Removable Partial Denture Assembly with Modular Tooth Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing removable partial dentures lack efficient and adjustable connections between replacement teeth and the framework, leading to difficulties in fitting and adjustments, and often require complete replacement if inaccuracies are discovered post-fitting.
Innovation Solution
An assembly set for removable partial dentures featuring non-destructive detachable direct connections between replacement teeth and a framework, allowing for easy replacement and adjustment of individual components, with the framework providing structural integrity and support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If traditional permanent connections are used between replacement teeth and framework, then structural integrity is ensured, but adjustments and replacements become difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate modular components: a retention element on the framework and a corresponding engagement element on the replacement tooth. These segmented parts can be independently replaced and reconfigured, enabling easy adjustments while maintaining strong connections through precise geometric interlocking.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection transitions from a static permanent bond to a dynamic reusable system. The retention and engagement elements are designed to be detachable and reattachable multiple times, allowing the denture to adapt to changing patient needs while maintaining structural integrity through consistent geometric features.
2Manufacturing precision
If custom-made dentures are manufactured for each patient, then precise fitting is achieved, but manufacturing time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The framework is pre-equipped with retention elements during manufacturing, and replacement teeth are pre-formed with engagement elements. This preliminary preparation allows for rapid assembly and customization without requiring time-consuming on-site adjustments or complete remanufacturing when changes are needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention and engagement elements are designed with universal geometric features that can accommodate multiple replacement teeth and frameworks. This standardization maintains precise fitting through consistent geometry while reducing manufacturing complexity and time for custom components.
3Reliability
If complete denture replacement is performed when inaccuracies are found, then functional requirements are met, but material waste and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The problematic component (replacement tooth) is extracted and replaced individually rather than removing the entire denture assembly. The modular retention-engagement system enables selective replacement of only the defective tooth while preserving the framework and other functional components, eliminating material waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The framework and retention elements are designed to be reusable and recoverable. When a replacement tooth shows inaccuracies, only that specific tooth is discarded and replaced, while the framework and other teeth are retained and reused, significantly reducing material waste and manufacturing costs.
4Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustments are performed post-fitting, then customization is achieved, but structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Traditional manual mechanical adjustments (filing, grinding, heating) are replaced by a precision-engineered retention-engagement system with defined geometric features. This mechanical substitution allows customization through standardized component exchange rather than destructive manual modification, preserving structural integrity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an assembly set for a removable partial denture comprising one or more replacement teeth as well as a framework with one or more retention sections. Each of the retention sections is configured to receive and retain one or more of the replacement teeth. Each of the replacement teeth comprises a bottom face with a surface structure configured to engage an assigned complementary retention structure provided by one of the retention sections of the framework configured to receive the respective replacement tooth. Each surface structure provides in combination with the assigned complementary retention structure a non-destructive detachable direct connection between the replacement tooth comprising the respective surface structure and the retention section comprising the respective assigned complementary retention structure.