Title of Invention

A DENTAL IMPLANT COMPONENT AND A SYSTEM

Abstract The invention relates to a dental implant component (200), the component comprising a distal end (126) having a top surface (166); a proximal end (124) that defines an opening; an inner surface (128) that defines an internal cavity (130) that is substantially closed at the distal end (126) of the component (200); and at least one resiliently deflectable prong (150) disposed in the internal cavity (130), the prong (150) configured to releasingly engage one or more grooves (51) formed in a bore of a prosthetic abutment (38), the inner surface (128) extending longitudinally beyond the prong (150); a proximally facing slanted surface (182) at the proximal end (124) configured to abut against a flared flange (42) of the abutment (38); one or more embedment features (160) for facilitating the gripping and retention of the component (200) within impression material and positioned on the distal end (126) of the component (200), wherein the one or more embedment features (160) comprises a flange (166), which defines an interference surface (162) that lies generally transverse to a longitudinal axis (164) of the component (200).
Full Text

TRANSFER COPING FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
60/662,950, filed March 17, 2005, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by-
reference herein. This application also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 60/678,095, filed May 5, 2005, the entire contents of which are hereby
incorporated by reference herein
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to dental implants and, more particularly,
methods and devices for installing a dental implant.
Description of the Related Art
Restoration of an edentulous area of the mouth serves multiple functions, including
improved aesthetics, improved mastication, maintenance of crestal bone, and providing for
an occlusal stop for a reproducible bite. Restoration can be accomplished using a standard
bridge, a removable appliance (a partial or full denture), or a dental implant.
Dental implantation is a procedure for replacing a missing tooth using a dental
implant. The placement of the implant is usually accomplished in four stages. In a first
stage, a dentist reviews radiographs and dental models to determine the proper placement
and axial alignment of the implant. In a second stage, a dental surgeon accesses the bone
through the mucosal tissue. With the use of a prefabricated stint, the surgeon drills or bores
out the maxillary or mandibular bone. The implant is then either pressed or screwed into
the bone. A healing cap is typically then placed over the implant and the surrounding
mucosal tissues are sutured over the healing cap. This provides for a biologically closed
system to allow osteointegration of bone with the implant. Complete osteointegration
typically takes anywhere froan four to ten months.
Stage three, involves a second surgical procedure during which the dental surgeon
makes an incision in the mucosal tissue to expose the osteointegrated implant. The healing
cap is removed and a temporary abutment, having a height at least equal to the thickness of
the gingival tissue or a final prosthetic abutment, is coupled to the implant. Once the

abutment is secured an immediate mold or impression may be taken. In a modified
procedure, the impression may be taken within one to two weeks after stage three. The
impression is used to record the axial position and orientation of the implant, which is then
reproduced in a stone or plaster analogue of the patient's mouth. The main objective of the
impression is to properly transfer the size and shape of adjacent teeth in relation to the
permanently placed implant and the precise configuration and orientation of the abutment
to the dental technician. The plaster analogue provides the laboratory technician with a
precise model of the patient's mouth, including the orientation of the implant fixture
relative to the surrounding teeth. Based on this model, the technician constructs a final
restoration. Stage four, in the restorative process, involves replacing the temporary healing
abutment with the final restoration.
As noted above, during stage three, a mold or impression is taken of the patient's
mouth to accurately record the position and orientation of the implant site and to provide
the information needed to fabricate the restorative replacement and/or intermediate
prosthetic components. There are several conventional methods for talcing this impression.
One method involves a conventional transfer coping. Transfer copings have an
impression portion adapted to form a unique or indexed impression in the impression
material and a base portion having mating indexing means adapted to mate with the
exposed indexing means of the implant or prosthetic abutment. In use, the transfer coping
is temporarily secured to the exposed proximal end of the implant fixture such that the
mating indexing means of the impression coping and implant are interlocldngly mated to
one another. Typically, a threaded screw or bolt is used to temporarily secure the transfer
coping to the implant fixture.
Once the impression coping is secured to the implant fixture, an impression of the
transfer coping relative to the surrounding teeth is taken. Typically, this involves a "U"
shaped tray filled with an impression material that is placed in the patient's mouth over the
implant site. The patient bites down on the tray, squeezing the impression material into the
implant site and around the transfer coping. Within a few minutes, the impression material
cures or hardens to a flexible, resilient consistency. The impression tray is then removed
from the patient's mouth to reveal an impression of the implant site and the transfer coping.
The restorative dentist then removes the transfer coping from the patient's mouth and

transfers the transfer coping back into the impression material, being careful to preserve the
proper orientation of the indexing means.
Another method typically involves a conventional pick-up coping. Pick-up copings
are similar to the transfer copings described above; except that a piclc-up coping typically
includes an embedment portion adapted to be non-removably embedded within the
impression material. Typically, the embedded portion comprises a protuberant "lip" or
similar embedment projection at a coronal portion of tho coping. This allows for
"grabbing" or traction of the impression material as the tray is being removed from the
patient's mouth. The piclc-up copings are "picked up" and remain in the impression
material when the tray is removed from the patient's mouth.
Yet another method for talcing an impression involves an impression or transfer cap.
Impression or transfer caps are placed over or on the built-up part of the abutment or the
implant and remain in the impression material when the tray is removed. There are several
different types of transfer caps. One type of transfer cap has a tapered inner surface, which
is adapted in form and size to the built-up part or abutment of the implant. This cap has an
inner surface, which has indentations or slots, which correspond to indentation or slots
present on the abutment. The cap is attached to the abutment with resilient flaps or
tongues. An example of such a cap is illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 5,688,123 to Meiers et al.
Summary of the Invention
A disadvantage of the type of cap described in Meiers et al. is that the cap attaches
to the abutment of the implant via the flaps, which extend over the shoulders of a conical
area of the abutment. Because the shoulders of the abutment are next to the gum line, it is
difficult to position the flaps over the shoulders. Moreover-, the location of the shoulders
next to the gum line may result in the incomplete seating of the transfer cap on the
shoulders, causing the transfer cap to disengage from the abutment before the impression is
taken. Additionally, because the patient's gum line may be sensitive due to the insertion of
the implant, contact between the transfer cap and the gum line can produce discomfort or
pain in the patient. Therefore, there is a need for an improved transfer cap.
In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, a dental implant component
includes a distal end that includes a top surface and a proximal end that defines an opening.
An inner surface of the component defines an internal cavity. At least one resiliently
deflectable prong is disposed in the internal cavity. The prong is configured to releasingly

engage a groove formed in a boro of a prosthetic abutment. The component further
comprising elongated protrusions positioned within the inner surface configured to engage
grooves formed on an outer surface of the abutment,
In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, a dental implant system,
comprises a dental implant, an abutment and a mating component. The abutment
comprises an upper region and an inner bore having an engagement feature positioned
therein. The mating component has proximal end that defines an opening and an inner
surface that defines an internal cavity for receiving the upper region of the abutment. A
complementary engagement feature is disposed in the internal cavity and is configure to
releaseably engage the engagement feature within the inner bore.
Another embodiment of the present invention comprises a method of coupling a
dental component to an abutment of a dental implant system. A dental component having
an internal cavity is positioned over an upper portion of an abutment. And the dental
component is pressed onto the abutment until an engagement feature within the internal
cavity of the abutment engages a complementary engagement feature within a bore of the
abutment.
Brief Description of the Accompanying Drawings
These and other features of the invention will now be described with reference to
the drawings of the preferred embodiments, which are intended to illustrate and not to limit
the invention, and in which:
FIG. 1A is a side view of one embodiment of a dental implant;
FIG. 1B is a top plan view of part of the dental implant of FIG. 1A;
FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional view of the dental implant of FIG. 1 A;
FIG. 1D is aside view of a modified embodiment of a dental implant;
FIG. 2A is a side view of one embodiment of a abutment, which is configured to
mate with the embodiment of the dental implant of FIG. 1A or FIG. 1D; „
FIG. 2B is another side view of the abutment of FIG. 2A;
FIG. 2C is a top plan view of the abutment of FIG. 2A;
FIG. 2D is a bottom plan view of the abutment of FIG. 2A;
FIG. 2E is a cross-sectional side view of the abutment of FIG. 2A;
FIG. 2F is a enlarged view of the portion labeled 2F in FIG. 2E;

FIG. 3A is a partial cross-sectional side view of one embodiment of a coupling
screw;
FIG. 3B is a top plan view of the coupling screw of FIG. 3A;
FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a healing cap;
FIG. 4B is a side plan view of the healing cap of FIG. 4A;
FIG. 4C is a close up view of a portion of FIG. 4A labeled 4C;
FIG. 4D is a close up view of a portion of FIG. 4A labeled 4D;
FIG. 4E is a rear perspective view of the healing cap of FIG, 4A;
FIG. 4F is a top plan view of the healing cap of FIG. 4A;
FIG. 5 A is a side view of one embodiment of a dental implant;
FIG. 5B is a side view of the dental implant of FIG. 5A with a top portion shown in
cross-section;
FIG. 5C is an enlarged view of the top portion of FIG. 5B;
FIG. 5D is a top view of the dental implant of FIG. 5A;
FIG. 5E is an enlarged view of the portion of FIG. 5C labeled 5B;
FIG. 6A is a side view of an impression cap;
FIG. 6B is a top plan view of the impression cap of FIG. 6A;
FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional side view of the impression cap of FIG. 6A;
FIG. 6D is a bottom plan view of the impression cap of FIG. 6A;
FIG. 6E is a close up view of a portion of FIG. 6C labeled 6B; and
FIG. 6F is rear perspective view of the impression cap of FIG. 6A;
FIG. 7A is side perspective view of an analogue of an abutment;
FIG. 7B is a side view of the analogue of FIG. 7A;
FIG. 7C is a cross-sectional side view taken through line 7C-7C of FIG. 7B;
FIG. 7D is a top plan view of the analogue of FIG. 7A;
FIG. 8A is side perspective view of a coping;
FIG. 8B is a side view of the coping of FIG. 8A;
FIG. 8C is a cross-sectional side view taken through line 8C-8C of FIG. 8B; and
FIG. 8D is a top plan view of the analogue of FIG. 8A.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments
The embodiments described herein relate to methods and devices that relate to
protecting and/or taking an impression of an abutment, which is coupled or formed with a
dental implant. FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate one exemplary embodiment of a dental implant 10,
which will be used to illustrate certain features and aspects of the present invention. The
dental implant 10 is described in detail in co-pending U.S. Application No. 09/670,708,
filed September 27, 2000, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by
reference.
As best seen in FIG. 1A, the implant 10 includes a body portion 12 and a collar 16.
The body portion 12 is preferably tapered and includes threads 18 that mate to a preformed
threaded hole or osteotomy formed in the patient's jawbone (not shown). However, it
should be appreciated that the body portion 12 can also be configured so as to be self-
tapping. It should also be appreciated that although the illustrated body portion 12 is
tapered or conical, the body portion 12 can be substantially cylindrical. Moreover, in a
modified embodiment, the body portion 12 can be unthreaded, as shown in FIG. ID, if the
surgeon prefers to use an unthreaded implant 10. The implant 10 is preferably made of a
dental grade titanium alloy, although other suitable materials can also be used.
The collar 16 of the illustrated implant 10 is substantially cylindrical and has a top
surface 24 that is substantially flat. The collar 16 is defined in part by a vertical side wall
26 that in one embodiment is approximately 2 millimeters in axial length. In modified
embodiments, the collar 16 may have a conical or tapered side wall and/or atop surface that
24 is saddle-shaped or sloped.
As best seen in FIG. 1C, the implant 10 also includes an internal socket 28. The
internal socket 28 preferably includes a threaded chamber 30, a post receiving chamber 32,
and an anti-rotation chamber 34.
With reference to FIGS. 1B and 1C, the anti-rotation chamber 34 has a central
portion having a substantially cylindrical shape. The anti-rotation chamber 34 further
includes one or more radially extending rotational engagement portions each comprising a
channel or lobe 36 extending from the top surface. 24 to the bottom of the indexing chamber
34. In the illustrated implant, three engagement portions 36 are provided, each having a
substantially half circular shape. As best seen in FIG. 1B, the engagement portions 36 are
situated and evenly spaced around the perimeter of the anti-rotation chamber 34. Each

engagement portion 36 may be spaced 120 degrees apart from each other. The anti-rotation
chamber 34 is designed to mate with a corresponding anti-rotation region formed on
various mating components, such as, for example, a final abutment. The anti-rotation
chamber 34 primarily serves to prevent relative rotation between the mating component and
the implant 10.
It should he appreciated that in some embodiments the implant 10 does not include
the anti-rotation chamber 34. However, the implant 10 preferably includes the anti-rotation
chamber 34 because it helps to prevent the relative rotation between the mating components
(e.g., a final abutment) and the implant 10. It should also be appreciated that the anti-
rotation chamber 36 can be formed into a wide variety of other suitable shapes that may be
used with efficacy, giving due consideration to the goals of providing anti-rotation of
mating components, For example, the anti-rotation chamber 36 could comprise a
hexagonal recess or protrusion that is situated on the top surface 24 of the implant 10.
Nevertheless, the illustrated embodiment is preferred because it provides optimal clinical
efficacy, ease of use and also minimizes stress concentrations within the anti-rotation
chamber 34.
The post-receiving chamber 32 lies between the anti-rotation chamber 34 and the
threaded chamber 30. The post-receiving chamber 32 may have a diameter that is less than
the diameter of the anti-rotation chamber 36. The post-receiving receiving chamber 32 may
include a chamfered region 37, which is adjacent the threaded region 30. As will he
explained below, the post-receiving chamber 32 is sized and dimensioned to receive a post
that is attached to a mating dental component. The post and the post-receiving chamber 32
provide lateral support, which prevents the mating component from tipping off the implant.
However, it should be appreciated that in some embodiments the implant 10 can be formed
without the post-receiving chamber 32.
The threaded chamber 30 lies below the post-receiving chamber 32. The threaded
chamber 30 is threaded and has a diameter that may be less than the post-receiving chamber
32,
FIGS. 2A-2F illustrate an embodiment of an abutment 38 having certain features
and advantages according to an embodiment of present invention. The illustrated abutment
38 is sized and dimensioned to mate with the implant 10 described above. As with the
dental implant 10, the abutment 38 is preferably made of a dental grade titanium alloy,

although other suitable materials can be used. In another preferred embodiment, the
implant 10 and abutment 38 are formed as a unitary structure, as further discussed below.
As best seen in FIG. 2A, the outer surface of final abutment 38 preferably includes
an upper region 40, a flared region 42, an anti-rotation region 44, and a post 46. In the
preferred embodiment, the upper region 40 is substantially smooth and tapered. The upper
region 40 also has a top surface 48 that is substantially flat. Towards the bottom of the
upper region (i.e., the portion nearest the flared region 42) is a flared portion 45 that flares
outward towards a shoulder or ridge 47. The flared region 42 extends from the shoulder 47
and connects the upper region 40 to a bottom surface 50, which preferably is substantially
flat. A margin 49 (see FIG. 2B) defines an interface between the shoulder 47 and the flared
portion 45.
The upper region 40 also preferably includes a plurality of grooves 51. These
grooves 51 help orient and prevent the rotation of mating component (not shown), such as,
for example, a final restoration, which typically has an inner surface that matches or
engages the shape of the upper region 40 of the abutment 38. Of course, those skilled in the
art will readily appreciate that the upper region 40 and the grooves 51 can be formed into a
variety of other shapes that can also provide an anti-rotational interface between the mating
component and the abutment 38.
It should be appreciated that although the illustrated cross-sections of the upper
region 40 and flared region 42 are round in modified arrangements the cross-sections can be
non-round. For example, the cross-section of the upper region and flared region can have a
non-round cross-section that resembles the cross-section of a natural tooth. In addition, the
shoulder 47 need not be horizontal as it is shown in the illustrated embodiment. For
example, in modified embodiments, the shoulder can be sloped, saddle shaped etc.
To permanently secure a Final restoration, cement can be applied to the upper region
40 of the abutment 38. Alternatively, the final restoration can be coupled to the abutment
38 by a screw (not shown). In such an arrangement, a screw hole (not shown) can be
provided on the side of the abutment 38.
As shown in FIG. 2B, the abutment 38 advantageously includes an inner bore 52
that extends through the center of the abutment 38. The inner bore 52" is preferably defined
by a first and second region 54, 56. The diameter of the first region 54 is preferably slightly
larger than the diameter of the second region 56. Accordingly, a seat 58 is formed between

the first and second regions 54," 56. The seat 58 supports a coupling screw 62 (see FIG-
3 A), which will be described in detail below. Optionally, the second region 56 can include
internal capture threads (not shown).
With continued reference to FIG. 2E, the abutment 38 includes an engagement
feature 3, which is configured to engage complementary engagement figure of another
component. As will be explained in more detail below, the engagement feature 3 and
complementary engagement feature can be configured to provide an interference fit, a
friction fit, or a snap-fit between the two components. In the preferred embodiment, a snap
fit is formed between the two components. As shown in FIG. 2F, the engagement feature
comprises a circumferentially extending groove 53 formed on the surface of the first region
54 of the inner bore 52. Preferably, the groove 53 has a trapezoidal cross-section, with one
surface 53a of the groove 53 extending at a different angle relative to a base 53b of the
groove 53 than a second surface 53c. In modified embodiments, the groove 54 can be
circular, smooth, rectangular, etc. In still other embodiments, the engagement feature 3 can
be configured in a different manner to mate with the engagement feature of the1 other
component. For example, the engagement feature may comprise an annular protrusion or
series of protrusions, prongs and the like that engage corresponding recesses and/or prongs
on the other component.
With reference back to FIG. 2A, the diameter of the bottom surface 50 is preferably
approximately equal to the diameter of the top surface 24 of the implant 10. Extending
from the bottom surface 50 is the anti-rotation region 44, which is sized and dimensioned to
fit within the anti-rotation chamber 36 of the implant. Accordingly, as best seen in FIGS.
2B and 2D, the anti-rotation region 44 is substantially cylindrical and includes three
protrusions 60. The protrusions 60 preferably extend along the entire length of the anti-
rotation region 44 and have a half circular shape. The protrusions 60 are arranged around
the perimeter of the indexing region 44 approximately 120 degrees apart relative to the
center axis of the final abutment 38.
As with the anti-rotation chamber 36 of the implant 10, it should be appreciated that
the abutment 38 can be configured without the anti-rotation region 44. However, it is
preferred that the abutment 38 include the anti-rotation 44 because it helps to prevent
relative rotation between the implant 10 and the final abutment 38. It should also he
appreciated that the anti-rotation region 44 can be formed into a wide variety of other

suitable shapes that may be used with efficacy to prevent rotation of the implant 10 and the
final abutment 38.
Below the indexing region 44 is the post 46. The post 46 is substantially cylindrical
and is sized and dimensioned to fit within the post-receiving chamber 32 of the implant 10.
As mentioned above, the post 36 provides lateral support to the abutment 38 when it is
placed upon the implant 10. However, it should be appreciated in a modified embodiment
the abutment 38 can be configured without the post 46.
Turning now to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the coupling screw 62 is sized and dimensioned
to extend through the inner bore 52 of the final abutment 38 and to couple the final
abutment 38 to the implant 10. As with the final abutment 38, the coupling screw 62 is
preferably made of a dental grade titanium alloy. However, other suitable materials can be
used.
The coupling screw 62 has an externally threaded lower region 64. The threaded
lower region 64 is sized and dimensioned to engage the threads of the threaded chamber 30
of the implant 10 (see FIG. 1C). The threaded lower region 64 can also engage; capture
threads that can be formed on the second region 56 of the final abutment 38. In such an
arrangement, the coupling screw 62 engages the capture threads so that the coupling screw
62 does not become disassociated as the final abutment 38 is transferred and fitted to the
patient's mouth.
The illustrated coupling screw 62 also advantageously includes a hexagonal recess
70 located within a head 72 of the screw 62. The hexagonal recess 70 allows for the
insertion of a hexagonally shaped tool such as a conventional Allen ® wrench, which can
be used to apply rotational force to the coupling screw 62. The head 72 also
advantageously includes outer threads 74, which are formed on the outer surface 1.5 of the
head 72. The purpose and function of the outer threads 74 will he described below.
Alternatively, the threads 74 can be formed internally within the recess 70.
In modified embodiments, the final abutment can be coupled to the.dental implant
in other maimers. For example, the final abutment can include configured a threaded post
that is adapted to be received within the threaded chamber 30 of the implant 10. One
advantage of such an arrangement is that the final abutment can be attached to the implant
without a coupling screw.

FIGS. 4A-4F illustrate one embodiment of a healing cap 76, which can be used to
cover the abutment 38 after, for example, stage two surgery. The healing cap 76 may be
made of a synthetic polymer, such as, for example, polyester or Nylon. However, it should
be appreciated that other suitable materials can also be used. The healing cap 76 is
preferably white or close to natural tooth color so that it has a natural appearance when it is
placed in the patient's mouth.
The healing cap 76 includes an inner surface 77 which defines an internal cavity 78.
The inner surface 77 defines a bottom opening 82, The inner surface 77 is sized and
dimensioned such that the healing cap fits over the upper region 40 of the abutment 38.
With particular reference to FIG. 4A, the inner surface 77 preferably includes a stop for
limiting advance of the healing cap 76 onto the abutment 38, such as, a base surface 84 that
is sized and dimensioned to rest against the flanged portion 45 of the final abutment 38,
See also FIG. 4C.
Although not illustrated, the healing cap 76 may include a tissue retraction flange
that is sized and dimensioned such that when the healing cap 76 is placed upon the
abutment 38 it extends beyond at least the upper limit of the shoulder 47 of the: final
abutment 38.
As best seen in FIGS. 4A, 4D, and 4F, the healing cap 76 preferably has a
complementary engagement feature 5 formed within the inner surface 77 and configured to
engage the engagement features 3 of the abutment 38 depicted in FIG. 2E. In the illustrated
embodiment, the complementary engagement feature 5 comprises a plurality of prongs 7,
which include protrusions 9 configured to engage the recess 53 preferably in a snap-fit. In
the preferred embodiment, the prongs 7 deflect inwardly as the prongs are advanced into the
inner bore 52 and then expand and the protrusions 9 enter the recess 53. Of course, those of
skill in the art will recognize other configurations for providing a snap fit between the two
components. For example, the cap 76 may include a recess positioned on a post configured
to engage a protrusion formed on the bore 52. In addition, as mentioned above, the features
3, 5 can be configured for friction and/or interference fits. Preferably, the features 3, 5 are
positioned on the abutment 37 and cap. 76 such that they are generally protected from
materials within the mouth, In this manner, the features 3,5 are not damaged as they are
inserted within the patient. In the illustrated embodiment, the features 3, 5 are protected by

providing an engagement within the bore 52 and/or in a generally upper portion of the cap
76 and abutment 38, distanced from the shoulder 47,
As with the final abutment 38, it should be appreciated that although the illustrated
cross-sections of the healing cap. 76 are round in modified arrangements the cross-sections
can be non-round. For example, the cross-sections can have a non-round cross-section that
resembles the cross-section of a natural tooth.
In use, the surgeon typically first places the implant 10 into the patient's jawbone
during stage two surgery. A healing cap is placed over the implant. The patient returns
home for a first healing period, which is typically four to ten months, In stage three, the
surgeon makes an incision to expose the implant 10 and removes the healing cap. The
surgeon then couples the final abutment 38 to the implant 10 with the coupling screw 62.
The surgeon then places the hearing cap 76 over the final abutment 38 and engages .the
features 3, 5, on the abutment and healing cap respectively, to couple the healing cap 76 to
the abutment 38. In the illustrated embodiment, the surgeon presses the healing cap 76 onto
the abutment 38 until the features 3, 5 engage in a snap fit. Accordingly, the healing cap 76
is held securely against the final abutment 38. The healing cap 76 helps to control the
healing and growth of the patient's gum tissue around the implant site. The healing cap 76
also improves the appearance of the patient's mouth and provides the patient with a
temporary chewing surface. If desired, the healing cap 76 can also be used to support a
temporary restoration and/or may itself be shaped in the form of a temporary restoration.
The patient then returns home for a second healing period. The patient then returns
to the surgeon. The surgeon can pry the healing cap 76 from the abutment 38. At this
point, the surgeon takes the impression of the patient's mouth to record the position,
orientation and shape of the abutment within the mouth. In a modified arrangement, the
abutment 38 can be attached during a traditional stage two surgery. In such an
arrangement, an impression of the final abutment 38 can also be made during stage two
before the healing cap 76 is attached to the abutment 38. In still a modified arrangement, a
temporary abutment preferably having a height at least equal to the thickness of the gingival
tissue can be used during the first and/or second healing periods.
In a modified embodiment, the dental implant and abutment can be combined into a
single integral or permanently coupled component 200, which is shown in FIGS. 5A-5E. In
this embodiment, the abutment 38' and implant 10' can be configured substantially as

described above. According, the illustrated embodiment, the implant 10' has an inner bore
52 comprising an upper region 54 and a lower region 56, which is preferably unthreaded.
The upper region 54 preferably includes an engagement feature 3, which is a
circumferentially extending groove 53 as described above. Additionally, the upper region
54' has one or more anti-rotational features (e.g., longitudinally extending slots 55), which
can be engaged by a tool (e.g., a wrench) for driving the implant 200 into the patient. The
slots 55 extend between the groove 53 and the threaded lower region 56.
The healing cap 76 can be coupled to the implant 200 as described above.
FIGS. 6A-F illustrate one embodiment of an impression cap 120 having certain
features and advantages according to the present invention. As will be explained below, the
impression cap 120 can be used to take an impression of an abutment, such as the one
described above. In this manner, the shape of the position and/or orientation of the
abutment and the implant can be recorded. This information can then be used to construct a
final restoration as is known in the art.
The illustrated impression cap 120 comprises a body 122 with a proximal end 124
and a distal end 126. The body 122 is preferably made of resilient moldable plastic and/or
polymer, such as, for example, polycarbonate. The body 122 defines an inner surface 128,
which forms an inner cavity 130. The inner cavity 130 is configured such that the
impression cap 120 can fit over the upper region 40 of the abutment 38. As best seen in
FIG. 6C, the inner surface 128 comprises a side wall 134 and roof 136.
The impression cap 120 is preferably configured to engage the abutment 38.
Specifically, the impression cap includes a complementary engagement feature 132, which
can be configured as describe above for engaging the engagement feature 3 of the implant
10,200. In the illustrated embodiment, the impression cap 120 engages the implant 10, 200
in a snap fit that is achieved by providing the cap 120 with a plurality of resiliently
deflectable prongs 150 with protrusions 152 configured to engage the recess 53 of an
abutment, as depicted in FIGS. 2E-F, in a snap fit. Of course, as mentioned above, those of
skill in the art will recognize other configurations for providing a snap fit between the two
components. For example, the cap 120 may include a recess positioned on a post
configured to engage a protrusion formed on the bore 52. In addition, as mentioned above,
the features 3, 132 can be configured for friction and/or interference fits. Preferably, the
features 3, 132 are positioned on the abutment 37 and cap 120 such that they are generally

protected from materials within the mouth and in particular the impression material which
is eventually placed around the cap 120. In this manner, the features 3, 150 are not
damaged or inhibited.
With reference to FIGS. 6A-C and 6F, the impression cap 120 preferably includes
one or more embedment features 160. As will be explained in more detail below, the
embedment features 160 facilitate the gripping and retention of the impression cap 120
within an impression tray. The one or more embedment features preferably define at least
one interference surface 162, which faces lies generally transverse to a longitudinal axis
164 of the impression cap. In the illustrated embodiment, the embedment feature 160
comprises one or more flanges 166, which are positioned the distal end 126 of the main
body 122. In certain embodiments, the flange(s) 166 may include a plurality of through
holes 168 (see also FIG. 6B), which extends through the four corners of the flange 166.
A plurality of elongated protrusions 180 are formed on the side wall and sized to
engage the grooves 51 of the abutment 38,' when the impression cap 120 is positioned
thereon. The protrusions 180 and grooves 51 thus mate to substantially prevent the rotation
of the impression cap 120 relative to the abutment 38.
The impression cap 120 has angled surfaces 182 at the proximal end 124 that is
configured to abut against the flared portion 45 of the implant 10 when the impression cap
120 is positioned thereon.
It should be appreciated that, although the illustrated embodiments of the implant,
abutment, healing cap, and impression cap have round cross-sections, in modified
arrangements the cross-sections of one or more of these components can be can be non-
round.
In use, the impression cap 120 can be used to take an impression of the final
abutment 38 and/or record the orientation of the implant 10. Such impression can be taken
during stage two or stage three as deemed effective by the dental practitioner. The surgeon
snaps the impression cap 120 onto the abutment 38. An impression is then preferably taken
of the whole arch or quadrant if the patient's mouth. This typically involves using a U-
shaped impression tray (not shown) that is filled with an impression material. The tray is
inserted into the mouth over the impression cap 120. As such, the impression cap 120
becomes embedded in the impression material. The interference surface 162 of the cap 120

facilitates mechanically interloclcing between the impression material and the impression
cap 120. Such interloclcing is further enhanced by the holes 168.
Once the impression material is set, the tray 190 is removed from the mouth. The
impression cap 120 remains embedded in the impression material 192 and is thus
uncoupled from the abutment 38 as the tray 190 is removed. The tray is then sent to a
dental laboratory and is used by a dental technician to fabricate a final restoration (i.e., a
dental prosthesis). An analogue (described below) of the abutment can be placed within the
impression cap, with the same axial orientation as the abutment 38 and the implant 10 in
the patient's mouth. The impression tray is then filled or covered with dental stone or any
modeling material. After the modeling material has set the model is separated from the
impression. The model is an accurate reproduction of the implant site and allows the dental
technician to fabricate the final restoration for the patient in the proper position in axial and
rotational alignment.
In one embodiment, the abutment, healing cap and/or transfer cap are sold and
packaged together as a kit.
Figures 7A-7D illustrate an exemplary analogue 400 of the abutment 38 or dental
implant 200 described above described above with reference to FIGS. 2A-2F and FIGS.
5A-5E The analogue 400 includes an upper region 402 that has substantially the same
shape and size as the upper region 40 of the abutment 38. Accordingly, the upper region
402 of the illustrated analogue 400 also includes a groove or recess 51. The analogue 400
also includes a lower region 404, "which is configured to be retained within, by way of
example, a stone plaster model of the patient's mouth as is known in the art.
The analogue 400 also includes an inner bore 406 with an engagement feature 3,
which can be configured as described above to engage complementary engagement figure
of another component. In particular, as mentioned above, the analog can be inserted into
the impression cap 120 so as to take the same axial orientation as the abutment 38 and the
implant 10 in the patient's mouth. The impression tray is then filled or covered with dental
stone or any modeling material. The lower region 404 of the analogue 400 is embedded
into the modeling material. After the modeling material has set the model is separated from
the impression. The model is an accurate reproduction of the implant site and allows the
dental technician to fabricate the final restoration for the patient in the proper position in
axial and rotational alignment.

Figures 8A-D illustrate a coping 500 that can be used to fabricate the final
restoration. The illustrated coping 500 is configured to mate with the exemplary abutment
38 (or implant 300) and analogue 400 described above. Of course, those skilled in the art
will recognize that the illustrated coping can be modified to mate with abutments and
analogues of different shapes and sizes.
The coping 500 comprises a main body 502. The main body 502 includes an inner
surface 506 that defines an internal cavity 504. The inner surface 506 is configured such
that the coping 500 can fit over the upper region 402 of the analogue 400 and the final
abutment 38 described above. Accordingly, the coping 500 includes at least one anti-
rotation member 510, which is configured to mate with the recess 51 of the analogue and
recess of the abutment so as to prevent rotation of the coping 500 with respect to the
analogue 400 and/or the abutment 38.
The inner surface can include includes one or more feet or standoffs (not shown).
See e.g., U.S. Patent No. 6,672,871, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by
reference herein.
The inner surface 506 also preferably includes a flanged portion 512. The flanged
portion 512 is configured to rest upon a lower portion or shoulder of the analogue 400 and
the abutment 38. Preferably, the flanged portion is sized and configured such that the
coping is centered on the analogue.
In one embodiment, the coping 500 is used with investment casting techniques to
create a metal coping with an inner surface substantially similar to the inner surface 506 of
the coping 500. In this method, the coping 500 is preferably made of plastic or another
material suitable for investment casting. The technician applies, byway of example, wax to
the outer surface 514 of the coping 500 to form a model of a metal coping. The technician
removes the wax and the coping 500 from the analogue 400 and encases the combination in
an investment material. The investment material is then heated to remove the wax and
coping 500. The technician fills the investment material with a metal, such as, for example,
gold or another suitable material. Once the metal solidifies, the investment material is
broken to release the metal coping. To form the final restoration, a porcelain cover or other
suitable tooth-like'material is attached to the metal coping using well known techniques.
The metal coping provides structural strength and rigidity to the final restoration. The final

restoration can be coupled to the abutment 38 or implant 300 using cement, bolts or other
well-known techniques.
In a modified embodiment, the coping 500 is made of material suitable for forming
part of a final restoration, such as, for example, gold or a ceramic material Preferably, the
material is a ceramic fusing metal material to which, by way of example, porcelain can be
directly fused. The coping 500 has substantially the same shape and size as the plastic
coping described above. Because the coping 500 is made of a fairly nigged material, the
coping can form part of the final restoration. That is, a cover made of porcelain or other
suitable material can be directly attached to the coping 500, thereby forming the final
restoration.
hi one embodiment, the abutment, healing cap, coping, analogue and/or transfer cap
are sold and packaged together as a ldt.
Although invention has been disclosed in the context of certain preferred
embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present
invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to combinations, sub-
combinations, other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious
modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present
invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments
described above, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.

WE CLAIM:
1. A dental implant component (200), the component comprising:
a distal end (126) having a top surface (166);
a proximal end (124) that defines an opening;
an inner surface (128) that defines an internal cavity (130) that is
substantially closed at the distal end (126) of the component (200); and
at least one resiliently deflectable prong (150) disposed in the internal
cavity (130), the prong (150) configured to releasingly engage one or
more grooves (51) formed in a bore of a prosthetic abutment (38), the
inner surface (128) extending longitudinally beyond the prong (150);
a proximally facing slanted surface (182) at the proximal end (124)
configured to abut against a flared flange (42) of the abutment (38);
one or more embedment features (160) for facilitating the gripping and
retention of the component (200) within impression material and
positioned on the distal end (126) of the component (200),
wherein the one or more embedment features (160) comprises a flange
(166), which defines an interference surface (162) that lies generally
transverse to a longitudinal axis (164) of the component (200).

2. A dental implant component as claimed in claim 1, wherein the prong (150)
is configured to engage the one or more grooves (51) of the abutment (38) in a
snap fit.
3. A dental implant component as claimed in claim 1, wherein the prong (150)
comprises a protrusion (180) formed on an outer surface of the prong (150), the
protrusion sized and dimensioned so as to engage the corresponding groove (51)
of the prosthetic abutment (38) in a snap fit.
4. A dental implant component as claimed in claim 1, wherein the flange (42) is
positioned at the distal end (126) of the component (200).
5. A dental implant component as claimed in claim 1, wherein the flange (42)
comprises one or more through-holes (168).
6. A dental implant component as claimed in claim 1, wherein the inner surface
(128) of the component (200) comprises a top surface (166) that generally
faces the proximal end (124) of the component (200) and wherein the prong
(150) extends proximally from the top surface (166).

7. A dental implant system, the system comprising:
a dental implant (10);
an abutment (38) comprising an upper region (40) and an inner bore (52)
having at least one engagement feature (3) positioned therein;
a mating component (200) having a distal end (126) having a top surface
(166), a proximal end (124) that defines an opening, an inner surface
(128) that defines an internal cavity (130) that is substantially closed at
the distal end (128) of component (200) for receiving the upper region
(40) of the abutment (38), at least one complementary engagement
feature (150) disposed in the internal cavity (130) and configured to
releaseably engage the engagement feature (3) within the inner bore
(52), the inner surface (128) extending longitudinally in a proximal
direction beyond the complementary engagement feature (150), and at
least one anti-rotational feature (180) formed on the inner surface (128)
of the mating component (200) for engaging at least one complementary
anti-rotational feature (51) formed on the abutment (38) to substantially
prevent rotation of the mating component (200) relative to the abutment
(38) in an assembled configuration;

wherein the engagement feature (3) and complementary engagement
feature (150) are configured to provide a snap-fit;
one or more embedment features (160) for facilitating the gripping and
retention of the component (200) within impression material and
positioned on the distal end (126) of the component (200);
wherein the one or more embedment features (160) comprises a flange
(166), which defines an interference surface that lies generally transverse
to a longitudinal axis (6c) of the component (200).
8. The dental system as claimed in claim 7, wherein the engagement feature (3)
and complementary engagement feature (150) are configured to provide an
interference fit.
9. The dental system as claimed in claim 7, wherein the mating component (200)
is a transfer cap with features for engaging impression material.
10. The dental system as claimed in claim 7, wherein the abutment (38) is
coupled to the implant by a screw.

11. The dental system as claimed in claim 7, wherein the abutment (38) is
integrally formed with the dental implant (10).



ABSTRACT


TITLE: " A DENTAL IMPLANT COMPONENT AND A SYSTEM"
The invention relates to a dental implant component (200), the component comprising a
distal end (126) having a top surface (166); a proximal end (124) that defines an
opening; an inner surface (128) that defines an internal cavity (130) that is
substantially closed at the distal end (126) of the component (200); and at least
one resiliently deflectable prong (150) disposed in the internal cavity (130), the
prong (150) configured to releasingly engage one or more grooves (51) formed
in a bore of a prosthetic abutment (38), the inner surface (128) extending
longitudinally beyond the prong (150); a proximally facing slanted surface (182)
at the proximal end (124) configured to abut against a flared flange (42) of the
abutment (38); one or more embedment features (160) for facilitating the
gripping and retention of the component (200) within impression material and
positioned on the distal end (126) of the component (200), wherein the one or
more embedment features (160) comprises a flange (166), which defines an
interference surface (162) that lies generally transverse to a longitudinal axis
(164) of the component (200).

Documents:

02877-kolnp-2007-abstract.pdf

02877-kolnp-2007-claims.pdf

02877-kolnp-2007-correspondence others 1.1.pdf

02877-kolnp-2007-correspondence others 1.2.pdf

02877-kolnp-2007-correspondence others.pdf

02877-kolnp-2007-description complete.pdf

02877-kolnp-2007-drawings.pdf

02877-kolnp-2007-form 1 1.1.pdf

02877-kolnp-2007-form 1.pdf

02877-kolnp-2007-form 2.pdf

02877-kolnp-2007-form 3.pdf

02877-kolnp-2007-form 5.pdf

02877-kolnp-2007-international publication.pdf

02877-kolnp-2007-international search report.pdf

02877-kolnp-2007-pct request form 1.1.pdf

02877-kolnp-2007-pct request form.pdf

2877-KOLNP-2007-(27-09-2011)-EXAMINATION REPORT REPLY RECEIVED.pdf

2877-KOLNP-2007-(27-09-2011)-FORM 3.pdf

2877-KOLNP-2007-(27-09-2011)-OTHERS PCT FORM.pdf

2877-KOLNP-2007-(29-08-2012)-ABSTRACT.pdf

2877-KOLNP-2007-(29-08-2012)-AMANDED CLAIMS.pdf

2877-KOLNP-2007-(29-08-2012)-ANNEXURE TO FORM 3.pdf

2877-KOLNP-2007-(29-08-2012)-CORRESPONDENCE.pdf

2877-KOLNP-2007-(29-08-2012)-DESCRIPTION (COMPLETE).pdf

2877-KOLNP-2007-(29-08-2012)-DRAWINGS.pdf

2877-KOLNP-2007-(29-08-2012)-FORM-1.pdf

2877-KOLNP-2007-(29-08-2012)-FORM-2.pdf

2877-KOLNP-2007-(29-08-2012)-OTHERS.pdf

2877-KOLNP-2007-(29-08-2012)-PETITION UNDER RULE 137.pdf

2877-kolnp-2007-CANCELLED PAGES.pdf

2877-KOLNP-2007-CORRESPONDENCE-1.2.pdf

2877-kolnp-2007-CORRESPONDENCE.pdf

2877-kolnp-2007-EXAMINATION REPORT.pdf

2877-kolnp-2007-form 18.pdf

2877-kolnp-2007-FORM 26.pdf

2877-kolnp-2007-GRANTED-ABSTRACT.pdf

2877-kolnp-2007-GRANTED-CLAIMS.pdf

2877-kolnp-2007-GRANTED-DESCRIPTION (COMPLETE).pdf

2877-kolnp-2007-GRANTED-DRAWINGS.pdf

2877-kolnp-2007-GRANTED-FORM 1.pdf

2877-kolnp-2007-GRANTED-FORM 2.pdf

2877-kolnp-2007-GRANTED-FORM 3.pdf

2877-kolnp-2007-GRANTED-FORM 5.pdf

2877-kolnp-2007-GRANTED-SPECIFICATION-COMPLETE.pdf

2877-kolnp-2007-INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION.pdf

2877-kolnp-2007-INTERNATIONAL SEARCH REPORT & OTHERS.pdf

2877-KOLNP-2007-PA.pdf

2877-kolnp-2007-PETITION UNDER RULE 137.pdf

2877-kolnp-2007-REPLY TO EXAMINATION REPORT.pdf

abstract-02877-kolnp-2007.jpg


Patent Number 258676
Indian Patent Application Number 2877/KOLNP/2007
PG Journal Number 06/2014
Publication Date 07-Feb-2014
Grant Date 30-Jan-2014
Date of Filing 07-Aug-2007
Name of Patentee NOBEL BIOCARE SERVICES AG
Applicant Address BALZ, ZIMMERMANN-STRASSE 7 CH-8152 GLATTBRUGG
Inventors:
# Inventor's Name Inventor's Address
1 HURSON, STEVEN, M. 5575 CANDLEBERRY LANE YORBA LINDA, CALIFORNIA 92887
PCT International Classification Number A61C 8/00
PCT International Application Number PCT/US2006/009480
PCT International Filing date 2006-03-16
PCT Conventions:
# PCT Application Number Date of Convention Priority Country
1 60/678,095 2005-05-05 U.S.A.
2 60/662,950 2005-03-17 U.S.A.