Variable Gable Bend Aligner for Precise Tooth Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orthodontic procedures lack accuracy and control in tooth movement, often requiring frequent adjustments to appliances to achieve desired tooth arrangements.
Innovation Solution
The development of a method for fabricating orthodontic appliances that involves determining a movement path and force system for tooth repositioning, using a variable gable bend to produce the necessary forces, and generating instructions for the appliance's geometry and fabrication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional orthodontic appliances are used, then tooth movement can be achieved, but the accuracy and control of tooth movement are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by implementing variable gable bends with different rotation angles, directions, and positions along the aligner. This allows precise control over the magnitude and direction of forces applied to teeth, enabling accurate tooth movement while maintaining reliable control throughout the treatment process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by creating non-uniform gable bends where different sections of the aligner have different bend characteristics. Specifically, the gable bend rotation varies along the length of the aligner, with some portions having greater rotation than others, allowing localized control over force application to specific tooth regions
2Productivity
If traditional orthodontic appliances are used, then treatment can proceed, but frequent adjustments are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and pre-positioning variable gable bends in the aligner design before treatment begins. The treatment plan includes predetermined gable bend configurations that anticipate future tooth movement needs, allowing the appliance to maintain effective force control over extended periods without requiring frequent practitioner adjustments
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and devices for improved orthodontic treatment of a patient's teeth are provided herein. In some aspects, a method for fabricating an orthodontic appliance for treating a patient's teeth is disclosed. The method may comprise determining a movement path to move a tooth from an initial arrangement towards a target arrangement; determining a force system to move the tooth along the movement path; determining a variable gable bend to produce the force system; determining a geometry for a tooth receiving cavity of the appliance based on the variable gable bend; and generating instructions for fabricating the appliance having a tooth receiving cavity formed according to the geometry for the tooth receiving cavity.