GB2519139A

GB2519139A - Method and apparatus for aligning a tooth

Info

Publication number: GB2519139A
Application number: GB1318048.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Gary Neil Dickenson; Robert Graham Hughes; Biju Krishnan
Original assignee: FAST Ltd C
Current assignee: FAST Ltd C
Priority date: 2013-10-11
Filing date: 2013-10-11
Publication date: 2015-04-15
Also published as: WO2015052541A1; GB201318048D0

Abstract

The present invention relate to methods and apparatus for aligning a tooth of a patient. In particular, apparatus comprising one or more dental brackets 1 for releasably securing to a tooth, comprising a tooth engaging surface (3, see figure 1) and an opposing surface 5, the opposing surface having a plurality of raised regions 35, 37, 39, 41 and at least one recessed region 7, the recessed region providing a multi-orientation pathway for use with a wire element. The recessed region may comprise grooved regions 43, 45, 55 and a recessed channel 49 therebetween, forming a double H-shape. The bracket edges 11, 13 may also have at least one groove 15, 17. A method of cosmetically aligning a tooth using the bracket is also provided, comprising securing the bracket to a tooth, locating a wire element in a recessed region of the surface in a selected pathway, and applying a force to the tooth via the wire (see figure 8).

Description

Method and Apparatus for Aligning a Tooth

Field of the Invention

Embodiments of the present invention relate to methods and apparatus for aligning a tooth of a patient. Particularly, although not exclusively, embodiments of the present invention relate to apparatus comprising one or more dental brackets for securing to a tooth and a wire element. Embodiments of the present invention relate to apparatus which are for cosmetically altering the alignment of one or more teeth whilst causing minimal to no disruption of the occlusion and/or biting position of the patient's teeth distal to the patient's canine teeth.

Background to the Invention

There has been an unprecedented rise in adult orthodontics over the last ten years. This rise is primarily due to greater provision of this service by general dental practitioners as opposed to just orthodontic specialists as has previously been the case. The main treatment modality instrumental for this growth has been in the provision of removable sequential clear aligners from companies such as Invisalign®.

More recently, however, there has been a trend for general practitioners to also start offering fixed-brace type appliances, where historically there was a reluctance. The main reasons for this renewed uptake include the development of new materials and laboratory techniques to simplify the delivery of treatment, the cosmetic appearance of these fixed appliances and, most importantly, a significant decrease in the amount of time taken to complete treatment.

On average, treatments will be completed in 4 to 6 months instead of 18 months and over for conventional orthodontics.

The Short Term Orthodontic (STO) or Cosmetically Focused Orthodontic (CFO) procedures differ in approach from conventional orthodontics in that the main aim of the former is to focus on gaining a significant cosmetic improvement whereas conventional orthodontic treatment is aimed at providing an ideal biting position or occlusion. Also, STO is more concerned with the final position of the crown (the visible part) of the tooth, where as conventional orthodontic procedures attach a significant importance to the position of the root of the tooth.

There has been much debate around the provision of orthodontic treatments by non-specialists. An argument raised against this procedure being carried out by general practitioners is that changing the position of patients teeth, especially the teeth at the back of the mouth, falls squarely in the specialist's territory and needs appropriate training. A counter argument exists which is that orthodontics is taught at undergraduate level and there is nothing legally stopping a general dental practitioner carrying out orthodontics provided they can demonstrate appropriate training has taken place to carry out the treatment they are providing and they do not mislead the public into thinking they are a specialist.

Some existing Shod Term Orthodontic (STO) methods use a number of dental brackets which are fixed to a surface of the tooth. There are two principal types of dental bracket. A first type requires a securing element such as an 0-ring or the like, to retain the dental wire in the bracket. A second type, known as a "self-ligating bracket" does not require a securing element in order to retain the dental wire in the bracket. Active self-ligating dental brackets typically comprise a spring clip or other similar mechanism that can hold the dental wire into the bracket slot without the need for elastic modules or C-rings.

With non self-ligating brackets (or ligating brackets), the dental wire is secured to the dental bracket by an elastic orthodontic module or an C-ring. Existing dental brackets typically provide a single-orientated pathway on a front surface in which a dental wire can be positioned. As a result, it is important for the dentist, whether a general practitioner or an orthodontic specialist, to position the dental bracket correctly on the tooth surface. If the dental bracket is not positioned correctly, it may not correct the alignment of the tooth or alter the alignment of the tooth to too great an extent. Furthermore, the dentist may have to remove the dental bracket from the tooth and re-position it. Incorrectly positioned dental brackets may result in irreparable damage to one or more of a patient's teeth.

It is an aim of certain embodiments of the present invention to at least partly mitigate the

problems associated with the prior art.

It is an aim of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide an apparatus which provides a multi-orientation pathway for a dental wire to be positioned in a dental bracket.

It is an aim of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide a method of aligning a tooth or portion thereof which negates or reduces the requirement for a dental bracket to be re-positioned during a course of treatment.

Brief Summary of Embodiments of the Invention

Certain well-known terminology is used herein including the following terms: As used herein, the term "apex" refers to a tip of the root of a tooth.

As used herein, the term "anterior teeth" refers to the six top front teeth or the six bottom front teeth. The anterior teeth include two central incisors, two lateral incisors and two canine teeth in each jaw.

As used herein, the term "labial surface" is a surface of incisors and canines that face the lip of a patient.

As used herein, the term "buccal surface" refers to a surface of premolars and molars which face the cheek. Both labial surfaces and buccal surfaces are "facial surfaces".

As used herein, the term "lingual surface" refers to a surface of a tooth which faces the tongue.

As used herein, the term "mesial surfaces" refers to surfaces towards the midline of a patient's teeth.

As used herein, the term "distal surfaces" means surfaces away from the midline of a patient's upper or lower set of teeth. Mesial surfaces and distal surfaces are collectively known as "proximal surfaces".

As used herein, the term "incisal surface" refers to the surface of incisors and canines that come into contact with those in the opposing jaw during the act of closure.

As used herein, the term "occlusal surface" refers to the surface of pre-molars and molars that come into contact with those in the opposing jaw during the act of closure.

In a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for aligning a tooth or portion thereof, comprising: at least one alignment body releasably securable to a surface of a tooth and comprising a tooth engaging surface and an opposed surface spaced apart from and facing away from the tooth engaging surface, wherein the opposed surface comprises a plurality of raised regions and at least one recessed region, wherein the recessed region provide a multi-orientation pathway for a wile element.

Aptly, the apparatus is for altering a position or orientation of the tooth or portion thereof. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the alignment body is a dental bracket or a bracket body. The terms "bracket" and "bracket body" are well known in the art and often relate to a device which is used to align and straighten a tooth or a portion thereof. The bracket is affixed to a tooth surface and accommodates a dental wire in order to alter the position of at least a portion of the tooth.

In one embodiment, the apparatus is for aligning a visible portion of one or more teeth.

Aptly, the apparatus is for aligning one or more tooth crowns and! or one or more tooth roots.

Aptly, the apparatus is for aligning the anterior teeth, e.g. the anterior teeth in an upper row of teeth and/or the anterior teeth in a bottom row of teeth. Aptly, the apparatus is for aligning the anterior teeth whilst causing minimal to no disruption of the occlusion and/or biting position of the patient's teeth distal to the patient's canine teeth.

Aptly, the alignment body for affixing to a first tooth comprises a different shape and/or dimensions as compared to the alignment body for affixing to a second tooth. Thus, in certain embodiments of the present invention, the apparatus provides a plurality of alignment bodies each of which is configured to correspond to a predetermined tooth of a patient.

As used herein, the terms "wire element" refers to a wire element which is located in a bracket affixed to a patient's teeth. The wire element, e.g. a dental wire, is used to apply a force to the patient's teeth which subsequently aligns the tooth. Dental wire is also referred to as an archwire or wire element. As used herein, the terms "dental wire", "archwire" and/or "wire element" are interchangeable. Aptly, the wire element is composed of nickel titanium, stainless steel or other suitable material. In one embodiment, the wire element is a nickel titanium wire element.

In one embodiment, the at least one recessed region comprises a first grooved region and a further grooved region substantially parallel to and spaced apart from the first grooved region and a recessed channel region extending between and interconnecting intermediate regions of the first and further grooved regions.

In certain embodiments, the intermediate region of the first grooved region is a central region of the first grooved region.

Aptly, the inteimediate region of the further grooved region is a central region of the furthei grooved region.

Aptly, the raised regions are regions of the opposed suiface which are non-recessed ielative to the recessed regions. Thus, in certain embodiments! the raised regions comprise non-recessed areas of the opposed surface between the first and further grooved regions adjacent to the recessed channel region.

In certain embodiments, the raised regions comprise non-recessed areas of the opposed surface at respective first and further ends of the alignment body adjacent to the first and further grooved regions. Aptly, the at least one recessed region is I-shaped or H-shaped.

In certain embodiments, the at least one recessed region comprises a central grooved region substantially parallel to, spaced apart from and between the first grooved region and the furthei giooved legion, wherein the recessed channel legion extends between interconnecting central region of the first, central and further grooved regions.

In certain embodiments, the raised regions further comprise non-recessed areas of the opposed surface between the first and further grooved regions and the central grooved region adjacent to the lecessed legion. Aptly, the at least one recessed region is double H-shaped.

In certain embodiments, the alignment body comprises at least one edge groove that extends along an edge of the alignment body from a first side to a further side of the alignment body. Aptly, the edge comprises a side wall of the alignment body.

Aptly, the at least one edge groove comprises two edge grooves each located along a respective one of an upper and a lower edge of the alignment body. The upper edge comprises an upper side wall of the alignment body and the lower edge comprises a lower side wall of the alignment body.

In one embodiment, the alignment body has a height i.e. a vertical length when affixed to a tooth, of between about 3mm to about 5mm, e.g. 3, 3.5. 4.0, 4.5 or 5.0 mm. Aptly, the alignment body has a height of approximately 4.5mm.

In one embodiment, the alignment body has a width of between approximately 2.5 to about 4 mm e.g. 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3.0, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9 or 4.0 mm. Aptly, the alignment body has a width of approximately 3.2mm.

In one embodiment, the alignment body has a depth of approximately 2.2mm from the surface of the tooth on which it is affixed.

Aptly, the recessed region has a depth of approximately 0.5mm. In one embodiment, the edge groove(s) has a width of approximately 0.5mm. Aptly, the central grooved region has a width of approximately 1.6mm.

In certain embodiments, the alignment body is a unitary body manufactured from a ceramic, a composite material or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the alignment body is formed from plastic or metal.

Aptly, the alignment body is formed from a material which corresponds in shade or colour to a shade or colour of the tooth to which it is affixed. Thus, certain embodiments of the present invention provide a cosmetic alignment system which is matched in colour or shade to the teeth of an individual patient. As a result, certain embodiments of the present invention provide a more discrete dental system.

Thus, an aim of certain embodiments of the present invention is to provide a dental bracket system which comprises bracket body in multiple shades to best suit the tooth to which they are to be bonded to. Aptly, the shade of the alignment body is chosen based on a comparison between the shade of the tooth to which it will be affixed and a shade system.

Aptly, the shade system is Vita® which is a universally accepted shading system used in dentistry.

Aptly, the at least one wire element is locatable in the recessed region when the alignment body is releasably secured to a tooth. In certain embodiments, the multi-orientation pathway is a linear, a Z-shaped and/or a stepped pathway.

Aptly, the recessed region is configured to provide an entrance and! or an exit for a wire element located therein. Aptly, the wire element is locatable in the recessed region in two or more alignment bodies when the alignment bodies are affixed to a patient's teeth.

In one embodiment, the multi-orientation pathway comprises two or more orientations e.g. the pathway provides two or more orientations for a dental wire to take when located by a dental practitioner. In one embodiment, the multi-orientation pathway comprises three or more orientations. In one embodiment, the multi-orientation pathway comprises four or more orientations. In one embodiment, the multi-orientation pathway comprises five or more orientations. In one embodiment, the multi-orientation pathway comprises six or more orientations. In one embodiment, the multi-orientation pathway comprises seven or more orientations. In one embodiment, the multi-orientation pathway comprises eight or more orientations. In one embodiment, the multi-orientation pathway comprises nine or more orientations.

In one embodiment, the multi-orientation pathway comprises at least one linear orientation and at least one non-linear orientation.

As used herein, the term "pathway" relates to a path a dental wire may be located in the recessed region of the alignment body and! or one or more edge grooves. In certain embodiments, the dental wire is located within the recessed region in a non-linear pathway.

Certain embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus which allows a greater flexibility in the placement of the alignment body. In addition, certain embodiments of the present invention enable a greater andlor more exact force to be applied to a tooth or portion thereof in order to move the tooth in a desired manner. Furthermore, certain embodiments of the present invention enable the force applied to a tooth to be altered during a course of treatment without the dental practitioner having to remove the alignment body (e.g. dental bracket) from the tooth and reaffixing it in a different position on the tooth.

Aptly, the tooth-engaging surface is textured and!or comprises one or more ridges or protrusions. In certain embodiments, the tooth-engaging surface is shaped to correspond to the surface of the tooth onto which the alignment body is affixed. Aptly, the tooth-engaging surface is generally concave.

Aptly, the opposed surface comprises a protrusion for orientating the alignment body on the tooth. In one embodiment, the protrusion is coloured so as to provide an orientation marker to the dental practitioner. The orientation marker aims to reduce incorrect orientation of the alignment body when affixed to the patient's tooth.

Aptly, the apparatus comprises a plurality of alignment bodies. Aptly, the apparatus further comprises a wire element e.g. a dental wire. In certain embodiments, the apparatus comprises one or more securing elements for securing the wire element in the at least one recessed region. Aptly, the securing element is an 0-ring. In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a carrier element for locating a plurality of alignment bodies in a desired position prior to affixing to the tooth. Thus, in one embodiment, a plurality of alignment bodies may be supplied to a dental practitioner on a carrier element and in a position which corresponds to a position on the tooth surface at which the alignment body should be located.

As noted above, certain embodiments of the present invention relate to an apparatus for the cosmetic alignment of a patient's tooth or row of teeth. That is to say, in one embodiment, the apparatus is for the alignment of the anterior teeth. The apparatus of certain embodiments of the present invention can be fitted by a general dental practitioner and does not necessarily require specialist orthodontic training.

In one embodiment, the alignment body is not a self-ligating alignment body, i.e. the alignment body is not a self-ligation dental bracket. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises one or more securing elements for retaining the dental wire in the alignment body during use. In one embodiment, the securing element is an 0-ring.

In a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for aligning a tooth or a portion thereof, comprising the steps of: releasably securing at least one alignment body to a surface of a misaligned tooth; locating a wire element in a recessed region of the alignment body along a desired one of multiple possible pathways provided by the recessed region; and via the wire element, applying an alignment force to the tooth, via the alignment body, dependent upon orientation of the said one pathway.

Aptly, the method is for cosmetically aligning a tooth or portion thereof.

In certain embodiments, the method comprises applying a lifting force away from a root by locating the wire element in a grooved region at a first end of the body. In certain embodiments, the method comprises applying a compressive force towards a root by locating the wire element in a grooved region at a further end of the body.

In certain embodiments, the method comprises applying a levering force by locating a wire element in a linear pathway straight across the alignment body from a first edge to a further edge of the alignment body.

In certain embodiments, the method comprises applying a torque force by locating a wire element in a Z-shaped pathway along an I-shaped, H-shaped or double-H shaped recessed region.

In certain embodiments, the method comprises aligning a visible portion of the tooth without substantially aligning a non-visible portion of the tooth. Thus, in certain embodiments the method comprises altering the position or orientation of the visible portion of the tooth.

In certain embodiments, the method comprises aligning a crown of the tooth. In certain embodiments, the method is for aligning a row of teeth. Aptly, the method is for aligning a front six teeth in a row of teeth. In one embodiment, the method comprises releasably securing at least one alignment body to a premolar and/or molar tooth whereby little or no alignment force is applied to the premolar and/or molar tooth. In one embodiment, the method comprises securing an alignment body to a surface of a tooth in a non-aligning, e.g. passive, position. In one embodiment, the alignment body is secured to a surface of a tooth distal to a canine tooth in a non-aligning position.

Detailed Description

Certain embodiments of the present invention will now be described hereinafter, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a side view of an alignment body according to certain embodiments of the present invention; Figure 2 is a front view of an alignment body according to certain embodiments of the present invention; Figure 3 is a back view of an alignment body according to certain embodiments of the present invention; Figure 4 is a bottom view of an alignment body according to certain embodiments of the present invention; Figure 5 is an isometric view of an alignment body according to certain embodiments of the present invention; Figure 6 is a top view of an alignment body according to certain embodiments of the present invention; and Figure 7 is a top view of an alignment body according to certain embodiments of the present invention showing a number of pathways a wire element may be positioned in during use; and Figure 8 is a schematic view of a series of alignment bodies according to certain embodiments of the present invention affixed to a patient's teeth.

Referring to Figure 1 for example, there is provided an alignment body 1. The alignment body 1 comprises a tooth engaging surface 3 and an opposing surface 5 which is spaced apart from the tooth engaging surface. In use, the opposing surface 5 is positioned in use facing the patient's lip. That is to say, the opposing surface 5 is a facial surface when affixed to a tooth of the patient. The alignment body may also be referred to as a bracket body. The opposing surface is generally rectangular in shape and comprises rounded edges to increase patient comfort. When affixed to the tooth, the opposing surface is approximately 2.2mm proud from the tooth surface. Aptly, the alignment body has dimensions of a height of approximately 4.5mm and a width of approximately 3.2mm.

The opposing surface 5 comprises a recessed region 7 which provides a multi-orientation pathway for a dental wire. The pathway is illustrated in Figure 8. The opposing surface comprises one or more non-recessed portions 9 which are raised relative to the recessed regions. The opposing surface may include a small projection (not shown) which acts as an orientation marker to ensure the dental practitioner affixes the dental bracket in the correct orientation.

As shown in Figure 1, the alignment or bracket body also include a first end wall 11 and a second end wall 13. In use, the first end wall 11 faces towards the gum line of the patient.

In use, the second end wall 13 faces towards the incisal or occlusal surface of the tooth to which it is secured.

The first end wall 11 comprises a slot 15, which may be referred to herein as a first slot, in which a dental wire may be located in use. In addition, or alternatively, the second end wall 13 comprises a slot 17, which may be referred to herein as a second slot, which in use may accommodate a dental wire. As described in more detail herein, a dental practitioner will locate a dental wire in the first slot if the tooth to which the alignment body is secured is to be moved downwards. Conversely, if the tooth to which the alignment body is secured to is to be moved upwards, the dental practitioner may locate a dental wire in the second slot.

Aptly, the first and the second slot are each approximately 0.5 mm in width.

Figure 2 is a front view of the first end wall 11 including the first slot 15. The first end wall is connected to the tooth-engaging surface 3 by a neck legion 61 of the alignment body. The neck region has a depth of approximately 0.3mm.

Figure 3 is a front view of the second end wall 13 including the second slot 17. The second end wall is connected to the tooth-engaging surface 3 by the neck region 61.

The tooth engaging surface 3 is best shown in Figure 4. The tooth engaging surface 3 may be a rough or textured surface so as to provide a good mechanical bond between the alignment body and the tooth surface. In certain embodiments, the tooth engaging surface 3 is shaped to conform to a patient's tooth. Specifically, the shape of the tooth engaging surface may differ between alignment bodies for different teeth. Aptly, the tooth engaging surface is generally concave to correspond to the generally convex surface of a patient's tooth. The depth of the concave tooth engaging surface may be approximately 0.4mm.

As shown in Figure 4, the tooth engaging surface may comprise one or more ridges 19, 21, 23, 25, 27, 29. The ridges are provided to give the tooth engaging surface texture and improve the bond between the alignment body and the tooth in use.

As shown in Figure 5, the opposing surface 5 includes a first end portion 31 which is non-recessed. In addition or alternatively, the opposing surface includes a second end portion 33 which is non-recessed. In use, when the alignment body is secured to a patient's tooth, the first end portion is positioned as an upper end portion and the second end portion is a lower end portion. That is to say, the first end portion is relatively positioned towards to the patient's gum line and the second end portion is relatively positioned towards the apex of the tooth on which the alignment body is fixed. Aptly, the first and the second end portions have a height of approximately 1mm.

The opposing surface may also comprise one or more further non-recessed portions. The illustrated embodiment comprises four further non-recessed portions, as shown in Figure 5.

Particularly, the alignment body comprises a first non-recessed side portion 35, a second non-recessed side portion 37, a third non-recessed side portion 39 and a fourth non-recessed side portion 41. In use, the first and second non-recessed side portions are on a distally-located side 59 of the alignment body. Each non-recesses side portion may be approximately 0.8mm in width across a generally horizontal plane and approximately 0.5mm in height (in a generally vertical plane when affixed to a tooth).

The third and fourth non-recess side portions are on a mesially-located edge 63 of the alignment body. It will be understood that certain embodiments of the present invention may comprise fewer or a greater number of non-recessed regions. For example! the alignment body may comprise two non-recessed side portions, one on a distally-located side and a further one on a distally-located edge of the alignment body. Alternatively, the alignment body may comprise more than four non-recessed side portions e.g. five, six or more.

In certain embodiments, the alignment body may comprise more than two non-recessed end portions. For example, the first non-recessed end portion may be provided in two portions which are separated by a recessed region. Furthermore, the second non-recessed end portion may be provided in two portions which are separated by a recessed region.

The recessed region 7 is generally shown in Figure 5 for example. The shape of the recessed region may be dictated by the number and positioning of the non-recessed regions.

In the illustrated embodiment, the recessed region comprises a first grooved region 43 and a central grooved region 45 which is substantially parallel to and spaced apart from the first grooved region. The first grooved region 43 and the central grooved region 45 are separated by the first non-recessed side portion 35 and the third non-recessed side portion 39. The first grooved region 43 comprises an intermediate region 51. The central grooved region 45 includes an intermediate region 53. The first grooved region has a depth of approximately 0.5mm and a vertical (when affixed to a tooth) height of approximately 0.5mm. The other grooved regions, described below, may have similar dimensions.

The recessed region also includes a recessed channel region 49 which extends between and interconnects the intermediate regions of the first and central grooved regions. Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment in which the recessed channel region is positioned centrally on the alignment body surface. It will be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that the recessed channel region 49 may be positioned off-set in other embodiments. Thus, in use, the recessed channel region 49 may be mesially located on the opposing surface or may be distally positioned on the opposing surface.

The recessed region also includes a third grooved region 55 which is spaced apail from and substantially parallel to the central giooved region 45. The cential giooved region 45 and the third grooved region 55 are separated by the second non-recessed side portion 37 and the fourth non-recessed side portion 41. The third grooved region further comprises an inteimediate region 57 which is connected to the intermediate region 53 of the central grooved region by the recessed channel region 49.

The illustrated embodiment comprises a recessed region 7 which is "double-H" shaped. As used herein, the term "double-H shaped" refers to a shape which comprises a first "H" shape connected to a second "H" wherein the two "H" share a common strut. A double "H" shape is shown below:

III

In use, the double H shaped recessed region is iotated by appioximately 9Q0 such that the recessed region comprises three generally horizontal regions and a central generally vertical region. Figure 6 illustrates an alignment body comprising a double-H shaped recessed region.

In ceitain embodiments, the iecessed legion may be "H" shaped. In use, i.e. when the alignment body is secured to a tooth, the H shaped recessed region is rotated by approximately 900 such that the recessed region comprises two generally horizontal regions and a central generally vertical region.

As shown in Figure 6, the alignment body may comprise curved edges to improve a patient's comfort whilst the alignment body is secured to a tooth.

Figure 7 illustrates the multi-orientation pathway provided by the recessed region. A to I each represent an orientation in which a dental wire may be located in the recessed region.

Figure 8 is a schematic representation of an apparatus 100 in use. A plurality of alignment bodies are affixed to a portion of a row of teeth (not all teeth are shown). A dental wire 102 is located in the recessed region 7 of each alignment body, or in a slot. In the illustrated embodiment, the dental wire is located in a lower slot of one of the alignment bodies. It will be appreciated that the location of the dental wile in each alignment body will depend on the desired alignment movement of the tooth or portion thereof. Aptly, the alignment bodies will be affixed to the front six teeth of a row of teeth in an active" position, i.e. such that an alignment force is applied to the tooth. Aptly, the alignment bodies which aie affixed to premolar and molar teeth will be secured in a passive' position, i.e. such that the alignment body and the dental wire do not together apply an alignment force to the tooth. As a result, theie is minimal re-alignment of the piemolar and molar teeth and as such little impact on the biting position and/or occlusion of these teeth.

In one embodiment, once the bracket bodies are formed, they can be located in a carrier ready for use. Aptly, the bracket bodies are supplied in the carrier. Aptly, each carrier comprises twelve bracket bodies. The dental practitioner may bond each alignment body to a respective tooth whilst the alignment bodies are positioned in the carrier. Once the alignment bodies are secured to the teeth, the cairiel is removed. This foim of application is known as "indirect bonding". Aptly, in one embodiment, the appalatus fuither complises a carrier element for locating a plurality of alignment bodies as defined herein in a predetermined position.

The carrier positions the bracket bodies in a position which corresponds to an ideal position on the tooth surface for a bracket body to be affixed. As a result, it is more straightforward for the dental practitioner to correctly position the bracket bodies on each teeth and the likelihood of an incorrectly placed bracket body is reduced.

In an alternative embodiment, the alignment body or plurality of alignment bodies are supplied to a dental practitioner in a pack without a carrier element. In this embodiment, the dental practitioner determines the location on the tooth to which the alignment body is to be secured (direct bonding).

Aptly, the apparatus for aligning one or more teeth comprises six or more alignment bodies for each of an upper and a lower row of teeth. Aptly, the apparatus for aligning one or more teeth coniprises twelve alignment bodies for each alan upper and a lower row of teeth. The apparatus also includes a dental wire for each set of alignment bodies e.g. six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven or twelve alignment bodies.

Aptly, the apparatus comprises twelve alignment bodies. Aptly, the apparatus comprises six alignment bodies for applying an alignment force to a tooth and six alignment bodies which are for passive application to a tooth.

In use, the dental practitioner affixes an alignment body to a tooth. The alignment body is affixed by way of an adhesive or bonding agent. Suitable bonding agents are known in the art and include for example a flowable composite and! or an adhesives specifically formulated for orthodontic brackets such as Blugloo® The dental practitioner locates an alignment body on the surface of the tooth in the desired position. The desired position will depend on how the tooth is to be moved in order to be aligned correctly. The alignment body is located on the facial surface of the tooth. In certain embodiments, the alignment body is located on a premolar and molar tooth in a position which does not significantly affect the alignment of the tooth.

Aptly, in one row of teeth, on each side the alignment bodies are placed the central incisor, the lateral incisor, the canine, the first premolar, the second pre molar and the first molar.

Once all of the alignment bodies to be used on a row (upper or lower) of teeth have been affixed, the dental wire is then secured to one of the alignment bodies. Firstly, the dental wire is secured to an alignment body affixed to a distally located tooth. The dental wire is secured to the alignment body by an 0-ring or other securing elements known in the art.

An 0-ring or other such securing element is placed around the bracket once the wire is in place and secured by placing it within the neck region of the bracket. Thus, in use, the neck region accommodates the 0-ring or other securing element. The protrusion formed by the end wall and the neck region enables the 0-ring to be kept in place in use.

The dental practitioner locates the dental wire in a predetermined orientation in the recessed region by running the dental wire from a first side of the recessed region of the alignment body to a second side such that an end of the dental wire exits the alignment body.

Alternatively, the dental practitioner may locate the wire in the upper slot or the lower slot.

The dental wire is inserted into the recessed region in a direction which is generally parallel to the surface of the tooth.

The end of the dental wire is then passed from the alignment body to the recessed region of a neighbouring alignment body which is affixed to the neighbouring tooth. Again, the dental practitioner locates the dental wire in a predetermined orientation in the recessed region of the alignment body. Alternatively, the dental wire is positioned in one of the slots provided in the upper and lower side walls of the alignment body.

The orientation is chosen on the basis of the type of force required to align the tooth or portion thereof. The dental practitioner then repeats this procedure until the dental wire is located in the recessed region or a slot of all of the alignment bodies affixed to a set of teeth, whether that is an upper row and/or a lower row of teeth. The end of the dental wire is then secured to an alignment body affixed to a distal tooth e.g. a molar tooth. The end of the dental wire is cut flush with the end of the distal side of the last bracket body on each side.

Certain embodiments of the present invention may be used to apply a force to one or more teeth. The type of force will depend on which direction the tooth or portion thereof is to be moved in order to correct a misalignment. In general, the following directions of force (as applied to teeth) are recognized: A buccal force is a force applied away from the inside the mouth. A palatal force is a force applied towards the inside of the mouth. A mesial force is a force, in a direction along the dental arch, towards the front of the mouth.

A distal force is a force, in a direction along the dental arch, towards the back of the mouth.

An apical-force (or intrusive force) applied towards the apex of the roots of a tooth. An incisor force (or extrusive force) is a force applied towards the edge of the crown of a tooth.

A tipping force is a force which moves the crown more than the root.

A torque force is a force which moves the root more than the crown. Typically, a root torqueing force is a force where the axis of rotation is around the bracket hence the root tips more than the crown.

An upright force is a force which makes a tooth more perpendicular to gum (this is either tipping or torqueing). A translation force (or bodily movement force) is a force which moves a tooth along the gum. Rotation refers to when the tooth is rotated around an axis connecting its root and its crown.

Certain embodiments of the present invention comprise an apparatus which comprises a plurality of alignment bodies, each alignment body capable of applying a force to a tooth or portion thereof. The force applied to each tooth or portion thereof may differ between each alignment body depending on the orientation of the dental wire within the recessed region of each alignment body and/or within one of the slots on the upper and lower side walls of the alignment body.

Aptly, the apparatus of embodiments of the present invention is configured to provide at least two different directions of force. Aptly, the apparatus of the present invention is configured to provide at least three different directions of force e.g. four, five, six or seven directions of force.

An exemplary system is illustrated in Figure 8 in which a plurality of alignment bodies is affixed to a patient's teeth. A dental wire is positioned in predetermined locations in the recessed regions of the alignment bodies and secured in the two most distal alignment bodies. During a course of treatment to cosmetically align the patient's teeth, the dental practitioner may alter the orientation of the wire element in the recessed region of an alignment body and/or position the wire in one of the slots provided on the side wall of the alignment body. This may be done to change the force applied to the respective tooth and thus alter the direction of movement of the tooth or portion thereof. Due to the multi-orientation pathway that the alignment body provides, together with the slots on the side walls of the alignment body, the direction of force may be altered without having to remove the alignment body from the tooth and reaffixing it. Furthermore, fine changes in the direction of force may be made using the apparatus of embodiments of the present invention.

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words "comprise" and "contain" and variations of them mean "including but not limited to" and they are not intended to (and do not) exclude other moieties, additives, components, integers or steps. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise.

Features, integers, characteristics or groups described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example of the invention are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described herein unless incompatible therewith. All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of the features and/or steps are mutually exclusive. The invention is not restricted to any details of any foregoing embodiments. The invention extends to any novel one, or novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

The reader's attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Apparatus for aligning a tooth or portion thereof, comprising: at least one at least one alignment body releasably securable to a surface of a tooth and comprising a tooth engaging surface and an opposed surface spaced apart from and facing away from the tooth engaging surface, wherein the opposed surface comprises a plurality of raised regions and at least one recessed region, wherein the recessed region provide a multi-orientation pathway for a wire element.
2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one recessed region comprises a first grooved region and a further grooved region substantially parallel to and spaced apart from the first grooved region and a recessed channel region extending between and interconnecting intermediate regions of the first and further grooved regions.
3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the intermediate region of the first grooved region is a central region of the first grooved region.
4. The apparatus according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the intermediate region of the further grooved region is a central region of the further grooved region.
5. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the raised regions comprise non-recessed areas of the opposed surface between the first and further grooved regions adjacent to the recessed channel region.
6. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the raised regions comprise non-recessed areas of the opposed surface at respective first and further ends of the alignment body adjacent to the first and further grooved regions.
7. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one recessed region is I-shaped or H-shaped.
8. The apparatus according to any of claims 2 to 6, wherein the at least one recessed region comprises a central grooved region substantially parallel to, spaced apart from and between the first grooved region and the further grooved region, wherein the recessed channel region extends between interconnecting central region of the first, central and further grooved regions.
9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the raised regions further comprise non-recessed areas of the opposed surface between the first and further grooved regions and the central grooved region adjacent to the recessed region.
10. The apparatus according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the at least one recessed region is double H-shaped.
11. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the alignment body comprises at least one edge groove that extends along an edge of the alignment body from a first side to a further side of the alignment body.
12. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the at least one edge groove comprises two edge grooves each located along a respective one of an upper and a lower edge of the alignment body.
13. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the alignment body is a unitary body manufactured from a ceramic, a composite material or a combination thereof.
14. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, which comprises a plurality of alignment bodies.
15. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one wire element is locatable in the recessed region when the alignment body is releasably secured to a tooth.
16. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the multi-orientation pathway is linear, 7-shaped and/or a stepped pathway.
17. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the multi-orientation pathway comprises at least four orientations.
18. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the tooth-engaging surface is textured and/or comprises one or more ridges or protrusions.
19. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the tooth-engaging surface is shaped to correspond to the surface of the tooth onto which the alignment body is affixed.
20. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the tooth-engaging surface is generally concave.
21. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, which further comprises one or more securing elements for securing the wire element in the at least one recessed region.
22. The apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the securing element is a spring or an 0-ring or any other such element that allows the wire to be secured in the at least recessed region.
23. A method for cosmetically aligning a tooth or portion thereof comprising the steps of: releasably securing at least one alignment body to a surface of a misaligned tooth; locating a wire element in a recessed region of the alignment body along a desired one of multiple possible pathways provided by the recessed region; and via the wire element, applying an alignment force to the tooth or portion thereof, via the alignment body, dependent upon orientation of the said one pathway.
24. The method according to claim 23, which comprises applying a lifting force away from a root by locating the wire element in a grooved region at an first end of the body.
25. The method according to claim 23 or claim 24, which comprises applying a compressive force towards a root by locating the wire element in a grooved region at a further end of the body.
26. The method according to any of claims 23 to 25, which comprises applying a levering force by locating a wire element in a linear pathway straight across the alignment body from a first edge to a further edge of the alignment body.
27. The method according to any of claims 23 to 26, which comprises applying a torque force by locating a wire element in a Z-shaped pathway along an I-shaped, H-shaped or double-H shaped recessed region.
28. The method according to any of claims 23 to 27, which comprises aligning a crown of the tooth.
29. Apparatus constructed and arranged substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
30. A method substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.Amendments to the Claims have been filed as follows:-CLAIMS1. Apparatus for aligning a tooth or portion thereof, comprising: S at least one alignment body releasably securable to a surface of a tooth and comprising a tooth engaging surface and an opposed surface spaced apart from and facing away from the tooth engaging surface, wherein the opposed surface comprises a plurality of raised regions and at least one recessed region, wherein the recessed region provides a multi-orientation pathway for a wire element and comprises a first grooved region and a further grooved region substantially parallel to and spaced apart from the first grooved region and a recessed channel region extending between and interconnecting intermediate regions of the first and further grooved regions; and wherein the recessed region further comprises a central grooved region substantially parallel to, spaced apart from and between the first grooved region and the further grooved region, wherein the recessed channel region extends between interconnecting central regions of the first, central and further grooved regions, and wherein the alignment body comprises at least one edge groove that extends along I'-.. an edge of the alignment body from a first side to a further side of the alignment body.Q) 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the raised regions further comprise non-recessed areas of the opposed surface between the first and further grooved regions and the central grooved region adjacent to the recessed region.3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the at least one recessed region is double H-shaped.4. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one edge groove comprises two edge grooves each located along a respective one of an upper and a lower edge of the alignment body.5. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the alignment body is a unitary body manufactured from a ceramic, a composite material or a combination thereof.6. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, which comprises a plurality of alignment bodies.7. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one wire element is locatable in the recessed region when the alignment body is releasably secured to a tooth.s 8. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the multi-orientation pathway is linear, Z-shaped and/or a stepped pathway.9. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the multi-orientation pathway comprises at least four orientations.10. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the tooth-engaging surface is textured and/or comprises one or more ridges or protrusions.11. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the tooth-engaging surface is shaped to correspond to the surface of the tooth onto which the alignment body is affixed.12. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the tooth-engaging surface is generally concave.13. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, which further comprises one or Q) more securing elements for securing the wire element in the at least one recessed region. (414. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the securing element is a spring or an 0-ring or any other such element that allows the wire to be secured in the at least recessed region.15. A method for cosmetically aligning a tooth or portion thereof comprising the steps of: releasably securing at least one alignment body to a surface of a misaligned tooth; locating a wire element in a recessed region of the alignment body along a desired one of multiple possible pathways provided by the recessed region; and via the wire element, applying an alignment force to the tooth or portion thereof, via the alignment body, dependent upon orientation of the said one pathway wherein the alignment body is as defined in any preceding claim.16. The method according to claim 15, which comprises applying a lifting force away from a root by locating the wire element in a grooved region at an first end of the body.17. The method according to claim 15 or claim 16, which comprises applying a compressive force towards a root by locating the wire element in a grooved region at a further end of the body.s 18. The method according to any of claims 15 to 17, which comprises applying a levering force by locating a wire element in a linear pathway straight across the alignment body from a first edge to a further edge of the alignment body.19. The method according to any of claims 15 to 18, which comprises applying a torque force by locating a wire element in a Z-shaped pathway along a double-H shaped recessed region.20. The method according to any of claims lSto 19, which comprises aligning a crown of the tooth.21. Apparatus constructed and arranged substantially as hereinbefore described with "cf reference to the accompanying drawings.N-22. A method substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings. a) (4