Orthodontic retention device and aid system for placing such a device

Abstract

Orthodontic retention device (1) intended to extend over at least {2+N} teeth (101), the device (1) comprising rigid plates (2) and at least one connecting element (6) rigidly fixed to the plates (2), the device (1) being characterized in that it comprises at least {2+2N} plates (2), namely two plates (2) referred to as end plates and at least two plates (2) referred to as intermediate plates, and in that said at least two intermediate plates (2) are configured to be rigidly fixed to the same face (101a, 101b) of the same tooth (101) of the patient, and form a pair of intermediate plates (2) between the two end plates (2). Figure for the abbreviation: Figure 2

Description

Title of the invention: Orthodontic retention device and assistance system for fitting such a device FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of orthodontics, and more precisely to the field of fixed, intra-oral orthodontic retention systems intended to be applied, but not exclusively, to the lingual surface of the teeth. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND

[0002] After orthodontic treatment, for example aimed at restoring alignment of a patient's teeth, it is not uncommon to see, after a certain time, a partial or total reappearance of the initial dental malpositions. This is called relapse.

[0003] To limit the risk of recurrence, it is known to prescribe a retention device to the patient in order to maintain the position of the teeth. Since the risk of recurrence is lifelong, the retention device should preferably be worn for life.

[0004] The retention device then has the function of providing sufficient rigidity to hold the teeth in position, while providing suitable flexibility so that the teeth retain freedom of movement relative to each other. Indeed, physiologically, the teeth have a certain natural mobility allowing them to absorb mechanical physical constraints by elasticity, in particular during chewing. The retention device must therefore allow controlled mobility between the teeth.

[0005] There are so-called removable restraint devices, worn mainly at night. The effectiveness of removable devices depends on the patient's willingness and diligence, and frequent forgetfulness will affect their effectiveness.

[0006] There are also so-called fixed restraint devices, intended to be worn constantly by the patient, for a period of several months or even years, and requiring the intervention of a specialist for their installation and / or removal and / or repair.

[0007] Fixed retention devices are mainly intra-oral, and consist of fixing to the teeth, preferably on their non-visible lingual surface, a retention element having the required rigidity characteristics.

[0008] When the risks of recurrence are high, that is to say when the patient's dental mobility is high, the retention element may be a splint, in particular a metal one, for example cast and glued to the lingual surface of the teeth. The high rigidity of this solution may cause the metal splint to detach under the effect of chewing. In addition, irreversible mutilation of the teeth is necessary in order to provide space on the teeth corresponding to the thickness of the material forming the bar and limit discomfort in the mouth.

[0009] Another solution is to use a wire-type retention element, generally a braided multi-strand steel wire of circular cross-section, of a length adapted to achieve retention on a given number of teeth. A specialist then shapes the wire, either directly on the lingual surface of the patient's teeth, or in the laboratory on a model of the patient's teeth, so that the wire is firmly pressed against the lingual surface of the teeth. The wire is then glued using composite resin pads to the teeth. The wire can be replaced by a metal chain, a rectangular cross-section wire, or a strip of glass fibers. Alternatively, the wire can be completely embedded in resin in order to be held against the teeth.

[0010] The thickness of the resin must allow the retention element to be coated, provide sufficient mechanical strength and limit discomfort in the mouth. Thus, the thickness of the resin influences to varying degrees the patient's comfort, the ease of cleaning and the risk of discomfort when chewing which can lead to detachment of the retention element and an emergency consultation with a specialist.

[0011] Furthermore, when the retention element is a wire, the complex bending thereof increases the risk that the wire does not perfectly follow the lingual surface of each tooth, as well as the boundary between two neighboring teeth. More precisely, the wire, locally rectilinear, may not follow the double convexity of the dental surfaces and creates a relief which is a source of discomfort for the patient and difficulty in cleaning.

[0012] Other techniques such as the cast splint or the fiber strip also have this increased disadvantage at the interdental limits, the surface area of ​​their section being greater than that of the wire.

[0013] Document WO2022 / 200246 proposes a retention device providing a solution in particular to the aforementioned drawbacks. In particular, it proposes a custom-made retention device making it possible to provide sufficient flexibility to the retention to allow the teeth the necessary freedom during chewing, while being sufficiently discreet to limit discomfort in the mouth for the patient. It also proposes a solution to assist the placement in the mouth of the retention device, in particular by implementing a rigid associated assembly comprising guides for the retention element and guides for retaining elements, called plates, of the retention element.

[0014] Although this solution is satisfactory in providing the patient with a retention device perfectly adapted to the configuration of the teeth, when a plate becomes detached from a tooth, it may remain in sufficient contact with the patient's tooth for the latter not to notice the defect. The resulting lack of retention may then remain unnoticed for a long enough time to cause a misalignment of teeth. In addition, when the retainer needs to be repaired, it must be completely removed from the patient's mouth in order to reproduce the rigid connected assembly and to be able to precisely replace the retainer in the patient's mouth. For example, when the retainer wire, welded to the set of plates, breaks, a complete retainer must be remanufactured, increasing costs. Finally, placement in the mouth guided by the rigid connected assembly can be inaccurate. Indeed, the greater the number of teeth affected by the retainer, the greater the length of the rigid connected assembly, and the less precise the guidance for positioning the plates. Similarly, the greater the length of the rigid connected assembly, the more difficult it is to custom-make the wire.

[0015] The invention thus aims to provide a solution in particular to the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0016] A first aspect of the invention is to propose a fixed restraint which limits the risks of having a defect going unnoticed.

[0017] A second aspect of the invention is to provide a fixed retainer that can be placed in a patient's mouth with increased precision.

[0018] A third aspect of the invention is to propose a fixed restraint whose costs remain limited.

[0019] A fourth aspect of the invention is to provide a fixed retainer for a patient that is easy to place on the patient's teeth and easy to repair.

[0020] A fifth aspect of the invention is to provide a fixed retainer which provides sufficient comfort in the mouth for the patient.

[0021] A sixth aspect of the invention is to propose a fixed retainer that is easy to put in place on the patient's teeth by a practitioner. Summary of the invention

[0022] Thus, according to a first aspect, the invention relates to an orthodontic retention device intended to extend over at least {2+N} teeth to be treated in a patient's dentition. N is a natural integer greater than or equal to 1. The device comprises in particular rigid plates and at least one connecting element rigidly fixed to the plates. Each plate comprises an internal rigid fixing surface on one face of a tooth in the patient's dentition, an opposite external surface and a place for fixing the connecting element, on the internal surface or on the external surface. The device is particular in particular because it comprises at least {2+2N} plates to cover the {2+N} teeth to be treated, namely two so-called end plates and at least two so-called intermediate plates.In addition, said at least two intermediate plates are configured to be rigidly fixed on the same face of the same tooth of the patient, and form a pair of intermediate plates between the two. end plates.

[0023] The device thus comprising pairs of plates has many advantages. In particular, it is easier to produce precisely, to install on the patient's teeth and with increased precision, for greater comfort for the patient. Its repair is made easier. Detachment problems are detected more quickly, avoiding a lack of retention which would go unnoticed and which would prevent the desired alignment of the patient's teeth from being obtained.

[0024] According to different aspects, it is possible to provide one and / or the other of the characteristics below taken alone or in combination.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the connecting element comprises a single section fixed to the attachment location of each plate. Thus, a single part forming the connecting element is handled and stored. Alternatively, the connecting element may comprise at least two separate sections, namely a first section fixed on the one hand to a first end plate and on the other hand to a first intermediate plate, and a second section fixed on the one hand to the second end plate and on the other hand to a second intermediate plate, further facilitating the precise installation of the device on the teeth of a patient.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the device is devoid of a connecting element section between two intermediate plates of the same pair, so that the device is presented in separate pieces which can, for example, be installed, removed, repaired by handling each piece independently of the other pieces. Handling is facilitated.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the device may comprise a plurality of pairs of intermediate plates between the two end plates, each intermediate plate of a pair being connected either to an intermediate plate of another pair or to an end plate by the connecting element.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the connecting element is welded at the attachment location of each plate. This may involve cold welding, for example by magnetic pulse, limiting or even avoiding the risk of increasing the temperature of the connecting element, such an increase being able to degrade the properties of the connecting element and ultimately the support provided by the device. It may also involve spot welding, localizing the temperature increase at the point of contact between the connecting element and the plate.

[0029] A second object of the invention is to propose an assistance system for the installation of a restraint device as presented above. The assistance system comprises in particular: • at least four plates, namely two so-called end plates and two so-called intermediate plates, each plate comprising a surface internal rigid fixing on one face of a tooth of the patient's dentition and an opposite external surface and a fixing location for at least one connecting element, on the internal surface or on the external surface. Said at least two intermediate plates are then configured to be rigidly fixed on the same face of the same tooth of the patient, and form a pair of intermediate plates between the two end plates; • at least two guide assemblies for the individual positioning of said inserts. The two guide assemblies may be physically distinct from one another, or be in one piece. Each guide assembly is configured to guide the placement of at least two inserts, at least one insert of which is an intermediate insert. Each guide assembly further comprises at least one guide for the individual positioning of the inserts which is complementary to at least a portion of a face of at least one corresponding tooth, the guide for the individual positioning of the inserts being capable of being applied against the corresponding tooth in order to guide the inserts into a determined position on the teeth concerned. In addition, each guide assembly comprises at least one connection device between the two inserts.

[0030] Each guide assembly and the two pads it guides form a connected assembly, and each guide assembly is intended to be removed once the pads are rigidly fixed to the patient's teeth. Installation is facilitated, and patient comfort is increased.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the at least two guide assemblies may be physically distinct from one another, so as to concentrate the guidance on two teeth.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the connection device of at least one connected assembly can be produced by continuity of material between the plates.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the connection device of at least one connected assembly may comprise a system for fitting the guide and at least one plate by means of shape complementarity.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the connection device of at least one related assembly may comprise at least one system for locking the relative position of the plates.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the locking system of the connection device of at least one connected assembly may comprise a connection arm. Said arm is distinct from the guide for the individual positioning of the pads and is connected between the pads of the connected assembly. Said connection arm may comprise a first portion extending from a first pad of said connected assembly. to a free edge and a second portion extending from a second plate of said connected assembly to a free edge. The first portion of the arm and the second portion of the arm come into contact with each other by their free edge. The edges of the two portions being shaped to ensure locking by form complementarity.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the locking system of the connection device of at least one connected assembly may comprise at least one support provided with at least two depressions, each depression corresponding to at least one plate of the connected assembly.

[0037] According to one embodiment, at least one related assembly may comprise at least one guide surface for the connecting element extending between the two plates, the guide surface for the connecting element being intended to be removed before placement in the mouth on the patient.

[0038]

[0039] . Brief description of the drawings

[0040] Embodiments of the invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, briefly described below:

[0041] [Fig-1] represents a top view of a lower jaw of a human patient;

[0042] [Fig.2a] is a diagram representing a restraint device according to a method of rea lization of the invention.

[0043] [Fig.2b] is a diagram similar to that of [Fig.2b] for another mode of rea lization of the invention.

[0044] [Fig.3] represents a diagram of a first embodiment of a system for assisting in the placement of a restraint device according to the invention, the system comprising a plurality of connected assemblies.

[0045] [Fig.4] represents a first connected set of [Fig.3] seen along a surface external.

[0046] [Fig.5] represents the first connected set of [Fig.4] seen along an internal surface.

[0047] [Fig.6] represents the first connected assembly of [Fig.4] seen along a guide surface of a guide.

[0048] [Fig.7] represents a second connected set of [Fig.3] seen along a external surface.

[0049] [Fig.8] represents a third connected assembly of [Fig.3] seen along an external surface.

[0050] [Fig.9a] represents another embodiment of a related assembly seen next an external surface.

[0051] [Fig. 10] represents an exemplary embodiment of a device for assisting in the fixing of a restraint element.

[0052] [Fig. 11] shows a related assembly similar to that of [Fig.9a], in which the plates are provided with grooves.

[0053] [Fig. 12] schematically represents a restraint device according to the invention obtained from a connected assembly according to [Fig. 10].

[0054] [Fig. 13] is a diagram illustrating the transport of a wafer on a support.

[0055] In the drawings, like references designate identical or similar objects. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] In [Fig. 1], a lower jaw 100 of a human patient is shown, intended to receive an orthodontic retention device 1 according to the invention on at least part of the teeth 101. Preferably, the retention device 1 is of the fixed type, that is to say that it is intended to remain in place in the patient's mouth continuously and permanently. In the following, the device will be described with reference to the example of the lower jaw of [Fig. 1], it being understood that the device 1 can be applied in the same way to the teeth of an upper jaw.

[0057] Each jaw 100 supports a set of teeth comprising at least one tooth 101. Each tooth 101 comprises a face 101a called lingual, that is to say facing the inside of the mouth and the tongue, a face 101b called labial, that is to say facing the outside of the mouth and the lips or cheeks, a top face 101c, that is to say facing the other jaw, in this case the upper jaw according to the example of [Fig.l], and two lateral edges 101c. Each lateral edge lOld of a tooth 101 may be in contact with, or face, a lateral edge lOld of an adjacent tooth, except for a lateral edge lOld of the teeth 101 at the back, at the ends of the jaw 100, i.e. the second or third molars, which is free.

[0058] Preferably, but not exclusively, the retention device 1 is intended to be fixed on the lingual face 101a of the teeth, for reasons of discretion and aesthetics.

[0059] In Figure 2, an example embodiment of the retention device 1 is shown schematically. The retention device 1 extends over at least three teeth, preferably three adjacent and successive teeth 101 on a patient's set of teeth. The device comprises rigid plates 2. By rigid, it is meant here that the plates do not deform under normal conditions of use: under the effect of the stresses undergone during the use of the retention device 1 placed in the mouth, under normal conditions of use, for example under the effect of the mass- tication, they do not deform.

[0060] Preferably, the rigid plates are made of metal or a metal alloy compatible with placement in the mouth. Other materials such as ceramic, or more generally any material used in orthodontics, may however be suitable.

[0061] The retention device 1 then comprises four rigid plates 2 for treating three teeth 101, that is to say that one tooth carries two plates 2. More generally, to treat a number {2+N} of teeth 101, where N is a natural integer greater than or equal to one, the retention device 1 comprises a plate 2 called an end plate on each of the two teeth 101 at the end of the retention to be carried out, and two plates 101 called intermediate plates, forming a pair, on each of the other teeth to be treated. Thus, in other words, for {2+N} teeth to be treated by the device 1, the retention device 1 comprises at least {2+2N} plates including N pairs of intermediate plates, each plate 2 of a pair being intended to be fixed on the same tooth.

[0062] Thus, according to the diagram in Figure 2, to treat three teeth 101, the retention device 1 comprises at least four rigid plates 2 to exert retention on three teeth: two end plates 2 and a pair of intermediate plates 2.

[0063] The plates 2 are fixed on the lingual face 101a or labial face 101b of the teeth 101 to be treated. More precisely, each plate 2 comprises an internal surface 3 for fixing on a face 101a or 101b of a tooth 101, that is to say intended to come into contact with the face 101a or 101b of the tooth 101 and to provide a rigid fixing. The fixing can be carried out in particular by gluing, using an adhesive compatible with an orthodontic application. The internal surface 3 can optionally have micro-patterns to promote the retention of the adhesive. Each plate 2 further comprises an external surface 4, opposite the internal surface 3. The external surface 4 is preferably smooth before the attachment of the connecting element 6, that is to say that it does not have any asperity or roughness detectable by the patient once the plate 2 is placed in the mouth, in particular using the tongue, in order to limit discomfort in the mouth and the risks of injury.Each plate 2 further comprises at least one attachment location 5 for a connecting element 6. The attachment location 5 may be made on the inner surface 3 or on the outer surface 4. A marking of the attachment location 5 of the connecting element 6 may be made on the inner surface 3 or the outer surface 4, for example by a micro-marking which may be in slight negative relief such as a micro-groove or positive, in order to facilitate the positioning of the retaining element 6. The thickness of each plate 2, i.e. the average distance between the inner surface 3 and the outer surface 4, is as small as possible, and corresponds for example to the smallest possible thickness to obtain the required rigidity, called . material strength thickness. The use of metal or metal alloy makes it possible to achieve very low strength thicknesses compared to most other materials traditionally used in orthodontics, such as ceramic or resins.

[0064] The plates 2 can be individually sized and shaped to measure from a model of the patient's jaw 100 and his or her teeth, for example using CAD (Computer Aided Design) software and then by 3D printing. For example, the position, shape and dimensions of each plate 2 can be optimized using a model of the two jaws, lower and upper, of a patient, taking into account in particular the distance from the gum and the points of contact between the teeth during chewing. The dimensions and shape of the plates 2 can also be standard, with for example several standards depending on the teeth concerned and / or the tooth 101 on which the plate 2 is intended to be fixed and / or the characteristics of the patient concerned. The plates 2 can also be in a single format and can then be cut by a technician according to requirements.Here again, the use of metal or a metal alloy to manufacture the plates 2 allows good control of their geometry, so that it can be optimized.

[0065] The intermediate plates 2 intended to be fixed to the same tooth 101 may have substantially complementary shapes, so as to minimize the space taken up on the patient's tooth 101. Two intermediate plates 2 intended to be fixed to the same tooth 101 may have a so-called vertical separation line, i.e. substantially parallel to the boundary line between two adjacent teeth ([Fig.2a]), or a so-called horizontal separation line, i.e. substantially parallel to the boundary line between teeth and gum ([Fig.2b]). Any other variant in the orientation of the separation line is also possible.

[0066] The connecting element 6 is fixed to the fixing location 5 of each plate 2 by any means compatible with placement in the mouth.

[0067] Preferably, the connecting element 6 is of the wire type, that is to say that it has a dimension called length which is very large compared to the other two, these being able to be very close or even identical. The connecting element 6 is for example a multi-strand metal wire, both sufficiently flexible to be shaped by a technician, for example using a tool, to adapt to the teeth to be treated and sufficiently rigid to provide the required support. The elastic properties of the connecting element 6 allow it to absorb the stresses of chewing and prevent the risk of fracture.

[0068] According to a first embodiment, the attachment location 5 is on the external surface 4 of the plate 2. Preferably, the attachment of the connecting element 6 to the plate 2 is then carried out by welding or brazing, outside the patient's mouth, possibly actually by helping the positioning of element 6 thanks to the marking on the external surface 4. Welding ensures a good quality rigid fixation, with high mechanical strength and limits discomfort in the mouth.

[0069] According to a second embodiment, the attachment location 5 is on the internal surface 3 of the plate 2. For this purpose, the internal face 3 can be dug with a trench. The connecting element 6 is placed in the trench, then welded. In the event that the connecting element 6 emerges from the trench, creating an excess thickness projecting relative to the internal surface 3, a layer of adhesive of thickness substantially equal to or greater than the excess thickness of the connecting element 6 which emerges from the trench, makes it possible to compensate for the excess thickness. This same layer of adhesive is used to attach the plate to the tooth 101. For example, the depth of the trench on the internal surface 3 is approximately 0.3 mm. The thickness of the connecting element 6, typically of the wire type, is then for example 0.6 mm before welding.After welding in the trench, the thickness of the connecting element 6 has typically decreased, to approximately 0.4 mm, leaving 0.1 mm of excess thickness to be made up with the adhesive layer. According to this second embodiment, the external surface 4 can remain smooth for the patient, increasing comfort in the mouth, reducing the risk of injury to the tongue, and eliminating dirt deposits caused by reliefs.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the welding of the connecting element 6 on the location 5 of attachment of each plate 2 is carried out cold, and more precisely for example by the technique called magnetic pulse welding. Such a technique makes it possible to limit the temperature rise inherent in hot welding techniques. Indeed, the temperature rise locally at the welding point propagates in the connecting element 6 and the metal plates 2. In particular, the heating of the connecting element 6 can degrade its elastic properties, therefore the quality of the contention offered by the device 1. More precisely, magnetic field welding makes it possible to induce eddy currents in the connecting element 6, at the origin of a Laplace force strongly pressing the connecting element 6 on the plate 2 to the point of producing a weld, without heat input.The mechanical and elastic properties of the connecting element 6 and the plates 2 are preserved. In order to facilitate correct positioning between the connecting element 6 and a plate 2, the plate 2 may comprise on its external face 4 a micro-groove passing through the fixing location 5. The micro-groove makes it possible in particular to position the connecting element 6 on the plate 2 and to hold it there during the cold welding operation.

[0071] According to another embodiment, the welding is carried out by point, that is to say that the parts to be welded, in this case the connecting element 6 and a plate 2, are first brought into contact with each other at what is considered to be a contact point. The contact is maintained by exerting a suitable pressure to obtain an intimate point of contact between the parts to be welded, guaranteeing a quality weld. Then, an electric current of controlled intensity (typically from a few amps to a few tens of amps) is sent to flow through the parts, and causes the materials to melt at the point of contact. The fusion combined with the pressure ensures a high-quality weld, and allows the temperature rise to be localized at the point of contact. The problems mentioned above regarding the temperature rise on the quality of the contention are again minimized, if not completely avoided.

[0072] Generally speaking, any welding or brazing technique making it possible to limit the temperature rise of the retention element 6 and / or the plates 2 may be suitable.

[0073] The connecting element 6 may be a single section fixed to the attachment location 5 of each plate 2, and extending continuously between the two end plates 2. Alternatively, and as illustrated in FIGS. 2a and 2b, the connecting element 6 may be formed from a plurality of sections 61, each section 61 extending between two plates 2 of two successive adjacent teeth. The connecting element 6 may then be devoid of a section between two intermediate plates 2 of the same pair. Thus, according to the example of FIG. 2, the connecting element 6 comprises two sections 61: a first section 61 extends between a first end plate 2 and a first plate 2 of the intermediate pair of plates and a second section extends between the second plate 2 of the intermediate pair of plates and the second end plate 2.

[0074] The connecting element 6 can be custom-made, from the model of the patient's jaw 100 and his teeth and a model of the plates 2, for example using a CAD tool then by 3D printing. It can also be shaped by a technician using manual tools or automatically by a folding robot.

[0075] In practice, the restraint device 1 may comprise a plurality of pairs of intermediate plates 2 between the two end plates 2, each intermediate plate 2 of a pair being connected either to an intermediate plate 2 of another pair or to an end plate 2 by the connecting element 6.

[0076] A set of teeth may carry several retention devices 1, for example when non-adjacent and successive teeth are affected by the retention.

[0077] The retention device 1 thus formed makes it easier to install it on the teeth 101 of a patient, but also makes it easier to repair it.

[0078] Indeed, concerning the installation, the restraint device 1 can be associated with a system 10 for assisting with installation. The assistance system 10 comprises for this purpose at least four plates 2 of the restraint device 1, namely two plates 2 called end plates and two plates 2 called intermediate plates, forming a pair, each plate 2 comprising an internal rigid fixing surface 3 on the lingual face 101a or labial face 101b of a tooth 101 of the teeth of the jaw 100 of the patient, an opposite external surface 4 and a fixing location 5 for at least one connecting element, typically wired. According to the example, the fixing location 5 is on the external surface 4. The at least four plates 2 are intended to be the plates 2 of the retention device 1 described above.

[0079] The assistance system 10 further comprises at least two guide assemblies 11 for the individual positioning of the pads 2. The two guide assemblies 11 may be connected to each other, for example by being monobloc. According to a particular embodiment, the two guide assemblies 11 are physically distinct from each other, that is to say they can be manipulated independently of each other. Each guide assembly 11 is configured to guide the placement of at least two pads 2, of which at least one pad 2 is an intermediate pad. In addition, each guide assembly 11 comprises at least one guide 12 for the individual positioning of the pads 2, which provides guidance in the positioning of the pads 2 on the teeth 101 by complementarity with at least one surface portion of at least one corresponding tooth 101.According to a particular example, the surface portion of the tooth 101 concerned by the guidance comprises at least a part of the top face 101c of the tooth 101 in question. The guide 12 of each guide assembly 11 is then able to be applied against the corresponding tooth 101 in order to guide the at least two plates 2 into a determined position on the teeth concerned.

[0080] More precisely, according to the example illustrated in the figures, each guide assembly 11 makes it possible to guide the positioning of two plates 2 which are intended to be connected by the connecting element 6. In other words, each guide assembly 11 makes it possible to guide the positioning of an end plate 2 and an intermediate plate 2, or of two intermediate plates 2 of two distinct pairs. The guide 12 is then preferably complementary with a portion of the top face 101c of the two teeth 101 concerned by the two plates 2.

[0081] Each guide assembly 11 further comprises a device 110 for connection between the plates 2 which are concerned, that is to say that the plates 2 concerned are held in a relative position with respect to each other which is fixed.

[0082] The assistance system 10 is thus formed of at least two so-called connected assemblies 10', each connected assembly 10' comprising two plates 2, a guide assembly 11, and a connection device 110 between the plates 2. Each connected assembly 10' is said to be rigid, because the connection device 110 is at least as rigid as the connecting element 6. Thus, the connectivity, that is to say the rigid connection obtained between plates 2 in a connected assembly 10' is preferably preserved at least until the connecting element 6 is fixed between the plates 2 of the same connected assembly 10'.

[0083] As will be explained later, the connectivity between two plates 2 within a connection assembly 10' can be permanent or temporary. By permanent, we mean here a connection which requires the definitive destruction of the connection device 110. By temporary, we mean here a connection which can be successively locked and unlocked.

[0084] To place the plates 2 on the patient's teeth 101, each connected set 10' is applied to the corresponding teeth, the guide 12 being placed in a complementary position on the teeth 101 by correspondence. The position of the plates 2 on the face, for example 101a, lingual of the teeth 101 is thus ensured with precision.

[0085] The connection devices 110 are intended to be removed at the latest once the plates 2 are rigidly fixed to the patient's teeth 101. By removed, we mean here removing the connection between the plates and the guides 12, so as to be able to manipulate them independently, in particular in order to ultimately keep in the mouth only the plates 2 connected by the connecting element 6. The connection can be removed before placement in the mouth, for example after the connecting element 6 has been fixed to the plates 2.

[0086] According to a first embodiment, the connection device 110 of a connected assembly 10' is at least partly merged with the guide 12. More precisely, the connection device 110 may comprise a strip 13 of material connecting the guide 12 to each plate 2, so that the plates 2 are rigidly connected to each other by the strip 13 of material. The strip 13 of material may for example ensure continuity of material for the plates 2. The guide 12 is then formed by a surface of the strip 13 of material shaped to correspond to the impression of the teeth. The two plates 2 of a connected assembly 10' are thus rigidly connected to each other by the connection device 110, which is formed by the strip 13 carrying the guide 12. The position in space of the two plates 2 relative to each other is thus maintained.Once the connecting element 6 is welded between the plates 2, the plates 2 are separated from the guide 12, for example by milling junctions 130 between the strip 13 of material and each plate 2. Alternatively, the junctions 130 are preferably formed so as not to be in contact with the teeth 101 when the guide 12 is in contact with the teeth 101, so as to allow the introduction of a cutting tool between the junctions 130 and the teeth to cut each junction 130 once the plates 2 are fixed on the teeth 101.

[0087] Thus, the practitioner receives the system 10 for assisting with placement in the form of a plurality of connected assemblies 10', distinct from each other, or in single-piece form. Each connected assembly 10' is placed in the mouth, the plates 2, the position is guided by the guides 12, are fixed on the teeth 101, then the connection devices 110 are removed by cutting the junctions 130. The guide 12 and what remains of the bands 13 are removed from the mouth, leaving the plates 2 in place. Figures 4 to 8 show three different connected assemblies 10', according to the first embodiment, intended to form a system 10 for assisting in the placement of four plates 2, namely: • A first connected set 10' comprising two intermediate plates 2, each intermediate plate 2 being part of a different pair (figures 4 to 6); • A second related assembly 10' comprising a first end plate 2 and a first intermediate plate 2 ([Fig.7]); • A third related assembly 10' comprising a second end plate 2 and a second intermediate plate 2 ([Fig.8]).

[0088] According to a second embodiment, the connection device is, as in the first embodiment, merged with the guide 12 carried by a strip of material. However, it is not desirable to introduce a tool into the patient's mouth to remove the connectivity between the plates 2 of a connected assembly 10'. Therefore, the guide assembly 11 of a connected assembly 10' may comprise a fitting system between the guide 12 and the plates 2 of the connected assembly 10'. For this purpose, for example, before placing the aid device 10 in the mouth, the plates 2 of a connected assembly 10' are separated from the guide 12 by cutting, for example at the junctions with the strip of material carrying the guide, before placing the retention device 1 in the mouth.The cutting between the plates 2 and the guide 12 of a related set 10' creates the interlocking system: the cutting edges of the plates 2 maintain a complementarity with the cutting edges of the guide 12, along the cutting line, so as to allow the precise interlocking of the plates 2 on the guide 12 after cutting, in the manner of a puzzle. More precisely, the cutting line involves the formation of a first interlocking surface on the guide 12 and a second interlocking surface on each plate 2 of the related set 10'. Thus, before the placement assistance system 10 is placed in the mouth, but after the attachment of the connecting element 6, the plates 2 are separated from the guides 12 by cutting. The guides 12 are placed in the mouth in correspondence with the teeth 101 concerned.Then, the plates 2 are placed one by one on the teeth 101 while being guided by the complementarity with the guides 12 along the cutting edges, thanks to the interlocking surfaces. Once the plates 2 are fixed on the teeth 101, the guides 12 can be simply removed from the mouth, without any additional cutting operation in the mouth, the plates 2 remaining in place.

[0089] According to a third embodiment, in order to avoid having to produce the cutting line of the second embodiment which could damage the guide 12 and cause inaccuracy in the positioning of the plates 2, the guide 12 and the plates 2 of a related assembly 10' are manufactured separately, that is to say as physically distinct parts, while retaining a fitting system 16. For example, the fitting system 16 is obtained by 3D printing by manufacturing complementary edges between the plates 2 and the guide 12 cooperating in a similar manner to the edges of the second embodiment. Alternatively, the interlocking system 16 may comprise recesses on the guide 12, each recess being complementary to a portion of a single plate 2. The connection device 110 between the plates 2 of a related assembly 10' then comprises a connection arm 17 which rigidly connects the two plates 2.More precisely, the connecting arm 17 is distinct from the guide 12, and comprises a first portion 18 extending from a first plate 2 of the connected assembly 10' and comprises a second portion 19 extending from the second plate 2 of the connected assembly 10' to join the first portion 18. The arm 17 may be metallic, integral with the plates 2: the first portion 18 is integral with a first plate 2 and the second portion is integral with the second plate 2 of the connected assembly 10'. The arm 17 thus ensures, for example, continuity of material between the plates 2. For example, considering that the guide 12 extends from a first side called the summit side, intended to be oriented towards the top of the teeth, of the plates 2, the portions 18, 19 of the arm 17 extend from a second side called the gingival side, intended to be oriented towards the gum, of the plates 2 substantially opposite the summit side.According to the third embodiment, the first portion 18 and the second portion 19 of the connecting arm 17 are made of one piece, that is to say in a single piece. To remove the connecting arm 17, for example after the connecting element 6 has been welded onto the plates 2, the two portions 18 and 19 of the arm 17 are separated, for example by milling. Then the first portion 18 is separated from the first plate 2 by holding the first plate 2 using a pliers-type tool, and likewise the second portion 19 is separated from the second plate 2 by holding the second plate 2 using a pliers-type tool. The risk of damaging the guide 12 by cutting it to separate it from the plates 2 is thus avoided.

[0090] Instead of forming a continuity of material, the connection device 110 may comprise a locking system 20, making it possible to lock and unlock the connectivity between the plates 2 of a connected assembly 10' while fixing the connecting element 6 to the location 5 of fixing of the two plates, without a destructive step of cutting or milling. The connectivity is then said to be transient.

[0091] For example, according to a fourth embodiment, the connected assembly 10' is similar to that of the third embodiment, but the first portion 18 and the second portion 19 of the connecting arm 17 are not monobloc. More precisely, the first portion 18 extends from the first plate 2 to a free edge 18a; likewise the second portion 19 extends from the second plate 2 to a free edge 19a. The locking system 20 then comprises a first part formed on the free edge 18a of the first portion 18 and a second part formed on the free edge 19a of the second portion 19, the two parts of the locking system 20 having complementary shapes ensuring total locking, that is to say in all directions. The complementary shapes are for example saw-tooth-shaped, or of the tenon / mortise type.Thus, to fix the connecting element 6 on two plates 2 of a connected assembly 10', the two portions 18, 19 of the arm 17 are locked relative to each other by means of the locking system 20, and the locking is possibly maintained with the additional help of clamps which each hold a plate 2 of the connected assembly 10', the time to carry out the fixing of the connecting element 6. Once the fixing of the connecting element 6 on the plates 2 has been carried out, the two portions 18 and 19 are unlocked by separating them, then they are separated from the plates by milling or cutting using clamps as previously in the third embodiment.

[0092] According to a fifth embodiment, the locking system 20 comprises a support 111, also called a positioning guide 111 for fixing the connecting element 6, which is distinct from the guide 12 for the individual positioning of the plates 2. The support 111 may comprise as many sections as there are connected assemblies 10', or comprise a single section common to all the connected assemblies 10' of the assistance system 10. The support 111 comprises at least two depressions 112, in which the plates 2 are placed. More precisely, the depressions 112 are formed on one face of the support 111, hollow from an edge 113 of placement of the support 111. Each depression 112 corresponds, in geometry and dimensions, to a gingival portion of a single plate 2, for example an end plate 2, or to a gingival portion of two plates 2 of a single pair of intermediate plates 2.The support 111 and the depressions 112 make it possible to position the plates 2 relative to each other in a manner adapted to the jaw 100 of the patient and to the teeth 102 concerned by the retention. For example, the support 111 is manufactured by 3D printing from a digital model of the patient's jaw and the retention device 1 intended for it.

[0093] An example embodiment of the assistance system 10 according to the fifth embodiment will now be described, in particular with the aid of [Fig.9b]. According to the example, the assistance system 10 comprises five guidance assemblies 11, making it possible to guide the positioning of ten plates 2 for a retention device 1 extending over six teeth. The five guide assemblies 11 are monobloc, and form a first guide arc 11' of which one face 12' comprises the guides 12 and is intended to come into contact with the teeth 101. Preferably, the first arc 11' is intended to extend over all six teeth 101 continuously. The guide assemblies 11 are in accordance with the third embodiment, in that they comprise a fitting system 16. According to the example illustrated, the fitting system 16 here comprises recesses 16' on the face 12', opening onto an edge 13' called the placement edge of the first arc 11', on the side opposite the guides 12. Each recess 16' corresponds to at least one top portion of at least one plate 2.More precisely, the first arc 11' comprises two recesses 16' each intended to receive a top portion of an end plate 2, and recesses 16' each intended to receive the top portion of two plates 2 of a pair. According to the example illustrated, each plate 2 is thus placed by its external surface 4 in a recess 16' of the first arc 11', so that only a portion of each plate 2 is supported on the first arc 11'. Alternatively, it is possible to use the same principle by placing the plates 2 on the first arc 11' by their internal surface 3.

[0094] The assistance system 10 also comprises five supports 111 or positioning guides for fixing the connecting element 6, which form a second guide arc 111' modeled on the arc of the jaw 100 concerned, so that the plates 2 retained in the depressions 112 of the second arc 111' are positioned relatively to each other as it is intended to position them on the jaw 100, both in distance and in orientation relative to each other. The second arc 111' is for example obtained from resin, by 3D printing from a digital model of the jaw 100. It is rigid, that is to say it is more rigid than the connecting element 6, and in any case sufficiently rigid not to deform during the operation of fixing the connecting element 6 on the plates 2.

[0095] The edge 13 of placement of the first arc 11' is substantially opposite the edge 113 of the second arch 111'. Each plate 2 is placed on the first arch 11' in the corresponding recess 16' and on the second arch 111' in the corresponding depression 112, so as to have its position locked with a gingival portion of its internal surface 3 or external surface 4 bearing against the support 111 in the depression 112, and a top portion of its internal surface 3 or external surface 4 bearing against the first arch 11' in a recess 16'. The other of the external surface 4 or of the internal surface 3 remains free. Preferably, and as will be considered in the following, the internal face 3 is the free face of plates in the recesses 16' and the depressions 112, in order to facilitate fixing on the teeth 101. The plates 2 are therefore retained by the contour of the recess 16', the contour of the corresponding depression 112, and in the case of a pair of intermediate plates 2, by the other plate 2 of the pair. Alternatively, each recess 16' and / or each depression 112 may comprise a retaining section in contact with a portion of the free surface, in this case the internal surface 3 according to the example, over a limited dimension of 2 mm maximum, preferably 1 mm maximum, on the plate 2. The retaining section makes it possible to ensure that the plates 2 are held on the support 111. The relative position between the plates 2 is thus locked.

[0096] More precisely, when the fixing location 5 is produced according to the second embodiment on the internal surface 3, the plate 2 is preferably placed in the depression 112 on its external surface 4. The support 111 is then such that it does not cover the portion of the external surface 4 corresponding to the location of the trench on the internal surface 3, so that an electric welding electrode can come into contact with the external surface 4 at the level of the trench for the connecting element 6. For example, preferably, the edge 113 for placing the second arc 111' stops approximately 1 mm on the external surface 4 corresponding to the location of the trench on the internal surface 3. If necessary, the retaining section covers the internal surface 3 by 1 or 2 mm maximum. Once the connecting element 6 is fixed on the plates 2, the second arc 111' is simply separated from the plates 2 without using tools between the plates 2 and the second arc 111'.For this purpose, the first arc 11' and the second arc 111' can be made in a single piece, so that once the connecting element 6 is installed between the plates, the separation between the two arcs 11' and 111' can be achieved by any suitable operation, for example by cutting or by milling. Alternatively, the two arcs 11' and 111' can be physically distinct from each other, and comprise complementary interlocking surfaces locking their position while the connecting element 6 is being fixed to the plates 2. Then, it is sufficient to remove the second arc 111'. Once the second arch 111' is removed, the plates 2 can be placed in the mouth and glued to the teeth 101 using the first arch 11' provided with the guides 12. Alternatively, the two guide arches 11' and 111' can be kept until the plates 2 are fixed to the teeth 101.

[0097] This fifth embodiment finds a particular application in the case of standard 2 pads, the support 111, and where appropriate the second arc 111', being used in order to ensure a positioning of the pads 2 which is totally personalized to the patient. Thus, the use of standard 2 pads is facilitated.

[0098] It follows from the above that the connectivity between two plates 2 within a connected assembly 10' can be obtained by continuity of material, that is to say by producing a continuous strip of material between the two plates 2, as in the first, second and third embodiments. Connectivity can also be achieved by relative positioning, as in the fourth and fifth embodiments, i.e. there is no continuity of material between the plates, but a locking of their relative position at least until the attachment of the connecting element 6 by means of the locking system 20.

[0099] According to the second, third and fourth embodiments, the guides 12 and the plates 2 can be produced separately. It is then possible to manufacture the guides 12 in a material different from that of the plates 2, for example in plastic or resin, less expensive than metal.

[0100] According to the third and fourth embodiments, the guide 12 of a related assembly 10' may comprise as many separate portions as there are inserts 2 in the related assembly 10'. Thus, when the related assembly 10' comprises two inserts 2, the guide 12 may comprise two separate portions, each portion being complementary to a surface portion of a single tooth. By further reducing the dimensions necessary for complementarity to achieve guidance, the precision is further increased.

[0101] According to the third and fourth embodiments, the two portions 18, 19 of the connecting arm 17 are made so as to be coplanar. Thus, a check of their coplanarity makes it possible to ensure that the plates 2 to which the arm 17 is attached are positioned correctly relative to each other before fixing the connecting element 6.

[0102] The use of such a system 10 for assisting with placement is not mandatory. Any other means for placing the pads is conceivable. For example, when the pads are custom-made, the internal surface 3 of the pads 2 may be sufficiently complementary to a portion of the lingual face 101a, or labial face 101b, of the corresponding tooth 101 to ensure the correct positioning of the pad 2.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the positioning aid device 10 can also assist in shaping the connecting element 6. More specifically, each connected assembly 10' can comprise a guide surface 14 for the connecting element 6, between the two plates 2 of the connected assembly 10'.

[0104] According to a first embodiment of the guide surface 14, it is for example formed on a tongue 15 of material, integral with the guide 12. When the connected assembly 10' is in accordance with the third or fourth embodiment, the tongue of material may be integral with the connecting arm 17. The guide surface 14 on the tongue 15 makes it possible to shape the connecting element 6 between two plates 2 of the same connected assembly 10' of the aid system 10, outside the patient's mouth. The tongue 15 extends into the corresponding volume between two teeth 101. It is therefore intended to be removed from the aid system 10 before the placed in the mouth. Thus, once the connecting element 6 has been shaped to take the form adapted to the patient's teeth and fixed to the attachment points 5 of the plates 2, the tab 15 is cut and removed from the aid system 10. Once placed in the mouth with the plates 2, the connecting element 6 is then in intimate contact with the lingual face 101a, or 101 labial face, of the teeth 101, limiting discomfort for the patient.

[0105] According to a second embodiment, when the related assembly 10' is in accordance with the fifth embodiment, the guide surface 14 may be formed on the portion of the support 111 which extends between two plates 2 of the related assembly 10'. More precisely, the surface 14 may be formed along the edge 113 of placement of the second arc 111', or in a groove hollowed out in the support 111 between two plates.

[0106] According to a third embodiment, illustrated in [Fig. 10], the guide surface 14 may be formed by a groove 14' hollowed out in a guide 200 dedicated to the connecting element 6. More precisely, the guide 200 dedicated to the connecting element 6 comprises recesses 201 corresponding to the shape of the plates 2 and to their relative positioning, in a manner similar to that described for the fifth embodiment of the connection device 110, with the difference that the guide 200 dedicated to the connecting element 6 does not comprise a guide 12 for the individual positioning of the plates 2. Each plate 2 is retained in a recess 201 by the contour of the recesses and / or the plate 2 with which it forms a pair.According to one embodiment, the recesses 201 have a through light 202, allowing access to the plates 2 so as to be able to put electrodes in contact with each face 3, 4 of the plate 2, on either side of the fixing location 5. The depth of the groove 14' takes into account the thickness of the connecting element 6, so that when the connecting element 6 is in intimate contact with the teeth 101 when the plates 2 are fixed on the teeth. Once the connecting element 6 is fixed on the plates 2, the plates 2 can be placed in the mouth using a guide assembly 11 comprising for example a fitting system 16 as described previously.

[0107] The guide surface 14 and, where appropriate, the tab 15, are made, for example, to measure from a model of the patient's jaw 100 and his teeth, using a CAD tool and then by 3D printing or by molding.

[0108]

[0109] It is then particularly advantageous to use a connecting element 6 formed from a plurality of sections 61, so that each section 61 is shaped and fixed to a connected assembly 10' of the aid system 10, leaving each assembly 10' independent of each other to allow each connected assembly 10' to be placed in the mouth one by one. However, the use of a connecting element 6 in the form of a single continuous section fixed to plates 2 of several connected sets 10' is entirely possible, since the connection then formed by the connecting element 6 between two plates 2 of two successive connected sets 10' has no effect on the containment.

[0110] The installation assistance system 10 thus simplifies the installation of the restraint device 1, while providing increased guidance precision.

[0111] Indeed, to install the retention device 1, the assistance system 10 is provided to the practitioner in the form of a plurality of connected assemblies 10' which are intended to be placed in an identified order on the teeth 101 of a patient's dentition. The connecting element 6 may already be fixed on the plates 2, in which case the guide surfaces 14 have been previously eliminated, or its shaping and fixing on the plates may be left to the practitioner, in which case the guide surfaces 14 may still be present when the system 10 is provided to the practitioner. Alternatively, the practitioner may not use a guide surface 14, and shape the connecting element 6 directly on the patient's teeth 101.

[0112] As already indicated previously, the connecting element 6 can be guided by the plates 2 themselves. Such guidance is particularly advantageous when the face 101a of the tooth on which a plate 2 is to be fixed is small, so that the available space is insufficient to place the guide surface 14 of the connecting element 6. According to one embodiment, the guidance is achieved by means of a groove 21 on the external surface 4 of each plate 2. Thus, the connecting element 6 is pressed as close as possible to the external surface 4 of the plates 2 to which it is fixed.In order to prevent the thickness of the plates 2 from inducing a marked and uncomfortable radius of curvature for the patient on the connecting element 6 at the level of the change in level between the external surface 4 of the plate 2 and the tooth, the groove 21 may have a slope in the thickness of the plate 2, that is to say that the thickness of the plate in the groove 21 decreases until it is zero at a free edge 2a of the plate 2. Thus, for example, the groove 21 comprises a non-through portion 21a on the plate 2 and a through portion 21b opening onto the free edge 2a of the plate 2. The groove 21 thus makes it possible both to guide the connecting element 6 between two plates 2 of a connected set 10' while increasing comfort in the mouth. When a support 111 according to the fifth embodiment of the connection device is implemented, the support 111 can be made so as not to cover the groove 21.

[0113] In any case, the system 10 for assisting with placement, without the guiding surfaces 14 of the connecting element 6, is then placed in the mouth by positioning each connected assembly 10' individually on the teeth 101. More precisely, each connected assembly 10' is placed by correspondence of the guide 12 on the corresponding teeth 101. The plates 2 are rigidly fixed on the teeth, then the guides are removed from the mouth. In the event that the connecting element 6 has not already been shaped and fixed to the plates 2, the connecting element 6 is then shaped and / or fixed to the plates 2 directly in the patient's mouth.

[0114] By thus dividing the assistance system 10 into a plurality of connected sets 10', it is no longer necessary to have a single guide which extends continuously over all of the teeth 101 concerned by the retention: the guides 12, of reduced dimensions compared to a single guide, provide guidance for the placement with increased precision. It is also easier for the practitioner to manipulate a connected set 10' of reduced dimensions to guide the position of two plates 2 with precision.

[0115] The manufacture of the assistance system 10 in a plurality of connected assemblies 10' is also easier. Indeed, the smaller the surface area of ​​the guidel2 required for guidance, the fewer precautions need to be taken during manufacture to achieve high reliability.

[0116] Furthermore, in the case where an intervention on the retention device 1 is necessary, this is also facilitated. For example, it frequently happens that the connecting element 6 breaks between two teeth. On the devices of the prior art, in particular when the connecting element is welded onto the plates, it may then be necessary to remove the entire device from the mouth. It is then necessary either to repair the device by changing the connecting element and redoing the welds, or to manufacture a completely new retention device, then put everything back in the mouth. The costs can be significant, and by the time it takes to repair or manufacture a new device, retention on the patient's teeth is no longer ensured. Thanks to the retention device 1 according to the invention, it is sufficient to remove the two plates 2 between which the connecting element 6 has broken.When the connecting element 6 is a single continuous section, it can be previously cut so as to form a section including the break between two teeth. Thus, it is sufficient to remove two plates 2 and the broken section, the rest of the retention device 1 remaining in place in the patient's mouth. To replace two plates 2 and a section 61 of the connecting element 6 in good condition, the practitioner can again use the system 10 for assisting with placement, using a related element 10'. Thus, not only are the repair costs reduced, but in addition the absence of retention, while the broken section is being replaced, is localized to two teeth.

[0117] Finally, the retention device 1 can make it possible to detect the detachment of a wafer 2 more quickly. Indeed, in the case of the devices of the prior art, the detachment of a wafer other than an end wafer can go unnoticed, for example when it remains in sufficient contact with the tooth. A fairly long period can then pass before the patient detects the detachment, and at during which the absence of retention causes poor alignment of the teeth. In the device 1 according to the invention, when an intermediate plate 2 becomes detached, it cannot remain in contact with the tooth, and then offers a protruding edge detectable by the patient immediately by the discomfort caused in the mouth. An intervention to reattach the plate 2 can then be implemented quickly, limiting the period without retention.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the guides 12 may be made of a material having elastic properties allowing it to act on the alignment of the teeth. By elastic properties, we mean here the ability of the guides to deform under the action of a force, and to return to their initial shape in the absence of force. For example, the guides 12 may be made of a titanium and nickel alloy. By using the complementarity with the teeth, the guides 12 may be fixed by any suitable means on the teeth 101 to act on the alignment of the teeth 101. The guides 12 may for example be used in this way when the retention device 1 is damaged, while it is being repaired or replaced.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the retention device 1 may be painted entirely or in part, for example by depositing electrostatic paint, in order to increase its discretion once in place on a patient's teeth. Alternatively, opacifying agents may be used, in particular resin-based, photo-polymerizable, and which may be applied with a brush to all or part of the device 1.

[0120] According to one embodiment, when the guide 12 is produced separately from the plates 2, and can therefore be made of a material other than metal, it can be made of a flexible and elastic material, for example plastic such as an acrylic resin, so as to be able to provide locking of the plates 2 by friction during transport. More precisely, during transport, the plates 2 can be placed on a support 22, generally a molding of the teeth of the patient concerned. In order to maintain the correct relative positioning between the plates 2, they must preferably be locked on the support 22. For this purpose, the guide 12 can comprise a portion 23 in the form of a cap which grips the support 22 and comprises a locking foot 24 which bears on the plate 2, at the level of the external surface 4 of the plate 2.The hat portion 23 is the portion which carries the guide 12 and which will complement the corresponding tooth portion to ensure guidance. The friction between the foot 24 and the external surface 4 of the plate 2, as well as the contact between the guide 12 and the plate 2 at the level of the interlocking system 16 guarantees that the plate 2 is held in place on the support 22.

[0121] According to one embodiment, during transport, the guides 12 physically separated from each other can be made temporarily integral when they are in place on the support 22, using a securing system for example key type. The securing system is implemented during transport, then removed at the practitioner's premises. The stability of all the guides 12, and therefore of the plates 2, on the support 22, is thus ensured during transport.

Claims

Claims

1. Orthodontic retention device (1) intended to extend over at least {2+N} teeth (101) to be treated in a patient's dentition, with N greater than or equal to 1, the device (1) comprising rigid plates (2) and at least one connecting element (6) rigidly fixed to the plates (2), each plate (2) comprising an internal rigid fixing surface (3) on a face (101a, 101b) of a tooth (101) of the patient's dentition, an opposite external surface (4) and a location (5) for fixing the connecting element (6), the device (1) being characterized in that it comprises at least {2+2N} plates (2), namely two so-called end plates (2) and at least two so-called intermediate plates (2), and in that said at least two intermediate plates (2) are configured to be rigidly fixed on the same face (101a, 101b) of the same tooth (101) of the patient,and form a pair of intermediate plates (2) between the two end plates (2).,

2. Device (1) according to claim 1, in which the connecting element (6) comprises a single section fixed to the location (5) of fixing of each plate (2).

3. Device (1) according to claim 1 or claim 2, in which the connecting element (6) comprises at least two separate sections (61), namely a first section (61) fixed on the one hand to a first end plate (2) and on the other hand to a first intermediate plate (2), and a second section (61) fixed on the one hand to the second end plate (2) and on the other hand to a second intermediate plate (2).

4. Device (1) according to the preceding claim, which is devoid of a section of connecting element (6) between two intermediate plates (2) of the same pair.

5. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of pairs of intermediate plates (2) between the two end plates (2), each intermediate plate (2) of a pair being connected either to an intermediate plate (2) of another pair or to an end plate (2) by the connecting element (6).

6. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the connecting element (6) is welded to the fixing location (5). of each plate (2).

7. System (10) for assisting in the placement of a restraint device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, the system (10) comprising: • at least four plates (2), namely two plates (2) called end plates and two plates (2) called intermediate plates, each plate (2) comprising an internal surface (3) for rigid attachment to a face (101a, 101b) of a tooth (101) of the patient's teeth, an opposite external surface (4) and an attachment location (5) for at least one connecting element (6), said at least two intermediate plates (2) being configured to be rigidly attached to the same face (101a, 101b) of the same tooth (101) of the patient, and form a pair of intermediate plates (2) between the two end plates (2); • at least two guide assemblies (11) for the individual positioning of said pads (2), each guide assembly (11) being configured to guide the placement of at least two pads (2), at least one pad (2) of which is an intermediate pad (2), each guide assembly (11) comprising at least one guide (12) for the individual positioning of the pads (2) which is complementary to at least a portion of a face (101c) of at least one corresponding tooth (101), the guide (12) for the individual positioning of the pads (2) being capable of being applied against the corresponding tooth (101) in order to guide the pads (2) into a determined position on the teeth (101) concerned, and each guide assembly (11) further comprising at least, the aid device (10) further comprising, in each guide assembly (11), at least one connection device (110) between the two plates (2), such that each guide assembly (11) and the two plates (2) which it guides form a connected assembly (10'), and each connection device (110) being intended to be removed once the plates (2) are rigidly fixed on the patient's teeth (101).

8. System (10) according to the preceding claim, in which the at least two guide assemblies (11) are physically distinct from one another. on the other.

9. System (10) according to claim 7 or claim 8, in which the device (110) for connecting at least one connected assembly (10') is produced by continuity of material between the plates (2).

10. System (10) according to any one of claims 7 to 9 wherein the device (110) for connecting at least one related assembly (10') comprises a system (16) for fitting between the guide (12) and at least one plate (2) by shape complementarity.

11. System (10) according to the preceding claim, in which the device (110) for connecting at least one related assembly (10') comprises at least one system (20) for locking the relative position of the plates (2).

12. System (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the locking system (20) of the connection device (110) of at least one related assembly (10') comprises a connection arm (17), said arm (17) being distinct from the guide (12) for the individual positioning of the plates (2) and being connected between the at least two plates (2) of the related assembly (10'), and wherein said connection arm (17) comprises a first portion (18) extending from a first plate (2) of said related assembly (10') to a free edge (18a) and a second portion (19) extending from a second plate (2) of said related assembly (10') to a free edge (19a), and the first portion (18) of the arm (17) and the second portion (19) of the arm (17) coming into contact with each other by their free edge (18a, 19a), the edges (18a, 19a) of the two portions being shaped to ensure locking by complementarity of shape.

13. System (10) according to claim 11 or claim 12, in which the locking system (20) of the device (110) for connecting at least one related assembly (10') comprises at least one support (111) provided with at least two depressions (112), each depression (112) corresponding to at least one plate (2) of the related assembly (10').

14. Assistance system (10) according to the preceding claim, in which at least one related assembly (10') comprises at least one guide surface (14) for the connecting element (6) extending between the two plates (2), the guide surface for the connecting element (6) being intended to be removed before placement in the mouth on the patient.

Images