MODULAR SYSTEM FOR CUSTOMIZED ORTHODONTIC APPLIANCES

摘要

A set of customized orthodontic brackets (14) are provided with slots (22) that are arranged substantially parallel to the tooth surface. The archwire (10), in an as-manufactured condition, has a portion of substantial arcuate extent, which is canted relative to the occlusal plane (15). The brackets (1 4) are designed on a computer as a combination of three-dimensional virtual objects comprising the virtual bracket bonding pad (18) and a separate virtu al bracket body retrieved from a library of virtual bracket bodies. The virtual brackets can be represented as a file containing digital shape data and exported to a rapid prototype fabrication device for fabrication of the bracket (14) in wax or other material and casting the wax prototype in a suitable alloy. Other manufacturing techniques are also contemplated, including milling and laser sintering.