Air abrasion system for use in dental procedures

US6106288A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• Dentsply Research and Development Corp. · US

Inventors

• John Brassil · Northbrook, US
• John Andrew Lake · Evanston, US
• Andrew Burroughs · Kenosha, US
• Stephen D. Barry · Plainfield, US
• Shu Kun Chang · Evanston, US
• Roberto G. Fraquelli · London, GB
• David Howard Meldrum Annett

Key dates

• Filing date: Oct 17, 1997
• Grant date: Aug 22, 2000
• Expiry date: Oct 17, 2017

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61C3/025
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A system for treating teeth and associated tooth structure using a pressurized air propellant mixed with abrasive material includes a manifold which defines air passages leading from the pressurized air source to dispensing chambers which hold the abrasive material. The manifold further provides a convenient structure for mounting a number of the system components. The manifold simplifies assembly of the system and improves the integrity of air passages within the system. The air abrasion system also has a mixing block and continuous purge feature which eliminate crosstalk and backflow problems when switching between abrasive materials. Evacuation apparatus incorporating a cyclone separator is integrally provided with the system which requires minimal regular maintenance and maximizes suction flow through the apparatus. A boost feature of the system is provided to selectively increase the ratio of abrasive material to air in an air-abrasive material mixture, thereby increasing the rate of tooth reduction, without requiring additional air pressure.