Bone-Anchored Pharyngorofacial Expander for Multi-Directional Jaw Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthodontic and orthopedic devices are inadequate in simultaneously addressing multiple aspects of jaw and dental arch deformities, such as bone anchored expansion, transverse contraction, sagittal protraction or retraction, and vertical intrusion or extrusion, often leaving discrepancies untreated.
Innovation Solution
The development of bone-anchored expander devices capable of unilateral or bilateral expansion or contraction in parallel or non-parallel configurations, which also address nasal cavity and upper airway enlargement, and improve facial aesthetics by reshaping the jaw, dental arch, and surrounding tissues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current orthodontic devices are used to treat single aspect of deformity, then device simplicity is maintained, but comprehensive treatment capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple orthodontic functions (expansion, contraction, protraction, retraction, intrusion, extrusion) into a single integrated appliance that can perform all six actions simultaneously or independently on different jaw segments, eliminating the need for multiple separate devices
Solution Approach 2:
The expander appliance is designed as a universal device capable of performing six different orthodontic actions (expansion, contraction, protraction, retraction, intrusion, extrusion) on various jaw segments, making it adaptable to comprehensive treatment of complex dentofacial deformities
2Manufacturing precision
If rapid palatal expander devices are used to break mid-palatal sutures, then transverse expansion is achieved, but other jaw deformities remain untreated
Solution Approach 1:
The appliance divides the maxilla into multiple independently controllable segments (anterior and posterior segments on each side) that can be moved in different directions and planes simultaneously, allowing precise control over suture separation and other jaw movements
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates adjustable mechanical components that allow dynamic modification of force vectors and magnitudes during treatment, enabling transition between different treatment modes (expansion, protraction, intrusion) as clinical needs evolve
3Reliability
If multiple separate devices are used to address different jaw aspects, then each specific deformity can be treated, but treatment time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges six separate orthodontic functions into one appliance, allowing simultaneous treatment of multiple jaw deformities in a single device, thereby reducing the need for sequential treatments with multiple devices
Solution Approach 2:
The universal expander appliance can address all six aspects of jaw deformity (transverse, sagittal, vertical dimensions with expansion, contraction, protraction, retraction, intrusion, extrusion) concurrently, significantly reducing overall treatment time compared to sequential use of specialized devices
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of bone anchored expander devices described herein along with the protocol provide improved orthodontic/orthopedic appliances and protocol for expanding or contracting, protracting or retracting, extruding or intruding the upper jaw and dental arch unilaterally or bilaterally in parallel or non-parallel way, as well as enlarging the nasal cavity and nasopharyngeal airway. This expander design and protocol gives the clinician the ability to direct expansion or constriction, protraction or retraction, extrusion or intrusion forces to various segments of the maxillary jaw and arch in parallel or nonparallel configuration minimizing the need for major osteotomies.