Segmented Orthodontic Bracket Base for Multi-Stage Tooth Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthodontic treatments are prolonged due to the need for frequent replacement of orthodontic appliances and brackets, which delays tooth movement and increases patient discomfort, as clinicians struggle to achieve precise first, second, and third order movements without advanced manipulation of archwires.
Innovation Solution
An orthodontic bracket with a platform base that remains affixed to the tooth throughout treatment, allowing multiple bracket bodies to sequentially cooperate with it, enabling clinicians to apply varying forces and movements without removing the platform base, facilitating efficient and comfortable tooth alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If orthodontic brackets are frequently replaced to achieve different treatment stages, then various tooth movements can be accomplished, but treatment time is prolonged and patient comfort is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The orthodontic bracket is divided into two separable components: a base that remains affixed to the tooth and interchangeable bracket bodies that can be sequentially attached. This segmentation allows different bracket bodies (each designed for specific tooth movements like tipping, rotation, or torque) to be swapped without removing the base, thereby achieving various treatment stages while minimizing treatment time and patient discomfort
Solution Approach 2:
The base component is designed with universal compatibility to work with multiple different bracket bodies. This multi-functionality enables a single base to facilitate various tooth movements (first order rotation, second order tipping, third order torque) by simply changing the bracket body, eliminating the need for multiple separate brackets and reducing the frequency of clinical visits
2Adaptability or versatility
If orthodontic brackets are frequently replaced to achieve different treatment stages, then various tooth movements can be accomplished, but patient comfort is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the bracket into a permanent base and removable bodies, the system minimizes the trauma of frequent bracket removal and reattachment. The base remains securely affixed throughout treatment, reducing discomfort from repeated adhesive removal and reapplication, while still allowing versatile tooth movement through body interchange
Solution Approach 2:
The base is pre-affixed to the tooth at the beginning of treatment and remains in place throughout all treatment stages. This preliminary action eliminates the need for repeated bracket removal and reattachment procedures, thereby reducing patient discomfort while still enabling various tooth movements through bracket body changes
3Measurement precision
If clinicians use traditional orthodontic appliances requiring advanced archwire manipulation, then precise tooth movement can be achieved, but clinical skill requirements and treatment complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket design segments the complexity of tooth movement control into different bracket bodies, each pre-configured for specific movements (rotation, tipping, torque). This allows clinicians to achieve precise tooth movement by simply selecting and attaching the appropriate bracket body without requiring advanced archwire bending skills
Solution Approach 2:
Different bracket bodies are designed with varying parameters (slot orientations, wire engagement geometries) to produce specific tooth movements. By changing the bracket body parameter set rather than manipulating the archwire, clinicians can achieve precise control over first order (rotation), second order (tipping), and third order (torque) movements with minimal clinical skill
Data Source
AI summary
An orthodontic bracket includes a platform base having a posterior facing surface and is matingly and releasably positioned adjacent to an anterior facing surface of a patient's tooth. The patient's tooth is subject to a multiple step orthodontic treatment regimen. The platform base remains affixed to the patient's tooth throughout the multiple step orthodontic treatment regimen selected by the treating clinician.