Alternating Orthodontic Aligners for Tooth Repositioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional orthodontic treatments require frequent visits to adjust braces and use of supplementary appliances, limiting patient control over the treatment process and progress.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using a pair of orthodontic aligners made from different materials, alternately worn during treatment stages to apply varying forces and promote tooth repositioning, allowing patients to customize their treatment based on usage time and preferences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional braces are used with periodic adjustments, then teeth can be repositioned, but patient control over treatment is limited and frequent orthodontist visits are required
Solution Approach 1:
The treatment is divided into multiple stages, with each stage having specific aligners designed for particular tooth movements. Patients can progress through predetermined stages at their own pace, providing control over treatment timing while reducing the need for frequent professional adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The aligner system allows patients to self-manage their orthodontic treatment by switching between different aligners according to the treatment plan. The alternating use of clear and opaque aligners enables patients to control treatment progress without requiring frequent orthodontist interventions.
2Speed
If clear aligners are worn continuously, then teeth move gradually, but treatment time is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic alternation between clear and opaque aligners within each treatment stage. This periodic switching allows for accelerated tooth movement while maintaining control over the treatment process, effectively reducing overall treatment duration compared to continuous wear of a single aligner type.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables gradual and controlled tooth repositioning with increased patient control over treatment progress, reducing the need for frequent orthodontist visits and allowing for accelerated tooth movement by alternating between clear and opaque appliances.
Implementation Method 1
a first appliance configured for positioning substantially around one or more teeth during a first portion of a recurring time period to apply a first predetermined force or predetermined tooth movement on the one or more teeth
Implementation Method 2
a second appliance configured for positioning substantially around the one or more teeth during a second portion of the recurring time period to apply a second predetermined force or predetermined tooth movement on the one or more teeth
Data Source
AI summary
Method and system for providing a first appliance configured for positioning substantially around one or more teeth during a first portion of a recurring time period to apply one of a first predetermined force or a predetermined tooth movement on the one or more teeth, the first appliance formed of a first material, a second appliance configured for positioning substantially around the one or more teeth during a second portion of the recurring time period to apply one of a second predetermined force or a predetermined tooth movement on the one or more teeth, the second appliance formed of a second material, where at least one of the first portion and the second portion of the recurring time period is repeated at least once such that at least one of the first appliance or the second appliance is positioned again substantially around the one or more teeth during the respective first or second portion of the recurring time period are provided.