WO2019043005A1 - Verrou orthodontique - Google Patents

Verrou orthodontique Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2019043005A1
WO2019043005A1 PCT/EP2018/073135 EP2018073135W WO2019043005A1 WO 2019043005 A1 WO2019043005 A1 WO 2019043005A1 EP 2018073135 W EP2018073135 W EP 2018073135W WO 2019043005 A1 WO2019043005 A1 WO 2019043005A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
bracket
connector
movable member
receiving portion
clip
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2018/073135
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Norbert Abels
Claus BACKES
Original Assignee
Norbert Abels
Backes Claus
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Norbert Abels, Backes Claus filed Critical Norbert Abels
Publication of WO2019043005A1 publication Critical patent/WO2019043005A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61C—DENTISTRY; APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR ORAL OR DENTAL HYGIENE
    • A61C7/00—Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
    • A61C7/12—Brackets; Arch wires; Combinations thereof; Accessories therefor
    • A61C7/14—Brackets; Fixing brackets to teeth
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61C—DENTISTRY; APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR ORAL OR DENTAL HYGIENE
    • A61C7/00—Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
    • A61C7/12—Brackets; Arch wires; Combinations thereof; Accessories therefor
    • A61C7/28—Securing arch wire to bracket
    • A61C7/287—Sliding locks

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an orthodontic or dental bracket, and in particular, though not exclusively, to a self-ligating bracket.
  • a typical method to adjust the position and/or alignment of a person's tooth or teeth is the use of orthodontic braces, also called dental braces.
  • Orthodontic braces typically consist of brackets, each bracket being attached to a respective tooth (usually bonded by an adhesive), and an archwire. Once the archwire is connected to adjacent brackets, the archwire puts pressure on the teeth on which the brackets are located, thus causing these teeth to change position and/or alignment over time.
  • Brackets may be of the conventional type, i.e, may be traditionally iigated with elastics or small wires, so-called twin brackets, or brackets may be self-ligating.
  • Effective ligation is important, as it ensures that forces generated between the archwire and the brackets are transmitted to the tooth.
  • brackets require the use of a ligating member, historically metal wire but nowadays more typically an elastic member such as a rubber band, to hold and secure the wire on each bracket.
  • Self-ligating brackets do not require the use of a separate ligating element such as an elastic or wire, but instead are designed to secure the archwire in position on the bracket.
  • Self-ligating brackets typically have a movable part (commonly called a clip) which, when closed, prevents the wire from being disconnected from the bracket.
  • a generally recognised advantage of self-ligating brackets over conventional brackets is that, due to the absence of an elastic ligature, oral hygiene is generally improved.
  • Self-ligating brackets can be of two different types according to their ligation mechanism: passive or active.
  • passive self-ligating bracket the clip, when closed, does not put any pressure on the wire
  • active self-ligating bracket the clip, when closed, presses on the wire.
  • a problem with existing self-ligating brackets is that attachment of the movable element (clip) to its respective bracket requires a securing mechanism, such as a spring, which, if faulty or damaged, may cause the clip to become detached from its bracket,
  • US 2016/0223217 A1 discloses an orthodontic self-ligating bracket in which a wire coupling device installed on a top surface of a second wing.
  • the device has a plate slidably coupled in an operating space of an adaptor.
  • an orthodontic bracket comprising:
  • bracket body having a receiving portion configured to receive a wire, the receiving portion having a length extending across the bracket body;
  • a movable member capable of moving between an open position in which the receiving portion is at least partially open, and a closed position in which the receiving portion is at least partially closed, wherein the movable member is configured to cover or extend over the length of the receiving portion in the closed position;
  • a connector configured to be attached to the bracket body, the movable member being movably mounted on the connector
  • the connector has guiding means to guide the movable member between the open position and the closed position.
  • the movable member may typically be configured to retain the archwire in the receiving portion, in a closed position.
  • the bracket body may have an upper portion and a lower portion.
  • the upper portion may be termed an occlusal portion and the lower portion may be termed a gingival portion, or the upper portion may be termed a gingival portion and the lower portion may be termed an occlusal portion.
  • the upper portion and the lower portion may be defined as the portion on opposite upper and lower ends in an occlusal-gingival direction, in use.
  • the bracket body may have a first portion and a second portion extending, e.g. along edges, between the upper and lower portions.
  • first portion and the second portion may be termed a mesial portion and a distal portion, respectively.
  • first portion and the second portion may be defined as the portion on opposite sides of the bracket body in a mesial-distal direction, in use.
  • the bracket body may have a front portion or front side configured to face away from a patient's tooth.
  • the front side of the bracket may face towards a facial side when the bracket is affixed on a facial side of a patient's tooth, or may face towards a lingual side when the bracket is affixed on a lingual side of a patient's tooth.
  • the bracket body may have a base having a contact surface configured to face towards and engage with a tooth.
  • the base may be integral with and/or may form part of the bracket body.
  • the base may be separate from the bracket body, and may be attachable to the bracket body.
  • the base e.g. contact surface, may be configured to be bonded to a tooth.
  • the base e.g. contact surface, may comprise a mesh pad or bonding material provided with an adhesive or adapted to receive an adhesive.
  • the receiving portion may define an elongate recess, groove, slot, or the like.
  • the receiving portion e.g. the length thereof, may extend across a width of the bracket body, e.g. from a distal side to a mesial side thereof.
  • the receiving portion may have an opening, e.g. on or facing towards a front side of the bracket.
  • the receiving portion e.g. recess, groove, or slot
  • the receiving portion may have or may define a width, which may typically extend in a gingival-occlusal direction, in use.
  • the receiving portion e.g. recess, groove, or slot, may have or may define a depth, which may typically extend in a facial-lingual direction, in use.
  • an archwire may be placed and/or inserted in the receiving portion.
  • the receiving portion e.g., opening thereof, may be substantially open or may be fully open.
  • a substantial portion of the opening, e.g. the entire opening, of the receiving portion may be exposed or open.
  • an archwire may be prevented from being removed from the receiving portion.
  • the archwire may be secured in the receiving portion.
  • the receiving portion e.g. opening thereof, may be substantially closed or may be fully closed.
  • a substantial portion of the opening e.g. the entire opening, of the receiving portion, may be closed.
  • part of the opening of the receiving portion may be closed.
  • the movable member may cover part of the width of the receiving portion, as contact between the movable member and the wire may restrict closure of the receiving portion over its entire width.
  • the wire may typically be an orthodontic archwire.
  • the wire typically has an elongate profile which may be continuous and/or regular in cross-section.
  • the cross- section of the wire may be circular, rectangular, oval, square, or the like.
  • the wire profile and/or cross-section may be selected to match or be complementary to the shape of the receiving portion.
  • the connector may comprise an attachment portion configured to permit attachment of the connector to the bracket body.
  • the attachment portion may be configured to engage with a connector receiving portion of the bracket body.
  • the attachment portion may comprise an arm which may extend away from the guiding means.
  • the attachment portion may be substantially solid or hol!ow.
  • the attachment portion, e.g. arm may define an outer surface or circumference which may be continuous, or may be interrupted.
  • the attachment portion, e.g. arm may be defined by one or more walls which may be connected and may define a continuous surface, or may be separate and may define an interrupted surface.
  • the attachment portion, e.g. arm may be defined by one wall, e.g. one continuous wall, which may define a continuous and/or closed outer surface or circumference, or which may be interrupted, e.g. may extend over two or three sides of the arm.
  • the attachment portion, e.g. arm may be defined by two walls, e.g.
  • the attachment portion e.g. arm
  • the attachment portion may be defined by three or more walls, which may be connected at or near an upper portion thereof, and may be provided for example on opposite sides of the arm, and on a front or rear portion thereof.
  • the connector receiving portion may be located on or near an upper portion of the bracket, relative to the wire receiving portion.
  • the connector receiving portion may define an opening on a front side of the bracket.
  • the connector receiving portion may extend from a front side of the bracket towards a base portion of the bracket.
  • the connector may have a guiding portion.
  • the guiding means may comprise a guiding portion.
  • the movable member and the connector may have complementary features to allow movement of the movable member relative to the connector, e.g. guiding portion.
  • the complementary features may comprise a rail and groove mechanism, interference fit, sliding mechanism, or the like.
  • the guiding portion may form or may define a guide or track for the movable member.
  • the movable member may comprise a recess or groove configured to engage with the guiding portion.
  • the movable member may be configured to slide relative to the connector, e.g. guiding portion.
  • the movable member may form or may define a guide or track, and the guiding portion may comprise a recess or groove configured to engage with the movable member.
  • the guiding portion may be provide or may extend over a frontmost portion of the bracket body, in use, e.g. in a facial-lingual direction.
  • the movable member may be provided or may be capable of moving over an outer, e.g, frontmost portion or surface and/or portion opposite a base of the bracket body, of the guiding portion, is use.
  • the movable member may be provided forward (e.g., in a facial-lingual direction) of the bracket body and/or of the guiding portion.
  • a user e.g. an orthodontist or clinician, may be able to easily manipulate, e.g. touch, grasp and/or move, the movable portion, thus facilitating manipulation of the movable member, in use.
  • the guiding portion may extend in a direction substantially transverse, e.g. perpendicular to the wire receiving portion.
  • the guiding portion may permit the movable member to move between the open position and the closed position.
  • the guiding portion may allow the movable member to move in an occlusal- gingival direction and/or in a direction along an axis between the upper portion and a lower portion of the bracket and/or in a direction substantially perpendicular to the wire receiving portion.
  • the connector may allow the movable member to move between the open positon and the closed position. It will be understood that, if the movable member moves purely or predominantly in an occlusal-gingival direction, the movable member may not come into contact with the archwire in a closed position.
  • the guiding portion may allow the movable member to move in a facial-lingual direction.
  • the movable member may move at least partly in a direction from a front side of the bracket towards the base ⁇ i.e., towards a tooth, in use).
  • the connector may allow the movable member to move towards the wire receiving portion, e.g. towards a bottom region thereof, as it closes. It will be understood that, if the movable member moves at least partly in a facial-lingual direction, the movable member may be allowed to come into contact with the archwire as it moves towards the closed position.
  • the guiding portion e.g. guide or track
  • the guiding portion may allow the movable member to move in an occlusal-gingival direction and in a facial-lingual direction.
  • the guiding portion may extend in a substantially linear direction.
  • the guiding portion e.g. guide or track, may extend in an occlusal-gingival direction.
  • the guiding portion, e.g. guide or track may extend in an occlusal-gingival direction and in a facial-linguai direction.
  • the guiding portion, e.g. guide or track may be inclined relative to the bracket body, e.g. relative to the base portion.
  • the guiding portion, e.g. guide or track may be inclined inwards, e.g., towards the wire receiving portion, from an open position end of the guide towards a closed position end of the guide.
  • the guiding portion may comprise a portion extending in a curved direction.
  • the guiding portion may be curved, e.g. along an entire length thereof, or may comprise a curved portion, e.g. may be curved along part of its length, in one embodiment, the guiding portion, e.g. guide or track, may curve inwards towards the wire receiving portion from an open position end of the guide towards a closed position end of the guide.
  • the guiding portion may allow movement of the movable member or clip to move in a mesial-distal direction.
  • the guiding portion may be curved not only towards a bottom portion of the wire receiving portion (in a facial-lingual direction), but also in a plane parallel to the wire receiving portion (in a mesial-distal direction). This may allow better engagement of the movable member with the wire, in use. e.g. across a whole width of the movable member, by allowing a degree of sideways movement of the movable member relative to the guiding portion.
  • a curved guiding portion allows the movable member to engage with the wire after a shorter distance of travel of the movable member on the guiding portion, compared to a straight guiding portion.
  • This may permit the provision of a smaller clip, narrower wire receiving portion and/or of a smaller wire, and therefore of a smaller bracket.
  • This also allows better control of the pressure application of the movable member on the wire, and thus better control of the action and pressure applied on a patient's tooth.
  • This may also allow improved freedom in the design of the clip, which may be made from a variety of suitable materials and may be made in smaller dimensions than conventional; models while maintaining adequate mechanical properties.
  • the present arrangement may permit the movable member or clip to contact or cover an arch wire over substantially the entire length of the receiving portion.
  • the present arrangement may permit the movable member or clip to cover an archwire over substantially the entire opening of the receiving portion, and/or to close substantially the entire opening of the receiving portion.
  • the bracket body may comprise a slot end which may be configured to engage with or abut the movable member, in a closed position.
  • the slot end may comprise or may be defined by a portion of the bracket body.
  • the bracket body may comprise a wall extending from; the wire receiving portion, e.g. recess, slot, or groove, towards a front side of the bracket.
  • the wall and/or slot end may be provided on a Iower portion of the bracket, relative to the wire receiving portion.
  • the wall and/or slot end may be provided on a side of the wire receiving portion opposite the connector and/or connector receiving portion.
  • the wall and/or slot may extend on a iower side of the wire receiving portion from a bottom region of the wire receiving portion towards a front side or front surface of the bracket.
  • the bracket body may further comprise wings and/or hooks, e.g. for securing further wires and/or elastics.
  • the wings and/or hooks may typically be provided in a peripheral region of the bracket body, e.g. at or near one or more corners thereof.
  • the connector e.g., attachment portion thereof, may be attachable to the bracket body.
  • the connector may be fixedly or movably attachable to the bracket body.
  • the connector may be fixedly and/or permanently attachable to the bracket body, e.g. by one or more of the following:
  • - welding e.g. laser welding, ultrasonic welding, or the like.
  • the connector may not be detachable from: the bracket body.
  • the connector may be movab!y attachable to the bracket body.
  • the connector e.g., attachment portion thereof
  • the connector may be biased towards a base portion of the bracket body.
  • a spring mechanism may be provided so as to restrict movement of the connector, e.g., attachment portion thereof, out of the connector receiving portion of the bracket body.
  • a spring may bias the connector, e.g., attachment portion thereof, towards a base of the bracket body.
  • the bracket may be defined as an active self-!igating bracket.
  • the bracket may comprise a Iocking mechanism to secure the movable member, e.g. clip, to the connector, e.g. guide.
  • the Iocking mechanism may prevent the movable member from disconnecting from the connector, e.g. guiding portion thereof, at or near an open position.
  • the movable member may not be detachable from the connector, e.g. as the movable member is moved towards or to an open position. This may avoid the movable member, e.g. clip, from being detached, e.g. unintentionally or intentionally, from the bracket.
  • the guiding portion may form or may define a guide or track for the movable member.
  • the movable member may comprise a recess or groove provided on an underside thereof configured to engage with and slide relative to the guide.
  • the guiding portion may comprise a Iocking recess or slot extending partially from a lower end of the guide, e.g. from an end of the guide facing the wire receiving portion, towards an upper and/or opposite end of the guide, e.g. towards an end of the guide facing away from the wire receiving portion,
  • the movable member e.g. clip
  • the retaining element of the movable member may engage the end of the iocking recess or slot, thus preventing the movable member from becoming disconnected from the connector.
  • the guiding portion may comprise a shoulder, e.g. on an upper side thereof.
  • the movable member may comprise a retaining element, e.g. a protrusion or stop, capable of engaging with the shoulder of the guiding portion.
  • the retaining: element e.g. a protrusion or stop
  • the retaining element of the movable member may engage the shoulder of the guiding portion, thus preventing the movable member from becoming disconnected from the connector.
  • the system of the present invention may allow a user, e.g., an orthodontist, to assemble a complete bracket from a selection of parts, e.g. bracket bodies, connectors, and clips, based on the intended use and mechanical requirements for the bracket and/or based on the preferences of a patient.
  • a user may select a preferred type of clip, e.g., metal, clear, or ceramic, having a particular appearance, design or colour.
  • metal spring clips due to the need for metal spring clips to apply the desired level of pressure on a wire in conventional active self-ligating systems, associated clips tended to be provided in metal form, restricting the choice of materials available for use in such systems.
  • the bracket may comprise a latch mechanism: configured to secure the movable member, e.g. clip, in a closed position and/or in an open position.
  • the latch mechanism may comprise complementary features in the connector and in the movable member which, together, permit the movable member, e.g. clip, to be secured in a closed position and/or in an open position.
  • the connector e.g., attachment portion thereof, may comprise a latch which may be provided in the form: of a flexible arm extending from a base portion of the connector towards a guiding portion thereof.
  • the flexible arm may be configured to flex in a mesial-distal direction and/or in a direction transverse to the guiding portion or to the main direction of movement of the clip.
  • the guiding portion may comprise a latching recess or slot extending partially from a lower end of the guide, e.g. from an end of the guide facing the wire receiving portion, towards an upper and/or opposite end of the guide, e.g. towards an end of the guide facing away from the wire receiving portion.
  • the latching recess or slot may be provided adjacent the latch, e.g., flexible arm.
  • the movable member e.g. dip, may comprise a lug capable of engaging with the latching recess or slot.
  • the latch e.g. flexible arm
  • the latch may at least partially obstruct the latching recess or slot such that the movable element may be maintained at or near an open position.
  • Application of a force by the tug against the latch may flex the latch, e.g. flexible arm, away from; the latching recess or slot and allow the movable member to move towards a closed position.
  • the latch e.g. flexible arm
  • the latch may at least partially obstruct the latching recess or slot such that the movable element may be maintained at or near the closed position.
  • Application of a force by the lug against the latch may flex the latch, e.g.. flexible arm, away from the latching recess or slot and allow the movable member to move towards an open position.
  • the latch mechanism may comprise one or more latch elements provided on each side of the connector, e.g. attachment portion. At least one latch element may be deformable and/or compressible, and may be provided in the form of a compressible ring. At least one latch element, e.g. each latch element, may be provided in a respective recess defined by a body recess on the bracket body and a clip recess on the movable member. In an open position, the/each latch element may engage a front portion of a respective latching recess of the movable member such that the movable member may be maintained at or near the open position.
  • Application of a closing force on the movable member may cause the latch element to deform or compress and allow the movable member to move towards a closed position such that the latch element may engage with a rear portion of a respective latching recess of the movable member, thus maintaining the movable member in the closed position.
  • the movable member may be at least temporarily maintained in a desired portion, e.g. in an open position or in a closed position, until sufficient pressure is applied by the movable member against the latch to allow movement of the movable member passed its initial position.
  • the bracket body may comprise or may be made from metal, e.g. stainless steel.
  • the bracket body may be made from a clear and/or aesthetically pleasing material, e.g. ceramic, resin or the like.
  • the movable member may comprise or may be made from metal, e.g. stainless steel.
  • the movable member may be made from a clear and/or aesthetically pleasing material, e.g. ceramic, resin or the like.
  • the connector may comprise or may be made from metal, e.g. stainless steel.
  • the movable member may be made from a clear and/or aesthetically pleasing material, e.g. ceramic, resin or the like.
  • the materials may be selected so as to provide optimum interaction between the bracket body, connector and/or movable member, depending on the type of self-ligating bracket desired, e.g. active or passive.
  • the connector e.g. guide thereof, may be made of or may comprise at least on an outer portion thereof, a reiativeiy soft material, e.g. a material softer than the movable member.
  • a reiativeiy soft material e.g. a material softer than the movable member.
  • the connector may be made from a material different from the bracket body and movable member.
  • the connector e.g. guide thereof, may be made of or may comprise at least on an outer portion thereof, a relatively soft material, e.g. a material softer than the clip, such as a resin, e.g. a PEEK resin.
  • the connector e.g. attachment portion thereof, may have a substantially rigid structure.
  • the connector e.g. attachment portion thereof, may comprise a flexible portion.
  • the attachment portion of the connector may be flexible or may comprise a flexible portion.
  • the attachment portion may be capable of flexing in an occlusal-gingival direction, e.g. may be capable of flexing towards the upper portion of the bracket.
  • the present bracket mechanism allows, in some embodiments, the provision of an active self-ligating bracket, without the need for conventional metal spring clips to apply the desired level of pressure on the wire.
  • the movable member e.g. clip
  • the movable member can be made of a non-metal material, e.g. an aesthetically attractive material such as clear material, a ceramic material, or the like.
  • the movable member is configured to cover or extend over a length of a wire-receiving portion of the bracket in a closed position.
  • the method may comprise mounting the movable member onto the connector prior to attaching the connector to the bracket body.
  • the method may comprise engaging a portion of the movable member with a complementary portion of the connector, e.g. a guiding portion thereof.
  • the method may comprise mounting the movable member over an outer, e.g., over a frontmost portion or surface of the guiding portion, e.g. in a facial-lingual direction.
  • a user e.g. an orthodontist or clinician, may be able to easily manipuiate, e.g. touch, grasp and/or move, the movable portion, thus facilitating manipulation of the movable member, in use.
  • the method may comprise engaging a lower end of the guide or track of the connector (e.g. an end of the guide configured to face towards the wire receiving portion) with an upper end (e.g. an end configured to face away from the wire receiving portion) of a recess or groove provided on an underside of the movable member.
  • the method may comprise moving, e.g. sliding, the movable member on the connector, e.g. guide thereof, towards an upper end of the connector (i.e., towards an open position).
  • the method may comprise attaching an attaching portion of the connector, e.g. an arm, to a connector receiving portion of the bracket body.
  • the method may comprise permanently attaching the connector, e.g. attaching portion thereof, to the bracket body, e.g. receiving portion thereof.
  • the method may comprise attaching the connector to the bracket body by one or more of the following:
  • bracket body mechanically connecting the connector to the bracket body, e.g. with interference fit, complementary features e.g. hooks and recesses, or the like;
  • the connector to the bracket body, e.g. laser welding, ultrasonic welding, or the like.
  • a kit for making an orthodontic bracket comprising:
  • bracket body having a receiving portion configured to receive a wire, the receiving portion having a length extending across the bracket body;
  • a movable member capable of moving between an open position in which the receiving portion is at least partially open, and a closed position in which the receiving portion is at least partially closed, wherein the movable member is configured to cover or extend over the length of the receiving portion in the closed position;
  • a connector configured to be attached to the bracket body, the movable member being movably mounted on the connector
  • bracket, the movable member and the connector are arranged to be assembled so as to provide an orthodontic bracket according to the first aspect of the invention.
  • Figure 1 a perspective view of a bracket according to a first embodiment of the invention, in an open position
  • Figure 2 a perspective view of the bracket of Figure 1 , in a closed position
  • Figure 3 a perspective view of a bracket body of the bracket of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 4 a perspective view of a clip mounted on a connector of the bracket of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 5 a perspective view of the clip of the bracket of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 6 a front view of the connector of Figure 5;
  • Figure 7 a rear view of the connector of Figure 5;
  • Figure 8 a perspective view of the connector of the bracket of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 9 a side view of the connector of Figure 8.
  • Figure 10 a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a connector for use in the bracket of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 11 a side view of the connector of Figure 10;
  • Figure 12 a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a connector for use in the bracket of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 13 a side view of the connector of Figure 12;
  • Figure 14 a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a bracket according to the present invention, in an open position
  • Figure 15 a side view of the bracket of Figure 14 in a partly open position
  • Figure 16 a cross-sectional view of the bracket of Figure 14 through line (i-i), without clip;
  • Figure 17 a cross-sectional view of the bracket of Figure 15 through line (ii-ii), without clip;
  • Figure 18 a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a bracket according to the present invention.
  • Figure 19 a cross-sectional view of a bracket according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, including a biasing means for attachment portion of the connector;
  • Figure 20 a cross-sectional view of a connector of a bracket according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, including a latch mechanism;
  • Figure 21 a cross-sectional view of the bracket of Figure 20, in an open position
  • Figure 22 a cross-sectional view of the bracket of Figure 20, in a closed position
  • Figure 23 a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a bracket according to another embodiment of the present invention, through a central portion of the connector and clip, in an open position;
  • Figure 24 a longitudinal cross-sectionai view of the bracket of Figure 23, through a central portion of the connector and clip, in a closed position;
  • Figure 25 a perspective view of connector and clip of the bracket of Figure 23, in an open position;
  • Figure 26 a perspective view of connector and clip of the bracket of Figure 23, in a cfosed position
  • Figure 27 a view from below of a clip of the bracket of Figure 23, showing part of the latch mechanism
  • Figure 28 a perspective view of the bracket body of the bracket of Figure 23;
  • Figure 29 a perspective view of the bracket of Figure 23, including connector and a latch mechanism
  • Figure 30 a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the bracket of Figure 23,. through a portion of the latch mechanism, in an open, position; and Figure 31 a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the bracket of Figure 23,. through a portion of the latch mechanism, in a closed position.
  • an orthodontic bracket generally denoted 100.
  • the bracket 100 comprises a bracket body 1 10.
  • the bracket body 1 10 has a slot 1 12 (best seen in Figure 3) configured to receive an archwire 120.
  • the bracket 100 comprises a clip 130 which is capable of moving between an open position (as shown in Figure 1 ) in which the slot 1 12 is open and a wire 120 can be inserted in the slot 1 12, and a closed position ⁇ as shown in Figure 2) in which the slot 1 12 is at least partially closed, and in this embodiment fully closed, thus securing the wire 120 within the slot 1 12.
  • the bracket also comprises a connector 140 (as show in Figures 4, 7 and 8) configured to be attached to the bracket body 1 10.
  • the clip 130 is movabfy mounted on the connector 140.
  • the connector 140 has an attachment portion in the form of a guide 142 to guide the clip 130 between the open position and the closed position.
  • the bracket body 1 10 has an upper portion 1 and a lower portion 2.
  • the upper portion 1 may be termed an occlusal portion and the lower portion 2 may be termed a gingival portion, or the upper portion 1 may be termed a gingival portion and the lower portion 2 may be termed an occlusal portion.
  • the upper portion 1 and the lower portion 2 may be defined as the portions on opposite upper and lower ends in an occlusal- gingival direction, in use.
  • the bracket body 1 10 has a first portion or first side 3 and a second portion or first side 4 between the upper portion 1 and lower portion 2, which, in use, may be termed a mesial portion and a distal portion, respectively.
  • first portion 3 and the second portion 4 may be defined as the portions on opposite sides of the bracket body 1 10 in a mesial-distal direction, in use.
  • the bracket body 110 has a front portion or front side 5 configured to face away from a patient's tooth, !n use, it will be appreciated that the front side 5 of the bracket 100 may face towards a facia! side when the bracket 100 is affixed on a facial side of a patient's tooth, or may face towards a lingual side when the bracket TOO is affixed on a lingual side of a patient's tooth.
  • the bracket body has a base 150 having a contact 152 surface configured to face towards and engage with a tooth, typically to be bonded to a tooth.
  • the contact surface 152 may comprise a mesh pad (not shown) adapted to receive an adhesive.
  • the base 150 is integral with and forms part of the bracket body 1 10.
  • the base 150 may be separate from the bracket body 1 10, and may be attachable to the bracket body 1 10,
  • the slot 1 12 extends across a width of the bracket body 1 10 between its first side 3 and its second side 4,
  • the slot 1 12 has an opening 1 14 facing towards a front side 5 of the bracket 100.
  • opening 1 14 of the slot 1 12 is fully open and the archwire 120 can be placed and/or inserted in the slot 1 12,
  • the width of the clip 130 matches the width of the lower portion 2 of the bracket body 1 10 such that, in the closed position, the clip 130 covers the archwire 120 over substantially the entire opening 1 14 of the slot 1 12.
  • the wire 120 has a rectangular cross-section, and matches the rectangular profile of the slot 1 12.
  • the wire 120 and/or the slot 1 12 may be circular, oval, square, or the like, in cross-section.
  • the connector 140 has an attachment portion in the form of an arm 144 extending away from the guide 142 and configured to permit attachment of the connector 140 to the bracket body 1 10.
  • the attachment portion 144 is configured to engage with a connector receiving portion 1 16 of the bracket body 1 10.
  • the connector receiving portion 1 16 is located on or near an upper portion 1 of the bracket body 1 10, relative to the slot 1 12.
  • the connector receiving portion 1 16 defines an opening 1 17 on a front side 5 of the bracket body 1 10, and extends from a front side 5 of the bracket body 1 10 towards a base 150 of the bracket 100.
  • the clip 130 and the guide 142 of the connector 140 have complementary features to allow movement of the clip 130 relative to the connector 140.
  • the guide 142 of the connector 140 defines a track of complementary shape to a recess or groove 132 of the clip 130, which allows the clip 130 to slide relative to the connector 140.
  • the guide 142 extends in a direction substantially transverse, e.g. perpendicular, to the siot 1 12. By such provision, the guide 142 allows the clip 130 to move between the open position and the closed position, closing over the slot 1 12.
  • the guide 142 is inclined relative to the connector arm 144 and the bracket body 1 10, e.g. base portion 150 thereof.
  • the guide 142 is inclined inwards towards the slot 1 12 from an open position end 145 of the guide 142 towards a closed position end 146 of the guide 142.
  • the guide 142 extends both in an occlusal-gingival direction and in a facial-lingual direction.
  • the clip may either remain above and/or distal from the wire 120 (in which case the bracket 100 may, in use, require the use of separate ligating elements), or may come into engagement with the wire 120, as shown for example in Figure 15.
  • the guide 142 is substantially linear or straight, and includes both an occlusal-gingival component and a facial-lingual direction.
  • the guide 142 also includes both an occlusal-gingival component and a facial-lingual direction. However, in this embodiment, the guide 142 extends in a curved direction. The guide 142 curves inwards towards the slot 1 12 from an open position end 145 of the guide 142 towards a closed position end 146 of the guide 142, The provision of a curved guide 142 allows the clip 130 to engage with the wire 120 after a shorter distance of travel of the clip 130 on the guide 142, compared to a straight guide. This, in turn, may permit the provision of a smaller clip 130, narrower slot 1 12 and/or of a smaller wire 120, and therefore of a smaller bracket 100.
  • This also allows better control of the pressure application of the clip 130 on the wire 120, and thus better control of the action and pressure applied on a patient's tooth.
  • This also allows improved freedom in the design of the clip, which may be made from a variety of suitable materials and may be made in smaller dimensions than conventional models while maintaining adequate mechanical properties.
  • the bracket body 1 10 has a slot end 1 18 which is configured to engage with and abut the clip 130, in a closed position.
  • the slot end 1 18 is defined by a portion of a wall 1 19 of the bracket body 1 10 extending from the slot 1 12 towards a front side 5 of the bracket 100.
  • the wall 1 19 and slot end 1 18 are provided on a lower portion 2 of the bracket body 1 10, relative to the slot 1 12, i.e., opposite the connector 140 and connector receiving portion 1 16.
  • the wall 1 19 and slot may 1 18 extend on a lower side 2 of the slot 1 12 from a bottom: region of the slot 1 12 towards a front side 5 of the bracket 100.
  • the clip 130 upon movement of the clip 130 to close the slot 1 12 or opening 1 14, the clip 130 can come into engagement and/or abutment with the slot end 1 18 and/or wall 1 19. This may help prevent disengagement between the clip 130 and the connector 140, e.g. guide 142 thereof, in a closed position.
  • the bracket body 1 10 further comprises wings or hooks 1 1 1 which can be used for attaching and/or securing further wires and/or elastics during orthodontic treatment.
  • the wings or hooks 1 1 1 are provided in a peripheral region of the bracket body 1 10, in this embodiment at or near corners thereof, in order to optimise attachment characteristics.
  • the bracket 100 comprises a locking mechanism to secure the clip 130 to the connector 140.
  • the locking mechanism prevents the clip 130 from disconnecting from the connector 140 at or near an open position.
  • the clip 130 cannot be detached from the connector 140 as the clip 130 is moved towards or to an open position. This may avoid the clip 130 from becoming detached from the bracket 100, for example as the clip 130 is slid along the guide 142 of the connector 140.
  • the locking mechanism provides a one-sided closed track system which ensures that, once the clip 130 is engaged with the guide 142 of the connector 140, and the connector arm 144 is attached to the bracket body 1 10, the clip 130 cannot be detached from the connector 140.
  • the guide 142 defines a track for the clip 130.
  • the clip 130 has a recess or groove 132 provided on an underside thereof configured to engage with and slide relative to the guide 142.
  • the guide 142 comprises a locking recess or slot 148 extending partially from a lower end 146 of the guide 142, that is, from an end of the guide facing the slot 1 12, towards an upper and opposite end 145 of the guide 142, that is, towards an end of the guide 142 facing away from the slot 1 12.
  • the clip 130 comprises a retaining element 134 in the form of a stop, capable of fitting within the locking recess 148.
  • the retaining element 134 is located between the upper end lower ends of the clip 130, in a central region of the groove 132.
  • the locking mechanism in this embodiment, consists of a locking recess 148 on the guide 142 and a stop 134 on the clip 130.
  • the stop 134 engages the end 149 of the locking recess 148, thus preventing the clip 130 from becoming disconnected from the connector 140.
  • the bracket 100 has a latch mechanism 180 configured to secure the clip 130 in a closed position and/or in an open position.
  • the latch mechanism: 180 has complementary features in the connector 140 and in the clip 130 which, together, permit the clip 130 to be secured in a closed position and/or in an open position.
  • the attachment arm 144 has a latch 181 in the form of a flexible arm which extending from a base portion of the attachment arm 144 towards the guide 142.
  • the latch 181 is configured to flex in a mesial-distal direction and/or in a direction transverse to the guide 142 and to the main direction of movement of the clip 130.
  • the guide 142 has a latching recess or slot 182 extending partially along to guide 142 and provided adjacent the latch 181 .
  • the clip 130 has a lug 185 configured to engage with the latching recess or slot 182.
  • the latch 181 in use, when the movable member is in the open position, as shown in Figure 21 , the latch 181 partially obstructs the latching recess or slot 182 such that the clip 130 is maintained at or near the open position.
  • Application of a force by the lug 185 against the latch 181 causes the latch 181 to flex away from the latching recess or slot 182 and thus allows the clip 130 to move towards a closed position.
  • the latch 181 In use, when the movable member is in the closed position, as shown in Figure 22, the latch 181 partially obstructs the latching recess or slot 182 such that the clip 130 is maintained at or near the closed position. Application of a force by the fug 185 against the latch 181 causes the latch 181 to flex away from the latching recess or slot 182 and thus allows the clip 130 to move towards an open position.
  • the clip 130 can be at least temporarily maintained in a desired portion, e.g. in an open position or in a closed position, until sufficient pressure is applied by the clip 130 against the latch 181 to allow movement of the clip 130 passed its initial position.
  • the connector 140 and in particular the attachment arm 144 thereof, is substantially rigid, such that it will not deform under pressure, for example if the clip engages with wire 120.
  • a portion of the attachment arm 144 is substantially fiexibie, due to the reduction in the size of the middle region of the arm 144.
  • the arm 144 will deform and flex under pressure in an occlusal-gingival direction, for example if the clip 130 engages with wire 120 in a closed positon.
  • the bracket 100 may be defined as an active self-ligating bracket.
  • bracket 100 may be assembled as follows;
  • the clip 130 is mounted onto the connector 140.
  • the clip 130 is made to engage a lower end 146 of the guide 142 of the connector 140.
  • the clip 130 can then be moved along the guide 142 towards an upper end 145 thereof (i.e., towards an open position).
  • the stop 134 then engages the end 149 of the locking recess 148, thus preventing the clip 130 from becoming disconnected from the connector 140.
  • the connector 130 is attached to the bracket body 1 10.
  • the arm 144 of the connector 140 is inserted in the connector receiving portion 1 16 of the bracket body 1 10.
  • the arm; 144 of the connector 140 is then attached to the bracket body 1 10.
  • the arm 144 of the connector 140 can be fixedly and permanently attached to the bracket body 1 10, for example by one or more of the following:
  • the arm 144 of the connector 140 can be movabiy attached to the bracket body 1 10.
  • the arm 144 is biased towards the base portion 150 of the bracket body 1 10 by a spring 190.
  • the spring 190 restricts movement of the connector 140 out of the connector receiving portion 1 16 of the bracket body 1 10.
  • the bracket 100 may be defined as an active self-ligating bracket.
  • Bracket 200 is generally similar to the bracket 100 of Figures 1 to 22, like parts denoted by like numerals, but incremented by "100'.
  • the bracket 200 has a bracket body 210, a connector 240 configured to be attached to the bracket body 210, and a clip 230 movabiy mounted on the connector 240.
  • the bracket 200 of Figures 23-31 has a locking mechanism to secure the clip 230 to the connector 240.
  • the locking mechanism prevents the clip 230 from: disconnecting from the connector 240 at or near an open position.
  • the clip 230 cannot be detached from the connector 240 as the clip 230 is moved towards or to an open position. This may avoid the clip 230 from becoming detached from the bracket 200, for example as the clip 230 is slid along the guide 242 of the connector 240.
  • the locking mechanism provides a one-sided closed track system which ensures that, once the clip 230 is engaged with the guide 242 of the connector 240, and the connector arm 244 is attached to the bracket body 210, the clip 230 cannot be detached from the connector 240.
  • the locking mechanism consists of a shoulder 249 provided on the guide 242 of the connector 240, and a stop 234 provided at a front end of the clip 230.
  • the stop 234 of the clip 230 engages the shoulder 249 of the guide 242, thus preventing the clip 230 from becoming disconnected from the connector 240.
  • the bracket 200 also has a latch mechanism 280 configured to secure the clip 230 in a closed position and/or in an open position.
  • the latch mechanism 280 has complementary features in the connector 240 and in the clip 230 which, together, permit the clip 230 to be secured in a closed position and/or in an open position.
  • the latch mechanism has a latch element 285 provided on each side of the connector 240.
  • Each latch element 285, here provided in the form of a compressible ring, is located in a respective recess defined by a body recess 286 on the bracket body 210 and a dip recess 282 on the clip 230.
  • the latch element 285 engages a front portion 287 of a respective latching recess or slot 282 of the clip 230 such that the clip 230 is maintained at or near the open position.
  • Application of a closing force on the clip 230 causes the latch element 285 to compress and allow the clip 230 to move forward such that the latch element 285 engages with a rear portion 288 of a respective latching recess or slot 282 of the clip 230, thus maintaining the clip 230 in the closed position ( Figure 31 ).
  • the clip 230 can be at least temporarily maintained in a desired portion, e.g. in an open position or in a closed position, until sufficient pressure is applied by the clip 230 against the latch element 285 to allow movement of the clip 230 passed its initial position.

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (AREA)
  • Dentistry (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Dental Tools And Instruments Or Auxiliary Dental Instruments (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un verrou orthodontique (100), comprenant un corps de verrou (110) comprenant une partie de réception (112) conçue de manière à recevoir un fil (120), un élément mobile (130) pouvant se déplacer entre une position ouverte, dans laquelle la partie de réception (112) est au moins partiellement ouverte, et une position fermée, dans laquelle la partie de réception (112) est au moins partiellement fermée ; et un connecteur (140) conçu de manière à être fixé au corps de verrou (110), l'élément mobile (130) étant monté mobile sur le connecteur (140), le connecteur (140) comprenant une partie de guidage (142) de manière à guider l'élément mobile (130) entre la position ouverte et la position fermée.
PCT/EP2018/073135 2017-08-29 2018-08-28 Verrou orthodontique WO2019043005A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
LULU100374 2017-08-29
LU100374A LU100374B1 (en) 2017-08-29 2017-08-29 orthodontic bracket

Publications (1)

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WO2019043005A1 true WO2019043005A1 (fr) 2019-03-07

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PCT/EP2018/073135 WO2019043005A1 (fr) 2017-08-29 2018-08-28 Verrou orthodontique

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LU (1) LU100374B1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2019043005A1 (fr)

Cited By (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN110478062A (zh) * 2019-07-31 2019-11-22 浙江新亚医疗科技股份有限公司 结构可靠的托槽
CN110507433A (zh) * 2019-07-31 2019-11-29 浙江新亚医疗科技股份有限公司 复合隐形的托槽
US11058518B2 (en) 2019-05-02 2021-07-13 Brius Technologies, Inc. Dental appliances, systems and methods
US11317995B2 (en) 2015-12-06 2022-05-03 Brius Technologies, Inc. Teeth repositioning systems and methods
US11490995B2 (en) 2021-03-25 2022-11-08 Brius Technologies, Inc. Orthodontic treatment and associated devices, systems, and methods

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20160228217A1 (en) 2014-01-27 2016-08-11 Jeng Soo Choi Orthodontic self-ligating bracket
KR101729995B1 (ko) * 2016-06-10 2017-05-11 주식회사 바이오세텍 자가 결찰식 치열교정 브래킷 조립체

Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20160228217A1 (en) 2014-01-27 2016-08-11 Jeng Soo Choi Orthodontic self-ligating bracket
KR101729995B1 (ko) * 2016-06-10 2017-05-11 주식회사 바이오세텍 자가 결찰식 치열교정 브래킷 조립체

Cited By (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US11317995B2 (en) 2015-12-06 2022-05-03 Brius Technologies, Inc. Teeth repositioning systems and methods
US11324572B2 (en) 2015-12-06 2022-05-10 Brius Technologies, Inc. Teeth repositioning systems and methods
US11058518B2 (en) 2019-05-02 2021-07-13 Brius Technologies, Inc. Dental appliances, systems and methods
US11529216B2 (en) 2019-05-02 2022-12-20 Brius Technologies, Inc. Dental appliances, systems and methods
US11864974B2 (en) 2019-05-02 2024-01-09 Brius Technologies, Inc. Dental appliances, systems and methods
CN110478062A (zh) * 2019-07-31 2019-11-22 浙江新亚医疗科技股份有限公司 结构可靠的托槽
CN110507433A (zh) * 2019-07-31 2019-11-29 浙江新亚医疗科技股份有限公司 复合隐形的托槽
CN110478062B (zh) * 2019-07-31 2021-06-29 浙江新亚医疗科技股份有限公司 结构可靠的托槽
US11490995B2 (en) 2021-03-25 2022-11-08 Brius Technologies, Inc. Orthodontic treatment and associated devices, systems, and methods
US11504212B2 (en) 2021-03-25 2022-11-22 Brius Technologies, Inc. Orthodontic treatment and associated devices, systems, and methods

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