Kuwait University Registers the First Patent in the Field of Dentistry

Through the office of Patents and Intellectual Rights – Office of Vice President for Research, and with the efforts of Dr. Fawaz Mohammad Al-Zaabi from the Department of Dentistry at the Faculty of Dentistry, Kuwait University registered a patent from the US Patent Office of the US Department of Commerce, entitled:

A technique to replicate soft tissue anatomy using a multi-purpose 3-dimensional resin printed prototype for implant supported fixed prostheses.

Dr. Fawaz was honored by Acting Kuwait University President, Prof. Fahad Al-Rashidi, in the presence of Acting Vice President for Research, Prof. Othman Al-Khudir, and Assistant Vice President for External Research Collaboration and Consultation, Dr. Haneen Al-Ghabra, which took place on Monday 15th of May, 2023 at Kuwait University President Office – Sabah Al-Salem University City at Shadadiya.

The inventor Dr. Fawaz Al-Zaabi explained that this invention sheds the light on the use of modern technology to copy the composition of the gingival tissue before the final manufacture of artificial teeth, using a multi-purpose prototype printed with 3D technology. Dr. Al-Zaabi also added that this invention facilitates the process of communication with dental laboratories, where they can obtain an ideal result for the sunken surface and highlight the profile of the artificial teeth, which will contribute to improving the workflow and obtaining better treatment results through the accuracy of the multiple features represented in the splint, including the texture of the tissue. This technology can also be used in an analog workflow, or to supplement a digital workflow.

At the beginning of the ceremony, Prof. Fahad Al-Rashidi congratulated the inventor for obtaining the patent and for his honorable achievement, expressing Kuwait University’s pride in this achievement and wishing him continuous prosperity and excellence, and further achievements and scientific research in his future endeavors.  

On his part, Acting Vice President for Research, Prof. Othman Al-Khudir, explained that Kuwait University, represented by the Research Sector, provides excellent services to researchers in various disciplines, as well as encouragement and continuous support as an affirmation of its dedication to implement sustainable development and the vision of the State of Kuwait 2035.

Assistant Vice President for External Research Collaboration and Consultation, Dr. Haneen Al-Ghabra, took the opportunity to express her pride in the researcher’s achievement in obtaining a patent from the US Patent Office. She also explained that this patent is the first patent obtained after the application of the Fast Track service, which aims to reduce the time for examining patents by examiners at the Patents and Intellectual Rights Office in the US, reducing it from six months to one year instead of one to three years.