JP2008504902A - Opening device - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a lip device that spreads at least a portion of a patient's oral cavity. The lip device includes a structure that interengages and / or does not interengage with other dental tools or devices. This structure is adapted to repeatably position the patient's oral cavity with respect to the light system and / or photographic film and / or dental tray.
[Selection] Figure 1b

Description

  The present invention generally relates to an oral retracting device. In particular, the opening device is adapted to widen the part of the oral cavity.

  Devices that push the corners of the oral cavity, also known as cheek retractors or tongue cups, are used in the art as to spread the cheeks and spread a portion of the lips for examination and / or treatment by health care professionals. Well known. A typical device that widens the corners of the mouth uses a device that has a lever that is lifted by an assistant, a flange that spreads when receiving the lips, a metal elastic member, and two holding members that spread two places on the lips. Includes a device that widens part or several parts of the upper and lower lips.

  However, as described below, there is still a need for an aperture device that seeks the advantages associated therewith.

  According to the present invention, an opening device is provided that spreads at least a portion of a user's oral cavity. The opening device includes a structure that interengages and / or does not interengage with other dental tools or equipment. The structure can repeat at least a portion of the patient's oral cavity with respect to a light system, and / or photographic film, and / or dental trays, and / or devices adapted for suction, such as an aspirator, and / or a suction tube Has been adapted to position.

  In one embodiment, the light system includes a spacer, such as a light outlet, an imaging device, a light guide, or an inspection device that includes an interengaging structure that removably interengages as a spacer and the aperture device is juxtaposed. The

  In other embodiments, the opening device includes a structure such as a dental tray adapted to repeatably position the patient's teeth with the treatment material.

  In a further embodiment, the aperture device includes a structure such as an imaging device adapted to repeatably position the patient's teeth with respect to the imaging device and / or the light source or imaging source.

  In one embodiment of the present invention, the opening device includes at least two channel-shaped retainers or flanges, at least one elastic member, and at least two wing-shaped members or flange-like structures, each channel-shaped device. The holder has a groove, an inner side wall, and an outer side wall, and each wing member is separated from the attachment portion of the elastic member. Each wing is adapted to fit into a slot in an inspection device such as an exit port, light guide, imaging device, or cone. In one aspect, each elastic member is attached to the inner sidewall of two adjacent channel holders by gluing or heat sealing and has two arcuate shapes, and each winged flange or member is gluing or heat sealing Is attached to the groove-shaped holder. In another aspect, each elastic member is integrally formed on the inner sidewalls of two adjacent channel holders and has two arcuate shapes, and each winged flange or member is integrated with the channel holder. Molded.

  According to another embodiment of the present invention, the user has a structure such as at least two channel-shaped retainers or flanges, at least one elastic member, at least two pads, and at least two winged flanges. An opening device is provided that spreads the lip, the channel retainer having a channel, an inner side wall, and an outer side wall, each elastic member being integral with the side walls of two adjacent channel retainers. Molded or attached and having at least one arch shape, each winged flange being integrally molded or attached to the outer side wall of the channel retainer or flange at a location remote from the attachment portion of the elastic member; The pad is attached to the elastic member, for example, in the vicinity of the region of the arch portion, or is integrally formed.

  According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, it comprises at least two channel holders, at least two winged flange-like structures, and a tongue holder, the channel holder comprising at least one elastic member. Provided with an opening device that spreads the user's lips, wherein the winged flange is integrally attached or molded to the channel holder and the tongue holder is attached to the two channel holders. The

  According to a further embodiment of the invention, the opening device has a structure such as at least four channel-shaped retainers or flanges, at least four elastic members, and at least two wing members or flanges, each The channel holder has a channel, an inner side wall, and an outer side wall, and each elastic member is integrally molded or attached to two outer side walls of two adjacent channel holders. And each wing-like member or flange is integrally molded or attached to the grooved holder at a location away from the attachment region of the elastic member. Each wing is adapted to fit into a slot in an inspection device such as an exit port, light guide, imaging device, or cone.

  According to a further embodiment of the present invention, a user having at least four channel holders, a plurality of elastic members, at least two wing-like structures, at least two pads, and a tongue holder An opening device is provided to spread the lip of the lip, the channel holder is held apart by at least one elastic member having an arch shape, the pad is attached or molded to the elastic member, and the tongue holder is 2 Two second elastic members are attached to the two channel holders.

  In accordance with yet a further embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an opening device for spreading a user's lips having at least one structure for containing a dental treatment composition, such as a bleaching composition. In one aspect, the structure includes at least one U-shaped groove member shaped to accept a lower set of user teeth, an upper set of teeth, or both teeth. The U-shaped groove member supports groove-shaped holders that are fixed substantially apart from each other. In another aspect, the arch shape of the opening device is configured to receive the U-shaped groove member.

  According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, an opening device having at least one wing-like structure is held in place by the natural pressure of the patient's lips. The wing member provides positioning and alignment with respect to at least one engagement structure of the imaging device. This configuration allows the patient to maintain posture with relatively little effort during imaging.

  In one aspect, the opening device has at least one structure, such as a passively held portion, for securing it to a patient taking a tooth. The device has a first adjustment structure coupled to the passively held portion, the first adjustment structure enabling alignment of at least one tooth structure, and the device comprises: A second adjustment structure coupled to the imaging device, the second adjustment structure engaging at least one structure of the imaging device, the first and second adjustment structures attaching the imaging device to at least a tooth; It functions to align in a substantially fixed position relative to one structure. The device has a film holder coupled to the passively held portion. The film holder is adapted to hold a photographic film or imaging sensor for photographing at least one feature of the tooth.

  In one embodiment, the aperture device is a single patient device and the film or imaging sensor is formed integrally with the holder.

  In one embodiment, the opening device of the present invention is fitted using a tab-like structure to facilitate gripping and insertion and removal of the device.

  Other alternatives and embodiments of the invention for practicing the invention are further described in the detailed description below.

  The detailed description set forth below with reference to the accompanying drawings is intended as a description of the embodiments illustrated herein of an aperture device provided by the present invention and is the only form in which the present invention is manufactured and used. It does not represent. The description describes the structure, manufacturing steps, and use of the aperture device of the present invention in conjunction with the illustrated embodiment. However, it should be understood that the same or equivalent functions and structures may be achieved by different embodiments that are intended to be included within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Also, as described elsewhere in this document, like element numbers are intended to indicate similar or like elements or structures.

  The opening device has an interengaging structure and / or a non-interengaging structure. Interengagement structures include structures that cause a device, apparatus, or tool to engage at least one corresponding structure of another device, apparatus, or tool. Non-interengaging structures include structures that carry such devices, apparatus, or tools close to the patient's oral cavity.

  Like light lamp systems, light guides, imaging systems, a dental treatment composition, imaging systems, devices adapted for suction, aperture devices, spacers, support systems, or dental tools adapted for suction As used herein with respect to a particular dental system, the term structure refers to a portion of a dental system that interengages with an adjacent dental system, part, or corresponding portion of a patient's oral cavity. Thus, the structure includes at least a portion of what is fried above and is molded or shaped, or the structure is formed separately and later assembled with individual members.

  Suitable interengaging structures include tongues and grooves, pillars and sockets, swinging hooks and sockets, elastic clips and sockets, clips and protrusions or recesses, tongues or wings and slots, spheres and sockets, of which Some are more specifically illustrated below. Non-interengaging structures include dental trays, imaging film holders, and other structures adapted to position dental treatment or imaging material in the patient's oral cavity.

  Referring to FIG. 1, a lip opening device provided by an embodiment of the present invention for expanding the upper and lower lips (hereinafter simply referred to as lips) for facilitating examination and / or treatment of the oral cavity and / or teeth. It is schematically shown and designated by the reference numeral 10. The lip device 10, also known as a tongue cup, is also known as four separate channel shapes, also known as flanges for holding the corresponding four parts of the lip for oral and dental examination and / or treatment. The holders 12, 14, 16 and 18 are included. In use, the lip device 10 pulls down the lips and thereby spreads the cheeks so that the health care professional can more easily see the teeth as illustrated in FIGS. Expose the oral cavity so that work can be performed on the oral cavity.

  The four channel holders have two horizontal channel holders 12 and 14 that hold the ends of the lips at which the upper and lower lips intersect, and two channel holders that hold the center of the upper and lower lips. Includes tools 16,18. More particularly, the four channel holders or flanges 12, 14, 16, 18 allow the lips to be placed in the cup and the lips to be biased apart and, as described above, as illustrated in FIGS. The teeth are exposed for treatment and / or examination.

  A plurality of elastic members 20 are introduced into the lip device 10 and serve as means for connecting and offsetting the four groove-shaped holders 12, 14, 16, 18 to each other. In the preparation position (before the lip device is inserted into the oral cavity), the elastic member 20 is arcuate outward with respect to the central portion of the lip device. As described further below, when the lip device is inserted into the oral cavity and the four channel holders 12, 14, 16, 18 receive each portion of the lip, the elastic member 20 can be used for testing and / or treatment. For this reason, an opening force for pushing the lips radially outward is provided.

  An optional tongue holder 22 is shown located approximately in the center of the four channel holders 12, 14, 16, 18. The tongue holder can be placed asymmetrically with respect to the two channel holders 16,18. The tongue holder has a tank 23 and is attached to the two groove-shaped holders 12 and 14 by a pair of second elastic members 24. When incorporated, the tongue retainer 23 and the second elastic member 24 cooperate to block the tongue, restricting the tongue to near the back of the oral cavity and towards the dental tongue for examination and / or treatment. That is, it allows access to the back of the tooth. In summary, the tongue holder is structured to minimize tongue interference during treatment and / or examination by a healthcare professional.

  Any of the elastic members 20 may be formed as a single piece and is integrally formed with, for example, the outer side walls 28b and 44b of the adjacent pair of channel holders 14, 16, or attached by adhesive or heat sealing. Alternatively, each half is formed separately and joined at the center, and is also integrally formed on the outer side walls 28b and 44b of the channel retainers 14 and 16, or attached by an adhesive or heat seal.

  As shown, the lateral channel retainers 12, 14 resemble curved C-shaped channels, which have an arcuate channel 26 and two channel member side walls 28a, 28b. The two groove member side walls 28a, 28b resemble the shape of a bell and have the largest wall dimension at approximately its center 34 and two inclined pieces 36 at its ends. In one embodiment, the inner side wall 28a that enters the oral cavity is slightly larger than the outer side wall 28b, as described further below. However, the relative dimensions may be reversed or the same without departing from the functionality of the opening device 10.

  The lateral channel holders 12, 14 further have an inner surface 30 and an outer surface 32. The arcuate groove 26 has a curved portion 31 adapted to follow the curved side of the lip when the lip is in the open position. Since this bend will vary depending on the size and age of the user or patient, the channel holder 10 can be adapted to change the radius of the bend portion 31 to fit a shape that varies with the particular user / patient. The arcuate groove 26 may also have irregular bends, i.e., curvatures of two or more different bends. For example, the lower region 38 of the bent part 31 may have a curvature larger than that of the upper region 40 or vice versa. In use, irregular bends change the amount of spread in the arched grooves of the lips and change the amount of spread between those portions of the lips. The two groove-shaped lip holders 16, 18 can also have different curvatures of curvature as the horizontal groove-shaped holders 12, 14.

  As shown, like the lateral channel holders 12, 14, the channel lip holders 16, 18 resemble curved C-shaped channels, which have arcuate side walls 44a, 44b. . In one embodiment, the curvature of the bent portion 46 of the grooved lip holder is greater than the curvature of the bent portion 31 of the lateral groove holders 12, 14. The greater curvature of the region 46 allows the grooved lip retainers 16, 18 to follow the contours of the upper or lower surface of the tongue that are flatter than the lateral side of the lip and closer to the tongue band. Depending on the intended user / patient size and age, the curvature of the curved portion 46 of the grooved lip retainers 16, 18 can also vary.

  As shown in the drawing, in order to provide pain relief for the tongue band of the upper and lower lips, a relief part 48 for the tongue band is provided in the inner side wall 44a of the groove-shaped holders 16,18. In one embodiment, the tongue strip relief 48 includes a partial oval cutout that is large enough to provide clearance for the tongue strip. In other words, the tongue ligament relief 48 is in use, for example, the lowest part of the tongue ligament relief slightly touches the tongue zonule, or does not touch the tongue zonule, for example. Although the oval shape of the tongue zonule 48 is shown as an oval shape, a partial circle, an oval square cutout, a square notch, and other geometric shapes can be used without departing from the function of escaping the tongue obiule. Notches can also be used.

  The lip device as shown here can be made by injection molding or casting a thermoplastic resin such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, polycarbonate or the like. It also includes polylactic acid resins (including L-lactic acid and D-lactic acid), biosynthesizable or biodegradable polymers including polyesters such as polyglycolic acid (PGA), polyhydroxyvaleric acid / hydroxybutyl resin (PHBV) ( It can be made from 3-hydroxybutylene acid, 3-hydroxypentanoic acid (3-hydroxyvaleric acid) and polyhydroxyalkanoate polymer), and polyester / urethane resins. As a further example, the lip device is made of injection molded polypropylene and has a smooth and transparent finish. In other embodiments, the device is opaque and colored including white.

  As shown in FIG. 1a, two structures, such as two winged flanges 100, are incorporated into the lip device of FIG. These winged flanges 100 are molded or attached together with lateral channel flanges or retaining members 12, 14 and include channeled flanges or retaining members, or openings, including the materials described above, or stronger polymer materials or compounds. It may be made of the same or different material as other parts of the device. In addition, the other parts of the lip device may be colorless or transparent, and the winged flange may also be opaque or colored. The winged flange 100 may be a slot 1130, 1132 formed in the light guide 1120 of the exit port, imaging device, lamp system, lamp system 1102 used for the bleaching process, or lip device 1138, Assemble into a set of structures, such as slots, as in any of the inspection devices as shown in the exemplary illumination system of FIG. 20, which is an exploded view of the light guide 1120 and lamp system 1102. Designed. Other exemplary lighting or lamp systems and their use are disclosed in application Ser. No. 10 / 715,681, filed Nov. 17, 2003, which is here as if fully described by reference thereto. Is included.

  In another embodiment, instead of a light guide 1120 as shown in FIG. 20, an inspection device such as the conical structure described above may be used as the outlet of the lamp 104 and the lip device 1138 as shown in FIG. It is formed so as to be compatible with the wing-shaped flange 100. The winged flange 100 cooperates with a structure such as a conical slot 112 to provide a controlled space between the ramp 104 and the patient's teeth to be treated or examined.

  Referring to FIG. 1a, there is shown a lip opening device 10 'that spreads the lips to facilitate the process of examination, oral and / or dental imaging, and / or bleaching or curing, according to one embodiment of the present invention. Has been. The lip device includes two spaced apart retainers or flanges 12 ′, 14 ′ that hold the two corresponding parts of the lip for examination and / or treatment of the oral cavity and / or teeth. In use, the lip device 10 'similarly pulls down the lips and spreads the cheeks so that health care professionals can more easily see and work on the teeth and / or mouth. Expose the oral cavity.

  Like the opening device of FIGS. 1 and 1a, two channel holders 12 ', 14' are adapted to hold the ends of the lips where the upper and lower lips approximately intersect there. More particularly, the two channel holders or flanges 12 ', 14' are adapted to place the lips in the cup and bias them to expose the teeth for treatment and / or examination. Yes.

  An elastic member 20 'is incorporated into the lip device 10' to interconnect the two channel holders 12 ', 14' to each other and to act as a biasing means. As shown, the elastic member 20 'has, for example, two arched members, ie, one arched member on each side of the central portion 22 ". The elastic member 20' may be formed as one piece. Often molded integrally with the inner sidewalls 28a 'of the channel retainers 12', 14 ', or attached by adhesive or heat seal, or made separately in two halves, the central portion 22 To the inner side walls 28a 'of the channel holders 12', 14 'or attached by adhesive or heat seal. Preparation position (lip opening device inserted into the oral cavity) The elastic member 20 'is arcuate outwardly with respect to the center of the lip device 10'. As described further below, the lip device 10 'is inserted into the oral cavity and 2 Groove shape As the holders 12 ', 14' receive their corresponding portions of the lips, the elastic member 20 'provides an opening force that radially pushes the lips outward for examination and / or treatment. Is particularly effective in the bleaching process.

  An optional tongue holder 22 'may also be placed in the approximate center of the two channel holders 12', 14 '. Like the tongue holder 22 of FIG. 1, the tongue holder 22 'of this embodiment also has a groove 23'. Furthermore, it is integrally formed in the central part of the elastic member 20 'and is therefore attached to the grooved holders 12', 14 'via the elastic member 20'. When incorporated, the tongue holder blocks the tongue and restricts it to near the back of the oral cavity, thus allowing access to the tongue site, i.e., the back of the tooth, for examination and / or treatment, as described above. As such, tongue interference is minimized during treatment and / or examination by healthcare professionals.

  In this embodiment, the elastic member 20 'not only acts to couple and bias the grooved retainers, but also couples the tongue retainer to the grooved retainers. If the tongue holder 22 'is not equipped, the elastic member 20' simply extends from one channel holder 12 'to the other channel holder 14' with substantially the same width in the embodiment. It is.

  The groove-shaped holders 12 'and 14' are also similar to curved C-shaped grooves, and have an arcuate groove 26 'and two groove side walls 28a' and 28b '. The groove side walls 28a ', 28b' also resemble a bell shape and have a maximum wall size at approximately the center point 34 'and two smaller tapered pieces 36' at their ends. In one embodiment, the inner side wall 28a 'that also enters the oral cavity is slightly larger than the outer side wall 28b'. However, the mutual dimensions may be reversed or the same as long as they do not deviate from the function of the lip device 10 '.

  Similar to FIGS. 1 and 1a, the horizontal channel retainers 12 ', 14' further have an inner surface 30 'and an outer surface 32'. The arch-shaped groove 26 ′ has a curved portion 31 ′ having a curvature that follows the lateral curvature of the lip when the lip is in an open state. Also, since this bend will vary depending on the size and age of the user or patient as described above, the lip device 10 'may be adapted to the changing shape of a particular user / patient, with the bend 31' of varying curvature. Is equipped. The arcuate groove 26 'may also include irregular bends or bends of two or more different curvatures. For example, the lower region 38 ′ of the bent part 31 ′ may have a larger curvature than the upper region 40 ′ or vice versa. In use, irregular bends change the amount of spread in the arched grooves of the lips and change the amount of spread between those portions of the lips.

  Similarly, the lip device 10 'can also be made by injection molding or casting a thermoplastic resin as already described. For example, the lip device 10 'can be made by injection molding colored polypropylene, opaque white or colored with a smooth finish, or smooth made by injection molding clear polypropylene. It has a finished surface.

  Further, FIG. 1a shows two configurations, such as a winged flange 100 extending from the outer sidewall 28b 'of the channel retainers 12', 14 '. The winged flange 100 is also integrally formed or attached to the channel retainer or flange 12 ', 14' as described above. As described above, and as described in more detail below, the winged flange is a slot formed in the conical portion of the exit portion or the light guide of the light source used in the tooth bleaching, curing, or imaging process. Or, it is designed to fit the lip device 10 'into a slot-like structure in any inspection device. As an example, FIG. 2 shows a bottom view of the lip device 10 ′, with the winged flange 100 engaging a slot in a light guide 102 that is attached to a lamp 104, for example, indicated by a dotted line.

  Similarly, as described above, the wing member or flange 100 may be the same or different material as the member other than the lip device, or groove flange or retaining member, or a stronger polymer material or compound, including the materials described above. Made with. Further, the wing-like member may be opaque or colored, even if the device other than the lip device is colorless or transparent.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of a bottom view of the lip device 10 of FIG. The lip device 10 is shown in a used configuration, with four elastic members 20 having four channel holders 12, 14, 16, 18 on the outside (52) or apart from each other. Let's move away. Similarly, the two second elastic members 24 bias the tongue holder 22 from the plane (approximately perpendicular to the viewing side) that positions the four groove-shaped holders 12, 14, 16, and 18. To do. Thus, as described further below, when the lip device 10 is placed in the oral cavity during operation, the four channel holders 12, 14, 16, 18 are adapted to put the tongue into the cup. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the two elastic members 20 are adapted to spread the lip by the elasticity of the elastic member 20 and expose a portion toward the lips of the teeth, that is, the front portion of the teeth. Similarly, the tongue holder 22 is adapted to block the tongue and the two second elastic members 24 are adapted to restrict the tongue towards the throat toward the back of the oral cavity, as shown in FIG. The part of the upper and lower teeth, that is, the back side of the teeth is further exposed.

  When used in the patient's mouth, the inner side walls 28a, 44a, the second elastic member 24, the tongue including the tub 23 and the device 22 for retracting the lips are formed to be in the mouth, The outer side walls 28b and 44b and the four elastic members 20 as shown in FIG. 4 are formed so as to be outside the oral cavity. As is apparent, the four elastic members 20 are integrally formed on the outer side walls 28b, 44b so as not to interfere with the insertion of the lip device into the oral cavity.

  FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of the lip device of FIG. 3 as viewed from line AA. FIG. 4 shows the tongue retainer 22 having an upper rim 54 and a lower rim 56. The upper rim 54 is higher than the lower rim (ie, protrudes further into the oral cavity than the lower rim when the lip device is in use), two second elastic members Are integrally molded or attached. Alternatively, the tongue holder 22 may have two uniform rims so as to hold the tongue uniformly along the upper and lower surfaces of the tongue.

  The two second elastic members 24 include a substantially horizontal section 58 extending from the upper rim 54 and an inclined section 60 that couples to the horizontal portion 58 and the bending portion 31 of the two lateral groove-shaped retainers 12 and 14. It has been shown to have Alternatively, the two elastic members 24 may have one inclined section that is coupled to both the upper rim and the bent portion.

  Referring specifically to the right groove holder 12, the center line of the groove dividing the groove holder at the approximate center point of the groove 26 is shown. As seen from the center line C, it can be seen that the inner side wall 28a is angularly larger (62) apart than the angular position (64) of the outer side wall 28b. The surface area of the outer side wall 28b is also smaller than that of the inner side wall 28a. In particular, this misalignment, or asymmetric configuration, is believed to better match the physical characteristics of the cheeks and lips and translates into a more comfortable fit when the lip device is in use. In other words, the illustrated channel retainers 12, 14 are neither semicircular nor symmetrical with respect to the line or point to accept the asymmetrical shape of the lips. However, it is possible to make the lateral channel holders 12, 14 symmetrical and / or oversized and still provide a comfortable fit.

  In FIG. 4, the elastic member 20 is integrally molded or attached to the outer side surface 28 b of the horizontal groove-shaped holders 12 and 14 and the outer side surface 44 b of the groove-shaped lip holder 16. It is shown. In one particular embodiment, the elastic member 20 is planar, flattened or smoothly transitioned with the inner surface 30 of the lateral channel holders 12, 14 and the inner surface 68 of the channel lip holder 16, respectively. And has an upper edge 66. This structure allows the lip device 10 to be worn without sharp edges protruding or protruding from the inner surfaces of the lips and cheeks. However, since the tongue and cheeks are flexible and can accept any small deviation without undue irritation for the user / patient, the upper edge 66 and the inner surfaces 30, 68 of the channel holders 12, 14, 16 are acceptable. Slight deviations in the transition between are still acceptable.

  Referring now to FIG. 5, a schematic diagram of a typical top view of the lip device of FIG. 1 is shown. As can be seen, the distal end 72 of the elastic member 20 extends beyond the edge 74 of the lateral channel holders 12, 14 and the edge 76 of the channel lip holders 16, 18, so that the elastic member 20 and channel holders are retained. The parts 12, 14, 16, 18 are fixed to each other, or are integrally formed. However, the overlap between the distal end 72 and the edge will vary depending on the particular material used to mold the lip device 10, which may be strong enough without significant overlap or at all. unknown. The tongue retainer 22 is shown having an oval profile and a smooth outer surface 78. However, round, square, rectangular, or other geometrically shaped tongue holders 22 can also be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

  FIG. 6 is a schematic side view of the lip device of FIG. 5 as viewed from the line BB. As shown, assuming that the lateral channel holders 12, 14 and channel lip holders 16, 18 define a curved surface, the upper rim 54 of the tongue holder 22 is below the curved surface. . As previously stated, the underlying configuration and depth of the tub 23 (FIG. 3) allows the tongue retainer 22 to maintain and constrain the tongue to the back of the oral cavity, so that the lingual surface of the tooth Allows further exposure.

  FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a side view of the lip device 10 as viewed from line CC in FIG. Similar to the horizontal channel holder 12 of FIG. 4, the channel lip holder 18 has a lip groove centerline CL or center point that divides the channel lip holder at the approximate centerline of the arched groove 42. As seen from the center line CL, it can be seen that the angle 80 with respect to the center line of the inner side wall 44a is angularly smaller than the angular position 82 of the outer side wall 44b. In particular, this misalignment, or asymmetric configuration, is believed to better fit the physical characteristics of the cheeks and lips, and translates into a more comfortable fit when the lip device is in use.

  Alternatively, as described above with respect to the lateral channel retainers 12, 14, the special relationship is changed so that the angular positions of the inner and outer walls 44a, 44b relative to the centerline are the same or opposite. can do.

  FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view of an alternative lip device 10 ″ provided in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the lip device includes two lateral channel holders 12. ', Two channel-shaped lip holders 16', 18 ', and four elastic members 20'. In one embodiment, the alternative lip device 10 'is a tongue-holding device for the alternative lip device 10'. 1, 1b, 3-7, except that it does not include a tool, and thus the description given above for the lip device 10 with the exception of the tongue holder. Applies to alternative lip device 10 '.

  Similarly, although not specifically shown, a lip device 10 'as seen in FIG. 1a can also be made without an optional tongue holder.

  FIG. 9 is a schematic representation of an exemplary top view of the lip device 10 of FIG. 1 in use by a patient or user 84. As shown, the lip device 10 engages the user's mouth and pushes the user's lip 88 and cheek 90 apart. Once placed, the user's oral cavity 86, and in particular the teeth 92, are exposed for examination and / or treatment by a healthcare professional. More specifically, the horizontal groove-shaped holders 12 and 14 are engaged with the lateral side of the oral cavity, the groove-shaped lip holders 16 and 18 are engaged with the upper and lower lips 88, and the elastic member 20 has four grooves. The shape holder is biased to open the lips 88 and cheeks 90 to expose the teeth and the interior of the oral cavity 86. In the lip device used in place, the outer side surfaces 28b, 44b and the elastic member 20 are exposed outside the oral cavity.

  The tongue holder 22 is shown engaging the tongue 94 to disengage the tongue into the area behind the oral cavity 86. The tongue retainer 22, when incorporated, is formed to further expose the lingual surface 96 of the tooth for examination and / or treatment.

  The lip device 10 is installed by first positioning the upper lip over the inner side wall 44a of the upper channel lip retainer 16 and into the groove 42. Next, the two lateral groove holders 12,14 are pushed into the oral cavity, either simultaneously or one at a time, until the lateral side of the lips is flush with the inner side wall 28a and the groove 26 of the lateral groove holders 12,14. Install. Finally, the lower groove-shaped holder 18 is pushed into the lower lip and installed, and the lower lip engages the groove 42 of the groove-shaped lip holder 18. Once installed, the tongue holder 22, if any, automatically straightens the tongue 94 and prevents tongue movement. The lip device 10 can be installed either by reversing the steps described above, or by pressing all four channel holders simultaneously to fit the lips closely to the channel holders.

  FIG. 10 is a schematic representation of a top view of the alternative lip device 10 ′ of FIG. 8 in use by a patient or user 84. Like the lip device 10 of FIG. 9, an alternative lip device 10 'engages the lips and spreads the lips 88 and cheeks 90, thereby exposing the teeth 92 for examination and / or treatment. However, unlike the lip device 10 of FIG. 9, the alternative lip device 10 'is not equipped with a tongue holder. Thus, it can be seen that the tongue 94 is free to move within the mouth 86 mouth.

  In some embodiments, the opening device can be applied to a device or tool adapted for suction, such as a suction tube and / or an air / gas aspirator, etc. Having at least one structure adapted to engage a corresponding structure for close proximity. One typical example is shown in FIG. 10 a, whose structure is adapted to engage a clip provided on the suction tube 50, such as a post or protrusion provided on one of the elastic members 20. This is shown as a projected 20a.

  The structure may be a recess that receives a clip such as a recess.

  FIG. 11 is a schematic representation of a bottom view of the lip device 10 ′ of FIG. 1a. The lip device 10 'is in a ready state, and the arch-shaped elastic member 20' urges the two groove-shaped holders 12 'and 14' toward each other so that the inside of the oral cavity is not obstructed. As can be seen, a substantially circular shape is formed. At the same time, the elastic member 20 'biases the tongue holder 22' away from the plane (substantially perpendicular to the viewing direction) that positions the two channel holders 12 ', 14'. . Thus, as described further below, when the lip device 10 'is installed in the oral cavity during operation, the two channel holders 12', 14 'are adapted to put the lips into the cup and are elastic members. The arch shape formed by 20 'is adapted to widen the lip by the elasticity of the elastic member 20', and exposes the lip side of the tooth, that is, the front part of the tooth. Similarly, the tongue holder 22 'is adapted to restrict the tongue to the back of the oral cavity and towards the throat, further exposing the lingual side of the upper and lower teeth, ie the back of the teeth. As described above, the wing member 100 can be used to connect the lip device 10 'to any exit port or light guide, imaging device, or cone of light source, as generally shown in FIGS. In order to fit into a slot formed in an inspection apparatus such as the above, it is arranged outside the oral cavity. Here, the tongue holder 22 'is shown as a generally flat and rectangular plate provided at the center point of the elastic member 20' and is an alternative to the tongue holder 22 'shown in FIG. It is.

  The lip device 10 'is made to fit the oral cavity in the orientation shown in FIG. In other words, the inner side wall 28a 'and the tongue holder 22' are formed to be in the oral cavity, while the outer side wall 28b ', the elastic member 20', and the wing member 100 are outside the oral cavity. It is formed.

  FIG. 11a shows a lip device 350 having first and second semicircular U-grooves 355, 360, each adapted to receive a lip closer to its inner surface 365,370. This is similar to FIG. 1a, but in a ready-to-use form. In this ready-to-use form, some structures have shapes that are different from those found in forms that cannot be used immediately. The support members 375 are coupled to the U-grooves 355, 360 and are adapted to support the U-grooves 355, 360 in a substantially spaced spatial relationship. According to one embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 1a, the support member 375 also supports a tongue cap adapted to hold the patient's tongue and shield it from incident illumination.

  According to one embodiment of the present invention, a set of interface blades 111 are connected to U-grooves 355 and 360, respectively. According to this embodiment, each interface wing 111 has an upper surface 390, 395 and a corresponding lower surface 401, 403, respectively. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the upper surface 390 is disposed substantially parallel to the lower surface 401 and the upper surface 395 is disposed substantially parallel to the lower surface 403. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the interface wing 111 has a first plurality of landmarks or holes 413 and a second plurality of landmarks or holes 415, respectively. The landmarks or holes are adapted to easily maintain a particular adjustment position of the illumination frame 105 (as shown in FIG. 26), for example, relative to the lip device 350, or the imaging device.

  According to one embodiment of the present invention, interface wing 111 is adapted to be received in slots 236 ', 238' of light guide 106, respectively, as shown for example in FIG. 11b. By pushing the lip device 350 toward the tip of the light guide 106, the interface wing 111 is pushed into the slots 236 ′, 238 ′ so that the direction and position of the lip device 350 is relative to the light guide 106. Is substantially fixed. As a result, the patient's lip will help to effectively connect the patient's head and teeth in a fixed relationship to the lip device 350 so that the target tooth can be a ramp as shown, for example, in FIG. A substantially fixed position is maintained with respect to the light source disposed within the head.

  As noted above, the spacer is a light guide 1000 that includes an elliptical tube member 1020 having an axial cavity 1040 located between a front opening 1060 and a rear opening 1080, as shown in FIG. 11c. It may be.

  As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the first edge 1010 of the tubular member has a convex shape with respect to its substantially horizontal portion 1100 and a concave shape with respect to its substantially vertical portion 1120, substantially It defines an elliptical saddle-shaped curve. In addition, the edge 1010 has first and second substantially horizontal slots 1140, 1160. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the slots 1140, 1160 are substantially coplanar with each other and are substantially coincident with the major axis of the elliptical bowl-shaped curve defining the edge 1010. The

  A rim 1180 extends radially inward from the edge 1010 toward a second edge 1200 (also referred to as a “second edge”) of a substantially elliptical saddle-shaped curve. The second edge 1200 is disposed in a substantially constant spatial relationship relative to the edge 1010 so that the rim 1180 has a substantially uniform radial dimension over the entire length of the edge 1010. The edge 1200 defines the outer edge of the front opening.

  At the rear end of the embodiment of FIG. 11c, the third edge 1300 defines another curve that is a generally elliptical saddle shape. The edge 1300 has a substantially convex shape with respect to the substantially horizontal portion 1320 and a substantially concave shape with respect to the substantially vertical portion 1340.

  According to one embodiment of the present invention, curve 1300 defines the rear opening of light guide 1080.

  According to one embodiment of the invention, the light guide does not have a rim near the rear opening.

  In one aspect of the illustrated embodiment, the outer surface 1390 of the light guide is disposed between the edge 1010 and the edge 1300. The inner surface 1360 of the light guide is arranged in a substantially uniform positional relationship with the outer surface 1390 so as to define the inner and outer boundaries of the elliptical tube member 1020.

  In one embodiment of the present invention, the outer surface 1390 has a plurality of gripping shapes 1380 adapted to better grip the operator's outer surface 1390 during operation of the light guide 1000. In the illustrated embodiment, the gripping shape 1380 has a raised elongated elliptical form. In another embodiment of the invention, the gripping shape includes a substantially hemispherical protrusion. In yet a further embodiment, the gripping shape has a plurality of zigzag grooves. One skilled in the art will appreciate that a wide variety of shapes can be placed on the surface 1340 to improve the overall gripper of the light guide.

  In FIG. 12, the lip device 10 'is shown with all components in the patient's mouth except for the winged flange 100 and the outer sidewall 28b' that would be outside the patient's mouth. As will be apparent, the elastic member 20 'is molded, cast or attached integrally with the inner side wall 28a' so as not to interfere with insertion of the lip device 10 'into the oral cavity.

  FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a partial perspective view of the ramp 104 and cone 102. The cone is configured to engage the opening 110 at the tip of the nose of the ramp 104. A set of slots 112 are provided in the cone 102 for receiving the wing flange 100. As depicted, when the patient fits the lip device 10 ′ and the winged flange 100 engages the slot 112, the distance between the patient's oral cavity and the ramp 104 is determined. In addition, by securely holding the wing flange 100 to the cone 102, it is minimized from being moved by the patient during the procedure. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the size of the flange 100, the depth of the slot 112, and the size of the cone 102 can be used to change the distance between the patient and the ramp and the relative position of the patient with respect to the ramp. Change.

  A pad may be provided on the elastic member 20 'to provide comfort to the patient when the patient fits the lip device 10'. The pad 106 is disposed on the elastic member 20 ′ as shown in FIG. The pad (FIG. 15) can be molded from any rubber or foam material. The rubber may be natural or synthetic. Synthetic rubber is an elastic material such as, but not limited to, styrene / butadiene rubber or styrene / isoprene rubber, EPDM (ethylene / propylene / diene / monomer) rubber, nitrile (acrylonitrile / butadiene) rubber, latex rubber, etc. And various copolymers or block copolymers (Kratons®) available from Kraton Polymers. The foam may be in the form of closed cells or open cells, including, but not limited to, polyolefin foams such as polyethylene foams, polypropylene foams, and polybutylene foams, polyurethane foams, and any elastic or rubber material described above. Foams made, or any biodegradable material such as polylactic acid resin (including L-lactic acid and D-lactic acid) and polyglycolic acid (PGA) or biosynthetic polyester, polyhydroxyvaleric acid / hydroxybutyl resin (PHBV) (3-hydroxybutyric acid, 3-hydroxypentanoic acid (3-hydroxyvaleric acid) and polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) polymer), polyester / urethane resin.

  The pad may be molded into two halves that are joined along one edge like a shell, as shown in FIG. Each half has a slot, groove or ridge 108 that receives at least a portion of the elastic member 20 '. The two halves fit snugly around the elastic member and are heat sealed together. Other assembly methods that can achieve the same or similar results are also contemplated. For example, the size of the ridge portion 108 is such that when the pad 106 is fitted onto the elastic member 20 ′, the pad can slide with respect to the elastic member and the position of the pad on the elastic member can be adjusted. It's okay.

  For example, the pad 106 is made of a polyurethane closed cell foam material so that it can be disinfected. Open cell foam can also be used if it is suitable for autoclaving.

  The pad also has, for example, a smooth surface and a smooth edge to fit comfortably without unwanted irritation when the pad contacts the patient's mouth. In one embodiment, the pad is designed to be placed over the second molar from the back when the lip device 10 'is in the patient's mouth. In addition, the pads may be made, for example, of a relatively high modulus material, for example so that they return to their original shape after they are used.

  In other embodiments, the pad 106 is made removable after each use. Here, the pad can be attached with a peelable adhesive or the two halves can be simply engaged on the elastic member using fasteners or the like. Any foam that comfortably fits within the patient's mouth can be used as an alternative. The two halves of the pad are also made, for example, by a heat set, and have a memory that is forced to open for placement on the elastic member and closes tightly when the opening force is removed. The two halves are molded in one piece or assembled along at least one side.

  In a further embodiment, the pad is permanently fixed to make the lip device a single-patient or one-time-use article and cannot be disinfected or autoclaved.

  In still further embodiments, the pad is an integral part of at least a portion of the elastic member 20. In this embodiment, at least one of the elastic members 20 is formed in two parts joined by at least one pad. The elastic member is made of, for example, a polymer material or a metal material in the form of a wire in order to minimize sharp edges.

  Referring back to the elastic member 20 of FIG. 4, in one embodiment, each elastic member has a narrow center point 70 and two end points 72 that are wide compared to the center point. The end 72 has a different width or the same width as the other ends. In such a configuration, the biasing force 52 (FIG. 3) of the elastic member 20 is defined by the width of the center point 70 as compared to the terminal end 72. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the wider center point 70 is more resistant to bending it, leading to greater biasing forces. In this way, the spreading force 52 that causes the lip device 10 to spread the cheeks and lips can be changed by changing the width of the center point 70. The spreading force can be changed by changing the mechanical properties of the elastic member, for example by introducing a mixture of polymers or a thermoplastic resin into the substrate (ie compound). In one embodiment, they are made of a material with a high modulus of elasticity.

  In other embodiments of the present invention, the opening device includes at least one non-interengaging structure. Non-interengaging structures include dental trays adapted to place dental compounds on the patient's teeth. In this embodiment, at least one interengaging structure, such as a wing member, is also present for repeatably positioning a light source, or an imaging source, on a patient undergoing dental treatment. To do.

  FIG. 16 illustrates an opening device 200 of the present invention that includes a first U-groove 1020 shaped and configured to receive a lower set of teeth or an upper set of teeth (not shown). An example is shown. The lip device 200 further includes a second U-shaped groove 1040 and a third U-shaped groove 1060 that are substantially perpendicular to the first U-shaped groove 1020. The second and third U-grooves 1040, 1060 are adapted to receive a dental patient's lips. The first U-shaped groove 1020 supports the second and third U-shaped grooves 1040 and 1060 in a spatial positional relationship that is substantially fixed to each other.

  According to one embodiment of the present invention, a set of intermediate wing members 202, 204 are combined with second and third U-grooves 1040, 1060, respectively. Intermediary wings 202, 204 are located within the light guide 102 or 1120 that are adapted to the lamp head or light source 104 or 1102, respectively, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 20, to align the light source 104 or 1102 with the patient's teeth. Are configured and configured to be received in the first slot 112 or 1130 and 1132. To the extent that the patient's lip effectively functions to couple the lamp head and the patient's teeth in a fixed position relative to the lip device 10 or 1138, the lip device 10 or 1138 is shown in FIG. As shown, it is maintained in a substantially fixed position relative to a light source disposed within the lamp head. This is described in more detail below.

  Like the wings of the lip device described above, the intermediate wings, or wings 202, 204, when engaged in the light guide 102 or slot 112 of the light source 104 as seen in FIG. Typically have some stiffness so that forms an effective interface. Similar to the previous embodiment, in the first configuration, the intermediate vanes 202, 204 are made of the same material as the grooves 1020, 1040, 1060. In the second configuration, the intermediate vanes 202, 204 are made of a material different from the grooves 1020, 1040, 1060.

  FIG. 16a shows a rear view of the embodiment of FIG. The opening device has first and second lip receiving grooves 1358, 1360. A third tooth receiving groove 1354 is disposed in a direction substantially perpendicular to the lip receiving groove and is adapted to receive the patient's upper or lower teeth within its concave area. First and second structures, such as wings 1362 and 1364, are coupled to first and second tongue receiving grooves 1358 and 1360, respectively. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, a connecting member 1356 is disposed between the first and second lip receiving grooves 1358, 1360 and the tooth receiving groove 1352 and is interconnected therewith. One skilled in the art will appreciate that in various embodiments, the opening device has a set of tooth grooves that are arranged to simultaneously receive the upper and lower teeth.

  In use, the opening device 1350 can place a dental compound, such as a dental whitening composition or a dental casting composition, in the concave area of the tooth groove 1352. It is adapted to take. Bleached compounds are either photoactive or active in the dark. The tooth groove is transparent, translucent, or opaque depending on the desired application.

  FIG. 17 illustrates a lip device 1000 having a dental tray or tooth groove according to one embodiment of the present invention. The lip device 1000 has a first U-groove 1020 that is shaped and configured to receive a set of upper or lower teeth (not shown) of a patient. The lip device 1000 further includes a second U-groove 1040 and a third U-groove 1060 attached substantially perpendicular to the first U-groove 1020 and adapted to receive the dental patient's lips. And acts as a lip device that holds the patient's lips and exposes the teeth substantially. The first U-shaped groove 1020 supports the second and third U-shaped grooves 1040 and 1060 in a fixed spatial positional relationship with each other.

  The first U-groove 1020 may also be shaped to receive the bleaching composition. The first U-groove 1020 may be fitted over the patient's teeth such that the bleaching compound is in contact with the patient's teeth. The patient's lips in the second and third U-grooves 1040, 1060 are held substantially unexposed without any effort on the part of the patient. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 28c, the natural compressive force of the patient's lip also maintains the lip device in place without patient effort.

  The lip device 1000 is sufficiently flexible to fit the patient and is sufficiently rigid to support the bleaching composition in place and support the patient's lips. The lip device 1000 can thus be made from any of the polymers described above.

  In one embodiment of the invention, the U-shaped grooves 1020, 1040, 1060 are made of the same material. In the second embodiment of the present invention, the first U-shaped groove 1020 is made of a material different from that of the second and third U-shaped grooves 1040, 1060. In the configuration of the first example, the first U-shaped groove 1020 is made of rubber, and the second and third U-shaped grooves 1040, 1060 are made of plastic. In the second example configuration, the first U-groove 1020 is made of a UV light transmissive material, while the second and third U-grooves 1040, 1060 are substantially UV light opaque material. Made. In this example, the first U-groove 1020 is transparent to UV light for tooth bleaching, while the second and third U-grooves 1040, 1060 provide some of the soft tissue for the patient. Photoactive compounds can be used because they provide protection.

  In another alternative embodiment, the first U-groove 1020 is made as a custom fit for the patient. In this embodiment, a tooth mold is made and then a first U-groove 1020 is made using the mold.

  In another alternative embodiment, the first U-groove 1020 is made of a material that includes a bleaching composition. In a first configuration, the included bleaching material is activated by a substance applied to the patient's teeth before the lip device is applied to the patient. In the second configuration, the bleaching composition contained is activated by the dental patient's saliva. In this embodiment, the first U-groove is typically covered with a layer of material that protects the soft tissue of the patient. In the third configuration, the included bleaching composition is activated with light. In the fourth configuration, the bleaching composition is activated in the dark.

  FIG. 18 shows a lip device having a second U-shaped groove 1040 substantially perpendicular to the first U-shaped groove 1020 and a first U-shaped groove 1020 coupled to a third U-shaped groove 1060. Indicates. A tab 1080 is coupled to the first U-groove 1020 between the second and third U-grooves 1040, 1060. Tab 1080 is useful for positioning lip device 1000 within the oral cavity of a dental patient. Later, the tab 1080 is effective to remove the lip device 1000 from the oral cavity of the dental patient after completion of the bleaching process.

  FIG. 19 is an alternative embodiment of a lip device in accordance with the principles of the present invention. The lip device 150 has a lower jaw U-shaped groove 152 and an upper jaw U-shaped groove 154. The mandibular U-groove 152 is shaped and structured to accept a patient's lower set of teeth (not shown), and the upper jaw U-groove 154 is the patient's upper set of teeth (see FIG. It has a shape and structure that accepts (not shown). Lower jaw U-groove 152 and upper jaw U-groove 154 are both adapted to receive a treatment material such as a bleaching compound. The lip device 150 further includes a first lip device groove 156 and a second lip device groove 158 that attach substantially vertically to the lower jaw U-shaped groove 152 and the upper jaw U-shaped groove 154. It is done. The lower U-shaped groove 152 and the upper U-shaped groove 154 have a first U-shaped lip device groove 156 and a second U-shaped lip device groove 158 in a spatially fixed relationship relative to each other. To support. The first and second U-shaped lip device grooves 156, 158 are shaped and configured to receive a dental patient's lips.

  In use, the lower jaw U-groove 152 and the upper jaw U-groove 154 each receive a bleaching composition. Lower jaw U-groove 152 and upper jaw U-groove 154 are fitted over the patient's teeth such that a treatment compound such as a bleaching compound is in contact with the patient's teeth. The patient's lips are received in first and second U-shaped lip device grooves 156,158. Using the lip device of the present invention, a dental process such as a bleaching process is effectively performed on the lower and upper teeth simultaneously, reducing the overall duration of work.

  FIG. 20 illustrates the assembly relationship between the interengagement arrangements of the light system 1102, the light guide 1120, and the lip device 1122, according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, a structure such as a pivot mount 906 couples another structure such as a ball joint 902 to the lamp head 1102. Ball joint 902 allows lamp head 1102 to pivot in space such that the optical axis of the lamp system is aligned with the target teeth of the patient to be bleached, for example.

  The light guide 1120 has at least one structure adapted to couple to the front end of the lamp head 1102 by another structure. In one embodiment, the light guide 1120 includes an inner surface region 1122 adapted to be held near the outer surface region 1124 of the lamp head 1102. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a protruding member on the inner surface 1122 or a structure such as a protrusion is adapted to be pushed into a structure such as a recessed area 1126 in the outer surface area 1124.

  In one embodiment of the invention, the light guide 1120 has an elastically compressible cushion 1128 at its front edge. The elastically compressible cushion 1128 helps soften the boundary between the patient (not shown) and the light guide 1120 during the tooth bleaching process.

  In a further aspect of the invention, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the light guide 1120 has a structure such as first and second slots 1130 and 1132. These slots are adapted to accept structures such as protruding wing members 1134, 1136 of the lip device 1138, for example, to stabilize the relationship between the tooth bleach patient and the lamp head 1102.

  The lip device 1138 has grooves 1140, 1142 and an elastic member 1144 adapted to support the lips of a tooth bleach patient during a bleaching or other dental procedure. A resilient or rubber member 1144 is coupled to the grooves 1140, 1142 and is adapted to push the grooves outwardly toward the lips so as to couple the patient performing the dental procedure to the lip device. .

  When the patient is coupled to the lip device 1138 and the lip device is coupled to the light guide 1120 by inserting the wings 1134, 1136 into the respective slots 1130, 1132 of the light guide 1120, the patient , Spatially stabilized with respect to the lamp head 1102. Thus, the support structure functions to support the lamp head in a substantially stable spatial relationship, for example to the patient to be bleached.

  As discussed above, this spatially stabilized relationship between the patient and the support structure can be seen in connection with various devices and processes in other embodiments of the invention.

  According to another embodiment of the present invention, the light guide 1120 is adapted to one or more ventilation holes (i.e. adapted to allow the patient to breathe more easily during use of the light guide device). (Not shown).

  In one embodiment, the elastic compressible member 1128 is made of, for example, a polymer foam or rubber and is attached to the light guide 1120 by heat sealing or gluing. Suitable adhesives can include, but are not limited to, hot melt adhesives, pressure sensitive adhesives, chemically reactive adhesives, and the like. Alternatively, a suitable adhesive may be an acrylic substrate, polyurethane substrate, epoxy substrate, polyamide substrate, cyanoacrylate substrate, styrene copolymer substrate, polyolefin substrate, or the like. Furthermore, a plurality of pieces of elastic compressible members 1128, such as 1128a and 1128b, are integrally formed with the light guide.

  In this embodiment, the elastic member 1128 acting as a cushion is made of two parts, an upper portion 1128a and a lower portion 1128b, and a light guide slot 1130 for receiving a wing member of a typical lip device. , 1132 are stretched.

  The light guide elastic cushion member 1128 or the lip device elastic member 1144 may be any foam material, either open or closed cells, including the materials described above, useful for pads for lip devices. But you can make it.

  The air vents are formed to allow air to pass but still prevent light leakage from the light guide 1120.

  According to one embodiment of the present invention, a light guide 1120 as shown in FIG. 20 is configured as a single-use product and is used and discarded for a single tooth bleaching procedure. With this in mind, as described above, the light guide 1120 further includes a memory integrated circuit 2120 disposed in a space 2040 formed in the lower portion of the light guide 1120. As shown in FIG. 25, the memory integrated circuit 2120 stores a record of the period of use signal that represents the time that a particular light guide has been used. The light guide memory integrated circuit 2120 is part of a system that ensures that the light guide 1120 is not improperly reused. The light guide 1120 is formed to be an article to be used for one patient by having an embedded memory chip.

  FIG. 21 illustrates one embodiment of a tooth bleaching system, for example, suitable for use with one embodiment of the present invention. The perspective view of the bleaching lamp system 300 includes a lamp head 302 having a lamp head housing 304 and a light guide 306. The lamp head 302 provides light that activates the bleaching or filling material applied to the patient's teeth by generating light at the lamp head housing 304 and directing the light through the light guide 306. The lamp system 300 is used in a dental clinic or a dental training room.

  The lamp housing may also include at least one heat sink in the vicinity of the light source to keep the light source and the lamp housing cool. The heat sink is made of any material with good thermal conductivity, including a metal block such as copper or aluminum. In other embodiments, the cooling system includes a heat pipe. In another embodiment, the cooling system includes a phase change material, and some embodiments and materials are described in US application Ser. No. 60 / 585,224 “Dental Light Devices With Phase Change Material, filed Jul. 2, 2004. Illustrated as described in “Filled Heat Sink”, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

  The heat sink is made by hollowing a thermally conductive material such as metal, and at least one phase change material is at least partially filled with the space and the lid is closed to ensure that the phase change material is enclosed inside. The at least one phase change material is substantially encased or surrounded by a thermally conductive material, such as a metal as commonly used in conventional heat sink manufacture.

  Alternatively, the heat sink is cast or machined with a thermally conductive material such as metal to create a wall that surrounds the hole or space. The hole or space is partially filled with at least one phase change material and capped to ensure that the material remains inside.

  In some embodiments, the inventive heat sink is used alone. In other embodiments, it is used in addition to a fan, or used with a conventional metal block heat sink, or a combination thereof.

Suitable phase change materials include organics, non-organics, and combinations thereof. These materials are capable of undergoing an essentially reversible phase change, and can typically be performed many times without losing their effectiveness, if not permanently. Organic phase change materials include paraffin wax, 2,2 dimethyl-n-docosane (C ₂₄ H ₅₀ ), trimyristin ((C ₁₃ H ₂ 7COO) ₃ C ₃ H ₃ ), 1,3 methyl pentacosane (C ₂₆ H ₅₄ ). Disodium phosphate · dodecahydrate _{(Na 2 HPO 4 -12H 2 O} ), sodium sulfate decahydrate _{(Na 2 SO 4 -10H 2 O} ), iron chloride hexahydrate (FeCl ₃ -6H ₂ O), TH29 (a hydrated salt with a melting point of 29 ° C., available from TEAP Energy, Wangara, Australia) Metal alloys such as those available from the company are also considered. A typical material is a material that is solid at ambient temperature and has a melting point between about 30 ° C. and 50 ° C., for example, between about 35 ° C. and 45 ° C. Also, typical materials have a high specific heat, such as at least about 1.7, and by way of example at least about 1.9, when they are at ambient temperature. Furthermore, they have a specific heat of at least 1.5, and by way of example 1.6 when they are under elevated temperature.

  Phase change materials also have a high level of latent heat of fusion that accumulates a very large amount of heat energy. The latent heat of fusion is, for example, at least about 30 kJ / kg, and further illustratively at least about 200 kJ / kg.

  The thermal conductivity of a material is one factor for determining the heat transfer rate from a thermally conductive housing to a phase change material and vice versa. For example, the thermal conductivity of the phase change material is at least about 0.5 W / m ° C at ambient temperature and at least about 0.45 W / m ° C at elevated temperature.

  Generally, the phase change material is housed in a thermally conductive material such as a metal casing. The casing may be of any shape, but defines a hole with, for example, a round or square cross section. The perforated metal casing or wall serves to house the phase change material and also assists in transferring heat to and from the phase change material. For a certain size of the heat sink, the thinner the wall, the more phase change material can be present, and for example the contribution to the weight of the curing light is less. However, the thinner the wall, the less effective it is to conduct heat away from the phase change material, and the longer it takes for the phase change material to return to ambient temperature and return to its initial state and function as a heat sink. For example, for balance of properties, the wall thickness is typically about 1 mm to about 2.5 mm, and further illustratively about 1 mm to about 1.5 mm.

  The casing is also made to have a large surface area. For example, a structure with fins or other shapes on its outer surface is desirable for increasing surface area due to heat conduction or convection, and thus, while effective, a spherical structure is by no means the best choice. . Such fins, or other structures that increase the surface, are also incorporated into the holes, increasing the contact area between the thermally conductive casing and the phase change material, and thus with the thermally conductive casing. Enables faster and more effective heat transfer between phase change materials.

  Also, the thermally conductive casing can provide good thermal contact for heat transfer from the light source. This is achieved by a smooth thermally conductive surface with a wide contact surface. Also, thermal bonding is achieved by a thermally conductive interface material such as a thermal epoxy or other thermally conductive adhesive. An electrically insulating interfacial material is also useful for electrically isolating the light source and heat sink without losing thermal conductivity.

  The lamp head 302 is attached to the first end of the horizontal bar 308. The lamp head 302 can be positioned with respect to the horizontal bar 308 and has a wide range of motion with respect to the end of the horizontal bar 308. The horizontal bar 308 is supported by the main pillar 310. In the illustrated embodiment, the horizontal bar 308 is pivotally attached to the main column 310 at a point on the horizontal bar 308 that is closer to the second end of the horizontal bar 308 than the lamp head housing 304.

  The horizontal bar 308 can be adjustably positioned with respect to the main column 310. The horizontal bar 308 has a range of movement of both rotation and inclination with respect to the main column 310. The counterweight 322 at the second end of the horizontal bar 308 provides an equilibrium balance for the lamp head 302. The main pillar 310 is attached to the base 312. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 312 is a rotating base.

  A rotating base 312 enables the entire lamp system 300 to be positioned relative to the dental chair. In addition, the main column 310 in other embodiments of the present invention is rotatable about an axis relative to the base 312. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the main column 310 depicts a curvature, which in turn defines a concave side 324 and a convex side 326 of the main column 310. In the illustrated embodiment, a power pack 314 is attached to the convex side 326 of the main column 310. The power pack 314 has a controller for the lamp system 300.

  During the procedure, the ramp system 300 is positioned relative to a patient (not shown) in a dental chair. Once the lamp system 300 is positioned with respect to the patient, the operator aligns the light guide 306 with the patient's oral cavity as described above. In an alternative embodiment, the light guide 306 is an integral part of the lamp head 302.

  The light guide 306 can be set at a wide position through a wide movement of the horizontal bar 308 with respect to the main column 310 and the lamp head 302 with respect to the horizontal bar 308. The light guide 306 has a shape and a structure to engage with a lip device such as a lip device worn on a patient shown in FIG. 16 using an interface wing.

  FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the lamp head 302 of FIG. 21 suitable for use with the present invention. The lamp head 302 includes the lamp head housing 304 and the light guide 306 as described above. The lamp head housing 304 generates light and directs the light through the light guide 306. In this embodiment, the lamp head housing 304 generates light using a light source such as a light bulb. Other types of light sources including lamps, arc lamps such as halogen light sources, semiconductor light emitting devices, LEDs, solid state LEDs, light emitting elements such as LED arrays, fluorescent bulbs, and the like may be within the scope of the present invention. For dental imaging, light sources include those mentioned above in addition to laser, x-ray, or infrared light sources. The light guide 306 functions as an interface between the lamp system 300 and a patient performing a dental bleaching procedure, for example.

  According to one embodiment of the invention, light guide 306 acts as an interface between lamp system 300 and a patient undergoing a dental bleaching procedure. The structure of the light guide 306 includes a UV protection material to protect the patient's skin from exposure to ultraviolet light. The light guide 306 has an approximately ellipsoidal shape. As shown in FIG. 23, the first slot 336 and the second slot 338 on the opposite side of the front opening 342 of the light guide 306 are aligned with the interface wings 202, 204 on the lip device 200, and the lamp head 302 is accurately aligned with the patient.

  In other embodiments, multiple light sources arranged in a geometric arrangement within the illumination frame are used in the illumination system. In one embodiment, the light sources are arranged in an arc and fit, for example, to the patient's jaw as shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 24, the illumination frame 105 is shaped to provide illumination to the teeth in an arc shape. The arc shape is along the curve of the person's jaw (and the person's head) so that the light source is approximately equidistant from the various teeth to which the light is directed. The lighting frame 105 has a front side 225 and a rear side 230. The front side 225 is concave and the back side 230 is convex. A tube 115 is attached to the rear side 230 of the illumination frame 105. Tube 115 supports lighting frame 105 and also acts as a conduit for wiring to lighting frame 105. A plurality of light sources 235 are arranged along the front side 225 of the illumination frame 105. The light source can be any of those described above, but is not limited thereto. The light source 235 generates light and directs it toward the patient's teeth (not shown), for example for a bleaching or curing process. In the first embodiment, all light sources 235 emit light having substantially the same spectrum. In the second embodiment, the light source 235 emits light of a different spectrum. In one embodiment of the present invention, the light source 235 protrudes from the front surface 225 of the illumination frame. In an alternative embodiment, the light source 235 is disposed substantially planar with the front surface 225 of the illumination frame.

  In an illumination system having a plurality of light sources, the light sources are driven together or individually. When individually driven, individual light sources are turned on and off separately as needed. This is particularly useful when treating or examining only one or two teeth.

  In one aspect, the illumination frame 225 is disposed within the light guide housing, as shown in FIG. As described, and as shown above in FIG. 20, an elastic member 1128 is disposed between the patient and the light guide 1120. The elastic member 1128 functions to soften the patient-lightguide boundary and absorbs shocks that would otherwise be painful or uncomfortable.

  The light guide 1120 engages the lip device 1138 as described with respect to FIG.

  In other embodiments, the lighting frame is placed in place in the lamp head housing as an interior structure, as shown in FIGS. In FIG. 26, the illumination frame 105 has a substantially arched shape having a first end 500 and a second end 505. The rear side 230 of the illumination frame 105 is also convex, and the front side of the illumination frame 105 is concave. Both end portions 500 and 505 have slots 510 and 515 that open from the front side 225 of the illumination frame 105 toward the rear side of the illumination frame 105. Each slot 510, 515 extends inwardly from each end 500, 505 of the illumination frame 105. The slots 510, 515 are arranged and configured to engage the wing member of the lip device as described above.

  FIG. 25a shows a top view of lighting frame 105 including a heat sink, according to one embodiment of the present invention. The lighting frame 105 has a plurality of light sources 235 having a heat sink 650 coupled to its bottom (or base). The heat sink 650 is made of any of the materials described above, including phase change materials. The heat sink can also have any shape.

  FIG. 28 shows a top view of a lip device 350 engaged with a lighting frame 105, according to one embodiment of the present invention. The lip device 350 acts as a fixation device that maintains the illumination frame 105 in a substantially fixed relationship to the patient's teeth. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the lip device 350 has first and second U-grooves 355, 360 that are adapted to receive the dental patient's lips near their respective inner surfaces 365, 370. ing.

  Elastic or supporting members 375 are coupled to the U-grooves 355, 360 and are adapted to hold the U-grooves 355, 360 in a substantially fixed spatial relationship relative to each other. According to one embodiment of the present invention (not shown), the support member 375 also supports a tongue cup adapted to hold the patient's tongue and shield it from incident illumination light.

  According to one embodiment of the present invention, a set of interface wings 380, 385 are coupled to U-grooves 355, 360, respectively. According to one embodiment of the present invention, each interface wing 380, 385 has an upper surface 390, 395, respectively, and a lower surface (not shown). According to one embodiment of the present invention, the upper surfaces 390 and 395 are provided substantially parallel to the lower surface. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, interface wings 380 and 385 each have a first plurality of landmarks or holes. The landmarks or holes are adapted to facilitate specific alignment of the lighting frame (as shown in FIG. 26) relative to the lip device 350, as described above.

  According to one embodiment of the present invention, interface wings 380 and 385 are adapted to be received in slots 310 and 315, respectively (as shown in FIG. 28). By pushing the lip device 350 toward the first end 500 and the second end 505 of the lighting frame 105, the interface wings 380, 385 are pushed into the slots 510, 515, thereby opening the lips against the 105. The direction and position of the device 350 is substantially fixed. As a result, the patient's lips are brought to an extent that helps to effectively couple the patient's head and teeth in a fixed relationship to the lip device 350 so that the target teeth are in front of the illumination frame 105. It is maintained in a substantially fixed position with respect to the light source disposed in the portion 225.

  During operation, the support member 375 is placed in the patient's oral cavity. The patient's lips are held apart by U-grooves 355, 360. The interface wings 380, 385 are pushed into slots in the illumination frame 105 (not shown here but shown as 510, 515 in FIG. 26) to effectively hold the illumination frame 105 in a location near the patient's teeth. To do. In addition, the holes 410, 415 allow the lighting frame 105 to be adjusted and engaged with the lip device 350 for each patient. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the lighting frame 105 and the lip device 350 are fixedly attached to each other. The lighting frame in this embodiment is juxtaposed substantially as one integral part of the lip device.

  In a further aspect, an illumination frame is added to the lamp head housing, as shown in FIG. The dental lighting system 100 ′ includes an illumination frame 105 that is coupled to a lamp head 110 ′ by a tube 1115. The lighting frame 105 provides light that activates a bleaching or curing compound that is applied to the patient's teeth 120. The patient typically wears the lip device 350. Together, the illumination frame 105 and the lamp head 110 'generate light and direct the light toward the patient's teeth 120, for example for a bleaching or curing process. In an alternative embodiment, the illumination frame 105 and tube 115 are adjustable relative to the lamp head 110 '. In other alternative embodiments, the tube 115 is flexible and can be adjusted to various positions. In other embodiments, the illumination frame 110 'is flexible.

  In an illumination system with multiple light sources, the light sources are driven together or individually. When individually driven, individual light sources are turned on and off separately as needed. This is particularly useful when treating or examining only one or two teeth.

  FIG. 28a shows a dental lighting frame according to another embodiment of the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment, the dental illumination source is a tooth bleaching light source, a dental composite curing light source, or an imaging head. In the illustrated embodiment, a ball joint 902 is coupled to the light housing 1150. The light housing 1150 has a first extension portion 1152 having a ball and a ball of joint socket at its rear end. In the illustrated embodiment, the front end of the housing 1150 has an arcuate surface 1154.

  The arcuate surface 1154 supports one or more illumination light sources 1156. In one embodiment of the present invention, the one or more illumination sources 1156 are described in US Patent Application No. 60 / 658,517, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Including one or more optical fibers and / or one or more optical wavelength converters.

  In the illustrated embodiment, a signal cable 1170 is coupled to one end of the light housing. The signal cable may comprise a power cable adapted to send power to one or more illumination sources 1156. The signal cable may also include an optical light guide such as an optical fiber adapted to send light from a remote light source to one or more illumination sources. In at least one embodiment of the present invention, the signal cable 1170 has a distortion preventing structure 1172.

  To illustrate another aspect of the present invention, the embodiment of FIG. 28a shows first and second slots 1162, 1164. The slots 1162, 1164 are adapted to receive corresponding wing members 1134, 1136 of the lip device 1138, as shown in FIG. 28b.

  FIG. 28b shows the illumination frame 105 fitted to the lip device worn by the dental treatment patient. By inserting wing members 1134 and 1136 into slots 1162 and 1164, the spatial positional relationship between the patient and one or more illumination sources 1156 is stabilized.

  FIG. 28c shows a front view of the lip device 350 of FIG. 11a worn by a person. Interface wings 111 are located on either side of the lip device 350 and are ready to engage an imaging head such as the light source 102 as shown in FIG.

  In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the lip device includes at least one non-interengaging structure. The non-interengaging structure may include a film holder. The device may also include at least one engagement structure, such as a winged member, for repeatably positioning the light source or imaging source to the patient undergoing the dental procedure.

  FIG. 29 illustrates a lip device 550 according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. The lip device 550 has a first U-shaped groove 552 and a second U-shaped groove 554 that hold the patient's lips whose teeth are imaged. Support members 556 are coupled to the U-grooves 552, 554 and are adapted to support the U-grooves 552, 554 in a substantially fixed spatial relationship relative to each other. A first end 558 of the first interface wing 562 is coupled to the first U-shaped groove 552. The first end 560 of the second interface wing 564 is coupled to the second U-groove 554.

  The interface wings 562, 564 each have a first portion 566, 568 located at the front of the lip device 550 and away from the patient. A second portion 570, 572 of each of the interface wings 562, 564 extends outwardly from the lip device 550. During operation, each first part 566, 568 is located in front of the patient's face, while each second part 570, 572 is located beside the patient's face. Interface wings 562 and 564 are adapted to be received in slots 236 and 238 of beam guide 106. The first portions 566, 568 allow the beam guide 106 to be aligned in front of the patient. Second portions 570, 572 of interface wings 562, 564 allow beam guide 106 and imaging head 102 to be aligned to either side of the patient's head.

  FIG. 29a shows a lip device according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. The lip device 600 has a first U-shaped groove 602 and a second U-shaped groove 604 that hold the patient's lips whose teeth are photographed. An elastic or supporting member 606 is coupled to the U-grooves 602, 604 and is adapted to support the U-grooves 602, 604 in a substantially fixed spatial relationship with each other. A first end 608 of the first interface wing 612 is coupled to the first U-shaped groove 602. The first end 610 of the second interface wing 614 is coupled to the second U-shaped groove 604. Each interface wing 612, 614 is adapted to be received within a slot 236, 238 of the beam guide 106. Targets 616, 618 are coupled to first intermediate wing member 612 and second ends 620, 622 of second intermediate wing member 614, respectively. Each target 616, 618 has an alignment mark 624. In operation, the targets 616, 618 function as a visual adjustment mechanism of the imaging head 102 for a side image of the patient's teeth.

  FIG. 29b shows a lip device 6500 according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. The lip device 6500 has a first U-groove 6520 and a second U-groove 6540 that hold the patient's lips whose teeth are to be imaged. A resilient or supporting member 6560 is coupled to the U-grooves 6520, 6540 and is adapted to support the U-grooves 6520, 6540 in a substantially fixed spatial relationship relative to each other.

  A first end 658 of the first interface wing 6620 is coupled to the first U-shaped groove 6520. The first end 6600 of the second interface wing 664 is coupled to the second U-groove 6540. The interface wings 6620, 6640 each have a first portion 6660, 6680 located at the front of the lip device 6500 and away from the patient. A second portion 5700, 5720 of each of the interface wings 6620, 6640 extends outwardly from the lip device 6500. During operation, each first portion 6660, 6680 is located in front of the patient's face, while each second portion 6700, 6720 is located beside the patient's face. Each interface wing 6620, 6640 is adapted to be received within a slot 236, 238 of the beam guide 106. The first portions 6660, 6680 allow the beam guide 106 to be aligned in front of the patient. Second portions 6700, 6720 of interface wings 6620, 6640 allow beam guide 106 and imaging head 102 to be aligned to either side of the patient's head.

  Targets 6740 and 6760 are coupled to first intermediate wing member 6620 and second portion 6700 and 6720 of second intermediate wing member 6640, respectively. Each target 6740, 6760 has a visual alignment mark 6740. In operation, the targets 6740 and 6760 function as a visual adjustment mechanism of the imaging head 102 for side images of the patient's teeth.

  FIG. 29c shows a lip device 7000 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The lip device 7000 is also a fixation device for holding the imaging head 1102 (as shown in FIG. 20) in a substantially fixed positional relationship with respect to the target tooth. Furthermore, the lip device 7000 holds the film in the patient's teeth in such a way that the patient does not actively participate in its holding.

  For example, when photographing with a wing member, the patient chews a part of the film holder in order to hold the photographing film in an appropriate position. For people with weak muscle control, it may be difficult to bite even in a short time. The film holder attached to the lip device 7000 as described below does not require the patient to actively participate to hold the film in place.

  As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the lip device 7000 has first and second semicircular U-grooves 7040 and 7060 adapted to receive the dental patient's lips as described above in FIG. 11a. . Support members 7080 are coupled to U-grooves 7040, 7060 and are adapted to support U-grooves 7040, 7060 in a substantially fixed spatial relationship relative to each other. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a set of interface wings 7100, 7120 are coupled to U-grooves 7040, 7060, respectively. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, interface wings 7100, 7120 are adapted to be received in slots 1130 and 1132, respectively (as shown in FIG. 20).

  The support member 7080 has a shape and a structure that supports the film holder 7020. In one example, the film holder 7020 is an integral part of the lip device 7000. In an alternative embodiment, film holder 7020 is detachably coupled to lip device 7000. When the lip device 7000 is held in place by the patient's lip being in the U-shaped groove 7040, the film in the film holder 7020 is also held in place. The lip device 7000 is symmetric, so the film holder can be placed on either side of the central portion 7140 of the support member 7080. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, support member 7080 is configured to support two film holders, one on each side of support member central portion 7140. In this embodiment, the front portion 7160 of the film holder 7020 transmits X-rays and the rear portion 7180 of the film holder 7020 blocks X-rays. In the first combination, the front portion 7160 of the film holder 7020 is made of a radiolucent material and the rear portion 7180 of the film holder 7020 is made of a material that blocks x-rays. In the second combination, a back plate for blocking X-rays is inserted behind the film in the film holder 7020.

  FIG. 29d shows a lip device 7500 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The lip device 7500 is also a fixation device for maintaining the imaging head 102 in a substantially fixed relationship with respect to the target tooth. In addition, the lip device 7500 improves access to the patient's oral cavity so that the film can be easily inserted and removed to take a series of images.

  As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the lip device 7500 has first and second semi-circular U-grooves 7520, 7540 adapted to receive the dental patient's lips. A first support member 7560 is coupled to the first ends 7580, 7600 of the U-shaped grooves 7520, 7540. The second support member 7620 is coupled to the second ends 7640, 7660 of the U-shaped grooves 7520, 7540. Support members 7560, 7620 are adapted to support U-grooves 7520, 7540 in a substantially fixed spatial positional relationship with each other. Support members 7560, 7620 leave space between them so that film for imaging purposes can be inserted into the patient's mouth, while U-grooves 7520, 7540 exclude the patient's lips. Hold. In this embodiment of the invention, a set of interface wings 7680, 7700 are coupled to U-grooves 7520, 7540. The interface wings 7680, 7700 are adapted to be received in slots 1140, 1160, respectively, of the beam guide 1000 (shown in FIG. 11c) where the imaging head 102 is positioned in front of the patient. In an alternative embodiment, the interface wings 7680, 7700 are extended as in the embodiment shown in FIG. The extending interface wing allows the imaging head to be placed on either side of the patient's head.

  FIG. 29e is an alternative embodiment of FIG. 29c, which includes only non-interengaging structures for placing photographic film or sensors for photographing.

  FIG. 30 shows an imaging support stand 800 suitable for use with certain imaging devices, such as stereoscopic X-ray devices. The patient to be imaged remains in position with respect to the support stand 800 and an imaging device (not shown) moves around the patient's head. The support stand 800 has a coupling device 802 that allows the patient to maintain its position.

  The coupling device 802 is attached to the photographing support stand 800 by a support member 808. The support member 808 is coupled to the coupling device 802 and the imaging support stand 800. In one embodiment, the support member 808 is adjustably coupled to the support stand 800 by a ball and socket joint that allows the desired positioning of the coupling member.

  The coupling device 802 is similar to a slotted beam guide, for example as shown in FIG. 11c. The coupling device 802 is shaped and configured to engage a lip device having an interface wing, such as a lip device 350 having an interface wing 111 as shown in FIG. 11a. The coupling device 802 has a first slot 804 and a second slot 806 adapted to couple with the interface wing 111. By pushing the lip device 350 toward the leading edge of the coupling device 802, the interface wing 111 is pushed into the slots 804, 806, thereby substantially fixing the direction and position of the lip device 350. Thus, the direction and position of the patient's head is also fixed.

  FIG. 30a illustrates another embodiment of the present invention that includes a dental support structure 100 adapted to support a dental radiography fixation system 1230. FIG. In the illustrated embodiment, a ball joint 1232 is coupled to the support member 1232. The support member 1232 has an elongated portion 1234 with the ball of the ball and socket joint 902 at its rear end. The tip of the support member 1232 has first and second wing member coupling members 1236 and 1238 in the illustrated embodiment. Each wing member coupling member 1236, 1238 has a respective slot 1240, 1242. Slots 1240 and 1242 are adapted to receive corresponding wing members 1244 and 1246 of lip device 1248.

  Spatial positional relationship between the patient and one or more x-ray sources by inserting wing members 1244 and 1246 into slots 1240 and 1242 when the lip device 1248 is worn by a dental patient. Can be stabilized.

  According to one embodiment of the invention, as shown, the lip device 1248 includes first and second biting members 1250, 1252. Each biting member 1250, 1252 has one or more film support clips 1253 each adapted to support a respective x-ray film package.

  During operation, at least one x-ray film package is coupled to one or more support clips 1253. As is known to those skilled in the art, an x-ray film package includes a chemical x-ray film sheet encapsulated in a light shielded package. The lip device 1248 is coupled with the dental x-ray patient by placing the patient's lips in the lip receiving groove of the lip device 1248. The patient bites down the chewing member to ensure a more stable spatial positional relationship of the lip device with respect to the patient's teeth. The lip device 1248 is stabilized relative to the dental support structure 100 by inserting the wing members 1244 and 12446 into the slots 1240 and 1242. This helps stabilize the patient's teeth and x-ray film package 1256 relative to the floor and thus the x-ray source. As a result, the well-known tendency of x-ray patients to move during x-ray film exposure and non-uniform film exposure is reduced.

  FIG. 30b shows a further embodiment of the present invention that includes a dental support structure 100 adapted to support a dental radiography fixation system 1230. FIG.

  Unlike the embodiment of FIG. 30a, the embodiment of FIG. 30b includes electronic x-ray sensors 1280, 1282 that couple to the biting members 1250, 1252, respectively. Electronic image sensors tend to be more sensitive than chemical films, do not require a chemical development step, and the digital images produced by most electronic image sensors are readily digitally manipulated, so X-ray detection and photographing using an electronic image sensor may be used in place of a simple film.

  In one embodiment of the invention, each electronic image sensor has a respective signal cable with a removable plug.

  As mentioned above, the spatially stable positional relationship between the patient and the support structure of the present invention can be seen for various devices and processes in other embodiments of the present invention.

  The use of the light guide of the present invention helps to reduce air circulation between the patient's oral cavity and the surrounding area. If there is less air circulation in the oral cavity, there will be less occurrence of any treatment or bleaching material and less dry mouth. Without waiting for theoretical considerations, it is assumed that drying increases sensitivity, so less oral dryness results in less tooth dryness, thus reducing tooth sensitivity during and after treatment. Thus, for example, using a light guide during the bleaching process can be effective.

  While exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described with some specificity, the description and figures set forth herein are not intended to be limiting and those skilled in the art will recognize from the scope of the present invention. Without departing, it will be understood that various modifications can be made to the embodiments described herein, and all such modifications and improvements are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Various changes to the lip device, such as making different dimensions, using different materials, making the lip device opaque, translucent, transparent, colored, having a textile-like finish, etc. good. For example, instead of making the lip device by single step injection molding, it is possible to make the lip device by welding various components together, or using multiple molding steps. The four groove holding members can also have two holding cups at the two ends of the upper lip and the other two holding cups at the two ends of the lower lip. This alternative lip device may also incorporate a tongue holder or not. Accordingly, many alternatives and modifications by those skilled in the art are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

FIG. 1 depicts a schematic perspective view of a lip device provided by one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1a depicts a schematic perspective view of a lip device provided by another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1b depicts a schematic perspective view of a lip device provided by one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 depicts a schematic bottom view of the lip device of FIG. 1a fitted into a device such as an exit port, light guide, imaging device, light source, or inspection cone. FIG. 3 depicts a schematic diagram of a bottom view of the lip device of FIG. FIG. 4 depicts a schematic side view of the lip device of FIG. 1 along line AA of FIG. FIG. 5 depicts a schematic top view of the lip device of FIG. FIG. 6 depicts a schematic side view of the lip device of FIG. 4 along line BB of FIG. FIG. 7 depicts a schematic side view of the lip device of FIG. 5 along line CC in FIG. FIG. 8 depicts a schematic perspective view of another lip device provided by another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 depicts a schematic front view of the lip device of FIG. 1 as worn by the user / patient. FIG. 10 depicts a schematic front view of the lip device of FIG. 8 as worn by the user / patient. FIG. 10a depicts another substantial example of the lip device of FIG. 8 while working on a user / patient. FIG. 11 depicts a schematic top view of the lip device of FIG. 1a. FIG. 11a depicts a more detailed schematic diagram of a top view of the lip device of FIG. FIG. 11b shows a schematic bottom view of the lip device of FIG. 11a fitted in a light guide. FIG. 11c shows an embodiment of a light guide according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 depicts a schematic side view of the lip device of FIG. FIG. 13 depicts a schematic side view of a light guide having a slot. 14 depicts a schematic side view of the lip device of FIG. 11 with a pad attached. FIG. 15 depicts a schematic top view of a shell-shaped pad. FIG. 16 depicts a perspective view of one embodiment of a lip device including a U-shaped groove member. FIG. 16a depicts a rear view of the embodiment of FIG. FIG. 17 depicts a perspective view of one embodiment of a lip device including a U-groove member. FIG. 18 depicts a perspective view of one embodiment of a lip device including a U-groove member having a tab. FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of a lip device that accepts both an upper set and a lower set of teeth, according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 20 shows a development view of a combination of a lip device, a light guide and a lamp. FIG. 21 shows a perspective view of a dental lighting system suitable for use in embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 22 shows a perspective view of a lamp head of a dental lighting system. FIG. 23 shows a top view of the lip device of FIG. 16 engaging a light guide according to the principles of the present invention. FIG. 24 shows a perspective view of a dental lighting frame of the dental lighting system of the present invention. FIG. 25 shows an exploded perspective view of a light guide having a flexible cushion and an illumination frame, according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 25a shows an embodiment of an illumination frame with a heat sink. FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the illumination frame of the present invention. FIG. 27 shows a perspective view of a tooth bleaching or curing lamp, according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 28 shows a top view of a lighting frame engaged with a lip device, according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 28a shows an illumination frame having a structure according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 28b shows another embodiment of a lighting frame that engages a lip device, according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 28c depicts a schematic front view of an exemplary lip device coupled to a patient / user, according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 29 shows a perspective view of a lip device having an elongated wing member, according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 29a shows a perspective view of a lip device including a target, according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 29b shows a perspective view of a lip device having an elongated wing member and a target, according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 29c shows a perspective view of a lip device having a film holder, according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 29d shows a perspective view of another configuration of a lip device. FIG. 29e shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the lip device. FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a fixed stand for photographing according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 30a shows an embodiment of the present invention including a dental support structure and a dental radiography fixation system. FIG. 30b shows another embodiment of the present invention including a dental support structure and a dental radiography fixation system.

Claims (34)

  An opening device that pushes at least a portion of a user's mouth including a structure adapted to repeatably position at least a portion of a patient's mouth with respect to a dental system.   The aperture of claim 1, wherein the dental system comprises a light system, a light guide, an imaging system, a dental treatment composition, an imaging system, a device adapted for suction, or a combination thereof. device.   Opening device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the structure comprises mutual engagement, non-interengagement, or a combination thereof.   The device comprises at least two channel-shaped retainers or flanges, each of which is attached to the groove, an inner sidewall, an outer sidewall, and the inner sidewalls of two adjacent channel-shaped retainers. The opening device according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that it comprises at least one elastic member.   The opening device according to claim 1, wherein the structure includes a wing-shaped member.   The opening device according to claim 3, 4 or 5, wherein at least one of the elastic members is integrally formed on the inner side wall of the two adjacent groove-shaped holders.   The opening device according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein at least one of the wing-like members is formed integrally with a groove-shaped holder.   The device comprises at least four channel-shaped retainers or flanges, each on the channel, the inner side wall, the outer side wall, and the two outer side walls of each two adjacent channel-shaped retainers. Opening device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises four elastic members molded or attached in one piece.   An opening device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the structure comprises a U-shaped groove configured to receive at least one set of patient teeth.   The opening device according to claim 9, wherein the at least one U-shaped groove supports the at least one groove-shaped retainer in a spatial positional relationship substantially fixed to each other.   9. An aperture device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the structure is adapted to accommodate a photographic film or sensor during shooting.   At least two channel-shaped retainers or flanges, each of which has a groove, an inner side wall, an outer side wall, and two adjacent ones for repeatably positioning the patient's teeth with respect to the treatment composition An opening device having at least one structure with at least one U-shaped groove attached to the inner side wall of a channel-shaped retainer.   The opening device according to any of claims 3 to 12, further comprising a structure for positioning the opening device relative to a dental system including a light system, a light guide, an imaging system, or a combination thereof.   The opening device according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the U-shaped groove includes a dental tray.   At least two channel holders or flanges each having a groove, an inner side wall, an outer side wall, and at least one elastic member attached to the inner side walls of two adjacent channel holders; An aperture device having at least one structure adapted to receive a photographic film or sensor therein.   16. An opening device according to claim 11 or 15, characterized in that the structure is coupled to a passive holding part adapted to provide alignment to at least one feature point of the tooth.   The opening device according to claim 1, 11, 15, or 16, characterized in that at least one of the structures has a passive holding part for fixing to the patient during dental imaging.   A preceding claim having a first alignment structure coupled to the passive holding portion, wherein the first alignment structure provides alignment to at least one feature point of the tooth The opening device according to any one of the items.   19. The aperture device of claim 18, further comprising a second alignment structure coupled to the imaging device structure at a substantially fixed position relative to the at least one feature point of the tooth.   One of the structures is a film holder adapted to place a film or an imaging sensor for photographing the at least one feature point of a tooth. 11. An aperture device according to any of 11 and 15-19.   The opening device according to claim 20, wherein the photographing film or the imaging sensor is formed integrally with the holder.   22. An opening device according to any of claims 3 to 7, and 9 to 21, wherein at least one of the structures comprises a winged member having an elongated portion.   23. The aperture device of claim 22, wherein the winged member is adapted to align the imaging system to either side of the patient's head.   The opening device according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising an alignment structure coupled to the imaging device in a substantially fixed position with respect to the at least one feature of the tooth.   At least one of the structures is adapted to be coupled to a target that acts as a visual alignment mechanism for a light system, an imaging system, or a light guide. Opening device.   18. An opening device according to any one of claims 3 to 17, characterized in that the opening device comprises at least two pads attached or molded to the elastic member.   Opening device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the structures comprises a knob that facilitates insertion and removal of the device.   An opening device according to any preceding claim, further comprising a tongue holder, wherein the tongue holder is molded or attached to at least one of the channel-shaped holders.   The at least one of said elastic members includes at least one structure adapted to engage at least one corresponding structure with a device adapted to suction a patient. 9. An opening device according to 8.   The opening device according to claim 30, characterized in that the apparatus comprises an air / gas aspirator or a suction tube.   32. The opening device according to claim 30 or 31, wherein the at least one structure of the apparatus includes a gripper.   32. The opening device according to claim 29, 30, or 31, wherein the at least one structure of the elastic member includes a protrusion or a recess.   Opening device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one elastic body has at least two wire-like parts joined by a pad.   14. An aperture device according to claim 2 or 13, characterized in that the light system comprises at least one heat sink comprising a phase change material.

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