ES2364617T3 - DENTAL IMPLANT SYSTEM. - Google Patents

Abstract

Dental implant system comprising: a dental implant (10) for installation in the bone, which has: a proximal end (12) that is located near an outer surface of the bone; an inner hole (20) extending distally from the proximal end (12); a first anti-rotation feature (22) in the inner hole (20); and a second anti-rotational feature (24) in the inner hole (20), in which the second anti-rotational feature (24) is placed distal with respect to the first anti-rotational feature (22) to provide rotational resistance independent of the first feature (22 ) anti-rotation.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to dental implants and stops and related articles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Individual tooth restorations have the unique requirement that they must be non-rotationally supported on the underlying stop. When a prepared natural tooth is the underlying stop, this requirement is met in the normal course of preparing the stop with a non-circular cross section. Also, when the underlying stop is an abutment fitted in an implant, this requirement is met by preparing the abutment with a non-circular cross-section. The latter case may be more complicated due to the added connection between the implant and the stop.

Normally, a dental implant is implanted in the bone of a patient's jaw and comprises a socket, for example, a hole, which is accessible through the gum tissue that covers or surrounds to accommodate and support one or more elements of fastener or components that in turn are useful for manufacturing and supporting prosthetic restitution. Dental implant procedures can use a variety of implant modalities, for example, blade, threaded implant, or smooth pressure implant. The present invention does not refer to the implant modality used. The invention relates, however, to the connections between implants and fasteners, as well as other issues.

With respect to the connections used in the implant systems, internal threads of the implant have been used to connect stops having threaded stems. But rotational alignment is not easily achieved using threaded connections. In addition, such a threaded hole, by itself, generally cannot provide rotational fixation. The rotational fixation of the prosthetic tooth to the abutment, and the rotational fixation of the abutment to the implant, must be achieved to ensure that the prosthetic tooth is not rotational in the patient's mouth once the restitution process is completed. To improve the possibility that the implant does not show movement, the implant is normally allowed to undergo osseointegration before undergoing normal loading.

To overcome the non-rotational deficiency between the implant and the fasteners, dental implants include an anti-rotational structure to limit the rotation of the components attached to the implant in relation to the implant around the longitudinal axis through the hole. A common structure used to limit rotation includes a male projection or a female notch located at or near the gingival surface of the implant that is concentric with the opening in the hole.

For example, US 5,810,590 discloses an implant having a proximal protuberance that is clearly not round even in a worn state, for example, of square cross-section, and may include radial grooves for use in threading the jaw implant It is not necessary to apply forces directly to the external surfaces of the protuberance when the grooved implant is inserted for posterior osseointegration.

In addition, US 5,782,918 and DE 94 17 182 U1 describe an implant stop system using a combination of an implant anchor, a stop having a plurality of connection characteristics for connecting to the implant and a locking bolt. to block the stop in the implant. The anchor of the implant includes an axial hole at an upper end having interior surface characteristics that correspond to exterior surface characteristics of the interior and the abutment. The operation of joint action of these characteristics prevents the rotation of the stop once the stop is placed inside the implant.

An inherent disadvantage of implant components is that their small size makes assembly difficult. Problems include the difficulty of properly placing the stops on the implants. The relatively small size of the components and the adjusted working environment make it difficult to know when a stop is properly seated in an implant. Related problems include stops that become loose due to the extreme forces caused by normal chewing actions. Traditionally, axial retention has been achieved with a threaded screw through the stop and its attachment to the implant. More recently, attempts have been made to remove the axial screw using snap fit stops. These snap-in stops are generally provided with protuberances that extend from the distal end with respect to the stopper rod. Some of these snap fit designs are more satisfactory than others. Doctors have observed that some stops used in these screwless systems become loose due to the large forces generated through mastication. For some, the disadvantages associated with screwless stops exceed any possible benefits.

These screwless stops also show unacceptable axial movement. This axial movement can lead to damage of the abutment or of the implant as a result of misaligned forces and increased internal wear. Internal wear and misaligned forces lead to additional unacceptable movement, inevitably requiring repair and replacement. In the milder cases, discomfort is caused to the patient, in the most severe cases, in which the patient waits too long, permanent infection and injury of bone and tissue occurs. Therefore, even systems that provide a proper connection must be continually improved to reduce patient suffering, or worse.

The prior art has satisfactorily addressed many problems. But not all the disadvantages have been overcome. And some solutions have their own disadvantages.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This invention, in particular, relates to dental implants and stops. This invention also relates to dental connection mechanisms that limit rotation of the type that employs a non-round projection engaged in a non-round hole to connect two pieces longitudinally so as to limit the relative rotation between the pieces around their common longitudinal axis. . Some embodiments of the present invention relate to limiting axial movement between longitudinally connected dental implant system parts. This present invention also relates to sensory response systems indicative of the connection conditions in dental implant systems.

An embodiment of the invention comprises a dental implant comprising a proximal end adapted to abut against a stop and an inner hole that extends distally from the proximal end. As used herein, unless otherwise indicated, a distal location is closer to or deeper in the bone than a proximal location. The implant is provided with a first anti-rotation cavity in the inner hole and a second anti-rotation cavity in the inner hole. The first cavity comprises a first smaller diameter and the second cavity comprises a second smaller diameter not larger than the first smaller diameter of the first cavity. Depending on the application, the second anti-rotation cavity is positioned distal with respect to the first anti-rotation cavity.

The implant may also be provided with a distal axial retention section with respect to the first and second anti-rotation cavities. The axial retention section is adapted to engage with a device inserted in the inner hole. The axial retaining section comprises, for some embodiments, a threaded section in the inner hole that is adapted to engage with a stop screw inserted in the inner hole. In an alternative embodiment, the axial retaining section comprises a recess adapted to engage an elastic edge of a device inserted in the inner hole. Another embodiment uses both a stop screw and an elastic feature to inhibit axial movement.

In another embodiment, the implant is provided with a first distal response characteristic with respect to the first and second anti-rotation cavities. The response characteristic may comprise, for example, male geometry. In yet another embodiment of the implant, the inner hole comprises a response characteristic and an axial retention characteristic. The anti-rotation characteristics are provided, in some embodiments, in combination with a response characteristic and an axial retention characteristic.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to an implant system. A dental implant system according to the invention comprises an implant, a first stop, and a second stop. The implant comprises a proximal end that opens to a hole, a first internal anti-rotation cavity in the hole, and a second internal anti-rotation cavity in the hole, in which the second internal anti-rotation cavity is located distal with respect to the first anti-rotation cavity .

The first stop comprises a rod adapted to fit in the hole of the implant. The rod comprises a first non-blocking part adapted to be located in the first internal anti-rotation cavity without engaging rotationally blocking the first internal anti-rotation cavity. The rod further comprises a distal blocking part with respect to the non-blocking part. The blocking part is adapted to engage by rotationally locking the second anti-rotation cavity.

In contrast, the second stop comprises a rod having a locking part adapted to engage by rotationally locking the first anti-rotation cavity. The second stopper rod further comprises a distal non-blocking part with respect to the blocking part. The non-blocking part of the second stop is adapted to be placed in the second anti-rotation cavity without engaging rotationally blocking the first anti-rotation cavity.

However, it is not necessary that the cross section of the abutment have the same configuration as the cross section of an implant so that the implant and the abutment are rotationally locked. For example, a 12-point hexagonal configuration can be locked with a 6-point hexagonal configuration. However, the two cross sections should be adapted to engage so that the relative rotation is relatively small, and preferably substantially eliminated.

The system may comprise one or both of the stops. In addition, in some embodiments, at least one of the stops is an angle stop. The angle stop, in some embodiments, comprises a blocking section adapted to interconnect with at least one of the two or more anti-rotation cavities. Preferably, the stop is adapted to rotate in 30 ° increments before being fixedly engaged with the implant. That is, the stop is adapted for an indexing of 30º. An embodiment of the anti-rotation cavity adapted to provide a rotation in 30 ° increments comprises a twelve-point polygonal bushing.

Another system of the invention comprises an implant having a first internal anti-rotation characteristic and a driving tool adapted to engage the implant through the first internal anti-rotation characteristic. The system can also comprise a stop adapted to engage the implant through a second internal anti-rotation feature of the implant.

An alternative implant system of the invention comprises an implant comprising an inner hole and a response feature in the inner hole. A threaded section is placed distal with respect to the response characteristic. The system also comprises a stop adapted to join the implant.

The stop comprises a pillar and a rod that extends from the pillar. The stem is adapted to fit in the inner hole. The stem comprises a complementary response characteristic adapted to act in conjunction with the implant response characteristic and to provide a response to a physician who indicates when the stop is properly seated. The complementary response characteristic may comprise, for example, male geometry. The response provided to the doctor may comprise, for example, tactile or audible output, or both tactile and audible output, such as when an elastic element snapped back into its position or shape not deformed. The response system may alternatively provide, or in combination with the tactile and audible output, a visual indication about a seating state of a top of the bonnet structure.

A stop screw is adapted to fit into a through hole that extends through the abutment and the stopper rod and retain the stop in the implant. The stop screw comprises a proximal end (for example, the screw head) adapted to interconnect with the stop and a distal end adapted to engage the threaded section of the implant. More generally, the implant may be provided with an internal axial retention section adapted to engage a abutment retaining shaft. The axial retention shaft engages an internal axial retention characteristic of the implant to limit the axial movement of the abutment relative to the implant.

The invention, while referring to individual components, such as the implant, the stop, the axial retention shaft, and systems comprising combinations thereof, other aspects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to a person skilled in the art. from the review of the teachings of the applicant.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figures 1A and 1B show a perspective view and a top view of an implant comprising two internal anti-rotation cavities and an angled stop placed for insertion into the implant.

Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view showing the inside of the implant and the stop shown in Figure 1, but with the stop seated in the implant. A stop screw extends beyond the stop rod and threadedly engages the implant.

Figure 3 shows a side elevation view of the angled stop shown in Figures 1 and 2 and illustrating more clearly a blocking part and a non-blocking part of a stopper rod.

Figures 4A and 4B show side elevation and cross-sectional views of a straight stop comprising a rod having a blocking part and a non-blocking part, in which the parts are in reverse order compared to those of the stop at an angle shown in figure 3.

Figure 5 shows a partial side elevation view with part of the implant cut to show the straight stop illustrated in Figure 4 seated in the implant and axially fastened with a stop screw.

Figure 6 illustrates an alternative embodiment of an implant.

Figure 7 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a straight stop adapted to engage with the implant illustrated in Figure 6.

Figure 8 illustrates an alternative angle stop adapted to engage with the implant illustrated in Figure 6.

Figure 9 illustrates driving tools to drive the implant into the patient's bone.

Figures 10A-10D illustrate a print cap transfer cylinder adapted to engage an implant, such as for example the implant illustrated in Figures 1A and 1B.

Figures 11A-11B illustrate a print cap transfer screw suitable for use with the print cap transfer cylinder illustrated in Figures 10A-10D.

Figures 12A-12B illustrate a collection screw suitable for use with the print cap transfer cylinder illustrated in Figures 10A-10D.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENT

Figures 1 and 2 illustrate an implant 10 adapted to be screwed into the bone of a patient and a stop 40 adapted to connect to the implant 10. The implant 10 comprises a proximal end 12 that includes a facet 14 adapted to abut against the stop 40 The implant 10 comprises a distal end 16 opposite the proximal end 12 and at least one thread 18 disposed between them to screw the implant 10 into the bone of a patient. An inner hole 20 extends distally from the proximal end 12 to the distal end 16. The inner hole 20 comprises a first anti-rotation cavity 22 and a second distal anti-rotation cavity 24 with respect to the first anti-rotation cavity 22.

In Figure 1, the two cavities 22 and 24 are separated, defined and slightly spaced; They are connected to a conical section. But other arrangements are equally suitable, such as, for example, when the cavities are adjacent and are connected progressively, or are spaced and connected by one or more cavities.

Focusing attention on Figure 1B, an end view of the implant 10 is shown. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1B, the first anti-rotation cavity of the implant 10 comprises a hexagonal socket 26. Hexagonal bushing 26 comprises a plurality of obtuse interior angles. In contrast, the second anti-rotation cavity 24 comprises a 12-point polygonal bushing 28 that includes a plurality of obtuse interior angles. The hexagonal bushing 26 comprises a smaller diameter 30 and the twelve-point polygonal bushing 28 comprises a smaller diameter 32. The smaller diameter 32 is smaller than the smaller diameter 30 of the hexagonal socket 26. And the larger diameter of the hexagonal bushing 26 is larger than the smaller diameter 32 of the twelve-point polygonal bushing 28. In one embodiment, the smaller diameter 30 is approximately 0.11 inches (0.299 cm) and the smaller diameter 32 is approximately 0.09 inches (0.299 cm). For some embodiments, the difference between the major and minor diameters is in the range of 0.0005 and 0.1 inches (0.0127 mm and 2.54 mm). As used herein, the term "smaller diameter" refers to the diameter of the largest cylinder sized to fit within a polygonal cavity, while the term "larger diameter" is the diameter of a cylinder that is in contact with the external points. in the corners of such a cavity.

For some applications, at least one of the anti-rotation cavities 22 and 24 is adapted to engage with a conventional driving tool, for example, a tool with a working end comprising a square, a pentagon, a hexagon, an octagon, etc. Preferably, at least the other cavity is adapted to engage with a stopper rod having a predetermined shape. Some tools are described in Figure 9.

In a conventional implant system, an implant comprises an external hexagon, that is, a hexagonal protrusion, to engage a driving tool. The driving tool applies relatively significant amounts of torque to the external hexagonal boss to screw the implant into the patient's bone. Once the implant is screwed into place, and healing has occurred, a stop is coupled with the external hexagonal projection and settles in the implant. Unfortunately, the amount of significant torque applied to the hexagonal projection often spoils and distorts the hexagonal configuration. This distortion can result, in some applications, slack or freedom of movement, between the implant and the stop.

To overcome this problem related to distortion, the implant 10 has been provided with the first and second cavities 22 and 24 anti-rotation. The implant 10 can be driven, for example, with a driving tool through the first anti-rotation cavity 22. Then the stop 40 can be coupled with the second anti-rotation cavity 24, which has not been subjected to driving torque as the first anti-rotation cavity 22. The second anti-rotation cavity 24 is in a pristine state, allowing for a tight fit between the stop 40 and the implant 10. An advantage of the internal anti-rotation cavities, with respect to the external projections, is that the cavity can generally be more long (deeper) than would be possible with an external feature. The longer length provides greater surface area for a drive tool to engage. Therefore, there is a minor chance of damaging the implant during installation.

The cavities illustrated in Figure 1B are generally straight and comprise perimeters generally parallel with respect to a longitudinal axis. Other forms, such as the conical trunk, are appropriate for different applications. For such forms, analogs of the expressions major and minor diameter are applicable.

Turning to Figure 2, which illustrates a partial sectional view, the stop 40 is shown abutting against, that is, seated in, the implant 10. The inner hole 20 of the implant 10 comprises a response feature 34 for interconnecting with the stop 40 and provide response to a physician indicating when the stop 40 is properly seated within the implant. The response feature 34 may comprise, for example, male geometry. Distally with respect to the implant response feature 34 there is an axial retention feature 36 made in the form of a plurality of threads. A stop screw 70 extends through the stop 40 and interconnects with the threads of the axial retention feature 36 to limit the axial movement of the stop.

Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the stop 40 comprises a pillar 42 and a rod 44 extending in a relative downward direction from the pillar 42. The rod 44 comprises a non-blocking part 46 adapted to be placed in the first cavity 22 anti-rotation when the stop 40 is seated in the implant 10. The rod 44 further comprises a locking part 48 adapted to be placed in the second anti-rotation cavity 24 when the stop 40 is placed in the implant 10. The locking part 48 is adapted to engage by rotationally blocking the second anti-rotation cavity 24, whereby the stop 40 is prevented from rotating in relation to the implant 10.

For some applications, it is desirable to be able to increase the stop 40 at an angle in stages to achieve the appropriate aesthetic and functional alignment of a prosthetic element finally fixed to the abutment 42, that is, that the stop can be indexed. Accordingly, the blocking part 48 and the second anti-rotation cavity 24 are adapted to provide a predetermined minimum rotational increase; The illustrated embodiment has a minimum rotational increase of 30 ° due to the shape of 12 points. Once the stop 40 is rotationally aligned, the doctor can apply pressure to seat the stop 40, while being aware of the response indicative of the seating state of the stop.

The polygonal shape is not required to have real points. Other forms of interconnection, for example, notches and protrusions, are suitable for limiting rotation between implant 10 and stop 40. In addition, other forms other than polygons are suitable for limiting rotation between components. The actual rotational increment size will depend, at least in part, on the anti-rotation characteristic in the second cavity 24 and on the shape of the blocking part 48.

Turning briefly to FIG. 3, to rotationally block the blocking part 48 to the implant 10, the blocking part 48 comprises a larger diameter 50 larger than the smaller diameter 32 of the second anti-rotation cavity 24. The larger diameter 50 is larger than the smaller diameter 32 whereby the projections and the notches engage to limit, or eliminate, the rotation between the implant 10 and the stop 40. On the contrary, the non-blocking part 46 comprises a larger diameter 52 smaller than or approximately equal to the smaller diameter 30 of the first anti-rotation cavity 22. Therefore, the non-blocking part 46 of the stop 40 does not rotatably engage the implant 10.

Returning to FIG. 2, the stop 40 comprises a response feature 54 adapted to engage the implant 10 as the stop 40 is settling and to provide an indication to the physician when the stop 40 is properly seated. The characteristics 34 (of the implant 10) and 54 (of the stop 40) can collectively comprise one or more elastic elements adapted to deform during the settling process and to recover the shape when the stop is properly seated. With reference to Figures 1 and 3, the response feature 54 of the stop 40 comprises a plurality of elastic fingers 56 located at the end with respect to the rod 44.

The response system may be a system adapted to provide only tactile response, or only audible response or both tactile and audible response. A system is considered to provide a response when the sensory output is of a sufficient level for the doctor to detect without the doctor performing extraordinary steps to receive the response. Generally, the use of tactile response and audible response, alone or in combination, is desirable in many applications due to the relative simplicity of such systems and the advantages of such systems over current verification practices.

Verification techniques involve additional stages, usually performed immediately after the doctor performs the stages of butt settlement, which often use additional equipment. Current verification practices usually involve the use of radiographic equipment, for example, X-rays. The use of radiographic equipment is relatively expensive and time consuming. The doctor must adjust the equipment to take an appropriate image, and normally must leave the room to take the image. The patient is also exposed to another dose of radiation. Verification systems of this type are expensive and time consuming. On the contrary, a response system does not have the inherent costs and delays of verification systems. The response system of the present invention works, in a practical sense, simultaneously with the settlement process. A verification process involves identifiable stages separate from those required to seat a cap.

In some embodiments, the stop 40 is adapted to be axially contained in the hole 20 without additional components, in essence, the stop 40 is contained axially autonomously when it is seated. The rod 44 of the stop 40 comprises axial retention characteristics adapted to interconnect with axial retention characteristics in the inner hole 20 of the stop. In the illustrated embodiment, the implant response characteristic 34 and the abutment characteristic 54 also have retention capacity. The axial retention feature 54 comprises the plurality of fingers 56, which are adapted to provide both responsive and retention capabilities.

Other structures are suitable to provide one or both axial retention and response capabilities. In some embodiments, including some comprising elastic elements that provide both retention and response, an additional axial retention structure is required, or at least desirable. An additional axial retention structure of this type can be integral with the stop 40 or the implant 10 or with both.

Alternatively, the structure may be separated but coupled and relatively fixed with respect to one of either the stop or the implant. In addition, it is not necessary that the separate additional axial retention structures be relatively fixed to any one of the abutment or implant. For example, the separate additional retention structure can also be provided as a stop retaining shaft that interconnects with one or both of the stop 40 and the implant 10, and which however can be separated from both. An example of a stop retaining shaft is the stop screw 70 illustrated in Figure 2.

In Fig. 2, a through hole 60 extends through the abutment 42 and the rod 44 to allow the stop screw 70 to be inserted therein. The through hole 60 comprises a first diameter 62, and a second diameter 64 distal with respect to the first diameter 62 and is smaller than the first diameter 62. The stop screw 70 is inserted into the through hole 60 to engage the threads in a threaded manner. threads 36 of the implant 10.

In Fig. 2, the stop screw 70 comprises a screw head 72 adapted to engage with a driving tool, for example, an Allen wrench. Another thrust screw head drive structure will be suitable, for example, a square-head wrench, a flat-head screwdriver, a Phillips screwdriver. A rod 74 extends distally from head 72 towards a distal threaded end 76. The head 72 comprises a first diameter, and the rod 74 comprises a second diameter smaller than the diameter of the head. The diameter of the head is preferably larger than the second diameter 64 of the through hole 60 to prevent the stopper from moving axially past the screw head 72. Therefore, once the stop screw 70 threadedly engages the implant 10, the screw 70 acts to retain the stop 40 in the implant 10.

The system can also comprise a straight stop 90, such as that illustrated for example in Figure 4, which is compatible with the implant 10. The straight stop 90 comprises a pillar 92, and a stem 94. The stem 94 comprises a part 96 of non-blocking and a blocking part 98. In contrast to the angle stop 40, the non-blocking part 96 is distal with respect to the blocking part 98.

Figure 5 is a side elevation view showing the straight stop 90 seated in the implant 10. Part of the implant 10 is cut to better illustrate the straight stop 90 and part of the stop screw 70, which acts to limit the axial movement of the stop, top, maximum as a noun, top as an adverb. The blocking part 98 is adapted to engage by rotationally locking the first anti-rotation cavity 22 when the stop 90 is placed in the implant 10. The non-blocking part 96 does not thereby engage the second anti-rotation cavity 24.

To avoid rotational blockage between the implant 10 and the second cavity 24, the non-blocking part 96 has a larger diameter 100 (Figure 4) no larger than the smaller diameter 32 of the second anti-rotation cavity 24. To provide rotational engagement between the stem 94 and the implant 10, the blocking part 98 has a larger diameter 102 (Figure 4) that is larger than the minimum diameter 30 of the first anti-rotation cavity 22. Thus, in the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1-5, the angled stop 40 rotatably engages the implant 10 through the second anti-rotation cavity 24, while the straight stop 90 rotatably engages the implant 10 through the First cavity 22 anti-rotation.

The first anti-rotation cavity 22 may comprise a configuration that includes acute interior angles while the second anti-rotation cavity 24 comprises a configuration that includes internal obtuse angles. In addition, both cavities can be equipped with the same type of configuration, but with different diameters. In addition, the straight stop 90 can be adapted to engage the implant 10 through the second anti-rotation cavity 24, while the angled stop 90 is adapted to engage the implant 10 through the first anti-rotation cavity 22.

To facilitate compatibility between the components, a system according to the principles of the invention may comprise an implant having an internal anti-rotation characteristic to engage both straight and angled stops and another internal anti-rotation characteristic to engage a driving tool. The internal anti-rotation feature can be adapted to engage the driving tool as well as the stops. Similarly, the other anti-rotation feature can be adapted to engage multiple types of stopper rod, as well as the driving tool.

Turning to Figure 6, Figure 6A illustrates a side view of an implant 10 ’. Figure 6B is a sectional view taken along such line 6B-6B of implant 10 'in Figure 6A. Figure 6C is an end view looking down from the hole of the implant 10 ’. The implant 10 'is generally similar to the implant 10, except that the inner hole 20 of the implant 10' comprises a recess 110 adapted to retain a flexible toroidal element, such as a toroidal spring, which can interconnect with a stop when the stop is seated The flexible toroidal element provides a response to the doctor indicating when the stop is properly seated. The flexible toroidal element can comprise, for example, male geometry such as a round tube formed in a toroid. Figure 6D illustrates a straight 90 ’stop seated in the 10’ implant.

Figures 7 and 8 illustrate stops adapted to interconnect with the implant 10 'shown in Figure 6. Figure 7A is a side elevation view of a straight stop 90'; Figure 7B is a sectional view along section line 7B-7B of Figure 7A. Figure 8A is a side elevation view of an abutment 40 'at an angle; Figure 8B is a sectional view along section line 8B-8B of Figure 8A. The stems of both the straight 90 ’stop and the 40 ′ angled stop comprise a complementary recess 112. The recess 112 is positioned to be adjacent to the recess 110 in the inner hole 20 of the implant 10 ’when the stop is seated. The recess 110 and the complementary recess 112 define an area in which a toroidal ring will rest when the stop is seated.

With reference to Figures 6B and 6D, implant 10 'includes a second slit 114 to provide response. The second slit 114 is also useful in the implant 10 of Figures 1-5. The second slit 114 is useful for retaining a driving tool or other component, such as a print cap, in operative contact with the implant 10 ’. In one embodiment of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 6, the implant 10 'has a length L, which for some applications is approximately between 0.3 inches (0.762 cm) and 0.9 inches (2.29 cm). The first and second anti-rotation cavities 26 and 28 extend into the hole at a combined depth of approximately 0.1 (0.254 cm) to 0.2 inches (0.508 cm). A finger passage 115 extends to a depth of about 0.1 (0.254 cm) to 0.3 inches (0.752 cm). The second slit 114 has a central line positioned approximately from 0.01 (0.0254 cm) to 0.2 inches (0.508 cm) of facet 14. The recess 110, which begins at a depth of approximately 0.1 to 0 , 3 inches (0.254 to 0.762 cm), has a width of about 0.01 to 0.2 inches (0.0254 to 0.508 cm). These dimensions are illustrative and suitable for particular applications, but are not the only dimensions suitable for a dental implant according to the applicant's teachings. A toroidal spring 116 is positioned in the area defined by recess 110 and complementary recess 112. The toroidal spring 116 acts against the elastic element 54 to apply a retention force on the straight stop 90 ’.

With reference to Figures 6B, 6D 6E, 7A and 7B, to reduce the tension, the implant 10 'comprises a counter-hole 120 to accommodate a base 122 of the stop 90'. In Figure 6E, part of the cap 90 ’is removed to aid in the illustration. The base 122 is positioned between a margin 124 and the blocking part 98 that is coupled with the first anti-rotation cavity 26. The counter-hole 120 has a diameter of about 0.10 to 0.15 inches (0.254 to 0.384 cm) and a depth of about 0.01 inches (0.0254 cm). To reduce the stresses at one point, the counter-hole 120 comprises a chamfer 126 and a bend curve 128 with dimensions of approximately 0.001 to 0.01 inches (0.00254 to 0.0254 cm). The base 122 comprises a chamfer 130 corresponding to the bend curve 128. Chamfers 130 and 126 together facilitate the placement of the stop 90 'in the implant 10'.

Figure 9A is a perspective view of one type of a driving tool 200 adapted to engage the second anti-rotation cavity 28 of the implant 10 'or the implant 10. The driving tool 200 comprises a first end 202 comprising a polygonal male geometry 204 12-point adapted to engage the second anti-rotation cavity 28. An opposite end 206 comprises a handle 208 to facilitate the grip of the driving tool 200.

Figure 9B illustrates another type of driving tool 220 adapted to engage with the first anti-rotation cavity 26 of the implant 10 'or the implant 10. The driving tool 220 comprises a first end 222, at a working end, which is adapted to fit inside of the hole 20 of the implant 10 '. The first end comprises an elastic ring, such as an O-ring 224, that engages with the second recess 114 of the implant 10 ’to help retain the drive tool 220 in proper engagement with the implant 10’. The working end 222 of the driving tool 220 comprises a driving part 226 of hexagonal male geometry adapted to engage with the anti-rotation cavity 26. The distal diameter with respect to the O-ring 224 is sized to fit within the second anti-rotation cavity 28. The working end 222 includes a retainer 228 that abuts against the facet 14 of the implant 10 ’when the driving tool 220 is properly seated. The O-ring 224 and the retainer 228 act together to reduce, and preferably to eliminate, the unwanted axial movement of the driving tool 220 in relation to the implant 10 ’. The O-ring 224 may be adapted to provide tactile or audible response, or both tactile and audible, indicative of a seating state of the driving tool. Retainer 228 provides at least one visual response.

An alignment part 230 of the working end 222 comprises a hexagonal shape aligned with the hexagonal driving part 226. The alignment part 230 facilitates the alignment of the driving part 226 with the first anti-rotation cavity 26 while the driving tool 220 is engaging with the implant 10 ’. Once the tool 220 is coupled with the implant 10 ', the alignment portion 230 provides a visual indication of how the anti-rotation cavity 26 of the implant 10' is aligned in the patient's mouth, for example, of the rotational alignment of the implant 10 '. The alignment part 226 illustrated comprises male alignment geometry in the form of a hexagonal configuration. Alternatively to, or in combination with, the male alignment geometry, the working end 230 may be provided with visual alignment signs, such as lines that run along the length of the working end 230.

The drive tool 220 may be provided with a handle 232 to facilitate the grip of the drive tool 220. But the handle 232 is not required since the alignment part 230 may comprise a structure sufficient to aid in the grip of the driving tool 220.

Figure 9C illustrates a driving tool 240 that is similar to the driving tool 220 illustrated in Figure 9B. The driving tool 240 comprises a hexagonal driving part 226 ’and a retaining 228’ and an interconnecting structure 224 ’that facilitates the interconnection of the driving tool 240 with the hole of an implant. And the driving tool 240 comprises a retaining element 242 according to ISO which serves to couple the driving tool 240 to an electric driving mechanism.

Figure 10A illustrates a side elevation view of a transfer print cap 300. The print cap comprises a print end 310 for interconnecting with print material, and an implant interconnecting end 320 for interconnecting with an implant. The implant interconnection end 320 comprises an anti-rotation section 322, for example, a hexagonal extension, and an elastic interconnection 324 for temporarily securing the transfer cylinder 300 in an implant until a screw holds the cylinder to the implant. Figure 10B illustrates an end view of the transfer cylinder 300 showing the implant interconnect end 320. Figure 10C illustrates an end view of the print end 310. Figure 10D illustrates a sectional view taken along section line 10D-10D of Figure 10B. The cylinder 300 includes a through hole 330 with a portion 332 of reduced cross-section.

Figure 11A illustrates a print cap 350 transfer screw suitable for use with the transfer cylinder 300. The transfer screw 350 comprises a shaft 352 that is sized to extend through the through hole 330 of the transfer cylinder 300 and is connected to the implant through threads 360. Figure 11B is an end view of the transfer screw 350.

Figure 12A illustrates a torsion lock pickup print screw 380 suitable for use with the transfer cylinder 300. The printing screw 380 comprises a shaft 382 that is sized to extend through the through hole 330 of the transfer cylinder 300 and to connect to the implant through threads 390. Figure 12B is an end view of the print screw 380.

The components of the print cap illustrated in Figures 10-12 are described in greater detail in US Patent 5,685,715. An impression cap of this type may be pre-packaged and can be supplied to the clinician with the implant so that the cap serves as a mount that receives torque to install the implant in the patient's bone. Accordingly, the present invention contemplates using one of the anti-rotational features of the implant to engage the mount, instead of, for example, one of the driving tools shown in Figure 9, and another anti-rotational feature to engage a stopper or cap if The cap is not used as a mount.

One method of improving connectivity according to the implant system of the invention includes coupling a stop to an implant placed in a patient; and detect a tactile response associated with the settlement of the stop. Subsequent to the detection of the tactile response, the implant engages with the retention structure to resist axial movement of the abutment in relation to the implant. The retention structure can be rotated while engaging a thread and allowed to move deeper into the implant as the retention structure is rotated.

The retention structure can be engaged with the implant to limit the axial movement of the abutment relative to the implant, but allow some movement of the abutment when a displacement force is applied to the abutment. For example, the retention structure can be threadedly attached to the implant, but before fully screwing the structure, the stop can be removed from the seat if sufficient force is applied. In this way, a doctor, for example, a dentist, can apply insufficient test force to displace the butt but enough to verify that the butt has not loosened. This avoids problems associated with the application of forces, through the retention structure, to a stop that has been poorly aligned after being seated.

To reduce unwanted rotation between an implant and a stop, a torque is applied to a first internal anti-rotation feature of the implant to insert the implant deeper into a bone. Subsequent to the application of the torque to the first internal anti-rotation characteristic, a stop with a second internal anti-rotation characteristic of the implant is engaged. Such a procedure allows the stop to engage a pristine characteristic, one not damaged during implant insertion in the patient.

Another advantage of using an implant having two internal anti-rotation characteristics is that a suitable stop can be selected from a plurality of stops, and the selection can be based, at least in part, on the conditions prevailing in the patient's mouth. Generally, this use of an implant having two or more anti-rotation characteristics results in a wider variety of stops that can be attached to the implant than those that can be coupled to an implant comprising only one anti-rotation characteristic. Although each type of stop is theoretically available with any type of stem, a suitable stop is not available as easily as the doctor would like. A suitable stop has a rod that can in fact be attached to the osteointegrated implant and is suitable for other conditions prevailing in the patient's mouth. To reduce the problems associated with not having an adequate stop, a doctor installs an implant that comprises two internal anti-rotation characteristics. The doctor can then be quite confident that when it is time to attach a stop, there will be a suitable stop that has a stem adapted to engage at least one of the characteristics.

In one embodiment, the present invention is a dental implant comprising a proximal end adapted to abut against a abutment. The implant has an inner hole that extends distally from the proximal end. The implant also has a first anti-rotation cavity in the inner hole that comprises a first smaller diameter, and a second anti-rotation cavity in the inner hole that comprises a second smaller diameter no larger than the first smaller diameter.

In a second embodiment, a dental implant comprises a proximal end and an inner hole that extends distally from the proximal end. The implant includes a first anti-rotation feature in the inner hole and a second anti-rotation feature in the inner hole. The second anti-rotation characteristic is placed distal with respect to the first anti-rotation characteristic to provide rotational resistance independent of the first anti-rotation characteristic.

In a third embodiment, a dental implant is to engage with a stop. The implant comprises a facet adapted to stop against the stop. The implant has a first anti-rotation characteristic adjacent to the facet, and a second anti-rotation characteristic adjacent to the first anti-rotation characteristic and located farther from the facet than the first anti-rotation characteristic. One of the first and second anti-rotation characteristics engages a non-rotational characteristic of the stop.

In another embodiment, the present invention is a dental implant system comprising an implant, a first stop, and a second stop. The implant includes a proximal end that opens to a hole, a first internal anti-rotation characteristic in the hole, and a second internal anti-rotation characteristic in the distal hole with respect to the first anti-rotation characteristic. The first stop comprises a rod adapted to be fixed in the hole of the implant. The rod of the first stopper comprises a non-blocking part adapted to be located in the first internal anti-rotation characteristic without engaging rotationally blocking the first internal anti-rotation characteristic, and a distal blocking part with respect to the non-blocking part and adapted to engage rotationally locking The second anti-rotation feature. The second stop also comprises a rod adapted to be fixed in the hole of the implant. The second stopper rod comprises a locking part adapted to engage by rotationally locking the first anti-rotation feature of the implant.

In yet another embodiment, the present invention is a dental implant system comprising an implant and a stop. The implant comprises an inner hole, a first internal anti-rotation section, and a second internal anti-rotation section. The stop comprises a rod adapted to be fixed in the hole. The stem includes a first section adapted to be placed in the first internal anti-rotation section of the implant, and a second section adapted to be placed in the second internal anti-rotation section of the implant. Only one of the first section of the stem or of the second section of the stem is engaged by rotationally locking the implant when the stop is seated.

In yet another embodiment, the present invention is a dental implant system comprising an implant and a stop. The implant comprises an inner hole, a first internal anti-rotation section, and a second internal anti-rotation section distal with respect to the first internal anti-rotation section. The stop has a rod adapted to be fixed in the hole. The stem has a first section adapted to be placed in the first internal anti-rotation section of the implant, and a second section other than the first section of the stop adapted to be placed in the second internal anti-rotation section of the implant. One or more of the first and second stem sections are engaged by rotationally locking the implant when the stop is seated.

In a different example, a dental implant system is disclosed comprising an implant, a stop, and a stop screw. The implant comprises an inner hole, a response characteristic of the implant in the inner hole, and a threaded section distal with respect to the response characteristic. The stop is adapted to join the implant and comprises a abutment and a rod that extends from the abutment to fit into the inner hole. The stem comprises a complementary response characteristic adapted to act in conjunction with the response characteristic of the implant and to provide response to a physician indicating when the stop is properly seated. The stop also has a through hole that passes through the pillar and the stem. The stop screw fits into the through hole and axially retains the stop in the implant. The stop screw comprises a screw head adapted to interconnect with the stop, and a distal end comprising threads adapted to engage the threaded section of the implant.

In a different example a dental implant system is disclosed which comprises an implant, a stop, and a stop retention tree. The implant comprises an internal implant response characteristic, and a distal internal axial retention section with respect to the internal response characteristic. The stop is coupled to the implant and comprises a abutment that extends beyond the implant and a rod that extends in a downward direction from the abutment. The stem fits into the implant and comprises a response characteristic adapted to interface with the internal response characteristic of the implant to provide an indication to a physician of when the stop is properly seated in the implant. The stop has a through hole that extends through the abutment and the rod, and the rod comprises a first diameter and a second diameter larger than the first diameter. The first diameter is closer to the internal axial retention section of the implant than the second diameter when the stop is seated in the implant. The abutment retaining shaft is adapted to fit in the through hole and comprises a first effective diameter larger than the first diameter of the through hole. The abutment retaining shaft has a rod that extends through the through hole. The stem comprises a complementary axial retention section adapted to engage with the internal axial retention section of the implant. The shaft limits the axial movement of the abutment when the shaft is placed in the through hole and is effectively coupled to the internal axial retention section of the implant.

An implant comprising and an internal response characteristic and an internal axial retention section is also disclosed. The internal response feature interconnects with a stopper to provide a medical response indicating when the stopper is properly seated. The internal axial retention section is located distal with respect to the internal response characteristic and is coupled with a abutment retaining shaft that extends through the abutment to limit the axial movement of the abutment relative to the implant.

A stop with a pillar, a rod, and a through hole is also disclosed. The abutment supports a prosthetic tooth. The stem extends downward from the abutment, and fits into an inner hole of an implant. The stem comprises a response characteristic adapted to interface with the implant to provide an indication to a physician of when the stop is properly seated in the implant. The through hole extends through the rod and the abutment and houses an axial retaining shaft to limit the axial movement of the stop.

In another embodiment, a dental implant is for installation in the bone and comprises an outer surface to come into contact with the bone. The implant has an upper part to engage a stop adapted to accommodate a prosthesis. In addition, the implant has an inner hole that has two distinct internal anti-rotation characteristics. One of the two internal anti-rotational characteristics is hooked to a driving tool during installation and the other of the two internal anti-rotational characteristics is hooked to the stop to resist the rotation of the stop in relation to the implant.

In a further embodiment, a dental implant is for installation in the bone and comprises an outer surface to come into contact with the bone. The dental implant has an inner hole that has two distinct internal anti-rotational characteristics. One of the two internal anti-rotational features engages a first stop to resist rotation of the first stop in relation to the implant. The other of the two internal anti-rotational characteristics is hooked to a second stop to resist the rotation of the second stop in relation to the implant, the first stop being a type of stop which is different from the second stop.

A dental implant system comprising a dental implant, a stop, and a screw is also disclosed. The dental implant has an outer surface to come into contact with the bone, and an inner hole with a threaded section and an enlarged groove. The stop has a rod that is fixed inside the inner hole and a through hole. The stem includes an elastic section that expands outwardly into the enlarged groove in response to the correct engagement of the abutment to the implant. The screw passes through the through hole of the stop and threadedly engages the threaded section of the inner hole of the implant. The screw axially retains the stop in the dental implant.

The present description also contemplates novel methods. One such method comprises coupling a stop to an implant placed in a patient and detecting a tactile response associated with the settlement of the stop. After detecting the tactile response, the method includes hooking a threaded hole inside the implant with an axial retaining screw to limit the axial movement of the abutment relative to the implant.

Another method includes applying a torque to a first internal anti-rotation feature of an implant to insert the implant deeper into a bone. And, after applying the torque to the first internal anti-rotation characteristic, engage a stop with a second internal anti-rotation characteristic of the implant.

An additional method includes installing an implant comprising two internal anti-rotation features in a patient's mouth. And, after installing the implant in the patient's mouth, select a suitable stop of a plurality of stops and attach the appropriate stop to one of two internal anti-rotation characteristics of the implant in the patient's mouth.

A dental implant system comprising an implant and an implant driver is also disclosed. The implant has a hole comprising an anti-rotation structure and a recess in the hole. The implant drive tool comprises a grip end and a work end opposite the grip end. The working end includes a predetermined shape adapted to rotationally lock with the implant hole and a distal retention structure with respect to the predetermined shape to engage with the recess in the implant hole.

A dental implant system comprising a dental implant, a print cap, and a screw is also disclosed. The dental implant has an outer surface to come into contact with the bone. The dental implant has an inner hole with a threaded section and an enlarged groove. The print cap has a rod that is fixed inside the inner hole and a through hole. The stem includes an elastic section that expands outwardly into the enlarged groove in response to the appropriate coupling of the impression cap to the implant. The screw passes through the through hole of the print cap and threadedly engages the threaded section of the inner hole of the implant. The screw axially retains the impression cap in the dental implant.

The invention clearly reduces connectivity problems and other problems encountered in the field of dental implants. Applying the principles of the invention to dental restitution processes produces improved results. The possibility of having an adequate ceiling is increased, when necessary, while reducing the amount of planning required. And the costs can also be reduced by eliminating or reducing the need to use verification equipment, such as radiographic equipment, during restitution processes.

The use of terms such as first, second, up, down, etc., is for convenience in the description of the illustrated embodiments and it is not intended that such use limit the variety of embodiments of the invention. Similar characteristics are identified throughout the document with similar numbers to aid in understanding but not to indicate that such characteristics are required to be identical between the various embodiments.

The above description of the invention is illustrative and explanatory; various modifications and alterations to

10 embodiments disclosed herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of this description. It is intended that all these variations and modifications be within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (17)

1. Dental implant system comprising: a dental implant (10) for installation in the bone, which has: a proximal end (12) that is located near an outer surface of the bone; an inner hole (20) extending distally from the proximal end (12); a first anti-rotation feature (22) in the inner hole (20); Y a second anti-rotation feature (24) in the inner hole (20), in which the second feature (24) anti-rotation is positioned distal with respect to the first anti-rotation characteristic (22) to provide rotational resistance independent of the first anti-rotation characteristic (22).

2.

Dental implant system according to claim 1, wherein the first anti-rotation feature (22) comprises a smaller first dimension (30), and the second anti-rotational feature (24) comprises a second dimension (32) smaller than the first dimension (30) less than the first anti-rotation characteristic (22).

3.

Dental implant system according to claim 1, wherein the first anti-rotation feature (22) is a polygon.

Four.

Dental implant system according to claim 3, wherein the second anti-rotation feature (24) is a polygon.

5.

Dental implant system according to claim 4, wherein the first anti-rotation feature (22) is a hexagon and the second anti-rotation feature (24) is a 12-sided polygon.

6.

Dental implant system according to claim 1, wherein the first anti-rotation feature (22) is adapted to allow a first minimum circumferential incremental fit, and the second feature

(24) Anti-rotation is adapted to provide a second minimum circumferential incremental adjustment greater than the first minimum circumferential incremental adjustment.

7.

Dental implant system according to claim 1, wherein the first anti-rotation feature (22) and the second anti-rotation feature (24) are different polygons.

8.

Dental implant system according to claims 1 to 7, wherein one of the first and second anti-rotation features (22, 24) is adapted to engage with a stop (40, 90), and the other of the first and second anti-rotational features (22, 24) is adapted to engage with a driving tool (200, 220, 240) used to install the implant in the bone.

9.

Dental implant system according to claim 8, further comprising the driving tool (200, 220, 240), wherein the tool (200, 220, 240) is a mount that is previously packaged with the implant.

10.

Dental implant system according to claims 1 to 7, additionally in combination with a first stop (40) comprising a rod (44) with a locking part (48) for non-rotationally engaging the second anti-rotation feature (24) , and a second stop (90) comprising a rod with a locking part (98) adapted to engage non-rotationally with the first anti-rotational feature (22).

eleven.

Dental implant system according to claims 1 to 7, further including an axial retention feature (34, 110) to engage with an elastic feature (56, 116) of a stop (40, 90) to be coupled with the implant , the axial retention characteristic being distal with respect to the second anti-rotation characteristic (24).

12.

Dental implant system according to claim 11, further including a threaded section (36) located distally of the axial retention feature (110).

13.

Dental implant system according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the implant

(10) Dental has an outer surface to come into contact with the bone, and the inner hole (20) comprises a threaded section (36) and an enlarged groove (110), further comprising the dental implant system: a stop (40) having a rod (44) that fits into said inner hole (20) and a through hole (60), said rod (44) including an elastic section (54) that expands outwardly into of said enlarged groove (110) in response to the proper coupling of said stop (40) with said implant (10), said elastic section (54) and said enlarged groove being combined to provide response with respect to the settlement of said stop (40) in the implant (10); Y a screw (70) passing through said through hole (60) of said stop (40) and threadedly engaging said threaded section (36) of said inner hole (20) of said implant (10), retaining 5 axially said screw said stop (40) in said dental implant (10) once said stop (40) has been properly seated. 14. Dental implant system according to claim 13, wherein said slit (110) is located circumferentially around said inner hole. 15. Dental implant system according to claim 13, wherein said slit (110) is above said threaded section.

16.

Dental implant system according to claim 13, wherein said elastic section (54) comprises a plurality of fingers (56).

17.

Dental implant system according to claim 13, wherein said provided response is audible and / or tactile.

18. A dental implant system according to claim 13, wherein said stop (40) is a transfer stop used to take an impression in the patient's mouth, said screw (70) being a capping screw or a screw of transfer.