Dental prostheses devices and methods
US9603679B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 21, 2015 |
| Grant date | Mar 28, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 2, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2210/0038
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Root canal abutment devices and methods which facilitate the adjustment or removal of an oral appliance, e.g., a crown or bridge, from a reconfigurable abutment assembly are described. The adjustable abutment assembly may be secured within a pulp chamber of a pre-existing tooth. The abutment assembly has a projecting abutment portion with one or more shape memory alloy sleeves or plates or elements extending along the abutment. Each of the sleeves has a length with at least one curved or arcuate portion. Energy may be applied to the elements such that the arcuate portion flattens to allow for the oral appliance to be placed thereupon while removal of the energy allows the elements to reconfigure into its curved configuration thereby locking the oral appliance to the abutment. Removal of the oral appliance may be effected by reapplication of energy to the elements.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.