Modular Orthodontic Jaw Support with Elastic Bite Blocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orthodontic apparatuses are limited in their ability to perform comprehensive temporomandibular joint-related corrections of tooth position, as they are designed for specific age groups or forms of dysgnathia, and lack the flexibility to support the jaws in a freely selectable spatial relationship, failing to actively correct malpositions and provide diagnostic indications for pathological muscular hyperactivity.
Innovation Solution
A modular orthodontic apparatus with a base module that supports the occlusion-bearing part of the jaw, featuring cavities for teeth and a three-dimensionally defined jaw support with bite blocks and interceptors filled with predeterminable elasticity, allowing for active tooth movement and spatial correction of the temporomandibular joint, utilizing 4-D software for planning and combining with supplementary modules to apply intermittent forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If passive bite splints are used to alter spatial relationship between maxilla and mandible, then the jaw position is modified, but the apparatus provides no diagnostic indication of pathological muscular hyperactivity and cannot actively correct malpositions
Solution Approach 1:
The occlusion supporting component is designed to automatically indicate pathological muscular hyperactivity through self-registration of occlusion forces, eliminating the need for external diagnostic intervention while the patient uses the apparatus
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus incorporates registration capabilities that provide feedback on occlusion forces and muscular activity patterns, enabling the treating professional to monitor treatment progress and adjust therapy based on objective diagnostic data
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional orthodontic apparatuses are designed for specific age groups or forms of dysgnathia, then they can be manufactured with specialized characteristics, but they lack adaptability for freely selectable spatial support of the jaws
Solution Approach 1:
The occlusion supporting component features adjustable and replaceable elements that allow the spatial relationship between maxilla and mandible to be dynamically modified according to treatment requirements, rather than being fixed for a specific patient category
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus design integrates multiple functions into a single system that can address various forms of dysgnathia and accommodate different age groups, replacing the need for multiple specialized apparatuses while maintaining ease of manufacture through modular components
3Ease of operation
If aligner apparatuses with foam material are used to envelop teeth and prosthetic teeth, then orthodontic tooth movements can be implemented, but the material thickness undesirably modifies the spatial relationship between maxilla and mandible
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus uses thin film structures for tooth envelopment that minimize material thickness interference with the spatial relationship between maxilla and mandible, while still providing sufficient flexibility for tooth movement and comfort for the patient
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 simultaneous and efficient correction of tooth positions and temporomandibular joint malpositions, expanding treatment possibilities by allowing incremental force application and variable occlusion support, without the need for fixed bite block aids, and providing a diagnostic tool for masticatory pressure.
Implementation Method 1
bite blocks and/or interceptors which have cavities filled with a filling material of predeterminable elasticity
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an apparatus for temporomandibular joint-related corrections of tooth position, taking into account a variant of the registration or construction of the bite predetermined by the user.The invention is characterized in that a base module extending at least on the occlusion-bearing part of one side of the jaw is supported in an intermaxillary manner and has cavities formed by a setup technique to accommodate teeth, by means of which the tension forces necessary for tooth movements can act on the teeth, in that the base module has a three-dimensionally defined jaw support designed in accordance with specifications of the user, and in that the jaw support is formed by bite blocks and/or interceptors which have cavities filled with a filling material of predeterminable elasticity.