초록

An apparatus for monitoring orthodontic treatment compliance includes an appliance adapted to be worn over one or more teeth; and a compliance indicator mounted on the appliance to indicate compliance.

대표청구항 ▼

What is claimed is: 1. An apparatus for monitoring dental treatment compliance, the apparatus comprising: an appliance, including a non-conductive polymer matrix, adapted to be worn over one or more teeth; and an indicator including one or more electrically conductive filler materials supplementing

What is claimed is: 1. An apparatus for monitoring dental treatment compliance, the apparatus comprising: an appliance, including a non-conductive polymer matrix, adapted to be worn over one or more teeth; and an indicator including one or more electrically conductive filler materials supplementing the appliance to indicate compliance by demonstrating a change in at least one electrical characteristic of the indicator; wherein the change in at least one electrical characteristic of the indicator includes at least a change in a concentration of the one or more electrically conductive filler materials. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the electrical characteristic provides an electrical characteristic that corresponds to a change in temperature. 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the electrical characteristic that corresponds to a change in temperature is used by the apparatus to provide a time temperature indication. 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the electrical characteristic provides an electrical characteristic that corresponds to a temperature above a threshold and wherein a timer counts the time that the appliance is above the threshold temperature. 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the electrical characteristic is electrical resistance. 6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the electrical characteristic is provided by mechanical deformation. 7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the electrical characteristic is provided by thermal expansion. 8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the electrical characteristic is electrical conductivity. 9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more electrically conductive filler materials are selected from the group including metals, graphite, electrically conductive polymers, semiconductors, and superconductors. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the electrical characteristic is provided by bending deformation. 11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the electrical characteristic is provided by displacement of one or more piezoelectric fibers. 12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the appliance does not include a sensor.