertion of the flaps into the mouth: compared to flaps with straight edges, minimizing the stress applied to the periphery of the mouth by placing the first flap into the mouth facilitates the placement of the second flap into the mouth. Furthermore, the flap geometry improves the comfort of retaining the spacer in the mouth; - The joint of the winglets, preferably the joint of each winglet extends in a plane, forming an angle preferably greater than 25°, greater than 30°, greater than 35°, and / or less than 55°, less than 50°, less than 45°; - The inner surface of the wing, preferably the inner surface of each wing, extends collinearly with the inner surface of the tubular component, so that the joint of the wing does not produce any roughness or voids. - The number of fins is greater than or equal to 0, and / or less than 10, preferably less than 5, and preferably 2; - The tubular component has two blades that are equidistantly distributed around the longitudinal axis, and each blade is preferably symmetrical with respect to its opposite blade; - The tubular component has two lateral flaps that define the right and left ends of the oral cavity opening; - The lengths of the different blades from their joints to the mouth opening are preferably the same, but they can also be different; - Preferably, at least the lengths of the different lateral flaps are the same; - At least one lateral wing, preferably each lateral wing has one or more reinforcing ribs, preferably extending along a plane passing through the longitudinal axis; - The deformability of the airfoil, preferably the deformability of each airfoil, such that under a centripetal thrust greater than 1N and / or preferably less than 4N, more preferably less than 3N, the free end of the airfoil moves 17mm, and this distance is measured perpendicular to the X-axis. Figure 10 As shown, the centripetal thrust is oriented towards the longitudinal axis; - At least one free end, preferably each free end being tongue-shaped; advantageously, this reduces or even eliminates the risk of the lips dislodging during lateral movement of the spacer; - At least one free end, preferably each free end having a region of reduced thickness, preferably zero thickness, referred to as a cut.

[0117] Reducing or eliminating the thickness has advantages: it induces the desired deformation movement, improves the flexibility of the flaps, and also allows for an optimized fit to the user's mouth shape while ensuring excellent comfort. - At least one free end, preferably each free end has a cut; the cut has the advantage of improving image acquisition of the patient's teeth (especially the patient's molars) by limiting the surface area of ​​the wing that may obscure the teeth; - At least one free end, preferably each free end, preferably concave towards the longitudinal axis; - In the static configuration, the maximum distance (also called the wing length) between the edge of the oral cavity opening and the free end of the wing, preferably between each free end, in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis is greater than 20 mm, preferably greater than 25 mm, preferably greater than 30 mm, preferably greater than 35 mm, and / or less than 60 mm, preferably less than 50 mm, preferably less than 55 mm. - In the static configuration, in the direction of the longitudinal axis (Ox axis), the maximum distance between the general plane of the oral cavity opening and the wing, preferably the free end of each wing, is greater than 15 mm, preferably greater than 20 mm, preferably greater than 25 mm, preferably greater than 30 mm, and / or less than 60 mm, preferably less than 50 mm, preferably less than 55 mm. - In the static configuration, the maximum distance between the longitudinal axis and the winglets, preferably the free end of each winglet, as measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, is greater than 35 mm, preferably greater than 40 mm, preferably greater than 50 mm, and / or less than 80 mm, preferably less than 70 mm, preferably less than 65 mm; advantageously, the deformability of the spacer allows it to have winglets with free ends significantly deviated from the longitudinal axis, and due to said deformability, the spacer can be inserted into the mouth; - In the contraction configuration, in the direction of the longitudinal axis (Ox axis), the maximum distance between the general plane of the oral cavity opening and the wing, preferably the free end of each wing, is greater than 10 mm, preferably greater than 20 mm, preferably greater than 35 mm, and / or less than 70 mm, preferably less than 60 mm, preferably less than 50 mm. - In the contraction configuration, the maximum distance between the longitudinal axis and the winglets, preferably the free end of each winglet, as measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, is preferably greater than 5 mm, preferably greater than 10 mm, and / or less than 20 mm, preferably less than 15 mm. - Wings, preferably each wing has an outer surface and / or an inner surface (facing the longitudinal axis), the outer surface and / or the inner surface being smooth to the touch; - Wings, preferably the outer surface of each wing preferably has no protruding obstructions on the outer surface, at least in the sliding area, the lip of the wing slides in the sliding area when the user rotates the kit around himself in the working position; in particular, the wing does not form a channel that can hook to the lip as in a conventional dental retractor; - Wings, preferably the outer surface of each wing deviates from the longitudinal axis from the oral cavity opening, preferably from the junction of the wing and the tubular component toward its free end; - In the static configuration, the gradient (dy / dx) of the spacing along the longitudinal axis increases from the oral cavity opening, preferably from the wing, preferably from the junction of each wing and the tubular component, to a position along the longitudinal axis less than 3 cm from the position of the free end of the wing in question along the longitudinal axis. - Wings, preferably each wing has a maximum width greater than 10 mm, preferably greater than 15 mm, and / or less than 25 mm, preferably less than 20 mm; - The winglets, preferably each winglet has a maximum thickness greater than 0.5 mm, preferably greater than 1 mm, and / or less than 4 mm, preferably less than 3 mm.

[0118] Lip support

[0119] According to the first variant, - The oral cavity opening is partially or entirely defined by lip supports, preferably two lip supports: an upper lip support that separates the upper lip from the user's teeth, and a lower lip support that separates the lower lip from the user's teeth. - Lip supports, preferably each lip support is made of the same material as the edge of the tubular component that defines the oral cavity opening; - Lip support, preferably each lip support has a free end; - Lip support, preferably each lip support has a central section (around the sagittal plane of the spacer) that is thinned or is made of hollow material, the central section being configured to be inserted between the user's lips and incisors; - Lip support, preferably each lip support extends in the transverse plane, i.e., perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; - The number of lip support members is greater than or equal to 0 and / or less than 10, preferably less than 5, and preferably 2; - The tubular component has two lip supports that are equidistant from each other about the longitudinal axis, and each lip support is preferably symmetrical to the lip support opposite it. - The tubular component has two lip supports that define the upper and lower ends of the oral cavity opening; - The lengths of different lip supports from their free ends to the edge of the oral cavity opening are preferably the same, but they can also be different; The lip support, preferably each lip support, is elastically deformable such that under the action of a force oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis, the free end of the support moves 12 mm, the distance measured parallel to the longitudinal axis, wherein the force is preferably greater than 3N, greater than 4N, and / or preferably less than 8N, preferably less than 7N, preferably less than 6N; this deformability allows the support to apply pressure to the inside of the user's cheek in the working position of the spacer; - At least one free end of the lip support, preferably each free end, has a wave-like shape with a groove or notch (a reduced or empty central section) and two peaks; this particular shape has the advantage of keeping the upper central portion and / or lower central portion of the user's lips away from their teeth when the spacer moves laterally inside the user's mouth, while protecting the lip frenulum; in addition, the fact that the lip support has curved ends ensures the comfort of use of the spacer during the movement of the spacer inside the user's mouth.

[0120] - The maximum distance between the free end of the wing and the edge of the oral cavity opening in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis is equal to "y" times the maximum distance between the edge of the oral cavity opening and the peak in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, where "y" is an integer or decimal greater than 4 and less than 8, preferably equal to 4.5.

[0121] This relationship between the two distances has technical advantages: it provides good retention of the retractor within the user's mouth while ensuring user comfort; - The maximum distance between the edge of the oral cavity opening and the peak, preferably between each peak, in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis is greater than 2 mm, preferably greater than 3 mm, and / or less than 15 mm, preferably less than 12 mm, preferably less than 10 mm; - The minimum distance between the edge of the oral cavity opening and the groove, preferably between each groove, in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis is greater than 0.5 mm, preferably greater than 1.5 mm, and / or less than 3 mm, preferably less than 2.5 mm; - Support members, preferably each support member has a smooth outer surface; - Support members, preferably each support member has no protruding obstructions on its outer surface; - The maximum width of each peak is preferably greater than 10 mm, preferably greater than 15 mm, and / or less than 30 mm, preferably less than 25 mm; - Support members, preferably each support member has a maximum thickness greater than 0.5 mm, preferably greater than 1 mm, and / or less than 4 mm, preferably less than 3 mm; - The winglets and lip support are shaped such that the (upper and lower) support are brought closer together, causing the (right and left) winglets to move further apart, and vice versa; According to the second variant - The oral cavity opening is partially or entirely defined by a lip support, preferably in two regions: a right region separating a portion of the upper lip, a portion of the lower lip, and the right corner of the user's teeth, and a left region separating a portion of the upper lip, a portion of the lower lip, and the left corner of the user's teeth. - Preferably, the oral cavity opening does not have winglets; - The lip support, preferably each lip support is made of the material used for the edge of the tubular component that defines the oral cavity opening (referred to as the oral cavity opening edge); - Lip support, preferably each lip support has a free end; - Preferably, the maximum distance between the edge of the oral cavity opening and the free end of the lip support is located within a section of the spacer defined by two planes, which are parallel to and located on both sides of a plane perpendicular to the sagittal plane and including a longitudinal axis, and the distance between the two planes is less than 30% of the oral cavity opening height, preferably less than 15%, 10% or 5% of the oral cavity opening height; - The lip support, preferably the inner surface of each support extends collinearly with the inner surface of the tubular component, so that the joint of the support does not produce any roughness or voids. - The number of lip support members is greater than or equal to 0, and / or less than 10, preferably less than 5, and preferably 1; - The number of regions is greater than 1 and / or less than 10, preferably less than 5, and preferably 2; - The tubular component includes a lip support having two regions equidistantly distributed about a longitudinal axis, each region preferably being symmetrical to its opposite region; - Lip support, preferably each lip support has a central section (around the sagittal plane of the spacer) that is thinned or is made of hollow material, the central section being configured to be inserted between the user's lips and incisors; - The lip support, preferably each lip support, is elastically deformable such that under the action of a force oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis, the free end of the support moves 12 mm, the distance measured parallel to the longitudinal axis, wherein the force is preferably greater than 3N, greater than 4N, and / or preferably less than 8N, preferably less than 7N, preferably less than 6N; this deformability allows the support to apply pressure to the inside of the user's cheek in the working position of the spacer; - A region, preferably each region having a heart-shaped leaf, preferably having two leaf lobes and a rounded tip; - The lip support has lobes, preferably each lobe has a region with reduced thickness, preferably zero thickness, referred to as a window, and / or, Reducing or eliminating the thickness has advantages: it induces desired deformation movements, improves the flexibility of the lip support, and also allows for an optimized fit to the shape of the user's mouth while ensuring excellent comfort. - The lip support flaps, preferably each flap having at least one window, preferably elliptical; these windows improve the flexibility of the lip support flaps. This makes insertion into the mouth easier and improves user comfort (especially for users with smaller mouths); - The top of the lip support, preferably each top, has a region with reduced thickness, preferably zero thickness, referred to as a window, and / or, Reducing or eliminating the thickness has advantages: it induces desired deformation movements, improves the flexibility of the lip support, and also allows for an optimized fit to the shape of the user's mouth while ensuring excellent comfort. - The tip of the lip support, preferably each tip, has at least one window, preferably elliptical; these windows improve image acquisition of the patient's teeth (especially the patient's molars) by limiting the surface area of ​​the wing that may obscure the teeth; - The maximum distance between the edge of the oral cavity opening and the leaflets of the lip support, preferably between the free ends of each leaflet, in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis is greater than 2 mm, preferably greater than 3 mm, and / or less than 15 mm, preferably less than 12 mm, preferably less than 10 mm. - Support members, preferably each support member has a smooth outer surface; - Support members, preferably each support member has no protruding obstructions on its outer surface; - The maximum distance between the top of the lip support area and the edge of the oral cavity opening in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis is equal to "x" times the maximum distance between the edge of the oral cavity opening and the free end of the lip support leaflet in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, where "x" is an integer or decimal greater than 2 and less than 4, preferably equal to 3; this relationship between the two distances has technical advantages: while ensuring user comfort, it provides good retention of the retractor in the user's mouth; - The maximum distance between the top of the lip support area and the edge of the oral cavity opening in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis is greater than 15 mm, preferably greater than 20 mm, and / or less than 30 mm, preferably less than 25 mm. - Support members, preferably each support member has a maximum thickness greater than 0.5 mm, preferably greater than 1 mm, and / or less than 4 mm, preferably less than 3 mm; - The deformability of the lip support area, preferably the top of each area, allows the free end of the support to move 10 mm under the action of a centripetal thrust applied to the top. This distance is measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The centripetal thrust is oriented toward the X-axis and is greater than 1 N, preferably greater than 2 N, and / or preferably less than 5 N, preferably less than 4 N, preferably less than 3 N. - At least one region of the lip support, preferably at the apex of each region, has a window; the window has the advantage of improving image acquisition of the patient's teeth (especially the patient's molars) by limiting the surface area of ​​the wing that may obscure the teeth; - At least one support member, preferably each support member is concave towards the longitudinal axis; - In the static configuration, according to the longitudinal axis (Ox axis) direction, the maximum distance between the general plane of the oral cavity opening and the region, preferably the top of each region, is greater than 10 mm, preferably greater than 15 mm, preferably greater than 18 mm, and / or less than 40 mm, preferably less than 30 mm, preferably less than 25 mm. - In the static configuration, the maximum distance between the top of each region and the longitudinal axis, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, is greater than 10 mm, preferably greater than 15 mm, preferably greater than 18 mm, and / or less than 35 mm, preferably less than 25 mm, preferably less than 20 mm; advantageously, the deformability of the spacer allows it to include regions whose tops are significantly deviated from the longitudinal axis, and due to said deformability, the spacer can be introduced into the mouth; - In the contraction configuration, the maximum distance between the general plane of the oral cavity opening and the region, preferably between the top of each region, in the direction of the longitudinal axis (Ox axis) is greater than 15 mm, preferably greater than 20 mm, and / or less than 35 mm, preferably less than 30 mm; - In the contraction configuration, the maximum distance between the longitudinal axis and the region, preferably the top of each region, as measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, is less than 5 mm, preferably less than 3 mm, and preferably equal to 0 mm.

[0122] Thickness reduction area and slit

[0123] Advantageously, the tubular component includes one or more regions of reduced thickness, preferably zero thickness, referred to as slits. The slits (one or more) preferably extend partially or entirely within the sagittal plane of the spacer, i.e., are cut by that sagittal plane. Generally, the spacer according to the invention may include one or more of the following optional features: - The spacer has two slits, which are preferably arranged symmetrically; - A slit, preferably each slit is straight, elliptical, L-shaped or T-shaped; - A slit, preferably each slit, extends partially or entirely within the sagittal plane of the spacer, i.e., extends within a segment of the spacer defined by two planes parallel to and on either side of the sagittal plane of the spacer, the distance between the two planes being less than 30% of the width of the oral cavity opening, preferably less than 20%, 15%, 10% or 5% of the width of the oral cavity opening; - Slits, preferably each slit gradually widens as it approaches the oral cavity opening; - Slits, preferably each slit has a maximum length of less than 40 mm, preferably 30 mm, and / or a minimum length of greater than 5 mm, preferably greater than 10 mm; - Slits, preferably each slit has a maximum width and / or minimum width (measured perpendicular to the length direction of the slit): less than 3 mm, preferably less than 2 mm, preferably less than 1 mm, and / or greater than 0.1 mm; - At least one slit is located on the surface of the tubular component in a section of the spacer, which is between the edge of the oral cavity opening and a cutting plane perpendicular to the X-axis and less than 30%, 20%, preferably 10% of the length of the tubular component from the plane of the overall oral cavity opening.

[0124] These slits are used to increase the flexibility of the spacer and facilitate the transition of the winglets from a stationary position to a retracted position.

[0125] Lip shield

[0126] - The lip stop is located on a section of the tubular component between the general plane of the oral cavity opening and a cutting plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and less than 20% of the length of the tubular component from the general plane of the oral cavity opening. When acquiring images, especially when acquiring lateral views of the inside of the user's mouth, the lip stop prevents the spacer from penetrating too deeply into the user's mouth. This prevents the flaps or lip support from contacting the mucosa behind the user's mouth, thereby improving user comfort and image acquisition quality. - Lip stops, preferably each lip stop is made of the same material as the tubular component; - Lip guards, preferably each lip guard has a central section (around the sagittal plane of the spacer) that is reduced in thickness or hollow. This lip guard has the technical advantage of not causing discomfort to the user's nose during image acquisition; - Lip guards, preferably each lip guard extends in a transverse plane, i.e., perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; - The number of lip guards is greater than or equal to 0 and / or less than 10, preferably less than 5, and preferably 1; - The lip guard may include multiple regions, preferably two, and preferably the left region adjacent to the left corner of the mouth and the right region adjacent to the right corner of the mouth; - The tubular component has one lip, preferably distributed equidistantly around the longitudinal axis in each region, and each lip is preferably symmetrical with respect to the lip opposite it; - The length from the free end of different lip guards to the oral cavity opening is preferably the same, but it can also be different; - The lip guard preferably has very low elastic deformation capacity to prevent the user from pushing the spacer too deep into their mouth; - Lip guards, preferably each lip guard is configured to at least abut against the corner of the user's lips; - The two areas of the lip guard preferably have a C-shape and an inverted C-shape that opens towards the mouth opening. For example... Figure 11As shown, these regions are arranged symmetrically with respect to the sagittal plane. This particular shape has the advantage of preventing the spacer from penetrating too deeply into the user's mouth during image acquisition, while also avoiding discomfort to the user's nose; - The maximum distance between the edge of the oral cavity opening and the lip guard, preferably between the free end of each lip guard, in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis is greater than 2 mm, preferably greater than 3 mm, and / or less than 15 mm, preferably less than 12 mm, preferably less than 10 mm. - The general plane of the oral cavity opening and the lip guards, preferably the maximum distance between each lip guard in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis (Ox axis) is greater than 3 mm, preferably greater than 5 mm, greater than 8 mm, and / or less than 25 mm, preferably less than 20 mm, preferably less than 15 mm; - Lip guards, preferably each lip guard has a smooth outer surface; - Lip guards, preferably, the outer surface of each lip guard has no protruding obstructions on the outer surface; - Lip guards, preferably each lip guard has a maximum thickness greater than 0.5 mm, preferably greater than 1 mm, and / or less than 4 mm, preferably less than 3 mm.

[0127] Reinforcing ribs

[0128] - The tubular component has reinforcing ribs in sections between the edge of the opening and cut planes perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and at a distance from the general plane of the opening that is less than 50%, 40%, 30%, or preferably 25% of the length of the tubular component. The purpose of the reinforcing ribs is to enhance the rigidity of the section in which they are located by limiting deformation. The positioning of the reinforcing ribs close to the opening facilitates the attachment of a telephone (with or without an adapter) to the spacer; - Reinforcing ribs, preferably each reinforcing rib is made of the same material as the tubular component; - Reinforcing ribs, preferably each reinforcing rib extends in the transverse plane, i.e., perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; - The number of reinforcing ribs is greater than or equal to 0 and / or less than 10, preferably less than 5, and preferably 1; - The distance between the edge of the opening and the reinforcing rib in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis (Ox axis) is greater than 4 mm, preferably greater than 5 mm, and / or less than 15 mm, preferably less than 10 mm, and preferably less than 9 mm.

[0129] Guide protrusion

[0130] - At least one guide protrusion is advantageously disposed on the surface of the spacer, between a cutting plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and a general plane of the oral cavity opening, preferably less than 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, preferably 7% of the length of the tubular component. The purpose of the guide protrusion is to guide the user to one or more areas of the spacer where compressive forces are applied to allow the spacer to move from a rest position to a working position. The guide protrusion also serves to encourage the user to position their hands in areas of the spacer that do not interfere with the image acquisition process and to prevent the user from handling the spacer in areas intended to come into contact with their mouth (for hygiene reasons). -Guide protrusions, preferably each guide protrusion is made of the same material as the tubular component; - The number of guide protrusions is greater than or equal to 0 and / or less than 10, preferably less than 5, and preferably 2; - The tubular component has two guide protrusions, which are equidistantly arranged around the longitudinal axis, and each guide protrusion is preferably symmetrical to the guide protrusion opposite it; - The guide protrusions are preferably arranged symmetrically with respect to the sagittal plane of the spacer; -Guiding protrusions, preferably each guiding protrusion has a ramp shape; the thickness of each guiding protrusion gradually decreases along the longitudinal axis from the oral cavity opening toward the opening; -Guiding protrusions, preferably each guiding protrusion has a series of ridges on its outer surface; these ridges have an anti-slip effect and are designed to guide the user to position their fingers on the spacer so that the spacer moves from a static configuration to a contracted configuration; The guide protrusions, preferably each guide protrusion has a maximum thickness greater than 1 mm, preferably greater than 3 mm, and / or less than 10 mm, preferably less than 8 mm; the guide protrusions, preferably each guide protrusion has a basically rectangular shape; the length of the guide protrusions, preferably each guide protrusion is parallel to the longitudinal axis; the length of the guide protrusions, preferably each guide protrusion is greater than 10 mm, preferably greater than 20 mm, and / or less than 40 mm, preferably less than 30 mm; - The width of the guide protrusion, preferably greater than 8 mm, preferably greater than 10 mm, and / or less than 25 mm, preferably less than 20 mm.

[0131] Now refer to the attached diagram.

[0132] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The kits 10, 10' shown include a mobile phone 12, spacers 14, 14', and an adapter 16, wherein the adapter 16 is in Figure 3 It is shown in detail in the text.

[0133] mobile phones

[0134] Any regular mobile phone can be used.

[0135] Mobile phones 12 are personal devices, typically in the shape of a basic parallelepiped, and typically include a camera.

[0136] Mobile phones typically have the following characteristics: --The front side is equipped with at least one optical lens 18, and preferably with a flash; --Rear panel, with display screen 20; and --Side, used to define the thickness of the phone and connect the front and back sides.

[0137] The display screen 20 essentially covers the entire back. It serves as a user interface. In particular, it allows the user to view what the optical lens 18 "sees," i.e., the "view" of the optical lens. Preferably, the display screen 20 is touch-sensitive and allows the user to control the functions of the mobile phone.

[0138] The optical lens 18 typically has an optical axis perpendicular to the front and allows for the acquisition of two-dimensional or even three-dimensional representations. In particular, it allows for the acquisition of color and / or infrared photographs. The advantage of infrared photographs is that they display teeth with excellent contrast.

[0139] The mobile phone 12 is preferably attached to, and preferably removably attached to, spacers 14, 14' by means of an adapter 16.

[0140] spacer

[0141] spacer in Figures 6 to 11 It is shown separately, which simultaneously makes: - Pry open the user's lips and cheeks to expose the teeth, and - Optionally, together with the adapter, the position of the mobile phone relative to the oral cavity opening Oo, and therefore relative to the teeth.

[0142] The spacers 14, 14' having a longitudinal axis X include a tubular component 22 and a set of lip supports and / or flaps designed to abut against a corresponding portion of the lip in the operating position.

[0143] The spacers 14 and 14' are integral, and all supports 24 and / or fins 34 are made of the same material as the tubular components. This has the advantage of limiting their manufacturing costs and facilitating their use.

[0144] Preferably, the spacers 14, 14' are shaped to be removable from the mold, preferably manufactured by injection molding a moldable material, preferably a polymer, into the mold.

[0145] tubular components

[0146] The tubular component 22 defines the chamber 26. The cross-section of the chamber 26, that is, the cross-section in the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X, may be constant or variable along the axis X.

[0147] Preferably, in the section of chamber 26, the section extends along more than 70%, more than 80%, more than 90%, more than 95%, more than 99%, and preferably 100% of the length L of the tubular component 22. 22 The spacers 14, 14' extend to have an inner surface that is smooth to the touch, without any protruding edges and / or any recessed edges, and especially without any guide protrusions 40, 40' as described below. The section of the chamber 26 is a portion of the chamber 26 defined by two planes perpendicular to the X-axis.

[0148] A tubular component 22 having an axis X opens via an acquisition opening Oa and on the opposite side via an oral cavity opening Oo, which is preferably coaxial with the acquisition opening. In one embodiment, the chamber 26 opens outward only via the oral cavity opening Oo and the acquisition opening Oa.

[0149] Preferably, in a static configuration, for a rectangular or elliptical opening, the height h Oo Preferably greater than 10mm, preferably greater than 15mm, preferably greater than 20mm, preferably greater than 25mm, preferably greater than 30mm, and / or less than 60mm, preferably less than 55mm, preferably less than 50mm, preferably less than 45mm, preferably less than 40mm.

[0150] Preferably, in a static configuration, for a rectangular or elliptical opening, the width l Oo Preferably greater than 20mm, preferably greater than 30mm, preferably greater than 40mm, preferably greater than 50mm, preferably greater than 55mm, and / or less than 90mm, preferably less than 80mm, preferably less than 70mm, preferably less than 65mm, preferably less than 60mm.

[0151] The tubular component 22 is used to define the distance between the mobile phone 12 and the oral cavity opening Oo, and preferably to define a predetermined orientation of the mobile phone 12 relative to the oral cavity opening Oo. Advantageously, in the operating position, a representation (image or three-dimensional model) is thus acquired by the mobile phone 12 through the optical lens 18 at a predetermined distance from the user's teeth and according to the predetermined orientation. Preferably, the spacers 14, 14' are configured such that the distance and orientation are constant.

[0152] The tubular component 22 may have a constant or varying cross-section, preferably substantially straight along the X-axis, and in particular have a general shape of a cylindrical tube, such as having a circular, elliptical, or polygonal cross-section, such as a rectangular or truncated conical tube.

[0153] The cross-section of the tubular component 22, i.e. the cross-section in the cutting plane perpendicular to the X-axis, preferably has a substantially the same shape throughout the tube, such as rectangular, elliptical or circular.

[0154] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the length L of the tubular component 22 of the spacer 14, measured along the X-axis. 22 Preferably greater than 3 cm, preferably greater than 4 cm, preferably greater than 5 cm, and / or less than 14 cm. The length L of the tubular component 22 of the spacer 14', measured along the X-axis. 22 Preferably greater than 3cm, preferably greater than 4cm, preferably greater than 5cm, and / or less than 25cm, preferably less than 20cm, preferably less than 15cm, preferably less than 13cm, preferably less than 11cm.

[0155] The width l of the tubular component 22 of spacers 14 and 14' 22 Preferably greater than 20mm, preferably greater than 30mm, preferably greater than 40mm, preferably greater than 50mm, preferably greater than 55mm, and / or less than 90mm, preferably less than 80mm, preferably less than 70mm, preferably less than 65mm, preferably less than 60mm.

[0156] The height h of the tubular component 22 of spacers 14 and 14' 22 Preferably greater than 10mm, preferably greater than 15mm, preferably greater than 20mm, preferably greater than 25mm, preferably greater than 30mm, and / or less than 60mm, preferably less than 55mm, preferably less than 50mm, preferably less than 45mm, preferably less than 40mm.

[0157] Preferably, the thickness of the tubular component 22 of the spacers 14, 14' is preferably greater than 0.5 mm, preferably greater than 1 mm, and / or less than 2 mm in the section between the oral cavity opening Oo and preferably 60%, 70%, or 80% of the length of the tubular component 22. Preferably, in the remaining section, the thickness of the tubular component 22 is preferably greater than 1 mm, preferably greater than 2 mm, and / or less than 5 mm, preferably less than 4 mm.

[0158] According to the first embodiment, the tubular component 22 includes a first section and a second section, the first section opening to the oral cavity opening Oo and being made of an elastically deformable material, and the second section opening to the acquisition opening Oa and being made of a rigid material.

[0159] According to another embodiment, the tubular component 22 has a skeleton made of a rigid material, which is covered by a sheath of an elastic, deformable material. Preferably, the skeleton is positioned such that its solid portion is located in areas requiring higher resistance to deformation mechanical strength (e.g., in the second segment).

[0160] Preferably, the elastic deformable material is a thermoplastic polymer. More preferably, it is selected from materials such as thermoplastic elastomers called "TPE", especially thermoplastic rubbers called "TPR", such as styrene-butadiene-styrene, or thermoplastic polyurethanes called "TPU". The Shore A hardness of the elastic deformable material is between 50 and 100, between 65 and 85, preferably 80. The deformability of the first section facilitates the placement of the flaps and supports between the user's lips and teeth, and improves user comfort. Alternatively, the deformable material is recyclable, preferably biodegradable (e.g., polylactic acid).

[0161] Advantageously, the rigid material has a low Young's modulus, particularly less than 5 GPa, 3 GPa, or 1 GPa. More advantageously, the skeleton is made of polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), or polypropylene (PP), preferably polycarbonate (PC), and advantageously transparent.

[0162] According to another embodiment, the tubular component 22 is made of the same material along its entire length.

[0163] Advantageously, the material constituting the tubular component 22 is a mixture of polymers.

[0164] Preferably, the material constituting the tubular component 22 is a single thermoplastic polymer. More preferably, the material is selected from the following: thermoplastic elastomers referred to as "TPE", especially thermoplastic rubbers referred to as "TPR", such as styrene-butadiene-styrene, or thermoplastic polyurethanes referred to as "TPU". The Shore A hardness of this elastic deformable material is between 50 and 100, between 65 and 85, preferably 80. The deformability of the first section facilitates the placement of the flap 34 and the support 24 between the user's lips and teeth, and improves user comfort. Alternatively, the deformable material is recyclable, preferably biodegradable (e.g., polylactic acid).

[0165] The deformability of the tubular component 22 can be modified in certain areas as needed, especially by adjusting the following parameters: the shape and / or overall configuration of the spacers 14, 14', the thickness of the material, and the surface condition (e.g., the presence of reinforcing ribs).

[0166] Preferably, the thickness of the tubular component 22 of the spacers 14, 14' is greater than the thickness at which the opening B is obtained. OaEdge and tubular component length L 22 The thickness of the remaining portion of the tubular component 22 is preferably between 5%, 10%, 20%, and 30%.

[0167] Preferably, the tubular component 22, and preferably the entire spacer 14, 14', is made of a transparent material. Advantageously, the oral cavity opening Oo can therefore be illuminated by a flash from the mobile phone 12, not opposite to the opening Oa.

[0168] The section from the opening of the tubular component 22 to the acquisition opening Oa includes a fastener 28, which is capable of engaging with the mobile phone 12 or preferably with the adapter 16 to which the mobile phone 12 is attached at the acquisition location to keep the mobile phone 12 in place.

[0169] The attachment is preferably configured to retain its shape when used for the fastening, which makes it more reliable. The attachment is preferably formed by material recesses and / or protrusions, preferably on the outer surface of the section. The distance between the attachment and the access opening is preferably less than 3 cm, preferably less than 2 cm, preferably less than 1 cm, and preferably less than 0.5 cm.

[0170] The deformable material section is a section of the tubular component 22, that is, a part of the tubular component 22 between two planes perpendicular to the X-axis, which can be deformed by the user by hand and without tools, preferably by one hand, to change its shape.

[0171] When a user can deform the tubular component 22 by hand without tools, preferably with one hand, to change its shape, the tubular component 22 is said to be made of a deformable material.

[0172] Lip support and wing

[0173] according to Figure 6 The first variant shown: The tubular component 22 carries the lip support 24 and the flap 34, which are designed to be inserted between the user's lips and teeth. Advantageously, the lips can thus be opened so as not to obstruct the oral cavity opening Oo. Furthermore, the support 24 and / or the flap 34 facilitate the retention of the spacer 14 within the user's mouth.

[0174] The support member 24 and / or the flaps 34 are made of the same material as the tubular component 22 of the spacer 14, which limits manufacturing costs and reduces the number of edges. This improves hygiene. They are preferably made of elastomers for optimal comfort.

[0175] Preferably, the material constituting the support 24 and / or the fin 34 is a polymer, preferably a thermoplastic polymer, or a mixture of polymers, preferably a thermoplastic polymer. More preferably, one or more polymers are selected from materials such as thermoplastic elastomers called "TPE", especially thermoplastic rubbers called "TPR", such as styrene-butadiene-styrene, or thermoplastic polyurethanes called "TPU". The Shore A hardness of the polymer or polymer mixture is between 50 and 100, between 65 and 85, preferably 80.

[0176] Preferably, the spacer 14 includes: two flaps 24d and 24g, namely the right flap 24d and the left flap 24g, which are designed to abut against the right corner and the left corner of the user's lips, respectively; and two central lip supports, namely the upper support 24s and the lower support 24i, which are designed to abut against the central part of the user's upper and lower lips.

[0177] The central labial support may have a groove or notch 24se in the middle of the support to allow the labial frenulum at the user's upper and lower dental arches to be free. The groove 24se improves user comfort when the dental retractor is in the operating position. This groove also allows the spacer 14 to move within the user's mouth, particularly rotating around the dental arch, to obtain photographs or 3D models in a side view. The groove 24se may be, for example, triangular, circular, or rectangular in shape.

[0178] Similar to the lip support 24, the wing 34 is shaped to be placed between the lips and teeth.

[0179] It is important to note that the lip support 24 and / or the flap 34 are not shaped as image channels. They only restrict lip movement toward the teeth, thus allowing tooth exposure, but permitting lip movement in the opposite direction. Preferably, they do not impede said movement in the opposite direction, away from the teeth. Comfort is significantly improved when the user needs to obtain a two-dimensional or three-dimensional representation from different perspectives and therefore needs to move the mobile phone to the right, left, up, or down.

[0180] It should also be noted that the fins 34 are primarily used to open the cheeks. Their relatively large length allows for very effective cheek opening, such as... Figure 4 As shown.

[0181] The free ends of the lip support and the winglets (referred to as 24s', 24i', 34d', and 34g' for the upper, lower, right, and left winglets, respectively) are preferably circular to prevent damage.

[0182] Preferably, the support members and flaps 24, 34 extend beyond the imaginary tube, which extends along the outer surface of the tubular member 22 and extends beyond the oral cavity opening Oo.

[0183] Preferably, bringing the flaps 34d' and 34g' closer together causes the two lip supports 24s' and 24i' to separate from each other.

[0184] according to Figure 7 The second variation shown: The tubular component 22 includes a lip support 24 having two regions and no flaps. This lip support 24 is intended to be inserted between the user's lips and teeth. Advantageously, the lips can thus be opened, so as not to obstruct the oral cavity opening Oo. Furthermore, the support 24 and / or flaps 34 facilitate retaining the spacer 14' in the user's mouth.

[0185] The support members 24 are made of the same material as the tubular components 22 of the spacer 14', which limits manufacturing costs and reduces the number of edges. This improves hygiene. They are preferably made of elastomers for optimal comfort.

[0186] Preferably, the material constituting the support 24 is a polymer, preferably a thermoplastic polymer, or a mixture of polymers, preferably a thermoplastic polymer. More preferably, one or more polymers are selected from materials such as thermoplastic elastomers called "TPE", especially thermoplastic rubbers called "TPR", such as styrene-butadiene-styrene, or thermoplastic polyurethanes called "TPU". The Shore A hardness of the polymer or polymer mixture is between 50 and 100, between 65 and 85, preferably 80. Preferably, the spacer 14' includes a lip support 24 comprising two regions, namely a right region 24d and a left region 24g, intended to abut against a portion of the user's upper and lower lips and at the right and left corners of the user's mouth.

[0187] The lip support 24 may include a central section (around the sagittal plane of the spacer) having a reduced or hollow cross-section or being hollowed out to allow the frenulum at the user's upper and lower dental arches to be free. This improves user comfort when the dental retractor is in the operating position and also allows the spacer 14' to move within the user's mouth, particularly rotating around the dental arch, to obtain photographs or 3D models in a lateral view. The hollow portion may, for example, be triangular, circular, or rectangular in shape.

[0188] These regions feature lobes (lobes 24dl and 24dl' in the right region, and lobes 24gl and 24gl' in the left region) and rounded tips (tip 24dx in the right region and tip 24gx in the left region). The lobes are designed to fit snugly between the user's upper and lower lips and teeth, while the rounded tips effectively open the user's cheeks. This specific shape occupies less space, making it easier to move the spacer 14' in the mouth during retrieval. The simpler shape of the support 24 occupies less space than the conventional flap 34, making the spacer easier to clean, allowing for better angles during retrieval, and improving comfort by reducing the risk of contact between the support and the user's molars in extreme retrieval positions.

[0189] It is important to note that the lip support 24 is not shaped as an image channel. The lip support 24 only restricts lip movement toward the teeth, thus allowing tooth exposure, but allows lip movement in the opposite direction. Preferably, it does not impede said movement in the opposite direction, away from the teeth. Comfort is significantly improved when the user needs to obtain a two-dimensional or three-dimensional representation from different perspectives and therefore needs to move the mobile phone 12 right, left, up, or down.

[0190] The free ends of the lip support (referred to as 24d' and 24g' for the right and left supports, respectively) are preferably circular to prevent injury.

[0191] Preferably, the support 24 extends beyond the imaginary tube, which extends along the outer surface of the tubular component and beyond the oral cavity opening.

[0192] Lip shield

[0193] Preferably, each lip guard 39 is made of the same material as the tubular component 22 and has a central section (around the sagittal plane of the spacer) with reduced thickness or is hollow. This lip guard has the technical advantage of not causing discomfort to the user's nose during image acquisition.

[0194] like Figure 6 As shown, the lip guard includes two regions 39d and 39g, which preferably have a C-shaped portion (29g) and a reverse C-shaped portion (29d) opening to the oral cavity opening. Figure 6 As shown, these regions are arranged symmetrically with respect to the sagittal plane. These lip-blocking regions rest against the corners of the user's lips. Their shape has the advantage of preventing the spacer from penetrating too deeply into the user's mouth during image acquisition, while also avoiding discomfort to the user's nose.

[0195] Reinforcing ribs

[0196] Preferably, the tubular component 22 has a reinforcing rib 36 integrally formed with the tubular component 22. The reinforcing rib extends in the transverse plane, i.e., perpendicular to the X-axis.

[0197] Guide protrusion

[0198] As shown in the figure, the tubular component 22 has two guide protrusions 40 and 40', which are evenly distributed around the longitudinal axis. Each guide protrusion 40 is preferably symmetrical to its opposite guide protrusion 40'. Each guide protrusion 40 and 40' is integrally formed with the tubular component 22.

[0199] Preferably, the guide protrusions 40, 40' are arranged symmetrically with respect to the sagittal plane of the spacers 14, 14'. Each guide protrusion 40, 40' has a ramp shape.

[0200] Advantageously, the outer surface of each guide protrusion 40, 40' has a series of ridges. These ridges have an anti-slip effect and are intended to guide the user to position their fingers on the spacer so that the spacer 14, 14' moves from a static configuration to a contracted configuration.

[0201] The guide protrusions 40, 40' are intended to guide the user to one or more areas of the spacers 14, 14', where compressive force is applied to allow the spacers to move from a rest position to a working position. The guide protrusions 40, 40' also serve to encourage the user to position their hands in areas of the spacers 14, 14' that do not interfere with the image acquisition process, and to prevent the user from manipulating the spacers 14, 14' in areas intended to contact their mouth (for hygiene reasons).

[0202] adapter

[0203] The adapter 16 functions to removably attach the mobile phone 12 to the spacers 14, 14' and to precisely and easily position the mobile phone 12 in an acquisition position so that the lens 18 of the mobile phone 12 can observe the oral cavity opening Oo through the acquisition opening Oa. Preferably, the adapter 16 is configured to allow the position to be changed.

[0204] One or more elastic bands, one or more straps, one or more Velcro fasteners, one or more clips, one or more screws, such as door-like parts mounted to rotate on the base 46 of the adapter and lock in place to clamp the mobile phone 12, jaws, one or more suction cups, or one or more magnets, can be used to secure the mobile phone 12 to the spacers 14, 14' or the adapter 16. The mobile phone can also be inserted into a housing, protective sleeve, or box attached to the base of the spacer or adapter. This list of examples is not exhaustive.

[0205] Preferably, the adapter 16 is formed from the same material as the spacers 14, 14'. More preferably, the adapter 16 is one or more sleeves, and / or one or more elastic bands, and / or one or more clips, one or more clamps, and / or one or more self-locking cable ties.

[0206] More preferably, the adapter 16 is configured to allow attachment of different mobile phones, especially mobile phones of different sizes.

[0207] In a preferred embodiment, the mobile phone 12 is held on the adapter 16 or spacer by a clamp. In particular, preferably, as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the adapter 16 includes a base 46, a first jaw 481, and a second jaw 482 opposite to the first jaw. The first jaw and the second jaw are preferably configured to clamp and hold the mobile phone 12 by pressing against the edge of the mobile phone.

[0208] In one embodiment, the adapter 16 is permanently and rigidly attached to the spacers 14, 14', or even made of the same material as the spacers. However, the adapter 16 is preferably rigidly attached to the spacers 14, 14' in a removable manner. Advantageously, the spacers 14, 14' can be cleaned or disinfected independently of the adapter.

[0209] Preferably, the spacers 14, 14' have ends that are received, preferably embedded, in a receiving cavity of a complementary shape defined by the adapter.

[0210] operate

[0211] The operation of kits 10 and 10' is directly derived from the above description.

[0212] Initially, the kits 10 and 10' are in the detached position. The user snaps the spacers 14 and 14' to the adapter 16 by inserting the ends of the spacers 14 and 14' opposite to the oral cavity opening Oo into the complementary receiving cavity defined by the adapter. Preferably, the snap-fit ​​attachment is achieved by hooking the claws of the adapter into recesses provided on the outer surface of the spacers 14 and 14'.

[0213] After the snap-fit ​​is engaged, the spacer and the adapter together define the chamber 26.

[0214] The user then clamps the mobile phone 12 between the first and second jaws, such that the adapter opening Oa is substantially opposite the lens 18, and preferably opposite the flash. The kits 10, 10' in the acquisition position are then ready for use.

[0215] Subsequently, spacers 14 and 14' are in a stationary configuration. In this configuration, the user cannot insert all supports 24 / blades 34 into their openings.

[0216] Next, the user presses the lateral areas of the two flaps 34 or the supports 24d, 24g toward each other, or presses the lateral areas of the spacers 14, 14'.

[0217] In this configuration, the user can then insert all the lateral regions 24d, 24g and / or the flaps 34d, 34g between their lips and teeth. After insertion, the user releases pressure on the two flaps 34d, 34g or the lateral support regions 24d, 24g or the lateral regions of the body. The spacer then tends to elastically return to a stationary configuration. However, this rebound is limited by the action of the cheek on the flaps 34 / lateral regions 24, and by the action of the central portion of the lips and the corners of the mouth on the central lip supports 24i, 24s or the flaps 24dl, 24dl', 24gl, 24gl' of the lip supports, respectively. These elastic actions effectively move the cheek and lips away from the teeth, allowing the camera lens of the mobile phone 12 to clearly observe the teeth.

[0218] Furthermore, this flexibility allows spacers 14, 14' to adapt to the user's form factor, thus enabling spacers to be used in a single size for the entire group.

[0219] The user then positions the mouth opening in front of the teeth for which they wish to obtain a two-dimensional or three-dimensional representation, preferably by taking a photograph or acquiring a scan. These are then placed in the working position.

[0220] Users can obtain two-dimensional or three-dimensional representations by pressing the shutter button on their mobile phones.

[0221] If needed, the user can then move the mouth opening Oo to obtain a two-dimensional or three-dimensional representation after the mobile phone 12 is in another orientation relative to the user's teeth. In particular, by rotating the kits 10, 10' around themselves, the user allows the mobile phone 12 to observe different areas of their mouth, such as taking pictures of the dental arch or teeth at the back of the mouth.

[0222] To facilitate this movement, the user can advantageously squeeze the lateral tabs together again to close the oral cavity opening Oo.

[0223] Preferably, the user obtains a two-dimensional or three-dimensional representation by acquiring at least one front view, one right view, and one left view.

[0224] Spacers 14 and 14' do not prevent the user's upper and lower jaws from moving together closer or further apart. Therefore, the spacers allow images to be captured when the user opens or closes their mouth, especially photographs showing the user's teeth, while keeping the lips everted.

[0225] Preferably, the user obtains a two-dimensional or three-dimensional representation by acquiring at least one view of the mouth open and at least one view of the mouth closed, and preferably acquires a front view, a right view and a left view each time.

[0226] When the user rotates the spacer to the right (or left), the right (or left, respectively) corner of the mouth slides into the sliding area. This area is unobstructed, which facilitates the sliding and makes the spacer particularly comfortable. The length of the sliding area advantageously allows the spacer to have a large range of rotation without dislodging the right (or left, respectively) corner of the mouth or obstructing the field of view of the optical lens.

[0227] The user then removed the spacers 14 and 14' from their mouths and disassembled the mobile phone.

[0228] Of course, the order of operations can be changed. For example, the user can attach the spacer to the adapter before or after attaching the mobile phone. The spacer can be removed before or after removing the mobile phone.

[0229] It is now clear that this invention limits the risk of acquiring photographs or 3D models using spacers that are not suitable for the user.

[0230] Kits 10 and 10' allow for rapid access under excellent hygienic conditions, typically within a minute, without the need for professionals such as dentists or orthodontists. This access can be made anywhere by the user or a family member using a simple mobile phone, especially outside of medical, dental, or orthodontic clinics. Furthermore, this access eliminates the need for tools placed on the ground to hold the mobile phone in place, and in particular, eliminates the need for a tripod.

[0231] Finally, this kit allows for quick and reliable attachment of mobile phones, regardless of their thickness, without the risk of damage. It can be implemented as part of the process described in PCT / EP2015 / 074896.

[0232] Of course, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described and shown, which are provided for illustrative purposes only.

[0233] In particular, the shape of the spacer is not limiting. In one embodiment, the chamber is opened only through the mouth and access opening. However, this embodiment is not limiting, as the chamber may have other openings.

[0234] Of course, the features that define the main aspects mentioned above, whether or not they are optional features, can be combined with each other.

[0235] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram: 10: Kit 12: Mobile Phone 14: Spacer according to the first embodiment 14': Spacer according to the second embodiment 16: Adapter 18: Mobile phone optical lenses 20: Mobile phone screen 22: Tubular components 24: Lip support, commonly known as 24d: Right side of the lip support 24d': Free end of the right region of the lip support 24dx: Top of the right region of the lip support 24dl,24dl': Leaflets in the right region of the lip support 24g: Left area of ​​the lip support 24g': Free end of the left region of the lip support 24gx: Top of the left area of ​​the lip support 24gl,24gl': Leaflets in the left region of the lip support 24s: Upper lip support 24s': Free end of the upper lip support 24sc,24sc': Peak of the upper lip support 24se: Recess of the upper lip support 24i: Lower lip support 24i': Free end of the lower lip support 24ic,24ic': Peak of the lower lip support 24ie: Recessed portion of lower lip support 26: Chambers of tubular components 28: Fasteners 34: Wing, common name 34d: Right Wing 34d': Free end of the right wing 34d'': Joint of the right wing plate 34g: Left Wing Piece 34g': Free end of the left wing 34g'': The joint of the left wing plate 36: Reinforcing Rib 38: Slit 39: Lip guard, commonly known as 39d: Right area of ​​the lip guard 39d': The free end of the right region of the lip guard 39g: Left area of ​​the lip guard 39g': Free end of the left region of the lip block 40,40': Guide protrusion 42: Lip support window, commonly known as 46: Base 481: First jaws 482: Second jaw 50d: Sliding area at the right corner of the lip Oo: Oral opening Oa: Get opening X: Longitudinal axis of the spacer B Oo The edge of the oral cavity opening P Oo The general plane of the oral cavity opening F: Example of centripetal thrust applied to a tubular component F': Example of centripetal thrust applied to the winglet / support L 22 Length of tubular component l 22 Width of tubular components h 22 Height of tubular components l Oo Width of oral cavity opening h Oo Height of the oral cavity opening P Oo The general plane of the oral cavity opening P fx A plane perpendicular to the sagittal plane of the spacer and including the longitudinal axis X. P s : Sagittal plane of the spacer D a In a static configuration, the maximum distance between the general plane of the oral cavity opening and the free end of the wing (34g) along the longitudinal axis X is... D b In a static configuration, the maximum distance between the longitudinal axis X and the free end of the airfoil along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. D c The maximum distance between the edge of the oral cavity opening and the free end of the lip support (24g) leaflet along the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. D d The maximum distance between the apex of the lip support (24g) region and the edge of the oral cavity opening along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. D d ': The maximum distance between the free end of the wing (24g) and the edge of the oral cavity opening along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. D eIn a static configuration, along the longitudinal axis X, the maximum distance between the general plane of the oral cavity opening and the apex of the region (24d) is... D f In the static configuration, the maximum distance between the longitudinal axis X and the apex of region (24d) along the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. D g In the static configuration, along the longitudinal axis X, the maximum distance between the general plane of the oral cavity opening and the stop (39) is... D h In the static configuration, the maximum distance between the edge of the oral cavity opening and the free end of the lip guard (39) along the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. D i The maximum distance between the edge of the oral cavity opening and the peak along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. D j The minimum distance between the edge of the oral cavity opening and the concave portion along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

Claims

1. A flexible spacer (14, 14') for acquiring a two-dimensional or three-dimensional representation of a user's teeth via a mobile phone (12), the spacer (14, 14') comprising a tubular component (22) made of an elastically deformable material, the tubular component (22) defining a chamber (26) and having a longitudinal axis (X), the tubular component (22): - Has a length greater than 3 cm (L) 22 ); - By obtaining the opening (Oa) and the oral cavity opening (Oo) open, the oral cavity opening has a plane along the overall oral cavity opening plane (P Oo ) Width measured (l) Oo ) and height (h) Oo ); - The spacer is configured to be removably attached to the mobile phone (12) at an acquisition position, in which the optical lens (18) of the mobile phone (12) at least partially observes the oral cavity opening (Oo) through an acquisition opening (Oa), wherein the spacer (14, 14') is characterized in that the tubular member (22) is elastically deformable, allowing the spacer to extend along the width (l) of the oral cavity opening. Oo A centripetal thrust (F, F') is applied to the tubular member (22) in a substantially parallel direction to increase the width (l) of the oral cavity opening. Oo The width of the oral cavity opening is reduced by more than 5%, preferably by the width (l) of the oral cavity opening. Oo The decrease in the height (h) of the oral cavity opening is simultaneously caused by the reduction in the height of the oral cavity opening. Oo The increase of ).

2. The spacer (14, 14') according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The tubular component (22) defines the edge (B) of the oral cavity opening (Oo). Oo The segment between the cutting plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X) and the overall oral cavity opening plane (P) is elastically deformable. Oo The distance is less than the length (L) of the tubular component (22). 22 90%, 80%, preferably 75%.

3. The spacer (14, 14') according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The spacer is an integral unit.

4. The spacer (14, 14') according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The edge of the oral cavity opening (B) Oo The lip support (24) is partially or completely defined by at least one lip support (24) and / or a flap (34) intended to open the user's lips to expose the teeth, and the flap (34) is intended to press against the user's cheek to open the cheek away from their teeth.

5. The spacer (14, 14') according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The edge of the oral cavity opening (B) Oo The maximum distance (D) between the free end of the lip support (24d', 24g') and the lip support (24d', 24g') d The section located within the spacer (14, 14') is formed by a plane (P) perpendicular to the sagittal plane and including the longitudinal axis. fx Parallel and located at its (P) fx The opening is defined by two planes on either side of the oral cavity opening (Oo), and the distance between the two planes is less than the height (h) of the oral cavity opening (Oo). Oo 30% of the oral cavity opening (Oo), preferably less than the height (h) of the oral cavity opening (Oo). Oo 15%, 10% or 5%.

6. The spacer (14, 14') according to any one of claims 4 and 5, characterized in that, The at least one lip support (24) is adjacent to the edge of the oral cavity opening (B). Oo It is molded in one piece.

7. The spacer (14, 14') according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The tubular component (22) is at the edge (B) where the opening is obtained. Oa The section between the cutting plane and the cutting plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X) has a preferably annular reinforcing rib (36), the cutting plane being a distance from the general plane (P) from which the opening is obtained. Oa The distance is less than 50%, 40%, 30%, or preferably 25% of the length of the tubular component (22).

8. The spacer (14, 14') according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The spacer (14, 14') includes a lip stop (39) located on the general plane (P) of the tubular member (22) at the oral cavity opening. Oo On the section between the cutting plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X) and the general plane (P) of the oral cavity opening. Oo The distance is less than the length (L) of the tubular component (22). 22 20% of ).

9. The spacer according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The tubular component (22) defines the edge (B) of the oral cavity opening (Oo). Oo The oral cavity opening has a concave shape at its mid-width position, i.e. at the intersection with the sagittal plane, that is, it has a concave shape facing the longitudinal axis (X).

10. The spacer according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The section of the tubular component, measured parallel to the longitudinal axis (X), extends from the edge to a length greater than 10 mm and has a concave shape toward the longitudinal axis (X) at any point on the inner surface intersecting the sagittal plane at the mid-width of the chamber, the inner surface of the tubular component being the surface defining the chamber.

11. The spacer according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The tubular component has at least one weak region, i.e., its thickness is less than the thickness of the tubular component surrounding it, preferably more than 1.5 times or more than 2 times the thickness of the tubular component surrounding it, and preferably the thickness is zero.

12. The spacer according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The at least one weak area includes: - A window (42) provided in the lip support (24) of claim 4, and / or - A cutout provided in the winglet (34) of claim 4, and / or - A slit (38) provides fluid communication between the chamber and the external environment.

13. The spacer according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The lateral ends (24gx, 24dx) of the tubular component, preferably the distance between the top of the lip support and the edge of the oral cavity opening (D) d )for: - Greater than 10 mm, preferably greater than 15 mm, and / or less than 30 mm, and / or - The maximum width of the edge surrounding the oral cavity opening and extending from the edge of the oral cavity opening.

14. A kit (10, 10') for acquiring a two-dimensional or three-dimensional representation of a user's teeth, comprising: - A mobile phone (12) equipped with an optical lens (18) for acquiring the two-dimensional representation and / or the three-dimensional representation; - The mobile phone is attached to the spacer (14, 14') according to any of the preceding claims, preferably in a removable manner, optionally by means of an adapter (16), such that the optical lens (18) observes at least partially the oral cavity opening (Oo) through the acquisition opening (Oa).

15. A method for acquiring a two-dimensional or three-dimensional representation using an acquisition kit (10, 10') as described immediately preceding the claim, the method comprising the steps of: a) The spacer (14, 14') is partially inserted into the user's mouth to a working position, in which the optical lens (18) of the mobile phone (12) observes the user's teeth through the oral cavity opening (Oo), and at least one lip support or wing opens the user's lips to expose the teeth. b) Preferably, the user activates the mobile phone (12) to obtain the two-dimensional or three-dimensional representation; c) Modify the position of the oral cavity opening (Oo) relative to the user by rotating it around the user, and then repeat step b).

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