Patent ID: 7845939
Filing Date: 2010-12-07
Classification: A61C

Abstract:
1. An adjustable orthodontic apparatus with a self ligating bracket comprising: a base plate comprising opposing sides, a first side being a tooth engaging side and a second side comprising a first device for engaging and adjusting the vertical and horizontal position of a connecting plate; the connecting plate having opposing sides, a first side comprising a second device for engaging the second side of the base plate and allowing for the vertical and horizontal movement of the connecting plate as it relates to the base plate, a second side having an archwire channel for receiving an archwire, the archwire channel leading to an opening on the front of the second side; a securing device for locking the connecting plate to a desired position onto the base plate; a cover plate for closing the opening of the archwire channel and securing the archwire within the archwire channel of the connecting plate; and a device for locking the cover plate in the closed position; wherein the first device mechanically engages and is freely movable within the second device and the second device mechanically engages and is freely movable within the first device while the base plate and the connecting plate are engaged, such that separation of the base plate and connecting plate can occur during an adjustment phase; the securing device mechanically prevents further free movement and separation once the desired position is obtained; and the first device and the second device each comprise at least four protrusions having a geometric shape, wherein at least one of the protrusions of the first device has a geometric shape that creates a retentive undercut with an opposing geometric shape of at least one of the protrusions of the second device to form the mechanical engagement.