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CLASS 433,	DENTISTRY
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SECTION I - CLASS DEFINITION

This class is a specific class under the broader class of Surgery and includes methods directed to or including specific dental steps, e.g., taking impressions of the teeth or gums, adapting a plate or model to a particular mouth formation, mounting teeth on a plate in a particular way, etc.; apparatus, implements, and devices relating to the treatment of teeth or gums, or the replacement of teeth.

SECTION II - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS

APPARATUS

Inasmuch as this class is defined in terms of specific rather than proximate function, many of the apparatus provided for in this class are also provided for broadly in the proximate function classes. Unless otherwise stated, patents claiming such apparatus should be classified as follows: patents with claims reciting structure peculiar to dentistry should be placed as originals in Class 433. Use of the functional adjective "dental" will not in itself cause placement in Class 433. For example, "a dental mirror comprising...", without further peculiar dental structure recited is classified broadly with mirrors in Class 359, Optics: Systems (Including Communication) and Elements (subclass 882 for a mirror with a handle). However, the recitation of means to prevent fogging or accumulation of water from a drill dictates classification in Class 433. Use of nouns peculiar to dentistry such as "a dental handpiece..." or "an articulator comprising...", will cause classification in Class 433. Apparatus and implements classified in Class 433 are generally those of the type used by a dentist. However, Class 433 will take a device which is disclosed as being used by individuals upon their own teeth, if not provided for elsewhere.

METHODS

Methods including steps normally performed by a dentist are classified in Class 433. Methods for making prostheses and appliances and which contain only those steps which are performed by a technician (e.g., molding, die shaping, etc.) are classified in the appropriate manufacturing class. Methods of treating a tooth by application of a named composition are classified in Class 433 if more than the mere application to a tooth is claimed (e.g., an additional step of drilling, cleaning, filling, etc.).

PROSTHESES OR APPLIANCES

Class 433 will take claims to a dental prosthesis or appliance, per se, unless claimed in terms of a particular composition or material and no structural limitations are recited. Patents including a claim to a composition, per se, are classified in the appropriate composition class.

SECTION III - REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

SUBCLASSES

1	VETERINARY DENTISTRY:
	This subclass is indented under the class definition.  Subject matter peculiar to the treatment or replacement of the teeth of animals.

2	ORTHODONTICS:
	This subclass is indented under the class definition.  Subject matter relating to the correction of malocclusions, or the maintenance of desired position or alignment of natural teeth.

3	Tool:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 2.  Apparatus to be used for manipulating or otherwise working with an orthodontic appliance. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 25+, for other dental tools. 141+, for hand manipulatable tools. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 29,  Metal Working,   subclasses 700+ for assembly and disassembly tools. 81,  Tools,   appropriate subclasses for hand tools of both general purpose and specific application which are not provided for elsewhere. 140,  Wireworking,   appropriate subclasses for wireworking tools.

4	Plier type:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 3.  Apparatus comprising a hand manipulatable implement which includes two elongated members pivotally connected intermediate their lengths, each having cooperating work engaging jaw on one side of the pivot and a handle portion on the opposite side of the pivot. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 29,  Metal Working,   subclasses 225+ and 268 for disassembly and assembly pliers. 81,  Tools,   subclasses 300+ for pliers in general.

5	Including extra-oral force transmitting means:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 2.  Subject matter wherein a tooth is aligned or positioned by a device which includes a member that is worn externally of the mouth and places the device under tension.

6	By mouthpiece-type retainer:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 2.  Subject matter wherein a member which conforms in shape to a patient"s teeth is worn over the teeth to complete an orthodontic treatment or to correct mild malocclusions.

7	By device having means to apply outwardly directed force (e.g., expander):
	This subclass is indented under subclass 2.  Subject matter wherein a tooth is positioned or aligned by a device which includes two force applying surfaces movable in divergent paths.

8	Bracket:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 2.  Subject matter relating to an orthodontic element adapted to be fixed to a tooth and having means for rigidly connecting or positioning an arch wire or similar force transmitting strand thereto.

9	Cemented to tooth:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 8.  Subject matter wherein the appliance is secured to a tooth by a settable binding substance. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 226+, for methods of treating or restoring natural teeth by filling or cementing.

10	Having means to secure arch wire:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 8.  Subject matter wherein the orthodontic element includes means for rigidly connecting an arch wire or similar force transmitting strand thereto.

11	Resiliently biased clamping member:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 10.  Subject matter wherein the means for rigidly connecting arch wire to the bracket includes an elastically yieldable retaining means.

12	Tension adjustment nut:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 10.  Subject matter wherein a threaded member is provided and adapted to cooperate with threads formed on either the bracket or an arch wire engaged therewith whereby rotation of the threaded member causes a change in the tension of the arch wire.

13	Separable securing means:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 10.  Subject matter wherein the arch wire may be rigidly connected to the bracket by a readily removable retaining element. (1) Note. The retaining element must be readily removable from both the arch wire and the bracket.

14	Lock pin:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 13.  Subject matter wherein the removable retaining element comprises a rigid member which is substantially elongated relative to any lateral dimension.

15	Ligature wire:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 13.  Subject matter wherein the removable retaining element comprises a length of metallic strand which is adapted to be wrapped around the arch wire and a portion of the bracket. (1) Note. Patent claiming brackets having structure for accommodating ligature wire have been placed as originals in this subclass; i.e., the ligature wire need not be claimed.

16	Having adjustable or angular arch wire guide:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 8.  Subject matter wherein the bracket includes a wire engaging surface for locating or orienting the arch wire or similar force transmitting strand with respect to the tooth carrying the bracket, and either (a) the surface is adjustably carried by the bracket whereby it may assume any of an plurality of positions with respect to the bracket, or (b) the wire engaging surface forms an acute angle with the plane of occlusion whereby the arch wire or strand applies a torque to the tooth carrying the bracket.

17	Having arch wire enclosing guide (e.g., buccal tube):
	This subclass is indented under subclass 8.  Subject matter wherein the bracket includes an elongated member having a passage therein through which the arch wire is placed.

18	Means to transmit or apply force to tooth:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 2.  Subject matter relating to either (a) a strandlike member adapted to be secured to a bracket and placed under tension to apply force to a tooth, or (b) a device adapted to engage two brackets or teeth, or a bracket and arch wire, for creating a force between a tooth and arch wire.

19	Acting between upper and lower teeth:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 18.  Subject matter wherein the strandlike member or the force creating device is connected to a tooth on the maxillary arch and to a tooth on the mandibular arch to transmit or apply a force between the two teeth.

20	Arch wire:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 18.  Subject matter relating to a metallic strandlike member adapted to be secured to a bracket and placed under tension to apply force to a tooth.

21	Metallic spring:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 18.  Subject matter comprising a device for creating a force between two teeth or between a tooth and arch wire comprising a metallic element of sufficient elastic property that it recovers its original shape when released after being distorted. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 267,  Spring Devices,   appropriate subclasses for springs in general.

22	Arch wire attachment:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 2.  Subject matter comprising a discrete element adapted to be secured to an arch wire.

23	Band:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 2.  Subject matter relating to an appliance element adapted to be positioned around substantially the entire circumference of a tooth for the purpose of securing a bracket thereto.

24	Method of positioning or aligning teeth:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 2.  Method including a step for correcting a malocclusion.

25	APPARATUS:
	This subclass is indented under the class definition.  Device or subcombination thereof for facilitating the replacement, treatment, or testing of either natural or artificial teeth. (1) Note. The above apparatus do not remain in the patient"s mouth after treatment. (2) Note. This and indented subclasses are intended to collect patents to devices for performing specific dental steps (i.e., those performed by a dentist). Devices of a more general nature (e.g., molds, forming dies, etc.) which are used by technicians are classified elsewhere unless specifically provided for in this class (see search notes below). SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 1, for apparatus peculiar to the treatment or replacement of the teeth of animals. 3, for a tool for manipulating an orthodontic appliance. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 15,  Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning,   subclass 167.1 for toothbrushes. 24,  Buckles, Buttons, Clasps, etc.,   subclasses 305+ for combined fasteners, especially subclasses 326+ for dental chair fasteners. 29,  Metal Working,   subclasses 33+ and 650 for manufacturing apparatus which perform two or more diverse operations (as in the manufacture of dental prostheses); and subclasses 700+ for assembling and disassembling apparatus. 30,  Cutlery,   appropriate subclasses for hand held cutting implements in general. Class 433 will take cutting implements which are disclosed solely for use by a dentist. 118,  Coating Apparatus,   subclasses 200+ for toothbrushes provided with dentifrice supply means. 128,  Surgery,   subclasses 3+ for specula. 132,  Toilet,   subclasses 321+ for toothpicks and dental floss, and subclasses 308+ for a toilet kit including a toothbrush. 248,  Supports,   subclasses 637+ for machinery supports not peculiar to or including dental treating apparatus. 425,  Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating: Apparatus,   subclass 2 for shaping means utilizing an anatomical body or portion thereof; and subclasses 175+ for investment molding apparatus. 451,  Abrading,   for abrading of dentures in a manufacturing or laboratory operation. Abrading or polishing natural teeth or mutually abrading upper and lower dentures is provided for in Class 433 (sole disclosure). 601,  Surgery: Kinesitherapy,   subclasses 136+ for gum massagers and subclasses 154+ for water getting devices for gums. 604,  Surgery,   subclasses 19+ for aspirating devices; and subclasses 181+ for handheld injecting devices. 606,  Surgery,   subclasses 79+ for orthopedic cutting instruments, subclass 116 for cutting means for marking animals, subclass 132 for skin cutting dermatomes; subclass 137 for cutting means used in animal sterilization, subclass 163 for cutting means used in debeaking or dehorning animals and subclasses 167+, for cutting instrument in general.

26	Tooth selection guide:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 25.  Apparatus comprising a common holder for displaying a plurality of artificial teeth for the purpose of choosing the proper color, shape, etc. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 163, for an artificial tooth holder. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 206,  Special Receptacle or Package,   subclass 63.5 for a special container, package, or carrying case for a dental implement, material or article.

27	Having condition sensor to transmit signal to regulate indicating device or controller:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 25.  Device wherein means are provided for detecting the random occurrence of a predetermined event and releasing, terminating, or modifying a flow of energy which in turn either produces a perceptible manifestation of the event, or regulates a control means (e.g., motor, valve, solenoid, etc.).

28	Switch or valve controlled by presence of device on support:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 27.  Apparatus including a holder for storing an implement, and wherein removal or replacement of the implement on the holder activates or regulates the controller.

29	Having means to emit radiation or facilitate viewing of the work:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 25.  Device including (a) means to increase the lighting intensity at selected areas, or (b) means to bend or reflect light waves to make characteristics of the device or work more readily discernable, or (c) means from which electromagnetic radiation is directed at the work. (1) Note. Mouth props, per se, are excluded. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 140, for mouth props. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 128,  Surgery,   subclasses 3+ for specula; and subclass 23 for lamps. 250,  Radiant Energy,   appropriate subclass for X-ray sources, detectors and related apparatus, or methods of using such apparatus in dentistry for producing images of teeth. 362,  Illumination,   appropriate subclasses for lighting systems in general, especially subclasses 572+ and 577 for optic transmission fibers which modify light from a man-made source. 385,  Optical Waveguides,   appropriate subclasses for optic transmission fibers. 408,  Cutting by Use of Rotating Axially Moving Tool,   subclass 16 for drilling apparatus provided with means to facilitate viewing of the work.

30	Mirror:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 29.  Apparatus including a polished or smooth surface for forming an image by reflection. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 359,  Optics: Systems (Including Communication) and Elements,   subclasses 838+ for mirrors in general, and dental mirrors without structure peculiar to dental use. 600,  Surgery,   subclasses 185+ , 246, and 247+ for surgical mirrors, especially subclasses 246 and 247+ for oral mirrors.

31	Combined with other device:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 30.  Apparatus wherein the mirror is connected to a disparate dental device.

32	Having heater or electrode:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 25.  Device provided with either (a) means to raise the temperature of the device, work or environment, or (b) a conductor for establishing electrical contact with the work. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 215+, for methods of treating teeth by heat or electricity. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 128,  Surgery,   subclasses 362+ for other light, thermal, or electrical application in surgery. 219,  Electric Heating,   appropriate subclasses for details of electrical heating devices in general. 606,  Surgery,   subclasses 2+ for light, subclasses 27+ for heat and subclasses 32+, for electrical applicators surgical instruments.

33	Having support for patient or operator:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 25.  Apparatus including means to support a patient or operator against the force of gravity. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 5,  Beds,   subclass 600 for invalid beds and surgical patient supports. 297,  Chairs and Seats,   appropriate subclasses for dental chairs, per se. 378,  X-Ray or Gamma Ray Systems or Devices,   subclasses 38+ , 168+, and 190+ for tables or chairs for supporting persons for X-ray diagnosis, and having means peculiar thereto.

34	Having static product shaping surface (e.g., mold):
	This subclass is indented under subclass 25.  Device comprising static structure for confining a settable fluent material that is allowed to contact said structure and harden into a specific contour. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 71, for bite trays wherein an impression is obtained by biting into a solid material. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 249,  Static Molds,   subclass 54 for a mold for making a dental prosthesis. 264,  Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating: Processes,   subclasses 16+ for a process of molding or otherwise shaping a dental prosthesis. 425,  Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating: Apparatus,   subclass 2 for shaping apparatus utilizing an anatomical body or portion thereof as a shaping surface, and particularly subclasses 175+ for investment molding apparatus for dentures.

35	Having cooling means:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 34.  Apparatus including means to carry heat away from the hardenable fluent material. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 249,  Static Molds,   subclasses 79+ for molds having cooling passages.

36	Having settable material dispenser or fill opening:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 34.  Device including either a supply means for the settable fluent material or an orifice through which settable material is introduced into the static structure. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 80+, for an intra-oral dispenser, per se. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 141,  Fluent Material Handling, With Receiver or Receiver Coacting Means,   subclasses 311+ for filling means having a coacting receiver, other than a molding apparatus. 249,  Static Molds,   subclass 105 for a mold having static filling means in contact with the mold cavity. 425,  Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating: Apparatus,   subclasses 447+ for molding apparatus including a shaping surface and means feeding fluent stock thereto, see the collection to search notes thereunder.

37	Intra-oral:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 34.  Apparatus wherein the static structure is placed in the mouth of a patient to form a mold in conjunction with a surface inside the patient"s mouth.

38	Comprising frame and flexible bib:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 37.  Apparatus wherein the surface of the static structure which supports or contacts the settable fluent material comprises a thin strip of pliant material supported in a relatively rigid construction.

39	Deformable or flexible band (e.g., matrix):
	This subclass is indented under subclass 37.  Apparatus comprising a thin strip of material adapted to be bent or flexed to define a mold cavity in conjunction with a surface. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 155, for matrix clamps. 226, for a method of filling a tooth.

40	Single tooth:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 37.  Apparatus wherein the static structure forms a mold in conjunction with the surface of one tooth only. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 223, for a method of constructing a prosthetic crown including the step of forming an impression of the natural tooth stump.

41	Adjustable:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 37.  Apparatus wherein means are provided to vary the position or orientation of a first portion of the static structure relative to a second portion to accommodate different patients. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 249,  Static Molds,   subclass 155 for adjustable molds for forming different size or shaped product.

42	Upper section relative to lower section:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 41.  Apparatus wherein the first and second relatively movable portions are adapted to form maxillary and mandibular casts of the patient"s mouth.

43	Pivotally connected sections:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 41.  Apparatus wherein the first and second portions are hingedly attached to one another for swinging movement about an axis.

44	Having positioning means or gauge:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 37.  Apparatus including a dimensional reference or other means to facilitate exact placement of the static structure inside the patient"s mouth.

45	Having means to facilitate assembly or disassembly:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 37.  Device wherein means are provided to facilitate the putting together or taking apart of the various elements of the static structure.

46	Detachable handle:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 45.  Apparatus wherein the static structure is provided with a specific portion by which a person may grasp the structure, and wherein the portion is readily removable from the remainder of the structure. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 16,  Miscellaneous Hardware,   subclasses 110.1 through 430for handles, per se.

47	Including release facilitating means:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 37.  Device wherein the static structure includes means specifically provided to assist in separating the hardened fluent material from either the static structure or the mouth of the patient. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 249,  Static Molds,   subclass 66.1 for a mold having means to apply force to remove or release a product from a mold.

48	Mold material:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 37.  Apparatus wherein the static structure is formed of a specified composition.

49	Work support:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 25.  Apparatus comprising means to sustain the weight of a workpiece and which in turn is adapted to be supported on a surface external to the patient. (1) Note. Tool and equipment supports are excluded from this subclass. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 77+, for storage or nonuse supporting means for dental apparatus. 163, for a hand-held work carrier. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 269,  Work Holders,   appropriate subclasses for work holders not specifically provided for in the various treatment classes.

50	Including tool, marker, or coupling means therefor:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 49.  Apparatus provided with either (a) an implement to contact and modify the workpiece being supported, or (b) structure adapted to cooperate with an implement or secure an implement to the support. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 75+, for a tool guide carried by the operator or the workpiece itself. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 269,  Work Holders,   subclass 48 , 87+, and 290+ for other than dental work holders and which have a tool guide or coupling means.

51	Abrading tool or cutter:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 50.  Apparatus wherein the implement comprises a instrument which is rotated or otherwise moved while in contact with the surface of a workpiece to either (a) polish the surface or remove a portion of the surface by reducing the surface to powder or small fragments, or (b) penetrate the surface by a cutting edge or point. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 125, for a hand-held motor driven grinder or polisher. 142, for a hand manipulatable grinder or polisher. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 451,  Abrading,   subclasses 364+ for a work holder for an abrading apparatus or process.

52	Including motor or power transmitting means:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 49.  Apparatus provided with a prime mover or means to receive the output of a prime mover. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 451,  Abrading,   subclasses 114+ for abrading by mutual moving contact between plural work pieces held respectively by relatively moving work holders.

53	Including means to support plural workpieces for relative movement:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 49.  Apparatus comprising a common support having a first work carrying means for supporting a first workpiece and a second work carrying means for supporting a second work part, at least one of said work carrying means being movable on said common support toward or away from the other of said work carrying means. SEE OR SEARCH CLASS: 269,  Work Holders,   subclass 45 for similar work holders not used in dentistry.

54	Articulator or attachment therefor:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 53.  Apparatus wherein the first and second work carrying means are specifically adapted to support maxillary and mandibular dental casts, respectively, and wherein the relative movement between the two work carrying means represents movement of the temporo-mandibular joints, or subcombinations peculiar thereto. SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 196,