Dental model and associated dental implant analog

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a dental model of at least a part of a patient's jaw and / or teeth, the dental model comprising: at least one analog pocket, each analog pocket defining a longitudinal cavity, wherein each analog pocket comprises one or more retention features for securing a dental implant analog within the cavity, wherein at least one retention feature comprises one or more elastic and radially compressible elements formed as part of a wall positioned in front of a different cavity from the longitudinal cavity, the wall forming a part of the analog pocket and being configured to deform and adapt to the implant analog during insertion of the implant analog within the analog pocket. The present disclosure also relates to a dental implant analog for insertion into the dental model, a dental tool or restoration kit, and a method of manufacturing a dental model.

Description

[0001] Dental model and associated dental implant analog

[0002] The present disclosure relates to digital dentistry, in particular dental models of at least a part of a patient’s jaw and / or teeth, dental implant analogs configured for insertion into the dental models, dental tool or restoration kits, and methods of manufacturing of the dental models.

[0003] Background

[0004] Computer-aided dentistry includes provision of dental implant replica, often referred to as a dental implant analog, Digital Implant Model Analog (DIM analog), Implant Model Analog or merely implant analog. As used herein, a dental implant analog includes a dental implant replica that can be used in a physical dental model of a patient, a dental model that typically is provided by means of 3D printing. The dental implant analog can be used to replicate the position and orientation of the implant in the patient's mouth, to develop the dental implant restoration, or for other dental procedures. A dental implant analog can therefore contain the same connection (e.g., screw, bolt, or another fastening device) as the dental implant, but typically does not require the same macro geometry or surface technology as the dental implant because the dental implant analog is not being fixed to (e.g., screwed into) the jaw of the patient.

[0005] The use of dental implant analogs may include making a digital model of a jaw of a patient, and the model may be 3D-printed to perform fitting of a dental implant analog, to build a crown, to build a bridge, or to simulate other dental procedures. When used in combination with digitally rendered 3D-printed prototype models of a patient jaw, the dental implant analog may be referred to as a digital analog. The digital analog behaves as a proxy for the dental implant within the printed dental model. When used with a printed dental model, the exterior of the dental analog will include features related to the position (e.g., x, y, z position) of the analog connection so that a mating pocket may be placed into the model, which enables controlling of the position of the analog and in turn the analog connection within the printed dental model.

[0006] A physical model of a set of a patient's jaw and / or teeth normally requires very low engineering tolerance, whether the physical model is 3D printed or cast in for example gypsum. The production tolerances of dental implant analogs and the tolerances of 3D printed dental models, printed on a variety of different dental resin printers, give rise to a physical gap between the printed dental model and the dental implant analog. It can therefore be a challenge to provide for tight fit between a dental implant analog and a corresponding physical dental model and such gaps make it mandatory to use retention screws for securing the dental implant analog to the dental model. It is further noted that the application of high pressure and correspondent deformation of the physical model may cause incorrect placement of the implant and thus incorrect positioning of the dental implant analog with immediate consequences on which can influence the tooth restoration process.

[0007] Prior art solution WO 2019 / 122354 discloses an advanced dental implant analog having an anti-rotational recess constructed to cut and scrape itself into a physical model of a patient’s teeth to ensure a tight fit of the dental implant analog.

[0008] US 2020 / 306018 discloses a 3D printed test block comprising a plurality of analog pockets of different sizes such that a dental implant analog can be tested within the analog pockets to determine which analog pocket provides the best fit. Once the best fitting analog pocket is identified, a dental prototype model can be 3D-printed using analog pocket geometry based on an analog library file.

[0009] ES1252219U relates to a system for positioning an implant analog within a dental model produced using additive manufacturing. The system includes a machined implant analog comprising a body with a connection, projections serving as depth stops to ensure proper seating within the model, and two flat faces that enforce a predetermined rotational alignment of the analog when positioned inside the model. The model itself comprises flexible flanges with stepped features, which, due to the mechanical properties of the material used to make the flanges, facilitate the insertion of the analog inside the model. Once fully inserted, these flanges return to their original position, thus securing the analog in place inside the model.

[0010] Hence, there is the need of a cost efficient and time saving solution within computer- aided dentistry for ensuring a tight fit between a dental implant analog and a physical model of patient's teeth.

[0011] Summary

[0012] Considering the prior art described above, it is a purpose of the present invention to provide a dental model with improved retention features that ensure a secure fit between a dental implant analog and a corresponding physical dental model, thereby overcoming the need for additional retention screws, minimising incorrect implant placement due to physical deformation of the model, and preventing the longitudinal dislodgment of a dental implant analog. The present disclosure further aims to address the challenges of fabrication by providing a dental model that incorporates retention features directly within the walls of the analog pocket of the dental model.

[0013] In particular, the present inventors have realised that a number of retention features can be provided as part of the dental model of (at least a part of) the patient’s jaw and / or teeth, such that the retention features can be 3D printed, along with the rest of the dental model, in a single printing process, rather than being an add-on which is subject to increased wear and tear. Additionally, the dental implant analog, which typically is provided in metal, can be simplified by eliminating the need for retention features, as those are already provided within the dental model’s analog pocket.

[0014] The present disclosure therefore relates to a dental model of at least a part of a patient’s jaw and / or teeth, the dental model comprising: at least one analog pocket, each analog pocket defining a longitudinal cavity configured for receiving and fixing a dental implant analog. Preferably, each analog pocket comprises one or more retention features for securing a dental implant analog within the cavity, and, optionally, wherein at least one retention feature comprises one or more elastic and radially compressible elements formed as part of a wall positioned in front of a different cavity from the longitudinal cavity. Preferably, the wall forms a part of the analog pocket and is configured to deform and adapt to the implant analog during insertion of the implant analog within the analog pocket.

[0015] By integrating a number of retention features directly into the dental model’s analog pocket rather than incorporating these features into the dental implant analog, the present disclosure simplifies the design of the analog by reducing the need for additional fastening components on the analog.

[0016] The present disclosure also relates to a dental implant analog configured for insertion into a dental model of a patient’s jaw and / or teeth, such as the presently disclosed dental model, the dental implant analog comprising a proximal section, a distal section, and a middle recessed section between the proximal and distal sections, preferably, for engaging with a locking unit of the dental model, such as one or more latches of the locking unit.

[0017] The present disclosure also relates to a push tool for inserting a dental implant analog into a dental model, such as a dental implant analog according to the present disclosure into a dental model according to the present disclosure.

[0018] The present disclosure further relates to a dental tool or restoration kit comprising a dental model according to the present disclosure, and / or a dental implant analog according to the present disclosure, and / or the push tool according to the present disclosure.

[0019] The present disclosure also relates to a method of manufacturing a dental model according to the present disclosure, the method comprising the steps of: providing a digital version of the jaw and / or teeth of the patient, printing a physical version of the digital version of the dental model, such as by means of a 3D printer. Preferably, the step of printing the physical version of the dental model is performed by means of a resin-based 3D printer.

[0020] Since the retention features are integrated into the walls of the dental analog pocket in the dental model according to the present disclosure, the dental model can be manufactured by 3D printing in a single step. Integrating the retention features directly into the walls of the analog pocket also improves their durability, as they become an inherent part of the dental model’s structure rather than constituting separate components subject to detachment. This design therefore ensures enhanced resistance to repeated use.

[0021] Description of the drawings

[0022] The present disclosure will in the following be described in greater detail with reference to the drawings. The drawings are exemplary and are intended to illustrate some of the features of the present method and system and are not to be construed as limiting to the present disclosure.

[0023] Figs. 1 A-C illustrates the tedious process of inserting a dental implant analog into a physical model of a patient’s jaw and teeth and securing the dental implant analog with a retention screw from below the dental model. Figs. 2A-2C illustrates one embodiment of the presently disclosed dental implant analog.

[0024] Figs. 2D-E illustrate cut through views of an embodiment of an analog pocket wherein an embodiment of the dental implant analog is secured.

[0025] Fig. 3A illustrates a cut through view of an embodiment of an analog pocket where a part of a retention unit is visible.

[0026] Fig. 3B illustrates a cut through view of an embodiment of an analog pocket wherein an embodiment of the dental implant analog is secured by means of two retention units. Figs. 4A-B illustrate cut through perspective views of an example of a retention unit within an analog pocket.

[0027] Figs. 5A-B illustrate cut through perspective views of an example of a retention unit within an analog pocket securing a dental implant analog.

[0028] Figs. 6A-C illustrate cut through perspective views of an example of two retention units and one locking unit within an analog pocket.

[0029] Fig. 7A is a closeup view of a locking unit engaging with a dental implant analog.

[0030] Figs. 7B-C illustrate cut through perspective views of an example of two retention units and one locking unit within an analog pocket.

[0031] Figs. 8A-B are a closeup views of a locking unit.

[0032] Figs. 8C is a closeup view of a locking unit.

[0033] Figs. 8D is a closeup view of the locking unit in fig. 8C engaging with a dental implant analog.

[0034] Figs. 8E is a cut through top view of the locking unit in fig. 8C.

[0035] Figs. 9A-B are a closeup views of a trench in a bottom part of an analog pocket.

[0036] Figs. 10A-B show one embodiment of a push tool holding a dental implant analog.

[0037] Figs. 10C-D show another embodiment of a push tool.

[0038] Detailed description

[0039] As also indicated above a dental implant analog is a piece used to replicate the dental implant in a physical model of the patient's mouth, e.g. the presently disclosed dental model. The presently disclosed dental model can be based on a model of the oral cavity or parts of the oral cavity by making use of CAD data of patients. One or more of the presently disclosed retention features can then be digitally added to the dental model as part of the normal digital workflow. The physical dental model can then be obtained by means of for example additive manufacturing, for example by means of a resin printer, such as SLA, DLP and LCD. The resulting dental model in combination with one or more implant analogs, can be used by a dental technician to create a patient specific prosthesis for attachment to the implant already in situ within the patient's mouth. During this process the abutment is fastened to the implant analog, and in some cases modified, and the prosthesis can be built up and shaped on top of this.

[0040] Prior art implant analogs 100 may comprise an essentially identical reconstruction of the coronal end of the implant, including the abutment connection geometry, which enables the abutment to be fixedly connected to the implant, and the coronal end surface(s) of the implant, see illustration in fig. 1 . The coronal end of the implant usually comprises at least one coronally facing planar or tapered shoulder having a smooth, continuous surface for contact with the prosthesis and / or abutment. The smooth, continuous nature of the shoulder provides a contact surface against which the prosthesis and / or abutment can abut around the whole circumference of the implant analog, thus enabling good force transmission between them as well as creating a seal against bacteria.

[0041] The associated dental implant analog replicates the coronal end surface(s) of the implant such that the abutment can be placed in equivalent contact with the implant analog during the creation of the prosthesis and so that, when the prosthesis is intended to contact the implant, the prosthesis can be designed to sit flush on the implant surface. The apical end of the implant analog typically differs from the apical end of the implant and is shaped for fixation (either permanent or removable) within the model. As the implant analog is not used within the oral cavity of the patient and does not need to withstand the same mechanical forces, the material used to make the implant analog can also vary from the implant. For the same reason, the implant analog does typically not need any surface treatment, such as sandblasting or acid etching, which the implant may undergo in order to improve osseointegration.

[0042] Dental model

[0043] In some embodiments, each dental implant analog comprises a plurality of retention features, each retention feature comprising an elastic and radially compressible wall positioned in front of separate cavities, and each elastic wall forming a part of the analog pocket. In some embodiments, the elastic wall extends between and is connected to at least two or more spaced apart sections of the analog pocket, such that deformation of the elastic element is constrained by its connections to both spaced apart sections.

[0044] In some embodiments, the elastic wall is integrally connected to the at least two or more spaced apart sections.

[0045] Preferably, each analog pocket comprises a resilient unit for fixing the dental implant analog in the dental model and / or a locking unit configured to lock the dental implant analog in position within the dental implant and / or an angular alignment unit for fixing the angular orientation of the dental implant analog in the dental model. Optionally, the resilient unit and / or the locking unit and / or the angular alignment unit comprises at least one of the retention features of the analog pocket.

[0046] The following is advantageous when the dental implant analog is located in the dental model:

[0047] 1 ) That the dental implant analog cannot rotate;

[0048] 2) That the dental implant analog cannot move sideways;

[0049] 3) That the dental implant analog cannot move longitudinally.

[0050] The present inventors have therefore invented a number of retention features that can be included as part of the dental model: The angular alignment unit, the resilient unit and the locking unit. These retention features can be used alone or in any combination with each other to provide for a good fit between the dental implant analog and the dental model.

[0051] In some embodiments, each longitudinal cavity is substantially elliptical cylindric, preferably circular cylindric.

[0052] In some embodiments, the dental model comprises a base face with the teeth and an opposite gingival part, wherein the at least one analog pocket defining the longitudinal cavity is provided between the base face and the opposite gingival part such the dental implant analog can be received via the base face.

[0053] The presently disclosed dental model may be physical model, preferably provided in a polymeric material but traditional gypsum may also be an option. The dental model may be manufactured by means of additive manufacturing based on a digital 3D model acquired of said patient’s jaw and / or teeth. This digital 3D model may then be further processed to include one or more of the presently disclosed retention features to create a digital version of the presently disclosed dental model. Hence, the presently disclosed dental model may be a digital model. The physical version of this digital dental model can then be realized on for example a 3D printer using traditional resin material.

[0054] In one embodiment, a bottom part of each analog pocket comprises a trench. Usually the distal end of the implant analog rests on the bottom part of the analog pocket. Such a trench can be advantageous if small plastic pieces or residues are created when the implant analog engages with the analog pocket during insertion into the dental model. If such small scrapings, plastic pieces or residues end up in the bottom part of the analog pocket it may prevent correct insertion of the implant analog. A trench can make sure that the small plastic pieces or residues end up in the trench such that the analog implant can engage correctly with the analog pocket. An example of a trench 938 is provided in fig. 9A where the trench 938 is visible in a closeup cut through view of the bottom part of an analog pocket 926. Scrapings possibly coming of a plastic dental model 900 during insertion of the analog 902, will end up in the trench 938 and not on the bottom surface of the analog pocket 926 in the dental model 900. The problem with scrapings on the contact surface between the implant analog 902 and the bottom surface of the analog pocket 926 is that the final height of the implant analog 902 might be incorrect. The trench 938 will ensure that the scrapings do not interfere with the contact surface, as illustrated in fig. 9B where an implant analog 902 has been inserted in the analog pocket 926 of fig. 9A.

[0055] Angular alignment

[0056] The angular alignment unit can be provided for determining the angular orientation of the dental implant analog in the dental model and for preventing rotation of the dental implant analog in the dental model, i.e. rotation around the longitudinal axis of implant analog. The angular alignment unit can also be used as a guide to the user to indicate the correct angular orientation of the implant analog when inserting the implant analog into the dental model.

[0057] In one embodiment, the angular alignment unit comprises at least one protruding element, preferably at least one radially protruding element (see radially protruding elements 430, 530 in the embodiments illustrated in figs. 4A-B and figs. 5A-B). Preferably a plurality of protruding elements, such as at least two, three or four protruding elements, distributed along the longitudinal axis of the cavity, preferably the protruding elements are radially protruding elements. Such protruding elements are advantageous in combination with for example a corresponding recess on the implant analog.

[0058] An angular alignment indicator may also be provided for indicating the angular position of the angular alignment unit. Such an alignment indicator can be provided at the top part of an angular pocket and function as a visual guide to the user when inserting the implant analog.

[0059] Embodiments of the angular alignment unit and the angular alignment indicator 340, 640, 740 are illustrated in many of the drawings, see for example fig. 3A where two protruding elements function are visible as well as an alignment indicator 340 formed as a pointed recess at the top of the analog pocket 302. As seen in fig. 2A the dental implant analog 302 can be provided with an longitudinally extending recess in both the proximal and distal sections to engage with the protruding elements of the alignment indicator 340.

[0060] Resilient unit

[0061] The resilient unit is provided for fixing the dental implant analog inside the dental model, in particular to prevent sideways movement and such that the implant analog is completely fixed and does not move when during the dental restoration procedure.

[0062] This can for example be provided if the dental model is constructed such that an inner diameter of at least a section of the analog pocket is slightly smaller than the corresponding section of a corresponding implant analog. The resilient unit may for example comprise at least one protruding element for engaging with an outer surface of the dental implant analog.

[0063] In one embodiment, the resilient unit may be configured to resiliently deform the analog pocket during insertion of the dental implant analog. For example the resilient unit may be configured to be radially compressible. In one embodiment, the resilient unit comprises one or more elastic elements, such as at least two, three or four elastic elements, preferably distributed around the longitudinal axis. See for example fig. 4 where three elastic elements 432 are equally distributed around the longitudinal axis of the analog pocket 426. The one or more elastic elements 432 may be formed as elastic walls of the analog pocket 426. Hence, the resilient unit may adapt to the implant analog by resiliently deforming and for example increasing the inner diameter of analog pocket 426 such that it fits snugly around the implant analog. The one or more elastic elements 432 may each be provided with a protrusion 434 such that the inner diameter of the analog pocket 426 is slightly smaller at these protrusions 434 such that these protrusions 434 engage with the outer surface of the dental implant analog. This can for example be seen in figs. 2D, 2E, 3A, 3B, 6A, 6B and 6C.

[0064] One way of making the deformation and adaptation to the implant analog possible is that the resilient unit for example comprises longitudinally extending walls forming part of the analog pocket, each wall positioned in front of a cavity. This can for example be seen in figs. 3-4. As shown in Figs. 3-4, the cavity may be a closed cavity rather than an open one, enhancing the resilience of the elastic wall by providing support on all sides, which helps maintain its shape and functionality during deformation.

[0065] One way of further securing the implant analog in the dental model is to have more than one resilient unit, for example two or more of said resilient units, e.g. an upper of said resilient units for engaging with and fixing a proximal section of the dental implant analog, and a lower of said resilient units for engaging with and fixing a distal section of the dental implant analog. I.e. by fixing both an upper and a lower part of the implant analog it is better secured in the dental model. See for example figs. 2D, 2E, 3B, 6A-C, and 7B-C.

[0066] Locking unit

[0067] The locking unit is configured to lock the dental implant analog in the dental model. Lock in the understanding of preventing the implant analog from being retracted from the dental model. This can also ensure that the dental implant analog cannot move longitudinally. Hence, the locking unit may be configured to prevent withdrawal of the dental analog along the longitudinal axis.

[0068] In one embodiment, the locking unit comprises one or more latches, such as at least two, three or four latches, preferably distributed angularly around the longitudinal axis. See for example fig. 7B where two out of three latches 736 are visible. Such latches are also visible in the embodiments shown in figs. 2D-E, 3B, 6A-B, 7A-C, 8A-D, and 9A-B. The one or more latches may be configured to engage with a corresponding recess 210, 310, 610, 710, 810, 910 on the dental implant analog 202, 302, 602, 702, 802, 902. In the preferred embodiment the locking unit is “activated” when inserting the implant analog into the dental pocket and the one or more latches are for example pushed back during insertion and when meeting a recessed section of the implant analog the one more latches engage with the recessed section of the implant analog thereby locking the implant analog inside the analog pocket.

[0069] The retention features described herein can be used alone or in any combination, selected and configured according to the required use. A preferred combination would be to have top and bottom resilient elements to engage with the proximal 208, 308, 608 and distal sections 212, 312, 612 of the implant analog and a locking unit to engage with a middle recessed portion 210, 310, 610 of the implant analog. Angular alignment unit is typically optional and can be an additional feature and / or be integrated in the resilient unit and / or the locking unit. If it is not needed to lock the implant analog longitudinally the locking unit would be optional. However, another preferred solution would be to have locking features distributed longitudinally and preferably distributed angularly as well. For example one or two top latches and one or two bottom latches. Then the locking unit could function as both a longitudinal lock as well as a retention element and in such situation the retention unit could be optional.

[0070] Preferably, each retention feature, including elements of the resilient and locking units, is supported from both above and below. This can be achieved, for example, by connecting upper and lower sections of each retention feature, such as the elastic walls, to different parts of the dental model. Advantageously, an upper section of the retention feature is connected to a section of the dental model forming a first attachment point, while the lower part is secured to a section of the dental model forming a second attachment point. The first attachment point may be closer to the occlusal side of the dental model than the second attachment point. This dual connection ensures that the dental model, including its retention features, can be 3D printed in any orientation in a single printing process, such as from the gingival side to the occlusal side, without requiring temporary structural supports.

[0071] By eliminating the need for temporary structural supports, the fabrication process removes additional steps that require the removal of support material, which could otherwise introduce surface imperfections or damage to any final model. Preferably, the locking unit is structured as a wall extending from the upper attachment point to the lower attachment point. This wall may be inwardly biased toward the center of the longitudinal cavity within the analog pocket, thereby applying a controlled compressive force to any dental analog inserted therein. This biasing mechanism enhances the retention, such as the positional stability and resistance to dislodgement, of the analog within the dental model.

[0072] In some examples, as shown in, for example, Figs. 2D-E, a section of the wall between the upper and lower attachment points bulges inward toward the center of the cavity. This bulging protrusion functions as a latch of a locking unit, specifically designed to slot into a corresponding recessed section of the dental implant analog to lock the implant analog in the intended position within the dental model.

[0073] For instance, as depicted in Figs. 2D-2E, the bulging protrusion can interlock with a middle recessed section of the implant analog, thus securing it against axial displacement.

[0074] As also disclosed above with the resilient unit the locking unit may comprise elastic walls forming part of the analog pocket, each wall positioned in front of a cavity (see, for example, figs. 2D-E, 3A-3B, 6A-C, and 7A-C). Each of the one or more latches may comprise an elastic wall. Preferably each elastic wall is supported from above and from below, for example, by being connected to the rest of the analog pocket via at least a lower and an upper connection point. Each elastic wall may comprise an upper part and a lower part, with a bottom end of the upper part of the wall being attached to a top end of the lower part of the wall. A bottom end of an upper part of each elastic wall may correspondingly bend towards a centre of the cavity. Similarly a lower part of each elastic wall may bend away from a centre of the cavity.

[0075] In one embodiment, each elastic wall comprises an upper part and a lower part, and wherein the locking unit is configured such that the upper part of each elastic wall engages with a recess of the dental implant analog when the dental implant analog is inserted in the dental model.

[0076] In one embodiment, each elastic wall comprises an upper part and a lower part, and wherein the locking unit is configured such that the upper part of each elastic wall is radially deformed by a distal section of the dental implant analog during insertion of the dental implant analog, before latching into a recessed section of the dental implant analog when fully inserted.

[0077] In one embodiment, the locking unit is configured to resiliently deform the analog pocket during insertion of the dental implant analog. The locking unit may be configured to be radially compressible.. Once an implant analog is seated within the longitudinal cavity and radially compresses the locking unit, the locking unit exerts a contact force against the analog directed inward toward the center of the longitudinal cavity. This contact force enhances retention by acting as a grip on the implant analog so that it remains securely held in place within the analog pocket.

[0078] The angular alignment unit may be integrated as part of the locking unit. For example the locking unit may comprise one or more protruding elements, e.g. as part of the latch function, and such protruding element(s) can function as angular alignment, as also described above.

[0079] In the preferred embodiment the locking unit is configured to provide a haptic and / or audible feedback to a user inserting a dental implant analog into the cavity. In that way the user, for example a dental technician, can feel and / or hear when the implant analog is correctly inserted into the dental model.

[0080] Embodiments of the locking unit and the angular alignment indicator are illustrated in many of the drawings, see for example figs. 2D, 2E, 3B, 6A-B, 7A-C, 8A-E and 9A-B.

[0081] Dental models require high precision, smooth surfaces, and accuracy, so the most commonly used 3D printing technologies in dentistry are resin-based 3D printing, such as SLA (Stereolithography), DLP (Digital Light Processing) and MSLA (Masked Stereolithography. Resin-based printing typically prints the models from a grounded support and up and dental models require support during printing. But the support can not be provided from the side of the teeth, because the teeth side requires high precision.

[0082] The presently disclosed locking unit is preferably designed such that it can be printed from below, i.e. from the side opposite the occlusal side of the dental model. Examples of such a design are illustrated in figs. 2D, 2E, 3B, 6A-B, 7A-C, 8A-E and 9A-B, where the locking unit comprises a latch with elastic walls which is configured to lock the dental implant analog in place. In these examples, the latches do not include any unsupported, freely hanging features, as each latch is integrally formed with the elastic wall. Positioned at the center of the elastic wall, each latch is supported by upper and lower portions of the wall, which are each connected, such as through integral formation, to different parts of the dental analog pocket within the dental model. However, the advantage of integrally forming the latch with elastic walls constructed integrally with the rest of the implant analog pocket is that it enables it to be 3D printed in a single manufacturing step along with the rest of the implant analog pocket, thereby eliminating the need for additional assembly steps.

[0083] Dental implant analog

[0084] Preferably, the presently disclosed dental implant comprises a recessed angular alignment part extending along the longitudinal axis of the dental implant. This may be provided to engage with a corresponding (protruding) angular alignment unit of the dental model. The recessed angular alignment may extend over the proximal section, the middle section and / or the distal section, for example, such that angular alignment of the dental implant analog is maintained during the whole insertion process of the implant analog into a corresponding analog pocket.

[0085] A lower part of the proximal section of the implant analog and / or a lower part of the distal section of the implant analog may comprise a conical outer surface. This can help insertion of the implant analog into the analog pocket.

[0086] In some embodiments, the dental implant analog is metallic. Preferably, the dental implant analog is made from titanium, such as a titanium alloy. By using a metallic material, the dental implant analog offers greater durability, allowing for repeated use instead of single-use disposal.

[0087] In one embodiment, the proximal section of the implant analog comprises at least one internal bore extending along the longitudinal axis of said analog, said at least one internal bore preferably having an internal thread. This can be provided such that a abutment of implant can be attached to a top part of the implant analog.

[0088] In one embodiment, the distal section of the implant analog comprises at least one internal bore extending along the longitudinal axis of said analog, said at least one internal bore having an internal thread such that the dental implant analog can be securely attached. The presently disclosed dental model and implant analog is provided with retention features such that in most cases it is not necessary with further fixation of the implant analog in the dental model. However, in certain cases it is necessary with additional fixation, and in such case it can be advantageous with an internal threaded bore in the distal end of the implant analog such that it can be secured with for example a retention screw inserted from the bottom of the dental model.

[0089] One embodiment of the presently disclosed dental implant analog is most clearly seen in figs. 2A-C.

[0090] Push tool

[0091] A typical implant analog is only a few millimetres in diameter, i.e. it is quite small to handle, in particular when inserting into the dental model. Often the implant analog is even countersunk in the dental model. In that regard the present disclosure further relates to a push tool 1042 for inserting the presently disclosed dental implant analog into a dental model, preferably the presently disclosed dental model. As illustrated in figs. 10A, the push tool 1042 preferably comprises an elongated body 1048 having a proximal handle 1044 and a distal end 1046 configured to be releasably attached to the dental implant analog. Hence, the small implant can be attached to the distal end 1046 of the push tool 1042, and by holding the handle 1044 of the push tool 1042 the implant analog can more easily be guided and inserted into the dental model and countersinking becomes much easier.

[0092] In one embodiment, the distal end of the push tool comprises a protruding element configured to engage with a recessed top part of the dental implant analog. The protruding element may be shaped as a polygonal nut, such as a hexagonal nut. The protruding element may be threaded.

[0093] The push tool may be provided in a polymeric material. The push tool may even be disposable, i.e. for onetime use only. In particular if the push tool is manufactured by additive manufacturing and only made to order to be sent and packed along with the implant analog.

[0094] One example of the push tool 1042 is seen in cut through in fig. 10A and closeup in fig. 10B. Another example of the push tool 1142 is seen in fig. 10C-D where an insertion guide 1152 is incorporated in the push tool 1142 to ensure a minimum threshold force to be exerted to the dental implant analog to obtain a proper seating in the dental model. As seen in figs. 10C-D the push tool comprises a spacing 1154 between the proximal part with the handle and the distal end. The function is to provide the user with a guide on how much to push down when inserting the dental implant analog into the dental model. The push tool 1142 in figs. 10C-D is configured to collapse at the minimum threshold force such that when the push tool 1142 collapses, i.e. the spacing 1154 between the proximal and distal end collapses, the dental implant analog is also secured in the dental model. The push tool 1142 in figs. 10C-D is therefore a one-time use push handle, once collapsed, this function has been used. When the push tool collapses a haptic and / or an audible feedback can be provided which can be very reassuring for the user, e.g. a lab technician.

[0095] Further details of the drawings

[0096] 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 - dental model

[0097] 202, 302, 602, 702, 802, 902, 1002 - dental implant analog

[0098] 104, 204, 304, 804 - retention screw

[0099] 206, 306 - coronal end of the implant analog

[0100] 208, 308, 608 - proximal section of the implant analog

[0101] 210, 310, 610, 710, 810, 910, 1010 - middle recessed section of the implant analog

[0102] 212, 312, 612 - distal section of the implant analog

[0103] 214, 314, 614 - conical outer surface of the implant analog

[0104] 216, 316, 616 - internal bore in the proximal section

[0105] 218, 318, 618 - internal thread of the bore in the proximal section

[0106] 220, 320, 620 - internal bore in the distal section

[0107] 222, 322, 622 - internal thread of the bore in the distal section

[0108] 224, 324 - apical end of the implant analog

[0109] 226, 326, 426, 626, 726, 926 - analog pocket in the dental model

[0110] 228, 328, 628, 728, 828 - longitudinal cavity in the analog pocket

[0111] 430, 530 - radially protruding element

[0112] 232, 332, 432, 532, 632 - elastic element of the resilient unit

[0113] 234, 334, 434, 634 - protrusion of the elastic element

[0114] 236, 336, 636, 736, 836, 936 - latch of the locking unit

[0115] 938 - trench

[0116] 340, 640, 740 - angular alignment indicator

[0117] 1042, 1142 - push tool

[0118] 1044, 1144 - proximal handle of the push tool

[0119] 1046, 1146 - distal end of the push tool

[0120] 1048, 1148 - elongated body of the push tool

[0121] 1050, 1150 - protruding element of the distal end of the push tool

[0122] 1152 - insertion guide of the push tool

[0123] 1154 - spacing of the push tool

Claims

Claims1 . A dental model of at least a part of a patient’s jaw and / or teeth, the dental model comprising: at least one analog pocket, each analog pocket defining a longitudinal cavity configured for receiving and fixing a dental implant analog, wherein each analog pocket comprises one or more retention features for securing a dental implant analog within the longitudinal cavity, wherein at least one retention feature comprises one or more elastic and radially compressible elements formed as part of a wall positioned in front of a different cavity from the longitudinal cavity, the wall forming a part of the analog pocket and being configured to deform and adapt to the implant analog during insertion of the implant analog within the analog pocket.

2. The dental model according to claim 1 , wherein each dental implant analog comprises a plurality of retention features, each retention feature comprising an elastic and radially compressible wall positioned in front of separate cavities, and each elastic wall forming a part of the analog pocket.

3. The dental model according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the elastic wall extends between and is connected to at least two or more spaced apart sections of the analog pocket, such that deformation of the elastic element is constrained by its connections to both spaced apart sections.

4. The dental model according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the elastic wall is integrally connected to the at least two or more spaced apart sections.

5. The dental model according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each dental analog pocket comprises a resilient unit for fixing the dental implant analog in the dental model, the resilient unit comprising at least one of the retention features of the analog pocket.

6. The dental model according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each dental analog pocket comprises a locking unit configured to lock the dentalimplant analog in position within the dental model, the locking unit comprising the at least one of the retention features of the analog pocket.

7. The dental model according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each analog pocket comprises an angular alignment unit for fixing the angular orientation of the dental implant analog in the dental model, the angular alignment unit comprises at least one of the retention features.

8. The dental model according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each longitudinal cavity is substantially elliptical cylindric, preferably circular cylindric.

9. The dental model according to claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the angular alignment unit comprises at least one protruding element, preferably at least one radially protruding element.

10. The dental model according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the angular alignment unit comprises a plurality of protruding elements, such as at least two, three or four protruding elements, distributed along the longitudinal axis of the cavity, preferably the protruding elements are radially protruding elements.

11. The dental model according to any one of claims 7 to 10, comprising an angular alignment indicator for indicating the angular position of the angular alignment unit.

12. The dental model according to any one of claims 5 to 11 , wherein the resilient unit is configured to resiliently deform during insertion of the dental implant analog.

13. The dental model according to any one of claims 5 to 12, wherein the resilient unit comprises a plurality of elastic elements formed as elastic walls of the analog pocket, each wall positioned in front of a separate cavity.

14. The dental model according to claim 13, wherein each elastic wall of the resilient unit is distributed around the longitudinal axis of the analog pocket.

15. The dental model according to any one of claims 5 to 14, wherein the resilient unit comprises at least one protruding element for engaging with an outer surface of the dental implant analog.

16. The dental model according to any one of claims 5 to 15, wherein the dental model comprises more than one resilient unit for engaging with and fixing a proximal section of the dental implant analog.

17. The dental model according to any one of claims 16, wherein an upper resilient unit is configured for engaging with and fixing a distal section of the dental implant analog and a lower resilient unit is configured for engaging with and fixing a proximal section of the dental implant analog.

18. The dental model according to any one of claims 6 to 17, wherein the locking unit comprises one or more latches, such as at least two, three, four or five latches, preferably distributed around the longitudinal axis.

19. The dental model according to any one of claims 6 to 18, wherein the locking unit comprises one or more sets of latches, such as at least two sets of latches distributed along the longitudinal axis.

20. The dental model according to claim 19 or claim 20, wherein the one or more latches are configured to engage with a corresponding recess of the dental implant analog.21 . The dental model according to any one of claims 16 to 20, wherein each of the one or more latches comprise the elastic wall.

22. The dental model according to any one of the claims 19 to 21 , wherein each elastic wall is supported from above and from below.

23. The dental model according to claim 22, wherein an upper section of each elastic wall is connected to a section of the dental model forming a first attachment point and a lower section of each elastic wall is connected to a section of the dental model forming a second attachment point.

24. The dental model according to any one of claims 19 to 23, wherein a bottom end of an upper part of each elastic wall bends towards a centre of the cavity.

25. The dental model according to any one of claims 19 to 24, wherein a lower part of each elastic wall bends away from a centre of the cavity.

26. The dental model according to any one of claims 21 to 25, wherein each elastic wall comprises an upper part and a lower part, and wherein the locking unit is configured such that the upper part of each elastic wall engages with a recess of the dental implant analog when the dental implant analog is inserted in the dental model.

27. The dental model according to any one of claims 21 to 26, wherein each elastic wall comprises an upper part and a lower part, and wherein the locking unit is configured such that the upper part of each elastic wall is radially deformed by a distal section of the dental implant analog during insertion of the dental implant analog, before latching into a recessed section of the dental implant analog when fully inserted.

28. The dental model according to any one of claims 6 to 27, wherein the locking unit is configured to resiliently deform the analog pocket during insertion of the dental implant analog.

29. The dental model according to any one of claims 6 to 28, wherein the locking unit is configured to be radially compressible.

30. The dental model according to any one of claims 6 to 29, wherein the locking unit is configured to provide a haptic and / or audible feedback to a user inserting a dental implant analog into the cavity.31 . The dental model according to any one of claims 6 to 30, wherein the locking unit is configured to prevent withdrawal of the dental analog along the longitudinal axis.

32. The dental model according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a bottom part of each analog pocket comprises a trench.

33. The dental model according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the dental model is physical model, preferably provided in a polymeric material.

34. The dental model according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a base face with the teeth and an opposite gingival part, wherein the at least one analog pocket defining the longitudinal cavity is provided between the base face and the opposite gingival part such the dental implant analog can be received via the base face.

35. The dental model according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the dental model is a digital model.

36. The dental model according to any one of the preceding claims, manufactured by means of additive manufacturing based on a digital model of said patient’s jaw and / or teeth.

37. A dental implant analog configured for insertion into a dental model of a patient’s jaw and / or teeth, the dental implant analog comprising a proximal section, a distal section, and a middle recessed section between the proximal and distal sections for engaging with a locking unit of the dental model.

38. The dental implant analog of claim 37, further comprising a recessed angular alignment part extending along the longitudinal axis of the dental implant, wherein the recessed angular alignment extends over the proximal section, the middle section and / or the distal section, the recessed angular alignment part being configured to engage with a corresponding angular alignment unit of the dental model.

39. The dental implant analog according to claim 38, wherein a lower part of the proximal section and / or a lower part of the distal section comprises a conicalouter surface.

40. The dental implant analog according to claim 37 to claim 39, wherein the dental implant analog is metallic.41 . The dental implant analog according to any one of claims 37 to 40, wherein the proximal section comprises at least one internal bore extending along the longitudinal axis of said analog, said at least one internal bore having an internal thread.

42. The dental implant analog according to any one of claims 37 to 41 , wherein the distal section comprises at least one internal bore extending along the longitudinal axis of said analog, said at least one internal bore having an internal thread such that the dental implant analog can be securely attached.

43. The dental implant analog according to any one of claims 37 to 42, wherein the recessed angular alignment part is configured to engage with a corresponding protruding element of an angular alignment unit of a dental model.

44. The dental implant analog according to any one of claims 37 to 43, wherein the dental model is the dental model according to any one of claims 1 to 36.

45. A push tool for inserting a dental implant analog, such as a dental implant analog according to any one of claims 37 to 44, into a dental model, such as a dental model according to any one of claims 1 to 36, wherein the push tool comprises an elongated body having a handle at a proximal end and a distalend configured to be releasably attached to the dental implant analog.

46. The push tool according to claim 45, wherein the push tool is provided in a polymeric material.

47. The push tool according to claim 45 or claim 46, wherein the push tool is disposable.

48. The push tool according to any one of claims 45 to 47, wherein the push tool is manufactured by additive manufacturing.

49. The push tool according to any one of claims 45 to 48, wherein the distal end comprises a protruding element configured to engage with a recessed top part of the dental implant analog.

50. The push tool according to claim 49, wherein the protruding element is shaped as a polygonal nut, such as a hexagonal nut.51 . The push tool according to claim 49 or claim 50, wherein the protruding element is threaded.

52. The push tool according to any one of claims 45 to 51 , configured for inserting the dental implant analog according to any one of claims 37 to 44, into the dental model according to any one of claims 1 to 36.

53. A dental tool or restoration kit comprising: a dental model according to any one of claims 1 to 36, and a dental implant analog according to any one of claims 37 to 44.

54. The dental tool or restoration kit according to claim 53, further comprising the push tool according to any one of claims 45 to 52.

55. A method of manufacturing a dental model according to any one of claims 1 to 36, the method comprising the steps of: providing a digital version of the jaw and / or teeth of the patient,printing a physical copy of the digital version of the dental model, such as by means of a 3D printer.

56. The method according to claim 55, further comprising the step of digitally adding one or more retention features to the digital version of the jaw and / or teeth of the patient.

57. The method according to claim 55 or claim 56, wherein the step of printing the physical version of the dental model is performed by means of a resin-based 3D printer.

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