Matrix Ring with Movable Tines for Dental Restoration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing matrix rings for dental procedures lack sufficient adaptability and precision in separating teeth and holding matrix bands, particularly in cases where there is insufficient tooth structure, leading to suboptimal support for filling materials.
Innovation Solution
A matrix ring design featuring a biasing ring with opposing tines that include a frame body and a superimposed pad, where the tines are configured to rotate, translate, and independently move to accommodate varying tooth contours, utilizing materials like polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and silicone for flexibility and rigidity, allowing for precise engagement and adaptation to tooth anatomy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional open ended rings with downwardly projecting tines are used to separate teeth, then the interproximal space between teeth can be increased, but the adaptability to varying tooth contours and the precision of separation are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The matrix ring incorporates movable tines that can rotate and translate relative to the ring body, transforming the static structure into a dynamic one. This allows the tines to adapt to varying tooth contours and interproximal spaces while maintaining structural simplicity through a single integrated ring component
Solution Approach 2:
The tines are designed as separate movable segments that can independently adjust their position and orientation. Each tine can rotate and translate relative to the ring body, allowing independent adaptation to different tooth surfaces while maintaining overall structural unity
2Reliability
If the tines are made rigid to provide stable support, then the structural stability is improved, but the ability to adapt to individual tooth anatomy and ensure precise engagement is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The tines are designed with rotational and translational freedom, allowing them to dynamically adjust to the precise geometry of individual teeth. Once positioned, the biasing ring maintains stable engagement through its elastic memory, providing both adaptation and retention stability
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic modulus and geometric parameters of the biasing ring are optimized to provide sufficient rigidity for stable support while allowing controlled flexibility for adaptation. The tines can change their position parameters (rotation angle, translation distance) to match individual tooth anatomy
3Adaptability or versatility
If the matrix ring is designed to accommodate various tooth sizes and shapes, then the versatility is improved, but the manufacturing precision and consistency are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of manufacturing different sizes of rings, the invention uses a single ring design with movable tines that can dynamically adjust to various tooth dimensions. This maintains consistent manufacturing specifications while achieving versatility through operational adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing ring is designed as a universal component that can accommodate various tooth sizes and shapes through the adjustable tines. The same ring structure serves multiple functions across different clinical scenarios, eliminating the need for multiple specialized ring sizes
4Adaptability or versatility
If the tines are positioned closely to follow tooth contours, then the adaptability is improved, but the interproximal space separation capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The tines can dynamically adjust their position along the tooth contours while maintaining sufficient outward projection to provide separation force. The rotational and translational freedom allows the tines to optimize their position for both contour following and force application
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
The matrix ring provides improved separation and support for matrix bands, ensuring proper shaping and retention of filling materials by adapting to individual tooth structures, reducing the risk of slipping and ensuring effective placement and retention.
Implementation Method 1
The superimposed pad comprising an elastic material configured to elastically deform upon operable positioning within the mouth of a patient, or upon relative movement of the first and second lower extensions
Implementation Method 2
When released, the spring like nature of the ring provides an inward force against the tines which drives the tines toward each other
Data Source
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AI summary
A matrix ring comprising a biasing ring and a pair of opposing tines. The biasing ring includes a substantially hoop-like configuration terminating at two opposing ends. The pair of opposing tines extend inwardly from each of the two ends of the biasing ring toward each other. Each of the pair of opposing tines is coupled to the respective opposing end about a central region thereof and extends radially outwardly therefrom. Each tine includes a frame body having a central ridge and opposing lower extensions, the lower extensions terminating at an exposed face. The portion of the lower extensions proximate the exposed face being able to move relative to the rest of the frame body so as to better position on the teeth of a patient. A superimposed pad over portions of the frame body provides a deformable surface for engagement with the surface of the tooth of a patient.