Patent · US Expired

Tooth positioning appliances and systems

US7121825B2 · kind B2 · utility

220Cited by
87References
8Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateMar 12, 2004
Grant dateOct 17, 2006
Priority date
Expiry dateMar 12, 2024

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
  • CPC primaryA61C7/36
  • WIPO fieldMedical technology
  • WIPO sectorInstruments

Abstract

An improved dental appliance system, and methods for using and fabricating the improved appliance, including a polymeric overlay or shell having a teeth-receiving cavity formed therein and a wire mounted on or embedded in the polymeric shell. The dental appliance having the necessary stiffness or strength to firmly secure the appliance on the teeth and provide controlled forces required for repositioning the teeth, until such time as removal of the appliance is desired. The appliance may be configured for use with a removal mechanisim. The removal mechanism undergoes a state change stimulated by an environmental stimulus or environmental switch.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.