Patent ID: 7210927
Filing Date: 2007-05-01
Classification: A61C

Abstract:
1. An orthodontic bracket comprising: a bracket base having an upper surface and an arch wire slot formed in the upper surface adapted to receive at least one arch wire; and a ligation cover having an attachment portion for attachment of the ligation cover to the base, a hinged portion, and a hinge element interposed between and hingedly interconnecting the attachment portion and the hinged portion so as to permit hinged movement of the hinged portion relative to the attachment portion, wherein the hinge element is a film hinge comprised of a local region of reduced cross sectional thickness, wherein the hinged portion of the cover is movable about the hinge element over a substantial angle of rotation between a fully open, non-ligating position relative to the bracket base in which no portion of the ligation cover remains directly over the arch wire slot and a closed, ligating position in which a portion of the ligation cover is directly over the arch wire slot, and wherein the ligation cover covers substantially all of the upper surface of the bracket base and the arch wire slot when the ligation cover is in the closed, ligating position.