DENTAL ABRADING TOOLS FOR STABILIZED USES

A method of removing tooth structure includes applying an abrading implement to a first tooth by applying a first hand piece to the abrading implement with a shank that affixes the abrading implement. The abrading implement is moved against a tooth under conditions to remove tooth material from the tooth while erratic behavior is modified by use of a second hand piece that is configured to be held by a second hand. The second hand piece interfaces with the shank proximal to the location where the abrading implement is affixed.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Disclosed embodiments relate to abrading tools, for example dental abrading tools, and stabilized uses thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Although the following detailed description contains many specifics for the purposes of illustration, a person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that many variations and alterations to the following details can be made and are considered to be included herein.

Accordingly, the following embodiments are set forth without any loss of generality to, and without imposing limitations upon, any claims set forth. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a layer” includes a plurality of such layers.

The terms “left,” “right,” “front,” “back,” “top,” “bottom,” “over,” “under,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describing permanent relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments described herein are, for example, capable of operation in other orientations than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Objects described herein as being “adjacent to” each other may be in physical contact with each other, in close proximity to each other, or in the same general region or area as each other, as appropriate for the context in which the phrase is used. Occurrences of the phrase “in one embodiment,” or “in one aspect,” herein do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment or aspect.

Abrading tools, including dental abrading tools are disclosed for dental and orthodontic uses.

Reference is made to the drawings wherein like structures may be provided with like reference-suffix designations. In order to show the dental tools of various embodiments most clearly, the drawings included herein are diagrammatic representations of dental tool embodiments and some of their use embodiments. Thus, the actual appearance of the dental-tool embodiments and their use embodiments may appear different while still incorporating the claimed dental tools of the illustrated embodiments as well as the claimed methods. Moreover, the drawings show only the structures necessary to understand the illustrated embodiments. Additional structures known in the art have not been included to maintain the clarity of the drawings.

FIG. 1is a perspective view of a dental-abrading tool that is stabilized during use100according to an example embodiment. A dental abrading tool110embodiment includes a shank113that is to be interfaced with a first hand piece116. The dental abrading tool110also includes a second hand piece118that makes contact with structures affixed to the shank113. An abrading implement120is located between the shank113and the second hand piece118. As illustrated, the abrading implement120is a grinding wheel according to an embodiment. The second hand piece118may be referred to as a thimble118.

As depicted, the abrading implement120is affixed to the shank113by a first washer122(seeFIG. 2) that is located on the same side of the abrading implement120as the shank113. The abrading implement120is also affixed to a second washer124(seeFIG. 2) that is located on the same side of the abrading implement120as the second hand piece118.

Turning again toFIG. 1, an orthodontic or dental patient is illustrated in partial detail with a first tooth190and a second tooth192behind a lower tip194. A dental worker is illustrated in partial detail with a first hand196that is holding the first hand piece116and a second hand198that is stabilizing the dental tool110with the index finger at the second hand piece118.

The abrading implement120is depicted inserted between the first tooth190and the second tooth192during a dental interproximal reduction procedure according to an example embodiment. The dental interproximal reduction procedure is performed for removing tooth structure from one or both of the first tooth190and the second tooth192, and the second hand198is adding useful stability at the second hand piece118while the dental worker receives power to the dental abrading tool110from a coupling such as an electrical drive, a pneumatic drive, or a mechanical drive. This procedure embodiment is useful such as in orthodontic or dental practice to uncrowd two adjacent teeth by removing some tooth structure at the interproximal contact point, but while adding useful stability and/or precision to the procedure by applying the second hand198to the second hand piece118. For example, a grinding wheel120may have significant torque during operation that may cause the grinding wheel120to bind and cause unplanned tissue removal. Also, the grinding wheel may have erratic behavior that can be exhibited if just the first hand196is applied during a dental interproximal reduction procedure.

By using the first hand196on the first hand piece116and the second hand198on the second hand piece118, the erratic behavior can be modified, minimized, or even eliminated. “Erratic behavior” is understood to be a motion or movement of the grinding implement120in a way or to a degree that removes, or risks removal of more or less material from an object upon which the grinding implement is used than is desired or intended by the user, or is useful for a given application or procedure. In some aspects, “erratic behavior” reduces precision and increases the possibility for error. In an example embodiment, a “useful procedure” is a dental interproximal reduction carried out in orthodontia by use of the procedure illustrated and described herein. Similarly, “erratic behavior” is understood to be motion of the grinding implement120under conditions that may remove tooth structure that is not useful to be removed. “Erratic behavior” may also be understood to be motion of the grinding implement120relative to the gingiva, tongue, and other tissues of the patient, excepting the tooth and that portion thereof to be removed. A rotating grinding implement has different drag-resistance reactions depending upon the portion of the grinding wheel120that is being applied to a tooth. For example, where the top of the grinding wheel120is rotating toward the dental professional and where the bottom of the grinding wheel is in contact with the tooth, the grinding wheel initially has a tendency to resist motion toward the patient.

It may now also be understood that “modifying erratic behavior” includes the application of the second hand at the second hand piece118under competent dental surgery conditions. Such competent dental surgery conditions include a legally appropriate dental professional applying a first hand at the first hand piece116and applying a second hand at the second hand piece118.

FIG. 2is a side elevation of the dental abrading tool110depicted inFIG. 1according to an example embodiment. The shank113is further illustrated as a power-interface part112that interfaces with mechanical or pneumatic or electrical power and a chuck portion114of the shank113that interfaces with the abrading implement120. A first washer122seats between the chuck portion114of the shank113and the abrading implement120at a first side126. A second washer124seats between the second hand piece118and the abrading implement120at a second side128. A location to affix the abrading implement is between the first washer122and the second washer124.

FIG. 3is a cross-sectional elevation of the dental-abrading tool110depicted inFIG. 2according to an example embodiment. The shank113is further illustrated in cross section with the power-interface part112and the chuck portion114. The chuck portion114includes an inner channel132that is configured to receive a fastener130. The fastener130may also be referred to as an interface for a second hand piece located on the shank proximal the location to affix the abrading implement. In this embodiment, the fastener130is an interface130for the second hand piece118. Relative to the form factor of the shank113, the fastener is located on the shank113proximal the location to affix the abrading implement120.

A flange115expands from the chuck portion114to provide a seat for the first washer122. The first washer122seats between the flange115and the abrading implement120at the first side126. A second washer124rotatingly seats between the second hand piece118and the abrading implement120at a second side128. The fastener130is depicted as a machine screw that may be threaded (seeFIG. 4) in a manner that motion of the grinding implement120does not act to loosen the fastener130. Accordingly, the second hand piece118is configured to couple at the interface130. The second hand piece118may be referred to as a thimble118because of the general shape to accommodate a finger.

FIG. 4is a cross-section detail elevation of a portion of the dental-abrading tool110depicted inFIG. 3according to an example embodiment. The chuck portion114of the shank113is depicted with shank threads129that mate with fastener threads131on the fastener130. The flange115expands from the chuck portion114to provide a seat for the first washer122. The second washer124seats between the second hand piece118and the abrading implement120at the second side128. The fastener130passes through the second hand piece118, the second washer124, the grinding implement120, and the first washer122to attach with the fastener threads131within the inner channel132.

In an embodiment, the second washer124has a beveled surface125that minimizes frictional contact between the second hand piece118and the second washer124. A bearing surface119inside the second hand piece118allows the fastener130to rotate with minimal friction while the second hand198steadies operation of the abrading implement120during a dental abrading procedure by holding a digit such as the index finger of the second hand198firmly against the second hand piece118. By the same token, a fastener bearing surface131allows the second hand piece118to rotate with minimal friction against the bearing surface119inside the second hand piece118. Accordingly, the second hand piece118is rotatingly affixed to the shank113.

FIG. 5is a perspective view of a dental-abrading tool that is partially stabilized during use500according to a comparative example embodiment. A dental abrading tool510embodiment includes a shank513that is to be interfaced with a first hand piece516. An abrading implement520is located between the shank513a nut530that fastens the abrading implement to the shank513. As illustrated, the abrading implement520is a grinding wheel520.

An orthodontic or dental patient is illustrated in partial detail with a first tooth590and a second tooth592behind a lower lip594. A dental worker is illustrated in partial detail with a first hand596that is holding the first hand piece516and a second hand598that is attempting to stabilize the dental tool510with the right index finger at the nut530. The illustrated attempt to stabilize the dental tool includes modifying erratic behavior of the abrading implement520by use of a first hand holding the first hand piece516and a second hand at the nut530.

The abrading implement520is depicted inserted between the first tooth590and the second tooth592during a dental interproximal reduction procedure according to an example embodiment. While this procedure embodiment is useful such as in orthodontic or dental practice to uncrowd two adjacent teeth by removing some tooth structure at the interproximal contact point, adding useful stability to the procedure by applying the second hand598to the nut530may be challenging unless the nut530may freely rotate, or a portion thereof against e.g., the index finger of the second hand598.

In any event, a moment arm550is established between the dental interproximal insertion of the grinding implement520and the center of purchase of the first hand596upon the first hand piece516. Although the dental professional may have a steady hand (including resting a finger fulcrum on the patient), the rotating action of the grinding implement520may present a challenge to have a stabile enough presentation of the grinding implement520against e.g. the second tooth592during a dental interproximal reduction procedure that achieves a useful amount of tooth reduction for a given orthodontic treatment element. The challenge includes erratic motion of the nut530against the finger.

FIG. 6is a perspective view of a dental-abrading tool that is stabilized during use600which shows relative lever-arm effects according to an example embodiment. A dental abrading tool610embodiment includes a shank613that is to be interfaced with a first hand piece616. An abrading implement620is located between the shank613a second hand piece618that is fastened to the shank613along with first- and second washers (see, e.g. first- and second washers122and124, respectively, inFIGS. 2,3, and4). As illustrated, the abrading implement620is a grinding wheel620.

An orthodontic or dental patient is illustrated in detail with a first tooth690and a second tooth692behind a lower lip694. A dental worker is illustrated in detail with a first hand696that is holding the first hand piece616and a second hand698that stabilizing the dental tool610with the right index finger at the second hand piece618.

The abrading implement620is depicted inserted between the first tooth690and the second tooth692during a dental interproximal reduction procedure according to an example embodiment. This procedure embodiment is useful such as in orthodontic or dental practice to uncrowd two adjacent teeth by removing some tooth structure at the interproximal contact point because useful stability is added to the procedure by applying the second hand698to the second hand piece618.

In any event, a moment arm650is established between the dental interproximal insertion of the grinding implement620and a center of purchase of the first hand696upon the first hand piece616. Although the dental professional may have a steady hand (including resting the elbow of the first hand696upon an arm rest, etc.), the rotating action of the grinding implement620is further controlled and stabilized by pressing e.g. an index finger of the second hand698against the second hand piece618during presentation of the grinding implement620against, e.g. the second tooth692during a dental interproximal reduction procedure that achieves a useful amount of tooth reduction for a given orthodontic treatment element. A second moment arm652may also be established by the dental worker that counters in part the first moment arm650such that a stabilized dental operation is carried out.

As illustrated, stabilization of the dental tool includes modifying erratic behavior of the abrading implement620by use of a first hand holding the first hand piece616and a second hand holding the second hand piece618while it is freely rotating against the grinding implement.

FIG. 7is a perspective elevation of a dental-abrading tool700according to an example embodiment. A shank is illustrated as a power-interface part112that interfaces with mechanical or pneumatic or, electrical power, and a chuck portion714that interfaces with an abrading implement720. A first washer (obscured by the abrading implement) seats between the chuck portion714of the shank and the abrading implement720at a first side (obscured by the abrading implement). A second washer724seats between a second hand piece718and the abrading implement720at a second side728. A fastener730is seen from the end of the second hand piece718. The fastener730is illustrated as a standard-head machine screw with specialized features such as that illustrated and described inFIGS. 1,2,3, and4.

FIG. 8is a cross-section detail of the grinding wheel depicted inFIG. 7according to an example embodiment. A grinding wheel820that is to be affixed to a dental-abrading tool embodiment is shown in partial section such as a portion of the grinding wheel120depicted inFIG. 2above (positive Z-direction) the shank113. The grinding wheel820includes a first surface826that is analogous to the first side126of the grinding wheel120depicted inFIG. 1. A first grinding medium854is located on the first surface826. The grinding wheel820includes a second surface828that is analogous to the second side128of the grinding wheel120depicted inFIG. 1. A second grinding medium856is located on the second surface828.

In an embodiment, the first grinding medium854is the same in size and type as the second grinding medium856. In this embodiment the grinding wheel820may be selected where the dental worker has determined to remove material from both the first tooth and the second tooth such as the first tooth190and the second tooth192depicted inFIG. 1.

In an embodiment, the first grinding medium854is different in type but similar in size as that of the second grinding medium856. In this embodiment, the dental worker may determine to remove tooth structure from each of the first tooth and the second tooth, but the different grinding media types achieve different amounts of tooth structure removal.

In an embodiment, the first grinding medium854is different in both size and type as that of the second grinding medium856. In this embodiment, the dental worker may determine to remove tooth structure from each of the first tooth and the second tooth, but the different grinding media types achieve different amounts of tooth structure removal.

In each of these embodiments depicted and described forFIG. 8, a stabilized procedure is carried out by applying the second hand198(seeFIG. 1) to the second hand piece118.

FIG. 9is a cross-section detail of the grinding wheel depicted inFIG. 7according to an example embodiment. A grinding wheel920that is to be affixed to a dental-abrading tool embodiment is shown in partial section such as a portion of the grinding wheel120depicted inFIG. 2above (positive Z-direction) the shank113. The grinding wheel920includes a first surface926that is analogous to the first side126of the grinding wheel120depicted inFIG. 1. A first friction-reducing medium954is located on the first surface926. The grinding wheel920includes a second surface928that is analogous to the second side128of the grinding wheel120depicted inFIG. 1. A second grinding medium956is located on the second surface928.

In an embodiment, the first friction-reducing medium954is a low-friction material such as Nylon® 612 that is manufactured by DuPont Chemical of Wilmington, Del. Other materials may be used that are based upon the polyamide chemistry upon which Nylon® is based. In this embodiment the grinding wheel920may be selected where the dental worker has determined to remove material from only the second tooth such as friction is significantly reduced upon the first tooth190and the second tooth192depicted inFIG. 1.

In an embodiment, the first friction-reducing medium954is a low-friction material such as Teflon® that is manufactured by DuPont Chemical of Wilmington, Del. Other materials may be used that are based upon the polytetrafluoroethylene chemistry upon which Teflon® is based. In this embodiment the grinding wheel920may be selected where the dental worker has determined to remove material from only the second tooth such as friction is significantly reduced upon the first tooth190and the second tooth192depicted inFIG. 1. In each of the embodiments depicted and described forFIG. 9, a stabilized procedure is carried out by applying the second hand198(seeFIG. 1) to the second hand piece118.

FIG. 10is a cross-section detail of the grinding wheel depicted inFIG. 7according to an example embodiment. A grinding wheel1020that is to be affixed to a dental-abrading tool embodiment is shown in partial section such as a portion of the grinding wheel120depicted inFIG. 2above (positive Z-direction) the shank113. The grinding wheel1020includes a first surface1026that is analogous to the first side126of the grinding wheel120depicted inFIG. 1. The grinding wheel1020includes a second surface1028that is analogous to the second side128of the grinding wheel120depicted inFIG. 1. A second grinding medium1056is located on the second surface1028.

In an embodiment, the grinding wheel1020may be selected where the dental worker has determined to remove material from only the second tooth such as friction is significantly reduced upon the first tooth190and the second tooth192depicted inFIG. 1.

FIG. 11is an end elevation of a grinding wheel1120according to an example embodiment. A second washer1124seats between a second hand piece1118and the abrading implement1120at a second side1128. The abrading implement1120is operated in a continuous rotary motion.

FIG. 12is a cross-section elevation of a dental-abrading tool1210according to an example embodiment. A shank1213includes a power-coupling part1212and is further illustrated in cross section with a chuck portion1214. A first washer1222seats between the chuck portion1214and an abrading implement1220at a first side1226. A second washer1224is part of a fastener1230that extends into an inner channel1232of the chuck portion1214of the shank. A bearing surface1331is used with an independent implement that is a second hand piece (see, e.g.,FIG. 13) for a method embodiment. The second washer1224portion of the fastener seats between the bearing surface1319and the abrading implement1220at a second side1228.

A flange1215expands from the chuck portion1214to provide a seat for a first washer1222. The first washer1222seats between the flange1215and the abrading implement1220at the first side1226. The fastener1230is depicted as including a machine screw portion (see, e.g.,FIG. 4) that may be threaded in a manner that motion of the grinding implement1220does not act to loosen the fastener1230. However, it is to be understood that the fastener can take a variety of specific forms capable of engaging the inner channel1232, such as a friction-fit pin, a rivet, and may be held in place by other permanent or semi-permanent mechanisms including without limitation, welding, anchoring, soldering, brazing, adhesive, etc. Further, the fastener1330may be hollow or solid, and in some aspects, the fastener may be an integral or continuous portion of the shank1213.

According to one embodiment, the shank1213is configured for a first hand piece and a location to affix the abrading implement1220is between the first washer1222and the second washer1224. Further, the fastener1230may also be referred to as an interface for a second hand piece located on the shank1213proximal the location to affix the abrading implement1220. In this embodiment, the fastener1230includes an interface1231that is a bearing surface for a second hand piece such as the hand piece1318depicted inFIG. 13. Relative to the form factor of the shank1213, the fastener1230is located on the shank1213proximal the location to affix the abrading implement1220.

FIG. 13is a perspective elevation of a dental-abrading tool1310and a thimble stabilizer1318that is applied to the tool1310according to an example embodiment. A shank1313includes a power-coupling part1312and is further illustrated with a chuck portion1314. A first washer seats between the chuck portion1314and an abrading implement1320at a first side. A second washer1324is part of a fastener1330that extends into an inner channel of the chuck portion1314. The second washer1324portion of the fastener1330seats between the bearing surface1331and the abrading implement1320at a second side1328. Accordingly, the second hand piece1318is configured to be rotatingly coupled to the shank1313.

A bearing surface1319is used with an independent implement that is a second hand piece1318for a method embodiment as depicted, the second hand piece1318is a thimble1318that fits over a digit of a dental worker such as on the index finger of the second hand198depicted inFIG. 1. In an embodiment, the thimble1318provides a more certain purchase on the finger of a dental worker than the second hand piece118depicted inFIG. 2. Further as depicted, the second hand piece as a thimble1318may allow the dental worker to angle the second hand piece1318out of the axis of the shank1313while still providing axial stability to the shank1313while the grinding implement1320is in motion.

According to this embodiment, the shank1313is configured for the first hand piece1318and a location to affix the abrading implement1320is between the first washer and the second washer1324. Further, the fastener1330may also be referred to as an interface for a second hand piece located on the shank1313proximal the location to affix the abrading implement1320. In this embodiment, the fastener1330includes an interface1331that is a bearing surface for the second hand piece1318. Relative to the form factor of the shank1313, the fastener1330is located on the shank1313proximal the location to affix the abrading implement1320.

Consequently, the dental professional may modify, or minimize erratic behavior of the grinding implement1320by use of a first hand holding the first hand piece (that is to be affixed to the shank1313) and by use of a second hand holding the second hand piece1318by applying the second hand piece bearing surface1319at the bearing surface1331.

FIG. 14is a cross-section elevation of a thimble stabilizer1418that is used with a dental-abrading tool according to an example embodiment. The thimble stabilizer1418includes a digit-insertion cavity1417for inserting a digit such as the index finger of the second hand198depicted inFIG. 1. It is understood the thimble stabilizer1418has a general thimble form factor.

In an embodiment, the thimble stabilizer1418is a second hand piece embodiment that provides an axial bearing surface1419A similar to the axial bearing surface1319depicted for the second hand piece1318inFIG. 13. In a method embodiment, a dental worker inserts a digit from the second hand into the digit-insertion cavity1417, and stabilizes a grinding implement by mating a bearing surface on the fastener with the axial bearing surface1419A. In an example embodiment, the dental professional may modify erratic behavior of the grinding implement1220, depicted inFIG. 12, by use of a first hand holding the first hand piece that is affixed to the shank1213and by use of a second hand holding the second hand piece by applying the second hand piece bearing surface1419A at the bearing surface1231. It is to be understood that the bearing surfaces1419A.1419Q, or1419λ may take a variety of sizes and shapes that are complimentary to the bearing surface1331of the fastener1330. Nearly any smooth and circular, semicircular, arcuate, or parabolic shape may be used. Likewise, the shape and size of the bearing surface1331of fastener1330may be of nearly any shape and size complimentary to the bearing surfaces1419A.1419Q, or1419λ. Such complimentary shape allows for the bearing surfaces of1419A.1419Q, or1419λ to be similar in size to, or larger than, the bearing surface1331of the fastener1330such that the bearing surface1331of the fastener1330can engage the bearing surfaces1419A.1419Q, or1419λ.

In an embodiment, a quasi-axial bearing surface1419Q is depicted upon the thimble1418on a facet of the thimble stabilizer1418that is near the axial bearing surface1419A. In a method embodiment, a dental worker inserts a digit from the second hand into the digit-insertion cavity1417, and stabilizes a grinding implement by mating a bearing surface of a fastener, such as the bearing surface1331of the fastener1330depicted inFIG. 13, with the quasi-axial bearing surface1419Q in order to present the left hand toward the patient in a different attitude than when the axial bearing surface1419A is used. In an example embodiment, the dental professional may modify erratic behavior of the grinding implement1220, depicted inFIG. 12, by use of a first hand holding the first hand piece that is affixed to the shank1213and by use of a second hand holding the second hand piece by applying the second hand piece bearing surface1419A at the bearing surface1231.

In an embodiment, a lateral bearing surface1419λ is depicted upon the thimble1418on a facet of the thimble stabilizer1418. In a method embodiment, a dental worker inserts a digit from the second hand into the digit-insertion cavity1417, and stabilizes a grinding implement by mating a bearing surface of a fastener, such as the bearing surface1331of the fastener1330depicted inFIG. 13, with the lateral bearing surface1419λ in order to present the left hand toward the patient in a different attitude than when either the axial bearing surface1419A or the quasi-axial bearing surface1419Q are used. In an example embodiment, the dental professional may modify erratic behavior of the grinding implement1220, depicted inFIG. 12, by use of a first hand holding the first hand piece that is affixed to the shank1213and by use of a second hand holding the second hand piece by applying the second hand piece bearing surface1419λ at the bearing surface1231.

It is to be understood that the intended point of engagement between the bearing surface1331of the fastener1330and the bearing surface1419(whether axial, quasi-axial, or lateral) of thimble1418may occur substantially at nearly any point deemed desirable and suitable to achieve a specifically intended result. For example, the point of engagement may be selected in order to accommodate use of the thimble1418on a digit of the right hand, a digit of the left hand, or ambidextrously (i.e. either right or left hand), or to allow the thimble1418to be held at a number of different orientations while engaging the fastener1330, (e.g. facing head on, at an angle, or at a substantially 90 degree orientation, etc.). Moreover, multiple intended points of engagement can be specifically identified and placed to provide flexibility of use.

In a method embodiment, a dental worker uses at least two of the bearing surfaces1419A,1419Q, and1419λ during a single dental interproximal reduction procedure.

In a dental operation embodiment, it is useful for the dental worker to have a variety of left-hand presentations for stabilizing a grinding implement embodiment, including using a combination of the three disclosed bearing surfaces of the thimble stabilizer1418during a single interproximal dental abrading procedure.

FIG. 15is a perspective elevation of a dental-abrading tool1510and a thimble stabilizer1518that is applied to the tool according to an example embodiment. A shank1513includes a power-coupling part1512and is further illustrated with a chuck portion1514. A first washer seats between the chuck portion1514and an abrading implement1520at a first side. A second washer1524is part of a fastener1530that extends into an inner channel of the chuck portion1514. The second washer1524portion of the fastener1530seats between the bearing surface1531and the abrading implement1520at a second side1528.

A bearing surface1519is used with an independent implement that is a second hand piece1518for a method embodiment as depicted, the second hand piece1518is a thimble1518that fits over a digit of a dental worker such as on the index finger of the second hand198depicted inFIG. 1. In an embodiment, the thimble1518provides a more certain purchase on the finger of a dental worker than the second hand piece118depicted inFIG. 2. Further as depicted, the second hand piece as a thimble1518may allow the dental worker to angle the second hand piece1518out of the axis of the shank1513while still providing axial stability to the shank1513while the grinding implement1520is in motion.

The grinding implement1520is used to perform dental interproximal reduction procedures by being moved in a radial oscillatory motion1521as opposed to a continuous rotary motion of the grinding implements120,520,620,720,1120,1220, and1320. Consequently, the dental professional may modify erratic behavior of the grinding implement1520by use of a first hand holding the first hand piece (that is to be affixed to the shank1513) and by use of a second hand holding the second hand piece1518by applying the second hand piece bearing surface1519at the bearing surface1531.

It may now be appreciated that the grinding implements with the specialized surfaces seen inFIGS. 8,9, and10may be applied to the grinding implement1520depicted inFIG. 15. Further, it may now be appreciated that the grinding implement1520may be assembled for use with any second hand piece depicted and described in this disclosure such as the second hand piece118or the second hand piece1418by way of non-limiting example embodiments.

FIG. 16is a cross-section elevation of a dental-abrading tool according to an example embodiment. The dental-abrading tool1610is similar to the dental-abrading tool310depicted inFIG. 3with the addition that a grinding implement1620is configured for radial-oscillatory grinding motion. A shank1613is illustrated in cross section with a power-interface part1612and a chuck portion1614. The chuck portion1614includes an inner channel1632that is configured to receive a fastener1630. A flange1615expands from the chuck portion1614to provide a seat for a first washer1622. The first washer1622seats between the flange1615and the abrading implement1620at a first side1626. A second washer1624seats between a second hand piece1618and the abrading implement1620at a second side1628. The fastener1630is depicted as a machine screw that may be threaded similar to the fastener depicted inFIG. 4. The fastener1630is fastened in a manner that motion of the grinding implement1620does not act to loosen the fastener1630. Consequently, the dental professional may modify, minimize, or substantially eliminate, erratic behavior of the grinding implement1620by use of a first hand holding the first hand piece (that is to be affixed to the shank1613) and by use of a second hand holding the second hand piece1618.

FIG. 17is a side elevation of a dental-abrading tool1710and a finger-tip sticker1718stabilizer that is applied to the tool according to an example embodiment. A shank1713includes a power-coupling part1712and is further illustrated with a chuck portion1714. A first washer seats between the chuck portion1714and an abrading implement1720at a first side. A second washer1724is part of a fastener1730that extends into an inner channel of the chuck portion1714. The second washer1724portion of the fastener1730seats between the bearing surface1731and the abrading implement1720at a second side1728.

A bearing surface1719is used with an independent implement that is a second hand piece1718for a method embodiment as depicted, the second hand piece1718is a finger-tip sticker1718that fits at the end of a digit of a dental worker such as on the tip of the index finger of the second hand198depicted inFIG. 1. In an embodiment, the finger-tip sticker1718provides a more certain purchase on the finger of a dental worker than the second hand piece118depicted inFIG. 2. Further as depicted, the finger-tip sticker1718may allow the dental worker to angle the second hand piece1718out of the axis of the shank1713while still providing axial stability to the shank1713while the grinding implement1720is in motion. It is understood the stabilizer1718has a general dish or finger-tip form factor in contrast to the thimble form factor of stabilizer1418depicted inFIG. 14.

According to this embodiment, the shank1713is configured for a first hand piece and a location to affix the abrading implement1720is between the first washer and the second washer1724. Further, the fastener1730may also be referred to as an interface for the second hand piece1718located on the shank1713proximal the location to affix the abrading implement1720. In this embodiment, the fastener1730includes an interface1731that is a bearing surface for the second hand piece1718. Relative to the form factor of the shank1713, the fastener1730is located on the shank1713proximal the location to affix the abrading implement1720.

Consequently, the dental professional may modify, minimize, or substantially eliminate, erratic behavior of the grinding implement1720by use of a first hand holding the first hand piece (that is to be affixed to the shank1713) and by use of a second hand holding the second hand piece1718by applying the second hand piece bearing surface1719at the bearing surface1731.

It may now be appreciated that a radial-oscillatory grinding implement such as the grinding implement1520may be used along with a finger-tip sticker second hand piece1718. Alternatively, other mechanisms of placing an effective barrier between a user's digit and the bearing surface1731of the fastener1730which allows the fastener to be held comfortably in place are contemplated as within the scope of the present invention.

FIG. 18is a perspective view of a dental-polishing tool1810that is stabilized during use1800according to an example embodiment. A dental polishing tool1810embodiment includes a shank1813that is to be interfaced with a first hand piece1816. The dental polishing tool1810also includes a second hand piece1818that makes contact with structures affixed to the shank1813. A polishing implement1820is located between the shank1813and the second hand piece1818. As illustrated, the polishing implement1820is a buffing wheel1820according to an embodiment.

The polishing implement1820is affixed to the shank1813by a first washer that is located on the same side of the polishing implement1820as the shank1813. The polishing implement1820is also affixed to a second washer that is located on the same side of the polishing implement1820as the second hand piece1818.

A dental patient is illustrated in partial detail with a first tooth1890and a second tooth1892behind a lower lip1894. A dental worker is illustrated in partial detail with a first hand1896that is holding the first hand piece1816and a second hand1898that is stabilizing the dental tool1810with the right index finger at the second hand piece1818.

During a polishing procedure performed upon one of the first tooth1890and the second tooth1892, and the second hand1898is adding useful stability at the second hand piece1818while the dental worker receives power to the dental polishing tool1810from a coupling such as an electrical drive, a pneumatic drive, or a mechanical drive. This procedure embodiment is useful such as in dental practice to buff or micro-grind a tooth surface removing some tooth structure at the occlusal contact point, but while adding useful stability to the procedure by applying the second hand1898to the second hand piece1818. Consequently, the dental professional may modify, minimize, or substantially eliminate, erratic behavior of the polishing implement1820by use of a first hand holding the first hand piece1816and by use of a second hand holding the second hand piece1818.

FIG. 19is a perspective view of a dental-abrading tool that is stabilized during use1900according to an example embodiment. A dental abrading tool1910embodiment includes a reciprocating shank1913that is interfaced with a first hand piece1916. The dental abrading tool1910also includes a second hand piece1918that makes contact with structures affixed to the reciprocating shank1913. An abrading implement1920is affixed to the reciprocating shank1913and the second hand piece1918is slidingly coupled to the reciprocating shank1913. Two stators1912couple the first hand piece1916to the second hand piece and the reciprocating shank also couple to the second hand piece1918. The second hand piece1918may be referred to as a finger-tip stabilizer1918.

The abrading implement1920is an abrasive blade. Embodiments of the abrading implement may be viewed inFIGS. 8,9, and10except the coordinates are Y-X and the abrading implements820,920, and1020are presented in top plan view.

An orthodontic or dental patient is illustrated in partial detail with a first tooth1990and a second tooth1992behind a lower lip1994. A dental worker is illustrated in partial detail with a first hand1996that is holding the first hand piece1916and a second hand1998that is stabilizing the dental tool1910with the right index finger at the second hand piece1918.

The abrading implement1920is depicted inserted between the first tooth1990and the second tooth1992during a dental interproximal reduction procedure according to an example embodiment. The dental interproximal reduction procedure is performed for removing tooth structure from one of the first tooth1990and the second tooth1992, and the second hand1998is adding useful stability at the second hand piece1918while the dental worker receives power to the dental abrading tool1910from a coupling such as an electrical drive, a pneumatic drive, or a mechanical drive. This procedure embodiment is useful such as in orthodontic practice to uncrowd two adjacent teeth by removing some tooth structure at the interproximal contact point, but while adding useful stability to the procedure by applying the second hand1998to the second hand piece1918. For example, a grinding wheel1920may have significant torque during operation that may cause the grinding wheel1920to bind and cause unplanned tissue removal. Also, the grinding wheel may have erratic behavior that can be exhibited if just the first hand1996is applied during a dental interproximal reduction procedure. By using the first hand1996on the first hand piece1916and the second hand1998on the second hand piece1918, the erratic behavior can be modified or even eliminated.

According to this embodiment, the shank1913is configured for the first hand piece1918and a location to affix the abrading implement1920is at one end of the shank. The abrading implement may also be described as proximate the interface1912for the second hand piece1918located on the shank1913proximal the location to affix the abrading implement1920. Relative to the form factor of the shank1913, the stators1912are located on the shank1913proximal the location to affix the abrading implement1920.

Consequently, the dental professional may modify, minimize, or substantially eliminate, erratic behavior of the polishing implement1920by use of a first hand holding the first hand piece1916and by use of a second hand holding the second hand piece1918.

FIG. 20is a perspective elevation2000of an orthodontic structure applied to a tooth according to an example embodiment. A first animal tooth2090and a second tooth2092are depicted. A method embodiment has been carried out to achieve an interproximal dental reduction on the first tooth2090.

After causing the abrading implement to move against a first tooth2090under conditions to remove tooth material from the first tooth2090and after modifying erratic behavior of the abrading implement by stabilizing at the second hand piece, the dental professional affixes an orthodontic appliance2091to the first tooth. In an embodiment, the orthodontic appliance2091is affixed adjacent an interproximal reduction that was achieved. It is understood that the illustrated orthodontic appliance2091is a non-limiting example embodiment.

FIG. 21is a method flow diagram2100according to example embodiments.

At2110, the method includes applying an abrading implement to a first tooth. In a non-limiting example embodiment, a grinding wheel120is applied interproximally between a first tooth190and a second tooth192. A grinding medium is in contact with the second tooth on the second side of the grinding wheel120, but no grinding medium is in contact with the first tooth on the first side.

At2120, the method includes delivering motorized power to the abrading implement by a first hand piece. This method element may also be understood as causing the abrading implement to move against the first tooth under conditions to remove tooth material from the first tooth. In a non-limiting example embodiment, a first hand piece116delivers rotary motion to a shank113to which the grinding wheel120is affixed.

At2130, the method includes modifying erratic behavior of the abrading implement by applying a second hand to a second hand piece that is coupled to the abrading implement. In a non-limiting example embodiment, the abrading implement120is steadied by applying a hand at the second hand piece118.

At2140, the method includes affixing an orthodontic appliance to the first tooth. In a non-limiting example embodiment, an orthodontic band2091is applied to a first tooth2090.

FIG. 22is grinder for structures other than dental tissues. It may be appreciated that a stabilizer2218on an abrading implement may be used for operations such as jewelry.

FIG. 23is an exploded perspective detail of a portion of a dental-abrading tool according to an example embodiment. The shank2313is depicted with power interface part2312at one end and the fastener2330at the other end. The second hand piece2318is split and may be assembled by an adhesive around the fastener2330. The second washer2324seats against the second hand piece2318. The fastener2330passes through the second hand piece2318.

In an embodiment, the second washer2324has a beveled surface. A bearing surface2319inside the second hand piece2318allows the fastener2330to rotate with minimal friction while the second hand of a dental professional may steady operation of the abrading implement during a dental abrading procedure. By the same token, a fastener bearing surface2331allows the second hand piece2318to rotate with minimal friction against the bearing surface2319inside the second hand piece2318. Accordingly, the second hand piece2318is rotatingly affixed to the shank2313.

In other aspects of the present invention, systems for performing dental procedures and/or dental surgeries are provided. Such systems can include one or more of the tools recited herein in combination with one or more of the second hand pieces recited herein.