Method and system for modular rapid prototyping and reworking of spacers

Abstract

This invention provides a method and system for the modular rapid fabrication and remanufacturing of space maintainers, belonging to the field of oral medical device technology. The method includes: placing a retention component into the patient's mouth and collecting intraoral scanning data; determining an assembly reference based on the intraoral scanning data; determining the initial path and connection data of the wire component based on the reference; optimizing the initial path to obtain the final wire geometry, converting it into bending control parameters, and controlling an automatic bending machine to bend the stainless steel wire to obtain the wire component; and using a connecting structure to non-weldedly connect the wire component to the retention component to obtain the space maintainer. Compared with existing technologies, this invention achieves retention of the retention component, independent design and processing of the wire component, and direct linkage between design parameters and bending equipment; it can be disassembled and reassembled through a non-welded structure, facilitating clinical cleaning and rapid remanufacturing; and the space maintainer can be fabricated and worn at the chairside on the same day, maximizing the efficiency of preserving edentulous space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of dental medical device technology, and in particular to a method and system for the modular rapid fabrication and remanufacturing of space maintainers. Background Technology

[0002] Space maintainers are commonly used devices for space management in dentistry. Currently, their fabrication process often requires taking impressions or using digital oral scanning to obtain information about the patient's dentition. The model or data is then transported or sent to the dental laboratory for fabrication. After fabrication, the device is sent to the clinic for intraoral placement by the dentist. Existing space maintainers are mainly ring-type, including ringed wire retainers, lingual arch retainers, and transpalatal bar retainers (TPA). These maintainers typically require the clinician to select the appropriate ring size, place the ring on the model, and then the technician manually bends the wire according to the model and uses welding technology to fix the wire to the ring. Finally, the maintainer is retained in the oral cavity through bonding between the ring and the tooth. However, this fabrication method has the following drawbacks: First, the accuracy and comfort of the retainer depend to a large extent on the precision of the model, the technician's personal experience and skill level, resulting in poor stability and significant differences between different operators.

[0003] Secondly, the entire process requires a long production cycle, so patients usually need to make two visits, or even more visits due to rework, increasing the time and financial costs for both patients and medical staff. Furthermore, there is a higher risk of the gap at the missing tooth site narrowing during the waiting period.

[0004] Third, if the space maintainer breaks or breaks during later use, especially since the weld points are often weak points and prone to fracture, or if changes in the oral condition due to adjacent tooth growth, eruption, tilting, or jawbone development necessitate remaking or redesign, current technology typically requires removing the old maintainer and repeating the previous process, making the treatment cumbersome. Similarly, after the maintainer is worn in the patient's mouth, some areas cannot be thoroughly cleaned, requiring complete removal for cleaning.

[0005] Fourth, when using pre-made bandages, the position of the selected bandage worn intraorally cannot be accurately replicated on the model. Furthermore, the position of the bandage placed on the model by the technician, and the steel wire bent and fixed accordingly, cannot be accurately reproduced during clinical wear, thus there is a significant possibility of error.

[0006] Fifth, even in scenarios using digital intraoral scanning and design software, most still rely on doctors or technicians to manually identify the boundaries of retaining teeth, edentulous areas, adjacent teeth, and soft tissues, then manually plan the wire path, and manually determine the bending sequence, bending angle, and compensation amount. This still depends on human experience and makes it difficult to achieve stable, fast, and reproducible chairside fabrication.

[0007] Another commonly used method for manufacturing retainers using digital design involves obtaining intraoral data using intraoral scanning technology, designing the band and wire components using software, and then using 3D printing technology to print the entire metal gap retainer. The drawback of this technology is that: First, the fixing components and the steel wire components are made using integrated 3D printing technology. After printing, they also need to be annealed and polished, a process that takes several hours. Without skilled workers and multiple special equipment, it is impossible to complete the production and wearing of the chair on the same day.

[0008] Secondly, when the space maintainer cannot be worn due to scanning errors or changes in the intraoral condition and clinical adjustments to the wire part are required, the 3D-printed wire cannot be adjusted because it lacks flexibility.

[0009] Third, it shares the same drawbacks as traditional manufacturing methods: if the space maintainer breaks or is damaged during later use, or if changes in the oral condition due to the growth, eruption, tilting of adjacent teeth, or jawbone development necessitate remaking or redesigning, the old maintainer usually needs to be removed and the previous process repeated, making the treatment cumbersome. Similarly, some areas of the maintainer cannot be thoroughly cleaned after it is worn in the patient's mouth, requiring complete removal for cleaning.

[0010] In the prior art, Chinese patent applications CN118453158A and CN121242762A both use 3D printing resin to fabricate space maintainers, changing the traditional metal material and the manufacturing process of manual bending and welding fixation. This solves the problem of traditional space maintainers requiring technician welding, but it does not fully consider the strength of the space maintainer during clinical use and the changes in the distance between patients' teeth, especially for children during growth and development. Chinese patent CN222738024U proposes a prefabricated space maintainer, but it is only applicable to a banded wire loop space maintainer used when a single molar is missing. It does not fully describe how the band adapts to different abutment tooth sizes, how it is fixed or connected to the connecting structure, or how the prefabricated contact structure achieves good conformation with the clinically varying tooth surface morphology. In addition, Chinese patent CN107157597A proposes a universal semi-coil spacer that can be used immediately. It is small in size and has little foreign body sensation, but its retainer does not have a stable grip with the tooth. It only relies on a small area of ​​bonding to achieve retention, which makes it easy to fall off. Once it falls off, its small size may cause the patient to swallow it accidentally. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the defects of the prior art and provide a modular rapid manufacturing and remanufacturing method and system for gap retainers. It can achieve retention of retention components, independent design and processing of wire components, direct linkage between wire component design parameter output and bending equipment, and non-welded disassembly and assembly in the later stage, which is convenient for cleaning and rapid remanufacturing, forming a closed loop from "oral scan data" to "automatic wire bending, non-welded assembly and subsequent partial replacement".

[0012] The objective of this invention can be achieved through the following technical solution: a method for modular rapid fabrication and remanufacturing of a gap retainer, comprising the following steps: S1. Select a suitable-sized fixation device, place it inside the patient's mouth, and collect the patient's oral scan data; S2. Based on the scanning data, determine the assembly reference corresponding to the fixed component; S3. Based on the assembly datum, determine the initial path of the steel wire component and the corresponding connection data; S4. Optimize and adjust the initial path to obtain the final wire geometry; S5. Convert the geometry of the steel wire into bending control parameters to control the automatic bending machine to bend the stainless steel wire and obtain steel wire parts. S6. The steel wire component and the retention component are connected in a non-welding manner using a connecting structure to obtain a gap maintainer adapted to the patient. When it is necessary to remake the gap maintainer in the future, if the retention component still meets the clinical use requirements and continues to be retained in the patient's mouth, the oral scan data containing the retention component is re-acquired, and steps S2 to S5 are performed to obtain a new wire component, and then the new wire component is connected to the retention component in a non-welding manner. The gap maintainer is specifically a ring-type, tongue-arch type, transpalatal bar TPA, or Nance arch type gap maintainer.

[0013] Furthermore, the retaining component in S1 includes a ring and a connecting structure. The connecting structure is installed on the cheek and / or tongue surface of the ring to limit and lock the end of the wire component, so that the wire component and the retaining component form a detachable non-welded connection.

[0014] Furthermore, the connecting structure includes a base plate and a cover plate. The base plate is fixed on the belt ring. The upper end of the base plate is provided with a placement groove. The bottom of the placement groove is provided with a limiting groove that cooperates with the end of the steel wire component. The cover plate is slidably installed in the placement groove and abuts against the upper end face of the limiting groove. The front end of the cover plate is provided with a snap-fit ​​block. The inner side of the placement groove opposite to the snap-fit ​​block is provided with a snap-fit ​​groove that cooperates with the snap-fit ​​block. The snap-fit ​​block is snapped into the snap-fit ​​groove.

[0015] The placement groove has an installation opening on one side, and the snap-fit ​​groove is located on the opposite side of the installation opening. The cover plate is inserted into the placement groove through the installation opening. The placement groove has a placement opening on one side, and one end of the limiting groove passes through the placement opening.

[0016] The cover plate has an inverted T-shaped structure. Slide rails are symmetrically arranged on the left and right sides of the cover plate. The inner walls of the placement groove on both sides parallel to the moving direction of the cover plate are provided with sliding grooves that cooperate with the slide rails. The slide rails can be slidably inserted into the sliding grooves through the installation openings. The bottom of the placement groove is provided with a limiting protrusion. The side of the cover plate near the bottom of the placement groove is provided with a cover plate groove that cooperates with the limiting protrusion. The limiting protrusion is engaged in the cover plate groove to limit the sliding range of the cover plate.

[0017] The snap-fit ​​block has a trapezoidal structure, and the snap-fit ​​groove includes a snap-fit ​​cavity and a limiting end. The limiting end is located at the end of the snap-fit ​​cavity near the cover plate and is used to limit the snap-fit ​​block in the snap-fit ​​cavity. The upper end surface of the snap-fit ​​block is lower than the upper end surface of the cover plate. The back of the limiting end is provided with an unlocking hole, which is located on the upper end surface of the base plate. When the cover plate is snapped into the base plate, the unlocking hole is located between the snap-fit ​​block and the top of the cover plate.

[0018] Furthermore, the oral scan data collected in S1 includes information on the retained teeth, edentulous areas, adjacent teeth, soft tissue, opposing teeth, and three-dimensional data of the retained components after the patient wears the retention device.

[0019] Furthermore, S2 specifically involves identifying the existing tooth position and gap region recognition model based on the oral scan data input, recognizing the affixed teeth, edentulous areas, adjacent teeth, soft tissue boundaries, opposing occlusal space, and actual spatial positions of the affixation components in the oral scan data, determining the connection position, connection direction, and assembly relationship between the wire end and the connection structure on the affixation components, thereby obtaining the assembly reference.

[0020] The assembly references include the spatial position of the retention component in the patient's mouth, the connection position of the connecting structure, the connection direction, the position of the limiting groove, the direction of the wire end entering the connecting structure, the matching relationship between the wire end and the connecting structure, and the design boundary of the wire component relative to the retention tooth, the edentulous area, adjacent teeth, soft tissue boundary and the opposing occlusal space.

[0021] The above-mentioned identification and positioning can be achieved through existing dental digital design software, tooth position recognition models, three-dimensional image processing algorithms or manual calibration methods. This invention does not limit the specific identification algorithm.

[0022] Existing tooth position and gap region identification models are mainly based on deep learning algorithms, including the following mature solutions: MeshSegNet deep learning network processes raw mesh data directly end-to-end, outputs the tooth position assignment probability of each mesh cell, and realizes automatic tooth position labeling; ToothInstanceNet two-stage model: Introduces DL alignment module and FDI perception post-processing algorithm to support high-precision segmentation of the whole dental arch and part dental arch (including edentulous areas); Transformer-based framework: For incomplete dental arch scan data, it achieves robust segmentation of complex scenarios such as missing teeth and prepared teeth through classification reasoning; Furthermore, S3 specifically involves using existing digital design software to have the doctor design the wire path by plotting points. A deep learning model can be used as an optional auxiliary method. The deep learning model learns the correspondence between the wire path and the intraoral anatomical structure and the connection position of the fixation component in historical gap maintainer design cases, thereby assisting in generating an initial wire path that meets preset constraints. This initial path includes the connection segment, gap span, bend segment, and end position that match the wire component and the connection structure. Among them, the part of the wire within the connection structure on the fixation component, that is, the U-shaped bend at the end of the wire, matches the limiting groove on the bottom plate of the connection structure and is set as the automatically generated part.

[0023] Existing wire path generation models mainly employ intelligent algorithm-optimized path generation models, including the following mature solutions: Improved particle swarm optimization algorithm: Introduce collision penalty function and medical constraints to optimize archwire path to avoid soft tissue interference, and achieve high-precision, interactive solution design; Geometric reasoning directed graph model: Construct a directed graph of assembly relationships, and optimize the connection path between the bow wire and the retaining components based on the spatial feasibility of the disassembly and assembly paths.

[0024] Furthermore, the preset constraints include: the U-shaped bend at the end of the wire matches the limiting groove structure in the retention component, the connection is stable, it fits the contact surface with the abutment tooth, it avoids soft tissue and adjacent / opposing teeth, it avoids the occlusal interference area of ​​the opposing teeth, it meets the clinical wearing space requirements, and it meets the processing capability requirements of the automatic bending machine.

[0025] Furthermore, S5 specifically involves inputting the final wire morphology data into an existing bending parameter prediction model and outputting bending control parameters.

[0026] Existing bending parameter prediction models are mainly based on three technical approaches: analytical geometric algorithms, mechanical models, and data-driven intelligent algorithms, supporting accurate mapping from morphological data to bending control parameters. (1) Analytical geometry driven parameter prediction model Finite-point generating method model: Discretize the three-dimensional curve of the steel wire into a sequence of feature points, and generate B-code parameters such as bending angle (θ), wire feeding length (L), and rotation angle (β) by calculating the spatial vector relationship between adjacent points, which is suitable for automatic bending machines; Projection plane angle synthesis method: The three-dimensional bending is decomposed into two-dimensional bending in three planes: XY, YZ, and ZX. The spatial bending parameters are calculated by synthesizing the projection angles to realize the step-by-step bending of complex three-dimensional shapes. NURBS curve discretization model: The NURBS curve representation of steel wire is converted into a combination of polyline and circular arc, generating segmented control parameters that can be recognized by the bending machine.

[0027] (2) Parameter prediction and rebound compensation driven by mechanical model Timoshenko beam theory model: Based on the bending theory of beams, it calculates bending force and springback, establishes a mapping relationship of "target angle → bending angle → springback angle", and achieves accurate over-bending compensation. Online force detection and compensation model: The force-displacement curve during the bending process is monitored in real time by force sensors, and the bending parameters are dynamically adjusted to compensate for differences in material properties.

[0028] (3) Data-driven intelligent parameter prediction model The BP neural network model takes morphological parameters and material properties as inputs and bending parameters as outputs, and can learn nonlinear mapping relationships in historical data. An improved genetic algorithm optimization model introduces a collision penalty function and accuracy constraints, which can optimize the bending sequence and parameter combination, balancing accuracy and efficiency. The Physical Information Machine Learning Model (PIMLM) combines analytical mechanics models with data-driven models, achieving both physical consistency and data fitting accuracy. In addition, the LSTM time-series prediction model can handle the temporal dependencies of the bending process, optimize the bending sequence and motion planning, and reduce vibration and impact.

[0029] Furthermore, the bending control parameters in S5 include bending angle, bending sequence, feed rate, clamping position, cutting position, and compensation amount based on material springback and equipment error.

[0030] A modular rapid manufacturing and remanufacturing system for gap maintainers includes a retention component, an intraoral scan data acquisition module, a wire design module, an automatic bending and processing module, and an optimization and update module. The intraoral scan data acquisition module is used to acquire three-dimensional data of the patient's teeth, edentulous area, adjacent teeth, soft tissue, and retention component under trial wearing conditions. The steel wire design module includes an assembly datum determination unit, a steel wire path generation unit, an optimization and adjustment unit, and a bending parameter conversion unit. The assembly datum determination unit is used to determine the assembly datum corresponding to the fixed component; the steel wire path generation unit is used to determine the initial path of the steel wire component and the corresponding connection data; the optimization and adjustment unit is used to optimize and adjust the initial path and output the final steel wire geometry; the bending parameter conversion unit is used to convert the steel wire geometry into bending control parameters and output them to the automatic bending processing module. The output of the automatic bending processing module is connected to the automatic bending machine, and is used to drive and control the automatic bending machine to complete the wire bending operation according to the bending control parameters to obtain the wire component. The optimization and update module is connected to the assembly reference determination unit, the wire path generation unit, and the bending parameter conversion unit respectively, so as to update and store relevant data information for subsequent optimization and improvement of each unit.

[0031] Furthermore, the assembly reference determination unit is equipped with a tooth position, retention component, and gap area recognition model. The wire path generation unit is equipped with a wire path generation model. The bending parameter conversion unit is equipped with a bending parameter prediction model.

[0032] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages: (1) This invention sets the fixation component and the wire component as a separable modular structure, so that the wire component can be designed, processed and replaced independently relative to the fixation component. When the fixation component still meets the clinical fixation requirements, there is no need to completely remove and remake the gap maintainer. Only the wire component needs to be replaced or remade to complete the repair or adjustment of the treatment plan, thereby simplifying the diagnosis and treatment process and reducing the burden of follow-up visits for patients and the clinical manufacturing cost.

[0033] (2) This invention enables a detachable, non-welded connection between the wire component and the retaining component by setting a connecting structure on the retaining component. Compared with the traditional welding fixing method, this invention can reduce the impact of weld breakage, welding deformation and welding quality differences on the strength and adaptability of the retainer, and improve the structural reliability and manufacturing consistency of the gap retainer connection part; at the same time, when cleaning, inspection, adjustment or replacement is required, the wire component can be removed from the retaining component, and reassembled after processing, thereby improving the maintenance convenience during long-term wear.

[0034] (3) In this invention, oral scan data is collected after the retention component is placed in the patient's mouth, and the assembly reference of the wire component is determined based on the actual position of the retention component in the patient's mouth. As a result, the design of the wire component no longer depends on the secondary repositioning of the retention component on the model, which can avoid the error caused by the inability to accurately reproduce the position of the loop between the model and the mouth in the traditional manufacturing process, improve the fitting accuracy between the wire component and the actual intraoral structure of the patient, and make the resulting gap maintainer more accurate than the traditional manufacturing method.

[0035] (4) This invention enables the chairside completion of retention component trial fitting, intraoral scanning data acquisition, wire component design, automatic bending processing, and assembly, thereby shortening the traditional manufacturing cycle of "impression or intraoral scanning, laboratory fabrication, and return visit for fitting". In cases where the gap between missing teeth is prone to change over time, this invention can complete the fabrication and fitting of the retainer on the same day of the visit, minimizing the risk of adjacent teeth moving or the gap narrowing during the waiting period, and facilitating more accurate maintenance of the gap between missing teeth.

[0036] (5) This invention can determine the initial path and connection data of the wire component based on the oral scanning data, and convert the optimized final wire geometry into bending control parameters that can be executed by the automatic bending machine, so as to control the automatic bending machine to complete the wire bending. This can reduce the dependence on the experience of technicians in the traditional manual bending process, reduce the processing differences between different operators, improve the efficiency, accuracy and repeatability of wire component manufacturing, and facilitate the rapid chairside production of gap retainers.

[0037] (6) This invention is applicable to the rapid remanufacturing of space retainers and the modification of various ring-type space retainer schemes. When the wire component breaks or deforms, or needs to be remanufactured due to the eruption of adjacent teeth, dentition development, gap changes, etc., the original retention component can be retained, the current intraoral data can be re-acquired, and the original design saved in the software can be compared and modified or the wire component can be redesigned and bent. When it is necessary to adjust the retainer design scheme, the retention component can be added / removed while retaining the usable retention component, the wire component can be redesigned and bent, and then assembled with the retention component through the connecting structure, thereby shortening the remanufacturing cycle. At the same time, this invention is applicable to ring-type space retainers, lingual arches, transpalatal bars, and Nance arches, etc., improving the versatility and scalability of the space retainer manufacturing and remanufacturing method. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the method flow of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure in this invention; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the cut-off connection structure after the cover is closed; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the cut-off connection structure after the cover plate is opened; Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the connection structure on the front side when the cover is open; Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the connection structure on the back of the cover when it is opened; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the system structure of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the wire component of the loop-type gap retainer and a loop in Embodiment 3; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the wire component of the tongue arch-type gap maintainer acting on the mandible and the two belt loops in Example 4; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the transpalatal bar space maintainer wire component acting on the maxilla and the two belt loops in Example 5; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the Nance arch gap maintainer wire component acting on the maxilla and the two loops in Example 5; Explanation of markings in the diagram: 1. Base plate; 11. Placement groove; 111. Installation opening; 112. Slide groove; 113. Placement opening; 12. Limiting groove; 13. Snap-fit ​​groove; 131. Snap-fit ​​cavity; 132. Limiting end; 133. Locking hole; 14. Limiting protrusion; 2. Cover plate; 21. Snap-fit ​​block; 22. Slide rail; 23. Cover plate groove; 3. Steel wire; 4. Ring; 5. Nance bracket; 101. Oral scan data acquisition module; 102. Steel wire design module; 103. Automatic bending processing module; 104. Optimization and update module; 105. Automatic bending machine; 1021. Assembly datum determination unit; 1022. Steel wire path generation unit; 1023. Optimization and adjustment unit; 1024. Bending parameter conversion unit. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0040] Example 1 To address the shortcomings in the fabrication and practical application of existing space retainers, this solution first proposes a modular space retainer that separates the retention component from the wire component. This allows for same-day chairside fabrication and fitting. If the wire component breaks, the retainer deforms, or the design needs adjustment, the wire component can be replaced separately. Furthermore, the retention component can remain in the patient's mouth as long as clinical conditions are met, eliminating the need for complete removal and re-fabrication, thus significantly improving chairside treatment efficiency. In addition, to achieve efficient and accurate fabrication of the aforementioned space retainer, this solution designs a method for the modular rapid fabrication and re-fabrication of space retainers, such as... Figure 1 As shown, it includes the following steps: S1. Select a suitable-sized fixation device, place it inside the patient's mouth, and collect the patient's oral scan data; S2. Based on the scanning data, determine the assembly reference corresponding to the fixed component; S3. Based on the assembly datum, determine the initial path of the steel wire component and the corresponding connection data; S4. Optimize and adjust the initial path to obtain the final wire geometry; S5. Convert the geometry of the steel wire into bending control parameters to control the automatic bending machine to bend the stainless steel wire and obtain steel wire parts. S6. The steel wire component and the retention component are connected in a non-welding manner using a connecting structure to obtain a gap maintainer adapted to the patient.

[0041] The retention components include a band and a connecting structure. The band is a clinically standard band, available in different tooth positions and sizes. The connecting structure is installed on the buccal and / or lingual surface of the band to form a detachable, non-welded connection with the wire components. Specifically, such as... Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the connecting structure includes a base plate 1 and a cover plate 2. In this embodiment, the end of the steel wire 3 is a bent U-shaped segment, and the base plate 1 is fixed on the ring 4. The upper end of the base plate 1 is provided with a placement groove 11, and the bottom of the placement groove 11 is provided with a limiting groove 12 that cooperates with the U-shaped segment. The cover plate 2 can be slidably installed in the placement groove 11 and abuts against the upper end face of the limiting groove 12. The front end of the cover plate 2 is provided with a snap-fit ​​block 21, and the inner side of the placement groove 11 opposite to the snap-fit ​​block 21 is provided with a snap-fit ​​groove 13 that cooperates with the snap-fit ​​block 21. The snap-fit ​​block 21 is snapped into the snap-fit ​​groove 13.

[0042] Working principle: This connection structure pre-fixes the base plate 1 to the ring 4. When assembling the steel wire 3, the cover plate 2 is first slid away from the snap-fit ​​groove 13 to open the space above the limiting groove 12. Then, the U-shaped section at the end of the steel wire 3 is embedded into the limiting groove 12 at the bottom of the placement groove 11. The U-shaped inner contour of the limiting groove 12 and the U-shaped section of the steel wire 3 form a geometric fit. When the steel wire 3 is not subjected to a vertical upward pulling force, the bent part of the U-shaped section abuts against the arc-shaped groove wall of the limiting groove 12, thereby naturally restricting the tensile displacement of the steel wire 3 along its own length direction and its swing in its plane. After the U-shaped segment of the steel wire 3 is placed in position, the cover plate 2 is pushed to slide along the placement groove 11 towards its front end until the lower end face of the cover plate 2 presses against the opening area of ​​the upper end face of the limiting groove 12, thus enclosing the U-shaped segment of the steel wire 3 within the cavity formed by the limiting groove 12 and the lower end face of the cover plate 2, thereby restricting the radial freedom of the steel wire 3 to escape. When the cover plate 2 slides to the predetermined locking position, the locking block 21 at its front end is precisely engaged in the locking groove 13 inside the placement groove 11, and the two achieve self-locking through interference fit or reverse locking.

[0043] The aforementioned connection structure replaces the traditional welded integrated connection between the steel wire and the ring with a reversible mechanical assembly connection. This eliminates the need for welding, achieving a secure lock on the end of the steel wire 3. Furthermore, when the steel wire 3 needs to be replaced, adjusted, or disassembled, only a reverse thrust greater than the self-locking force is applied to disengage the locking block 21 from the locking groove 13, and the cover plate 2 can be slid open in the opposite direction to remove the steel wire 3. The entire process does not damage the structural integrity of the base plate 1 and the cover plate 2, achieving flexible, safe, and repeatable assembly and disassembly between the steel wire 3 and the ring 4.

[0044] In this embodiment, regarding the assembly and guiding structure of the cover plate 2 and the placement groove 11 mentioned above, as follows: Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, a mounting opening 111 is provided on one side of the placement slot 11, and a snap-fit ​​groove 13 is located on the opposite side of the mounting opening 111. The cover plate 2 is inserted into the placement slot 11 through the mounting opening 111. This structure clearly defines that the insertion direction and locking direction of the cover plate 2 are along the same axis and opposite to each other: the cover plate 2 is horizontally pushed into the placement slot 11 from the side with the mounting opening 111 until the snap-fit ​​block 21 at its front end reaches and snaps into the snap-fit ​​groove 13 on the opposite inner wall. This unidirectional push-in assembly structure allows the doctor to complete the entire process from opening to locking simply by holding the cover plate 2 and applying force in one direction in the narrow oral cavity environment. The operation path is clear and intuitive, avoiding the inconvenience of multi-directional alignment. At the same time, the mounting opening 111, as the only channel for the cover plate 2 to move in and out, limits the range of motion of the cover plate 2, which helps to improve assembly efficiency and operational reliability.

[0045] In this embodiment, regarding the cross-sectional shape of the cover plate 2 and its sliding fit with the base plate 1 mentioned above, as follows: Figure 5 As shown, the cover plate 2 has an inverted T-shaped structure. Slide rails 22 are symmetrically arranged on both the left and right sides of the cover plate 2. Slide grooves 112, which mate with the slide rails 22, are provided on the inner walls of the placement groove 11 on both sides parallel to the moving direction of the cover plate 2. The slide rails 22 can be slidably inserted into the slide grooves through the installation opening 111. When the cover plate 2 is inserted through the installation opening 111, the slide rails 22 on both sides simultaneously slide into the slide grooves 112 on the two inner walls of the placement groove 11.

[0046] The inverted T-shaped structure increases the width of the lower part of the cover plate 2. The slide rails 22 on both sides are constrained by the slide grooves 112 in both the vertical and horizontal directions. That is, the cover plate 2 cannot be pulled out of the placement groove 11 upwards, nor will it swing left or right. It can only slide linearly along the slide groove 112 between the installation opening 111 and the locking groove 13. This precise sliding guide not only ensures a smooth feel during the pushing and pulling process of the cover plate 2, but more importantly, after locking by the locking block 21 and the locking groove 13, the mutual constraint between the slide rails 22 and the slide groove 112 can share the multi-directional impact force that may be received by the locking interface, which greatly improves the overall structural stability and deformation resistance of the steel wire 3 under the compressed state.

[0047] In this embodiment, as Figure 5As shown, a placement opening 113 is provided on one side of the placement groove 11, and one end of the limiting groove 12 passes through the placement opening 113. The placement opening 113 provides a lateral channel for the U-shaped segment of the steel wire 3 to enter the limiting groove 12. During assembly, if the steel wire 3 cannot fall directly into the limiting groove 12 from directly above due to partial forming or interference from other structures inside the opening, the operator can horizontally move the U-shaped segment at the end of the steel wire 3 into the limiting groove 12 from the side of the placement groove 11 through the placement opening 113, increasing the flexibility of the assembly path. When the cover plate 2 closes the top of the limiting groove 12, the lower end face and side structure of the cover plate 2 will also block or seal the channel of the placement opening 113, so that the U-shaped segment of the steel wire 3 is completely confined within the closed space and will not come loose from the side.

[0048] In this embodiment, regarding the prevention of accidental displacement of the cover plate 2 in the unlocking direction mentioned above, such as... Figure 5 and 6 As shown, the bottom of the placement groove 11 is provided with a limiting protrusion 14, and the cover plate 2 has a cover plate groove 23 on the side near the bottom of the placement groove 11 that cooperates with the limiting protrusion 14. The limiting protrusion 14 is engaged in the cover plate groove 23. The side near the bottom of the placement groove 11 mentioned here refers to the area where the lower surface of the cover plate 2 is opposite to the bottom of the placement groove 11 when it is at the end of the locking stroke. When the cover plate 2 moves forward to the moment when the engaging block 21 begins to enter the engaging groove 13, the limiting protrusion 14 at the bottom of the placement groove 11 falls exactly into the cover plate groove 23 corresponding to the bottom of the cover plate 2. This mating point forms a secondary mechanical locking point on top of the locking mechanism of the cover plate 2. When the cover plate 2 is subjected to a retraction force in the direction of the installation opening 111, it resists the force by having the vertical surface of the limiting protrusion 14 abut against the groove wall of the cover plate groove 23. This provides redundant protection for the main locking mechanism between the front locking block 21 and the locking groove 13, further ensuring that the cover plate 2 will not loosen under the dynamic load of the oral cavity, thus enhancing the locking redundancy and safety of the connection structure. Another important function of the limiting protrusion 14 is to prevent the cover plate 2 from opening too wide and causing it to fall off the base plate 1 when it is opened, that is, to limit the range of motion of the cover plate 2.

[0049] In this embodiment, the specific locking structure of the aforementioned latching block 21 and latching groove 13 is as follows: Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the snap-fit ​​block 21 has a trapezoidal structure, and the snap-fit ​​groove 13 includes a snap-fit ​​cavity 131 and a limiting end 132. The limiting end 132 is located at one end of the snap-fit ​​cavity 131 near the cover plate 2 and is used to limit the snap-fit ​​block 21 inside the snap-fit ​​cavity 131. The trapezoidal snap-fit ​​block 21 has a narrow front end and a gradually widening root. When the cover plate 2 is first pushed into the snap-fit ​​groove 13, its narrow front end can easily enter and open the slightly elastic limiting end 132. As the snap-fit ​​block 21 continues to go deeper, its trapezoidal slopes on both sides force the limiting end 132 to undergo a slight elastic expansion until the snap-fit ​​block 21 completely passes the highest point on the back of the limiting end 132 and falls into the snap-fit ​​cavity 131. At this point, the limiting end 132 elastically returns to its original position, forming a steep or inverted stop surface on its back side facing the engaging cavity 131, which abuts against the tail end face of the engaging block 21, thus preventing the engaging block 21 from disengaging on its own without external force to pry it out in the opposite direction. The cooperation between the trapezoidal shape and the limiting end effectively utilizes the elasticity of the material itself to achieve a push-lock self-locking function, avoiding the use of additional snap rings or screws and other third-party parts, greatly simplifying the operation, while ensuring high strength and resistance to pull-out.

[0050] In this embodiment, based on the structure of the aforementioned latching block 21 and limiting end 132, as follows: Figure 2 As shown, the upper surface of the latching block 21 is lower than the upper surface of the cover plate 2. The back of the limiting end 132 is provided with an unlocking hole 133, which is located on the upper surface of the base plate 1. When the cover plate 2 is latched with the base plate 1, the unlocking hole 133 is located between the latching block 21 and the top of the cover plate 2. Since the top surface of the latching block 21 is lower than the upper surface of the cover plate 2, after the cover plate 2 is locked with the latching groove 13, the space above the latching block 21 overlaps with the unlocking hole 133 in the vertical direction, forming a cavity that allows external tools to be inserted.

[0051] When unlocking is required, the operator can insert a thin, sharp instrument from top to bottom into the unlocking hole 133, press it against the back of the limiting end 132, and pry it away from the locking block 21. This causes the limiting end 132 to bend elastically, releasing the constraint on the locking block 21. At this point, the cover plate 2 can be easily pulled out towards the installation opening 111. This design utilizes a tiny unlocking hole 133 pre-reserved on the base plate 1 to achieve reliable and controllable unlocking without adding new parts. It does not occupy extra space and will not cause unexpected unlocking due to accidental contact with other oral tissues, perfectly balancing minimally invasive intraoral operations and convenient unlocking.

[0052] It should be noted that, in some optional embodiments, the base plate 1 can be manufactured entirely by precision casting or metal powder injection molding to achieve integrated molding precision for complex and intricate structures such as the placement groove 11, the limiting groove 12, the snap-fit ​​groove 13, and the sliding groove 112 while ensuring strength. The cover plate 2 can be made of the same or similar medical-grade metal material as the base plate 1, such as titanium alloy or stainless steel, to ensure that both have consistent corrosion resistance and sufficient elastic modulus in the oral cavity environment.

[0053] Specifically, the thickness and transition radius of the local structure where the limiting end 132 is located should be optimized based on the material's elastic modulus to ensure sufficient locking force without plastic deformation or fatigue fracture due to repeated opening and closing. The bottom contour dimensions of the limiting groove 12 are determined according to the specifications of the compatible steel wire 3. The base plate 1 and the ring 4 can be fixed by laser welding, generally completed in the factory prefabrication stage rather than at the chairside in the clinic, to ensure accurate positioning of the base plate 1 and sufficient bonding strength.

[0054] In this embodiment, the base plate 1 refers to the component that serves as the bearing base and is directly fixed to the ring 4; the cover plate 2 refers to the component that cooperates with the base plate 1 and can move relative to the base plate 1 to press or release the end of the wire 3; the placement groove 11 refers to the open groove opened on the upper end of the base plate 1 to accommodate the cover plate 2 and the end of the wire 3; the limiting groove 12 refers to the partial recess at the bottom of the placement groove 11, the shape of which matches the U-shaped segment at the end of the wire 3 to limit the axial and circumferential displacement of the wire 3; the snap-fit ​​block 21 refers to the protruding structure set at the front end of the cover plate 2 to form a locking with the base plate 1; the snap-fit ​​groove 13 refers to the groove structure preset on the inner wall of the placement groove 11 to accommodate and lock the snap-fit ​​block 21; the ring 4 refers to the ring structure sleeved on the base tooth as the retention base of the overall retainer; the wire 3 refers to the metal wire structure connected between each ring 4 to provide support and gap retention; the U-shaped segment refers to the U-shaped structural segment formed by bending the end of the wire 3.

[0055] In step S1, after the size and position of the retention component are determined by trial fitting, it is placed in the patient's mouth. Then, oral scan data is collected, including information on the retained tooth, missing tooth, adjacent teeth, soft tissue, opposing teeth, and the retention component after the patient wears the retention component.

[0056] Step S2 specifically involves inputting the oral scan data into the existing tooth position and gap region recognition model, identifying the retaining tooth and abutment tooth, determining the retainer type, and outputting the assembly relationship between the retention component and the wire component on the retaining tooth, thus obtaining the assembly reference, including the connection position of the wire component on the retaining tooth, the edentulous area, adjacent teeth, soft tissue boundary, and the retention component.

[0057] Step S3 specifically involves inputting the assembly reference into the existing wire path generation model and outputting an initial path that meets preset constraints, as well as the connection segment, gap segment, turning segment, and end position that match the wire component and the connection structure. The preset constraints include: matching the limiting groove in the retention component, stable connection, avoiding soft tissue and adjacent teeth, and meeting the clinical wearing space requirements.

[0058] In step S4, the doctor user can confirm or make local adjustments to the initial path generated in step S3 based on the patient's actual intraoral condition. Alternatively, the doctor user can lead the point mapping design when needed, and then the existing relevant software can smooth, optimize and correct the structure of the point mapping results to obtain the final wire geometry, thereby balancing design efficiency and clinical controllability.

[0059] Step S5 specifically involves inputting the final wire morphology data into the existing bending parameter prediction model and outputting bending control parameters, including bending angle, bending sequence, feed rate, clamping position, cutting position, and compensation based on material springback and equipment error.

[0060] In practical applications, the automatic bending machine will use stainless steel wire of preset specifications, preferably 0.8mm in diameter, to bend the wire according to the bending control parameters to form a wire component. In addition, the connection and assembly process between the wire component and the fixing component can be carried out inside the mouth or outside the mouth. It is preferred to carry out it inside the mouth, that is, the fixing component is bonded and fixed inside the mouth after the initial selection, and then the data inside the mouth is scanned. Alternatively, after the initial selection of a suitable fixing component, the internal bonding can be skipped. After the wire component is bent, the two are assembled outside the mouth and then tested and bonded inside the mouth.

[0061] Therefore, the above-described method enables the rapid and accurate fabrication of the wire component and its reliable connection with the intraoral retention component. In the event of wire or band breakage during later use, the retention component can be separated from the wire component, and only the damaged component needs replacement. If a design change is required due to changes in the intraoral condition, such as a common clinical change from a banded wire space retainer to a lingual arch, TPA, or Nance arch, the band on the original retaining tooth can be retained, only the wire component removed. A new wire component is then redesigned and bent after adding a retaining tooth, and assembled using the connecting structure. The new retainer can still be worn on the same day. This process preserves the reusable retention component, achieving rapid remanufacturing, cost reduction, efficiency improvement, and enhanced patient comfort. If cleaning of the retainer or oral cavity is required, the retention component can also be directly separated from the wire component, the wire component removed, and reassembled intraorally after cleaning.

[0062] Example 2 This embodiment, based on the solution described in the previous embodiment, proposes a modular rapid manufacturing and remanufacturing system for gap retainers, such as... Figure 7 As shown, it mainly includes an oral scan data acquisition module 101, a wire design module 102, an automatic bending and processing module 103, and an optimization and update module 104. The oral scan data acquisition module 101 is used to collect information on the retained teeth, missing teeth, adjacent teeth, soft tissue, and opposing teeth after the patient wears the retention component in their mouth, as well as the three-dimensional data of the retention component in the wearing state. The wire design module 102 includes an assembly datum determination unit 1021, a wire path generation unit 1022, an optimization and adjustment unit 1023, and a bending parameter conversion unit 1024. The assembly datum determination unit 1021 is equipped with a tooth position and gap area recognition model to determine the assembly datum corresponding to the fixed component. The wire path generation unit 1022 is equipped with a wire path generation model to determine the initial path of the wire component and the corresponding connection data. The optimization and adjustment unit 1023 is used to optimize and adjust the initial path and output the final wire geometry. The bending parameter conversion unit 1024 is equipped with a bending parameter prediction model to convert the wire geometry into bending control parameters and output them to the automatic bending processing module 103. The output of the automatic bending processing module 103 is connected to the automatic bending machine 105, and is used to drive and control the automatic bending machine 105 to complete the wire bending operation according to the bending control parameters to obtain the wire component. The optimization and update module 104 is connected to the assembly reference determination unit 1021, the wire path generation unit 1022, and the bending parameter conversion unit 1024 respectively to update and store relevant data information for subsequent optimization and improvement of each unit. In practical applications, the optimization and update module 104 is connected to a case database, which pre-collects data from multiple space maintainer cases that have completed clinical treatment. This data is used to train and optimize the tooth position and gap area identification model, the wire path generation model, and the bending parameter prediction model. By transmitting modifications to the design results made by doctors during actual use, deviation corrections after equipment processing, and clinical wearing feedback back to the case database, the relevant model algorithms can be continuously updated, thereby continuously improving design quality and processing stability.

[0063] Example 3 Based on Examples 1 and 2, this embodiment takes a ring-type gap retainer as an example to illustrate the process of first manufacturing a ring-type gap retainer using the method of the present invention, the structure of the finished product obtained, and its application during remanufacturing.

[0064] The banded wire loop space maintainer is suitable for maintaining space after the loss of a single tooth. The retention component used in this embodiment includes a band 4 and two connecting structures fixed to the buccal and lingual surfaces of the band 4, respectively. Each connecting structure includes a base plate 1, a cover plate 2, and a limiting groove 12 on the base plate 1. Its structure and locking principle are the same as in Embodiment 1, and will not be repeated here. In clinical use, the band 4 is fitted onto the distal retaining tooth of the edentulous space, usually a molar or deciduous molar posterior to the edentulous space. A continuous wire 3 extends from the buccal connecting structure, crosses the edentulous area, abuts against the distal proximal surface of the mesial abutment tooth of the edentulous space, then folds back along the lingual side and enters the lingual connecting structure, forming a closed wire loop path on both the buccal and lingual sides of the band 4 to restrict the adjacent teeth from tilting or moving into the edentulous space.

[0065] The initial fabrication of this embodiment includes the following steps.

[0066] Step S1: Try on the retention device on the distal abutment tooth in the patient's mouth and select a suitable size. After confirming the position and fit of the band 4 with the buccal and lingual connecting structures, cement and fix the band 4 in place. Use an intraoral scanning device to collect intraoral three-dimensional data of the patient after wearing the retention device, including the spatial information of the abutment tooth, edentulous area, mesial abutment tooth, opposing tooth, soft tissue, and the band 4 and its lateral connecting structures, and output the data as an STL format file.

[0067] Step S2: Import the STL data into the wire design module 102. The assembly reference determination unit 1021 identifies the retaining tooth, edentulous area, mesial abutment tooth of the edentulous space, soft tissue boundary, occlusal space, and the actual position and orientation of the band 4 in the mouth. It also determines the position and communication direction of the buccal and lingual connecting structures and the orientation of the limiting groove 12 to form the assembly reference. The assembly reference is used to constrain the wire 3 from the buccal connecting structure, across the edentulous area, abutting the distal proximal surface of the near-middle abutment tooth, and then into the overall spatial envelope of the lingual connecting structure.

[0068] Step S3: The wire path generation unit 1022 generates the initial path of the wire 3 according to the assembly reference. The initial path is a continuous curve, which includes, in the following order: a buccal connecting segment starting from the buccal connecting structure, a spanning segment across the edentulous area, a contact segment abutting the distal proximal surface of the mesial abutment tooth in the edentulous area, and a lingual connecting segment that turns back from the lingual side and terminates at the lingual connecting structure; at the same time, the position, direction, end shape, and matching parameters of the two ends of the wire with the limiting grooves 12 on both sides are output.

[0069] Step S4: Based on the actual situation in the patient's mouth, the doctor confirms or makes local adjustments to the contact position, gap distance, and height from the gingiva between the wire and the distal proximal surface of the mesial abutment tooth; the optimization and adjustment unit 1023 smooths the adjusted path and corrects its structure to obtain the final wire geometry.

[0070] Step S5: The bending parameter conversion unit 1024 converts the final wire geometry into bending control parameters and transmits them to the automatic bending processing module 103; the automatic bending machine 105 bends the 0.8mm diameter stainless steel wire according to the bending control parameters to obtain a continuous wire 3.

[0071] Step S6: Place both ends of the steel wire 3 into the limiting grooves 12 of the buccal and lingual connecting structures of the loop 4, respectively, and push the corresponding cover plate 2 to lock them in place. The assembly order of the two ends is not limited; the buccal end can be locked first, followed by the lingual end, or vice versa. After assembly, the steel wire 3 and the loop 4 form a non-welded, detachable connection through the connecting structures on both sides, resulting in a loop-type gap maintainer suitable for the patient.

[0072] like Figure 8 As shown, band 4 is fitted onto the distal retainer tooth of the edentulous space, with one connecting structure installed on both the buccal and lingual surfaces. Wire 3 is a single, continuous 0.8mm diameter stainless steel wire: one end is locked to the buccal connecting structure, extending from the buccal side towards the mesial direction of the edentulous space and crossing the edentulous area. Its middle section abuts against the distal proximal surface of the mesial abutment tooth of the edentulous space, then folds back along the lingual side, with the other end locked to the lingual connecting structure. The two connecting structures work together to fix the two ends of wire 3 at band 4, which helps improve the anti-torsion and anti-wobbling ability of the retaining end, while maintaining the clinical configuration of the banded coil retainer with a single band and continuous coils maintaining the edentulous space.

[0073] When the wire 3 breaks or deforms, the buccal and / or lingual cover 2 can be opened, the wire 3 removed, and remade or replaced according to the method of this invention. The loop 4 can remain in the patient's mouth as long as it still meets the clinical retention requirements. Only by re-collecting intraoral scan data and performing steps S2 to S5 can a new wire 3 be obtained for reassembly. When it is necessary to clean the retainer, the wire 3 can also be removed from the connecting structures on both sides, cleaned, and then reassembled. The assembly order is not limited to buccal or lingual sides first.

[0074] Example 4 Based on Examples 1 and 2, this embodiment uses the mandibular arch space maintainer as an example to illustrate the process of first manufacturing of the mandibular arch space maintainer using the method of the present invention, as well as its application in the design of the obtained finished product structure, remanufacturing, and type modification.

[0075] The lingual arch space maintainer is used to maintain the length and width of the mandibular dental arch and the inclination of the teeth. Unlike the banded wire loop type in Embodiment 3, this embodiment has one band 4 on each side, which is formed by a continuous wire 3 extending along the lingual dental arch and abutting against the lingual surface of the lower anterior teeth. The two ends are fixed to the connecting structures on the lingual sides of the band 4, rather than a single band buccal-lingual double-sided wire loop structure. The retention components used in this embodiment include two bands 4, which are respectively fitted onto one molar or deciduous molar on each side of the mandible; each band 4 has a connecting structure installed on its lingual surface. The composition and locking method of the connecting structure are the same as in Embodiment 1, and will not be repeated here.

[0076] The initial fabrication of this embodiment includes the following steps.

[0077] Step S1: Try on the retention components on the intended bilateral molars or deciduous molars in the patient's mouth and select the appropriate size. After confirming the position and fit of the band 4 and the lingual connecting structure, cement and fix the band 4. Use an intraoral scanning device to collect intraoral three-dimensional data of the patient after wearing the retention components, including the spatial information of the bilateral retention teeth, the anterior and posterior dentition, the lingual soft tissue, the opposing teeth, and the two bands 4 and the connecting structure, and output the data as an STL format file.

[0078] Step S2: Import the STL data into the wire design module 102. The assembly reference determination unit 1021 identifies the actual positions of the bilateral retaining teeth, lingual soft tissue boundaries, opposing occlusal space, and the two bands 4 in the mouth, determining the position, communication direction, and orientation of the lingual connecting structures on both sides, thus forming the assembly reference. The assembly reference is used to constrain the wire 3 to extend along the lingual tooth surface of the lower anterior teeth and the lingual alveolar bone surface of the posterior teeth, with both ends entering the overall spatial envelope of the connecting structures on both sides.

[0079] Step S3: The wire path generation unit 1022 generates the initial path of the lingual arch wire 3 according to the assembly reference. The initial path is a continuous curve, including the connecting segment located in the lingual connection structure of the two side rings 4, the arch-shaped cross-tooth segment extending along the lingual dental arch, and the turning segment between the connecting segment and the arch-shaped cross-tooth segment; at the same time, it outputs the position, direction, end shape and matching parameters of the two ends of the wire with the two side limiting grooves 12.

[0080] Step S4: Based on the actual situation in the patient's mouth, the doctor confirms or makes local adjustments to the curvature of the lingual arch, the height from the gingiva, and the contact relationship with the lingual side of the anterior teeth; the optimization and adjustment unit 1023 smooths the adjusted path and corrects its structure to obtain the final wire geometry.

[0081] Step S5: The bending parameter conversion unit 1024 converts the final wire geometry into bending control parameters and transmits them to the automatic bending processing module 103; the automatic bending machine 105 bends the 0.8mm diameter stainless steel wire according to the bending control parameters to obtain a continuous wire 3.

[0082] Step S6: Place the U-shaped segments at both ends of the steel wire 3 into the limiting grooves 12 of the tongue-side connection structure of the two side rings 4, and push the corresponding cover plates 2 to lock them in place. The assembly order on both sides is not limited; one side can be completed first, followed by the other, or it can be pre-installed outside the mouth and then tried on inside the mouth. After assembly, the steel wire 3 and the two rings 4 are non-welded and detachable connections, resulting in a tongue arch space maintainer (e.g., a suitable tongue arch space maintainer) for the patient. Figure 9 (As shown).

[0083] This embodiment is applicable to the initial fabrication of a mandibular-lingual arch space maintainer; it is also applicable to situations where a retainer needs to be remade due to jawbone development, replacement of primary and permanent teeth, or breakage and deformation of wire 3; or, based on embodiment three, when the intraoral condition changes and the banded wire type needs to be changed to a lingual arch type, a retention band is added while retaining the usable band 4, and wire 3 is redesigned and fabricated according to this embodiment.

[0084] Example 5 This embodiment applies the schemes described in Embodiments 1 and 2 to achieve the initial fabrication of a transpalatal bar space maintainer or a Nance arch space maintainer, or, based on Embodiment 3, to re-fabricate a transpalatal bar space maintainer or a Nance arch space maintainer due to changes in intraoral conditions. First, bands are placed on the corresponding retaining teeth, and an intraoral scan is performed. After determining the bilateral retaining teeth and the corresponding palatal space boundaries, the transpalatal bar TPA or Nance arch wire path is generated. After confirmation by the dentist, bending control parameters are output, an automatic bending machine completes the wire processing, and then it is connected to the bands and connecting structures to complete the intraoral fitting.

[0085] This embodiment, based on Embodiments 1 and 2, uses the transpalatal bar type and Nance bow type space maintainer as examples to illustrate the process of initial fabrication of the transpalatal bar type and Nance bow type space maintainer using the method of the present invention, the obtained finished product structure, and its application in redesign and type modification. Unlike Embodiments 3 and 4, this embodiment features two loops 4, each with a connecting structure on the palatal side; a continuous steel wire 3 spans the hard palate, with U-shaped segments at both ends locked to the connecting structures on both sides. In the Nance bow type, a Nance support 5 is fixedly bonded to the palatal section of the steel wire 3. The Nance support 5 is not detachable from the steel wire 3 and must be assembled, remanufactured, and cleaned as a single component.

[0086] The manufacturing steps in this embodiment are the same as in Embodiment 4, including: S1, trial fitting and bonding of bilateral bands 4 followed by oral scanning; S2, determining the assembly reference; S3, generating a wire path across the palate; S4, doctor confirmation or optimization; S5, automatic bending to obtain wire 3; for the Nance bow type, the Nance support 5 needs to be fixedly bonded to the anterior palatal segment of the wire; S6, locking both ends of wire 3 to the connecting structures on both sides; for the Nance bow type, the wire and the Nance support need to be assembled as a whole. When wire 3 breaks, deforms, or needs to be remade due to adjustments in the treatment plan, if bands 4 still meet the clinical requirements, retain bands 4 in the patient's mouth, re-collect oral scanning data including the fixation components, and execute steps S2 to S5 to obtain a new wire 3 before reassembly; when remaking the Nance bow type, wire 3 must be remade and the Nance support 5 rebonded. The transpalatal bar space maintainer manufactured in this embodiment is as follows: Figure 10 As shown, wire 3 acts on the hard palate, and both ends of wire 3 are connected to a band 4 via connecting structures, which are installed on the palatal side of the band 4. When used as a transpalatal bar, wire 3 crosses the hard palate, and both ends are also machined into U-shaped segments and locked in the connecting structures on the palatal side of the bilateral molar band 4. It should be understood that, as Figure 11 As shown, the Nance arch space maintainer operates on the same principle as the transpalatal bar space maintainer. Its wire and Nance support, as a whole, can be detachably installed and removed from the band 4 via this connection structure. This structure allows the Nance support 5, a component that easily causes discomfort and requires regular cleaning, to be easily removed from the band 4 along with the wire for thorough cleaning. Alternatively, the wire 3 can be adjusted separately when the wire shape or support position needs adjustment. This ensures both the continuity and adjustability of the treatment effect and improves the convenience of long-term hygiene maintenance. Similarly, this modular assembly structure allows for the removal of only the damaged component when the wire or band 3 breaks or deforms. A new wire 3 can be fabricated or a new retention component can be selected, replacing only the damaged part. Reassembly can then be performed at the chairside, without requiring a complete replacement.

[0087] This split device allows for design modifications based on Example 3, such as adding retention components and remanufacturing a transpalatal bar or Nance bow-type space retainer, to address changes in intraoral conditions.

[0088] In summary, this solution achieves chairside linkage from patient intraoral data to wire component processing through a continuous process of intraoral scanning, assembly benchmark determination, wire path generation, equipment parameter conversion, and automatic bending. Whether it is a new or remade device, the space maintainer can be manufactured and worn on the same day in most application scenarios, improving treatment efficiency, better maintaining the spacing of the dentition, and achieving better treatment results and patient comfort.

[0089] This method involves wearing the retention device inside the mouth for intraoral scanning, and then designing the wire component based on the data. After complete bending, the component is assembled inside the mouth, avoiding the difficulty of reproducing the position of the finished product loop (intraoral trial → model → intraoral wearing), poor retention device accuracy, and the clinical problem of needing to make adjustments.

[0090] This solution modularly separates the retention components from the wire components and sets up a detachable connection structure on the belt loop. In case of wire breakage, retainer deformation, or design adjustment, only the wire components need to be replaced, thereby reducing the probability of overall disassembly and remanufacturing, and reducing clinical costs and the burden of follow-up visits for patients.

[0091] Since the retention components in this solution can be retained when clinical conditions are met, the remanufacturing cycle can be significantly shortened. In some application scenarios, it is possible to redesign, process and complete the wearing on the same day, thereby improving the efficiency of chairside treatment in outpatient clinics.

[0092] This solution uses a non-welded connection method to replace the traditional welding fixation between the steel wire and the belt ring, which helps to reduce weld point breakage, welding deformation and individual differences caused by welding quality fluctuations, thereby improving the structural stability and result consistency of the gap retainer.

[0093] This solution is based on existing model algorithms and is directly linked to the control parameters of the automatic bending machine. It can reduce the reliance on experience in the manual bending process, improve the processing accuracy and repeatability of steel wire parts, and thus help improve the matching degree between the gap retainer and the intraoral condition and the wearing comfort.

[0094] This solution is applicable to various types of space maintainers with rings, such as the lingual arch, TPA, and Nance arch. It has good clinical versatility and scalability, and is particularly suitable for the application needs of pediatric dental clinical scenarios where the dentition continues to develop and the space relationship changes rapidly. It can complete partial replacement without completely discarding the original device, thus taking into account treatment continuity, economy and patient acceptance.

Claims

1. A method for modular rapid fabrication and remanufacturing of a gap retainer, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1. Select the appropriate fixation device and place it inside the patient's mouth, and collect the patient's oral scan data; S2. Based on the scanning data, determine the assembly reference corresponding to the fixed component; S3. Based on the assembly datum, determine the initial path of the steel wire component and the corresponding connection data; S4. Optimize and adjust the initial path to obtain the final wire geometry; S5. Convert the geometry of the steel wire into bending control parameters to control the automatic bending machine to bend the stainless steel wire and obtain steel wire parts. S6. The steel wire component and the retention component are connected in a non-welding manner using a connecting structure to obtain a gap maintainer adapted to the patient. When it is necessary to remake the gap maintainer in the future, if the retention component still meets the clinical use requirements and continues to be retained in the patient's mouth, the oral scan data containing the retention component is re-acquired, and steps S2 to S5 are performed to obtain a new wire component, and then the new wire component is connected to the retention component in a non-welding manner. The gap maintainer is specifically a ring-type, tongue-arch type, transpalatal bar type TPA, or Nance arch type gap maintainer.

2. The method for modular rapid fabrication and remanufacturing of a gap retainer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The retaining component in S1 includes a ring (4) and a connecting structure. The connecting structure is installed on the cheek and / or tongue surface of the ring (4) to limit and lock the end of the wire component, so that the wire component and the retaining component form a detachable non-welded connection.

3. A method for modular rapid fabrication and remanufacturing of a gap retainer according to claim 2, characterized in that, The connection structure includes a limiting groove (12) for accommodating the end of the wire component and a locking member for closing or locking the limiting groove (12). After the end of the wire component is placed into the limiting groove (12), the locking member restricts the wire component from being dislodged from the connection structure.

4. A method for modular rapid fabrication and remanufacturing of a gap retainer according to claim 3, characterized in that, The connection structure includes a base plate (1) and a cover plate (2). The base plate (1) is fixed on the belt ring (4). The upper end of the base plate (1) is provided with a placement groove (11). The bottom of the placement groove (11) is provided with a limiting groove (12) that cooperates with the end of the wire component. The cover plate (2) is slidably installed in the placement groove (11) and abuts against the upper end face of the limiting groove (12). The front end of the cover plate (2) is provided with a snap-fit ​​block (21). The inner side of the placement groove (11) opposite to the snap-fit ​​block (21) is provided with a snap-fit ​​groove (13) that cooperates with the snap-fit ​​block (21). The snap-fit ​​block (21) is snapped into the snap-fit ​​groove (13).

5. A method for modular rapid fabrication and remanufacturing of a gap retainer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The oral scan data collected in S1 includes information on the retained teeth, missing teeth, adjacent teeth, soft tissue, and opposing teeth after the patient wears the retention device, as well as the three-dimensional data of the retention device.

6. A method for modular rapid fabrication and remanufacturing of a gap retainer according to claim 1, characterized in that, Specifically, S2 is based on the oral scan data input tooth position and gap area recognition model, which identifies the affixed teeth, edentulous area, adjacent teeth, soft tissue boundary, occlusal space and actual spatial position of affixed components in the oral scan data, and determines the connection position, connection direction and assembly relationship between the wire end and the connection structure on the affixed component, thereby obtaining the assembly reference. The assembly references include the spatial position of the retention component in the patient's mouth, the connection position of the connecting structure, the connection direction, the position of the limiting groove, the direction of the wire end entering the connecting structure, the matching relationship between the wire end and the connecting structure, and the design boundary of the wire component relative to the retention tooth, the edentulous area, adjacent teeth, soft tissue boundary and the opposing occlusal space.

7. A method for modular rapid fabrication and remanufacturing of a gap retainer according to claim 1, characterized in that, Specifically, S3 involves determining the initial path and corresponding connection data of the wire component based on the assembly reference. The initial path includes a connection segment that matches the connection structure, a gap segment located in the edentulous area or dental arch area, a turning segment for connecting different functional segments, and an end structure that mates with the connection structure. The connection data includes the wire end position, wire end direction, wire end shape, connection segment length, turning position, gap distance, and mating parameters between the wire component and the connection structure.

8. A method for modular rapid fabrication and remanufacturing of a gap retainer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The preset constraints satisfied by the initial path include: matching the limiting groove in the retention component, stable connection, avoiding soft tissue and adjacent teeth, avoiding the occlusal interference area of ​​the opposing teeth, meeting the clinical wearing space requirements, and meeting the processing capability requirements of the automatic bending machine.

9. A method for modular rapid fabrication and remanufacturing of a gap retainer according to claim 1, characterized in that, Specifically, S5 involves inputting the final wire shape data into an existing bending parameter prediction model and outputting bending control parameters. These bending control parameters include at least one of the following: bending angle, bending sequence, feed rate, clamping position, cutting position, and compensation amount based on material springback and equipment error.

10. A system for modular rapid fabrication and remanufacturing of gap retainers, for implementing the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The system includes a retention component, an intraoral scanning data acquisition module (101), a wire design module (102), an automatic bending processing module (103), and an optimization and update module (104). The intraoral scanning data acquisition module (101) is used to acquire three-dimensional data of the patient's teeth, edentulous areas, soft tissues, and the retention component under trial wearing conditions. The wire design module (102) includes an assembly reference determination unit (1021), a wire path generation unit (1022), an optimization adjustment unit (1023), and a bending parameter conversion unit (1024). The assembly reference determination unit is used to determine the assembly reference corresponding to the retention component. The wire path generation unit (1022) is used to determine the initial path of the wire component and the corresponding connection data. The optimization adjustment unit (1023) is used to optimize and adjust the initial path and output the final wire geometry. The bending parameter conversion unit (1024) is used to convert the wire geometry into bending control parameters and output them to the automatic bending processing module (103). The output of the automatic bending processing module (103) is connected to the automatic bending machine (105) and is used to drive and control the automatic bending machine (105) to complete the wire bending operation according to the bending control parameters to obtain the wire component; The optimization and update module (104) is connected to the assembly reference determination unit (1021), the wire path generation unit (1022), and the bending parameter conversion unit (1024) respectively, so as to update and store relevant data information for subsequent optimization and improvement of each unit.

Images