U.S. patent application number 16/423558 was filed with the patent office on 2019-09-12 for scan body with snap-in retention capability.
This patent application is currently assigned to EVOLLUTION IP HOLDINGS, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is EVOLLUTION IP HOLDINGS, INC.. Invention is credited to Haibo FAN, Fred J. MOLZ, IV, Boris SIMMONDS.
Application Number | 20190274789 16/423558 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58776739 |
Filed Date | 2019-09-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20190274789 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
FAN; Haibo ; et al. |
September 12, 2019 |
SCAN BODY WITH SNAP-IN RETENTION CAPABILITY
Abstract
A scan body for intraoral scanning includes a snap-in retention
capability for engagement with a dental implant having a first
engagement section. The second engagement section is configured for
a snap-in or frictional fit with the first engagement section to
releasably secure the scan body to the implant.
Inventors: |
FAN; Haibo; (Woodbridge,
CT) ; SIMMONDS; Boris; (Vestavia, AL) ; MOLZ,
IV; Fred J.; (Birmingham, AL) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
EVOLLUTION IP HOLDINGS, INC. |
Birmingham |
AL |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
EVOLLUTION IP HOLDINGS,
INC.
Birmingham
AL
|
Family ID: |
58776739 |
Appl. No.: |
16/423558 |
Filed: |
May 28, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15363183 |
Nov 29, 2016 |
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16423558 |
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62261613 |
Dec 1, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 2090/3966 20160201;
A61B 6/14 20130101; A61C 2201/002 20130101; A61C 8/0012 20130101;
A61C 8/0001 20130101; A61C 8/0074 20130101; A61C 2201/005 20130101;
A61B 6/12 20130101; A61C 8/006 20130101; A61C 9/0053 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61C 8/00 20060101
A61C008/00; A61B 6/14 20060101 A61B006/14; A61B 6/12 20060101
A61B006/12; A61C 9/00 20060101 A61C009/00 |
Claims
1. A scan body for snap-in retention with a dental implant
extending along a first elongate axis, the implant comprising a
first engagement section, the scan body comprising an elongate body
extending from a first end to a second end and defining a second
elongate axis, wherein a scan feature comprising at least one flat
is provided at the first end of the elongate body and a second
engagement section is provided generally near the second end of the
elongate body, the second engagement section comprising an
irregular hex defining a plurality of sides, the plurality of sides
comprising an alternating arrangement of contact surfaces, wherein
a first set of sides each comprise a contact surface defining one
or more engagement ribs and wherein a second set of sides each
comprise a planar contact surface.
2. The scan body of claim 1, wherein the irregular hex comprises
six sides, wherein three of the sides correspond to the first set
of sides and the other three sides correspond to the second set of
sides.
3. The scan body of claim 1, wherein the first set of sides
alternate with the second set of sides around the entirety of the
plurality of sides of the irregular hex.
4. The scan body of claim 1, wherein a first dimension is defined
between the second elongate axis and an outermost portion of the
one or more engagement ribs of each contact surface of the first
set of sides and a second dimension is defined between the second
elongate axis and an outermost portion of the planar contact
surfaces of each of the second set of sides, and wherein the first
dimension is at least partially larger than the second
dimension.
5. The scan body of claim 4, wherein the first dimension is between
about 0.25%-8% greater than the second dimension.
6. The scan body of claim 4, wherein the first dimension is between
about 0.25%-4% greater than the second dimension.
7. The scan body of claim 4, wherein the first dimension is about
2% greater than the second dimension.
8. The scan body of claim 4, wherein the first dimension is about
0.0482 inches.
9. The scan body of claim 4, wherein the second dimension is about
0.0473 inches.
10. A male irregular hex component for snap-in releasable
engagement with a female hex receiver of an implant, the male
irregular hex component comprising: a first set of sides, each of
the first set of sides comprising a face defining at least one rib;
and a second set of sides, each of the second set of sides
comprising a face defining a planar surface, wherein each face of
the first set of sides alternate with the faces of the second set
of sides around the entirety of the male irregular hex such that
each face of the first set of sides comprises faces of the second
set of sides positioned adjacent thereto on either side
thereof.
11. The male irregular hex component of claim 10, wherein the male
irregular hex component is configured for frictional releasable
engagement with the female hex receiver of the implant.
12. The male irregular hex component of claim 11, wherein the at
least one rib of each face of the first set of sides provides for
snap-in releasable engagement with the female hex receiver of the
implant.
13. The male irregular hex component of claim 10, wherein the male
irregular hex comprises a central axis, wherein a first dimension
is defined between the central axis and an outermost portion of the
at least one rib of each face of the first set of sides, wherein a
second dimension is defined between the central axis and an
outermost portion of the planar surface of each face of the second
set of sides, and wherein the first dimension is at least partially
greater than the second dimension.
14. The male irregular hex component of claim 13, wherein the first
dimension is between about 0.25%-8% greater than the second
dimension.
15. The male irregular hex component of claim 13, wherein the first
dimension is between about 0.25%-4% greater than the second
dimension.
16. The male irregular hex component of claim 13, wherein the first
dimension is about 2% greater than the second dimension.
17. The male irregular hex component of claim 13, wherein the first
dimension is about 0.0482 inches.
18. The male irregular hex component of claim 13, wherein the
second dimension is about 0.0473 inches.
19. The male irregular hex component of claim 10, wherein the face
of each of the first set of sides comprises at least two ribs,
wherein the ribs are generally spaced a distance apart from each
other.
20. The male irregular hex component of claim 10, further
comprising an elongate body extending from the male irregular hex,
an end of the elongate body comprising a scan feature configured
for recognition by a dental scanner, wherein the scan feature
comprises at least one flat.
21. A scan body for snap-in retention with an implant or implant
analog, the implant or implant analog comprising a first engagement
section, the scan body comprising: an elongate body extending from
a first end to a second end, the elongate body comprising: a first
end portion; an upper section; a lower section; and a second
engagement section comprising an irregular hex component configured
for releasable engagement with the first engagement portion,
wherein at least one contact surface of the irregular hex component
comprises at least one engagement rib.
22. The scan body of claim 21, wherein the irregular hex component
comprises six contact surfaces and wherein three of the contact
surfaces comprise at least one engagement rib.
23. The scan body of claim 22, wherein the three contact surfaces
comprising the at least one engagement rib alternate with the other
three contact surfaces such that every other contact surface
comprises at least one engagement rib.
24. The scan body of claim 22, wherein the three contact surfaces
comprising the at least one engagement rib define a dimension that
is at least partially greater than a comparable dimension of the
other three contact surfaces.
25. The scan body of claim 21, wherein the scan body is used with
an implant when using an intra oral scanner, and wherein the scan
body is used with an implant analog when using a table top
scanner.
26. The scan body of claim 21, wherein a force of between about
0.4-8 lbf is required to cause disengagement between the first and
second engagement sections.
27. A method of fastening a scan body to an implant comprising:
providing a dental implant, the dental implant comprising a female
socket; providing an intraoral scan body, the scan body comprising
a male engagement body, the male engagement body being generally
complementary in shape to the female socket of the implant; and
engaging the male engagement body of the scan body within the
female socket of the implant with a detachable friction fit.
28. The method of claim 27, wherein the male engagement body
comprises an irregular hex comprising alternating contact surfaces,
wherein a first set of contact surfaces comprise at least one rib
projecting therefrom and wherein a second set of contact surfaces
comprise a substantially planar surface.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional of U.S. Non-Provisional
patent application Ser. No. 15/363,183 filed Nov. 29, 2016, which
claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.
62/261,613 filed Dec. 1, 2015, the entireties of which are hereby
incorporated by reference herein.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of
dental implants and prosthetics, and more particularly to a scan
body having snap-in retention capability for use with a dental
implant or implant analog.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Scan bodies are typically used in the dental industry once
an implant has been set within a patient's jaw such that a digital
restorative pathway (via intraoral scanning) can be created to
determine the size, shape and orientation of a final restoration or
prosthesis to be fitted on the implant. In most cases, scan bodies
are generally fastened to the implant with an abutment screw, which
generally requires a clinician to manually screw the abutment screw
to the implant. One drawback to manually screwing an abutment screw
within the implant to fasten the scan body to the implant is that
some installation drivers can be long, requiring a significant
amount of vertical space, thereby making placement of the abutment
screw difficult in the posterior of a patient's mouth where
vertical space is often limited. Another drawback is due to the
time required to manually place and remove the abutment screw
to/from the implant before and after scanning the scan body. And
the abutment screw can be dropped in the patient's mouth before
placement or after removal, which may present an aspiration
risk.
[0004] Accordingly, it can be seen that needs exist for an improved
scan body for use with dental implant procedures. It is to the
provision of an improved scan body meeting these and other needs
that the present invention is primarily directed.
SUMMARY
[0005] In example embodiments, the present invention provides a
scan body having snap-in retention capability for engagement with a
dental implant or an implant analog. The scan body is capable of
snapping in or frictionally engaging the implant or implant analog
such that no fasteners or screws are required to retain the scan
body temporarily in place on the implant or implant analog.
[0006] In one aspect, the invention relates to a scan body for
snap-in retention with a dental implant. The implant includes a
first engagement section. The scan body includes an elongate body
extending from a first end to a second end. The elongate body
includes a first end portion including a scan feature, an upper
section positioned adjacent the first end portion and having a
generally uniform cylindrical portion including a channel extending
at least partially through the cylindrical portion, a lower section
positioned adjacent the upper section, a second engagement section
positioned adjacent the lower section and having at least one
engagement rib, and an end post for axial alignment within an
internal threaded portion of the implant.
[0007] In example embodiments, the second engagement section
includes a male hex (i.e., hexagonal) profile, the first engagement
section includes a female hex profile, and the male and female hex
profiles are configured for cooperative interengagement
therebetween.
[0008] In example embodiments, the at least one engagement rib of
the male hex profile is sized at least slightly larger than the
size of the female hex profile such that the male hex is provided
with a snap-in frictional fit with the female hex. In example
embodiments, the male hex includes at least one engagement rib on
at least three of its six surfaces. In example embodiments, a
sleeve is provided for fitting on the lower section of the elongate
body. In example embodiments, the sleeve is formed from a titanium
alloy or other radiopaque material. In example embodiments, the
sleeve allows for proper seating verification of the scan body
within the implant via x-ray imaging. In example embodiments, the
elongate body is formed from polyether ether ketone plastic.
[0009] In example embodiments, the scan feature of the first end
portion includes one or more flats, wherein the flats are
configured to be recognized by an intraoral or table top scanner.
In example embodiments, the scan feature includes three flats,
wherein two of the three flats are oriented generally parallel to
each other, and wherein one of the three flats is oriented
generally perpendicular relative to the other two flats. In example
embodiments, the sleeve is color coded by anodizing to match a
platform color of the implant. In example embodiments, the second
engagement section of the scan body is configured for engagement
with both a dental implant and/or with an implant analog.
[0010] In another aspect, the invention relates to a snap-in scan
body for removable engagement with an implant, the implant
including a first engagement section. In example embodiments, the
snap-in scan body includes an elongate body extending from a first
end to a second end, a first end portion positioned at the first
end and having a scan feature including one or more flats, an upper
section positioned adjacent the first end portion and including a
cylindrical channel formed therein and a lower rib, a lower section
positioned adjacent the upper section and having a central rib and
a lower rib, a second engagement section positioned adjacent the
lower section and having at least one engagement rib for
frictionally engaging the first engagement section, and an end post
positioned adjacent the second engagement section at the second end
of the snap-in scan body.
[0011] In example embodiments, the first engagement section
includes a female hex, the second engagement section includes a
male hex, and the male and female hex are configured for
interengagement therebetween. In example embodiments, at least one
engagement rib is provided on a surface of the male hex. In example
embodiments, the male hex includes at least one engagement rib on
at least three surfaces.
[0012] In example embodiments, the snap-in scan body further
includes a sleeve for fitting on the lower section of the elongate
body, wherein the sleeve allows for proper seating verification of
the male hex of the second engagement section of the scan body
within the female hex of the first engagement section of the
implant via x-ray. In example embodiments, the sleeve is formed
from a titanium alloy or other radiopaque material. In example
embodiments, the elongate body is formed from polyether ether
ketone plastic. In example embodiments, the sleeve is color coded
by anodizing to match a platform color of the implant. In example
embodiments, the second engagement section of the scan body is
configured for removable engagement with both an implant and with
an implant analog.
[0013] In still another aspect, the invention relates to a method
of fastening a scan body to an implant. The method includes
providing an implant, the implant having a first engagement
section; providing a scan body, the scan body having a second
engagement section, the second engagement section being generally
complementary in shape to the first engagement section; providing
at least one engagement feature on at least a portion of the second
engagement section, the at least one engagement feature generally
protruding outwardly from the second engagement section; engaging
the second engagement section of the scan body with the first
engagement section of the implant such that the at least one
engagement feature of the second engagement section frictionally
engages at least a portion of the first engagement section. In
example embodiments, the at least one engagement feature of the
second engagement section is in the form of a rib.
[0014] In yet another aspect, the invention relates to a scan body
for snap-in retention with a dental implant or implant analog. The
implant or implant analog includes a first engagement section. The
scan body includes an elongate body extending from a first end to a
second end. The elongate body includes a first end portion, an
upper section, a lower section, a second engagement section having
at least one engagement rib, and an end post. In example
embodiments, the scan body is used with an implant when using an
intra oral scanner, and wherein the scan body is used with an
implant analog when using a table top scanner.
[0015] These and other aspects, features and advantages of the
invention will be understood with reference to the drawing figures
and detailed description herein, and will be realized by means of
the various elements and combinations particularly pointed out in
the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing
general description and the following brief description of the
drawings and detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of
example embodiments of the invention, and are not restrictive of
the invention, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a scan body assembled with a
dental implant according to an example embodiment of the present
invention.
[0017] FIG. 2 is an assembly view of the scan body and implant of
FIG. 1.
[0018] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the scan body of FIG. 1.
[0019] FIG. 4 is an assembly view of the scan body of FIG. 3,
showing a sleeve component separated therefrom.
[0020] FIG. 5A is a detailed perspective view of a base portion of
the scan body of FIG. 3.
[0021] FIG. 5B is an end view of the base portion of the scan body
of FIG. 5A.
[0022] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the implant of FIG. 2.
[0023] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the scan body assembled
with the implant of FIG. 1 taken along line 7-7, showing a snap-in
feature of the scan body removably engaging an engagement feature
of the implant.
[0024] FIG. 8 is a detailed cross-sectional view of FIG. 7 showing
the snap-in feature of the scan body removably engaging an
engagement feature of the implant.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
[0025] The present invention may be understood more readily by
reference to the following detailed description taken in connection
with the accompanying drawing figures, which form a part of this
disclosure. It is to be understood that this invention is not
limited to the specific devices, methods, conditions or parameters
described and/or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein
is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments by way of
example only and is not intended to be limiting of the claimed
invention. Any and all patents and other publications identified in
this specification are incorporated by reference as though fully
set forth herein.
[0026] Also, as used in the specification including the appended
claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include the plural,
and reference to a particular numerical value includes at least
that particular value, unless the context clearly dictates
otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" or
"approximately" one particular value and/or to "about" or
"approximately" another particular value. When such a range is
expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular
value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values
are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent "about,"
it will be understood that the particular value forms another
embodiment.
[0027] With reference now to the drawing figures, wherein like
reference numbers represent corresponding parts throughout the
several views, FIGS. 1-2 show a scan body assembly 10 for use with
a dental implant 70 according to an example embodiment of the
present invention. In example embodiments, the scan body assembly
10 enables a dental clinician to scan a patient's mouth with dental
imaging equipment (e.g., intraoral scanner) to provide a digital
dental restorative pathway, for example, so that a prosthesis can
be fabricated to engage with the implant 70 that is engaged with
the patient's jaw. Preferably, the scan body assembly 10 is
configured such that no separate fasteners, screws, etc. are
required for mounting the scan body assembly 10 to the implant
70.
[0028] In example embodiments, the scan body assembly 10 is used
with a dental implant 70, for example when using an intra oral
scanner. Thus, with the implant secured within the bone structure
of the patient's jaw, the scan body assembly is releasably engaged
by a frictional fit or snap coupling with the implant 70, and the
intra oral scanning can be performed. According to other example
embodiments, the scan body assembly 10 can be used with an implant
analog (e.g., model of the patient's dentition formed by an
impression), for example, wherein the scan body assembly 10 can be
frictionally engaged with the implant analog. As such, the scan
body assembly 10 as described herein may be provided for use with
an implant when using an intraoral scanner or alternatively may be
provided for engagement with an implant analog when using a table
top scanner. Accordingly, the scan body assembly 10 provides for
dual functionality whereby the scan body assembly 10 can be used
with implants (using an intra oral scanner), or whereby the scan
body 10 can be used with an implant analog (using a table top
scanner). For example, a practicing clinician can use the same scan
body assembly 10 for reusable and removable engagement with an
implant and an implant analog, or can optionally be configured for
a preferred engagement with either of the implant or the implant
analog, for example, when the engagement sections of the implant
and implant analog are not complementary with each other.
[0029] The implant 70 overall is generally cylindrical in shape and
extends from a first end 72 to a second end 74. The first end 72
includes a peripheral surface 76 and the second end 74 comprises
threads 80. Generally, the threads 80 extend from the second end 74
to a portion of the peripheral surface 76. The first end 72 defines
a generally centrally-positioned orifice that comprises an
engagement body, socket or other surfaces or features forming a
first engagement section 82, such as a female receiver or socket
for a hexagonal driver, and an internal threaded portion 84 (see
FIGS. 7-8). Preferably, the first engagement section 82 is provided
for receiving and releasably engaging a receiver, plug or other
surfaces or features forming a second engagement section 54 of the
scan body assembly 10 (as will be described below). Optionally, one
or more self-tapping flutes can be formed on the implant 20 near
the second end 74.
[0030] As depicted in FIGS. 3-4, the scan body assembly 10
generally comprises an elongate body 12 and a sleeve 20 configured
for engagement onto a portion of the elongate body 12. The elongate
body 12 generally comprises a first end 14 and a second end 16
generally opposite thereto. In example embodiments, the elongate
body 12 generally comprises a first end section 32, an upper
section 40, a lower section 46, the second engagement section 54,
and an end post 62 (see FIG. 4). According to one example
embodiment, the elongate body 12 is formed from a material suitable
for dental applications (e.g., polyether ether ketone plastic
(PEEK)), for example, which may be formed by an injection molding
and/or milling process. In alternate example embodiments, the
elongate body 12 can be formed from a radiopaque plastic (e.g.,
PEEK with barium sulfate), or can optionally be formed from other
plastics or metals. In example embodiments, the elongate body 12 is
integrally formed as one unitary piece. Alternatively, one or more
portions of the elongate body 12 may be formed separately and
connected together. The sleeve 20 is generally formed from a
metallic material such as ASTM F-136 titanium alloy. In example
embodiments, the sleeve 20 is formed from a metallic material to
allow for X-ray seating verification, for example, so that the
clinician can ensure that the scan body (and sleeve fitted thereon)
is properly seated and fitted within the implant 70 during the
scanning procedure. In alternate embodiments, the sleeve 20 can be
formed from other materials, for example, a metal such as stainless
steel or cobalt-chromium (CoCr), or a radiopaque plastic
material.
[0031] In example embodiments, the sleeve 20 is optionally provided
in one of a plurality of colors (e.g., which are generally
anodized) so that the scan body assembly 10 is color coded whereby
the clinician can easily identify the assembly 10 and place the
assembly 10 in the appropriate implant (e.g., having same color as
the sleeve 20). For example, in example embodiments, the implant
(or portions thereof) may also be colored to correspond to the scan
body assembly 10. Thus, during procedures where more than one scan
body assembly is required (e.g., multiple implants each requiring a
prosthesis), each of the scan body assemblies will be colored
differently to correspond to the correct implant. According to
example embodiments, the sleeve 20 can be anodized or otherwise
treated or colored to apply a desired color thereto, for example,
to match the color of the implant prosthetic platform color.
[0032] As depicted in FIG. 4, the first end portion 32 comprises a
scan feature 34 including one or more flats 36, 36', 36''. In
example embodiments, the scan feature 34 comprises three flats 36,
36', 36'', for example, whereby two of the flats 36', 36'' are
generally oriented parallel to each other and the other flat 36 is
generally oriented perpendicular relative to the other two flats
36', 36''. Preferably, the flats 36, 36', 36'' are capable of being
scanned and recognized by an intraoral or tabletop scanner, which
allows for the creation of a digital restorative pathway (e.g.,
3-dimensional model) of the patient's dental area. In example
embodiments one or more portions of the scan feature(s) and/or
other portions of the scan body assembly comprise an x-ray imagable
material or material(s) compatible with alternative clinical
imaging systems and procedures, sufficient to specify position and
orientation of the scan body in engagement with the implant. For
example, one or more of the flats 36, 36', 36'' can be formed from
a radiopaque material, or for example, can be at least partially
dipped or coated in a radiopaque material. In example embodiments,
the elongate body 12 is entirely formed from a PEEK material, which
is blended with barium sulfate prior to molding the body 12, or for
example, wherein barium sulfate is applied to an outer surface of
one or more portions of the body 12.
[0033] The upper section 40 is generally positioned adjacent to the
first end portion 32 and comprises a generally uniform cylindrical
portion 41, a cylindrical channel 42 extending through the
cylindrical portion 41, and a lower rib 44 extending around the
entirety of the periphery of the cylindrical portion 41. In
alternate embodiments, the cylindrical channel 42 can be otherwise
shaped and configured to extend entirely through the cylindrical
portion 41, or for example, may extend through at least a portion
of the cylindrical channel 42. In example embodiments, the channel
42 is preferably sized such that a dental tool or probe is capable
of being inserted at least partially therein, for example, such
that the assembly 10 can be removed from disengagement with the
implant 70, for example by retraction using a dental probe or other
tool engaged in the channel 42. The lower section 46 is generally
adjacent to the upper section 40 and comprises a cylindrical
portion 48 and a pair of spaced-apart ribs 50, 52 extending around
the entirety of the periphery of the lower section 46. According to
example embodiments, the cylindrical portion 48 of the lower
section 46 generally comprises a smaller diameter than the
cylindrical portion 41 of the upper section 40. Preferably, the
lower rib 44 of the upper section is sized to be at least slightly
larger than an opening 26 of the sleeve 20, for example, such that
the sleeve is not permitted to move beyond the lower rib 44. For
example, according to example embodiments, the lower rib 44
comprises an engagement surface or shoulder 45 that is generally
configured for direct engagement with an engagement or contact
surface 25 of the sleeve 20. Furthermore, the ribs 50, 52 of the
lower section 46 are preferably sized to be substantially similar
to the size of the opening 26 of the sleeve 20, for example, so
that there is at least some amount of friction for retaining the
sleeve 20 on the lower section 46, for example having a transition
or close sliding fit therebetween. Optionally, the sleeve 20 may be
generally movable relative to the ribs 50, 52 without much friction
therebetween, for example with a close running fit; optionally
including one or more engagement features formed on the sleeve
and/or the body 12 to provide for engagement and retention between
the sleeve and the lower section 46.
[0034] The second engagement section 54 is generally positioned
adjacent the lower section 46 and is preferably complementary in
shape to the first engagement section 82 of the implant 70. The
second engagement section 54 may be a male polygonal body (such as
a hexagonal protrusion), and similarly, the first engagement
section may be a female polygonal (for example hexagonal) plug, for
example, so that the male polygonal body is capable of cooperative
engagement with the female polygonal plug. In example embodiments,
the configuration of the male body and female plug may be commonly
known as external (plug) and internal (socket) rotational hex drive
profiles. In other example embodiments, other configurations of
engagement sections (including non-polygonal surfaces) may be
employed. For example, according to example embodiments, the second
engagement section can be configured and adapted for cooperative
engagement with other known implant systems (e.g., Nobel
Biocare.RTM. NobelReplace.TM. Straumann.RTM., etc.). The profile
and configuration of the first and second engagement surfaces
preferably retain the scan body in the implant and prevent rotation
of the scan body relative to the implant. The profile and
configuration of the second engagement section optionally matches
or corresponds at least in part to the profile and configuration of
a dental implant abutment mount to which a dental prosthesis is
mounted for compatibility with the implant. Furthermore, an end
post 62 extends from adjacent the second engagement section 54 to
the second end 16. According to example embodiments, the end post
62 is configured to maintain axial alignment of the scan body
assembly 10 with the implant 70, for example, wherein the end post
62 is generally sized to fit within the internal threaded portion
84 of the implant (see FIGS. 7-8).
[0035] As depicted in FIG. 5A, the second engagement section 54 of
the scan body preferably comprises one or more surface features
formed thereon for frictionally or otherwise releasably and
positively engaging the first engagement section 82 of the dental
implant 70. For example, in the depicted embodiment at least one of
the surfaces of the engagement section 54 comprises one or more
snap-in releasable engagement features or engagement ribs 56. In
example embodiments, the engagement ribs 56 generally extend
horizontally along at least one of the surfaces, and a groove 60 or
flat generally extends along one or more sides of the engagement
ribs 56. In example embodiments, the engagement ribs 56 are
dimensioned to be at least slightly larger than a majority of the
surface it is formed on for providing a frictional engagement fit
with the first engagement section 82. For example, where the first
engagement section 82 is a female hexagonal ("hex") configuration
and the second engagement section 54 is a male hex configuration,
the engagement ribs 56 extend or project outwardly at least
partially beyond the dimension of the female hex of the first
engagement section 82, for example, so that there is at least a
slight amount of interference between the first and second
engagement sections to provide for a releasable or detachable
friction fit therebetween.
[0036] According to example embodiments and as depicted in FIG. 5B,
at least three of the six transverse side surfaces of the male hex
of the second engagement section 54 comprise one or more engagement
ribs 56, which generally extend horizontally or transversely
relative to the longitudinal axis X of the elongate body 12. The
side surfaces that are not provided with one or more engagement
ribs 56 define a smooth and planar surface 55. In example
embodiments, every other surface of the male hex comprises one or
more of the engagement ribs 56, for example, such that the ribs 56
are generally equally spaced apart around the male hex and whereby
engagement with the first engagement section 82 causes the scan
body assembly 10 to become axially and concentrically aligned with
the implant 70. Thus, in example embodiments, three of the surfaces
comprise one or more engagement ribs 56, and the other three
surfaces can define generally smooth and planar surfaces 55 (see
FIGS. 5A-B). According to example embodiments, the surfaces
comprising the engagement ribs 56 define a dimension RR between an
outer surface of the rib 56 and an axis X extending axially
therethrough, and the smooth finished surface 55 has a dimension of
RF that is defined between an outer surface of the finished surface
55 and the X axis. In example embodiments, the dimension RR is
between about 0.25%-8% greater than the dimension RF, more
preferably between about 0.25%-4%, for example, about 2% according
to an example embodiment of the present invention. According to one
example embodiment, the dimension RR is about 0.0482 inches and the
dimension RF is about 0.0473 inches. Optionally, the dimensional
differences between dimension RR and RF can be chosen as desired,
for example, to provide for a releasable frictional engagement fit.
In example embodiments, the frictional engagement provided between
the ribs 56 and the implant are such that a force of between about
0.4-8 lbf is required to cause disengagement between the first and
second engagement sections. Alternatively, the elements may be
configured for engagement and disengagement with less or greater
force.
[0037] Optionally, the one or more engagement ribs 56 may take
other forms (e.g., tabs, clips, indents, detents, etc.) and be
positioned as desired on one or more surfaces of the male hex.
Optionally, the engagement feature(s) can comprise a compressible,
deformable, spring-biased, or otherwise resilient body or member
for positively and removably engaging the implant 70. In further
example embodiments, the engagement feature(s) comprise one or more
snap-fit couplings. In example embodiments, the female hex of the
first engagement section 82 is generally standard without any
additional surface or engagement features for providing engagement
with the engagement ribs 56. Alternatively, one or more surface
features may be formed along one or more surfaces of the female hex
of the second engagement section 82 to provide additional
interengagement with the engagement ribs 56. Further optionally,
the one or more engagement ribs 56 may be generally merged together
to form a surface (e.g., by removing the groove 60) such that a
substantially larger surface area can be provided with an
interference fit with the first engagement section 82 of the female
hex. Referring back to FIG. 4, according to example embodiments of
the present invention, at least one of the flats 36, 36', 36'' of
the scan feature 34 is oriented to be parallel with one of the
surfaces of the engagement section 54. According to one example
embodiment, the generally vertical flat 36 of the scan feature 34
is oriented to be parallel with respect to one of the surfaces of
the engagement section 54, for example, such that the scan feature
34 can be properly oriented when removably engaged with the first
engagement section of the implant or the implant analog.
[0038] FIGS. 7-8 show the scan body assembly 10 removably or
releasably engaged with the implant 70, for example, wherein the
second engagement section 54 is frictionally engaged (e.g., snap-in
fit retention) with the first engagement section 82. As shown in
FIG. 8, the engagement ribs 56 are frictionally engaged with a
surface of the first engagement section 82. Preferably, as
mentioned above, the end post 62 (and scan body assembly 10
thereof) is substantially axially aligned with the internal
threaded portion 84 of the implant 70 and the sleeve 20 is fully
seated with the first end 72 of the implant 70, thereby providing
axial alignment along an axis X of the scan body assembly 10
(having a second elongate axis) with the implant 70 (having a first
elongate axis). Similarly, when using an analog, the equal
distribution of the engagement ribs 56 around the surfaces of the
second engagement section 54 preferably provide for axial alignment
of the scan body assembly 10 with an elongate axis of the analog.
In example embodiments, the post 62 is generally sized and shaped
to be at least partially smaller than a diameter defined by the
inward-most edge of the internal threaded portion 84, for example,
such that an outer periphery portion 64 of the post 62 is generally
inwardly offset from the internal threaded portion 84 (see FIG. 8).
Preferably, the post 62 provides for precise location during
scanning, for example, as the post 62 preferably provides for
axially aligning the implant 70 with the scan body assembly. In
alternate embodiments, the post 62 can be configured to engage at
least a portion of the internal threaded portion 84 during coupling
engagement of the first and second engagement sections, which may
further provide for assistance in maintaining proper alignment of
the scan body assembly with the internal threaded portion of the
implant 70.
[0039] In example embodiments, a chamfered surface or bevel 30 is
formed along an end portion of the sleeve 20 to assist in fully
seating with a chamfered surface 77 of the implant 70 when the scan
body assembly 10 is fitted within the first engagement section 82
of the implant 70. According to example embodiments, the mating or
interface geometry defined between the bevel 30 and the chamfered
surface 77 represents a beveled connection. As depicted in FIG. 8,
the bevel connection is configured such that about a half of the
surface area of the bevel 30 is engaged with about a half of the
surface area of the chamfered surface 77. In alternate example
embodiments, more or less than about half of the surface areas of
the bevel and chamfered surface can be configured to engage when
the scan body assembly 10 is fully seated with the implant 70. In
example embodiments, with the bevel 30 fully seated and engaged
with the chamfered surface 77, x-ray imaging can identify the
engagement between the shell and the chamfered surface, for
example, to verify that the scan body assembly 10 is fully seated
and engaged with the implant, or for example, with an implant
analog.
[0040] Alternatively, the mating or interface geometry between the
sleeve and the implant can be in the form of a square or butt joint
(e.g., engagement of flat/parallel surfaces of the sleeve and
implant without a bevel or chamfer), or can be configured otherwise
such that seating verification is obtainable. For example, the
sleeve 20 and/or the second engagement section 54 can be configured
and adapted for mating engagement with other known implant systems
(e.g., Nobel Biocare.RTM. NobelReplace.TM., Straumann.RTM., Zimmer
Biomet or Zimmer dba Zimmer Dental, Biomet 31, Dentsply, Astra,
Implant Direct, CAMLOG.RTM., etc.).
[0041] As depicted in FIG. 7, the elongate body 12 extends along a
longitudinal axis X and defines a length L1 between the first and
second ends 14, 16. In example embodiments, the length L1 is
between about 0.25-1.5 inches, more preferably between about 0.5-1
inches, and still more preferably between about 0.75-0.90 inches,
for example, between about 0.77-0.80 inches. A length L2 is defined
between the first end 14 (or the end surface or flat 36'') and the
engagement surface 45, a length L3 is defined between an end
portion of the rib 52 and an end portion of the second engagement
section 54 (see FIG. 8), a length L4 is defined between a central
axis of the channel 42 and the engagement section 45 of the rib 44,
and the sleeve 20 defines a length L5 extending between the ends
thereof (e.g., the upper engagement surface 25 (see FIG. 4) and an
end portion of the chamfered surface 30). In example embodiments,
the length L2 is generally between about 0.25-0.65 inches, more
preferably between about 0.30-0.50 inches, still more preferably
between about 0.382-0.388 inches, for example, about 0.385 inches.
The length L3 is generally between about 0.038-0.098 inches, more
preferably between about 0.048-0.088 inches, still more preferably
between about 0.066-0.070 inches, for example, about 0.068 inches.
In example embodiments, the length L4 is generally between about
0.133-0.173 inches, more preferably between about 0.143-0.163
inches, for example, about 0.153 inches. And, in example
embodiments the length L5 is generally between about 0.157-0.257
inches, more preferably between about 0.182-0.232 inches, still
more preferably between about 0.206-0.208 inches, for example,
about 0.207 inches. According to example embodiments, the ratio of
the lengths L1/L2 is between about 1.5-2.5, more preferably between
about 1.75-2.25, for example, about 2. In alternate embodiments,
the dimensions and ratios as described herein can be greater or
less, to suit the intended application.
[0042] In use, the scan body assembly 10 is generally provided for
fitting within the patient's mouth in removable engagement within
an installed implant before scanning is to begin. In some example
embodiments, the clinician places the second engagement section
(e.g., male hex) of the scan body assembly within the first
engagement section (e.g., female hex) of the implant by grasping
the scan body with their fingers or with a tool and firmly seating
the first and second engagement sections together. Depending on the
tolerance of the fit and/or the interference caused by the
engagement ribs of the second engagement section, more or less
force may be required to fully seat the second engagement section
with the first engagement section. In example embodiments, a light
to moderate hand pressure is sufficient. According to example
embodiments, one or more X-ray scans or other clinical imaging
processes may be performed to verify that the sleeve 20 is seated
appropriately with the implant. The clinician then performs the
scanning procedure whereby a digital dental restorative pathway of
the patient's mouth is created. Once scanning is complete, the
clinician then removes the scan body assembly 10 from the implant,
for example by grasping the upper section 40 of the elongate body
12 and pulling to overcome the frictional or snap-fit engagement
between the at least one engagement rib 56 of the second engagement
section 54 with the first engagement section. Optionally, a dental
probe or other tool may be utilized to assist in removing the scan
body assembly 10 from the implant 70, for example, wherein the tool
is inserted into or through the cylindrical channel 42. As
described above, in example embodiments, the frictional engagement
provided between the ribs 56 and the implant 70 (e.g., first and
second engagement sections) is such that a force of between about
0.40-8.01 lbf may be applied to engage and disengage the first and
second engagement sections. Alternatively, the components may be
configured for a greater or lesser engagement and/or disengagement
force.
[0043] According to another example aspect, the present invention
relates to a method of fastening a scan body to an implant. The
method comprises providing an implant, the implant comprising a
first engagement section; providing a scan body, the scan body
comprising a second engagement section, the second engagement
section being generally complementary in shape to the first
engagement section; providing at least one rib or other engagement
feature or surface on at least a portion of the second engagement
section; installing the implant in the mandible or maxilla of a
human or animal patient; and engaging the second engagement feature
of the scan body with the first engagement feature of the implant
such that the second engagement feature positively and releasably
engages at least a portion of the first engagement feature. The
method then optionally further comprises removing the scan body
from the implant.
[0044] Thus, according to example embodiments of the present
invention, the scan body assembly can be placed and removed from
the implant without the need for fasteners such as abutment screws.
Placement and removal of the scan body assembly without requiring
fasteners saves a substantial amount of time for the clinician,
thereby substantially reducing the amount of time a patient must
remain in the dental chair. Furthermore, the scan body assembly 10
of the present invention preferably allows for easier placement in
the posterior of a patient's mouth where vertical space is often
limited. Without the need for a driver or other tool for fastening
the abutment screw to the implant, the scan body assembly may be
sized to be at least slightly taller than screw-attached scan
bodies, with a greater surface area available for more precise
scanning alignment, and better clearance around neighboring
dentition. Additionally, without the need for a fastener, risk of
patient aspiration of the fastener is eliminated. Furthermore, the
scan body assembly of the present invention is optionally reusable,
which offers a cost savings to the practitioner and/or the
patient.
[0045] While the invention has been described with reference to
example embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the
art that a variety of modifications, additions and deletions are
within the scope of the invention, as defined by the following
claims.
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