Dental implant assembly

Abstract

A dental implant assembly is provided for insertion into a patient's jawbone. [Solution] The present invention relates to a dental implant assembly 1 to be inserted into a patient's jawbone. The dental implant assembly 1 is used to hold a dental prosthesis and includes a body 3 that connects the dental implant 1 to the alveolar bone (i.e., the jawbone), an abutment 2, and a connecting element 51. The body 3 and the abutment 2 have connection regions 14 and 24, respectively. These connection regions 14 and 24 jointly form an interface. One of the connection regions 14 and 24 is concave and the other is convex, and portions of these connection regions have matching shapes. The abutment 2 and the body 3 are connected by the connecting element 51.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the dental medicine field and describes a dental implant to be inserted into a patient's jawbone. The dental implant according to the invention serves to receive a dental prosthesis, which is a dental crown. The dental implant comprises a body connecting the dental implant to the alveolar bone (i.e. the jawbone), an abutment and a connection element. The abutment serves as a double-sided adapter connecting the dental prosthesis, which is a dental crown, to the implant. The abutment is clamped and fixed to the body by the connection element. [Background technology]

[0002] From the prior art one-part or two-part dental implants are known, each extending along a first longitudinal axis between an apical end and a coronal end, the body of which, being the apical, intraosseous part of the dental implant, is intended to be embedded in the jawbone of a patient.

[0003] Dental implant therapy consists of restoring one or more teeth in a patient's mouth with artificial parts. Such artificial parts usually consist of a dental implant and a prosthetic crown fixedly connected to the dental implant. The dental implant may be designed as a one-piece with a connection piece for the crown. In recent years, two-part dental implant systems have become more and more popular. Two-part dental implants generally consist of a body that is anchored in the bone and an abutment that serves as a connection piece between the artificial crown and the body of the dental implant. The implantation of the body is basically performed by elevating the soft tissue flap, grinding the alveolar bone, and preparing the dental implant bed. The body is then inserted and a cap is attached to promote the healing process of the wound. This ensures that the wound is properly sealed. Once the healing process is over, the cap is removed and the abutment is screwed and / or cemented to the body with suitable fastening means. The prosthetic tooth, the artificial crown, can then be attached.

[0004] Dental implants are known that are fully embedded in the bone and terminate at bone level (near bone placement) and even terminate slightly below bone level. These dental implants are called bone level implants. Such implants generally require a two-stage procedure. Implants with a shoulder that protrudes a few millimeters above bone level to stimulate the formation of surrounding tissue are called tissue level implants.

[0005] Tissue level implants have a long apical component that provides a collar that contacts the gingival (soft) tissue. These tissue level implants are typically applied for molar implant locations, as they allow the dental implant to be inserted in a single surgical procedure.

[0006] In most dental implants, the surfaces of the body and the abutment that meet when implanted fit together like a plug and socket and are adjusted to each other so that they cannot rotate relative to each other. To ensure a firm seating of the crown, these two parts must be accurately positioned and connected to ensure that they are not rotated. The abutment often has a recess, a counterbore, along its longitudinal axis. This recess serves to receive the connection means.

[0007] Titanium alloys are primarily used for the manufacture of dental implants, since such metals can be easily machined to the required high precision required for the extremely small dimensions of dental implants, and because of their plastic flexibility, titanium alloys are tolerant of localized stress concentrations, thus providing the composite with good mechanical stability and strength.

[0008] However, the use of titanium alloys as dental implant materials also entails drawbacks. One is its grey aesthetic aspect, which may be visible at the gingival margin. On the other hand, the release of metal ions and the resulting allergic reactions of patients are also an increasing problem in dental implant treatment. In recent years, these drawbacks and the recent advances in ceramic materials have led to further development of ceramic dental implants.

[0009] Several two-part ceramic implants consisting of a body and an abutment have been proposed. Some, as described in DE212013000248U1, apply a conical connection and screw between the body and the abutment, and apply a polymer cement at the interface, so that there is no direct ceramic-on-ceramic contact between the corresponding parts. In contrast, WO2018046148A1 proposes the use of a ceramic-ceramic connection in combination with a plastic screw. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0010] [Patent Document 1] German Utility Model No. 212013000248 [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2018 / 046148 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0011] There are also concerns in the prior art regarding two-part dental implants where a ceramic body comes into contact with a ceramic abutment. When loaded, for example during chewing, the interface between the body and the abutment can change, for example opening up or forming gaps. Such changes can increase point loads beyond acceptable load levels, which can result in micro-cracks and / or failure of the dental implant.

[0012] The body-abutment interface remains a mechanical challenge for ceramic-on-ceramic solutions, in part due to reduced mechanical stability due to dimensional constraints to incorporate required features such as threads, locking, and anti-rotation.

[0013] In view of the prior art, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved two-part dental implant that has a reliable interface with high positional accuracy and is easy to use. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] The same object is achieved by a dental implant according to claim 1 and a dental kit according to claim 15. The dependent claims show preferred embodiments, which can also be freely combined with one another.

[0015] The dental implant according to the present invention comprises a body, an abutment having a corresponding interface with the body, and a connection means for holding the body and the abutment together by a form-fit connection. The body forms an artificial tooth root. The body is implanted in the alveolar bone. The body has a stem portion located at the apical end of the body (i.e. the end inserted into the alveolar bone), a connecting portion at the coronal end of the body, and a recess extending from the connecting portion through the body towards the stem portion.

[0016] In the implanted state, the abutment is connected at its upper coronal portion to a prosthesis such as an artificial crown or dental prosthesis and at its lower apical portion is seated against the coronal end of the body.

[0017] In one embodiment, the abutment itself constitutes the connection element (hereinafter referred to as an internal connection element in such a case), i.e. the abutment has an apical region that is extended and extends into the recess of the body, thereby providing additional locking of the abutment.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the connecting element is not clasped to the abutment. Such an abutment has an opening extending through the abutment from the upper coronal portion to the lower apical portion. An external connecting element, which clasps the abutment to the body, is introduced through this opening. The external connecting element is inserted through the opening of the abutment into the recess of the body.

[0019] The connection region of the apical part of the lower abutment and the connection region of the body of the coronal end of the body have a corresponding form-engaging interface. The geometry of the connection region of the abutment is mated with the geometry of the connection region of the connection part. In a certain region of the interface, the geometry of the connection region of the abutment is configured to match the geometry of the connection region of the body. The connection region of the abutment is intended to be received by the connection region of the body. In the installed state, the connection region of the lower abutment is connected to the connection region of the connection part of the body to form a contact line.

[0020] In one embodiment of the invention, the dental implant is a tissue level implant, in which the outer surface of the body is only partially embedded in the alveolar bone and at least a part of the connection region of the implant protrudes above the bone level, In a further embodiment, the implant is provided as a bone level implant, which is fully embedded in the bone, so that the outer surface of the body is fully embedded in the alveolar bone.

[0021] In one embodiment, the body has a length in the longitudinal direction of 5 to 30 mm. Here, the length refers to the maximum range in the longitudinal direction. The length of the body is preferably 7 to 25 mm, and most preferably 10 to 20 mm. In the case of a so-called short body, the length is 5 to 10 mm, and in the case of a long body, the length exceeds 25 mm.

[0022] The nominal diameter of the body is defined as the maximum average of the connection part of the body. Preferably, the nominal diameter is at the bone / gingival level. Very preferably, the nominal diameter of the body is at a position directly below the connection area. The nominal diameter is preferably in the range of 8 mm or less, preferably 6 mm or less, very preferably 5 mm or less. More preferably, the nominal diameter is more than 1 mm, very preferably more than 2 mm. Depending on the shape of the connection part, cylindrical, elliptical, etc., the diameter may be constant or vary around the circumference of the connection part. Preferably, the centre point of the nominal diameter is located on the longitudinal axis. Preferably, the outer shape of the body is a combination of conical and / or cylindrical and / or threaded parts. Preferably, the coronal end of the body is conical or cylindrical. More preferably, the apical end of the body is conical. Preferably, the apical end of the body has at least one threaded part and / or an outer surface that is at least partially porous.

[0023] In one embodiment, the abutment has a length in the longitudinal direction of 3 to 10 mm, preferably 5 to 9 mm, and most preferably 4 to 8 mm.

[0024] To allow for anatomical restoration of a tooth, the abutment may be shaped other than an elongated cylinder. The abutment may include a region that is angled relative to its longitudinal axis.

[0025] Preferably, the diameter of the abutment varies along the longitudinal axis of the implant. The maximum diameter of the abutment is preferably in the range of 8 mm or less, very preferably 6 mm or less, and particularly preferably 5 mm or less. In a preferred embodiment, the maximum diameter of the abutment is greater than 1 mm. In a highly preferred embodiment, the maximum diameter of the abutment is greater than 2 mm. Preferably, the outer shape of the abutment is conical, cylindrical, or at least partially conical or cylindrical.

[0026] In one preferred embodiment, the maximum diameter of the abutment is at a location just above the connection region of the abutment at the apical end of the abutment.

[0027] The diameter of the apical part of the abutment may be the same as the diameter of the coronal part of the body, or it may be larger or smaller. In one embodiment, the diameter of the apical part of the abutment is the same as the diameter of the coronal part of the body, or it may be slightly larger or smaller, with the difference between the two diameters being within 10%, preferably within 5%, more preferably within 1%, so that the body and the abutment, in the assembled state, have a maximally smooth transition of the outer surface without abrupt changes in diameter in the region of the interface. Preferably, the maximum diameter of the apical region of the abutment, together with the geometry of its connection to the body, has the same outer shape as the connecting part of the body, for example the same cylindrical shape, as the connecting part of the body, to ensure a maximally smooth outer surface of the implant. Also, depending on the shape of the connecting part of the body, the diameter of the abutment may be constant or vary around the circumference to form a corresponding interface with the connecting region of the body.

[0028] Possible dimensions and shapes for the outer shape of the body and the outer shape of the abutment are known from the prior art (e.g. conical, cylindrical with a circular or elliptical base, etc.) Basic two-dimensional geometric shapes without corners, such as circles or ellipses, are preferred.

[0029] The shank of the body extends along the longitudinal axis of the body. Preferably, the shank widens along the longitudinal axis from the apical portion to the coronal portion. Preferably, the diameter of the apical end is smaller than the diameter of the coronal end. In a preferred embodiment, the shape of the connecting part may be cylindrical, elliptical cylindrical or conical, with pieces of different geometric shapes alternating along the longitudinal axis. The shank may be made of dense ceramics and have a wound (threaded), porous, foamed or roughened surface on the outer surface. To ensure good adhesion of bone cells and gingival tissue, the outer surface preferably has a roughness Ra of 0.2 to 1.6 μm, preferably 0.5 to 0.8 μm. Such a roughness of the outer surface can be achieved by sandblasting or etching the body part of the body. The outer surface may also have at least one thread and / or hole. The threads preferably protrude from the surface of the shank by 0.2-1 mm, more preferably 0.5-0.8 mm. If the outer surface of the shank is porous, the average diameter of the pores is 0.2-1 mm, preferably 0.5-0.8 mm. The porous outer surface of the body may further be threaded, or the threaded outer surface of the body may include at least one porous portion. The circulation of the pores and threads improves retention of the shank in bone by allowing cells to grow around and into such structures.

[0030] In one embodiment, the shank has external threads extending from an apical end towards a coronal end and covering at least a portion of an outer surface of the body.

[0031] Preferably, the porous outer surface is constructed from a ceramic foam.

[0032] The connecting part of the body also extends along the longitudinal axis of the body and forms the coronal end of the body. The connecting part may be cylindrical with a circular or elliptical base and may include a conical piece. Preferably, the connecting part of the body is cylindrical or conical. Very preferably, the connecting part is cylindrical with a circular base. The connecting part may be made of dense (more than 95% of theoretical density, preferably more than 99%) ceramics and may have a porous, foamed or rough surface on the outer surface. To ensure good adhesion of bone cells and gingival tissue, the outer surface preferably has a roughness Ra of 0.2 to 1.6 μm, more preferably 0.5 to 0.8 μm. Such a roughness of the outer surface can be achieved by sandblasting or etching the connecting part. As mentioned for the shank, the outer surface of the connecting part may have threads and / or holes.

[0033] The abutment also extends along a longitudinal axis. The shape of the abutment may be conical or cylindrical with a circular or elliptical base. Pieces of different geometric shapes may be arranged alternately. The abutment may be made of dense ceramics and have a porous, foamed or roughened surface on the outside. The coronal end of the abutment has a configuration for ensuring a connection with a dental prosthesis, a crown, as known from the prior art.

[0034] Both the body and the abutment may be made of titanium, a titanium alloy, a polymer or a ceramic. Suitable polymers are PE, PEK, PEKK, PEEK or CFKPEEK, which are highly preferred fiber-reinforced polymers. The body and / or the abutment are preferably made of ceramics, highly preferred zirconium dioxide or a zirconium dioxide alloy, such as yttrium oxide stabilized zirconium dioxide (Y-TZP), aluminium oxide pre-tensioned zirconium dioxide (ATZ) or cerium oxide stabilized zirconium dioxide. In a preferred embodiment, the body and the abutment are made of a common material.

[0035] In the implanted state, the abutment and the body are placed one on top of the other, with the apical end of the lower end of the abutment and the coronal end of the body contacting each other forming a corresponding interface. The implant is fastened and fixed by a connecting element. The body has a recess into which the connecting element is inserted. The recess, a hole or cavity, extends in the connecting part from the coronal end of the body in the direction of the shank of the body. Preferably, the recess extends into the shank of the body. In a preferred embodiment, the recess is a central recess located in the center of the body and extending along the longitudinal axis from the coronal end to the apical end. Preferably, the recess includes a cylindrical portion at the coronal end of the body. More preferably, the axis of the cylinder is part of the longitudinal axis of the body. Preferably, the cylinder is a rectangular cylinder with a circular base (although it may have an elliptical or other non-circular base). The recess extends partially into the shank. The shank is closed at the apical end of the body. In a preferred embodiment, the recess extends in the direction of the shank of the body over no more than 3 / 4 of the total length of the body. The apical quarter of the length of the body is configured to be solid, i.e. the recess terminates before this part of the body. The recessed hole may further include a threaded area therein. Preferably, the threaded area is located at the apical end of the recess. An internal connection recess comprising an internally threaded area is intended to accommodate a connection element used to fix the abutment attached to the body.

[0036] The minimum wall thickness within the body around the recess is preferably at least 0.65mm, more preferably at least 0.8mm, most preferably at least 1mm.

[0037] The connecting portion is located in the region of the coronal end of the upper part of the body. The connecting portion of the body has a connecting region located between the outer surface of the body and the recess. The connecting region consists of a region from an outer transition region, which is the edge of the outer surface of the body, to an inner transition region, which is the edge of the opening inside the body, and surrounds the recess. Preferably, the edges extending into the recess and / or the edges extending to the outer surface of the body are radiused to prevent the connecting region from being worn or damaged. Preferably, the surfaces of such connecting regions are precision machined with a tolerance of less than 0.05 mm and may be fired, ground or polished.

[0038] The connecting region is curved concavely or convexly. Depending on the design, the radius of the R of the edge and the radius of the concave or convex shape of the connecting region may be the same or different. Preferably, the radius of the R of the inner and outer transition regions and the radius of the portion therebetween are constant in the cross-sectional shape of the connecting region around the recess and have no discontinuities. As a result, the radius of the R does not change at any point of the connecting region.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the connecting region of the main body is configured to be concave, and the radiuses R of the transition regions join tangent to each other at the connecting region, forming a concave surface where the radiuses R join together seamlessly.

[0040] In one embodiment, each radiused transition region extends flush with the inner and outer surfaces, i.e., forming a fully radiused connecting region without any sharp or step-like transitions.

[0041] The connection region of the connection part of the body is said to be a male part if it is configured convexly, and the connection region of the apical end of the abutment is concave and provided with a corresponding female part, these two parts forming a mating interface.

[0042] A male connecting region at the coronal end of the body is intended to be received by a female connecting region at the apical end of the abutment.

[0043] Such a concave connection area, which is part of the interface, is located in the lower region of the abutment, i.e., at the end that will join with the body in the installed state. The connection area of ​​the abutment is located from the outer surface, which is the outer transition area of ​​the abutment, to the inner transition area, which is the opening for an external connection element. The inner transition area, in the case of an abutment with an integral connection element, is located between the connection area and the integral connection element.

[0044] Preferably, the inner and outer transition regions of the abutment are also radiused to prevent the abutment from being worn or damaged. The connection region of the abutment extends from the inner transition region to the outer transition region. Such regions may be concave or convex to match the shape of the connection region of the body. If the connection region of the body is convex, it corresponds to the concave connection region of the abutment, and if it is concave, it corresponds to the convex connection region of the abutment. The radius of radius of each transition region and the radius of radius of the concave or convex shape of the connection region may be the same or different. Preferably, the radius of radius of the inner and outer transition regions and the radius of radius of the connection region are constant in the cross-sectional shape of the connection region around the opening or around the connecting element and have no discontinuities.

[0045] The geometry of the connection region of the abutment is adapted to and designed with the geometry of the connection region of the body, and if the geometry of the connection region of the body is uniform around the circumference of the body, then the geometry of the connection region of the abutment is also uniform around the circumference of the abutment.

[0046] The convex connecting region of the abutment and the concave connecting region of the body form the interface. The connecting region of the body and the connecting region of the abutment, which are configured convexly or concavely, come into contact with each other and form a contact line. The contact line is formed because the two connecting regions that are to be joined are curved, the convex connecting region having a greater degree of curvature than the concave connecting region. The two connecting regions are configured in such a way that the contact line occurs after the body and the abutment are joined together. The interface according to the invention is such that the contact line occurs after assembly. This prevents possible load peaks at individual contact points.

[0047] In plan view along the longitudinal axis, the contact line appears circular, elliptical or hyperbolic, or corresponds to an irregular ellipse or non-circular shape as a free form without sharp edges. Preferably, the contact line is circular, at least approximately circular (within manufacturing tolerances), or regular elliptical. Preferably, the connection regions contact each other to form a closed contact line. That is, the body and the abutment meet in the connection region to form a closed contact line without unintended interruptions (other than manufacturing tolerances), e.g. due to recesses or notches in the connection region. It should be noted that manufacturing tolerances may cause very small deviations or discrepancies in the closed contact line. In a preferred embodiment, the contact line is circular or at least approximately circular (within manufacturing tolerances). This facilitates the manufacture and insertion of the implant. Furthermore, the circular contact line allows the abutment to be automatically centered with respect to the body.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the diameter of the contact line is 99% to 40% of the nominal diameter of the body in plan view, i.e., when the contact line is projected onto a plane. The nominal diameter of the body is the maximum diameter of the connection part of the body. The diameter of the contact line is preferably 95% to 65%, preferably 90% to 80%, of the nominal diameter of the body.

[0049] In one embodiment, the concave and / or convex connecting regions of the abutment and the body are free curves that run non-parallel to each other. The concave connecting regions are slightly less curved than the convex connecting regions, which ensures that the convex connecting regions are contained within the space formed by the concave connecting regions. In the assembled state of the abutment and the body, the connecting regions are spaced apart from each other at their two ends, the inner and outer transition regions. Starting from the inner and outer transition regions, the distance decreases in the direction towards the centres of the connecting regions where the connecting regions come into contact with each other in the assembled state and the contact line is formed. In another embodiment, the concave connecting regions and the convex connecting regions are segments of a hyperbola or diameters of an ellipse.

[0050] In one embodiment, the difference in curvature or curvature of the concave and convex regions between the two bent or curved connecting regions over the distance from the inner transition region to the outer transition region is at least twice, preferably at least five times, the manufacturing tolerance (preferably 0.05 mm or less), and the concave connecting region is less bent or curved than the convex connecting region. This ensures a line contact between the connecting regions. In the present invention, the geometry of the connecting region of the abutment is different from that of the connecting region of the main body. The deviation in the geometry is at least to the extent that a line contact occurs in the assembled state. In this case, it is not important whether the deviation in the geometry of the connecting regions is due to the design or the manufacturing tolerance. If the difference in curvature between the connecting regions is too small, a surface contact may occur instead of a line contact. The characteristics of the surface contact, such as the way in which the force is applied, are different from those of the line contact, which is disadvantageous for reliable and permanent use of the interface. In the implant according to the present invention made of a ceramic material, a line contact is set.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, both the concave connecting region and the convex connecting region have an arc-shaped cross section. The center of the circle corresponding to the arc forming the concave connecting region is located inside the portion forming the convex connecting region. The center of the circle corresponding to the arc forming the convex connecting region is located inside the imaginary extension line of the portion forming the concave connecting region. Both arcs have an R diameter. The radius of the circle forming the concave connecting region is 0.1 to 10%, preferably 1 to 5%, larger than the radius of the circle forming the convex connecting region. In a preferred embodiment, the R diameter of the convex connecting region is within a range of 10 to 50% of the nominal diameter of the main body.

[0052] In the assembled state, the ends of each connecting region are arranged at a distance from each other. The distance is present in the outer transition region and in the inner transition region of each connecting region. The distance, i.e. the gap formed by the distance, is preferably as small as possible. This is achieved by simply bending the convex connecting region slightly more than the concave connecting region. In the present invention, each connecting region is configured in such a way that when the abutment and the body are assembled, the contact line occurs while keeping the distance between them in the transition region, i.e. the distance between the end regions of each connecting region, as small as possible. In an embodiment in which the concave connecting region and the convex connecting region have a circular geometry, this is achieved by simply slightly offsetting the nominal radius R of the convex connecting region and the concave connecting region from each other. The radius R of the convex connecting region must be smaller than the radius R of the concave connecting region to ensure that the convex connecting region fits within the space formed by the concave connecting region. The ratio of the R diameter of the convex shape to the R diameter of the concave shape is preferably 0.8 to 0.999: 1, more preferably 0.9 to 0.98: 1, and extremely preferably 0.94 to 0.96: 1. In one embodiment, the difference between the two R diameters is 5 times, preferably 10 times, the manufacturing tolerance (e.g., 0.05 mm), and the R diameter of the concave shape is larger than the R diameter of the convex shape, thereby ensuring line contact.

[0053] An interface according to the invention, consisting of a convex connecting region and a concave connecting region according to the above specifications, is advantageous regardless of the parameters present in the production of ceramic products, such as shrinkage during sintering and / or thinning during grinding. Two connecting regions designed according to the invention always form a line contact. In the case of a connecting region with a circumferential central portion, the line of contact forms a circle in plan view, which circle surrounds the recess of the body and the opening or the connection element of the abutment. Such an interface according to the invention has the following advantages: - protecting each connection area, i.e. the abutment and the body, from stresses and loads; -Ensures that the two contact parts are automatically aligned with each other.

[0054] In one embodiment, the interface according to the invention is arranged symmetrically around the longitudinal axis of the dental implant assembly. The contact line formed by the convex and concave connecting regions lies in one plane. The plane can be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis or inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis.

[0055] In another embodiment, the contact line between the abutment and the body of the interface according to the invention is located in at least one region away from a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the dental implant assembly, i.e. the contact line includes at least one descending portion, which is a valley, and at least one ascending portion, which is a peak, relative to the plane. The descending portion in the connection region of the body is provided opposite the ascending portion in the connection region of the abutment. The deepest point of the descending portion in the connection region of the body is the point of the connection region, whether the connection region is convex or concave, that is farthest away in the direction of the apical end of the body from the plane that intersects the adjacent points in the cross-sectional shape of the connection region among the points of the connection region that intersect with any plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The highest point of an ascending portion is a point that is paired with a descending portion and is the furthest point of the connecting region, whether the connecting region is convex or concave, in the direction of the coronal end of the body from a plane that intersects the adjacent points of the cross-sectional shape of the connecting region at right angles to the longitudinal axis. The same applies to the ascending and descending portions of the connecting region of the abutment, as appropriate. Thus, the deepest and highest points of the descending and ascending portions respectively represent apexes.

[0056] In one embodiment with an ascending and descending portion, the contact line is inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis, and the length of the connecting element (preferably a screw) must be at least 1.5 times its diameter to ensure a stable connection between the abutment and the body, due to the shear forces that may be generated when the contact line is inclined.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the connection region has a number of descending and ascending portions, preferably two, three or four. An even number of descending and ascending portions is even more preferred. In a preferred embodiment, the distance between these descending and ascending portions of the connection region is symmetrical, i.e. the distance between each descending portion and the following ascending portion (and each ascending portion and the following descending portion) is the same. In an embodiment, the connection region of the body has a first ascending portion, a second ascending portion, a first descending portion between the first ascending portion and the second ascending portion, and a second descending portion between the second ascending portion and the first ascending portion, preferably the ascending portions and the descending portions being diametrically opposed to each other. The same applies, where appropriate, to the abutment, given the geometrical correspondence with the body.

[0058] In a highly preferred embodiment, the connection region has two descending and two ascending parts. Preferably, the connection region is symmetrical, i.e. the descending and ascending parts are located opposite each other in the connection region. A connection region designed in this way functions both as a rotation prevention means and as a self-locking element. During assembly, the descending and ascending parts of the body and the abutment are aligned, and then the connection element is introduced through the opening of the abutment into the recess of the body and is clamped inside the body. After the connection element is clamped, any rotational movement that is attempted would require a vertical displacement of the abutment in the connection region, i.e. the abutment would have to move upwards over the descending and ascending parts in order to be able to rotate, so that rotation of the abutment on the body is precluded. Such a vertical displacement is prevented by the connection element. Also, during assembly, the abutment is moved radially on the body until the ascending and descending parts mesh, i.e. until the ascending part of one connection area is "hooked" on the descending part of the other connection area. Prior art connection elements often have a non-circular profile, since in addition to the role of fastening, they also serve to prevent rotation. In the assembly according to the invention of the above embodiment with ascending and descending parts, the shape of the connection area alone ensures the prevention of rotation. The connection element only serves to fix the abutment to the body. The connection element does not need to provide additional prevention of rotation. This allows the profile (preferably the threaded profile) of the connection element (preferably the screw) to have a circular cross section, i.e. the screw body to be conical or cylindrical. This design allows the shape of the connection element to be configured in a robust shape with a maximum diameter. The maximum diameter of the connection element allows a higher bending strength and stability to be achieved due to the increased pre-tension.

[0059] A rotationally protected connecting element has at least one location where its circumference is reduced, resulting in a cross-section that is smaller than its circular cross-section, which leads to a decrease in the stability of the connecting element as a whole.

[0060] In a further preferred embodiment, the descending and ascending portions are aligned with the natural gum line to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance when implanted. In a preferred embodiment, the artificial tooth or crown only needs to be fastened to the abutment and does not need to be hidden by the artificial tooth or crown. The body is placed in the jawbone without any change or modification of the gum line, and a natural appearance is maintained. In such an embodiment, no more than two descending portions are located on the same plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The planes on which the descending portions are located are spaced apart from each other. One plane is located further toward the apical end than the other plane. If there are two ascending portions and two descending portions in the connecting region of the body, the apex of one descending portion is located more coronally than the apex of the other descending portion. In another embodiment, the apex of one ascending portion is more apical than the apex of the other ascending portion. These apexes can be located according to requirements. Any apex can be located at a distance from the longitudinal axis of the dental implant assembly. The apexes are arranged on planes spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The same applies to the raised portion of the connection region of the abutment and its cross-sectional shape, as appropriate. The connection region of the body and the connection region of the abutment according to the present invention are formed so as to interlock with each other in the implanted state. This results in a continuous contact line between the abutment and the body in the attached state. If the deepest apex is located on the buccal side in the implanted state, it is possible to ensure that the front of the face is aesthetically beautiful. If the oral side is also aligned with the natural gum line, the dental implant assembly according to the present invention will naturally reflect reality. In other words, the discomfort of the patient is minimized, ideally to zero.

[0061] The difference between each descending portion and ascending portion is preferably 0.1 to 2 mm, more preferably 0.3 to 1 mm, and most preferably 0.3 to 0.5 mm. In one embodiment, the ratio of the distance between adjacent vertices (i.e., the distance between adjacent descending and ascending portions) to the diameter of the contact line is 0.025 to 0.5:1.

[0062] Preferably, the cross-sectional shape between the apexes is smooth and curved, i.e., without sharp points or steps.

[0063] The abutment is fastened to the body by a connecting element, which may be an internal connecting element pre-fastened to the abutment, which is surrounded by the connection region and protrudes from the connection region so that it can be introduced into the recess in the body and fastened therein. Preferably, the internal connecting element is fastened in the recess by an additional adhesive substance, which is a dental fastening means such as glue or cement.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment, the connection element is not fixedly attached to the abutment. The connection element is an external connection element. The abutment has an opening for the insertion of the connection element, which extends through the abutment from the apical to the coronal part. Preferably, the external connection element is a screw, which is screwed into a threaded part of the recess of the body. The opening of the abutment has a retention means which mates with the connection element to ensure a tight fit and a secure fixed attachment of the abutment. Preferably, the opening is provided with at least one projection which protrudes from the wall of the abutment into the opening. In the attached state, the at least one projection contacts a predetermined area of ​​the external connection element (e.g. the head of a screw, etc.). Preferably, the projection is inclined to ensure a maximum contact area between the area of ​​the connection element and the abutment. In a preferred embodiment, the projection is conical. The projection extends from a coronal portion to an apical portion of the abutment and reduces the diameter of the opening toward the apical portion.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment, the head of the external connection element and the corresponding retaining element of the abutment (preferably the protrusion) form a circular contact line near the shank of the connection element. This allows to increase the torque that must be applied during insertion to fasten the fastening element. Such a contact line can be realized by a conical protrusion of the opening of the abutment and a convex radius of the head of the external connection element (preferably the head of a screw). As a variant, the conical protrusion of the above-mentioned geometry can be provided on the connection element. And the convex radius is provided on the protrusion of the abutment. Whatever the arrangement of the above-mentioned geometries, a circular contact line between the connection element and the abutment is advantageous for fastening the dental implant assembly.

[0066] The connecting element can be any connecting element selected from the prior art. The connecting element can be, for example, a screw, a bayonet lock, a bolt, a fixing pin, etc. A screw that fixes the abutment to the body is preferred.

[0067] Preferably, the external connection element is a screw, which is shaped to fit into the opening of the abutment and to clamp and secure the abutment to the body. Preferably, the head of the screw is conical or convex so as to fit into the opening and be connectable by frictional engagement with the opening and / or with a retaining element that may be present inside the opening. More preferably, the screw has a thread that interacts with a thread present inside the recess of the body.

[0068] The external connecting element (preferably the screw) is made of a metal, a metal alloy, a ceramic or a plastic. Preferably, the external connecting element or the screw is made of a polymer such as PE, PEK, PEKK, PEEK or CFKPEEK. Even more preferably, these polymers are fiber-reinforced polymers. In a preferred embodiment, the body and the abutment are made of ceramics and the external connecting element (preferably the screw) is made of a plastic, preferably of the polymers listed above.

[0069] Preferably, the maximum extent of the screw along the longitudinal axis of the body is at least 1.5 times, preferably at least 2 times, the maximum diameter of the screw.

[0070] In one embodiment, further enhancement of the screw fastening can be achieved by applying an adhesive substance to the screw and / or the abutment and / or the body, preferably said adhesive substance being a dental fastening means, a dental adhesive or a dental cement.

[0071] In a preferred embodiment, the locking of the abutment is performed solely by the external connection element, i.e. entirely mechanically, without the use of adhesive substances such as glues or cements.

[0072] In a further aspect of the invention, a dental implant assembly as previously described, -An artificial dental crown, which is a dental prosthesis; A dental kit is provided comprising:

[0073] The dental kit is intended for a complete tooth replacement. In the installed state, the dental prosthesis is in contact with the abutment and, if necessary, may also be in contact with the body, particularly in the case of tissue level implants. The dental prosthesis covers at least a part of the dental implant assembly. Preferably, the dental prosthesis covers the part of the dental implant assembly that protrudes above the gums. Depending on the type of implant, tissue level or bone level, only the abutment (tissue level) or both the abutment and the body (bone level) are covered.

[0074] The dental implant assembly according to the invention can be manufactured by manufacturing methods known in the prior art (for example by using common CNC milling machines or molding methods such as CIM). The connection elements have a smaller cross section compared to dental implants known from the prior art, which allows the dental implant assembly to be realized with a body diameter of less than 3.5 mm, while still ensuring stability and resistance to traumatic forces. The dental implant assembly according to the invention can thus also be used for the replacement of incisors.

[0075] The present invention relates to - the contact line is located in the connection area, so that the pressure between the two parts is directed away from the edges of the inner transition area and the edges of the outer transition area; - The concave and convex connecting areas minimize point loads and ensure load transfer along the contact lines, making the implant ceramic-on-ceramic; - The edges of each transition area are rounded to prevent cuts, improve stability and reduce wear. We propose the optimal geometry of the mating interfaces that allows the load to be transferred as gently as possible to the ceramic.

[0076] In addition, in the dental implant assembly according to the present invention, an anti-rotation function is incorporated in the contact zone (connection portion) between the main body and the abutment, so that the connection element can be made larger in diameter and more stable, like a screw, thereby improving the stability of the dental implant assembly.

[0077] Also, the corresponding connection regions of the interface allow the abutment to be automatically centered on the body when fastened to the connecting element; the connection region has a descending-ascending cross-section, which provides an automatic locking mechanism for the abutment on the body; - The geometric shape of the connecting area includes two different ascending and descending parts, which allows for an aesthetically pleasing appearance; -The transition area of ​​the body and the abutment is rounded to protect the gum tissue, so that the patient does not experience any inflammation or discomfort. The present invention is advantageous.

[0078] In summary, the present invention describes a dental implant assembly 1 to be applied to a patient's jawbone. The dental implant assembly 1 according to the present invention comprises a body 3 serving to receive a dental prosthesis and connecting the dental implant to the alveolar bone (i.e. the jawbone), an abutment 2 and a connection element 51. The body 3 and the abutment 2 have connection regions 14, 24, respectively. These connection regions 14, 24 jointly form an interface. One of the connection regions 14, 24 is concave and the other is convex, and parts of these connection regions are coincident. The abutment 2 and the body 3 are connected by the connection element 51.

[0079] The present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Each figure is a schematic cutout of the present invention and is used as an example to explain the present invention. The specific embodiment of the present invention may differ from these figures. The dental implant assembly according to the present invention in the figures is described as a schematic sketch. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0080] [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a dental implant assembly according to the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the dental implant assembly of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] 3 is a cross-sectional view of the dental implant assembly of FIG. 2 taken along line II'. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a detailed view of the contact area between the body and the abutment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a dental implant assembly having an asymmetrical shape in the region of the interface. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a body of a dental implant assembly according to the invention, which has an ascending portion and a descending portion in the region of the interface. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the main body of FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a main body of a dental implant assembly according to the invention, which has two ascending and two descending portions in the region of the interface. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the body of FIG. 8. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a main body of a dental implant assembly according to the invention, the main body having three ascending portions and three descending portions in the region of the interface. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the main body of FIG. [Figure 12] 1 is a photograph of the interface between the main body and the abutment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0081] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an implant assembly 1 according to the present invention. The implant assembly comprises a body 3, an abutment 2, and a connection element 51. In an assembled state, the abutment 2 is connected to the body 3 by form-fitting via an interface 10. In the present invention, the interface 10 has a structure that allows the abutment 2 to be accurately positioned relative to the body 3.

[0082] Such a structure of the implant assembly 1 will be explained in detail in the following figures. In particular, with regard to the structure of the interface 10, the features described below as being present on either the body 3 or the abutment 2 may also be provided on the other part. In other words, in one particular embodiment, the features of the interface 10 described below that relate to the body 3 may be located on the abutment 2. In that case, the features of the abutment 2 described below must be located on the body 3. This ensures that the positioning can be performed accurately.

[0083] 2 shows an implant assembly 1 according to the invention, comprising a body 3 and an abutment 2. The body 3 has a shank 33 at its apical end 32. The shank 33 tapers towards the apical end 32 along a longitudinal axis I-I' and is conical in the embodiment of FIG. 1. At its coronal end 36, the body 3 is provided with a connecting portion 35. The connecting portion 35 is integrally connected to the shank 33 of the body 3 and forms part of an interface 10. The interface 10 at the coronal end 36 allows the body 3 to be positioned to engage with the abutment 2.

[0084] As can be seen from Fig. 3, the body 3 has a recess 37 at its coronal end 36. A connecting element 51 (not shown) is arranged in the recess 37, which allows a detachable connection between the body 3 and the abutment 2. The connecting part 35 of the embodiment of Figs. 2 and 3 is symmetrical and has a connection area 14 at the interface 10 at the coronal end 36. The connection area 14 extends from the cylindrical outermost edge of the connecting part 35 to the recess 37 and has a symmetrical cross-sectional shape. The outer transition area 342 from the connecting part 35 to the connection area 14 and the inner transition area 341 from the recess 37 to the connecting area 14 are preferably rounded. The connecting area 14 of the body 3 is formed convexly and has a radius r3. The connecting area 14 forms part of the interface 10.

[0085] The abutment 2 is configured in the form of a sleeve. The abutment 2 has a through opening 23 in the form of a hole. At its apical end 27, the abutment 2 is provided with a connection region 24 which forms part of the interface 10. The connection region 24 extends from the cylindrical outermost edge of the abutment 2 to the through opening 23 and has a symmetrical cross-sectional shape. The outer transition region 242 from the abutment 2 to the connection region 24 and the inner transition region 241 from the through opening 23 to the connection region 24 are preferably configured in a radius. The connection region 24 is concave in shape and has a radius r2 (FIG. 4).

[0086] In the present invention, the values ​​of the R diameter r2 and the R diameter r3 are different. The R diameter of the concave connecting region 24 is larger than the R diameter of the convex connecting region 14. Therefore, after the abutment 2 and the body 3 are joined together, a circular contact line 41 is generated. The contact line 41 is located in the region of the interface 10 and is formed by connecting a number of points. The diameter 5 of the contact line 41 is smaller than the diameter 313 of the connecting part 35 (FIG. 3). The centers of the diameters 5 and 313 are located on the axis l-l'. In the embodiment of FIGS. 2 and 3, the distance from an imaginary plane 9 (FIG. 6) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis I-I' to the line contact 41 is constant, based on the imaginary plane 9. In other words, the contact line 41 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis l-I'. All points on the contact line 41 are at the same distance from the imaginary plane 9.

[0087] From figure 4 the contact line 41 can be seen. The contact line 41 allows an exact positioning of the body 3 and the abutment 2 relative to one another. Due to the different values ​​of the radius R2 and radius R3, a gap occurs in the region of the transitions 341, 241 and also in the region of the transitions 342, 242. The transition regions 341, 342 can be configured to be sharply pointed, as can be seen from figure 4. This also applies to the transition regions 241, 242. The transitions 341, 241, 342, 242 are preferably configured in a radiused section.

[0088] As can be seen from figure 4, starting from the contact line, the gap increases continuously in the direction of the transition region. In the embodiment of figure 4, the gap 15 measured parallel to the longitudinal axis at the transition from the concave connecting region 14 to the transition regions 241, 242 is equal to or less than 0.05 mm, preferably equal to or less than 0.03 mm, very preferably equal to or less than 0.01 mm.

[0089] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the body 3 and the abutment 2. In this view, the shape of the opening 23 can be seen. To align the body 3 with the abutment 2, a connecting element 51 (FIG. 1), for example a screw, is inserted into the opening 23. The connecting element 51 extends through the abutment 2 into the body 3 and is retained and fixed therein by a retaining means 38. For this purpose, the body 3 has a retaining means 38, for example in the form of an internal thread 16. To ensure a stable connection between the abutment 3 and the body 3, the abutment 2 has at least one projection 26 that protrudes into the opening 23. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the projection 26 extends over the entire circumference of the opening 23. It is of circular construction and inclined in the direction of the apical end 27 of the abutment 2. The projection 26, which is constructed as a transition (Phase), merges into a cylindrical portion 28. The cylindrical portion 28 forms a guide area for the connecting element 51 and has a diameter smaller than the coronal end 29 of the opening 23 of the abutment 2. The projection 26 is adapted to be operatively connected to an area of ​​corresponding design of the connecting element 51, so that a stable connection between the body 3 and the abutment 2 is ensured.

[0090] In FIG. 5 the implant assembly 1 is shown without the connecting element 51. The interface 10 constituting the connection part 35 of the connection region 14 of the body 3 is constructed asymmetrically. This results in the contact line 41 of the connection region 14 being inclined relative to a plane 9 oriented perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis I-I' (FIG. 7). The individual points of the contact line 41 have different distances to the imaginary plane 9. The distances vary constantly. If we assume that the plane 9 is located at the coronal end 29 of the connection part 35, the contact line 41 has an ascending section 7 that intersects with the plane 9. Starting from said ascending section, which is the highest point 7 of the contact line 41, a continuous inclination occurs up to the descending section 6, which is the lowest point of the contact line 41. At this point 6 the distance 11 from the plane 9 is maximum. Starting from the lowest point 6, the contact line 41 rises continuously up to the highest point 7. The contact line 41 in FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 has an ascending portion at point 7 and a descending portion at point 6.

[0091] The contact line 41 of the interface 10 in the embodiment of Figures 8 and 9 has two ascending portions 7 (highest points) and two descending portions 6 (lowest points). Otherwise the above configuration description applies as appropriate.

[0092] Figures 10 and 11 show the body 3 of a dental implant assembly 1 according to the invention, the contact line 41 of which has three ascending portions 7 and three descending portions 6. Otherwise the above description of the construction applies accordingly.

[0093] The contact line 41 of the interface 10 of the dental implant assembly 1 according to the invention is formed by the interaction of the coronal end 29 of the connecting part 35 with the apical end 27 of the abutment 2. The above description of the shape of the contact line 41 using the body 3 as an example also applies to the contact line 41 of the abutment 2 as appropriate. The apical end 27 of the abutment 2 and the coronal end 29 of the body 3 are partially coincident with each other, with only the values ​​of the radii r2 and r3 being different. The diameter of the convex end is smaller than the diameter of the concave end, regardless of which part (body 3 or abutment 2) has the convex and concave portions. The contact line 41 is created by the mating of the body 3 and the abutment 2 with each other.

[0094] FIG. 12 is a photograph of the abutment 2 and the body 3 in the assembled state. The abutment 2 has a maximum length (extension along the longitudinal axis I-I') of 6 mm and a maximum diameter of 3.9 mm. The abutment 2 is cylindrical at the bottom and conical at the top, decreasing in width along the longitudinal axis. The connecting part 35 of the body 3 is cylindrical. The body 3 has a length of 20 mm and a nominal diameter of 4 mm. The abutment 2 is fastened to the body 3 using a screw (not shown) with an ISOM2 thread. The abutment 2 has a concave connecting area 24 and the body 3 has a convex connecting area 14. The concave connecting area and the convex connecting area are in the shape of a circular arc. The concave connecting area 24 has a circle radius of 1.1 mm and the convex connecting area 14 has a circle radius of 1.0 mm. The centre of the radius of the connecting region 14, 24 is located in the body 3 and at a distance of 0.5 mm from the outer circumference of the connecting part 35 of the body 3. Each connecting region, in particular the region where the contact line 41 is located, is machined in the green state. No additional machining in the form of smoothing or polishing in the fired state is necessary. The transition regions 241, 242, 341, 342 are provided with a radius of radius = 0.05 mm. Each connecting region of this dental implant assembly has two ascending parts 7 and two descending parts 6. The ascending parts 7, like the descending parts 6, intersect with a plane arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The planes are located at a distance from each other. The distance between the maximum extent of the ascending parts 7 and the maximum extent of the descending parts 6 is 0.6 mm.

[0095] As can be seen in the photograph, the connecting regions 14, 24 are free of sharp points or steps. Both regions are configured with curved R-sections so as not to generate point loads on tissues or bones. This allows for the substantial elimination, ideally zero, of discomfort in the form of inflammation, injury, etc. In this embodiment, the connecting region 14 of the main body 3 merges tangent to the cylindrical surface of the connecting portion of the main body 3. [Explanation of symbols]

[0096] 1 Implant Assembly 2 Abutment 3. Main unit 5 41 diameter 6 41 descending part 7 41 rising part 9 plane 10 Boundary 11 distance 14 Consolidation area 15. Gap 16 Female thread 23 Opening 24 Consolidation area 26 Convex 27 Apical end of 2 28 copies 29 Coronal end 32 Apical end of 3 33 Shaft 35 Connecting part 36 Coronal end 37 Recess 38 Retention means 41 Contact Line 51 Connection elements 241 Inner transition region 242 Outer transition region 313 3 diameter 341 Inner transition region 342 Outer transition area I-I' Longitudinal axis II-II' axis R diameter of r3 14 R diameter of r2 24

Claims

1. a body (3) adapted to be introduced at least partially into the jawbone, the body (3) having a recess (37) extending from a coronal end (36) of the body (3) in a direction toward an apical end (32) thereof, and a connecting region (14) of the coronal end (36) surrounding the recess (37) and curved concavely or convexly; an abutment (2) having an apical connecting region (24) aligned with said body (3), said connecting region (24) having a convex or concave geometry that mates with said connecting region (14) of said body (3); a connecting element (51) for fastening and fixing the abutment (2) to the body (3); Equipped with A dental implant assembly (1), wherein the connection region (14) of the body (3) forms an interface with the connection region (24) of the abutment (2), and the curvature of the concave connection region is smaller than the curvature of the convex connection region.

2. 2. The dental implant assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the body (3) and / or the abutment (2) are made of titanium, a titanium alloy, plastic or ceramics.

3. 2. The dental implant assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the body (3) and / or the abutment (2) are made of ceramics.

4. 2. The dental implant assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the abutment (2) and the body (3) are made of a common material.

5. 2. A dental implant assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the interface (10) comprises a convex connecting region (14) of the body (3) and a concave connecting region (24) of the abutment (2).

6. 2. A dental implant assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the concavely shaped connecting region and the convexly shaped connecting region (14, 24) form a contact line (41).

7. A dental implant assembly (1) as described in claim 6, wherein the diameter of the contact line (41) is 40 to 99% of the diameter of the connecting portion (35) of the main body (3) in a planar view.

8. A dental implant assembly (1) as described in claim 1, wherein the connection region (14, 24) of the abutment (2) and the connection region (14, 24) of the body (3) have at least one elevated portion (7) and at least one descending portion (6).

9. A dental implant assembly (1) as described in claim 8, wherein the connecting region of the main body (3) has a first elevated portion (7), a second elevated portion (7), a first descending portion (6) between the first elevated portion (7) and the second elevated portion (7), and a second descending portion (6) between the second elevated portion (7) and the first elevated portion (7).

10. 10. A dental implant assembly (1) according to claim 9, wherein the apical-most point of the first descending portion (6) of the connection region (14) of the body (3) is closer to the crown than the apical-most point of the second descending portion (6) and / or the coronal-most point of the first ascending portion (7) is closer to the crown than the coronal-most point of the second ascending portion (7).

11. 2. A dental implant assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the connecting element (51) is an external connecting element (51) introduced through an opening (23) of the abutment (2) extending from the coronal end (29) to the apical end (27) of the abutment (2) into the recess (37) of the body (3).

12. The dental implant assembly (1) according to claim 11, wherein said connecting element (51) is a screw.

13. 12. The dental implant assembly (1) according to claim 11, wherein the external connecting element (51) consists of plastic.

14. At least one dental implant assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, at least one dental prosthesis; A dental kit comprising:

Images