Denture Duplication via 3D Scanning and Digital Offset
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for duplicating dentures are time-consuming and costly, often resulting in ill-fitting temporary dentures, and may require multiple try-ins to achieve a proper fit, especially when anatomical changes occur over time.
Innovation Solution
A method involving scanning existing dentures to create a fully digitized model, allowing for the selection or fabrication of denture teeth with offset dimensions, and subsequent machining of the denture base, which can be modified based on additional patient information to ensure a precise fit, maintaining the occlusal scheme while accommodating anatomical and aesthetic changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional molding techniques are used to duplicate dentures, then the process can be completed, but it requires multiple try-ins and takes considerable time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses 3D scanning to create a digital copy of the existing denture, then digitally processes this copy to generate the new denture design. This digital copying approach eliminates the need for physical trial molds and multiple try-ins, directly producing the final denture design in one process step.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical molding processes with digital 3D scanning and computer-aided design. Instead of physically molding denture bases and trying multiple versions, the system uses optical scanning and digital processing to directly create the denture design, significantly reducing time and eliminating multiple try-ins.
2Ease of operation
If temporary dentures are fabricated during the duplication process, then the patient can wear them, but they are ill-fitting and uncomfortable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a precise digital copy of the existing denture that maintains the original's neuromuscular control and fit characteristics. By digitally processing the scanned denture rather than creating a new design from scratch, the system preserves the proven fit and comfort of the original denture while allowing for necessary digital modifications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a new denture is created from scratch, then it can be customized, but the cost and time are considerable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary 3D scanning of the existing denture to create a digital model before any fabrication occurs. This preliminary digital copy serves as the foundation for all subsequent design modifications, allowing customizations to be made efficiently through digital processing rather than requiring time-consuming physical remolding and trial processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of the existing denture that can be efficiently modified and customized. This digital copying approach allows for rapid adjustments and customizations to be made through software processing rather than requiring physical remolding, significantly reducing fabrication time while maintaining customization capabilities.
4Productivity
If existing denture information is used for duplication, then the process is faster, but the information may not be available if considerable time has elapsed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses 3D scanning to create a new digital copy of the existing denture, effectively capturing and preserving the denture's geometric information at the time of scanning. This digital copying process ensures that even if considerable time has elapsed since the original denture was made, the necessary information can still be accurately captured and used for duplication.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and processes for the duplication of dentures from existing dentures. The interior and exterior of the dentures are scanned and a best fit procedure is used to create a fully digitized denture. The denture teeth are selected from a library that is the closest fit to the original denture teeth. The library teeth are offset a preset distance to compensate for the best fit. The teeth are then subtracted from the digitized denture. The margins of the denture are then cleaned after subtracting the teeth. The denture base is then ready for manufacturing. The teeth are then installed onto the denture base and provided to the patient.