Bondable Orthodontic Post with Dynamic Spring Tensioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthodontic appliances require frequent adjustments to maintain tension, leading to longer treatment times and potential discomfort, especially when used in combination, as they are not easily removable or adjustable by patients, imposing a burden on both patients and orthodontists.
Innovation Solution
A bondable orthodontic post with a cylindrical main body, annular retaining element, radial bore, and axial bore, along with a base element and bonding pattern, allows for secure attachment and adjustment of archwires and orthodontic connectors using a hybrid orthodontic screw, enabling easy replacement and adjustment of archwires and connectors without loosening brackets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional braces and Herbst appliances are used to correct orthodontic issues, then teeth and jaw alignment can be improved, but frequent adjustments are required which increase treatment time and patient discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the orthodontic appliance self-adjusting through a spring mechanism. The spring automatically maintains tension on the archwire as teeth move, eliminating the need for manual adjustments by the orthodontist. This dynamic system adapts to tooth movement in real-time, ensuring continuous corrective force without requiring repeated visits for tightening.
Solution Approach 2:
The appliance embodies self-service through its automatic tension-maintaining mechanism. The spring-loaded system self-regulates the force applied to the archwire as teeth shift position, without requiring external intervention. The appliance serves itself by automatically compensating for tooth movement and maintaining optimal corrective tension throughout the treatment period.
2Reliability
If traditional braces and Herbst appliances are used, then orthodontic correction can be achieved, but frequent adjustments cause patient discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic spring mechanism continuously adapts to tooth movement, maintaining smooth and consistent tension without sudden force changes. This prevents the discomfort associated with manual tightening by gradually accommodating tooth position changes while maintaining effective corrective force throughout the movement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism is pre-loaded with tension before treatment begins. This preliminary action ensures that corrective force is immediately available and continuously maintained as teeth move, eliminating the periods of reduced tension that occur between traditional adjustment appointments and preventing associated discomfort.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple orthodontic appliances are used simultaneously, then complex orthodontic issues can be treated, but the burden on patients and orthodontists increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple orthodontic functions into a single integrated appliance. The device merges the functions of braces (for tooth alignment) and Herbst appliance (for jaw correction) into one unit that can simultaneously address both dental and skeletal malocclusion, eliminating the need to manage separate appliances and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthodontic appliance exhibits multi-functionality by incorporating both tooth-moving brackets and jaw-repositioning mechanisms in a single device. This universal design allows the appliance to perform multiple orthodontic functions simultaneously, reducing the number of separate components the patient and orthodontist must manage while treating complex cases.
Data Source
AI summary
An orthodontic post bondable to a tooth and for use with an orthodontic appliance, such as an aligner, which may be affixed via springs, wires, elastics, or orthodontic connectors in an orthodontic therapy system. The post has a cylindrical main body attached at the bottom end to a bonding pad or base element, and an open top end to receive an attaching element, such as a hybrid orthodontic screw. The body element includes an annular member disposed circumferentially around the body, providing a retaining surface for an orthodontic connector. A through channel through the post can accept an archwire for braces or to which other orthodontic equipment may be mounted.