Removable Orthodontic Device with Guiding Wire
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing removable orthodontic devices are not entirely satisfactory in correcting crowding, spacing, and rotation problems due to instability in tooth movement during correction.
Innovation Solution
A removable orthodontic device comprising an anchorage cap segment, a moving cap segment, a pair of spring elements, and a guiding wire, where the spring elements generate elastic resilient forces to move the moving cap segment relative to the anchorage cap segment, and the guiding wire provides stability and guidance during tooth movement, with configurations allowing for distalization, retraction, and vertical correction of teeth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional removable orthodontic devices are used, then the device is less visible and easier to maintain oral hygiene compared to fixed braces, but the tooth movement stability during correction is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The orthodontic device is divided into multiple cap segments (first cap segment, second cap segment, third cap segment) that can be separately attached to different teeth. Each cap segment functions independently to apply force to specific teeth, allowing for targeted tooth movement while maintaining overall device removability and ease of maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a third dimensional aspect to removable orthodontic devices by adding the guiding wire component that runs through channels in the cap segments. This wire provides rotational and positional guidance, adding a new dimension of control beyond simple linear force application, thereby improving tooth movement stability while preserving the removable nature of the device.
2Ease of operation
If clear aligners are used that make use of the appliance's own resilient property, then the device is less visible and easier to maintain, but the control and precision over tooth movement is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The guiding wire acts as an intermediary component that transmits and directs forces between the cap segments and the teeth. The wire, passing through guiding channels, provides mechanical guidance that enhances the precision of tooth movement control, complementing the resilient force from the elastic element while maintaining the removable aligner design.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the device have specialized functions: the cap segments provide localized force application to specific teeth, the guiding wire provides rotational and positional guidance through channels, and the elastic element provides resilient force. This division of local qualities allows each component to optimize its specific function, improving overall precision while maintaining ease of maintenance.
3Ease of manufacture
If existing removable orthodontic devices are used, then the device structure is simpler and easier to manufacture, but the control over complex tooth movements (distalization, retraction, vertical correction) is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The orthodontic device achieves multi-functionality through its modular cap segment design. Each cap segment can be configured to apply forces in multiple directions, and the guiding wire can accommodate various tooth movement types (distalization, retraction, vertical correction) by adjusting the channel orientations and wire positioning, all while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that is easy to manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic elements through the elastic member that can deform and recover, providing adaptable force application. The guiding wire within channels allows for controlled movement in multiple directions, enabling the device to adapt to different tooth movement requirements while maintaining structural simplicity and ease of manufacture.
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 device achieves improved stability and control over tooth movement, ensuring effective correction of dental alignment issues such as crowding, spacing, and rotation with enhanced anchorage and guidance mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
The pair of spring elements is disposed between the anchorage cap segment and the moving cap segment on the buccal and lingual sides of the said side of the dental arch to generate an elastic resilient force to move the moving cap segment relative to the anchorage cap segment
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A removable orthodontic device includes an anchorage cap segment, a moving cap segment, a pair of spring elements, and a guiding wire. The anchorage cap segment is removably worn on the anterior teeth of a dental arch. The moving cap segment is removably worn on at least one posterior tooth on one side of the dental arch. The spring elements are disposed between the anchorage and moving cap segments to generate an elastic resilient force to move the moving cap segment relative to the anchorage cap segment. The guiding wire has a U-shaped portion and two rod portions. The U-shaped portion is embedded in and disposed around three sidewalls of the moving cap segment, and the rod portions are received in guiding channels formed in the buccal and lingual sidewalls of the anchorage cap segment to guide the movement of the moving cap segment.