A scanning system that shortens the process in dental implant treatment

Abstract

The invention is a method for performing scanning with a scanning system (1) used in dental implant treatment. An improvement of the present invention is that, in order to shorten the treatment process, at least one implanted dental implant (20) being connected to at least one abutment platform (10) and scan body (40), followed by performing a first scan using the scanner (50), manufacturing a support structure (60) based on the first scan data, dividing the support structure (60) into at least two parts to ensure a precise fit to the gingiva (100) and / or the dental implant (20), connecting at least one scan body (40) to the support structure (60), the abutment platform (10), and the dental implant (20), functioning as a screw, performing a second scan using the scanner (50).

Description

[0001] A SCANNING SYSTEM THAT SHORTENS THE PROCESS IN DENTAL IMPLANT TREATMENT

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The invention relates to a scanning system used in dental implant treatment and a method for performing the scanning.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The dental implant process begins with a detailed evaluation of the patient's oral and jaw structure. First, the titanium implant is surgically placed into the jawbone and left for several months to integrate with the bone. Following this healing period, a healing abutment is attached to the implant to ensure proper soft tissue healing. Once healing is complete, digital impressions are taken using an intraoral scanner, and the prostheses to be placed on the implant are designed. In the final stage, the designed prostheses are placed on the implant, and the necessary fit checks are performed. At the end of this process, the patient obtains dental implants that resemble natural teeth and are functionally stable.

[0006] Intraoral scanners enable the digital scanning of patients' intraoral structures and the creation of 3D models. Compared to traditional impression-taking methods, they are faster, more precise, and less invasive. With intraoral scanners, dentists can perform implant planning and placement processes more efficiently.

[0007] Consequently, the use of intraoral scanners in dental implantology is becoming increasingly widespread. However, the desired results cannot be achieved in every case. In fully edentulous cases, particularly in the fabrication of implant-supported prostheses involving four or six implants, difficulties arise when taking full-arch or full-jaw digital impressions. Due to the gaps between the implants, the scanning device fails to find a reference shape or figure between the scan bodies placed on the implants. This issue leads to a lack of reference points, especially during arch transitions, causing the device to skip points when moving from one scan body to another. As a result, inaccurate measurements occur, and the produced prostheses do not fit properly onto the implants. The original patent application numbered 2023 / 002000 relates to a healing abutment that enables the gingiva to be shaped appropriately for the dental prosthesis in dental implant treatment. First, the implant and the gingiva around it heal; then, the gingiva is incised, and a scan body is attached to the implant to obtain a digital impression. Based on this impression and the components included in the invention, a patient-specific healing abutment is manufactured. Naturally, this manufacturing process takes time. The procedure is carried out in two sessions: one for impression-taking and manufacturing and another for placing the patient-specific healing abutment. The invention comprises at least one abutment platform positioned on the implant, at least one body that is shaped to conform to the area in contact with the gingiva (patient-specific healing abutment), and at least one cover screw that secures the body and platform onto the implant. The healing abutment ensures that the gingiva forms in a healthy and aesthetically suitable manner around the implant. Additionally, an impression post or scan body can be placed on the abutment, allowing for the acquisition of both digital and conventional impressions.

[0008] As stated in the original patent application, the body is placed onto the abutment platform and secured with a cover screw. Once the healing abutment is obtained and a proper gingival emergence profile for the prosthetic tooth is established, only the cover screw is removed, and a scan body is attached. Subsequently, an impression is taken using either digital or conventional methods, and the created cavity and emergence profile are matched with the shape and emergence profile of the previously used healing abutment. Based on this profile, a patient-specific abutment, a patient-specific multi-unit abutment, various bars, and prostheses can be manufactured. Thus, an additional scanning procedure is required after the gingival emergence profile is formed. As a result, costs increase, treatment time is extended, and patient comfort is reduced.

[0009] As a result, all the abovementioned problems have made it necessary to make an improvement in the relevant technical field.

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The present invention is related to a scanning system to eliminate the abovementioned disadvantages and bring new advantages to the relevant technical field.

[0012] The objective of the invention is to introduce a scanning system that ensures the accurate acquisition of full-jaw and full-arch implant impressions. Another objective of the invention is to introduce a scanning system that significantly shortens the treatment process.

[0013] Another objective of the invention is to introduce a scanning system that prevents the gingiva from being unnecessarily reopened and damaged.

[0014] Another objective of the invention is to introduce a scanning system that reduces the number of treatment sessions.

[0015] To achieve all the objectives mentioned above and that will emerge from the following detailed description, the present invention relates to a method for performing scanning with a scanning system used in dental implant treatment. An improvement of the present invention is that, in order to shorten the treatment process, at least one implanted dental implant being connected to at least one abutment platform and scan body, followed by performing a first scan using the scanner, manufacturing a support structure based on the first scan data, dividing the support structure into at least two parts to ensure a precise fit to the gingiva and / or the dental implant, connecting at least one scan body to the support structure, the abutment platform, and the dental implant, functioning as a screw, performing a second scan using the scanner. Thus, a personalized healing cap / dental prosthesis tailored to the patient's needs can be designed during the recovery process and fitted in the next session.

[0016] A possible embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the support structure is manufactured using a three-dimensional printer based on the first scan result. Thus, it becomes possible to produce the support structure while the patient is still in the session.

[0017] A possible embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the support structure is manufactured from plastic, composite, or resin materials. Thus, the cost can be reduced.

[0018] A possible embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the support structure is manufactured as a Toronto bar.

[0019] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure 1 presents a representative isometric view of the implant in the scanning system of the invention. Figure 2 presents a representative view of the scanning process performed with the dental implant and the implant carrier in the scanning system of the invention.

[0021] Figure 3 presents a representative isometric view of the abutment platform in the scanning system of the invention.

[0022] Figure 4 presents a representative isometric view of the temporary prosthetic screw in the scanning system of the invention.

[0023] Figure 5 presents a representative isometric view of the support structure produced after the first scan in the scanning system of the invention.

[0024] Figure 6 presents a representative view of the scanning process performed after the support structure, divided into multiple parts for a precise fit, is stabilized with scan bodies in the scanning system of the invention.

[0025] Figure 7 presents a representative isometric view of the full-arch (full-jaw) temporary dental prosthesis stabilized with a temporary prosthetic screw in the scanning system of the invention.

[0026] Figure 8 presents a representative isometric view of the definitive dental prosthesis in the scanning system of the invention.

[0027] Figure 9 presents a representative isometric view of the temporary dental prosthesis, stabilized with a temporary prosthetic screw, placed on a dental implant in a non-full-arch case in the scanning system of the invention.

[0028] Figure 10 presents a representative isometric view of the definitive dental prosthesis placed on a dental implant in a non-full-arch case in the scanning system of the invention.

[0029] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] In this detailed description, the subject of the invention scanning system (1) is described utilizing examples only for clarifying the subject matter such that no limiting effect is created. The scanning system (1 ) eliminates the increase in the number of sessions and the reduction in patient comfort caused by the scanning method described in the original patent application numbered 2023 / 002000. In the original patent, the healed gingiva is scanned using the healing abutment, by removing the cover screw and replacing it with the scan body (40). This process extends the overall treatment time.

[0031] The scanning system (1) comprises at least one implant carrier (30). The mentioned implant carrier (30) is a component used during the surgical placement of dental implants (20). This component ensures the sterile placement of the dental implant (20) into the bone and assists the surgeon in positioning the dental implant (20) correctly.

[0032] The scanning system (1) comprises at least one scanner (50). The mentioned scanner (50) enables the digital scanning of patients' dental and oral structures and the creation of 3D models. The scanner (50) is an intraoral scanner; however, in an alternative configuration, extraoral, desktop-type scanners (50) may also be used.

[0033] The scanning system (1) comprises at least one abutment platform (10). The mentioned abutment platform (10) is positioned on the dental implant (20), embedded within the gingiva (100). The abutment platform (10) is essentially a component of the healing abutment. The scanning system (1 ) comprises at least one scan body (40) to ensure that the abutment platform (10) remains securely fixed on the dental implant (20). In the original patent, this function is performed by the cover screw. Thus, the scan body (40) not only serves as a reference for the scanner (50) but also functions as a screw.

[0034] The scanning system (1) comprises at least one support structure (60). The mentioned support structure (60) serves as a reference point for the scanning device in edentulous areas, particularly in full-mouth restorations, to ensure that prostheses are more securely and comfortably stabilized. The support structure (60) can be made of composite or temporary resin materials. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the support structure (60) is a Toronto bar. However, in alternative embodiments, it may also be another type of bar, a definitive prosthesis, or a temporary prosthesis.

[0035] The scanning system (1) comprises at least one temporary prosthetic screw (70). The temporary prosthetic screw (70) is a component used to secure and stabilize dental implants (20) with temporary dental prostheses (80) (which are full-arch prostheses), implant-supported temporary dental prostheses (110) placed on at least one dental implant (20), or other restorations. Temporary prosthetic screws (70) are primarily used as temporary solutions during the healing process following implant surgery. In the scanning system (1), the temporary prosthetic screw (70) replaces the cover screw of the healing abutment. Consequently, instead of placing a patient-specific healing abutment on the abutment platform (10), a temporary dental prosthesis (80) and / or an implant-supported temporary dental prosthesis (110) can be fabricated.

[0036] The scanning system (1) comprises at least one scan body (40). The scan body (40) is a component used for the digital measurement of dental implants (20). The scan body (40) is placed on the dental implant (20) and allows intraoral scanners (50) to capture digital impressions. The scan body (40) provides reference points for the scanner (50), enabling accurate and precise measurements. Additionally, functioning as a screw, the scan body (40) is fixed onto the dental implant (20) and the abutment platform (10), ensuring stability. This guarantees a scanning process that ensures a perfect fit between the prostheses and other dental structures with the dental implants (20), achieving high accuracy in the treatment process.

[0037] In light of all these explanations, the invention operates as follows: First, several (typically 4 to 6) dental implants (20) are placed into the patient's jawbone. To ensure the proper placement of the dental implant (20) into the drilled hole in the bone, the surgeon uses the implant carrier (30). The dental implant (20), carried by the implant carrier (30), is inserted into the hole and secured using a ratchet or a motor. In the existing technique, at this stage, the surgeon closes the gingiva (100) and sends the patient home for healing.

[0038] However, with the scanning system (1), as seen in Figure 2, after the surgeon places the dental implant (20) in position, the implant carrier (30) remains connected to the dental implant (20) while the scanner (50) captures digital impressions, scanning the intraoral structure. In this process, the implant carrier (30) functions as a scan body. Based on this scan, a healing abutment or a support structure (60) (Toronto bar, temporary dental prosthesis (80), or definitive dental prosthesis (90) — where the definitive dental prosthesis (90) refers to a full-arch prosthesis) can be designed for the patient.

[0039] As a result, during the next session, when the patient's healing is complete, the healing abutment to be placed is already custom-designed for the patient. In the conventional method, once healing is complete, the patient would return for a session where a standard healing abutment is placed, a scan is taken, and then a patient-specific healing abutment is fabricated based on that scan. However, with the scanning system (1 ), the custom-designed healing abutment is placed directly, without first using a standard healing abutment. This eliminates the need to reopen the gingiva (100) a third time and reduces the number of sessions by one.

[0040] The scanning system (1 ) also shortens the treatment process for fully edentulous cases. To achieve this, after the dental implants (20) are placed, the abutment platform (10) is connected to the dental implant (20). As stated in the original patent, at this stage, the healing abutment, along with the cover screw, is typically placed, and a waiting period is required for osseointegration and tissue healing. This healing process generally takes several months. However, in the scanning system (1 ), once the abutment platform (10) within the healing abutment is connected to the dental implant (20), an intraoral scanner (50) is used to capture digital impressions, performing the first intraoral scan. This process is referred to as the first scan.

[0041] The first scan often does not produce accurate results. This is because there are not enough reference points. However, the data obtained from this scan is still used to design and manufacture a support structure (60) (see Figure 5). In the preferred embodiment, the support structure (60) is manufactured using a 3D printer. As a result, there is no need to send the patient home and recall them for another session, since the support structure (60) can be printed instantly. The support structure (60) serves as a foundation for securing fullarch definitive dental prostheses (90).

[0042] The manufactured support structure (60) is tested to check whether it fits the oral cavity properly (as mentioned earlier, the first scan often does not produce a perfect fit). Therefore, to ensure a precise fit, the support structure (60) is divided into at least two parts. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, this division consists of 3 to 4 parts. However, the support structure (60) can be divided into as many parts as necessary to achieve an optimal fit.

[0043] Then, as seen in Figure 6, the divided support structure (60) is stabilized onto the dental implants (20) using the scan body (40) to ensure a perfect fit. At this stage, accurate digital impressions — in other words, a precise scan — can now be obtained. This is because the scan body (40) can be properly scanned, and the support structure (60) provides additional reference points. As a result, an error-free scan is achieved. This process is referred to as the second scan. Based on this scan, a temporary dental prosthesis (80) can be instantly designed for the patient. Thus, the scanning system (1) can be used not only for dental implants (20) that have completed the healing process and reached the definitive dental prosthesis (90) fabrication stage, but also immediately after the dental implant (20) is placed in the mouth for the fabrication of a temporary dental prosthesis (80) (immediate loading). In the widely used immediate loading procedure, the temporary dental prosthesis (80) must be placed within 72 hours. Due to the challenges of conventional manufacturing methods and logistical delays, this process can be difficult. However, with the scanning system (1), error-free digital impressions can be taken, allowing for the digital fabrication of the prosthesis, which can be placed on the patient within a few hours.

[0044] Another application of the scanning system (1 ) is the use of a temporary prosthetic screw (70) instead of the cover screw in the healing abutment. By using the temporary prosthetic screw (70), a temporary dental prosthesis (80) is fabricated instead of a patient-specific healing abutment, using the same method.

[0045] The temporary dental prosthesis (80) placed on the abutment platform (10) serves as a trial version of the definitive dental prosthesis (90), allowing any potential issues to be identified during the temporary dental prosthesis (80) phase. As a result, while waiting for either the dental implant (20) to heal (immediate loading) or the gingiva (100) to heal, the definitive dental prosthesis (90) is fabricated by correcting any issues detected in the temporary dental prosthesis (80). This ensures that the definitive dental prosthesis (90) is produced in the same form as the corrected temporary dental prosthesis (80).

[0046] To explain further, instead of using a cover screw, as described in the original patent, a temporary prosthetic screw (70) is used, and instead of a patient-specific healing abutment, a temporary dental prosthesis (80) is fabricated as an exact replica of the final prosthesis. This temporary dental prosthesis (80) is placed in the patient's mouth, allowing the gingiva to heal according to the definitive prosthesis’ shape while also serving as a trial for the final prosthesis.

[0047] Since the gingiva heals according to the temporary dental prosthesis (80), there is no need for additional impression-taking once healing is complete, effectively reducing the number of sessions by one. When the dental implant (20) or gingiva (100) has healed, the temporary dental prosthesis (80) — which has already been corrected for any issues — can be removed, and a definitive dental prosthesis (90) with the exact same form can be placed immediately in the same session, without any complications. In the original patent, however, with the scanning system (1 ), the process of taking a new impression for the definitive dental prosthesis (90) only begins during the session where the final prosthesis is placed.

[0048] Thus, with the scanning system (1 ), the definitive dental prosthesis (90) can be placed in the patient’s mouth much earlier and with higher quality. The temporary dental prosthesis (80) and the definitive dental prosthesis (90) may refer to a single-implant prosthesis, a fullarch prosthesis, a non-full-arch bridge-type implant-supported temporary dental prosthesis (110), or an implant-supported definitive dental prosthesis (120).

[0049] In summary, the scanning system (1 ) provides significant advantages in dental implantology processes. First, by performing a scan with the implant carrier (30) during the placement of the dental implant (20), a patient-specific healing abutment can be designed and manufactured in the very first session, eliminating the need for an additional scanning session once the healing process is complete. This method accelerates the treatment process and reduces the number of sessions required for the patient. Additionally, in fully edentulous cases, capturing digital impressions immediately after the placement of dental implants (20) allows for the faster production of both full-arch temporary dental prostheses (80) and at least one implant-supported temporary dental prosthesis (1 10).

[0050] The fixation of the abutment platform (10) using the scan body (40) ensures better reference point determination, leading to a precise and error-free scan. As a result, the fullarch temporary dental prosthesis (80) and the implant-supported temporary dental prosthesis (110) achieve a perfect fit with the dental implants (20), significantly reducing the overall treatment time. Any issues identified during the fabrication and use of the temporary dental prostheses (80) are corrected during the production of the definitive dental prostheses (90), ensuring superior final results.

[0051] Ultimately, the scanning system (1 ) saves time while enabling the production of higher- quality and more precise prostheses.

[0052] The protection scope of the invention is specified in the appended claims and cannot be limited to the description made for illustrative purposes in this detailed description. Likewise, it is clear that a person skilled in the art can present similar embodiments in the light of the above descriptions without departing from the main theme of the invention. REFERENCE NUMBERS THAT GIVEN IN THE FIGURE

[0053] 1 Scanning System

[0054] 10 Abutment Platform 20 Dental Implant

[0055] 30 Implant Carrier

[0056] 40 Scan Body

[0057] 50 Scanner

[0058] 60 Support Structure 70 Temporary Prosthetic Screw

[0059] 80 Temporary Dental Prosthesis

[0060] 90 Definitive Dental Prosthesis

[0061] 100 Gingiva

[0062] 110 Implant-Supported Temporary Dental Prosthesis 120 Implant-Supported Definitive Dental Prosthesis

Claims

CLAIMS1. The invention is a method for performing scanning with a scanning system (1 ) used in dental implant treatment, characterized in that, in order to shorten the treatment process,- Performing a scan using the scanner (50), taking the implant carrier (30) connected to the dental implant (20) as a reference,- Manufacturing a healing abutment or a support structure (60) based on the scanning data.

2. The invention is a method for performing scanning with a scanning system (1 ) used in dental implant treatment, characterized in that, in order to shorten the treatment process,- Using a temporary prosthetic screw (70) instead of a cover screw,- Producing a temporary dental prosthesis (80) as an exact replica of the definitive dental prosthesis (90) instead of manufacturing a patient-specific healing abutment.

3. The invention is a method for performing scanning with a scanning system (1 ) used in dental implant treatment, characterized in that, in order to shorten the treatment process,- At least one implanted dental implant (20) being connected to at least one abutment platform (10) and scan body (40), followed by performing a first scan using the scanner (50),- Manufacturing a support structure (60) based on the first scan data,- Dividing the support structure (60) into at least two parts to ensure a precise fit to the gingiva (100) and / or the dental implant (20),- Connecting at least one scan body (40) to the support structure (60), the abutment platform (10), and the dental implant (20), functioning as a screw,- Performing a second scan using the scanner (50).

4. The invention is a method for performing scanning with a scanning system (1 ) used in dental implant treatment according to claim 3, characterized in that the manufacturing of the support structure (60) using a 3D printer based on the first scan data.

5. The invention is a method for performing scanning with a scanning system (1 ) used in dental implant treatment according to claim 3, characterized in that the support structure (60) being manufactured from plastic, composite, or resin materials.

6. The invention is a method for performing scanning with a scanning system (1 ) used in dental implant treatment according to claim 3, characterized in that the support structure (60) being manufactured as a Toronto bar.

7. The invention is a method for performing scanning with a scanning system (1 ) used in dental implant treatment according to claim 1 , 2 or 3, characterized in that scanning being performed with the intraoral scanner (50).

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