A system for removing excess cement from the interdental spaces using orthodontic separators.

Abstract

A system for removing excess cement from interproximal areas using orthodontic separators, comprising: a) a pre-removal unit configured to remove excess accessible cement using cement removal techniques; b) a separator preparation unit configured to prepare orthodontic separator elastics in a separator placement holder; c) a tactical placement unit configured to position the separator in an interproximal space by means of buccolingual movements under controlled downward pressure; d) a mechanical release device configured to advance the separator at a fixed pressure until cement displacement occurs; and e) a separator removal unit configured to cut and extract the separator from the interproximal space.

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a system for removing excess cement from the interdental spaces using orthodontic separators. In particular, the invention relates to a system that provides immediate pain relief using orthodontic separators by loosening and removing hardened, excess cement that causes discomfort in the interdental spaces of the posterior teeth. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] When cementing crowns and bridges, excess cement often accumulates in the interdental spaces, especially in posterior teeth where accessibility is limited due to anatomical constraints. Hardened cement deposits below the contact points exert mechanical pressure on the tooth tissue, leading to discomfort, gingivitis, and acute pain that require immediate intervention.

[0003] Conventional cement removal methods such as hand instruments, serrated strips, dental floss, and ultrasonic scalers reach their limits when accessing subproximal areas where problematic cement deposits typically accumulate. Hand instruments do not adequately reach the narrow spaces beneath the contact surfaces; serrated strips do not penetrate deep enough into narrow interproximal areas; dental floss proves ineffective with fully polymerized cement; and ultrasonic scalers cannot reliably reach the confined posterior interproximal spaces.

[0004] These technical limitations present a clinical challenge: patients with acute discomfort from residual cement cannot experience immediate relief with conventional removal methods. The confined space in the posterior region, the hardness of the polymerized cement, and the proximity of the tooth structures render conventional procedures for complete cement removal inadequate when the patient's pain necessitates urgent intervention.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for an effective technique for removing hardened excess cement from inaccessible interproximal regions below the contact points, especially on the posterior teeth, to provide immediate relief to the patient when conventional removal methods prove inadequate. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The present disclosure relates to a system for removing excess cement from interproximal regions using orthodontic separators. The system addresses the technical challenge of removing hardened cement deposits below the contact points in the interproximal spaces of posterior teeth, where conventional removal methods are inadequate.

[0007] The present disclosure relates to a system for removing excess dental cement from interproximal spaces using orthodontic separators. The system comprises: a) a pre-removal unit for removing accessible excess cement using cement removal techniques; b) a separator preparation unit for preparing the elastic separator in a separator holder; c) a positioning unit for placing the separator in the interproximal space using buccolingual movements with controlled downward pressure; d) a mechanical extraction unit for advancing the separator with firm pressure until cement displacement; and e) a separator removal unit for cutting and removing the separator from the interproximal space.

[0008] One objective of the present disclosure is to provide a system for removing excess cement from interproximal regions using orthodontic separators.

[0009] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a system for removing excess cement from interproximal spaces, in particular for treating cement deposits on posterior teeth where conventional techniques are insufficient.

[0010] Another objective of the present disclosure is the use of orthodontic separators as mechanical tools for removing cement deposits below contact points in confined interproximal spaces.

[0011] However, another objective of the present disclosure is to provide an alternative delayed method in which the swelling ability of the separator is used to widen the spaces and thus facilitate cement removal when immediate removal proves insufficient.

[0012] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present disclosure, the invention is described in more detail with reference to specific embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawing. It is understood that this drawing merely shows typical embodiments of the invention and is therefore not to be understood as limiting its scope of protection. The invention is described and explained in more detail and with reference to the accompanying drawing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE IMAGE

[0013] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will be better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawing, in which the same symbols represent the same parts, wherein: Fig. Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a system for removing excess cement from interproximal regions using orthodontic separators according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that the elements in the drawing are simplified and not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the flowcharts illustrate the process by highlighting the main steps to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure. With regard to the construction of the device, one or more components may be represented in the drawing by conventional symbols. The drawing may show only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure, so as not to clutter the drawing with details that are already apparent to those skilled in the art from the description contained herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION:

[0015] To facilitate understanding of the principles of the invention, reference is made below to the embodiment shown in the drawings, which is described using specific terms. It is understood, however, that this does not limit the scope of protection of the invention. Rather, modifications and further developments of the depicted system, as well as further applications of the inventive principles shown therein, are conceivable, insofar as they would normally occur to a person skilled in the art in the field of the invention.

[0016] It will be clear to those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the invention and are not to be understood as a limitation thereof.

[0017] References to “an aspect”, “another aspect”, or similar phrases in this description mean that a particular feature, structure, or property described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, phrases such as “in one embodiment”, “in another embodiment”, and similar expressions in this description may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[0018] The terms "includes," "comprehensive," or similar expressions denote non-exclusive inclusion. Thus, a procedure or method containing a list of steps does not only include those steps but may also include further steps not explicitly listed or inherent in the procedure or method. Likewise, the statement "includes..." for one or more devices, subsystems, elements, structures, or components, without further limitations, does not preclude the existence of other devices, subsystems, elements, structures, or components.

[0019] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings generally known to those skilled in the art in the field to which this invention belongs. The systems, methods, and examples described herein serve only for illustration and are not to be understood as limiting.

[0020] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing.

[0021] Fig. Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a system for removing excess cement from interproximal regions using orthodontic separators according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] According to Fig.1 The system comprises: a) a pre-removal unit (102) configured to remove excess accessible cement using cement removal techniques; b) a separator preparation unit (104) configured to prepare orthodontic separator rubbers in a separator placement holder; c) a tactical placement unit (106) configured to position the separator in an interproximal space using buccolingual movements with controlled downward pressure; d) a mechanical removal unit (108) configured to advance the separator with firm pressure until cement displacement occurs; and e) a separator removal unit (110) configured to cut and remove the separator from the interproximal space.

[0023] In one embodiment, the pre-cleaning unit (102) comprises devices selected from the group consisting of hand instruments, toothed strips, dental floss instruments and ultrasonic scalers.

[0024] In one embodiment, the separator preparation unit (104) is configured to select the separator size based on the dimensions of the gap and to secure the separator rubber in the separator placement holder with the correct orientation.

[0025] In one embodiment, the tactical placement unit (106) is configured to use controlled buccolingual oscillating movements with graduated pressure application to position the separator below a contact point.

[0026] In one embodiment, the mechanical release unit (108) is configured to exert a progressive downward pressure by utilizing the elastic properties of the separator in order to achieve a wedge effect against cement deposits.

[0027] In one embodiment, the separator removal unit (110) comprises a cutting instrument and forceps configured to extract the severed separator in a buccal or lingual direction.

[0028] In one embodiment, the system (100) further comprises a monitoring unit (112) configured to assess patient comfort and tissue response during placement and advancement of the separator.

[0029] In one embodiment, the system (100) further comprises a follow-up examination unit (114) configured for tissue inspection, verification of the stability of the restoration, and assessment of patient comfort.

[0030] In one embodiment, the system is configured for cement removal in the interproximal spaces of the posterior teeth, where conventional techniques have proven inadequate.

[0031] In one embodiment, the system (100) further comprises an alternative delayed treatment unit (116) configured to hold a fresh orthodontic separator in place for 24 hours to allow swelling of the separator and expansion of the interproximal space, wherein the temporary removal unit (102) is further configured to perform removal techniques after removal of the separator.

[0032] The present invention provides a comprehensive system that utilizes orthodontic separators to effectively remove cement from previously inaccessible interproximal spaces. The system enables the mechanical removal of hardened cement deposits by controlled advancement of the separators. The elastic and wedge-shaped properties of the separators are used to reach sub-contact areas inaccessible to conventional instruments. An alternative, delayed method, in which the separators swell over 24 hours, provides a secondary intervention method for cases requiring extended access to the interproximal spaces. The system thus overcomes the technical limitations of existing cement removal techniques in narrow posterior interproximal spaces.

[0033] In one embodiment, the system serves to remove excess, hardened cement from the interproximal spaces of posterior teeth after the placement of crowns and bridges. It represents an effective alternative to immediate cement removal and restores patient comfort.The system comprises: a pretreatment unit for removing accessible excess cement using conventional techniques; a separator preparation unit for preparing the orthodontic separator rubber in a separator holder; a positioning unit for placing the separator in the interproximal space with cement deposits using buccolingual movements with controlled downward pressure; a mechanical removal unit for advancing the separator with firm pressure until cement displacement; a separator removal unit for cutting and removing the separator in a buccal or lingual direction with suitable forceps; and an alternative posttreatment unit that utilizes the separator's swelling capacity if immediate cement removal is not completely successful.The system addresses the urgent clinical need for immediate cement removal in patients with cement-related discomfort, particularly in the posterior regions where conventional access is limited and residual cement is especially problematic. It provides clinicians with an effective configuration for urgent procedures when patient comfort is compromised by residual cement deposits.

[0034] In one embodiment, the system comprises: a pre-removal unit for removing accessible excess cement using conventional techniques until further removal by standard methods is no longer possible; a separator preparation unit for preparing the orthodontic separator rubber in the separator placement holder; a tactical placement unit for positioning the separator in the interproximal space using controlled buccolingual movements with downward pressure; a mechanical release unit for advancing the separator with firm pressure until cement displacement occurs; a separator removal unit for safely cutting and removing the separator from the interproximal space; and an alternative delayed treatment unit for utilizing the separator's swelling capacity if immediate cement removal is unsuccessful.

[0035] In one embodiment, the pre-removal unit is configured to: a) apply conventional cement removal techniques such as hand instruments, serrated strips, dental flossing techniques, and other established approaches; b) continue the removal procedures until no further cement removal is possible using conventional means; and c) identify residual cement deposits below the contact points in the interproximal areas.

[0036] In one embodiment, the pre-cleaning unit includes equipment for standardized cement removal protocols, including: mechanical removal instruments with fine probes and curettes; serrated metal strips such as QwikStrip or ContacEZ strips; flossing instruments with conventional or specialized floss; and ultrasonic scalers, if required by the type of restoration and the clinical situation. The pre-cleaning unit is further configured to establish baseline conditions by exhausting conventional removal options, thereby identifying cement deposits that require alternative treatment by subsequent system units.

[0037] In another embodiment, the separator preparation unit is configured to: a) select suitable orthodontic separator elastics based on the interproximal gap dimensions and cement position; b) insert the separator elastic into the designated separator holder, ensuring a secure fit and correct alignment; and c) verify the integrity of the separator and the stability of the holder prior to clinical use. The separator preparation unit comprises: orthodontic separator elastics in various sizes; orthodontic separator holders with a suitable jaw configuration; and a testing device for assessing separator integrity.The separator preparation unit is further configured to perform the following: selecting the separator size based on contact strength; using standard separator holders with appropriate jaw configuration; and checking the separator rubber for defects or weaknesses that could impair the effectiveness of the intervention.

[0038] In another embodiment, the tactical placement unit is configured to: a) position the separator in the interproximal space where excess cement is located below the point of contact; b) initiate buccolingual movements with controlled downward pressure to bring the separator into contact with the cement deposits; and c) maintain consistent pressure while avoiding excessive force that could damage adjacent structures. The tactical placement unit is further configured to utilize: controlled buccolingual oscillatory movements to position the separator; a graduated pressure application, starting with gentle contact and increasing as needed; and continuous assessment of the separator advance relative to the cement position.The tactical placement unit is further configured to ensure controlled mechanical force transmission from the separator bracket to the interproximal space, thus ensuring precise positioning of the separator at the cement deposition site below the contact point.

[0039] In another embodiment, the mechanical release unit is configured to: a) apply a fixed but controlled pressure to the separator to move it below the point of contact; b) utilize the mechanical properties of the separator to generate a wedge action against cement deposits; and c) continue the advance until cement release is achieved, which is evidenced by the breakthrough of the separator or the removal of cement fragments. The mechanical release unit is configured to: progressively advance the separator under uniform pressure; utilize the elastic properties of the separator to generate an expansion force against the cement; monitor for signs of cement release, including tactile feedback and visual confirmation; and cease pressure upon achieving cement release.Furthermore, the mechanical removal unit is configured to utilize the elastic and mechanical properties of the orthodontic separator to generate sufficient force for cement fragmentation and removal while maintaining controlled pressure to avoid damage to adjacent tooth structures.

[0040] In one embodiment, the separator removal unit is configured to: a) sever the separator rubber band to allow safe removal from the interdental space; b) grasp the severed separator band with suitable forceps; and c) extract the separator band buccally or lingually, avoiding injury to the interdental tissue. The separator removal unit comprises: sharp scissors or a scalpel blade for cleanly severing the separator rubber band; fine-tipped forceps for securely grasping the severed separator band; and instruments for controlled extraction in a predetermined direction (buccally or lingually), depending on accessibility and tissue configuration.The separator removal unit is further configured to: ensure complete removal of the separator from the interdental space; prevent tissue injury during extraction; and allow inspection of the extracted separator to confirm complete removal.

[0041] Should immediate cement removal by the treatment units prove insufficient, the alternative, delayed treatment unit will be configured as follows: a) Insertion of a new orthodontic separator in the interproximal space according to standard orthodontic treatment protocols; b) Leaving the separator in place for 24 hours to allow natural swelling and expansion; and c) Facilitation of separator removal and subsequent conventional removal techniques by utilizing the expanded interproximal space.The alternative delayed treatment unit is configured to allow for: selection of the appropriate separator size for 24-hour retention; secure placement to ensure separator stability; provision of patient instructions for oral hygiene and separator care during the retention period; removal of the separator after the 24-hour swelling period; and application of conventional cement removal techniques with improved accessibility due to the expanded interproximal space. The alternative delayed treatment unit also utilizes the natural swelling properties of orthodontic separators to achieve a temporary expansion of the interproximal space. This allows the treatment unit to reach previously inaccessible cement deposits with conventional instruments after the 24-hour retention period.

[0042] In one embodiment, the system comprises essential equipment, including: a) orthodontic separator rubbers in suitable sizes; b) holders for placing orthodontic separators with suitable jaw configurations; c) sharp scissors or scalpel blade for cutting the separators; d) fine-tipped forceps for removing the separators; e) conventional cement removal instruments, consisting of hand instruments, serrated strips, and dental floss instruments; and f) adequate illumination and magnification for visualizing the procedure.

[0043] In one embodiment, the system incorporates safety measures through: controlled application of pressure to minimize patient discomfort; gradual advancement of the separator to avoid sudden tissue trauma; continuous monitoring to assess the patient's response throughout the procedure; and immediate termination protocols activated in the event of excessive resistance or patient discomfort. The system protects existing restorations through: controlled application of force to avoid excessive pressure on crowned teeth; selection of the separator material to minimize the risk of surface damage to restorations; adaptation of the technique to the restoration type and material properties; and avoidance of lateral forces that could dislodge freshly cemented restorations.The system prioritizes tissue preservation through: atraumatic separator insertion techniques; minimizing tissue compression time; gentle extraction procedures to avoid tissue injury; and postoperative tissue assessment with care recommendations.

[0044] The present system offers several crucial advantages over conventional cement removal methods, with particular emphasis on effective cement removal and high patient comfort.

[0045] The system allows improved access to the subcontractive interproximal spaces where cement deposits typically accumulate on the posterior teeth, thus ensuring effective removal even in previously inaccessible areas. The components of the orthodontic separator enable access below the contact points in the posterior region, where conventional instruments are only partially accessible and effective.

[0046] The system enables the resolution of cement problems in a single appointment through immediate intervention, thus avoiding multiple visits or extended treatment delays. The mechanical emptying unit provides superior leverage through a wedge action specifically designed to remove hardened cement from interdental tissues, directly addressing cement deposits in confined spaces. The system proves particularly effective in the posterior region, where access is often challenging due to tighter contacts and limited visibility. Its application in the posterior region addresses the clinical challenge where cement retention is most prevalent and conventional removal methods are least effective. The tactical placement unit and the mechanical emptying unit are configured to allow for controlled application with precise pressure control and gradual advancement.This reduces the risk of tissue trauma while effectively removing cement deposits. The system enables definitive cement removal through a systematic approach, eliminating the need for repeated attempts with conventional instruments. Because the system utilizes common orthodontic materials, effective cement removal is possible without significant investment in equipment or referrals. The cost-effective design allows for broad clinical application in various practice settings. The system offers versatile application possibilities for different types of restorations and cement materials in the posterior region, where cement retention is most common and most difficult to resolve using conventional methods. The system components are configured for various clinical scenarios, including immediate removal and delayed treatment protocols.The alternative delayed treatment unit offers a secondary intervention method, utilizing the separator's swelling capacity over 24 hours to expand interproximal spaces, thus enabling subsequent cement removal if immediate removal is insufficient. This dual approach enhances the system's versatility and clinical efficacy for varying degrees of cement retention. The system overcomes the technical limitations of existing cement removal techniques by providing mechanical access to narrow interproximal spaces in the posterior region, utilizing the separator's elastic properties for cement removal, and offering both immediate and delayed treatment options to address diverse clinical findings and cement retention patterns.

[0047] The system offers a comprehensive solution for removing hardened excess cement from interproximal spaces, particularly in the posterior teeth, where conventional techniques are insufficient. It utilizes the mechanical and elastic properties of orthodontic separators to reach and loosen cement deposits below the contact points in the confined interproximal spaces.

[0048] The drawing and the preceding description illustrate embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that one or more of the described elements can be combined to form a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements can be divided into several functional elements. Elements of one embodiment can be added to another. For example, the process flows described here can be modified and are not limited to the manner described herein. Furthermore, the actions of a flowchart need not be performed in the sequence shown; nor do all actions necessarily need to be carried out. Actions that do not depend on other actions can be performed in parallel with the other actions. The scope of protection of the embodiments is in no way limited by these specific examples. Numerous variations, whether explicitly stated in the description or not, such as...Differences in structure, dimensions, and materials are possible. The scope of protection of the embodiments is at least as comprehensive as described by the following claims.

[0049] The advantages, other benefits, and problem solutions have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. However, the advantages, benefits, problem solutions, and any components that can effect or enhance an advantage, benefit, or solution are not to be construed as critical, necessary, or essential features or components of the claims. REFERENCES 100 A system for removing excess cement from the interdental spaces using orthodontic separators. 102 Provisional distance unit 104 Separator preparation unit 106 Tactical Deployment Unit 108 Mechanical Release Unit 110 Separator removal unit 112 Monitoring Unit 114 Follow-up examination unit 116 Alternative Delayed Treatment Unit

Claims

[1] A system for removing excess cement from interproximal areas using orthodontic separators, comprising: a) a pre-removal unit configured to remove excess accessible cement using cement removal techniques; b) a separator preparation unit configured to prepare orthodontic separator elastics in a separator placement holder; c) a tactical placement unit configured to position the separator in an interproximal space by means of buccolingual movements under controlled downward pressure; d) a mechanical release device configured to advance the separator at a fixed pressure until cement displacement occurs; and e) a separator removal unit configured to cut and extract the separator from the interproximal space. [2] System according to claim 1, wherein the pre-cleaning unit comprises devices selected from the group consisting of hand instruments, toothed strips, dental floss instruments and ultrasonic scalers. [3] System according to claim 1, wherein the separator preparation unit is configured to select the separator size based on the dimensions of the gap and to secure the separator rubber in the separator placement holder with the correct orientation. [4] System according to claim 1, wherein the tactical placement unit is configured to use controlled buccolingual oscillating movements with graduated pressure application to position the separator below a contact point. [5] System according to claim 1, wherein the mechanical removal unit is configured to exert a progressive downward pressure by utilizing the elastic properties of the separator in order to achieve a wedge effect against cement deposits. [6] System according to claim 1, wherein the separator removal unit comprises a cutting instrument and forceps configured to allow the severed separator to be extracted in a buccal or lingual direction. [7] System according to claim 1, further comprising a monitoring unit for assessing patient comfort and tissue response during placement and advancement of the separator. [8] System according to claim 1, further comprising a follow-up examination unit configured for tissue inspection, verification of the stability of the recovery and assessment of patient comfort. [9] System according to claim 1, wherein the system is configured for cement removal in the interproximal areas of the posterior teeth where conventional techniques have proven insufficient. [10] System according to claim 1, further comprising an alternative delayed treatment unit configured to hold a fresh orthodontic separator in situ for 24 hours to allow swelling of the separator and expansion of the interproximal space, wherein the temporary removal unit is further configured to perform removal techniques after removal of the separator.

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