Dental Reference Bridge for Root Canal Length Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing root canal measurement methods relying on tooth cusps are unreliable due to variable field of view and can be inaccurate, especially when cusps are damaged, complicating the precise determination of canal length and file penetration depth.
Innovation Solution
A dental apparatus with bridge-like members and posts that provide stable reference points for measuring root canal length and indicating maximum file insertion depth, securely attached to a dental clamp using through holes, allowing for accurate and consistent measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If tooth cusp is used as reference point for measuring root canal length, then measurement can be obtained, but measurement precision deteriorates due to variable field of view and domed shape of cusps
Solution Approach 1:
A reference member (bridge-like structure) is introduced as an intermediary between the dental file and the tooth cusp. This reference member provides a stable, flat reference surface that eliminates the variability caused by the domed shape of natural cusps, enabling precise and reliable measurements regardless of the dentist's viewing angle or the tooth's condition
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement reference function is extracted from the tooth cusp itself and placed onto a separate, dedicated reference member. This allows the reference function to be independent of the tooth's natural anatomy, ensuring consistent measurements even when cusps are damaged or difficult to access
2Ease of operation
If tooth cusp is used as reference point, then measurement can be performed, but device complexity increases due to need for precise visual alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The reference member serves as a mediator that simplifies the measurement operation by providing a built-in reference surface. This eliminates the need for complex visual alignment procedures, as the flat top surface of the reference member naturally provides the reference plane needed for accurate file depth measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The reference member is self-aligning and self-referencing. Once positioned on the tooth, its flat top surface automatically provides the reference plane, eliminating the need for additional alignment tools or complex positioning procedures by the dentist
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional dental clamp is used to hold rubber dam, then rubber dam can be secured, but adaptability deteriorates when need to hold additional reference apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
The dental clamp is designed with dual functionality: it can hold both the rubber dam and the reference member simultaneously. The clamp's jaws are configured to accommodate both functions, allowing a single device to perform multiple roles in the root canal procedure
Solution Approach 2:
The function of holding the rubber dam and holding the reference member are merged into a single dental clamp structure. This integration eliminates the need for separate holding devices and simplifies the overall apparatus while maintaining all necessary functions
Data Source
AI summary
A dental apparatus usable for root canal procedures in conjunction with a dental clamp includes a first base member, a second base member spaced apart from the first base member, a first reference member extending between the first and second base members and connecting the first and second base members to one another, the first reference member extending in a first direction relative to an imaginary plane extending across the first and second base members, a second reference member extending between the first and second base members and connecting the first and second base members to one another, the second reference member being spaced apart from the first reference member, a first post extending from the first base member in a second direction relative to the imaginary plane, opposite to the first direction, and a second post extending from the second base member in the second direction.