LU100374B1

LU100374B1 - orthodontic bracket

Info

Publication number: LU100374B1
Application number: LU100374A
Authority: LU
Inventors: Norbert Abels; Claus H Backes
Original assignee: Claus H Backes; Norbert Abels
Priority date: 2017-08-29
Filing date: 2017-08-29
Publication date: 2019-03-26
Also published as: WO2019043005A1

Abstract

An orthodontic bracket 100 has a bracket body 110 having a receiving portion 112 configured to receive a wire 120; a movable member 130 capable of moving between an open position in which the receiving portion 112 is at least partially open, and a closed position in which the receiving portion 112 is at least partially closed; and a connector 140 configured to be attached to the bracket body 110, the movable member 130 being movably mounted on the connector 140, wherein the connector 140 has a guiding portion 142 to guide the movable member 130 between the open position and the closed position. [Figure 1]

Description

ORTHODONTIC BRACKET

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to an orthodontic or dental bracket, and in particular, though not exclusively, to a self-ligating bracket.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

The treatment of dental defects, and in particular with regard to the position and alignment of a person’s teeth, has been the subject of research for centuries. A typical method to adjust the position and/or alignment of a person’s tooth or teeth is the use of orthodontic braces, also called dental braces. Orthodontic braces typically consist of brackets, each bracket being attached to a respective tooth (usually bonded by an adhesive), and an archwire. Once the archwire is connected to adjacent brackets, the archwire puts pressure on the teeth on which the brackets are located, thus causing these teeth to change position and/or alignment over time.

Brackets may be of the conventional type, i.e, may be traditionally ligated with elastics or small wires, so-called twin brackets, or brackets may be self-ligating. Effective ligation is important, as it ensures that forces generated between the archwire and the brackets are transmitted to the tooth.

Conventional brackets require the use of a ligating member, historically metal wire but nowadays more typically an elastic member such as a rubber band, to hold and secure the wire on each bracket.

Self-ligating brackets do not require the use of a separate ligating element such as an elastic or wire, but instead are designed to secure the archwire in position on the bracket. Self-ligating brackets typically have a movable part (commonly called a clip) which, when closed, prevents the wire from being disconnected from the bracket. A generally recognised advantage of self-ligating brackets over conventional brackets is that, due to the absence of an elastic ligature, oral hygiene is generally improved.

Self-ligating brackets can be of two different types according to their ligation mechanism: passive or active. In a passive self-ligating bracket, the clip, when closed, does not put any pressure on the wire. In contrast, in an active self-ligating bracket, the clip, when closed, presses on the wire. A problem with existing self-ligating brackets is that attachment of the movable element (clip) to its respective bracket requires a securing mechanism, such as a spring, which, if faulty or damaged, may cause the clip to become detached from its bracket.

It is an object of at least one embodiment of at least one aspect of the present invention to seek to address one or more problems and/or disadvantages in the prior art.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided an orthodontic bracket comprising: a bracket body having a receiving portion configured to receive a wire; a movable member capable of moving between an open position in which the receiving portion is at least partially open, and a closed position in which the receiving portion is at least partially closed; and a connector configured to be attached to the bracket body, the movable member being movably mounted on the connector, wherein the connector has guiding means to guide the movable member between the open position and the closed position.

The movable member may typically be configured to retain the archwire in the receiving portion, in a closed position.

The bracket body may have an upper portion and a lower portion. In use, depending on the orientation of the bracket selected by a user, the upper portion may be termed an occlusal portion and the lower portion may be termed a gingival portion, or the upper portion may be termed a gingival portion and the lower portion may be termed an occlusal portion. Thus, the upper portion and the lower portion may be defined as the portion on opposite upper and lower ends in an occlusal-gingival direction, in use.

The bracket body may have a first portion and a second portion extending, e.g. along edges, between the upper and lower portions. In use, the first portion and the second portion may be termed a mesial portion and a distal portion, respectively. Thus, the first portion and the second portion may be defined as the portion on opposite sides of the bracket body in a mesial-distal direction, in use.

The bracket body may have a front portion or front side configured to face away from a patient’s tooth. In use, it will be appreciated that the front side of the bracket may face towards a facial side when the bracket is affixed on a facial side of a patient’s tooth, or may face towards a lingual side when the bracket is affixed on a lingual side of a patient’s tooth.

The bracket body may have a base having a contact surface configured to face towards and engage with a tooth. The base may be integral with and/or may form part of the bracket body. The base may be separate from the bracket body, and may be attachable to the bracket body. The base, e.g. contact surface, may be configured to be bonded to a tooth. For example, the base, e.g. contact surface, may comprise a mesh pad or bonding material provided with an adhesive or adapted to receive an adhesive.

The receiving portion may define an elongate recess, groove, slot, or the like. The receiving portion may extend across a width of the bracket body, e.g. from a distal side to a mesial side thereof. The receiving portion may have an opening, e.g. on or facing towards a front side of the bracket.

In the open position, an archwire may be placed and/or inserted in the receiving portion. In the open position, the receiving portion, e.g., opening thereof, may be substantially open or may be fully open. In the open position, a substantial portion of the opening, e.g. the entire opening, of the receiving portion, may be exposed or open.

In the closed position, an archwire may be prevented from being removed from the receiving portion. Thus, in the closed position, the archwire may be secured in the receiving portion. In the closed position, the receiving portion, e.g. opening thereof, may be substantially closed or may be fully closed. In the closed position, a substantial portion of the opening, e.g. the entire opening, of the receiving portion, may be closed.

The wire may typically be an orthodontic archwire. The wire typically has an elongate profile which may be continuous and/or regular in cross-section. The crosssection of the wire may be circular, rectangular, oval, square, or the like. The wire profile and/or cross-section may be selected to match or be complementary to the shape of the receiving portion.

The connector may comprise an attachment portion configured to permit attachment of the connector to the bracket body. The attachment portion may be configured to engage with a connector receiving portion of the bracket body. The attachment portion may comprise an arm which may extend away from the guiding means.

The attachment portion, e.g. arm, may be substantially solid or hollow. The attachment portion, e.g. arm, may define an outer surface or circumference which may be continuous, or may be interrupted. The attachment portion, e.g. arm, may be defined by one or more walls which may be connected and may define a continuous surface, or may be separate and may define an interrupted surface. The attachment portion, e.g. arm, may be defined by one wall, e.g. one continuous wall, which may define a continuous and/or closed outer surface or circumference, or which may be interrupted, e.g. may extend over two or three sides of the arm. The attachment portion, e.g. arm, may be defined by two walls, e.g. two separate walls which may be connected at or near an upper portion thereof, for example on opposite sides of the arm. The attachment portion, e.g. arm, may be defined by three or more walls, which may be connected at or near an upper portion thereof, and may be provided for example on opposite sides of the arm, and on a front or rear portion thereof.

The connector receiving portion may be located on or near an upper portion of the bracket, relative to the wire receiving portion. The connector receiving portion may define an opening on a front side of the bracket. The connector receiving portion may extend from a front side of the bracket towards a base portion of the bracket.

The connector may have a guiding portion. The guiding means may comprise a guiding portion.

The movable member and the connector, e.g. guiding portion thereof, may have complementary features to allow movement of the movable member relative to the connector, e.g. guiding portion.

The complementary features may comprise a rail and groove mechanism, interference fit, sliding mechanism, or the like.

The guiding portion may form or may define a guide or track for the movable member.

The movable member may comprise a recess or groove configured to engage with the guiding portion. The movable member may be configured to slide relative to the connector, e.g. guiding portion.

Alternatively, the movable member may form or may define a guide or track, and the guiding portion may comprise a recess or groove configured to engage with the movable member.

The guiding portion may extend in a direction substantially transverse, e.g. perpendicular to the wire receiving portion. By such provision, the guiding portion may permit the movable member to move between the open position and the closed position.

The guiding portion may allow the movable member to move in an occlusal-gingival direction and/or in a direction along an axis between the upper portion and a lower portion of the bracket and/or in a direction substantially perpendicular to the wire receiving portion. By such provision, the connector may allow the movable member to move between the open positon and the closed position. It will be understood that, if the movable member moves purely or predominantly in an occlusal-gingival direction, the movable member may not come into contact with the archwire in a closed position.

The guiding portion may allow the movable member to move in a facial-lingual direction. For example, as it moved from its open positon to its closed position, the movable member may move at least partly in a direction from a front side of the bracket towards the base (i.e., towards a tooth, in use). By such provision, the connector may allow the movable member to move towards the wire receiving portion, e.g. towards a bottom region thereof, as it closes. It will be understood that, if the movable member moves at least partly in a facial-lingual direction, the movable member may be allowed to come into contact with the archwire as it moves towards the closed position.

In an embodiment, the guiding portion, e.g. guide or track, may allow the movable member to move in an occlusal-gingival direction and in a facial-lingual direction.

The guiding portion, e.g. guide or track may extend in a substantially linear direction. The guiding portion, e.g. guide or track, may extend in an occlusal-gingival direction. The guiding portion, e.g. guide or track, may extend in an occlusal-gingival direction and in a facial-lingual direction. In such instance, the guiding portion, e.g. guide or track, may be inclined relative to the bracket body, e.g. relative to the base portion. The guiding portion, e.g. guide or track, may be inclined inwards, e.g., towards the wire receiving portion, from an open position end of the guide towards a closed position end of the guide.

The guiding portion, e.g. guide or track, may comprise a portion extending in a curved direction. The guiding portion may be curved, e.g. along an entire length thereof, or may comprise a curved portion, e.g. may be curved along part of its length. In one embodiment, the guiding portion, e.g. guide or track, may curve inwards towards the wire receiving portion from an open position end of the guide towards a closed position end of the guide.

The guiding portion, e.g. guide or track, may allow movement of the movable member or clip to move in a mesial-distal direction. For example, the guiding portion may be curved not only towards a bottom portion of the wire receiving portion (in a facial-lingual direction), but also in a plane parallel to the wire receiving portion (in a mesial-distal direction). This may allow better engagement of the movable member with the wire, in use, e.g. across a whole width of the movable member, by allowing a degree of sideways movement of the movable member relative to the guiding portion.

The provision of a curved guiding portion allows the movable member to engage with the wire after a shorter distance of travel of the movable member on the guiding portion, compared to a straight guiding portion. This, in turn, may permit the provision of a smaller clip, narrower wire receiving portion and/or of a smaller wire, and therefore of a smaller bracket. This also allows better control of the pressure application of the movable member on the wire, and thus better control of the action and pressure applied on a patient’s tooth. This may also allow improved freedom in the design of the clip, which may be made from a variety of suitable materials and may be made in smaller dimensions than conventional models while maintaining adequate mechanical properties.

Advantageously, the present arrangement may permit the movable member or clip to cover an archwire over substantially the entire opening of the receiving portion, and/or to close substantially the entire opening of the receiving portion.

The bracket body may comprise a slot end which may be configured to engage with or abut the movable member, in a closed position. The slot end may comprise or may be defined by a portion of the bracket body. In an embodiment, the bracket body may comprise a wall extending from the wire receiving portion, e.g. recess, slot, or groove, towards a front side of the bracket. The wall and/or slot end may be provided on a lower portion of the bracket, relative to the wire receiving portion. The wall and/or slot end may be provided on a side of the wire receiving portion opposite the connector and/or connector receiving portion. The wall and/or slot may extend on a lower side of the wire receiving portion from a bottom region of the wire receiving portion towards a front side or front surface of the bracket. By such provision, upon movement of the movable member to close the wire receiving portion, the movable member may come into engagement and/or abutment with the slot end and/or wall. This may help prevent disengagement between the movable member and the connector, e.g. guide thereof, in a closed position.

The bracket body may further comprise wings and/or hooks, e.g. for securing further wires and/or elastics. The wings and/or hooks may typically be provided in a peripheral region of the bracket body, e.g. at or near one or more corners thereof.

The connector, e.g., attachment portion thereof, may be attachable to the bracket body. The connector may be fixedly or movably attachable to the bracket body.

The connector may be fixedly and/or permanently attachable to the bracket body, e.g. by one or more of the following: mechanical means, such as interference fit, complementary features e.g. hooks and recesses, or the like; bonding, e.g. via an adhesive; - welding, e.g. laser welding, ultrasonic welding, or the like.

Thus, in use, after attachment of the connector to the bracket body, the connector may not be detachable from the bracket body.

The connector may be movably attachable to the bracket body. In an embodiment, the connector, e.g., attachment portion thereof, may be biased towards a base portion of the bracket body. A spring mechanism may be provided so as to restrict movement of the connector, e.g., attachment portion thereof, out of the connector receiving portion of the bracket body. For example, a spring may bias the connector, e.g., attachment portion thereof, towards a base of the bracket body. In use, when the movable member is moved to a closed position and engages with an archwire, the provision of a spring biasing the connector towards a base of the bracket body may allow pressure to be applied on the wire in a closed position. In such instance, the bracket may be defined as an active self-ligating bracket.

The bracket may comprise a locking mechanism to secure the movable member, e.g. clip, to the connector, e.g. guide.

In use, when the connector is attached to bracket body, the locking mechanism may prevent the movable member from disconnecting from the connector, e.g. guiding portion thereof, at or near an open position. Thus, advantageously, when the connector is attached to bracket body, the movable member may not be detachable from the connector, e.g. as the movable member is moved towards or to an open position. This may avoid the movable member, e.g. clip, from being detached, e.g. unintentionally or intentionally, from the bracket.

Typically, the guiding portion may form or may define a guide or track for the movable member. The movable member may comprise a recess or groove provided on an underside thereof configured to engage with and slide relative to the guide.

The guiding portion may comprise a locking recess or slot extending partially from a lower end of the guide, e.g. from an end of the guide facing the wire receiving portion, towards an upper and/or opposite end of the guide, e.g. towards an end of the guide facing away from the wire receiving portion.

The movable member, e.g. clip, may comprise a retaining element, e.g. a protrusion or stop, capable of engaging with the locking recess or slot.

In use, when the movable member moves towards the open position, the retaining element of the movable member may engage the end of the locking recess or slot, thus preventing the movable member from becoming disconnected from the connector.

The system of the present invention may allow a user, e.g., an orthodontist, to assemble a complete bracket from a selection of parts, e.g. bracket bodies, connectors, and clips, based on the intended use and mechanical requirements for the bracket and/or based on the preferences of a patient. For example, prior to connecting the connector to a respective bracket body, a user may select a preferred type of clip, e.g., metal, clear, or ceramic, having a particular appearance, design or colour. Previously, due to the need for metal spring clips to apply the desired level of pressure on a wire in conventional active self-ligating systems, associated clips tended to be provided in metal form, restricting the choice of materials available for use in such systems.

The bracket may comprise a latch mechanism configured to secure the movable member, e.g. clip, in a closed position and/or in an open position.

Typically, the latch mechanism may comprise complementary features in the connector and in the movable member which, together, permit the movable member, e.g. clip, to be secured in a closed position and/or in an open position.

In an embodiment, the connector, e.g., attachment portion thereof, may comprise a latch which may be provided in the form of a flexible arm extending from a base portion of the connector towards a guiding portion thereof. The flexible arm may be configured to flex in a mesial-distal direction and/or in a direction transverse to the guiding portion or to the main direction of movement of the clip. The guiding portion may comprise a latching recess or slot extending partially from a lower end of the guide, e.g. from an end of the guide facing the wire receiving portion, towards an upper and/or opposite end of the guide, e.g. towards an end of the guide facing away from the wire receiving portion. The latching recess or slot may be provided adjacent the latch, e.g., flexible arm. The movable member, e.g. clip, may comprise a lug capable of engaging with the latching recess or slot.

In use, when the movable member is in the open position, the latch, e.g. flexible arm, may at least partially obstruct the latching recess or slot such that the movable element may be maintained at or near an open position. Application of a force by the lug against the latch may flex the latch, e.g. flexible arm, away from the latching recess or slot and allow the movable member to move towards a closed position.

In use, when the movable member is in the closed position, the latch, e.g. flexible arm, may at least partially obstruct the latching recess or slot such that the movable element may be maintained at or near the closed position. Application of a force by the lug against the latch may flex the latch, e.g. flexible arm, away from the latching recess or slot and allow the movable member to move towards an open position.

By such provision, the movable member may be at least temporarily maintained in a desired portion, e.g. in an open position or in a closed position, until sufficient pressure is applied by the movable member against the latch to allow movement of the movable member passed its initial position.

The bracket body may comprise or may be made from metal, e.g. stainless steel. Alternatively, the bracket body may be made from a clear and/or aesthetically pleasing material, e.g. ceramic, resin or the like.

The movable member may comprise or may be made from metal, e.g. stainless steel. Alternatively, the movable member may be made from a clear and/or aesthetically pleasing material, e.g. ceramic, resin or the like.

The connector may comprise or may be made from metal, e.g. stainless steel. Alternatively, the movable member may be made from a clear and/or aesthetically pleasing material, e.g. ceramic, resin or the like.

Advantageously, the materials may be selected so as to provide optimum interaction between the bracket body, connector and/or movable member, depending on the type of self-ligating bracket desired, e.g. active or passive.

The connector, e.g. guide thereof, may be made of or may comprise at least on an outer portion thereof, a relatively soft material, e.g. a material softer than the movable member. By such provision, there may be provided an increased degree of friction and/or pressure between the clip and the connector, thus helping keep the movable member in a desired position, in use.

Advantageously, the connector may be made from a material different from the bracket body and movable member. In an embodiment, when the bracket body and the clip are made from a non-metal material such as ceramic, the connector, e.g. guide thereof, may be made of or may comprise at least on an outer portion thereof, a relatively soft material, e.g. a material softer than the clip, such as a resin, e.g. a PEEK resin. By such provision, there may be provided an increased degree of friction and/or pressure between the clip and the connector, thus helping keep the clip in a desired position, in use, despite the provision of a hard material as the bracket body and clip.

The connector, e.g. attachment portion thereof, may have a substantially rigid structure.

The connector, e.g. attachment portion thereof, may comprise a flexible portion. In an embodiment, the attachment portion of the connector may be flexible or may comprise a flexible portion. The attachment portion may be capable of flexing in an occlusal-gingival direction, e.g. may be capable of flexing towards the upper portion of the bracket. By such provision, if the movable member contacts and/or applies pressure on an archwire, e.g. in a closed positon, the connector may flex away from the wire-receiving portion, thus allowing further movement of the movable member towards the wire and/or allowing controlled pressure to be applied to the wire and/or ensure a more secure engagement between the movable member and the wire, in an “active” system.

Advantageously, the present bracket mechanism allows, in some embodiments, the provision of an active self-ligating bracket, without the need for conventional metal spring clips to apply the desired level of pressure on the wire. Because the clip does not need a typical metal spring to provide an active functionality, the movable member, e.g. clip, can be made of a non-metal material, e.g. an aesthetically attractive material such as clear material, a ceramic material, or the like.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of making an orthodontic bracket comprising: mounting a movable member onto a connector; and attaching the connector to a bracket body.

The method may comprise mounting the movable member onto the connector prior to attaching the connector to the bracket body.

The method may comprise engaging a portion of the movable member with a complementary portion of the connector, e.g. a guiding portion thereof.

The method may comprise engaging a lower end of the guide or track of the connector (e.g. an end of the guide configured to face towards the wire receiving portion) with an upper end (e.g. an end configured to face away from the wire receiving portion) of a recess or groove provided on an underside of the movable member.

The method may comprise moving, e.g. sliding, the movable member on the connector, e.g. guide thereof, towards an upper end of the connector (i.e., towards an open position).

The method may comprise attaching an attaching portion of the connector, e.g. an arm, to a connector receiving portion of the bracket body.

The method may comprise permanently attaching the connector, e.g. attaching portion thereof, to the bracket body, e.g. receiving portion thereof. The method may comprise attaching the connector to the bracket body by one or more of the following: - mechanically connecting the connector to the bracket body, e.g. with interference fit, complementary features e.g. hooks and recesses, or the like; - bonding the connector to the bracket body, e.g. via an adhesive; - welding the connector to the bracket body, e.g. laser welding, ultrasonic welding, or the like.

By the method of the present invention, once the connector is attached to the bracket body, the movable member, e.g. clip, cannot be detached from the connector.

The features described in relation to the bracket according to the first aspect may equally apply to the method according to the second aspect, and are therefore not repeated merely in the interest of brevity.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a kit for making an orthodontic bracket, comprising: a bracket body having a receiving portion configured to receive a wire; a movable member capable of moving between an open position in which the receiving portion is at least partially open, and a closed position in which the receiving portion is at least partially closed; and a connector configured to be attached to the bracket body, the movable member being movably mounted on the connector, wherein the bracket, the movable member and the connector are arranged to be assembled so as to provide an orthodontic bracket according to the first aspect of the invention.

The features described in relation to the bracket according to the first aspect may equally apply to the kit according to the third aspect, and are therefore not repeated merely in the interest of brevity.

It should be understood that the features defined above in accordance with any aspect of the present invention or below relating to any specific embodiment of the invention may be utilised, either alone or in combination with any other defined feature, in any other aspect or embodiment or to form a further aspect or embodiment of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

These and other aspects will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show:

Figure 1 a perspective view of a bracket according to a first embodiment of the invention, in an open position;

Figure 2 a perspective view of the bracket of Figure 1, in a closed position;

Figure 3 a perspective view of a bracket body of the bracket of Figure 1 ;

Figure 4 a perspective view of a clip mounted on a connector of the bracket of Figure 1;

Figure 5 a perspective view of the clip of the bracket of Figure 1 ;

Figure 6 a front view of the connector of Figure 5;

Figure 7 a rear view of the connector of Figure 5;

Figure 8 a perspective view of the connector of the bracket of Figure 1 ;

Figure 9 a side view of the connector of Figure 8;

Figure 10 a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a connector for use in the bracket of Figure 1 ;

Figure 11 a side view of the connector of Figure 10;

Figure 12 a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a connector for use in the bracket of Figure 1 ;

Figure 13 a side view of the connector of Figure 12;

Figure 14 a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a bracket according to the present invention, in an open position;

Figure 15 a side view of the bracket of Figure 14 in a partly open position;

Figure 16 a cross-sectional view of the bracket of Figure 14 through line (i-i), without clip;

Figure 17 a cross-sectional view of the bracket of Figure 15 through line (ii-ii), without clip;

Figure 18 a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a bracket according to the present invention;

Figure 19 a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a bracket according to the present invention, including a biasing means for attachment portion of the connector;

Figure 20 a cross-sectional view of a connector of a bracket according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, including a latch mechanism;

Figure 21 a cross-sectional view of the bracket of Figure 20, in an open position, and

Figure 22 a cross-sectional view of the bracket of Figure 20, in a closed position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Referring firstly to Figures 1 to 9 of the accompanying drawings, there is shown an orthodontic bracket, generally denoted 100.

The bracket 100 comprises a bracket body 110. The bracket body 110 has a slot 112 (best seen in Figure 3) configured to receive an archwire 120.

The bracket 100 comprises a clip 130 which is capable of moving between an open position (as shown in Figure 1) in which the slot 112 is open and a wire 120 can be inserted in the slot 112, and a closed position (as shown in Figure 2) in which the slot 112 is at least partially closed, and in this embodiment fully closed, thus securing the wire 120 within the slot 112.

The bracket also comprises a connector 140 (as show in Figures 4, 7 and 8) configured to be attached to the bracket body 110.

The clip 130 is movably mounted on the connector 140. The connector 140 has an attachment portion in the form of a guide 142 to guide the clip 130 between the open position and the closed position.

The bracket body 110 has an upper portion 1 and a lower portion 2. In use, depending on the orientation of the bracket 100 selected by a user, the upper portion 1 may be termed an occlusal portion and the lower portion 2 may be termed a gingival portion, or the upper portion 1 may be termed a gingival portion and the lower portion 2 may be termed an occlusal portion. Thus, the upper portion 1 and the lower portion 2 may be defined as the portions on opposite upper and lower ends in an occlusal-gingival direction, in use.

The bracket body 110 has a first portion or first side 3 and a second portion or first side 4 between the upper portion 1 and lower portion 2, which, in use, may be termed a mesial portion and a distal portion, respectively. Thus, the first portion 3 and the second portion 4 may be defined as the portions on opposite sides of the bracket body 110 in a mesial-distal direction, in use.

The bracket body 110 has a front portion or front side 5 configured to face away from a patient’s tooth. In use, it will be appreciated that the front side 5 of the bracket 100 may face towards a facial side when the bracket 100 is affixed on a facial side of a patient’s tooth, or may face towards a lingual side when the bracket 100 is affixed on a lingual side of a patient’s tooth.

The bracket body has a base 150 having a contact 152 surface configured to face towards and engage with a tooth, typically to be bonded to a tooth. For example, the contact surface 152 may comprise a mesh pad (not shown) adapted to receive an adhesive. In this embodiment, the base 150 is integral with and forms part of the bracket body 110. However, it will be appreciated that, in other embodiments, the base 150 may be separate from the bracket body 110, and may be attachable to the bracket body 110.

As shown in Figures 1-3, the slot 112 extends across a width of the bracket body 110 between its first side 3 and its second side 4. The slot 112 has an opening 114 facing towards a front side 5 of the bracket 100.

As shown in Figure 1, in the open position, opening 114 of the slot 112 is fully open and the archwire 120 can be placed and/or inserted in the slot 112.

As shown in Figure 2, in the closed position, opening 114 of the slot 112 is fully closed and the archwire 120 cannot be removed from the slot 112. Advantageously, the width of the clip 130 matches the width of the lower portion 2 of the bracket body 110 such that, in the closed position, the clip 130 covers the archwire 120 over substantially the entire opening 114 of the slot 112.

In this embodiment, the wire 120 has a rectangular cross-section, and matches the rectangular profile of the slot 112. However, in other embodiments the wire 120 and/or the slot 112 may be circular, oval, square, or the like, in cross-section.

Referring now to Figures 4, 8 and 9, the connector 140 has an attachment portion in the form of an arm 144 extending away from the guide 142 and configured to permit attachment of the connector 140 to the bracket body 110.

As best shown in Figure 3, the attachment portion 144 is configured to engage with a connector receiving portion 116 of the bracket body 110. The connector receiving portion 116 is located on or near an upper portion 1 of the bracket body 110, relative to the slot 112. The connector receiving portion 116 defines an opening 117 on a front side 5 of the bracket body 110, and extends from a front side 5 of the bracket body 110 towards a base 150 of the bracket 100.

As best shown in Figures 4-9, the clip 130 and the guide 142 of the connector 140 have complementary features to allow movement of the clip 130 relative to the connector 140. In this embodiment, the guide 142 of the connector 140 defines a track of complementary shape to a recess or groove 132 of the clip 130, which allows the clip 130 to slide relative to the connector 140.

The guide 142 extends in a direction substantially transverse, e.g. perpendicular, to the slot 112. By such provision, the guide 142 allows the clip 130 to move between the open position and the closed position, closing over the slot 112.

As shown in the embodiments of Figures 8-9 and 10-11, the guide 142 is inclined relative to the connector arm 144 and the bracket body 110, e.g. base portion 150 thereof. In particular, the guide 142 is inclined inwards towards the slot 112 from an open position end 145 of the guide 142 towards a closed position end 146 of the guide 142. Thus, the guide 142 extends both in an occlusal-gingival direction and in a facial-lingual direction. By such provision, when the clip 130 moves towards a closed position, it moves not only across the opening 114 of the slot 112, but also inwards towards the wire 120. Depending on the dimensions of the connector 140, in the closed position, the clip may either remain above and/or distal from the wire 120 (in which case the bracket 100 may, in use, require the use of separate ligating elements), or may come into engagement with the wire 120, as shown for example in Figure 15.

In the embodiments of Figures 8-9 and 10-11, the guide 142 is substantially linear or straight, and includes both an occlusal-gingival component and a facial-lingual direction.

In the embodiments of Figures 12-13, the guide 142 also includes both an occlusal-gingival component and a facial-lingual direction. However, in this embodiment, the guide 142 extends in a curved direction. The guide 142 curves inwards towards the slot 112 from an open position end 145 of the guide 142 towards a closed position end 146 of the guide 142. The provision of a curved guide 142 allows the clip 130 to engage with the wire 120 after a shorter distance of travel of the clip 130 on the guide 142, compared to a straight guide. This, in turn, may permit the provision of a smaller clip 130, narrower slot 112 and/or of a smaller wire 120, and therefore of a smaller bracket 100. This also allows better control of the pressure application of the clip 130 on the wire 120, and thus better control of the action and pressure applied on a patient’s tooth. This also allows improved freedom in the design of the clip, which may be made from a variety of suitable materials and may be made in smaller dimensions than conventional models while maintaining adequate mechanical properties.

As best shown in Figure 3, the bracket body 110 has a slot end 118 which is configured to engage with and abut the clip 130, in a closed position. The slot end 118 is defined by a portion of a wall 119 of the bracket body 110 extending from the slot 112 towards a front side 5 of the bracket 100. The wall 119 and slot end 118 are provided on a lower portion 2 of the bracket body 110, relative to the slot 112, i.e., opposite the connector 140 and connector receiving portion 116. The wall 119 and slot may 118 extend on a lower side 2 of the slot 112 from a bottom region of the slot 112 towards a front side 5 of the bracket 100. By such provision, upon movement of the clip 130 to close the slot 112 or opening 114, the clip 130 can come into engagement and/or abutment with the slot end 118 and/or wall 119. This may help prevent disengagement between the clip 130 and the connector 140, e.g. guide 142 thereof, in a closed position.

The bracket body 110 further comprises wings or hooks 111 which can be used for attaching and/or securing further wires and/or elastics during orthodontic treatment. The wings or hooks 111 are provided in a peripheral region of the bracket body 110, in this embodiment at or near corners thereof, in order to optimise attachment characteristics.

The bracket 100 comprises a locking mechanism to secure the clip 130 to the connector 140. In use, when the connector 140 is attached to bracket body 110, the locking mechanism prevents the clip 130 from disconnecting from the connector 140 at or near an open position. Thus, advantageously, when the connector 140 is attached to bracket body 110, the clip 130 cannot be detached from the connector 140 as the clip 130 is moved towards or to an open position. This may avoid the clip 130 from becoming detached from the bracket 100, for example as the clip 130 is slid along the guide 142 of the connector 140. In other words, the locking mechanism provides a one-sided closed track system which ensures that, once the clip 130 is engaged with the guide 142 of the connector 140, and the connector arm 144 is attached to the bracket body 110, the clip 130 cannot be detached from the connector 140.

As best shown in Figures 8, 10 and 12, the guide 142 defines a track for the clip 130. As best shown in Figures 5, 6 and 7, the clip 130 has a recess or groove 132 provided on an underside thereof configured to engage with and slide relative to the guide 142.

Advantageously, the guide 142 comprises a locking recess or slot 148 extending partially from a lower end 146 of the guide 142, that is, from an end of the guide facing the slot 112, towards an upper and opposite end 145 of the guide 142, that is, towards an end of the guide 142 facing away from the slot 112.

As best shown in Figures 6 and 7, the clip 130 comprises a retaining element 134 in the form of a stop, capable of fitting within the locking recess 148. The retaining element 134 is located between the upper end lower ends of the clip 130, in a central region of the groove 132.

Thus, the locking mechanism, in this embodiment, consists of a locking recess 148 on the guide 142 and a stop 134 on the clip 130. In use, when the clip 130 moves towards the open position, the stop 134 engages the end 149 of the locking recess 148, thus preventing the clip 130 from becoming disconnected from the connector 140.

In the embodiment of Figures 20-22, the bracket 100 has a latch mechanism 180 configured to secure the clip 130 in a closed position and/or in an open position.

The latch mechanism 180 has complementary features in the connector 140 and in the clip 130 which, together, permit the clip 130 to be secured in a closed position and/or in an open position.

In this embodiment, the attachment arm 144 has a latch 181 in the form of a flexible arm which extending from a base portion of the attachment arm 144 towards the guide 142. The latch 181 is configured to flex in a mesial-distal direction and/or in a direction transverse to the guide 142 and to the main direction of movement of the clip 130. The guide 142 has a latching recess or slot 182 extending partially along to guide 142 and provided adjacent the latch 181. As shown in Figures 21 and 22, the clip 130 has a lug 185 configured to engage with the latching recess or slot 182.

In use, when the movable member is in the open position, as shown in Figure 21, the latch 181 partially obstructs the latching recess or slot 182 such that the clip 130 is maintained at or near the open position. Application of a force by the lug 185 against the latch 181 causes the latch 181 to flex away from the latching recess or slot 182 and thus allows the clip 130 to move towards a closed position.

In use, when the movable member is in the closed position, as shown in Figure 22, the latch 181 partially obstructs the latching recess or slot 182 such that the clip 130 is maintained at or near the closed position. Application of a force by the lug 185 against the latch 181 causes the latch 181 to flex away from the latching recess or slot 182 and thus allows the clip 130 to move towards an open position.

By such provision, the clip 130 can be at least temporarily maintained in a desired portion, e.g. in an open position or in a closed position, until sufficient pressure is applied by the clip 130 against the latch 181 to allow movement of the clip 130 passed its initial position.

In the embodiment of Figures 8 and 9, the connector 140, and in particular the attachment arm 144 thereof, is substantially rigid, such that it will not deform under pressure, for example if the clip engages with wire 120.

In the embodiment of Figures 10-11, 12-13, and 16, a portion of the attachment arm 144 is substantially flexible, due to the reduction in the size of the middle region of the arm 144. By such provision, the arm 144 will deform and flex under pressure in an occlusal-gingival direction, for example if the clip 130 engages with wire 120 in a closed positon. In such instance, the bracket 100 may be defined as an active self-ligating bracket.

In use, the bracket 100 may be assembled as follows:

In a first step, the clip 130 is mounted onto the connector 140. An upper side 131 of the groove 132 of the clip 130 is made to engage a lower end 146 of the guide 142 of the connector 140. The clip 130 can then be moved along the guide 142 towards an upper end 145 thereof (i.e., towards an open position). The stop 134 then engages the end 149 of the locking recess 148, thus preventing the clip 130 from becoming disconnected from the connector 140.

In a second step, the connector 130 is attached to the bracket body 110. The arm 144 of the connector 140 is inserted in the connector receiving portion 116 of the bracket body 110. The arm 144 of the connector 140 is then attached to the bracket body 110.

The arm 144 of the connector 140 can be fixedly and permanently attached to the bracket body 110, for example by one or more of the following: mechanically connecting the arm 144 of the connector 140 to the bracket body 110, e.g. with interference fit, complementary features e.g. hooks 171 and recesses 172 (for example as shown in Figure 18), or the like; - bonding the arm 144 of the connector 140 to the bracket body 110, e.g. via an adhesive; - welding the arm 144 of the connector 140 to the bracket body 110, e.g. laser welding, ultrasonic welding, (for example as shown in Figure 17) or the like.

Alternatively, as shown in the embodiment of Figure 19, the arm 144 of the connector 140 can be movably attached to the bracket body 110. In this embodiment, the arm 144 is biased towards the base portion 150 of the bracket body 110 by a spring 190. The spring 190 restricts movement of the connector 140 out of the connector receiving portion 116 of the bracket body 110. In use, when the clip 130 is moved to a closed position and engages with a wire 120, the provision of a spring 190 biasing the connector 140 towards the base 150 of the bracket body 110 allows pressure to be applied on the wire 120 in a closed position. In such instance, the bracket 100 may be defined as an active self-ligating bracket.

By the method of the present invention, once the connector 140 is attached to the bracket body 110, the clip 130 cannot be detached from the connector 140.

It will be appreciated that the embodiments of the invention described herein are given by way of example only and are not meant to limit the scope thereof in any way.

Claims

A brace comprising: a clasp body having a receiving portion configured to receive a wire; a movable dd capable of moving between an open position in which the receiving portion is at least partially opened and a closed position in which the receiving portion is at least partially closed; and a connector configured to be attached to the clasp body, wherein the movable d died is movably mounted on the connector, wherein the connector has a guide portion for guiding the movable member between the open position and the closed position.

The clasp of claim 1, wherein the connector has a mounting portion configured to allow attachment of the connector to the clasp body.

The clasp of claim 2, wherein the attachment portion of the connector comprises an arm extending away from the guide means.

The clasp of claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the attachment portion of the connector is configured to engage a connector receiving portion of the clasp body.

The clasp of claim 4, wherein the connector receiving portion defines an opening at a front of the clasp and extends from a front of the clasp toward a base portion of the clasp.

A clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the movable member and the guide portion have complementary features to allow movement of the movable member relative to the guide portion.

A clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the guide portion defines a guide or track for the movable member.

A clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the movable member comprises a recess or groove configured to engage the guide portion.

A clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the guide portion extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the wire receiving portion.

A clasp according to any preceding claim, wherein the guide portion is configured to allow the movable member to move in an occlusal-gingival direction and / or in a direction along an axis between the upper portion and a lower portion of the clasp and / or in a direction substantially perpendicular to the wire receiving portion to move.

The clasp of any preceding claim, wherein the guide portion is configured to allow the movable ds to move in a facial-lingual direction and / or in a direction from a front of the clasp toward a base thereof.

A clasp as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the guide portion extends in a substantially linear direction.

A clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the guide portion extends at least partially in a curved direction.

The clasp of any preceding claim, wherein the guide portion is configured to allow the movable ds to move in a mesial-distal direction.

15. Clip according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connector to the clasp body is fixed and / or permanently attachable.

16. A clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connector is movably attachable to the clasp body.

17. A clasp according to claim 16, wherein the attachment portion of the connector is inclined to a base portion of the clasp body.

A clasp as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the clasp comprises a locking mechanism to secure the movable d died to the guide portion.

19. A clasp according to claim 18, wherein the guide portion comprises a locking recess or slit extending partially from an end of the guide portion facing the wire receiving portion to an upper and / or opposite end of the guide portion, and wherein a movable member that includes a retaining member capable of engaging with the locking recess or slot.

A clasp as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the clasp comprises a locking mechanism configured to lock the movable d held in a closed position and / or in an open position.

A clasp as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the attachment portion of the connector comprises a flexible portion.

A clasp according to claim 21, wherein the attachment portion is capable of flexing in an occlusal-gingival direction and / or is capable of flexing towards an upper portion of the clasp.

23. A method of manufacturing a brace, comprising: mounting a movable member on a connector; and then attaching the connector to a clasp body.

24. The method of claim 23, comprising engaging a portion of the movable member with a complementary portion of a guide portion of the connector.

25. The method of claim 23, further comprising an end of the guide portion configured to face toward the wire receiving portion with an end of a recess or slot provided on an underside of the movable member configured of engage the wire receiving section.

26. The method of claim 24 or 25, comprising moving the movable member on the guide portion of the connector toward an upper end thereof.

27. The method of claim 24, further comprising attaching a mounting portion of the connector to a connector receiving portion of the bracket body.

28. A kit comprising: a clasp body having a receiving portion configured to receive a wire; a movable member capable of moving between an open position in which the receiving portion is at least partially opened and a closed position in which the receiving portion is at least partially closed; and a connector configured to be attached to the clasp body, the movable member being movably mounted to the connector, the clasp, the movable member, and the connector being arranged to be assembled to form a brace as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 22 to provide.