DENTAL IMPLANT AND SET

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a dental implant according to claim 1 and a set according to claim 10.

[0002] A dental implant is typically defined as an implant that can be inserted into the jawbone and can also be described as an artificial tooth root. The dental implant thus serves as a base for a subsequent dental prosthesis. Usually, a connecting part, called an abutment, is first inserted into the dental implant. abutment The prosthetic component is screwed in and then the visible tooth crown is placed on the connecting part.

[0003] For the successful placement of a dental implant in the jawbone, a stable and sufficiently large area of ​​jawbone is necessary for its long-term anchorage. However, this is often not the case, for example, because the jawbone has receded after the extraction of a natural tooth and a subsequent healing phase, or because the jawbone is inherently thin in the patient. This is often referred to as a bone defect or bone defect site. In such cases, it may be necessary to augment the jawbone before implanting the dental implant. This augmentation can be achieved using a bone graft material made from a synthetic bone substitute, such as hydroxyapatite, and / or from the patient's own bone substitute material.

[0004] During the bone augmentation phase, the area of ​​the jawbone to which the bone graft material has been applied should be delineated to prevent unwanted ingrowth of surrounding mucous membrane or other soft tissue. This ensures that the bone graft material can grow undisturbed from the jawbone and become osseous. For this purpose, the bone graft material is regularly covered with a so-called covering membrane, which prevents the growth of non-bone material, such as surrounding mucous membrane tissue, into the bone graft material.

[0005] The covering membrane is typically made of a polymer, such as polytetrafluoroethylene, abbreviated PTFE. The covering membrane can also be referred to as a covering film. The temporary fixation of the covering membrane to the jawbone can be achieved using suitable fasteners, such as nails.

[0006] To ensure the bone graft material grows through the bone as undisturbed as possible, it is advantageous if the covering membrane provides a cavity or sufficient space for bone growth. This allows bone formation or regeneration to occur within the cavity with minimal external interference, such as mechanical pressure from the surrounding tissue. For this purpose, the covering membrane can be designed to be rigid and / or dimensionally stable.

[0007] From DE 10 2016 000 236 A1 a method for manufacturing an attachment of a covering device for a bone defect and a device for covering and / or reconstructing a bone defect are known.

[0008] A dental prosthesis is known from US 5,769,637 A.

[0009] Another dental implant is known from KR 101 231 581 B1.

[0010] US patent 2005 / 192675 A1 discloses a device for stimulating bone growth.

[0011] One object of the present invention may be to provide a dental implant (alternative designation: "Bone Shield", The terms "dental implant" and "bone shield" are therefore interchangeable herein, which is designed and configured for support, in particular by means of a support structure such as a support element or a covering membrane. Furthermore, an object of the present invention is to specify a set comprising a dental implant.

[0012] The problem according to the invention is solved by the dental implant with the features of claim 1 and the set with the features of claim 10.

[0013] The present invention proposes a dental implant with the features of claim 1.

[0014] The dental implant according to the invention comprises at least one connecting element and at least one first support element. The connecting element includes a first end section. It further comprises a second end section for connecting the implant in or to an implantation site in a jawbone. The first support element is designed and provided for supporting or supporting a cover element after implantation of the implant according to the invention at the implantation site in the jawbone. The cover element is designed and provided to cover at least a part or section of the augmentation site, the implantation site, the implantation region, or an adjacent area.

[0015] The first end section is designed as a first connecting section or has one.

[0016] The first support element has a second connecting section.

[0017] The first connecting section and the second connecting section are designed to be connectable to each other or to each other.

[0018] The second end section is designed or has an implantation section for temporarily implanting the connecting element at or in the implantation site of the jawbone.

[0019] Furthermore, the present invention proposes a set comprising a dental implant according to the invention. The set further comprises at least one dental implant for permanent retention at the implantation site, region, or augmentation site, preferably at the site where the dental implant was previously temporarily implanted, and / or it comprises a further support element, which may have one, several, or all features of the first support element disclosed herein, and / or it further comprises a tool for inserting the connecting element into the bone. The first support element and the optional second support element differ in at least one geometric feature. The distinguishing geometric feature may include the shape, a dimension, the area, and / or the arrangement of support structure elements.

[0020] The tool disclosed herein, which does not constitute the invention, serves to insert a connecting element of a dental implant according to the invention. The tool has a slotted section for receiving an end region of the connecting element.

[0021] Inventive embodiments may have one or more of the features mentioned above and / or below in any combination, provided that the specific embodiment is not recognizable as technically impossible to the person skilled in the art.

[0022] In all the following explanations, the use of the expression "may be" or "may have" etc. is to be understood as synonymous with "is preferably" or "has preferably" etc. and is intended to explain an embodiment of the invention.

[0023] Whenever numerical terms are used herein, a person skilled in the art understands them to indicate a lower numerical limit. Unless this leads to a contradiction apparent to a person skilled in the art, they will always interpret the terms "a" or "a" as meaning "at least one" or "at least one." This understanding is encompassed by the present invention, as is the interpretation that a numerical term such as "a" can alternatively be meant as "exactly one," wherever this is technically feasible to a person skilled in the art. Both are encompassed by the present invention and apply to all numerical terms used herein.

[0024] Advantageous further developments of the present invention are each the subject of dependent claims and embodiments.

[0025] When an embodiment is mentioned herein, it represents an exemplary embodiment according to the invention.

[0026] The dental implant is preferably not a dental implant intended and / or suitable for the permanent retention or replacement of a tooth. It is preferably not designed to support a dental crown.

[0027] A dental implant can be described as an artificial tooth root, a receptacle for the crown, and / or a screw. A dental implant can serve as a base for a subsequent dental prosthesis. A connecting part, often called an abutment, can be inserted into the dental implant. abutment It is referred to as a screw-in component. A visible dental crown can then be placed on the connecting piece as a prosthetic restoration.

[0028] In some embodiments, the dental implant is not designed and / or prepared for attachment and / or connection to or with a dental implant.

[0029] In some designs, the dental implant is prepared and / or designed to support a cover membrane. The cover membrane can temporarily cover a bone defect with bone grafting material to prepare the jawbone for subsequent implantation of a dental implant. The cover membrane is intended to support unimpeded bone growth and reduce or prevent unwanted ingrowth of surrounding soft tissue. During this bone growth phase, the cover membrane can be fixed to the jawbone – for example, using pins, nails, screws, or other methods.

[0030] The fixatives mentioned as examples can be absorbable or non-absorbable.

[0031] Optionally, the covering membrane is not fixed to the jawbone.

[0032] The covering membrane can, for example, be placed on the support element of the dental implant according to the invention, facing the oral cavity (in the implanted state). The covering membrane can be fixed or adhered to the support element, for example, using blood from the surgical area of ​​the jawbone.

[0033] The covering membrane can be a flexible film. The covering membrane can be a membrane, covering film, foil, or other covering element.

[0034] The covering membrane can be made of a resorbable or a non-resorbable material.

[0035] A resorbable material, such as the one used here, can be described as a self-dissolving material because it is biologically degraded and thus essentially dissolved. A resorbable material could, for example, be collagen or contain collagen.

[0036] A non-resorbable material, as mentioned herein, may be a plastic, in particular a biocompatible plastic, for example polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

[0037] After the bone augmentation phase, which can last several weeks or months, the cover element or membrane is either resorbed or surgically removed. The dental implant (which is not the actual implant) can then be inserted into the jawbone and the augmented bone. The goal of bone augmentation with the cover membrane is generally to increase stability and thus improve the anchorage of the dental implant in the jawbone, which has been enlarged or augmented through the bone grafting procedure.

[0038] In some embodiments of the invention, the dental implant can be inserted into the jawbone and is provided for this purpose before the dental implant is inserted into the jawbone at the same implantation site, the implantation region or the augmentation site.

[0039] To ensure the least possible disturbance of bone ingrowth between the jawbone and the covering membrane, the dental implant according to the invention can form or create a cavity by means of a support structure. This cavity is geometrically delimited, in particular, by the jawbone with the overlying bone graft material and the support structure with the covering membrane.

[0040] For example, the dental implant according to the invention can be constructed in the shape of an umbrella, wherein the umbrella mast corresponds to the connecting element, the struts in the umbrella for attaching the umbrella covering to the support element and the umbrella covering to the covering membrane.

[0041] In some embodiments, the dental implant according to the invention is a temporary implant for the jawbone. The temporary dental implant can, for example, be implanted for a few weeks or a few months. If the dental implant is made of a resorbable material, no further surgery is usually necessary for its removal; the implant is resorbed spontaneously. If the dental implant is made of a non-resorbable material, it is removed or explanted from the jawbone in a further surgical procedure. Subsequently, the dental implant can be placed in the same or the same implantation site or region, etc., where the temporary dental implant was initially placed.

[0042] In contrast to the temporary dental implant used in some embodiments, a permanent dental implant, which can optionally be included as part of the set according to the invention, is designed to remain in the jawbone as permanently as possible. A permanent dental implant can, for example, remain in the jawbone for at least ten years. In some cases, the dental implant remains in the jawbone for twenty, thirty, or even longer. It can support a dental crown or be prepared for one.

[0043] The connecting element can have an elongated shape with a hollow or solid cross-section. The cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal orientation can be round, oval, angular, or otherwise shaped. The second end section of the connecting element, which connects the implant to the implantation site in the jawbone, can taper to a point, similar to a nail. This shape of the second end section allows for easy attachment of the connecting element, as it can be inserted into the jawbone by pressing or tapping it in.

[0044] The connecting element or its second end section may have a thread, in particular an external thread, for screwing or turning the connecting element, the second end section, or at least a portion of the second end section, into an implantation site in the jawbone. In other embodiments, the connecting element and / or its second end section does not have a thread and / or is not designed for screwing into the jawbone.

[0045] The connecting element may have slots extending in its longitudinal direction.

[0046] The outer diameter of a round connecting element can, for example, be between 0.5 mm and 2 mm, such as 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, or 1 mm. The overall length of the connecting element can, for example, be between 5 mm and 20 mm, such as a shank length of 10 mm, a first end section length of approximately 0.3 mm, and a second end section length of approximately 3 mm.

[0047] The first support element can be designed as a grid element and / or as a stiffening element.

[0048] In some embodiments, the first support element has a lattice-like structure or a lattice-like section.

[0049] A lattice-like structure or section can, for example, have a rectangular outer contour with internally arranged longitudinal and transverse struts. For instance, the lattice element can have a central longitudinal strut and three, five, or more transverse struts.

[0050] These or differently designed or arranged internal struts can be arranged at right angles or at any other angle to each other.

[0051] The inner struts can be attached to an outer, closed edge. For example, the rectangular outer contour could have a length of approximately 10 mm and a width of approximately 5 mm.

[0052] The rectangular outer contour may have rounded corners.

[0053] The grid-like structure can alternatively have a round (e.g., in plan view), oval, or other shape as its outer contour. A round shape, for example, can have an outer diameter of approximately 5 mm. A round grid element can have star-shaped or radial struts, for example, three, four, five, or more struts. The star-shaped struts can be arranged regularly or irregularly with respect to the angular spacing between them.

[0054] In some embodiments, the second connecting section is arranged centrally within or connected to the first support element.

[0055] The first support element can be manufactured as an injection-molded part.

[0056] In some embodiments, the first connecting section of the connecting element and the second connecting section of the support element correspond to each other (e.g., as parts of a click system, a clamping system, as a tongue and groove, as a screw and nut, etc.) and / or are matched to each other for joint connection.

[0057] The first or the second connecting section is preferably designed as a insertion opening, wherein the other of these two connecting sections is designed as a insertion pin.

[0058] For example, the first connecting section of the connecting element, which corresponds to the first end section of the connecting element, is designed as a insertion pin. In this case, the second connecting section of the support element is designed as an insertion opening.

[0059] The connection between the insertion pin and the insertion opening can be designed, for example, as a transition fit or as an interference fit, in order to prevent the connecting element from detaching from the support element on its own and unintentionally.

[0060] The insertion pin and the insertion opening can have the same diameter along their length. Alternatively, the insertion pin can taper towards the tip and the insertion opening can have a correspondingly conical shape. This can facilitate the insertion of the two parts.

[0061] In some designs, the implantation section is shaped as a tapered or conical section. This can facilitate the fixation of the connecting element in the jawbone by tapping or pressing it in.

[0062] In some embodiments, the first and second connecting sections are designed to be detachably connected. This allows for a modular design of the connecting element with the support element, enabling different embodiments to be combined. For example, depending on the shape and size of the bone graft on the jawbone, it may be necessary to select a long or short, thick or thin connecting element. Depending on the desired or possible surface area of ​​the bone graft, it may be advantageous to select appropriately sized support elements and combine them with a chosen connecting element.

[0063] In some embodiments, the first support element has a top surface facing the patient's oral cavity in the intended implanted state and a bottom surface facing the implantation site. The second connecting section is preferably designed to receive the first connecting section from its underside. The cover membrane can rest on the top surface of the first support element. Mechanical fastening of the cover membrane, for example to the first support element and / or the jawbone, is often unnecessary. Instead, adhesion by means of blood from the surgical area of ​​the jawbone may be sufficient for the cover membrane to adhere to or on the support element.

[0064] Depending on the individual situation, the covering membrane can also be anchored to the jawbone.

[0065] Anchoring can be achieved, for example, by means of one or more resorbable or non-resorbable anchoring pins or nails in the jawbone.

[0066] For example, a resorbable anchoring pin may be made of or contain magnesium, while a non-resorbable anchoring pin may be made of or contain titanium or a titanium alloy.

[0067] In some embodiments, the connecting element has no threaded section and / or no screw head.

[0068] In some embodiments, the connecting element and / or the first support element is made of or comprises a metal, a plastic, and / or a composite material. The aforementioned materials are particularly biocompatible.

[0069] In some embodiments, the connecting element and / or the first support element is made of or incorporates a resorbable material.

[0070] The connecting element may, for example, be made of or have a resorbable magnesium or magnesium-containing material, as described, for example, in patent specifications EP 2 744 531 B1 and EP 2 744 532 B1.

[0071] The support element can, purely as an example, be made of or contain a polylactide.

[0072] In some embodiments, the first connecting section has a conical area onto which the support element can be attached. Depending on the material pairing used for the connecting element on the one hand and the support element on the other, the cone angle α can be selected such that a self-locking conical press fit is created between the connecting element and the support element.

[0073] The tool for driving the connecting element into the jawbone may have a circumferential slot section which may serve to receive a tubular or ring-shaped end section of the support element, in particular its first connecting section or a section or end section thereof.

[0074] The gap section may be bounded at its outer boundary and / or its inner boundary by cylindrical structures of different heights.

[0075] The height of the gap can be greater than the length of a cone of the connecting element.

[0076] The tool, suitable for use by dentists or oral surgeons, can have a length of less than 3 cm, less than 5 cm, or less than 10 cm. Regardless of its length, it can have a width or diameter of less than 2 cm, less than 1 cm, or less than 0.5 cm.

[0077] In some embodiments, the support element has a central area with an opening for inserting or passing through an end section of the connecting element.

[0078] The support element can have a number of, for example, radially outward extending or oriented struts or webs between an inner, preferably disc-shaped, area and, for example, an outer ring or, more generally, an outer structure of the support element.

[0079] According to the invention, one or more pins are preferably provided on the connecting element to fasten the connecting element to the support element, optionally as the sole connecting structure. According to the invention, they extend from the end of the connecting element and are bendable.

[0080] The support element can be manufactured, for example, from a disc-shaped or tubular semi-finished product as the starting material, which is processed by means of laser cutting.

[0081] To ensure the exact positioning of the support element on the connecting element during the assembly step, the inner disc of the support element can have notches for guiding the pins; these can run in the axial direction, i.e., perpendicular to the radial direction in which the struts extend.

[0082] The connecting element or its optional inner disc can have an opening, preferably a central one. This opening can be dimensioned to rest with its edge on an optionally provided rim or shoulder. An end face of the connecting element can thus project into or through the opening. The opening can be configured as a blind opening or a through opening.

[0083] One or more of the above and the following advantages can be achieved using the present invention.

[0084] The dental implant according to the invention can be made entirely or partially from resorbable materials. This advantageously avoids the need for a second surgical procedure, such as would be required for the removal of non-resorbable metals or plastics. Surgical intervention on the jawbone is generally a significant burden and a potential risk for the patient, for example, in the form of an infection risk. Furthermore, surgical intervention is typically associated with considerable costs.

[0085] If the covering membrane and / or possible fixing devices for the covering membrane to the jawbone are also made of resorbable materials, this advantage can be increased even further.

[0086] The dental implant according to the invention, preferably modular and two-part (or optionally at least two-part or multi-part), with the connecting element as the first component and the support element as the second component, advantageously allows the combination of different connecting and support elements. Depending on the patient's individual and anatomical situation, it may be necessary during a surgical procedure to deviate from the selected sizes and models of the connecting element and / or the support element. This allows for the advantageous selection of an optimal combination, which can be crucial for the subsequent success of a permanent dental implant (as an artificial tooth root for the abutment and crown, i.e., the prosthetic restoration). Thus, significant subsequent complications, associated with a high burden on the patient and considerable costs, can be advantageously avoided or at least reduced.

[0087] The dental implant according to the invention is an advantageously simple and cost-effective alternative to patient-specific fabrications, such as those currently possible and used due to anatomical conditions using imaging techniques and subsequent additive manufacturing methods.

[0088] The connecting element according to the invention enables advantageously simple attachment of the dental implant to the jawbone. This avoids the need for complex screw fixation in the jawbone.

[0089] The present invention is explained below by way of example with reference to the accompanying, partly simplified figures, in which identical reference numerals denote identical or similar components. The following applies to the figures: Fig. 1 shows bone augmentation on the jawbone in preparation for the implantation of two dental implants; Fig. 2a shows a first support element of a dental implant according to the invention; Fig. 2b shows a second support element of a dental implant according to the invention; Fig. 2c shows a third support element of a dental implant according to the invention; Fig. 2d shows a support element of a dental implant according to the invention in a side view; Fig. 3a shows a connecting element of a dental implant according to the invention; Fig. 3b shows another connecting element of a dental implant according to the invention; Fig. 3c-k show further embodiments of the connecting element; Fig. 4 shows a dental implant according to the invention with a support element and a connecting element; Fig. 4a shows another embodiment of a dental implant according to the invention; Fig. 5 shows the bone structure of the jawbone Fig. 1 with a dental implant according to the invention; Fig. 6a-c show a tool for driving the connecting element into the jawbone; and Fig. 7 shows one manufacturing variant for the support element.

[0090] Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows bone augmentation using bone substitute material 1 on jawbone 3 in preparation for the implantation of two dental implants. The bone substitute material 1 is shown as an example in granular form. The optionally granulated bone substitute material 1 can be synthetic bone substitute material 1, for example in the form of hydroxyapatite, and / or natural, autologous bone substitute material 1. Often, these two forms, i.e., synthetic and autologous material, are mixed together.

[0091] The bone substitute material 1 is shown applied to the jawbone 3 in an exemplary and distributed arrangement. This arrangement is purely illustrative and a rough schematic representation. In practice, the granules are often arranged much more densely and in layers. The aim of this layered arrangement of bone substitute material 1 is to promote bone ingrowth, starting from the jawbone 3. After this bone growth is complete, which usually takes several months, the jawbone, together with the newly formed bone, can form the bony base for implanting a dental implant. The dental implant, which can be described as an artificial tooth root, then serves as the foundation for further augmentation using a so-called abutment. abutment and a subsequent dental crown. This description makes it clear that a stable and sufficient bone base for the dental implant forms the basis for long-term success, meaning that the dental implant remains in the bone for as long as possible.

[0092] In Fig. 1 Two intact teeth 5 are shown, between which two screws 7 are optionally screwed into the jawbone 3 as placeholders for the future dental implant. An exemplary covering membrane 9 is also shown, which is placed on the granules 1 in the direction of arrow 11. The covering membrane 9, which can be described as a covering film or a covering element, serves to protect the bone substitute material 1 during bone ingrowth from unwanted ingrowth of soft tissue, such as surrounding mucosa. Such ingrowth of soft tissue would significantly impair the stability and strength of the bone structure and is therefore prevented by the covering membrane 9. However, direct contact of the covering membrane 9 with the granules 1 is detrimental to bone ingrowth, as the pressure of the covering membrane 9 has a disruptive and adverse effect on the ingrowth process.

[0093] The cover membrane 9 can, for example, be fixed to the jawbone 3 by means of fixing pins at the edge of the cover membrane 9. Nails, screws, or similar materials can be used as fixing pins; these may be resorbable or non-resorbable.

[0094] In the Fig. 2a, 2b, 2c Examples of differently designed support elements 13 of a dental implant 100 according to the invention are shown.

[0095] The support elements 13 serve to support the cover membrane 9, forming a cavity between the cover membrane 9 and the bone substitute material 1, together with the connecting element 15. Bone ingrowth can proceed undisturbed within this cavity. The cover membrane 9 is placed on the upper side of the support element 13, with the upper side being the side of the support element 13 facing the oral cavity. In contrast, the underside of the support element 13 faces the jawbone 3. After placement, the cover membrane 9 is optionally attached or glued to the support element 13 using blood or the fibrin it contains. Further optional fixation of the cover membrane 13 to the jawbone 3 is usually unnecessary.

[0096] The different geometric shapes of the various support elements 13 in Fig. 2a, Fig. 2b und Fig. 2c Depending on the size of the covering membrane 9 or the size of the bone to be augmented, the respective anatomical situation, and / or other influencing factors, the components can be selected. It is particularly advantageous that the modular design of the dental implant according to the invention allows the two module elements, connecting element 15 on the one hand and support element 13 on the other, to be combined with each other as desired with regard to size, etc. This means that even during a surgical procedure, the most suitable connecting element 15 can be selected and connected together with the most suitable support element 13. This enables the best possible treatment.

[0097] The difference between the two support elements 13 in the Fig. 2a und 2b The difference lies in the varying number of crossbars 17. A higher number of crossbars 17 can result in increased stiffness against bending. However, the stiffness, or bending stiffness, also depends on other factors, such as the cross-sectional shape of the crossbars 17 and the respective material properties. Depending on the geometric design of the support elements 13, the size of the cavity between the cover membrane 9 and the jawbone 3 can thus be influenced. This, in turn, has a direct impact on the developing jawbone and therefore on the stability of the subsequent dental implant. For the longitudinal struts 19 and the radial struts 21 in the round embodiment in Fig. 2c The statements apply in analogous form.

[0098] Optionally, one or more insertion openings 23 are arranged centrally in the support elements 13, into which an insertion pin 25 of the connecting element 15 can be inserted. The insertion pin 25 can be referred to as the first connecting section 25 of the connecting element 15, and the insertion opening 23 as the second connecting section 23 of the support element 13.

[0099] The length 31 of the support element 13 can be approximately 10 mm (purely by way of example), and the width 33 approximately 5 mm (purely by way of example). Furthermore, the thickness 32 of the transverse struts 17 and / or the longitudinal struts 19 can be approximately 0.2 mm (purely by way of example), and the thickness 34 of the outer, circumferential struts approximately 0.25 mm. The diameter of the insertion opening 23 can be approximately 0.8 mm (purely by way of example). The outer diameter 35 of the round embodiment of the Fig. 2c The support element shown can be approximately 5 mm in diameter, purely as an example.

[0100] Fig. 2d Figure 1 shows a support element 13 of a dental implant 100 according to the invention in a side view, wherein the support element 13 is, for example, one of the illustrated embodiments in Fig. 2a, Fig. 2b oder Fig. 2c The height 36 of the support element 13 – which optionally remains constant at least in sections or over at least half the width – can, purely as an example, have a value between 0.1 mm and 0.2 mm, for example 0.16 mm.

[0101] Fig. 3a Figure 1 shows a connecting element 15 of a dental implant 100 according to the invention, with a first end section 37 and a second end section 39 for connecting the implant 100 to an implantation site 41 (see Figure 1). Fig. 5 ) of a jawbone 3.

[0102] The overall length 43 of the connecting element 15 can, by way of example, be approximately 13 mm, with the first end section 37, which is designed as a insertion pin 25 or as the first connecting section 25, having, by way of example, a length 38 of approximately 0.3 mm and the second end section 39 having, by way of example, a length of approximately 3 mm. The outer diameter 49 of an optionally round connecting element 15 can, by way of example, be approximately 1.2 mm.

[0103] In the enlarged view of section A of the Fig. 3a , in which a section of the attached support element 13 is additionally shown, a cone angle α of the first connecting section 25, which tapers longitudinally or in the longitudinal direction, is shown.

[0104] This conical angle α can be manufactured or formed analogously in the insertion opening 23 of the support element 13. Thus, the support element 13 can advantageously be simply slid onto the first connecting section 25.

[0105] Depending on the optionally selected material pairing of the first connecting section 25 and the support element 13, a coefficient of friction µ results.

[0106] The coefficient of friction µ can have different values ​​in different directions along the sliding surface, for example, depending on a structured surface. As examples of these different directions, an axial direction and a tangential direction perpendicular to the axial direction are given below. In the axial direction, which corresponds in particular to the direction of movement of the support element 13 relative to the connecting section 25, a coefficient of friction in the axial direction µ a can be specified.

[0107] The coefficient of friction µ can be referred to as the friction factor or coefficient of friction and is a dimensionless measure of the frictional force relative to the contact force between two bodies. The frictional force acts parallel to the contact surface and depends on the material- and surface-dependent coefficient of friction µ and a normal force acting perpendicular to the contact surface.

[0108] Based on the known relationship for tapered connections in machine elements, a necessary cone angle α for a self-locking tapered press fit can be calculated. The following inequality then applies to a self-locking connection between the first connecting section 25 of the connecting element 15 and the support element 13.

[0109] Self-inhibition: α < arctan µ a α: cone angle µ a : coefficient of friction in axial direction arctan: arctangent, inverse function of the trigonometric tangent function

[0110] The coefficient of friction µ can differ in the axial and tangential directions, both of which run parallel to the sliding surface. Therefore, for self-locking in the axial direction, only the coefficient of friction in the axial direction is considered for the inequality mentioned above.

[0111] The coefficient of friction µ is determined by the material pairing and can vary considerably. For example, the static friction coefficient µ for a dry, i.e., unlubricated, steel-on-steel material pairing is between approximately 0.15 and 0.3. For a value of µ = 0.15, the necessary cone angle for a self-locking connection can be calculated as follows: α < arctan 0,15 α < 8 , 5 ° Grad

[0112] For a purely exemplary cone angle of α = 5.71°, this would result in a self-locking tapered press fit for a steel-on-steel material pairing. This advantageously creates a secure fixation or connection between the first connecting section 25 of the connecting element 15 and the support element 13.

[0113] In some embodiments, such a cone angle α of less than approximately 11 degrees or a cone angle α calculated according to the above formula (1) (with a specific value µ instead of the 0.15 used there as an example) is provided.

[0114] Fig. 3b Figure 1 shows a further connecting element 15 of a dental implant 100 according to the invention in a longitudinal section view. In contrast to the embodiment in Fig. 3a The further connecting element 15 is in Fig. 3b tubular, hollow inside and with an optionally larger or smaller outer diameter 49 compared to the connecting element 15 Fig. 3a executed. This allows for higher strength or flexural rigidity against unintentional bending or buckling, especially when the connecting element 15 is driven into the jawbone 3.

[0115] The further connecting element 15 has one, two, or more slots 51 in its lower half, which, if provided in pairs, are arranged circumferentially offset by 180 degrees. These slots 51 make it possible to shape the lower half into an approximately pointed shape by compressing the tubular connecting element 15 or by squeezing the lower end, thus simplifying insertion or driving it into the jawbone 3.

[0116] This compression can be simplified by, for example, two openings or bores 53 arranged circumferentially offset by 180 degrees. The two bores 53 allow the connecting element 15 to buckle precisely at this point when compressed. In this embodiment, plastic deformation of the material can occur in the area of ​​these bores or be verified by finite element analysis. The compressed lower end of the further connecting element 15 can thus be approximately aligned with the second end section 39 of the connecting element 15. Fig. 3a are equivalent to.

[0117] To connect the further connecting element 15 to a support element 13, for example, a shoulder in the support element 13 can be inserted into the upper end of the tubular further connecting element 15. Alternatively, a conical section can be attached to the end face as the first connecting section, analogous to the first connecting section 25 of the connecting element 15 (see Fig. 3a ) can be executed. This will lead to Fig. 3h described in more detail.

[0118] The total length 43 of the further connecting element 15 can, purely as an example, be between 7 mm and 15 mm, for example approximately 10 mm.

[0119] The outer diameter 49 of the further connecting element 15 can, purely as an example, be between approximately 1 mm and 2 mm, for example 1.8 mm.

[0120] The wall thickness of the further tubular connecting element 15 can, purely as an example, have a value between approximately 0.1 mm and 0.2 mm, for example 0.16 mm.

[0121] Fig. 3c Figure 1 shows another embodiment of the connecting element 15 in longitudinal section with tapered sections along the two slots 51. The two slots 51 (there could be more or fewer than two), which are arranged, for example, offset by 180 degrees in the circumferential direction, thus widen towards the lower, end face of the connecting element 15. This advantageously allows the two end face regions to be pressed together, making it easier to drive the connecting element 15 into the jawbone.

[0122] The outer walls of the connecting element 15 can be completely or substantially straight, as shown in Fig. 3b und 3c shown. The interior walls can be completely or at least partially straight (as shown). Fig. 3b shown) and / or partially curved (as in Fig. 3c shown).

[0123] Fig. 3d shows the embodiment Fig. 3c In a side view without a sectional view, individual optional height markings 55 are shown at different heights of the connecting element 15. These markings (all or some) can optionally be arranged around the entire circumference. These height markings 55 can be advantageously used to determine the penetration depth into the jawbone. The height markings 55 can be arranged equidistantly or non-equidistantly. Alternatively or additionally, the height markings 55 can be designed as barbs to ensure firm anchorage of the connecting element 15 in the jawbone. Particularly when the connecting element 15 is made of an optional resorbable material, explantation is neither necessary nor intended. Such height markings 55 can optionally be part of any embodiment.

[0124] Fig. 3e shows a further embodiment of the connecting element 15. In contrast to the embodiments of the Fig. 3b-d The connecting elements 15 of the Fig. 3e-g There are not two, but four sections arranged around the circumference in the lower area. This is illustrated by the lower sections not shown in the sectional view. The four sections can be bent towards the center in the direction of arrow 57 to facilitate insertion into the jawbone.

[0125] Fig. 3f shows another embodiment of the connecting element 15, which is similar to the shape shown in Fig. 3e is formed, but has no openings or bores 53 and has tapered lower sections. The lower sections can be referred to as points 59. Compressing or plastically deforming the points 59 towards the center advantageously enables a shape that is different from the form made of Fig. 3e It has an even more pointed shape, making it easier to insert into the jawbone.

[0126] The upper part length 61 and the lower part length 63 of the connecting element 15 are, purely by way of example, each approximately half as long as the total length 43.

[0127] Fig. 3g shows analogous to Fig. 3d A side view of the connecting element 15. Regarding the optional height markings 55, reference is therefore made to the description for Fig. 3d referred.

[0128] The upper part length 61, which is in Fig. 3g The unmarked section of the connecting element 15 represents, purely as an example, approximately one-third of the total length 43. The surface of this upper section may have a different surface structure than the lower section, for example to allow for improved manual grip when driving the connecting element 15 into the jawbone.

[0129] In Fig. 3h, Fig. 3i und Fig. 3j are schematically simplified processes of the in the Fig. 3f und Fig. 3g The connecting elements 15 shown are depicted. The length of the development 65 corresponds to the circumference. With a purely exemplary outer diameter of 1.8 mm, the length of the development is calculated to be approximately 5.7 mm. The lower partial length 63 of the connecting element 15, which is shown in Fig. 3e The length of the tips 59 can be between approximately 2 mm and 5 mm; in this example, the length of the tips 59 is 3 mm. The distance 67 between the tips 59 can be between approximately 1 mm and 2 mm; in this example, the distance 67 is approximately 1.4 mm. The radius 69 between the tips 59 can be between approximately 0.1 mm and 0.3 mm; in this example, the radius is approximately 0.2 mm.

[0130] The total length 43 of the three purely exemplary embodiments is in Fig. 3h 8 mm, in Fig. 3i 11 mm and in Fig. 3j 14 mm. Different overall lengths 43 can be advantageous if, for example, depending on the existing jawbone substance and / or depending on the size of the support element 13, different lengths can be individually selected for the respective application.

[0131] Fig. 3k The shape of the first connecting section 25 is shown analogously to the description of Fig. 3a .

[0132] The length of the first end section 38, which corresponds to the length of the first connecting section 25, can, purely as an example, be 0.3 mm.

[0133] The support element 13 can be placed onto the conical section of the first connecting element 25. Depending on the material pairing used for the connecting element on the one hand and the support element 13 on the other, the cone angle α can be selected such that a self-locking tapered press fit is created. The outer diameter 71 at the base of the cone, from which the cone tapers towards the end face, can be approximately 1.67 mm in this exemplary embodiment.

[0134] The reference numeral 50 denotes the inner diameter of the support element 13, which in this embodiment is optionally hollow or partially hollow.

[0135] Fig. 4 The dental implant 100 according to the invention is shown in an embodiment in the assembled state with support element 13 and connecting element 15.

[0136] Fig. 4a shows a further embodiment of a dental implant 100 according to the invention. The upper illustration of the Fig. 4a is a perspective side view, the lower representation of the Fig. 4a is a perspective view from a slightly elevated angle.

[0137] The shape of the connecting element 15 is similar in design to the embodiment of the Fig. 3e bis 3g In this embodiment, the support element 13 is optionally round in a top view, with, for example, four radially outwardly oriented struts between an inner disc-shaped area and an outer ring of the support element 13. The protrusion of struts is optional.

[0138] The support element 13 is attached to the connecting element 15 by means of three pins 91 or another number of pins 91.

[0139] The pins 91 are optional integral components of the connecting element 15, i.e. manufactured in one piece with the connecting element 15.

[0140] The manufacturing process can, for example, start with a disc-shaped or tubular semi-finished product, which is processed using laser cutting and may later be further processed into the Fig. 4a The cylindrical shape shown is bent and optionally joined together longitudinally along the butt edges, e.g. by laser welding.

[0141] In the unmounted state of the support element 13, the pins 91 extend longitudinally, optionally more or less parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support element 13.

[0142] To mount the support element 13 onto the connecting element 15, these pins 91 can then be bent radially outwards by approximately 90° (degrees), as shown - as a result - in Fig. 4a is shown.

[0143] For the precise positioning of the support element 13 on the connecting element 15 during assembly, the inner disc of the support element 13 can have notches for guiding the pins 91. These notches can run in the axial direction, i.e., perpendicular to the radial direction in which the struts extend. In the assembled state, this inner disc rests on the connecting element 15 and is secured by means of the bent pins 91.

[0144] The inner disc may have a central opening. It may be dimensioned to align with its edge on an optionally provided rim or step, such as that found, for example, in Fig. 3k It is revealed to be set up. The one in Fig. 3k The cone shown – or any other end-face configuration of the connecting element 15 – can thus project into or through the central opening. The central opening can be configured as a blind opening or as a through opening.

[0145] The elevation markers 55a are, in contrast to the elevation markers 55 of the Fig. 3d und 3g , designed as small, round holes or openings (through holes or blind holes). These height markings 55a can be advantageously used to determine or read the penetration depth of the connecting element 15 into the jawbone. The height markings 55a can be arranged equidistantly or non-equidistantly in the longitudinal direction. Any other configuration of height markings than that described in Fig. 4a The one shown is also encompassed by the present invention.

[0146] The in Fig. 4a The illustrated embodiment of the dental implant 100 is preferably fixed in the jawbone in its assembled state. In the assembled state, the support element 13 is already fixed to the connecting element 15.

[0147] The in Fig. 4a The dental implant 100 shown can be fixed in the jawbone with or without tools, for example by hammering it in.

[0148] Even the one in Fig. 4a The dental implant shown (100) can be made entirely or partially from a partially or fully resorbable material.

[0149] Fig. 5 shows the bone structure of the jawbone 3 from Fig. 1 with the dental implant 100 according to the invention. The implant 100 is implanted or inserted at the implantation site 41 in the jawbone 3.

[0150] The support element 13 has in the Fig. 5 The implantation state of the implant 100 is shown as having a top surface 45 facing the oral cavity of the patient and a bottom surface 47 facing the implantation site 41.

[0151] Fig. 6a -cFigure 73 shows an exemplary tool for driving the connecting element 15 into the jawbone in two different embodiments and in different views.

[0152] Fig. 6a Figure 73 shows tool 73 in a half-section view in a first embodiment. The following numerical data are purely exemplary and may differ, particularly for various connecting elements 15.

[0153] The pin diameter 75 can be selected such that the tool 73 can be placed on the first connecting section 25 of the connecting element 15 with as little play as possible, or, if the latter is designed as a hollow body at least in its upper section, can be inserted into the inner cross-section or its inner lumen (see Fig. 3k With an exemplary outer diameter of 1.8 mm and a wall thickness (in the non-conical section) of 0.16 mm, the inner diameter is 1.48 mm. This inner diameter, which in Fig. 3k which is marked with reference numeral 50, thus corresponds to the pin diameter 75 of the tool 73, possibly with a selectable fit.

[0154] The embodiment in Fig. 6a is chosen such that the first connecting section 25 of the connecting element 15 (see Fig. 3k ) face of the tool 73 in an optional circumferential gap section 77 and preferably on its base (in Fig. 6a at the very top). In other words, the embodiment of tool 73 is in Fig. 6a A tool 73 with a support for placing the tool 73 on the cone of the connecting element 15. According to the exemplary numerical example from Fig. 3k The height of the gap section 77 is 0.3 mm.

[0155] According to the exemplary numerical example from Fig. 3k 0.95 mm and is calculated from the exemplary wall thickness of 0.16 mm minus the cone width (based on the outer diameter 71 at the cone base) of 0.65 mm. The other dimensions can be adjusted accordingly, resulting, purely as an example, in a pin length 83 of 1.1 mm, an upper partial length 85 (length in front of an upper end face to a lower end face of the split section) of the tool 73 of 1 mm, a total length 87 of the tool 73 from upper end face to lower end face of 1.7 mm, and an outer diameter 89 of the tool 73 of 2.2 mm. The force for driving the connecting element 15 into the jawbone can be applied to the upper end face of the tool 73 with the outer diameter 89.

[0156] In this embodiment, the Fig. 6a It is important to ensure that the end face of the cone of the connecting element 15 rests securely on the end face of the gap section 77 (i.e., on the gap base) on the tool 73. This advantageously prevents deformation of the cone of the connecting element 15 during its insertion, as otherwise there is a risk that the support element 13 will no longer fit precisely onto the cone of the connecting element 15 after insertion.

[0157] The material for the tool can be, for example, a metal or a plastic, such as a polyetheretherketone (abbreviated PEEK).

[0158] Fig. 6b Figure 73 shows a second embodiment of the tool. In this exemplary embodiment, the height 79 of the slot section 77 is selected such that the end face of the cone of the connecting element 15 does not rest on the end face of the slot section 77 (i.e., on the slot base) of the tool 73 when driven in. Rather, the Fig. 6c Free ring surface of the cylindrical section concentrically surrounding the gap section 77, as seen from below, on the in Fig. 3k The step on the outer wall of the connecting element 15, recognizable as a horizontal ring, is therefore, for example, the height 79 of the gap section 77 can be 0.4 mm. With the same other external dimensions as in the example from Fig. 6a The exemplary tenon length is then 83 1.1 mm.

[0159] Due to the fact that, in this embodiment, the end face of the cone of the connecting element 15 does not rest on the end face of the gap section 77 (i.e., on the gap base) when being driven in, but rather the cylindrical section comes to rest on the shoulder, mechanical damage to the cone during driving in can advantageously be avoided.

[0160] Fig. 6c shows a perspective view of the tool 73 according to the embodiments from Fig. 6a und Fig. 6b looking from below at the lower front face and looking from below into the gap section 77.

[0161] Fig. 7 Figure 1 shows a manufacturing variant for the support element 13. In this embodiment, the support element 13 can be manufactured from a tubular raw material. The raw material can, for example, be the same raw material used to manufacture the connecting element 15 according to the embodiments in Figure 1. Fig. 3a bis 3k can be used. The purely exemplary outer diameter 49 of the connecting element 15 has been specified as 1.8 mm in these figure descriptions. According to the described development in Fig. 3h This corresponds to a length of approximately 5.7 mm. With an exemplary width of 5 mm for the support element 13, this is sufficient for its fabrication. Fabrication can be carried out, for example, by laser cutting. The basic process for a resorbable material such as a magnesium alloy is known from the production of stents for medical applications. However, the support element must be plastically deformed or expanded after fabrication. Bezugszeichenliste

[0162] 100 Dental implant α Cone angle of the first connecting section µ a Coefficient of friction in axial direction 1 Bone substitute material; granules 3 Jawbone 5 Tooth 7 Screw; spacer 9 Covering membrane; cover film; cover element 11 Direction of arrow for moving the covering membrane 13 Support element 15 Connecting element 17 Crossbar 19 Longitudinal bar 21 Radial bar 23 Insertion opening; second connecting section 25 Insertion pin;31 Length of the support element 32 Thickness of the transverse and / or longitudinal struts 33 Width of the support element 34 Thickness of the outer, circumferential struts 35 Outer diameter of the round support element 36 Height of the support element 37 First end section of the connecting element 38 Length of the first end section 39 Second end section of the connecting element 41 Implantation site 43 Total length of the connecting element 45 Top of the support element 47 Bottom of the support element 49 Outer diameter of the connecting element 50 Inner diameter 51 Slot 53 Bore 55, 55a Height markings of the connecting element 57 Arrow direction 59 Points 61 Upper partial length of the connecting element 63 Lower partial length of the connecting element 65 Length of the development;Circumference 67 Distance between the tips 69 Radius between the tips 71 Outer diameter at the cone base 73 Tool for driving in the connecting element 75 Pin diameter 77 Gap section 79 Height of the gap section 81 Gap width 83 Pin length 85 Upper part length of the tool 87 Total length of the tool 89 Outer diameter of the tool 91 Pin;

Claims

1. A dental prosthetic implant (100) for supporting, in particular by means of a support structure, a covering element (9), comprising: - a connecting element (15) having: - a first end portion (37) and - a second end portion (39) for connecting the implant (100) to a jawbone (3); and - a first support element (13) for supporting a covering element (9) after implantation of the implant (100) in the jawbone (3); wherein the first end portion (37) is designed as a first connecting portion (25) or comprises such one; wherein the first support element (13) comprises a second connecting portion (23); wherein the first connecting portion (25) and the second connecting portion (23) are designed to be connectable to each other or with each other; wherein the second end portion (39) is designed as an implantation section or comprises such one for temporarily implanting the connecting element (15) at or in the implantation site (41) of the jawbone (3).

2. The dental prosthetic implant (100) according to claim 1, wherein the first and the second connecting portions (25, 23) correspond to each other, the first connecting portion (25) or the second connecting portion (23) being preferably designed as an insertion opening (23), and the other of these two connecting portions (25, 23) being designed as an insertion pin (25).

3. The dental prosthetic implant (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second end portion (39) is designed as a converging or tapering portion.

4. The dental prosthetic implant (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first connecting portion (25) and the second connecting portion (23) are designed for releasable connection with each other.

5. The dental prosthetic implant (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first support element (13) is a grid-shaped support structure or comprises such one.

6. The dental prosthetic implant (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first support element (13) comprises an upper side (45) facing the oral cavity of the patient in the implantation state of the implant (100) and a lower side (47) facing the implantation site (41), the second connecting portion (23) being designed to receive the first connecting portion (25) from the lower side (47).

7. The dental prosthetic implant (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting element (15) does not comprise a threaded section and / or a screw head.

8. The dental prosthetic implant (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting element (15) and / or the first support element (13) is / are made of a metal, a plastic and / or a composite material or comprise(s) such a material.

9. The dental prosthetic implant (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting element (15) and / or the first support element (13) is / are made entirely or partially of a resorbable material or comprise(s) such a material.

10. A set comprising a dental prosthetic implant (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: - at least one further support element (13), wherein the first support element (13) and the second support element (13) differ in at least one geometric feature, and / or - a dental implant.

11. The set according to claim 10, wherein the geometric feature comprises the form, one dimension, the area, and / or the arrangement of support structure elements.

12. A tool (73) for inserting a connecting element (15) of a dental prosthetic implant (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, into a bone, wherein the tool (73) comprises a slot section (77) for receiving an end region of the connecting element (15).