Segmented Dental Scaler Rod for Implant Thread Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dental scalers are inadequate for effectively cleaning around dental implants, particularly in navigating and cleaning between the threads of implants located subgingivally, due to their design limitations.
Innovation Solution
A dental scaler with a handle and a rod comprising at least six sections, including a curved tip and an angle at the junction of specific sections, designed to be affixed to the handle tip end, allowing for precise access and cleaning between the threads of dental implants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional dental scaler designs are used, then the device structure is simple, but the ability to navigate and clean between implant threads is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The rod is divided into multiple sections (first section, second section, third section, fourth section) that can be independently positioned and oriented. Each section can be angled relative to the previous section, allowing the scaler tip to navigate complex geometries around implant threads while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The scaler rod incorporates angular deviations in multiple dimensions - the third section deviates from the central axis, the fourth section crosses the central axis, and the tip is curved. This multi-dimensional positioning capability enables the scaler to access subgingival implant surfaces from various angles, solving the navigation problem without requiring excessive overall device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If the scaler rod has multiple angled sections to access subgingival areas, then cleaning access is improved, but the device becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The rod configuration applies local quality by creating specific angular deviations only where needed - the third section deviates from the central axis at a specific junction, and the fourth section crosses the central axis at another junction. This localized angulation provides targeted access to subgingival areas without making the entire rod complex, maintaining ease of operation in critical zones while simplifying other portions.
Solution Approach 2:
The scaler tip is curved to match the cylindrical geometry of implant threads. This curvature allows the tip to follow the contour of the implant surface and access hard-to-reach areas between threads, improving ease of operation without requiring complex angular sections throughout the entire rod length.
3Reliability
If the scaler is designed with a curved tip and angled sections, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the rod into separate sections that are joined at defined junctions, manufacturing precision can be achieved through standardized connection interfaces. Each section can be manufactured with controlled tolerances and assembled with precise angular relationships, ensuring reliable cleaning effectiveness without requiring extreme precision throughout the entire rod as a single piece.
Solution Approach 2:
The rod design specifies particular angular parameters - the third section deviates from the central axis by a specific angle, the fourth section crosses the central axis at a defined angle, and the tip has a specific curvature radius. These parameter changes are optimized to provide effective cleaning while remaining within achievable manufacturing tolerances, balancing reliability with manufacturability.
Data Source
AI summary
A dental scaler for use in cleaning dental implants. The scaler includes a handle having a generally central axis extending along the length thereof, a handle tip end affixed to the handle, and a rod affixed to the handle tip end, wherein the rod comprises at least six sections, one angle, and a curved tip.