Curable Hydrogel Obturation via Pressure Wave Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endodontic and dental treatment techniques often fail to completely remove organic material from tooth canals and cavities, leading to post-procedure complications such as infection, and current materials are not fully compatible with advanced dental technologies, necessitating improved obturation materials and methods for effective tooth filling.
Innovation Solution
A curable mixture comprising a water-soluble acrylate-based monomer, a water-soluble acrylamide-based monomer, a chelating monomer, a free-radical polymerization initiator, and a radiopaque material, with a pH-adjusted aqueous carrier, is used to create a polymerizable obturation material that can be delivered to tooth spaces using a pressure wave generator, forming a hardened hydrogel for effective filling and infection prevention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mechanical removal techniques (burs, excavators) are used to remove caries and diseased tissue, then the procedure can be performed with simple tools, but complete removal of organic material cannot be achieved and healthy dentin may be removed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical removal tools (burs, excavators) with a chemical solution-based approach. The curable mixture containing monomers, initiators, and adjuvants is delivered to the tooth space and cured to form a hydrogel that mechanically and chemically removes organic material through dissolution and degradation mechanisms, eliminating the need for complex mechanical instrumentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the state of the obturation material from solid (conventional gutta percha) to a curable liquid mixture that transforms into a hydrogel. This parameter change enables the material to flow into complex anatomical structures like lateral canals and isthmi, achieving complete filling without requiring complex delivery mechanisms.
2Reliability
If solid obturation materials (gutta percha) are used to fill root canals, then the filling can be placed with simple instruments, but complete filling of lateral canals and isthmi cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the obturation material from solid to liquid/colloidal form. The curable mixture is delivered as a liquid that can flow into and fill complex anatomical structures such as lateral canals and isthmi, which solid materials cannot penetrate. After delivery, the material is cured in situ to form a solid hydrogel structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes hydraulic principles by delivering the curable mixture as a liquid that can be pumped or pressurized through the root canal system. The liquid state allows the material to be forced into complex anatomical structures under pressure, ensuring complete filling of even the most inaccessible areas like lateral canals and isthmi.
3Reliability
If endodontic files are used to clean root canals, then organic material can be removed, but the files may force organic material through apical openings into periapical tissues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical endodontic files with a chemical solution-based removal system. The curable mixture is delivered to the root canal and cured to form a hydrogel that dissolves and degrades organic material chemically, eliminating the mechanical pushing action of files that forces material through apical openings and causes soft tissue trauma.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harm of incomplete removal (leaving organic material behind) into a benefit by using a curable mixture that ensures complete removal through chemical dissolution. The solution penetrates all anatomical structures and completely dissolves organic material, eliminating the risk of residual material causing future infections.
4Reliability
If conventional restorative materials are used to fill tooth spaces, then the materials can be placed with simple procedures, but bacterial leakage and post-procedure complications occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical filling procedures with a chemical solution-based approach. The curable mixture is delivered to the tooth space and cured to form a hydrogel that provides complete filling and sealing. This chemical approach eliminates bacterial leakage by ensuring complete penetration into all anatomical structures, while the procedure remains relatively simple requiring only delivery and curing steps.
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 solution ensures thorough filling of tooth spaces, reduces bacterial growth, and provides a durable, radiopaque, and biocompatible hydrogel that enhances the longevity of the tooth while minimizing the risk of reinfection and improving patient comfort during procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a free-radical polymerization initiator
Implementation Method 2
a pressure wave generator to generate pressure waves to deliver the curable material throughout the tooth space
Data Source
AI summary
A curable mixture and method of using the mixture are disclosed. In some embodiments, the mixture comprises a water soluble acrylate-based monomer, a water-soluble acrylamide-based monomer, or a mixture thereof, and has properties suitable for use as a tooth filling after curing.