Orthodontic Shape Memory Band with Varying Cross-Section
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional orthodontic appliances, such as multi-fixings appliances and passive retainers, face challenges including prolonged treatment times, discomfort, and risk of detachment due to discontinuous forces and inadequate alignment capabilities, especially in correcting torque and multi-directional movements.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece shape memory band with a varying cross-section along its length, tailored to match the shape and size of individual teeth, allowing for direct bonding and application of forces in multiple directions, reducing treatment time and appointments, and minimizing pain and hyalinization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional multi-fixings appliances with sequence of archwires are used, then teeth alignment can be achieved, but treatment time is prolonged and multiple appointments are required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple archwire functions into a single continuous band that can apply forces in multiple directions simultaneously. The band integrates the roles of round-section archwires (alignment), rectangular-section archwires (torque correction), and intermaxillary elastics (arch coordination) into one unified structure, eliminating the need for sequential wire changes and reducing treatment time.
Solution Approach 2:
The band incorporates variable cross-sectional geometry along its length, transitioning from round to rectangular sections at different positions. This dynamic variation in cross-section allows different portions of the band to exert forces in different directions and with different magnitudes simultaneously, enabling multi-directional tooth movement in a single treatment phase.
2Ease of operation
If round-section archwires are used for alignment, then teeth can be leveled, but torque correction and multi-directional alignment are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The band features local variation in cross-sectional shape along its length. Specific segments have rectangular cross-sections positioned to apply torque to particular teeth, while other segments maintain round sections for alignment. This local quality differentiation enables simultaneous alignment and torque correction without requiring multiple separate appliances.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds the dimension of spatial variation in cross-sectional geometry to the traditional archwire concept. By varying the cross-section shape (from round to rectangular) and orientation along the longitudinal axis of the band, it can apply forces in multiple spatial dimensions (mesial-distal, buccal-lingual, apico-coronal) simultaneously, overcoming the limitations of uniform round-section wires.
3Manufacturing precision
If sequence of archwires with increasing cross section is used, then alignment precision improves, but patient discomfort and pain increase due to discontinuous forces
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous band structure provides uninterrupted force application to all teeth simultaneously, eliminating the discontinuous force cycles associated with sequential wire changes. The band maintains constant engagement with all teeth throughout the treatment phase, providing smooth, continuous forces that reduce patient discomfort while maintaining alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The band is designed with pre-determined cross-sectional variations that anticipate and prepare for multiple treatment objectives simultaneously. The rectangular sections are positioned and dimensioned in advance to apply appropriate torque and multi-directional forces from the outset, eliminating the need for progressive wire upgrades that cause discomfort.
4Productivity
If conventional archwires are used, then tooth movement can be achieved, but brackets may detach or archwires may slip causing cheek lesions
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the archwire and bracket functions into a single integrated band structure that bonds directly to tooth surfaces. This eliminates the interface between separate components (wire-bracket, wire-ligature) where detachment and slippage occur, significantly improving appliance reliability while maintaining tooth movement efficiency.
5Strength
If steel archwires with high rigidity are used, then intermaxillary elastics can be used effectively, but finishing bends require high forces that patients cannot tolerate
Solution Approach 1:
The band features localized variation in cross-sectional dimensions, with thicker sections providing high rigidity for elastic attachment and force application, while thinner sections provide flexibility for finishing bends. This local quality differentiation allows steel-like rigidity where needed and TMA-like flexibility where patient comfort is concerned, within a single continuous structure.
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 solution enables more precise and efficient tooth alignment, reducing treatment duration, minimizing pain and hyalinization, and eliminating the need for frequent archwire changes, thereby improving the orthodontic treatment process.
Implementation Method 1
The invention relates to an active, semi-passive or passive shape memory orthodontic appliance... Shape memory materials are widely used in orthodontics... made up of a one-piece shape memory band
Data Source
AI summary
A method for producing a shape memory band of an orthodontic appliance. The shape memory band is one piece, has a cross section that can vary according to the longitudinal position of said cross section, and includes a bonding zone configured so as to exhibit a shape substantially identical to that of a tooth. The method includes: determining an orthodontic treatment suitable for treating the teeth, determining a set of forces to be exerted locally on the teeth in order to obtain the orthodontic treatment and the shape of the surface of the teeth to which bonding zones of the shape memory band are to be bonded, and producing the shape memory band. The local cross section of the shape memory band is determined according to the forces and in such a way as to define bonding zones substantially identical to the surfaces of the teeth.