Patent ID: 7374421
Filing Date: 2008-05-20
Classification: A61C

Abstract:
1. An orthodontic appliance for translating and rotating at least one tooth having a root within a gum and a gum line separating the root from the visible portion of a tooth, comprising; at least one shell, fitting over at least one tooth on at least two sides above the gum line; said shell having at least two of said applicators located integrally upon the interior of said shell and contacting the same side of the perimeter of the tooth and at least two of said couplers located integrally upon the interior of said shell opposite said applicator and contacting the opposite side of the perimeter of the tooth; each of said applicators protruding generally parallel to the gum line inwards from said shell and adapting to contact the tooth at a point of minimum surface area, each of said applicators distending said shell away from the tooth leaving a gap between the tooth and said shell, said gap extending completely around the tooth; each of said couplers protruding generally parallel to the gum line inwards from said shell in opposition to said applicator and adapting to contact the tooth at a point of minimum surface area, each of said couplers producing a force and moment to cooperate with movement of the tooth induced by said applicators; and, one of said applicators and one of said couplers locating opposite said applicator and rotating at least one tooth about any spatial axis for a limited amount of rotation with a desired moment; thus at least one tooth meets a goal of an orthodontic plan.