Multi-dimensional Skeletal Correction Appliances
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for complex oral and upper airway conditions such as Class II and Class III malocclusions, narrow maxillary arch, and obstructive sleep apnea are inadequate, as they often only manage symptoms rather than providing comprehensive and total multi-dimensional solutions.
Innovation Solution
The development of methods and apparatuses for multi-dimensional skeletal correction, which include generating a digital skeletal representation of a patient's upper and lower jaws, determining the necessary skeletal corrections, and creating a treatment plan involving wearable pairs of upper and lower appliances to achieve lateral, anterior-posterior, and vertical skeletal corrections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional single-dimension treatments are used for oral and airway conditions, then treatment simplicity is maintained, but comprehensive treatment effectiveness is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple treatment functions (palatal expansion, mandibular advancement, vertical skeletal correction) into a single integrated wearable appliance system. This merging of previously separate treatments into one comprehensive device achieves multi-dimensional skeletal correction while maintaining patient compliance through a unified wearable solution.
Solution Approach 2:
The wearable appliance is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: lateral palatal expansion, anterior-posterior mandibular advancement, and vertical skeletal correction. This multi-functional design allows a single device to address various skeletal conditions that previously required separate treatments, improving comprehensive effectiveness.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multi-dimensional skeletal correction is implemented, then comprehensive treatment of complex conditions is achieved, but treatment planning complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The treatment plan is segmented into sequential stages, with each stage addressing specific skeletal corrections. The digital treatment planning system divides the complex multi-dimensional correction into manageable phases: initial digital skeletal representation, determination of correction amounts in three dimensions, sequential stage planning, and progressive appliance fabrication. This segmentation makes the complex treatment more controllable and implementable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary digital treatment planning that calculates and visualizes the complete multi-dimensional skeletal correction pathway before actual treatment begins. The digital skeletal representation and treatment simulation allow clinicians to preview and adjust the treatment plan, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all skeletal dimensions before fabrication of appliances starts.
3Manufacturing precision
If sequential wearable pairs of appliances are used, then multi-dimensional skeletal correction is achieved, but treatment duration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The treatment employs sequential wearable pairs of appliances that continuously apply corrective forces across all three skeletal dimensions without interruption. Each appliance pair is designed to maintain constant corrective pressure on the skeletal structures, ensuring continuous useful action throughout the treatment period. This continuity accelerates skeletal remodeling compared to intermittent treatments.
Solution Approach 2:
The treatment progresses through periodic stages with each wearable appliance pair addressing specific correction goals. The sequential replacement of appliance pairs follows a structured periodic schedule where each stage builds upon previous corrections, systematically advancing the skeletal structure toward the target configuration while maintaining precision control over the correction process.
Data Source
AI summary
Multi-dimensional skeletal corrections that can provide a comprehensive and total multi-dimensional treatment solution to treat one or more complex oral and/or airway conditions may concurrently include palatal expansion and mandibular advancment. For example, these methods and apparatuses, including systems and devices, as well as software, hardware and firmware, may be used to treat complex and potentially interrelated conditions such as (but not limited to) Class II and Class III malocclusions, narrow maxillary arch, and obstructive sleep apnea.