Gary E Schumacher

Title: The Innovations of Gary E. Schumacher in Dental Restoration Technology

Introduction

Gary E. Schumacher, based in Gaithersburg, MD, is a notable inventor with a focus on advancements in dental restoration. He holds two patents that reflect his commitment to improving dental procedures and materials, particularly in enhancing the bonding of dental structures.

Latest Patents

Schumacher's latest patents include innovative compositions aimed at dental applications. His work on etchant/primer compositions, along with etchant/primer/adhesive monomer compositions, has paved the way for kits and methods that offer enhanced bonding capabilities to dental structures. A significant innovation is in the realm of continuous fiber-reinforced dental restorations. This technology involves the incorporation of continuous fibers, resin-fiber pastes, or preforms into tooth cavities, resulting in high-strength restorations. The fibers can be combined with resin monomers and fillers, such as fluoride-releasing agents and colorants, to optimize their effectiveness.

The final restoration process sees these resin-fiber mixtures hardened into preforms that are strategically placed in cavities. This approach not only enhances the strength and toughness of the restorations, but also improves their elastic modulus, making them superior to conventional composite resins and glass ionomers. Additional applications of his innovations extend to endodontic posts, retention pins, provisional restorations, and indirect restorations. The fiber reinforcement ensures that the finished product exhibits considerable improvements in durability and wear compatibility while also reducing polymerization shrinkage.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Schumacher has made significant contributions to dental materials science, particularly during his time with the American Dental Association Health Foundation. His innovative approaches have led to advancements that directly benefit dental professionals and patients alike.

Collaborations

Gary E. Schumacher has collaborated with esteemed professionals in his field, including Frederick C. Eichmiller and Huakun Xu. These partnerships have fostered a collaborative environment for developing and refining dental restoration technologies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Gary E. Schumacher's inventive spirit has led to groundbreaking advancements in dental restoration technology. His patents reflect a deep understanding of materials and their applications in dentistry, ultimately aiming to improve the quality of care for patients. With continuous efforts in research and collaboration, Schumacher remains a vital figure in the evolution of dental treatment methodologies.