Align Technology has patented a method for creating interproximal reduction guides for dental procedures. The guides are customized to fit a patient’s dental arch, with guide slots to control the movement of cutting tools. This innovation aims to improve precision and efficiency in dental treatments. GlobalData’s report on Align Technology gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Align Technology, Digital intra-oral scanning was a key innovation area identified from patents. Align Technology's grant share as of January 2024 was 58%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Interproximal reduction guide for dental arches
A recently granted patent (Publication Number: US11883256B2) outlines a method for creating an interproximal reduction guide for dental procedures. The method involves receiving a model of a patient's dental arch and generating the guide, which includes a body with chambers to conform to the teeth's outer surface. The guide also features a guide slot to limit the motion of an interproximal reduction tool. The guide is then provided to a physician for use in the procedure. The process can involve generating the guide from a digital model, using stiff materials to resist cutting, and fabricating through methods like milling or 3D printing. Additionally, scanning the patient's teeth and determining interproximal spacing can be part of the process, along with forming windows for visualization and incorporating tapered guide slots.
Furthermore, the patent details variations of the method, such as creating the guide solely from a digital model of the patient's dental arch, utilizing materials like ceramic or zirconium, and determining prescribed interproximal spacing based on the guide slot dimensions. The method also includes scanning the dental arch, forming multiple guide slots, and incorporating windows for displaying the patient's teeth. The guide slots are designed with a tapered profile for ease of use, and the overall process aims to provide a comprehensive and efficient tool for interproximal reduction procedures in dental care. Overall, the patent highlights a detailed and innovative approach to creating interproximal reduction guides, emphasizing precision, customization, and ease of use for dental professionals.
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