Sliding Molar Distalizer Bracket for Tipping Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing distalizers for orthodontic treatment are complex, difficult to manufacture, costly, and result in complications such as molar tipping and canine over-eruption, due to their intricate design and lateral force application, which limits the moment of force and leads to orthodontic relapse.

Innovation Solution

A sliding molar distalizer appliance comprising a molar tube, canine attachment bracket, and a curved rod with a hook for traction elastic, featuring engagement and retention features that allow for distal force application, reducing complexity and improving alignment by aligning with the molar's center of resistance, thereby minimizing tipping and over-eruption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional distalizers with intricate design are used, then molar distalization can be achieved, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing difficulty increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemolar distalization effectivenessVSAvoiddistalizer structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The distalizer is divided into two functional segments: a molar tube component and a canine bracket component connected by a rod. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together as a system, reducing overall complexity compared to monolithic designs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary intermediate components from traditional distalizer designs. The direct connection between the molar tube and canine bracket via a rod removes complex linkages, pins, and adjustment mechanisms found in prior art, simplifying the device while maintaining distalization functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Reliability

If traditional distalizers are used, then molar distalization is possible, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemolar distalization effectivenessVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The molar tube and canine bracket are combined into a single integrated appliance that can be manufactured as one piece or pre-assembled unit. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate components requiring precise assembly, reducing manufacturing steps and costs while ensuring proper fit and function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The distalizer design serves multiple functions: it provides molar distalization, maintains anchorage on the canine, and allows for elastic attachment. This multi-functionality in a single device reduces the need for multiple separate orthodontic appliances, lowering overall treatment cost and simplifying manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If lateral force application is used in traditional distalizers, then molar distalization occurs, but molar tipping and canine over-eruption complications arise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemolar distalization effectivenessVSAvoidmolar tipping and canine over-eruption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The rod is positioned to apply force locally at the molar's center of resistance rather than laterally at the crown. This localized force application at the optimal point prevents unwanted rotational moments that cause tipping, while the canine bracket positioning prevents over-eruption by providing stable anchorage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The rod acts as an intermediary element that transfers force from the elastic attachment through the molar tube to the molar tooth. This intermediary mechanism ensures force is applied in the correct direction and location, mediating between the elastic force and the molar to prevent harmful side effects like tipping and over-eruption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 appliance facilitates efficient distalization of molars with reduced complexity and cost, enhancing treatment efficacy by maintaining alignment and minimizing relapse, while being adaptable to different dental arch configurations.

Implementation Method 1

a distal end of the curved rod engages at least one surface of the molar tube, such as the distal surface, to exert a distal force on the molar tooth

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

a hook, located on the canine attachment bracket component or on the curved rod, for attachment to a traction elastic

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS20250302594A1Orthodontic Bracket with Sliding Molar Distalizer
Publication Date: 2025.10.02 SPARTAN ORTHODONTICS INC
  • US20250302594A1 patent drawing
  • US20250302594A1 patent drawing
  • US20250302594A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A sliding molar distalizer is provided. The distalizer features a canine attachment, a molar attachment, and a rod connected to the canine attachment and having an engagement end for engaging the molar attachment. A hook formed on a portion of the rod receives an elastic for imparting distalization force directly on the distalizer towards the molar attachment.