Self-locking orthodontic appliance and orthodontic system

Abstract

The utility model relates to a self-locking orthodontic appliance and orthodontic system.The self-locking orthodontic appliance comprises a bottom plate, a main body and a cover body, due to the fact that an opening groove is formed in the first end of the main body, the opening groove is adjacent to the cover body under the condition that an arch wire groove is closed by the cover body, an arc cutting surface is formed on the top of the cover body and extends to the end face, and the opening groove is formed in the end face. The portion, close to the end face, of the arc cutting face is roughly flush with the highest position, adjacent to the opening groove, of the first end, and the height or the height is not larger than 0.14 mm, so that no offset or small offset exists at the connecting position of the cover body and the opening groove, the end face, facing the opening groove, of the cover body does not form a stress face, and therefore the cover body is not prone to deformation. A patient is not easy to open / close the cover body frequently by himself without the help of a special opening tool. Furthermore, the service life of the cover body can be ensured, and the cover body is prevented from beforehand failure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of orthodontic technology, and in particular to a self-ligating orthodontic appliance and orthodontic system. Background Technology

[0002] Self-ligating orthodontic appliances typically include self-ligating brackets and self-ligating buccal tubes, which are essential components used in orthodontic treatment. For example... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the existing self-ligating orthodontic appliance 1 on the market mainly includes a base plate 11, a main body 12, a cover 13, and an elastic component (not shown). The first end 14 of the main body 12 is provided with an opening groove 15. Under normal circumstances, a special opening tool is inserted into the opening groove 15, forcing the cover 13 to slide relative to the main body 12. Through the cooperation between the main body 12, the cover 13, and the elastic component, the cover 13 opens the archwire groove 16. When it is necessary to close the archwire groove 16, the cover 13 is pushed to slide in the opposite direction, and the archwire groove 16 can be closed through the cooperation between the main body 12, the cover 13, and the elastic component.

[0003] However, due to the discontinuity (also known as height difference) at the connection between the cover 13 and the opening groove 15, such as... Figure 1 (as indicated by point A in the middle), causing the end face of the cover 13 facing the opening groove 15 to form a force-bearing surface (such as...). Figure 2 (as indicated by section B) This allows the patient to frequently open / close the cover 131 without the aid of a special opening tool. Since the lifespan of the cover 13 is limited, if the patient frequently opens / closes the cover 13 by themselves, it is easy to reach the limit of the opening and closing lifespan of the cover 13, accelerating the failure of the cover 13. Utility Model Content

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a self-locking orthodontic appliance and orthodontic system that can effectively prevent patients from opening / closing the cover themselves, in order to address the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0005] A self-ligating orthodontic appliance includes a base plate, a main body, and a cover. The main body is disposed on the base plate. An archwire groove is provided on the main body along a mesiodistal direction. The archwire groove has a first end and a second end on opposite sides. The first end and the outer surface of the cover are smooth curved surfaces. The cover is disposed on top of the second end of the main body and is slidable relative to the main body to open or close the archwire groove. The first end of the main body has an opening groove. When the cover closes the archwire groove, the opening groove is adjacent to the cover. The cover has an opening... Facing the end face of the opening groove, the top of the cover body has a tangential arc surface that extends to the end face. The portion of the tangential arc surface near the end face is flush with the highest point of the first end adjacent to the opening groove. The portion of the tangential arc surface near the end face is lower than the highest point of the first end adjacent to the opening groove, or the portion of the tangential arc surface near the end face is higher than the highest point of the first end adjacent to the opening groove by no more than 0.14 mm. This is to eliminate or reduce the discontinuity at the connection between the cover body and the opening groove, thereby eliminating the stress surface.

[0006] In one embodiment, the tangent surface is a concave arc surface.

[0007] In one embodiment, the concave arc surface may or may not extend to the surface of the cover away from the end face.

[0008] In one embodiment, the tangent surface is a convex arc surface.

[0009] In one embodiment, the curvature of the convex surface is different from the curvature of the other parts of the cover surface.

[0010] In one embodiment, the tangent surface comprises at least two interconnected arc surfaces.

[0011] In one embodiment, the curvature of the interconnected arc surfaces is different.

[0012] In one embodiment, the top of the cover is provided with an axial tilt line or an axial tilt groove, the axial tilt line or the axial tilt groove extending to a tangential surface; and / or

[0013] The top of the first end is provided with an axial tilt line or an axial tilt groove, which extends to the opening groove.

[0014] In one embodiment, the opening groove is generally rectangular or trapezoidal; or

[0015] The opening groove is roughly semi-circular.

[0016] An orthodontic system comprising at least two self-ligating orthodontic appliances as described in any of the preceding claims.

[0017] The aforementioned self-ligating orthodontic appliances have at least the following advantages:

[0018] Because the first end of the main body has an opening groove, when the archwire groove is closed, the opening groove is adjacent to the cover. The top of the cover has a tangential arc surface that extends to the end face. The portion of the tangential arc surface near the end face is approximately flush with the highest point of the first end adjacent to the opening groove, while the portion of the tangential arc surface near the end face is either lower than the highest point of the first end adjacent to the opening groove or higher than the highest point of the first end adjacent to the opening groove by no more than 0.14mm. Therefore, there is no discontinuity or only a small discontinuity at the connection between the cover and the opening groove. The end face of the cover facing the opening groove does not form a force-bearing surface, making it difficult for the patient to frequently open / close the cover without the aid of a special opening tool. This ensures the lifespan of the cover and prevents premature failure. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of the present invention. The illustrative embodiments of the present invention and their descriptions are used to explain the present invention and do not constitute an improper limitation of the present invention.

[0020] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0021] Figure 1 A side view of an existing self-ligating orthodontic appliance;

[0022] Figure 2 A structural diagram of an existing self-ligating orthodontic appliance from another perspective;

[0023] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance in the first embodiment;

[0024] Figure 4 for Figure 3 The main view;

[0025] Figure 5 for Figure 3 Another perspective view;

[0026] Figure 6 for Figure 3 Side view;

[0027] Figure 7 for Figure 3A sectional view;

[0028] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance in the second embodiment;

[0029] Figure 9 for Figure 8 The main view;

[0030] Figure 10 for Figure 8 Another perspective view;

[0031] Figure 11 for Figure 8 Side view;

[0032] Figure 12 for Figure 8 A sectional view;

[0033] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance in the third embodiment;

[0034] Figure 14 for Figure 13 The main view;

[0035] Figure 15 for Figure 13 Another perspective view;

[0036] Figure 16 for Figure 13 Side view;

[0037] Figure 17 for Figure 13 A sectional view;

[0038] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance in the fourth embodiment;

[0039] Figure 19 for Figure 18 The main view;

[0040] Figure 20 for Figure 18 Another perspective view;

[0041] Figure 21 for Figure 18 Side view;

[0042] Figure 22 for Figure 18 A sectional view;

[0043] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance in the fifth embodiment;

[0044] Figure 24 for Figure 23 The main view;

[0045] Figure 25 for Figure 23 Another perspective view;

[0046] Figure 26 for Figure 23 Side view;

[0047] Figure 27 for Figure 23 A sectional view;

[0048] Figure 28 This is a schematic diagram of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance in the sixth embodiment;

[0049] Figure 29 for Figure 28 Another structural diagram from a different perspective;

[0050] Figure 30 for Figure 28 The main view;

[0051] Figure 31 for Figure 28 Another perspective view;

[0052] Figure 32 for Figure 28 Side view;

[0053] Figure 33 for Figure 28 A sectional view.

[0054] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0055] 1. Orthodontic appliance; 11. Base plate; 12. Main body; 13. Cover; 14. First end; 15. Opening groove; 16. Archwire groove.

[0056] 100. Self-ligating orthodontic appliance; 110. Base plate; 120. Main body; 130. Cover; 121. Archwire groove; 122. First end; 123. Second end; 124. Opening groove; 131. End face; 132. Tangent surface; 125. Axial tilt line.

[0057] 200. Self-ligating orthodontic appliance; 210. Base plate; 220. Main body; 230. Cover; 221. Archwire groove; 222. First end; 223. Second end; 224. Opening groove; 231. End face; 232. Cutting arc surface.

[0058] 300. Self-ligating orthodontic appliance; 310. Base plate; 320. Main body; 330. Cover; 321. Archwire groove; 322. First end; 323. Second end; 324. Opening groove; 331. End face; 332. Cut arc surface.

[0059] 400. Self-ligating orthodontic appliance; 410. Base plate; 420. Main body; 430. Cover; 421. Archwire groove; 422. First end; 423. Second end; 424. Opening groove; 431. End face; 432. Cut arc surface.

[0060] 500. Self-ligating orthodontic appliance; 510. Base plate; 520. Main body; 530. Cover; 521. Archwire groove; 522. First end; 523. Second end; 524. Opening groove; 531. End face; 532. Cut arc surface.

[0061] 600. Self-ligating orthodontic appliance; 610. Base plate; 620. Main body; 630. Cover; 621. Archwire groove; 622. First end; 623. Second end; 624. Opening groove; 631. End face; 632. Cut arc surface. Detailed Implementation

[0062] It should be noted that the orthodontic appliances mentioned in this utility model refer to orthodontic brackets or buccal tubes, or other orthodontic appliances with similar functions and structures.

[0063] Unless otherwise stated, the following structural description requires the use of a frame of reference for the maxillary teeth to describe embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, as used herein, terms such as labial, lingual, mesial, distal, occlusal, and gingival, used to describe orthodontic appliances, are relative to the selected frame of reference. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the selected frame of reference and the terms described, as orthodontic appliances can be used with other teeth in the oral cavity and in other directions.

[0064] For example, brackets or buccal tubes can also be coupled to the lingual surface of the teeth and fall within the scope of this invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the descriptive terms used herein may not be directly applicable when there are changes in the frame of reference. However, embodiments of this invention are intended to be independent of position and orientation within the oral cavity, and the related terminology used to describe the embodiments is merely to provide clear illustration of the embodiments in the drawings. Similarly, the related terms labial, lingual, mesial, distal, occlusal, and gingival in no way limit this invention to a particular position or orientation.

[0065] The terms labial, lingual, mesial, distal, occlusal, and gingival are industry terms used in orthodontic treatment. Taking an upper jaw tooth as an example, the tooth surface can be roughly divided into six surfaces. The surface of the tooth that occludes with the lower jaw teeth is the occlusal surface; the surface of the tooth that connects to the attached gingival tissue is the gingival surface; the occlusal surface and the gingival surface are opposite each other, and the direction formed by the occlusal surface and the gingival surface is also called the gingio-occlusal direction. The surface of the tooth facing the lips is the labial surface, and the surface of the tooth facing the tongue is the lingual surface; the labial surface and the lingual surface are opposite each other, and the direction formed by the labial surface and the lingual surface is also called the labiolingual direction. The two surfaces of the tooth that contact adjacent teeth are the mesial surface and the distal surface, the difference being their distance from the center; the direction formed by the two is also called the mesiodistal direction, or mesiodistal direction.

[0066] Furthermore, in the description of direction, "lip-tongue direction" generally refers to two directions. However, "lip-tongue direction" specifically refers to a single direction, that is, from the side of the lips to the side of the tongue, and this is used to distinguish them.

[0067] First Embodiment

[0068] Please see Figures 3 to 7 The self-ligating orthodontic appliance 100 in the first embodiment is described in detail using an orthodontic bracket as an example. Of course, in other embodiments, the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 100 can also be a buccal tube.

[0069] The self-ligating orthodontic appliance 100 in the first embodiment includes a base plate 110, a main body 120, and a cover 130, with the main body 120 disposed on the base plate 110. For example, the main body 120 may be welded to the base plate 110, or the main body 120 may be integrally formed with the base plate 110. An archwire groove 121 is provided on the main body 120 along the mesiodistal direction, and the archwire groove 121 is mainly used to place the archwire (not shown in the figure). The archwire groove 121 has a first end 122 and a second end 123 on opposite sides, with the first end 122 being higher than the second end 123. The outer surfaces of the first end 122 and the cover 130 are both smooth curved surfaces, which can reduce irritation and damage to the oral mucosa and improve comfort.

[0070] The cover 130 is disposed on the top of the second end 123 of the main body 120 and is slidable relative to the main body 120 to open or close the bowwire groove 121. Specifically, a slide rail can be provided on the cover 130, and a corresponding slide groove can be provided on the top of the second end 123, thereby enabling the cover 130 to be slidably disposed on the top of the second end 123. The cover 130 achieves a self-locking function with the main body 120 through a locking mechanism. Since the locking mechanism is not an improvement in this embodiment, the locking mechanism can adopt any structure in the prior art that can achieve the self-locking function.

[0071] Please see Figure 3 , 4 7. The first end 122 of the main body 120 is provided with an opening groove 124. An opening tool can act on the opening groove 124 to push the cover 130 to slide away from the first end 122, thereby opening the archwire groove 121. The shape of the opening groove 124 can be various. For example, the opening groove 124 is generally a semi-circular structure, and a doctor can use an opening tool such as a probe to act on the semi-circular opening groove 124 to open the cover 130. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the opening groove 124 can also be generally a rectangular or trapezoidal structure. For example, the opening groove 124 is a rectangular or trapezoidal structure with rounded corners, or the opening groove 124 is a standard rectangular or trapezoidal structure, all of which should fall within the protection scope of this application.

[0072] With the bowwire groove 121 closed in the cover 130, the recess 124 adjacent to the cover 130 is opened. See details for further information. Figure 4 and Figure 7 When the cover 130 is in the closed state, the opening groove 124 is adjacent to the cover 130. The cover 130 has an end face 131 facing the opening groove 124, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the end face 131 of the cover 130 and the side wall of the opening groove 124 itself enclose the opening groove 124 to form a groove structure with a top opening.

[0073] Please see Figures 3 to 7 The top of the cover 130 has a tangential surface 132, which extends to the end face 131. The portion of the tangential surface 132 near the end face 131 is adjacent to the highest position of the first end 122 at the opening groove 124 (e.g., Figure 3(As indicated by arrow C in the diagram) It should be noted that the portion of the tangential surface 132 near the end face 131 refers to a small section of the tangential surface 132 closest to the end face. This section of the tangential surface does not have a strict boundary line, but as long as it can reduce or eliminate the height difference, it can reduce or eliminate the stress surface. The first end 122 adjacent to the opening groove 124 refers to the intersection of the top surface of the first end 122 and the side wall of the opening groove 124. The highest point may be a point, a line segment, or a surface segment. Since the outer surface of the first end 122 is a smooth curved surface, the intersection of the top surface of the first end 122 and the side wall of the opening groove 124 may not be at the same height. Therefore, as long as the highest point of the portion of the tangential surface 132 near the end face 131 and the intersection of the top surface of the first end 122 and the side wall of the opening groove 124 are aligned, the problem can be solved. The tangential surface 132 and the end face 131 can be connected by a curved surface or not. It should be noted that "flush" here does not mean absolutely flush; a certain degree of error should be allowed, as long as it can be determined by those skilled in the art.

[0074] Therefore, there is no discontinuity or only a small discontinuity at the connection between the cover 130 and the opening groove 124. The end face 131 of the cover 130 facing the opening groove 124 does not form a force-bearing surface, making it difficult for the patient to frequently open / close the cover 130 without the aid of a special opening tool. Consequently, the service life of the cover 130 can be guaranteed, preventing premature failure of the cover 130.

[0075] It should be clarified that the "top" of the cover 130 does not only refer to the highest point of the cover 130, but should be understood as the portion of the cover 130 that contacts the lip surface. The tangential surface 132 is not necessarily formed through a cutting process; it is simply a custom term referring to a structure resembling an arc surface formed on the top of the cover 130, based on the prior art, that solves the technical problems of the prior art. Based on current manufacturing processes, the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 100 is typically manufactured using a mold. Therefore, the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 100, after being molded, possesses the tangential surface 132. Of course, with technological advancements, the tangential surface 132 can also be formed through other methods, such as cutting or grinding. As long as the formed tangential surface 132 solves the technical problems in the prior art of this application, it should fall within the scope of protection of this application.

[0076] It should be explained that the area of ​​the tangential surface 132 can be relatively large or relatively small, as long as it achieves the goal of eliminating the discontinuity or having a small discontinuity at the connection between the cover 130 and the opening groove 124, and ensuring that the end face 131 of the cover 130 facing the opening groove 124 does not form a stress-bearing surface. Therefore, the size of the tangential surface 132 is not specifically limited. The portion of the tangential surface 132 near the end face 131 is flush with the first end 122 adjacent to the opening groove 124. The boundary of this portion of the tangential surface 132 near the end face 131 is not specifically limited, as long as the purpose of eliminating the stress-bearing surface is achieved, it should be covered within the scope of protection of this application.

[0077] Specifically, in the first embodiment, the tangential surface 132 can be a convex arc surface, thus making the overall outline of the cover 130 generally rounded and preventing damage to the patient's oral mucosa. Furthermore, the curvature of the convex arc surface can differ from the curvature of other parts of the cover 130 surface, since the cover 130 can be composed of multiple arc surfaces, and the curvature of the convex arc surface can differ from the curvature of one or more of the arc surfaces of the cover 130. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the curvature of the convex arc surface can be the same as the curvature of other parts of the cover 130 surface.

[0078] In other embodiments, the tangent surface 132 may further include at least two interconnected arc surfaces. That is, the tangent surface 132 may not only be composed of a single arc surface, but may also be composed of at least two interconnected arc surfaces. The curvature of each interconnected arc surface is different.

[0079] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the first embodiment, an axial tilt line 125 is provided at the top of the first end portion 122, extending to the opening groove 124. For example, the axial tilt line 125 can be formed by laser printing. The main function of the axial tilt line 125 is to facilitate the positioning of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 100. When the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 100 is attached to the tooth surface, the axial tilt line 125 aligns with the clinical coronal axis of the tooth, making it easier to attach the orthodontic appliance to the appropriate position on the tooth. Of course, in other embodiments, an axial tilt groove can also be provided at the top of the first end portion 122, extending to the opening groove 124. And / or, an axial tilt line 125 or an axial tilt groove can also be provided at the top of the cover 130, extending to the tangential surface 132.

[0080] Second Embodiment

[0081] Please see Figures 8 to 12This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 200 in the second embodiment. The structure of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 200 in the second embodiment is largely the same as that of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 100 in the first embodiment, including a base plate 210, a main body 220, and a cover 230. The main body 220 is mounted on the base plate 210. An archwire groove 221 is provided on the main body 220 along the mesiodistal direction. The archwire groove 221 is mainly used to place the archwire (not shown). The archwire groove 221 has a first end 222 and a second end 223 on opposite sides. The first end 222 is higher than the second end 223. The outer surfaces of the first end 222 and the cover 230 are both smooth curved surfaces, which can reduce irritation and damage to the oral mucosa and improve comfort.

[0082] The first end 222 of the main body 220 is provided with an opening groove 224. When the cover 230 closes the archwire groove 221, the opening groove 224 is adjacent to the cover 230. The differences between the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 200 in the second embodiment and the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 100 in the first embodiment include, but are not limited to, in the second embodiment, the top of the cover 230 is formed with a tangential surface 232, which extends to the end face 231. The portion of the tangential surface 232 near the end face 231 is lower than the highest position D of the first end 222 adjacent to the opening groove 224 (e.g., ...). Figure 8 , 11 (As shown in Figure 12). The highest position could be a point, a line segment, or a surface segment. It should be noted that the location where the first end 222 is adjacent to the opening groove 224 refers to the intersection of the top surface of the first end 222 and the sidewall of the opening groove 224. Since the outer surface of the first end 222 is a smooth curved surface, the intersection of the top surface of the first end 222 and the sidewall of the opening groove 224 may not be at the same height. Therefore, the problem can be solved by aligning the portion of the tangent surface 232 near the end face 231 with the highest point of the intersection of the top surface of the first end 222 and the sidewall of the opening groove 224.

[0083] Therefore, there is a small discontinuity at the connection between the cover 230 and the opening groove 224, and the end face 231 of the cover 230 facing the opening groove 224 does not form a force-bearing surface. This makes it difficult for patients to frequently open / close the cover 230 without the aid of a special opening tool. Consequently, this ensures the service life of the cover 230 and prevents premature failure.

[0084] Third Embodiment

[0085] Please see Figures 13 to 17This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 300 in the third embodiment. The structure of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 300 in the third embodiment is largely the same as that of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 100 in the first embodiment, including a base plate 310, a main body 320, and a cover 330. The main body 320 is disposed on the base plate 310. An archwire groove 321 is provided on the main body 320 along the mesiodistal direction. The archwire groove 321 is mainly used to place the archwire (not shown). The archwire groove 321 has a first end 322 and a second end 323 on opposite sides. The first end 322 is higher than the second end 323. The outer surfaces of the first end 322 and the cover 330 are both smooth curved surfaces, which can reduce irritation and damage to the oral mucosa and improve comfort.

[0086] The first end 322 of the main body 320 is provided with an opening groove 324. When the cover 330 closes the archwire groove 321, the opening groove 324 is adjacent to the cover 330. The differences between the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 300 in the third embodiment and the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 100 in the first embodiment include, but are not limited to, the fact that in the third embodiment, the top of the cover 330 has a tangential surface 332, which extends to the end face 331. The portion of the tangential surface 332 near the end face 331 is no more than 0.14 mm higher than the highest position E of the first end 322 adjacent to the opening groove 324 (e.g., Figure 16 and 17 (As shown). For example, not exceeding 0.14mm, 0.13mm, 0.12mm, 0.11mm, or 0.1mm, etc. The highest position may be a point, a line segment, or a surface segment. The portion of the tangent surface 332 near the end face 331 is higher than the highest position E of the first end 322 adjacent to the opening groove 324. Here, "higher" refers to being higher in the lip direction to ensure that the height difference in the lip direction is small and it is not easy to form a stress surface.

[0087] It should be noted that the location where the first end 322 is adjacent to the opening groove 324 refers to the intersection of the top surface of the first end 322 and the side wall of the opening groove 324. Since the outer surface of the first end 222 is a smooth curved surface, the intersection of the top surface of the first end 322 and the side wall of the opening groove 324 may not be at the same height. Therefore, as long as the part of the tangent surface 332 near the end face 331 is no more than 0.14mm higher than the highest point of the intersection of the top surface of the first end 322 and the side wall of the opening groove 324, the problem can be solved.

[0088] Therefore, there is a small discontinuity at the connection between the cover 330 and the opening groove 324, and the end face 331 of the cover 330 facing the opening groove 324 does not form a force-bearing surface. This makes it difficult for patients to frequently open / close the cover 330 without the aid of a special opening tool. Consequently, this ensures the service life of the cover 330 and prevents premature failure.

[0089] In the third embodiment, the specific shape of the tangent surface 332 is different from that of the tangent surface 132 in the first embodiment. The width of the tangent surface 332 in the third embodiment along the mesiodistal direction is smaller than the width of the tangent surface 132 in the first embodiment along the mesiodistal direction.

[0090] Fourth embodiment

[0091] Please see Figures 18 to 22 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 400 in the fourth embodiment. The structure of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 400 in the fourth embodiment is largely the same as that of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 100 in the first embodiment, including a base plate 410, a main body 420, and a cover 430. The main body 420 is mounted on the base plate 410. An archwire groove 421 is provided on the main body 420 along the mesiodistal direction. The archwire groove 421 is mainly used to place the archwire (not shown). The archwire groove 421 has a first end 422 and a second end 423 on opposite sides. The first end 422 is higher than the second end 423. The outer surfaces of the first end 422 and the cover 430 are both smooth curved surfaces, which reduces irritation and damage to the oral mucosa and improves comfort.

[0092] The cover 430 is disposed on the top of the second end 423 of the main body 420 and is slidable relative to the main body 420 to open or close the archwire groove 421. The first end 422 of the main body 420 is provided with an opening groove 424. When the cover 430 closes the archwire groove 421, the opening groove 424 is adjacent to the cover 430.

[0093] Please see Figure 18 , 20 And 22, the top of the cover 430 has a tangential surface 432, which extends to the end face 431. The differences between the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 400 in the fourth embodiment and the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 100 in the first embodiment include, but are not limited to, in the fourth embodiment, the portion of the tangential surface 432 near the end face 431 is lower than the highest position F of the first end 422 adjacent to the opening groove 424 (e.g., Figure 18 , 20(As shown in Figures 21 and 22). The highest position could be a point, a line segment, or a surface segment. It should be noted that the location where the first end 422 is adjacent to the opening groove 424 refers to the intersection of the top surface of the first end 422 and the sidewall of the opening groove 424. Since the outer surface of the first end 422 is a smooth curved surface, the intersection of the top surface of the first end 422 and the sidewall of the opening groove 424 may not be at the same height. Therefore, the problem can be solved by aligning the portion of the tangent surface 432 near the end face 431 with the highest point of the intersection of the top surface of the first end 422 and the sidewall of the opening groove 424.

[0094] Therefore, there is no discontinuity or only a small discontinuity at the connection between the cover 430 and the opening groove 424. The end face 431 of the cover 430 facing the opening groove 424 does not form a force-bearing surface, making it difficult for the patient to frequently open / close the cover 430 without the aid of a special opening tool. Consequently, the service life of the cover 430 can be guaranteed, preventing premature failure of the cover 430.

[0095] Please see Figure 20 and 22 The differences from the first embodiment include, but are not limited to, the fact that in the fourth embodiment, the tangent surface 432 is a concave arc surface, thus allowing the cover 430 to be thinner and reducing the feeling of foreign objects to some extent. More specifically, the concave arc surface does not extend to the surface of the cover 430 away from the end face 431. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the concave arc surface may extend to the surface of the cover 430 away from the end face 431.

[0096] Fifth embodiment

[0097] Please see Figures 23 to 27 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 500 in the fifth embodiment. The structure of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 500 in the fifth embodiment is largely the same as that of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 100 in the first embodiment, including a base plate 510, a main body 520, and a cover 530. The main body 520 is disposed on the base plate 510. An archwire groove 521 is provided on the main body 520 along the mesiodistal direction. The archwire groove 521 is mainly used to place the archwire (not shown). The archwire groove 521 has a first end 522 and a second end 523 on opposite sides. The first end 522 is higher than the second end 523. The outer surfaces of the first end 522 and the cover 530 are both smooth curved surfaces, which can reduce irritation and damage to the oral mucosa and improve comfort.

[0098] The cover 530 is disposed on the top of the second end 523 of the main body 520 and is slidable relative to the main body 520 to open or close the archwire groove 521. The first end 522 of the main body 520 is provided with an opening groove 524. When the cover 530 closes the archwire groove 521, the opening groove 524 is adjacent to the cover 530.

[0099] Please see Figure 23 , 26 27. The top of the cover 530 has a tangential surface 532, which extends to the end face 531. The differences between the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 500 in the fifth embodiment and the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 100 in the first embodiment include, but are not limited to, in the fifth embodiment, the portion of the tangential surface 532 near the end face 531 is lower than the highest position G of the first end 522 adjacent to the opening groove 524. The highest position may be a point, a line segment, or a surface segment. It should be noted that the first end 522 adjacent to the opening groove 524 refers to the intersection of the top surface of the first end 522 and the sidewall of the opening groove 524. Since the outer surface of the first end 522 is a smooth curved surface, the intersection of the top surface of the first end 522 and the sidewall of the opening groove 524 may not be at the same height. Therefore, the problem can be solved by aligning the portion of the tangential surface 532 near the end face 531 with the highest position of the intersection of the top surface of the first end 522 and the sidewall of the opening groove 524.

[0100] Therefore, there is no discontinuity or only a small discontinuity at the connection between the cover 530 and the opening groove 524. The end face 531 of the cover 530 facing the opening groove 524 does not form a force-bearing surface, making it difficult for the patient to frequently open / close the cover 530 without the aid of a special opening tool. Consequently, the service life of the cover 530 can be guaranteed, preventing premature failure of the cover 530.

[0101] Please see Figure 23 and 24 The differences from the first embodiment include, but are not limited to, the fact that in the fifth embodiment, the area of ​​the tangential surface 532 is smaller than that in the first embodiment, and the width of the tangential surface 532 along the mesiodistal direction is greater than the width of the opening groove 524 along the mesiodistal direction. The width of the tangential surface 532 along the gingival-maxillary direction in the fifth embodiment is less than the width of the tangential surface 132 along the gingival-maxillary direction in the first embodiment. Furthermore, the tangential surface 532 in the fifth embodiment is an inclined tangential surface 532, with the portion of the tangential surface 532 near the opening groove 524 being lower, and the tangential surface 532 becoming increasingly higher along the direction away from the opening groove 524.

[0102] Sixth Embodiment

[0103] Please see Figures 28 to 33This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 600 in the sixth embodiment. The structure of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 600 in the sixth embodiment is largely the same as that of the self-ligating orthodontic appliance 100 in the first embodiment, including a base plate 610, a main body 620, and a cover 630. The main body 620 is mounted on the base plate 610. An archwire groove 621 is provided on the main body 620 along the mesiodistal direction. The archwire groove 621 is mainly used to place the archwire (not shown). The archwire groove 621 has a first end 622 and a second end 623 on opposite sides. The first end 622 is higher than the second end 623. The outer surfaces of the first end 622 and the cover 630 are both smooth curved surfaces, which reduces irritation and damage to the oral mucosa and improves comfort.

[0104] The cover 630 is disposed on the top of the second end 623 of the main body 620 and is slidable relative to the main body 620 to open or close the archwire groove 621. The first end 622 of the main body 620 is provided with an opening groove 624. When the cover 630 closes the archwire groove 621, the opening groove 624 is adjacent to the cover 630.

[0105] Please see Figure 28 , 29 The top of the cover 630 has a tangential surface 632, which extends to the end face 631. The portion of the tangential surface 632 near the end face 631 is flush with the highest point H of the first end 622 adjacent to the opening groove 624. The highest point may be a point, a line segment, or a surface segment. It should be noted that the first end 622 adjacent to the opening groove 624 refers to the intersection of the top surface of the first end 622 and the side wall of the opening groove 624. Since the outer surface of the first end 622 is a smooth curved surface, the intersection of the top surface of the first end 622 and the side wall of the opening groove 624 may not be at the same height. Therefore, the problem can be solved by ensuring that the portion of the tangential surface 632 near the end face 631 is flush with the highest point H of the intersection of the top surface of the first end 622 and the side wall of the opening groove 624. It should be noted that flush here does not mean absolutely flush; a certain degree of error should be allowed, as long as it can be determined by those skilled in the art.

[0106] Therefore, there is no discontinuity or only a small discontinuity at the connection between the cover 630 and the opening groove 624. The end face 631 of the cover 630 facing the opening groove 624 does not form a force-bearing surface, making it difficult for the patient to frequently open / close the cover 630 without the aid of a special opening tool. This ensures the service life of the cover 630 and prevents premature failure.

[0107] Please see Figure 28 and 33The differences from the first embodiment include, but are not limited to, the fact that in the sixth embodiment, the area of ​​the tangent surface 632 is smaller than that in the first embodiment, and the width of the tangent surface 632 along the mesiodistal direction is equal to the width of the opening groove 624 along the mesiodistal direction. Furthermore, the tangent surface 632 in the sixth embodiment is an inclined tangent surface 632, with the portion of the tangent surface 632 near the opening groove 624 being lower, and the tangent surface 632 gradually increasing in the direction away from the opening groove 624.

[0108] This application also provides an orthodontic system comprising at least two self-ligating orthodontic appliances, which can be any of the first to sixth embodiments described above. For example, the orthodontic system includes twenty self-ligating orthodontic appliances, each of which is attached to the surface of the patient's teeth. Opening the cover allows the archwire to be placed in the archwire slot, and closing the cover confines the archwire within the archwire slot.

[0109] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0110] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementations of this utility model, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the utility model patent. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this utility model, and these all fall within the protection scope of this utility model. Therefore, the protection scope of this utility model patent should be determined by the appended claims.

[0111] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "transverse", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model.

[0112] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this utility model, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0113] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0114] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0115] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

Claims

1. A self-ligating orthodontic appliance, characterized in that, The device includes a base plate, a main body, and a cover. The main body is disposed on the base plate. A bowwire groove is provided on the main body along the mesial-distal direction. The bowwire groove has a first end and a second end on opposite sides. The outer surfaces of the first end and the cover are smooth curved surfaces. The cover is disposed on the top of the second end of the main body and is slidable relative to the main body to open or close the bowwire groove. An opening groove is provided on the first end of the main body. When the cover closes the bowwire groove, the opening groove is adjacent to the cover. The cover has an end face facing the opening groove. A tangential arc surface is formed on the top of the cover, extending to the end face. The portion of the tangential arc surface near the end face is flush with the highest point of the first end adjacent to the opening groove. The portion of the tangential arc surface near the end face is lower than the highest point of the first end adjacent to the opening groove, or the portion of the tangential arc surface near the end face is higher than the highest point of the first end adjacent to the opening groove by no more than 0.14 mm, in order to eliminate or reduce the discontinuity at the connection between the cover and the opening groove, thereby eliminating the stress surface.

2. The self-ligating orthodontic appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tangent surface is a concave arc surface.

3. The self-ligating orthodontic appliance according to claim 2, characterized in that, The concave arc surface may or may not extend to the surface of the cover away from the end face.

4. The self-ligating orthodontic appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tangent surface is a convex arc surface.

5. The self-ligating orthodontic appliance according to claim 4, characterized in that, The curvature of the convex surface is different from the curvature of the other parts of the cover surface.

6. The self-ligating orthodontic appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tangent surface comprises at least two interconnected arc surfaces.

7. The self-ligating orthodontic appliance according to claim 6, characterized in that, The curvature of the interconnected arc surfaces is different.

8. The self-ligating orthodontic appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The top of the cover is provided with an axial tilt line or an axial tilt groove, the axial tilt line or axial tilt groove extending to a tangential surface; and / or The top of the first end is provided with an axial tilt line or an axial tilt groove, which extends to the opening groove.

9. The self-ligating orthodontic appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The opening groove is generally rectangular or trapezoidal; or The opening groove is roughly semi-circular.

10. An orthodontic system, characterized in that, It includes at least two self-ligating orthodontic appliances as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

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