Dental implant with improved thread design

Abstract

To provide a dental implant that receives bone and forms an interlocking engagement with the surrounding bone that better resists lateral forces.SOLUTION: A dental implant 100 particularly includes other features. A first thread 104 extends along part of an apical portion or part of a coronal portion and from one of them, where the first thread includes: a first side extending from a body 102, a crest connected to the first side at an outer extent of the first side; and a second side connected to the crest on an opposing side from the first side, where the second side extends from the crest to the body, where the second side forms an acute angle of 45-85 degrees with respect to an outer surface of the body to create an undercut space adjacent thereto so that the undercut space provides an interlocking engagement with bone or an extraction socket to resist a lateral force applied to the dental implant.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 632,192, filed April 10, 2024, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 632,211, filed April 10, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 756,544, filed February 10, 2025, the benefit of each of which is hereby claimed and which are incorporated by reference in their entireties. [Technical Field]

[0002]

[0002] The subject matter of the present invention relates generally to the field of dental implants. More specifically, but not by way of limitation, the subject matter relates to thread designs for dental implants. [Background technology]

[0003]

[0003] Dental implants can be used in oral care procedures to restore the appearance or function of removed teeth. Dental implants can mimic the apex of the natural tooth being replaced. A surgeon can replace the natural tooth with an artificial tooth (such as a crown, bridge, or denture) attached to the coronal portion of an abutment, which is attached to the dental implant at its apical portion. During surgery, a surgeon can insert the dental implant into a dental bone cavity. Dental implants typically have a cylindrical or conical body and utilize threads as a means for anchoring to bone. The outer surface of the implant can be intentionally roughened or otherwise coated or fabricated during the manufacturing process to improve osseointegration of the dental implant with bone. An exemplary conventional implant (sometimes referred to as a fixture) is described in U.S. Patent No. 11,877,909, the contents of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0004]

[0004] Unlike bone screws and many other orthopedic implants, dental implants are subject to cyclic compressive loads and lateral forces caused by masticatory forces. Furthermore, the quality of the jawbone to which they are fixed during implantation can vary. The combination of masticatory forces and varying bone quality, along with the design of the dental implant itself, can cause micro-movements between the bone and the dental implant before osseointegration after surgical implantation. Such micro-movements are undesirable because they can inhibit osseointegration. Summary of the Invention

[0005]

[0005] This patent application describes examples of dental implants with a variety of different thread designs. As described herein, the threads are configured to provide interlocking engagement with another component, such as bone or an extraction socket. These thread configurations better resist lateral forces applied to the dental implant. As mentioned above, lateral forces arise from chewing and can induce micro-motion of the dental implant during implantation into bone. The threads of the present invention are therefore configured to reduce micro-motion of the dental implant during and after implant placement prior to osseointegration. Reducing micro-motion is particularly important when the dental implant is functioning in lower bone quality.

[0006] The present inventors have recognized a dental implant design that addresses, among other things, the stability limitations of conventional dental implants through an improved thread form. These dental implants of the present disclosure have a thread configuration with an angled design that creates an undercut space between the crest of the thread and the connection between the thread and the implant body. This undercut space receives the bone and forms an interlocking engagement with the surrounding bone that better resists lateral forces.

[0007] According to one example, the thread has a first side (coronal or apical) that extends from the body at an obtuse angle and a second side (the other of the coronal or apical) that forms an acute angle with the body between substantially 45 degrees and substantially 85 degrees. This configuration creates an improved mechanical interlocking engagement that reduces micromotion compared to standard designs in which only the thread tip engages the bone.

[0008] The inventors have further recognized that implants having the disclosed thread configurations are particularly effective in extraction socket applications and where only partial or moderate quality bone engagement occurs, because the undercut thread forms provide superior fixation by "hooking" into available bone or socket structure, maintaining lateral stability, and inhibiting micromotion. The undercut thread forms that form the hook mechanism may vary in shape (or have different configurations), according to various examples, some of which are shown and described herein.

[0009]

[0009] The present application provides a variety of different implant designs with different thread configurations, including a straight body design (where a straight core provides maximum fixation with 100% bone contact), a tapered design (with a tapered core body and threads that reduce in cross-sectional area, particularly at the apex), a tapered body design that includes a tapered core body but where the threads in the apical region maintain substantially the same outer diameter at their apex for at least 50% to substantially 85% of the longitudinal extent of the apex before reducing in diameter toward the apical end, a reverse thread design with coronal-external angled threads, and a dual thread design that uses two threads (one thread at a coronal-external angle relative to the body and the other thread at an apical-external angle relative to the body). The dual thread design allows for bidirectional locking of the dental implant in both the coronal and apical directions within the bone.

[0010] The inventors further recognize a new drilling protocol that allows for a narrower osteotomy relative to the implant core diameter, maximizing bone-to-implant contact and further improving stability. Thus, the present application discloses an approach to stability and resistance to micromotion that distinguishes the design from conventional dental implants or bone screws that are primarily designed for axial loading rather than to counter the lateral forces inherent in mastication. The disclosed thread geometry maintains more consistent bone engagement, even when only partially surrounded by bone or only partially surrounded by good bone, and provides reliable fixation through an interlocking mechanism created in the undercut space resulting from the angulation of the thread.

[0011] Recently, bone screws, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 11,596,459 B2, and dental implants with shaped flanks, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,337,205 B2, have been developed. However, these bone screws and dental implants have different configurations for the threads / flanks and function differently from the angled thread design of the present application. Regarding the '459 patent, it has a thread with an increased thickness at the apex. Furthermore, the thread is formed by multiple angular surfaces. Such designs are difficult or impossible to manufacture reliably. In contrast, the angled thread design of the present application can be manufactured using conventional methodologies similar to those of conventional thread designs. The '205 patent has a design methodology similar to the '459 patent, with a flank formed by multiple surfaces, which results in a change in angulation and utilizes a separate collar component rather than a second thread. This requires the user to handle at least two pieces instead of one piece when implanting. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012]

[0012] The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in the drawings, like numerals may describe like components in different views. Like numerals with different letter suffixes may represent different instances of like components. The drawings generally illustrate, by way of example, and not by way of limitation, various examples discussed in this document. [Figure 1]

[0013] FIG. 1 is a side view of a dental implant having a straight body design and a thread design for enhanced bone engagement according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 2]

[0014] FIG. 2 is a side view of another dental implant having a straight body design and a thread design for enhanced bone engagement according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 3]

[0015] FIG. 3 is a side view of a dental implant having a straight body design and a thread design for enhanced bone engagement according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 4]

[0016] FIG. 4 is a side view of yet another dental implant having a straight body design and a thread design for enhanced bone engagement according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A]

[0017] FIG. 4A is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the thread design of FIG. [Figure 5]

[0018] FIG. 5 is a side view of a dental implant having a tapered design for the body and threads to enhance bone engagement according to an example of the present application. [Figure 6]

[0019] FIG. 6 is a side view of another dental implant having another tapered body and thread design for enhanced bone engagement according to an example of the present application. [Figure 7]

[0020] FIG. 7 is a side view of a dental implant having a tapered body design but maintaining substantially the same thread diameter for a portion of the apical portion according to an example of the present application. [Figure 8]

[0021] FIG. 8 is a side view of another dental implant having a different tapered body design but maintaining the same thread diameter for a portion of the apical portion according to an example of the present application. [Figure 9]

[0022] FIG. 9 is a side view of yet another dental implant having a different tapered body design but maintaining the same thread diameter for a portion of the apical portion according to an example of the present application. [Figure 9A]

[0023] FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view of the dental implant of FIG. [Figure 9B]

[0024] FIG. 9B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the thread design of FIG. 9A. [Figure 10]

[0025] FIG. 10 is a side view of a dental implant having a reverse thread design according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 10A]

[0026] FIG. 10A is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the thread design of FIG. [Figure 11]

[0027] FIG. 11 is a side view of a dental implant having a dual thread design for enhanced bidirectional bone engagement according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 11A]

[0028] FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional view of the dental implant of FIG. [Figure 11B]

[0029] FIG. 11B is an enlarged view of a portion of the dental implant of FIG. 11 including the cutting mechanism. [Figure 12]

[0030] FIG. 12 is an assembly of the dental implant of FIGS. 11 to 11B bonded to bone according to one example of the present disclosure. [Figure 13]

[0031] FIG. 13 is another assembly of the dental implant of FIGS. 11-11B bonded to bone and having an exposed bone-free side according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 14]

[0032] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an interlocking engagement of a dental implant in an extraction socket according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 14A]

[0033] 14A is a second cross-sectional view of the dental implant and extraction socket of FIG. 14. FIG. [Figure 15]

[0034] FIG. 15 is a side view of a dental implant having a dual thread design for enhanced bidirectional bone engagement, similar to that of the embodiment of FIGS. 11-11B, according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 15A]

[0035] 16 is an enlarged view of a portion of the dental implant of FIG. 15, in particular the macrothreads of the apical and intermediate portions. [Figure 15B]

[0036] 16 is an enlarged view of a portion of the dental implant of FIG. 15, particularly the microthreads of the crown portion. [Figure 16]

[0037] FIG. 16 is a side view of a dental implant according to an example of the present application having a tapered design for the body and threads similar to those of FIGS. 5 and 6 , but further including a thread design having an undercut formed at least in part by a groove adjacent the base of the thread, the groove extending into the body of the dental implant. [Figure 17A]

[0038] FIG. 17A is a cross-sectional view of a dental implant according to one example of the present disclosure having a reverse thread design similar to that of the embodiment of FIGS. 10 and 10A, but with an undercut formed at least in part by a groove adjacent the base of the thread, the groove extending into the body of the dental implant. [Figure 17B]

[0039] FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view of the dental implant of FIG. [Figure 18A]

[0040] FIG. 18A is an enlarged view of a portion of the dental implant of FIG. 17A, particularly illustrating the undercut formed at least in part by a groove adjacent the base of the thread, which groove extends in more detail into the body of the dental implant. [Figure 18B]

[0041] FIG. 18B is an enlarged view of a portion of the dental implant of FIGS. 16 and 17B, particularly illustrating the undercut formed at least in part by a groove adjacent the base of the thread, which groove extends in more detail into the body of the dental implant. [Figure 19A]

[0042] FIG. 19A is a perspective view of a crown portion of a dental implant having a generally triangular cross-sectional shape according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 19B]

[0043] FIG. 19B is a perspective view of a crown portion of a dental implant having a generally cylindrical shape according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 20A]

[0044] FIG. 20A is a side view of a dental implant according to an example of the present application, having a tapered design for the body and threads similar to those of FIGS. 5 and 6, but having a thread design with a different undercut shape. [Figure 20B]

[0045] FIG. 20B is a side view of a dental implant having a reverse thread design similar to that of the embodiment of FIGS. 10 and 10A, but with a different thread design having an undercut shape, according to an example of the present application. [Figure 21A]

[0046] FIG. 21A is a cross-sectional view of the dental implant of FIG. 20A. [Figure 21B]

[0047] FIG. 21B is a cross-sectional view of the dental implant of FIG. 20B. [Figure 22A]

[0048] FIG. 22A is an enlarged view of a portion of the dental implant of FIGS. 20A and 21A, particularly illustrating the undercut in more detail. [Figure 22B]

[0049] FIG. 22B is an enlarged view of a portion of the dental implant of FIGS. 20B and 21B, particularly illustrating the undercut in more detail. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013]

[0050] The term "coronal" is used here and throughout this application to denote a direction toward the head or posterior end of the dental implant. Conversely, the term "apical" refers to a direction toward the insertion or tip end of the component. Thus, the apical and coronal directions are opposite directions. Furthermore, the terms "axial", "axial", or "axially" are used throughout this application to denote a direction from the coronal end to the apical end, or vice versa. The terms "radial", "radial direction", or "radially" refer to a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. The terms "lateral", "lateral direction", or "laterally" are used synonymously with the terms "radial", "radial" or "radially".

[0014]

[0051] The term "pitch" is used to indicate the axial distance between adjacent crests of the thread. The term "lead" is used to indicate the distance that the dental implant advances parallel to the longitudinal axis with one revolution, i.e., corresponds to the pitch multiplied by the number of helices of the thread. For a single-thread helix with a constant pitch, the lead is equal to the pitch, and for a double-thread helix, the lead is twice the pitch.

[0015]

[0052] FIG. 1 shows a dental implant 100 having a body 102, a first thread 104, a second thread 106, a cutting groove 108, a coronal portion 110, an intermediate portion 112, an apical portion 114, a coronal end 116, an apical end 118, a longitudinal axis LA, and a maximum thread diameter TD.

[0016]

[0053] In some embodiments, the dental implants described herein may have a substantially flat crown end surface perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the dental implant. Alternatively, the crown end surface may have an inclined contour relative to the longitudinal axis of the dental implant, such that, for example, when placed in the jawbone, the length of the dental implant is longer on the lingual side of the dental implant and shorter on the buccal side. Another alternative is a saddle-shaped or wavy crown end surface. The crown end may be any suitable shape. For example, it may be substantially cylindrical, approximately triangular, etc.

[0017]

[0054] Referring to FIG. 1 , the dental implant 100 is disposed along a longitudinal axis LA having a coronal portion 110 with a coronal end 116, an intermediate portion 112, and an apical portion 114 with an apical end 118. The longitudinal axis LA extends between the coronal end and the apical end. According to the example of FIG. 1 , the body 102 forming the core of the dental implant 100 has a straight body design that maintains a substantially uniform diameter along its longitudinal length along the longitudinal axis LA. The design of the body 102 and other features of the dental implant 100 can achieve substantially 100% bone-to-implant contact (e.g., contact along the entire length of the body 102 and the entire surface area of ​​the body 102, first thread 104, and / or second thread 106). However, depending on the application, other body designs and thread forms may be desirable, as described below.

[0018]

[0055] The body 102 can be made of a suitable material, such as a metal, such as titanium or a titanium alloy. This material can achieve biocompatibility with the patient's biological structure. Various surfaces of the body 102 and / or the first thread 104 and / or the second thread 106 can be roughened or otherwise configured to induce bone ingrowth, as is known in the art. The first thread 104 extends along the apical portion 114 and extends laterally outward from the body 102 relative to the longitudinal axis LA. According to some embodiments, the first thread 104 can extend to the intermediate portion 112. The first thread 104 has a helical shape, as is commonly known. However, the first thread 104 can be angulated in a novel manner, such as being inclined to extend apically and laterally relative to the longitudinal axis LA. The first thread 104 reaches a maximum thread diameter TD at its apex, as described further herein.

[0019]

[0056] The second thread 106 extends along the coronal portion 110 and can extend to the intermediate portion 112. The second thread 106 can be shaped differently from the first thread 104 and may or may not be angulated in the novel manner described herein. According to one example, the second thread 106 can be a microthread and the first thread can be a macrothread. The term "microthread" can be used to refer to a thread having a height of 0.25 mm or less. The term "macrothread" can be used to refer to a thread having a height greater than 0.25 mm. However, other differences in geometry between microthreads and macrothreads are also contemplated. Thus, according to some examples, the first thread 104 can be 1.1 to 50 times larger than the second thread 106. However, the arrangement and relative sizes of the macrothreads and microthreads can be varied from those shown according to further examples.

[0020]

[0057] The dental implant 100 includes milling grooves 108 that enable self-cutting thread capabilities, making the dental implant 100 less sensitive to variations in bone quality. The milling grooves 108 can interrupt the first thread 104 along some or all of the apical portion 114. However, according to other examples, one or more milling grooves 108 can extend into the intermediate portion 112 and / or the coronal portion 110.

[0021]

[0058] As described further herein and shown in more detail below, the first thread 104 is angled in the apical-lateral direction. Such angulation can be on both sides (first and second sides) of the first thread 104. According to some embodiments, the first thread 104 can form an acute angle of 45 to 85 degrees with respect to the outer surface of the body 102 along the first or second side, forming an undercut space for receiving bone therein. This undercut space adjacent the first or second side of the first thread 104 provides interlocking engagement with bone to resist lateral forces. The configuration of the first thread 104 with an interlocking feature formed as a result of the undercut space distinguishes the dental implant 100 of the present invention from conventional implant designs in which only the thread tip engages bone. Rather, in the dental implant 100 of the present invention, the first thread 104 includes at least one flank (or both sides), particularly in the area of ​​the undercut region that additionally engages bone. This is beneficial because the dental implant 100 has better lateral stability due to the lateral contact with the bone as a result of the angulation of the first thread 104 .

[0022]

[0059] 2 through 4 show additional examples of dental implants 200, 300, and 400, respectively. These examples have a straight body design similar to that of FIG. 1, but include different shapes of the first and second threads. However, each of dental implants 200, 300, and 400 utilizes an angled first thread as described in FIG. 1. Note that the greater the lateral distance the first thread extends from the body, the greater the fixation capability of the dental implant. Thus, dental implant 200 achieves greater fixation than, for example, those of FIGS. 1 and 3.

[0023]

[0060] 4 shows a dental implant 400 having a straight design for the body 402, with the diameter of the body 402 being substantially the same, and having a first thread 404 having substantially the same maximum diameter at its apex between substantially 50% and substantially 85% of its elongated extent. FIG. 4 additionally shows a kerf 408 extending from the apical portion 414 to at least the intermediate portion 412. The kerf 408 forms a bone-cutting feature 408A for the second thread 406, in addition to forming a bone-cutting feature for the first thread 404. The kerf 408 (and thus the cutting feature formed thereby) may be continuous or discontinuous, according to various embodiments.

[0024]

[0061] Figure 4A shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the body 402 and a portion of the first thread 404 of Figure 4. Figure 4A shows the dental implant 400, the body 402, the outer surface 402A of the body 402, the first thread 404, the lateral distance LD of the first thread 404, the pitch P of the first thread 404, the first side 420 of the first thread 404, the crest 422 of the first thread 404, the second side 424 of the first thread 404, the undercut space 426, the acute angle A1, the obtuse angle A2, and the radius R.

[0025]

[0062] As shown in FIG. 4A , the body 402 can have an outer surface 402A. The first thread 404 extends a lateral distance LD outward from the body 402. As shown in FIG. 4A , the first thread 404 includes a first side 420 extending from the body 402 at an obtuse angle A2 relative to the outer surface 402A. The first side 420 connects to an apex 422 at an extent outer than the first side 420. The second side 424 extends from the apex 422 back to the body 402, forming an acute angle A1. The acute angle A1 can be between 45 and 85 degrees relative to the outer surface 402A. For example, the acute angle A1 can be in the range of 45 degrees, 55 degrees, 60 degrees, 45 to 55 degrees, 55 to 60 degrees, 60 to 65 degrees, 65 to 70 degrees, 70 to 75 degrees, 75 to 80 degrees, 80 to 85 degrees, etc. According to one example, a desired range for A1 is from about 60 degrees to about 70 degrees. However, other ranges, such as the examples above, are also contemplated. While the acute angle A1 is not shown or specifically discussed in many of the figures herein, it is understood that such an acute angle is created by the thread configuration in many of the exemplary embodiments discussed herein. This acute angle A1 forms an undercut space 426 between and adjacent the second side 424 and the body 402. The undercut space 426 provides an interlocking engagement with bone or an extraction socket to resist lateral forces applied to the dental implant 400, as previously described.

[0026]

[0063] Obtuse angle A2 can vary with the difference in acute angle A1 and thus can range from 135 degrees to 95 degrees relative to outer surface 402A. For example, obtuse angle A2 may range from 135 degrees, 125 degrees, 120 degrees, 135 to 125 degrees, 125 to 120 degrees, 120 to 115 degrees, 115 to 110 degrees, 110 to 105 degrees, 105 to 100 degrees, 100 to 95 degrees, etc. According to one example, a desired range for A2 is from about 120 degrees to about 110 degrees. However, other ranges, such as the example above, are also contemplated.

[0027]

[0064] The crest 422 may be pointed, rounded, angular, or of other shape, as shown in FIG. 4A , or may be blunt (not flat). The first side 420 of the first thread 404 may be substantially parallel to the second side 424, or may differ therefrom, as in the example shown in FIG. 4A . This difference in the angle of the first side 420 relative to the second side 424 may be from 0.1 degrees to substantially 40 degrees, inclusive. This difference in angulation between the first side 420 and the second side 424 may result in the first thread 404 narrowing in thickness as one moves outward toward the crest 422, or increasing in thickness as one moves outward toward the crest 422. As a result, the crest 422 may be relatively thinner or thicker at its attachment to the body 402 than the base of the first thread 404. 4A, first side 420 and second side 424 are formed by substantially single surfaces 420A and 424A, respectively, that are disposed at respective angles, causing first thread 404 to fully angle on both first side 420 and second side 424 with a single surface extending between body 402 and top 422.

[0028]

[0065] The radius R can provide a connection between the second side 424 and the body 402. However, edges shown as rounded in FIG. 4A can be sharp, and those shown as sharp can be chamfered (rounded) in alternative embodiments. The radius R can be, for example, 0.05 mm to 0.5 mm. The lateral distance LD can vary depending on the application and desired fixation. According to one example, the lateral distance LD can be 1.0 mm to 0.1 mm, although other dimensions are contemplated. In the example of FIG. 4A, the first side 420 can be the coronal side of the first thread 404, and the second side 424 can be the apical side of the first thread 404.

[0029]

[0066] FIG. 5 illustrates another example dental implant 500. The dental implant 500 can include threads that form undercuts, as described above. The dental implant 500 includes a body 502 and a first thread 504 having a maximum thread diameter TD. The tapered design of the body 502 results in the body 502 having a gradually decreasing cross-sectional area, particularly in the apical portion 514. The angle of taper of the body 502 can be between 0.1 degrees and 25 degrees, inclusive. The first thread 504 along the apical portion 514 also gradually decreases in diameter along the apical portion 514 toward the apical end 518. As a result, the lateral distance of the apex of the first thread 504 gradually decreases from a maximum thread diameter TD near the intermediate portion 512 to a smaller diameter at and adjacent the apical end 518.

[0030]

[0067] Figure 6 shows another dental implant 600 with a tapered body design similar to that of the example in Figure 5. The dental implants 500 and 600 in the examples of Figures 5 and 6, as well as the dental implants in Figures 7 through 9B described later, can offer advantages, including increased installation torque through increased pressure and friction, due to the tapered body configuration compressing the surrounding bone during installation. This controlled bone compression, which can range from 1 to 20%, provides increased rotational stability, which can be beneficial when coupling an abutment to the implant. Bone compression along the elongated extent of the body helps resist implant rotation, particularly when the abutment is attached via a screw. From a surgical perspective, the tapered design allows for a simplified and standardized approach, as osteotomies can be prepared only at the tip of the body diameter rather than the entire body diameter. This allows for the use of a single drilling protocol that works effectively across all bone types. The tapered body design can achieve 100% bone-to-implant contact, providing enhanced support, leading to high primary installation stability. This complete contact is critical for successful osseointegration and long-term implant stability. This design is particularly useful in extraction socket applications, where the tapered profile helps achieve optimal fit and stability even when only a portion of the implant's periphery engages the bone. Additionally, tapered designs can have self-cutting threads and specific cutting features in both the apical and coronal portions. These features, combined with the tapered body geometry, produce an implant that effectively prepares its path during insertion while maintaining the structural benefits of the tapered design.

[0031]

[0068] 7 to 9A show dental implants 700, 800, and 900, respectively. These dental implants 700, 800, and 900 further have a third configuration that differs from the previous two configurations of FIGS. 1 to 6. While dental implants 700, 800, and 900 have a tapered body design including a tapered core (body), each dental implant 700, 800, and 900 has threads in the apical region that maintain substantially the same outer diameter at its apex over at least 50% to substantially 85% of the longitudinal extent of the apical portion before decreasing in diameter toward the apical end. Such a configuration further improves the fixation capabilities of dental implants 700, 800, and 900.

[0032]

[0069] 7, dental implant 700 has a body 702 and a first thread 704 that has different lateral distances along an apical portion 714. In particular, a first lateral distance 704A near the top of the apical portion 714 is different from a lateral distance 704B, for example, near the middle-to-lower distance of the apical portion 714. This difference in lateral distances is a result of the maximum thread diameter TD of the first thread 704 being the same for at least 50% and substantially 85% of the longitudinal extent of the apical portion 714 before decreasing in diameter toward the apical end 718.

[0033]

[0070] 9 and 9A show a dental implant having a body tapered design including a body 902 and threads 904. FIG. 9A shows that the lateral distance of the first thread 904 increases somewhat as one moves toward the apical end before decreasing toward the apical end. Thus, the maximum thread reach (lateral distance) can be achieved between 50% and 85% of the apical portion of the first thread 904 before decreasing in reach toward the apical end. FIG. 9A further shows a mating recess 928 and a mating feature 930 for receiving and capturing an abutment and fastener.

[0034]

[0071]

[0041] Figure 9B shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the body 902 and a portion of the first thread 904 of Figure 9A. The example of Figure 9B can be similar or identical to that described above with respect to Figure 4A. Accordingly, Figure 9B shows the dental implant 900, the body 902, the outer surface 902A of the body, the first thread 904, the lateral distance LD of the first thread 904, the first side 920 of the first thread 924, the crest 922 of the first thread 904, the second side of the first thread 904, the undercut space 926, the acute angle A1, the second acute angle A3, and the radius R.

[0035]

[0072] The first thread 904 includes a first side 920 (coronal) extending from the body 902 at a second acute angle A3 (corresponding to the obtuse angle A2 selected in FIG. 4A ) relative to the outer surface 402A. The first side 920 connects to an apex 922 at the outer extent of the first side 920. A second side 924 (apical) extends from the apex 922 back to the body 902, forming an acute angle A1. The acute angle A1 may be between 45 and 85 degrees relative to the outer surface 902A. This acute angle A1 forms an undercut space 926 between and adjacent the second side 924 and the body 902. The undercut space 926 provides an interlocking engagement with bone or an extraction socket to resist lateral forces applied to the dental implant 400, as previously described. The acute angle A1 may be substantially the same as the second acute angle A3, or may differ by between 0.1 degrees and substantially 40 degrees inclusive.

[0036]

[0073] FIG. 10 illustrates yet another example of a dental implant 1000 having a fourth configuration. FIG. 10A illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the body 1002 and a portion of the first thread 1004 of FIG. 10 . This configuration can include a body 1002 having a straight or tapered configuration as previously described, but with a first thread 1004 having a different design. In particular, the first thread 1004 configuration can have angulation in a coronal-lateral direction rather than the apical-lateral direction of FIGS. 1 to 9B . The first thread 1004 configuration can eliminate undercuts, which allows for easier cleaning, debridement, and biofilm removal. This configuration also makes the dental implant 1000 useful for treating peri-implantitis. However, the first thread 1004 configuration still maintains the radial tension locking thread functionality described above, allowing the dental implant 1000 to still provide improved stability against lateral loads.

[0037]

[0074] Figure 10A shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the body 1002 and a portion of the first thread 1004 of Figure 10. Figure 10A shows the dental implant 1000, the body 1002, the outer surface 1002A of the body, the first thread 1004, a first side 1020 of the first thread 1004, a crest 1022 of the first thread 1004, a second side 1024 of the first thread 1004, a space 1026, an acute angle A1, and an obtuse angle A2.

[0038]

[0075] As shown in FIG. 10A , the body 1002 can have an outer surface 1002A. The first thread 1004 includes a first side 1020 (coronal) extending from the body 1002 at an acute angle A1 relative to the outer surface 1002A. The first side 1020 connects to an apex 1022 at an outer extent of the first side 1020. A second side 1024 extends from the apex 1022 back to the body 402, forming an obtuse angle A2. The acute angle A1 can be between 45 and 85 degrees relative to the outer surface 1002A. The acute angle A1 forms a space 1026 between and adjacent the first side 1020 and the body 1002. The configuration of Figure 10A is similar to the configuration of Figure 4A described above, except that instead of the apical (second side) having an acute angle as in Figure 4A, the coronal (first side) has an acute angle A1 in Figure 10A. The second side 1024 of the first thread 1004 may be substantially parallel to the first side 1020, or may be different from the first side 220, as in the example shown in Figure 10A. This difference in the angle of the second side 1024 from the first side 1020 may be from 0.1 degrees to substantially 40 degrees, inclusive.

[0039]

[0076] 11, 11A, and 11B show yet another example of a dental implant 1100 having a fifth configuration. All exemplary configurations discussed herein (1 through 5 of FIGS. 1 through 11B, and additional exemplary dental implants to be shown and discussed) can have a dental implant configured to achieve bone contact over substantially the entire surface area of ​​the body and first thread.

[0040]

[0077] 11 , a dental implant 1100 can include a body 1102, a first thread 1104, a second thread 1106, one or more cutting grooves 1108, a coronal portion 1110, and an apical portion 1114. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 11A , the dental implant 1100 can include a coupling recess 1128 and a coupling mechanism 1130 for coupling with an abutment and a fastener.

[0041]

[0078] Returning to FIG. 11 , the second thread 1106 can extend along the coronal portion 1110 but can differ from the previously shown examples in that the second thread 1106 can have angulation in the coronal-lateral direction rather than utilizing a standard thread design. In addition, the dental implant includes a first thread 1104 angled in the apical-lateral direction, similar to any of the examples in FIGS. 1 through 9B . Thus, the example in FIGS. 11 through 11B combines a fourth configuration utilized for the coronal portion second thread 1106 with any of the previously described first through third configurations for the first thread and body. The configuration of the dental implant 1100 having both a first thread angled in different directions (apical-lateral and coronal-lateral) and an angled second thread provides locking in both the coronal and apical directions through this opposing thread cutting pattern.

[0042]

[0079] 11B, the one or more cutting flutes 1108 can extend continuously from the apical portion 1114 to the coronal portion 1110. This allows a plurality of cutting features 1108A to be formed on the first thread 1104, and one or more cutting features 1108B to be formed on the second thread 1106. Thus, as shown in FIG. 11B, the first thread 1104 is configured to form a plurality of self-cutting features 1108A, and the second thread 1106 forms one or more self-cutting features 1108B. The plurality of self-cutting features 1108A and the one or more self-cutting features 1108B are from the flute 1108 extending from the apical portion 1114 to the coronal portion 1110 in a continuous, uninterrupted manner.

[0043]

[0080] 12 shows an assembly 1200 of the dental implant 1100 of FIGS. 11-11B with bone 1201. The assembly 1200 exhibits an undercut space 1126 of bone-thread engagement adjacent the first thread 1104, e.g., just below its second apical side. Additionally, the assembly 1200 exhibits a space 1126A of thread-bone engagement adjacent the second thread 1106, e.g., just above its first coronal side. This configuration provides locking in both the coronal and apical directions through this opposing thread pattern, as well as the improved lateral stability mentioned above.

[0044]

[0081] 13 shows an assembly 1300 in which the dental implant 1100 is only engaged with the bone 1201 along its first side and has an exposed second side 1301 that does not engage the bone 1201. This may be the result of bone 1201 recession or may be due to poor bone quality in the area of ​​implantation. Accordingly, FIG. 13 shows a configuration of the assembly 1300 in which the body 1102 and first thread 1104 are configured to expose a first portion of the circumference of the body 1102 and first thread 1104 from the bone (in area 1301), and the first thread 1104 (and, in this example, also the second thread 1106) are configured to provide sufficient fixation to resist lateral forces when engaging the bone only along a second portion of the circumference of the body 1102 and first thread 1104.

[0045]

[0082] 12 , a method 1302 for embedding a dental implant, such as dental implant 1100, into bone, such as bone 1201, can be utilized. The method 1302 can include drilling to form an opening having a diameter substantially the same as the diameter of the apical tip of the body 1102 of the dental implant 1100, inserting the dental implant 1100 into the opening, and engaging the dental implant with the bone apically using the first thread 1104 and coronally using the second thread 1106. Engaging the dental implant 1100 can result from the first thread 1104 being angled apically-laterally to form an undercut space adjacent the apical side of the first thread 1104, and the second thread 1106 being angled coronally-laterally to create a space adjacent the coronal side of the second thread 1106.

[0046]

[0083] 14 and 14A are cross-sectional views showing assembly 1400 with dental implant 1401A interlockingly engaged within extraction socket 1401B. Extraction socket 1401B is an empty cavity in the jawbone remaining after tooth extraction and can serve as a site for dental implant placement. Extraction socket 1401B typically has a cone-shaped configuration, and the implant placed therein is typically positioned as shown, with one side of the implant engaging the bone while the other side remains exposed.

[0047]

[0084] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 14A , the dental implant 1401A includes a body 1402 and a first thread 1404 as previously described. The extraction socket 1401B includes a recess 1403. The body 1402 and the first thread 1404 are exposed on a first side 1405 as a result of the recess 1403. FIGS. 14 and 14A show a configuration of the assembly 1400 in which the body 1402 and the first thread 1404 are configured to expose a first portion of the outer periphery of the body 1402 and the first thread 1404 (in the area 1405 due to the recess 1403) from the extraction socket 1401B. FIGS. 14 and 14A illustrate that the dental implant 1401A can be optimized for support in any case of partial bone contact, which may occur due to placement in an extraction socket, narrow bone walls, undesirable jawbone shape, or bone loss. 14 and 14A show a simplified worst-case model of a socket that can be used to simulate what a dental implant 1401A would do in a worst-case bone scenario.

[0048]

[0085] As shown in Figures 13-14A, thread configurations such as first thread 1404 in Figures 14 and 14A provide enhanced fixation when engaging bone along only a portion of its circumference. This can be important in scenarios where the implant may achieve only partial bone contact. The angled thread design for dental implant 1401A creates an undercut space (as described and shown) that provides excellent grip with the bone and provides better resistance to lateral forces, even in cases of limited bone engagement.

[0049]

[0086] 15, 15A, and 15B show yet another example of a dental implant 1500 having a sixth configuration similar to that of the fifth configuration previously shown in Figures 11-11B. Referring initially to Figure 15, the dental implant 1500 can include a body 1502, a first thread 1504, a second thread 1506, one or more cutting grooves 1508, a crown portion 1510, and an apical portion 1514.

[0050]

[0087] As shown in FIG. 15 , the second thread 1506 can extend along the coronal portion 1510, but can differ from the previously shown examples in that the second thread 1506 can have angulation in the coronal-lateral direction rather than utilizing a standard thread design. In addition, the dental implant includes a first thread 1504 angled in the apical-lateral direction, similar to any of the examples in FIGS. 1 to 9B and 11 to 11B . Thus, the example in FIGS. 15 to 15B combines the fourth configuration in a manner similar to the fifth configuration in FIGS. 11 to 11B , in which the coronal portion second thread 1506 is angled in a direction opposite to that of the apical and / or intermediate portions. Thus, the configuration of the dental implant 1500 having both an angled first thread and an angled second thread in different directions (apical-lateral and coronal-lateral) provides locking in both the coronal and apical directions through this opposing threading pattern.

[0051]

[0088] 15, one or more cutting grooves 1508 can extend continuously from the apical portion 1514 to the coronal portion 1510. This allows multiple cutting features similar to those previously described to be formed on the first thread 1504 and the second thread 1506.

[0052]

[0089] 15A shows a cross-sectional view of a dental implant 1500 at an apical portion 1514, illustrating the design of the first thread 1504. The angulation shown, and other geometries such as the radius of the first thread 1504 relative to the body 1502, are exemplary and may vary from example to example. Similarly, FIG. 15B shows a cross-sectional view of a dental implant 1500 at a coronal portion 1510, illustrating the design of the second thread 1506. The angulation shown, and other geometries such as the radius of the second thread 1506 relative to the body 1502, are exemplary and may vary from example to example.

[0053]

[0090] FIGS. 16, 17B, and 18B illustrate a dental implant 1600 according to a seventh configuration. The dental implant 1600 can have a tapered design for the body and threads similar to those of FIGS. 5 and 6. The dental implant 1600 can include threads that provide an adjacent undercut, as previously described. As previously described, this undercut from the thread design provides improved stability when implanted in bone. The thread angle of the dental implant 1600 depicted in FIG. 18B is 65 degrees, which is within the previously described range of 45 to 85 degrees. As previously described, the thread angle and shape provide an undercut space, which, as previously described, improves the stability of the dental implant 1600 when implanted in bone. Furthermore, the 65 degrees shown in FIG. 18B is merely illustrative of one particular embodiment, and various ranges previously described are contemplated according to further embodiments. As with the previous example and examples described later herein, the first thread 1604 can extend any suitable distance along the length of the dental implant 1600. In some embodiments, the threads may be present for up to 90% of the length of the dental implant 1600, although other lengths are possible.

[0054]

[0091] As best shown in FIG. 18B , the dental implant 1600 differs from other embodiments of the present disclosure in that it includes a thread design for the first thread 1604 having an undercut space 1626 formed in part by a groove 1626′ adjacent the base of the first thread 1604, with the groove 1626′ extending into the body 1602 of the dental implant 1600. FIG. 18B illustrates the shape of the groove 1626′, which can be fairly shallow (e.g., having a depth into the body 1602) of less than 1 mm, less than 0.1 mm, or less than 0.01 mm. FIG. 18B illustrates an exemplary depth of 0.05 mm, according to one example, along with several other related shapes of the first thread 1604. According to one example, the first thread 1604 can include the groove 1604′ along the entire length that the first thread 1626 extends, such that the total surface area of ​​the groove 1626′ is approximately 4 mm in the example dental implant 1600 shown. 2That is, there is a distance of about 4 mm between the first thread 1604 and body 1602 with the groove 1626' and the dental implant without the groove. 2 In some examples according to the present disclosure, the surface area of ​​groove 1626′ may be defined by comparing the cutting surface of a tool used to cut into body 1602 to form groove 1626′ to the surface of a tool used to form a conventional thread design that does not form an undercut. The difference determined for the surface cut from body 1602 may correspond to the surface area of ​​groove 1626′.

[0055]

[0092] 17A and 18A illustrate yet another exemplary dental implant 1700 according to an eighth configuration. The dental implant 1700 may have a configuration similar to that of the dental implant 1000 of FIGS. 10 and 10A described above, but includes a thread design for the first thread 1726 having an undercut space 1726 formed in part by a groove 1726′ adjacent the base of the first thread 1704 (as shown in FIG. 18A ), the groove 1726′ extending into the body 1702 of the dental implant 1700. Thus, the embodiment of FIGS. 17A and 18A combines the concepts of FIGS. 10 and 10A with those of FIGS. 16 , 17B , and 18B . The dental implant 1700 may include threads that provide an adjacent undercut, as described above. As described above, this undercut from the thread design provides improved stability when implanted in bone. The thread angle of the dental implant 1700 depicted in FIG. 18A is 65 degrees, which is within the aforementioned range of 45 to 85 degrees. As previously mentioned, the thread angle and shape provide an undercut space, which improves the stability of the dental implant 1700 when implanted in bone, as previously mentioned. Furthermore, the 65 degrees shown in FIG. 18A is merely illustrative of one particular embodiment, and the various ranges previously mentioned are contemplated according to further embodiments. Again, while an exemplary shape of the first thread 1704 and groove 1726′ is shown in FIG. 18A , this is merely an example of dimensions in millimeters that may be used according to one embodiment.

[0056]

[0093] The advantage of having groove 1626' and / or groove 1726' recognized herein is that the recess provides a chamber in which blood can collect, which in addition to helping to form undercut space 1626 and / or undercut space 1726, has a positive effect on osseointegration, among other advantages.

[0057]

[0094] 19A shows another example of a dental implant 1800 having a crown portion 1810 with a generally triangular cross-sectional configuration. This may be the result of, for example, one or more flats 1801 (substantially flat surfaces) along a section of the crown portion 1810 or a non-circular thread and / or body 1802. The dental implant 1800 may have a thread design according to a seventh configuration.

[0058]

[0095] 19B shows an example of a dental implant 1900 having a generally cylindrical crown portion 1910. The dental implant 1900 may also have a thread design according to a seventh configuration.

[0059]

[0096] 20A, 21A, and 22A show a dental implant 2000 according to the ninth configuration. The dental implant 2000 can have a configuration similar to that of the dental implant 1600 of FIGS. 16, 17B, and 18B, but differs in that, as best shown in FIG. 22A, the dental implant 2000 includes a thread design for a first thread 2004 having a first side that forms a portion of an undercut space 2026. The first side of the first thread 2004 (and therefore the portion of the undercut space 2026 defined thereby) is formed by a continuous radius CR that extends from the base of the first thread 2004 (from the body 2002) to its apex. The continuous radius CR provides an exaggerated curvature on the apical side of the first thread 2004. As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 22A, the continuous radius CR can be 0.3 mm with a 0.8 mm pitch and a 0.1 mm thread thickness. Thus, the continuous radius CR can extend over 37.5% of the pitch. However, other lengths of the continuous radius CR are contemplated. The continuous radius CR of this design of dental implant 2000 is similar to the radius R shown in FIGS. 4 and 15 , except that the radius of curvature of the continuous radius CR extends closer to the tip / apex of the thread, whereas in other designs, the radius terminates closer to the base. Thus, it is contemplated that the other designs discussed above can be provided with radiuses of curvature of various lengths, providing different curvatures of the radial cut, as desired. As previously mentioned, the dimensions provided herein are merely illustrative of one example of dental implant 2000.

[0060]

[0097] Figures 20B, 21B, and 22B show a dental implant 2100 according to a tenth configuration. The dental implant 2100 can have a configuration similar to that of Figures 20A, 21A, and 22A, but can have a thread configuration similar to that of Figures 17A and 18A and 10 and 10A described above. Thus, the dental implant 2100 has a reverse thread direction relative to the first thread 2104 in the example of Figures 20B, 21B, and 22B.

[0061]

[0098] Purely by way of example, the length of any of the dental implants described and illustrated herein may range from 5 to 19 mm, depending on the clinical situation. In some instances, the outer diameter of the dental implant may suitably be within a range of 2 to 6 mm, such as 3 to 5 mm. The dental implant may be substantially cylindrical or may taper slightly from the coronal end to the apical end. If the dental implant has a slight taper, the body of the dental implant and the outer periphery, e.g., defined by the tips / crests of the threads, may have the same or different taper angles. Furthermore, the body of the dental implant may be cylindrical while the tips / crests describe a cone, or conversely, the body of the dental implant may be tapered while the tips / crests describe a generally cylindrical shape. Alternatively, the dental implant may comprise a combination of one or more cylindrical portions and / or one or more tapered portions. Thus, one or more portions of the dental implant may, for example, have thread tips / crests that lie in a common imaginary cylindrical plane, the cylindrical plane being parallel to the longitudinal axis of the dental implant. Alternatively or additionally, one or more portions of the dental implant may have thread tips / apexes that lie in an imaginary conical surface that tapers apically toward the longitudinal axis. The description in this paragraph may be applicable to certain examples / embodiments, but may not apply to other examples / embodiments discussed above.

[0062]

[0099] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, one or more of the dental implants illustrated and described herein may include microthreads having a height in the range of 0.02 to 0.2 mm, such as 0.05 to 0.15 mm, e.g., 0.1 mm. According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the dental implant may include macrothreads having a height in the range of 0.25 to 0.35 mm, such as 0.3 mm. However, according to further examples, other dimensions are contemplated.

[0063]

[0100] Suitably, the microthreads may be located crown of the macrothreads. For example, the microthreads may be positioned to engage dense cortical bone, and the macrothreads may be positioned to engage porous cancellous / cancellous bone. In some examples, the lead of the microthreads may suitably correspond to the lead of the macrothreads. The macrothread pitch may be, by way of example, 2 to 4 times, e.g., 3 times, the pitch of the microthreads. The pitch (spacing between crests) in the microthreaded portion may be approximately 0.10 to 0.35 mm, e.g., 0.20 to 0.24 mm. The pitch (spacing between crests) in the macrothreaded portion may be approximately 0.30 to 1.2 mm, e.g., 0.60 to 0.72 mm, or approximately 0.8 to 0.9 mm. However, by way of further example, other dimensions are contemplated.

[0064]

[0101] Microthreads can be considered as defined directional roughness. For example, non-directional roughness with smaller dimensions, obtained by blasting, etching, etc., may be superimposed on the microthreads in the same manner as macrothreads. Furthermore, according to one embodiment, it is contemplated herein that only the microthreads in the coronal portion are angled and have undercut spaces, while the macrothreads in the apical portion do not have angled portions that form undercut spaces (thus, the macrothreads utilize existing / traditional macrothread designs that do not form undercuts). The microthread design in the coronal portion of such an example may be similar to FIGS. 11 and 15. Furthermore, alternatively, according to yet another embodiment, the microthreads may alternatively be angled in the apical-lateral direction (as shown for some macrothread embodiments previously described).

[0065] Examples and Additional Notes

[0102] To further illustrate the devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein, the following non-limiting examples are provided below and referred to as embodiments.

[0066]

[0103] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, the dental implant comprising: a body having a crown portion with a crown end, a mid-portion, and an apical portion with an apical end; the body having a longitudinal axis extending from the crown end to the apical end; and optionally a first thread extending along and from at least one of a portion of the apical portion or a portion of the crown portion, wherein the first thread comprises a first side extending from the body, an apex connected to the first side at an outer extent of the first side, and a second side connected to the apex opposite the first side, wherein the second side extends from the apex to the body, wherein the second side forms an acute angle of 45 to 85 degrees with an outer surface of the body and creates an undercut space adjacent thereto, the undercut space providing interlocking engagement with bone or an extraction socket and resisting lateral forces applied to the dental implant.

[0067]

[0104] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, wherein the first side optionally forms an obtuse angle with respect to an outer surface of the body.

[0068]

[0105] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, optionally wherein a first side of the first thread is substantially parallel to a second side.

[0069]

[0106] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, optionally where a first side is formed by a substantially single surface disposed at an obtuse angle, and optionally where a second side is formed by a substantially single surface disposed at an acute angle, whereby the first thread is substantially fully angled on both the first side and the second side.

[0070]

[0107] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, optionally wherein the first side is a coronal side of a first thread and the second side is an apical side.

[0071]

[0108] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, optionally wherein the body has one of a substantially uniform diameter over up to 85% of the apical portion or a taper that results in a diameter that decreases along the apical portion from the crown to the apical portion, and wherein, optionally, the first thread maintains substantially the same outer diameter to the apex for at least 50% to 85% of the longitudinal extent of the apical portion before decreasing in diameter toward the apical end.

[0072]

[0109] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to dental implants, optionally configured to be inserted into osteotomy sites where the body has the same shape, whether the body has a substantially uniform diameter or has a taper that results in a reduced diameter.

[0073]

[0110] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, optionally wherein the undercut space is at least partially formed by a groove extending into the body adjacent the first side.

[0074]

[0111] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, wherein the first side is formed by a substantially continuous radius extending from the body to the apex.

[0075]

[0112] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant further optionally including a second thread extending along and from at least a second portion of the coronal portion of the body or the apical portion of the body, wherein the second thread optionally includes a coronal side extending from the body, a second apex connected to the coronal side at an outer extent of the coronal side, and an apical side connected to the second apex opposite the coronal side, wherein the apical side extends from the second apex to the body, wherein the coronal side forms a second acute angle of 45 to 85 degrees with the outer surface of the body to form a space between the apex and the body that provides a second interlocking engagement with the bone or extraction socket.

[0076]

[0113] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, optionally having a first thread angled to extend in one of an apical-lateral or coronal-lateral direction and a second thread angled to extend in one of an apical-lateral or coronal-lateral direction.

[0077]

[0114] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, where, optionally, when the first thread is angled to extend in an apical-lateral direction, the second thread is angled to extend in a coronal-lateral direction, and optionally, when the first thread is angled to extend in a coronal-lateral direction, the second thread is angled to extend in an apical-lateral direction.

[0078]

[0115] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, optionally wherein a first thread is a macrothread and a second thread is a microthread, and optionally wherein the first thread is configured to form a plurality of self-cutting features and the second thread forms one or more self-cutting features, and optionally wherein the plurality of self-cutting features and the one or more self-cutting features are from a groove that extends continuously from an apical portion to a coronal portion.

[0079]

[0116] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, optionally configured to achieve contact with bone over substantially the entire surface area of ​​the body and the first thread.

[0080]

[0117] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, optionally wherein the top portion has a reduced thickness compared to the base portion of the first thread that forms a connection with the body.

[0081]

[0118] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, the dental implant comprising: a body having a coronal portion with a coronal end, a mid-portion, and an apical portion with an apical end; the body having a longitudinal axis extending from the coronal end to the apical end; and optionally a first thread extending along and from at least one of a portion of the apical portion of the body or a portion of the coronal portion of the body, wherein the first thread has a first side formed by a substantially single surface disposed at an obtuse angle relative to an outer surface of the body and a second side formed by a substantially single surface disposed at an acute angle relative to the outer surface of the body, whereby the first thread is substantially fully tapered on both its first and second sides or is fully rounded on at least its first side from the outer surface of the body to the crest of the first thread, whereby the first thread forms an undercut space adjacent thereto that provides interlocking engagement with bone or an extraction socket to resist lateral forces applied to the dental implant.

[0082]

[0119] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, optionally wherein the body and first thread are configured to expose a first portion around the body and first thread from the bone or extraction socket, and the first thread is configured to provide sufficient fixation to resist lateral forces when engaging the bone or extraction socket along only a second portion around the body and first thread.

[0083]

[0120] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, optionally wherein the second side forms an acute angle of 45 to 85 degrees with respect to the outer surface of the body.

[0084]

[0121] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, optionally wherein the body has one of a substantially uniform diameter over up to 85% of the apical portion or a taper that provides a decreasing diameter along the apical portion from the crown to the apical portion, and wherein, optionally, before reducing in diameter toward the apical end, the first thread maintains an outer diameter of the first thread substantially the same between at least 50% and 85% of the longitudinal extent of the apical portion.

[0085]

[0122] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant further optionally including a second thread extending along and from at least a portion of a coronal portion of the body, wherein the second thread includes a coronal side extending from the body, an apex connected to the coronal side at an outer extent of the coronal side, and an apex connected to the apex opposite the coronal side, wherein the apex side optionally extends from the apex to the body, and wherein the coronal side optionally forms an acute angle of 45 to 85 degrees with the outer surface of the body to create a space between the apex and the body that provides a second interlocking engagement with bone or an extraction socket.

[0086]

[0123] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, optionally wherein a first thread is angled to extend in one of an apical-lateral direction or a coronal-lateral direction, and wherein a second thread is angled to extend in an apical-lateral direction or a coronal-lateral direction, and wherein, optionally, when the first thread is angled to extend in the apical-lateral direction, the second thread is angled to extend in the coronal-lateral direction, and wherein, optionally, when the first thread is angled to extend in the coronal-lateral direction, the second thread is angled to extend in the apical-lateral direction.

[0087]

[0124] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a dental implant, optionally configured to achieve contact with bone over substantially the entire surface area of ​​the body and the first thread.

[0088]

[0125] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method of embedding a dental implant in bone, the method optionally including drilling an opening to create a dental implant, wherein the opening has a diameter substantially the same as the diameter of the apical tip of the body of the dental implant, inserting the dental implant into the opening, and engaging the dental implant with the bone in an apical direction using a first thread and in a coronal direction using a second thread.

[0089]

[0126] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method, optionally wherein engaging the dental implant is by a first thread being angled in an apical-lateral direction, thereby forming an undercut space adjacent an apical side of the first thread, and a second thread being angled in a coronal-lateral direction, thereby forming a space adjacent a coronal side of the second thread.

[0090]

[0127] The above aspects can include any one or combination of the features or elements discussed or listed herein.

[0091]

[0128] The above description is intended to be illustrative, not limiting. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other examples may be utilized by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 CFR §1.72(b) to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. The Abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be construed as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in fewer than all features of a particular disclosed example. Accordingly, the following claims are incorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate example, and it is contemplated that such examples can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full range of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

[0092]

[0129] The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as "examples." Such examples may include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the inventors also contemplate examples in which only the elements shown or described are provided. Furthermore, the inventors also contemplate examples that use any combination or permutation of the elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof) with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to any other example (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

[0093]

[0130] As used herein, the terms "a" or "an" are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more, regardless of any other instance or use of "at least one" or "one or more." As used herein, the term "or" is used to refer to non-exclusiveness, such that "A or B" includes "A but not B," "B but not A," and "A and B," unless otherwise indicated. As used herein, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the plain-English equivalents of the terms "comprising" and "wherein," respectively. Also, in the following claims, the terms "including" and "comprising" are open-ended, i.e., systems, devices, articles, compositions, formulations, or processes that include elements in addition to those recited after such terms in a claim are still deemed to be within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

Claims

1. 1. A dental implant, comprising: a body having a coronal portion having a coronal end, an intermediate portion, and an apical portion having an apical end, said body having a longitudinal axis extending from said coronal end to said apical end; a first thread extending along and from at least one of a portion of the apical portion or a portion of the coronal portion, wherein the first thread comprises: a first side extending from the body; an apex connected to the first side at an outer extent of the first side; and a second side connected to the apex opposite from the first side, wherein the second side extends from the apex to the body, wherein the second side forms an acute angle of 45 to 85 degrees with an outer surface of the body and creates an undercut space adjacent thereto, the undercut space providing an interlocking engagement with bone or an extraction socket and resisting lateral forces applied to the dental implant.

2. The dental implant of claim 1 , wherein the first side forms an obtuse angle with respect to an outer surface of the body.

3. The dental implant of claim 2 , wherein the first side of the first thread is substantially parallel to the second side.

4. 3. The dental implant of claim 2, wherein the first side is formed by a substantially single surface disposed at the obtuse angle, and wherein the second side is formed by a substantially single surface disposed at the acute angle, whereby the first thread is substantially fully angled on both the first side and the second side.

5. 5. The dental implant according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first side is the coronal side of the first thread and the second side is the apical side.

6. 5. The dental implant of claim 1, wherein the body has one of a substantially uniform diameter over up to 85% of the apical portion or a taper that results in a diameter that decreases from the crown to the apical portion along the apical portion, and wherein the first thread maintains substantially the same outer diameter to the apex for at least 50% to 85% of the longitudinal extent of the apical portion before decreasing in diameter towards the apical end.

7. 7. The dental implant of claim 6, wherein the body is configured to be inserted into an osteotomy site having the same shape, whether the body has a substantially uniform diameter or has a taper that results in a reduction in diameter.

8. further comprising a second thread extending along and from at least a second portion of the coronal portion of the body or the apical portion of the body, wherein the second thread comprises: a coronal portion extending from the body; a second apex connected to the coronal portion at an outer extent of the coronal portion; an apical side connected to the second apex opposite the coronal side, wherein the apical side extends from the second apex to a body; 6. The dental implant of claim 1, wherein the coronal side forms a second acute angle of 45 to 85 degrees with the outer surface of the body to create a space between the apex and the body that provides a second interlocking engagement with the bone or the extraction socket.

9. 9. The dental implant of claim 8, wherein the first thread is angled to extend in one of an apical-lateral or coronal-lateral direction, and the second thread is angled to extend in one of an apical-lateral or coronal-lateral direction.

10. 10. The dental implant of claim 9, wherein when the first thread is angled to extend in an apical-lateral direction, the second thread is angled to extend in a coronal-lateral direction, and wherein when the first thread is angled to extend in a coronal-lateral direction, the second thread is angled to extend in an apical-lateral direction.

11. 11. The dental implant according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the first thread is a macrothread and the second thread is a microthread, wherein the first thread is configured to form a plurality of self-cutting features and the second thread forms one or more self-cutting features, wherein the plurality of self-cutting features and the one or more self-cutting features are from a groove extending continuously from the apical portion to the coronal portion.

12. 12. The dental implant of claim 1, wherein the dental implant is configured to achieve contact with the bone over substantially the entire surface area of ​​the body and the first thread.

13. 13. A dental implant according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the top portion has a reduced thickness compared to the base portion of the first thread that forms a connection with the body.

14. 14. The dental implant of claim 1, wherein the undercut space is at least partially defined by a groove extending into the body adjacent the first side.

15. 14. The dental implant of claim 1, wherein the first side is formed by a substantially continuous radius extending from the body to the apex.

16. 1. A dental implant, comprising: a body having a coronal portion having a coronal end, an intermediate portion, and an apical portion having an apical end, said body having a longitudinal axis extending from said coronal end to said apical end; a first thread extending along and from at least one of a portion of the apical portion of the body or a portion of the coronal portion of the body, wherein the first thread has a first side formed by a substantially single surface disposed at an obtuse angle relative to an outer surface of the body and a second side formed by a substantially single surface disposed at an acute angle relative to the outer surface of the body, whereby the first thread is substantially fully inclined on both the first and second sides thereof, whereby the first thread forms an undercut space adjacent thereto that provides interlocking engagement with bone or an extraction socket to resist lateral forces applied to the dental implant.

17. 17. The dental implant of claim 16, wherein the body and first thread are configured to expose a first portion of a circumference of the body and first thread from the bone or the extraction socket, and the first thread is configured to provide sufficient fixation to resist the lateral force when engaging the bone or the extraction socket along only a second portion of a circumference of the body and first thread.

18. 18. The dental implant of any one of claims 16 to 17, wherein the second side forms an acute angle of 45 to 85 degrees with the outer surface of the body.

19. 19. The dental implant of claim 16, wherein the body has one of a taper that provides a substantially uniform diameter over up to 85% of the apical portion or a taper that provides a decreasing diameter along the apical portion from crown to apex, and wherein the first thread maintains the outer diameter of the first thread substantially the same for at least 50% to 85% of the longitudinal extent of the apical portion before reducing in diameter towards the apical end.

20. further comprising a second thread extending along or from at least a portion of the coronal portion of the body, the second thread comprising: a coronal portion extending from the body; a crown-connected apex at a coronally outer extent of the tooth; an apical side connected to the apex opposite the coronal side, wherein the apical side extends from the apex to the body; wherein the coronal portion forms an acute angle of 45 to 85 degrees with respect to an outer surface of the body to create a space between the apex and the body that provides a second interlocking engagement with the bone or the extraction socket; 19. The dental implant of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the first thread is angled to extend in one of an apical-lateral direction or a coronal-lateral direction and the second thread is angled to extend in the other of the apical-lateral direction or the coronal-lateral direction, and when the first thread is angled to extend in the apical-lateral direction, the second thread is angled to extend in the coronal-lateral direction, and when the first thread is angled to extend in the coronal-lateral direction, the second thread is angled to extend in the apical-lateral direction.

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