Dental implant system and method

An implant fixture is disclosed. The implant fixture contains an elongated shaft section, a head section, wherein the head section comprises at least one concave area for bone growth therein, and a protrusion extending from the head section.

FIELD

The present invention relates to the filed of dental implants.

BACKGROUND

Restorations supported by dental implants with adjacent and/or opposing teeth have been performed by thousands of clinicians. An exemplary restoration process is shown inFIGS. 1a-d. Referring toFIG. 1a, an alveolus10is formed in a patient's jawbone15to accommodate a dental implant fixture20. Once the dental implant fixture20is securely in the alveolus10(shown inFIG. 1b), an abutment member25is coupled with the dental implant fixture20(shownFIGS. 1c-d). The restoration process is completed after tooth analogue30is coupled with the abutment member25.

In view of the recent research, it has been determined that some people with single-tooth and/or multiple-tooth implant restorations exhibit esthetic, functional, restorative and/or periodontal ramifications of subtle continued craniofacial growth that occurs after the implant restorations are performed.

Craniofacial growth may influence the relationship of implant restorations to the remaining teeth and jaw structure by, for example, causing changes in occlusion, causing migration of teeth with subsequent effect of opening contact, and/or causing changes to anterior esthetic.

Changes in occlusion can be due to continued growth in the arch containing the implants, as well as the opposing arch. In both situations, the position of the implants and associated restoration are static whereas the teeth are subject to movement in both facial and occlusal directions. These potential changes are not gender-specific. For situations such as posterior free-end implant restorations supporting significant occlusal loads, these movements can negate the effectiveness of the implant restoration over time, placing unfavorable stresses on the remaining dentition.

When natural teeth are present in the same arch with dental implants, an unforeseen long-term complication observed by many has been the opening of contacts between the implant restoration and typically the natural tooth anterior to the implant restoration. With loss of the natural tooth contact mesial to the implant restoration significantly affected by age and condition of the opposing dentition.

Besides functional changes and consequences in occlusion and opening of contacts, it has been observed that subtle growth over time also can change esthetic results once thought to be stable. Discrepancies have become manifest in three visible areas relative to adjacent teeth: the incisal edge length, the gingival margin height, and the facial contour alignment. Extrusion and up righting of the anterior teeth can simultaneously cause all three discrepancies. Thinning of labial soft/hard tissue over the implant or abutment can be a further consequence accompanying this subtle growth process.

A discrepancy in facial alignment making the anterior implant restoration relatively more labial may or may not be able to be suitability modified or revised, depending not only on the severity of the occurrence but also on such factors as implant axial alignment, available soft-tissue depth, and labial/palatal positioning of the implant in the ridge. A progressive discrepancy between the implant restoration's cervical gingival margin and that of the adjacent natural teeth may be an esthetic complication with no easy resolution.

In view of the above, a need exists for an improved dental implant.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless limited otherwise, the terms “connected,” “coupled,” and “mounted,” and variations thereof herein are used broadly and encompass direct and indirect connections, couplings, and mountings. In addition, the terms “connected” and “coupled” and variations thereof are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings.

According to one aspect, an implant fixture implantable in an alveolus of a patient's jawbone is presently disclosed. The implant fixture comprises an elongated shaft section, and a head section comprising at least one narrower side surface area, wherein the narrow side surface area provides an area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture due to craniofacial growth

According to another aspect, an implant fixture implantable in an alveolus of a patient's jawbone is presently disclosed. The implant fixture comprises an elongated shaft section, and a head section, wherein the head section comprises at least one concave area for bone growth therein.

According to another aspect, an implant fixture implantable in an alveolus of a patient's jawbone is presently disclosed. The implant fixture comprises an elongated shaft section with a distal end, and a head section with a proximal end, wherein the head section comprises a first diameter adjacent to the elongated shaft section and a second diameter adjacent to the proximal end, wherein the elongated shaft section comprises a first diameter adjacent to the head section and a second diameter adjacent to the distal end, wherein the second diameter of the head section is less than the first diameter of the elongated shaft section.

FIG. 2adepicts a dental implant fixture35as known in the art embedded within an alveolus formed in a jawbone40and coupled with an abutment member45and tooth analogue50. The dental implant fixture35comprises a longitudinal groove (i.e. back cut)36extending from the narrow distal end37towards the abutment member45. The longitudinal groove36provides a greater surface area into which bone growth are formed to prevent the implant fixture35from vertical and rotational movements within the jawbone40.

Due to craniofacial growth, over time, the jawbone40and/or soft tissue55may at least partially deteriorate adjacent to the dental implant fixture35to expose the dental implant fixture35and/or the abutment member45as shown inFIG. 2b. When this occurs, the dental implant fixture35is removed using processes known in the art. The process of removing the dental implant fixture35is complex at least in part due to the bone growth within the longitudinal groove36which prevent the dental implant fixture35from being unscrewed from the jawbone40.

Referring toFIG. 3a, a dental implant system61is shown according to the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the dental implant system61comprises a bolt member62, an abutment member63, and a dental implant fixture60.

In some embodiments, the bolt member62comprises a head segment301and a shaft segment302. In some embodiments, the head segment301is generally disc shaped with a top notch or cross notch303or any other suitable means to accommodate a driving tool, for example, a screwdriver or any other tool for rotating the bolt member62. In some embodiments, the shaft segment302has one end coupled with the head segment301. In some embodiments, the shaft segment302comprises an outer screw threads304which are located opposite from the head segment301and extend along at least a portion of its length.

Referring toFIG. 3b, a dental implant fixture60is shown according to the present disclosure. In some embodiments presently disclosed, the dental implant fixture60comprises a head section65with a proximal end70. In some embodiments, the fixture60comprises an elongated shaft section75with a distal end81. In some embodiments, the head section65is integrally coupled with the shaft section75to form a one-piece implant fixture60. This prevents bacteria or other infection growth between the head section and the shaft section of the implant fixture60. In some embodiments, the elongated shaft section75is tapered.

In some embodiments, the implant fixture60comprises a stepped interior closed bore80extending partially downward from the proximal end70into the shaft section75. In some embodiments, the stepped interior closed bore80is off-center. In some embodiments, the interior closed bore80comprises inner screw threads85along at least a portion of its length and an annular shelf90located above the inner screw threads85(as shown inFIG. 4). In some embodiment, the inner screw threads85are configured to accommodate the outer screw threads304of the bolt member62. In some embodiments, the stepped interior closed bore80is configured to accommodate a protruding engagement end307(described in more detail below) of the abutment member63. Referring toFIG. 5a, a top plan view of the implant fixture60is shown according to some embodiments presently disclosed. In some embodiments, the proximal end70has a circular flat surface95surrounded by a periphery surface100comprising a long-axis and a short axis. In some embodiments, the proximal end70further comprises two or more apertures105,110for accommodating small tips of a standard dental tool, for example, implant mount or hand driver for orienting the implant fixture60and/or antirational means for the abutment member63. In some embodiments, the head section65comprises at least one narrower facial-side surface area120and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area115. The facial-side surface area120accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the facial-side of the patient's oral cavity, which is located adjacent to the interior surface of the patient's lip, while the interproximal-side surface area115accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the interproximal-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's other tooth and/or implant. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area120is concaved toward the center of the circular flat surface95.

In some embodiments, the head section65comprises a narrower lingual-side surface area125and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area130. The lingual-side surface area125accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the lingual-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's tongue or palate, while the interproximal-side surface area130accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the interproximal-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's other tooth and/or implant. In some embodiments, the lingual-side surface area125is concaved toward the center of the circular flat surface95.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area120and/or the lingual-side surface area125provide an area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture60due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area120and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area125provide an arch shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture60due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area120and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area125provide a flat area for bone growth to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture60due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area120and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area125provide a concave shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture60due to craniofacial growth. Increasing bone volume and/or soft tissue volume adjacent to the facial-side surface area120and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area125prevents early exposure of the implant fixture60.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area120and/or the lingual-side surface area125provide a concave shaped area to improve bone formation due to the gap between the existing bone and the facial-side surface area120and/or the lingual-side surface area125. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area120and/or the lingual-side surface area125provide a concave shaped area to allow greater bone growth therein. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area120and/or the lingual-side surface area125provide a concave shaped area to prevent/minimize pressure between the bone and the head section65during and/or immediately after the procedure. Preventing and/or minimizing pressure between the bone and the head section65during and/or immediately after the procedure prevent resorption of the bone around the head section65and/or allows increased bone formation around the head section65. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area120and/or the lingual-side surface area125provide a concave shaped area to allow bone and/or soft tissue growth therein.

In some embodiments, the dental implant fixture60does not comprise the longitudinal groove36(shown inFIGS. 2a-b) to prevent bone growth therein so as to allow the dental implant fixture60to be removed with less damage to patient's jawbone. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area120and/or the lingual-side surface area125provide an area where bone growth can grow therein to prevent the implant fixture60from vertical and rotational movements within the patient's jawbone.

In some embodiments, the shaft section75comprises an outer screw thread76extending along at least a portion of its length. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread76is continuous. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread76is V-Thread, Square Thread, Buttress Thread, Reverse Buttress Thread or a combination of two or more of these threads. In some embodiments, the shaft section75comprises a substantially longitudinal groove or back cut (not shown) extending from the distal end81towards the head section65. The longitudinal groove (not shown) provides a greater surface area into which bone growth is formed to prevent the implant fixture60from vertical and rotational movements within the jawbone.

Referring toFIG. 3a, in some embodiments, an abutment member63comprises a distal end306with a circular opening to accommodate the shaft segment302of the bolt member62. Referring toFIG. 3a, in some embodiments, an abutment member63comprises a proximal portion308with a protruding engagement end307extending there from.

Referring toFIG. 5b, a bottom plan view of the abutment member63is shown according to some embodiments presently disclosed. According to some embodiments, the proximal portion308comprises a surface309. In some embodiments, the surface309comprises a long-axis and a short axis. In some embodiments, the proximal portion308comprises at least one narrower facial-side surface area420and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area415. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area420is substantially similar to the facial-side surface area120. In some embodiments, the interproximal-side surface area415is substantially similar to the interproximal-side surface area115. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area420is concaved toward the center of the abutment member63.

In some embodiments, the proximal portion308comprises a narrower lingual-side surface area425and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area430. In some embodiments, the lingual-side surface area425is substantially similar to the lingual-side surface area125. In some embodiments, the interproximal-side surface area430is substantially similar to the interproximal-side surface area130. In some embodiments, the lingual-side surface area425is concaved toward the center of the abutment member63.

In some embodiment, an abutment member63is configured to couple with the head section65as shown inFIG. 3c. In some embodiment, an abutment member63is configured to couple with the head section65so as to align the facial-side surface area420with the facial-side surface area120. In some embodiment, an abutment member63is configured to couple with the head section65so as to align the interproximal-side surface area415with the interproximal-side surface area115. In some embodiment, an abutment member63is configured to couple with the head section65so as to align the lingual-side surface area425with the lingual-side surface area125. In some embodiment, an abutment member63is configured to couple with the head section65so as to align the interproximal-side surface area430with the interproximal-side surface area130.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area420and/or the lingual-side surface area425provide an area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the abutment member63due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area420and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area425provide an arch shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to abutment member63due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area420and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area425provide a flat area for bone growth to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to abutment member63due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area420and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area425provide a concave shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to abutment member63due to craniofacial growth. Increasing bone volume and/or soft tissue volume adjacent to the facial-side surface area420and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area425prevents early exposure of the abutment member63.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area420and/or the lingual-side surface area425provide a concave shaped area to improve bone formation due to the gap between the existing bone and the facial-side surface area420and/or the lingual-side surface area425. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area420and/or the lingual-side surface area425provide a concave shaped area to allow greater bone growth therein. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area420and/or the lingual-side surface area425provide a concave shaped area to prevent/minimize pressure between the bone and the abutment member63during and/or immediately after the procedure. Preventing and/or minimizing pressure between the bone and the abutment member63during and/or immediately after the procedure prevent resorption of the bone around the abutment member63and/or allows increased bone formation around the abutment member63. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area420and/or the lingual-side surface area425provide a concave shaped area to allow bone and/or soft tissue growth therein.

Referring toFIG. 6, a dental implant fixture200is shown according to the present disclosure. In some embodiments presently disclosed, the dental implant fixture200comprises a head section265with a proximal end270. In some embodiments, the fixture200comprises an elongated shaft section275with a distal end280. In some embodiments, the head section265is integrally coupled with the shaft section275to form a one-piece implant fixture200. This prevents bacteria or other infection growth between the head section and the shaft section of the implant fixture200. In some embodiments, the elongated shaft section275is tapered.

Referring toFIG. 6, in some embodiments, the head section265is substantially circular comprising a first head section diameter300adjacent to the shaft section275and comprising a second head section diameter305adjacent to the proximal end270. In some embodiments, the shaft section275is substantially circular comprising a first shaft diameter310adjacent to the head section265and comprising a second shaft diameter320adjacent to the distal end280. According to some embodiments, the head section265is substantially oval. According to some embodiments, the head section265is substantially triangular.

According to some embodiments, the head section265comprises a concavity/arch1700along the perimeter. According to some embodiments, the concavity1700is all the way around the dental implant fixture200.

According to some embodiments, the concavity1700is disposed between the shaft section275and the proximal end270. According to some embodiments, the narrowest portion of the concavity1700is represented by the first head section diameter300. According to some embodiments, the widest portion of the concavity1700is represented by the second head section diameter305. According to some embodiments, the widest portion of the concavity1700is represented by the first shaft diameter310.

In some embodiments, the first head section diameter300is less than the first shaft diameter310. In some embodiments, the second head section diameter305is less than the first shaft diameter310. In some embodiments, the first head section diameter300and the second head section diameter305are less than the first shaft diameter310. In some embodiments, the first head section diameter300and the second head section diameter305are substantially equal to the first shaft diameter310. In some embodiments, the second head section diameter305is substantially equal to the first shaft diameter310. In some embodiments, the first shaft diameter310is substantially equal to the second shaft diameter320. In some embodiments, the second shaft diameter320is less than the first shaft diameter310.

In some embodiments, the head section265provides an area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture200due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the head section265provides the arch1700shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture200due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the head section265provides the concavity1700shaped area to allow bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture200due to craniofacial growth. Increasing bone volume and/or soft tissue volume adjacent to the head section265prevents early exposure of the dental implant fixture200.

In some embodiments, the head section265provides a concave1700shaped area to improve bone formation due to the gap between the existing bone and the concave shaped area. In some embodiments, the head section265provides a concave1700shaped area to allow greater bone growth therein. In some embodiments, the head section265provides a concave1700shaped area to prevent/minimize pressure between the bone and the head section265during and/or immediately after the procedure. Preventing and/or minimizing pressure between the bone and the head section265during and/or immediately after the procedure prevent resorption of the bone around the head section265and/or allows increased bone formation around the head section265. In some embodiments, the head section265provides a concave1700shaped area to allow bone and/or soft tissue growth therein.

In some embodiments, the shaft section275comprises an outer screw thread276extending along at least a portion of its length. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread276is continuous. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread276is V-Thread, Square Thread, Buttress Thread, Reverse Buttress Thread or a combination of two or more of these threads. In some embodiments, the shaft section275comprises a substantially longitudinal groove (not shown) extending from the distal end280towards the head section265. The longitudinal groove (not shown) provides a greater surface area into which bone growth is formed to prevent the implant fixture200from vertical and rotational movements within the jawbone.

Referring toFIGS. 7a-c, a dental implant fixture800is shown according to the present disclosure. In some embodiments presently disclosed, the dental implant fixture800comprises a head section865with a proximal end870. In some embodiments, the fixture800comprises an elongated shaft section875with a distal end881. In some embodiments, the head section865is integrally coupled with the shaft section875to form a one-piece implant fixture800. This prevents bacteria or other infection growth between the head section and the shaft section of the implant fixture800. In some embodiments, the elongated shaft section875is tapered.

In some embodiments, the implant fixture800comprises a stepped interior closed bore880extending partially downward from the proximal end870into the shaft section875as shown inFIG. 7c. In some embodiments, the stepped interior closed bore880is off-center. In some embodiments, the interior closed bore880comprises inner screw threads885along at least a portion of its length and an annular shelf890located above the inner screw threads885(as shown inFIG. 7c). In some embodiment, the inner screw threads885are configured to accommodate the outer screw threads304of the bolt member62. In some embodiments, the stepped interior closed bore880is configured to accommodate a protruding engagement end307(described in more detail above) of the abutment member63.

Referring toFIG. 7b, a top plan view of the implant fixture800is shown according to some embodiments presently disclosed. In some embodiments, the proximal end870has a circular flat surface895surrounded by a periphery surface900comprising a long-axis and a short axis. In some embodiments, the proximal end870further comprises two or more apertures805,810,811for accommodating small tips of a standard dental tool, for example, implant mount or hand driver for orienting the implant fixture800. In some embodiments, the head section865comprises at least one narrower facial-side surface area820and at least one wider surface area830. The facial-side surface area820accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the facial-side of the patient's oral cavity, which is located adjacent to the interior surface of the patient's lip, while the surface area830accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the interproximal-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's other tooth and/or implant. In some embodiments, the surface area830accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the lingual-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's tongue or palate. In some embodiments, the surface area830accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the lingual-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's tongue or palate and accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the interproximal-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's other tooth and/or implant(s). In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area820is concaved toward the center of the implant fixture800.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area820provides an area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture800due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area820provides an arch shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture800due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area820provides a flat area for bone growth to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture800due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area820provides a concave shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture800due to craniofacial growth. Increasing bone volume and/or soft tissue volume adjacent to the facial-side surface area820prevents early exposure of the implant fixture800.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area820provides a concave shaped area to improve bone formation due to the gap between the existing bone and the facial-side surface area820. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area820provides a concave shaped area to allow greater bone growth therein. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area820provides a concave shaped area to prevent/minimize pressure between the bone and the implant fixture800during and/or immediately after the procedure. Preventing and/or minimizing pressure between the bone and the implant fixture800during and/or immediately after the procedure prevent resorption of the bone around the implant fixture800and/or allows increased bone formation around the implant fixture800. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area820provides a concave shaped area to allow bone and/or soft tissue growth therein.

In some embodiments, the dental implant fixture800does not comprise the longitudinal groove36(shown inFIGS. 2a-b) to prevent bone growth therein so as to allow the dental implant fixture800to be removed with less damage to patient's jawbone. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area820provides an area where bone growth can grow therein to prevent the implant fixture800from vertical and rotational movements within the patient's jawbone.

In some embodiments, the shaft section875comprises an outer screw thread876(shown inFIG. 7a) extending along at least a portion of its length. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread876is continuous. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread876is V-Thread, Square Thread, Buttress Thread, Reverse Buttress Thread or a combination of two or more of these threads. In some embodiments, the shaft section875comprises a substantially longitudinal groove or back cut (not shown) extending from the distal end881towards the head section865. The longitudinal groove (not shown) provides a greater surface area into which bone growth is formed to prevent the implant fixture800from vertical and rotational movements within the jawbone.

Referring toFIG. 8, a dental implant fixture900is shown according to the present disclosure. In some embodiments presently disclosed, the dental implant fixture900comprises a head section905with a proximal end910. In some embodiments, the fixture900comprises an elongated shaft section915with a distal end920. In some embodiments, the head section905is integrally coupled with the shaft section915to form a one-piece implant fixture900. This prevents bacteria or other infection growth between the head section and the shaft section of the implant fixture900. In some embodiments, the elongated shaft section915is tapered.

In some embodiments, the implant fixture900comprises a stepped interior closed bore925extending partially downward from the proximal end910into the shaft section915. In some embodiments, the stepped interior closed bore925is off-center. In some embodiments, the interior closed bore925comprises inner screw threads930along at least a portion of its length. In some embodiment, the inner screw threads930are configured to accommodate the outer screw threads304of the bolt member62. In some embodiments, the stepped interior closed bore925is configured to accommodate a protruding engagement end307(described in more detail above) of the abutment member63. Although the interior closed bore925is shown as being circular, it is to be understood that the interior closed bore925can be any shape as discussed further below with respect toFIG. 9.

In some embodiments, the proximal end910comprises two or more apertures935,940for accommodating small tips of a standard dental tool, for example, implant mount or hand driver for orienting the implant fixture900. In some embodiments, the head section905comprises at least one narrower facial-side surface area945and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area950. The facial-side surface area945accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the facial-side of the patient's oral cavity, which is located adjacent to the interior surface of the patient's lip, while the interproximal-side surface area950accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the interproximal-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's other tooth and/or implant. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area945is concaved toward the center of the bore925.

In some embodiments, the head section905comprises a narrower lingual-side surface area955and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area960. The lingual-side surface area955accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the lingual-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's tongue or palate, while the interproximal-side surface area960accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the interproximal-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's other tooth and/or implant. In some embodiments, the lingual-side surface area955is concaved toward the center of the bore925.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area945and/or the lingual-side surface area955provide an area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture900due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area945and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area955provide an arch shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture900due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area945and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area955provide a flat area for bone growth to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture900due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area945and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area955provide a concave shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture900due to craniofacial growth. Increasing bone volume and/or soft tissue volume adjacent to the facial-side surface area945and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area955prevents early exposure of the implant fixture900.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area945and/or the lingual-side surface area955provide a concave shaped area to improve bone formation due to the gap between the existing bone and the facial-side surface area945and/or the lingual-side surface area955. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area945and/or the lingual-side surface area955provide a concave shaped area to allow greater bone growth therein. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area945and/or the lingual-side surface area955provide a concave shaped area to prevent/minimize pressure between the bone and the head section905during and/or immediately after the procedure. Preventing and/or minimizing pressure between the bone and the head section905during and/or immediately after the procedure prevent resorption of the bone around the head section905and/or allows increased bone formation around the head section905. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area945and/or the lingual-side surface area955provide a concave shaped area to allow bone and/or soft tissue growth therein.

In some embodiments, the dental implant fixture900comprises a longitudinal groove970to allow bone growth therein to prevent the implant fixture900from vertical and rotational movements within the patient's jawbone. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area945and/or the lingual-side surface area955provide an area where bone growth can grow therein to prevent the implant fixture900from vertical and rotational movements within the patient's jawbone.

In some embodiments, the shaft section915comprises an outer screw thread975extending along at least a portion of its length. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread975is continuous. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread975is V-Thread, Square Thread, Buttress Thread, Reverse Buttress Thread or a combination of two or more of these threads. In some embodiments, the shaft section915comprises a substantially longitudinal groove or back cut (not shown) extending from the distal end920towards the head section905. The longitudinal groove (not shown) provides a greater surface area into which bone growth is formed to prevent the implant fixture900from vertical and rotational movements within the jawbone.

Referring toFIG. 9, a dental implant system1000is shown according to the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the dental implant system1000comprises a bolt member1002, an abutment member1003, and a dental implant fixture1004.

In some embodiments, the bolt member1002comprises a head segment1005and a shaft segment1006. In some embodiments, the head segment1005is generally disc shaped with a top notch1007or any other suitable means to accommodate a driving tool, for example, a screwdriver or any other tool for rotating the bolt member1002. In some embodiments, the shaft segment1006has one end coupled with the head segment1005. In some embodiments, the shaft segment1006comprises an outer screw threads1008which are located opposite from the head segment1005and extend along at least a portion of its length.

Referring toFIG. 9, in some embodiments presently disclosed, the dental implant fixture1004comprises a head section1010with a proximal end1015. In some embodiments, the fixture1004comprises an elongated shaft section1020with a distal end1025. In some embodiments, the head section1010is integrally coupled with the shaft section1020to form a one-piece implant fixture1004. This prevents bacteria or other infection growth between the head section and the shaft section of the implant fixture1004. In some embodiments, the elongated shaft section1020is tapered. In some embodiments, the implant fixture1004comprises a stepped interior closed bore1030extending partially downward from the proximal end1015into the shaft section1020. In some embodiments, the stepped interior closed bore1030is off-center. In some embodiments, the interior closed bore1030comprises inner screw threads1035along at least a portion of its length and an annular shelf1040located above the inner screw threads1035(as shown inFIG. 9). In some embodiments, the inner screw threads1035are configured to accommodate the outer screw threads1008of the bolt member1002. In some embodiments, the stepped interior closed bore1030is configured to accommodate a protruding engagement end1045(described in more detail below) of the abutment member1003.

Referring toFIG. 10, a top plan view of the implant fixture1004is shown according to some embodiments presently disclosed. In some embodiments, the proximal end1015has a periphery surface1050comprising a long-axis and a short axis. In some embodiments, the stepped interior closed bore1030is configured to accommodate a dental tool for orienting the implant fixture1004. In some embodiments, the head section1010comprises at least one narrower facial-side surface area1055and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area1060. The facial-side surface area1055accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the facial-side of the patient's oral cavity, which is located adjacent to the interior surface of the patient's lip, while the interproximal-side surface area1060accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the interproximal-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's other tooth and/or implant. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1055is concaved toward the center of the interior closed bore1030.

In some embodiments, the head section1010comprises a narrower lingual-side surface area1065and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area1070. The lingual-side surface area1065accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the lingual-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's tongue or palate, while the interproximal-side surface area1070accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the interproximal-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's other tooth and/or implant. In some embodiments, the lingual-side surface area1065is concaved toward the center of the interior closed bore1030.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1055and/or the lingual-side surface area1065provide an area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1004due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1055and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1065provide an arch shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1004due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1055and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1065provide a flat area for bone growth to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1004due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1055and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1065provide a concave shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1004due to craniofacial growth. Increasing bone volume and/or soft tissue volume adjacent to the facial-side surface area1055and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1065prevents early exposure of the implant fixture1004.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1055and/or the lingual-side surface area1065provide a concave shaped area to improve bone formation due to the gap between the existing bone and the facial-side surface area1055and/or the lingual-side surface area1065. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1055and/or the lingual-side surface area1065provide a concave shaped area to allow greater bone growth therein. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1055and/or the lingual-side surface area1065provide a concave shaped area to prevent/minimize pressure between the bone and the head section1010during and/or immediately after the procedure. Preventing and/or minimizing pressure between the bone and the head section1010during and/or immediately after the procedure prevent resorption of the bone around the head section1010and/or allows increased bone formation around the head section1010. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area155and/or the lingual-side surface area165provide a concave shaped area to allow bone and/or soft tissue growth therein.

In some embodiments, the dental implant fixture1004does not comprise the longitudinal groove36(shown inFIGS. 2a-b) to prevent bone growth therein so as to allow the dental implant fixture1004to be removed with less damage to patient's jawbone. In some embodiments, the dental implant fixture1004comprises a longitudinal groove1075to allow bone growth therein. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1055and/or the lingual-side surface area1065provide an area where bone growth can grow therein to prevent the implant fixture1004from vertical and rotational movements within the patient's jawbone.

In some embodiments, the shaft section1020comprises an outer screw thread1080extending along at least a portion of its length. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread1080is continuous. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread1080is V-Thread, Square Thread, Buttress Thread, Reverse Buttress Thread or a combination of two or more of these threads. In some embodiments, the shaft section1020comprises a substantially longitudinal groove or back cut (not shown) extending from the distal end1025towards the head section1010. The longitudinal groove (not shown) provides a greater surface area into which bone growth is formed to prevent the implant fixture1004from vertical and rotational movements within the jawbone.

Referring toFIG. 9, in some embodiments, an abutment member1003comprises a distal end1090with, for example, a circular opening to accommodate the shaft segment1006of the bolt member1002. Referring toFIG. 9, in some embodiments, an abutment member1002comprises a proximal portion1091with a protruding engagement end1045extending there from.

Referring toFIG. 11, a bottom plan view of the abutment member1003is shown according to some embodiments presently disclosed. According to some embodiments, the protruding engagement end1045comprises a surface1105. In some embodiments, the surface1105comprises a long-axis and a short axis. In some embodiments, the protruding engagement end1045comprises at least one narrower facial-side surface area1110and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area1115. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1110is substantially similar to the facial-side surface area1055. In some embodiments, the interproximal-side surface area1115is substantially similar to the interproximal-side surface area1060. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1110is concaved toward the center of the abutment member1003.

In some embodiments, the protruding engagement end1045comprises a narrower lingual-side surface area1120and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area1125. In some embodiments, the lingual-side surface area1120is substantially similar to the lingual-side surface area1065. In some embodiments, the interproximal-side surface area1125is substantially similar to the interproximal-side surface area1070. In some embodiments, the lingual-side surface area1120is concaved toward the center of the abutment member1003.

In some embodiment, an abutment member1003is configured to couple with the head section1010as shown inFIG. 9by arrow1094. In some embodiment, an abutment member1003is configured to couple with the head section1010so as to align the facial-side surface area1110with the facial-side surface area1055. In some embodiment, an abutment member1003is configured to couple with the head section1010so as to align the lingual-side surface area1120with the lingual-side surface area1065.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1110and/or the lingual-side surface area1120provide a concave shaped area for bone and soft tissue formation therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the abutment member1003due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1110and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1120provide an arch shaped area for bone growth and soft tissue formation therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to abutment member1003due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1110and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1120provide a flat area for bone growth and soft tissue formation to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to abutment member1003due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1110and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1120provide a concave shaped area for bone and soft tissue formation therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to abutment member1003due to craniofacial growth. Increasing bone volume and/or soft tissue volume adjacent to the facial-side surface area1110and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1120prevents early exposure of the abutment member1003.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1110and/or the lingual-side surface area1120provide a concave shaped area to improve bone formation due to the gap between the existing bone and the facial-side surface area1110and/or the lingual-side surface area1120. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1110and/or the lingual-side surface area1120provide a concave shaped area to allow greater bone growth therein. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1110and/or the lingual-side surface area1120provide a concave shaped area to prevent/minimize pressure between the bone and the abutment member1003during and/or immediately after the procedure. Preventing and/or minimizing pressure between the bone and the abutment member1003during and/or immediately after the procedure prevent resorption of the bone around the abutment member1003and/or allows increased bone formation around the abutment member1003. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1110and/or the lingual-side surface area1120provide a concave shaped area to allow bone and/or soft tissue growth therein.

Referring toFIGS. 12a-b, a dental implant system1200is shown according to the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the dental implant system1200comprises a bolt member1262, a healing cap1263, and a dental implant fixture1260. According to some embodiments, the dental implant system1200further comprises an abutment member (not shown).

In some embodiments, the bolt member1262comprises a head segment1231and a shaft segment1232. In some embodiments, the head segment1231is generally disc shaped with a top notch1233or any other suitable means to accommodate a driving tool, for example, a screwdriver or any other tool for rotating the bolt member1262. In some embodiments, the shaft segment1232has one end coupled with the head segment1231. In some embodiments, the shaft segment1232comprises an outer screw threads1234which are located opposite from the head segment1231and extend along at least a portion of its length.

Referring toFIGS. 12a-b, a dental implant fixture1260is shown according to the present disclosure. In some embodiments presently disclosed, the dental implant fixture1260comprises a head section1265with a proximal end1270. In some embodiments, the fixture1260comprises an elongated shaft section1275with a distal end1281. In some embodiments, the head section1265is integrally coupled with the shaft section1275to form a one-piece implant fixture1260. This prevents bacteria or other infection growth between the head section and the shaft section of the implant fixture1260. In some embodiments, the elongated shaft section1275is tapered. According to some embodiments, the head section1265is elliptically shaped. According to some embodiments, the head section1265is triangularly shaped. According to some embodiments, the head section1265is circularly shaped.

In some embodiments, the implant fixture1260comprises a stepped interior closed bore1280extending partially downward from the proximal end1270into the shaft section1275. In some embodiments, the stepped interior closed bore1280is off-center. In some embodiments, the interior closed bore1280comprises inner screw threads (not shown) along at least a portion of its length and an annular shelf (not shown) located above the inner screw threads (not shown). In some embodiment, the inner screw threads (not shown) are configured to accommodate the outer screw threads1234of the bolt member1262.

Referring toFIGS. 12a-c, in some embodiments, the proximal end1270has a bevel periphery surface1261comprising a long-axis and a short axis. According to some embodiments, the proximal end1270has a flat surface1261comprising a long-axis and a short axis. In some embodiments, the head section1265comprises at least one narrower facial-side surface area1220and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area1215. The facial-side surface area1220accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the facial-side of the patient's oral cavity, which is located adjacent to the interior surface of the patient's lip, while the interproximal-side surface area1215accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the interproximal-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's other tooth and/or implant. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1220is concaved toward the center of the surface1261.

In some embodiments, the head section1265comprises a narrower lingual-side surface area1225and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area1230. The lingual-side surface area1225accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the lingual-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's tongue or palate, while the interproximal-side surface area1230accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the interproximal-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's other tooth and/or implant. In some embodiments, the lingual-side surface area1225is concaved toward the center of the surface1261.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1220and/or the lingual-side surface area1225provide an area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1260due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1220and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1225provide an arch shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1260due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1220and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1225provide a flat area for bone growth to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1260due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1220and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1225provide a concave shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1260due to craniofacial growth. Increasing bone volume and/or soft tissue volume adjacent to the facial-side surface area1220and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1225prevents early exposure of the implant fixture1260.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1220and/or the lingual-side surface area1225provide a concave shaped area to improve bone formation due to the gap between the existing bone and the facial-side surface area1220and/or the lingual-side surface area1225. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1220and/or the lingual-side surface area1225provide a concave shaped area to allow greater bone growth therein. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1220and/or the lingual-side surface area1225provide a concave shaped area to prevent/minimize pressure between the bone and the head section1265during and/or immediately after the procedure. Preventing and/or minimizing pressure between the bone and the head section1265during and/or immediately after the procedure prevent resorption of the bone around the head section1265and/or allows increased bone formation around the head section1265. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1220and/or the lingual-side surface area1225provide a concave shaped area to allow bone and/or soft tissue growth therein.

In some embodiments, the dental implant fixture1260comprises the longitudinal groove1236to allow bone growth therein to prevent the implant fixture1260from vertical and rotational movements within the patient's jawbone. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1220and/or the lingual-side surface area1225provide an area where bone growth can grow therein to prevent the implant fixture1260from vertical and rotational movements within the patient's jawbone.

In some embodiments, the shaft section1275comprises an outer screw thread1276(shown inFIG. 12b) extending along at least a portion of its length. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread1276is continuous. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread1276is V-Thread, Square Thread, Buttress Thread, Reverse Buttress Thread or a combination of two or more of these threads. In some embodiments, the shaft section1275comprises a substantially longitudinal groove or back cut (not shown) extending from the distal end1281towards the head section1265. The longitudinal groove (not shown) provides a greater surface area into which bone growth is formed to prevent the implant fixture1260from vertical and rotational movements within the jawbone. In some embodiments, the shaft section1275comprises a plurality of spaced apart transverse annular grooves1299(shown inFIG. 12a) extending along at least a portion of its length to provides a greater surface area into which bone growth is formed to prevent the implant fixture1260from vertical and rotational movements within the jawbone.

Referring toFIGS. 12a-b, in some embodiments, the healing cap1263comprises a distal end1206with a circular opening to accommodate the shaft segment1232of the bolt member1262. Referring toFIG. 12a-b, in some embodiments, the healing cap1263comprises a proximal portion1208with a protruding engagement end1207extending there from.

According to some embodiments, the proximal portion1208comprises a bevel surface1209. According to some embodiments, the beveled surface1209matches perfectly the bevel periphery surface1261of proximal end1270.

According to some embodiments, the proximal portion1208comprises a flat surface1209. According to some embodiments, the flat surface1209matches perfectly the flat surface1261of proximal end1270. According to some embodiments, the proximal portion1208is elliptically shaped. According to some embodiments, the proximal portion1208is triangularly shaped. According to some embodiments, the proximal portion1208is circularly shaped.

According to some embodiments, the proximal portion1208comprises a surface1209. According to some embodiments, the surface1209matches perfectly the surface1261of proximal end1270.

In some embodiments, the proximal portion1208comprises a long-axis and a short axis. In some embodiments, the proximal portion1208comprises at least one narrower facial-side surface area1320and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area1315. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1320is substantially similar to the facial-side surface area1220. In some embodiments, the interproximal-side surface area1315is substantially similar to the interproximal-side surface area1215. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1320is concaved toward the center of the healing cap1263.

In some embodiments, the proximal portion1208comprises a narrower lingual-side surface area1325and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area1330. In some embodiments, the lingual-side surface area1325is substantially similar to the lingual-side surface area1225. In some embodiments, the interproximal-side surface area1330is substantially similar to the interproximal-side surface area1230. In some embodiments, the lingual-side surface area1325is concaved toward the center of the healing cap1263.

In some embodiment, the healing cap1263is configured to couple with the head section1265as shown inFIGS. 12a-b. In some embodiment, the healing cap1263is configured to couple with the head section1265so as to align the facial-side surface area1320with the facial-side surface area1220. In some embodiment, the healing cap1263is configured to couple with the head section1265so as to align the interproximal-side surface area1315with the interproximal-side surface area1215. In some embodiment, the healing cap1263is configured to couple with the head section1265so as to align the lingual-side surface area1325with the lingual-side surface area1225. In some embodiment, the healing cap1263is configured to couple with the head section1265so as to align the interproximal-side surface area1330with the interproximal-side surface area1230.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1320and/or the lingual-side surface area1325provide an area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the healing cap1263due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1320and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1325provide an arch shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the healing cap1263due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1320and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1325provide a flat area for bone growth to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the healing cap1263due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1320and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1325provide a concave shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the healing cap1263due to craniofacial growth. Increasing bone volume and/or soft tissue volume adjacent to the facial-side surface area1320and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1325prevents early exposure of the healing cap1263.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1320and/or the lingual-side surface area1325provide a concave shaped area to improve bone formation due to the gap between the existing bone and the facial-side surface area1320and/or the lingual-side surface area1325. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1320and/or the lingual-side surface area1325provide a concave shaped area to allow greater bone growth therein. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1320and/or the lingual-side surface area1325provide a concave shaped area to prevent/minimize pressure between the bone and the healing cap1263during and/or immediately after the procedure. Preventing and/or minimizing pressure between the bone and the healing cap1263during and/or immediately after the procedure prevent resorption of the bone around the healing cap1263and/or allows increased bone formation around the healing cap1263. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1320and/or the lingual-side surface area1325provide a concave shaped area to allow bone and/or soft tissue growth therein.

Referring toFIGS. 13a-b, a dental implant system1500is shown according to the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the dental implant system1500comprises a bolt member1562, a healing cap1563, and a dental implant fixture1560. According to some embodiments, the dental implant system1500further comprises an abutment member (not shown).

In some embodiments, the bolt member1562comprises a head segment1531and a shaft segment1532. In some embodiments, the head segment1531is generally disc shaped with a top notch1533or any other suitable means to accommodate a driving tool, for example, a screwdriver or any other tool for rotating the bolt member1562. In some embodiments, the shaft segment1532has one end coupled with the head segment1531. In some embodiments, the shaft segment1532comprises an outer screw threads1534which are located opposite from the head segment1531and extend along at least a portion of its length.

Referring toFIGS. 13a-b, a dental implant fixture1560is shown according to the present disclosure. In some embodiments presently disclosed, the dental implant fixture1560comprises a head section1565with a proximal end1570. In some embodiments, the fixture1560comprises an elongated shaft section1575with a distal end1581. In some embodiments, the head section1565is integrally coupled with the shaft section1575to form a one-piece implant fixture1560. This prevents bacteria or other infection growth between the head section and the shaft section of the implant fixture1560. In some embodiments, the elongated shaft section1575is tapered. According to some embodiments, the head section1565is elliptically shaped. According to some embodiments, the head section1565is triangularly shaped. According to some embodiments, the head section1565is circularly shaped.

In some embodiments, the implant fixture1560comprises a stepped interior closed bore (not shown) extending partially downward from the proximal end1570into the shaft section1575. In some embodiments, the stepped interior closed bore (not shown) is off-center. In some embodiments, the interior closed bore (not shown) comprises inner screw threads (not shown) along at least a portion of its length and an annular shelf (not shown) located above the inner screw threads (not shown). In some embodiment, the inner screw threads (not shown) are configured to accommodate the outer screw threads1534of the bolt member1562.

Referring toFIGS. 13a-b, in some embodiments, the proximal end1570has a surface1561comprising a long-axis and a short axis. According to some embodiments, the surface1561is flat. According to some embodiments, the surface1561is beveled. In some embodiments, the head section1565comprises at least one narrower facial-side surface area1520and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area1515. The facial-side surface area1520accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the facial-side of the patient's oral cavity, which is located adjacent to the interior surface of the patient's lip, while the interproximal-side surface area1515accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the interproximal-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's other tooth and/or implant. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1520is concaved toward the center of the surface1561.

In some embodiments, the head section1565comprises a narrower lingual-side surface area1525and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area1530. The lingual-side surface area1525accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the lingual-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's tongue or palate, while the interproximal-side surface area1530accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the interproximal-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's other tooth and/or implant. In some embodiments, the lingual-side surface area1525is concaved toward the center of the surface1561.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1520and/or the lingual-side surface area1525provide an area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1560due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1520and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1525provide an arch shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1560due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1520and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1525provide a flat area for bone growth to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1560due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1520and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1525provide a concave shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1560due to craniofacial growth. Increasing bone volume and/or soft tissue volume adjacent to the facial-side surface area1520and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1525prevents early exposure of the implant fixture1560.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1520and/or the lingual-side surface area1525provide a concave shaped area to improve bone formation due to the gap between the existing bone and the facial-side surface area1520and/or the lingual-side surface area1525. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1520and/or the lingual-side surface area1525provide a concave shaped area to allow greater bone growth therein. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1520and/or the lingual-side surface area1525provide a concave shaped area to prevent/minimize pressure between the bone and the head section1565during and/or immediately after the procedure. Preventing and/or minimizing pressure between the bone and the head section1565during and/or immediately after the procedure prevent resorption of the bone around the head section1565and/or allows increased bone formation around the head section1565. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1520and/or the lingual-side surface area1525provide a concave shaped area to allow bone and/or soft tissue growth therein.

In some embodiments, the dental implant fixture1560comprises the longitudinal groove1536to allow bone growth therein to prevent the implant fixture1560from vertical and rotational movements within the patient's jawbone. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1520and/or the lingual-side surface area1525provide an area where bone growth can grow therein to prevent the implant fixture1560from vertical and rotational movements within the patient's jawbone.

In some embodiments, the shaft section1575comprises an outer screw thread1576(shown inFIGS. 13a-b) extending along at least a portion of its length. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread1576is continuous. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread1576is V-Thread, Square Thread, Buttress Thread, Reverse Buttress Thread or a combination of two or more of these threads. In some embodiments, the shaft section1575comprises a substantially longitudinal groove or back cut (not shown) extending from the distal end1581towards the head section1565. The longitudinal groove (not shown) provides a greater surface area into which bone growth is formed to prevent the implant fixture1560from vertical and rotational movements within the jawbone.

Referring toFIGS. 13a-b, in some embodiments, the healing cap1563comprises a distal end1506with a circular opening to accommodate the shaft segment1532of the bolt member1562. Referring toFIG. 13a-b, in some embodiments, the healing cap1563comprises a proximal portion1508with a protruding engagement end (not shown) extending there from.

According to some embodiments, the proximal portion1508comprises a surface1509. According to some embodiments, the beveled surface1509matches perfectly the surface1561of proximal end1570. According to some embodiments, the proximal portion1508is elliptically shaped. According to some embodiments, the proximal portion1508is triangularly shaped. According to some embodiments, the proximal portion1508is circularly shaped.

In some embodiments, the proximal portion1508comprises a long-axis and a short axis. In some embodiments, the proximal portion1508comprises at least one narrower facial-side surface area1620and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area1615. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1620is substantially similar to the facial-side surface area1520. In some embodiments, the interproximal-side surface area1615is substantially similar to the interproximal-side surface area1515. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1620is concaved toward the center of the healing cap1563.

In some embodiments, the proximal portion1508comprises a narrower lingual-side surface area1625and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area1630. In some embodiments, the lingual-side surface area1625is substantially similar to the lingual-side surface area1525. In some embodiments, the interproximal-side surface area1630is substantially similar to the interproximal-side surface area1530. In some embodiments, the lingual-side surface area1625is concaved toward the center of the healing cap1563.

In some embodiment, the healing cap1563is configured to couple with the head section1565as shown inFIG. 12a. In some embodiment, the healing cap1563is configured to couple with the head section1565so as to align the facial-side surface area1620with the facial-side surface area1520. In some embodiment, the healing cap1563is configured to couple with the head section1565so as to align the interproximal-side surface area1615with the interproximal-side surface area1515. In some embodiment, the healing cap1563is configured to couple with the head section1565so as to align the lingual-side surface area1625with the lingual-side surface area1525. In some embodiment, the healing cap1563is configured to couple with the head section1565so as to align the interproximal-side surface area1630with the interproximal-side surface area1530.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1620and/or the lingual-side surface area1625provide an area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the healing cap1563due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1620and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1625provide an arch shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the healing cap1563due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1620and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1625provide a flat area for bone growth to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the healing cap1563due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1620and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1625provide a concave shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the healing cap1563due to craniofacial growth. Increasing bone volume and/or soft tissue volume adjacent to the facial-side surface area1620and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1625prevents early exposure of the healing cap1563.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1620and/or the lingual-side surface area1625provide a concave shaped area to improve bone formation due to the gap between the existing bone and the facial-side surface area1620and/or the lingual-side surface area1625. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1620and/or the lingual-side surface area1625provide a concave shaped area to allow greater bone growth therein. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1620and/or the lingual-side surface area1625provide a concave shaped area to prevent/minimize pressure between the bone and the healing cap1563during and/or immediately after the procedure. Preventing and/or minimizing pressure between the bone and the healing cap1563during and/or immediately after the procedure prevent resorption of the bone around the healing cap1563and/or allows increased bone formation around the healing cap1563. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1620and/or the lingual-side surface area1625provide a concave shaped area to allow bone and/or soft tissue growth therein.

Referring toFIGS. 14a-b, a dental implant fixture1600is shown according to the present disclosure. According to some embodiments, the dental implant fixture1600comprises a head section1665with a proximal end1670. In some embodiments, the fixture1600comprises an elongated shaft section1675with a distal end1681. In some embodiments, the head section1665is integrally coupled with the shaft section1675to form a one-piece implant fixture1600. This prevents bacteria or other infection growth between the head section and the shaft section of the implant fixture1600. In some embodiments, the elongated shaft section1675is tapered. According to some embodiments, the head section1665is generally rounded triangle shaped as shown inFIGS. 14aand14c.

According to some embodiments, the implant fixture1600comprises a protrusion1610extending from the proximal end1670. According to some embodiments, the head section1665is integrally coupled with the protrusion1610to form a one-piece implant fixture1600. This prevents bacteria or other infection growth between the head section1665and the protrusion1610of the implant fixture1600.

According to some embodiments, the protrusion1610is coupled with the tooth analogue30. According to some embodiments, the tooth analogue30comprises an opening (not shown) configured to accommodate the protrusion protrusion1610. According to. some embodiments, the protrusion1610is for fitting engagement with, attachment to, or connection to a dental restoration. The dental restoration may be a prosthetic restoration, a single crown, the tooth analogue30and/or a bridge.

According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1610, to which the dental restoration is to be fixed, is shaped similarly to an incisor tooth. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1610is shaped to accommodate an incisor dental restoration. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1610comprises a conical base1613(shown inFIGS. 16-17). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1610comprises a fossa surface1611(i.e. shallow depression surface) extending from the conical base1613. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1610comprises a partially conical surface1612extending from the conical base1613. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1610comprises a top end1614where the partially conical surface1612and the fossa surface1611meet (shown inFIGS. 16-17).

Referring toFIGS. 14a-c, in some embodiments, the proximal end1670has a bevel periphery surface1661comprising a long-axis and a short axis. According to some embodiments, the proximal end1670has a flat surface1661comprising a long-axis and a short axis. In some embodiments, the head section1665comprises at least one narrower facial-side surface area1621and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area1616. The facial-side surface area1621accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the facial-side of the patient's oral cavity, which is located adjacent to the interior surface of the patient's lip, while the interproximal-side surface area1616accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the interproximal-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's other tooth and/or implant. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1621is concaved toward the center of the surface1661.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1621(shown inFIGS. 14cand15) provides an area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1600due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1621provides an arch shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1600due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1621provides a flat area for bone growth to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1600due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1621provides a concave shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1600due to craniofacial growth.

Increasing bone volume and/or soft tissue volume adjacent to the facial-side surface area1621prevents early exposure of the implant fixture1600.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1621provides a concave shaped area to improve bone formation due to the gap between the existing bone and the facial-side surface area1621. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1621provides a concave shaped area to allow greater bone growth therein. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1621provides a concave shaped area to prevent/minimize pressure between the bone and the head section1665during and/or immediately after the procedure. Preventing and/or minimizing pressure between the bone and the head section1665during and/or immediately after the procedure prevent resorption of the bone around the head section1665and/or allows increased bone formation around the head section1665. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1621provides a concave shaped area to allow bone and/or soft tissue growth therein.

In some embodiments, the dental implant fixture1600comprises the longitudinal groove1636to allow bone growth therein to prevent the implant fixture1600from vertical and rotational movements within the patient's jawbone. In some embodiments, the dental implant fixture1600comprises the longitudinal groove1637(shown inFIG. 18) to allow bone growth therein to prevent the implant fixture1600from vertical and rotational movements within the patient's jawbone. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1621provides an area where bone growth can grow therein to prevent the implant fixture1600from vertical and rotational movements within the patient's jawbone.

In some embodiments, the shaft section1675comprises an outer screw thread1676(shown inFIG. 14b) extending along at least a portion of its length. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread1676is continuous. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread1676is V-Thread, Square Thread, Buttress Thread, Reverse Buttress Thread or a combination of two or more of these threads. In some embodiments, the shaft section1675comprises a substantially longitudinal groove or back cut (not shown) extending from the distal end1681towards the head section1665. The longitudinal groove (not shown) provides a greater surface area into which bone growth is formed to prevent the implant fixture1600from vertical and rotational movements within the jawbone.

In some embodiments, the shaft section1675comprises a plurality of spaced apart transverse annular grooves1699(shown inFIG. 14b) extending along at least a portion of its length to provides a greater surface area into which bone growth is formed to prevent the implant fixture1600from vertical and rotational movements within the jawbone.

According to some embodiments, the head section1665comprises an outer screw thread2715extending along at least a portion of its length. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread2715is continuous. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread2715is micro thread, V-Thread, Square Thread, Buttress Thread, Reverse Buttress Thread or a combination of two or more of these threads.

According to some embodiments, the implant fixture1600is a one-piece implant. Referring toFIG. 16, a first portion of the implant fixture1600is positioned in a patient's jaw bone2710and a second portion of the implant fixture1600is positioned in the patient's gingival tissue2720. According to some embodiments, a first portion of the facial-side surface area1621is positioned in the patient's jaw bone2710and a second portion of the facial-side surface area1621is positioned in the patient's gingival tissue2720. According to some embodiments, the outer screw thread2715is positioned in the patient's jaw bone2710. According to some embodiments, a portion of the head section1665located above the outer screw thread2715is positioned in the patient's gingival tissue2720.

Referring toFIGS. 19a-b, a dental implant fixture1701is shown according to the present disclosure. According to some embodiments, the dental implant fixture1701comprises a head section1765with a proximal end1770. In some embodiments, the fixture1701comprises an elongated shaft section1775with a distal end1781. In some embodiments, the head section1765is integrally coupled with the shaft section1775to form a one-piece implant fixture1701. This prevents bacteria or other infection growth between the head section and the shaft section of the implant fixture1701. In some embodiments, the elongated shaft section1775is tapered. According to some embodiments, the head section1765is generally rounded triangle shaped as shown inFIG. 19c.

According to some embodiments, the implant fixture1701comprises a protrusion1710extending from the proximal end1770. According to some embodiments, the head section1765is integrally coupled with the protrusion1710to form a one-piece implant fixture1701. This prevents bacteria or other infection growth between the head section1765and the protrusion1710of the implant fixture1701. According to some embodiments, the protrusion1710is coupled with the tooth analogue30. According to some embodiments, the tooth analogue30comprises an opening configured to accommodate the protrusion1710. According to some embodiments, the protrusion1710is for fitting engagement with, attachment to, or connection to a dental restoration. The dental restoration may be a prosthetic restoration, a single crown, the tooth analogue30and/or a bridge.

According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1710, to which the dental restoration is to be fixed, is shaped similarly to an incisor tooth. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1710is shaped to accommodate an incisor dental restoration. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1710comprises a conical base1713(shown inFIGS. 21-22). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1710comprises a fossa surface1711(i.e. shallow depression surface) extending from the conical base1713. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1710comprises a partially conical surface1712extending from the conical base1713. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1710comprises a top end1714where the partially conical surface1712and the fossa surface1711meet.

Referring toFIGS. 19a-c, in some embodiments, the proximal end1770has a bevel periphery surface1761comprising a long-axis and a short axis. According to some embodiments, the proximal end1770has a flat surface1761comprising a long-axis and a short axis. In some embodiments, the head section1765comprises at least one narrower facial-side surface area1720(shown inFIGS. 19cand 20a) and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area1715. The facial-side surface area1720accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the facial-side of the patient's oral cavity, which is located adjacent to the interior surface of the patient's lip, while the interproximal-side surface area1715accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the interproximal-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's other tooth and/or implant. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1720is concaved toward the center of the surface1761.

According to some embodiments, the head section1765comprises a narrower lingual-side surface area1725(shown inFIGS. 19cand 20b) and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area1730. The lingual-side surface area1725accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the lingual-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's tongue or palate, while the interproximal-side surface area1730accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the interproximal-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's other tooth and/or implant. In some embodiments, the lingual-side surface area1725is concaved toward the center of the surface1761.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1720and/or the lingual-side surface area1725provide an area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1701due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1720and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1725provide an arch shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1701due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1720and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1725provide a flat area for bone growth to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1701due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1720and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1725provide a concave shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1701due to craniofacial growth. Increasing bone volume and/or soft tissue volume adjacent to the facial-side surface area1720and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1725prevents early exposure of the implant fixture1701.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1720and/or the lingual-side surface area1725provide a concave shaped area to improve bone formation due to the gap between the existing bone and the facial-side surface area1720and/or the lingual-side surface area1725. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1720and/or the lingual-side surface area1725provide a concave shaped area to allow greater bone growth therein. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1720and/or the lingual-side surface area1725provide a concave shaped area to prevent/minimize pressure between the bone and the head section1765during and/or immediately after the procedure. Preventing and/or minimizing pressure between the bone and the head section1765during and/or immediately after the procedure prevent resorption of the bone around the head section1765and/or allows increased bone formation around the head section1765. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1720and/or the lingual-side surface area1725provide a concave shaped area to allow bone and/or soft tissue growth therein.

In some embodiments, the dental implant fixture1701comprises the longitudinal groove1736to allow bone growth therein to prevent the implant fixture1701from vertical and rotational movements within the patient's jawbone. In some embodiments, the dental implant fixture1701comprises the longitudinal groove1737(shown inFIG. 20b) to allow bone growth therein to prevent the implant fixture1701from vertical and rotational movements within the patient's jawbone. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1720and/or the lingual-side surface area1725provide an area where bone growth can grow therein to prevent the implant fixture1701from vertical and rotational movements within the patient's jawbone.

In some embodiments, the shaft section1775comprises an outer screw thread1776(shown inFIG. 19b) extending along at least a portion of its length. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread1776is continuous. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread1776is V-Thread, Square Thread, Buttress Thread, Reverse Buttress Thread or a combination of two or more of these threads. In some embodiments, the shaft section1775comprises a substantially longitudinal groove or back cut (not shown) extending from the distal end1781towards the head section1765. The longitudinal groove (not shown) provides a greater surface area into which bone growth is formed to prevent the implant fixture1701from vertical and rotational movements within the jawbone.

In some embodiments, the shaft section1775comprises a plurality of spaced apart transverse annular grooves1799(shown inFIG. 19b) extending along at least a portion of its length to provides a greater surface area into which bone growth is formed to prevent the implant fixture1701from vertical and rotational movements within the jawbone.

According to some embodiments, the head section1765comprises an outer screw thread2815extending along at least a portion of its length. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread2815is continuous. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread2815is micro thread, V-Thread, Square Thread, Buttress Thread, Reverse Buttress Thread or a combination of two or more of these threads.

According to some embodiments, the implant fixture1701is a one-piece implant. Referring toFIG. 21, a first portion of the implant fixture1701is positioned in a patient's jaw bone2810and a second portion of the implant fixture1701is positioned in the patient's gingival tissue2820. According to some embodiments, a first portion of the facial-side surface area1720is positioned in the patient's jaw bone2810and a second portion of the facial-side surface area1720is positioned in the patient's gingival tissue2820. According to some embodiments, a first portion of the lingual-side surface area1725is positioned in the patient's jaw bone2810and a second portion of the lingual-side surface area1725is positioned in the patient's gingival tissue2820.

According to some embodiments, the outer screw thread2815is positioned in the patient's jaw bone2810. According to some embodiments, a portion of the head section1765located above the outer screw thread2815is positioned in the patient's gingival tissue2820.

Referring toFIGS. 23-24, a dental implant fixture1900is shown according to the present disclosure. According to some embodiments, the dental implant fixture1900comprises a head section1965with a proximal end1970. In some embodiments, the fixture1900comprises an elongated shaft section1975with a distal end1981. In some embodiments, the head section1965is integrally coupled with the shaft section1975to form a one-piece implant fixture1900. This prevents bacteria or other infection growth between the head section and the shaft section of the implant fixture1900. In some embodiments, the elongated shaft section1975is tapered. According to some embodiments, the head section1965is generally oval shaped as shown inFIG. 24.

According to some embodiments, the implant fixture1900comprises a protrusion1910extending from the proximal end1970. According to some embodiments, the head section1965is integrally coupled with the protrusion1910to form a one-piece implant fixture1900. This prevents bacteria or other infection growth between the head section1965and the protrusion1910of the implant fixture1900. According to some embodiments, the protrusion1910is coupled with the tooth analogue30. According to some embodiments, the tooth analogue30comprises an opening (not shown) configured to accommodate the protrusion1910. According to some embodiments, the protrusion1910is for fitting engagement with, attachment to, or connection to a dental restoration. The dental restoration may be a prosthetic restoration, a single crown, the tooth analogue30and/or a bridge.

According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1910, to which the dental restoration is to be fixed, is shaped similarly to premolar tooth and/or molar tooth. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1910is shaped to accommodate a premolar dental restoration or a molar dental restoration. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1910comprises a conical base1913(shown inFIGS. 23 and 27). According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1910comprises a first angled surface1911and a second angled surface1912. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1910comprises a first top end1914where the conical base1913and the first angled surface1911meet. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1910comprises a second top end1917where the conical base1913and the second angled surface1912meet. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the protrusion1910comprises a lower end1919where the first angled surface1911and the second angled surface1912meet. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the first top end1914is higher than the second top end1917and higher than the lower end1919. According to some embodiments presently disclosed, the second top end1917is higher than the lower end1919.

Referring toFIGS. 23-24, in some embodiments, the proximal end1970has a bevel periphery surface1961comprising a long-axis and a short axis. According to some embodiments, the proximal end1970has a flat surface1961comprising a long-axis and a short axis. In some embodiments, the head section1965comprises at least one narrower facial-side surface area1920(shown inFIGS. 24-25) and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area1915. The facial-side surface area1920accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the facial-side of the patient's oral cavity, which is located adjacent to the interior surface of the patient's lip, while the interproximal-side surface area1915accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the interproximal-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's other tooth and/or implant. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1920is concaved toward the center of the surface1961.

According to some embodiments, the head section1965comprises a narrower lingual-side surface area1925(shown inFIG. 26) and at least one wider interproximal-side surface area1930. The lingual-side surface area1925accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the lingual-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's tongue or palate, while the interproximal-side surface area1930accommodates the contour of the gingival tissue at the interproximal-side of the patient's oral cavity which is located adjacent to the patient's other tooth and/or implant. In some embodiments, the lingual-side surface area1925is concaved toward the center of the surface1961.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1920and/or the lingual-side surface area1925provide an area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1900due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1920and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1925provide an arch shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1900due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1920and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1925provide a flat area for bone growth to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1900due to craniofacial growth. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1920and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1925provide a concave shaped area for bone growth therein to compensate for jawbone deterioration adjacent to the implant fixture1900due to craniofacial growth. Increasing bone volume and/or soft tissue volume adjacent to the facial-side surface area1920and/or the narrower lingual-side surface area1925prevents early exposure of the implant fixture1900.

In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1920and/or the lingual-side surface area1925provide a concave shaped area to improve bone formation due to the gap between the existing bone and the facial-side surface area1920and/or the lingual-side surface area1925. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1920and/or the lingual-side surface area1925provide a concave shaped area to allow greater bone growth therein. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1920and/or the lingual-side surface area1925provide a concave shaped area to prevent/minimize pressure between the bone and the head section1965during and/or immediately after the procedure. Preventing and/or minimizing pressure between the bone and the head section1965during and/or immediately after the procedure prevent resorption of the bone around the head section1965and/or allows increased bone formation around the head section1965. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1920and/or the lingual-side surface area1925provide a concave shaped area to allow bone and/or soft tissue growth therein.

In some embodiments, the dental implant fixture1900comprises the shallow concavity1936(shown inFIGS. 23 and 25) to allow bone growth therein to prevent the implant fixture1900from vertical and rotational movements within the patient's jawbone. In some embodiments, the dental implant fixture1900comprises the longitudinal groove1937(shown inFIG. 26) to allow bone growth therein to prevent the implant fixture1900from vertical and rotational movements within the patient's jawbone. In some embodiments, the facial-side surface area1920and/or the lingual-side surface area1925provide an area where bone growth can grow therein to prevent the implant fixture1900from vertical and rotational movements within the patient's jawbone.

In some embodiments, the shaft section1975comprises an outer screw thread1976(shown inFIG. 23) extending along at least a portion of its length. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread1976is continuous. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread1976is V-Thread, Square Thread, Buttress Thread, Reverse Buttress Thread or a combination of two or more of these threads. In some embodiments, the shaft section1975comprises a substantially longitudinal groove or back cut (not shown) extending from the distal end1981towards the head section1965. The longitudinal groove (not shown) provides a greater surface area into which bone growth is formed to prevent the implant fixture1900from vertical and rotational movements within the jawbone.

In some embodiments, the shaft section1975comprises a plurality of spaced apart transverse annular grooves1999(shown inFIG. 23) extending along at least a portion of its length to provides a greater surface area into which bone growth is formed to prevent the implant fixture1900from vertical and rotational movements within the jawbone.

According to some embodiments, the head section1965comprises an outer screw thread2915extending along at least a portion of its length. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread2915is continuous. In some embodiments, the outer screw thread2915is micro thread, V-Thread, Square Thread, Buttress Thread, Reverse Buttress Thread or a combination of two or more of these threads.

According to some embodiments, the implant fixture1900is a one-piece implant. Referring toFIG. 27, a first portion of the implant fixture1900is positioned in a patient's jaw bone2910and a second portion of the implant fixture1900is positioned in the patient's gingival tissue2920. According to some embodiments, a first portion of the facial-side surface area1920is positioned in the patient's jaw bone2910and a second portion of the facial-side surface area1920is positioned in the patient's gingival tissue2920. According to some embodiments, a first portion of the lingual-side surface area1925is positioned in the patient's jaw bone2910and a second portion of the lingual-side surface area1925is positioned in the patient's gingival tissue2920.

According to some embodiments, the outer screw thread2915is positioned in the patient's jaw bone2910. According to some embodiments, a portion of the head section1965located above the outer screw thread2915is positioned in the patient's gingival tissue2920.

According to some embodiments, the implant fixture1600,1701and/or1900comprise ceramic material. According to some embodiments, the implant fixture1600,1701and/or1900comprise Zirconia material.

It is to be understood that the concavities120,125,420,425,1700,820,945,955,1055,1065,1110,1120,1220,1225,1520,1525,1620,1621,1720,1725,1920and/or1925as described above may be positioned on any side of the above described implant fixtures to allow bone growth therein to compensate for Cranio Facial bone resorption.

While several illustrative embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, numerous variations and alternative embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. Such variations and alternative embodiments are contemplated, and can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. The term “plurality” includes two or more referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. 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 the disclosure pertains.

The foregoing detailed description of exemplary and preferred embodiments is presented for purposes of illustration and disclosure in accordance with the requirements of the law. It is not intended to be exhaustive nor to limit the invention to the precise form(s) described, but only to enable others skilled in the art to understand how the invention may be suited for a particular use or implementation. The possibility of modifications and variations will be apparent to practitioners skilled in the art. No limitation is intended by the description of exemplary embodiments which may have included tolerances, feature dimensions, specific operating conditions, engineering specifications, or the like, and which may vary between implementations or with changes to the state of the art, and no limitation should be implied there from. Applicant has made this disclosure with respect to the current state of the art, but also contemplates advancements and that adaptations in the future may take into consideration of those advancements, namely in accordance with the then current state of the art. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the Claims as written and equivalents as applicable.

Reference to a claim element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless explicitly so stated. Moreover, no element, component, nor method or process step in this disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or step is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element herein is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. Sec. 112, sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for . . . ” and no method or process step herein is to be construed under those provisions unless the step, or steps, are expressly recited using the phrase “step(s) for . . . .”