Self-Tapping Dental Implant Threading for Lower Insertion Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dental implants face challenges in achieving primary stability in bones of varying densities, particularly in high-density bones, requiring a separate tapping operation that is time-consuming and complex, and high insertion torque in low-density bones.
Innovation Solution
A dental implant design with a helical threading featuring alternating thread arcs with radial setbacks and tapping grooves, allowing for reduced insertion torque and primary stability without the need for pre-tapping, by compressing bone effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a dental implant with helical threading is used to compress bone for primary stability, then good primary stability is achieved in low-density bone, but insertion torque becomes too high for high-density bone
Solution Approach 1:
The threading is segmented into multiple thread arcs separated by tapping grooves. Each thread arc has a peripheral lateral surface that compresses bone locally, while the tapping grooves provide relief and reduce cumulative insertion torque. This segmentation allows the implant to achieve primary stability through distributed bone compression without requiring excessively high insertion torque in high-density bone
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the threading have different functional characteristics. The thread arcs are designed with specific peripheral lateral surfaces optimized for bone compression, while the tapping grooves provide localized relief zones. This local differentiation allows the implant to adapt to varying bone densities along its length, achieving stability without excessive torque
2Force
If a tap is used to provide internal threading in high-density bone, then the dental implant can be inserted without excessive torque, but the surgical procedure becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The implant design merges the functions of bone compression (thread arcs) and thread formation (tapping grooves) into a single self-tapping component. This eliminates the need for a separate tap operation, reducing surgical time and complexity while maintaining the ability to insert into high-density bone with controlled torque
Solution Approach 2:
The helical threading with alternating thread arcs and tapping grooves serves multiple functions simultaneously: it compresses bone for primary stability, creates its own internal threading in high-density bone, and controls insertion torque. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate tapping steps, reducing surgical time and procedural complexity
3Ease of operation
If the core is tapered to facilitate insertion, then insertion is easier, but the structural strength of the implant may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The tapered core is combined with segmented threading (thread arcs separated by tapping grooves). The taper facilitates insertion by reducing initial resistance, while the segmented threading maintains structural integrity through distributed load paths. The tapping grooves act as stress relief zones that prevent crack propagation, preserving strength despite the tapered geometry
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 design reduces insertion torque and ensures stable implantation in both low- and high-density bones, enhancing surgical efficiency and reducing the risk of tool damage.
Implementation Method 1
During its insertion, the dental implant gradually compresses the bone at the periphery of the hole made in the bone, such that the primary stability is increased
Implementation Method 2
the peripheral lateral surface of said at least one thread arc having a radial setback is at all points situated at a distance from the longitudinal axis that is less than the maximum distance, from the longitudinal axis, of the peripheral lateral surface of a thread arc which is consecutive to said at least one thread arc having a radial setback
Data Source
AI summary
A dental implant includes an implant body extending along a longitudinal axis between a crown end and an apical end, the implant body having a core along which a helical thread extends with at least one thread, the core being tapered towards the apical end on at least one section of the length of the dental implant. At least two tapping grooves are arranged in the thread. The grooves interrupt the thread, so that the thread includes a series of consecutive thread arcs. Each thread arc has an apical surface oriented towards the apical end of the dental implant, and a crown surface oriented towards the crown end of the dental implant. A peripheral lateral surface connects the apical surface and the crown surface of the thread arc. In at least one section of the dental implant in which the core is tapered, at least one thread arc has a radial offset.