Title: Orthodontic Bracket Placement Device
and Coordinated Bracket Placement System
Current State of the
Art:
Orthodontic brackets are used by general dentists and orthodontists throughout
the world. The proper placement of these brackets is essential for eventual
correction of poorly aligned teeth in both children and adults. In order to
guide tooth movement during orthodontic treatment, orthodontic brackets are
placed at precise vertical positions on the teeth.
Disadvantages with
the Current Art: The difficultly in
accurately placing orthodontic brackets for proper guidance of tooth movement
during orthodontic treatment. Improper placement can result in improper tooth
movement, worsening of occlusal and peridontal conditions and potential problems
in the development of dental caries at bracket sites. Therefore, it is
imperative that there be a standardized method of placement which can
significantly improve bracket placement and subsequently improve the overall
accuracy of orthodontic tooth movement.
Advantages of
Invention: An orthodontist and
research at Georgia Health Sciences University has developed an easy to use
orthodontic bracket placement device that allows the precise placement of
brackets at the proper vertical position on the tooth. This tool is designed to
be easily manipulated in the patient's mouth, and to function well with existing
bracket systems.
Inventor:
John
W. Stockstill D.D.D., M.S.
Patent
Status: Patents Issued
6,682,344, 7,214,056
Case Number: GHSU 2002-010
Contact Info: (706) 721-9822; Office of Technology
Transfer and Economic Development, Georgia Health Sciences University, Augusta,
GA.