Abstract:
An orthodontic tool includes a trimmer having a lever, a base, and a spring positioned between the lever and the base. A first substantially transversely extending portion extends from the lever and a second substantially transversely extending portion extends from the base. A cutting surface is associated with each transversely extending portion. The orthodontic tool also includes a tool set having at least two arms coupled together at one end by a fastener and the arms including two or more of a sanding tool, a hook, and a pick.
Abstract:
An orthodontic tool includes a trimmer having a lever, a base, and a spring positioned between the lever and the base. A first substantially transversely extending portion extends from the lever and a second substantially transversely extending portion extends from the base. A cutting surface is associated with each transversely extending portion. The orthodontic tool also includes a tool set having at least two arms coupled together at one end by a fastener and the arms including two or more of a sanding tool, a hook, and a pick.
Abstract:
A dental dam clamp and method comprising an aperture frame, a first opposing jaw, and a second opposing jaw is disclosed. The first opposing jaw is coupled to a first opposing end of the aperture frame, and the second opposing jaw coupled to a second opposing end of the aperture frame. The first opposing jaw and the second opposing jaw are biased toward a rest state by the aperture frame. The external surface of the aperture frame comprises at least one notch, and the internal surface of the aperture frame defines a treatment aperture. The aperture frame may be substantially parallel with both the first opposing jaw and the second opposing jaw.
Abstract:
Orthotic devices are provided that reduce or eliminate the manifestation of certain involuntary movements. Through the configuration and/or composition of the devices of the present invention, persons with certain neurologic disorders and neuro-psych disorders such as Tourette Syndrome and Chronic Tic Disorder may experience a reduction in involuntary movements and urges.
Abstract:
Medical instruments, particularly, endodontic instruments with unique limited memory characteristics, and methods for making such instruments. One embodiment includes heat treating an endodontic blank prior to forming a working portion of the endodontic instrument.
Abstract:
A ceramic coated aesthetic orthodontic appliance is described as well as methods for making one. The appliance can be an archwire or a bracket. The ceramic coated aesthetic appliance can include an orthodontic archwire having a surface, an aesthetic coating covering at least a portion of the surface, and a ceramic coating layer covering at least a portion of the aesthetic coating. The aesthetic coating can be an aesthetic polymer coating and the ceramic coating layer can be deposited using a low temperature process such as ion beam assisted deposition. An ion beam surface cleaning step may also be added to enhance the adhesion of the ceramic coating layer.
Abstract:
A matrix band for use in dentistry has a silicone-based, polymer coating applied to a stainless steel or a polyester surface, which reduces or eliminates capillary action between a tooth and the matrix band. The matrix band may include at least one aperture to assist with removal of the matrix band from the tooth.
Abstract:
Medical instruments, particularly, endodontic instruments with unique limited memory characteristics, and methods for making such instruments. One embodiment includes heat treating a finished endodontic instrument. A related embodiment includes electropolishing a finished endodontic instrument and then heat treating the endodontic instrument.
Abstract:
Handpiece for dental or surgical use including fixed (2) components and moveable components, characterized in that at least some of said fixed (2) and/or moveable components are made from a composite material resulting from the association of at least two distinct basic materials, namely a matrix and a reinforcing agent, the composite material being deposited in one or several layers.
Abstract:
Dental instruments and appliances are manufactured from a superelastic alloy, which includes atoms from the group IVB and group VB transition metals and oxygen so as to exhibit superior strength and flexibility. The metal alloys are cold worked to increase the tensile strength of the dental instruments and appliances. Cold working the metal also increases the flexibility of the dental instruments and appliances and prevents work hardening. Dental instruments made from the superelastic alloy exhibit higher strength, flexibility, resistance to work hardening, and biocompatibility compared to dental instruments made from nickel-titanium alloys. In one particular example a super-elastic endodontic file is described.