WO2024161385A1

WO2024161385A1 - Scanning dental abutments

Info

Publication number: WO2024161385A1
Application number: PCT/IL2023/050125
Authority: WO
Inventors: Nikola KHOURY
Original assignee: Khoury Dent Ltd
Current assignee: Khoury Dent Ltd
Priority date: 2023-02-05
Filing date: 2023-02-05
Publication date: 2024-08-08
Anticipated expiration: 2025-08-05

Abstract

A dental scanning abutment, a kit and a method, the dental scanning abutment comprising: a body; a connector at a proximal end of the body, for connecting said body to a dental implant via an abutment-connection of the dental implant, whereby said body is connectable to the dental implant, which is implanted in a mouth of a patient; wherein said body having an external layer, the external layer comprising symbols indicating at least: a type of connection of the abutment-connection of the dental implant; a height of a gingiva of the patient at a location where the dental implant is implanted, wherein the symbols are indicated on the surface, such that a scanner scanning the dental scanning abutment can generate a three dimensional model (3D) of the body having the symbols visible on the 3D model.

Description

SCANNING DENTAL ABUTMENTS

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of abutments in general, and to dental scanning abutments, in particular.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Prosthetic implant abutments, referred to as “abutments” in the disclosure, are required for connecting between an implant on one side and a prosthesis, also referred to as crown, on the other side.

[0003] Dental abutments are commonly connected to the implant by a screw inserted from the top of the abutment and emerging from its base for screwing.

[0004] The type of abutment to be used in a certain location depends on many parameters, including but not limited to the specific location within the jaw, e.g., the tooth being replaced, the type of implant used, the height of the gingiva at the location, how the implant is positioned, or the like.

[0005] According to the relevant parameters, the dentist may determine the most appropriate abutment for the patient at the location, screw a temporary abutment to the implant, image or generate an impression of the abutment in its environment, and send the image or impression to the laboratory with all the relevant information, such that the laboratory can produce a permanent abutment as required. Once the permanent abutment is inserted into the implant, the dentist may determine the shape of the crown to be made for the patient, and installed upon the abutment.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0006] One exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is a dental scanning abutment, comprising a body; a connector at a proximal end of the body, for connecting said body to a dental implant via an abutment-connection of the dental implant, whereby said body is connectable to the dental implant, which is implanted in a mouth of a patient; wherein said body having an external layer, the external layer comprising symbols indicating at least: a type of connection of the abutment-connection of the dental implant; a height of a gingiva of the patient at a location where the dental implant is implanted, wherein the symbols are indicated on the surface, such that a scanner scanning the dental scanning abutment can generate a three dimensional model (3D) of the body having the symbols visible on the 3D model. Within the dental scanning abutment, the type of connection optionally comprises a product identifier of the dental implant and a platform connection code indicating a type of platform of the dental implant. Within the dental scanning abutment, the height of the gingiva is optionally indicated by a number of slots marked on the surface. Within the dental scanning abutment, slots are optionally marked on a distal face of the body. Within the dental scanning abutment, the scanner is optionally an optical scanner. Within the dental scanning abutment, the symbols are optionally marked by engraving into the external envelope. Within the dental scanning abutment, the symbols are optionally marked by engraving into the external envelope to a depth of at least 0.2mm. Within the dental scanning abutment, the dental scanning abutment is optionally an angled abutment. Within the dental scanning abutment, the symbols may also indicate a position code of an internal thread of the dental scanning abutment. Within the dental scanning abutment, a second dental scanning abutment can optionally be connected to a second dental implant, wherein the dental implant and the second dental implant are optionally implanted in neighboring teeth, and wherein at least one of the dental scanning abutment and the second dental scanning abutment is an angled dental scanning abutment. Within the dental scanning abutment, said external layer is optionally made of a non-metallic material that is suitable for the scanner to scan. Within the dental scanning abutment, said body optionally has at a distal portion thereof a screw port for enabling screwing the dental scanning abutment to the dental implant. Within the dental scanning abutment, said scanner is optionally scanning within the mouth of the patient or in a model built upon an impression taken from the mouth of the patient [0007] Another exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is a kit comprising: a plurality of dental scanning abutments, each dental scanning abutment of the plurality of dental scanning abutments comprising: a body; a connector at a proximal end of the body, for connecting said body to a dental implant via an abutmentconnection of the dental implant which is implanted in a mouth of a patient; wherein said body having an external layer, the external layer comprising symbols indicating at least: a type of connection of the abutment-connection of the dental implant; a height of a gingiva of the patient at a location where the dental implant is implanted, wherein the symbols are indicated on the surface, such that a scanner scanning the dental scanning abutment can generate a three dimensional model (3D) of the body having the symbols visible on the 3D model, and wherein the plurality of dental scanning abutments comprises dental scanning abutments having different symbols. Within the kit, the plurality of dental scanning abutments optionally comprise: a first dental scanning abutment having on the external layer a first symbol; a second dental scanning abutment having on the external layer a second symbol; a third dental scanning abutment having on the external layer a third symbol, wherein the first symbol, the second symbol and the third symbol optionally indicate a same type of connection, and wherein the first symbol, the second symbol and the third symbol optionally indicate a different height of the gingiva. Within the kit, the plurality of dental scanning abutments optionally comprises one or more straight dental scanning abutments and one or more angular dental scanning abutments. Within the kit, the plurality of dental scanning abutments optionally comprises two or more different angular dental scanning abutments. The kit may further comprise a screwdriver for screwing each of the dental scanning abutment into the dental implant, wherein the each of the plurality of dental scanning abutments having at a distal portion thereof a screw port for enabling screwing each of the dental scanning abutment to the dental implant, wherein the screwdriver configured to match the screw port.

[0008] Another exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is a method comprising: obtaining a 3D model created upon a mouth of a patient, the 3D model depicting a dental scanning abutment; extracting from the model symbols marked on the dental scanning abutment; analyzing the symbol to extract an identifier of the dental scanning abutment; and querying a database to obtain a dental abutment model corresponding to the dental scanning abutment. Within the method, the dental scanning abutment is optionally an angled dental scanning abutment. The method can further comprise: replacing in the 3D model the dental scanning abutment with the dental abutment model; and adjusting the dental abutment model for the patient.

THE BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The present disclosed subject matter will be understood and appreciated more fully from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings in which corresponding or like numerals or characters indicate corresponding or like components. Unless indicated otherwise, the drawings provide exemplary embodiments or aspects of the disclosure and do not limit the scope of the disclosure. In the drawings:

[0010] Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of scanning during a dental procedure.

[0011] Figure 2 is a schematic illustration of a part of a patient’s jaw, as captured by a scanner;

[0012] Figure 3 is an illustration of a mouth having a few scanning abutments installed therein, with a scanner, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosure;

[0013] Figure 4 is a side view of an angled scanning abutment having a long screwing thread, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosure;

[0014] Figures 5A-5C are, respectively, top, lateral and medial views of an angled scanning abutment having a long screwing thread, wherein after screwing into the implant, the recess is aligned with a vertex between two faces of the hexagonal member, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosure;

[0015] Figures 5D-5F are, respectively, top, lateral and medial views of an angled scanning abutment having a long screwing thread, wherein after screwing into the implant, the recess is aligned with a face of the hexagonal member, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosure;

[0016] Figure 6 is a side view of an angled scanning abutment having a short screwing thread, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosure;

[0017] Figures 7A-7C are, respectively, top, lateral and medial views of an angled scanning abutment having a short screwing thread, wherein after screwing into the implant, the recess is aligned with a vertex between two faces of the hexagonal member, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosure; [0018] Figures 7D-7F are, respectively, top, lateral and medial views of an angled scanning abutment having a short screwing thread, wherein after screwing into the implant, the recess is aligned with a face of the hexagonal member, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosure;

[0019] Figures 8 A, 8B, 8C and 8D are, respectively, a distal view, a lateral view, a side view and a medial view of a straight dental abutment adapted for locations with a low gingiva height, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosure;

[0020] Figures 9 A, 9B, 9C and 9D are, respectively, a distal view, a lateral view, a side view and a medial view of a straight dental abutment adapted for locations with a medium gingiva height, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosure;

[0021] Figures 10A, 10B, 10C and 10D are, respectively, a distal view, a lateral view, a side view and a medial view of a straight dental abutment adapted for locations with a high gingiva height, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosure;

[0022] Figure 11 is an illustration of a kit of dental scanning abutments, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosure; and

[0023] Figure 12 is a flowchart of steps in a method for obtaining images and information in a dental laboratory, and using the same for making abutments, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Referring to Fig. 1, showing scanning during a dental procedure. A dentist 100 is treating a patient 104. In the course of dentist 100 performing a dental check or procedure, dentist 100 inserts a scanner 108 into mouth 112 of patient 104.

[0025] Scanner 108 may be an optical scanner such as a camera or a video camera, a thermal camera, a distance-based scanner such as a radar, a lidar, a desktop scanner used for scanning models, or the like.

[0026] Scanner 108 may capture one or more scanned images, for example still images or a stream of video frames of the patient’s teeth and additional objects imageable by the scanner, for example implants, abutments, screws, or the like. Some of the objects, such as dental scanning abutments, may be inserted temporarily into the patient’s mouth, and scanned for the purpose of designing and making a permanent object, after which the temporary objects are removed. When the permanent object is ready, it may be inserted into the patient’s mouth.

[0027] A computing system 118 can be operatively connected to scanner 108, for example the connection may be wired or wireless. An image 116 captured by the scanner may be displayed on display device 120 associated with computing system 118, such that the dentist can view the teeth, gingiva and other objects enlarged and optionally from other angles than are feasible for dentist 100 without the scanner. Additionally or alternatively, a model such as a three dimensional (3D) model can be generated upon output of scanner 108. For example, a 3D model can be generated upon two images taken from different locations, or upon output from a radar or Lidar scanner. In alternative embodiments, dentist 100 may generate a physical impression from one or two of the patient’s jaws.

[0028] Referring now to Fig. 2, showing an image 200 of a part of a jaw, as captured by an optical scanner 108 or projected from a 3D model created by scanner 108. Image 200 depicts a few teeth such as teeth 204 or 208, and also an artificial object, being crown 212 in the location of another tooth, which is made of material imageable by scanner 108.

[0029] The image(s), model, or impression may be sent to a laboratory with associated information, such as implant type, implant- abutment connection type, tooth number, gingiva height, or the like, for producing a required object, such as an abutment, a crown, or the like.

[0030] One technical problem dealt with by the disclosed subject matter is finding the most appropriate abutment for a certain location in a patient’s mouth. The abutment to be used may depend on multiple parameters such as but not limited to: the type of implant implanted within the jaw at the location, the implant manufacturer connection type, the type of the platform which may relate to the implant manufacturer connection type, the type of the connection where the abutment is to connect to the implant, the specific tooth or location in the patient’s jaw, the height of the gingiva at the location, the status of adjacent teeth, the angulation of each implant, or others. Finding the best abutment is even more complicated when there are multiple abutments to be selected for a patient. The abutments may be required for implants of different manufacturers, implanted at different times sometime over the course of years. This is even more complicated if the abutments are required for neighboring teeth, where the relative positions of the abutments may also need to be considered. For example, in order to put two abutments in neighboring teeth, wherein one or two of the abutments are angled it needs to be ensured that the abutments do not touch each other and that crowns can be safely built upon them.

[0031] Another technical problem dealt with by the disclosed subject matter is delivering to the laboratory all the information that is required for making the abutment. Currently, the dentist takes an image or impression including a representation of each selected abutment, and sends it to the laboratory, either physically or electronically. The dentist also needs to send all the relevant information associated with the image or impression, such as the implant type, the connection type, the abutment shape, or the like. The dentist may send such information using an e-mail message or another physical or electronical means. The dentist has to make sure the details are sufficient and are provided with accurate identification of the patient and the tooth or teeth. The laboratory then needs to make sure that the required information is indeed received accurately for each image or impression, and that the information is associated and stored with the image or impression. At a later time, for example if the abutment needs to be replaced or amended, all this information may need to be retrieved and associated correctly again with the patient and tooth. In such cases, some of the information such as the connection type may not be available in other ways, since there may already be a crown and an abutment at the location, such that the connection cannot be observed before removing these objects.

[0032] Yet another technical problem dealt with by the disclosed subject matter is a need to adjust and fine-tune the abutment to the specific patient and tooth. Once the laboratory receives the image or impression and the accompanying details, it needs to make and adjust the abutment such that the abutment is well fit for the specific location. This task requires highly accurate work, which again, may require accurate information of the used implant, required abutment, and the patient’s status.

[0033] One technical solution of the disclosure comprises providing dental scanning abutments (also referred to as scanning abutments), wherein each dental scanning abutment comprises a body and a connection. The body may comprise at a distal portion thereof, a screw port for enabling screwing the dental scanning abutment to the dental implant.

[0034] Each dental scanning abutment may have an external layer, comprising symbols indicating the required information, such as the type of the implant, the type of the platform connection, the height of the gingiva, if the abutment is angled then the angular position, or the like.

[0035] The external layer may be a layer covering the scanning abutment body or part thereof and made of a material different from the material of the body of the scanning abutment. The material of the layer may be a metallic or non-metallic material suitable to be scanned by the scanner. In other embodiments, the dental scanning abutment or at least its body may be made entirely of such material, in which case the external layer is an integral part of the scanning abutment and not a separately applied layer.

[0036] It is appreciated that the dental scanning abutment may be inserted into the implant only temporarily for the purpose of scanning, and may thus be made of a material different from the material used for permanent abutments.

[0037] The external layer may have marked thereon symbols indicating potentially important information. The symbols may be embodied in the external layer in a manner enabling the symbols to be scanned and appear in the output of the scanner, such as the symbols may be visible in the scanned images or model. For example, the symbols may be engraved into a depth of at least 0.1 mm, 0.2mm, 0.3mm, 0.35mm, or the like. However, other techniques for indicating the symbols on the scanning abutment may be used, such as embossment, protrusions, reliefs, or the like, so as to create distinguishable features that protrude from the external layer and can be identified in the imagining output of the sensor.

[0038] The information may be engraved, imprinted, printed using an additive printing apparatus, or otherwise applied to the external layer in one or more predetermined locations over the body of the dental scanning abutment, such as the lateral face of the body, the medial face of the body, the distal face of the body, or the like.

[0039] The information may include the type of the abutment- implant connection of the dental implant, and the height of a gingiva of the patient at a location where the dental implant is implanted. For example, the type of the connection may comprise a product identifier of the dental implant and a platform connection code indicating a type of platform of the dental implant, if the abutment is angled then the angulation position, or the like, expressed by one or more letters, numbers or other symbols.

[0040] The gingiva height may also be indicated by symbols such as letters, numbers, or shapes that are embodied on the external layer in a manner scannable by a scanner. In other embodiments, the gingiva height may be indicated by slots or other signs embodied on a distal face of the dental scanning abutment. For example, a low height may be indicated by one slot, and higher heights may be indicated by more slots, for example 2, 3 or more slots. As an example, a single slot may represent a gingiva height of 0.5mm, two slots may represent a gingiva height of 1.5mm, and three slots may represent a gingiva height of 3mm.

[0041] In some embodiments, the dental scanning abutment type, for example whether it is straight or angled can be seen in the image or model, but can also be indicated by one or more embodied symbols.

[0042] In some embodiments, the position code of an internal connection (also referred to as “thread” or “worm”) of the implant may also be indicated by one or more symbols. The information regarding the type of the implant, the connection type and the position code is particularly important in case the abutment or crown needs to be replaced in the future, as this information cannot be seen without removing the crown and the abutment. Moreover, in some cases it may be hard to see the connection type even after the removal, which may make it hard determine and design a correct replacement abutment to be used. [0043] Thus, the dentist may select the most appropriate abutment for the patient, insert temporarily a corresponding scanning abutment, scan the patient’s mouth or part thereof, and send the scanning results to the laboratory. The relevant details of the required abutment, e.g., the implant-abutment connection type, the gingiva height, and optionally other details are clearly viewed in the image, such that the laboratory does not have to associate or sore the image with external data, since the data is comprised in the image.

[0044] Another technical solution of the disclosure relates to a kit comprising a plurality of dental scanning abutments, wherein each dental scanning abutment has indicated thereon the required parameters. The dentist may select the most appropriate abutment from the kit, insert it into the implant, scan the patient’s mouth including the dental scanning abutment and send the image or model to the laboratory.

[0045] By having a kit of scanning abutments, comprising at least a plurality of combinations of the relevant parameters, the dentist may in most cases use a readymade scanning abutment with the correct engraving, and does not have to send the information to the laboratory separately.

[0046] In some embodiments, the kit may comprise, for example, for each available connection type, three scanning abutments, each adapted to a different gingiva height, wherein the gingiva height is engraved thereon.

[0047] In some embodiments, the kit may comprise at least one angled scanning abutment and at least one straight scanning abutment.

[0048] In some embodiments, the kit may comprise a plurality of identical scanning abutments, in case the patient needs the same abutment type for multiple teeth, such that multiple scanning abutments, some of which may be the same while others may be different, can be inserted and scanned in a single scan.

[0049] Referring now to Fig. 3, showing mouth 112 having a few scanning abutments installed therein, with a scanner 108, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. Mouth 112 has teeth such as teeth 304, 308 and 312, and a plurality of scanning abutments that can be scanned and shown in an image or model created based on the use of scanner 108. The abutments include straight abutment 316, a neighboring angled abutment 320, and another angled abutment 324. [0050] The kit may also comprise a corresponding screwdriver adapted to screw the scanning abutments into the implants.

[0051] The kit may include a porous housing, so as to enable the kit to undergo sterilization.

[0052] Another technical solution of the disclosure relates to a method for designing abutments, using a database of models corresponding to the scanning abutments in the kit. Each kit may be associated with a computerized library of models, each model in the library corresponding to a scanning abutment in the kit.

[0053] Once the laboratory receives an image or a 3D model of a patient’s mouth, the specific scanning abutment(s) type connected to the patient’s teeth may be identified, manually or automatically and a corresponding model may be retrieved. The model may then be easily adapted for the patient and fabricated accordingly.

[0054] One technical effect of the disclosure relates to making it easier for a dentist to use the most appropriate scanning abutment for a patient. The dentist obtains a kit comprising a plurality of scanning abutments. A dentist may use the kit and select for each treated tooth of each patient the scanning abutment that nest fits as a basis for fabricating a permanent abutment. After scanning is completed, the dentist can remove the scanning abutments, sterilize them and use them for further patients.

[0055] The plurality of scanning abutments in general, and the plurality of scanning abutment types, including straight and angled scanning abutments, adapted for each gingiva height enable to make the best selection. The plurality and variety of abutments make it possible to place multiple abutments in the moth f a patient, and take a single scan rather than multiple scans which then need to be coordinated.

[0056] Another technical effect of the disclosure relates to transmitting to the laboratory an image or a model, together with all the data relevant for making the abutment, such that it is guaranteed that the image or model are accurately associated with the relevant data, without further effort required from the dentist or the laboratory. The data may then be easily retrieved also at later times as required. In some exemplary embodiments, through the use of scanning abutments in accordance with the disclosed subject matter, the imaging outputs of the scanner may include embedded therein decipherable information relating to the type of the abutment, gingiva height, type of connector, type of dental implant, or the like, without requiring any additional effort or manual work from the dentist or any other human being involved in the process. Such subject matter may also reduce human error due to potential confusion relating to such information.

[0057] Yet another technical effect of the disclosure relates to making the design and fabrication of abutments easy, as they are based on a known set of scanning abutments, each associated with a model. Based on the scanning abutment imaged, it is easily determined which permanent abutment is to be used, and its model can be adapted for the specific tooth of the specific patient.

[0058] It is appreciated that the disclosure is not limited to scanning abutments installed within implants in a mouth of a patient. Rather, the scanning abutments may be installed in a model of the mouth created, for example in a laboratory, upon an impression of the mouth.

[0059] Referring now to Fig. 4, showing a side view of an angled scanning abutment, generally referenced 400, which is suitable for areas with standard gingiva height for example within the top half of the gingiva height range, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. Angled scanning abutment 400, like other angled abutments, comprises two main parts, body 404 and connection 408, having a screw thread 428 which is inserted into the implant. The ratio between length 404 of the body (on which the crown is fitted) and length 408 of the connection makes it suitable for standard gingiva height as area 417 is hidden by the crown. Once a permanent dental abutment is inserted onto an in vivo dental implant, a crown can be placed on body 404. Body 404 has a recess 424 at its distal end, and connection 408 comprises an anti -rotation member 418, which may be implemented as a hexagon having six faces such as faces 420 and 422, a square, an octagon, or the like. .

[0060] Further details describing angled dental abutments can be found, for example, in US Patent Application no. 17/996,651, filed Oct 20, 2022 and titled “Abutment for Implant Connector”, by the same Applicant as the current application, and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes.

[0061] At least body 404 of angled scanning abutment 400, and optionally additional parts thereof, may have an external layer, which may be the external surface of body 400, or an additional layer. The external layer may be made of non-metallic material that is suitable for a scanner to scan. The external layer may have marked thereon at one or more locations symbols indicating data that is important for a laboratory for making a permanent abutment. Indicating the data may be done by engraving the symbols into the external layer, for example into a depth of about 0.1mm, 0.2mm, about 0.3mm or more, creating protrusions having height of about 0.2mm, about 0.3mm, or the like.

[0062] Thus, angled scanning abutment 400 may have indicated thereon one or more symbols 412 on its lateral side, and one or more symbols 416 on its medial side.

[0063] Referring now to Figs. 5A and 5D showing top views of angled scanning abutments 500, 502, Figs. 5B and 5E showing lateral views of angled scanning abutments 500, 502, and Figs. 5C and 5F showing medial side of angled scanning abutments 500, 502.

[0064] The symbols on a lateral side of angled scanning abutment 500, 502 may indicate a height of the gingiva at the location, and an access position of recess 424 relative to the hexagonal member 418, as shown in Figs. 5B and 5E.

[0065] Figs. 5A-5C depict angled scanning abutment 500 wherein after screwing the abutment into the implant, recess 424 is aligned with a vertex between two faces of the hexagonal member 418 such as faces 420 and 422, as shown by line 504.

[0066] Thus, angled scanning abutment 500 is marked on one side, for example the lateral side with corresponding symbols, such as “AA”, wherein the left symbol 514 is an “A” indicating that the dental scanning abutment is suitable for high gingiva, and the right symbol 516 is an “A” indicating that recess 424 is aligned with a vertex of hexagonal member 418.

[0067] Similarly, Figs. 5D-5F depict angled scanning abutment 502 wherein after screwing the abutment into the implant, recess 424 is aligned with a face of hexagonal member 418 such as face 422, as shown by line 508.

[0068] Thus, angled scanning abutment 502 is marked on one side, for example the lateral side with corresponding symbols, such as “AB”, wherein the left symbol 528 is an “A” indicating that the dental scanning abutment is suitable for high gingiva, and the right symbol 518 is a “B” indicating that recess 424 is aligned with a face 422 of hexagonal member 418. [0069] Thus, when the dentist screws an abutment into an implant wherein the gingiva is high, and recess 424 is aligned with a vertex of hexagonal member 418, the dentist may use a dental scanning abutment marked with an “AA” on its lateral side, while if recess 424 is aligned with a face of hexagonal member 418, the dentist will use a dental scanning abutment marked with an “AB” on its lateral side.

[0070] The mark on the medial side of the dental scanning abutment such as symbols 510 or 512 may indicate at least the type of connection of the implant into which the abutment is to be screwed. The type of connection may indicate a product identifier of the implant, and a platform connection code indicating a type of platform of the dental implant. Thus, symbol 512 “NANP” indicates a certain connection type (e.g., “NA” connection type) and a certain platform connection code (e.g., “NP” platform type, such as indicating narrow platform), while the letters “XXXX” of symbol 510 are shown as a placeholder for illustration purposes.

[0071] In some exemplary embodiments, at the distal portion of the angled scanning abutments 500, 502, there may be a screw port 550 for enabling screwing the scanning abutments to a dental implant.

[0072] Referring now to Fig. 6, showing a side view of an angled scanning abutment generally referred 600, which is suitable for areas with low gingiva height, for example within the lower half of the gingiva height range, such as in cases associated with anterior areas of the jaw. Angled scanning abutment 600 is substantially similar to angled scanning abutment 400, and has a body 604, connector 608, recess 624, and antirotation member 618, which may be implemented as a hexagon having six faces such as faces 620 and 622, a square, an octagon, or the like,, which are analogous to body 404, connector 408, recess 424, anti-rotation member 418 having faces 420 and 422, of dental scanning abutment 400 of Fig. 4. However, the ratio between length 604 of the body (on which the crown is fitted) and length 608 of the connection is larger than the ratio between lengths 404 and 408, which makes it suitable for low gingiva height since it may prevent the metal appearance of the shoulder which holds the crown.

[0073] Referring now to Figs. 7A-7C, showing angled scanning abutment 700 which is analogous to angled scanning abutment 500 of Fig. 5. Similarly, when angled scanning abutment 700 is screwed, recess 624 is aligned with a vertex between faces 620 and 622 of hexagonal member 618 as shown by line 704. However, due to short thread 628 symbol 714 is different from symbol 514 and is a “U” which indicates a short gingiva height at the location. Symbol 718 is the same as symbol 518, due to the same alignment of the recess with hexagonal member 618 as in Fig. 5B. Symbols 710 indicate the type of connection of the implant into which angled scanning abutment 700 is to be screwed. The type of connection may indicate a product identifier of the implant, and a platform connection code indicating a type of platform of the dental implant.

[0074] Referring now to Figs. 7D-7F, showing angled scanning abutment 702 which is analogous to angled scanning abutment 502 of Fig. 5. Similarly, when angled scanning abutment 702 is screwed, recess 624 is aligned with a face such as face 622 of hexagonal member 618 as shown by line 708. However, due to short thread 628, symbol 714 is different from symbol 514 and is a “U” which indicates a short gingiva height at the location. Symbol 718 is the same as symbol 518, due to the same alignment of the recess as in Fig. 5E. Symbols 712 indicate the type of connection of the implant into which angled scanning abutment 700 is to be screwed. The type of connection may indicate a product identifier of the implant, and a platform connection code indicating a type of platform of the dental implant. The specific symbols “XXXX” shown in 712 are placeholders shown for illustration purposes.

[0075] Thus, when the dentist screws an abutment into an implant where the gingiva is low, and recess 624 is aligned with a vertex of hexagonal member 618, the dentist may use an angled dental scanning abutment marked with an “UA” on its lateral side, while if recess 624 is aligned with a face of hexagonal member 618, the dentist will use a dental scanning abutment marked with an “UB” on its lateral side.

[0076] In some exemplary embodiments, at the distal portion of the angled scanning abutments 700, 702, there may be a screw port 750 for enabling screwing the scanning abutments to a dental implant.

[0077] In accordance with some embodiments of the disclosure, straight scanning abutments may also be provided, and the relevant information may be indicated on an external layer thereof as well.

[0078] Thus, the height of the gingiva at the specific location within the mouth may be indicated on the distal face of the dental scanning abutment, such that it is imageable by the scanner, and will be viewed by the laboratory as part of the received image or model.

[0079] Referring now to Figs. 8A, 8B, 8C and 8D showing, respectively, a distal view, a lateral view, a side view and a medial view of a straight scanning abutment, generally referenced 800 and having a screw port 850 on a distal portion thereof, which is adapted for locations with a low gingiva height. As best seen in Fig. 8A, the distal face of scanning abutment 800 comprises a single slot 804, indicating a low gingiva height at the location, for example in the lowest third of the gingiva height range. Slot 804 is also seen in Fig. 8D.

[0080] In addition to the height indication, straight scanning abutment 800 has thereon also symbols 808 indicating the type of connection of the implant into which straight scanning abutment 800 is to be screwed. As detailed above, the type of connection may indicate a product identifier of the implant, and a platform connection code indicating a type of platform of the dental implant.

[0081] In an analogous manner, Figs. 9A, 9B, 9C and 9D show, respectively, a distal view, a lateral view, side view and a medial view of a straight dental abutment, generally referenced 900 and having a screw port 950, which is adapted for locations with a medium gingiva height. As best seen in Fig. 9A, the distal face of scanning abutment 900 comprises two slots 904 and 908, indicating a medium gingiva height at the location, for example in the middle third of the gingiva height range. Slot 908 is also seen in Fig. 9C, and slots 904 and 908 are also seen in Fig. 9D. As in Fig. 8D, symbols 912 in Fig. 9D indicate the type of connection of the implant into which straight scanning abutment 900 is to be screwed. The type of connection may indicate a product identifier of the implant, and a platform connection code indicating a type of platform of the dental implant.

[0082] In a further analogous manner, to Figs. 10A, 10B, 10C and 10D show, respectively, a distal view, a lateral view, side view and a medial view of a straight dental abutment, generally referenced 1000 and having a screw port 1050, which is adapted for locations with a high gingiva height. As best seen in Fig. 10A, the distal face of scanning abutment 1000 comprises three slots 1004, 1008 and 1012, indicating a high gingiva height at the location, for example in the top third of the gingiva height range. Slot 1008 is also seen in Fig. 10C., and slots 1004, 1008 and 1012 are also seen in Fig. 10D. As in Fig. 8D, symbols 1016 in Fig. 10D indicate the type of connection of the implant into which straight scanning abutment 1000 is to be screwed. The type of connection may indicate a product identifier of the implant, and a platform connection code indicating a type of platform of the dental implant.

[0083] It is appreciated that the specific symbols and other indications such as slots, as well as the respective locations on the scanning abutments are exemplary only, and any combination of symbols and indications that is to be agreed upon between the dentist and the laboratory may be used.

[0084] Referring now to Fig. 11, showing an exemplary kit of dental scanning abutments, in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the kit may be specific to a certain implant manufacture, or can contain scanning abutments adapted to be screwed into implants of multiple manufactures.

[0085] Kit 100 may comprise one or more abutments of each of a plurality of types. Thus, for example, kit 1100 may comprise: a compartment 1104 containing one or more straight abutments 1102 configured for low gingiva height such as dental scanning abutment 800; a compartment 1108 containing one or more straight abutments 1106 configured for medium gingiva height such as dental scanning abutment 900; and a compartment 1112 containing one or more straight abutments 1110 configured for high gingiva height, such as dental scanning abutment 1000.

[0086] Thus, in some embodiments, kit 1100 may comprise at least three dental scanning abutments having on their external layer at least three different symbols or symbol combinations, each of the at least three different symbols or symbol combinations indicating a different height of the gingiva.

[0087] In some embodiments, kit 1100 may comprise; a compartment 1116 comprising one or more angled scanning abutments 1114 adapted to be screwed in teeth wherein the gingiva height is high, one or more of which may be with their recess aligned with a face of the hexagonal member, such as scanning abutment 502, or one or more of which may be with their recess aligned with a vertex of the hexagonal member, such as scanning abutment 500; a compartment 1120 comprising one or more angled scanning abutments 1118 adapted to be screwed in teeth wherein the gingiva height is low, one or more of which may be with their recess aligned with a face of the hexagonal member, such as scanning abutment 702, or one or more of which may be with their recess aligned with a vertex of the hexagonal member, such as scanning abutment 700.

[0088] Thus, in some embodiments, kit 1100 may comprise at least two different angular dental scanning abutments.

[0089] Therefore, in some embodiments, kit 100 may comprise at least one straight dental scanning abutment and at least one angular dental scanning abutment.

[0090] Once the dentist determined the most appropriate abutment(s) for one or more locations, the dentist may select the corresponding scanning abutment(s), scan the patient’s mouth and transmit the image or model to the laboratory.

[0091] In some embodiments, kit 1100 may comprise an additional area 1128, that can be used to place any of the abutments, such as after use.

[0092] Kit 1100 may be perforated, have holes, and otherwise be porous, so as to enable to sterilize the kit.

[0093] In some embodiments, each of the dental scanning abutments may have at a distal portion thereof a screw port (e.g., 550, 750, 850, 950, 1050) for enabling screwing the scanning abutment to a dental implant. Thus, in some embodiments, kit 1100 may comprise a screwdriver 1124 configured to match the screw port, for screwing the abutment to the dental implant.

[0094] Referring now to Fig. 12, showing a flowchart of a method for obtaining images and information in dental laboratory and using the same for making abutments.

[0095] On step 1200, a model such as a 3D model created upon a mouth of a patient may be obtained, the 3D model depicting at least one dental scanning abutment. The model may be obtained from an e-mail message, downloaded from a cloud storage device, or the like.

[0096] On step 1204, one or more symbols or symbol combinations marked on a dental scanning abutment depicted in the model may be extracted. The symbols may be extracted by any analysis technique, for example Object Character Recognition (OCR).

[0097] On step 1208, the extracted symbols may be analyzed to extract an identifier of the dental scanning abutment. For example, the symbols may be searched for in a table, a database, or the like. [0098] On step 1212, a database may be queried with the scanning abutment identifier, to retrieve a model of a permanent dental abutment associated with the identifier. The model may be described in any manner describing a 3D shape, a CAD object, or others.

[0099] On step 1216, the dental scanning abutment may be replaced in the image or model as received, with the model of the permanent dental abutment as retrieved from the database. Since the shape of the dental scanning abutment is known, it may be easily removed and replaced with the model of the permanent dental abutment.

[0100] On step 1220, adjustments may be received from a user, such as a laboratory technician, to the model of the permanent dental abutment, thereby accurately adjusting the model to the patient’s mouth.

[0101] On step 1224, a permanent dental abutment may be made based on the model, for example by a manufacturing entity.

[0102] The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A dental scanning abutment, comprising a body; a connector at a proximal end of the body, for connecting said body to a dental implant via an abutment-connection of the dental implant, whereby said body is connectable to the dental implant, which is implanted in a mouth of a patient; wherein said body having an external layer, the external layer comprising symbols indicating at least: a type of connection of the abutment-connection of the dental implant; a height of a gingiva of the patient at a location where the dental implant is implanted, wherein the symbols are indicated on the surface, such that a scanner scanning the dental scanning abutment can generate a three dimensional model (3D) of the body having the symbols visible on the 3D model.

2. The dental scanning abutment according to claim 1, wherein the type of connection comprises a product identifier of the dental implant and a platform connection code indicating a type of platform of the dental implant.

3. The dental scanning abutment according to claim 1, wherein the height of the gingiva is indicated by a number of slots marked on the surface.

4. The dental scanning abutment according to claim 3, wherein slots are marked on a distal face of the body.

5. The dental scanning abutment according to claim 1, wherein the scanner is an optical scanner.

6. The dental scanning abutment according to claim 5, wherein the symbols are marked by engraving into the external envelope.

7. The dental scanning abutment according to claim 6, wherein the symbols are marked by engraving into the external envelope to a depth of at least 0.1mm.

8. The dental scanning abutment according to claim 1, wherein the dental scanning abutment is an angled abutment.

9. The dental scanning abutment according to claim 1, wherein the symbols also indicate a position code of an internal thread of the dental scanning abutment.

10. The dental scanning abutment according to claim 1, wherein a second dental scanning abutment can be connected to a second dental implant, wherein the dental implant and the second dental implant are implanted in neighboring teeth, and wherein at least one of the dental scanning abutment and the second dental scanning abutment is an angled dental scanning abutment.

11. The dental scanning abutment according to claim 1, wherein said external layer is made of a non-metallic material that is suitable for the scanner to scan.

12. The dental scanning abutment according to claim 1, wherein said body having at a distal portion thereof a screw port for enabling screwing the dental scanning abutment to the dental implant.

13. The dental scanning abutment according to claim 1, wherein said scanner is scanning within the mouth of the patient or in a model built upon an impression taken from the mouth of the patient.

14. A kit comprising: a plurality of dental scanning abutments, each dental scanning abutment of the plurality of dental scanning abutments comprising: a body; a connector at a proximal end of the body, for connecting said body to a dental implant via an abutment-connection of the dental implant which is implanted in a mouth of a patient; wherein said body having an external layer, the external layer comprising symbols indicating at least: a type of connection of the abutment-connection of the dental implant; a height of a gingiva of the patient at a location where the dental implant is implanted, wherein the symbols are indicated on the surface, such that a scanner scanning the dental scanning abutment can generate a three dimensional model (3D) of the body having the symbols visible on the 3D model, and wherein the plurality of dental scanning abutments comprises dental scanning abutments having different symbols.

15. The kit according to claim 14, wherein the plurality of dental scanning abutments comprising: a first dental scanning abutment having on the external layer a first symbol; a second dental scanning abutment having on the external layer a second symbol; a third dental scanning abutment having on the external layer a third symbol, wherein the first symbol, the second symbol and the third symbol indicate a same type of connection, and wherein the first symbol, the second symbol and the third symbol indicate a different height of the gingiva.

16. The kit according to claim 14, wherein the plurality of dental scanning abutments comprise at least one straight dental scanning abutment and at least one angular dental scanning abutment.

17. The kit according to claim 14, wherein the plurality of dental scanning abutments comprise at least two different angular dental scanning abutments.

18. The kit according to claim 14 further comprising a screwdriver for screwing each of the dental scanning abutment into the dental implant, wherein the each of the plurality of dental scanning abutments having at a distal portion thereof a screw port for enabling screwing each of the dental scanning abutment to the dental implant, wherein the screwdriver configured to match the screw port.

19. A method comprising: obtaining a 3D model created upon a mouth of a patient, the 3D model depicting a dental scanning abutment; extracting from the model symbols marked on the dental scanning abutment; analyzing the symbol to extract an identifier of the dental scanning abutment; and querying a database to obtain a dental abutment model corresponding to the dental scanning abutment.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein the dental scanning abutment is an angled dental scanning abutment.

21. The method according to claim 19, further comprising: replacing in the 3D model the dental scanning abutment with the dental abutment model; and adjusting the dental abutment model for the patient.

22. The method according to claim 19, further comprising fabricating a dental abutment based on the dental abutment model.