DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0094] Reference is made to FIGS. 1A and 1B, which schematically illustrate a tooth replacement 10, having an implant member 16, anchored with bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12, which has been uniquely designed to provide bi-cortical retention, in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 1A illustrates tooth replacement 10 in the jawbone and FIG. 1B illustrates the jawbone and an implant member 16, just prior to insertion.

[0095] The jawbone defines a z-axis along the vertical axis of the tooth, an x-axis, in the buccal to lingual direction, and a y-axis, perpendicular to both. In the following description, the z direction is regarded as a vertical direction, and the x-y plane is regarded as a lateral plane. Near and far describe positions with respect to the operator along the z-axis, while proximal and distal describe positions with respect to the operator along the x-axis.

[0096] Implant member 16, for example, a solid cylinder, is arranged for insertion into a bore 20, drilled in the z direction, from a crest 28 of the jawbone, at a near side of the jawbone, into a cancellous interior 22 of the jawbone, to a bore far end 21. Preferably, an external surface 18 of implant member 16 is threaded, to increase the surface area in contact with cancellous bone tissue 22, so as to increase the support of the bone tissue around implant member 16. Preferably, implant member 16 is screwed into bore 20 with some force, so as to self-tap its way into bore 20 and carve an internal thread in cancellous bone tissue 22, so as to ensure a tight fit and provide primary implant support. Alternatively, external surface 18 may be a smooth surface and implant member 16 may be press-fitted into bore 20. In alternate embodiments of the invention, implant member 16 may have a polygonal rather than a cylindrical cross-section, or have another external surface structure. Implant member 16 has a near portion 24 and a far portion 26.

[0097] Implant member 16 is arranged for supporting a dental prosthesis 32, which has a crown 34 and a post 36. Preferably, implant member 16 includes, at near portion 24, a cervix 30, which preferably includes an internal thread and is arranged for supporting post 36, which preferably includes an external thread that complements the internal thread of cervix 30. Alternatively, another known locking mechanism may be used between near portion 24 of implant member 16 and dental prosthesis 32.

[0098] Preferably, depth H of bore 20 and of the portion of implant member 16 inserted into bore 20 is about 4-7 mm. However, the present invention is equally applicable to deeper implants, for example, of 10-18 mm. Preferably, a diameter D₁ of bore 20 is about 4-6 mm. Bores of other diameters are also possible; however, it is desirable that the bore diameter be smaller than the lateral distance between the two cortical plates at any point along bore 20.

[0099] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, implant member 16 may include a superstructure 33, to augment its length. While implant member 16 is inserted into the jawbone, to depth H, superstructure 33 remains above bone crest 28, and fits into crown 34 of dental prosthesis 32, to a height Hs. The purpose of superstructure 33 is to augment the length of cervix 30 into which post 36 is fitted, while maintaining depth H short, for example 6 mm. When the depth H is long, for example 10-18 mm, superstructure 33 need not be used. Superstructure 33, which generally has a hexagonal shape, is technically known as an external hexagon.

[0100] Preferably, a head 51 of post 36 includes a notch 53 or a slit 53, arranged for a tool (not shown), for example, a screwdriver, in order to screw post 36 into implant 16. Alternatively, head 51 has a polygon shape, and may be screwed into post 36 with a wrench. Alternatively, another known locking mechanism between implant member 16 and post 36 may be used.

[0101] At far portion 26, implant member 16 includes a support structure 46, such as a through conduit 46, which has a preferably smooth internal surface S_C and an internal diameter D_C. Implant member 16 may further include an alignment indicator 57 such as a carved slit 57, or another mark, at its nearest surface, which is visible to the operator, wherein indicator 57 is aligned with conduit 46, to give the operator an indication of the alignment of conduit 46, which is invisible to him.

[0102] In accordance with the present invention, implant member 16 is anchored to the jawbone with bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12 (FIG. 1A), which has been uniquely designed to provide optimum bi-cortical stability and retention.

[0103] FIG. 1B further illustrates a mount 140, with which implant member 16 is provided. Mount 140 is used for inserting implant member 16 into bore 20 and includes a threaded post 141, fitted into cervix 30. Mount 140 may further include an alignment indicator (not shown), such as a carved slit or another mark, on its nearest surface, visible to the operator. Indicator 57 is aligned with conduit 46, which is invisible to the operator. After insertion, mount 140 and threaded post 141 are removed, and cervix 30 is sealed.

[0104] Reference is now made to FIG. 2A, which schematically illustrates an embodiment of bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12, such as bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_2A in accordance with the present invention. Preferably, bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_2A is formed as a screw, having proximal and distal ends 44 and 48, with respect to the operator, a total length L_T, a tip 50 at distal end 48, and a notch 41 at proximal end 44. Bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12 may further include a head 40. Preferably, bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_2A is arranged for insertion into a jawbone, from buccal cortical plate 14A (FIG. 1A) towards lingual cortical plate 14B, so that when inserted, head 40, remains external to the jawbone, resting against buccal cortical plate 14A. In time, head 40 is enclosed by gingival tissue 65 (FIG. 1A). Notch 41 serves as a tool receptor, for interacting, for example, with a screwdriver tip (not shown) or an Ellen key (not shown), to facilitate the insertion of bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_2A.

[0105] Bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_2A includes:

[0106] a distal portion 47, of a distal effective diameter D₁, having a distal surface S₁, which is preferably threaded, and which is operable to bite into and engage with virgin tissue of lingual cortical plate 14B (FIG. 1A), and anchor tightly, thereto;

[0107] a mid portion 45, which is preferably machined as an integral part with distal portion 47, so as to have the same effective diameter and surface as distal portion 47, and which is operable to support dental implant 16 (FIG. 1A) without locking thereto; and

[0108] a proximal portion 43, of a length L₂, and of a proximal effective diameter D₂, which is somewhat larger than distal effective diameter D₁, and which has a proximal surface S₂, preferably threaded, operable to bite into and engage with virgin tissue of buccal cortical plate 14A (FIG. 1A), and anchor tightly, thereto.

[0109] The effective diameter of the threaded surfaces refers to the maximum diameter of the threaded surface.

[0110] Reference is now made to FIG. 2B, which schematically illustrates a section of the jawbone, showing buccal and lingual cortical plates 14A and 14B, cancellous bone tissue 22, and implant member 16 in bore 20, in accordance with the present invention. Implant member 16 includes through conduit 46, having preferably smooth internal surface S_C (FIG. 1B) and internal diameter D_C. The jawbone includes a channel 42, preferably drilled along the x-axis, from buccal cortical plate 14A towards lingual cortical plate 14B, as will be described hereinbelow, in conjunction with FIGS. 6A-10. Channel 42 has a diameter D_B and may be a through channel or may reach only to conduit 46 of implant member 16.

[0111] Reference is now made to FIG. 2C, which schematically illustrates bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_2A after insertion into the jawbone of FIG. 2B, from buccal cortical plate 14A to lingual cortical plate 14B, in accordance with the present invention. Diameter D_B of channel 42 is smaller than both diameters D₁ and D₂ of bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_2A; therefore, the insertion of bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_2A into channel 42 involves a screwing motion, in which bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_2A self taps its way into channel 42, carving a thread in virgin tissue of the jawbone.

[0112] The main features that provide bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_2A with optimum bi-cortical retention are surfaces S₁ and S₂, operative to bite into and engage with the cortical bone tissue so as to anchor with respect to it, the diametric increase from D₁ to D₂, and the screwing, self-tapping motion. The importance of these features is as follows:

[0113] 1. Anchoring with respect to lingual cortical plate 14B: since distal effective diameter D₁ of distal portion 47 is somewhat larger than diameter D_B of bone channel 42, as bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_2A self taps its way in channel 42, towards lingual cortical plate 14B, threaded surface S₁ of distal portion 47 bites into and engages with virgin bone tissue, which has not been tampered with during drilling, so as to provide anchoring with respect to lingual cortical plate 14B without clearance and play.

[0114] 2. Anchoring with respect to buccal cortical plate 14A: since proximal effective diameter D₂ of proximal portion 43 is somewhat larger than diameter D₁, it bites into and engages with virgin bone tissue at buccal cortical plate 14A, which has not been tampered with and weakened by the passage of portions 47 and 45 through it, so as to provide anchoring with respect to buccal cortical plate 14A without clearance and play. Preferably anchoring includes anchoring by at least two thread revolutions of threaded surface S2; thus, length L₂ of section 43 is preferably long enough to include at least two complete thread revolutions. Alternatively, one thread revolution may be used.

[0115] As both section 43 and 47 are tightly anchored with respect to virgin cortical bone tissue, in a manner that eliminates clearance and play, optimum bi-cortical retention of implant member 16 is achieved. Tight anchoring is particularly important for primary stabilization of the implant and for resisting immediate loading during the implant initial stage, before bone growth around the implant occurs.

[0116] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, mid portion 45, which also includes threaded surface S₁, is similarly anchored with respect to cancellous bone tissue 22 along its sections outside conduit 46 of implant member 16, so as to further increase the tight anchor and the primary stabilization of implant member 16.

[0117] Now also referring to FIG. 2A, in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, total length L_T of bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_2A is substantially the same as the width of the jawbone at the location of the implant, so as to completely penetrate the jawbone. In time, tip 50 is enclosed by gingival tissue 65.

[0118] Preferably, bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_2A is provided in a variety of lengths L_T, for example, in steps of 1 mm, to accommodate jawbones of different widths. Alternatively, bicortical anchor apparatus 12_2A may be provided in steps of 0.75 mm, or 0.5 mm, to provide a greater range of lengths.

[0119] However, in accordance with the present invention, when an exact match with the jawbone width cannot be found from amongst the available lengths L_T, it is recommended that the operator select bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_2A of length L_T that is smaller than the jawbone width, preferably by no more than 1 mm. Since the cortical plates are about 2 mm in thickness, bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_2A of length L_T, smaller that the jawbone width by no more than 1 mm, will partially penetrate the lingual cortical plate, to a depth of about 1 mm. In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, length LT is smaller than the jawbone width by no more than 0.5 mm, so as to partially penetrate the lingual cortical plate to a depth of about 1.5 mm.

[0120] In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, sufficient anchoring of a threaded surface against a cortical plate occurs when the threaded surface is anchored by at least one complete thread revolution, and preferably, two complete thread revolutions. Thus, in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_2A will be provided in a range of lengths L_T that will ensure two compete thread revolutions into lingual cortical plate 14B, even for partial penetration of cortical plate 14B. Additionally, a length L₂ of proximal portion 43 is determined as at least the length of two complete thread revolutions.

[0121] Reference is now made to FIGS. 3A-3E which schematically illustrate several designs of bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12, in accordance with alternative embodiments of the present invention.

[0122] FIG. 3A illustrates bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_3A having a distal effective diameter D₁ and a maximum proximal effective diameter D₂, wherein the change in diameters is gradual over length L₂.

[0123] FIG. 3B illustrates bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_3B of which distal portion 47 includes threaded surface S₁, while mid portion 45 has a smooth surface S_m. As a consequence of the machining of distal portion 47, its effective diameter D₁ is somewhat smaller than a diameter D_m of smooth mid portion 45. Length L₁ of distal portion 47 is determined as at least the length of two complete thread revolutions of effective diameter D₁.

[0124] FIG. 3C illustrates bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_3C for which surface S₁ of distal portion 47 is a tapping tool surface, and effective diameter D₁ is the maximum diameter of the tapping tool surface.

[0125] FIG. 3D illustrates bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_3D, having a single diameter D throughout, and a single, preferably threaded surface S, throughout. This embodiment, while simple, still provides proximal and distal surfaces that are operable to bite into and engage with cortical plates 14A and 14B.

[0126] In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3E illustrates bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_3E, similar in construction to the bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_2A (FIG. 2A), but having no screw head and including an internal, threaded cervix 15 at proximal end 44, in place of notch 41.

[0127] FIGS. 3A-3D also illustrate alternative designs to proximal end 44.

[0128] As seen in FIG. 3A, head 40 may itself serve as the tool receptor, being shaped for example, as a polygon, arranged to interact with a wrench (not shown).

[0129] Alternatively, as seen in FIG. 3B, head 40 may be shaped as a polygon, arranged to interact with a wrench, and include notch 41, arranged to interact with a screwdriver tip (not shown) or an Ellen key (not shown), providing the operator with more than one tool receptor, and giving him the flexibility to choose the most appropriate tool. The choice of an appropriate tool may depend on the location of the implant in the mouth.

[0130] Alternatively, as seen in FIGS. 3C-3D, bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_3C and 12_3D have no screw heads and are arranged to be flush with the external surface of buccal cortical plate 14A. For each, proximal portion 43 includes notch 41, which serves as the tool receptor, for interacting with a screwdriver tip (not shown), an Ellen key (not shown), or both. Bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_3C or 12_3D may be inserted into the bone, for example with a screw driver, through a template drill-bit guide channel, using any of the templates described hereinbelow, in conjunction with FIGS. 6A-10.

[0131] Alternatively, as seen in FIG. 3E, illustrating the preferred embodiment of the present invention, bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_3E has no screw head, but includes a threaded, internal cervix 15, arranged to interact with a special tool 17, described hereinbelow, in conjunction with FIG. 3F.

[0132] Reference is now made to FIG. 3F, which describes special tool 17, in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention. Tool 17 includes a threaded surface at a distal portion 11, which complements threaded internal cervix 15 of bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_3E. Additionally, tool 17 includes a stem 13 and a proximal, finger-gripping portion 19. Bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_3E may be inserted into the bone, with tool 17, through a template drill-bit guide channel, using any of the templates described hereinbelow, in conjunction with FIGS. 6A-10.

[0133] Reference is again made to FIG. 1A, for further examination of tooth replacement 10.

[0134] In accordance with the present invention, a solid barrier 38 separates bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12 at far portion 26 from cervix 30 at near portion 24, to prevent bacterial penetration from the mouth to reach bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12 and thereafter, cancellous bone tissue 22. Bacterial penetration can lead to local mortality of bone tissue and implant failure. If the bone is allowed to heal around implant member 16 so that gingival tissue 65 closes on it, there is little risk of bacterial penetration along implant external surface 18. However, when dental prosthesis 32 is installed, penetration of bacteria along an interface surface 31 between dental prosthesis 32 and implant member 16 and along an interface 35 between post 36 and cervix 30 can take place. Since these interfaces are between two non-organic biocompatible materials, such as metals, ceramics or plastics, which are not susceptible to bacterial attack, there is no harm in such bacterial penetration. However, if cervix 30 of near portion 24 reached down as far as through conduit 46 of far portion 26, bacteria could infiltrate through conduit 46 and move along it to cancellous bone tissue 22 and also to cortical plates 14A and 14B. Solid barrier 38, which prevents such an attack, is an essential feature of the present invention.

[0135] In accordance with the invention, implant member 16 may include more than one through conduit 46 and may be supported by more than one bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12.

[0136] In accordance with the present invention, through conduit 46, bone channel 42 (FIG. 2B) and bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12 may be slanted with respect to either the x- and y-axes, the z-axis, or all axes, in order to increase the thickness of cortical plates 14A and 14B and of cancellous bone tissue 22 that serve to anchor bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12.

[0137] Reference is now made to FIG. 4, which schematically illustrates an implant member 52, in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Implant member 52 includes an open through conduit 58, arranged to be supported by bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12. Open through conduit 58 has a cross-sectional arch 64, which is at least 180°, and preferably 270° or more. The main advantage of open through conduit 58 is that the length of implant member 52, H, may be shorter than that of implant member 16 (FIG. 1A), while still maintaining bacterial barrier 38. Additionally, cancellous tissue bone growth around bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12, which happens with time, increases its stability.

[0138] Reference is now made to FIG. 5A, which schematically illustrates a maxillary tooth replacement 80, through a sinus cavity 82, anchored with bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12, in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0139] In general, during the first step of drilling bore 20 through the jawbone, dentists avoid contact with sinus cavity 82. However, it is a well-known fact in the field of maxillofacial surgery, that when using mini-plates and screws for fixation, screws are sometimes inserted into buccal cortical plate 14A of sinus cavity 82. The screws may remain there for a long time, even indefinitely, without complication. Therefore, screws, supported by mini-plates, into buccal cortical plate 14A of the sinus cavity 82 may similarly be used to stabilize tooth replacement 80, so that even where there is little bone support for tooth replacement 80, implant loads can be transferred onto strong buccal and lingual cortical plates 14A and 14B. The risk of infection is minimal, since with time gingival tissue 65 covers the mini-plate 86 and screws 84 and prevents bacterial penetration from the oral cavity.

[0140] Reference is now also made to FIGS. 5B and 5C which illustrate mini-plates that may be used with implant member 80, in accordance with the present invention. The reason for the mini-plate 80 is that, in general at the sinus area, the cortical plate tends to be rather thin and weak. Preferably, a mini-plate 86, having a hole 81, may be used as a washer between head 40 (FIG. 5A) and buccal cortical plate 14A, to further strengthen the cortical support to tooth replacement 80.

[0141] Furthermore, mini-plate 86 may include at least one additional screw hole 85 arranged for inserting at least one additional screw 84 into buccal cortical plate 14A. Preferably, after bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12 is inserted into the jawbone, at least one additional lateral channel 87, of a diameter slightly smaller than screw 84, is drilled from mini-plate hole 85 into buccal cortical plate 14A. At least one screw 84 is then inserted, into buccal cortical plate 14A, preferably self-tapping an internal thread into buccal cortical plate 14A.

[0142] Mini-plate 86 may be arranged for one or more screws 84, having one or more holes 85. Holes 85 may be at the same elevation with respect to bone crest 28 (FIG. 5A) or at different elevations. Similarly, hole 81 and holes 85 may be at the same elevation with respect to bone crest 28 or at different elevations.

[0143] In accordance with the present invention, mini-plate 86 and at least one screw 84 may be used also with the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1A.

[0144] Reference is now made to FIG. 5D which schematically illustrates cortical anchor apparatus 12_3E (FIG. 3E), further anchored with mini-plate 86 and screw 84, wherein screw 84 is fitted into internal cervix 15, in accordance with the present invention. The advantage of this arrangement is that bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_3E may be inserted via a template drill-bit guide channel, using any of the templates described hereinbelow, in conjunction with FIGS. 6A-10, yet it may be anchored to cortical plate 14A, with mini-plate 86, even though it does not have a screw head.

[0145] Reference is now made to FIG. 6A, which schematically illustrates a complementary system of template and implant member 16 having a template 60, operative to guide a drill bit 72, into through conduit 46 of implant member 16, in order to drill bone channel 42 (FIG. 2B), in accordance with a first template embodiment of the present invention. Since through conduit 46 of implant member 16 is not visible to the operator, once implant member 16 has been inserted into bore 20 (FIG. 1B), a guiding template is needed to drill bone channel 42 towards through conduit 46.

[0146] Template 60 includes a lateral section 66, generally parallel with the x- and y-axes, arranged to mesh with a portion of implant member 16, which protrudes from the jawbone, such as superstructure 33 (FIG. 1A) or mount 140 (FIG. 1B). Additionally, template 60 includes a proximal vertical section 74, for running generally along buccal cortical plate 14A. Proximal vertical section 74 includes a drill-bit-channel housing 62 and a drill-bit guide channel 76, located within housing 62. When template 60 is meshed with implant member 16, with lateral section 66 meshed with superstructure 33 (FIG. 1A) or mount 140 (FIG. 1B), drill bit 72 inserted into drill-bit guide channel 76 will be aligned with through conduit 46 of implant member 16. Drill bit 72 may then be used to drill bone channel 42.

[0147] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, after it is used for drilling bone channel 42, template 60 is removed. Cortical anchor apparatus 12 is then inserted into bone channel 42, using an insertion tool (not shown), such as a screwdriver, a wrench, or an Ellen key.

[0148] However, in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, after it is used for guiding a drill bit into bone channel 42, and while still meshed with dental implant 16, template 60 may be further used to guide cortical anchor apparatus 12, such as cortical anchor apparatus 12_3C, 12_3D, or 12_3E (FIGS. 3C-3E) into the bone. Cortical anchor apparatus 12 may be guided by any tool having a stem, for example, a screw driver, an Ellen key, or tool 17 (FIG. 3F), fitted into drill-bit guide channel 76. After insertion and anchoring by biting into cortical anchor plates 14B and 14A, cortical anchor apparatus 12_3E may be further anchored to buccal cortical plate 14A with mini-plate 86 and screw 84, as shown hereinabove, in conjunction with FIG. 5D.

[0149] Reference is now made to FIG. 6B, which schematically illustrates a top view of complementary system 68 showing template 60 and implant member 16, wherein lateral section 66 is meshed with superstructure 33 which is formed as an external hexagon 33, in accordance with the present invention. Preferably, lateral section 66 includes a cutout section 67 of generally the same hexagonal shape as superstructure 33, arranged to fit over it. Preferably, lateral section 66 further includes an alignment indicator 59, which is visible to the operator. When indicator 59 of template 60 and indicator 57 of implant member 16 are at a predetermined configuration, with respect to each other, drill-bit guide channel 76 is aligned with through conduit 46. Alternatively, lateral section 66 may be meshed with mount 140 (FIG. 1B), in place of superstructure 33.

[0150] In alternative embodiments of the present invention, superstructure 33 (FIG. 1A) or mount 140 (FIG. 1B), and cutout section 67 may be shaped as complementary polygons other than hexagons, or may have different complementary shapes altogether, for example, elliptical or round. In alternative embodiments of the present invention, a “carved-out” section 67 that is not a through cutout may replace cutout section 67. “Carved-out” section 67 may be fitted over a portion of implant member 16 that protrudes from the jawbone, like a hat. In alternative embodiments of the present invention, the complementary shapes of superstructure 33 or mount 140 and cutout section 67 define the alignment of template 60 with respect to implant member 16, and alignment indicator 59 is not necessary.

[0151] Reference is now made to FIG. 6C, which schematically illustrates an alternative embodiment of template 60, in accordance with the present invention. Template 60 may further include at least one leaf spring 61, running in a vertical direction, forming a distal vertical section 61. Preferably leaf spring 61 is attached to lateral section 66 and is operative to press against the lingual cortical plate 14B, as proximal vertical section 74 is arranged against buccal cortical plate 14A, so as to clamp the jawbone, thus increasing the stability of template 60. Preferably, a hinge 63 provides leaf spring 61 with rotational motion, generally in the y-z plane, to allow the operator to first position proximal vertical section 74 against buccal cortical plate 14A, and then lower leaf spring 61 so as to press against lingual cortical plate 14B.

[0152] The method of installing implant member 16, using template 60 includes the following steps (see also FIG. 1A):

[0153] 1. drilling a bore 20 from bone crest 28, into the jawbone, along the z-axis;

[0154] 2. inserting implant member 16 into bore 20, to a predetermined depth, H, preferably, with a screwing, self-tapping motion, which cuts an internal thread into cancellous bone tissue 22;

[0155] 3. aligning indicator 57 of implant member 16 so that through conduit 46 runs in a desired direction;

[0156] 4. meshing lateral section 66 of template 60 (FIGS. 6A-6C) with a portion of implant member 16 that protrudes from the jawbone and positioning proximal vertical section 74 against buccal cortical plate 14A, so that drill-bit guide channel 76 and drill bit 72 are aligned with through conduit 46 of implant member 16;

[0157] 5. alternatively or additionally with step 4, aligning indicator 59 of template 60 with indicator 57 of implant member 16, to align drill-bit guide channel 76 and drill bit 72 with through conduit 46;

[0158] 6. where leaf spring 61, forming distal vertical section 61, is used, positioning leaf spring 61 against lingual cortical plate 14B, to further stabilize template 60; and

[0159] 7. drilling channel 42 into the jawbone (FIG. 2B).

[0160] In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the method of installing implant member 16, using template 60 proceeds as follows:

[0161] 8. without moving template 60, inserting cortical anchor apparatus 12_3E (FIG. 3E), through drill-bit guide channel 76 of template 60, with the help of a tool such as a screw driver or tool 17 (FIG. 3F);

[0162] 9. anchoring surface S₁ of distal portion 47 with respect to lingual cortical plate 14B, by biting into and engaging thereto, and anchoring surface S₂ of proximal portion 43 with respect to buccal cortical plate 14A, by biting into and engaging thereto; and

[0163] 10. removing template 60; and

[0164] 11. where desired, positioning mini-plate 86 (FIG. 5D) against buccal cortical plate 14A, and anchoring it with screw 84.

[0165] It should be pointed out that the feature of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, of inserting the bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12 through drill-bit guide channel 76, without moving template 60 between bone channel 42 and inserting bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12, gives it a unique advantage over the prior art, as it greatly increases the precision of inserting bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12 into conduit 46 of implant member 16, and it minimizes trauma to the bone.

[0166] Alternatively, the method of installing implant member 16, using template 60 proceeds as follows:

[0167] 8A. removing template 60;

[0168] 9A. where desired, positioning mini-plate 86 (FIG. 5C) against buccal cortical plate 14A, with hole 81 (FIG. 5B) next to channel 42 (FIG. 2B);

[0169] 10A. inserting bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12_2A (FIG. 2A), from buccal cortical plate 14A, through bone channel 42 and conduit 46 of implant member 16, towards lingual cortical plate 14B, for bi-cortical retention, while self-tapping an internal thread in channel 42 of the bone;

[0170] 11A. anchoring surface S₁ of distal portion 47 with respect to lingual cortical plate 14B, by biting into and engaging thereto, and anchoring surface S₂ of proximal portion 43 with respect to buccal cortical plate 14A, by biting into and engaging thereto; and

[0171] 12A. where mini-plate 86 (FIG. 5C) is used, preferably stabilizing it further, with at least one screw 84.

[0172] Reference is now made to FIG. 7A, which schematically illustrates a mechanical template 70, arranged for adjusting to jawbones of different widths, in accordance with a second template embodiment of the present invention. Template 70 includes a lateral section 77, having a cutout 75, or a “carved-out” section 75, arranged to mesh with a portion of implant member 16, which protrudes from the jawbone, such as superstructure 33 (FIG. 1A) or mount 140 (FIG. 1B). Additionally, template 70 includes a proximal vertical section 89, for running generally along buccal cortical plate 14A. Proximal vertical section 89 includes drill-bit channel housing 62 and drill-bit guide channel 76. When lateral section 77 is meshed with superstructure 33 (FIG. 1A) or mount 140 (FIG. 1B), drill-bit guide channel 76 is aligned with through conduit 46 of implant member 16.

[0173] Template 70 includes a sliding mechanism 78, which includes for example, at least two rods 79 that protrude from lateral section 77, along the x-axis, towards buccal cortical plate 14A. At least two rods 79 are arranged to slide in and out of holes 83 of proximal vertical section 89, in order to maintain lateral section 77 and proximal vertical section 89 perpendicular to each other, while selectably increasing or decreasing a length L, adjusting it to jawbones of different widths.

[0174] Additionally, template 70 may include a bolt 73, arranged to be selectably screwed into and out of a lateral section 77, along the x-axis, to control the increase and decrease in length L of lateral section 77. Alternatively, bolt 73 and a single rod 79 may be used.

[0175] In alternative embodiments, template 70 may further include leaf spring 61 (FIG. 6C), attached to lateral section 77, preferably with hinge 63, forming a distal vertical section 61, operative to press against lingual cortical plate 14B.

[0176] Reference is now made to FIG. 7B, which schematically illustrates an alternative embodiment of template 70, having two or more drill-bit guide channels 76 in housing 62, in accordance with the present invention. The present embodiment is used for the insertion of two or more bi-cortical anchor apparatus 12 into implant members with two or more through conduits 46 (FIG. 1A). The two or more channels 76 may be at a same z value, that is at a same elevation, or at different elevations.

[0177] The method of installing implant member 16, using template 70 is similar to that of using template 60 described hereinabove, in conjunction with (FIGS. 6A-6C) but includes a step of adjusting template 70 to the width of the jawbone, using sliding mechanism 78 and bolt 73.

[0178] Reference is now made to FIG. 8, which schematically illustrates a template 90 with a sliding mechanism 92, for adjusting to jawbones of different widths, in accordance with a third template embodiment of the present invention. Template 90 includes a first component 94, which is lateral and which has a cutout section 67, or a “carved out” section 67, arranged to mesh with a portion of implant member 16, which protrudes from the jawbone, such as superstructure 33 (FIG. 1A) or mount 140 (FIG. 11B).

[0179] Template 90 further includes a second component 96, having a lateral portion 95, arranged to fit into lateral component 94, via sliding mechanism 92, to selectably increase or decrease length L. Second component 96 further includes a proximal vertical section 93, which includes drill-bit-channel housing 62 and drill-bit guide channel 76, for guiding drill bit 72 (FIG. 6A).

[0180] For forming slide mechanism 92, lateral component 94 and lateral portion 95 may be shaped as complementary puzzle pieces, in the y-z plane, so that lateral portion 95 may slide within lateral component 94, along the x direction, but be prevented from motion in the y and z directions.

[0181] Templates 90 may further include leaf spring 61 (FIG. 6C), attached to lateral section 94, preferably with hinge 63, forming a distal vertical section 61, operative to press against lingual cortical plate 14B.

[0182] The method of installing implant member 16, using template 90 is similar to that of using template 60 described hereinabove, in conjunction with (FIGS. 6A-6C) but includes a step of adjusting template 90 to the width of the jawbone using sliding mechanism 92.

[0183] Reference is now made to FIGS. 9A-9C, which together, schematically illustrate a template 120, arranged for clamping the jawbone, while adjusting to jawbones of different widths, in accordance with a fourth template embodiment of the present invention, which is the preferred template embodiment. While most templates, and specifically, templates found in the prior art, may generally be used for the anterior segment of the mouth, template 120 may be used both for both the anterior and posterior segments of the mouth.

[0184] As seen in FIG. 9A, template 120 includes a preferably U-shaped lateral section 122, arranged to mesh with a portion of implant member 16, which protrudes from the jawbone, for example, arranged to mesh with mount 140 (FIG. 11B). Additionally, template 120 includes a proximal vertical section 126, for running generally along buccal cortical plate 14A. Proximal vertical section 126 has a through, preferably threaded, channel 128.

[0185] Template 120 further includes a hollow bolt attachment 130, which includes a threaded portion 133, complementing threaded channel 128, and a finger-gripping portion 135. Bolt attachment 130 is operative to selectably be threaded into and out of threaded channel 128, so as to selectably press against buccal cortical plate 14A and form a hold on the jawbone, and to selectably release the hold on the jawbone. Preferably, bolt attachment 130 has at a distal end 132, spikes 134. Spikes 134 are operative to pierce into buccal cortical plate 14A, when bolt attachment 130 presses against it, thus increasing the hold on the jawbone.

[0186] Hollow bolt attachment 130 forms a housing for drill-bit guide channel 76, and is operative to guide drill bit 72 (FIG. 6A), for drilling bone channel 42, while protecting the cheek from the drill bit.

[0187] In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, after it is used for guiding a drill bit into bone channel 42, and while still pressing against buccal cortical plate 14A, bolt attachment 130 may be further used to guide cortical anchor apparatus 12, such as 12_3D (FIG. 3D) into the bone. The use of bolt attachment 130, pressing against proximal cortical plate 14A, further increases the precision of inserting cortical anchor apparatus into the jawbone channel. When using another cortical anchor apparatus 12, such as 12_3C or 12_3E, the hollow bolt attachment 130 can be replaced after drilling, with another attachment with a slightly larger inner hole diameter, suited to the larger proximal portion 43 of anchor apparatus 12_3C or 12_3E. Alternatively, hollow bolt 130 may contain an inner hollow tube that can be removed from the bolt after the initial phase of drilling. The larger diameter thus produced can provide for the larger diameter required by proximal portion 43 of anchor apparatus 12_3C or 12_3E. Furthermore, template 120 includes at least one spike 136, on proximal vertical section 126, for piercing buccal cortical plate 14A, when bolt attachment 130 presses against it, to increase the hold on the jawbone. Alternatively, two or more spikes 136 may be used. At least one spike 136 may be substantially at the same elevation, or same z value, as bolt attachment 130, or at a different elevation. Two or more spikes 136 may be at the same elevation, or same z value, with respect to each other, or at different elevations. At least one spike 136 is arranged to pierce through gingival tissue 65 (FIG. 1A) and anchor with respect to buccal cortical plate 14A.

[0188] Generally, implant member 16 is provided with a mount 140 (FIG. 1B), threaded into cervix 30 (FIG. 1B). After insertion into bore 20, mount 140 is removed. In accordance with the present embodiment of the invention, lateral section 122 is arranged to slide over a post 142 of mount 140, so as to mesh with it. A nut 144 may then be used to lock template 120 in place, on mount 140. Preferably, mount 140 includes alignment indicator 57 (FIG. 9C), to indicate the orientation of through conduit 46 (FIG. 1A).

[0189] Alternatively, superstructure 33 (FIG. 1A) or mount 140 (FIG. 1B) may be used in place of post 142, and lateral section 122 may be arranged to complement it.

[0190] As seen in FIGS. 9B and 9C, template 120 may be used with a tri-prong ratchet 150, having a finger-gripping portion 153, a distal, flexible prong 154, and two proximal, flexible prongs 152. Ratchet 150 is operative to clamp section 126 of template 120 and lingual cortical plate 14B together, to increase the hold of template 120 over the jawbone.

[0191] Preferably, distal flexible prong 154 is arranged to press against lingual cortical plate 14B. Two proximal, flexible prongs 152 are arranged to press against section 126, on the anterior and posterior sides of bolt attachment 130.

[0192] Additionally, two proximal, flexible prongs 152 have pins 157 arranged to fit into holes 151 in section 126 (FIG. 9A), to provide increased stability. Furthermore, distal flexible prong 154 includes a spike 159, operative to pierce through gingival tissue 65 (FIG. 1A) and anchor with respect to buccal cortical plate 14B.

[0193] Preferably, ratchet 150 further includes a hinge 156 and a graduated locking mechanism 155, operative to lock against jawbones of different widths.

[0194] Reference is now made to FIG. 9D, which schematically illustrates an alternative embodiment of template 120, wherein in place of ratchet 150, template 120 includes leaf spring 61, attached to lateral section 122, preferably with hinge 63, forming distal vertical section 61 and operative to press against lingual cortical plate 14B.

[0195] The method of installing implant member 16, using template 120 includes the following steps (see also FIG. 1A):

[0196] 1. drilling a bore 20 from bone crest 28, into the jawbone, along the z-axis;

[0197] 2. inserting implant member 16 into bore 20, to a predetermined depth, H, preferably, with a screwing, self-tapping motion, which cuts an internal thread in cancellous bone tissue 22;

[0198] 3. meshing lateral section 122 with mount 140 (FIG. 1B) or with superstructure 33, thus aligning threaded channel 128 and hollow bolt attachment 130 with through conduit 46 of implant member 16;

[0199] 4. clamping proximal vertical section 126 and lingual cortical plate 14B with ratchet 150 (FIG. 9B), or with leaf spring 61 (FIG. 9D);

[0200] 5. pressing hollow bolt attachment 130 against buccal cortical plate 14A, thus preferably piercing buccal cortical plate 14A with spikes 134 and (or) 136.

[0201] 6. positioning a drill bit in drill-bit guide channel 76 of hollow bolt attachment 130; and

[0202] 7. drilling channel 42 (FIG. 2B) into the jawbone;

[0203] The method of the present embodiment proceeds as steps 8-11, or as steps 8A-12A of the method described hereinabove, in conjunction with FIGS. 6A-6C.

[0204] Reference is now made to FIG. 10, which schematically illustrates a template 100, arranged for clamping the jawbone, in accordance with a fifth template embodiment of the present invention.

[0205] Template 100 includes a lateral section 110, having an aligning component 114, preferably formed as a cutout section 114 or a “carved out” section 114, arranged to mesh with a portion of implant member 16, which protrudes from the jawbone, such as superstructure 33 (FIG. 1A) or mount 140 (FIG. 1B).

[0206] Additionally, lateral section 110 includes a slide mechanism 116, controlled by a bolt 124, for adjusting to jawbones of different widths.

[0207] Furthermore, template 110 includes a distal vertical section 102, for running generally along lingual cortical plate 14B, having spikes 112, arranged to pierce lingual cortical plate 14B (FIG. 1A).

[0208] Furthermore, template 100 includes a proximal vertical section 104, for running generally along buccal cortical plate 14A. Proximal vertical section 104 includes hollow bolt attachment 130, arranged in a threaded channel 108, operative to selectably press against buccal cortical plate 14A, thus clamping the jawbone, between distal and proximal vertical sections 102 and 104.

[0209] Hollow bolt attachment 130 forms a housing for drill-bit guide channel 76, and is operative to guide drill bit 72 (FIG. 6A).

[0210] In alternative embodiments of template 100, bolt attachment 130 may include spikes 134 (FIG. 9A) and proximal vertical section 104 may include spikes 136.

[0211] The method of installing implant member 16, using template 100 is similar to that described hereinabove, in conjunction with FIGS. 9A-9D, however, preferably, after meshing lateral section 110 with a portion of implant member 16 that protrudes from the jawbone, distal vertical section 102 is positioned against lingual cortical plate 14B, and only then, proximal vertical section 104 is positioned against buccal cortical plate 14A.

[0212] A specific advantage of the present invention is that loads, generated by masticatory forces, are transferred to virgin tissue of the hard, cortical bone, thus providing primary stabilization of the tooth replacement, before bone growth occurs.

[0213] The implant members, mini-plates, screws, and the cortical anchor apparatus are preferably formed of a biocompatible material, for example, a titanium alloy, pure titanium, pure gold, ceramics, plastic or other known biocompatible metals, alloys or other materials, for tooth replacements.

[0214] A coating of bone-growth enhancing material may be applied to implant member 16.

[0215] In accordance with the present invention, reference to the lingual cortical plate is used by way of example only. Except for the discussion of FIG. 5A, which relates to a maxillary tooth replacement, references to the lingual cortical plate apply to the palatal cortical plate as well.

[0216] Although generally, the proximal cortical plate is the buccal cortical plate, in accordance with the present invention, either the buccal or the lingual cortical plates may be the proximal plate, with respect to the operator. Reference to the buccal cortical plate as the proximal cortical plate was made by way of example only.

[0217] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art, that the scope of the present invention is not limited by what has been specifically seen and described hereinabove, merely by way of example. Rather, the scope of the invention is limited solely by the claims, which follow.