Patent ID: 12193908

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Malocclusion of the teeth may be treated using orthodontic brackets and archforms. The edgewise appliance is the traditional orthodontic bracket that includes a rectangular slot that a round, square, or rectangular straight-wire segment can be inserted into. The edgewise appliance traditionally holds the straight archwire in the slot with an elastomeric or steel tie. This process of tying the archwire into each bracket can be a time-consuming procedure, especially for lingual braces.

The edgewise appliance uses sliding mechanics between the orthodontic bracket and archwire for orthodontic tooth movement. A downside of the use of sliding mechanics in some cases is that friction occurs between the bracket and archwire. The amount of friction is often unpredictable and must be overcome for tooth movement to occur. Because of the variability in the amount of friction, errors in tooth movement may occur leading to more appointments required to finish orthodontic treatment.

Friction-free mechanics, which solve the issue of friction in tooth movement, have been developed using an orthodontic bracket with a snap-fitted, non-sliding archwire. These snap-fitted connections, however, in some cases can be difficult to connect, unreliable, vary from tooth to tooth within a patient's mouth, and even permit sliding, which can impair the performance of the archwire. Disclosed herein are improved archform and bracket solutions.

FIGS.1A and1Billustrates an orthodontic bracket and archform system that uses friction-free mechanics.FIG.1Aillustrates an archform100, which can also be referred to as an archwire, retained in a bracket200. Specifically, a male fastener106, which can also be referred to as a male connector, connector, fastener, or male structure, of the archform100can be retained within a slot202of the bracket200. The archform could include a wire with a circular, oval, rectangular, square, or other cross-section, or combinations of the foregoing. Optionally, the archform can include a constant or variable dimension, such as a width and/or thickness for example. Optionally, the archform can be made from a sheet of material, such as a shape memory material, and laser-cut, waterjet cut, or otherwise derived from the sheet of material.

The archform100can have a plurality of interproximal structures, e.g., loops102,104. The interproximal structures could include incomplete loops that do not form a full circle. The interproximal structures could also include V shaped or other structures with a vertex that do not necessarily include an arcuate surface. The interproximal structures can also include complex 3D structures that traverse multiple planes. The interproximal loops102,104can be varying sizes and configurations. The interproximal loops102,104can be bends in the archform100. For example, the interproximal loop102can be wider (e.g., in the occlusal-gingival direction) than the interproximal loop104, which can result in the interproximal loop102exerting larger forces on a patient's teeth than the interproximal loop104. Optionally, the interproximal loop102can be the same thickness (e.g., in the lingual-buccal direction) as the interproximal loop104while being different widths. Optionally, a single interproximal loop102,104is disposed between adjacent male fasteners106. Optionally, one or more interproximal loops102,104are disposed between adjacent male fasteners106. Optionally, one, two, or more interproximal loops102,104and/or straight segments are disposed between male fasteners106. Optionally, the interproximal loops102,104can have the same or differing curvatures, extend in the gingival and/or occlusal direction, and/or extend to differing lengths in the gingival and/or occlusal directions. Optionally, interproximal structures are present in between each and every male fastener and/or tooth. Optionally, interproximal structures are present in between a majority of adjacent male fasteners but not all adjacent male fasteners, such as about, at least about, or no more than about 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, or more or less of the adjacent male fasteners, or ranges including any two of the foregoing values.

The archform100can include a male fastener106. The junctions between the male fastener106and the interproximal structures, e.g., loops102,104can be curved, which can help to reduce stress concentrators that could lead to cracking, breaking, etc. The male fastener106can, optionally, be the same thickness (e.g., in the lingual-buccal direction) as the interproximal loops102,104. This can advantageously enable the interproximal loops102,104and male fastener106to be cut from material having a uniform thickness (e.g., flat ribbon) during the fabrication process. Optionally, the male fastener106can have a different thicknesses (e.g., in the lingual-buccal direction) as the interproximal loops102,104. Optionally, the male fastener106can be positioned between interproximal loops102,104.

The male fastener106can include arms108,110. The arms108,110can flex to allow the male fastener106to be locked within the bracket200. For example, the arms108,110can flex under a compressive load to temporarily reduce the length of the male fastener106. This can advantageously enable the male fastener106to be positioned and retained within the slot202of the bracket200, which is described in more detail herein. The arms108,110can be curved inward (e.g., curved toward a central plane of the male fastener106) such that the arms108,110deflect inward when the male fastener106is under a compressive load. The arms108,110can be the same size and/or configuration such that the arms108,110flex (e.g., deflect) to substantially the same amount when under the same load. An opening120(e.g., void, space, aperture) can be disposed through the male fastener106. The opening120can be disposed between the arms108,110. The arms108,110can flex into the opening120when under a compressive load. Optionally, the void is entirely circumscribed along its periphery by the arms108,110and other features of the archform100. Optionally, the surface area or volume of the void is about or at least about 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, or more or less of the entire surface area or volume of each male fastener component, or ranges including any two of the foregoing values.

The male fastener106can have a groove112. The groove112(e.g., tool receptacle, tool receiver, opening, tool interface) can be configured to engage a tool. The tool can engage with the groove112to apply a force to the male fastener106such that the arms108,110flex such that the male fastener106can be inserted into or removed from the slot202of the bracket200, as described in more detail herein. The groove112can be disposed on an end of the male fastener106. Optionally, the groove112can be disposed on the occlusal side of the male fastener106. The groove112can be centered on a central plane of the male fastener106.

The archform100can be made from nickel titanium, stainless steel, titanium-molybdenum alloy, shape memory alloy, super elastic metals, and/or other suitable alloys, or combinations thereof. The archform100can be cut, e.g., laser cut, waterjet cut, etc. from a flat ribbon, sheet of material, or the like.

The bracket200can have a stop204. The stop204can be disposed on an end of the bracket200. Specifically, optionally, the stop204can be positioned on the gingival side of the bracket200. The stop204can define a portion of the slot202. The stop204can have an overhang206that retains the male fastener106within the slot202of the bracket200. The stop204, and/or other features disclosed herein, can have curved surfaces that help to alleviate tongue irritation.

The bracket200can have a retainer208. The retainer208can be disposed on an end of the bracket200. Specifically, optionally, the retainer208can be positioned on the occlusal side of the bracket200. The retainer208can be positioned on an opposing end of the bracket200that is opposite the stop204. The retainer208can define a portion of the slot202. The retainer208can have an overhang210that retains the male fastener106within the slot of the bracket200. The retainer208can have curved surfaces that help to alleviate tongue irritation.

The retainer208can have a groove212. The groove212can assist in placing the male fastener106within the slot202of the bracket200and removing the male fastener106therefrom. Specifically, the groove212can engage with a tool that is used to impart a force on the male fastener106to flex the arms108,110when placing the male fastener106in the slot202of the bracket200or removing the male fastener106therefrom. Optionally, the groove212can properly position and retain (e.g., help to prevent sliding) the tool for applying a force to the male fastener106. Optionally, the groove212can act as the fulcrum for the tool as the tool applies a force to the male fastener106during insertion or removal. A face214of the bracket200, the retainer208, and/or the stop204can cooperate to define the slot202of the bracket200that is configured to receive the male fastener106. The groove212can curve in an opposite direction relative to the groove112. The groove212can allow a tool to reach the groove112when the male fastener106is retained within the slot202of the bracket. The groove212can be centered on a central plane of the bracket200.

During insertion, an end of the male fastener106opposite the groove112can be placed against the stop204and/or under the overhang206such that the male fastener106is angled relative to the face214of the bracket200. A tool, such as the tools disclosed elsewhere herein, can engage the groove212and groove112and be rotated in the direction of the stop204, pushing (e.g., compressing) the male fastener106against the stop204while rotating the male fastener106toward the face214of the bracket200such that the groove112slides along the tool and toward the bracket200. The force applied to the male fastener106can cause the arms108,110to flex such that the male fastener106is maneuvered around the retainer208. The tool can be removed such that the arms108,110deflect (e.g., spring) back into an uncompressed configuration, locking the male fastener106under the overhangs210,206. The protrusion216, described below, can push the male fastener106against the overhangs206,210. Optionally, the protrusion216can cause the male fastener106to flex against the overhangs206,110.

The bracket200can have a protrusion (e.g., bump)216. The protrusion216can be positioned on and extend from the face214of the bracket200. The protrusion216can be rounded. The protrusion216can push the male fastener106against the overhangs206,210to prevent sliding between the archform100(e.g., male fastener106) and the bracket200. Optionally, the protrusion216can cause the male fastener106to flex against the overhands206,210when the male fastener106is positioned within the slot202of the bracket200. Optionally, the protrusion216can extend across the entire or a portion of the face214of the bracket200in the mesio-distal direction. Optionally, the protrusion216can be positioned between the stop204and the retainer208.

During removal, the tool can be inserted through the groove212and into the groove112. The tool can be rotated away from the stop204, with the groove212acting as the fulcrum, such that the tool applies a force to the groove112that flexes the arms108,110and rotates the end of the male fastener106with the groove112away from the face214of the bracket200such that the groove112slides along the tool away from the bracket200. The flexing of the arms108,110can allow the male fastener106to be moved out from under the retainer208such that the end of the male fastener106with the groove112is free from the slot202of the bracket200. The male fastener106can then be entirely removed from the slot202of the bracket200.

FIGS.2A-2Iillustrate an orthodontic bracket and archform system that uses friction-free mechanics.FIG.2Aillustrates an archform100retained in a bracket200. Specifically, a male fastener106of the archform100is retained under a locking pin226and within a slot202of the bracket200.

The archform100can have a plurality of interproximal structures, e.g., loops102,104. The archform100can have a male fastener106. The male fastener106can include arms108,110. The arms108,110can flex to allow the male fastener106to be locked (e.g., retained) within the bracket200. The male fastener106can have an opening120. The opening120can be disposed between the arms108,110.

The male fastener106can have a block114(e.g., stopper). The block114can be disposed between the arms108,110. The block114can extend into the opening120. The block114can extend from one side of the periphery of the opening120to proximate another side124(e.g., surface) of the periphery of the opening120. Optionally, the block114can extend from the occlusal side of the periphery of the opening120to proximate, but offset from, the gingival-side surface124of the periphery of the opening120. As illustrated inFIG.2A, a gap122can space apart the block114from the surface124that forms a portion of the periphery of the opening120(e.g., the gingival side of the periphery of the opening120). As the arms108,110flex under a compressive force, the block114can move closer to the surface124, shrinking the gap122. The block114can prevent the male fastener106from being compressed excessively. For example, the block114can move toward and ultimately contact the surface124to prevent further flexing of the arms108,110. Optionally, the arms108,110can flex inward and ultimately contact the block114to prevent further flexing of the arms108,110.

The male fastener106can have engagement surfaces116,118. The engagement surfaces116,118can engage with retaining surfaces222,224of the bracket200, described in more detail elsewhere herein. The engagement surfaces116,118can help to prevent sliding (e.g., reduce or eliminate slop, etc.) between the archform100and the bracket200. The engagement surfaces116,118can help to prevent lateral movement of the male fastener106in the mesio-distal direction. The engagement surfaces116,118can be angled relative to a central plane of the male fastener106. The engagement surfaces116,118can be the same, which can include the same size, angle, etc.

The male fastener106can have a groove112. The groove112(e.g., tool receptacle, tool receiver, opening, tool interface) can be configured to receive a tool. The groove112can be disposed in a tab126(e.g., flange) that can be positioned under the locking pin226to retain the male fastener106within the bracket200. The engagement surfaces116,118can form a portion of the tab126. The tool can engage with the groove112to apply a force to the male fastener106such that the arms108,110flex such that the male fastener106can be inserted into or removed from the slot202of the bracket200, as described in more detail herein. The groove112can be disposed on an end of the male fastener106. The groove112can be disposed on the tab126. Optionally, the groove112can be disposed on the occlusal side of the male fastener106. The groove112can be centered on a central plane of the male fastener106.

The bracket200can have a stop204. The stop204can have an overhang206. The overhang206, as clearly shown inFIG.2C, can define an upper surface of the slot202of the bracket200that receives the male fastener106. The overhang206can have a chamfer238(e.g., angled surface). The chamfer238can enable (e.g., facilitate) the male fastener106to rotate out of or into the slot202of the bracket200without being prohibited by the overhang206. Similarly, the stop204can have a recess240(e.g., undercut), as detailed elsewhere herein. The recess240can enable (e.g., facilitate) the male fastener106to rotate out of or into the slot202of the bracket200without being prohibited by the stop206, as detailed elsewhere herein.

Returning toFIGS.2A and2B, the bracket200can have a retainer208. The retainer208can be disposed on an end of the bracket200. Specifically, optionally, the retainer208can be positioned on the occlusal side of the bracket200. The retainer208can be positioned on an end of the bracket200that is opposite the stop204. The retainer208can define a portion of the slot202. The retainer208can have curved surfaces to alleviate tongue irritation.

The retainer208can have walls218,220. The walls218,220can be positioned on the mesial and distal sides of the bracket200. The walls218,220can be spaced apart from each other with a wall232extending therebetween. The wall232can be perpendicularly oriented relative to the walls218,220. The wall232can help to prevent adhesive from entering the slot202of the bracket200. The wall232can be disposed on an end of the bracket200. The wall232, optionally, can be disposed on the occlusal end of the bracket200. The walls218,220can be parallel to each other.

The walls218,220can, respectively, have retaining surfaces222,224, as clearly shown inFIG.2A. As provided elsewhere herein, the retaining surfaces222,224can engage with the engagement surfaces116,118. The retaining surfaces222,224can be disposed on interior sides of the walls218,220. The retaining surfaces222,224can be disposed on and/or proximate ends of the walls218,220.

The wall218can have an aperture228. The aperture228can be sized and configured to receive an end of a locking pin226(e.g., rod, bar). Optionally, the aperture228can be sized and configured to fixedly receive the locking pin226. Optionally, the locking pin226is staked (e.g., press-fit, friction fit, etc.) into the aperture228such that the locking pin226is substantially fixed therein.

The wall220can have an aperture230. The aperture230can be sized and configured to moveably receive the locking pin226. As clearly illustrated inFIG.2B, the aperture230can have a locking portion234(e.g., detent, recess) and enlarged portion236. Optionally, the enlarged portion236can be closer to the occlusal end of the bracket200than the locking portion234. The enlarged portion236can allow the locking pin226to deflect while still being retained within the aperture230during insertion and removal of the male fastener106from the slot202of the bracket200. The locking portion234can receive the locking pin226when the locking pin226is not being deflected during insertion and removal of the male fastener106. The locking portion234can retain the locking pin226when the male fastener106is disposed in the slot202of the bracket200. The locking portion234can prevent the inadvertent deflection of the locking pin226during teeth brushing, etc., which could cause the inadvertent removal of the male fastener106from the slot202of the bracket200.

The locking pin226can retain the male fastener106within the slot202of the bracket200. The locking pin226can extend between the walls218,220. An end of the locking pin226can be fixedly disposed within the aperture228, while an opposing end of the locking pin226can be moveably disposed within the aperture230. The locking pin226can deflect (e.g., flex) when a tool applies a force thereto. The end of the locking pin226can be fixed within the aperture228while the end of the locking pin226within the aperture230can move due to deflection of the locking pin226. Specifically, the locking pin226can deflect from the locking portion234to the enlarged portion236, allowing the male fastener106to be inserted into or removed from the slot202of the bracket200. Optionally, the end of the locking pin226within the aperture230is deflected up by the male fastener106and into the locking portion234of the aperture230when the male fastener106is retained within the slot202of the bracket200.

The bracket200can have a protrusion216(e.g., bump). The protrusion216can be rounded. The protrusion216can extend from mesial to distal sides of the bracket200. The protrusion216can extend from the face214. The protrusion216, as clearly shown inFIG.2C, can be positioned between the retainer208and the stop204. A portion of the protrusion216can be disposed under the overhang206. The protrusion216can push the male fastener106into the overhang206and the locking pin226such that the male fastener106is securely retained within the slot202of the bracket200, which can reduce and/or eliminate sliding between the archform100(e.g., male fastener106) and the bracket200.

During insertion, an end of the male fastener106opposite the groove112and/or tab126can be placed against the stop204and/or under the overhang206such that the male fastener106is angled relative to the face214of the bracket200, as illustrated inFIGS.2E and2F. A tool300(e.g., explorer tool, explorer) can be inserted between the locking pin226and the groove112. Specifically, a tip306(e.g., pointed tip, conical tip) on a distal end of a shaft portion302can be inserted between the locking pin226and the groove112. The tool300can be rotated in a first direction304(e.g., toward the retainer204, toward the male fastener106), deflecting the locking pin226into the enlarged portion236of the aperture230and rotating the portion of the male fastener106with the groove112under the locking pin226and into the slot202, as shown inFIG.2G. The tool300can be removed from between the locking pin226and the groove112, allowing the locking pin226to flex into the locking portion234of the aperture230, as shown inFIG.2B. The male fastener106can be pushed by the protrusion216into the overhang206and the locking pin226, helping to reduce and/or eliminate sliding (e.g., slop) between the archform100and the bracket200. The engagement surfaces116,118of the male fastener106can engage the retaining surfaces222,224of the retainer208of the bracket200, helping to reduce and/or eliminate sliding (e.g., slop) between the archform100and the bracket200. The tool300can apply equal and opposite forces against one or more component(s) of the bracket200and/or male fastener106(or the bracket itself) during installation and removal. Equal and opposite forces can be important to reduce discomfort to the patient when inserting or removing the male fastener106from the bracket200. For example, the tool300can apply equal forces to the locking pin126and groove112during installation or removal.

During removal, the tool300can be inserted between the locking pin226and the groove112, as shown inFIGS.2H and2I. Specifically, a downward force310can be applied to the tool300with the tip306of the shaft portion302between the locking pin226and the groove112. The tool300can be rotated in a second direction308, deflecting the locking pin126into the enlarged portion236of the aperture230and rotating the portion of the male fastener106with the groove112and/or tab126away from the face214of the bracket200and out from under the locking pin126. The male fastener106can then be removed from under the overhang206of the stop204.

FIGS.3A and3Billustrate an orthodontic bracket and archform system that uses friction-free mechanics. As shown inFIGS.3A and3B, the bracket200can have grip surfaces242,244(e.g., purchase points). The grip surfaces242,244can be gripped by a tool, such as pliers, debonding pliers, and/or lingual debonding pliers, for handling. The grip surfaces242,244can be gripped by a tool to remove the bracket200from being bonded to a patient's teeth. The grip surfaces242,244can be gripped by a tool to position the bracket200onto the lingual or labial side of a patient's teeth for bonding. The grip surfaces242,244can be positioned on opposing ends of the bracket200. Optionally, the grip surface242can be positioned on the occlusal side of the bracket200and the grip surface244can be positioned on the gingival side of the bracket200. The grip surfaces242,244can be angled relative to each other. The grip surfaces242,244can be proximate the retainer208and stop204, respectively. The grip surfaces242,244can be angled relative to a central plane of the bracket200. The grip surfaces242,244can be angled relative to a back surface246of the bracket200, as shown inFIG.3B. The back surface246of the bracket can be bonded to a patient's tooth, such as the lingual or labial side of the patient's tooth. A distance248can extend between the back surface246and the face214of the bracket200.

FIG.4illustrates an orthodontic bracket and archform system that uses friction-free mechanics. As shown inFIG.4, the bracket200has walls250. The walls250can be positioned on the mesial and distal sides of the bracket200. The walls250can help prevent adhesion intrusion onto the face214and/or into the slot202of the bracket200. The walls250can help prevent sliding between the archform100(e.g., male fastener106) and the bracket200. The walls250can be part of the retainer208and/or walls218,220. Optionally, a cover (e.g., roof, top) can extend over the locking pin226to prevent unintentional contact (e.g., misuse) with the tool and/or prevent the intrusion of adhesive.

The portion of the bracket200with the stop204can be raised, as shown inFIG.4, which can help prevent adhesive intrusion into the slot202. Optionally, the gingival end of the bracket200can be raised. The face214can be angled relative to the back surface246such that a distance248between the face214and the back surface246is greater closer to the stop200(e.g., closer to the gingival side) than the retainer208(e.g., occlusal side).

FIG.5illustrates an orthodontic bracket and archform system that uses friction-free mechanics. As shown inFIG.5, the bracket200has walls250, as described above, that can prevent adhesive instruction. The walls250can also help to prevent the male fastener106and/or archform100from sliding in the bracket200. The bracket200, illustrated inFIG.5, can be narrower in the mesio-distal direction than some other brackets shown herein, which can accommodate teeth of different dimensions.

6A-6E illustrate an orthodontic bracket and archform system that uses friction-free mechanics. As shown inFIG.6A, the bracket200has a retainer208. Optionally, the retainer208can be positioned on the occlusal side of the bracket200. The retainer208releasably retains the male fastener106of the archform100within a slot202of the bracket200. The retainer208has walls218,220. The walls218,220can be respectively positioned on the mesial and distal sides of the bracket200. The walls218,220can secure the male fastener106therebetween to prohibit or reduce lateral movement of the male fastener106and/or sliding of the archform100with respect to the bracket200. The walls,218,220can prevent the intrusion of adhesive.

The retainer200can have a C spring256(e.g., spring, leaf spring, spring locking pin). The C spring256can retain the male fastener106. Specifically, the C spring256can retain the tab126of the male fastener106to releasably prevent the male fastener106from being removed from the slot202of the bracket200. The C spring256can deflect (e.g., flex) under a load and, upon removal of the load, spring back to an undeflected configuration. The C spring256can compress onto itself, deflect/flex inward, etc., and return to an uncompressed, deflected, and/or flexed state. The C spring256can be oriented in a mesio-distal direction. A central axis of the C spring256can be oriented in the mesio-distal direction. The C spring256can be oriented perpendicularly relative to the longitudinal axis of the male fastener106when the male fastener106is retained within the slot202of the bracket200and/or a longitudinal axis of the bracket200. One end of the C spring256can be retained, which can include fixedly retained, within a slot258of the retainer200. Another end of the C spring256(e.g., a free end) can extend out of the slot258and into an opening252of the retainer208. A recess254can extend a portion of the opening252to provide space for the C spring256to deflect when a force is applied thereto. The free end of the C spring256can deflect under a force, which can cause the C spring256to flex into the recess254and/or flex in a direction that is away from the applied force. This can enable the male fastener106to be rotated under the C spring256. Upon removal of the force, the C spring256can spring, which can include returning to an undeflected state, to retain the male fastener106(e.g., tab126) in place. Optionally, the free end of the C spring256can engage the male fastener106(e.g., tab126) and apply a force thereto. This C spring arrangement can be beneficial for narrow brackets because the effectiveness of the spring may not depend on the length thereof.

The retainer200can have a groove212. The groove212can provide access to at least a portion of the C spring256. The groove212can enable a tool to reach the C spring256and apply a force thereto. The groove212can enable the tab126of the male fastener106to be rotated to contact the C spring256. The groove212can be oriented in an opposite direction relative to the groove112of the male fastener106.

The bracket200can have a stop204. The stop204can prevent movement of the male fastener in a direction, which can include the gingival direction. The stop204can be positioned on a side of the bracket200that is opposite the retainer208. Optionally, the stop204can be positioned on the gingival side of the bracket200. The stop204can have an overhang206. The overhang206can extend over a portion of the slot202that can receive the male fastener206. The overhang206can retain the male fastener106within the slot202of the bracket.

The stop204can have a recess240, as shown inFIG.6A. The recess240can enable the male fastener106to be rotated while a portion of the male fastener106is positioned under the overhang206. The stop204can have an angled surface238that enables a portion of the male fastener106to be conveniently positioned under the overhang206, as shown inFIG.6B. The stop204, optionally, can have a hole264extending therethrough. Optionally, the stop204does not include the hole264.

The bracket200can include a face214that forms a portion (e.g., a side) of the slot202of the bracket. The bracket can include a protrusion216(e.g., bump) extending from the face214. The protrusion216can, when the male fastener106is retained under the C spring256, push the male fastener106against an edge of the C spring256and the overhang206. The bracket200can include a raised face215. The raised face215can be positioned farther away from a back surface246of the bracket200than the face214. The protrusion216can be positioned between the raised face215and the face214. A channel260can separate mesial and distal portions of the protrusion216, face214, and raised face215. The channel260can extend along a longitudinal axis of the bracket200. The channel260can be positioned between mesial and distal sides of the bracket200.

The archform100can have a male fastener106. The male fastener106can have arms108,110. The arms108,110can be on opposing sides of the male fastener106. The arms108,110can be on the mesial and distal sides of the male fastener106. The arms108,110, as described elsewhere herein can flex (e.g., deflect) under a force (e.g., load). The arms108,110, as described elsewhere herein can return to an undeflected configuration absent the application of a force. The arms108,110can be separated by a space120. The arms108,110can curve inward toward the space120. The arms108,110can flex into the space120.

The archform100can have a tab126. The tab126can be retained under the C spring256. The tab126can have a groove112that can engage a tool. The tool can apply a force to the groove112that deflects the arms108,110, thereby decreasing the length of the male fastener106such that the male fastener106can be rotated under the C spring or rotated out from under the C spring. The groove112can decrease the likelihood that the tool will slip when applying a load to the male fastener106.

During installation, the portion of the male fastener106opposite the tab126can be positioned into the slot202and under the overhang206, such that the male fastener106is angled relative to the face214and/or raised face215. The tab126can contact the C spring256. The tab126can be at least partially within the groove212. The tool can be positioned between and/or within the groove212and the groove112. The tool can be pushed toward the C spring256and/or rotated toward the stop204, causing the C spring256to deflect, the arms108,110to deflect, and/or the male fastener106to be rotated under the C spring256. During the deflection of the C spring256, the C spring256can flex into the recess254and back into the opening252. The tool can be removed. The C spring256can return to an undeflected state and/or deflect to apply a retaining force to the male fastener106at interface262, shown inFIG.6C. Specifically, the free end (e.g., edge of the C spring256) can contact the male fastener106at interface262, which can include applying a retaining force to the male fastener106. The male fastener106can be retained under the overhang206and C spring256. The protrusion216can push the male fastener106against the C spring256and the overhang206, which can prevent sliding between the archform100(e.g., male fastener106) and the bracket200.

During removal, the tool can be positioned between the groove212and the C spring256. The tool can be rotated away from the stop204, causing the C spring256to deflect, the arms108,110to deflect, and/or the male fastener106(e.g., the tab126) to be rotated out from under the C spring256(e.g., out from under the free end of the C spring256). The C spring256can return to an undeflected state. The male fastener106can be removed from the slot202and from under the overhang206. During insertion and removal of the male fastener106, forces can be concentrated on the C spring256and the tool300, while the remainder of the bracket200can experience relatively small forces.

FIGS.7A-7Eillustrate an orthodontic bracket and archform system that uses friction-free mechanics. As shown inFIG.7A, the orthodontic bracket200can include a slot202that can receive a male fastener106of an archform100. At least a portion of the slot202can be defined by a face214of the bracket200. At least a portion of the slot202can be defined by a retainer208. The retainer208can have an overhang210, similar to the overhangs described elsewhere herein. The overhang210can extend over the slot202and help to retain the male fastener106therein. The retainer208can be on the gingival side of the bracket200.

The retainer208can have an opening352that holds a C spring256(e.g., spring, leaf spring). The opening352can be an oval shape to allow the C spring256to flex (e.g., deflect). The periphery of the opening352can prevent the C spring256from flexing beyond a desired range. The opening352can be oriented perpendicularly to the face214of the bracket. The retainer208can have a guide366(e.g., guide rail, protrusion, longitudinal protrusion, bar) that can orient the C spring256within the opening352. The guide366can prevent the C spring256from twisting and/or otherwise being inadvertently removed from the bracket200and/or opening352. The guide366can extend through and/or within the opening352. The guide366can be oriented perpendicularly relative to the face214of the bracket200. The C spring256can be positioned through the opening352and over the guide366. Opposing ends of the C spring256can be positioned on opposing sides of the guide366. The C spring256, as shown inFIGS.7D and7E, can be exposed to at least a portion of the slot202. The male fastener106, when inserted into the slot202, can contact and flex the C spring256. The C spring256can apply a force to the male fastener106, which can retain the male fastener106within the slot202of the bracket200. The C spring256can be positioned away from a handle380of the male fastener106during installation, reducing the risk that the C spring256will be damaged by tools, such as pliers, explorer tools, etc.

The bracket200can include stops204,205. The stops204,205can be separated by a gap368therebetween. The stops204,205can have cutouts374,375(e.g., recesses, voids, spaces) that receive wedges382,383(e.g., fingers) of the male fastener106, as shown inFIGS.7B,7D, and7E. The cutouts374,375and wedges382,383can cooperate to prevent sliding (e.g., reduce lateral movement) between the archform100(e.g., male fastener106) and the bracket200. The stops204,205can have angled surfaces384, as shown inFIG.7D, that enable the male fastener106to be inserted into the slot202of the bracket200at an angle.

The gap368can receive a handle380(e.g., tab, tongue) of the male fastener106. The handle380, positioned between the stops204,205, can prevent sliding between the archform100(e.g., male fastener106) and the bracket. A raised surface372can extend the gap362and between the stops204,205. The raised surface372can support the handle380off the face214of the bracket200.

An aperture370can be positioned between the stops204,205. The aperture370can be sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of a tool during installation and removal of the male fastener106within the bracket. The aperture370can extend through at least a portion of the raised surface372and/or the face214.

The bracket200can have a protrusion216that is similar to the other protrusions216described herein. The protrusion216can extend from the face214of the bracket200. The protrusion can extend from proximate or at the mesial and distal sides of the bracket200. The protrusion216can push the male fastener206against the overhang210and the cutouts374,375when positioned within the bracket200.

The bracket200can have inclined surfaces376that facilitate inserting the male fastener106within the bracket200. The inclined surface376can be positioned on opposing sides of the retainer208. As shown inFIG.7D, the inclined surfaces376can facilitate the male fastener106being positioned within the slot202of the bracket200at an angle before being securely retained within or removed from the bracket200. Similarly, the retainer208and/or overhang210can have an angled surface238that can facilitate the male fastener106being positioned within the slot of the bracket200at an angle before being securely retained within or removed from the bracket200.

The archform100can have a male fastener100, as shown inFIG.7B. The male fastener100can be inserted into and retained by the bracket200(e.g., slot202). The male fastener106can have a handle380(e.g., tab). The handle380can allow the archform100to be gripped, such as with pliers, to insert the male fastener106into the bracket200. The handle380can provide a purchase point for pliers. The handle380, optionally, is configured such that it does not add additional strength to the archform100such that, if damaged, the archform100will perform as intended. Accordingly, optionally, nicking or damaging the handle380does not affect the performance or fatigue life of the archform100. This is especially advantageous with an archform100made of nickel titanium which can be notch sensitive. The handle380can include a hole378. The hole378can receive at least a portion of a tool (e.g., explorer, explorer tool) to position the male fastener106.

The male fastener106can include wedges382,383(e.g., fingers). The wedges382,383can be formed by laser cutting and/or waterjet cutting the male fastener106to create the edge286, defining at least a portion of the wedges382,383. As shown inFIG.7D, the male fastener106can be inserted at an angle390relative to the face214and/or back surface246, which can be referred to as the insertion/removal angle of attack. The wedges382,383, with the edge286, can reduce the insertion/removal angle of attack, which can improve the ease of male fastener106insertion within the bracket200. The wedges382,383can be positioned within the cutouts282,283of the stops204,205.

During insertion, the male fastener106can be inserted at an angle390into the slot202of the bracket200. The inclined surfaces376, angled surfaces384, edges286of the wedges382,383, and/or angled surface238can ease insertion (e.g., reduce the insertion angle390) of the male fastener106into the slot202of the bracket200. A force can be applied to the male fastener106, which can be with a tool interfacing with the handle380, such that the C spring256is compressed. The male fastener106can be rotated toward the face214such that the male fastener106is parallel with the face214. The force applied to the male fastener106can be removed, allowing the C spring256to push the wedges382,383into the cutouts374,375, as shown inFIG.7E. The protrusion216can push the male fastener106into the overhang210and/or push the wedges382,383against respective surfaces of the cutouts374,375. As shown inFIG.7B, portions of the archform100proximate the male fastener106can interface with sides of the bracket200(e.g., mesial and distal sides) to reduce and/or prevent lateral movement between the archform100(e.g., male fastener106) and the bracket200.

During removal, a tool can be inserted into the hole378of the handle380. Optionally, the tool can be inserted through the hole378of the handle380and at least partially into the hole370. The tool can be tilted (e.g., rotated) in the direction of the retainer208, which can compress the C spring256, remove the wedges382,383from the cutouts374,375, and rotate the side of the male fastener106with the handle380out of the slot202of the bracket200. The male fastener106can then be removed from the bracket200at an angle.

As shown inFIGS.7F and7G, similar retaining mechanisms can be used for molar brackets, as shown inFIG.7F, and lower anterior brackets, as shown inFIG.7G. Optionally, the lower anterior bracket shown inFIG.7Gcan have some differences compared to the molar bracket shown inFIG.7Fdue to tooth sizes. As shown inFIG.7G, the bracket200can include a stop204. The stop204can include cutouts and/or an overhang as described elsewhere herein. The cutouts and/or overhang can receive wedges382,383of the male fastener106.

The bracket200can include a retainer208. The retainer208can have an overhang210. The retainer208can have an opening352that houses a C spring256. One end of the C spring256can be coupled, which can include fixed, to a flange367to help prevent unintentional removal of the C spring256. The other end of the C spring256can be free, allowing the C spring256to flex under the application of a force and return to an unflexed configuration absent the application of the force. At least a portion of the C spring256can be accessible via the slot202of the bracket200such that a male fastener106inserted into the slot202can compress the C spring256.

The archform100can have a male fastener106. The male fastener106can have a handle288. The handle288can be gripped by tools, such as pliers, to manipulate the archform100without negatively impacting the performance of the archform100.

The male fastener106can include wedges382,383that can be separated by a groove112. The groove112can receive a tool that can apply a force thereto such that the male fastener106compresses the C spring256and enables the wedges382,383to maneuver around the stop204during insertion and/or removal of the male fastener106. The male fastener106can be inserted and removed from the bracket200using similar techniques to those described elsewhere herein.

FIGS.8A-8Dillustrate an orthodontic bracket and archform system that uses friction-free mechanics. As shown inFIG.8A, the archform100can have a male fastener106. The male fastener106can include a guiding channel802(e.g., recess, channel). The guiding channel802can guide a tab804of a bracket200. The guiding channel802can guide a tab804to flex around the surface(s) of the guiding channel804to engage with a holding surface806(e.g., surface). The tab804can be made of a variety of material such as sheet metal. The tab804can hold the male fastener106within the slot of the bracket200. The bracket200can include a tool receiving channel808that can receive a tool to deflect the tab804from the holding surface806to decouple the male fastener106from the bracket.

The bracket200can have walls218,220. The walls218,220can align the male fastener106within the bracket200. The walls218,220can prevent sliding (e.g., slop) between the archform100and the bracket200. The walls218,220can be positioned on distal and mesial sides of the bracket200. The walls218,220can define a channel820to guide the male fastener106into the slot202of the bracket200as the male fastener106moves in the direction816.

The bracket200can have a stop204. The stop204can be disposed on an end of the bracket200, which can include the gingival end of the bracket200. The stop204can have an overhang206. The overhand206can be configured to retain the male fastener106within a slot202. The stop204can include a recess810to enable the male fastener106to rotate within the slot202. The overhang206can have a chamfer238which can help enable the male fastener106to rotate within the slot202. The overhang206can have a wedge812(e.g., angled surface, tapered surface, protrusion) that is similar to the protrusions812. The wedge812can extend from the overhang206in the direction of the face214. The wedge812can push the male fastener106into the face214to prevent and/or reduce sliding (e.g., slop) between the archform100(e.g., male fastener106) and the bracket200.

The bracket200can have a face214. The face214, as shown inFIG.8D, can have a tool receiving recess822(e.g., recess) that can receive a tool, which is moved through the tool receiving channel808to deflect the tab804from the holding surface806. Once the tab804is removed from the holding surface806, the male fastener806can be removed from the slot202.

During installation, the male fastener106is positioned on the face214(e.g., parallel to the face214) of the bracket200between the walls218,220. The male fastener106is moved in the direction816. As the male fastener106moves in the direction816, the guiding channel802guides the tab804of the bracket202. Optionally, the male fastener106is angled relative to the face214until the tab804can be positioned within the guiding channel802. The guiding channel802can guide a tab804to flex around the surface(s) of the guiding channel804to engage with the holding surface806, retaining the male fastener106within the slot202. The wedge812can push the male fastener106into the surface214.

During removal, a tool (e.g., explorer tool) is positioned within the tool receiving recess822and/or tool receiving channel808. The tool is moved through the tool receiving channel808toward the tab804. The tool deflects the tab804from the holding surface804such that the male fastener106can be removed from the slot202. The tool can, which can include simultaneously, engage a periphery of the tool receiving channel808to remove the male fastener106from the bracket200and/or slot202.

Optionally, the tab8040can have more than one engagement stages (e.g., more than one feature that can engage with the holding surface806and/or another surface of the male fastener106, such that a clinician can choose the depth into which the male fastener106is inserted into the slot202. The flexible locking mechanism804(e.g., tab) may have more than one engagement stages. For example, for severely maloccluded teeth, a clinician may want the archform partially engaged into the slot202. This will allow maximum articulation and flexibility of the archform100which can allow the archform100to be more easily connected to the displaced teeth. As the teeth come into occlusion, the clinician may push and lock the archform100further into the slot202to get the full expression of the archform100. The slot202can have one or more tapered sides that, when the male fastener106is slid into the slot202, contacts the male fastener106. This can eliminate play between the archform100(e.g., male fastener106) and the bracket200, which can provide improved tooth control.

Optionally, the brackets described are positioned on a lingual or labial side of a patient's teeth.

Optionally, the brackets and non-sliding archforms described herein can cooperate to cause translational movement of a patient's teeth. Optionally, the same locking mechanism can be used for molars and lower anterior teeth. Optionally, the archform profiles can have enough flexibility and stretch to level and align a patient's teeth during the initial stages of malocclusion treatment. Optionally, the bracket and archforms disclosed herein can be designed reduce the risk of inadvertent coupling between brackets and the archform, for example, when removing the archform from neighboring brackets. Optionally, the brackets and archform reduce the amount of sliding (e.g., slop) between the archform and brackets. Optionally, the archform includes features, such as handles, tabs, etc., that can be used to maneuver the archform, reducing deformation and/or damage of the archform. Optionally, the bracket is bonded to the patient's teeth with sufficient shear strength and tensile strength to reduce the likelihood of inadvertent debonding. Optionally, the brackets can be debonded from teeth using lingual debonding pliers or debonding pliers without damaging the enamel of a patient's teeth. Optionally, archforms made of nickel titanium, stainless steel, titanium-molybdenum alloy, shape memory alloy, super elastic metals, and/or other suitable alloys can be used. Optionally, the brackets can reduce adhesive intrusion into the brackets. Optionally, the same litigating mechanism can be used for all teeth. Optionally, the surfaces (e.g., lingual surfaces), and/or other surfaces, of the bracket are rounded, which can include a radius of greater than 0.050-0.010, 0.010-0.015, 0.015-0.020, 0.020-0.025, and/or greater than 0.025 inches. Optionally, the brackets do not open inadvertently when a patient is brushing teeth. Optionally, tie wings can be used in addition to the locking mechanisms disclosed herein. Optionally, interproximal loops of the archform do not dig into the gum line of the patient during installation of the archform.

Optionally, an archform may be activated by deflecting it away from its default position and inserting into a snapped position within an orthodontic bracket that is bonded to a tooth. When this elastic deflection occurs, the archform may exert a reaction force in the direction that returns the archform to the designed configuration, thereby transferring forces to the tooth and causing orthodontic tooth movement.

This archform activation may completely control any tooth movement in three-dimensional space.

For mesio-distal tooth movement, if there is space between adjacent teeth, snap fitting an archwire into an orthodontic bracket may cause an interproximal structure to deform in one or more directions, which may cause the archform to be activated, leading to closing of space in the mesial-distal direction. Whereas, if there is overlap between adjacent teeth, archform snap fitting into an orthodontic bracket may cause an interproximal structure to deform in a different direction, which may cause the archwire also to be activated, this time leading to opening of space in the mesial-distal direction.

For occlusal-gingival tooth movement, if the adjacent teeth are not at the same level, an archform snap fitting into an orthodontic bracket may cause connecting archwire connectors and interproximal structures to deflect in a slanted manner which may cause the archform to be activated, leading to tooth correction in the occlusal-gingival direction.

For facio-lingual tooth movement, archform snap fitting into an orthodontic bracket may cause the wire to be pushed away from its original position which may cause the archform to be activated, leading to tooth correction in the facio-lingual direction.

The various configurations of archforms and orthodontic brackets that have been discussed may provide one or more advantages as described herein.

There may be superior mesio-distal angulation and facio-lingual inclination orthodontic control because the vertical male connector may offer a longer arm for coupling forces to the orthodontic bracket when compared to the rectangular dimensions of an edgewise appliance. Moreover, the spread of the two parallel side bars of some male connectors may make them function like a twin orthodontic bracket in providing a force couple in dealing with any axial rotation.

The interproximal structures may allow the operator to adjust the rigidity of the archform, which may provide versatility for the same archform cross-sectional configuration to be used in a wide array of cases.

The interproximal structures can be designed to allow patients to easily floss while undergoing orthodontic treatment.

The interproximal structures may be designed to have a certain type of shape (including loops, and complex 3D shapes). These shapes can be used to hold elastic rubber bands.

The archform may be designed such that it can be activated to move the teeth. This type activation may be self-activating and self-limiting because it may not require use of external forces such as power chain and coil springs to move the teeth. This type of activation may also be self-limiting because the archform may only exert forces that return the archform to its original shape, negating the need for frequent appointments.

This approach may also not permit sliding of the archform with respect to the orthodontic bracket, thus making movement of the teeth much more predictable.

FIGS.9A and9Billustrate a bracket assembly201(e.g., two piece bracket assembly). As shown inFIG.9A, the bracket assembly201can include a pad (receiving pad, receiving base, base)500that can receive an orthodontic bracket200, which can be coupled to the male fastener of an archform to facilitate tooth movement. The pad500can be bonded to a patient's tooth (e.g., on the lingual side or labial side of a patient's tooth) and receive the bracket200. The pad500can be modified for attachment to various teeth depending on tooth size and/or desired control. For example, a wider pad500can be used to improve tooth rotational control without increasing the width of the bracket200. This can enable the bracket200to be more widely used amongst different teeth without modifying the bracket200. Optionally, the pad500can be modified or different pads500used to enable the same style bracket200(e.g., a common bracket) to be more widely used amongst different teeth. This can reduce the number of varieties of brackets needed for a treatment plan, which can reduce cost and/or complexity. The shape and/or contour of the pad500can be economically changed because the pad500is separate from the bracket200. Optionally, the bracket200and pad500can be formed together.

The pad500can be manufactured via a variety of techniques such as injection molding, casting, machining, additive manufacturing, etc. In some instances, metal injection molding may be preferred. The pad500can include a pocket (opening, void, depression, hole, receiving space)502to receive the bracket200. A portion of the periphery of the pocket502can include filler material504that can be used to weld (e.g., laser weld) the bracket200to the pad500. The filler material504can be disposed on the sides (e.g., mesial and distal sides) of the periphery of the pocket502, such that the sides (e.g., mesial and distal sides) of the periphery of the pocket502can be welded (e.g., laser welded) to the sides (e.g., mesial and distal sides) of the bracket200. Optionally, the pad500and bracket200can be tack welded together prior to laser welding.

The pad500can include undercut(s) (cut(s), gap(s), textured surface, void(s), slot(s))506to facilitate improved bonding between the pad500and the patient's teeth. The undercut(s)506can be molded into the pad500. Optionally, the undercuts506can be machined into the pad500. The undercut(s)506can be disposed on a side of the pad500that is opposite the pocket502. The undercut(s)506can extend the width of the pad500. The undercut(s)506can extend between the mesial and distal sides of the pad500. The pad500, being separate from the bracket200, can have undercut(s)506conveniently molded therein.

The pad500can have inclined surfaces508,509, similar to inclined surfaces376described elsewhere herein, that can facilitate inserting the male fastener106within the bracket200. The inclined surface508,509can be positioned on opposing sides of the retainer208. The inclined surfaces376can facilitate the male fastener106being positioned within the slot202of the bracket200at an angle before being securely retained within, which can include being parallel to the face214of the bracket200, or removed from the bracket200.

As described above, the bracket200can be disposed within the pocket502of the pad500during use. Optionally, the bracket200can be used independently of the pad500and bonded to a patient's tooth. The bracket200can be manufactured via a variety of techniques such as injection molding, casting, machining, additive manufacturing, etc. In some instances, metal injection molding may be preferred.

The bracket200can be used with an archform100to move a patient's teeth utilizing non-sliding mechanics. The orthodontic bracket200can include a slot202that can receive a male fastener of an archform. At least a portion of the slot202can be defined by a face214of the bracket200. At least a portion of the slot202can be defined by a retainer208. The retainer208can have an overhang210, similar to the overhangs described elsewhere herein. The overhang210can include a curved portion211that extends over the face214of the bracket200. The curved portion211can help to retain a male fastener106within the bracket200.

The overhang210can extend over the slot202and help to retain a male fastener therein. The retainer208can be on the gingival side of the bracket200. Optionally, the retainer208can be disposed on the occlusal side of the bracket200. The retainer208and/or overhang210can include an angled surface238that can facilitate a male fastener being positioned within the slot202of the bracket200at an angle before being securely retained within or removed from the bracket200. Similarly, the retainer208can have a recess240(e.g., undercut), as detailed elsewhere herein. The recess240can enable (e.g., facilitate) a male fastener to rotate out of or into the slot202of the bracket200without being prohibited by the retainer208, as detailed elsewhere herein.

The retainer208can include a C spring256(e.g., spring, leaf spring). As described elsewhere herein, the C spring256can help to securely retain a male fastener within the bracket200. The retainer208can have an opening352that holds the C spring256. The opening352can be an oval shape to allow the C spring256to flex (e.g., deflect). The periphery of the opening352can prevent the C spring256from flexing beyond a desired range. The opening352can be oriented perpendicularly to the face214of the bracket200. The C spring256can be perpendicularly oriented relative to the face214of the bracket200. The C spring256can extend between and/or partially through the retainer208and the face214of the bracket200

The C spring256can be exposed to at least a portion of the slot202. The male fastener106, when inserted into the slot202, can contact and flex the C spring256. The C spring256can apply a force to the male fastener106to push the male fastener106into stops204,205, which can retain the male fastener106within the slot202of the bracket200. The C spring256can be positioned away from a handle380of the male fastener106during installation, reducing the risk that the C spring256will be damaged by tools, such as pliers, explorer tools, etc. The C spring256can extend through the protrusion216. Optionally, the protrusion216can be offset from the C spring256.

The bracket200can include stops204,205. The stops204,205can be separated by a gap368therebetween. The stops204,205can have cutouts374,375(e.g., recesses, voids, spaces) that receive wedges382,383(e.g., fingers) of the male fastener106. The cutouts374,375and wedges382,383can cooperate to prevent sliding (e.g., reduce lateral movement) between the archform100(e.g., male fastener106) and the bracket200. The stops204,205can include ramps (inclined surface, angled surface, ramp)392,393. The ramps392,393can extend from the face214to the cutouts374,375. The ramps392,393can be angled to interface with the wedges382,383. The stops204,205can be positioned proximate the sides (e.g., longitudinal sides, mesial and distal sides) of the bracket200. The stops204,205can be disposed on an opposing side of the bracket200relative to the retainer208.

The gap368can receive a handle380(e.g., tab) of the male fastener106. The handle380, positioned between the stops204,205, can help to prevent sliding between the archform100(e.g., male fastener106) and the bracket.

The bracket200can have a protrusion216that is similar to the other protrusions216described herein. The protrusion216can extend from the face214of the bracket200. The protrusion216can extend between longitudinal sides (e.g., mesial and distal sides) of the bracket200. The protrusion216can push the male fastener206against the overhang210and/or the cutouts374,375when positioned within the slot202of the bracket200for secure retention.

FIG.10Aillustrates a bracket assembly201with a pad500and bracket200. The bracket assembly201, pad500, and/or bracket200illustrated inFIG.10Acan include the same or similar features as the bracket assembly201, pad500, and/or bracket200illustrated inFIGS.9A and9B. Optionally, the bracket200illustrated inFIGS.9A and9Bcan be used for the lower anterior teeth of a patient while the bracket200illustrated inFIG.10Acan be used for all other teeth of the patient (e.g., molars, etc.). The bracket200illustrated inFIG.10Acan be referred to as the common bracket because the bracket200can be used with most of the teeth of the patient.

The bracket200illustrated inFIG.10Acan include an aperture (hole, void, opening)394. The aperture394can receive a protrusion (cylinder, projection, pillar, pin)510of the pad500. The protrusion510can be inserted through the aperture394. As described elsewhere herein, the bracket200can be tack welded to the pad500before laser welding during coupling. As illustrated inFIG.10A, however, the protrusion510can be inserted into the aperture394and laser welded to bracket200to remove the process of tack welding before laser welding. Laser welding the protrusion510to the bracket200when positioned within the aperture394can prevent the bracket200from lifting out of the pocket502when one of the longitudinal sides (e.g., mesial or distal sides) of the bracket200is laser welded.

The bracket200illustrated inFIG.10Amay be narrow enough to be used on most teeth of a patient but not wide enough (e.g., insufficient distance between longitudinal sides, insufficient distance between mesial and distal sides) for effective rotation control for molar teeth. Accordingly, the pad500can have a width that provides effective rotation control for molar teeth without requiring the bracket200to be widened. The pad500illustrated inFIG.10Acan be wider, for improved rotational control, compared to the pad500illustrated inFIGS.9A and9B.

The pad500illustrated inFIG.10Acan include features similar to the bracket200(e.g., carry over bracket features) to improve rotational control while still using a narrow bracket200. For example, the pad500can include protrusions (bumps)514,515, which can be similar to the protrusion216of the bracket200. The protrusions514,515can be distributed on opposing sides of the bracket200. The protrusions514,515can be distributed on opposing sides of the protrusion216of the bracket200. The protrusions514,515can be aligned with the protrusion216of the bracket200. The protrusions514,515can help to retain the male fastener106of the archform100within the bracket200to facilitate non-sliding mechanics. The protrusions514,515can, similar to the protrusion216of the bracket200, push the male fastener106of the archform100against the overhang210and/or stops204,205. Optionally, the protrusions514,515can effectively be an extension of the protrusion216.

The pad500illustrated inFIG.10Acan include inclined surfaces (angled surface, ramp)512,513, which can be similar to ramps392,393. The inclined surfaces512,513can be distributed on opposing sides of the bracket200. The inclined surface512can be positioned proximate the ramp392. The inclined surface513can be positioned proximate the ramp393. The inclined surfaces512,513can interface with the wedges382,383of the male fastener106. The inclined surfaces512,513can interface with the wedges382,383to prevent sliding (e.g., reduce lateral movement) between the archform100(e.g., male fastener106) and the bracket200and/or control rotational movement of the tooth. Optionally, the inclined surfaces512,513can be offset from the wedges382,383in a neutral position but contact the wedges382,383with rotational movement. Optionally, the inclined surfaces512,513can effectively be an extension of the ramps392,393.

FIGS.10B and10Cillustrate the male fastener106of an archform100positioned within the slot202of the bracket200. The male fastener106can include a handle380, which can be grasped to manipulate the male fastener106. The handle308can be positioned in the gap368between the stops204,205. The handle308can include flange(s) (tab(s))396. The flange(s)396can be positioned on an end of the male fastener106and/or handle308. The flange(s)396can be positioned on opposing sides of the handle380. The flange(s)396can include two flanges, as illustrated.

As described elsewhere herein, the male fastener106can be inserted into the slot202of the bracket200at an angle, which can be facilitated by the angled surface238of the overhang210and/or the inclined surface(s)508,509. The male fastener106can be pushed against the C spring256, which can deflect the C spring256, and rotated toward the face214of the bracket200. Optionally, the male fastener106can include a recess402(e.g., curved recess, groove) which can interface with the C spring256, as shown inFIG.10B. The recess402can be positioned opposite the handle380.

With the male fastener106substantially parallel with the face214of the bracket200, the male fastener106can be pushed by the C spring256against the stops204,205. The wedges282,283can be positioned within the cutouts374,375and/or contact the ramps392,393. The protrusion216, as described elsewhere herein, can push the male fastener106against the overhang210and/or stops204,205. The protrusions514,515can push the male fastener106against the overhang210and/or stops204,205. The ramps392,393can contact the wedge(s)282,283, which can include pushing the wedge(s)282,283against the stops204,205. As the male fastener106is pushed by the C spring256toward the stops204,205, the ramps392,393can push the wedges282,283into the cutouts374,375. Optionally, the inclined surfaces512,513of the pad500can interface with the wedges382,383. Optionally, the inclined surfaces512,513can be offset from the wedges382,383in a neutral position but interface upon rotational movement.

As illustrated inFIG.10C, the features of the pad500can enlarge the effective bracket width of the bracket200compared to the actual width of the bracket200. The inclined surface(s)512,513and/or protrusion(s)514,515can increase the effective bracket width of the bracket200, which can include providing increased rotational control.

The bracket assembly201with the separate pad500and bracket200can, as described elsewhere herein, reduce the variety of brackets200needed to treat a patient. Optionally, one bracket design can be used for lower anterior teeth while another bracket design can be used for molars and all other teeth. When manufacturing with metal injection molding (MIM) techniques, this can reduce mold costs by eliminating the quantity of bracket molds needed. This can result in higher volume manufacturing runs due to wider applicability of use of a bracket200, which can reduce costs. The bracket assembly201can improve tooth rotational control (on any given tooth) without increasing the width of the bracket200.

FIG.11Aillustrates a bracket assembly201(e.g., two piece bracket assembly). The bracket assembly201can include the pad500with the orthodontic bracket200coupled thereto. The orthodontic bracket200can receive the male fastener106of the archform to facilitate tooth movement. As illustrated, the male fastener106is securely retained by the bracket200via the stops204,205and retainer208(e.g., overhang210).

As described elsewhere herein, the handle380can include flange(s)396, which can be described as forming a hammerhead type shape. The handle380can be disposed between the stops204,205to help prevent relative movement between the bracket200and the male fastener106. The handle380can be used to remove the male fastener106from the bracket200and/or place the male fastener106in the bracket200. In some variants, the handle380can extend from the bracket200in the occlusal direction. In some variants, the handle380can extend from the bracket200in the gingival direction. In some variants, an opening/closing tool that uses equal and opposite forces can be used to place and/or remove the male fastener106of the archform100. In some variants, a hemostat or forceps type tool can be used to place and/or remove the male fastener106of the archform100.

For example, to remove the male fastener106, one side of the forceps can grip the handle380at surface532(e.g., occlusal side, surface) while the other side of the forceps can grip the retainer208at surface354(e.g., gingival side or gingival surface). The operator can squeeze the forceps together to push the male fastener106against the C-spring256(e.g., oval spring), shown inFIG.11B, which can move the male fastener106(e.g., occlusal edges disposed on opposing sides of the handle380) out from under the stops204,205of the bracket200as the C-spring256is compressed. The forceps can be rotated away from the stops204,205to rotate the male fastener106such that the male fastener106is decoupled from the bracket200.

The bracket200and/or male fastener106can include features to prevent over travel (e.g., excessive deflection) of the C-spring256(e.g., oval spring). As described elsewhere herein, the bracket200can include the guide366(e.g., guide rail, protrusion, longitudinal protrusion, bar). The guide366can maintain the position of the C-spring256within the opening352and/or prevent the C-spring256from being excessively deflected (e.g., prevent from being deflected past an elastic limit). For example, the C-spring256, in some variants, can be deflected until contacting the guide366. In some variants, the periphery of the opening352can restrict deflection of the C-spring256to protect against over travel. As described elsewhere herein, the opening352can be disposed in the retainer208and/or the portion of the bracket200opposite the retainer200. In some variants, surface(s)130of the male fastener106can engage with the surface(s)520of the bracket200(e.g., retainer208) to help prevent over travel of the C-spring256during compression. For example, the surface(s)130of the male fastener106can be displaced toward the surface(s)520of the bracket200until contract, which can prevent further deflection of the C-spring256(e.g., prevent over travel of the oval spring256). The one or more of the features detailed above can prevent the oval spring256from over travel or being compressed beyond the elastic limit of the oval spring256even when the operator may squeeze the forceps excessively.

For installation, the portion of the male fastener106opposite the handle380can be disposed under the overhang210of the retainer208of the bracket200to contact and/or be positioned proximate the C-spring256such that the male fastener106is angled relative to the bracket200. In some variants, the recess402of the male fastener106can contact the C-spring256. In some variants, the operator can grab the handle380of the male fastener106to position the male fastener106as described above. The inclined surfaces508,509and/or chamfer238can assist the operator in positioning the male fastener106as described above.

To securely couple the male fastener106to the bracket200, one side of the forceps can grip the handle380at surface532while the other side of the forceps can grip the retainer208at surface354. The operator can squeeze the forceps together to push the male fastener106against the C-spring256which can enable the operator to pivot the male fastener106toward the bracket200and around the stops204,205as the C-spring256is compressed. The operator can stop squeezing (e.g., applying a compressive force) with the forceps, or similar tool, which can release the C-spring256to apply a force against the male fastener106such that the male fastener106is pushed against and/or under the stops204,205. The C-spring256can be protected against over travel or deflection past an elastic limit via at least the features described elsewhere herein.

As described elsewhere herein, the bracket assembly201with the pad500and bracket200can enable a single bracket design to be used across several teeth. Instead of altering the bracket200from tooth to tooth, the pad500can be altered as needed from tooth to tooth. For example, the pad500can be different sizes and/or have different features depending on the tooth to which the pad500will be bonded while still being able to receive and/or bond to the bracket200. This can reduce cost. For example, the number of styles (e.g., SKUs) of brackets200can be reduced, which can result in higher volume manufacturing runs of brackets200to reduce cost. The pad500can also be cheaper to manufacture than brackets200because pad molds can be less expensive than bracket molds, which can result in cheaper manufacturing cost due to more pad variations than bracket variations.

In some variants, a lower anterior bracket, such as the bracket200illustrated inFIGS.11A-11C, can be used with pads500on the lower 3-3 while another style bracket200(e.g., illustrated inFIG.12, can be used with a pad500(which may vary from tooth to tooth) on all other teeth of the patient. This can enable two bracket designs to be used during orthodontic treatment with various style pads500.

As described above, despite using the same bracket200, pads500may vary from tooth to tooth. For example, different “torque” may be added to some pads500to help keep the interproximal loops103of the archform100away from the gingiva of the patient. The “torque” can be implemented in the pads500instead of the brackets200because, as explained above, the pads500can be varied from tooth to tooth while receiving the same style bracket200. In some variants, the “torque” can be implemented in the pads500instead of the brackets200because the amount of “torque” can be individually tailored for each particular tooth of a patient. In some variants, the “torque” can be the angle A, as illustrated inFIG.11C, between the surface534of the patient's tooth and the bottom surface of the male fastener106. In some variants, for example, the pads500for lower 3-3 teeth can have ten degrees of torque (as shown inFIG.11C) but other torque angles are contemplated, such as 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or more than 20 degrees. In some variants, the pads500for molars can have zero degrees of torque but other torque angles are contemplated, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more degrees. In some variants, the pads500for other teeth besides molars and the lower 3-3 can have five degrees of torque but other torque angles are contemplated, such as 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 degrees or more.

FIG.12illustrates a plurality of bracket assemblies201coupled to an archform100. As illustrated, the pads500have widths to increase rotational control of the tooth onto which a given pad500is coupled. The archform100(e.g., archwire) can include hooks107(e.g., loops) that can allow for the use of elastics, such as bands, etc. This can facilitate treatment of class II and class III malocclusions.

FIGS.13A and13Billustrate a bracket600. The bracket600can include some or all of the features described in reference to other brackets or assemblies described herein. The bracket600can include undercut(s) (cut(s), gap(s), textured surface, void(s), slot(s))506, similar to those described in reference to the foregoing pads. The undercuts506can facilitate improved bonding between the bracket600and the teeth of a patient (e.g., adhesive can flow into the undercuts506). In contrast to some of the foregoing assemblies, the bracket600may, in some variations, not have a separate pad but, instead, include the undercuts506on a side of the bracket600. The bracket600can be referred to as a one-piece bracket or one-piece bracket/pad assembly.

The bracket600can include a C spring256(e.g., spring, leaf spring, spring locking pin, locking spring, round locking spring). The C spring256can be positioned within an opening352of the bracket600and under the overhang210of the bracket600. The opening352can extend through a bottom of the bracket600(e.g., side of the bracket600of the undercuts506). The C spring256can be installed through the opening352extending through the bottom of the bracket600. The C spring256can include one or more tabs608(i.e., flanges) that can engage with a periphery of the opening352to facilitate positioning the C spring256therein. The opening352, on the bottom side of the bracket600, can be covered to help secure the C spring256in place and/or to impede adhesive from flowing into the opening352. The opening352can be covered via a variety of techniques, such as with sheet metal, a mesh pad, and/or others. In some variants, the sheet metal covering the opening352can be welded at one or more locations604. In some variants, the mesh pad can facilitate improved bonding with the surface of the tooth upon which the bracket600is located. In some variants, the bracket600can include a groove606(i.e., channel) that can facilitate positioning or removing the cover over the opening352. For example, the groove606can enable a tool to have access to the cover over the opening352and/or enable the tool to place the cover over the opening352.

The bracket600can include a protuberance602, also referred to as a bump, engagement region, protrusion, etc. The protuberance602can be disposed on the retainer208, which can include being formed as part of the retainer208. The protuberance602can be engaged by a tool (e.g., opening/closing tool) to install or remove the male fastener106from the bracket600.

FIG.13C. illustrates a segment of an archform100coupled with brackets600. The segment of the archform100illustrated can correspond to specific teeth or a specific portion of the arch of the patient, such as the anterior teeth. The archform100includes a male fastener106that can be coupled to the bracket600. The male fastener106can include a tongue380(i.e., tab, handle) that can be disposed between the stops204,205. Stated differently, the tongue380can be disposed in the gap368between the stops204,205. The handle308can include flange(s)396(tab(s)) that can help secure the male fastener106to the bracket600.

The male fastener106can include arms612that can help secure the male fastener106and bracket600together. For example, the male fastener106can include arms612. In some variants, the male fastener106can include two arms. In some variants, the male fastener106can include one, three, four, or more arms216. The arms612can grip, hold, grasp, hug, snap around, and/or otherwise interface with the bracket600(e.g., mesial and distal sides of the retainer208) to provide improved grip control. In some variants, the arms612can snap around the lateral sides (e.g., me of the retainer208. The arms612can extend in a direction that is opposite the tongue380. In some variants, the arms612can curve outward away from a central longitudinal axis of the male fastener106. The arms612can hold the archform100(e.g., male fastener106) in place on the bracket600as an operator positions a tool (e.g., open/closing tool) to secure the archform100to the bracket600, as described herein. Specifically, the arms612can hold, which can include lightly hold, the male fastener106to the bracket600during the installation process and further secure the male fastener106to the bracket600after installation. For example, the arms612can hold the archform100in position (e.g., couple the male fastener106to the bracket600) while a clinician positions a tool (e.g., opening/closing tool) to secure the archform100to the bracket600(e.g., position the male fastener106within the bracket600). This can free the clinician to not hold the archform100with an opposite hand while repositioning the tool (e.g., opening/closing tool) with the other hand. The arms612can couple to the retainer208of the bracket600. For example, the arms612can extend to engage, which can include couple to, contact, grip, etc., the mesial and distal sides of the retainer208. In some variants, the arms612can apply a force to the retainer208when secured there around. In some variants, the arms612can be offset from the interproximal loops103extending from the male fastener106. In some variants, the arms612can have a curvature that corresponds to a portion of the interproximal loops.

FIG.13Dillustrates a segment of an archform100, which can include at least some or all of the features of the archforms described elsewhere herein. The segment of the archform100, illustrated inFIG.13D, can be used with molars. The male fastener106can include a recess402(e.g., curved recess, groove) which can couple to the retainer208of the bracket600. The male fastener106can be disposed in the bracket600such that the recess402receives the C spring256. The male fastener106can include curves614, also referred to as hips. The curves614can be disposed on opposing lateral sides of the male fastener106(e.g., mesial and distal sides). The curves614can engage with features of the bracket600, which can facilitate rotational control. For example, in some variants, the curves614can engage with the retainer208and/or other portions of the bracket600.

The archform100can include arms612. The arms612can extend in a direction opposite of the tongue380. The arms612can be varying lengths. The arms612can be straight, curved, and/or in other configurations. The arms612can include engagement features613(also referred to as tabs, flanges, etc.) which can engage with features of the bracket600, such as the retainer208, to hold the male fastener106to the bracket600. The engagement features613can be disposed proximate an end of the arms612. The engagement features613can extend inward, which can include toward a central longitudinal axis of the male fastener106. During installation, a clinician can engage the archform100with molar brackets first. The arms612can secure the archform100to one or more brackets600, which can prevent the archform100from disengaging with the brackets600as the clinician repositions an opening/closing tool to place a male fastener106in the bracket600.

The archform100can be conveniently cut to a desired length, as illustrated inFIG.13D. The bracket600can shield the patient from discomfort burrs from the cutting operation. The interproximal loops103can be engaged by elastics as part of a treatment plan. In some variants, the interproximal loops103can act as hooks to engage elastics.

FIG.13Eillustrates an archform100with customized features616. As described elsewhere herein, the archform and brackets can be positioned on the labial or lingual side of a patient's teeth. The customized features616can be aesthetically pleasing (e.g., stylized) or convey a message. Accordingly, the archform100with the customized features616can be disposed on the labial side of the teeth. In some variants, the customized features616can include letter(s), logo(s), symbol(s), and/or other features. For example, as illustrated, the customized features616include letters conveying a message, which can enable the patient to display the message upon smiling. The customized features616can be part of and/or disposed at the interproximal loops103. In some variants, the customized features616can be positioned on other portions of the archform100. In some variants, the customized features can be a different color than other portions of the archform100to enable easier identification.

FIGS.14A-14Billustrate a tool700, also referred to as an opening/closing tool, which can be used to position a male fastener106of an archform100in a bracket600. The tool700can be used to grab portions of the archform100, including the male fastener106, during installation and removal. The tool700can include two members702that pivot relative to each other at pivot704. Each member702can include loops703, also referred to as grasping portions, which can be gripped by the clinician to rotate the members702relative to each other to grab or release a portion of the archform100. For example,FIG.14Aillustrates the tool700gripping a male fastener106within a bracket600. As shown inFIG.14B, each of the members702can include a groove706that can facilitate a secure grip of the male fastener106and/or bracket600, which can include the protuberance602. The groove706of one member702can engage with the tongue708of the male fastener106and the groove706of the other member702can engage with the protuberance602of the bracket600. The tool700can engage/disengage the archform100in the occlusal/gingival direction. The tool700can use equal and opposite force to insert/remove the archform100from the bracket600, which can reduce discomfort to the patient. The tool700, in some variants, can be molded as one.FIG.14Cillustrates a tool701, such as a hemostat. The tool701can be used to grasp, such as grasp portions of the archform100, including the male fastener106, during installation and removal. The tool701can include two members702that can pivot relative to each other to grasp. The tool701can include tips703. The tips703can be formed via a variety of techniques, which can include by way of metal injection molding (MIM) manufacturing. The tips703can be attached to the two members702—e.g., one tip703to each member702. The tips703can be attached (e.g., laser or brazed) onto the two members, respectively. In some variants, the tips703can be attached (e.g., laser or brazed) onto ends of the two members, respectively. In some variants, the tool701can be bought off the shelf and the tips703manufactured and attached thereto.

During installation, the clinician can grip, which can be via the tool700, a segment of the archform100that is to be coupled with the molars or other portion of the arch of the patient. The clinician can engage the arms216of the male fastener106with the bracket600disposed on the molar or other tooth of the patient, which can include positioning the arms216on opposing sides (e.g., mesial and distal) of the retainer208of the bracket600. The male fastener106can be positioned at an angle relative to the face214of the bracket600, as described elsewhere herein. For example, the inclined surfaces508,509and/or angled surface238can enable the male fastener106to be positioned at an angle relative to the face214of the bracket600. With the arms216holding the male fastener106onto the retainer208of the bracket600, the clinician can release the grip of the tool700on the male fastener106to reposition the tool700. The tool700can be repositioned such that one member702engages the tongue380of the male fastener106and the other member702engages the protuberance602of the bracket600, which can include engaging the groove(s)706as illustrated inFIG.14B. The clinician can squeeze the loops703together to apply opposite and equal forces onto the male fastener106and the protuberance602of the retainer208with the members702, which can compress the C spring256. With the C spring256compressed, the clinician can rotate the male fastener106towards the face214of the bracket600, which can include positioning the male fastener106parallel to the face214of the bracket600. The clinician can release the members702to allow the C spring256to push the male fastener106into the cutouts374,375(also referred to as spaces or pockets) of the stops204,205, securing the male fastener106within the slot202of the bracket600. As described elsewhere herein, the protrusion216(bump) can push the male fastener106against the overhang210to secure the male fastener106within the slot202of the bracket600.

During removal, the clinician can grip, which can be via the tool700, the male fastener106and the bracket600such that one member702engages the tongue380of the male fastener106and the other member702engages the protuberance602of the bracket600, which can include engaging the groove(s)706as illustrated inFIG.14B. The clinician can squeeze the loops703together to apply opposite and equal forces onto the male fastener106and the protuberance602of the retainer208with the members702, which can compress the C spring256. With the C spring256compressed, the male fastener106can be moved out from the cutouts374,375of the stops204,205. The clinician can rotate the male fastener106away from the face214of the bracket600, which can include positioning the male fastener106at an angle relative to the face214of the bracket600. The inclined surfaces508,509and/or angled surface238can enable the male fastener106to be positioned at an angle relative to the face214of the bracket600. The clinician can release the grip of the tool700on the male fastener106and protuberance602and reposition to grip the male fastener106for removal from the bracket600. In some variants, the bracket600does not have a protuberance602and the member702can engage another feature of the bracket600.

FIG.15Aillustrates a segment of an archform800. The archform800can have a configuration that is set for an individual patient. The archform800can be installed on the labial or lingual side of a patient's teeth. The archform800can be installed in the mouth of a patient by the patient or a clinician. Installation by the patient can advantageously reduce or eliminate the need to visit an orthodontic office in person. In some variants, the archform800can be installed on the teeth of the patient without brackets. The archform800can include a reduced profile, which can improve a patient's comfort. The small profile (i.e., low profile) of the archform800can reduce or eliminate occlusions with the opposite arch. The archform800can be adhered to the teeth of the patient as described below, which can reduce chair time at a clinician's office to prepare teeth for bonding. The archform800can include a small profile, which may reduce speech impediments. In some variants, the small profile of the archform800can prevent or lessen bulging out of the lips of the patient after installation. The archform800may not need to be removed from the mouth of the patient for eating or drinking, reducing compliance issues that may occur with trays. The archform800can be configured to ease flossing.

The archform800can include a plurality of male fasteners106. The male fasteners106can be flat. The male fasteners106can be a variety of shapes, which can include having four rounded corners with one side being larger than the other. Adjacent male fasteners106can be separated by an interproximal loop103, which can apply a force on the teeth of the patient and/or be coupled with elastics according to a treatment plan. In some variants, a straight segment or other configuration can separate adjacent male fasteners106. The interproximal loops103can extend in the gingival or occlusal directions.

The male fasteners106can be coupled, which can include attached, adhered, and/or otherwise fixed, to an mounting pad803, also referred to as an adhesive foam layer, foam release tab, tab, foam mounting pad, mounting element, etc. In some variants, the mounting pad803includes an adhesive on opposing sides, one side adhered to the male fastener106and the other adhered to a protective layer802, also referred to as a protective peel layer. In some variants, the mounting pad803can be referred to as double-sided tape. The mounting pad803can be various shapes, which may vary depending on tooth size. For example, a larger mounting pad803may be desired for a larger tooth while a smaller mounting pad803may be desired for a smaller tooth. In some variants, a larger mounting pad803, e.g., one with a larger adhesive surface, may provide increased rotational control. The mounting pad803can include a shape with three curved corners, with one side of the mounting pad803being larger than the other. The mounting pad803can have a periphery that is the same as a portion of the male fastener106. For example, the larger end of the mounting pad803can have a periphery that is the same or similar to the male fastener106. The mounting pad803can include a hole378, which can be engaged by a tool to manipulate the mounting pad803and/or archform800. The hole378can receive at least a portion of a tool (e.g., explorer, explorer tool) to manipulate the mounting pad803.

The protective layer802can be removed to expose an adhesive surface of the mounting pad803. The protective layer802can have a portion805(also referred to as a tab) that extends beyond the periphery of the mounting pad803when positioned thereon. The portion805can extend in an occlusal, gingival, or other direction. In some variants, the portion805extends away from the male fastener106, which can be in the same direction as the interproximal loops103.

The archform800can be formed per a patient treatment plan. For example, the archform800can be configured to be placed on the maloccluded teeth of the patient, such that the archform800can exert forces on the teeth to move the teeth from a first position to a second position. The archform800can be formed via scans and digital models of the patient's teeth. In some variants, the archform800can become soft and/or more pliable when immersed in fluid, such as water, that is either above or below body temperature, depending on the material properties of the archform800. This can make manipulation of the archform800easier during installation.

During installation, the protective layer802can be removed to expose the adhesive surface of the mounting pad803that is attached to a male fastener106. The mounting pad(s)803with the adhesive surface exposed can be pressed against respective teeth of the patient according to a treatment plan to adhere the mounting pad803to the respective surface of the teeth of the patient. To remove the archform800, the clinician or patient can pull the mounting pad803, which can stretch the mounting pad803, by the portion that extends beyond the periphery of the male fastener106such that the adhesive bond between the adhesive surface of the mounting pad803and the tooth is broken. In some variants, the clinician or patient can pull the mounting pad803, which can stretch the mounting pad803, in a direction that is parallel to the surface of the tooth upon which the mounting pad803is adhered to break the adhesive bond between the mounting pad803and the tooth of the patient. In some variants, the clinician or patient can pull the mounting pad803in the lingual and/or occlusal direction to break the adhesive bond, which can include stretching and breaking the adhesive bond and/or mounting pad803. In some variants, the clinician or user can interface with the hole378, which can be via a tool, to pull the mounting pad803to break the adhesive bond. In some variants, the clinician or user can pull the mounting pad803in the lingual direction to stretch and break the foam adhesive layer between the archform800and the tooth. The archform800can be supplied to a patient or clinician with extra mounting pads803, such that a mounting pad803can be replaced if compromised (e.g., archform800is dropped to a contaminated surface with an adhesive surface of the mounting pad803exposed) to facilitate multiple installation attempts.

FIG.15Billustrates caps804. The caps804can, in some variants, be referred to as veneers or porcelain veneers. The caps804can be thin. The caps804can be incorporated into the archform800to conceal features of the archform800and/or facilitate an aesthetic look. For example, the back surface of the caps804(or other surface) can be coupled, which can include at least adhered, fixed, attached, etc., to the male fasteners106, other features of the archform800, and/or tooth of the patient, which can be via a mounting pad similar to the mounting pad803, to conceal features of the archform800and/or facilitate an aesthetic look. In some variants, a protective layer can be removed, by the patient or clinician, from a mounting pad adhered to the cap804to expose an adhesive surface which can be pushed against the surface of the patient's respective tooth and/or male fastener106to couple the cap804to the patient's tooth. In some variants, a portion of the mounting pad adhered to the cap804, which can be a transparent tab or portion, can protrude beyond the periphery of the cap804when the cap804is adhered to the surface of the patient's tooth and/or male fastener106. The portion of the mounting pad protruding beyond the periphery of the cap804, which can be a transparent tab or portion, can be pulled and/or stretched by the patient or clinician to break the adhesive bond between the surface of the patient's tooth and the adhesive surface of the mounting pad. In some variants, the adhesive can include a whitening solution to whiten the patient's teeth while the patient wears the appliance. In some variants, the back surface of the caps804can include disinfectant or other solution to prevent decalcification. In some variants, the mounting pad on the back surface of the cap(s)804can prevent or reduce the existence of gaps (e.g., nooks and crannies) between the caps804and the tooth surface, which may eliminate or reduce the need to include a disinfectant or other solution to prevent decalcification. The archform800can be part of a treatment plan using multiple archforms800, as described elsewhere herein. An initial archform800can be removed as described herein and a second archform800can be installed as needed to further move maloccluded teeth. In some variants, a third, fourth, or more archforms800can be installed and removed in series as part of a treatment plan.

The caps804can be tooth-shaped in three dimensions, which can provide a superior fit on a respective tooth. The caps804can be shaped to correspond to a respective tooth of the patient, which can be based on digital scans and/or models of the patient's teeth. In some variants, the caps804can be generically shaped to correspond to a variety of teeth. In some variants, the caps804can be colored and/or shaped to provide aesthetic qualities to a patient's smile once installed In some variants, the caps804can include various color(s), design(s), logo(s), letter(s), symbol(s), etc. to customize the caps804. In some variants, the color of the caps804can match the color of the patient's teeth.

In some variants, the archform800can be installed using a soluble structure808, such as a soluble tray or IDB tray, as shown inFIG.15C. In some variants, the soluble structure808can be water-soluble, which can include being made of melted/dried (caramelized) sugar or cellulose. The soluble structure can be structurally stiff when dry to hold the archform800incorporated therewith in the shape of the current patient malocclusion, which can enable the patient or clinician to easily install the archform800. The patient or clinician can rinse the patient's mouth with water after installation—dissolving the soluble structure808. In some variants, the soluble structure808can dissolve without leaving solid waste. The soluble structure808can be easier to use than the typical IDB trap, which can facilitate patient installation. The soluble structure808can provide an appearance that is more consumer oriented.

During installation, the protective layers805covering adhesive surfaces of mounting pads803that are attached to respective male fasteners106of an archform800can be removed. With the archform800held in the shape of a patient's current malocclusion by the soluble structure808, the archform800can be placed on the patient's teeth with the soluble structure808. After placement, the patient's mouth can be rinsed with a liquid, such as water—causing the soluble structure808to dissolve. In some variants, the caps804can be adhered to the male fasteners106and/or patient's teeth.

FIG.16Aillustrates a bracket900. The bracket900can include some or all of the features described in reference to other brackets or assemblies described herein. Some features of the bracket900may be replaced with features described in reference to other brackets or assemblies described herein. The bracket900can be disposed on the lingual or buccal side of a patient's teeth. The bracket900illustrated inFIGS.16A-16C and16Ecan be attached to any tooth of the patient but may be particularly suited for a molar.

The bracket900can couple with an archform to facilitate moving a patient's teeth using non-sliding mechanics. In some variants, sliding and/or non-sliding mechanics can be used. In some variants, the bracket900, and the other brackets described herein, can have utility when used with archforms of different configurations than those described herein. The bracket900can include a slot202, also referred to as a receiving region or receiving space, that can receive a connector (e.g., male connector) of an archform therein such that the connector is prevented from sliding relative to the bracket900when installed in a patient's mouth. The slot202can be positioned between a retainer208and stops204,205. The slot202can be at least partially defined between the retainer208, stops204,205, and a face214of the bracket900.

As described herein, the retainer208can help to retain a male connector within the slot202. The retainer208can at least be positioned proximate or at a gingival or occlusal side of the bracket900. The retainer208can extend from the face214of the bracket900. The retainer208can include one or more features to improve handling the bracket900. For example, the retainer208can have a protuberance602, also referred to as a bump, protrusion, or engagement region, that can be gripped by a tool during handling of the bracket900. The protuberance602can extend in a gingival or occlusal direction.

The retainer208can include one or more features to improve retention of the male connector received in the slot202of the bracket. For example, the retainer208can include an extension210, e.g., overhang. The overhang210help hold the male connector within the slot202. The overhang210can be offset from the face214. The overhang210can extend over the slot202and/or face214. The overhang210can include a curved portion211that extends over the face214of the bracket900. The retainer208and/or overhang210can include an angled surface238that can facilitate a male connector being positioned within the slot202of the bracket900at an angle before being rotated toward the face214of the bracket and being locked within the bracket900, such as in the slot202. The retainer208can include a recess240, also referred to as a gap, undercut, cutout, space, etc., that can facilitate the male connector being rotated in and out of the slot202of the bracket900as detailed herein.

The bracket900can include a spring256(e.g., lock spring) that can facilitate locking the male fastener of the archform within the bracket900. The spring256can be a compressible material with resilient properties that can be biased to a certain position. The spring256can be a C spring, rounded spring, leaf spring, etc. The spring256can be housed within an opening352. The opening352can be disposed through at least a portion of the retainer208. As illustrated inFIGS.16B and16C, the C spring256can be inserted into the opening352by way of the face of the bracket900that is opposite the face214. The C spring256can be exposed to the slot202such that the male connector can contact the C spring256when positioned within the slot202. The C spring256can be oriented with a longitudinal axis thereof oriented perpendicularly relative to the plane of the face214. The opening352can be contoured and/or shaped to prevent titling and/or rattling of the C spring256within the opening352. The opening352can be bounded by a periphery that can help to prevent the C spring256from deflecting beyond a desired range (e.g., beyond elastic deformation).

The C spring256can be positioned around a guide366(e.g., guide rail, protrusion, longitudinal protrusion, bar), as shown inFIGS.16B and16C. For example, the longitudinal free ends of the C spring256can be positioned on opposing sides of the guide366such that the longitudinal free ends apply a compressive force thereon to secure the C spring256in position. The gap of the C spring256between the longitudinal free ends can be positioned over the guide366. The guide366can be disposed on a periphery of the opening352. The guide366can help to maintain the position of the C spring256within the opening356. The guide366can include a periphery and/or cross-sectional size that increases in size as the guide extends farther into the opening356. This increasing profile can help secure the C spring256to the guide366. For example, the longitudinal free ends of the C spring366can more securely grip the larger periphery of the guide366as the C spring366is inserted into the opening352.

The spring366, in some variants, can be made of a superelastic material (e.g., NiTi). The spring366can be heat treated to raise or lower the transformation temperature of the material forming the spring366. Accordingly, the spring rate of the spring366can be modified (e.g., optimized) via heat treating, which can alter the amount of force that a clinician needs to provide to insert or remove the male connector106from within the slot202of the bracket900. For example, heat treating the spring366to raise the transformation temperature can reduce the spring rate, making insertion and removal of the male connector106easier (e.g., require less force from the clinician). In some variants, exposing the spring366to cold temperatures (e.g., spray with cold water) can reduce the spring rate of the spring366. Cold temperatures, in some variants, can be at least those temperatures lower than body temperature. The exposure to cold temperatures, in some variants, can change the spring366from an austenite phase into the martensite phase. Body temperature can warm the spring366, returning the spring rate to a pre-cold-exposure level.

With the C spring366positioned within the opening352, a sheet can be secured over the opening352to help prevent adhesive, such as a bonding agent, from entering into the opening352. In some variants, a mesh can be applied over the sheet to increase bonding strength between the bracket900and a tooth surface. The sheet can be coupled to the bracket900via a variety of techniques which can include laser welding, adhesive, etc. As described herein, with the male connector of an archform in the bracket900, the C spring366can apply a force to the male connector that pushes the male connector against and/or at least partially under the stops204,205such that the male connector is locked within the slot202of the bracket900.

The stops204,205can be proximate an opposite end of the bracket900relative to the retainer602. In some variants, the stops204,205can be in a mirrored configuration about a central plane of the bracket900. The stops204,205can include receiving spaces374,375, respectively. The receiving spaces374,375can be at least partially bounded by extensions (e.g., overhangs) of the stops204,205. The receiving spaces374,375, which can also be referred to as pockets or cutouts, can receive, respectively, a portion of the male connector therein to secure the male connector within the slot202. In some variants, the bracket900can include two stops204,205. In some variants, the bracket900may include one, three, or four or more stops that can help retain the male connector of the archform within the bracket. The stops204,205can be spaced apart from each other, which can be in the mesial-distal direction. A gap368can separate the stops204,205. The gap368can receive a portion of the male connector, as described herein. The portion of the face214spanning the gap368can be at least flat, angled, or curved. The portion of the face214spanning the gap368can be angled relative to other portions of the face214and curved at an end of the bracket900.

The bracket900can include ramps392,393. The ramps392,393can also be referred to as inclined surfaces, protrusions, angled surfaces, wedges, bumps, etc. The ramps392,393can extend away from the face214of the bracket900. The ramps392,393can push the male connector against the stops204,205to help secure the male connector within the slot202. The ramps392,393can push the male connector against the overhangs of the stops204,205. The ramps392,393can include a flat surface that can engage the male connector when the male connector is secured within the slot202. In some variants, the ramps392,393can extend beyond a width of the stops204,205, respectively, which can help improve rotational control of a tooth.

The bracket900can include a protrusion216(e.g., bump). The protrusion216can extend from the face214. The protrusion216apply a force against the male connector, when positioned within the slot202, to push the male connector against the stops204,205and/or overhang210of the retainer208to help secure the male connector. The protrusion216can extend laterally beyond a width of the retainer208. The protrusion216can extend laterally beyond the stops204,205. In some variants, the opening352can disrupt a portion of the protrusion216, which can help improve rotational control of a tooth.

The bracket900can include inclined surfaces508,509that can facilitate inserting a male connector within the slot202of the bracket200before rotating the male connector toward the face214of the bracket900to lock the male connector into place. The inclined surfaces508,509can be positioned on opposing sides of the retainer208.

The bracket900can include lateral extensions902,903, which can also be referred to as lateral wings. The lateral extensions902,903can help the bracket900to better control movement of a molar. For example, the lateral extensions902,903can facilitate better rotational control. The lateral extensions902,903can also provide more surface area for a textured surface506for improved bonding.

The bracket900can include a textured surface506, also referred to as a surface with undercuts, cuts, gaps, voids, and/or slots, which is illustrated inFIG.16C. The textured surface506can be disposed on a side of the bracket900that is opposite the face214. The textured surface506can facilitate bonding the bracket900to a surface of the patient's teeth. Specifically, an adhesive applied to the textured surface506can bond the textured surface506to the surface of the patient's tooth. The textured surface506can provide an increased surface area to facilitate improved bonding compared to an un-textured surface.

FIG.16Dillustrates a male connector106of an archform100. The male connector106can also be referred to as a connector, fastener, male fastener, etc. The male connector106and/or archform100can include some all of the features described in reference to other brackets or assemblies described herein. Some features of the male connector106and/or archform100may be replaced with features described in reference to other male connectors106and/or archforms100.

The male connector106can be retained within the slot202of a bracket900as described herein. The male connector106can be oriented in different orientations to move a tooth of a patient. The male connector106can be disposed between interproximal structures103, which can also be referred to as interproximal loops, bends, angles, features, etc. The interproximal structures103, as described herein, can apply forces to adjacent male connector(s)106to move teeth of a patient. The interproximal structures103can have varying widths, lengths, curvatures, bends, etc. to apply varying forces as desired.

The male connector106can have arms612. The arms612can extend in a direction that is opposite that of a tab380(e.g., tongue). The arms612can extend in at least an occlusal or gingival direction. The arms612can grip one or more features of the bracket900to help secure the male fastener106and/or provide improved control of a tooth of the patient. The arms612can grip the retainer208. For example, the arms612can grip, hold, grasp, hug, snap around, and/or otherwise interface with the mesial and distal sides of the retainer208. In some variants, the arms612can hold the archform100(e.g., male fastener106) in place on the bracket900as an operator positions a tool to secure the archform100to the bracket900, as described herein. The arms612can include outer sides that are curved, which can help the arms612better grip the retainer208. A recess402, also referred to as a gap, can be disposed between the arms612. The recess402can receive the C spring256when the male connector106is locked into the slot202of the bracket900. The periphery defining at least a portion of the recess402can contact the C spring256. The C spring256can apply a force against the periphery of the recess402to push the male connector106against the stops204,205, which can position a portion of the male connector106under overhangs of the stops204,205. The male connector106can include contact surfaces910,911which can contact the stops204,205. The contact surfaces910,911can be flat to provide a secure point of contact with the stops204,205. The stops204,205can have corresponding flat surfaces. The contact surfaces910,911can be disposed on a side of the male fastener106that is opposite the arms612and/or recess402. The contact surfaces910,911can be disposed on opposing sides of a tab380.

The tab380can be disposed on a side of the male connector106that is opposite the arms612and/or recess402. The tab380can be disposed in the gap368between the stops204,205when the male connector106is disposed in the slot202of the bracket900. The tab380can contact inner sides of the stops204,205, which can help to prevent sliding of the male connector106in a mesial-distal direction relative to the bracket900. The tab380can extend in a gingival or occlusal direction, depending on the desired orientation. The tab380can include a groove112. The groove112can be disposed on an end of the tab380. The groove112can receive a tool to facilitate positioning the male connector106into the slot202of the bracket900or removing the male connector106therefrom. The groove112can help to prevent inadvertent sliding of a tool being used to place the male connector106into the slot202. The male connector106can include curves to reduce stress concentrators.

As described herein, the archform100can be formed with a variety of techniques. In some variants, the archform100is cut from a sheet of material, which can include shape memory materials and/or others. The sheet of material can be flat having two opposing parallel sides. The archform100can be cut via a variety of techniques (e.g., laser cut, waterjet cut, plasma cut, punching, etc.) from the sheet of material. The sheet of material can have a uniform thickness but features of the archform100can be cut to have varying widths to apply different forces to teeth according to a treatment plan. For example, the archform100can have more rigid features as a patient progresses through a treatment plan. The archform100can have interproximal loops103with narrower widths at the beginning of a treatment plan to improve user comfort. The archform100can have interproximal loops103with wider widths at the middle or end of a treatment plan. The archform100can have male connectors106and interproximal structures103in an alternating pattern. In some variants, more than one interproximal structure103is disposed between adjacent male connectors106. In some variants, no interproximal structure(s)103are disposed between adjacent male connectors106. In some variants, the archform100can include separate segments corresponding to different portions of a patient's dental arch. In some variants, the archform100is not coupled to all teeth of the patient. In some variants, the archform100is coupled to every tooth of the patient. In some variants, the archform100can include straight sections.

FIG.16Eillustrates the male connector106coupled to the bracket900. As illustrated, the C spring256pushes the male connector106against the stops204,205and/or under at least a portion of the stops204,205. The contact surfaces910,911can contact the stops204,205. The force applied by the C spring256can lock the male connector106under the overhangs of the stops204,205and the overhang210of the retainer208.

The bracket900and/or male fastener106of the archform100can include modifications to accommodate the various teeth of the patient, such as the molars, bicuspids, lower anterior, and upper central teeth.

FIG.17Aillustrates the bracket900that can be attached to any tooth of the patient but may be particularly suited for a lower anterior tooth. As illustrated, the bracket900may omit the lateral extensions to accommodate for the narrow width of the lower anterior teeth. The bracket900configured for the lower anterior teeth may have a narrower overall width compared to the bracket900configured for molars or other larger teeth. The width of the retainer208can be narrowed compared to a configuration for molars. The stops204,205can be spaced inward from an edge of the bracket900, which can be from a gingival or occlusal edge of the bracket900.

As illustrated inFIG.17B, the male connector106can include one or more features to indicate that the male connector106is configured to be positioned on the lower teeth of a patient. For example, the male connector106can include an aperture912. The male connector106can include other modifications to facilitate coupling with a bracket900configured for use on a specific tooth of the patient, such as the size of the tab380, distance between the arms612, size of the recess402, and/or others.

FIG.18illustrates the bracket900that can be attached to any tooth of the patient but may be particularly suited for an upper central tooth of the patient. As illustrated, the bracket900may omit the lateral extensions to accommodate for the narrower width of the upper central teeth compared to molars. The stops204,205can be spaced inward from an edge of the bracket900, which can be from a gingival or occlusal edge of the bracket900. The stops204,205may be spaced inward to a greater extent than on the lower anterior teeth.

FIG.19illustrates the bracket900that can be attached to any tooth of the patient but may be particularly suited for bicuspids of the patient. The bracket900may include later extensions902,903, but the later extensions902,903may extend laterally to a lesser extent than for a molar, which can be due to the smaller width of a bicuspid. The stops204,205may be positioned at or proximate the edge of the bracket900, which can be on the gingival or occlusal edge of the bracket900. The interproximal loops103can extend more horizontally (e.g., in a more mesial-distal direction) proximate the male connector106.

As described herein, a treatment plan for a patient can include staged archforms100. For example, multiple archforms100can be used in a staged sequence to move the patient's teeth from maloccluded positions to a planned position.FIGS.20A-20Cillustrate three upper archforms100that can be used during a treatment plan.FIG.20Aillustrates an upper initial archform100a,FIG.20Billustrates an upper intermediate archform100b, andFIG.20Cillustrates an upper final archform100c. In some variants, fewer archforms100may be used, which can include one or two. In some variants, more archforms100can be used, which can include four, five, six, or more. The treatment plan can begin with installation of the upper initial archform100ato move teeth. The initial archform100acan be removed after a duration of time and replaced with the upper intermediate archform100b. The intermediate archform100bcan be removed after a duration of time and replaced with the upper final archform100cto move the patient's teeth into a final configuration. The interproximal structures103of the archforms100can increase in rigidity as a patient progresses through a treatment plan (e.g., the upper final archform100ccan be more rigid than the initial archform100a). In some variants, this can occur via increasing the width (e.g., dimension920) of the interproximal structures103as a patient progresses through a treatment plan. In some variants, a treatment plan may begin with an intermediate or final archform. In some variants, a treatment plan may end with an initial or intermediate archform.

In some variants, the male connectors106remain the same size and/or shape. In some variants, the orientation of the male connectors106may change during treatment. In some variants, the interproximal structures103may change between staged archforms100of a treatment plan, which can include changing in curvature, width, length, etc. For example, the interproximal structures103may become increasingly wider (e.g., wider in the dimension920) from one stage to the next. For example, the widths (e.g., dimension920) of the interproximal loops103in the upper initial archform100acan be the smallest of a treatment plan, the upper intermediate archform100bcan include intermediate widths, and the upper final archform100ccan include the largest widths. A staged approach can improve a patient's comfort during treatment—gradually moving the patient's teeth. The interproximal loops103in an archform103can vary in width (e.g., dimension920) to change forces applied to adjacent teeth. For example, a greater width can correspond with greater forces. The interproximal loops103may be wider in the portion of the archform100corresponding to the molar portion of the dental arch due to the greater forces that may be desired for moving molars compared to an anterior tooth.

FIGS.21A-21Cillustrate lower archforms100that can be used in staged succession according to a treatment plan of a patient. The lower archforms100can include indicia, such as apertures912, in male connectors106, as described herein, to differentiate an upper archform100from a lower archform100.FIG.21Aillustrates a lower initial archform100a′.FIG.21Billustrates a lower intermediate archform100b′.FIG.21Cillustrates a lower final archform100c′. As described in reference to the upper archforms100, the lower archforms100can include alterations between different stages to apply different forces on a patient's teeth, which can improve a user's comfort during a treatment plan. The interproximal structures103can be altered as described herein to impart different forces (e.g., increase in rigidity by increasing the width across dimension920) on a patient's teeth.

FIG.22illustrates an archform100configured for a patient with crowded teeth. As illustrated, the male connectors106may not include the arms, described herein, to grip the mesial and distal sides of the retainer208. Instead, the portions of the interproximal bends103proximate the male connectors106can extend away from the male connectors106in a gingival or occlusal direction such that the portions of the interproximal bends103proximate the male connectors106can grip the mesial and distal sides of the retainer208. This can help to prevent sliding between the male connectors106and the brackets900in the mesial-distal direction and/or assist in installation (e.g., the interproximal bends103can hold the male connector106onto a bracket900as a clinician manipulates a tool to secure the male connector106within the bracket900).

FIGS.23A-23Gillustrate an end of a tool1000, which can be referred to as a director or director, that can be used to assist in installing and/or removing a male connector106. The tool100can include an angled surface1002, which can also be referred to as an inclined surface. The angled surface1002can be straight and/or curved. The angled surface1002can extend from a free end to a curved portion1004. The angled surface1002and curved portion1004can contact (e.g., engage with) the groove112disposed on the tab380of a male fastener106and/or other features to help install the male connector106into a bracket900and/or remove the male connector106from a bracket900. In some variants, the tool1000can include a solid handle. In some variants, the tool1000can include a hollow handle. The hollow handle of the tool1000can amplify an audible sound (e.g., clicking sound) that can be emitted when the male connector106is inserted or removed from within the slot of the bracket (e.g., coupled to the bracket). The emitted sound can indicate to a clinician that the male connector109is locked within the bracket900.

To install a male connector106, the male connector106can be inserted into the slot202of a bracket900at an angle (e.g., angled relative to the face214), as described herein and as illustrated inFIG.23B. The recess402of the male connector106can be positioned under the overhang210of the retainer208such that the periphery of the recess402contacts the C spring256.

The angled surface1002of the tool100can face toward the bracket900when installing a male connector106, as shown inFIG.23B. The curved portion1004can be brought into contact with the groove112. The angled surface1002can help guide the groove112into the curved portion1004. The clinician manipulating the tool100can apply, by way of the tool100, a force against groove112toward the C spring256and the face214of the bracket900. As a result, the C spring256can be compressed such that the male connector106can be rotated past the stops204,205and toward the face214of the bracket900until the male connector106is positioned within the slot202(e.g., parallel with the face214), as illustrated inFIG.23D. The clinician can cease applying the force to the male connector106by way of the tool100such that the C spring256applies a force to the male connector106in the direction of the stops204,205so that the male connector106is pushed against and/or under a portion of the stops204,205—locking the male connector106within the slot202of the bracket900. The force of the C spring256against the male connector106can securely retain the male connector106within the slot of the bracket900. In the locked position, one or more portions of the male connector106can be positioned within the receiving spaces374,375of the stops204,205, which can be behind the overhangs of the stops204,205. In the locked position, contact surfaces910,911of the male connector106can contact the stops204,205, which can include corresponding contact surfaces of the stops204,205. In the locked position, the male connector106can be placed behind the overhang210of the retainer208. The placement of the male connector900within the slot202of the bracket900in the locked configuration can emit an audible sound (e.g., a clicking sound). As described herein, the tool1000can have a hollow handle which can amplify the audible sound. The emitted sound can indicate to a clinician that the male connector900is locked within the bracket900.

To decouple the male connector106from the bracket900with the tool1000, the tool1000can be reoriented such that the angled surface1002is facing away from the bracket900, as illustrated inFIGS.23E and23F. The tool1000can be positioned such that the curved portion1004contacts the groove112and the angled surface is positioned behind the tab380of the male connector106, as illustrated inFIG.23F. The clinician manipulating the tool1000can apply a force, by way of the tool1000, to the male connector106such that the male connector106moves in the direction of the C spring256. The C spring256can be compressed and the male connector106moved from behind the extensions (e.g., overhangs) of the stops204,205(e.g., disengage from the stops204,205). The clinician can apply a force to the male connector106with the tool1000away from the bracket900, which can include applying a force via the angled surface1002against the male connector106. This can rotate the male connector106away from the face214and out of the slot202of the bracket900, as illustrated inFIG.23G. In some variants, movement of the tool1000toward the C spring256can cause the male connector106to slide up the angled surface1002and rotate out of the slot202. The removal of the male connector106from the locked configuration within the slot202of the bracket900can emit an audible sound (e.g., a clicking sound) that can indicate to a clinician that the male connector106has been removed. The hollow handle of the tool1000can amplify the audible sound. The male connector106can then be grasped by a tool, such as a hemostat, to remove the male connector106from within the slot202.

A kit and/or system can include one or more components (e.g., bracket(s), archform(s), tray(s), tool(s), etc.) described herein. For example, in some variants, a kit and/or system can include a plurality of brackets (e.g., molar brackets, lower anterior brackets, bicuspid brackets, and/or upper central brackets), one or more archforms (e.g., an upper initial, lower initial, upper intermediate, lower intermediate, upper final, and/or lower final archform), a tool for handling and/or installing the brackets and/or archforms, a tray (e.g., indirect bonding tray) for positioning the plurality of brackets on teeth of the patient for bonding, and/or an adhesive (e.g., bonding agent) for attaching the plurality of brackets to the teeth of the patient. In some variants, the kit and/or system can include the components to install an orthodontic appliance (e.g., brackets and archform) in the mouth of the patient. The kit, in some variants, can include all the components for a treatment plan, which can at least include those components not readily found at an orthodontic clinic and/or components custom designed for the patient. The kit, in some variants, can include a plurality of archforms to be used in sequence according to a treatment plan to move the patient's teeth from maloccluded positions to planned positions.

The archforms, brackets, caps, and/or trays described herein can be made via 3D oral scans of a patient's mouth. For example, a 3D scan of the patient's mouth can be taken, enabling an archform, bracket, cap, and/or tray to be designed and manufactured. The archform can be designed to fit the patient's teeth in the shape of the patient's current malocclusion and move the patient's teeth to a second state. In some variants, one archform can change the configuration of the patient's teeth from a maloccluded state to a finished state. In some variants, multiple archforms are used in sequence to move the patient's teeth from a maloccluded stat to a finished state. The 3D scans described herein can be performed using a mobile device of a patient or clinician, such as a smartphone, or computer. In some variants, an application can be used to perform the 3D scans—providing the patient with instructions on how to perform the scan and when a scan is successful. The scan can be performed using the mobile device's built-in camera or via an attachment that operatively connects to the mobile device or computer. The data from the 3D scan can be used to design and manufacture an archform, bracket, cap, and/or tray. The data from the 3D scan can be uploaded into a data center (i.e., cloud) of the designer and/or manufacturer of archforms, brackets, caps, and/or trays to create a case for the patient.

The archforms described herein can be cut (e.g., laser, waterjet, etc.) from a sheet of material, such as a shape memory material (e.g., nitinol). The sheet of material can be flat. A 3D scan of a patient's mouth (e.g., teeth, archform) can be taken using one or more of the methods described herein. A virtual setup (e.g., 3D model) of the patient's teeth can be created. The teeth can be digitally reconfigured to a planned configuration. Digital brackets can be disposed on the teeth in the planned configuration. A fixture can be manufactured (e.g., 3D printed, machined, cast, etc.) based on the virtual setup of the teeth in the planned configuration. The fixture can include retention features (e.g., hooks, slots, etc.) disposed at positions corresponding to the positions of the digital brackets in the virtual setup. An archform can be deflected to be disposed on the fixture. For example, connectors (e.g., male connectors, male fasteners, etc.) of the archform can be disposed in the retention features of the fixture, deflecting the archform. The archform can be custom shaped via heat setting (e.g., exposure to heat) such that the deflected configuration of the archform is the default configuration of the archform, which can be activated by the temperature of the archform reaching a transition temperature. Orthodontic brackets, which can include at least those described herein, can be bonded to the teeth of the patient (e.g., at positions corresponding to the positions of the digital brackets in the virtual setup). The custom shaped archform can be deflected to be disposed in the orthodontic brackets. For example, the connectors of the custom shaped archform can be coupled to the orthodontic brackets as described herein. The deflected custom shaped archform can apply one or more forces to the teeth of the patient to move the one or more teeth toward the planned configuration as the custom shaped archform moves back toward the default configuration. As described herein, a treatment plan can incorporate multiple archforms with varying characteristics. For example, a treatment plan can involve sequentially installing multiple archforms in the mouth of the patient. The multiple archforms can increase in rigidity as a patient progresses through a treatment plan. In some variants, the archforms can be custom cut based on the scans of the patient's mouth, which can account for abnormalities such as missing teeth.

FIG.24illustrates an archform100with indicia1300corresponding to a patient. The indicia1300can include letters, numbers, signs, illustrations, marks, and/or other features that correspond to a patient. For example, the indicia1300can include a patient ID associated with a patient. The indicia1300can be used by systems and/or clinicians to ensure that the correct archform100is installed in a patient's mouth. The indicia1300can include other information, such as whether the archform is for installation on the upper or lower arch. The indicia1300can include computer readable features. The indicia1300can be disposed on one or more of the male connectors106(e.g., locking connectors). The indicia1300can be laser etched, laser engraved, formed into the archform100, painted on the archform100, and/or otherwise disposed on the archform100.

FIG.25Aillustrates an example method1100of manufacturing template archforms and custom shaping said template archforms. Template archforms can be archforms that can be used by a certain percentage (e.g., 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90%) of a population. By cutting template archforms in mass, the cost of producing the template archforms can dramatically decrease and/or the lead times for providing archforms for a patient's treatment can be reduced. The template archforms can be the same as or similar to the archforms described herein (e.g.,100,100a,100b,100c,100a′,100b′,100c′). This flow diagram is provided for the purpose of facilitating description of aspects of some embodiments. The diagram does not attempt to illustrate all aspects of the disclosure and should not be considered limiting.

At block1102, a template archform can be cut from a sheet of material (e.g., shape memory material). In some variants, numerous template archforms can be cut from the same sheet of material, which can include being cut at the same time. The template archform can be cut by laser-cutting, waterjet cutting, or utilizing other techniques. As described, the template archform can be usable by a percentage of the population to allow for cutting in mass. Several varieties of template archforms (e.g., varying stiffness, interproximal loop lengths, omitting male connector(s) interproximal loop(s), overall lengths, etc.) can be cut to accommodate different groups within a population. Several varieties of template archforms (e.g., varying stiffness, interproximal loop lengths, etc.) can be cut to be used at different stages of a treatment plan (e.g., initial, intermediate, final treatment). For example, a stiffer template archform may be used toward the end of treatment to make the final adjustments to a patient's teeth. As described herein, the sheet of shape memory material from which the archform is cut can be cold worked (e.g., rolling, drawing, etc.) to facilitate setting a transformation temperature between martensite and austenite for the archform. In some variants, the sheet of shape memory material from which the archform is cut can be heat treated (e.g., heated in an oven) to facilitate setting a transformation temperature between martensite and austenite for the archform. In some variants, the sheet of shape memory material from which the archform is cut can include an additive to facilitate setting a transformation temperature between martensite and austenite for the archform. The shape memory material can be a shape memory polymer and/or a shape memory alloy (e.g., nickel titanium). In some variants, the sheet of shape memory material from which the archform is cut can include a nickel titanium ratio to facilitate setting a transformation temperature between martensite and austenite for the archform. [0451] At block1104, the template archform can be tumbled. The tumbling process can remove burrs and/or sharp edges to improve patient comfort. Template archforms can be tumbled in mass. The template archforms can be stored and ready to be custom configured (e.g., shaped) to treat a patient.

At block1106, a scan (e.g., 3D scans) can be taken of the inside of the patient's mouth (e.g., dental arches). The scans can be taken by the patient, caretaker of the patient, and/or clinician. The scan can be performed using a camera and/or sensor of a mobile device, such as a smartphone, or computer. In some variants, an application can be used to perform the scans—providing the patient with instructions on how to perform the scan and when a scan is successful. The scan can be performed using the mobile device's built-in camera or via an attachment that operatively connects to the mobile device or computer. In some variants, the scan(s) can be captured using a digital intra-oral scanner and/or a cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) X-ray scanner.

At block1108, a digital model of the patient's teeth in first positions, based on 3D scans of the inside of the patient's mouth, can be created. The first positions can correspond to the current positions of the patient's teeth which can be maloccluded positions. The digital model can be displayed to an operator for viewing and manipulation. In some variants, the digital model can be automatically generated by software implemented on a computing device based on the 3D scans of the inside of the patient's mouth. The data captured by the scan can be sent to a clinic and/or manufacturer of archforms for use.

At block1110, the teeth, e.g., one or more teeth, of the digital model can be moved from the first positions to second positions. The teeth can be moved to the second positions by the operator. In some variants, the teeth can be automatically moved to the second positions by software implemented on a computing device. The second positions can correspond to a final alignment, intermediate alignment, or other alignment of the teeth.

At block1112, digital brackets can be digitally placed on surfaces of the teeth of the digital model. The operator can place the digital brackets on respective surfaces of the teeth of the digital model. In some variants, the operator can select from a variety of types of digital brackets and place a digital bracket from the variety of types on a surface of a tooth of the digital model. In some variants, the digital brackets can be automatically placed on teeth of the digital model by software implemented on a computing device. In some variants, the software implemented on a computing device can automatically select a digital bracket from a variety of types based on the type of tooth (e.g., lower anterior, molars, premolars, etc.) of the digital model upon which the digital bracket will be placed.

At block1114, a physical fixture can be manufactured based at least partially on the digital model. The physical fixture can be 3D printed. In some variants, the physical fixture can be machined, cast, and/or otherwise manufactured. The physical fixture can include retention features (e.g., hooks, catches, slots, holders, brackets, grooves, receptacle, retainers, etc.) that can receive at least a portion of the archform. For example, in some variants, the retention features can receive connecters (e.g., male connectors) of the template archform. The retention features can be positioned based on the corresponding positioning of the digital brackets in the digital model with the teeth in the second positions, such that the relative positioning of the retention features to each other is the same as the relative positioning of the digital brackets to each other in the digital model. In some variants, the physical fixture can be a physical model of the patient's teeth corresponding to the digital model of the patient's teeth with the teeth in the second positions and the retention features positioned on the teeth of the physical model based on the corresponding positioning of the digital brackets in the digital model.

At block1116, the template archform can be deflected (e.g., deflected from a planar 2D shape) and coupled to the retention features of the physical fixture to hold the template archform in a custom nonplanar shape. In some variants, an operator deflects and couples the archform to the retention features by hand and/or with a tool. In some variants, a machine deflects and couples the archform to the retention features. In some variants, the connectors (e.g., male connectors, bracket connectors) of the template archform can be received by the retention features of the physical fixture to hold the template archform in the custom nonplanar shape. In some variants, the connectors can be snapped, tied, and/or otherwise locked into the retention features. In some variants, the retention features can include one or more springs that can lock a connector within a retention feature.

In some variants, the template archform can be selected from a variety of types of template archforms based on the 3D scan and/or clinical assessment of the patient's teeth. For example, a template archform that omits one or more male connectors and/or interproximal loops to accommodate a missing tooth of the patient may be selected. In some variants, a template archform with certain characteristics (e.g., stiffness, interproximal loop lengths, etc.) may be selected from a plurality of different template archforms for a treatment plan for a patient based on the 3D scan data and/or clinical assessment. For example, if the patient's teeth are close to the second positions, a more stiff archform may be selected. Alternatively, if the patient's teeth are not close to the second positions, a less stiff archform may be selected to promote user comfort.

At block1118, the template archform, while being held in the custom nonplanar shape by the physical fixture, can be set up in the custom nonplanar shape such that the custom nonplanar shape is the default position or memorized shape of the template archform. In some variants, the template archform can be set up in the custom nonplanar shape by exposing the template archform to heat (e.g., heat treating the archform in an oven). The archform can take on or move to the custom nonplanar shape when in the austenite phase, as described herein. In some variants, the archform can relax from the custom nonplanar shape when in the martensite phase. As described herein, the custom nonplanar shape can correspond with an expected alignment of the patient's teeth, which can be based on a virtual model of the patient's teeth.

At block1120, the transition temperature for the archform between martensite and austenite for the archform can be set. The archform can be in a martensite phase when the temperature of the archform is below the transition temperature and in an austenite phase when the temperature of the archform is above the transition temperature. The archform can be heat treated such that the transition temperature for the archform is between 75 and 97 degrees Fahrenheit. In some variants, the archform can be heat treated such that the transition temperature for the archform is between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. In some variants, the archform can be heat treated such that the transition temperature for the archform is 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, or 98 degrees Fahrenheit or a temperature between any of the foregoing values. The archform can be heat treated such that the archform is in a martensite phase when the temperature of the archform is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, which can typically correspond with room temperature. In some variants, the archform can be heat treated such that the archform is in a martensite phase when the temperature of the archform is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit or any subrange or value therebetween. The archform can be heat treated such that the archform is in an austenite phase when the temperature of the archform is between 97 and 99 degrees Fahrenheit, which can typically correspond with body temperature. In some variants, the archform can be heat treated such that the archform is in an austenite phase when the temperature of the archform is between 90 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit or any subrange or value therebetween. In the martensite phase, the archform can be flexible and/or pliable to facilitate easy installation. In the austenite phase, the archform can be rigid and/or springy (e.g., activated) to exert forces on the patient's teeth after installation. Accordingly, as a clinician handles and installs the archform in a patient's mouth, the archform can be pliable to facilitate easy handling and installation. After installation, the archform can be heated by the patient's mouth to or above the transition temperature such that the archform is in the austenite phase and activated toward the custom nonplanar shape. In the austenite phase, the archform can be rigid and/or springy to exert forces on the patient's teeth to move the patient's teeth. In the austenite phase, the archform can assume the custom nonplanar shape (e.g., the memorized shape), exerting forces on the patient's teeth when coupled (e.g., coupled via brackets) to the patient's teeth. The heat treating of the archform can include heating the archform in an oven. In some variants, the archform can be custom shaped, as described in relation to block1118, and the transition temperature set, as described in relation to block1120, at the same time. In some variants, the archform can be custom shaped and the transition temperature set in sequence.

The template archform(s) set up in the custom nonplanar shape(s) can be installed in the mouth of the patient, as described herein. The template archform can be deflected from the custom nonplanar shape to couple the male connectors thereof with orthodontic brackets disposed on the teeth of the patient, which can correspond to the teeth in the first positions (e.g., maloccluded positions). During installation, the template archform can be in the martensite phase such that the archform is pliable and easy to manipulate to couple to the orthodontic brackets on the patient's teeth. Once installed, the template archform can be heated to or above the transition temperature by the patient's mouth such that the archform is in the austenite phase and becomes rigid and moves toward the custom nonplanar shape, which can move the teeth of the patient over time toward the second positions. The movement of the teeth can at least include manipulating the facial/lingual inclination of a tooth, moving a tooth in an occlusal or gingival direction, moving a tooth in a buccal-lingual direction, moving a tooth in a mesial-distal direction, rotating a tooth, etc.

As described herein, a treatment plan can incorporate one or more template archforms (e.g., a series of archforms such as an initial, intermediate, and final archform) that are custom shaped as described herein. In some variants, the stiffness of the template archforms, in the austenite phase, employed can increase as a treatment plan progresses. The stiffness of the template archforms can be changed as described herein, which can include changing the interproximal loops (e.g., adjusting the radius, length, widths, etc.) and/or increasing the width and/or thickness of the archform. In some variants, all of the archforms for a treatment plan can be set up in custom configurations and sent to a clinician or patient for the treatment of a patient.

FIG.25Billustrates an example method1200of manufacturing and shaping custom archforms. For a certain percentage of the population (e.g., 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, etc.), template archforms may not be a viable treatment option, which can be due to a variety of reasons. For example, a template archform may be designed for a patient with a full set of teeth. Accordingly, a patient that is missing one or more teeth may utilize a custom cut and shaped archform to accommodate for the missing one or more teeth. The custom cut archforms can be the same as or similar to the archforms described herein (e.g.,100,100a,100b,100c,100a′,100b′,100c′). For a patient missing one or more teeth, the custom archform may omit one or more male connectors and/or interproximal loops, which may be replaced by a straight segment following the dental arch (e.g., extending along a longitudinal axis of the archform). This flow diagram is provided for the purpose of facilitating description of aspects of some embodiments. The diagram does not attempt to illustrate all aspects of the disclosure and should not be considered limiting.

At block1202, a scan (e.g., 3D scans) can be taken of the inside of the patient's mouth (e.g., dental arches) as described in reference to method1100. The data from the scans can be sent to a clinic and/or manufacturer of archforms.

At block1204, a digital model of the patient's teeth in first positions, based on 3D scans of the inside of the patient's mouth, can be created as described in reference to method1100.

At block1206, a custom archform can be designed (e.g., a planar archform) based on the digital model of the patient's teeth and/or the data from the 3D scan(s). The custom archform can be designed to accommodate the particularities of a patient's dental arches (e.g., if a patient is missing one or more teeth). For example, a male connector and/or interproximal loop may be omitted, an interproximal loop may be altered, the thickness and/or width of the archform may be changed, and/or other alterations. The custom archform may include areas of increased or reduced width. The custom archform may include interproximal loops with different curvatures, lengths, etc.

At block1208, the custom archform(s) can be cut as described in reference to method1100. However, in contrast to method1100, the custom archform(s) can be custom cut for the patient based on the custom design referenced at block1206. For example, if a patient is missing a tooth, one or more male connectors and/or interproximal loops may be omitted or altered.

At block1210, the custom archform(s) can be tumbled as described in reference to method1100. At block1212, the teeth, e.g., one or more teeth, of the digital model can be moved from the first positions to second positions as described in reference to method1100. At block1214, digital brackets can be digitally placed on surfaces of the teeth of the digital model as described in reference to method1100. At block1216, a physical fixture can be manufactured based at least partially on the digital model and/or scans as described in reference to method1100. At block1218, the template archform can be deflected (e.g., deflected from a planar 2D shape) and coupled to the retention features of the physical fixture to hold the template archform in a custom nonplanar shape as described in reference to method1100. At block1220, the template archform, while being held in the custom nonplanar shape by the physical fixture, can be set up in the custom nonplanar shape such that the custom nonplanar shape is the default position of the template archform as described in reference to method1100.

At block1222, the transition temperature between martensite and austenite for the archform can be set as described in reference to method1100.

The custom archform(s) set up in the custom configuration(s) can be installed in the mouth of the patient accordingly to a treatment plan, as described herein. The treatment plan may include installing a series of custom archforms and/or template archforms placed in a custom configuration in sequence.

FIG.26illustrates the archform100. The buccal and lingual surfaces of the archform100can be parallel, which can include substantially parallel, relative to each other. The parallel buccal and lingual surfaces of the archform100can facilitate torque control of the teeth of the patient by the archform100. With the archform100coupled to brackets bonded to the patient's teeth, the parallel buccal and lingual surfaces can contact surfaces of the brackets to prevent rotational sliding of the archform100within the brackets about the longitudinal axis LA of the archform100, facilitating torque control of the teeth by the archform100. Without such torque control, the anterior teeth of the patient may flare during the unraveling process of the teeth, which can occur with an archwire with a circular cross-section. The bracket connectors106can include parallel buccal and lingual surfaces that facilitate torque control. In some variants, the bracket connectors106can include parallel buccal and lingual surfaces to facilitate torque control while the interproximal segments103(e.g., interproximal loops) can include a circular or round cross-section. In some variants, the archform100can be cut from a flat sheet of material. In some variants, the archform100can have a rectangular and/or square cross-section.

The bracket connectors106can include portions that extend in the occlusal-gingival direction away from the longitudinal axis LA of the archform100. The portions that extend in the occlusal-gingival direction can facilitate increased torque control of the teeth of the patient. The bracket connector106can include a portion that extends in the occlusal direction away from the longitudinal axis LA and/or another portion that extends in the gingival direction away from the longitudinal axis LA. The portions of the bracket connectors106that extend away from the longitudinal axis LA can provide increased lever arms relative to the longitudinal axis LA for increased torque control. The portions of the bracket connectors106that extend away from the longitudinal axis LA can contact surfaces of the brackets to provide torque control of the teeth. At least the handle380(e.g., tab, tongue) of the bracket connector106can extend in the occlusal direction away from the longitudinal axis LA and at least the arm(s)612can extend in the gingival direction away from the longitudinal axis LA. The archform100can be custom shaped as described herein. The archform100can be heat treated as described in reference to method1100to set a transition temperature of the archform100between martensite and austenite.

FIG.27Aillustrates an archform2000(e.g., orthodontic archwire). The archform2000can have varying cross-sections, which can at least include circular, oval, polygonal (square, rectangular, etc.), irregular, and/or others. The archform2000can include bracket connectors2004that can be coupled to orthodontic brackets such that the bracket connectors2004do not slide with respect to the orthodontic brackets. The bracket connectors2004can be loops that extend occlusally relative to a longitudinal axis of the archform2000. The archform2000can include interproximal loops2002. The interproximal loops2002can be disposed between adjacent bracket connectors2004. The interproximal loops2002can extend gingivally relative to a longitudinal axis of the archform2000, which can facilitate flossing and/or hide the interproximal loops2002from view. When the archform2000is installed in a patient's mouth, the interproximal loops2002can exert forces on the teeth of the patient to move the patient's teeth using nonsliding mechanics.FIG.27Billustrates an archform2001similar to the archform2000but with the bracket connectors2004extending in the same direction as the interproximal loops2002(e.g., gingivally relative to the longitudinal axis of the archform2001). The archforms2000,2001can be heat treated as described in reference to method1100to set a transition temperature of the archforms2000,2001.

As described herein, the disclosed archforms can be formed with a variety of materials, which can include shape memory materials or alloys that can be superelastic materials. Shape memory allows can undergo a phase transformation when temperature and/or strain are applied to the material. With nickel titanium (e.g., Nitinol, superelastic nickel titanium), the phase transformation is between martensite and austenite. In the martensite phase, nickel titanium is pliable and easily bent, and in the austenite phase, nickel titanium is superelastic and more stiff and springy. There is a transformation temperature associated with the phase transformation between martensite and austenite, and the transformation temperature can be controlled through cold working (e.g., rolling and drawing) and/or heat treating. Above the transformation temperature, nickel titanium is in the austenite phase, but below the transformation temperature, nickel titanium is in the martensite phase.

The sheets of material (e.g., nickel titanium) from which the archforms disclosed herein are cut can be cold worked and/or heat treated such that the archforms cut therefrom, after being set up through a heat treatment to the custom nonplanar shape, have a transformation temperature. In some variants, the sheets of material (e.g., nickel titanium) from which the archforms disclosed herein are cut can be cold worked to facilitate setting a specific transformation temperature. The archform, once cut, can be set in a custom nonplanar shape and heat treated to set the transformation temperature. In some variants, multiple archforms can be heat treated together (e.g., heated in an oven) to set the transformation temperature in mass. For example, the archforms in the custom nonplanar shape can have a transformation temperature set such that the material is in the martensite phase when the temperature of the archform is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, which can correspond with room temperature, and austenite phase when the temperature of the archform is between 97 and 99 degrees Fahrenheit, which can correspond with body temperature. This can enable an archform to be in the martensite phase and pliable as the archform is installed in a patient's mouth (e.g., coupled to brackets disposed on the patient's teeth), but once the patient's mouth warms the archform above the transformation temperature, the archform can be in the austenite phase and activate, e.g., spring, toward the memorized custom nonplanar shape, which can move the patient's teeth toward an alignment (e.g., the second positions, which can be a final alignment).

The sheets of material (e.g., nickel titanium) from which the archforms disclosed herein are cut can be cold worked and heat treated such that the archforms cut therefrom, after being set up through a heat treatment to the custom nonplanar shape, have a desirable transformation temperature. For example, the archforms in the custom nonplanar shape can have a transformation temperature such that the material is in the martensite phase at room temperature (e.g., 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit) and austenite phase at body temperature (e.g., 97-99 degrees Fahrenheit). This can enable an archform to be in the martensite phase and malleable as it is installed in a patient's mouth (e.g., coupled to brackets disposed on the patient's teeth), but once the patient's mouth warms the archform above the transformation temperature, the archform can be in the austentite phase and activate, e.g., spring, toward the memorized custom nonplanar shape, which can move the patient's teeth toward an alignment (e.g., the second positions, which can be a final alignment).

In some variants, the archforms herein can be subject to different heat treatments, which can result in different stiffness and/or elasticity. Accordingly, archforms of the same geometry can be subject to different heat treatments, resulting in one or more different properties such as stiffness. For example, in some variants, a first archform can be heat treated, resulting in a stiffness. A second archform, with the same geometry as the first archform, can be heat treated differently than the first, resulting in a different stiffness than the first archform. In some variants, a plurality of archforms having the same geometry can be heat treated differently, resulting in varying stiffnesses. Accordingly, as described herein, the plurality of archforms can be used sequentially, according to a treatment plan, to move the patient's teeth.

It is intended that the scope of this present invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above. This invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, and specific examples have been shown in the drawings and are herein described in detail. This invention is not limited to the detailed forms or methods disclosed, but rather covers all equivalents, modifications, and alternatives falling within the scope and spirit of the various embodiments described and the appended claims. Various features of the orthodontic brackets and archforms described herein can be combined to form further embodiments, which are part of this disclosure. The orthodontic brackets described herein can be bonded to a patient's teeth and the archforms described herein can be deflected and coupled thereto as part of a treatment plan. The archforms can move toward a default position and move the patient's teeth from a first position to a second position. The archforms described herein can be installed in sequence to move the patient's teeth. The orthodontic brackets described herein can be bonded to the teeth of the patient in various orientations, which can include orienting the orthodontic bracket in a first gingival-occlusal orientation and reorienting the orthodontic bracket one hundred and eighty degrees to a second gingival-occlusal orientation (e.g., rotating the orthodontic bracket one hundred and eighty degrees).

Methods of using the orthodontic brackets and/or archforms (including device(s), apparatus(es), assembly(ies), structure(s) or the like) are included herein; the methods of use can include using or assembling any one or more of the features disclosed herein to achieve functions and/or features of the system(s) as discussed in this disclosure. Methods of manufacturing the foregoing system(s) are included; the methods of manufacture can include providing, making, connecting, assembling, and/or installing any one or more of the features of the system(s) disclosed herein to achieve functions and/or features of the system(s) as discussed in this disclosure.

Various other modifications, adaptations, and alternative designs are of course possible in light of the above teachings. Therefore, it should be understood at this time that within the scope of the appended claims the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. It is contemplated that various combinations or subcombinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments disclosed above may be made and still fall within one or more of the inventions. Further, the disclosure herein of any particular feature, aspect, method, property, characteristic, quality, attribute, element, or the like in connection with an embodiment can be used in all other embodiments set forth herein. Accordingly, it should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed inventions. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present inventions herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above. Moreover, while the invention is susceptible to various modifications, and alternative forms, specific examples thereof have been shown in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not to be limited to the particular forms or methods disclosed, but to the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the various embodiments described and the appended claims. Any methods disclosed herein need not be performed in the order recited. The methods disclosed herein include certain actions taken by a practitioner; however, they can also include any third-party instruction of those actions, either expressly or by implication. For example, actions such as “tying a tie onto an orthodontic bracket” includes “instructing the tying of a tie onto an orthodontic bracket.” The ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all overlap, sub-ranges, and combinations thereof. Language such as “up to,” “at least,” “greater than,” “less than,” “between,” and the like includes the number recited. Numbers preceded by a term such as “approximately”, “about”, and “substantially” as used herein include the recited numbers (e.g., about 10%=10%), and also represent an amount close to the stated amount that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms “approximately”, “about”, and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within less than 10% of, within less than 5% of, within less than 1% of, within less than 0.1% of, and within less than 0.01% of the stated amount.