Angled Fluid Jet Nozzle for Root Canal Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endodontic treatment methods using files for root canal procedures often result in the spreading of a smear layer on the root canal wall and potential wounding of the canal, which can lead to infection and incomplete cleaning.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus utilizing angled fluid jets, created by a nozzle with an internal and external cone structure, delivers a helical flow of fluid along the root canal wall to remove soft tissue and debris without leaving a smear layer, using a combination of air, liquid, and abrasive powder under controlled pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If files are used for removing tissue from the root canal, then tissue removal is achieved, but a smear layer is spread on the root canal wall
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical file system with a fluid jet system. High-pressure fluid jets (water, air, or other liquids) are directed through the root canal to remove tissue and debris without contact, thereby eliminating smear layer formation while achieving effective tissue removal and canal cleaning
2Ease of operation
If files are used for shaping and widening the root canal, then access is improved, but wounding of the root canal wall or apex may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs high-pressure fluid jets (pneumatic and hydraulic systems) to clean and prepare the root canal. The fluid under pressure (typically 5-200 PSI) effectively removes tissue and debris, shapes the canal, and improves access without mechanical contact, thereby preventing wounding of the canal wall or apex
3Productivity
If high pressure liquid is used for root canal treatment, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but control of fluid flow direction becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fluid delivery system into multiple directional nozzles or adjustable spray outlets. This segmentation allows the high-pressure fluid to be directed along the root canal wall in a controlled manner, maintaining cleaning effectiveness while enabling precise control over fluid flow direction and distribution
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes angular or tangential fluid jet directions rather than purely axial flow. By directing the fluid at angles relative to the canal axis, the system achieves effective wall cleaning while the fluid naturally follows the canal geometry, improving directional control without sacrificing cleaning power
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
The apparatus effectively cleans and disinfects the root canal by removing organic substances and eroding a thin layer of dentin tissue, ensuring thorough preparation for sealing without causing damage or leaving residue, as demonstrated by experimental results showing no apex penetration and a consistent dentin layer removal of 100-200 µm.
Implementation Method 1
the nozzle comprises an internal cone and an external cone defining a lumen between them for the fluid to flow through. The fluid circulates in a helical flow through the lumen for exiting the nozzle in an angle
Implementation Method 2
the angled fluid jet does not intersect a vertical axis of the nozzle... the angled jet has tangential and vertical velocity components in respect to the root canal wall... eroding a thin layer of dentin tissue
Implementation Method 3
the fluid comprises gas and/or liquid and/or abrasive powder
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus for endodontic treatment, used for cleaning and/or abrading a root canal using at least one angled fluid jet. In some embodiments, the apparatus comprises a nozzle that is shaped to create one or more angled fluid jets, for example including an internal cone and an external cone. In some embodiments, the flow of fluid advances along a root canal wall for removal of soft tissue such as nerve tissue, pulp tissue, and/or debris.