Denture Base Anatomical Feature Replication via Digital Jaw Modeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for creating dentures lack precision in replicating anatomical features, leading to uncomfortable and insecure fits, as they rely on manual estimation and techniques that are not precise enough to accurately locate critical features like the post dam, labial and buccal frenae, and rugae, resulting in suboptimal fit and comfort.
Innovation Solution
A digital three-dimensional modeling system is used to create a precise replication of the patient's jaw structure, allowing for accurate location and replication of anatomical landmarks, including the post dam, frenae, and rugae, to fabricate a denture base that provides a secure and comfortable fit, with features like the buccal roll and soft tissue lines being incorporated to enhance aesthetics and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual estimation and traditional techniques are used to locate anatomical features, then the process is simple and requires minimal equipment, but the precision and accuracy of locating critical features like post dam, frenae, and rugae deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a plaster model as a physical copy of the patient's oral cavity anatomy. This model allows precise replication and transfer of anatomical feature locations (post dam, frenae, rugae) to the denture base without requiring complex digital equipment during the actual denture fabrication process. The model serves as an intermediary that captures precise anatomical relationships.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning system acts as an intermediary device that transfers anatomical landmark locations from the plaster model to the denture base. This mediator enables precise location transfer while maintaining relative simplicity in the fabrication process, avoiding both manual estimation errors and complex digital systems.
2Manufacturing precision
If the denture extends too far to the rear of the mouth to capture all anatomical features, then more anatomical landmarks can be included, but the patient may suffer from gagging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different treatment zones to different regions of the denture base. Critical anatomical features like the post dam and frenae receive precise localized attention, while other areas are shaped to avoid triggering gag reflexes. This localized approach ensures accurate replication where needed without extending the denture unnecessarily into the posterior throat area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses partial action by selectively capturing only the most critical anatomical features (post dam, frenae, rugae) rather than attempting to include all possible landmarks. This partial approach achieves sufficient manufacturing precision for denture fit and retention while avoiding excessive extension into the patient's throat that would cause gagging.
3Manufacturing precision
If the denture extends too much into the hard palate to improve fit, then the vacuum seal may be lost, but more anatomical landmarks can be captured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by accurately locating and marking the post dam position on the plaster model before denture fabrication. This advance positioning ensures the post dam is placed precisely at the junction of hard and soft palate, creating the vacuum seal before the denture is even fabricated. The critical measurement is captured in advance to guide subsequent manufacturing steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical trial-and-error adjustment of post dam position with a systematic approach using the plaster model and positioning system. This substitution allows precise determination of the post dam location based on anatomical landmarks rather than relying on mechanical fitting adjustments that might compromise the vacuum seal.
4Measurement precision
If traditional impression techniques are used, then the process is simple and quick, but the comfort and precision of anatomical feature location deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patient performs self-service by manipulating their own jaw and muscles during the impression process. This allows the plaster to capture accurate anatomical relationships of soft tissues, frenae, and rugae without requiring complex positioning equipment or extensive professional manipulation, achieving high precision while maintaining process simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
The system of a preferred embodiment uses a process whereby a true replication of the patient's jaw structure is created in a digital three dimensional model. This true replication is then used to precisely locate and/or copy the anatomical landmarks of the patient for use in fabricating a denture base for use in a denture for the individual patient. This system is able to create a denture with precisely located features corresponding to the anatomical landmarks of the patient with little manual intervention.