Expandable-Tab Dental Crown Matrices for Single-Visit Restoration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dental veneer placement methods are expensive, time-consuming, and require significant preparation, often necessitating multiple dental visits and lacking in hygiene and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A matrix system for dental veneer placement tailored to specific tooth types, featuring a facial member with apertures and tab members for precise fitting and adjustment, allowing for single-visit, hygienic, and accurate veneer application using a light-transmissive material and UV-curable composite.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional veneer placement methods are used, then veneers can be placed on teeth, but the process is expensive, time-consuming, and requires multiple dental visits
Solution Approach 1:
The matrix is pre-formed with precise anatomical contours and interproximal extensions that define the exact veneer thickness and shape before treatment. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for multiple adjustment visits and enables single-visit completion of the veneer placement procedure
Solution Approach 2:
The matrix is divided into a facial portion covering the tooth surface and separate interproximal tabs that extend between adjacent teeth. This segmentation allows the matrix to be inserted through interproximal spaces and positioned accurately without requiring extensive tooth preparation or multiple visits
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional veneer placement methods are used, then veneers can be placed on teeth, but the process lacks hygiene and accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The matrix features varying thicknesses in different regions - thinner at the gingival margin for aesthetics and thicker at the occlusal surface for strength. The interproximal tabs are specifically designed with precise dimensions to maintain exact spacing and positioning, ensuring high placement accuracy without complex procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The matrix serves as an intermediary device that pre-defines the final veneer geometry and positioning. It acts as a template that guides material placement and ensures consistent, accurate results while simplifying the overall procedure through its pre-formed structure
3Reliability
If a matrix with interproximal tabs is used, then the matrix can be maintained in place during treatment, but the tabs require bending and adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The interproximal tabs are designed with flexibility to be bent and shaped during insertion. They can be dynamically adjusted to conform to the specific anatomical relationships between adjacent teeth, then maintain stable positioning once in place. This dynamic characteristic enables both easy insertion and reliable retention
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
Enables a highly accurate, efficient, and sanitary process for dental veneer placement, resulting in a smooth and aesthetically pleasing restoration with minimal preparation and a single dental visit.
Implementation Method 1
at least a portion of the facial member includes a light transmissive material
Data Source
AI summary
A dental matrix for forming a crown on a tooth includes a body having a expandable tab, which allows the diameter of an opening to be expanded for removal of the matrix from the formed crown.