Orthotic Device Bite Block Reducing Bruxism Occlusal Forces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthodontic solutions fail to effectively protect teeth from parafunctional occlusal forces such as clenching and grinding, which can lead to dental damage and discomfort, by not adequately redefining the occlusal plane to distribute and reduce these forces.
Innovation Solution
An oral orthotic device comprising a left and right portion with a bite block and lingual wire system that redefines the occlusal plane by applying counter forces when torsional forces are applied, and a retainer appliance with a spacer mechanism to adjust the bite block height and position, thereby reducing occlusal forces and preventing dental damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional orthodontic retainers are used, then tooth alignment is maintained, but teeth remain vulnerable to parafunctional occlusal forces
Solution Approach 1:
The bite block serves as an intermediary element between the upper and lower teeth, intercepting parafunctional occlusal forces before they reach the natural teeth. When bruxism or clenching occurs, the bite block absorbs and distributes these forces across a broader area, protecting the teeth from direct contact and potential damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthotic device provides beforehand cushioning by positioning the bite block to preemptively absorb impact forces during parafunctional activities. The bite block acts as a cushion that is already in place before harmful forces are applied, preventing direct transmission of occlusal forces to the teeth and reducing articular disc pressure.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the occlusal plane is redefined with a bite block, then occlusal forces are distributed and reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The orthotic device is segmented into distinct functional components: the retainer body for tooth retention, the bite block for force absorption, and the lingual portion for structural support. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the overall design and fabrication process.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges multiple functions into a single integrated orthotic device structure. The retainer body, bite block, and lingual portion are combined into one appliance that simultaneously provides tooth retention, occlusal force redistribution, and structural support, eliminating the need for separate devices.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a unilateral bite block is positioned at specific molar locations, then occlusal forces are effectively redistributed, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bite block is positioned at specific local regions (unilaterally at the first mandibular molar and second mandibular premolar) rather than uniformly across the entire occlusal surface. This localized positioning concentrates force redistribution where it is most needed, reducing bruxism-related damage at critical areas while simplifying manufacturing requirements compared to full-coverage approaches.
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 effectively reduces occlusal forces and stress on teeth and mandibular condyles, preventing dental damage and discomfort by redistributing biting forces through the orthotic device, allowing for conscious or subconscious reduction of parafunctional occlusal forces, thus protecting teeth and reducing articular disc pressure.
Implementation Method 1
a first wire enclosed along the lingual portion and configured to apply counter force when torsional force is applied to the orthotic
Data Source
AI summary
A retainer appliance includes a retainer body, a frame, a first clasp, and a second clasp. The retainer body is configured to contour a roof of a mouth of a patient and includes a bite block extending therefrom. The frame is secured to the retainer body and extends therefrom. The first clasp extends from a left portion of the retainer body and is configured to couple to a first tooth located in the mouth of the patient. The second clasp extends from a right portion of the retainer body and is configured to couple to a second tooth located in the mouth of the patient.