SmileDirectClub. has been granted a patent for a method that involves identifying defective dental impressions from users, sending a retake kit, and manufacturing custom dental aligners based on corrected impressions. This process aims to ensure accurate aligner production for effective teeth repositioning. GlobalData’s report on SmileDirectClub gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on SmileDirectClub, Digital intra-oral scanning was a key innovation area identified from patents. SmileDirectClub's grant share as of July 2024 was 41%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Method for correcting defective dental impressions and manufacturing aligners
The patent US12070373B2 outlines a method for improving the process of creating dental impressions and manufacturing dental aligners. The method begins with the user receiving an initial dental impression kit, which includes trays and materials for capturing impressions of both the upper and lower dental arches. Upon submission of these impressions, the system identifies any defective impressions and sends a retake kit to the user, specifically designed to address the identified defects. This retake kit contains new trays and materials, allowing the user to create a second set of impressions. Once these new impressions are received, the method facilitates the manufacturing of custom dental aligners tailored to the user's dental structure.
Additionally, the patent details the communication process with the user regarding the status of their impressions. Users are informed through a user account page about any defects in their impressions, along with instructions for improvement. The method also allows for the generation of a treatment plan based on the second set of impressions, which includes 3D models to visualize the progression of teeth movement. The claims further specify that the initial kit may be sent after a user indicates a need for correction in their treatment plan, ensuring a responsive and user-centered approach to dental care.
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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.
