Modular system for customized orthodontic appliances

US6776614B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignees

• Lingualcare, Inc. · US
• T.O.P. Service für Lingualtechnik GmbH · DE

Inventors

• Dirk Wiechmann · Bad Essen, DE
• Ralf M. Paehl · Melle, DE
• Rudger Rubbert · Berlin, DE
• Thomas Weise · Berlin, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 13, 2002
• Grant date: Aug 17, 2004
• Expiry date: Oct 14, 2022

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B33Y80/00
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A set of customized orthodontic brackets are provided with slots that are arranged substantially parallel to the tooth surface. The archwire, in an as-manufactured condition, has a portion of substantial arcuate extent, which is canted relative to the occlusal plane. The brackets are designed on a computer as a combination of three-dimensional virtual objects comprising the virtual bracket bonding pad and a separate virtual bracket body retrieved from a library of virtual bracket bodies. The virtual brackets can be represented as a file containing digital shape data and exported to a rapid prototype fabrication device for fabrication of the bracket in wax or other material and casting the wax prototype in a suitable alloy. Other manufacturing techniques are also contemplated, including milling and laser sintering.