Device for periapical radiography

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a device for periapical radiography that enhances accuracy in dental implantology. It includes a connection element that secures a radiographic plate holder relative to an anchoring element, such as a direction indicator, depth gauge, or drill. The device ensures parallel alignment with the radiographic plate and perpendicularity to the X-ray beam, minimizing distortion. This allows precise intraoperative periapical radiography, reducing reliance on CBCT or panoramic imaging. Configurations include an L-shaped bar, a tube or sleeve, and a fixation base, all designed for stable alignment. Compatible with standard implant systems, the device offers a cost-effective, accurate, and repeatable method for real-time implant verification. Additionally, it enhances procedural efficiency, improves patient safety, and reduces radiation exposure.

Claims

1. A device for periapical and intraoral radiography, comprising a connection element configured to connect a plate holder to an anchoring element, wherein the anchoring element is selected from a direction indicator, a depth gauge, or a drill, and is configured to be inserted into a patient's bone, the plate holder is configured to hold a radiographic film or sensor to obtain a periapical or intraoral radiograph, the connection element maintains the position of the plate holder relative to the anchoring element in a fixed arrangement, ensuring that both remain parallel to each other and perpendicular to an X-ray beam, and the device is compatible with different periapical radiographic techniques, including but not limited to the long-cone technique and the parallelism technique.

2. A method for obtaining an accurate periapical radiograph during a dental implant procedure, comprising placing a radiographic plate holder in a fixed position relative to an anchoring element selected from a direction indicator, a depth gauge, or a drill, ensuring the radiographic plate holder remains parallel to the anchoring element and perpendicular to an X-ray beam, and using the device to stabilize the positioning and eliminate image distortion during periapical radiography.

3. A device according to claim 1, wherein the device is used in dental procedures requiring periapical or intraoral radiographs, including but not limited to implantology, endodontics, periodontics, and orthodontics.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the connection element comprises an anchoring portion and a plate holder portion, the anchoring portion being configured to attach to the anchoring element through a threaded or non-threaded connection, allowing compatibility with depth gauges of different diameters.

5. The device of claim 4, wherein the anchoring portion comprises a locking mechanism that prevents unintended movement during radiographic imaging.

6. The device of claim 5, wherein the anchoring portion is interchangeable to allow compatibility with multiple implant systems.

7. The device of claim 1, wherein the connection element has an L-shape, comprising a first end forming the plate holder portion and a second end forming the anchoring portion, which is configured to be attached to the anchoring element.

8. The device of claim 7, wherein the L-shaped connection element is a square-section bar of 33 mm, with a short arm of 18 mm and a long arm of 25 mm at a 90-degree angle.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the connection element is a sleeve incorporated into a horizontal section of the plate holder's bite block, allowing insertion of the anchoring element.

10. The device of claim 9, wherein the sleeve has an internal diameter of 2.35 mm, allowing insertion of a standard drill shaft used in oral implantology.

11. The device of claim 1, wherein the plate holder's bite block comprises holes designed to receive metallic arms that connect to a centering ring.

12. The device of claim 11, wherein the holes accommodate a base that allows depth gauges or drills to be securely fastened.

13. The device of claim 1, wherein the anchoring element is a depth gauge that includes markings corresponding to standard implant lengths.

14. The device of claim 13, wherein the depth gauge is made of a radiopaque material, selected from surgical-grade stainless steel or titanium, allowing sterilization in an autoclave.

15. The device of claim 1, wherein the plate holder is a Rinn-type plate holder used in periapical radiography.

16. The device of claim 1, wherein the device allows intraoperative radiographs with high measurement accuracy.

17. The device of claim 1, wherein the device ensures proper alignment for periapical radiographs, reducing geometric distortion.

18. The device of claim 1, wherein the connection element is detachable, allowing replacement with different configurations according to the radiographic technique used.

19. The device of claim 1, wherein the depth gauge includes pre-defined length constrictions to aid in measuring the distance to anatomical structures.

20. The device of claim 1, wherein the anchoring element prevents displacement during the radiographic procedure, ensuring reliable imaging.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0100] To further illustrate the disclosed device, a set of figures accompanies this description, which are presented for explanatory and non-limiting purposes:

[0101] FIG. 1: First systemthe L-shaped bar has not yet been inserted into the plate holder, and the depth gauge is not yet attached.

[0102] FIG. 2: First systemthe L-shaped bar is inserted into the plate holder, and the depth gauge is secured in place.

[0103] FIG. 3: Second systemintegrated plate holder with guiding sleeve.

[0104] FIG. 4: First systemassembled device for periapical radiography.

[0105] FIG. 5: L-shaped bar with a short arm and a long arm at 90 for securing a depth gauge.

[0106] FIG. 6: L-shaped bar with a short arm and a long arm at 90 for securing a drill.

[0107] FIG. 7: Incorrect positioning of the radiographic elements, leading to a distorted image.

[0108] FIG. 8: Correct positioning of the radiographic elements, resulting in an accurate radiographic image.

[0109] FIG. 9: Depth gauges with varying diameters and lengths.

[0110] FIGS. 10-11: Third systemmodified bite block with anchoring mechanism.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0111] The disclosed device consists of a connection element (1) that establishes a rigid connection between: [0112] An anchoring element (2) (direction indicator, depth gauge, or drill). [0113] A plate holder (3) (holding the radiographic film).

[0114] The connection element (1) comprises: [0115] An anchoring portion (12): Connects to the implant-related element (depth gauge, drill, etc.). [0116] A plate holder portion (13): Inserts into the plate holder to maintain fixed alignment.

[0117] This structure ensures that the positioning of the radiographic plate remains unchanged relative to the X-ray beam, eliminating measurement errors.

1. L-Shaped Configuration

[0118] In some embodiments, the connection element (1) adopts an L-shape, where: [0119] The plate holder portion (13) is positioned at one end. [0120] The anchoring portion (12) is positioned at the other end.

[0121] This configuration provides: [0122] Increased stability during radiography. [0123] Rigid alignment between the implant-related element and the radiographic plate.

2. Sleeve Configuration

[0124] In another embodiment, the connection element (1) is a sleeve that: [0125] Fits into the plate holder cavity. [0126] Allows insertion of depth gauges, drills, or direction indicators.

[0127] This configuration simplifies component integration within the radiographic system.

3. Base Configuration

[0128] In some embodiments, the connection element (1) is designed as a base with: [0129] Protrusions that align with cavities in the plate holder. [0130] Fixation mechanisms that allow depth gauges or drills to be securely attached.

[0131] This provides: [0132] Increased positioning accuracy. [0133] Enhanced device stability during radiography.