Interproximal Dental Restoration Matrix Dynamics

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for interproximal dental restoration, such as those described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,308,058, face challenges in achieving optimal posterior composite filling contacts and require advancements to improve the effectiveness of interproximal dental restoration techniques.

Innovation Solution

A method involving the removal of a portion of the tooth's top and interproximal surfaces to form a hollow cavity preparation, surrounded by a dental matrix, where light-curable composite resin is injected and cured, with the matrix being moved and bonded to ensure seamless contact between teeth, using a dental tool with adjustable arms for precise positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a dental matrix is placed around the tooth to prevent restorative material leaking, then the restorative material can be properly deposited on the tooth side, but the matrix occupies space that may interfere with achieving optimal posterior composite filling contacts

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverestorative material containmentVSAvoidfilling contact precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The dental matrix is designed to be movable rather than fixed. The matrix can be dynamically adjusted from an initial position surrounding the tooth to a final position where it contacts the adjacent tooth, allowing the system to adapt between containment mode and contact precision mode

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The matrix is preliminarily positioned around the tooth to contain the restorative material during injection. Before the matrix is moved to contact the adjacent tooth, a bonding agent is applied to the matrix surface to ensure secure bonding when the matrix is repositioned

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Manufacturing precision

If the dental matrix is moved towards the adjacent tooth to eliminate interproximal space, then seamless contact between teeth is achieved, but the matrix must be bonded to the tooth which adds complexity to the procedure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterproximal contact precisionVSAvoidmatrix bonding process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The bonding agent is applied to the matrix surface before the matrix is moved to its final position. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the matrix contacts the tooth and is pressed into place, the bonding occurs efficiently without requiring complex bonding procedures after positioning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The bonding agent acts as an intermediary substance between the matrix and the tooth. This intermediate material facilitates the bonding process, making the connection between the matrix and tooth reliable and simplifying the overall procedure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Manufacturing precision

If light-curable composite resin is injected into the cavity preparation, then the cavity is filled and light cured to form a seamless layer, but the process requires precise control of resin injection and curing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomposite resin layer qualityVSAvoidresin injection and curing control
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The dental matrix serves as a mediator that defines the cavity preparation boundaries and provides a structured form for resin injection. The matrix's position and shape guide the resin flow, making the injection process more controllable and the final resin layer more uniform

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The cavity preparation is formed by removing tooth structure before resin injection, creating a defined space that guides the resin flow. The matrix is positioned and bonded before resin injection, establishing a stable form that simplifies the subsequent resin placement and curing process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

This method provides a seamless, light-cured composite resin layer with improved contact between teeth, enhancing the restoration's durability and aesthetic outcomes while accommodating various cavity sizes through adjustable tool configurations.

Implementation Method 1

Light-curable composite resin is then injected into the cavity preparation and light cured

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight curing: Photopolymerisation

Data Source

PatentUS20210386515A1Methods and Devices for Interproximal Dental Restoration
Publication Date: 2021.12.16 CLARK DAVID J
  • US20210386515A1 patent drawing
  • US20210386515A1 patent drawing
  • US20210386515A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and devices for interproximal dental restoration are disclosed. One version of the present disclosure provides a method for the restoration of a tooth including a top surface, and an interproximal surface facing an adjacent tooth. The method of restoration includes removing a portion of the top surface of the tooth, and a portion of the interproximal surface of the tooth to form a hollow cavity preparation extending from the top surface to the interproximal surface. The removed portion of the interproximal space is surrounded by a dental matrix. Restoration of the tooth further includes moving the dental matrix away from the hollow cavity preparation towards the adjacent tooth, and bonding at least a section of the dental matrix to the tooth. Light-curable composite resin is then injected into the cavity preparation and light cured.