Orthodontic appliances

Abstract

To provide a technology that contributes to achieving both durability and ease of attachment and detachment of orthodontic appliances. [Solution] The rigidity of the pair of crown attachment parts 2a, 2b, i.e., the portions 50a, 50b corresponding to the buccal surfaces of the crowns of the molars and the portions 51a, 51b corresponding to portions of the gums, is configured to be lower than the rigidity of the other portions (i.e., the portion 52b corresponding to the palatal and occlusal surfaces of the crowns of the molars, the portions 53a, 53b corresponding to the spaces between the molars, and the base portions 4a, 4b), makes it easier to engage (attach) and disengage (remove) the pair of crown attachment parts 2a, 2b from the molars. In other words, the ease of attaching and detaching the pair of crown attachment parts 2a, 2b to the molars is improved. Since the orthodontic device 1 can be held in the oral cavity simply by attaching the pair of crown attachment parts 2a, 2b to the molars, the device can be held in the oral cavity more easily than with conventional configurations in which the device is held in the oral cavity by wires.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an orthodontic appliance that corrects the alignment of teeth by widening the dental arch width. [Background technology]

[0002] JP 2021-194114 A (Patent Document 1) describes an orthodontic device that includes a pair of base sections that are placed on the inside (palate) of a pair of left and right dental arches, an expansion screw that connects the pair of base sections so that the distance between the pair of base sections can be changed, and a pair of mouthpiece sections that are shaped to cover the crowns of the back teeth and are integrated with the pair of base sections, and that corrects the dental arch by expanding the width diameter by expanding the distance between the pair of base sections.

[0003] In this orthodontic device, the device can be held in place on the palate simply by attaching the pair of mouthpiece parts to the molars, improving the ease of wearing the device compared to conventional configurations in which the device is held in place on the palate by wires. Furthermore, in this orthodontic device, the pair of base parts are constructed from a resin sheet and a reinforcing resin sheet integrated with the resin sheet, ensuring a predetermined strength and improving manufacturability, while the pair of mouthpiece parts are constructed from either the resin sheet or the reinforcing resin sheet, preventing the thickness of the resin covering the crowns of the molars from increasing, improving comfort when worn. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-194114 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The orthodontic appliance described in the above publication is always attached to the oral cavity except when cleaning, and therefore bite force is frequently applied to the mouthpiece when eating, sleeping, or feeling nervous. Therefore, in terms of durability of the orthodontic appliance, it is desirable for the mouthpiece to have high rigidity. On the other hand, since the orthodontic appliance is removed and attached during cleaning, it is desirable for the mouthpiece to have low rigidity in terms of ease of attachment and detachment. The orthodontic appliance described in the above publication can achieve either improved durability or improved ease of attachment and detachment of the orthodontic appliance, but there is no mention of achieving both.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and one of its objects is to provide a technique that contributes to achieving both durability and ease of attachment and detachment of an orthodontic appliance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The orthodontic appliance of the present invention employs the following means to achieve the above-mentioned object.

[0008] According to a preferred embodiment of the orthodontic device of the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an orthodontic device that corrects the alignment of teeth by widening the dental arch width. The orthodontic device includes a pair of crown mounting parts and a base part. The pair of crown mounting parts have internal shapes that fit the left and right molars so that they can be mounted on the crown parts of at least one molar on each side. Each of the pair of crown mounting parts has a low-rigidity part that has lower rigidity than the base part and a high-rigidity part that has higher rigidity than the low-rigidity part. The base part is integrated with the pair of crown mounting parts so as to connect the pair of crown mounting parts. The floor section also has a first floor section, a second floor section, and a connecting section that mechanically connects the first and second floor sections so that the distance between the first and second floor sections can be changed. The low-rigidity areas are located at the buccal surfaces of the crowns of the left and right molars. Positions excluding the positions corresponding to the spaces between the left and right molars and the other teeth adjacent to those molars The high-rigidity portions are arranged at positions corresponding to the palatal and occlusal surfaces of the crowns of the right and left molars, and Between teethHere, the "tooth crown portion" in the present invention typically refers to a tooth crown, but preferably also includes an embodiment including a tooth crown and gingiva (gums). Furthermore, the "position corresponding to between each of the left and right molars and another tooth adjacent to said molar" in the present invention refers to the position corresponding to the space between the distal surface of each of the left and right molars and the mesial surface of the tooth adjacent to said molar, and / or the space between the mesial surface of each of the left and right molars and the distal surface of the tooth adjacent to said molar, respectively.

[0009] According to the first aspect of the present invention, the pair of dental crown attachment parts are attached to positions corresponding to the palatal side and occlusal surface of the dental crown parts of the left and right molars, and between the left and right molars and other teeth adjacent to the molars. Between the teeth In other words, Excluding the areas corresponding to the interdental spaces Positions corresponding to the buccal surfaces of the crowns of the molars on both the left and right sides Other than Since the device has high rigidity parts at all positions, it is possible to improve the durability of the device. On the other hand, the pair of crown attachment parts are attached to the positions corresponding to the buccal surfaces of the crowns of the left and right molars. positions excluding the positions corresponding to the interdental spaces Since the orthodontic appliance has a low-rigidity portion, it is possible to improve the ease of attaching and detaching the pair of crown attachment parts to the molars. Of course, since the orthodontic appliance can be held in the oral cavity simply by attaching the pair of crown attachment parts to the molars, it is possible to improve the ease of wearing the appliance compared to conventional configurations in which the appliance is held in the oral cavity by wires. Furthermore, the connecting portion allows the dental arch width to be expanded by changing the distance between the first and second base portions, so there is no need to prepare multiple orthodontic devices as the jaw grows.

[0010] According to a further embodiment of the orthodontic device of the second invention, in the orthodontic device of the first invention, the occlusal surface portion of the high rigidity portion, which is arranged at a position corresponding to the occlusal surfaces of the molars, has an inner surface that faces the occlusal surfaces when the crown attachment parts are attached to the left and right molars, and an outer surface that faces the opposite side from the inner surface. The outer surface has a substantially flat shape.

[0011] According to the second aspect of the present invention, the outer surface of the crown attachment part has a substantially flat shape, so that even when the patient bites down while wearing the orthodontic device, the teeth do not get caught due to the bite, and the relative movement of the upper and lower jaws is not hindered. This prevents the growth and development of the upper and lower jaws from being hindered, allowing for better orthodontic treatment. Furthermore, when the patient bites down while wearing the orthodontic device, a force in the direction of expanding the dental arch width can be effectively applied to the dentition via the outer surface of the crown attachment part, allowing for better orthodontic treatment.

[0012] According to a further embodiment of the orthodontic appliance of the third invention, , th In the orthodontic appliance according to the second invention, the palatal side portion of the high rigidity portion arranged at a position corresponding to the palatal side is , bite It has a mating auxiliary surface. The occlusion assisting surface is disposed on the palate side with respect to the outer surface, and has a substantially planar shape that is substantially flush with the outer surface.

[0013] In contrast to the maxilla, where the dental arch width is expanded by orthodontic appliances, the rate at which the dental arch width expands in the mandible is slower due to natural growth. During mandibular development Although temporary malocclusion may occur, according to the third invention, the palatal side of the dental crown attachment part , bite With auxiliary mating surface The bite assist surface is disposed on the palate side with respect to the outer surface and has a substantially planar shape that is substantially flush with the outer surface. Therefore, even if a temporary malocclusion occurs, it can prevent chewing from being affected. At the same time, since teeth do not get caught due to occlusion, it is possible to prevent the relative movement of the upper and lower jaws from being hindered. This prevents the growth and development of the upper and lower jaws from being hindered, allowing for better orthodontic treatment. Furthermore, when occluding with the orthodontic device attached, a force in the direction of widening the dental arch diameter can be effectively applied to the dentition via the outer surface of the crown attachment part and the occlusion assist surface, allowing for better orthodontic treatment.

[0016] No. 4 According to a further aspect of the orthodontic appliance of the present invention, the first to second 3 The orthodontic device according to any one of the above aspects further comprises at least one locking protrusion integrated with the buccal surface of the crown of each of the right and left molars, and the low-rigidity portion has an engaging recess that can be engaged with the locking protrusion.

[0017] According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the device can be more reliably held in the oral cavity.

[0020] No. 5 According to a further aspect of the orthodontic appliance of the present invention, the first to second 4 The orthodontic device according to any one of the above aspects further comprises a pressing part that can press at least one front tooth outward from the palatal side of the crown of the front tooth. The pressing part is integrated with the base part.

[0021] According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, a force in the direction of widening the dental arch width can be applied to the front teeth as well as the back teeth, so that orthodontic treatment can be performed more effectively. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] According to the present invention, it is possible to achieve both durability and ease of attachment and detachment of the orthodontic appliance. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which an orthodontic appliance 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is attached to a mouth. [Figure 2] 2 is a view seen from the direction of arrow V in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 3 is a view seen in the direction of arrow W in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] 1 is a plan view of an orthodontic appliance 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the mounting direction. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the orthodontic appliance 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention, seen from the opposite side to the mounting direction. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the AA section of FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the cross section BB of FIG. [Figure 8] 5 is a view seen in the direction of arrow X in FIG. 4. [Figure 9] 5 is a view seen in the direction of arrow Y in FIG. 4. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the CC cross section of FIG. [Figure 11]FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the cross section DD of FIG. 9. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the palate. [Figure 13] 13 is a view seen from the direction of arrow Z in FIG. 12. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing how the orthodontic device 1 is formed. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the state of occlusion when the orthodontic appliance 1 is worn. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] Next, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described using examples. [Example]

[0025] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the orthodontic device 1 of this embodiment is configured as a device that is attached to the palate 80 of the upper jaw in the oral cavity and corrects the upper dentition 70 by expanding the dental arch width diameter of the upper dentition 70, thereby treating crowding of the upper teeth, and is equipped with a pair of crown mounting parts 2a, 2b, a pair of base parts 4a, 4b integrated with the pair of crown mounting parts 2a, 2b, a connecting part 6 integrated with the pair of base parts 4a, 4b, and expanders 8a, 8b integrated with the pair of base parts 4a, 4b, respectively.

[0026] 1, 3, and 5, the dental crown attachment portions 2a, 2b have a shape that allows attachment to the first primary premolars 74a, 74b, the second primary premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b, and a portion of the gums 82 (see FIG. 3) in a manner that continuously covers the respective crowns of the first primary premolars 74a, 74b, the second primary premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b, and a portion of the gums 82 (see FIG. 3). Specifically, the dental crown attachment portions 2a, 2b have an internal shape that fits the first primary premolars 74a, 74b, the second primary premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b, and a portion of the gums 82 (see FIG. 3), as shown in FIGS. The crowns of the first deciduous molars 74a, 74b, the second deciduous molars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b are one example of an embodiment that corresponds to "a crown of a molar" of this invention.

[0027] Of the dental crown attachment portions 2a, 2b, the inner surfaces 20a, 20b, which are the surfaces facing the occlusal surfaces of the first primary premolars 74a, 74b, the second primary premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b, respectively, and the outer surfaces 21a, 21b, which are the surfaces facing the opposite side, have an approximately flat shape, as shown in Figures 2, 6-8, 10, and 11.

[0028] As shown in Figures 1, 2, 4, and 6-8, the crown mounting portions 2a, 2b have occlusion assist surfaces 22a, 22b. The occlusion assist surfaces 22a, 22b are located on the palate side with respect to the outer surfaces 21a, 21b of the crown mounting portions 2a, 2b, and have a substantially planar shape that is substantially flush with the outer surfaces 21a, 21b. In other words, the occlusion assist surfaces 22a, 22b can be said to have substantially the same height as the outer surfaces 21a, 21b. Here, the portions of the crown mounting portions 2a, 2b that have the occlusion assist surfaces 22a, 22b correspond to the "palatal side surface portion" of the present invention, and the portions of the crown mounting portions 2a, 2b that have the inner surfaces 20a, 20b and outer surfaces 21a, 21b are an example of an embodiment that corresponds to the "occlusion surface portion" of the present invention.

[0029] Furthermore, the dental crown mounting parts 2a, 2b have fitting recesses 30a, 30b, 31a, 31b that can fit with attachments 84a, 84b and 85a, 85b (see FIGS. 12 and 13) that are integrated into the buccal surfaces of the first and second primary premolars 74a, 74b and 75a, 75b (see FIGS. 1, 3-5, and 10). The fitting recesses 30a, 30b, 31a, 31b are arranged in portions 50a, 50b of the dental crown mounting parts 2a, 2b that correspond to (abut on) the buccal surfaces of the first and second primary premolars 74a, 74b and 75a, 75b, respectively. The attachments 84a, 84b, 85a, and 85b are examples of features that correspond to the "locking protrusions" of the present invention, and the fitting recesses 30a, 30b, 31a, and 31b are examples of features that correspond to the "engaging recesses" of the present invention.

[0030] As shown in Figs. 9, 10 and 11, the dental crown attachment portions 2a, 2b configured in this manner have rigidity of portions 50a, 50b corresponding to (contacting) the buccal surfaces of the dental crowns of the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b, the second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b and the first molars 76a, 76b, respectively, and portions 51a, 51b corresponding to (contacting) a part of the gums 82, which is lower than that of other portions, i.e., portions corresponding to (contacting) the palatal surfaces and occlusal surfaces of the dental crowns of the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b, the second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b and the first molars 76a, 76b. The rigidity is configured to be lower than that of portions 52a, 52b and portions 53a, 53b corresponding to the spaces between the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b, the second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b and the first molars 76a, 76b (more specifically, between the crowns of the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b and the crowns of the deciduous canines 73a, 73b, between the crowns of the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b and the crowns of the second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b, and between the crowns of the second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b and the crowns of the first molars 76a, 76b). Here, of the dental crown mounting portions 2a, 2b, the portions 50a, 50b corresponding to (contacting) the buccal surfaces of the crowns of the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b, the second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b, and the portions 51a, 51b corresponding to (contacting) a part of the gums 82, correspond to the "low rigidity portion" in the present invention, and the portions 52a, 52b corresponding to the palatal surfaces and occlusal surfaces of the crowns of the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b, the second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b, respectively, correspond to the "low rigidity portion" in the present invention. 52b, and portions 53a and 53b corresponding to the spaces between the first deciduous premolars 74a and 74b, the second deciduous premolars 75a and 75b, and the first molars 76a and 76b (more specifically, between the crowns of the first deciduous premolars 74a and 74b and the crowns of the deciduous canines 73a and 73b, between the crowns of the first deciduous premolars 74a and 74b and the crowns of the second deciduous premolars 75a and 75b, and between the crowns of the second deciduous premolars 75a and 75b and the crowns of the first molars 76a and 76b) are examples of an embodiment configuration that corresponds to the "high rigidity portion" of the present invention.Furthermore, the deciduous canines 73a, 73b and the second deciduous molars 75a, 75b in relation to the first deciduous molars 74a, 74b, and the first deciduous molars 74a, 74b and the first molars 76a, 76b in relation to the second deciduous molars 75a, 75b are each examples of an embodiment corresponding to the "other teeth" in the present invention.

[0031] 2, the base portions 4a and 4b have a shape that fits the shape of the palate 80, and the base portion 4a is integrated with the dental crown mounting portion 2a, and the base portion 4b is integrated with the dental crown mounting portion 2b. More specifically, the outer edge portions of the base portions 4a and 4b (end portions opposite the side connected by the connecting portion 6, and which face the palate side of the first primary premolars 74a and 74b, the second primary premolars 75a and 75b, and the first molars 76a and 76b when mounted) are integrally connected to the palate side portions (portions having the occlusion assist surfaces 22a and 22b) of the dental crown mounting portions 2a and 2b, respectively.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 4, the connecting portion 6 has an expansion screw 6a and guide rods 6b and 6c arranged to sandwich the expansion screw 6a. The expansion screw 6a and the guide rods 6b and 6c are arranged parallel to each other, with both axial ends embedded in the floor portions 4a and 4b. The connecting portion 6 is configured so that the distance between the floor portions 4a and 4b can be changed by rotating the expansion screw 6a with a tool. That is, by rotating the expansion screw 6a, the floor portions 4a and 4b move toward each other or away from each other. The guide rods 6b and 6c guide the floor portions 4a and 4b so that they move on the same plane as they move.

[0033] As shown in Fig. 4, the expander 8a has a generally C-shape in plan view, and the expander 8b has a generally inverted C-shape in plan view. As shown in Fig. 1, the expanders 8a and 8b are configured to come into contact with the deciduous central incisors 71a and 71b, the deciduous lateral incisors 72a and 72b, and the deciduous canines 73a and 73b from the palate side, and have a biasing force that can press the deciduous central incisors 71a and 71b, the deciduous lateral incisors 72a and 72b, and the deciduous canines 73a and 73b from the palate side toward the outside (lip side) when the orthodontic device 1 is attached to the oral cavity. The expanders 8a and 8b are an example of a configuration that corresponds to a "pressing unit" in this invention.

[0034] 14, the orthodontic device 1 configured in this manner is manufactured by first press-forming a thin resin plate to fit the shape of the oral cavity, i.e., the shape of the palate 80 and the shape of the upper dentition, to produce a primary molded body 60. Next, resin 62 is layered to a predetermined thickness on an outer surface 60a of the primary molded body 60 (the surface opposite to the surface that faces the palate 80, the crowns, and the gums 82 when worn), excluding portions 50a and 50b that correspond to (abut against) the buccal surfaces of the crowns of the first primary premolars 74a and 74b, the second primary premolars 75a and 75b, and the first molars 76a and 76b, respectively, and portions 51a and 51b that correspond to (abut against) parts of the gums 82. When the resin 62 is layered on the outer surface 60a of the primary molded body 60 (the surface opposite to the surface facing the palate 80, the crown, and the gums 82 when attached), the connecting portion 6 and the expanders 8a, 8b are set in predetermined positions on the outer surface 60a of the primary molded body 60 (positions where the connecting portion 6 and the expanders 8a, 8b are symmetrical with respect to the center line CL). This allows the connecting portion 6 and the expanders 8a, 8b to be integrated with the primary molded body 60 by the resin 62. It is desirable to prevent the resin 62 from being layered on the portion of the connecting portion 6 that corresponds to the vicinity of the center line CL, for example, by using a jig or the like for temporarily fixing the connecting portion 6 to the outer surface 60a of the primary molded body 60.In this way, of the outer surface 60a of the two-part primary molding 60 (the surface opposite to the surface facing the palate 80 side, the crown side, and the gums 82 side when attached), the resin 62 is not laminated on the portions 50a, 50b corresponding to (contacting) the buccal surfaces of the crowns of the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b, the second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b, and the portions 51a, 51b corresponding to (contacting) parts of the gums 82. Therefore, the rigidity of the portions 50a, 50b, 51a, 51b is lower than that of the other portions (the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b, the second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b). The rigidity of the primary molded body 60 is lower than that of the portions 52a, 52b corresponding to the palatal and occlusal surfaces of the crowns of the first primary premolars 74a, 74b, the second primary premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b (more specifically, between the crowns of the first primary premolars 74a, 74b and the crowns of the primary canines 73a, 73b, between the crowns of the first primary premolars 74a, 74b and the crowns of the second primary premolars 75a, 75b, and between the crowns of the second primary premolars 75a, 75b and the crowns of the first molars 76a, 76b), and the portions 53a, 53b corresponding to the spaces between the first primary premolars 74a, 74b and the primary canines 73a, 73b, between the crowns of the first primary premolars 74a, 74b and the secondary primary premolars 75a, 75b, and between the crowns of the secondary primary premolars 75a, 75b and the primary molars 76a, 76b). Finally, the primary molded body 60 with the resin 62 laminated thereon is cut into two parts along the center line CL. In this way, the orthodontic device 1 is completed in a state in which the two divided primary molded bodies 60 are connected by the connecting portion 6.

[0035] Next, we will explain the operation of the orthodontic device 1 configured in this manner, particularly the operation when attaching and detaching the orthodontic device 1. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the orthodontic device 1 is placed in the oral cavity so that the pair of base portions 4a, 4b face the palate 80 and the pair of crown attachment portions 2a, 2b face the first primary premolars 74a, 74b, the second primary premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b, respectively.Then, the pair of crown attachment portions 2a, 2b are pressed against the crowns of the first primary premolars 74a, 74b, the second primary premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b, respectively, so that the pair of crown attachment portions 2a, 2b fit into the crowns of the first primary premolars 74a, 74b, the second primary premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b, respectively, and are attached to the palate.

[0036] Here, the pair of dental crown attachment parts 2a, 2b are such that the rigidity of parts 50a, 50b corresponding to (contacting) the buccal surfaces of the crowns of the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b, second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b, and first molars 76a, 76b, respectively, and parts 51a, 51b corresponding to (contacting) a part of the gums 82 is greater than that of other parts (parts 52a, 52b corresponding to the palatal and occlusal surfaces of the crowns of the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b, second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b, and first molars 76a, 76b, respectively, and 6b (more specifically, between the crowns of the first deciduous molars 74a, 74b and the crowns of the deciduous canines 73a, 73b, between the crowns of the first deciduous molars 74a, 74b and the crowns of the second deciduous molars 75a, 75b, and between the crowns of the second deciduous molars 75a, 75b and the crowns of the first molars 76a, 76b) and base portions 4a, 4b), and therefore, is configured to be easily fitted (attached) to and released (removed) from the crowns of the first deciduous molars 74a, 74b, second deciduous molars 75a, 75b and first molars 76a, 76b. That is, it can be said that the ease of attachment and detachment of the pair of dental crown attachment portions 2a, 2b to the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b, the second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b is improved.

[0037] Furthermore, when the pair of crown mounting portions 2a, 2b are fitted onto the crown portions of the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b, the second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b, respectively, the fitting recesses 30a, 30b and fitting recesses 31a, 31b of the crown mounting portions 2a, 2b fit into the attachments 84a, 84b and attachments 85a, 85b integrated into the buccal surfaces of the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b and the second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b, respectively, so that the orthodontic device 1 can be more securely held in the oral cavity. Naturally, the orthodontic device 1 can be held in the oral cavity simply by attaching the pair of crown attachment parts 2a, 2b to the first primary premolars 74a, 74b, the second primary premolars 75a, 75b, and the first primary molars 76a, 76b, respectively, which improves the ease of wearing the device compared to conventional configurations in which the device is held in the oral cavity by wires.

[0038] After the orthodontic device 1 is attached to the palate in this manner, the expansion screw 6a is rotated in a direction that moves the pair of base portions 4a, 4b away from each other. This makes it possible to press the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b, the second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b from the inside (palate side) to the outside (cheek side), thereby expanding the dental arch width of the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b, the second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b. Furthermore, when the orthodontic device 1 has been attached to the palate, the expanders 8a, 8b press the deciduous central incisors 71a, 71b, deciduous lateral incisors 72a, 72b, and deciduous canines 73a, 73b from the inside (palate side) to the outside (lip side), thereby expanding the dental arch width of the deciduous central incisors 71a, 71b, deciduous lateral incisors 72a, 72b, and deciduous canines 73a, 73b. In other words, by using the orthodontic device 1, the dental arch width of the upper dentition 70 can be expanded satisfactorily, and the upper dentition 70 can be corrected to treat crowding of the upper teeth.

[0039] Here, since the orthodontic appliance 1 remains attached to the palate most of the time except when being cleaned, occlusal forces are frequently applied to the pair of dental crown attachment parts 2a, 2b when eating, sleeping, or when nervous. However, the portions 52a, 52b of the pair of dental crown attachment parts 2a, 2b corresponding to the palatal side and occlusal surface of the crowns of the first primary premolars 74a, 74b, the second primary premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b, and the portions 52a, 52b of the pair of dental crown attachment parts 2a, 2b corresponding to the palatal side and occlusal surface of the crowns of the first primary premolars 74a, 74b, the second primary premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b, 5b and the spaces between the first molars 76a, 76b (more specifically, between the crowns of the first deciduous molars 74a, 74b and the crowns of the deciduous canines 73a, 73b, between the crowns of the first deciduous molars 74a, 74b and the crowns of the second deciduous molars 75a, 75b, and between the crowns of the second deciduous molars 75a, 75b and the crowns of the first molars 76a, 76b), the rigidity of which is improved by laminating resin 62, thereby improving the durability of the device.

[0040] Furthermore, because the outer surfaces 21a, 21b and the occlusion assist surfaces 22a, 22b of the crown mounting portions 2a, 2b have a substantially planar shape, even when the orthodontic device 1 is attached to the oral cavity and the patient bites, the upper and lower jaw teeth do not get caught due to occlusion, thereby preventing interference with relative movement of the upper and lower jaws. This prevents interference with the growth and development of the upper and lower jaws, allowing for successful orthodontic treatment. While the orthodontic device 1 widens the dental arch width of the upper jaw, the lower jaw expands due to natural growth. The rate of expansion of the dental arch width is slower in the lower jaw, which may result in temporary malocclusion. However, because the occlusion assist surfaces 22a, 22b are substantially flush with the outer surfaces 21a, 21b of the crown mounting portions 2a, 2b, even if a temporary malocclusion occurs, as shown in FIG. 15 , chewing difficulties are prevented. Furthermore, when biting with the orthodontic device 1 attached, a force in the direction of widening the dental arch width can be effectively applied to the teeth via the outer surfaces 21a, 21b and the bite auxiliary surfaces 22a, 22b of the crown attachment portions 2a, 2b, thereby enabling better orthodontic treatment.

[0041] According to the orthodontic device 1 according to the present embodiment described above, of the pair of dental crown attachment portions 2a, 2b, the portions 50a, 50b corresponding to (abutting on) the buccal surfaces of the crowns of the first primary premolars 74a, 74b, the second primary premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b, respectively, and the portions 51a, 51b corresponding to (abutting on) a part of the gums 82 are rigidly secured to the teeth 2a, 2b. Since the rigidity of the portions 53a, 53b and base portions 4a, 4b corresponding to the spaces between the teeth 75a, 75b and the first molars 76a, 76b (between the crowns of the first deciduous molars 74a, 74b and the crowns of the deciduous canines 73a, 73b, between the crowns of the first deciduous molars 74a, 74b and the crowns of the second deciduous molars 75a, 75b, and between the crowns of the second deciduous molars 75a, 75b and the crowns of the first molars 76a, 76b) is lower than that of the portions 53a, 53b and base portions 4a, 4b corresponding to the spaces between the teeth 75a, 75b and the first molars 76a, 76b, respectively, the implants can be easily fitted (attached) to and undone (removed) from the crowns of the first deciduous molars 74a, 74b, the second deciduous molars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b. In other words, it can be said that the ease of attachment and detachment of the pair of dental crown attachment parts 2a, 2b to the first minor primary premolars 74a, 74b, the second minor primary premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b is improved. Naturally, the orthodontic device 1 can be held in the oral cavity simply by attaching the pair of dental crown attachment parts 2a, 2b to the first minor primary premolars 74a, 74b, the second minor primary premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b, respectively, so that the ease of attachment of the device can be improved compared to conventional configurations in which the device is held in the oral cavity by wires.

[0042] Furthermore, with the orthodontic device 1 according to this embodiment, the outer surfaces 21a, 21b of the crown attachment parts 2a, 2b have a substantially flat shape, so that even when the orthodontic device 1 is attached to the oral cavity and the patient bites, the teeth of the upper jaw and the lower jaw do not get caught on each other due to the bite, and therefore, it is possible to prevent interference with the relative movement of the upper and lower jaws. This makes it possible to prevent interference with the growth and development of the upper and lower jaws, allowing for satisfactory orthodontic treatment. While the dental arch width of the upper jaw is expanded by the orthodontic device 1, the dental arch width of the lower jaw expands due to natural growth at a slower rate, which may result in a temporary malocclusion. However, the occlusion assist surfaces 22a, 22b, which are approximately the same height as the outer surfaces 21a, 21b and have a substantially planar shape that is substantially flush with the outer surfaces 21a, 21b, are located at positions corresponding to the palate sides of the crown mounting parts 2a, 2b. This prevents chewing from being hindered and prevents the relative movement of the upper and lower jaws from being hindered. When biting with the orthodontic device 1 attached, a force in the direction of expanding the dental arch width can be effectively applied to the dentition via the outer surfaces 21a, 21b and the occlusion assist surfaces 22a, 22b of the crown mounting parts 2a, 2b, thereby achieving better orthodontic treatment.

[0043] Furthermore, according to the orthodontic device 1 of this embodiment, the attachments 84a, 84b and 85a, 85b are integrated onto the buccal surfaces of the first primary premolars 74a, 74b and the second primary premolars 75a, 75b, and the crown attachment portions 2a, 2b have mating recesses 30a, 30b and mating recesses 31a, 31b that can be fitted onto the attachments 84a, 84b and 85a, 85b, respectively, so that the orthodontic device 1 can be more securely held in the oral cavity.

[0044] Furthermore, with the orthodontic device 1 according to this embodiment, the dental arch width diameter can be expanded simply by rotating the expansion screw 6a and moving the pair of base portions 4a, 4b away from each other, so there is no need to prepare multiple orthodontic devices in accordance with jaw growth.

[0045] Furthermore, the orthodontic device 1 according to this embodiment has the expanders 8a and 8b, so it is possible to expand not only the dental arch width of the first primary premolars 74a and 74b, the second primary premolars 75a and 75b, and the first molars 76a and 76b, but also the dental arch width of the primary central incisors 71a and 71b, the primary lateral incisors 72a and 72b, and the primary canines 73a and 73b. This allows for more effective orthodontic treatment.

[0046] In this embodiment, the orthodontic appliance 1 has been described as an expansion plate type, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the present invention can be applied to a mouthpiece type orthodontic appliance.

[0047] In this embodiment, the attachments 84a, 84b and the attachments 85a, 85b are arranged on the buccal surfaces of both the first small primary molars 74a, 74b and the second small primary molars 75a, 75b, but this is not limiting. For example, the attachments 84a, 84b or the attachments 85a, 85b may be arranged on the buccal surfaces of either the first small primary molars 74a, 74b or the second small primary molars 75a, 75b, or attachments may be arranged on the buccal surfaces of the first molars 76a, 76b in addition to or instead of the first small primary molars 74a, 74b and the second small primary molars 75a, 75b. When attachments are placed on the buccal surfaces of the first molars 76a, 76b, fitting recesses may be placed in portions that correspond to (contact) the buccal surfaces of the first molars 76a, 76b. The orthodontic device 1 may also be configured without the attachments 84a, 84b and 85a, 85b, and without the fitting recesses 30a, 30b and 31a, 31b.

[0048] In this embodiment, the occlusion assist surfaces 22a, 22b are configured to have approximately the same height as the outer surfaces 21a, 21b, but this is not limited to this. For example, the occlusion assist surfaces 22a, 22b may be configured to have a height higher than the outer surfaces 21a, 21b, or the occlusion assist surfaces 22a, 22b may be configured to have a height lower than the outer surfaces 21a, 21b. In this case, it is desirable that the occlusion assist surfaces 22a, 22b and the outer surfaces 21a, 21b be configured to be smoothly connected.

[0049] In this embodiment, the dental crown attachment units 2a, 2b are configured to be attachable to all of the crowns of the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b, the second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b, respectively, but are not limited thereto. For example, the dental crown attachment units 2a, 2b may be configured to be attachable to any one of the crowns of the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b, the second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b, respectively, or to any two of the crowns of the first deciduous premolars 74a, 74b, the second deciduous premolars 75a, 75b, and the first molars 76a, 76b, respectively.

[0050] In this embodiment, the dental crown mounting parts 2a, 2b are configured to have the occlusion assist surfaces 22a, 22b, but the dental crown mounting parts 2a, 2b may be configured not to have the occlusion assist surfaces 22a, 22b.

[0051] In this embodiment, the orthodontic apparatus 1 is configured to include the expanders 8a and 8b, but the orthodontic apparatus 1 may be configured not to include the expanders 8a and 8b.

[0052] <Additional Notes> In view of the above-mentioned gist of the invention, the orthodontic device according to the present invention can be configured in the following aspects. (Aspect 1) "An orthodontic device that corrects the alignment of teeth by widening the dental arch width, a pair of crown attachment parts each having an internal shape adapted to each of the left and right molars so as to be attachable to the crown parts of at least one molar on each of the left and right; a base portion integrated with the pair of crown mounting portions so as to connect the pair of crown mounting portions; Equipped with each of the pair of crown attachment portions has a low-rigidity portion having a lower rigidity than the base portion and a high-rigidity portion having a higher rigidity than the low-rigidity portion; the low-rigidity portions are disposed at positions corresponding to the buccal surfaces of the crowns of the right and left molars, The high-rigidity portions are arranged at positions corresponding to the palatal side and occlusal surface of the crowns of the left and right molars, and at positions corresponding to the spaces between the left and right molars and other teeth adjacent to the molars. Orthodontic appliances." (Aspect 2) "The occlusal surface portion of the high rigidity portion, which is arranged at a position corresponding to the occlusal surface, has an inner side surface that faces the occlusal surface when the dental crown attachment part is attached to the molar, and an outer side surface that faces the opposite side to the inner side surface, The outer surface has a substantially planar shape. The orthodontic device according to aspect 1. (Aspect 3) "The palatal side surface portion of the high rigidity portion, which is arranged at a position corresponding to the palatal side surface, has an occlusion assist surface having approximately the same height as the occlusion surface portion. The orthodontic device according to aspect 2. (Aspect 4) The bite assist surface has a height substantially equal to that of the outer surface and has a substantially planar shape. The orthodontic device according to aspect 3. (Aspect 5) "Furthermore, at least one locking protrusion is provided which is integrated into the buccal surface of the crown portion of each of the left and right molars, The low-rigidity portion has an engaging recess that can engage with the locking projection. The orthodontic device according to any one of the above aspects 1 to 4. (Aspect 6) "The floor portion has a first floor portion, a second floor portion, and a connecting portion that mechanically connects the first and second floor portions so that the distance between the first and second floor portions can be changed. The orthodontic appliance according to any one of the above aspects 1 to 5. (Aspect 7) "Further comprising a pressing portion capable of pressing at least one front tooth outward from the palate side, The pressing portion is integrated with the floor portion. The orthodontic appliance according to any one of the first to sixth aspects. [Explanation of symbols]

[0053] 1 Orthodontic appliances (orthodontic appliances) 2a Crown attachment part (crown attachment part) 2b Crown attachment part (crown attachment part) 4a Floor (Floor) 4b Floor (floor) 6 Connecting part (Connecting part) 6a expansion screw 6b Guide rod 6c guide rod 8a Expander (pressure part) 8b Expander (pressure part) 20a inner surface 20b Inside surface 21a External surface 21b External surface 22a Occlusal auxiliary surface 22b Occlusal auxiliary surface 30a Fitting recess (engagement recess) 30b fitting recess (engagement recess) 31a Fitting recess (engagement recess) 31b fitting recess (engagement recess) 50a: Portions (low rigidity portions) corresponding to the buccal surfaces of the crowns of the first deciduous molar 74a, the second deciduous molar 75a, and the first molar 76a 50b: a portion (low rigidity portion) corresponding to the buccal surface of the crown of each of the first deciduous molar 74b, the second deciduous molar 75b, and the first molar 76b 51a: A portion (low rigidity portion) corresponding to (contacting) a portion of the gum 82 51b: A portion (low rigidity portion) corresponding to (contacting) a portion of the gum 82 52a: Portions (high rigidity portions) corresponding to the palatal and occlusal surfaces of the crowns of the first deciduous molar 74a, the second deciduous molar 75a, and the first molar 76a 52b: Portions (high rigidity portions) corresponding to the palatal and occlusal surfaces of the crowns of the first primary molar 74b, the second primary molar 75b, and the first molar 76b 53a: A portion (high rigidity portion) corresponding to the space between the first deciduous molar 74a, the second deciduous molar 75a, and the first molar 76a 53b: a portion (high rigidity portion) corresponding to the space between the first deciduous molar 74b, the second deciduous molar 75b, and the first molar 76b 60 Primary molded object 60a outer surface 62 Resin 70 Upper dentition 71a deciduous central incisor 71b deciduous central incisor 72a Milk lateral incisor 72b Milk lateral incisor 73a Baby canines (other teeth) 73b Deciduous canines (other teeth) 74a First primary molar (back teeth, other teeth) 74b First primary molar (back teeth, other teeth) 75a Second minor premolar (back teeth, other teeth) 75b Second minor premolar (back teeth, other teeth) 76a First molar (back teeth, other teeth) 76b First molar (back teeth, other teeth) 80 palate 82 Gums 84a Attachment (locking protrusion) 84b Attachment (locking protrusion) 85a Attachment (locking protrusion) 85b Attachment (locking protrusion) CL center line

Claims

1. An orthodontic device that corrects dental alignment by widening the dental arch width, a pair of crown attachment parts each having an internal shape adapted to each of the left and right molars so as to be attachable to the crown parts of at least one molar on each of the left and right; a base portion integrated with the pair of crown mounting portions so as to connect the pair of crown mounting portions; Equipped with each of the pair of crown attachment portions has a low-rigidity portion having a lower rigidity than the base portion and a high-rigidity portion having a higher rigidity than the low-rigidity portion; the low-rigidity portions are arranged at positions corresponding to the buccal surfaces of the crowns of the left and right molars, excluding positions corresponding to interdental spaces between the left and right molars and other teeth adjacent to the molars, the high-rigidity portions are disposed at positions corresponding to the palatal side surfaces and occlusal surfaces of the crowns of the right and left molars, and at positions corresponding to the spaces between the teeth; The floor portion includes a first floor portion, a second floor portion, and a connecting portion that mechanically connects the first and second floor portions so that the distance between the first and second floor portions can be changed. Orthodontic appliances.

2. an occlusal surface portion of the high rigidity portion, which is arranged at a position corresponding to the occlusal surface, has an inner side surface that faces the occlusal surface when the dental crown attachment part is attached to the molar, and an outer side surface that faces the opposite side to the inner side surface; The outer surface has a substantially planar shape. The orthodontic appliance of claim 1 .

3. a palatal side surface portion of the high rigidity portion, the palatal side surface portion being arranged at a position corresponding to the palatal side surface, having an occlusion assist surface; The occlusion assist surface is disposed on the palate side with respect to the outer surface and has a substantially planar shape that is substantially flush with the outer surface. The orthodontic appliance of claim 2.

4. At least one locking protrusion is further provided on the buccal surface of the crown of each of the right and left molars, The low-rigidity portion has an engaging recess that can engage with the locking projection.

4. The orthodontic appliance according to claim 1.

5. Further provided is a pressing portion capable of pressing at least one front tooth outward from a palatal side surface of a crown portion of the front tooth, The pressing portion is integrated with the floor portion.

4. The orthodontic appliance according to claim 1.

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