Shell-shaped dental instrument and orthodontic system

Abstract

This invention discloses a shell-shaped dental instrument, comprising maxillary and mandibular shell-shaped bodies and a repositioning occlusal element assembly, which includes a first repositioning occlusal element and a second repositioning occlusal element. These repositioning occlusal elements are disposed on the same side, respectively connected to the buccal or lingual surfaces of the left and right sides of the posterior tooth region of the maxillary and mandibular shell-shaped bodies. The first repositioning occlusal element includes a first fixing portion, a first connecting portion, and a first locking portion, which together form a first receiving space; the second repositioning occlusal element includes a second fixing portion, a second connecting portion, and a second locking portion, which together form a second receiving space. During wear, the first locking portion is received within the second receiving space, and the second locking portion is received within the first receiving space, with their free ends abutting against each other in the sagittal direction. Furthermore, the first fixing portion, the second locking portion, the first locking portion, and the second fixing portion abut against each other sequentially in the gingival-maxillary direction. This invention also provides an orthodontic system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical devices, more specifically to the field of orthodontic appliances, and particularly to a shell-shaped dental instrument and orthodontic system. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of orthodontic technology, invisible aligners based on polymer materials are becoming increasingly popular due to their aesthetic appeal, convenience, and ease of cleaning. With the continuous improvement of invisible aligner technology, functional invisible aligners have also emerged. For example, common functional orthodontic treatments, such as intermaxillary relationship adjustment, involve placing the Herbst structure on the buccal side of the posterior teeth area of ​​the upper and lower invisible aligners. This structure can keep the mandible in a protruding position and is used to treat Class II malocclusion cases. The Herbst structure is generally suitable for cases where opening the bite is not required. Alternatively, the TwinBlock structure can be placed on the posterior teeth area of ​​the invisible aligner, protruding towards the opposing jaw. This opens the bite and guides the mandible forward.

[0003] However, most of the functional components in these invisible orthodontic appliances are thermoformed and are hollow structures. Guiding the mandible forward often requires significant force. During use, these hollow structures are prone to deformation due to insufficient rigidity or support under such stress, thus failing to achieve the desired treatment effect. For example, the Herbst structure, due to insufficient sagittal rigidity, may deform, causing the mandibular protrusion to deviate from the target position. Similarly, the TwinBlock structure, due to the significant force, may deform after repeated biting due to insufficient rigidity, resulting in changes in the gingival-maxillary height and mesiodistal length. This affects the opening of the bite and the position guiding the mandible forward, causing deviations from the target height and position, ultimately preventing the achievement of the expected functional treatment effect.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need to provide a shell-shaped dental instrument that has a simple structure and can ensure the deformation resistance of functional components to meet the expected goals of functional orthodontic treatment. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem solved by this invention is to overcome the defects of the prior art and provide a shell-shaped dental instrument with a simple structure that can ensure the rigidity of functional components to meet the expected goals of functional orthodontic treatment.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows:

[0007] A shell-shaped dental instrument for adjusting intermaxillary relationships includes a maxillary shell-shaped body for accommodating the dental cavities of the patient's maxillary teeth and a mandibular shell-shaped body for accommodating the dental cavities of the patient's mandibular teeth; it also includes a repositioning jaw element assembly, the repositioning jaw element assembly including a first repositioning jaw element fixedly connected to the buccal or lingual surfaces of the posterior tooth region of the maxillary shell-shaped body, and a second repositioning jaw element fixedly connected to the buccal or lingual surfaces of the posterior tooth region of the mandibular shell-shaped body, wherein the first and second repositioning jaw elements are disposed on the same side, wherein...

[0008] The first repositioning jaw element includes a first fixing part, a first connecting part, and a first locking part connected in sequence. The first fixing part is formed by extending from the buccal or lingual side of the maxillary shell-like body at a predetermined position in a direction away from the teeth, and has a predetermined length in the mesiodistal direction. The first connecting part is formed by extending from the mesial or distal end of the first fixing part in the gingival-maxillary direction toward the opposing jaw. The first locking part is formed by extending from the end of the first connecting part away from the first fixing part in the mesiodistal direction. The first fixing part, the first connecting part, and the first locking part enclose a first accommodating space.

[0009] The second repositioning jaw element includes a second fixing part, a second connecting part, and a second locking part connected in sequence. The second fixing part extends from the buccal or lingual side of the mandibular shell-like body at a predetermined position in a direction away from the teeth, and has a predetermined length along the mesiodistal direction. The second connecting part extends from the mesial or distal end of the second fixing part along the gingival-occlusal direction towards the opposing jaw. The second locking part extends from the two ends of the second connecting part away from the second fixing part along the mesiodistal direction. The second fixing part, the second connecting part, and the second locking part together form a second accommodating space.

[0010] When worn, the first locking part is accommodated within the second accommodating space, and the second locking part is accommodated within the first accommodating space. The free end of the first locking part abuts against the second connecting part in the sagittal direction, and the free end of the second locking part abuts against the first connecting part in the sagittal direction. This restricts relative movement between the maxillary shell-shaped body and the mandibular shell-shaped body in the sagittal direction, thereby stabilizing the maxillary shell-shaped body and the mandibular shell-shaped body in the first target position in the sagittal direction. The first fixing part, the second locking part, the first locking part, and the second fixing part abut against each other sequentially in the gingival-maxillary direction, thereby improving the overall anti-deformation capability of the repositioning jaw element assembly during maxillary and mandibular occlusion, thereby stabilizing the maxillary shell-shaped body and the mandibular shell-shaped body in the second target position in the gingival-maxillary direction.

[0011] Preferably, the first locking portion and the inner wall of the second accommodating space in the gingival-maxillary direction are mutually fitted together, and / or, the second locking portion and the inner wall of the first accommodating space in the gingival-maxillary direction are mutually fitted together.

[0012] Preferably, the first locking portion and the second locking portion are arranged parallel to the patient's occlusal surface.

[0013] Preferably, at least one of the following surfaces is provided with a friction structure: the upper and lower surfaces of the first locking portion, the surface on which the first fixing portion and the second locking portion contact each other in the gingival-maxillary direction, the upper and lower surfaces of the second locking portion, and the surface on which the second fixing portion and the first locking portion contact each other in the gingival-maxillary direction.

[0014] Preferably, among the upper and lower surfaces of the first locking portion, the surface where the first fixing portion and the second locking portion contact each other in the gingival-maxillary direction, the upper and lower surfaces of the second locking portion, and the surface where the second fixing portion and the first locking portion contact each other in the gingival-maxillary direction, a set of mutually matching limiting structures is provided between at least one set of mutually contacting surfaces. After wearing, the limiting structures match each other to restrict the relative movement of the first repositioning jaw element and the second repositioning jaw element in the sagittal direction.

[0015] Preferably, the limiting structure is a set of matching concave and convex portions.

[0016] Preferably, at least one of the upper and lower inner surfaces of the first accommodating space away from the first connecting portion is provided with a first guide portion for guiding the second locking portion into the first accommodating space; and / or, at least one of the upper and lower inner surfaces of the second accommodating space away from the second connecting portion is provided with a second guide portion for guiding the first locking portion into the second accommodating space.

[0017] Preferably, the first repositioning jaw element is separately disposed from the maxillary shell-shaped body, and the posterior tooth region of the maxillary shell-shaped body is provided with a plurality of spaced first mounting bases along the mesiodistal direction, and the first repositioning jaw element is mounted to the maxillary shell-shaped body through one of the first mounting bases; and / or, the second repositioning jaw element is separately disposed from the mandibular shell-shaped body, and the posterior tooth region of the mandibular shell-shaped body is provided with a plurality of spaced second mounting bases along the mesiodistal direction, and the second repositioning jaw element is mounted to the mandibular shell-shaped body through one of the second mounting bases.

[0018] Preferably, the first repositioning jaw element is separately disposed from the maxillary shell-shaped body, and a third mounting base is provided in the posterior tooth region of the maxillary shell-shaped body along the mesiodistal direction. The third mounting base is provided with a plurality of first mounting parts spaced apart along the mesiodistal direction, and the first repositioning jaw element is mounted to the maxillary shell-shaped body through one of the first mounting parts; and / or, the second repositioning jaw element is separately disposed from the mandibular shell-shaped body, and a fourth mounting base is provided in the posterior tooth region of the mandibular shell-shaped body along the mesiodistal direction. The fourth mounting base is provided with a plurality of second mounting parts spaced apart along the mesiodistal direction, and the second repositioning jaw element is mounted to the mandibular shell-shaped body through one of the second mounting parts.

[0019] Preferably, the first mounting part is a mounting hole, and the first fixing part is provided with a mounting protrusion on the tooth side, and / or, the second mounting part is a mounting hole, and the second fixing part is provided with a mounting protrusion on the tooth side; wherein, the mounting hole and the mounting protrusion are elastically fitted, and when the mounting hole and the mounting protrusion are fitted together, the mounting hole or the mounting protrusion undergoes elastic deformation so that the mounting protrusion can be accommodated in the mounting hole.

[0020] Preferably, the shell-shaped dental instrument comprises a plurality of first repositioning jaw elements and / or second repositioning jaw elements with different height dimensions in the gingival and occlusal direction, wherein the first repositioning jaw elements and / or second repositioning jaw elements with different height dimensions can open the patient's bite to different heights after being worn.

[0021] Preferably, the first repositioning jaw element is a hollow structure integrally formed with the maxillary shell-like body. The buccal or lingual side of the first repositioning jaw element is provided with a plurality of first reinforcing ridges to improve the deformation resistance of the first repositioning jaw element. The first reinforcing ridges are formed by the buccal or lingual side of the first repositioning jaw element being concave inward or convex outward. The second repositioning jaw element is a hollow structure integrally formed with the mandibular shell-like body. The buccal or lingual side of the second repositioning jaw element is provided with a plurality of second reinforcing ridges to improve the deformation resistance of the second repositioning jaw element. The second reinforcing ridges are formed by the buccal or lingual side of the second repositioning jaw element being concave inward or convex outward.

[0022] Preferably, the first repositioning jaw element is a hollow structure integrally formed with the maxillary shell-like body, and the second repositioning jaw element is a hollow structure integrally formed with the mandibular shell-like body. At least the first locking part and the second locking part are respectively provided with a reinforcing block inside, and the reinforcing block is respectively attached to the inner sidewall of the first locking part and the second locking part to improve the deformation resistance of the first locking part and the second locking part in the gingival-maxillary direction.

[0023] Preferably, the first repositioning jaw element is made of a different material than the maxillary shell-shaped body, and the second repositioning jaw element is made of a different material than the mandibular shell-shaped body, wherein the hardness and stiffness of the materials of the first repositioning jaw element and the second repositioning jaw element are greater than the hardness and stiffness of the materials of the maxillary shell-shaped body and the mandibular shell-shaped body, respectively.

[0024] Preferably, the first and second repositioning jaw elements are made of ceramic or metal and are connected to the maxillary shell-like body and the mandibular shell-like body by means of bonding, riveting or laser welding.

[0025] Preferably, at least one of the upper and lower surfaces of the first locking portion, the surface where the first fixing portion and the second locking portion contact each other in the gingival-maxillary direction, the upper and lower surfaces of the second locking portion, and the surface where the second fixing portion and the first locking portion contact each other in the gingival-maxillary direction, is provided with a slow-release portion to improve patient comfort.

[0026] To achieve the objectives of this invention, the present invention also provides an orthodontic system comprising N sets of shell-shaped dental instruments, each of the N sets of shell-shaped dental instruments corresponding to N successive orthodontic steps. Each of the N sets of shell-shaped dental instruments is capable of repositioning the teeth from the initial layout of the corresponding orthodontic step to the target layout of the corresponding orthodontic step. The N sets of shell-shaped dental instruments include at least M sets of shell-shaped dental instruments as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein M is greater than or equal to 2 and less than N.

[0027] Preferably, the overall height of the first repositioning jaw element and the second repositioning jaw element on different groups of shell-shaped dental instruments in the M group gradually decreases in the gingival-maxillary direction as the orthodontic treatment progresses.

[0028] Compared with the prior art, the present invention, by adopting the above technical solution, has at least one of the following beneficial effects:

[0029] (1) The shell-shaped dental instrument provided by the present invention, by respectively setting a first repositioning jaw element and a second repositioning jaw element in the upper and lower jaws, and such that the free end of the first locking part abuts against the second connecting part in the sagittal direction, and the free end of the second locking part abuts against the first connecting part in the sagittal direction, is used to restrict the relative movement of the maxillary shell-shaped body and the mandibular shell-shaped body in the sagittal direction, so that the maxillary shell-shaped body and the mandibular shell-shaped body are stabilized in the sagittal direction at a first target position; and the first fixing part, the second locking part, the first locking part and the... The second fixing part abuts sequentially in the gingival-maxillary direction to improve the overall anti-deformation ability of the repositioning jaw element assembly during maxillary and mandibular occlusion, and to limit the positional relationship between the first and second repositioning jaw elements in the gingival-maxillary direction, so that the maxillary shell-like body and the mandibular shell-like body are stabilized in the second target position in the gingival-maxillary direction; thus, the repositioning jaw element assembly can be stably abutted in both the sagittal and gingival-maxillary directions, and the overall anti-deformation ability of the repositioning jaw element assembly is improved, thereby improving the adjustment accuracy and stability of the intermaxillary relationship and facilitating the achievement of the expected treatment effect.

[0030] (2) By setting the surfaces of the first locking part and the second accommodating space, and the second locking part and the first accommodating space to fit together, the present invention can further ensure the contact stability between the first locking part and the second accommodating space, and between the second locking part and the first accommodating space, and can ensure the anti-deformation ability of the first repositioning jaw element and the second repositioning jaw element after locking, and further ensure the realization of the expected treatment effect.

[0031] (3) The present invention further separates the first repositioning jaw element and the second repositioning jaw element from the maxillary shell body and the mandibular shell body, respectively. By setting different mounting bases or mounting parts on the maxillary shell body and the mandibular shell body, these repositioning jaw elements can be installed at different sagittal positions. This structural setting makes it convenient to select the mounting base or mounting part in a timely manner according to the first target position of the sagittal adjustment required by different patients, which is convenient for adjustment and installation according to the specific situation of the patients.

[0032] (4) The present invention also provides a first reinforcing ridge on the buccal or lingual side of the first repositioning jaw element and a second reinforcing ridge on the buccal or lingual side of the second repositioning jaw element, or provides a reinforcing block inside the first repositioning jaw element and the second repositioning jaw element, so as to improve the deformation resistance of the first repositioning jaw element and the second repositioning jaw element, thereby ensuring the overall deformation resistance of the repositioning jaw element assembly and further ensuring the realization of the expected treatment effect. Attached Figure Description

[0033] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. These illustrations do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements with the same numerical reference numerals are denoted as similar elements. Unless otherwise stated, the figures in the drawings do not constitute a limitation on scale.

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the shell-shaped dental instrument in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the repositioning jaw element assembly in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the repositioning jaw element assembly with a friction structure in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0037] Figures 4 to 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of some repositioning jaw element assemblies with limiting structures in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the repositioning jaw element assembly with a first guide portion and a second guide portion in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the repositioning jaw element assembly with a first mounting base and a second mounting base in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the repositioning jaw element assembly with a first mounting base in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the repositioning jaw element assembly with a second mounting base in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the repositioning jaw element assembly with a third mounting base and a fourth mounting base in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the repositioning jaw element assembly with a third mounting base in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the repositioning jaw element assembly with a fourth mounting base in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the repositioning jaw elements of a set of first locking parts with different height dimensions in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 15This is a schematic diagram of the repositioning jaw element of a set of first and second locking parts with different height dimensions in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the repositioning jaw element with a first reinforcing ridge and a second reinforcing ridge in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the repositioning jaw element with a first reinforcing ridge in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of another repositioning jaw element with a first reinforcing ridge and a second reinforcing ridge in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the repositioning jaw element with a reinforcing block in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of another repositioning jaw element with a reinforcing block in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of the corrective system in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0053] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, those skilled in the art will understand that many technical details are presented in the various embodiments of the present invention to facilitate a better understanding of the invention. However, the technical solutions claimed in the present invention can be implemented even without these technical details and with various changes and modifications based on the following embodiments. The division of the various embodiments below is for ease of description and should not constitute any limitation on the specific implementation of the present invention.

[0054] The directional terms "up," "down," "left," and "right" used in this document refer to the directions shown in the accompanying drawings and do not imply any specific limitation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated or limited, the term "connection" in this document should be interpreted broadly. For example, it can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part of a structure. It can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium.

[0055] In the various embodiments of this invention, the term "posterior tooth region" is defined according to the classification of teeth in the 2nd edition of *Introduction to Stomatology*, published by Peking University Medical Press, pages 36-38. It includes premolars and molars, teeth marked as 4-8 using the FDI notation, and teeth marked as 1-3 using the FDI notation for the anterior tooth region. The teeth in the anterior tooth region include the central incisors, lateral incisors, and canines.

[0056] The technical solution of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0057] Example 1

[0058] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown. The shell-shaped dental instrument 100 provided by the present invention is used for adjusting the intermaxillary relationship of a patient. It includes a maxillary shell-shaped body 1 for accommodating the tooth cavity of the patient's maxillary teeth, a mandibular shell-shaped body 2 for accommodating the tooth cavity of the patient's mandibular teeth, and a repositioning jaw element assembly 3. The repositioning jaw element assembly 3 is used to adjust the patient's intermaxillary relationship. The repositioning jaw element assembly 3 includes a first repositioning jaw element 31 fixedly connected to the buccal or lingual surfaces of the left and right sides of the posterior tooth region of the maxillary shell-shaped body 1, and a second repositioning jaw element 36 fixedly connected to the buccal or lingual surfaces of the left and right sides of the posterior tooth region of the mandibular shell-shaped body 2. The first repositioning jaw element 31 and the second repositioning jaw element 36 are disposed on the same side.

[0059] In this embodiment, both the first repositioning jaw element 31 and the second repositioning element are located on the buccal side. The first repositioning jaw element 31 includes a first fixing part 32, a first connecting part 33, and a first locking part 34 connected in sequence. The first fixing part 32 extends from the buccal side of the maxillary shell-shaped body 1 at a predetermined position away from the teeth and has a predetermined length in the mesiodistal direction. Thus, the first fixing part 32 of the predetermined length can have a larger contact area when it abuts against the second locking part 39 in the gingival-maxillary direction, making the contact between the two more stable and reliable. The first connecting part 33 extends from the mesial end of the first fixing part 32 towards the opposing jaw in the gingival-maxillary direction. The first locking part 34 extends from the end of the first connecting part 33 away from the first fixing part 32 in the mesiodistal direction. The first fixing part 32, the first connecting part 33, and the first locking part 34 enclose a first accommodating space 35. The second repositioning jaw element 36 includes a second fixing part 37, a second connecting part 38, and a second locking part 39 connected in sequence. The second fixing part 37 extends from the buccal side of the mandibular shell-shaped body 2 at a predetermined position in a direction away from the teeth and has a predetermined length in the mesiodistal direction. Similarly, the predetermined length of the second fixing part 37 allows for a larger contact area when it abuts against the first locking part 34 in the gingival-occlusal direction, making the contact between the two more stable and reliable. The second connecting part 38 extends from the distal end of the second fixing part 37 in the gingival-occlusal direction toward the opposing jaw. The second locking part 39 extends from the two ends of the second connecting part 38 away from the second fixing part 37 in the mesiodistal direction. The second fixing part 37, the second connecting part 38, and the second locking part 39 enclose a second accommodating space 30. The openings of the first accommodating space 35 and the second accommodating space 30 are arranged opposite to each other.

[0060] When worn, the first locking part 34 enters through the opening of the second receiving space 30 and is received within the second receiving space 30, and the second locking part 39 enters through the opening of the first receiving space 35 and is received within the first receiving space 35. The free end of the first locking part 34 (i.e., the end facing the maxillary posterior teeth region) abuts against the second connecting part 38 in the sagittal direction, and the free end of the second locking part 39 (i.e., the end facing the mandibular anterior teeth region) abuts against the first connecting part 33 in the sagittal direction. This restricts the relative movement of the maxillary shell-shaped body 1 and the mandibular shell-shaped body 2 in the sagittal direction, so that the maxillary shell-shaped body 1 and the mandibular shell-shaped body 2 are stabilized in the first target position in the sagittal direction. The first target position can be the final target position in the patient's sagittal adjustment, or it can be the target position at any stage of the patient's sagittal adjustment. For example, it can be a predetermined position to guide the mandible to open the airway to suppress snoring, or a predetermined position to guide the mandible forward to improve and treat "overbite", etc. The first fixing part 32, the second locking part 39, the first locking part 34, and the second fixing part 37 abut against each other in the gingival-maxillary direction. That is, the surfaces of the first fixing part 32 and the second locking part 39 that contact each other in the gingival-maxillary direction, the upper and lower surfaces of the second locking part 39, the upper and lower surfaces of the first locking part 34, and the surfaces of the second fixing part 37 and the first locking part 34 that contact each other in the gingival-maxillary direction abut against each other in the gingival-maxillary direction from top to bottom. It should be noted that there are gaps between the above surfaces in the figure, which is only to illustrate the structure of each component and does not mean that adjacent surfaces are not in contact. In actual use, the above surfaces abut against each other. That is, the first fixing part 32, the first locking part 34, the second locking part 39, and the second fixing part 37 support each other in the gingival-maxillary direction, thereby improving the overall anti-deformation ability of the repositioning jaw element assembly 3 during maxillary and mandibular occlusion, so that the maxillary shell-shaped body 1 and the mandibular shell-shaped body 2 are stabilized in the second target position in the gingival-maxillary direction. Similarly, it can be understood that the second target position can be the final target position in the patient's gingival-maxillary adjustment, or it can be the target position at any stage of the patient's gingival-maxillary adjustment. In one embodiment, the first target position and the second target position can be achieved simultaneously in the same orthodontic process. In another embodiment, the first target position and the second target position can also be achieved separately in different orthodontic processes, depending on the actual situation.

[0061] To further explain, the first locking portion 34 and the second accommodating space 30 are fitted together on the inner wall facing upwards towards the gingiva and jaw. In this embodiment, the upper and lower surfaces of the first locking portion 34 are identical in shape to the upper and lower inner walls of the second accommodating space 30, and they abut against each other. The upper and lower surfaces of the first locking portion 34 and the upper and lower inner walls of the second accommodating space 30 are both planar. Furthermore, the second locking portion 39 and the first accommodating space 35 are fitted together on the inner wall facing upwards towards the gingiva and jaw. In this embodiment, the upper and lower surfaces of the second locking portion 39 are identical in shape to the upper and lower inner walls of the first accommodating space 35, and they abut against each other. The upper and lower surfaces of the second locking portion 39 and the upper and lower inner walls of the first accommodating space 35 are both planar. This structural configuration can further improve the stability and resistance to deformation when the first repositioning jaw element 31 and the second repositioning jaw element 36 are locked together.

[0062] It is understood that, in another embodiment, the upper and lower surfaces of the first locking portion 34 and the upper and lower inner walls of the second accommodating space 30 can also be arc or curved surfaces that match each other in shape and abut against each other; the upper and lower surfaces of the second locking portion 39 and the upper and lower inner walls of the first accommodating space 35 can also be arc or curved surfaces that match each other in shape and abut against each other. In another embodiment, only the inner walls of the first locking portion 34 and the second accommodating space 30 in the gingival-maxillary direction are in contact with each other, which can ensure the abutment stability of the first locking portion 34 and the second accommodating space 30; or, only the inner walls of the second locking portion 39 and the first accommodating space 35 in the gingival-maxillary direction are in contact with each other, which can ensure the abutment stability of the second locking portion 39 and the first accommodating space 35, thereby also ensuring the anti-deformation ability of the first repositioning jaw element 31 and the second repositioning jaw element 36 after locking.

[0063] To further explain, the first locking portion 34 and the second locking portion 39 are arranged parallel to the patient's occlusal surface. Generally, the surface of the upper and lower teeth in the posterior region that faces each other and is used for chewing food is called the occlusal surface; correspondingly, the incisal edges of the upper and lower teeth in the anterior region that face each other and are used for biting are called incisal edges. This structural arrangement ensures that the first locking portion 34 and the second locking portion 39 do not exert a sagittal component force in the occlusal direction when the patient bites, thus not adversely affecting the first target position of the repositioning jaw element assembly 3 in the sagittal direction; nor will it cause discomfort to the patient.

[0064] To further explain, in order to improve the firmness and stability of the repositioning jaw element assembly 3 during locking, this application provides a friction structure 4 on at least one of the following surfaces: the upper and lower surfaces of the first locking part 34, the surface where the first fixing part 32 and the second locking part 39 contact each other upwards towards the gingiva and jaw, the upper and lower surfaces of the second locking part 39, and the surface where the second fixing part 37 and the first locking part 34 contact each other upwards towards the gingiva and jaw. Specifically, the friction structure 4 is disposed on the upper surface of the first locking part 34, and can be a rough friction layer, or a curved surface with several uneven structures (such as...). Figure 3 (as shown); it is understood that the friction structure 4 can also be disposed on any other surface; in addition, the friction structure 4 can also be disposed on any two, three, four, five or all of the above surfaces at the same time. It is understood that the more surfaces on which the friction structure 4 is disposed, the more firmly and stably the repositioning jaw element assembly 3 will be locked.

[0065] For further explanation, please refer to Figures 4 to 6 As shown, to further ensure the stability of the intermaxillary relationship during locking of the repositioning jaw element assembly 3, this application provides a set of mutually matching limiting structures 5 between at least one set of contacting surfaces, including the upper and lower surfaces of the first locking part 34, the surfaces of the first fixing part 32 and the second locking part 39 in the gingival-maxillary direction, the upper and lower surfaces of the second locking part 39, and the surface of the second fixing part 37 and the first locking part 34 in the gingival-maxillary direction. After wearing, the limiting structures 5 match each other to restrict the relative movement of the first repositioning jaw element 31 and the second repositioning jaw element 36 in the sagittal direction. Further, the limiting structure 5 is a set of matching concave and convex portions, facilitating quick and accurate locking and limiting. Specifically, as... Figure 4 As shown, a concave portion is provided on the upper surface of the first locking portion 34, and a convex portion is provided on the lower surface of the second locking portion 39. The inner contour shape of the concave portion and the outer contour shape of the convex portion are adapted to each other, thereby restricting the relative movement of the first repositioning jaw element 31 and the second repositioning jaw element 36 in the sagittal direction during locking; Figure 5 As shown, a recessed portion is provided on the lower surface of the first locking portion 34, and a convex portion is provided on the surface of the second fixing portion 37 that contacts the first locking portion 34; as Figure 6As shown, a concave recess is provided on the upper surface of the second locking part 39, and a convex protrusion is provided on the surface of the first fixing part 32 that contacts the second locking part 39. It is understood that the cross-sectional shape of the recess and protrusion can be an arc shape, or a triangular, trapezoidal, or other polygonal structure; this application does not impose any limitation. It is also understood that the implementation of providing a limiting structure 5 between any two or all three sets of contacting surfaces can also achieve the limiting function. The more limiting structures 5 there are, the better the limiting effect. However, if multiple limiting structures 5 are matched simultaneously for limiting, the structural precision requirements are also higher. In practical applications, the choice can be made according to actual needs.

[0066] To further explain, for ease of clinical wearing and locking operation, this application provides at least one of the upper and lower inner surfaces of the first accommodating space 35 away from the first connecting portion 33 as a first guide portion to guide the second locking portion 39 into the first accommodating space 35; and provides at least one of the upper and lower inner surfaces of the second accommodating space 30 away from the second connecting portion 38 as a second guide portion to guide the first locking portion 34 into the second accommodating space 30. In one embodiment, please refer to... Figure 7 As shown, the upper and lower inner surfaces of the first accommodating space 35 away from the first connecting portion 33 are respectively provided with an upwardly inclined first guide surface S1 and a downwardly inclined second guide surface S2, forming the first guide portion, which is used to guide the second locking portion 39 into the first accommodating space 35; the upper and lower inner surfaces of the second accommodating space 30 away from the second connecting portion 38 are respectively provided with an upwardly inclined third guide surface S3 and a downwardly inclined fourth guide surface S4, forming the second guide portion, which is used to guide the first locking portion 34 into the second accommodating space 30; the first guide portion and the second guide portion with such a structure are simple and can facilitate the entry of the second locking portion 39 and the first locking portion 34.

[0067] To further explain, the first repositioning jaw element 31 is separately configured from the maxillary shell-like body 1. For example, the first repositioning jaw element 31 can be obtained separately through 3D printing. Specifically, please refer to... Figure 8As shown, several spaced-apart first mounting bases 71 are provided in the posterior tooth region of the maxillary shell-shaped body 1 along the mesiodistal direction. The first repositioning jaw element 31 is mounted to the maxillary shell-shaped body 1 through one of the first mounting bases 71. When the first repositioning jaw element 31 is mounted on different first mounting bases 71, the first target position of the shell-shaped dental instrument 100 in the sagittal direction is different. Similarly, several spaced-apart second mounting bases 72 are provided in the posterior tooth region of the mandibular shell-shaped body 2 along the mesiodistal direction. The second repositioning jaw element 36 is mounted to the mandibular shell-shaped body 2 through one of the second mounting bases 72. When the second repositioning jaw element 36 is mounted on different second mounting bases 72, the first target position of the shell-shaped dental instrument 100 in the sagittal direction is different. This structural arrangement allows for convenient selection of which first mounting base 71 or second mounting base 72 to mount on based on the first target position of sagittal adjustment required by different patients, facilitating adjustment and installation according to the specific circumstances of the patient. It is understandable that, of the first repositioning jaw element 31 and the second repositioning jaw element 36, only one is designed as a separate unit (see [reference]). Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the sagittal position can be adjusted via the first mounting base 71 or the second mounting base 72, which is also within the scope of protection of this application. Furthermore, the first mounting base 71 can be designed as a universal mounting base, such as having a flat surface (e.g., Figure 8 (As shown) or a curved structure, to match, a matching planar or curved structure is provided on the side of the first repositioning jaw element 31 near the maxillary shell-like body 1, which can be fixedly connected to the first repositioning jaw element 31 by means of bonding, laser welding, etc. during installation; alternatively, a threaded screw hole structure (such as...) can be provided on the first mounting base 71. Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown), a stud is provided on the side of the first repositioning jaw element 31 near the maxillary shell-shaped body 1, and the two are detachably connected by threads; alternatively, a locking or riveting mating structure is provided at the connection between the first mounting base 71 and the first repositioning jaw element 31 for detachable connection; this application does not impose any restrictions; the connection between the second mounting base 72 and the second repositioning jaw element 36 can also be made in the same way, and will not be described in detail here.

[0068] Further explanation: When the first repositioning jaw element 31 and the maxillary shell-shaped body 1 are separately configured, a third mounting base 73 is provided in the posterior tooth region of the maxillary shell-shaped body 1 along the mesiodistal direction. The third mounting base 73 is provided with a plurality of first mounting portions 81 spaced apart along the mesiodistal direction. The first repositioning jaw element 31 is mounted to the maxillary shell-shaped body 1 through one of the first mounting portions 81. When the first repositioning jaw element 31 is mounted on different first mounting portions 81, the shell-shaped dental instrument 100 is adjusted to the first target position in the sagittal direction. They are not the same; the second repositioning jaw element 36 and the mandibular shell-shaped body 2 are separately configured. A fourth mounting base 74 is provided along the mesiodistal direction in the posterior tooth region of the mandibular shell-shaped body 2. The fourth mounting base 74 has several second mounting portions 82 spaced apart along the mesiodistal direction. The second repositioning jaw element 36 is mounted to the mandibular shell-shaped body 2 through one of the second mounting portions 82. When the second repositioning jaw element 36 is mounted on different second mounting portions 82, the first target position of the shell-shaped dental instrument 100 in the sagittal direction is different. This structural configuration allows for convenient selection of which first mounting portion 81 or second mounting portion 82 to mount on, based on the first target position of sagittal adjustment required by different patients. This facilitates adjustment and installation according to the specific situation of the patient, providing more choices and flexibility for installation. For details, please refer to... Figure 11 As shown, in this embodiment, the first mounting part 81 and the second mounting part 82 are mounting holes, and the first fixing part 32 is provided with a mounting protrusion (not shown) that mates with the mounting hole on the side facing the maxillary shell-shaped body 1, and the second fixing part 37 is provided with a mounting protrusion that mates with the mounting hole on the side facing the mandibular shell-shaped body 2; wherein, the mounting hole and the mounting protrusion are elastically fitted, and when the mounting hole and the mounting protrusion are fitted together, the mounting hole or the mounting protrusion undergoes elastic deformation so that the mounting protrusion can be accommodated in the mounting hole, so that the first repositioning jaw element 31 is installed on the maxillary shell-shaped body 1 and the second repositioning jaw element 36 is installed on the mandibular shell-shaped body 2. A stable and flexible connection is achieved through this structural fit of the mounting hole and the mounting protrusion. Furthermore, the mounting holes spaced apart on the third mounting base 73 are connected, and the mounting holes spaced apart on the fourth mounting base 74 are also connected via a connecting channel 83. The mounting protrusion can elastically deform when passing through the connecting channel 83 to enter and be accommodated within the mounting hole. It is understood that only one of the first repositioning jaw element 31 and the second repositioning jaw element 36 is designed as a separate unit (see [reference]). Figure 12 and Figure 13As shown, the third mounting base 73 or the fourth mounting base 74 can also be used to adjust different positions in the sagittal direction, which is also within the scope of protection of this application.

[0069] Further explanation: The shell-shaped dental instrument 100 includes a plurality of first repositioning jaw elements 31 and / or second repositioning jaw elements 36 with different height dimensions in the gingival-maxillary direction. It is possible that only the first repositioning jaw element 31 is designed with different height dimensions; or only the second repositioning jaw element 36 is designed with different height dimensions; or both the first repositioning jaw element 31 and the second repositioning jaw element 36 are designed with different height dimensions. These different height dimensions ultimately correspond to the different occlusal heights that the repositioning jaw element assembly 3 can open for the patient after wearing the shell-shaped dental instrument 100, facilitating adjustment of the occlusal height that the repositioning jaw element assembly 3 can open according to the orthodontic progress. Taking the first repositioning jaw element 31 as an example, the height dimension of the first repositioning jaw element 31 can be achieved by setting different height dimensions of the first fixing part 32, the first accommodating space 35, or the first locking part 34 in the gingival-maxillary direction, or by setting the height dimensions of any two or three of these components; the same applies to the height dimension of the second repositioning jaw element 36. Specifically, please refer to... Figure 14 As shown, several first locking portions 34 with different height dimensions (e.g., h1, h2) are provided. To ensure that the upper and lower surfaces of the first locking portions 34 abut against the inner wall of the second accommodating space 30 in the gingival-maxillary direction, the height dimension of the second accommodating space 30 in the gingival-maxillary direction capable of accommodating the first locking portions 34 (i.e., the height dimension of the second connecting portion 38 in the gingival-maxillary direction) must match the height dimension of the first locking portions 34 in the gingival-maxillary direction. Thus, after wearing, the bite heights that the repositioning jaw element assembly 3 can open to are H1 and H2, respectively. Alternatively, as shown... Figure 15As shown, several first locking portions 34 with different height dimensions (such as h1, h2) can be provided, and a second accommodating space 30 matching the height dimension of the first locking portions 34 in the gingival-maxillary direction (accommodating the height dimension of the first locking portions 34 in the gingival-maxillary direction) can be provided, so that the upper and lower surfaces of the first locking portions 34 abut against the inner wall of the second accommodating space 30 in the gingival-maxillary direction, supporting each other and ensuring the overall anti-deformation capability of the repositioning jaw element assembly 3 in the gingival-maxillary direction; at the same time, several second locking portions with different height dimensions (such as h3, h4) are also provided. The locking portion 39, and the first accommodating space 35, which matches the height dimension of the second locking portion 39 in the gingival direction, accommodate the height dimension of the second locking portion 39 in the gingival direction (i.e., the height dimension of the first connecting portion 33 in the gingival direction), so that the upper and lower surfaces of the second locking portion 39 respectively abut against the inner wall of the first accommodating space 35 in the gingival direction, supporting each other and ensuring the overall anti-deformation capability of the repositioning jaw element assembly 3 in the gingival direction; thus, after wearing, the bite heights that the repositioning jaw element assembly 3 can open are H3 and H4, respectively.

[0070] To further explain, in clinical practice, the most widely used manufacturing process for shell-shaped dental instruments 100 is currently the thermoforming process. The shell-shaped dental instrument 100 of this application can be manufactured using the thermoforming process. Alternatively, in another embodiment, it can be directly printed using additive manufacturing. Specifically, when the first repositioning jaw element 31 is a hollow structure integrally formed with the maxillary shell-shaped body 1, and the second repositioning jaw element 36 is a hollow structure integrally formed with the mandibular shell-shaped body 2, to prevent deformation of the hollow structure due to the large force exerted on the repositioning jaw element assembly 3 after wearing, this application provides several reinforcing ridges on the buccal or lingual surfaces of the first repositioning jaw element 31 and / or the second repositioning jaw element 36 to improve the deformation resistance of these repositioning jaw elements, thereby enhancing the stability and durability of these repositioning jaw element structures. For details, please refer to... Figure 16As shown, in this embodiment, a plurality of first reinforcing ridges 311 are provided on both the buccal and lingual surfaces of the first repositioning jaw element 31 to improve its resistance to deformation. The first reinforcing ridges 311 are formed by protruding outwards from the buccal and lingual surfaces of the first repositioning jaw element 31. Simultaneously, a plurality of second reinforcing ridges 361 are provided on both the buccal and lingual surfaces of the second repositioning jaw element 36 to improve its resistance to deformation. The second reinforcing ridges 361 are formed by protruding outwards from the buccal and lingual surfaces of the second repositioning jaw element 36. Further, both the first reinforcing ridges 311 and the second reinforcing ridges 361 extend along the gingival-maxillary direction. In this embodiment, there are three first reinforcing ridges 311 and three second reinforcing ridges 361. It is understood that the number of these reinforcing ridges can be one or other, as long as it satisfies the resistance to deformation of the first repositioning jaw element 31 and the second repositioning jaw element 36. One of the first reinforcing ridges 311 extends from the end of the first locking portion 34 away from the maxillary shell-shaped body 1 along the gingival-maxillary direction to the end of the first fixing portion 32 connected to the maxillary shell-shaped body 1. The other two first reinforcing ridges 311 extend from the upper surface to the lower surface of the first locking portion 34, and from the end of the first fixing portion near the maxillary shell-shaped body 1 to the end away from the maxillary shell-shaped body 1, respectively. One of the second reinforcing ridges 361 extends from the end of the second locking portion 39 away from the mandibular shell-shaped body 2 along the gingival-maxillary direction to the end of the second fixing portion 37 connected to the mandibular shell-shaped body 2, respectively. The other two second reinforcing ridges 361 extend from the upper surface to the lower surface of the second locking portion 39, and from the end of the second fixing portion near the mandibular shell-shaped body 2 to the end away from the mandibular shell-shaped body 2, respectively. The design of these reinforcing ridges not only improves the deformation resistance of these repositioning jaw elements, but also makes the entire repositioning jaw element assembly 3 have better overall deformation resistance in the gingival-maxillary direction after wearing. In another embodiment, these reinforcing ridges may be formed by inward indentation of the buccal or lingual side of these repositioning jaw elements; in another embodiment, the first reinforcing ridge 311 may also be provided only on the buccal or lingual side of the first repositioning jaw element 31 (e.g., Figure 17 (As shown), the second reinforcing ridge 361 can also be provided only on the buccal or lingual side of the second repositioning jaw element 36; or the first reinforcing ridge 311 and the second reinforcing ridge 361 can be provided on the first locking portion 34 and the second locking portion 39 respectively (as shown). Figure 18 As shown), to enhance the deformation resistance of the first locking part 34 and the second locking part 39 during biting; such reinforcement ridges can all improve the deformation resistance of the repositioning jaw element assembly 3 after wearing to a certain extent.

[0071] To further explain, when the first repositioning jaw element 31 is a hollow structure integrally formed with the maxillary shell-like body 1, and the second repositioning jaw element 36 is a hollow structure integrally formed with the mandibular shell-like body 2, in order to improve the deformation resistance of these repositioning jaw elements, reinforcing blocks 9 can also be provided inside these repositioning jaw elements, such as... Figure 19 As shown, since the upper and lower surfaces of the first locking portion 34 and the upper and lower surfaces of the second locking portion 39 are respectively abutted by the inner walls of the second accommodating space 30 and the first accommodating space 35, they are easily deformed when the occlusal force is large. Therefore, the reinforcing block 9 needs to be provided inside the first locking portion 34 and the second locking portion 39. Moreover, the reinforcing block 9 is respectively attached to the inner sidewalls of the first locking portion 34 and the second locking portion 39 to improve the deformation resistance of the first locking portion 34 and the second locking portion 39 in the gingival-maxillary direction. Of course, it can be understood that if the interiors of the first repositioning jaw element 31 and the second repositioning jaw element 36 are all provided with reinforcing blocks 9 (such as... Figure 20 As shown in the figure, and respectively attached to the inner wall of its space, the repositioning jaw element has a stronger resistance to deformation.

[0072] Further explanation: the first repositioning jaw element 31 is made of a different material than the maxillary shell-shaped body 1, and the second repositioning jaw element 36 is made of a different material than the mandibular shell-shaped body 2. Specifically, the hardness and stiffness of the materials of the first repositioning jaw element 31 and the second repositioning jaw element 36 are greater than those of the maxillary shell-shaped body 1 and the mandibular shell-shaped body 2, respectively. In one embodiment, when these repositioning jaw elements are printed using additive manufacturing, a photosensitive resin material with a hardness and stiffness greater than that required for the maxillary and mandibular shell-shaped bodies 2 is selected for printing these repositioning jaw elements. For example, ceramic or metal is selected as the 3D printing raw material for these repositioning jaw elements. They are then bonded, riveted, or laser-welded to the maxillary and mandibular shell-shaped bodies 2 using adhesives to achieve a stable and reliable connection.

[0073] However, while the first and second repositioning jaw elements 31 and 36, fabricated based on this design, ensure the overall deformation resistance of the repositioning jaw element assembly 3 after wearing, their high hardness and rigidity can cause discomfort to the patient. To alleviate this discomfort, the inventors of this application have provided a release portion to improve patient comfort on at least one of the following surfaces: the upper and lower surfaces of the first locking portion 34; the surface where the first fixing portion 32 and the second locking portion 39 contact each other upwards; the upper and lower surfaces of the second locking portion 39; and the surface where the second fixing portion 37 contacts the first locking portion 34 upwards. This release portion acts as a buffer during occlusion, reducing discomfort during wear. Specifically, a soft silicone layer formed from edible silicone can be sprayed onto the upper surface of the first locking portion 34. When the first and second repositioning jaw elements 31 and 36 are engaged, this soft silicone layer acts as a buffer, reducing discomfort. Of course, it is understandable that the sustained-release portion disposed on the upper and lower surfaces of the first locking portion 34, the surface of the first fixing portion 32 and the second locking portion 39 in contact with the gingival and maxillary regions, the upper and lower surfaces of the second locking portion 39, and any one, two, three, four, five, or all of the other surfaces of the second fixing portion 37 and the first locking portion 34 in contact with the gingival and maxillary regions, can all reduce the patient's discomfort.

[0074] It should be noted that this embodiment is described with the first repositioning jaw element 31 and the second repositioning both located on the buccal side. In other embodiments, the first repositioning jaw element 31 and the second repositioning can also be located on the lingual side. The structure of the repositioning jaw element assembly 3 is the same as in this embodiment and will not be described again.

[0075] It should also be noted that, in this embodiment, the first connecting portion 33 extends from the mesial end of the first fixing portion 32 along the gingival-occlusal direction toward the opposing jaw. Thus, the first fixing portion 32, the first connecting portion 33, and the first locking portion 34 enclose the opening of the first accommodating space 35, which faces the posterior tooth region of the maxilla. The second connecting portion 38 extends from the distal end of the second fixing portion 37 along the gingival-occlusal direction toward the opposing jaw. Thus, the second fixing portion 37, the second connecting portion 38, and the second locking portion 39 enclose the opening of the second accommodating space 30, which faces the anterior tooth region of the mandible. In other embodiments, the first connecting portion 33 may extend from the distal end of the first fixing portion 32 along the gingival-occlusal direction toward the opposing jaw, thereby forming the opening of the first accommodating space 35 facing the anterior tooth region of the maxilla; the second connecting portion 38 extends from the mesial end of the second fixing portion 37 along the gingival-occlusal direction toward the opposing jaw, thereby forming the opening of the second accommodating space 30 facing the posterior tooth region of the mandible. This solution is also within the scope of protection of this application.

[0076] Example 2

[0077] To achieve the objectives of this invention, the present invention also provides an orthodontic system 200, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 21 As shown, it includes N sets of shell-shaped dental instruments, each of which corresponds to N successive orthodontic steps. Each of the N sets of shell-shaped dental instruments can reposition the teeth from the initial layout of the corresponding orthodontic step to the target layout of the corresponding orthodontic step. The N sets of shell-shaped dental instruments include at least M sets of shell-shaped dental instruments 100 as described in Example 1, where M is greater than or equal to 2 and less than N.

[0078] Specifically, in the field of orthodontics, orthodontic treatment generally requires N successive shell-shaped dental instruments, where N ≥ 20 or even 40 or more, corresponding to N successive orthodontic steps. Each of the N shell-shaped dental instruments is used to reposition the teeth from the initial layout of the corresponding orthodontic step to the target layout of that corresponding orthodontic step, and the target layout of that orthodontic step becomes the initial layout of the next orthodontic step. For example, the initial layout of the (N-1)th orthodontic step is the target layout of the (N-2)th orthodontic step, and the target layout of the (N-1)th orthodontic step is the initial layout of the Nth orthodontic step. In the orthodontic system 200, there are M shell-shaped dental instruments 100, any one of those in Embodiment 1, where 2 ≤ M < N. For example, it can be 2, 3, or any natural number less than N, which can be determined according to actual needs and is not limited here.

[0079] Further explanation: In the M-group shell-shaped dental instruments 100, the overall height of the first and second repositioning jaw elements on different groups of shell-shaped dental instruments in the gingival-maxillary direction gradually decreases as the orthodontic treatment progresses. Here, the overall height of the first and second repositioning jaw elements in the gingival-maxillary direction refers to the height dimension in the gingival-maxillary direction after the first and second repositioning jaw elements are in contact when the shell-shaped dental instrument is worn (see Example 1). Figure 14 and Figure 15 (H1, H2, H3, or H4 shown). The overall height can be gradually reduced in several ways, for example, by gradually decreasing the height of the first repositioning jaw element in the gingival-maxillary direction on different groups of the shell-shaped dental instruments 100 within the M groups as the treatment progresses; or, by gradually decreasing the height of the second repositioning jaw element in the gingival-maxillary direction as the treatment progresses; or, by gradually decreasing the height of both the first and second repositioning jaw elements in the gingival-maxillary direction as the treatment progresses; all of these methods can achieve a gradual decrease in the overall height of the first and second repositioning jaw elements in the gingival-maxillary direction as the treatment progresses. Typically, in the early stages of orthodontic treatment, when patients may have misaligned, crowded, or maloccluded teeth, the overall height of the repositioning occlusal element assembly on the shell-shaped dental instrument 100 of this application in the gingival-occlusal direction can be designed to open the patient's bite, thereby eliminating the mutual interference between the upper and lower teeth and providing sufficient space for tooth movement. As the orthodontic process progresses and the teeth gradually move to the correct occlusal position, it is also necessary to gradually reduce the overall height of the repositioning occlusal element assembly on different sets of shell-shaped dental instruments 100 in the gingival-occlusal direction to adapt to the new occlusal relationship, so that the upper and lower teeth can better contact and cooperate.

[0080] Specifically, when M=3, taking the orthodontic treatment through three stages as an example, different shell-shaped dental instruments are used in each stage. For example, the shell-shaped dental instruments used in the second stage are the same as those used after the first stage, and the shell-shaped dental instruments used in the third stage are the same as those used after the second stage. The difference between the shell-shaped dental instruments used in the three stages is that the overall height of the first and second repositioning jaw elements on the shell-shaped dental instruments used in the second stage is smaller than that of the first and second repositioning jaw elements on the shell-shaped dental instruments used in the first stage, and the overall height of the first and second repositioning jaw elements on the shell-shaped dental instruments used in the third stage is smaller than that of the first and second repositioning jaw elements on the shell-shaped dental instruments used in the second stage.

[0081] It should be noted that the above embodiments can be freely combined as needed to form different new implementation schemes without causing contradictions. All implementation schemes formed by such combinations are within the protection scope of this application. In order to save space in the application text, they will not be described in detail here.

[0082] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of this application. It should be noted that for those skilled in the art, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the inventive principle of this invention, and these improvements and modifications should also be considered within the scope of protection of this application.

[0083] Similarly, the above descriptions are merely specific embodiments of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A shell-shaped dental instrument for adjusting the intermaxillary relationship of a patient, comprising a maxillary shell-shaped body for accommodating the dental cavity of the patient's maxillary teeth, and a mandibular shell-shaped body for accommodating the dental cavity of the patient's mandibular teeth; characterized in that, Also includes: A repositioning jaw element assembly includes a first repositioning jaw element fixedly connected to the buccal or lingual surfaces of the left and right sides of the posterior tooth region of the maxillary shell-shaped body, and a second repositioning jaw element fixedly connected to the buccal or lingual surfaces of the left and right sides of the posterior tooth region of the mandibular shell-shaped body. The first and second repositioning jaw elements are disposed on the same side. The first repositioning jaw element includes a first fixing part, a first connecting part, and a first locking part connected in sequence. The first fixing part is formed by extending from the buccal or lingual side of the maxillary shell-like body at a predetermined position in a direction away from the teeth, and has a predetermined length in the mesiodistal direction. The first connecting part is formed by extending from the mesial or distal end of the first fixing part in the gingival-maxillary direction toward the opposing jaw. The first locking part is formed by extending from the end of the first connecting part away from the first fixing part in the mesiodistal direction. The first fixing part, the first connecting part, and the first locking part enclose a first accommodating space. The second repositioning jaw element includes a second fixing part, a second connecting part, and a second locking part connected in sequence. The second fixing part extends from the buccal or lingual side of the mandibular shell-like body at a predetermined position in a direction away from the teeth, and has a predetermined length along the mesiodistal direction. The second connecting part extends from the mesial or distal end of the second fixing part along the gingival-occlusal direction towards the opposing jaw. The second locking part extends from the two ends of the second connecting part away from the second fixing part along the mesiodistal direction. The second fixing part, the second connecting part, and the second locking part together form a second accommodating space. When worn, the first locking part is accommodated within the second accommodating space, and the second locking part is accommodated within the first accommodating space. The free end of the first locking part abuts against the second connecting part in the sagittal direction, and the free end of the second locking part abuts against the first connecting part in the sagittal direction. This restricts relative movement between the maxillary shell-shaped body and the mandibular shell-shaped body in the sagittal direction, thereby stabilizing the maxillary shell-shaped body and the mandibular shell-shaped body in the first target position in the sagittal direction. The first fixing part, the second locking part, the first locking part, and the second fixing part abut against each other sequentially in the gingival-maxillary direction, thereby improving the overall anti-deformation capability of the repositioning jaw element assembly during maxillary and mandibular occlusion, thereby stabilizing the maxillary shell-shaped body and the mandibular shell-shaped body in the second target position in the gingival-maxillary direction.

2. The shell-shaped dental instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first locking portion and the inner wall of the second accommodating space in the gingival-maxillary direction are mutually abutted, and / or the second locking portion and the inner wall of the first accommodating space in the gingival-maxillary direction are mutually abutted.

3. The shell-shaped dental instrument according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first locking part and the second locking part are arranged parallel to the patient's occlusal surface.

4. The shell-shaped dental instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one of the following surfaces is provided with a friction structure: the upper and lower surfaces of the first locking part, the surface on which the first fixing part and the second locking part contact each other in the gingival-maxillary direction, the upper and lower surfaces of the second locking part, and the surface on which the second fixing part and the first locking part contact each other in the gingival-maxillary direction.

5. The shell-shaped dental instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The upper and lower surfaces of the first locking part, the surface of the first fixing part and the second locking part that contact each other in the gingival-maxillary direction, the upper and lower surfaces of the second locking part, and the surface of the second fixing part and the first locking part that contact each other in the gingival-maxillary direction, wherein at least one set of contacting surfaces is provided with a set of mutually matching limiting structures, and after wearing, the limiting structures match each other to restrict the relative movement of the first repositioning jaw element and the second repositioning jaw element in the sagittal direction.

6. The shell-shaped dental instrument according to claim 5, characterized in that, The limiting structure consists of a set of matching concave and convex portions.

7. The shell-shaped dental instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one of the upper and lower inner surfaces of the first accommodating space at the end away from the first connecting portion is provided with a first guide portion to guide the second locking portion into the first accommodating space; and / or, at least one of the upper and lower inner surfaces of the second accommodating space at the end away from the second connecting portion is provided with a second guide portion to guide the first locking portion into the second accommodating space.

8. The shell-shaped dental instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first repositioning jaw element is separately disposed from the maxillary shell-shaped body. The posterior tooth region of the maxillary shell-shaped body is provided with a plurality of spaced first mounting bases along the mesiodistal direction. The first repositioning jaw element is mounted on the maxillary shell-shaped body through one of the first mounting bases. And / or, the second repositioning jaw element is separately disposed from the mandibular shell-shaped body. The posterior tooth region of the mandibular shell-shaped body is provided with a plurality of spaced second mounting bases along the mesiodistal direction. The second repositioning jaw element is mounted on the mandibular shell-shaped body through one of the second mounting bases.

9. The shell-shaped dental instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first repositioning jaw element is separately disposed from the maxillary shell-shaped body. A third mounting base is provided in the posterior tooth region of the maxillary shell-shaped body along the mesiodistal direction. The third mounting base is provided with a plurality of first mounting parts spaced apart along the mesiodistal direction. The first repositioning jaw element is mounted to the maxillary shell-shaped body through one of the first mounting parts. And / or, the second repositioning jaw element is separately disposed from the mandibular shell-shaped body. A fourth mounting base is provided in the posterior tooth region of the mandibular shell-shaped body along the mesiodistal direction. The fourth mounting base is provided with a plurality of second mounting parts spaced apart along the mesiodistal direction. The second repositioning jaw element is mounted to the mandibular shell-shaped body through one of the second mounting parts.

10. The shell-shaped dental instrument according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first mounting part is a mounting hole, and the first fixing part is provided with a mounting protrusion on the tooth side, and / or, the second mounting part is a mounting hole, and the second fixing part is provided with a mounting protrusion on the tooth side; wherein, the mounting hole and the mounting protrusion are elastically fitted, and when the mounting hole and the mounting protrusion are fitted together, the mounting hole or the mounting protrusion undergoes elastic deformation so that the mounting protrusion can be accommodated in the mounting hole.

11. The shell-shaped dental instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shell-shaped dental instrument comprises a plurality of first repositioning jaw elements and / or second repositioning jaw elements with different height dimensions in the gingival and maxillary direction, wherein the first repositioning jaw elements and / or second repositioning jaw elements with different height dimensions can open the patient's bite to different heights after being worn.

12. The shell-shaped dental instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first repositioning jaw element is a hollow structure integrally formed with the maxillary shell-like body. The buccal or lingual side of the first repositioning jaw element is provided with a plurality of first reinforcing ridges to improve the deformation resistance of the first repositioning jaw element. The first reinforcing ridges are formed by the buccal or lingual side of the first repositioning jaw element being concave inward or convex outward. The second repositioning jaw element is a hollow structure integrally formed with the mandibular shell-like body. The buccal or lingual side of the second repositioning jaw element is provided with a plurality of second reinforcing ridges to improve the deformation resistance of the second repositioning jaw element. The second reinforcing ridges are formed by the buccal or lingual side of the second repositioning jaw element being concave inward or convex outward.

13. The shell-shaped dental instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first repositioning jaw element is a hollow structure integrally formed with the maxillary shell-like body, and the second repositioning jaw element is a hollow structure integrally formed with the mandibular shell-like body. At least the first locking part and the second locking part are respectively provided with a reinforcing block inside. The reinforcing block is respectively attached to the inner sidewall of the first locking part and the second locking part to improve the deformation resistance of the first locking part and the second locking part in the gingival-maxillary direction.

14. The shell-shaped dental instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first repositioning jaw element is made of a different material than the maxillary shell-shaped body, and the second repositioning jaw element is made of a different material than the mandibular shell-shaped body. The hardness and stiffness of the materials of the first repositioning jaw element and the second repositioning jaw element are greater than the hardness and stiffness of the materials of the maxillary shell-shaped body and the mandibular shell-shaped body, respectively.

15. The shell-shaped dental instrument according to claim 14, characterized in that, The first and second repositioning jaw elements can be made of ceramic or metal and are connected to the maxillary shell-shaped body and the mandibular shell-shaped body by means of bonding, riveting or laser welding.

16. The shell-shaped dental instrument according to claim 14, characterized in that, At least one of the following surfaces—the upper and lower surfaces of the first locking portion, the surface of the first fixing portion and the second locking portion that contact each other in the gingival-maxillary direction, the upper and lower surfaces of the second locking portion, and the surface of the second fixing portion and the first locking portion that contact each other in the gingival-maxillary direction—is provided with a slow-release portion to improve patient comfort.

17. An orthodontic system comprising N sets of shell-shaped dental instruments, characterized in that, The N sets of shell-shaped dental instruments correspond to N successive orthodontic steps. Each of the N sets of shell-shaped dental instruments can reposition the teeth from the initial layout of the corresponding orthodontic step to the target layout of the corresponding orthodontic step. The N sets of shell-shaped dental instruments include at least M sets of shell-shaped dental instruments as described in any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein M is greater than or equal to 2 and less than N.

18. The orthodontic system according to claim 17, characterized in that, In the M-group shell-shaped dental instruments, the overall height of the first and second repositioning jaw elements on different groups of shell-shaped dental instruments in the gingival-maxillary direction gradually decreases as the orthodontic treatment progresses.

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