SYSTEM FOR TRANSFERRING ORTHODONTIC TOOLS AND PARTS SET COMPREHENSIVE THE SYSTEM FOR TRANSFERRING ORTHODONTIC TOOLS

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for transferring at least one orthodontic tool to a target tooth surface in the upper or lower jaw of a patient. The invention further relates to a kit-of-parts comprising at least one system and one orthodontic tool. Transfer aids for orthodontic tools are known from the prior art. DE 20 2016 101200 U1 discloses a control structure for positioning orthodontic brackets for the purpose of orthodontic treatment using a positioning jig (also called a positioning template or template). The positioning jig has a holder that can removably support a bracket during its attachment to the tooth.The control structure has at least one primary opening for positioning, shaped similarly to the three-dimensional growth of a tooth, and a secondary opening through which the positioning jig is brought into an approximate position relative to the control structure in order to position the bracket on the corresponding tooth surface (according to the orthodontic treatment plan). Individually adapted jigs are provided for each set of teeth. To ensure that the various jigs are correctly inserted into their respective secondary openings, reference codes are marked on the jigs and the structure.Such systems have the disadvantage that, although all the information for aligning the orthodontic tools on the tooth surfaces is contained in the transfer aids, they lack a mechanism that not only precisely positions the transfer aids but also ensures that they remain in this optimized position. Furthermore, the known systems, consisting of a splint and a positioning aid, are extremely bulky and cover large portions of the teeth after the transfer aid is inserted into the patient's oral cavity. Typically, the orthodontic tools are bonded to the target tooth surface in the transfer position using an adhesive.This regularly leads to an unnecessarily large amount of adhesive oozing out between the orthodontic tool and the tooth surface due to an undefined position of the orthodontic tool in front of the tooth surface.

[0002] US4183141A discloses a device for attaching a clasp at a predetermined position on the labial or buccal surface of a tooth. The device comprises a rigid cap with an internal shape corresponding to the crown portion of a tooth. A hollow guide element is attached to the cap and has an elongated guide section extending transversely to the labial surface of the tooth and outward from it.

[0003] The systems known from the state of the art still have disadvantages and leave much to be desired.

[0004] The invention is defined by the attached claims.

[0005] The present invention was therefore based on the objective of overcoming the disadvantages of the prior art concerning systems for transferring orthodontic tools to teeth. In particular, the invention aimed to provide a system that unambiguously ensures the position of the tools to be transferred and is nevertheless simple and space-saving to handle. Furthermore, it should ensure that the orthodontic tools adhere to the teeth as well as possible and that rework is minimized.

[0006] Accordingly, according to a first aspect of the invention, a system for transferring at least one orthodontic tool to a target tooth surface in the upper or lower jaw of a patient (also called a first transfer aid) was found, comprising at least one, in particular exactly one, dental splint for a plurality of teeth, designed and configured to form a force-fit, in particular force- and form-fit, pairing with at least one tooth, in particular several teeth in the upper or lower jaw of the patient. The at least one dental splint has at least one guide, in particular a guide channel comprising an entry opening, and at least one template comprising a support arm with a carrier designed and configured to hold an orthodontic tool releasably, and a driver adapted to the guide, in particular form-complementing, such as a sliding pin.The system comprises a positioning unit in the area of ​​the guide and / or the driver, which is designed and configured to detachably fix the driver translationally in the guide, so that the template carrier is in a predetermined position relative to the dental splint. Accordingly, in the system according to the invention, a positioning unit is provided in the area of ​​the guide and / or, in particular, the driver, which can detachably fix the driver translationally in the guide, so that the template carrier can be moved into a predetermined position relative to the dental splint. The at least one dental splint for the plurality of teeth is advantageously designed such that it creates a force-fit, in particular a force- and form-fit, pairing with at least one tooth, in particular several teeth, in the maxilla or mandible of the patient.In the system according to the invention, it is provided that the carrier can detachably hold an orthodontic tool.

[0007] Orthodontic tools according to the present invention can be, for example, brackets, buttons, or attachments that serve as fixed points for wires or loops. These wires, in turn, through their specific shape, length, or physical properties, correct misaligned teeth in a dentition. With the system according to the invention, and especially with the positioning unit, orthodontic tools can be transferred with particular security and accuracy.

[0008] In the system according to the invention for transferring at least one orthodontic tool, the at least one positioning unit comprises a spacer, in particular a stop, designed and configured to limit the translational movement of the driver in the guide such that the carrier of the at least one template is positioned at a predetermined first distance relative to the toothed rail. Accordingly, the translational movement of the driver in the guide can be limited by means of the spacer, in particular a stop, such that the carrier of the template is positioned at a predetermined first distance relative to the toothed rail.

[0009] The spacer serves to precisely set the transfer position. Experience has shown that the transfer of orthodontic tools can be performed particularly reliably when an insurmountable barrier in the form of a spacer is present. When the template is inserted into the guide and contacts the spacer, the spacer reliably prevents the template from being inserted any further into the guide.

[0010] Furthermore, the positioning unit according to the invention comprises at least one first, in particular radial, projection, in particular an axial shoulder, on the driver and at least one first recess on the inner surface of the guide, in particular the guide channel, or at least one first, in particular radial, projection, in particular an axial shoulder, on the inner surface of the guide, in particular the guide channel, and wherein the positioning unit comprises at least one first recess on the driver (also called second transmission aid in both of the aforementioned alternatives).

[0011] By using projections and recesses on the driver, which can be engaged on the inner surface of the guide, it has surprisingly been shown that the transfer position can be set precisely and reliably. The precise determination of the transfer position of the orthodontic tool has surprisingly demonstrated that the placement of the tools in front of the teeth to be fitted with the orthodontic tools can be carried out significantly faster than with conventional systems. The system according to the invention also has the advantage that, compared to conventional systems, significantly less adhesive oozes out between the teeth to be fitted with the orthodontic tools and the orthodontic tool being transferred during the transfer process. While not bound by any specific theory, it is assumed that the system according to the invention enables particularly precise placement of the orthodontic tools.Consequently, excess adhesive, and especially excess and hardened adhesive, does not require time-consuming removal. Furthermore, the use of protrusions and recesses has the advantage that the user receives perceptible feedback from the transfer aid in the form of a click or detent. This clearly indicates to the user that the transfer position has been assumed.

[0012] It has proven advantageous that, in cases where the positioning unit includes a spacer and protrusions and / or recesses, the corresponding protrusions and / or recesses of the guide and the template engage when the driver is inserted, and the driver simultaneously abuts the spacer. While the engaged corresponding protrusions and recesses could be overcome or shifted relative to each other by excessive pressure without the spacer, the spacer ensures that the driver is reliably prevented from being inserted too deeply into the guide. Furthermore, this system allows for particularly quick and reliable mounting of the drivers onto the toothed rail compared to existing systems. Readjustment is no longer necessary.

[0013] In the system according to the invention, during the pairing, in particular the form-complementary interlocking, of the first projection and the first recess, the carrier of the at least one template is in a transfer position relative to a predetermined tooth assigned or assignable to the template at the first distance.

[0014] The transfer position represents an orientation of the system in which the template carrier is positioned in front of the target tooth surface such that an orthodontic tool to be transferred, e.g., a bracket, can be bonded to the target tooth surface. The first distance is preferably chosen such that the distance of an orthodontic tool detachably held in the carrier, in particular the surface of the orthodontic tool to be bonded, from the tooth surface is in the range of 0.1 mm to 1 mm, preferably in the range of 0.2 mm to 1 mm, and particularly in the range of 0.3 mm to 0.8 mm.

[0015] Furthermore, in the system according to the invention, during the pairing, in particular the form-complementary interlocking, of the first projection and the first recess, the carrier of the at least one template can be in a holding position relative to a predetermined tooth assigned or assignable to the template at a second distance.

[0016] The holding position represents an orientation of the system in which the template carrier is positioned sufficiently far in front of the target tooth surface to prevent unintentional adhesion of an orthodontic tool, which is detachably stored in the carrier, to the target tooth surface. The second distance represents the distance between the carrier and the corresponding target tooth surface in the holding position. This second distance is therefore greater than the first. The second distance is preferably selected such that the distance of an orthodontic tool, particularly the surface of the orthodontic tool to be adhered to, from the tooth surface is at least 4 mm, preferably at least 6 mm, and most preferably not above 20 mm, and particularly not above 10 mm, for example, in the range of 4 to 8 mm.

[0017] According to a third aspect of the system according to the invention (also called third transmission aid), the positioning unit comprises, with respect to the entry opening, at least a second projection spaced apart from the at least one first projection, in particular an axial shoulder, in particular on the inner surface of the guide, in particular the guide channel, or at least a second projection spaced apart from the at least first recess, in particular on the inner surface of the guide, in particular the guide channel.

[0018] In the system according to the third aspect of the invention, the pairing, in particular the form-complementary interlocking, of the first projection or recess of the driver and the first projection or recess of the guide, the carrier of the at least one template is in a holding position relative to a predetermined tooth assigned or assignable to the template at the second distance.

[0019] Alternatively, in the system according to the third aspect of the invention, the pairing, in particular the form-complementary interlocking, of the first projection or recess of the driver and the second projection or recess of the guide of the carrier of the at least one template is in a transmission position relative to a predetermined tooth assigned or assignable to the template at the first distance.

[0020] According to a fourth aspect of the system according to the invention (also called fourth transmission aid), the positioning unit comprises, in relation to the support arm, at least a second projection spaced apart from the at least one first projection, in particular an axial shoulder, especially on the driver, or, in relation to the support arm, at least a first recess spaced apart from the at least one first projection, at least a second recess spaced apart from the driver.

[0021] In the system according to the fourth aspect of the invention, the pairing, in particular the form-complementary interlocking, of the first projection or recess of the driver and the first projection or recess of the guide, the carrier of the at least one template is in a holding position relative to a predetermined tooth assigned or assignable to the template at the second distance.

[0022] Alternatively, in the system according to the fourth aspect of the invention, the pairing, in particular the form-complementary interlocking, of the second projection or recess of the driver and the first projection or recess of the guide of the carrier of the at least one template is in a transmission position relative to a predetermined tooth assigned or assignable to the template at the first distance.

[0023] By providing two projections or recesses on the driver or guide according to the third and fourth aspects of the invention, the template can be positioned either in a holding position or in a transfer position. Thus, the templates and, if applicable, the tools attached therein can be positioned in the holding or transfer position within their respective guides on the dental splint at the time of delivery to the user of the system, particularly the orthodontist. It has been shown that this method provides a particularly reliable hold for the templates and, if applicable, the detachably attached orthodontic tools within the dental splint. To bond the orthodontic tools, the templates can be moved from the holding position to the transfer position.

[0024] By using protrusions and recesses on the driver or guide, which engage on the inner surface of the guide or the surface of the driver, it has been surprisingly demonstrated that the transfer position and / or the holding position can be set clearly and reliably. Furthermore, the use of protrusions and recesses has the advantage that, when using the transfer aid, the user receives perceptible feedback in the form of a click or detent. Thus, the user clearly recognizes that the transfer position has been engaged, especially when moving the template from the holding position to the transfer position.

[0025] According to a fifth aspect of the system according to the invention (also called fifth transmission aid), the positioning unit comprises, with respect to the entry opening beyond the at least one first projection, at least one second projection, in particular an axial shoulder, in particular on the inner surface of the guide, in particular the guide channel, or with respect to the entry opening beyond the at least one first recess, at least one second recess, in particular on the inner surface of the guide, in particular the guide channel.Furthermore, according to the fifth aspect of the system according to the invention, the positioning unit comprises, with respect to the support arm, at least a second projection spaced apart from the at least one first projection, in particular an axial shoulder, especially on the driver, or with respect to the support arm, at least a second projection spaced apart from the at least one first recess, in particular on the driver.

[0026] In the system according to the fifth aspect of the invention, the pairing, in particular the form-complementary interlocking, of the first projection or recess of the driver and the first projection or recess of the guide, the carrier of the at least one template is in a holding position relative to a predetermined tooth assigned or assignable to the template at the second distance.

[0027] Alternatively, in the system according to the fifth aspect of the invention, the second projection or recess of the driver and the first projection or recess of the guide of the carrier of the at least one template are in a transmission position relative to a predetermined tooth associated or assignable to the template at the first distance during the pairing, in particular the form-complementary interlocking.

[0028] According to a further alternative, in the system according to the invention, according to the fifth aspect of the invention, the pairing, in particular the form-complementary interlocking, of the first projection or recess of the driver and the second projection or recess of the guide of the carrier of the at least one template is in a transmission position relative to a predetermined tooth assigned or assignable to the template at the first distance.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment of the system according to the first, second, third, fourth, or fifth aspect of the invention, the spacer is formed integrally with the template, in particular the driver, or the guide, in particular the toothed rail. Such systems reduce the complexity of the transmission aid and ensure simple and reliable application.

[0030] In a further preferred embodiment of the system according to the first, second, third, fourth, or fifth aspect of the invention, the at least one first projection or recess and / or the at least one second projection or recess is formed integrally on the template, in particular the driver, or on the guide, in particular the toothed rail. Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the at least one recess or projection and the at least one second recess or projection are formed integrally on the guide, in particular the toothed rail, or on the template, in particular the driver. Such systems reduce the complexity of the transmission aid and ensure simple and reliable application.

[0031] In a further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention, as described in the first, second, third, fourth, or fifth aspect of the invention, the carrier has a support surface directed towards the target tooth surface, with a support recess for the force-fit, and in particular force- and form-fit, reception of the orthodontic tool, and in particular a support recess that is form-complementary to the orthodontic tool. The support recess is adapted to the orthodontic tool used so that it can be received in the support recess.

[0032] The recessed holder allows the orthodontic tools to be reliably and reversibly held in the holder. After the final attachment of the orthodontic tools to the tooth surface, the templates can be detached from the orthodontic tools and removed from the patient's mouth. Furthermore, even before the system is delivered to the user, the orthodontic tools can be inserted into the designated recesses in the template. This has the distinct advantage that the system for transferring orthodontic tools requires fewer steps than conventional systems, thus reducing the potential for errors.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment of the system according to the first, second, third, fourth, or fifth aspect of the invention, the support recess has at least one support recess projection, in particular at least two, preferably transverse, and especially perpendicular, opposite a, preferably linear, direction of movement of the template, for the force-fit, and in particular force- and form-fit, reception of the orthodontic tool, wherein in particular the at least one support recess projection extends transversely to a direction of movement of the template into the support. The support recess projections help to prevent the orthodontic tools from unintentionally falling out even more reliably.

[0034] Systems according to the first, second, third, fourth, or fifth aspect of the invention are preferred, in which the support recess completely or partially, and in particular partially, occupies the support surface. Thus, it is possible for the support recess to also accommodate orthodontic tools whose dimensions are larger than the support surface. For example, it is conceivable that the orthodontic tool has a projection that extends beyond the edge of the support surface into a recess provided for this purpose, which encompasses the support surface and parts of the carrier.

[0035] In a further advantageous embodiment of the system according to the first, second, third, fourth or fifth aspect of the invention, the guide and the toothed rail comprise or constitute a one-piece manufactured plastic component.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment of the system according to the first, second, third, fourth, or fifth aspect of the invention, the template is movably held on the toothed rail, particularly on the guide, and in particular translationally in a longitudinal direction. The movement of the template into and out of the guide occurs along two axes X and Y that are essentially parallel to each other, where axis X represents the longitudinal axis of the guide and axis Y represents the insertion direction of the tool W into the support recess. Such a design ensures that the template can be easily removed from the orthodontic tool after it has bonded to a corresponding tooth. If the axes were not essentially parallel to each other, as described above, the template could become jammed with the orthodontic tool, and removal would be impossible or very difficult.Possible under heavy stress on the orthodontic tool.

[0037] In a suitable embodiment of the system according to the first, second, third, fourth, or fifth aspect of the invention, the template and / or the guide have a round or polygonal, in particular a rectangular, cross-section, wherein the shapes of the cross-sections of the template and the guide correspond to each other. Polygonal, especially rectangular, cross-sections have proven to be particularly practical. In this way, the orientation of the template for insertion into the guide can thus be essentially predetermined.

[0038] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the system according to the first, second, third, fourth, or fifth aspect of the invention, the driver of the template, which is particularly in the form of a pin, comprises at least two projections, particularly longitudinally, which extend from the end of the driver opposite the support arm towards the support arm and, in particular, merge integrally into one another. The projections and / or recesses may be provided on the surface of the projections facing the inside of the guide.

[0039] Particularly advantageous have also been embodiments in which the driver has a diameter at the end opposite the support arm or in the area of ​​the end opposite the support arm that is larger than the diameter of the guide and in which the at least two arms are spaced apart from each other in such a way that they can be moved towards each other, so that the driver can be inserted into the guide, in particular until the transmission position is reached.

[0040] Surprisingly, it has been found that using extension arms facilitates the insertion of the template into the guide. Due to their elastic design, the extension arms can adapt to the opening of the guide. For example, the extension arms can be slightly compressed when being inserted into the guide. As soon as the corresponding protrusions and recesses interlock, the extension arms automatically return to their original position due to their elasticity.

[0041] Optionally, in systems according to the first, second, third, fourth, or fifth aspect of the invention, the guide and the template may have a coding element, enabling a unique assignment of the template to a corresponding guide. It may be necessary to assign templates to corresponding guides. To ensure this unambiguous assignment, coding elements, for example in the form of numbers, facilitate the insertion of a template into a guide with a corresponding coding element.

[0042] In systems according to the first, second, third, fourth or fifth aspect of the invention, which have a support recess projection, it is further preferred that the at least one support recess projection comprises or consists of a second plastic material with a Shore hardness D equal to or less than, in particular less than, the Shore hardness D of the carrier.

[0043] According to a sixth aspect of the invention, the problem underlying the invention is further solved by a system for transferring orthodontic tools to a target tooth surface, in particular according to one of the preceding aspects, comprising at least one dental splint, wherein the at least one dental splint comprises a form-fitting retention area which is shaped to fit at least one predetermined tooth surface, such as the inner and / or outer surfaces and / or occlusal surfaces of several teeth, wherein the form-fitting retention area is designed and configured to cover the predetermined tooth surface in a planar manner, in particular partially or fully; and comprises at least one retention rib opposite the form-fitting retention area which is designed and configured to be able to engage with at least one other tooth surface in a force-fit, in particular force- and form-fit, contact engagement.

[0044] Surprisingly, it has been shown that particularly space-saving dental splints can be produced using retention bars. This has the particular advantage that the splint occupies less space in the patient's oral cavity. Thus, more space is available for using the system to transfer orthodontic tools.

[0045] In this context, embodiments of the sixth aspect of the invention are preferred in which the at least one retaining bar is designed and configured to be brought into force-fit contact with two immediately adjacent teeth, particularly in the area of ​​an interdental space between two immediately adjacent teeth of the mandible or the maxilla. Thus, a force-fit contact with two immediately adjacent teeth, particularly in the area of ​​an interdental space between two immediately adjacent teeth of the mandible or the maxilla, can be achieved via the retaining bar. This has the advantage that only a small number of retaining bars, in particular only two retaining bars, preferably only one retaining bar, are necessary to attach the dental splint to the teeth.

[0046] Furthermore, embodiments of the sixth aspect of the invention are preferred in which the dental splint has at least one clearance space located between the at least one retaining rib and an immediately adjacent further retaining rib and / or between the retaining rib and an immediately adjacent positive locking area on the other tooth surface. This gives the inventive system for transferring orthodontic tools the unexpected advantage of providing a particularly large amount of clearance on the tooth surfaces to be fitted with orthodontic tools. Thus, the orthodontic tools can be attached to the tooth surfaces particularly easily, and post-processing, especially the removal of excess adhesive, is also particularly simple, especially compared to systems known from the prior art.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment of the system according to the sixth aspect of the invention, the dental splint has a wall thickness of a maximum of 5 mm, preferably a maximum of 3 mm, and particularly preferably a maximum of 1 mm, in the area of ​​the predetermined tooth surface associated with it. Surprisingly, it has been found that particularly space-saving dental splints can be produced using wall thicknesses of a maximum of 1 to 5 mm. This has the particular advantage that the dental splint occupies less space in the patient's oral cavity. Thus, more space is available for using the system for transferring orthodontic tools.

[0048] In a further preferred embodiment of the system according to the sixth aspect of the invention, the guide is placed on the surface of the dental splint that faces away from the teeth engaged by the splint, in the area of ​​its associated predetermined tooth surface. Placing the guide on the wall thickness in the area of ​​its associated predetermined tooth surface results in even less space being occupied by the dental splint in the patient's oral cavity, thus providing even more space for using the system to transfer orthodontic tools.

[0049] In systems according to the first, second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth aspect of the invention, it is preferred that the dental splint and / or the template preferably contains and / or consists of at least one dimensionally stable first plastic material, wherein the at least one first plastic material has a Shore hardness D according to DIN EN ISO 868:2003-10 in the range of 74 - 93, preferably from 83 to 86, in each case determined according to scale D.

[0050] In systems according to the first, second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth aspect of the invention, plastic materials for the first and / or the at least one second plastic material are preferred which are selected from the group consisting of polyacrylates, polyolefins, polyurethanes, polyetherketones, polyetherimides, polyesters, polycaptrolactones, acrylobutadiene styrene copolymers, polyamides and polylactides, wherein the plastic material preferably comprises or is polyacrylates, in particular preferably transparent polyacrylates, in particular polyacrylates of type MED610.

[0051] For the production of systems according to the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, or sixth aspect of the invention, methods are preferred in which the dental splint and, optionally, the at least one template are produced using a computer-aided process and / or an additive process, in particular a 3D printing process. Computer-aided processes can, for example, include CAD / CAM processes for material-removing milling. Additive processes, in turn, can, for example, include 3D printing processes. These methods make it possible, among other things, for all components of the system according to the first, second, and third aspects of the invention to be produced in a single process step.

[0052] According to a seventh aspect of the invention, a kit-of-parts comprising at least one system according to the first, second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth aspect of the invention and at least one orthodontic tool (W), in particular brackets, buttons and / or attachments, is disclosed.

[0053] According to a preferred embodiment of the kit-of-parts, the distance between the part of the orthodontic tool that is to be bonded to the target tooth surface in the transfer position and the target tooth surface is preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 1 mm, particularly preferably in the range of 0.2 mm to 1 mm, and especially in the range of 0.3 mm to 0.8 mm. In contrast, in the holding position, the distance between the part of the orthodontic tool, in particular the surface of the orthodontic tool to be bonded to the target tooth surface, and the target tooth surface is preferably a maximum of 20 mm, particularly preferably a maximum of 10 mm, and especially in the range of 3 mm to 8 mm or 4 mm to 8 mm. Accordingly, this distance is also preferably at least 3 mm and particularly at least 4 mm.

[0054] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained by means of schematic drawings, without thereby limiting the invention.

[0055] This shows Figure 1 shows a view of an embodiment of a dental splint according to the sixth aspect of the inventive system for transferring orthodontic tools; Figure 2 shows a cross-section of a first embodiment of the inventive system for transferring orthodontic tools; Figure 3 shows a cross-section of an embodiment according to the second aspect of the inventive system for transferring orthodontic tools; Figure 4 shows a cross-section of a further embodiment according to the second aspect of the inventive system for transferring orthodontic tools; Figure 5 shows a cross-section of an embodiment according to the third aspect of the inventive system for transferring orthodontic tools in the transfer position; Figure 6 shows a cross-section of an embodiment according to the third aspect of the inventive system for transferring orthodontic tools in the holding position.Figure 7 shows a cross-section of an embodiment according to the fifth aspect of the system according to the invention for transferring orthodontic tools in the transfer position, Figure 8 shows a cross-section of an embodiment according to the fifth aspect of the system according to the invention for transferring orthodontic tools in the holding position, Figure 9 shows a cross-section of the carrier of the system according to the invention for transferring orthodontic tools in magnified view, and Figure 10 shows a view of an embodiment of the template according to the invention.

[0056] In the following description of exemplary embodiments of the invention with reference to the figures, the same or similar reference numerals are used for the same or similar components to improve readability.

[0057] Orthodontic appliances are used to correct misalignments of one or more teeth in a patient's jaw. For this purpose, mechanical force is applied by a clamping device. Typically, several teeth in the lower or upper jaw are subjected to the force of a clamping device to move them into the desired position. This force is transmitted from the clamping device to several teeth via orthodontic appliances, such as brackets. Correct positioning of the orthodontic appliances is crucial for the efficient and accurately directed application of force to the teeth. Therefore, the orthodontic appliances must be regularly adjusted to the specific characteristics of the patient's jaw and positioned on different teeth. Secure and precise attachment of the orthodontic appliance to the tooth by the treating dentist is of particular importance.

[0058] The person skilled in the art understands that the following descriptions, which refer by way of example to a dental splint 2 for the lower jaw, apply accordingly to the upper jaw. Furthermore, the person skilled in the art understands that instead of the embodiments described below, in which the target tooth surface is provided on the front of the tooth, the target tooth surface can alternatively be provided on the back surfaces of the teeth.

[0059] Figure 1 Figure 1 shows an exemplary view of an embodiment of a dental splint 2 of the system according to the invention for transferring at least one orthodontic tool W onto a target tooth surface in the upper or lower jaw of a patient according to the fifth aspect of the invention. For this purpose, the dental splint 2 is shown fixed by way of example on a model of a human mandible.

[0060] A system 1 for transferring an orthodontic tool W comprises a dental splint 2 with a guide 21 and at least one template 3 (not shown) adapted to the guide 21 with a carrier 34 (not shown) for holding the orthodontic tool W (not shown).

[0061] The in Figure 1 The illustrated exemplary dental splint 2 is form-fitting to the outer contour of the teeth in the patient's lower jaw 70. The dental splint 2 covers the posterior surface R of the teeth essentially over their entire area. Additionally, the dental splint 2 can cover the occlusal surfaces K of the teeth Z, at least partially. The sections of the dental splint designed and configured for force-fit, in particular force-fit and form-fit, and full-surface coverage of the teeth can be referred to as form-fit retention areas 50. The target tooth surface V is free from full coverage by the dental splint 2.

[0062] For a precise fit of the dental splint 2, and especially the form-fitting retention areas 50, it may be necessary to manufacture the dental splint 2 using a computer-aided process, particularly a 3D printing process. For this purpose, a computer-based three-dimensional model of the jaw can first be created directly on the jaw or using an impression of the jaw, for example as a CAD data set. Based on the three-dimensional model of the jaw, a shell-like fit for the dental splint 2 can be determined using computer-aided design. Subsequently, the dental splint can be calculated and then manufactured using computer-aided design based on this shell-like fit.

[0063] For force-fit, in particular force- and form-fit, pairing, the illustrated dental splint 2 has retaining bars 60 in the area of ​​the target tooth surface V of the teeth Z, which is to be fitted with the orthodontic tools W. The retaining bars 60 are arranged opposite the section of the dental splint 2 for covering the entire back surface R of the teeth. The retaining bars 60 interact with the form-fit retention area 50 to hold the dental splint in a predetermined position. For this purpose, the retaining bars 60 are designed such that they are in force-fit, in particular force- and form-fit, contact with parts of the anterior surfaces of two adjacent teeth of one jaw and also with parts of the interdental space formed by two adjacent teeth.The use of retention bars leads to a reduction in material for the fabrication of the tooth splint, which can be inserted using a force-fit, and in particular a force-fit and form-fit, connection. At the same time, the anterior surface of the tooth V remains essentially unobstructed for the placement of the orthodontic instruments. This reduction in material results in the tooth splint occupying less space in the patient's oral cavity. Consequently, the tooth splint can be easily inserted into the patient's mouth, and any necessary work in the patient's oral cavity after insertion of the tooth splint is also facilitated. In contrast to the tooth splint according to the invention, conventional tooth splints enclose larger portions of the tooth contours with material to enable a form-fit and force-fit placement of the tooth splint.

[0064] Furthermore, the in Figure 1The toothed rail 2 shown is guided by a guide 21 formed integrally with the toothed rail 2, which holds a template 3 (not in Figure 1 (as shown). In the example shown, the dental splint 2 and the guide 21 are manufactured in one or more successive steps of an additive manufacturing process. With additive manufacturing processes, the wall thickness of the plastic components, comprising the dental splint 2 and the guide 21, can be minimized to the required level, so that the dental splint 2 and the guide 21 occupy a particularly small space in the patient's oral cavity. This facilitates the treating dentist's access to the oral cavity for the secure and precise attachment of the orthodontic instruments.

[0065] In an embodiment of the dental splint 2 not shown, it is also conceivable that a guide 21 is provided on the dental splint 2 for each tooth to be fitted with an orthodontic tool W according to the treatment plan. The space-saving design of the dental splint allows all teeth of a jaw to be fitted with orthodontic tools W. In an embodiment of the system 1 not shown, the dental splint can be designed such that the retaining bars 60 engage with the posterior surface R of the tooth and the form-fitting retention area 50 rests in a form complementary manner against the target tooth surface V. This allows the orthodontic tools W to be positioned particularly easily on the posterior surface R of the tooth.

[0066] Figure 2It further shows a cross-section of a system for transferring at least one orthodontic tool to a target tooth surface in the upper or lower jaw of a patient. In contrast to Figure 1 A template 3 is inserted into the guide 21 via a sliding pin 31 whose shape is complementary to the guide 21. In this process, the Figures 2 , 3 , 5 , 7 and 9 shown predetermined transmission position U in the case of the Figure 2 defined by a positioning unit comprising only a spacer 33. The spacer 33 supports the correct positioning of the orthodontic tool W and can also prevent the template 3 from being inserted too deeply into the guide 21. In the Figures 2 to 9In the illustrated embodiment of the spacer 33, it is designed such that the guide 21 has a larger diameter in the region of its first opening 26 than in the region of its second opening 28. When the template 3 is inserted translationally into the guide 21, the template abuts the guide 21 in the region of the spacer 33 due to its external shape. This ultimately prevents further insertion of the template 3 into the guide 21.

[0067] The template 3 further comprises a support arm 37 and a carrier 34, which is designed and configured to hold an orthodontic tool W in front of the target tooth surface V. This is achieved by the carrier 34 having a form-complementary support recess 35 on its support surface 39 facing the target tooth surface V, for the form-fitting and force-fit reception of the orthodontic tool W. The support recess 35 is designed such that the orthodontic tool W can be held in the support recess by clamping tension. For even better releasable fixation of the orthodontic tool W, the support recess 35 in the example shown features Figure 2 and 9The support recess 35 features two support projections 38. These support projections 38 allow the orthodontic tool W to be releasably snapped into the support recess 35. The snap-in mechanism is further optimized by the fact that the support projections 38 can be made of a plastic material with a lower Shore hardness D than the rest of the support 34. Thus, less force is required to snap the orthodontic tool W into the support recess 35. In an embodiment of the support recess 35 not shown, it is also conceivable that only one support projection 38 could be provided.

[0068] Figure 9 This is already shown in Figure 2 System 1 shown in magnification.

[0069] The Figure 3further shows a cross-section of a system for transferring at least one orthodontic tool to a target tooth surface in the upper jaw or lower jaw of a patient according to the second aspect of the invention. Figure 3 This also shows that it is already in Figure 2The system 1 shown, wherein the positioning unit further comprises an axial shoulder 32 on the sliding pin 31 and a recess 22 on the inner surface of the guide 21, the projection 32 of the recess 22 being form-complementary to an inner surface of the guide 21. The pairing of the axial shoulder 32 with the recess 22 ensures that the template 3 remains precisely in its transfer position U. This positioning allows the distance between the orthodontic tool W and the target tooth surface V, and thus indirectly the adhesive layer thickness between the bracket W and the target tooth surface V, to be determined unambiguously and immutably. In conventional systems, the position of the orthodontic tool W is not unambiguously and immutably determinable. The system according to the invention achieves a particularly efficient bonding effect.This also ensures that not too much adhesive can protrude between the orthodontic tool W and the tooth surface to be fitted with the orthodontic tool W, since the transfer position U can be clearly defined by the setting. This effectively prevents the need to remove excess adhesive, especially excess cured adhesive. In an embodiment not shown, the recess can also be formed on the surface of the sliding pin 31, and the axial shoulder on the inner surface of the guide 21.

[0070] The in Figure 4 The embodiment of the system shown according to the second aspect of the invention differs from the one shown in Figure 3In the embodiment shown, the projection 32 and the recess 22 are designed such that, after the projection 32 has been received by the recess 22 in a form complementary manner on an inner surface of the guide 21, the system is in the holding position.

[0071] The Figure 5 The figure further shows a cross-section of a system for transferring at least one orthodontic tool to a target tooth surface in the upper or lower jaw of a patient according to the third aspect of the invention. The figure shown in Figure 3 The system shown differs from the one in Figure 3The system shown is characterized by the positioning unit, spaced apart from the first recess 22 in relation to the entry opening E, comprising a second recess 24 on the inner surface of the guide. The mating of the axial shoulder 32 with the recess 22 ensures that the template 3 remains precisely in its transfer position U. In this transfer position, the first distance between the carrier 34 and the tooth associated with this carrier 34 is established. Figure 6 This shows a system that is essentially identical to Figure 5The difference is that the system now precisely holds the template 3 in its holding position H by coupling the axial shoulder 32 with the recess 24. In this holding position, the second distance between the carrier 34 and the tooth associated with this carrier 34 is established. Consequently, the distance between the recess 22 and the recess 24 of the guide 21 can be considered the difference between the first and second distances. The first distance of the carrier to the target tooth surface is preferably selected such that the distance between a surface of an orthodontic tool to be bonded and the target tooth surface V is preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 1 mm. The distance between a surface of an orthodontic tool to be bonded and the target tooth surface V corresponds to that in Figure 2 discernible gap between orthodontic tool W and the target tooth surface V.

[0072] In holding position H ( Figure 6For example, it is possible to fully assemble System 1 before delivery to the user, as shown, so that the dental splint 2 can be shipped with the templates 3 already inserted and at least one orthodontic tool W attached to them. This also has the advantage that the user does not have to ensure that the respective templates are assigned to their corresponding guides, so that the teeth to be corrected are straightened as planned during subsequent treatment. The pairing of the axial shoulder 32 with the recess 24 ensures that the template 3 cannot fall out of the dental splint 2 at any time.The user therefore only has to insert the system 1, as delivered, into the patient's mouth and, if, for example, the adhesive for mediating the orthodontic tool W with the tooth anterior surface V has already been applied to the at least one orthodontic tool W, move the template 3 from its holding position H into the transfer position U (. Figure 4 Press down. The steps of inserting the dental splint 2 and pressing in the template 3, as well as, if necessary, applying the adhesive beforehand, are the only necessary steps to bring the orthodontic tool W into its final position in front of the anterior tooth V. No further adjustment of the position of the orthodontic tool W is necessary.

[0073] The Figure 7The figure further shows a cross-section of a system for transferring at least one orthodontic tool to a target tooth surface in the upper or lower jaw of a patient according to the fifth aspect of the invention. This system differs from the one shown in the figure. Figure 5 The system shown is characterized by the positioning unit comprising at least one second projection 42 in relation to the support arm 37, spaced beyond the at least one first projection 32. The pairing of the axial shoulder 32 with the rebate 22 and the simultaneous pairing of the axial shoulder 42 with the rebate 24 ensure that the template 3 remains precisely in its transmission position U. Figure 8 is the same system as in Figure 7 As shown, however, only the axial shoulder 32 is paired with the retraction 24, while the retraction 22 and the projection 42 are unpaired. The system is therefore in the holding position H.

[0074] The Figure 10 Figure 3 shows an embodiment of the template 3, wherein the template 3 comprises two longitudinally distinct extensions 41, 41' in the guide area (not shown), the two extensions 41, 41' merging seamlessly into one another in the direction of the support arm 37. The extensions 41, 41' are part of, or form, the driver 31. Figure 10Figure 1 shows the driver 31 in its basic state. In the illustrated embodiment, the projections 32, 42 are provided on the surface of the extension 41' facing the inside of the guide 21. It is also conceivable that the projections could be located on the extension 41 or simultaneously on both extensions. The corresponding recesses on the inside of the guide are not shown. The extensions 41, 41' are designed and configured to move elastically towards or away from each other. Thus, they can adapt to the shape of the guide channel of the guide 21, which facilitates the insertion of the template into the guide channel. Also in Figure 10Shown is an embodiment of the carrier 24 in which the support recess 35 partially occupies the support surface 39. Here, the support recess extends through the support surface edge 92, creating a recess 90. This recess provides space for parts of the orthodontic tools, which, due to their spatial dimensions, reach to or project beyond the support surface edge 92. Also in Figure 10 The optional coding means 80 in the form of a number on the support arm 37 of the template 3 is shown. A corresponding coding means in the form of the same number can be provided on the surface of the guide so that a confusion between the template 3 and a corresponding guide 21 can be reliably prevented.

[0075] The features of the invention disclosed in the foregoing description, in the claims and in the drawings can be essential for the realization of the invention in its various embodiments, both individually and in any combination. Reference sign

[0076] 1 System for transferring an orthodontic tool 2 Dental splint 3 Template 4 Anti-removal device 21 Guide 22 First recess (on guide) 22 First projection (on guide) 24 Second projection (on guide) 24 Second recess (on guide) 26 First opening 28 Second opening 31 Driver 32 First projection (on driver) 32 First recess (on driver) 33 Spacer 34 Carrier 35 Bearing recess 37 Support arm 38 Bearing recess projection 39 Bearing surface 41, 41' Extension 42 Second projection (on driver) 42 Second recess (on driver) 50 Positive locking retention area 60 Retaining bridge 70 Mandible 80 Coding device 90 Omission 92 Bearing surface edge H Retaining position U Transfer position K Occlusal surface RZ back of tooth V target tooth surface Worthodontic tool XX axis YY axis ZZ tooth

Claims

1. A system (1) for transferring at least one orthodontic tool (W) onto a target tooth surface in the upper jaw or in the lower jaw of a patient, comprising: - at least one tooth splint (2) for a plurality of teeth, adapted and arranged in order to enter into a force-fit, in particular a force- and form-fit, pairing with at least one tooth in the upper jaw or in the lower jaw of the patient, wherein the at least one tooth splint (2) has at least one guide (21) comprising an entry opening (E), and - at least one template (3), comprising a support arm (37) with a carrier (34), which is adapted and arranged to detachably hold an orthodontic tool (W), and a driver (31) which is adjusted to the guide (21), such as a sliding pin, wherein in the region of the guide (21) and / or the driver (31), the system comprises a positioning unit, which is adapted and arranged to affix the driver (31) in the guide (21) in a detachable, translatory manner, so that the carrier (34) of the template (3) is present in a predetermined position relative to the tooth splint (2), wherein the at least one positioning unit comprises a spacer (33) adapted and arranged to limit the translatory movement of the driver (31) in the guide (21) in such a manner that the carrier (34) of the at least one template (3) is present at a predetermined first distance relative to the tooth splint (2), wherein the positioning unit comprises at least one first protrusion (32) on the driver (31), and wherein the positioning unit comprises at least one first recess (22) on the inner surface of the guide (21) , or wherein the positioning unit comprises at least one first protrusion (22a) on the inner surface of the guide (21), and wherein the positioning unit comprises at least one first recess (32a) on the driver, wherein during the pairing of the first protrusion (32, 22a) and the first recess (22, 32a), the carrier (34) of the at least one template (3) is present at the first distance apart in a transfer position relative to a predetermined tooth that is assigned or assignable to the template (3).

2. The system (1) according to Claim 1, characterized in that during the pairing, in particular during the engagement of the complementary shapes, of the first protrusion (32, 22a) and the first recess (22, 32a), the carrier of the at least one template (3) is present at a second distance apart in a holding position relative to a predetermined tooth that is assigned or assignable to the template.

3. The system (1) according to any one of Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that in relation to the entry opening (E), on the other side of the at least one first protrusion (22a), at a distance herefrom, the positioning unit comprises a second protrusion (24a), in particular an axial shoulder, in particular on the inner surface of the guide (21), in particular of the guide channel, or in relation to the entry opening (E), on the other side of the at least one first recess (22), at a distance herefrom, the positioning unit comprises at least one second recess (24), in particular on the inner surface of the guide (21), in particular of the guide channel.

4. The system (1) according to Claim 3, characterized in that during the pairing, in particular during the engagement of the complementary shapes, of the first protrusion (32) or recess (32a) of the driver (31) and the first protrusion (22a) or recess (22) of the guide, the carrier (34) of the at least one template (3) is present at the second distance apart in a holding position relative to a predetermined tooth (Z) that is assigned or assignable to the template (3).

5. The system (1) according to Claim 3 or 4, characterized in that during the pairing, in particular during the engagement of the complementary shapes, of the first protrusion (32) or recess (32a) of the driver and the second protrusion (24a) or recess (24) of the guide, the carrier (34) of the at least one template (3) is present at the first distance apart in a transfer position relative to a predetermined tooth (Z) that is assigned or assignable to the template (3).

6. The system (1) according to any of the preceding Claims, characterized in that in relation to the support arm (37), on the other side of the at least one first protrusion (32), at a distance herefrom, the positioning unit comprises at least one second protrusion (42), in particular an axial shoulder, in particular on the driver (31), or that in relation to the support arm (37), on the other side of the at least one first recess (32a), at a distance herefrom, the positioning unit comprises at least one second recess (42a), in particular on the driver (31).

7. The system (1) according to Claim 6, characterized in that during the pairing, in particular during the engagement of the complementary shapes, of the first protrusion (32) or recess (32a) of the driver and the first protrusion (22a) or recess (22) of the guide (21), the carrier (34) of the at least one template (3) is present at the second distance apart in a holding position relative to a predetermined tooth (Z) that is assigned or assignable to the template (3).

8. The system (1) according to Claim 6 or 7, characterized in that during the pairing, in particular during the engagement of the complementary shapes, of the second protrusion (42) or recess (42a) of the driver (31) and the first protrusion (22a) or recess (22) of the guide, the carrier of the at least one template (3) is present at the first distance apart in a transfer position relative to a predetermined tooth (Z) that is assigned or assignable to the template (3).

9. The system (1) according to any of the preceding Claims, characterized in that in relation to the entry opening (E), on the other side of the at least one first protrusion (22a), at a distance herefrom, the positioning unit comprises at least one second protrusion (24a), in particular an axial shoulder, in particular on the inner surface of the guide (21), in particular of the guide channel, or that in relation to the entry opening (E), on the other side of the at least one first recess (22), at a distance herefrom, the positioning unit comprises at least one second recess (24), in particular on the inner surface of the guide (21), in particular of the guide channel, and that in relation to the support arm (37), on the other side of the at least one first protrusion (32), at a distance herefrom, the positioning unit comprises at least one second recess (42), in particular an axial shoulder, in particular on the driver (31), or that in relation to the support arm (37), on the other side of the at least one first recess (32a), at a distance herefrom, the positioning unit comprises at least one second recess (42a), in particular on the driver (31).

10. The system (1) according to Claim 9, characterized in that during the pairing, in particular during the engagement of the complementary shapes, of the first protrusion (32) or recess (32a) of the carrier (31) and the first protrusion (22a) or recess (22) of the guide (21), the carrier (34) of the at least one template (3) is present at the second distance apart in a holding position relative to a predetermined tooth (Z) that is assigned or assignable to the template (3).

11. The system (1) according to Claim 9 or 10, characterized in that during the pairing, in particular during the engagement of the complementary shapes, of the second protrusion (42) or recess (42a) of the carrier (31) and the first protrusion (22a) or recess (22) of the guide (21), the carrier (34) of the at least one template (3) is present at the first distance apart in a transfer position relative to a predetermined tooth (Z) that is assigned or assignable to the template (3).

12. The system (1) according to any one of Claims 9 to 11, characterized in that during the pairing, in particular during the engagement of the complementary shapes, of the first protrusion (32) or recess (32a) of the driver (31) and the second protrusion (24a) or recess (24) of the guide (21), the carrier (34) of the at least one template (3) is present at the first distance apart in a transfer position relative to a predetermined tooth (Z) that is assigned or assignable to the template (3).

13. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier (34) has a support area (39) directed onto the target tooth surface (V) with a support notch (35) for the force-fit, in particular force- and form-fit, retention of the orthodontic tool (W), in particular a support notch (35) with a shape that complements the orthodontic tool.

14. The system (1) according to Claim 13, characterized in that the support notch (35) has at least one support notch protrusion (38), in particular at least two support notch protrusions (38) that are located opposite, preferably transverse, in particular perpendicular, to a preferably linear movement direction of the template, for the force-fit, in particular force- and form-fit, retention of the orthodontic tool (W), wherein in particular, the at least one support notch protrusion (38) extends into the carrier (34) transverse to a movement direction of the template, wherein the at least one support notch protrusion (38) preferably comprises or consists of a second plastic material with a Shore hardness D that is equal or less than, in particular less than, the Shore hardness D of the carrier (34).

15. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the template (3) is movably held on the tooth splint (2), in particular on the guide (21), in particular in a translatory manner in a longitudinal direction, wherein the movement of the template (3) occurs into the guide (21) and out of the guide (21) along two axes, X and Y, running essentially parallel to each other, wherein the axis X is the longitudinal axis of the guide (21) and the axis Y is the direction of insertion of the tool W into the support notch (35).

16. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the template and / or the guide (21) have a round or polygonal, in particular quadrangular, profile, wherein in particular, the shape of the profiles of the template (3) and the guide (21) correspond to each other.

17. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the driver (31), which is in particular present in the form of a pin, comprises at least two side arms (41, 41'), which are spaced apart from each other, in particular lengthwise, in particular spring-elastic, which extend in the direction of the support arm (37) from the end of the driver (31) located opposite the support arm and which in particular merge with each other as one piece, the driver (31) preferably has a diameter on the end opposite the support arm or in the region of the end opposite the support arm, which is greater than the diameter of the guide (21), and that the at least two side arms are spaced apart from each other to such an extent that they are movable towards each other, so that the driver is insertable into the guide, in particular until it reaches the transfer position.

18. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, for transferring orthodontic tools (W) onto a target tooth surface, comprising: at least one tooth splint (2), characterized in that the at least one tooth splint (2) comprises a form-fit holding region (50), the shape of which is adapted to at least one predetermined tooth surface, such as tooth inner sides and / or tooth outer sides and / or chewing surfaces, of a plurality of teeth, wherein the form-fit holding region (50) is adapted and arranged to cover the surface of the predetermined tooth surface, in particular partially or fully; and comprises at least one holding bridge (60) opposite the form-fit holding region (50), which is adapted and arranged to be engageable in contact with at least one other tooth surface, in particular in a force- and form-fit manner.

19. The system (1) according to Claim 18, characterized in that the at least one holding bridge (60) is adapted and arranged to be bringable into a force-fit touching contact with two directly adjacent teeth, in particular in the region of an interdental space between two directly adjacent teeth in the lower jaw or the upper jaw.

20. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tooth splint (2) and / or the template (3) contains at least one dimensionally stable first plastic material and / or consists of the same, wherein the at least one first plastic material has a Shore hardness D in the range of 74 to 93, preferably in the range of 83 to 86.

21. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one first and / or the at least one second plastic material is selected from the group consisting of polyacrylates, polyolefins, polyurethanes, polyetherketones, polyetherimides, polyesters, polycaprolactones, acrylic-butadiene-styrene-copolymers, polyamides and polylactides, wherein the plastic material preferably is or comprises polyacrylates, particularly preferably transparent polyacrylates, particularly polyacrylates of type MED610.

22. A kit of parts, comprising at least one system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims and at least one orthodontic tool (W), in particular brackets, buttons and / or attachments.