Dental instrument and dental instrument system

Abstract

The utility model discloses a dental instrument and a dental instrument system, the dental instrument comprises a shell-shaped body used for pushing molar teeth to move far and an auxiliary force application device connected with a back tooth area of the shell-shaped body, the auxiliary force application device comprises a vestibular shield and force application rods, and the left end and the right end of the vestibular shield are respectively provided with one force application rod; the first end of the force application rod is connected with the vestibular shield, the second end, opposite to the first end, of the force application rod is connected with the rear tooth area of the shell-shaped body, and the second end is provided with a first connecting part; second connecting parts are arranged on the cheek side walls of the rear tooth areas on the left side and the right side of the shell-shaped body respectively, and the auxiliary force application device is installed on the shell-shaped body through cooperation of the first connecting parts and the second connecting parts; during wearing, lip muscles corresponding to teeth covered by the vestibular shield make contact with the lip side face of the vestibular shield, auxiliary force for assisting in pushing molar teeth to move to the far middle is applied to the tooth containing cavity of the rear tooth area of the shell-shaped body through the force application rod, and the lip muscles corresponding to the teeth covered by the vestibular shield are blocked and do not make contact with the covered teeth.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of medical devices, more specifically to the field of dental instruments, and particularly to a dental instrument and dental instrument system. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of orthodontics, early malocclusion in children during their growth and development often presents with narrow dental arches and crowded teeth. Clinically, molar distalization is usually considered to avoid or reduce the number of extractions. Currently, molar distalization treatment usually requires anchorage control, which means using dental anchorage, implant anchorage, or extraoral arch anchorage. Implant anchorage or extraoral arch anchorage has better anchorage effect. However, these two types of anchorage have the following problems: (1) Implant anchorage has the risk of trauma. When using it, an external implant and tension spring are required. Food debris is easy to accumulate at the connection between the implant and the tension spring. If cleaning is not done properly, long-term poor oral hygiene can lead to inflammation around the implant, resulting in implant detachment and other problems. (2) Using an extraoral arch as anchorage, such as the split extraoral arch disclosed in Chinese patent CN202322276940.0, is problematic. However, the extraoral arch is bulky, and its installation requires a clinician's assistance, making it difficult for the child to install independently. Furthermore, the extraoral arch is located outside the mouth, requiring a head covering, which affects the child's appearance. Moreover, children are active and prone to snagging foreign objects on the extraoral arch and head covering, posing a danger. Children may also resist wearing the equipment, thus affecting the treatment cycle and outcome.

[0003] In addition, some studies have shown that muscles have a crucial impact on the stability of orthodontic treatment during the developmental stage, and in some cases, muscle problems are the cause of oral problems. Ignoring muscle problems may lead to ineffective treatment or relapse after treatment. Therefore, in pediatric orthodontics, it is usually necessary to consider using vestibular shields or cheek barriers to block the influence of muscles on teeth.

[0004] Currently, whether using a vestibular shield or buccal barrier to block the teeth first, or using a molar distalization device to move the molars distally, these two methods cannot be performed simultaneously. This results in a longer overall treatment period for pediatric orthodontics. In addition, children's compliance is usually poor, leading to less than significant treatment results. Utility Model Content

[0005] The technical problem solved by this utility model is to overcome the defects of the existing technology and provide a dental instrument and dental instrument system that can integrate the vestibular shield and the function of molar distalization and can utilize the lip muscle anchorage. This is a highly efficient pediatric orthodontic device that can reduce the dependence on external anchorage when molar distalization by using the vestibular shield to block the lip muscle and combining the shell-shaped body to apply precise force and the natural pressure of the lip muscle.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by this utility model is as follows:

[0007] A dental instrument includes a shell-shaped body for distalizing molars and an auxiliary force-applying device connected to the posterior region of the shell-shaped body. The shell-shaped body has a plurality of tooth-receiving cavities for accommodating maxillary or mandibular teeth. The auxiliary force-applying device includes a vestibular shield and a force-applying rod. A force-applying rod is respectively provided at the left and right ends of the vestibular shield. A first end of the force-applying rod is connected to the vestibular shield, and a second end of the force-applying rod, opposite to the first end, is connected to the posterior region of the shell-shaped body. The second end is provided with a first connecting portion. The shell-shaped body has a left... The buccal lateral walls of the right posterior tooth regions are respectively provided with second connecting parts. The auxiliary force application device is installed on the buccal lateral walls of the left and right posterior tooth regions of the shell-shaped body through the cooperation of the first connecting part and the second connecting part. When worn, the labial muscle corresponding to the tooth covered by the vestibular shield contacts the labial surface of the vestibular shield, and an auxiliary force is applied to the tooth receiving cavity of the posterior tooth region of the shell-shaped body to move the molar distally through the force application rod. The labial muscle corresponding to the tooth covered by the vestibular shield is blocked by the vestibular shield and does not contact the covered tooth.

[0008] The structure of this application organically combines the shell-like body and the vestibular shield through a force-applying rod, complementing each other. Moreover, its installation and wearing are simple and convenient, and can be completed by oneself without relying on a clinician. Specifically, on the one hand, the shell-like body can apply the main orthodontic force for molar distalization through the tooth receiving cavity, and the auxiliary force application device can also apply an auxiliary force to enhance posterior tooth distalization. Moreover, the reaction force of the molar distalization allows the vestibular shield to fit more closely to the lip muscles, which is more conducive to blocking the lip muscles, improving the orthodontic efficiency of molar distalization and myofunctional correction, and shortening the treatment cycle. On the other hand, the vestibular shield can block the direct pressure of the lip muscles on the teeth, preventing the lip muscle force from offsetting the orthodontic force and ensuring stable force application. Furthermore, the vestibular shield has a large contact area with the lip muscles, providing good anchorage. It does not require implants, thus avoiding the risk of trauma. It also does not require the use of an extraoral arch for anchorage, thus avoiding the impact on external appearance and the risk of foreign objects being easily caught in the extraoral area. In addition, the vestibular shield can fit the anatomy of the oral vestibule, improving wearing comfort and making it highly acceptable to children.

[0009] Preferably, the force-applying rods on both sides do not contact the cheek side of the shell-shaped body. This arrangement avoids friction between the force-applying rods and the cheek side, preventing instrument displacement or mucosal damage and ensuring precise force application.

[0010] Preferably, the area of ​​the cross-section of the force-applying rod perpendicular to its length direction gradually decreases from the first end to the second end.

[0011] Preferably, the width of the cross-section of the force-applying rod perpendicular to its length direction gradually decreases in the buccal-lingual direction and / or the width of the cross-section of the force-applying rod perpendicular to its length direction gradually decreases in the gingival-maxillary direction. The gradual decrease in cross-sectional area from the first end to the second end can be achieved through a gradual change in width in the buccal-lingual or gingival-maxillary direction. This gradual change in cross-section provides an elastic gradient to the force-applying rod when transmitting force, avoiding stress concentration and reducing the risk of sudden changes in tooth force. Furthermore, the smaller cross-sectional area at the second end reduces the space occupied in the oral cavity, improving patient adaptability.

[0012] Preferably, the thickness of the vestibular shield gradually decreases from the left and right ends towards the middle.

[0013] Preferably, the force-applying rod is provided with a first reinforcing portion along its length to enhance its resistance to deformation in the direction of pushing the molar. The first reinforcing portion provides additional support along the length of the force-applying rod, preventing bending and deformation of the rod body during force application and ensuring efficient transmission of orthodontic force.

[0014] Preferably, the first reinforcing part is a first reinforcing ridge provided along the length direction of the force-applying rod.

[0015] Preferably, the first reinforcing part is a first internal support structure embedded inside the force-applying rod, arranged along its length. This embedded support structure avoids oral irritation caused by the first reinforcing part being exposed, thus improving patient comfort.

[0016] Preferably, the elastic modulus of the material of the force-applying rod is greater than that of the material of the vestibular shield, and / or, the thickness of the force-applying rod is greater than the thickness of the vestibular shield. This difference in thickness serves two purposes: firstly, functionally, the high elastic modulus / thickness of the force-applying rod provides rigid force application, while the low elastic modulus / thin vestibular shield ensures soft tissue comfort; secondly, mechanically, the combination of the flexibility of the vestibular shield and the rigidity of the force-applying rod balances force application accuracy and wearing adaptability.

[0017] Preferably, the vestibular shield is provided with a second reinforcing portion along the mesiodistal direction to enhance its resistance to deformation in the opposite direction to the pushing molar. This second reinforcing portion can resist reverse deformation of the vestibular shield caused by labial muscle compression, maintaining stability in the direction of force application.

[0018] Preferably, the second reinforcing part is a second reinforcing ridge arranged along the proximal-distal direction of the vestibular shield.

[0019] Preferably, the second reinforcing part is a second internal support structure embedded inside the vestibular shield, arranged along the proximal-distal direction. This embedded second internal support structure avoids affecting the smoothness of the vestibular shield surface and reduces the risk of mucosal irritation.

[0020] Preferably, the force-applying rod includes a force-relieving part and straight rod parts connected to both ends of the force-relieving part. The force-relieving part serves two purposes: firstly, it provides a buffering and protective function, allowing the auxiliary force of the force-applying rod to be released slowly or absorbing some energy when the applied force exceeds the limit, preventing excessive force on the teeth; secondly, it also provides a pre-tightening function, as the force-relieving part is compressed along the direction of distalization of the molar, forming a pre-tightening force that restricts the movement of the force-applying rod in that direction, thus maintaining the stability of the auxiliary force direction.

[0021] Preferably, the force-relieving part includes an orthodontic spring. When the applied force exceeds the limit, the orthodontic spring absorbs some energy through deformation, preventing excessive force on the teeth. It also provides continuous elastic force to adapt to changes in resistance during tooth movement.

[0022] Preferably, the first connecting part is a rod-shaped structure, and the second connecting part is a sleeve structure, wherein the inner contour shape of the sleeve structure matches the outer contour shape of the rod-shaped structure, and the rod-shaped structure and the sleeve structure are connected by a plug-in connection. This plug-in connection installation structure is easy to assemble and simplifies the installation or disassembly process of the auxiliary force application device.

[0023] Preferably, the first connecting portion includes a guide portion and a guide part adjacent to the guide portion, and the second connecting portion includes a guide channel and a guide part receiving cavity adjacent to the guide channel. The auxiliary force application device is detachably connected to the shell-shaped body through the cooperation of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion. When the first connecting portion is inserted into the second connecting portion, the guide part is compressed and elastically deformed under the guidance of the guide channel, passes through the guide channel, and enters the guide part receiving cavity. The guide part returns to its original shape within the guide part receiving cavity. The guide part is located within the guide channel to confine the guide part within the guide part receiving cavity. When the first connecting portion is pulled out of the second connecting portion, the guide part is compressed and elastically deformed under the guidance of the guide channel, passes through the guide channel in the opposite direction, and detaches from the second connecting portion. By providing the guide portion and the guide part, their cooperation ensures a stable connection and allows for detachment.

[0024] Preferably, the guide portion includes a first guide surface inclined for guiding the guide portion into the guide channel, a second guide surface inclined for guiding the guide portion out of the guide channel, and a release groove for providing a space for the guide portion to undergo elastic deformation due to compression when inserted into or removed from the guide channel. The release groove is configured to provide space for the guide portion to deform during elastic deformation.

[0025] Preferably, the second connecting part can be integrally formed on the buccal side of the posterior tooth region of the shell-shaped body. This integral structure facilitates fabrication and reduces the risk of connection failure. Alternatively, the second connecting part and the shell-shaped body can be separate components, installed on the buccal side of the posterior tooth region of the shell-shaped body by bonding or welding. This separate structure facilitates individual cleaning or replacement of damaged components, reducing operating costs and providing flexibility.

[0026] Preferably, the force-applying rod and the vestibular shield are integrally formed. This integrally formed structure reduces the risk of connection failure and increases the lifespan of the device.

[0027] Preferably, the vestibular shield has a pocket structure at both ends facing the posterior teeth region, and a connecting section is provided at one end of the force-applying rod near the vestibular shield. The inner contour shape of the pocket structure matches the outer contour shape of the connecting section. The connecting section is inserted into the pocket structure to mount the force-applying rod onto the vestibular shield. This design of the pocket structure and connecting section allows for easy assembly via a plug-in connection, simplifying the installation and disassembly process of the auxiliary force-applying device.

[0028] To achieve the objectives of this application, the present invention also provides a dental instrument system, including a first dental instrument and a second dental instrument. The first dental instrument is the aforementioned dental instrument. The first and second dental instruments are respectively used for wearing the same dentition during a first and a second time period in the same orthodontic step. The first and second time periods constitute a cyclical wearing cycle. The first time period is the time during which the patient is suitable to wear the first dental instrument in the cyclical wearing cycle, and the second time period is the time during which the patient is suitable to wear the second dental instrument in the cyclical wearing cycle. In this way, the orthodontic cycle can be optimized. By wearing different instruments at different times and combining active force application and passive retention phases, the efficiency of tooth movement can be improved.

[0029] Preferably, the cyclical wearing period is less than or equal to 24 hours of the same day. In this way, short-cycle cyclical wearing (such as wearing during the day / night) reduces the required duration of each wearing session and improves treatment compliance. Attached Figure Description

[0030] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. These illustrations do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements with the same numerical reference numerals are denoted as similar elements. Unless otherwise stated, the figures in the drawings do not constitute a limitation on scale.

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a dental instrument according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0032] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a force-applying rod in a dental instrument according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0033] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the vestibular shield in a dental instrument according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention from a certain perspective.

[0034] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of the force-applying rod with a first reinforcing ridge in the dental instrument of Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0035] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the force-applying rod with a first internal support structure in a dental instrument according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0036] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the vestibular shield with a second reinforcing ridge in a dental instrument according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0037] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the vestibular shield with a second internal support structure in a dental instrument according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0038] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of another force-applying rod in the dental instrument of Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0039] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another dental instrument in Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0040] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first connecting part and the second connecting part in the dental instrument according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0041] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the assembled structure of the first connecting part and the second connecting part in the dental instrument according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0042] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a dental instrument system according to Embodiment 2 of this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0043] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this utility model clearer, the various embodiments of this utility model will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, those skilled in the art will understand that many technical details have been provided in the various embodiments of this utility model to facilitate a better understanding of the invention. However, the technical solutions claimed by this utility model can be implemented even without these technical details and with various variations and modifications based on the following embodiments. The division of the various embodiments below is for ease of description and should not constitute any limitation on the specific implementation of this utility model.

[0044] The directional terms "up," "down," "left," and "right" used in this document refer to the directions shown in the accompanying drawings and do not imply any specific limitation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated or limited, the term "connection" in this document should be interpreted broadly. For example, it can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part of a structure. It can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium.

[0045] In the various embodiments of this invention, the term "posterior tooth region" is defined according to the classification of teeth in the 2nd edition of *Introduction to Stomatology*, published by Peking University Medical Press, pages 36-38. It includes premolars and molars, teeth marked as 4-8 using the FDI notation, and teeth marked as 1-3 using the FDI notation for the anterior tooth region. The teeth in the anterior tooth region include the central incisors, lateral incisors, and canines. Example

[0046] Please refer to Figure 1As shown, this application provides a dental instrument 100, including a shell-shaped body 10 for distalizing molars and an auxiliary force application device 20. The shell-shaped body 10 has multiple tooth receiving cavities capable of accommodating maxillary or mandibular teeth, for distalizing molars, and can provide orthodontic force for distalizing molars. The auxiliary force application device 20 is disposed in the posterior tooth region of the shell-shaped body 10, including a vestibular shield 21 and force application rods 22. Specifically, the vestibular shield 21 has two force application rods 22, respectively disposed at the left and right ends of the vestibular shield 21; the two ends of the force application rods 22 are a first end 23 and a second end 24 disposed opposite to the first end 23. The first end 23 is connected to the vestibular shield 21, and the second end 24 is connected to the posterior tooth region of the shell-shaped body 10. The way the first end 23 is connected to the vestibular shield 21 can be flexibly selected in different embodiments. For example, the force-applying rod 22 and the vestibular shield 21 can be an integrally formed structure, which can be formed by 3D printing, injection molding, or casting. The integrally formed structure makes processing more convenient and the connection more reliable. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the vestibular shield 21 and the force-applying rod 22 can also be separate structures, processed separately, and then connected and installed by methods such as plugging, bonding, or laser welding. In this case, it is easier to flexibly select the two processing materials. The auxiliary force application device 20 is connected to the shell-shaped body 10 by providing a first connecting portion 25 at the second end 24 of the force application rod 22; and providing second connecting portions 11 on the buccal sidewalls of the left and right posterior tooth areas of the shell-shaped body 10 to cooperate with the first connecting portion 25, so that the auxiliary force application device 20 is installed on the buccal sidewalls of the left and right posterior tooth areas of the shell-shaped body 10 through the cooperation of the first connecting portion 25 and the second connecting portion 11; the second connecting portion 11 can be provided on the buccal sidewall of the tooth receiving cavity corresponding to at least one of the teeth 4-8 in the posterior tooth area of ​​the shell-shaped body 10. After wearing the dental instrument 100, the labial muscle corresponding to the tooth covered by the vestibular shield 21 contacts the labial surface of the vestibular shield 21, and applies an auxiliary force to the tooth receiving cavity of the posterior tooth area of ​​the shell-shaped body 10 through the force application rod 22 to assist in moving the molar distally. The labial muscle corresponding to the tooth covered by the vestibular shield 21 is blocked by the vestibular shield 21 and does not contact the covered tooth.

[0047] This dental instrument 100, through the combination of the auxiliary force application device 20 and the shell-shaped body 10 for distalizing molars, can simultaneously utilize the precise force application of the shell-shaped body 10 to distalize molars, and utilize the vestibular shield 21 to block the action of the lip muscles on the teeth, thus shortening the entire orthodontic cycle. At the same time, while blocking abnormal lip muscle activity, the vestibular shield 21 can also convert lip muscle pressure into orthodontic force for distalizing molars, effectively improving the efficiency of distalizing molars. Furthermore, the reaction force of the orthodontic force for distalizing molars can further promote the blocking or training of abnormal lip muscles by the vestibular shield 21, thus enhancing both the effect of distalizing molars and the effect of blocking or training lip muscles.

[0048] For further explanation, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 1 As shown, the force-applying rods 22 on both sides of the vestibular shield 21 do not contact the buccal side of the shell-shaped body 10, thus avoiding interference with the shell-shaped body 10 and weakening the auxiliary force. In clinical applications, the force-applying rods 22 on both sides can be set to be consistent with the direction of distal movement of the molar, so that the auxiliary force direction of the auxiliary force-applying device 20 is consistent with the direction of distal movement of the molar, avoiding or reducing the component force inconsistent with the distal movement direction of the molar, which is more conducive to the realization of the distal movement effect of the molar.

[0049] For further explanation, please refer to Figure 2 As shown, the area of ​​the cross-section of the force-applying rod 22 perpendicular to its length direction L gradually decreases from the first end 23 to the second end 24. When the reaction force of the distal molar is applied to the vestibular shield 21 through the force-applying rod 22, the increased contact area reduces the pressure at the contact point between the force-applying rod 22 and the vestibular shield 21, thus making the vestibular shield 21 less prone to deformation. Simultaneously, the gradually increasing cross-sectional area of ​​the force-applying rod 22 also enhances its bending resistance, ensuring uniform transmission of the auxiliary force. Specifically, in one embodiment, the width of the cross-section of the force-applying rod 22 perpendicular to its length direction L in the gingival-maxillary direction remains constant; only the width of the cross-section of the force-applying rod 22 perpendicular to its length direction L in the buccal-lingual direction gradually decreases from the first end 23 to the second end 24. In another embodiment, the width of the cross-section of the force-applying rod 22 perpendicular to its length direction L in the buccal-lingual direction remains unchanged, except that the width of the cross-section of the force-applying rod 22 perpendicular to its length direction L in the gingival-maxillary direction gradually decreases from the first end 23 to the second end 24. In yet another embodiment, the width of the cross-section of the force-applying rod 22 perpendicular to its length direction L gradually decreases in both the buccal-lingual and gingival-maxillary directions.

[0050] To further enhance the rigidity of the connection between the vestibular shield 21 and the force-applying rod 22, the thickness of the vestibular shield 21 can gradually decrease from both ends towards the middle. That is, the thickness of the portions of the vestibular shield 21 at both ends that connect to the force-applying rod 22 is greater than the thickness of the middle portion. Please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 3 As shown, the thickness h1 at the left end and h2 at the right end of the vestibular shield 21 are greater than the thickness h3 of the middle portion of the vestibular shield 21. This design, in addition to enhancing the rigidity of the connection and preventing deformation of the vestibular shield 21, also avoids the concentration of pressure on the labial muscles, thereby protecting the soft tissues of the oral cavity. The materials used to make the two ends of the vestibular shield 21 and the middle portion can be the same, with only the thickness at the two ends increased. For example, in a specific embodiment, the thickness at both ends of the vestibular shield 21 is 5 mm, gradually decreasing to approximately 2 mm in the middle portion.

[0051] In one embodiment, the materials used to make the vestibular shield 21 at both ends can be different from those used to make the middle part. Specifically, the vestibular shield 21 at both ends is made of a material with a larger elastic modulus, while the middle part is made of a material with a slightly smaller elastic modulus. Clinically, this can be achieved using 3D printing technology.

[0052] In another embodiment, the vestibular shield 21 can be fabricated using a material with a high elastic modulus, and the thickness of the vestibular shield 21 at both ends can be increased to enhance the rigidity of the left and right ends of the vestibular shield 21. Furthermore, when fabricating the vestibular shield 21 using a material with a high elastic modulus, to make it more comfortable for the oral soft tissues to contact, a layer of soft material (such as ingestible silicone) can be coated on at least one side of the vestibular shield 21 near the lips.

[0053] To further explain, in order to ensure the rigidity of the force-applying rod 22 during the transmission of auxiliary force, thereby ensuring the stable transmission of auxiliary force and enhancing the support effect, a first reinforcing part can be provided along its length direction L to enhance the deformation resistance of the force-applying rod 22 in the direction of pushing the molar.

[0054] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 4As shown, the first reinforcing part can be a first reinforcing ridge 31 provided along the length direction L of the force-applying rod 22. The first reinforcing ridge 31 can be integrally formed with the force-applying rod 22, and is formed by the concavity or protrusion of the surface of the force-applying rod 22. Further, the first reinforcing ridge 31 is preferably an elongated strip from the first end 23 to the second end 24. In another embodiment, the first reinforcing ridge 31 can also be a plurality of small protrusions or grooves, which are regularly arranged along the length direction L of the force-applying rod 22. When the surface of the force-applying rod 22 is curved, the surface curvature of the first reinforcing ridge 31 is greater than the surface curvature of the force-applying rod 22. The first reinforcing ridge 31 can also be separately provided with the force-applying rod 22, and fixed to the surface of the force-applying rod 22 by means of bonding, welding or other methods after separate manufacturing.

[0055] In another embodiment, please refer to Figure 5 As shown, the first reinforcing part can also be a first internal support structure 32 embedded inside the force-applying rod 22, provided along the length direction L of the force-applying rod 22, such as an orthodontic wire. The first internal support structure 32 can be embedded into the force-applying rod 22 during casting; or, a channel penetrating the length direction L of the force-applying rod 22 can be provided along its length direction L, and the first internal support structure 32 can be installed in the channel.

[0056] To further explain, in order to ensure the stiffness of the force-applying rod 22 during the transmission of auxiliary force, thereby ensuring the stable transmission of auxiliary force and enhancing the support effect, the force-applying rod 22 can be made of a material with a larger elastic modulus or the thickness of the force-applying rod 22 can be increased. That is, the elastic modulus of the material of the force-applying rod 22 is greater than that of the material of the vestibular shield 21, and / or the thickness of the force-applying rod 22 is greater than that of the vestibular shield 21.

[0057] In one embodiment, the material used to make the force-applying rod 22 is different from that used to make the vestibular shield 21. Specifically, the force-applying rod 22 is made of a material with a higher elastic modulus, while the vestibular shield 21 is made of a material with a slightly lower elastic modulus. Furthermore, when choosing a material with a higher elastic modulus to make the force-applying rod 22, in order to make it more comfortable when in contact with oral soft tissues, a layer of soft material (such as ingestible silicone) can be coated on the outer surface of the force-applying rod 22 (at least on the surface near the buccal side).

[0058] In another embodiment, this can be achieved by increasing the thickness of the force-applying rod 22; the greater the thickness, the greater its resistance to deformation. In yet another embodiment, the force-applying rod 22 can be made of a material with a high elastic modulus, and its thickness can be increased simultaneously to improve its stiffness.

[0059] To further explain, in this application, the vestibular shield 21 not only blocks the contact between the lip muscles and the teeth, but also, when the molars are distalized, the reaction force of the distalization is transmitted to the vestibular shield 21 through the force-applying rod 22. The vestibular shield 21 needs to be able to resist the resulting deformation. This application provides a second reinforcing part along the mesiodistal direction of the vestibular shield 21 to enhance its resistance to deformation in the opposite direction to the molar displacement.

[0060] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 6 As shown, the second reinforcing part can be a second reinforcing ridge 41 arranged along the mesiodistal direction of the vestibular shield 21. The second reinforcing ridge 41 can be integrally formed with the vestibular shield 21, and is formed by a local concavity or convexity of the surface of the vestibular shield 21 (such as the surface near the lip or near the tooth). Further, the second reinforcing ridge 41 is preferably a long strip that runs through both ends of the vestibular shield 21. In another embodiment, the second reinforcing ridge 41 can also be a plurality of small protrusions or grooves, which are regularly arranged along the mesiodistal direction of the vestibular shield 21. The second reinforcing ridge 41 can also be separately arranged from the vestibular shield 21, and fixed to the surface of the vestibular shield 21 by means of bonding, welding or other methods after separate fabrication.

[0061] In another embodiment, please refer to Figure 7 As shown, the second reinforcing part can also be a second internal support structure 42 embedded inside the vestibular shield 21, arranged along the mesiodistal direction, such as an orthodontic wire. The second internal support structure 42 can be embedded into the vestibular shield 21 during casting; or, at least one channel penetrating the length direction L of the vestibular shield 21 can be provided along the mesiodistal direction, and the second internal support structure 42 can be installed in the channel.

[0062] Of course, in some embodiments, the force-applying rod 22 is provided with a first reinforcing part along its length direction L to enhance the deformation resistance of the force-applying rod 22 in the direction of pushing the molar. At the same time, the vestibular shield 21 is provided with a second reinforcing part along the mesiodistal direction to enhance the deformation resistance of the vestibular shield 21 in the opposite direction of pushing the molar. In this way, by providing the first reinforcing part and the second reinforcing part on the force-applying rod 22 and the vestibular shield 21 respectively, the overall rigidity of the dental instrument can be improved, structural deformation can be prevented during the application of force, so as to maintain the continuity and stability of the orthodontic auxiliary force.

[0063] For further explanation, please refer to Figure 8As shown, the force-applying rod 22 includes a force-relieving part and straight rod parts 27 connected to both ends of the force-relieving part. The force-relieving part serves two purposes: firstly, it provides a buffering and protective function, allowing the auxiliary force of the force-applying rod 22 to be released slowly or to absorb some energy when the applied force exceeds the limit, preventing excessive force on the teeth and causing adverse consequences (such as undesirable movement); secondly, it also provides a pre-tightening function. The force-relieving part is compressed in the direction of distalization of the molar, forming a pre-tightening force that restricts the movement of the force-applying rod 22 in that direction, thus maintaining the stability of the auxiliary force direction.

[0064] Furthermore, the force-relieving part includes an orthodontic spring bend 26. This force-relieving part includes an "Omega" bend, which can absorb some energy through deformation when the applied force exceeds its limit, preventing excessive force on the teeth; it can also provide continuous elastic force to adapt to changes in resistance during tooth movement. Moreover, this continuous elastic force causes the force-applying rod 22 to form a preload in the distalization direction of the molar, ensuring that the force-applying rod 22 always acts stably between the vestibular shield 21 and the shell-like body 10.

[0065] For further explanation, please refer to Figure 9 As shown, the first connecting part 25 is a rod-shaped structure. The first connecting part 25 and the main body of the force-applying rod 22 can be separate components, or they can be integrally formed with the main body of the force-applying rod 22. Figure 9 In the diagram, a dashed line indicates the boundary between the first connecting part 25 and the main body of the force-applying rod 22, but this does not imply that the first connecting part 25 and the main body of the force-applying rod 22 must be integrally formed. The second connecting part 11 is a sleeve structure, the inner contour shape of which matches the outer contour shape of the rod-shaped structure, and the rod-shaped structure and the sleeve structure are connected by a plug-in connection. This plug-in installation structure is convenient to assemble and simplifies the installation or disassembly process of the auxiliary force-applying device 20.

[0066] Further, please see Figure 10 and Figure 11As shown, the first connecting portion 25 includes a guide portion 51 and a guide portion 52 adjacent to the guide portion 51. The second connecting portion 11 includes a guide channel 61 and a receiving cavity for the guide portion 52 adjacent to the guide channel 61. The auxiliary force application device 20 is detachably connected to the shell-shaped body 10 through the cooperation of the first connecting portion 25 and the second connecting portion 11. When the first connecting portion 25 is inserted into the second connecting portion 11 along the insertion direction X, the guide portion 52 is located in the guide channel 61. Under the guidance of the first connecting part 25, the guide part 52 is compressed and undergoes elastic deformation, passing through the guide channel 61 and entering the receiving cavity of the guide part 52. The guide part 52 returns to its original shape within the receiving cavity of the guide part 52. The guide part 51 is located within the guide channel 61 to confine the guide part 52 within the receiving cavity of the guide part 52. When the first connecting part 25 is pulled out of the second connecting part 11, the guide part 52 is compressed and undergoes elastic deformation under the guidance of the guide channel 61, and then passes through the guide channel 61 in the opposite direction and detaches from the second connecting part 11. Through this structural design of the first connecting part 25 and the second connecting part 11, when inserted, the guide part 52 is elastically compressed by the guide channel 61. After entering the receiving cavity of the guide part 52, it can restore its original shape and be held in the receiving cavity of the guide part 52. When pulled out, the guide part 52 is also elastically compressed by the guide channel 61, thereby detaching from the receiving cavity of the guide part 52. This not only realizes the detachable installation of the force-applying rod 22 and the shell-shaped body 10, but also prevents the force-applying rod 22 and the shell-shaped body 10 from separating and falling off.

[0067] Further, the guide portion 52 includes a first guide surface S1 inclined for guiding the guide portion 52 into the guide channel 61, a second guide surface S2 inclined for guiding the guide portion 52 out of the guide channel 61, and a slow-release groove 53 for providing a space for the guide portion 52 to undergo elastic deformation when compressed during insertion or removal from the guide channel 61. The slow-release groove 53 is configured to provide space for the guide portion 52 to deform during elastic deformation. The first guide surface S1 is located on the insertion end side of the first connecting portion 25 (i.e., the end that reaches the second connecting portion 11 first when inserted along the insertion direction X). The second guide surface S2 is adjacent to the first guide surface S1, with one end of the second guide surface S2 connected to the first guide surface S1 and the other end of the second guide surface S2 connected to the guide portion 51. The slow-release groove 53 spans the guide portion 52, dividing the guide portion 52 into two parts, with the end of the slow-release groove 53 away from the second guide surface S2 being an open structure.

[0068] Furthermore, the second connecting part 11 can be integrally formed on the buccal side of the shell-shaped body 10 in the posterior tooth region. This integral structure is easy to manufacture, for example, through thermoforming or 3D printing, and it reduces the risk of connection failure. Alternatively, the second connecting part 11 and the shell-shaped body 10 can be separate components, attached to the shell-shaped body 10 on the buccal side of the posterior tooth region by bonding or welding. This separate structure facilitates individual cleaning or replacement of damaged parts, reducing operating costs and providing flexibility.

[0069] To further clarify, the force-applying rod 22 and the vestibular shield 21 are integrally molded structures, which can be manufactured clinically using processes such as 3D printing, injection molding, or casting. This integrally molded structure reduces the risk of connection failure and extends the lifespan of the device.

[0070] In one embodiment, the force-applying rod 22 and the vestibular shield 21 can also be separately configured. This separate configuration allows for more flexible and convenient cleaning or replacement of the force-applying rod 22 and the vestibular shield 21. Specifically, the vestibular shield 21 has a pocket structure 70 at both ends facing the posterior tooth region. The force-applying rod 22 has a connecting section 80 at one end near the vestibular shield 21. The connecting section 80 and the main body of the force-applying rod 22 can be separately configured or integrated with the main body of the force-applying rod 22. Figure 9 In the diagram, a dashed line indicates the boundary between the connecting segment 80 and the main body of the force-applying rod 22, without limiting the connection segment 80 to be integrally formed with the main body of the force-applying rod 22. The inner contour shape of the pocket structure 70 matches the outer contour shape of the connecting segment 80, and the connecting segment 80 is inserted into the pocket structure 70 to allow the force-applying rod 22 to be mounted on the vestibular shield 21. This configuration of the pocket structure 70 and connecting segment 80, installed via a plug-in method, facilitates assembly and simplifies the installation or disassembly process of the auxiliary force-applying device 20. To further enhance installation reliability, an adhesive that allows entry can be applied to the end of the connecting segment 80 near the pocket structure 70 during plugging. This adhesive allows the force-applying rod 22 to be more securely mounted on the shell-like body 10 when plugged into the pocket structure 70. However, after this simultaneous plugging and adhesive installation, the force-applying rod 22 can no longer be detached from the shell-like body 10.

[0071] Of course, in another embodiment, taking into account both detachable connection and installation reliability, the connecting segment 80 can also refer to the structure of the first connecting part 25 described above, and the interior of the pocket structure 70 can also refer to the internal structure of the second connecting part 11. The specific structure and fit are consistent with the structure and fit of the first connecting part 25 and the second connecting part 11, and will not be described again here.

[0072] In some preferred embodiments, the vestibular shield 21, the force-applying rod 22, and the shell-shaped body 10 are all separately configured. As mentioned above, this makes it easier to clean each component individually or replace damaged components, reducing usage costs and providing convenience and flexibility. Example

[0073] To achieve the purpose of this utility model, this utility model also provides a dental instrument system 1000, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 12 As shown, the dental instrument system 1000 includes a first dental instrument and a second dental instrument 200. The first dental instrument is the dental instrument 100 described in any one of Embodiment 1. The first dental instrument and the second dental instrument 200 are respectively used for wearing the same dentition in the same orthodontic step during a first and second time period. The first time period and the second time period form a cyclic wearing cycle. The first time period is the time during which the patient is suitable to wear the first dental instrument in the cyclic wearing cycle, and the second time period is the time during which the patient is suitable to wear the second dental instrument in the cyclic wearing cycle. For example, the first time period is at night, and the second time period is during the day. During the day, the second dental instrument can be a shell-shaped body without the auxiliary force application device for molar distalization, relying on the second dental instrument itself to distalize the molars; or, the second dental instrument can be an orthodontic appliance with other orthodontic functions, which is not limited in this application. At night (e.g., when falling asleep), the first dental instrument can be worn to assist in distalizing the molars while also blocking the adverse effects of the lip muscles on the teeth. In this way, the orthodontic cycle can be optimized. By wearing different instruments at different times and combining active force application and passive retention phases, the efficiency of tooth movement can be improved.

[0074] Furthermore, the cyclical wearing period is less than or equal to 24 hours of the same day. For example, the cyclical period consisting of the first time period and the second time period can be a complete 24-hour day; it can also be 20 hours, 18 hours, etc. In this way, short-cycle cyclical wearing (such as wearing during the day / night) can reduce the duration of wearing the same dental instrument at one time, which increases the patient's willingness to wear it, thereby improving treatment compliance.

[0075] It should be noted that the above embodiments can be freely combined as needed to form different new implementation schemes without causing contradictions. All implementation schemes formed by such combinations are within the protection scope of this application. In order to save space in the application text, they will not be described in detail here.

[0076] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of this application. It should be noted that for those skilled in the art, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the inventive principle of this invention, and these improvements and modifications should also be considered within the scope of protection of this application.

[0077] Similarly, the above descriptions are merely specific embodiments of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A dental instrument, characterized in that, The device includes a shell-shaped body for distalizing molars and an auxiliary force-applying device connected to the posterior tooth region of the shell-shaped body. The shell-shaped body has several tooth-receiving cavities for accommodating maxillary or mandibular teeth. The auxiliary force-applying device includes a vestibular shield and force-applying rods. A force-applying rod is provided at each of the left and right ends of the vestibular shield. A first end of each force-applying rod is connected to the vestibular shield, and a second end of the force-applying rod, opposite to the first end, is connected to the posterior tooth region of the shell-shaped body. The second end has a first connecting portion. The shell-shaped body has a shell-shaped body at each of the left and right ends. The buccal sidewalls of the tooth region are respectively provided with second connecting parts. The auxiliary force application device is installed on the buccal sidewalls of the left and right sides of the posterior tooth region of the shell-shaped body through the cooperation of the first connecting part and the second connecting part. When worn, the labial muscle corresponding to the tooth covered by the vestibular shield contacts the labial surface of the vestibular shield, and an auxiliary force is applied to the tooth receiving cavity of the posterior tooth region of the shell-shaped body to move the molar distally through the force application rod. The labial muscle corresponding to the tooth covered by the vestibular shield is blocked by the vestibular shield and does not contact the covered tooth.

2. The dental instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The force-applying rods on the left and right sides do not contact the cheek sides of the shell-shaped body on the left and right sides.

3. The dental instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The area of ​​the cross-section of the force-applying rod perpendicular to its length direction gradually decreases from the first end to the second end.

4. The dental instrument according to claim 3, characterized in that, The width of the cross section of the force-applying rod perpendicular to its length direction gradually decreases in the buccal-lingual direction and / or the width of the cross section of the force-applying rod perpendicular to its length direction gradually decreases in the gingival-maxillary direction.

5. The dental instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thickness of the vestibular shield gradually decreases from the left and right ends towards the middle.

6. The dental instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The force-applying rod is provided with a first reinforcing part along its length to enhance its resistance to deformation in the direction of pushing the molar.

7. The dental instrument according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first reinforcing part is a first reinforcing ridge provided along the length direction of the force-applying rod.

8. The dental instrument according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first reinforcing part is a first internal support structure embedded inside the force-applying rod, which is arranged along the length direction of the force-applying rod.

9. The dental instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic modulus of the material of the force-applying rod is greater than that of the material of the vestibular shield, and / or the thickness of the force-applying rod is greater than that of the vestibular shield.

10. The dental instrument according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The vestibular shield is provided with a second reinforcing part along the mesiodistal direction to enhance its resistance to deformation in the opposite direction to the molar.

11. The dental instrument according to claim 10, characterized in that, The second reinforcing part is a second reinforcing ridge arranged along the proximal-distal direction of the vestibular shield.

12. The dental instrument according to claim 10, characterized in that, The second reinforcing part is a second internal support structure embedded inside the vestibular shield, arranged along the proximal-distal direction of the vestibular shield.

13. The dental instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The force-applying rod includes a force-relieving part and a straight rod part connected to both ends of the force-relieving part.

14. The dental instrument according to claim 13, characterized in that, The force-relieving part includes a corrective spring.

15. The dental instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first connecting part is a rod-shaped structure, and the second connecting part is a sleeve structure. The inner contour shape of the sleeve structure matches the outer contour shape of the rod-shaped structure, and the rod-shaped structure and the sleeve structure are connected by a plug-in method.

16. The dental instrument according to claim 15, characterized in that, The first connecting part includes a guide part and a guide portion adjacent to the guide part. The second connecting part includes a guide channel and a guide portion receiving cavity adjacent to the guide channel. The auxiliary force application device is detachably connected to the shell-shaped body through the cooperation of the first connecting part and the second connecting part. When the first connecting part is inserted into the second connecting part, the guide portion is compressed and elastically deformed under the guidance of the guide channel and passes through the guide channel into the guide portion receiving cavity. The guide portion returns to its original shape within the guide portion receiving cavity. The guide portion is located within the guide channel to confine the guide portion within the guide portion receiving cavity. When the first connecting part is pulled out of the second connecting part, the guide portion is compressed and elastically deformed under the guidance of the guide channel and passes through the guide channel in the opposite direction before disengaging from the second connecting part.

17. The dental instrument according to claim 16, characterized in that, The guide portion includes a first guide surface that is inclined for guiding the guide portion into the guide channel, a second guide surface that is inclined for guiding the guide portion out of the guide channel, and a slow-release groove for providing a slow-release space for the guide portion to undergo elastic deformation when compressed during insertion or removal from the guide channel.

18. The dental instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second connecting part can be integrally formed on the buccal side of the posterior tooth region of the shell-shaped body, or the second connecting part and the shell-shaped body are separate structures, and are installed on the buccal side of the posterior tooth region of the shell-shaped body by bonding or welding.

19. The dental instrument according to any one of claims 1 to 9 or 13-18, characterized in that, The force-applying rod and the vestibular shield are integrally formed.

20. The dental instrument according to any one of claims 1 to 9 or 13-18, characterized in that, The vestibular shield has a pocket structure at both ends facing the posterior teeth. The force-applying rod has a connecting section at one end near the vestibular shield. The inner contour of the pocket structure matches the outer contour of the connecting section. The connecting section is inserted into the pocket structure to mount the force-applying rod on the vestibular shield.

21. A dental instrument system, characterized in that, The device includes a first dental instrument and a second dental instrument. The first dental instrument is the dental instrument as described in any one of claims 1 to 20. The first dental instrument and the second dental instrument are respectively used for wearing the same dentition in the same orthodontic step during a first time period and a second time period. The first time period and the second time period form a cyclic wearing cycle. The first time period is the time period in the cyclic wearing cycle during which the patient is suitable to wear the first dental instrument, and the second time period is the time period in the cyclic wearing cycle during which the patient is suitable to wear the second dental instrument.

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