Ivoclar Requests Import Ban on Patent Infringing Dental Restoration Materials

Ivoclar Vivadent filed a complaint Feb. 19 with the International Trade Commission, alleging Dentsply is importing lithium silicate materials that infringe its patents in violation of Section 337 of the Tariff Act. The materials are used by dentists to make crowns, inlays, onlays, and bridges tailored to individual patients. Rather than go to a specialized laboratory, the material allows dentists to design and manufacture the dental restorations at their own offices. Ivoclar claims Dentsply recently began importing infringing lithium silicate dental products under the trade name Celtra Duo. The infringed patent allows Ivoclar to make dental products that achieve high strength, esthetics, and ease of use, all while allowing for machine tools to shape the dental restoration without undue wear of the tools. Ivoclar is seeking limited exclusion orders and cease and desist orders against importation and sale of the allegedly infringing products.