Integrated Orthodontic Veneers with Removable Brackets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dentistry lacks efficient solutions for aesthetically and orthodontically addressing issues like discoloration, alignment, and shape problems in visible teeth, particularly in cases requiring thin restorations, where existing methods can result in unnatural-looking veneers, crowns, or bridges.
Innovation Solution
The use of 3D software and stereolithic SLA milling to create integrated orthodontic veneers, crowns, and bridges that combine aesthetic and orthodontic functions, allowing for tooth movement and color matching, with removable brace portions and tooth-colored materials for improved esthetics and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional veneers, crowns, or bridges are used to address aesthetic issues, then color and shape can be altered, but the restorations may look unnatural when compared to the natural translucency of human teeth
Solution Approach 1:
The restoration is divided into multiple layers including enamel layer, dentin layer, and cement layer, each with specific optical properties. This segmentation allows precise control over light transmission and reflection to achieve natural translucency while maintaining accurate color matching.
Solution Approach 2:
The restoration uses composite materials with varying optical properties - enamel layer with high translucency, dentin layer with intermediate properties, and cement layer with lower translucency. This composite structure replicates the natural multi-layered optical characteristics of human teeth.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate orthodontic fixtures and cosmetic restorations are used, then alignment and aesthetics can be addressed, but the treatment complexity and number of procedures increase
Solution Approach 1:
The orthodontic bracket and the cosmetic veneer are merged into a single integrated restoration. The bracket is embedded within the veneer structure, eliminating the need for separate orthodontic fixtures and reducing the total number of components while maintaining both alignment and aesthetic functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated restoration serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as an orthodontic bracket for tooth movement, a veneer for aesthetic improvement, and a restoration for color and shape correction. This multi-functionality reduces treatment complexity while maintaining versatility.
3Strength
If thick restorations are used to ensure durability and coverage, then strength is improved, but the natural translucency and aesthetic appearance are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the restoration have different thicknesses and material properties optimized for their specific functions. The enamel layer is thinner and more translucent at the edges to allow light transmission, while the dentin and cement layers provide structural strength. This local variation in quality achieves both durability and natural appearance.
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 approach enables customized, aesthetically pleasing and functional orthodontic treatments that can be tailored to individual patients, reducing the need for large orthodontic inventories and allowing for precise tooth alignment and correction, with the option to replace temporary solutions with permanent restorations.
Implementation Method 1
The 3D stereolithic (SLA) printer has a resin tank that receives a build platform, and selectively cures resin in the resin tank onto the build platform, according to a veneer, crown, or bridge design
Data Source
AI summary
A dental appliance comprising a veneer, bridge, or crown with an integrated brace together formed as a single piece of material. The braces, crowns, veneers, and bridges may be printed with 3-dimensional (3D) software and SLA milling. Embodiments of the present invention provide the printed veneer, crown or bridge with an orthodontic portion (“brace” or “bracket”) that is all one piece. This can be used to move teeth orthodontically and provide a degree of esthetics. The appliance may include identification marks, which may guide placement of the appliance in a patient's mouth. The brace and identification marks can be removed, leaving the veneer, crown, or bridge behind.