Improved dental kit

Abstract

Dental kit for taking a prosthetic impression comprising at least two implants (5) engaged in the bone structure (90) of a patient, and wherein said dental kit comprises at least two connection elements (2), each configured to be removably fixed to a respective implant (5), and a frame (4) configured to be connected to said at least two connection elements (2) by means of respective mechanical connection arms (3), and wherein said arms (3) are adjustable and lockable so as to stabilise the position with respect to the frame (4) of each connection element (2), and therefore of each implant (5) fixed to said connection element (2).

Description

[0001] IMPROVED DENTAL KIT.

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention concerns a dental kit for the detection of a prosthetic impression of at least one dental implant, preferably of two or more dental implants, inserted into the bone structure of a patient.

[0004] The present invention concerns a dental apparatus for the detection of a prosthetic impression of at least one dental implant, preferably of two or more dental implants, inserted into the bone structure of a patient.

[0005] The present invention concerns a body for the extra-oral detection of a prosthetic impression of one or more dental implants inserted into the bone structure of a patient.

[0006] The present invention concerns an element (further body) for simulating a dental implant for the detection and prototyping of the dental implant itself outside the oral cavity of a patient, in order to be able to create the appropriate dental prosthesis.

[0007] The present invention concerns a scannable assembly for the extra-oral detection of a prosthetic impression of one or more dental implants engaged in the bone structure of a patient.

[0008] The present invention also concerns a method for taking a prosthetic impression outside the oral cavity of a patient using said dental apparatus.

[0009] STATE OF THE ART

[0010] As is known, dental implants made to replace one or more teeth of a patient generally comprise an implant that fits into the patient's mandible or maxilla, and an overlying prosthesis, which may be a supra-implant element, a dental crown, a bar or a complete prosthesis to thus replace the natural element of the patient's tooth or teeth.

[0011] In recent dental practice, digital techniques are used to take a prosthetic impression of a dental implant. The known techniques are based on the use of an intraoral scanner that is easy to insert into the oral cavity, and therefore relatively small in size. In particular, the intraoral scanner is a tool capable of creating a digital copy of a patient's prosthetic impression; more specifically, the scanner works by emitting a light beam onto the surfaces to be examined, such as the teeth or the dental arch, to capture a detailed image. These images are then processed by specific software that reconstructs the impression into a three-dimensional digital representation (typically saved in a file in the "stl" format). The quality and accuracy of the detection of the implant impression are improved by the use of special additional elements that are screwed onto the implant. These additional elements are strategically positioned in the area of interest for the implant and are needed to provide exact reference points, thus allowing for substantially exact mapping of the implant position. The use of additional elements is essential and brings a significant improvement in intraoral scanning with scanners for the detection of specific implant positions.

[0012] The use of the intraoral scanner makes the acquisition of the impression particularly rapid and, at the same time, allows to avoid the discomfort caused by keeping the hardening material paste in the oral cavity.

[0013] The intraoral scanner, in the standard procedure with the use of additional intraoral elements, proves to be effective and sufficiently accurate for scanning one or at most two dental implants located on the same dental arch. This is because, when scanning larger areas inside the oral cavity, an unacceptable error tends to accumulate in the detection of details due to the distortion accumulated in the wide-range scan. Furthermore, the accuracy of the scan is limited by the non-optimal conditions that are inevitably present inside the oral cavity of a patient, caused by reflections of the light beams, poor lighting, reduced possibility of maneuvering the scanner inside the oral cavity, use of additional elements of small dimensions, presence of biological fluids such as saliva and / or blood.

[0014] A device for taking a prosthetic impression of a dental implant for an entire arch is known on the market. It consists of a metal frame connected by polymerizing resin to “scan bodies” that are specifically designed for fixing with the resin and are intended to be screwed onto the implants. In particular, the scan bodies are first fixed to the dental implants, that is, to the part of the implant in contact with the bone; subsequently, the frame is inserted into the oral cavity and the frame itself and the scan bodies are fixed together by using polymerizing resin. The frame and scan bodies assembly is then scanned in the mouth using the intraoral scanner, which, having to detect a surface that is completely joined between the parts, will presumably generate fewer distortion errors. Once the resin has hardened, it is possible to disconnect the scan bodies from the implants and remove the device comprising the scan bodies connected by the resin to the frame from the patient's mouth. Furthermore, once the device has been removed from the oral cavity, it is possible to use and screw additional components, called “plaster analogues” of the implant to make a classic cast, for example a plaster cast. Another possibility, with the use of special scannable analogues called “scan-analogues” fixed to the complex, is to scan the fixed complex using the scanner (both intraoral and laboratory) so as to generate a digital copy of the respective implant positions.

[0015] This solution allows the detection to be moved outside the oral cavity (avoiding the known problems of intra-oral scanning), however it has a number of drawbacks. In particular, the resin used to connect the scan bodies to the frame requires a polymerization phase in order to obtain sufficient rigidity of the connection and, therefore, this operation is not immediate and is rather laborious and complicated. Furthermore, the polymerization of the resin causes a shrinkage that can undesirably alter the position of the frame with respect to the scan bodies, thus making the method imprecise as a whole. Furthermore, to prevent contamination of the resin with saliva or other biological fluids, the use of gauze to isolate the area is essential. Last but not least, to detach the scan bodies from the frame, it is necessary to remove and discard the resin from both, further complicating the process.

[0016] US2012189985 describes a mobile structure that allows separate dental implants to be connected to each other.

[0017] OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The object of the invention is to propose a dental kit and / or a dental apparatus for the detection of a prosthetic impression of at least one dental implant, preferably of two or more dental implants, which allow to overcome, at least in part, the drawbacks of the known solutions.

[0019] Another object of the invention is to propose a dental kit and / or a dental apparatus that allow the impression to be taken in a space outside the patient's oral cavity.

[0020] Another object of the invention is to propose a dental kit and / or a dental apparatus that do not use resin material.

[0021] Another object of the invention is to propose a dental kit and / or a dental apparatus that improve the precision and / or accuracy of the measurements compared to known and / or traditional solutions.

[0022] Another object of the invention is to propose a dental kit and / or a dental apparatus that are reusable.

[0023] Another object of the invention is to propose a dental kit and / or a dental apparatus that are highly reliable.

[0024] Another object of the invention is to propose a dental kit and / or a dental apparatus and / or a scannable assembly that can be easily, quickly and safely assembled inside the oral cavity.

[0025] Another object of the invention is to propose a dental kit and / or a dental apparatus that can be easily, quickly and safely removed from the oral cavity.

[0026] Another object of the invention is to propose a dental kit and / or a dental apparatus and / or a scannable assembly that reduce the uncertainty of the relative position of the implants in an extra-oral scan. Another object of the invention is to propose a dental kit and / or a dental apparatus and / or a scannable assembly that allow the detection of all implants for a portion of a dental arch, single implants and implants for an entire dental arch.

[0027] Another object of the invention is to propose a dental kit and / or a dental apparatus and / or a scannable assembly that speed up the detection procedure.

[0028] Another object of the invention is to propose a dental kit and / or a dental apparatus and / or a scannable assembly that reduce detection errors carried out using an intra-oral scanner.

[0029] Another object of the invention is to propose a dental kit that is easy and quick to manufacture.

[0030] Another object of the invention is to propose a dental kit and / or a dental apparatus and / or a scannable assembly that can be manufactured and assembled at low costs.

[0031] Another object of the invention is to propose a dental kit and / or a dental apparatus and / or a scannable assembly that are simple, safe and quick to use.

[0032] Another object of the invention is to propose a dental apparatus and / or a scannable assembly that have greater rigidity and consequent overall precision compared to known solutions.

[0033] Another object of the invention is to propose a dental kit and / or a dental apparatus and / or a scannable assembly which are improved / alternative with respect to traditional solutions.

[0034] Another object of the invention is to propose a body and / or an element (further body) for the extra-oral detection of a prosthetic impression of a dental implant which allow to overcome, at least in part, the drawbacks of the known solutions.

[0035] Another object of the invention is to propose a body for the extra-oral detection of a prosthetic impression of a dental implant which improves the accuracy and / or precision of extra-oral scans, preferably performed using an intra-oral scanner.

[0036] Another object of the invention is to propose a body and / or an element (further body) that are improved / alternative with respect to traditional solutions.

[0037] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0038] All these objects - whether considered individually or in any combination thereof - and others that will result from the following description are achieved, according to the invention, with a dental kit according to claim 1 and / or a method according to claim 20 and / or a body, according to claim 22, for the extra-oral detection of a prosthetic impression of a dental implant, and / or an element, according to claim 23, for simulating a patient's implant. DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0039] The present invention is further clarified below in some of its preferred practical embodiments reported for purely exemplary and non-limiting purposes with reference to the attached tables of drawings, wherein:

[0040] Figure 1 shows a schematic lateral view of a dental implant engaged in a patient's bone and a prosthetic element fixed to the implant,

[0041] Figure 2 shows a schematic section of a dental implant to which a connection element of the dental kit according to the invention has been fixed by means of a threaded member,

[0042] Figure 3 shows a schematic perspective view of the connection element of the dental kit according to the invention positioned on a dental implant without being fixed by means of a fixing member, with the first head of the connection element and the head of the dental implant sectioned,

[0043] Figure 4 shows a schematic top view of the connection element of the dental kit according to the invention,

[0044] Figure 5 shows a schematic perspective view of a portion of the dental apparatus according to the invention connected to a dental implant, with the first head of the connection element and the head of the dental implant sectioned,

[0045] Figure 6 shows a schematic plan view of an arm of the dental kit according to the invention,

[0046] Figure 7 shows a schematic perspective view of a portion of an arm locked onto a connection element placed above a dental implant, with the first head of the connection element sectioned and the first portion of the arm partially transparent,

[0047] Figure 8 shows a schematic plan view of a palatal frame of the dental kit according to the invention equipped with a grid,

[0048] Figure 9 shows a schematic top view of a lingual frame of the dental kit according to the invention in its various sizes,

[0049] Figure 10 shows a schematic plan view of two palatal frames of the dental kit according to the invention equipped with a grid and configured for the detection of a prosthetic impression of dental implants positioned along a portion of the dental arch,

[0050] Figure 11 shows a schematic plan view of two lingual frames of the dental kit according to the invention configured for the detection of a prosthetic impression of dental implants positioned along a portion of the dental arch,

[0051] Figure 12 shows schematically in a longitudinal section a body of the dental kit according to the invention fixed to a connection element,

[0052] Figure 13 shows a schematic perspective view of a body of the dental kit according to the invention,

[0053] Figure 14 shows a schematic side view of the body of Fig. 13,

[0054] Figure 15 shows a schematic plan view of the body of Fig. 13,

[0055] Figure 16 shows a schematic side view of an element (further body) of the dental kit according to the invention,

[0056] Figure 17 shows a schematic perspective view of the element in Fig. 16,

[0057] Figure 18 shows a schematic view of dental implants placed along the entire upper dental arch inside a patient's oral cavity,

[0058] Figure 19 schematically shows the connection elements of the dental kit according to the invention fixed to the implants of Fig. 18,

[0059] Figure 20 schematically shows the arms of the dental kit according to the invention locked on the connection elements shown in Fig.19,

[0060] Figure 21 schematically shows a palatal frame of the dental kit according to the invention equipped with a grid and locked by means of the arms of Fig. 20, thus defining the dental apparatus according to the invention,

[0061] Figure 22 shows a schematic plan view of the apparatus of Fig. 21 following its removal from the oral cavity,

[0062] Figure 23 shows a schematic perspective view of the apparatus of Fig. 22 shown in two dimensions with the coupling portions of the components highlighted in three-dimensional shape, to which first bodies - also shown in three dimensions - of the dental kit according to the invention have been fixed, thus defining the scannable assembly according to the invention.

[0063] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION AND OF SOME OF ITS PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0064] Conveniently, the dental implant considered hereinafter is essentially of the traditional type and engages the bone structure 90 of the patient's mandible or maxilla. Each implant 5 is provided with respective connection means for fixing a prosthesis 9 (cf. fig. 1 ) configured to replace one or more natural dental crowns. However, the present invention can be applied without particular modifications also to dental implants 5 wherein the connection means for the prosthesis are (or are part of) a separate entity that is connected to the respective implant 5.

[0065] As shown in the figures, the dental kit according to the present invention comprises at least one connection element 2, preferably at least two connection elements 2, each configured to be removably fixed to a respective dental implant 5.

[0066] The kit according to the invention also comprises a frame 4 which is configured to be connected to said at least two connection elements 2 by means of mechanical connection arms 3 which are adjustable and lockable so as to stabilize the position with respect to the frame 4 of each connection element 2, and therefore of each implant 5 fixed to said connection element 2.

[0067] Advantageously, the connection arms 3 are chemically and physically stable during their locking. In particular, the connection arms 3 are not made of resin or other polymerizable or hardening material. Preferably, the connection arms are made of metallic material.

[0068] Preferably, each connection arm 3 is removably connectable to a connection element 2 and is also removably connectable to the frame 4.

[0069] In a possible embodiment not illustrated in the figures, the connection arm 3 can be defined by a corresponding extension of the connection element 2 (and therefore can be integrated into said element 2) and can be removably connected to the frame 4 only.

[0070] Advantageously, by stably connecting each implant 5 to the frame 4, the accuracy of the detection of the implant position is improved compared to the case wherein separate implants are directly connected to each other, and in particular, by connecting a multiplicity of implants 5 one after the other, it is avoided that any small movements between the connections of each implant add up to significantly modify the position of one or more implants relative to the others.

[0071] Advantageously, it is not necessary for the connection elements 2 or the connection arms 3 to be extendable.

[0072] Advantageously, moreover, the connection elements 2 engage directly with the dental implants 5, reducing the number of essential components. In this way, one or at most two elements - i.e. a connection element and possibly a connection arm - are sufficient to connect a dental implant to the frame.

[0073] Conveniently, each connection element 2 comprises a first head 29 which is configured to engage, preferably by means of a form fit, with an external end portion 28 of the implant 5. Conveniently, the external end portion 28 of the implant 5 protrudes, at least in part, from the bone into which a remaining part of the same implant is inserted / anchored.

[0074] Conveniently, the connection element 2 comprises a second head 27 at which the connection element 2 is associated with a connection arm 3. Preferably, the second head 27 is configured to engage, preferably by a form fit, with a corresponding portion of the connection arm 3.

[0075] Preferably, an intermediate section 26 is interposed between the first head 29 and the second head 27 and, in particular, the first head 29 and the second head 27 are defined at the respective opposite ends of the intermediate section 26 of the connection element 2.

[0076] Conveniently, the connection element 2 is installed so that, when the first head 29 is engaged on the external end portion 28 of the implant 5, the second head 27 of the same connection element 2 is arranged laterally towards the inside of the oral cavity. In particular, the connection element 2 is configured so that, when the first head 29 is engaged on the external end portion 28 of the implant 5, the intermediate section 26 of the connection element 2 extends longitudinally, starting from said first head 29, in an angled / inclined manner with respect to the longitudinal extension direction of the implant 5 (also corresponding to the direction of insertion of the implant 5 inside the patient's bone) then ending with said second head 27. Preferably, once fixed on an implant 5, the connection element 2 is also angled with respect to the plane of the dental arch wherein the implant is engaged.

[0077] Preferably, the first head 29 and the second head 27 of the connection element 2 are spaced apart and angled to each other. Preferably, the connection element 2 has predetermined and non-modifiable dimensions.

[0078] Preferably, the first head 29 of the connection element 2 is configured (in terms of shape and size) specifically based on the corresponding configuration of the external end portion 28 of each implant 5 anchored to the bone structure 90 in the oral cavity of the patient. In particular, the first head 29 of the connection element 2 may comprise a cavity (or in any case a “female” conformation) to receive an external end portion 28, which is protruding (or in any case has a “male” conformation), of the implant 5; otherwise, the first head 29 of the connection element 2 may be protruding to thus fit into a cavity formed in the external end portion 28 of the implant 5.

[0079] Preferably, the second head 27 may be spherical or in any case substantially spherical.

[0080] Conveniently, fastening means 20 may be provided to thereby stabilize the engagement of each connection element 2 on the respective implant 5. Conveniently, the fastening means 20 are externally activated and are configured to mutually secure the first head 29 of the connection element 2 to the external end portion 28 of the implant 5. Preferably, the fastening means 20 comprise at least one threaded member 22, for example a screw. More preferably, the threaded member 22 passes through the first head 29 of the connection element 2 to then engage in the external end portion 28 of the implant 5.

[0081] Conveniently, the frame 4 comprises a structure that is configured to be placed in the oral cavity of the patient within the area externally delimited by the dental arch (native and / or prosthetic) of the patient. The frame 4 comprises two or more attachment portions 41 , each of which is configured to be mechanically connected to a corresponding arm 3 or, in a different embodiment not shown, directly to a corresponding connection element 2.

[0082] Conveniently, each arm 3 is provided with a first portion 31 for the adjustable mechanical connection with the second head 27 of the connection element 2. In particular, the first portion 31 of the arm 3 and the second head 27 of the connection element 2 are configured so as to define a mechanical coupling that allows their mutual movement (in rotation and / or translation in one or more directions), thus allowing to adjust / vary the arrangement of the arm 3 with respect to the connection element 2.

[0083] Conveniently, each arm 3 is also provided with a second portion 35 for the adjustable mechanical connection with a corresponding attachment portion 41 of the frame 4. In particular, the second portion 35 of the arm 3 and the attachment portion 41 of the frame 4 are configured so as to define a mechanical coupling that allows their mutual movement (in rotation and / or translation in one or more directions), thus allowing to adjust / vary the arrangement of the arm 3 with respect to the frame 4.

[0084] Preferably, said first portion 31 and said second portion 35 are defined at opposite ends of each arm 3. Preferably, said first portion 31 and said second portion 35 can be separated by an intermediate portion. Preferably, the connection arm 3 has predetermined and non-modifiable dimensions.

[0085] Preferably, the second head 27 of the connection element 2 and the first portion 31 of the connection arm 3 can define a mechanical connection of the ball joint type, or an equivalent mechanical connection with multiple degrees of freedom; for example, the second head 27 of the connection element 2 can be shaped like a sphere while the first portion 31 of the connection arm 3 is shaped like a bowl, or vice versa.

[0086] Preferably, the second portion 35 of the connection arm 3 and the corresponding attachment portion 41 of the frame 4 can define a mechanical connection of the ball joint type, or an equivalent mechanical connection with multiple degrees of freedom; for example, the second portion 35 of the connection arm 3 can be shaped like a bowl while the attachment portion 41 of the frame 4 can be shaped like a sphere, or vice versa.

[0087] Preferably, the kit also comprises locking means 36 for fixing the relative position between the frame 4 and each connection element 2. More preferably, the locking means 36 are mounted on each connection arm 3. Advantageously, considering that each connection element 2 is fixed to a respective implant 5, through the locking means 36 also it is fixed / stabilized the relative position of each implant 5 with respect to the frame 4. Advantageously, the structure thus consisting of the frame, the connection arms and the connection elements - i.e. when these elements have been fixed together as described above - is already totally stable and rigid, and does not require further supports.

[0088] Preferably, each connection arm 3 also comprises control means 37 for activating and deactivating the locking means 36, thus preventing / allowing the movement of each arm 3 with respect to a corresponding connection element 2 and with respect to the frame 4.

[0089] In particular, the locking means 36 are then configured to alternately assume, as well as switch between:

[0090] - an activated condition wherein the locking means 36 prevent relative movement (both translational and rotational) between the arm 3 and the connection element 2 and also between the arm 3 and the frame 4, thus stabilizing their mutual position, and

[0091] - a deactivated condition wherein the locking means 36 do not prevent relative movement (both translational and rotational) between the arm 3 and the connection element 2 and between the arm 3 and the frame 4.

[0092] In more detail, when the locking means 36 are in the activated condition, the adjustment of the mutual position of the arm 3 with the connection element 2 and of the arm 3 with the frame 4 is thus prevented, whereas when the locking means 36 are in the deactivated condition such adjustment is permitted and possible.

[0093] Conveniently, the control means 37 are configured to cause the locking means to switch from the deactivated condition to the activated condition, and vice versa.

[0094] Conveniently, the locking means 36 comprise first locking means (not shown) acting at the mechanical connection / coupling between the arm 3 and the connection element 2, and also comprise second locking means (not shown) acting at the mechanical connection / coupling between the arm 3 and the frame 4. Preferably, the locking means 36 comprise first locking means configured to prevent movement between the first portion 31 of the connection arm 3 and the second head 27 of a connection element 2. Correspondingly, the first locking means are associated with first control means 37' to activate / deactivate said first locking means, thus preventing / allowing movement of each arm 3 with respect to the corresponding connection element 2.

[0095] Preferably, the locking means 36 comprise second locking means to prevent movement between the second portion 35 of the connection arm 3 and the corresponding attachment portion 41 of the frame 4. Correspondingly, the second locking means are associated with second control means 37" to activate / deactivate said second locking means, thus preventing / allowing movement of each arm 3 with respect to the frame 4.

[0096] Preferably, in a possible embodiment, the control means 37 comprise at least one lever 33. More preferably, the lever 33 is shaped and positioned so as to be conveniently accessible and operable from the outside by an operator when the arm 3 is positioned inside the oral cavity, as will become clearer later.

[0097] Preferably, in one possible embodiment, the locking means 36 may comprise at least one threaded component or grub screw. More preferably, in the case of a ball joint connection, the locking means 36 are configured to block - when in the activated condition - rotations in all directions of the sphere relative to the bowl, as well as to prevent removal of the bowl from the sphere.

[0098] Conveniently, in an embodiment not shown here, said at least one threaded component or grub screw of the locking means 36, under the action of the control means 37, is configured to push a bowl / dome-shaped portion (which preferably defines the corresponding ball joint connection) into abutment respectively with the second head 27 of a connection element 2 or with an attachment portion 41 of the frame 4, thus blocking any relative movement between the arm 3 and the respective connection element 2 and / or between the arm 3 and the frame 4. Preferably, said bowl-shaped portion is obtained in or is part respectively of said first portion 31 and / or of said second portion 35 of the arm 3.

[0099] In the embodiment presented in the figures, a corresponding arm 3 is provided for connecting each connection element 2 to the frame 4. Conveniently, the dental kit comprises a plurality of arms 3, one for each connection element 2 to be connected to the frame 4.

[0100] Conveniently, as mentioned, to facilitate the connection, the relative position of the arm 3 with respect to the connection elements 2 and with respect to the frame 4 is adjustable. Advantageously, this allows to simplify the manufacture of the frame 4 and the connection elements 2, as well as to reduce costs.

[0101] In another possible embodiment (cf. figure 7), the connection arm 3 may be devoid of control means for the locking means 36; in this case, for example, the locking means 36 pass from the deactivated condition to the activated condition, or vice versa, by means of external tools, for example a screwdriver.

[0102] Preferably, the position of each arm 3 with respect to each connection element 2 and / or of each arm 3 with respect to the frame 4 is adjustable - before the activation of the locking means 36 - to thus allow adaptation to the different positions of the implants 5 and to the different conformations of the oral cavity of the various patients. Advantageously, therefore, the arm 3 can be fixed to a connection element 2 and / or to the frame 4 in different positions by means of the locking means 36.

[0103] Preferably, the dental kit according to the invention can comprise multiple frames 4 with different conformations, each configured to be connected to a different number of connection elements 2 with respect to the other frames 4 of the same dental kit, more preferably wherein at least one frame 4 is configured for the detection of a prosthetic impression of a half-dental arch and / or at least one frame 4 is configured for the detection of a prosthetic impression of an entire dental arch.

[0104] In some possible embodiments, the frame 4 may comprise a rigid structure 40, for example a bar, in the shape of a dental arch / horseshoe (figures 8 and 9), or a portion of a dental arch (figures 10 and 11).

[0105] Conveniently, the overall plan dimensions of the rigid structure 40 is configured (both in terms of shape and size) so as not to interfere with the dental arches (native and / or replaced by prosthetic components) of the patient once the same rigid structure 40 is positioned inside the oral cavity of the patient. Advantageously, therefore, the frame 4 does not interfere with possible movements of the mandible with respect to the maxilla and is also spaced from the lips and the internal walls of the cheeks, facilitating operations and avoiding discomfort for the patient.

[0106] Conveniently, the dental kit can include multiple frames 4 with the same shape, but of different sizes to adapt to the different dimensions of the respective oral cavities of various patients.

[0107] Preferably, the dental kit may comprise at least one palatal type of frame 4 suitable for use with the upper dental arch, and at least one lingual type of frame 4 suitable for use with the lower dental arch. More preferably, the palatal type of frame 4 may comprise a grid 42 to further stiffen the structure (figure 8). Conveniently, the dental kit may comprise at least one body 6, preferably at least two bodies 6, for extra-oral operations, each of which is configured to be removably attached to a corresponding connection element 2. Preferably, each body is configured to act as a “scan-analog” for a digital scan performed outside the patient's oral cavity, and may also be adapted to act as a “scan body” for an intra-oral digital scan.

[0108] In particular, each body 6 is configured to replace a corresponding implant 5 outside the oral cavity, which inside the oral cavity was fixed to a corresponding connection element 2, and this in order to carry out the extra-oral detection of the prosthetic impression of said dental implant 5.

[0109] In more detail, each body 6 is configured to be fixed to a connection element 2 - outside the patient's oral cavity - in place of the implant 5. In other words, outside the oral cavity, each body 6 replaces in terms of position and dimensions a corresponding implant 5 that had been fixed to a specific connection element 2 inside the oral cavity.

[0110] In more detail, as will become clearer later, after having fixed each connection element 2 to a corresponding implant 5 inside the oral cavity and after having then connected, always inside the oral cavity, each connection element 2 to the frame 4 by means of respective connection arms 3, a dental apparatus 50 is thus defined / obtained inside the patient's oral cavity. After having removed the fastening of each connection element 2 of the apparatus 50 thus defined / assembled from the respective implants 5, the entire apparatus 50, which has been dissociated from the implants 5, is removed from the patient's oral cavity. Outside the oral cavity, a corresponding body 6 is then fixed to each connection element 2 of the apparatus 50, which therefore replaces the corresponding implant 5 present inside the oral cavity outside the oral cavity.

[0111] Advantageously, the body 6 has no structural functions related to the dental apparatus 50 and does not contribute to mechanically stabilize / fix the position of the implants outside the oral cavity.

[0112] Advantageously, the body 6 can be used exclusively outside the oral cavity, and can therefore be sized without concern for patient comfort and / or the presence of other components within a small space such as the oral cavity.

[0113] Conveniently, each body 6 comprises a longitudinally extended core 60. Preferably, the core 60 can have a substantially cylindrical or prism-like or truncated cone shape.

[0114] Each body 6 comprises an end portion 61 of the core 60 which is configured to be mechanically fixed in a removable manner with a corresponding connection element 2 and, in particular, with the first head 29 of a corresponding connection element 2. Preferably, the end portion 61 can have a protruding shape (or in any case has a “male” shape) so that it can be inserted into a cavity (or in any case into a “female” shape) obtained in the first head 29 of the connection element 2; otherwise, the first head 29 of the connection element 2 can be protruding so as to be inserted into a cavity obtained in the end portion 61 of the body 6.

[0115] Preferably, as noticeable in the represented embodiment, the end portion 61 of the body 6 is configured to be removably fixed to the first head 29 of a connection element 2 substantially in the same way as the external end portion 28 of the implant 5 is connected to said first head 2. More preferably, the end portion 61 of the body 6 has a shape substantially corresponding to that of the external end portion 28 of the implant 5. Conveniently, the bodies 6 of the dental kit are defined based on the fixing method of the connection elements 2 to the implants 5.

[0116] In a possible embodiment, not shown here, the same type of connection elements 2 can be configured to be fixed to various types of implants 5 and, in particular, to implants 5 having different configurations (in terms of shape and / or dimensions) of the external end portion 28. Conveniently, in this case, each body 6 correspondingly comprises a single type of end portion 61 for fixing to the first head 27 of the connection element 2.

[0117] In a possible and preferred embodiment (cf. figs. 12 - 15), each body 6 comprises at least two fins 62 protruding radially from the core 60, preferably it comprises at least three fins 62. Ideally, each body has three fins 62. Conveniently, the fins 62 are identical to each other. Conveniently, the fins 62 protrude radially from the core 60 for the entire or most of the longitudinal extension of said core 60.

[0118] Preferably, each fin 62 is separated by an angle equal to or greater than 90° from the closest fin 62 or in any case is located at an angle less than or equal to 180° from this.

[0119] More preferably, in a possible embodiment (such as that illustrated in the figures) wherein three fins 62 are provided, two fins 62' and 62" are arranged so as to define an angle of 180° between them, while the third fin 62"' is arranged so as to define respective angles of 90° with the aforementioned two fins.

[0120] Advantageously, said fins 62 are configured so as to have a surface extension much greater than the core 60, thereby increasing the accuracy of an extra-oral digital scan for the detection of the prosthetic impression. Preferably, each fin 62 has a surface extension greater than the core 60. Preferably, the radial extension (i.e. along directions perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the core 60) of each fin 62 is greater at the end portion 61 and then gradually reduces along the longitudinal extension of the core.

[0121] Preferably, each fin 62 may have a cross-section that is substantially trapezoidal.

[0122] Conveniently, the body 6 can be fixed to a corresponding connection element 2 by means of fastening means 20, for example comprising a threaded member 22 which passes through the first head 29 of the connection element 2 and then engages in the end portion 61 of the body 6.

[0123] Preferably, the fins 62 are obtained in a single piece with the core 60.

[0124] Preferably, the bodies 6 are configured to leave a lateral space between them once mounted on the dental apparatus 50. In more detail, each body 6 is configured so as not to interfere with the scans of the adjacent bodies, i.e. it is sized so as not to enter the volume circumscribed to the adjacent bodies. In essence, therefore, the bodies 6 preferably always remain well distinct and separate from each other.

[0125] In a possible and preferred embodiment, an element (further body) 8 may be provided (cf. figures 16 and 17) which is configured to simulate an implant 5 of the patient for the purpose of extra-oral reconstruction of the 3D model / prototype of the oral cavity of the same patient and of the copies of his implants.

[0126] Preferably, the element (further body) 8 comprises:

[0127] - an end portion 61 which is configured to be mechanically connected in a removable manner to the first head 29 of a corresponding connection element 2, and

[0128] - an elongated portion 65 having an overall cylindrical or truncated conical shape.

[0129] Between the end portion 61 and the elongated portion 65 there is a collar 66 which, advantageously, can act as a stop for inserting the protruding end portion 61 into the cavity of the first head 29 of the connection element 2.

[0130] Conveniently, a circumferential groove 64 can be provided underneath the collar.

[0131] Conveniently, the elongated portion 65 may comprise a flat area 63 which extends along the entire longitudinal extension of the elongated portion itself, thus giving an asymmetric profile to the cross-section of said elongated portion. Advantageously, this facilitates the spatial recognition of the element 8 at the software level.

[0132] Preferably, the connection elements 2 and / or the arm 3 and / or the frame 4 are made of metal or biocompatible metal alloy, more preferably titanium alloy, even more preferably grade 5 titanium. Preferably, the grid 42 of the frame 4 may be made of metal or metal alloy, more preferably of light, rigid and relatively inexpensive metal or metal alloy, for example aluminum alloy.

[0133] Preferably, the bodies 6 of the dental kit can be made of metal, ceramic, polymeric or composite material, with good stiffness and, more preferably, the material of the bodies 6 is particularly suitable (and / or can be superficially treated for this purpose) for the acquisition of digital images by means of an intra-oral scanner, for example it is a material with little or no reflection.

[0134] As mentioned, inside the oral cavity, the frame 4 with the connection elements 2 - each of which is fixed to a corresponding implant 5 of a patient - which are fixed to said frame 4 by means of respective connection arms 3 define the dental apparatus 50 according to the invention. The dental apparatus 50, once the connection elements 2 have been dissociated from the respective implants 5 of the patient, is then removable from the oral cavity of the patient while maintaining the relative positions between the frame 4 and the connection elements 2 unchanged.

[0135] Advantageously, the dental apparatus 50 can be easily mounted inside the patient's mouth by means of the connection arms 3 which are adjustable; therefore, once mounted, the mutual position between the frame 4 and the connection elements 2 is stabilized by means of the connection arms 3 which are also lockable. Advantageously, furthermore, once mounted, the apparatus 50 can then be easily removed from the patient's mouth.

[0136] As mentioned, once the apparatus 50 has been assembled and then removed from the patient's oral cavity, the bodies 6 can be fixed - outside the patient's oral cavity - to the connection elements 2 of the apparatus 50, thus obtaining an assembly 100.

[0137] In essence, the assembly 100 - wherein the bodies 6 are substantially associated with the apparatus 50 to replace outside the oral cavity the implants 5 installed in the oral cavity - thus reproduces in an extra-oral space the relative position of the patient's implants 5 with respect to the frame 4, and therefore also the reciprocal position between the implants 5.

[0138] Conveniently, the resulting assembly 100 is scannable and, advantageously, is scannable outside the patient's oral cavity, even (but not necessarily) using a traditional intra-oral scanner.

[0139] In particular, through the digital scanning of the assembly 100 it is possible, using specific software provided with mathematical libraries, to detect the position of the implants 5 and / or reconstruct the oral cavity of the patient with the relative position of the dental implants 5, in order to then create a prosthesis suitable for the particular case of the same patient.

[0140] Conveniently, by engaging said further bodies 8 to the apparatus 50, a further assembly is obtained (not shown in the figures) which, in association with software dedicated to 3D printing prototyping, can be used for the processing of the prostheses themselves as a replica of the real situation of the patient's oral cavity.

[0141] The present invention also relates to a method for taking a prosthetic impression outside the oral cavity of a patient using said dental kit.

[0142] Preferably, the method comprises, in order, at least the following steps:

[0143] - fixing the connection elements 2 to the respective implants 5 (cf. Fig. 19),

[0144] - locking of the frame 4 and the connection elements 2 through the connection arms 3, thus defining a dental apparatus 50 (cf. Fig. 20-21 ),

[0145] - removal of the fixing (dissociation) of the connection elements 2 from the respective implants 5,

[0146] - removal of the dental apparatus 50 from the oral cavity (cf. Fig. 22).

[0147] More preferably, the method further comprises the following steps:

[0148] - fixing of the bodies 6 to the respective connection elements 2 of the dental apparatus 50 which has been removed from the oral cavity, thus defining an assembly 100 (cf. Fig. 23),

[0149] - digital detection (e.g. using a traditional intraoral scanner) or analogue detection (e.g. using a traditional cast) of the position of the bodies 6, outside the patient's oral cavity, for the reconstruction of the position of the dental implants.

[0150] The method according to the invention is one of the so-called “reverse impression" methods and, preferably, allows the use of an intraoral scanner to acquire an extraoral digital scan. Advantageously, the assembly 100 allows the position of the implants 5 of a patient to be accurately detected by means of an extraoral digital scan performed with an intraoral scanner.

[0151] Advantageously, the dental apparatus 50 installed and mounted in the oral cavity can also be suitable for intra-oral scanning.

[0152] From the above it is clear that the solution according to the present invention is particularly advantageous as it allows the precise and reliable detection of a prosthetic impression of a dental implant outside of a patient's oral cavity.

[0153] In particular, the detection of the reciprocal position of the implants in the oral cavity and the transfer of these positions outside of said cavity is repeatable, as well as easy and fast.

[0154] Furthermore, the kit components are easy, quick and low-cost to produce. Furthermore, the solution is ready, quick and easy to use. In particular, both the assembly of the dental apparatus inside the oral cavity and its removal from the latter is quick, does not create particular discomfort to the patient and does not require the insertion of materials in a liquid state inside the cavity itself. Furthermore, the dental kit and the dental apparatus can also be used in contact with any biological fluids present inside the patient's oral cavity.

[0155] Furthermore, the configuration of the first bodies is particularly advantageous thanks to the presence of fins that enlarge their lateral surface, thus improving the accuracy of digital scans. The present invention has been illustrated and described in some of its preferred embodiments, but it is understood that executive variations may be made to them in practice, without however departing from the scope of protection of the present patent for industrial invention.

Claims

C L A I M S1. Dental kit for the detection of a prosthetic impression comprising at least one implant (5), preferably at least two implants (5) engaged in the bone structure (90) of a patient, said dental kit being characterised by comprising:- at least one connection element (2), preferably at least two connection elements (2), each configured to be removably fixed to a respective implant (5),- a frame (4) configured to be connected to said at least two connection elements (2) by means of respective mechanical connection arms (3), and characterised in that said arms (3) are adjustable and lockable so as to stabilize the position with respect to the frame (4) of each connection element (2), and therefore of each implant (5) fixed to said connection element (2).

2. Dental kit according to claim 1 , wherein each arm (3) is removably connectable to a connection element (2) and is also removably connectable to the frame (4).

3. Dental kit according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanical connection arms (3) are made of metallic material.

4. Dental kit according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein each connection element (2) :- comprises a first head (29) which is configured to engage an external end portion (28) of an implant (5),- a second head (27) at which the connection element (2) is associated with a connection arm (3),5. Dental kit according to the previous claim, wherein the connection element (2) is configured so that, when the first head (29) is engaged on the external end portion (28) of the implant (5), the second head (27) of the connection element (2) itself is arranged laterally towards the inside of the oral cavity.

6. Dental kit according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein:- said connection element (2) comprises a first head (29) for the removable fixing to an implant (5) and also comprises a second head (27),- each arm (3) comprises a first portion (31 ) for the adjustable mechanical connection with the second head (27) of the connection element (2), and- each arm (3) comprises a second portion (35) for the adjustable mechanical connection with a corresponding attachment portion (41) of the frame (4),- said frame (4) comprises a structure which is configured so as to be arranged in the patient's oral cavity within the area externally delimited by the patient's dental arch.

7. Dental kit according to the previous claim, wherein:the second head (27) of the connection element (2) and the first portion (31) of the connection arm (3) define a mechanical connection of the ball joint type, and the second portion (35) of the connection arm (3) and the corresponding attachment portion (41 ) of the frame (4) define a mechanical connection of the ball joint type.

8. Dental kit according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising locking means (36) for fixing the relative position between the frame (4) and each connection element (2).

9. Dental kit according to the preceding claim, wherein said locking means (36) are configured to alternately assume, as well as switch between:- an activated condition wherein the locking means (36) prevent relative movement between the arm (3) and the connection element (2) and / or between the arm (3) and the frame (4), thus stabilizing their mutual position, and- a deactivated condition wherein the locking means (36) do not prevent relative movement between the arm (3) and the connection element (2) and / or between the arm (3) and the frame (4).

10. Dental kit according to claims 8 or 9, comprising control means (37), preferably mounted on each arm (3), which are configured to cause the locking means (36) to switch from the deactivated condition to the activated condition, and vice versa.

11. Kit according to the previous claim, wherein the control means (37) are mounted on each arm (3).

12. Dental kit according to claims 10 or 11 , wherein said control means (37) comprise at least one lever (33), preferably said lever (33) being shaped and positioned so as to be accessible and operable from the outside by an operator when the arm (3) is positioned inside the oral cavity.

13. Dental kit according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the connection element (2) comprises a first head (29) and a second head (27) which are spaced and angled to each other.

14. Dental kit according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein fastening means (20) are provided to thus stabilize the engagement of each connection element (2) on the respective implant (5), and wherein said fastening means (20) can be activated from the outside.

15. Dental kit according to the previous claim, wherein said fastening means (20) comprise at least one threaded member (22) and wherein the threaded member (22) passes through the first head (29) of the connection element (2) to then engage in the external end portion (28) of the implant (5).

16. Dental kit according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein each arm (3) comprises a first portion (31) and a second portion (35) which are defined at the opposite ends of each arm (3) and which are separated from each other by an intermediate portion.

17. Dental kit according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising several frames (4) with different conformations, each frame being configured to be connected to a different number of connection elements (2) with respect to the other frames (4) of the same dental kit, preferably wherein at least one frame (4) is configured for the detection of a prosthetic impression of a dental half-arch and / or at least one frame (4) is configured for the detection of a prosthetic impression of an entire dental arch.

18. Dental kit according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising several frames (4) with the same shape, but of different sizes to thereby adapt to the different dimensions of the respective oral cavities of various patients.

19. Dental kit according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising at least one palatal type of frame (4) suitable for use with the upper dental arch, and at least one lingual type of frame (4) suitable for use with the lower dental arch.

20. Method for the detection of a prosthetic impression of at least one implant (5), preferably at least two implants (5) engaged in the bone structure (90) of a patient, said method being characterised in that a dental kit according to one or more of the previous claims is used and in that it comprises the following steps:- fixing the connection elements (2) to the respective implants (5),- locking of the frame (4) and the connection elements (2) through the connection arms (3), thus defining a dental apparatus (50),- removal of the fixing of the connection elements (2) from the respective implants (5),- removal of the dental apparatus (50) from the oral cavity.

21. Method according to the preceding claim, characterised in that it further comprises the following steps:- fixing of bodies (6), configured to act as “scan-analog”, to the respective connection elements (2) of the dental apparatus (50) which has been removed from the oral cavity, thus defining a scannable assembly (100),- digital or analogue detection of the position of the bodies (6), outside the patient's oral cavity, for the reconstruction of the position of the dental implants (5).

22. Body (6) for the extra-oral detection of a prosthetic impression of a dental implant (5), preferably configured to act as a “scan-analog” for a digital scan performed outside the patient's oral cavity, said body (6) being characterised by comprising:- a core (60) with longitudinal extension,- at least two fins (62) which protrude radially from the core (60) for the entire or most of the longitudinal extension of said core (60),- an end portion (61) which is configured to be mechanically fixed in a removable manner with a corresponding connection element (2).

23. Element (8) configured to simulate a patient's implant (5) for the purpose of extra-oral reconstruction of the 3D model / prototype of the oral cavity of the same patient and copies of his implants, said element (8) being characterised by comprising:- an end portion (61) which is configured to be removably mechanically connected to a first head (29) of a corresponding connection element (2) configured to be removably fixed to a respective implant (5),- an elongated portion (65) having an overall cylindrical or truncated conical shape, and characterised in that the elongated portion (65) comprises a flat area (63) which extends along the entire longitudinal extension of the same elongated portion (65), thus giving an asymmetric profile to the cross-section of said elongated portion (65).

Images