Method and apparatus for debonding ceramic orthodontic brackets
US5366372A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 29, 1993 |
| Grant date | Nov 22, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 29, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61C7/023
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An orthodontic bracket having mesial and distal sections is debonded from a tooth by pivoting the sections toward each other in respective arcs about a central reference axis extending in an occlusal-gingival direction. The mesial and distal sections are discrete and spaced apart from each other, or alternatively integrally joined by a relatively thin web that bends and optionally fractures upon debonding. A metallic archwire slot liner interconnects the mesial and distal sections and enhances sliding mechanics of the bracket. A pliers-like debonding tool includes jaws with stops for limiting the lingual depth of engagement of the laws with the mesial and distal sides of the bracket, to facilitate pivoting of the mesial and distal sections during debonding.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.