Tooth Positioner with Integrated Vibrator for Faster Remodeling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthodontic devices for remodeling teeth are cumbersome, uncomfortable, and lack optimization in frequency and amplitude of vibration, leading to reduced effectiveness and patient compliance, with existing solutions failing to efficiently accelerate tooth movement and bone remodeling.
Innovation Solution
A combination of a custom-made tooth positioner and a vibrating dental device that applies cyclic forces optimized for frequency and amplitude, with a connector system allowing reversible coupling of the vibrational source to the tooth positioner, enabling efficient tooth realignment and enhanced patient compliance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional static orthodontic appliances are used, then teeth can be moved to correct malocclusion, but the treatment process takes an average of two years and the force is continuously dissipated requiring frequent adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic cyclic loading forces to the teeth and surrounding bone tissue instead of continuous static force. The orthodontic appliance delivers pulsed mechanical loads with rest periods, allowing mechano-sensitivity to be restored to bone tissue between cycles. This periodic action significantly accelerates bone formation and tooth movement compared to traditional continuous force application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates vibratory components that generate mechanical vibrations at specific frequencies and amplitudes during orthodontic treatment. These vibrations are transmitted through the appliance to the teeth and alveolar bone, enhancing bone remodeling activity and accelerating tooth movement. The vibration parameter is optimized to stimulate osteoblast activity and bone formation without causing discomfort or damage.
2Productivity
If existing vibrating devices are used to accelerate tooth movement, then bone remodeling can be enhanced, but the devices are cumbersome, difficult to construct, expensive, and reduce patient compliance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the vibrating mechanism directly into the orthodontic appliance structure itself, eliminating the need for separate external vibrating devices. The vibration source, control circuitry, and power supply are integrated into the appliance that is already in the patient's mouth, simplifying the overall system while maintaining the bone-remodeling benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthodontic appliance serves dual functions: it applies corrective force to move teeth and simultaneously generates vibrations to accelerate bone remodeling. The appliance is self-contained with an internal power source and control system, requiring no external equipment or complex setup. This self-service capability reduces device complexity and improves patient compliance.
3Speed
If external vibrating devices with separate power sources are used, then tooth movement can be accelerated, but the devices become cumbersome and uncomfortable to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the vibration source, battery, and control electronics within the existing orthodontic appliance structure. The vibrating component is embedded in the appliance body, and the power supply is integrated into the same housing, creating a compact unified device that fits comfortably in the patient's mouth without external attachments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the vibration frequency and amplitude parameters to achieve effective bone remodeling while remaining comfortable for the patient. The control circuitry regulates the vibration intensity and duration, delivering therapeutic doses that accelerate tooth movement without causing pain or discomfort. These parameter optimizations enable faster treatment while maintaining ease of operation.
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 solution significantly speeds up orthodontic remodeling by up to 50%, improves patient comfort and aesthetics, and increases compliance by providing a more effective and comfortable treatment experience.
Implementation Method 1
a source of vibration capable of providing a vibratory force at a frequency of about 30 Hz and a force of about 0.25 Newtons
Implementation Method 2
the tooth positioner has a connector that operably and reversibly couples the tooth positioner to the vibratory source
Data Source
AI summary
A tooth positioner is combined with a vibrational source, thus speeding orthodontic remodeling. In more detail, the device includes a tooth positioner shaped to closely fit a patient's dentition and apply a straightening force to at least one of said patient's teeth, the tooth positioner contacting labial, lingual and occlusal surfaces of said patient's dentition, the tooth positioner operably connected to a housing enclosing a power source operably connected to a vibratory source, the vibratory source being able to vibrate, thus vibrating the tooth positioner. Methods of using the positioner-vibrator combination are also disclosed.