Segmental Oscillation Disk for Precise Interproximal Enamel Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interproximal reduction (IPR) procedures in dentistry are difficult and risky due to the need for precise enamel removal without overcutting, and current tools are cumbersome and lack effective lubrication, leading to potential tissue injury and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A segmental oscillation tool with a disk-shaped member having varying segments for abrasives and perforations, coupled with a lubricant, that oscillates rather than spins, allowing precise and safe enamel reduction with reduced friction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional rotary or reciprocating cutting instruments are used for interproximal reduction, then enamel removal can be achieved, but the procedure becomes difficult and risky due to lack of precision and effective lubrication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs oscillating motion of the cutting instrument at frequencies between 30-300 Hz with amplitudes of 0.05-2.0 mm to achieve precise enamel removal. The oscillation creates a controlled cutting action that reduces friction and heat generation, allowing for accurate interproximal reduction without damaging surrounding tissues or causing overcutting.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a lubricant as an intermediary substance between the cutting instrument and tooth surface. This lubricant reduces friction and heat during the oscillating cutting process, enabling precise enamel removal while protecting the tooth structure and surrounding tissues from thermal damage and mechanical stress.
2Productivity
If manual or conventional powered instruments are used for interproximal reduction, then space can be created between teeth, but the procedure is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The oscillating cutting instrument removes enamel more efficiently than conventional rotary or reciprocating instruments by creating a controlled fracture pattern in the enamel. The high-frequency oscillation allows for faster material removal while maintaining precision, significantly reducing the time required for interproximal reduction procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional rotary mechanical cutting systems with an oscillating mechanical vibration system. This substitution enables more efficient enamel removal through controlled micro-fractures created by the oscillating motion, thereby increasing productivity while reducing procedural time.
3Force
If high friction occurs during interproximal reduction, then cutting action can be maintained, but tissue injury and heat generation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lubricant serves as a mediator between the cutting instrument and tooth surface, reducing friction coefficients during the oscillating cutting process. This reduction in friction minimizes heat generation and prevents thermal damage to the tooth structure and surrounding soft tissues, while still maintaining effective cutting forces through the oscillating motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The oscillating cutting action creates intermittent contact between the instrument and tooth surface, reducing continuous friction and heat generation. The vibration frequency and amplitude are controlled to optimize cutting efficiency while minimizing thermal effects on the tooth structure and surrounding tissues.
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 tool enables accurate and efficient interproximal reduction with reduced risk of tissue injury, facilitating precise enamel polishing and space creation between teeth.
Implementation Method 1
Abrasive cutting instruments, such as strips of metal with impregnated adhered, with diamond being the most common abrasive
Implementation Method 2
Teflon and similar coatings can be fused to dental cutting instrument abrasives or metal cutting surfaces to enhance and lubricate the cutting instruments during interproximal reduction
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for interproximal reduction includes a handpiece and a substantially solid disk-shaped member. The hand tool has a motor coupled to a coupling member. The handpiece is for creating oscillating motion in an oscillation range of 90 degrees or less. The disk-shaped member has a front face and a rear face and defines two or more segments that are different from one another. Each segment has different properties comprising one or more of perforations, cutting surfaces, and abrasives. The disk-shaped member has a centrally disposed aperture for coupling to the handpiece with the coupling member. The properties only partially cover one or more of the front or rear face of the disk. The handpiece is configured to permit a user to position their fingers directly adjacent the dish-shaped member during operation of the handpiece.