Dental band positioning template for orthodontics.

Abstract

The invention relates to a dental band positioning jig (1) comprising a main body (11a) extending along a longitudinal direction (AL) and a fork at a first end (11b), said fork comprising two lateral wings (12a, 12b) arranged on either side of a first central wing (13a). Specifically, a first bevel (131) comprising at least one chamfer is arranged on one end of the first central wing, an edge of the first bevel extending along a first axis (A1) normal to an upper face (S0) of the first end parallel to the longitudinal direction, and a visual indicator (111) representing a direction normal to the first axis and to the longitudinal direction is arranged on the upper face, the visual indicator extending along said direction normal to the first axis and to the longitudinal direction. Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: Dental band positioning template for orthodontics. technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to tools for placing orthodontic appliances, and more particularly a template for positioning or placing a dental band (also called a "bracket" in English). Technological background

[0002] Dental braces and orthodontic appliances are medical devices used to correct the alignment of teeth and jaws. Their main roles are: • to improve the functionality of the teeth by ensuring proper positioning, which helps with chewing food correctly, speaking without difficulty, and avoiding pain related to misaligned teeth or jaw problems, and • to improve the aesthetics of the teeth by arranging the teeth in such a way as to achieve a certain effect on a person's smile.

[0003] Orthodontic treatments are often recommended to correct anomalies such as dental overlaps, excessively large spaces between teeth, or malocclusions (misalignment of the jaws).

[0004] A dental band is an essential component of an orthodontic appliance. Each dental band is fixed to a tooth, for example by bonding, and comprises metal or ceramic brackets connected by a wire. This wire, regularly adjusted by the orthodontist, exerts controlled pressure on the teeth via the dental bands, gradually guiding each tooth into a predetermined position. The process of guiding the teeth is slow and takes place over several months, or even years, to allow the bones and gums to adapt to this new alignment.

[0005] The precise positioning of dental brackets is crucial for the success of orthodontic treatment. Each tooth must be moved along a specific plane or direction, taking into account the dimensions of the jaw, the current position of the teeth, and the desired aesthetic result. Incorrect bracket placement can lead to inadequate tooth movement, creating an imbalance in the smile and / or functional problems, such as an imperfect bite. This is why the orthodontist meticulously adjusts each bracket throughout the treatment.

[0006] A distinctive or aesthetically pleasing smile is often one of the goals sought by patients. Beyond functionality, orthodontic treatment aims to create a harmonious alignment of the teeth, which has a significant impact on facial appearance. Well-aligned teeth help balance facial proportions and improve smile symmetry, which can boost self-confidence and personal satisfaction.

[0007] In conclusion, orthodontic appliances, and especially dental braces, play a crucial role in improving oral health and physical appearance. Therefore, precise positioning of each bracket under the supervision of an orthodontist is fundamental to achieving optimal results in terms of both functionality and aesthetics. Summary of the present invention

[0008] One object of the present invention is to solve at least one of the problems of the technological background described above.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to improve the positioning of a dental band in relation to the external surfaces of a tooth receiving this dental band.

[0010] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a dental band positioning jig comprising a main body extending in a longitudinal direction towards a first end comprising a fork, the fork comprising a first lateral fin and a second lateral fin arranged on either side of a first central fin. A first bevel comprising at least one chamfer is arranged on one end of the first distal central fin of the main body, an edge of the first bevel extending along a first axis normal to a top face of the first end parallel to the longitudinal direction, and a first visual indicator representative of a direction normal to the first axis and to the longitudinal direction is arranged on the top face, the first visual indicator extending along the direction normal to the first axis and normal to the longitudinal direction.

[0011] According to a variant of the template, the first bevel includes a second chamfer arranged on a second end of the first central fin opposite the first end, the edge being formed by the meeting of the first and second chamfers.

[0012] According to an additional variant of the template, the first and second chamfers are symmetrical with respect to a reference plane and each form an angle of 22.5° with the reference plane.

[0013] According to yet another variant of the template, the first lateral fin and / or the second lateral fin includes an entry chamfer arranged on an edge of a face oriented towards the first central fin.

[0014] According to yet another variant of the template, the first central fin comprises two first opposing faces parallel to a first plane, the first plane comprising the longitudinal direction, - the first lateral fin comprising a first external face opposite a first internal face, the first internal face being arranged opposite one of the first two opposing faces, called the first face, the first external face being parallel to the first plane, and the first lateral fin further comprising an entry chamfer arranged on an edge of the first distal internal face of the main body, and - the second lateral fin comprising a second external face opposite a second internal face, the second internal face being arranged opposite a second of the first two opposite faces, called second face, the second external face being parallel to the foreground and the second lateral fin further comprising an entry chamfer arranged on an edge of the second distal internal face of the main body.

[0015] According to an additional variant of the template, a first distance separating the first outer face from the first face is different from a second distance separating the second outer face from the second face.

[0016] According to another variant of the template, - a first number of grooves arranged on a first external face of the first lateral fin opposite the first internal face is representative of the first distance, and / or - a second number of grooves arranged on a second external face of the second lateral fin opposite the second internal face is representative of the second distance.

[0017] According to an additional variant of the template, a difference between the first and second distances is equal to 0.25mm.

[0018] According to yet another variant, the template further comprises a fork at a second end, the fork comprising a third lateral fin and a fourth lateral fin arranged on either side of a second central fin, - the third lateral fin comprising a third external face opposite a third internal face, the third internal face being arranged opposite one of the two opposing second faces, called the third face, the third external face being parallel to the foreground and the third lateral fin comprising in in addition to an entry chamfer arranged on an edge of the third distal inner face of the main body, and - the fourth lateral fin comprising a fourth external face opposite a fourth internal face, the fourth internal face being arranged opposite a second of the two opposite second faces, called the fourth face, the fourth external face being parallel to the foreground and the fourth lateral fin further comprising an entry chamfer arranged on an edge of the distal fourth internal face of the main body, - a second bevel comprising at least one chamfer is arranged on one end of the second distal central fin of the main body, a tip of the second bevel extending along a second axis parallel to the foreground and normal to the longitudinal direction, and - a second visual indicator representing a direction normal to the second axis and to the longitudinal direction is arranged on an upper face of the second end, the second visual indicator extending in a direction normal to the second axis and to the longitudinal direction.

[0019] According to yet another variant, the template includes a first orifice arranged in the main body at a determined distance from the first end and a second orifice arranged in the main body at a determined distance from the second end, the dimensions of the first and second orifices being distinct.

[0020] According to one variant, the template is configured to position a dental ring at a distance from a reference element, called the reference height, the reference height belonging to a set of distances defined with a step of 0.25mm.

[0021] According to yet another variant, the template is a single piece.

[0022] According to another variant, the template is made of an aluminum or titanium alloy. Brief description of the figures

[0023] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the description of the particular and non-limiting embodiments of the present invention below, with reference to the attached Figures 1 to 7, in which:

[0024] [Fig. 1] schematically illustrates a dental band positioning template, according to a particular and non-limiting example of the present invention;

[0025] [Fig.2] schematically illustrates one end of the template of Dental band positioning illustrated in [Fig.1], according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] [Fig.3] schematically illustrates a second end of the template of Dental band positioning illustrated in [Fig.1], according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] [Fig.4] schematically illustrates a lateral view of a tooth receiving a ring dental, according to a particular and non-limiting example of the present invention;

[0028] [Fig. 5] schematically illustrates a view of a ring positioning step dental of [Fig.4] using the template of [Fig.1] correctly positioned, according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] [Fig.6] schematically illustrates a view of a ring positioning step dental [Fig. 4] using the template of [Fig. 1] incorrectly positioned, according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the present invention; and

[0030] [Fig.7] schematically illustrates views in different configurations of a stage adjusting the angular position of the dental ring of [Fig.4] using the template of [Fig.1], according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. Description of examples of achievements

[0031] A dental band positioning template for orthodontics and a method of using such a template will now be described in what follows with joint reference to figures 1 to 7.

[0032] The same elements are identified with the same reference signs throughout the description that follows.

[0033] The dental band positioning template is a tool used to position a dental band on a vestibular face of a tooth.

[0034] Figure 4 schematically illustrates a lateral view of a tooth receiving such a dental band, according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. A tooth 4 is positioned on a gum 5. The tooth 4 corresponds to any tooth, that is to say, it is a molar, premolar, canine, or incisor, and is located on the upper or lower gum 5.

[0035] Tooth 4 has, for example, been pre-treated to allow for the proper reception of a dental band 2 and its bonding to one of its surfaces. Such pre-treatment consists in particular of preparing the surface of the face of tooth 4 receiving the dental band 2, this face being, in this particular embodiment, a vestibular surface 41, which is located on the outer part of the dental arch and is in contact with the cheeks and lips. The surface preparation is, for example, mechanical via the use of a brush to smooth the surface of tooth 4, and / or chemical via the application of a product to decontaminate the surface of tooth 4. The dental band 2 is then bonded to the vestibular face 41 of tooth 4 by means of an adhesive 3, the adhesive 3 being located between a bonding surface 23 of the dental band 2 and the vestibular face 41 of tooth 4. The thickness of adhesive 3 allows in particular to adjust the positioning of the dental band in relation to tooth 4.

[0036] The dental band 2, according to this particular embodiment, is a metal dental band that is part of a metal dental appliance, which is an orthodontic device used to move teeth according to a treatment plan. The bands are made of metal (stainless steel) and are bonded to the teeth to guide tooth movement and correct dental alignment problems. A metal wire (not shown) is inserted into a groove 21 located between the pads 22 of the dental band 2 once the band is correctly positioned and fixed, so as to connect each band to the others. This metal wire is then tensioned to exert force or pressure on the teeth via each band, thus allowing the teeth to be progressively repositioned. Note that the dental band 2 is, for example, self-ligating.According to other specific examples, dental band 2 is made of ceramic or plastic, these materials offering other advantages such as a better aesthetic result.

[0037] When the dental band 2 is placed on the tooth 4, the adhesive 3 located between the tooth 4 and the dental band 2 is flexible before drying or hardening. It is then possible, during a period determined according to the drying or hardening time of the adhesive 3, to adjust the relative position of the dental band 2 with respect to the tooth 4 using a positioning tool, called a positioning template or positioning gauge.

[0038] An object of the present invention is to provide a versatile and precise tool, allowing the dental band 2 to be placed in a determined position relative to the tooth 4, in particular relative to the face of the tooth on which the dental band 2 is glued.

[0039] Indeed, the placement of dental braces allows for modification of the tooth arrangement in order to correct certain defects or to improve the aesthetics of the smile, for example. To this end, the dental braces must be positioned precisely to obtain an alignment conforming to the predetermined and / or desired alignment. The position of a dental brace on a tooth is thus defined, according to a particular embodiment, using tables defining a reference height H', which is defined, for example, as the distance between the occlusal surface 42 of the tooth 4 and a reference surface of the dental brace 2 corresponding to the wall 43 of the distal groove 21 of the occlusal surface 42 of the tooth, that is to say, the surface furthest from the occlusal surface 42, according to the example illustrated in [Fig. 4]. Note that the occlusal surface 42 corresponds to the chewing surface of the tooth, for example, a molar, or is reduced to an edge, for example in the case of an incisor. This occlusal surface 42, or incisal edge, is then the reference element relative to which the dental band 2 is positioned and relative to which the reference height H' is defined. According to one embodiment, the reference height H' is further determined based on the height H of tooth 4, the dental band 2 generally being placed in the center of tooth 4.

[0040] Figure 1 schematically illustrates a dental band positioning jig according to a particular, non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. According to this particular embodiment, the dental band positioning jig 1 comprises a main body lia extending in a longitudinal direction Al towards a first end 11b comprising a fork and towards a second end 11c comprising another fork.

[0041] The present invention is not limited, however, to a template 1 having two forks but extends to a template 1 comprising at least one fork. Indeed, the number of forks and their geometry depend on a number of possible adjustments; it is thus possible to restrict the number of forks to a single fork, for example. The end of the main body opposite to that comprising the fork is then of any shape, for example rounded or straight.

[0042] The main body 1 la, according to this example, has a rectangular cross-section whose dimensions are constant in a central portion and vary regularly towards the ends 11b, 1 le to adapt to the dimensions of each of the forks. However, the cross-section of the main body lia is not limited to a rectangular section; the main body lia may, for example, have a circular, oval, or oblong cross-section in its central portion for ergonomic reasons, the junction with the first and second ends 11b, 1 le being then gradual, transitioning from a circular, oval, or oblong cross-section to a rectangular one. The central portion of the main body 1 la is, in particular, the gripping area of ​​the template 1 by a user, for example, an orthodontist.

[0043] According to the particular embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 1], the jig is a single-piece unit, i.e., the jig 1 is made in one piece. For example, the jig 1 is made from a plate or bar of aluminum or titanium alloy, its shape being obtained by one of the following processes: • wire cutting or electrical discharge machining, allowing for the production of a part with particularly precise dimensions, with manufacturing tolerances on the order of a micron, or • waterjet cutting, with a precision on the order of one-tenth of a millimeter (0.1 mm), or • a laser cutting, the precision of which is similar to that of waterjet cutting, for example a precision between 0.05mm (five hundredths of a millimeter) and 0.2mm (two tenths of a millimeter).

[0044] These different processes are particularly suitable, especially if the template 1 has a thickness between 1 and 10mm, for example 3mm (three millimeters), 4mm (four millimeters) or 5mm (five millimeters).

[0045] It should be noted that aluminium or titanium alloys have several advantages, the template 1 being then lighter and non-oxidizable, thus guaranteeing easy handling, great sensitivity of the user when handling the template 1 and excellent cleanliness and durability of the latter.

[0046] Optionally, all or some of the edges of template 1 are deburred, for example, to avoid any sharp edges that could injure the user. Deburring results, for example, from a polishing or tribofinishing operation carried out after the template 1 has been manufactured, or carried out before the production of certain functional parts such as cutting or machining chamfers and bevels, or the application of markings described below.

[0047] The fork located at the first end 11b comprises a first lateral fin 12a and a second lateral fin 12b arranged on either side of a first central fin 13a. According to this particular embodiment, the first and second lateral fins 12a, 12b are of the same length and the same thickness, while the central fin 13a is longer and thicker than the lateral fins.

[0048] Figure 2 schematically illustrates the first end of the dental band positioning template 1 shown in Figure 1, so as to further distinguish the details of the first and second lateral wings 12a, 12b, as well as those of the first central wing 13a. In this example, these three wings extend parallel to the longitudinal direction AL, with the first and second lateral wings 12a, 12b being of the same length and shorter than the first central wing 13a. Indeed, the first central wing 13a, used in combination with one of the first and second lateral wings 12a, 12b, allows the dental band 2 to be positioned at a predetermined distance from the occlusal surface 42, or from the incisal edge as appropriate, of the tooth 4.

[0049] As illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, the first central wing 13a is configured and adapted to position the template 1 relative to tooth 4 by bearing against the occlusal surface 42, or the incisal edge as appropriate. One of the lateral wings is then inserted into the groove 21 so as to position the dental band 2 relative to the template 1 and therefore relative to tooth 4, the template 1 being positioned precisely in the reference frame of tooth 4 thanks to the first central wing 13a. The method of positioning the dental band 2 relative to tooth 4 using the template 1 is similar regardless of the lateral wing used; only the value of the reference height H' varies depending on the lateral wing employed. The distance separating the first lateral wing 12a from the first central wing 13a is different from the distance separating the second lateral wing 12b from the first central wing 13a. It should be noted that the difference in length between the lateral wings 12a, 12b and the first central wing 13a, hereafter referred to as the offset dO, is determined in such a way as to allow the first central wing 13a to contact the occlusal surface 42 or the incisal edge while allowing the insertion of a lateral wing 12a, 12b into the groove 21.

[0050] In order to facilitate the insertion of the first side fin 12a or the second side fin 12b into the groove 21, the first side fin 12a and / or the second side fin 12b includes an entry chamfer 121 arranged on an edge of a face oriented towards the first central fin 13a. The width of a lateral wing is notably less than the width of the groove 21 in order to insert it without force; that is to say, a functional clearance is necessary between the external surfaces of a lateral wing and the internal surfaces of the groove 21 in order to limit any friction between the template 1 and the dental band 2. Indeed, in the event of friction, during the extraction of the first or second lateral wing 12a, 12b from the groove 21, the template 1 risks exerting a traction on the dental band 2, which is then displaced undesirably and thus impairs the correct positioning of the dental band 2 on the tooth 4.The presence of the entry chamfer 121 helps to avoid such a risk.

[0051] According to the particular embodiment illustrated in [Fig.2], the first central fin 13a comprises two first opposite faces SI', S2' parallel to a first plane comprising the longitudinal direction AL, this first plane being according to this example normal to the upper face S0 of the first end 11b, the upper face S0 also being according to this example the upper face of the template 1 the latter being flat.

[0052] The first face SI' is located on the side of the first lateral fin 12a, which comprises a first external face (also called the outer face) Sel opposite a first internal face SI arranged opposite the first face SI', the first external face Sel being parallel to the first face SI and therefore parallel to the foreground. The second face S2' is, for its part, located on the side of the second lateral fin 12b, which comprises a second external face (also called the outer face) Se2 opposite a second internal face S2 arranged opposite the second face S2', the second external face Se2 being parallel to the second face S2' and therefore also parallel to the foreground.Thus, when using the first lateral wing 12a to position the dental ring 2, the first face SI' comes into contact with the occlusal face 42 or the incisive edge, the first lateral wing 12a is then introduced into the groove 21 and its first external face Sel comes into contact. with an inner surface of the groove 21, positioning the inner surface of the groove 21 at a first distance dl from the occlusal surface 42 or the incisal edge, this first distance dl being defined in the direction normal to the longitudinal axis AL. The reference height H' is then equal to the first distance dl if the longitudinal direction AL is normal to a target plane P4 corresponding to a mean plane of the surface 41. In order to facilitate this positioning of the dental band 2, it is necessary to ensure that the template 1 is correctly positioned relative to the tooth 4. For this purpose, a first visual indicator 111 representing a direction normal to the longitudinal direction AL is arranged on the upper face S0 of the first end 11b, the first visual indicator 111 extending along an alignment axis Al 11 corresponding to the direction normal to the longitudinal direction AL.This visual indicator 111 is thus a visual alignment indicator and corresponds to a target. To correctly align the template 1 with the tooth 4, the user then uses this visual indicator 111 by aligning it with the target plane P4 as illustrated in [Fig. 5].

[0053] If the template 1 is not correctly positioned, as illustrated in [Fig. 6], the reference height H' is then no longer equal to the first distance dl but to a distance equal to the product of the first distance dl with the cosine determined for the angle formed between the alignment axis Al 11 and the target plane P4, thus distorting the positioning of the dental band 2 on the tooth 4.

[0054] Such a first visual indicator 111 is obtained via one of the following methods: • by creating at least one straight groove or rib on the upper face S0 of the first end 11b, or • by making at least one straight line and preferably two parallel straight lines obtained by laser marking. The solution of drawing two parallel straight lines is preferred because two parallel straight lines strongly suggest parallelism. Thus, the user intuitively understands, upon seeing these two parallel straight lines, that they serve to define a geometric reference, an alignment axis Al 11, which then allows for the correct positioning of the dental band 2 by aligning the alignment axis Al 11 with the target plane P4.

[0055] As explained previously, an entry chamfer 121, according to this example arranged on the edge of the first distal inner face SI of the main body lia, facilitates the insertion and extraction of the first wing 12a into and from the groove 21. Similarly, when using the second lateral wing 12b to position the dental band 2, the second face S2' rests against the occlusal face 42 or the incisal edge, the second lateral wing 12b is then inserted into the groove 21 and its second outer face Se2 comes into contact with the inner surface of groove 21, positioning the inner surface of groove 21 at a second distance d2 from the occlusal surface 42 or the incisal edge. The reference height H' is then equal to the second distance d2. As explained previously, an entry chamfer 121, as in this example arranged on the edge of the second inner surface S2 distal to the main body lia, facilitates the insertion and extraction of the second wing 12b into and from groove 21.

[0056] Thus, the first distance dl separating the first external face Sel from the first face S1' being different from the second distance d2 separating the second external face Se2 from the second face S2', the fork located at the first end 11b offers two settings of the reference height H' depending on the lateral fin selected from the first lateral fin 12a and the second lateral fin 12b.

[0057] Note that the entry chamfer 121 forms, for example, an angle of approximately 30° (thirty degrees) with the first inner face S1 or with the second inner face S2, thus allowing an easier insertion of the lateral fin into the groove, the entry chamfer 121 allowing to slide on an edge or a fillet bordering the groove 21.

[0058] If the template 1 has two forks, as illustrated in [Fig. 1], it then allows the reference height H' to be adjusted according to four possible adjustment values. Indeed, the fork located on the second end 1 is similar to the fork located on the first end 11b.

[0059] Thus, as illustrated in [Fig. 3], the template 1 comprises a fork at the second end 1 of the main body 1 comprising a third lateral fin 12c and a fourth lateral fin 12d arranged on either side of a second central fin 13b. The third central fin 13b then comprises two second opposing faces S3', S4', the third face S3' oriented towards the third lateral fin 12c and the fourth face S4' oriented towards the fourth lateral fin 12d, the third face S3' and fourth face S4' being parallel to the first plane described previously. Thus, the third lateral fin 12c comprises a third external face Se3 opposite a third internal face S3 arranged opposite the third face S3', the third external face Se3 being parallel to the third face S3 and therefore in the foreground, and an entry chamfer 121 arranged on the edge of the third internal face S3 distal to the main body lia.Similarly, the fourth lateral fin 12c comprises a fourth outer face Se4 opposite a fourth inner face S4 arranged opposite the fourth face S4', the fourth outer face S4 being parallel to the fourth face S4' and thus in the foreground, and an entry chamfer 121 arranged on the edge of the fourth inner face S4 distal to the main body 1a. .

[0060] A third distance d3 is then defined between the third face S3' and the third external face Se3 and a fourth distance d4 is defined between the fourth face S4 and the fourth external face Se4. Thus, the first distance dl, the second distance d2, the third distance d3 and the fourth distance d4 are different so as to offer four settings of the reference height H' depending on the lateral fin selected from the first lateral fin 12a, the second lateral fin 12b, the third lateral fin 12c and the fourth lateral fin 12d.

[0061] According to a particular embodiment, the template 1 is configured to position the dental band 2 at a reference height H' belonging to a set of distances defined in increments of 0.25 mm. For example, a nominal distance is defined for a template 1, for example, the nominal distance is 4 mm (four millimeters). The possible adjustments of the reference height H' using the template are then as follows: - 4.00 mm (four millimeters, zero hundredths) equal to the first distance dl using the first lateral fin 12a in combination with the first central fin 13a, - 4.25mm (four millimeters, twenty-five hundredths) equal to the second distance d2 using the second lateral fin 12b in combination with the first central fin 13a, - 4.50 mm (four millimeters, fifty hundredths) equal to the third distance d3 using the third lateral fin 12c in combination with the second central fin 13b, and - 4.75mm (four millimeters, seventy-five hundredths) equal to the fourth distance d4 using the fourth lateral fin 12d in combination with the second central fin 13b.

[0062] According to this particular embodiment, a difference (also called a pitch) between the first and second distances dl, d2 is equal to 0.25mm, as is the case between the second and third distances d2, d3 and between the third and fourth distances d3, d4.

[0063] Other templates with two forks are then made with different nominal values, for example 2, 3, 5 and 6 mm, the pitch always remaining equal to 0.25 mm (twenty-five hundredths of a millimeter). A set of five templates, each including the aforementioned templates, then allows the reference height H' to be adjusted according to twenty adjustment values ​​from 2.00 to 6.75 mm, thus making it possible to place the dental band 2 precisely on the tooth 4 in a reproducible manner by using one of the templates from the set and selecting the appropriate lateral wing of the selected template.

[0064] Such a set of templates is therefore ideal for positioning dental braces according to precise specifications and thus correcting or finely moving teeth to obtain the desired smile.

[0065] Optionally, each template is a different color, allowing the user to quickly select the appropriate template by knowing the color code used. For example: • The template with a nominal value of 2mm is purple in color. • The template with a nominal value of 3mm is green, • The template with a nominal value of 4mm is red, • The template with a nominal value of 5mm is blue, and • The template with a nominal value of 6mm is orange.

[0066] The selection of these colours remains subjective however and may differ from one set of templates to another.

[0067] To further facilitate the selection of the template from the set of templates, markings are, for example, made on the upper S0 and lower faces of template 1. Thus, as illustrated in [Fig. 1], a fifth marking G5 and a sixth marking G6 are made on the upper face S0 of template 1, for example, near each of the first and second ends 11b, 11e. Such a marking is, for example, made using a laser, making it indelible and unalterable, even during cleaning of template 1, for example, by autoclave sterilization or the use of chemicals. These fifth markings G5 and G6 indicate, according to this example, the nominal value defined for template 1, namely "4" for 4 mm, as shown in the illustrations.

[0068] In order to facilitate the selection of the lateral fin to be used for a given template 1, several types of indices allow a user to identify the distances associated with the lateral fins.

[0069] A first type of index consists of the arrangement of markings Gl, G2, G3 and G4 on the upper faces S0 of the ends lia, 11b, which are coincident with the upper face of the template, near the lateral fins to which they are respectively associated 12a, 12b, 12c and 12d. Thus: • The first marking Gl is associated with the first side fin 12a, • the second marking G2 is associated with the second side fin 12b, • the third marking G3 is associated with the third side fin 12c, and • the fourth marking G4 is associated with the fourth side fin 12d. As before, these markings can be obtained by laser, for example, and indicate the setting value defined by the side fin to which it is associated, for example, in addition to the nominal value defined for template 1. Thus, when the first marking Gl indicates ".00" for a template 1 with a nominal value of 4 mm, it means that the setting value using the first side fin 12a, or first distance dl, is 4 + 0.00, or 4.00 mm. Similarly, when the second marking G2 indicates ".25" for a template 1 with a nominal value is 4mm, it means that the adjustment value using the second side fin 12b, or second distance d2, is 4+0.25, or 4.25mm.

[0070] Note that the markings Gl, G2, G3, G4, G5 and G6 are also made on the lower face opposite the upper face S0 of the template according to a particular embodiment example, thus allowing the user to identify the dimensions regardless of the face on which the template 1 is placed.

[0071] A second type of index consists of the arrangement of splines 113 on the external faces of the template 1 near the lateral fins. The number of splines represents, for example, the number of steps or increments to be made to determine the adjustment value from the nominal value defined for the template 1, such a number being, for example, equal to 0, 1, 2, or 3. If the nominal value is 4 mm and the step is 0.25 mm, as illustrated in [Fig. 1], • a first number of splines 113 arranged on a first external face Sel of the first lateral fin 12a opposite the first internal face SI represents the first distance dl, i.e., in this example, no splines 113, corresponding to no increment; the first distance dl is therefore equal to the nominal value of 4.00 mm.• A second set of splines 113 arranged on a second external face Se2 of the second lateral fin 12b opposite the second internal face S2 represents the second distance d2, i.e., in this example, a single spline 113, corresponding to a single increment of 0.25 mm, the second distance d2 is therefore equal to 4.25 mm, • A third set of splines 113 arranged on a third external face Se3 of the third lateral fin 12c opposite the third internal face S3 represents the third distance d3, i.e., in this example, two splines 113, corresponding to two increments of 0.25 mm, the third distance d3 is therefore equal to 4 + 2 x 0.25, i.e., 4.50 mm, and • a fourth number of grooves 113 arranged on a fourth external face Se4 of the fourth lateral fin 12d opposite the fourth internal face S4 is representative of the fourth distance d4, i.e. according to this example three grooves 113, corresponding to three increments of 0.25mm, the fourth distance d4 is therefore equal to 4+3x0.25, i.e. 4.75mm.

[0072] A third type of index, useful when the template 1 comprises two forks, is the presence of holes on the main body 1la, a first hole 112a being arranged in the main body 1la at a determined distance from the first end 11b and a second hole 112b being arranged in the main body 1la at the determined distance from the second end 11c, the dimensions of the first and second holes 112a, 112b being distinct and representative of dimensions associated with Each of the forks. The first orifice 112a is thus smaller in diameter than the second orifice 112b, the first and second distances d1 and d2 being less than the third and fourth distances d3 and d4. The user can therefore determine which fork to use based on the defined reference height setting H'. These orifices 112a and 112b thus allow for quick identification of each of the forks.

[0073] Obviously, it is possible to use only one or the other type of index or even all of the proposed indices in order to facilitate the use of template 1 by quickly indicating to the user the value of the reference height H' obtained via the use of one of the lateral fins 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d available on template 1.

[0074] [Fig.7] schematically illustrates views in different configurations of a step of adjusting an angular position of the dental ring of [Fig.4] using the template of [Fig.1], according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Indeed, once the dental band 2 is positioned to obtain the desired reference height H' and while the adhesive 3 is not yet dry or hard, the template 1 is used to correct the angular orientation of the dental band 2 with respect to the vestibular face 41 of the tooth 4, and more particularly to a target plane P4 defined as a mean plane of the vestibular face 4L

[0076] To this end, the first central fin 13a includes a bevel 131 or point, the bevel 131 comprising at least one chamfer, two in the illustrated example, arranged on one end of the first central fin 13a distal to the main body. An edge of the first bevel 131 extends along a first axis Al normal to the upper face S0 of the first end 11b, this upper face S0 being parallel to the longitudinal direction AL.

[0077] This first bevel 131 thus allows the insertion of the end of the first central fin 12a of the template 1 into the groove 21 of the dental ring 2. • In the case where the chamfer is arranged on an edge of the first face SI', the first central fin 13a is in contact with the dental ring 2 according to two straight linear supports in theory, a first straight linear support between the chamfer of the bevel 131 and an edge or a fillet of a stud 22 bordering the groove 21 and a second straight linear support between the second face S2' and an edge or a fillet of another stud 22 bordering the groove 21. • In the case where the chamfer is arranged on an edge of the second face S2', the first central fin 13a is in contact with the dental ring 2 theoretically via two straight linear supports: a first straight linear support between the chamfer of the bevel 131 and an edge or fillet of a stud 22 bordering the groove 21, and a second straight support between the first face SI' and an edge or fillet of another block 22 bordering the groove 21. • In the case where two chamfers are arranged on an edge of the first face S1' and on an edge of the second face S2', the first central fin 13a is in contact with the dental ring 2 according to two straight linear supports in theory, a first straight linear support between one of the chamfers of the bevel 131 and an edge or a fillet of a stud 22 bordering the groove 21 and a second straight linear support between the other chamfer and an edge or a fillet of another stud 22 bordering the groove 21.

[0078] In the case where the bevel 131 of the first central fin 13a comprises two chamfers, these are, for example, symmetrical with respect to a reference plane comprising the longitudinal axis AL and the first axis Al, and each forms an angle of 22.5° (twenty-two and a half degrees) with this reference plane, thus forming a point at 45° (forty-five degrees). The first bevel 131 thus comprises a second chamfer arranged on a second end of the first central fin 13a opposite the first end of the first central fin 13a, the edge defining the first axis Al being formed by the intersection of the first and second chamfers. This invention is not, however, limited to this precise angle value; the value of this angle depends, for example, on the width of the first central fin 13a or on the width of the groove 21.Once the bevel is in contact with the dental ring 2, the template 1 is aligned with the dental ring, the longitudinal axis AL is then normal to the propagation axis of the groove 21.

[0079] The purpose of this adjustment operation is to position the dental band 2 correctly relative to the vestibular surface 41 of the tooth 4 and to press down on the dental band 2 to compress the adhesive 3 once the dental band is correctly positioned. To facilitate this adjustment, which consists of visual focusing by the user or orthodontist, the first visual indicator 111, representing a direction normal to the first axis A1 and to the longitudinal direction AL, is realigned with the target plane P4.

[0080] The illustration in the upper part of [Fig.7] thus presents a dental band 2 not aligned with the tooth 4. The pivoting of the template 1, carried out by the user, allows the angular position of the dental band 2 to be adjusted relative to the tooth 4 and the dental band 2 to be aligned with the vestibular face 41 by bringing the alignment axis Al 11 parallel to the target plane P4 as shown in the illustration in the lower part of [Fig.7].

[0081] Note that when the template 1 comprises two forks, a second bevel 131 comprising at least one chamfer is arranged on one end of the second distal central fin 13b of the main body 1a, a tip of the second bevel 131 extending along a second axis A2 parallel to the foreground and normal to the longitudinal direction AL. Similar to the other fork, a second visual indicator 111 representing a direction normal to the second axis A2 and to the longitudinal direction AL is arranged on an upper face of the second end 11c, the second visual indicator 111 extending along the alignment axis Al 11 corresponding to a direction normal to the second axis A2 and to the longitudinal direction AL.

[0082] In conclusion, such a dental band positioning template offers numerous advantages for its user. Indeed, it allows for the precise placement of the dental band on the tooth and provides the possibility of having several reference heights. Using a set of templates allows the user to have a wide choice of reference heights, thus multiplying the adjustment options. Furthermore, the specific shapes of the forks allow this operation to be performed with reduced tolerances and therefore with high repeatability, while the visual indicator allows the positioning template to be positioned perpendicular to the buccal surface of the tooth, thereby guaranteeing optimal positioning of the dental band on the tooth and the success of the treatment implemented by an orthodontist.Furthermore, the markings save time and prevent errors by clearly indicating to the user the dimensions associated with each side fin.

[0083] It should be noted that this detailed description relates to a particular embodiment of the present invention, but in no way does this description limit the scope of the invention.

[0084] It should also be noted that the reference signs placed in parentheses in the following claims are in no way limiting; these signs are solely intended to improve the intelligibility and understanding of the description.

Claims

Demands

1. A dental band positioning jig (1) comprising a main body (1a) extending along a longitudinal direction (A1) to a first end (11b) comprising a fork, said fork comprising a first lateral wing (12a) and a second lateral wing (12b) arranged on either side of a first central wing (13a), said jig (1) being characterized in that: - a first bevel (131) comprising at least one chamfer is arranged on one end of said first central wing (13a) distal to said main body, an edge of said first bevel (131) extending along a first axis (A1) normal to a superior face (SO) of said first end (11b) parallel to the longitudinal direction (A1), and - a first visual indicator (111) representing a direction normal to the first axis (A1) and to the longitudinal direction (A1) is arranged on said face superior (SO),said first visual indicator (111) extending along said normal direction to the first axis (Al) and normal to the longitudinal direction (AL).

2. Template according to claim 1, wherein said first bevel (131) comprises a second chamfer arranged on a second end of said first central fin (13a) opposite said first end, said edge being formed by the meeting of said first and second chamfers.

3. Template according to claim 2, wherein the first and second chamfers are symmetrical with respect to a reference plane and each form an angle of 22.5° with said reference plane.

4. Jig according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first side fin (12a) and / or the second side fin (12b) comprises an entry chamfer (121) arranged on an edge of a face oriented towards the first central fin (13a).

5. Jig according to claim 4, wherein said first central fin (13a) comprises two first opposing faces (SI', S2') parallel to a first plane, the first plane comprising said longitudinal direction (AL), - said first lateral fin (12a) comprising a first external face (Sel) opposite a first internal face (SI), said first inner face (SI) being arranged opposite one of the first two opposite faces, called first face (ST), said first outer face (Sel) being parallel to the foreground and said first lateral fin (12a) further comprising an entry chamfer (121) arranged on an edge of said first inner face (SI) distal to said main body (lia), and - said second lateral fin (12b) comprising a second outer face (Se2) opposite a second inner face (S2), said second inner face (S2) being arranged opposite one of the first two opposite faces, called second face (S2'), said second outer face (Se2) being parallel to the foreground and said second lateral fin (12b) further comprising an entry chamfer (121) arranged on an edge of said second inner face (S2) distal to said main body (lia).

6. Template (1) according to claim 5, wherein a first distance separating said first outer face (Sel) from said first face (ST) is different from a second distance separating said second outer face (Se2) from said second face (S2').

7. Template (1) according to claim 6, wherein: - a first number of grooves (113) arranged on a first external face (Sel) of said first lateral fin (12a) opposite said first internal face (SI) is representative of the first distance, and / or - a second number of grooves (113) arranged on a second external face (Se2) of said second lateral fin (12b) opposite said second internal face (S2) is representative of the second distance.

8. Template according to claim 6 or 7, wherein a difference between the first and second distances is equal to 0.25mm.

9. Template (1) according to any one of claims 5 to 8, further comprising a fork at a second end (11c) of the main body (1a) comprising a third lateral fin (12c) and a fourth lateral fin (12d) arranged on either side of a second central fin (13b), - said third central fin (13b) comprising two opposing second faces (S3', S4') parallel to said foreground, - said third lateral fin (12c) comprising a third external face (Se3) opposite a third internal face (S3), said third inner face (S3) being arranged opposite one of the first of the two opposing second faces, called third face (S3'), said third outer face (Se3) being parallel to the foreground and said third lateral fin (12c) further comprising an entry chamfer (121) arranged on an edge of said third inner face (S3) distal to said main body (11a), and - said fourth lateral fin (12c) comprising a fourth outer face (Se4) opposite a fourth inner face (S4), said fourth inner face (S4) being arranged opposite one of the second of the two opposing second faces, called fourth face (S4'), said fourth outer face (Se4) being parallel to the foreground and said fourth lateral fin (12c) further comprising an entry chamfer (121) arranged on an edge of said fourth inner face (S4) distal to said main body (11a),- a second bevel (131) comprising at least one chamfer is arranged on one end of said second central fin (13b) distal to said main body (1a), a tip of said second bevel (131) extending along a second axis (A2) parallel to the foreground and normal to the longitudinal direction (AL), and - a second visual indicator (111) representing a direction normal to the second axis (A2) and to the longitudinal direction (AL) is arranged on an upper face of said second end (11c), said second visual indicator (111) extending along a direction normal to the second axis (A2) and to the longitudinal direction (AL).

10. Template (1) according to claim 9, which includes a first orifice (112a) arranged in said main body (1la) at a determined distance from the first end (11b) and a second orifice (112b) arranged in said main body (1la) at a determined distance from the second end (11c), the dimensions of the first and second orifices (112a, 112b) being distinct.

11. Template according to claim 8 and any one of claims 9 to 10, which is configured to position a dental band at a distance from a reference element, said reference height (H'), said reference height (H') belonging to a set of distances defined with a step of 0.25mm.

12. Template (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, which is one piece.

13. Template (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, which is made of an aluminum or titanium alloy.

Images