Patent ID: 8714973
Filing Date: 2014-05-06
Classification: A61C

Abstract:
1. A bracket, comprising: a base; the base is adapted to be coupled with a tooth; a main structure associated with the base; and a clip having a passive mode of operation and an interactive mode of operation to selectively affect change in mechanical forces experienced by the tooth when the clip is in closed position; in the closed position, a first free end of the clip extends out from the bracket, with a second free end that moves to one of passive mode of operation and interactive mode of operation positions; the main structure is comprised of a first, a second, and a third portions positioned along a height of the bracket; the first portion of the main structure includes: a first tie wing that extends longitudinally along an axial length of the bracket and includes a first curved profile to form a first curved surface for comfort and improved hygiene; a first end of the first curved profile includes a first apex portion, below which first apex portion is a channel that extends longitudinally along the axial length of the bracket and is positioned behind the first curved surface; a surface of the first portion includes: a first retaining flange that extends substantially vertically from a second end of the first curved surface; a second retaining flange slanted at an angle and positioned behind the first retaining flange toward the base; and a stop wall; with a first spacing formed between the first retaining flange and the second retaining flange constituting a passive mode spacing for the passive mode of operation of the clip when the second free end of the clip is positioned within the formed first spacing, and a second spacing formed between the second retaining flange and the stop wall constituting an interactive mode spacing for the interactive mode of operation of the clip when the second free end of the clip is positioned within the formed second spacing; a second portion of the main structure includes: a first slot that extends longitudinally along the axial length of the bracket; a second slot extending longitudinally along the axial length of the bracket; the first and second slots are positioned generally centrally in relation to the height of the bracket and adjacent and parallel one another, separated by a wall flange common to both the first and the second slots; the first slot and a first slot opening of the first slot is oriented in a same direction as the second slot and a second slot opening of the second slot; the third portion of the main structure includes: a second tie wing that includes a second curved profile that extends longitudinally along the axial length of the bracket to form a second curved surface for comfort and improved hygiene; a first end of the second curved profile includes a second apex portion, behind which is a curved channel that extends longitudinally along the axial length of the bracket; and a second end of the second curved profile includes a curved indentation.