Customized Mandibular Repositioning Appliances
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mandibular repositioning appliances are generic in design, failing to accommodate individual anatomical variations, leading to discomfort and ineffective treatment due to insufficient or excessive activation, causing issues like jaw muscle ache, headaches, and temporomandibular joint dysfunction.
Innovation Solution
Customized mandibular repositioning appliances are designed based on the patient's specific tooth and jaw anatomy, utilizing digital models to calculate anatomical slopes for precise positioning of constraining features, allowing for personalized appliance fabrication that aligns with the patient's unique anatomy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If generic dimensioned bite pads are used in functional appliances, then manufacturing is simplified and cost is reduced, but the appliance causes discomfort and intolerance due to insufficient or excessive activation for individual patients
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from fixed generic dimensions to variable customized dimensions for bite pads. Digital imaging and 3D printing enable precise adjustment of bite pad height, depth, and positioning parameters to match individual patient anatomy, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and patient comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses preliminary action by creating digital models and simulations before actual appliance fabrication. Virtual try-on and digital planning allow the bite pad parameters to be optimized in advance based on patient-specific anatomy, ensuring proper fit and comfort before manufacturing the physical appliance.
2Device complexity
If generic dimensioned bite pads are used in functional appliances, then device complexity is reduced, but treatment effectiveness deteriorates due to inappropriate activation amounts for individual anatomical variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements parameter changes by enabling customization of bite pad dimensions (height, depth, positioning) based on individual patient anatomy. This transforms the device from a generic design to a personalized treatment tool, improving reliability while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through digital workflows.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies copying by creating accurate digital replicas of patient anatomy through digital imaging. These digital models serve as precise templates for designing and manufacturing customized bite pads, ensuring treatment effectiveness without requiring complex manual measurement and fabrication processes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If generic appliances are used, then adaptability to different patients is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements are lowered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables adaptability through parameter customization of bite pads for each patient. Digital imaging and 3D printing technology allow precise control of dimensional parameters, making high manufacturing precision achievable while maintaining workflow efficiency and enabling full anatomical customization.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods of repositioning a mandible of an individual include acquiring a digital model of a dentition and/or a craniofacial anatomy of the individual, the digital model including a representation of a condyle or an incisal guidance or both the condyle and the incisal guidance. The method also includes calculating, based on the digital model, a slope of the condyle or a slope of the incisal guidance or both the slope of the condyle and the slope of the incisal guidance, and fabricating at least one removable orthodontic appliance including a feature configured to constrain a posterior or anterior movement of the mandible relative to the maxilla when worn by the individual, wherein a position of the feature is determined based on the slope of the condyle or the slope of the incisal guidance or both the slope of the condyle and the slope of the incisal guidance.