Reinforced Jaw Elements for Simultaneous Orthodontic Repositioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current jaw repositioning devices are not designed to reposition teeth during the process of jaw repositioning, leading to potential reversion of the jaw position if the teeth are not properly aligned to support the new jaw position.
Innovation Solution
The use of a set of appliances with repositioning jaw elements that apply forces to the lower jaw to sagittally move it, allowing for simultaneous repositioning of the jaw and teeth, with the ability to adjust the positions of these elements incrementally to fine-tune the movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If jaw repositioning devices are used without integrated tooth repositioning capabilities, then the jaw can be repositioned, but the teeth may not remain aligned supporting the new jaw position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines jaw repositioning and tooth repositioning functions into a single integrated appliance. The appliance includes both a jaw repositioning component and a tooth repositioning component that work simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate devices and ensuring teeth remain aligned with the new jaw position.
Solution Approach 2:
The appliance is designed to perform multiple functions: repositioning the jaw to a corrected position and simultaneously repositioning teeth to proper alignment. This multi-functional design ensures that both jaw and tooth positions are stabilized together, preventing reversion.
2Productivity
If separate appliances are used for jaw repositioning and tooth repositioning, then each function can be optimized, but treatment time increases and patient comfort decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges jaw repositioning and tooth repositioning into a single appliance that the patient wears continuously. This eliminates the need for multiple separate appliances and treatment stages, reducing overall treatment time and improving patient comfort by simplifying the regimen.
Solution Approach 2:
The appliance is designed to simultaneously initiate both jaw and tooth repositioning actions from the beginning of treatment. By performing both repositioning functions concurrently rather than sequentially, the treatment process is accelerated and patient compliance is improved.
3Manufacturing precision
If reinforced repositioning jaw elements are added to the appliance, then tooth and jaw alignment stability improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforced repositioning jaw elements are integrated into the single appliance structure, combining jaw and tooth repositioning functions. This integration allows for precise alignment to be achieved through a unified manufacturing process rather than assembling multiple separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The appliance utilizes composite construction with reinforced repositioning jaw elements that provide enhanced structural strength and precision. These reinforced elements are manufactured as part of the integrated appliance structure, allowing for high precision alignment while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modern additive or multi-material manufacturing techniques.
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
This approach allows for concurrent treatment of jaw and teeth misalignment, reducing the risk of jaw reversion and shortening treatment times, while also providing a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing solution for patients.
Implementation Method 1
The use of a set of appliances with repositioning jaw elements that apply forces to the lower jaw to sagittally move it
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides method, computing device readable medium, and devices for dental appliances with repositioning jaw elements. An example of a removable dental appliance includes a shell having a number of tooth apertures configured to receive and reposition a number of teeth of a patient along one jaw of a patient, a repositioning jaw element that extends from a buccal or lingual surface of the shell, the element having a first outer surface oriented to face the tongue of the patient surface and a second outer surface oriented to face the cheek of the patient, and a reinforcement member formed along at least one of the first and second outer surfaces to provide reinforcement of the repositioning jaw element.