Multi-layer adhesives and methods for bonding orthodontic appliances to tooth structure
Assignee3M Innovative Properties Company
InventorsJoan V. Brennan, David K. Cinader, Jr., James D. Hansen, Darrell S. James
Life of this patent
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Abstract
The present invention provides multi-layer adhesives and methods that are useful for bonding orthodontic appliances to a tooth structure. The multi-layer adhesives can be precoated on an orthodontic appliance, or alternatively, they can be provided on an adhesive delivery system for transfer to an orthodontic appliance. The multi-layer adhesives and methods preferably provide a useful balance of properties for bonding orthodontic appliances to the tooth structure.
Claims18
A method of bonding an orthodontic appliance to a tooth structure comprising:
- providing an orthodontic appliance having a base for bonding the appliance to a tooth structure;
- providing an orthodontic adhesive delivery system, the system including,
- a substrate comprising an adhesive transfer area;
- a first hardenable adhesive layer disposed on and extending across at least a portion of the adhesive transfer area, the first hardenable adhesive layer comprising a first surface directly adjacent the transfer area and a second surface opposite the first surface;
- and
- a second hardenable adhesive layer extending across at least a portion of the second surface of the first hardenable adhesive layer, wherein at least one of the first and second hardenable adhesive layers comprises one or more of a light curable and a chemical curing orthodontic adhesive;
- transferring the first and second adhesive layers to the base of the appliance;
- applying the base of the appliance to the tooth structure;
- and
- curing the adhesive on the base of the appliance.
A method of bonding an orthodontic appliance to a tooth structure comprising:
- providing an orthodontic appliance having a base for bonding the appliance to a tooth structure;
- providing a packaged orthodontic adhesive delivery system including a substrate comprising an adhesive transfer area;
- a first hardenable adhesive layer disposed on and extending across at least a portion of the adhesive transfer area, the first hardenable adhesive layer comprising a first surface directly adjacent the transfer area and a second surface opposite the first surface;
- a second hardenable adhesive layer extending across at least a portion of the second surface of the first hardenable adhesive layer, wherein at least one of the first and second hardenable adhesive layers comprises one or more of a light curable and a chemical curing orthodontic adhesive;
- and
- a container at least partially surrounding the substrate;
- removing the substrate having the first and second adhesive layers thereon from the container;
- transferring the first and second adhesive layers to the base of the appliance;
- applying the base of the appliance to the tooth structure;
- and
- curing the adhesive on the base of the appliance.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.