Dual-Viscosity Gingival Retraction Material for One-Step Dental Impressions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for gingival retraction and impression taking are labor-intensive and require multiple steps, making dentistry time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A dual-component dental impression material system where a low viscosity setting gingival retracting material is applied first, followed by a high viscosity setting impression material, synchronized to set simultaneously, allowing for a single-step retraction and impression process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate steps are used for gingival retraction and impression taking, then each function can be performed with dedicated materials, but the overall procedure becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines gingival retraction and impression taking into a single integrated step by formulating a dual-function impression material that simultaneously performs both functions. The material contains retracting agents (astringents or hemostatic agents) that cause gingival retraction while the material itself sets to form the impression, eliminating the need for separate retraction and impression steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The impression material is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a retraction agent and an impression material. By incorporating retracting agents into the impression material formulation, a single material performs multiple functions that previously required separate materials and steps, thereby reducing procedure time and complexity.
2Productivity
If a single material is used for both retraction and impression, then the procedure is simplified and time is reduced, but the material must balance conflicting viscosity requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by incorporating retracting agents into the impression material formulation. The retracting agents (astringents or hemostatic agents) modify the material's interaction with gingival tissue, enabling retraction functionality while maintaining the material's ability to set and form impressions. This parameter modification allows a single material to perform dual functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The impression material is formulated as a composite material containing both impression material components and retracting agents (astringents or hemostatic agents). This composite formulation enables the material to exhibit both retraction properties and impression-taking properties simultaneously, resolving the conflict between simplified procedure and material complexity.
3Ease of operation
If low viscosity material is used for gingival retraction, then the material can flow into the sulcus effectively, but the material lacks the structural support needed for stable impression removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the viscosity characteristics of the impression material through the inclusion of retracting agents. The material is formulated to have appropriate flowability for sulcus penetration while maintaining sufficient structural support for stable impression removal. The retracting agents contribute to both the retraction function and the mechanical properties of the set material.
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
Facilitates easier and quicker gingival retraction and impression taking, reducing time and effort while ensuring accurate and detailed impressions for dental restorations.
Implementation Method 1
The setting times of the first and second material are synchronized so they set together. The setting of the two materials may be controlled by a chemical reaction, such as use of a catalyst.
Data Source
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AI summary
A dental retraction and impression system providing self-retracting and impression taking of a prepared tooth in one step. Paired setting materials simultaneously retract gingiva, widen a sulcus around the tooth, and take an impression of the tooth and margins. A low viscosity setting gingival retracting impression material having an astringent and a high viscosity setting impression material set together. The high viscosity setting impression material is heavy body and has a higher viscosity than the low viscosity setting gingival retracting material so as to force the low viscosity setting gingival retracting impression material into the gingival space or sulcus.