Fixator, system and procedure for it

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fixator (10) for fixing a first tooth model (52) and a second tooth model (54), wherein the fixator (10) has a first fixator-side guide element (28) and a second fixator-side guide element (30), both of which extend in a longitudinal direction (12) of the fixator (10), wherein the first fixator-side guide element (28) can be coupled to a first model-side guide element (62) of the first tooth model (52) and the second fixator-side guide element (30) can be coupled to a second model-side guide element (64) of the second tooth model (54), wherein the first fixator-side guide element (28) is configured to guide the first model-side guide element (62) in the longitudinal direction (12) when the first fixator-side guide element (28) is coupled to the first model-side guide element (62), and wherein the second fixator-side guide element (30) is configured toto guide the second model-side guide element (64) in the longitudinal direction (12) when the second fixator-side guide element (30) is coupled to the second model-side guide element (64). Furthermore, the present invention relates to a system (50). Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method (100) for fixing a first dental model (52) and a second dental model (54) by means of at least one fixator (10).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a fixator for fixing a first dental model and a second dental model. The present invention further relates to a system comprising a first dental model, a second dental model, and at least one such fixator. The present invention further relates to a method for fixing a first dental model and a second dental model using at least one such fixator.

[0002] It is known in the prior art to use dental models for the fabrication of orthodontic appliances. In particular, the orthodontic appliance can be manufactured on a dental model.

[0003] An orthodontic appliance is used to treat misalignments of the jaws and teeth in patients. A variety of different orthodontic appliances are known in the art, for example, removable appliances, fixed appliances, braces, retainers, and the like. In particular, orthodontic appliances can have at least one wire. Such appliances can be described as wire-fixed or wire-based appliances.

[0004] In this context, a dental model refers to a model of a dentition or jaw, particularly a patient's dentition or jaw. A dental model can also be called a dental model. Dental models in the form of plaster casts are particularly common. Furthermore, dental models can also be produced using 3D printing, for example, from plastic. A 3D-printed dental model can also be called a filament model.

[0005] To fabricate specialized orthodontic appliances, it may be necessary to connect and fix upper and lower jaw models. Articulators, occluders, and fixators are used for this purpose in current technology.

[0006] Occluders and articulators not only serve to fix the two models, but also enable opening and closing movements, also called hinge movements, of the two models of the upper and lower jaw. Such articulators are shown, for example, in publications US 2004 / 175672 A1 and US 2022 / 287806 A1.

[0007] Fixators simply hold the models in a fixed position relative to each other. They serve to view the models in their final occlusion position. The fixator thus functions as a laboratory aid for maintaining or adjusting the predetermined vertical dimension and occlusion of the two opposing plaster model halves during the fabrication of orthodontic appliances such as braces.

[0008] For example, publication WO 2016 / 042582 A1 describes a modular system for the fabrication of orthodontic plaster models with true-to-life inclination of the individual occlusal plane, as well as removable and fixed prostheses and other orthodontic appliances such as bite splints or splints. The system comprises an initial module consisting of a carrier device and additional components such as bases, muffs, small frames, curved and flat plates, a base for transferring the static relationships between the dental arches, the individual facebow, and the injection piston, suitable for combining with the device to form further modules. This is intended to simplify various dental processing techniques and reduce processing times as well as potential errors that occur during the fabrication and squaring of the artifact.

[0009] Furthermore, US Patent 5,015,182 A discloses a dental fixator comprising a vertical rod, an upper horizontal arm, a lower horizontal arm, and a pair of clamps on each of the arms. One of the clamps of each arm is located beside its posterior end and can be moved on a device toward the front clamp of the arm, thus allowing each pair of clamps to detachably hold a dental model or impression to its corresponding arm. The clamps can be pivoted in a horizontal plane and have barrel-shaped, serrated gripping surfaces at their opposite ends. Each arm has a front flange through which a longitudinal screw passes to the device for moving the device along the arm. The upper arm is connected to a cylinder, which in turn is connected to the rod, allowing the arm to be rotated about its longitudinal axis.The front end of the cylinder can be pivotally connected to the upper arm and locked at a selected angle to the cylinder to facilitate work on dental models or impressions mounted on the arms. A vertical reference stop ring can be detachably attached between the arms of the rod. This fixator offers improved multidirectional adjustability.

[0010] However, the known devices, systems and procedures still leave room for improvement, especially regarding the simplicity and handling of fixators.

[0011] Against this background, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved fixator, an improved system, and an improved method for fixing a first dental model and a second dental model. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to improve the fixing of two dental models with one fixator, especially with regard to the simplicity and handling of the fixator.

[0012] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a fixator is provided for fixing a first dental model and a second dental model, wherein the fixator has a first fixator-side guide element and a second fixator-side guide element, both of which extend in a longitudinal direction of the fixator, wherein the first fixator-side guide element can be coupled to a first model-side guide element of the first dental model and the second fixator-side guide element can be coupled to a second model-side guide element of the second dental model, wherein the first fixator-side guide element is configured to guide the first model-side guide element in the longitudinal direction when the first fixator-side guide element is coupled to the first model-side guide element, and wherein the second fixator-side guide element is configured to guide the second model-side guide element in the longitudinal direction.when the second fixator-side guide element is coupled to the second model-side guide element.

[0013] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a system is provided, wherein the system comprises a first tooth model, a second tooth model and at least one fixator according to the first aspect, wherein the first tooth model and the second tooth model can be fixed by means of the at least one fixator.

[0014] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a method for fixing a first dental model and a second dental model by means of at least one fixator is provided, wherein each fixator has a first fixator-side guide element and a second fixator-side guide element, both of which extend in a longitudinal direction of the fixator, the method comprising the following steps: - Providing the first dental model and the second dental model, wherein the first dental model has a first model-side guide element for each fixator, and wherein the second dental model has a second model-side guide element for each fixator; - First coupling of each first fixator-side guide element with the corresponding first model-side guide element of the first tooth model; - Initial guidance of the respective first model-side guide element in the longitudinal direction by means of the corresponding first fixator-side guide element, if the first fixator-side guide element is coupled to the first model-side guide element; - Second coupling of each second fixator-side guide element with the corresponding second model-side guide element of the second tooth model; and - Second guidance of the respective second model-side guide element in the longitudinal direction by means of the corresponding second fixator-side guide element, if the second fixator-side guide element is coupled to the second model-side guide element.

[0015] The procedure according to the third aspect can be carried out using the system according to the second aspect.

[0016] The first dental model is preferably a mandibular model. The second dental model is preferably an maxillary model. The fixator serves to fix the first dental model to the second dental model. In particular, the first dental model and the second dental model can be fixed in a defined arrangement relative to each other using the fixator.

[0017] The fixator has a longitudinal direction. In particular, the fixator is elongated and extends longitudinally from a first longitudinal end to a second longitudinal end. With respect to its longitudinal direction, the fixator can have a lower part, a middle part, and an upper part. The lower part is located at the first longitudinal end. The upper part is located at the second longitudinal end. The middle part is located between the upper part and the lower part.

[0018] The first fixator-side guide element of the fixator serves to guide the first model-side guide element of the first dental model longitudinally. The second fixator-side guide element of the fixator serves to guide the second model-side guide element of the second dental model longitudinally. The term "fixator-side" means that the corresponding element is assigned to or belongs to the fixator. The term "model-side" means that the corresponding element is assigned to or belongs to one of the dental models.

[0019] The first fixator-side guide element extends longitudinally, in particular to the first longitudinal end of the fixator. The second fixator-side guide element also extends longitudinally, in particular to the second longitudinal end of the fixator. The first fixator-side guide element and the second fixator-side guide element are preferably spaced apart longitudinally. In particular, the first fixator-side guide element can form the lower part of the fixator and the second fixator-side guide element the upper part of the fixator.

[0020] The first fixator-side guide element can be coupled to a first model-side guide element of the first tooth model. The second fixator-side guide element can be coupled to a second model-side guide element of the second tooth model. "Coupling" means that the two guide elements can be brought into engagement with each other. In the coupled state, i.e., when the respective model-side guide element is coupled to the corresponding fixator-side guide element, this model-side guide element is guided longitudinally. In particular, each model-side guide element, in the coupled state, can only move longitudinally relative to the fixator. In the coupled state, the respective fixator-side guide element and the corresponding model-side guide element thus form a guide, in particular a straight guide or linear guide. The coupling process therefore establishes the guide.The coupling can be achieved, for example, by a relative movement parallel to the longitudinal direction.

[0021] In the coupled state, the two tooth models and the at least one fixator are arranged with respect to a reference system. The reference system is defined by a first direction, a second direction, and a third direction. The first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are preferably perpendicular to each other in pairs. The first direction is preferably vertical. The second and third directions are preferably horizontal.

[0022] The longitudinal direction of the fixator runs parallel to the first direction. The two tooth models are spaced apart from each other in the first direction, preferably arranged one above the other. Each tooth model has a front and a back. The front and back are arranged on opposite sides of the respective tooth model in the second direction. The front is preferably the side of a tooth model where the incisors are located. The back is preferably the side of a tooth model where the molars are located. The model-side guide elements are preferably arranged on the back of the respective tooth model. The model-side guide elements preferably extend along the respective tooth model in the first direction. In particular, the first model-side guide element can be aligned with the second model-side guide element in the first direction.

[0023] At least one fixator is used to hold the first and second dental models in place. This means that one or more fixators can be used to hold the first and second dental models in place. In particular, multiple fixators can be used to hold the first and second dental models in place. In this case, each dental model also has multiple model-side guide elements. Specifically, the first dental model can have one model-side guide element for each fixator, and the second dental model can have one model-side guide element for each fixator.

[0024] If multiple fixators are provided for fixation, these are preferably arranged on the back sides of the two tooth models in the coupled state and spaced apart from each other in the third direction. In particular, each tooth model can have several model-side guide elements on its back side, spaced apart from each other in the third direction.

[0025] To fix the first dental model to the second dental model using the fixator, the first model-side guide element is coupled to the first fixator-side guide element and guided along its longitudinal axis. Simultaneously, the second model-side guide element is coupled to the second fixator-side guide element and guided along its longitudinal axis. The two model-side guide elements can be positioned in such a way that the two dental models are arranged in the defined configuration. This allows the dental technician to fix the dental models easily and securely. In this way, the fixation process is improved in terms of both simplicity and handling.

[0026] The task posed at the beginning is thus fully solved.

[0027] In a first embodiment according to one of the aspects or one of its embodiments, each fixator-side guide element can be designed to be complementary to the corresponding model-side guide element.

[0028] In this way, a positive-locking coupling perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is achieved. This enables stable coupling and guidance in the longitudinal direction. For example, each fixator-side guide element can have a cross-sectional profile that is complementary to a cross-sectional profile of the corresponding model-side guide element. The cross-sectional profile of each fixator-side guide element is preferably a cross-sectional profile perpendicular to the longitudinal direction or to the first direction. In particular, the cross-sectional profile of each fixator-side guide element is constant along the longitudinal direction. The cross-sectional profile of each model-side guide element is preferably a cross-sectional profile perpendicular to the first direction. In particular, the cross-sectional profile of each model-side guide element is constant along the first direction.The cross-sectional profile of each fixator-side guide element can be, for example, male, and the cross-sectional profile of each model-side guide element can be correspondingly female. Alternatively, the cross-sectional profile of each fixator-side guide element can be female, and the cross-sectional profile of each model-side guide element can be correspondingly male. The cross-sectional profile of each model-side guide element can taper in the second direction towards the back of the respective tooth model.

[0029] In a further embodiment according to one of the aspects or one of its embodiments, each fixator-side guide element can be designed as a bridge extending in the longitudinal direction.

[0030] In this way, the fixator has a particularly simple design. Specifically, the web of the first fixator-side guide element can form the lower part, and the web of the second fixator-side guide element can form the upper part of the fixator. Each of the two webs can extend longitudinally with a constant cross-sectional profile. The cross-sectional profile of each web can, for example, be T-shaped.

[0031] In a further embodiment according to one of the aspects or one of its embodiments, each model-side guide element can be designed as a groove.

[0032] In this way, the fixator can be easily coupled and fixed to the two dental models. The groove can also be described as an elongated recess or slot. Each groove of the model-side guide elements extends in the first direction, preferably with a constant cross-sectional profile. The cross-sectional profile of each groove can, for example, be T-shaped. Each groove has two ends in the first direction. At least one of the two ends is open. This allows the corresponding fixator-side guide element, in particular the corresponding rib, to be inserted or pushed into the groove from the open end in order to couple the respective fixator-side guide element with the corresponding model-side guide element. In particular, the end of the groove of the model-side guide element of each dental model that faces the other dental model is open.Preferably, each groove is arranged on the back side of the corresponding tooth model. In particular, each groove opens towards the back side of the corresponding tooth model. Each groove can taper towards the back side of the corresponding tooth model. For example, the groove can have a first section and a second section in the second direction, with the first section being located closer to the back side than the first section. The width of the groove is preferably greater in the first section than in the second section. The rib of each fixator-side guide element is preferably designed to be complementary to the groove of the corresponding model-side guide element.

[0033] In a further embodiment according to one of the aspects or one of its embodiments, the first fixator-side guide element and the second fixator-side guide element can be arranged in the longitudinal direction on opposite sides of the fixator, in particular wherein the first fixator-side guide element and the second fixator-side guide element are arranged in alignment in the longitudinal direction.

[0034] In this way, the fixator has a particularly simple and compact design. The two guide elements on the fixator side are spaced apart longitudinally.

[0035] In a further embodiment according to one of the aspects or one of its embodiments, the fixator can have a first stop element for the first model-side guide element and a second stop element for the second model-side guide element, wherein the first stop element forms a first stop for the first model-side guide element in the longitudinal direction, and wherein the second stop element forms a second stop for the second model-side guide element in the longitudinal direction.

[0036] In this way, the two dental models can be easily coupled to the fixator and guided up to the two stop elements to secure them. The first stop element serves as a stop for the first dental model, specifically for the first model-side guide element. The second stop element serves as a stop for the second dental model, specifically for the second model-side guide element. The first and second stop elements are arranged longitudinally between the two fixator-side guide elements. The first stop element is located on the first fixator-side guide element, and the second stop element is located on the second fixator-side guide element. In particular, the two stop elements can be located in the central section of the fixator. The first stop element defines an inner end of the first fixator-side guide element.The second stop element defines an inner end of the second fixator-side guide element. The first fixator-side guide element thus extends longitudinally from the first longitudinal end of the fixator to the first stop element. The second fixator-side guide element extends longitudinally from the second longitudinal end of the fixator to the second stop element.

[0037] In a further embodiment according to one of the aspects or one of its embodiments, the fixator can have a handling element for handling the fixator, wherein the handling element is arranged in the longitudinal direction between the first fixator-side guide element and the second fixator-side guide element, in particular between the first stop element and the second stop element.

[0038] The handling element makes the fixator particularly easy to handle during the fixation of the dental models. The handling element can, for example, be designed as a grip strip that projects perpendicularly from the fixator along its length. The handling element is preferably located in the central part of the fixator. In particular, the handling element can extend longitudinally between the first and second stop elements.

[0039] In a further embodiment according to one of the aspects or one of its embodiments, the fixator can have a fastening section in the second guide element for a fastening element for fixing the second tooth model to the fixator.

[0040] The fastening section is preferably designed as a bore. The bore can extend perpendicular to the longitudinal direction through the fixator. The fastening element can, for example, be a screw. In this way, the second dental model can be attached to the fixator in a desired position. Alternatively or additionally, the fixator can have a fastening section in the first guide element for a fastening element to fix the first dental model to the fixator.

[0041] In a further embodiment according to one of the aspects or one of its embodiments, the fixator can be made of a metal, preferably a metal alloy.

[0042] The material from which the fixator is made can therefore be a metal, preferably a metal alloy. For example, the material can be a CoCr alloy, in particular ground CoCr. The fixator can be manufactured from this material. In this way, the fixator is particularly stable and load-bearing.

[0043] In a further embodiment according to one of the aspects or one of its embodiments, Fixator can be manufactured using an additive process.

[0044] In this way, the fixator can be manufactured easily, especially in one piece. For example, the fixator can be manufactured using a beam melting process, particularly a laser beam melting process (also called "laser melting"). The laser beam melting process is based on the powder bed-based melting of metal using a laser beam. The metal can be a metal alloy, especially a CoCr alloy.

[0045] In a further embodiment according to one of the aspects or one of its embodiments, the system can have two fixators, wherein the first tooth model has a first model-side guide element for each fixator and the second tooth model has a second model-side guide element for each fixator.

[0046] By using two fixators, the two dental models can be fixed more securely. Specifically, the first dental model has a first model-side guide element on its back surface for each fixator. Similarly, the second dental model has a second model-side guide element on its back surface for each fixator. When coupled, the two fixators are spaced apart in the third direction. Specifically, the two first model-side guide elements can be arranged on the back surface of the first dental model spaced apart in the third direction. The two second model-side guide elements can be arranged on the back surface of the second dental model spaced apart in the third direction.

[0047] In a further embodiment according to one of the aspects or one of its embodiments, the first dental model can be fixed to any fixator by guiding each first model-side guide element in the longitudinal direction along the respective first fixator-side guide element up to the first stop element of the respective fixator.

[0048] In this way, the first dental model can be easily fixed using the fixator. To fix it, the first model-side guide element is first coupled to the first fixator-side guide element and then guided along the first fixator-side guide element to the first stop element.

[0049] In a further embodiment according to one of the aspects or one of its embodiments, the second dental model can be fixed to each fixator by guiding each second model-side guide element in the longitudinal direction along the respective second fixator-side guide element up to the second stop element of the respective fixator.

[0050] In this way, the second dental model can be easily fixed using the fixator. To fix it, the second model-side guide element is first coupled to the second fixator-side guide element and then guided along the second fixator-side guide element to the second stop element.

[0051] In a further embodiment according to one of the aspects or one of its embodiments, the second tooth model can be fixed to each fixator at a defined position in the longitudinal direction along the respective second fixator-side guide element by means of the corresponding fastening element.

[0052] In this way, the second dental model can be easily fixed in a desired position using the fixator. To fix it, the second model-side guide element is first coupled to the second fixator-side guide element and then guided along the second fixator-side guide element to the defined position. The second dental model can then be secured in the defined position using the fastening element. For this purpose, the fastening element can be inserted into the second dental model through the fixing section of the fixator, and in particular, screwed into place.

[0053] In a further embodiment according to one of the aspects or one of its embodiments, the first dental model and the second dental model can consist of a thermoplastic material, in particular plastic.

[0054] In particular, the two tooth models can be made of or manufactured from a thermoplastic material. The thermoplastic material could, for example, be GreenTEC Pro Es.

[0055] In a further embodiment according to one of the aspects or one of its embodiments, the first dental model and the second dental model can be produced using an additive process.

[0056] In this way, the impression-taking process, which some patients find unpleasant, using impression material, especially alginate, and metal impression trays, can be eliminated. Any potential gag reflex is also avoided. An intraoral scan can be performed first to additively fabricate the two dental models. An intraoral scan is a digital impression of the patient's oral cavity. For example, the dental arches can be scanned inside the mouth using a small camera and captured as digital data. In particular, the intraoral scan can capture a 3D model of the patient's oral cavity, including teeth, palate, and soft tissue. Based on the intraoral scan, and especially on the captured 3D model, the respective dental model can then be fabricated using the additive manufacturing process.For example, any dental model can be manufactured from a thermoplastic base material using an additive manufacturing process such as stereolithography (SLA) or digital light processing (DLP). The base material can be a filament with an outer layer thickness of three layers and a loose internal support structure. The material is preferably heat-resistant up to 160 °C. In particular, the base material can be GreenTEC Pro Es.

[0057] In a further embodiment according to the third aspect or one of its embodiments, each fixator can have a first stop element for the corresponding first model-side guide element, the method further comprising the following step: - Fixing the first dental model to each fixator by guiding the respective first model-side guide element longitudinally along the respective first fixator-side guide element to the first stop element of the respective fixator.

[0058] As previously described, the first dental model can be easily fixed in this way using the fixator. Specifically, the first fixator-side guide element is fully inserted into the first model-side guide element so that it rests against the first stop element.

[0059] In a further embodiment according to the third aspect or one of its embodiments, each fixator can have a second stop element for the corresponding second model-side guide element, the method further comprising the following step: - Fixing the second dental model to each fixator by guiding the respective second model-side guide element longitudinally along the respective second fixator-side guide element to the second stop element of the respective fixator.

[0060] As previously described, the first dental model can be easily fixed in this way using the fixator. Specifically, the second fixator-side guide element is fully inserted into the second model-side guide element so that it rests against the second stop element.

[0061] In a further embodiment according to the third aspect or one of its embodiments, the procedure may further include the following step: - Fixing the second dental model to each fixator at a defined position in the longitudinal direction along the respective second fixator-side guide element by means of a fastening element.

[0062] As previously described, the first dental model can be easily fixed in the desired position using the fixator. Specifically, the first guide element on the fixator side is at least partially inserted into the first guide element on the model side and secured using the fastening element.

[0063] In a further embodiment according to the third aspect or one of its embodiments, in the step of provisioning each first model-side guide element can be formed on the first tooth model and each second model-side guide element on the second tooth model.

[0064] In this way, the model-side guide elements can be easily formed. For example, the model-side guide elements can be attached to the two tooth models, particularly on their back surfaces. Specifically, the model-side guide elements can be glued, applied using an additive manufacturing process, or fastened with a screw. Alternatively, the two tooth models, particularly their back surfaces, can be machined to create the model-side guide elements. This machining can be carried out using a subtractive manufacturing process. Alternatively, the two tooth models can also be manufactured directly and integrally with the respective model-side guide elements, for example, as part of an additive manufacturing process.

[0065] It is understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or on their own, without leaving the scope of the present invention.

[0066] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawing and are explained in more detail in the following description. They show: Fig: 1 an isometric view of an embodiment of a fixator; Fig. 2 a first side view of the fixator Fig. 1 along a transverse direction of the fixator; Fig. 3 a second side view of the fixator Fig. 1 along a thickness direction of the fixator; Fig. 4 a side view of an embodiment of a system; Fig. 5 a side view of the system Fig. 4 with a second tooth model fixed in a defined position; Fig. 6 a top view of a first tooth model of the system made of Fig. 4 with two model-side guide elements in a first embodiment; Fig. 7 a top view of a first tooth model of the system made of Fig. 4 with two model-side guide elements in a second embodiment; and Fig. 8 a schematic view of an embodiment of a method.

[0067] The Fig. Figures 1 to 3 show an embodiment of a fixator in its entirety, designated by reference numeral 10. The fixator 10 serves to fix a first dental model to a second dental model. The fixator 10 is formed in one piece. The fixator 10 consists of a metal, preferably a metal alloy, in particular a CoCr alloy, such as ground CoCr. The fixator 10 can, for example, be manufactured by an additive manufacturing process.

[0068] The fixator 10 has a longitudinal direction 12, a transverse direction 14, and a thickness direction 16. The fixator 10 extends in the longitudinal direction 12 from a first longitudinal end 18 to a second longitudinal end 20. With respect to the longitudinal direction 12, the fixator 10 has a lower part 22, a middle part 24, and an upper part 26. The lower part 22 is located at the first longitudinal end 18. In particular, the lower part 22 has the first longitudinal end 18. The upper part 26 is located at the second longitudinal end 20. In particular, the upper part 26 has the second longitudinal end 20. The middle part 24 is located in the longitudinal direction 12 between the lower part 22 and the upper part 26.

[0069] The fixator 10 has a first fixator-side guide element 28 and a second fixator-side guide element 30. The first fixator-side guide element 28 extends in the longitudinal direction 12, in particular to the first longitudinal end 18. The second fixator-side guide element 30 extends in the longitudinal direction 12, in particular to the second longitudinal end 20. The first fixator-side guide element 28 and the second fixator-side guide element 30 are arranged on opposite sides of the fixator 10 in the longitudinal direction 12. In particular, the first fixator-side guide element 28 and the second fixator-side guide element 30 are aligned in the longitudinal direction 12. The first fixator-side guide element 28 and the second fixator-side guide element 30 are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction 12.In particular, the first fixator-side guide element 28 forms the lower part 22 of the fixator 10 and the second fixator-side guide element 30 forms the upper part 26 of the fixator 10.

[0070] The first fixator-side guide element 28 can be coupled to a first model-side guide element of the first tooth model. The second fixator-side guide element 30 can be coupled to a second model-side guide element of the second tooth model. The first fixator-side guide element 28 is designed to guide the first model-side guide element in the longitudinal direction 12 when the first fixator-side guide element 28 is coupled to the first model-side guide element. The second fixator-side guide element 30 is designed to guide the second model-side guide element in the longitudinal direction when the second fixator-side guide element 30 is coupled to the second model-side guide element.

[0071] Each fixator-side guide element 30 is designed to be complementary to the corresponding model-side guide element. Each fixator-side guide element 28, 30 has a constant cross-sectional profile perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 12. The cross-sectional profile of each fixator-side guide element 28, 30 is designed to be complementary to a cross-sectional profile of the corresponding model-side guide element. In particular, the cross-sectional profile of each fixator-side guide element 28, 30 is T-shaped. In particular, each fixator-side guide element 28 is designed as a web extending in the longitudinal direction 12.

[0072] The fixator 10 has a first stop element 32 for the first model-side guide element and a second stop element 34 for the second model-side guide element. The first stop element 32 forms a first stop for the first model-side guide element in the longitudinal direction 12. The second stop element 34 forms a second stop for the second model-side guide element in the longitudinal direction 12. The first stop element 32 and the second stop element 34 are arranged in the longitudinal direction 12 between the two fixator-side guide elements 28, 30. The first stop element 32 is located on the first fixator-side guide element 28, and the second stop element 34 is located on the second fixator-side guide element 30. The two stop elements 32, 34 are arranged in the central part of the fixator 10.The first fixator-side guide element 28 extends in the longitudinal direction 12 from the first longitudinal end 18 to the first stop element 32. The second fixator-side guide element 30 extends in the longitudinal direction 12 from the second longitudinal end 20 to the second stop element 34.

[0073] The fixator 10 has a handling element 36 for handling the fixator 10. The handling element 36 is designed as a grip strip. The handling element 36 is arranged in the longitudinal direction 12 between the first fixator-side guide element 28 and the second fixator-side guide element 30, in particular between the first stop element 32 and the second stop element 34. In particular, the handling element 36 extends in the longitudinal direction 12 between the first stop element 32 and the second stop element 34. The handling element 36 is arranged in the central section 24 of the fixator 10. The handling element 36 projects perpendicularly from the central section 24 of the fixator 10 in the longitudinal direction 12.

[0074] The fixator 10 has a fastening section 38 in its second guide element 30 for a fastening element used to fix the second tooth model to the fixator 10. The fastening section 38 is designed as a bore. The bore extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 12 through the fixator 10. The fastening element can, for example, be a screw.

[0075] The Fig. 4 and Fig. Figure 5 shows an embodiment of a system in its entirety designated by reference numeral 50. The system 50 comprises a first tooth model 52, a second tooth model 54, and at least one fixator 10. In particular, the system 50 comprises two fixators 10. Each fixator 10 is, according to the fixator 10, made from the Fig. 1 to 3 trained.

[0076] The first dental model, 52, is a mandibular dental model. The second dental model, 54, is a maxillary dental model. Both dental models, 52 and 54, are made of a thermoplastic material, specifically plastic. In particular, both dental models, 52 and 54, can be made of or manufactured from a thermoplastic plastic. The thermoplastic plastic could, for example, be GreenTEC Pro Es. Both dental models, 52 and 54, could be manufactured using an additive manufacturing process.

[0077] The two fixators 10 serve to fix the two tooth models 52, 54, particularly in a defined arrangement. The system 50 has a reference system with respect to which the components of the system are arranged, particularly in the coupled state. The reference system is defined by a first direction 56, a second direction 58, and a third direction 60. The first direction 56, the second direction 58, and the third direction 60 are preferably perpendicular to each other in pairs. The first direction 56 runs vertically. The second direction 58 and the third direction 60 run horizontally.

[0078] The first dental model 52 has a first model-side guide element 62 for each fixator 10. The second dental model 54 has a second model-side guide element 64 for each fixator 10. The first fixator-side guide element 28 of each fixator 10 can be coupled to the corresponding first model-side guide element 62 of the first dental model 52. The second fixator-side guide element 30 of each fixator 10 can be coupled to the corresponding second model-side guide element 64 of the second dental model 54.

[0079] The first fixator-side guide element 28 is designed to guide the first model-side guide element 62 in the longitudinal direction 12 when the first fixator-side guide element 28 is coupled to the first model-side guide element 62. The second fixator-side guide element 30 is designed to guide the second model-side guide element 64 in the longitudinal direction 12 when the second fixator-side guide element 30 is coupled to the second model-side guide element 64.

[0080] In the coupled state, the longitudinal direction 12 of the fixator 10 runs parallel to the first direction 56. The transverse direction 14 preferably runs parallel to the third direction 60. The thickness direction 16 preferably runs parallel to the second direction 58. In the coupled state, the two tooth models 52, 54 are spaced apart from each other in the first direction 56, in particular arranged one above the other. In the coupled state, the two fixators 10 are spaced apart from each other in the third direction 60.

[0081] Each tooth model 52, 54 has a front face 66 and a back face 68. The front face 66 and the back face 68 are arranged on opposite sides of the respective tooth models 52, 54 in the second direction 58. The first two model-side guide elements 62 are arranged on the back face 68 of the first tooth model 52. The two first model-side guide elements 62 are spaced apart from each other in the third direction 60. The two second model-side guide elements 64 are arranged on the back face 68 of the second tooth model 54. The two second model-side guide elements 64 are spaced apart from each other in the third direction 60. The model-side guide elements 62, 64 extend along the respective tooth models 52, 54 in the first direction 56.

[0082] Each model-side guide element 62, 64 is designed to be complementary to the corresponding fixator-side guide element 28, 30. In particular, each model-side guide element 62, 64 has a constant cross-sectional profile perpendicular to the first direction 56, which is complementary to the cross-sectional profile of the corresponding fixator-side guide element 28, 30. Specifically, the cross-sectional profile of each model-side guide element 62, 64 is T-shaped. The cross-sectional profile of each model-side guide element 62, 64 tapers in the second direction 58 towards the back 68 of the respective tooth model 52, 54.

[0083] Each model-side guide element 62, 64 is designed as a groove. Each groove has two open ends in the first direction 56. Each groove opens towards the rear side 68 of the corresponding tooth model 52, 54. In particular, each groove tapers towards the rear side 68 of the corresponding tooth model 52, 54. The rib of each fixator-side guide element 28, 30 is designed to be complementary to the groove of the corresponding model-side guide element 62, 64.

[0084] Fig. Figure 6 shows a first embodiment of the first model-side guide elements 62 on the back 68 of the first tooth model 52. In this first embodiment, the first model-side guide elements 62 on the back 68 of the first tooth model 52 are formed in sections 70 that project from the back 68 in the second direction 58. For example, these sections 70 can be subsequently attached to the first tooth model 52. In particular, each section has one of the first model-side guide elements 62 configured as grooves.

[0085] Fig. Figure 7 shows a second embodiment of the first model-side guide elements 62 on the back 68 of the first tooth model 52. In the second embodiment, the back 68 is essentially flat. The first model-side guide elements 62 are provided as two grooves on the back 68 of the first tooth model 52.

[0086] The second model-side guide elements 64 are also designed on the back 68 of the second tooth model 54 according to the first or second design of the first model-side guide elements 62.

[0087] To fix the first dental model 52, each first model-side guide element 62 is first coupled to the corresponding first fixator-side guide element 28 and then guided along the corresponding first fixator-side guide element 28 to the respective first stop element 32. In doing so, the bridge of each first fixator-side guide element 28 is fully inserted into the groove of the corresponding first model-side guide element 62 in the first direction 56. The first dental model 52 is then fixed in place by contacting each first stop element 32.

[0088] To fix the second tooth model 52, every second model-side guide element 64 is first coupled to the corresponding second fixator-side guide element 30 and then guided along the corresponding second fixator-side guide element 30 to the respective second stop element 34. In doing so, the rib of each second fixator-side guide element 30 is fully inserted into the groove of the corresponding second model-side guide element 64 in the first direction 56. The second tooth model 54 is then fixed in contact with each second stop element 34. This arrangement, in which both tooth models 52, 54 are in contact with both stop elements 32, 34, is described in Fig. 4 shown.

[0089] In the arrangement of Fig. 4. The two tooth models are fixed relatively close to each other. If the two tooth models 52, 54 are to be fixed at a greater distance from each other, the second tooth model 54 is not guided up to the second stop element 34, but is attached using a fastening device 72. For this purpose, every second model-side guide element 64 is first coupled to the corresponding second fixator-side guide element 30 and then guided along the corresponding second fixator-side guide element 30 to the defined position.

[0090] The second dental model 54 is then fixed in the defined position using the fastening element 72. For this purpose, the fastening element 72 is inserted into the second dental model 54 through the fastening section 38 of the fixator 10, in particular by screwing it in. This arrangement, in which only the first dental model 54 rests against the first stop element 32 and the second dental model 54 is fixed in the defined position, is described in Fig. 5 shown.

[0091] Fig. Figure 8 shows an embodiment of a method in its entirety designated by reference numeral 100. The method 100 serves to fix the first dental model 52 and the second dental model 54 by means of the at least one fixator 10. The method 100 can be implemented using the system 50 from the Fig. 4 to 7 will be carried out.

[0092] In a first step 102 of the procedure 100, the first tooth model 52 and the second tooth model 54 are provided. In particular, in step 102, each first model-side guide element 62 can be formed on the first tooth model 52 and each second model-side guide element 64 can be formed on the second tooth model 54.

[0093] In a further step 104 of the procedure 100, each first fixator-side guide element 28 is coupled with the corresponding first model-side guide element 62 of the first tooth model 52.

[0094] In a further step 106 of the procedure 100, the respective first model-side guide element 62 is coupled in the longitudinal direction 12 by means of the corresponding first fixator-side guide element 28, if the first fixator-side guide element 28 is coupled with the first model-side guide element 62.

[0095] In a further optional step 108 of the procedure 100, the first tooth model 52 is fixed to each fixator 10 by guiding the respective first model-side guide element 62 in the longitudinal direction 12 along the respective first fixator-side guide element 28 to the first stop element 32 of the respective fixator 10.

[0096] In a further step 110 of the procedure 100, every second fixator-side guide element 30 is coupled with the corresponding second model-side guide element 64 of the second tooth model 54.

[0097] In a further step 112 of the procedure 100, the respective second model-side guide element 64 is guided in the longitudinal direction 12 by means of the corresponding second fixator-side guide element 30, if the second fixator-side guide element 30 is coupled with the second model-side guide element 64.

[0098] In a further optional step 114 of the procedure 100, the second tooth model 54 is fixed to each fixator 10 by guiding the respective second model-side guide element 64 in the longitudinal direction 12 along the respective second fixator-side guide element 30 to the second stop element 34 of the respective fixator 10.

[0099] In a further optional step 116 of the procedure 100, the second tooth model 54 is fixed to each fixator 10 at a defined position in the longitudinal direction 12 along the respective second fixator-side guide element 30 by means of the fastening element 72. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 2004 / 175672 A1

[0006] US 2022 / 287806 A1

[0006] WO 2016 / 042582 A1

[0008] US 5 015 182 A

[0009]

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