Abstract

A tooth separator apparatus, according to one embodiment, includes a tong having two resilient arms that are biased in an open position and having a wedge at each end of each arm. A drive shaft moves a compression member to overcome the resiliency of the arms and move them and the wedges in a closing direction for separating the teeth. The drive shaft can also move the compression member in the opposite direction to release the closing force on the arms and thereby permit their resiliency to allow them and the wedges to move to an open position.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
• A61C 5/12 - Tooth clamps; Dam holders
• A61C 3/00 - Dental tools or instruments

Abstract

A tooth separator apparatus, according to one embodiment, includes a tong having two arms constructed of a resilient material and having a wedge disposed at each end. An expander member is coupled to the two arms, and a drive shaft is coupled to the expander member. When a user moves or rotates the drive shaft, the expander member is moved into a position which causes the two arms and wedges to separate by a distance sufficient to permit the wedges to be inserted in a patient's mouth and positioned adjacent to two teeth that are to be separated. When the user rotates the drive shaft in the reverse direction, the expander member returns to its original position thereby releasing the separating force on the resilient arms and permitting them and the wedges to move in a closing direction with sufficient force to separate the adjacent teeth.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61C 5/00 - Filling or capping teeth