Abstract: Mandibular advancement splint against snoring and sleep apnea. The splint is made of two thermoformable trays (1, 2) designed to envelop the upper and lower arch. In order to be able to adapt to individual variations in conformation, the advancement splint includes an articulated frame having rigid and flexible elements, immersed in the thermoformable flexible material or molded around it. The frame's articulations (12, 13, 23) allow the splint to fit the curve of the dental arch and to adapt to irregularities in the teeth's position. The inventive splint is equivalent in terms of comfort and efficiency to a personalized splint made by an orthodontist or dental technician, but its cost is 6 to 10 times lower.

Abstract: This invention relates to devices and methods for maintaining upper airway patency during sleep for the treatment of sleeping disorders, upper airway resistance syndrome, snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided to fix a thermoplastic mask to a patient. The apparatus includes a member having a teeth-receiving portion formed to be positioned adjacent to a cranio facial bone of the patient, a fixation member coupled to the member, the fixation member including a plate and a fastener, a distinct fastener plate formed for coupling with the fastener to couple the mask to the fixation member so that the member is in a fixed position relative to the mask, and a lower plate member positioned adjacent to the member.

Abstract: A bite block that is inserted into a patient's mouth during an endoscopic diagnostic or surgical procedure that has a channel for receiving an endoscope or other surgical instrument through the patient's mouth and additional channels transmitting a gas to the patient and transmitting expired gas from the patient.

Abstract: A method is provided for relief of head, face and jaw pain by achieving the release of intra oral muscle spasms, trigger points, and myofascial dysfunction. The steps include locating intra oral treatment points, including locations of intra oral muscle spasms, trigger points, and myofascial dysfunction, in the mouth and jaw region of a human subject. A handheld device is provided with a central gripping portion, a first generally arcuate arm extending from one end of the gripping portion and terminating in a generally bulbous tip, and a second generally arcuate arm extending from the other end of the gripping portion and terminating in a generally flattened tip. The subject's mouth is opened sufficiently to pass one of the tips into the mouth. One of the tips is inserted in the subject's mouth and the tip is brought into contact with one of the treatment points. Pressure is applied to the treatment point until a release response occurs.

Abstract: A dental oral appliance for use with patients who suffer with sleep disorders, to reduce or eliminate snoring and to open the airway for a sleeping individual who suffers with obstructive sleep apnea. The appliance covers the inside (lingual) of the upper teeth and has an open palate. Retention for the appliance is provided by either clasps placed over the upper right and left molars and a retainer in the anterior area or by an occlusal coverge of the upper teeth. A raised incisor ramp that extends from the incisal tip (biting edge) of the incisors toward the lingual, or posterior raised ramps, separate the posterior teeth to reduce spasm on the temporalis muscle. A transverse, transpalatal ramp, which extends from the inside (lingual) of the upper right molars to the inside of the upper left molars, covers the tongue and holds it down, opening the airway.

Abstract: An enhanced breathing device for use in a mouth of a user is provided that includes a flexible hollow tube having a proximal end, a distal end, an outer perimeter. The tube also includes an extraoral segment, and intraoral segment and an intermediate segment extending therebetween. The extraoral segment extends to the proximal end of the tube and includes at least one opening. The extraoral segment extends externally from the mouth of the user. The intraoral segment extends to the distal end of the tube and includes at least one opening. The intraoral segment extends into the mouth of the user and has a length sufficient for extending beyond a retromolar space, into the oropharynx and terminating between the posterior tongue and the soft palate. The intermediate segment has a length sufficient for extending along the buccopharyngeal pathway of the mouth of the user.

Abstract: Systems and methods incorporate implant structures, and/or implantation devices, and/or surgical implantation techniques, to make possible the treatment of physiologic conditions, such as sleep disordered breathing, with enhanced effectiveness.

Abstract: A mouthguard has a flexible frame, and has bite tabs extending from the rear surface of the frame for engaging the wearer's teeth. The bite tabs extending from the rear surface of the frame for engaging the wearer's teeth. A narrow split may be provided between the anterior bite tabs that allows the bite tabs to maintain their flexibility. The flexible frame lays against the outer surface of the teeth and extends into the buccal folds superiorly and interiorly of the cheek where the muscles hold it in place. Grooves may be positioned lengthwise along the frame above and below the bite tabs for purposes of flexibility and to allow the muscles of the cheek to press the upper and lower extensions of the frame close to the bone for better retention and comfort. The teeth engage the bite tabs, thus preventing the teeth from clashing together and protecting the temporomanibular joint (TMJ). One or more air holes may be provided in the front portion of the mouthguard permitting easy breathing.

Abstract: Oral appliances which reside within the mouth and which bring the lower jaw and/or the tongue forward to increase airway flow during sleep or physical activity are provided. Furthermore, the oral appliances are constructed such that they may be optionally customized to an individual user's mouth shape. Methods of using such oral appliances are also provided.

Abstract: A method of reducing facial aging in a person, having an upper and lower jaw bearing anterior or posterior teeth, comprises: a) providing a mass produced universal dental appliance, which appliance comprises at least one part, the or each part intended in use to be in continuous contact with the teeth on either the upper or lower jaw, the or each part comprising an elongate structure at least a portion of which is formed of a durable, resilient, elastomeric material having a softening point in the range from 35 to 100° C.

Abstract: A sports guard 1 for placing in a mouth of a user is disclosed. The guard 1 includes generally a base member 2 having a generally U-shaped form corresponding to the outline of a jaw of a user defining an upper channel 10 within which an upper row of teeth of a user can be received. The guard also discloses a teeth engaging element 3, associated with the channel 10 which is made of a material able to be user conformed or user moulded to the mouth of the user. The guard also includes shock absorption means associated with the base member 2 for absorbing impact shock. The shock absorption means comprises open channels in the base member 2 that function much like air springs. Further the base member advantageously comprises polyethylene mixed with up to 10% of EVA. The addition of EVA gives the guard more flexibility. The teeth engaging element is made of EVA.

Abstract: An intraoral, flexible, hinged appliance which is an anterior resistance appliance, covering both anterior sextants of both arches (jaws), having the effect of an anterior bite plane, to facilitate orthodontic treatment. Each of the hinged sections consists of a roughly semicircular trough or tray that fits over the anterior sextant of a patient's teeth. The two troughs are hinged at the rear with a flexible material that when the troughs are flexed together and inserted in the mouth causes a force tending to lock the troughs against the patient's teeth, thereby helping to open a deep bite and protect teeth from the negative affects of bruxism or teeth grinding, and to relieve temporomandibular joint pain and dysfunction.

Abstract: The Awake Airway is an oral device designed with two arches to gently hold both the maxillary and mandibular dental arches in a fixed position angled slightly open in such a way as to not stimulate any part of the oral cavity or oropharynx so a fully wide awake user would tolerate it. It would be made of a resilient material such as a soft plastic with a foam insert to hold the teeth or edentulous arches. It is shaped to conform to the teeth and maxillary and mandibular anatomy, and easily inserted by the user him/herself By gently maintaining the mouth slightly open it would enhance the patency of the airway.

Abstract: A protective facemask for use in simulated combat with nonlethal ammunition is modular in form. Its primary elements including a mouthpiece protecting portion with cheek guards, a lower bridge connected along the upper edge of the mouthpiece to serve as the deflector against projectiles penetrating between the mouthpiece and eye goggles, and a forehead bridge to serve as a deflector against projectiles penetrating between the eye goggles and a helmet to be worn by the user. These components are held in place by being fastened to around the chin and neck of a wearer.

Abstract: Systems and methods selectively stabilize tissue in the oral cavity. The systems and methods implant a first implant element in a bone region within an oral cavity and implant a second implant element in a tongue region within the oral cavity. The systems and methods resist posterior movement of the tongue within the oral cavity by coupling the first implant element to the second implant element within the oral cavity. By coupling, the systems and methods apply force, e.g., tension, between the first and second implant elements.

Abstract: The present invention is a mouth guard which is worn to protect a person's teeth when the person is engaged in a sports activity such as football. A strap which has a quick release mating member at each end interconnects the mouth guard with a bar on a helmet worn by the person. One quick release mating member is removably connected to a bar on the helmet and the other quick release mating member is removably connected to a receiving member in the mouth guard. In the event of a collision between participants in the sport which results in the helmet flying off the person's head, one or both of the quick release members will disengage the strap from either the bar on the helmet, the mouth guard, or both to thereby avoid damage to the person's teeth.

Abstract: A dental device has a U-shaped carrier with at least one channel for embracing an arch of teeth. The carrier has recessed insets in the channel. Discrete inserts carrying a beneficial agent can fit into the insets and release the agent gradually. When the device is used in a primarily therapeutic application, the inserts may be installed into all or less than all of the insets to form various insert patterns. Thus, different oral regions can be affected by different insert patterns. When the device is used as an athletic mouthguard, temporary blanks may be initially fitted in the insets, while a portion of the mouthguard is softened before an arch of teeth is pressed into the channel to make a custom impression. The inserts that are later installed in the insets possess different physical properties than the carrier and may be positioned and shaped to mechanically buffer teeth of the arch from mechanical shocks as well as release beneficial agents.

Abstract: A dental device comprises an intraoral nasal dilator and a mandibular repositioner working synergistically as an anti-snoring device. The device has a lower segment of thermoplastic material which is formed to fit over the lower teeth and is connected to an upper section of molded material extending between the upper jaw and the upper lip by a wire connector. The wire connector has mechanisms allowing adjustment of the lower jaw positioning. A wire extension with acrylic pads at end is bonded in the midline of the flange and extends out so that the pads stretch the tissue of the lip and lateral nasal walls preventing collapse during respiration while the anterior repositioning of the lower jaw maintains opening of the posterior pharyngeal airway during sleep functioning as an anti-snoring device. Additional applications of the intraoral nasal dilator include incorporation into sports mouth guards using a variety of materials.

Abstract: An apparatus for selectively positioning intraoral anatomic features of a human patient to enhance upper airway stability for use alone or in combination with positive airway pressure as therapeutic treatment for obstructive sleep apnea and other conditions, such as snoring, which are symptomatic of upper airway instability.

Abstract: The present invention is an oral device comprised of two main components, a U-shaped lower bite plate and a U-shaped upper bite plate, which are molded to fit the front teeth of a wearer with a soft flexible contact surface. The oral device of the present invention comprises an upper bite plate and a lower bite plate each having a generally U-shaped appearance. The upper bite plate removably fits over the upper teeth of a person and the lower bite plate removably fits over the lower teeth of a person. Each bite plate includes a U-shaped buccal side and a U-shaped lingual side connected by a U-shaped top portion. The U-shaped top portion is further comprised of an exposed surface and an attaching surface where the exposed surface is the surface that contacts a penis, clitoris, or other body part while the attaching surface contacts the wearer's teeth.

Abstract: A performance enhancing and force absorbing mouthguard adapted to fit the upper teeth of the mouth of an athlete wherein the mouthguard is of a composite material. The first internal layer is a nonsoftenable flexible framework which will permit the mouthguard to hold its shape during fitting as well as to absorb and dissipate significant impact conveyed to the upper teeth. The framework includes hard, durable bite plate wedges which lower the condyle from the temporomandibular joint in a fulcrum action to place the lower jaw in an optimum condition preventing impingement upon the nerves and arteries as well as spacing the upper and lower teeth apart. Elastomeric traction pads are on the bottom of the mouthguard and are grippingly engaged by the posterior teeth of the lower jaw. The elastomeric pads extend forwardly to form an anterior impact brace on the front of the mouthguard.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a dental appliance, mouthguard and/or divers mouthpiece using an anti-microbial composition that combines the use of an elastomeric polymer composition with micronized or submicron sized particles of metal or organo/inorgano metal complexes. In addition, the use of an anti-microbial composition for use with a diver's air delivery hose to prevent breathing of contaminated air is also described.

Abstract: A dental protection device for a laryngoscope includes an elongated pad with a top surface and a bottom surface, an adhesive applied to the bottom surface and a pull-tab attached to the pad.

Abstract: A mouth guard having a tray with a trough dimensioned to receive at least the front two incisors. Impression material is disposed within the trough for creating a dental impression of the wearer's teeth. The tray further includes a stiffening element which concentrates the force transmission through the tray created by occlusion to an area between the upper and lower front incisors.

Abstract: Systems and related methods stabilize tissue in the oral cavity and airway, e.g., the soft palate/uvula and/or tongue. The systems and methods employ an operative element sized and configured to be fitted to less mobile tissue in the oral cavity. The operative element is further constructed and arranged to interact with more mobile tissue in the airway to stabilize a preferred tissue orientation. The operative element can comprise a suction source sized and configured to draw more mobile tissue toward the suction source. Alternatively, the operative element can comprise a magnetic source sized and configured to magnetically attract material fitted to more mobile tissue in the airway.

Abstract: An interocclusal sports prophylaxis includes a core having an arch shaped occlusal plate with upwardly extending buccal and lingual walls. A labial force dispersal shield and molar framing braces extend downwardly from the plate at incisor and lingual zones of the plate. The occlusal plate is thickened at the molar and incisor zones so that breathing spaces are provided between mandibular occlusal surfaces not registered with the zones and a mandibular face of the plate. A shock absorption dentition encasement is molded over the upper surface of the core and also covers the molar and incisor zones. The prophylaxis is heated in water, seated in the mouth and then biting pressure is applied to embed the maxillary dentition in the encasement and the lower incisor and molar occlusal surfaces in the encasement covering the zones.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an appliance for use in an oral cavity, wherein the appliance comprises a polymeric shell that comprises a polymeric mixture, and further wherein the polymeric shell has cavities designed to receive teeth. Disclosed herein too is a method for maintaining or repositioning teeth in the oral cavity comprising placing an appliance in a patient's mouth, wherein the appliance comprises a polymeric shell that comprises a polymeric mixture, and further wherein the polymeric shell has cavities designed to receive teeth.

Abstract: A mouthguard for allowing medical instruments to be passed into a patient includes an integrally formed or removable locking device. The locking device includes one or more mechanisms for preventing the movement of a guidewire or other medical devices during a surgical procedure.

Abstract: An oral appliance (20) includes first and second mouthpiece elements (22,32) each equipped with adjustable ribs (30,40) on an anterior portion (24) and ramp surfaces (28,38) on each of its posterior arms (26). The ribs (22,32) slope upwardly, front to back at a steeper angle than the ramp surfaces. Preferably, the ribs (22,32) and the ramps (28,38) surfaces have maximum height which define a ratio in the range of between 2 and 2½ to mimic the differential in mouth opening between incisors and molars. The appliance has a plurality of laterally extending protrusions (42,44,46) that are engaged by elastic bands (48) to exert a force which simultaneously pulls the wear's mandible forward and biases the lower mouthpiece toward the upper mouthpiece. Adjustable ribs extend laterally to permit relative movement of the two mouthpiece elements to eliminate the buildup of tension in the wearer's jaw.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a device for improving a user's breathing includes an upper arch adapted to receive at least some of the user's upper teeth and a lower arch adapted to receive at least some of the user's lower teeth. A hook having a substantially rounded end is coupled to the upper arch. The lower arch includes a substantially rounded recess adapted to receive and position the substantially rounded end of the hook to pull the lower arch forward to facilitate improved breathing.

Abstract: A mass produced universal dental appliancee (1) comprises two parts, the parts intended in use to contact the posterior teeth on respective opposite sides of either the upper or lower jaw, each part comprising a composite structure comprising: i) a first layer (2) formed a durable, resilient, elastomeric material having a softening point in the range from 35 to 100° C. and which in use contacts and grips the occlusal biting surfaces of the posterior teeth; and ii) a second layer (3) formed from a durable, non-deformable material having a softening point over 100° C. and which in use provides a bite plate; wherein the second layer of each part is provided with a protrusion (5), formed of durable, non-deformable material having a softening point over 100° C.

Abstract: A mouthpiece and method for reducing snoring comprise a mouthpiece body of a thermoplastic material having a shape generally complementary to the person's dental arch, including a posterior end having two spaced apart members positioned toward the back of the person's dental arch when properly worn, and an anterior end having an airway opening therethrough, the anterior end positioned when properly worn to support the person's lips spaced apart so that air flows through the airway opening; and a substantially rigid protective mold of a thermostable material, the protective mold protecting at least a periphery of the mouthpiece body.

Abstract: A breathing normalizer for partial insertion within the user's mouth for normalizing breathing patters, prevention of snoring, teeth grinding, and light forms of sleep apnea is disclosed. The device includes an outer plate which is positioned external to the user's mouth when in use, an elongated hollow shaft for connecting the structure to a lip plate adapted to be received between the user's lips and teeth, and a generally C-shaped multi-lobed structure adapted for receiving the user's tongue. The device is positioned within the oral cavity of the user in an operative configuration such that the tongue is retained within the multi-lobed structure, the teeth clamp down upon the connector with the lip plate positioned between the teeth and the inner portions of the upper and lower lips. The outer plate further defines a centrally disposed chamber having an inlet tube in fluid communication with the hollow tubular connector for providing an inlet for breathing air.

Abstract: A mouthguard has a flexible frame, and has bite tabs extending from the rear surface of the frame for engaging the wearer's teeth. The bite tabs include anterior bite tabs for engaging the wearer's front teeth. A narrow split may be provided between the anterior bite tabs that allows the bite tabs to maintain their flexibility. The flexible frame lays against the outer surface of the teeth and extends into the buccal folds superiorly and interiorly of the cheek where the muscles hold it in place. Grooves may be positioned lengthwise along the frame above and below the bite tabs for purposes of flexibility and to allow the muscles of the cheek to press the upper and lower extensions of the frame close to the bone for better retention and comfort. The teeth engage the bite tabs, thus preventing the teeth from clashing together and protecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). One or more air holes may be provided in the front portion of the mouthguard permit easy breathing.

Abstract: A system for treating sleep-related breathing disorders. In one embodiment, the system includes a first magnetically susceptible material attached to a left lateral pharyngeal wall and a second magnetically susceptible material attached to a right lateral pharyngeal wall. The second magnetically susceptible material is positioned opposite the first magnetically susceptible material across an upper airway. The system further includes a first magnet disposed outside the body and lateral to the first magnetically susceptible material, and a second magnet disposed outside the body and lateral to the second magnetically susceptible material.

Abstract: An oral appliance for the medical treatment of specific sleep related disorders, i.e., snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea, which has a number of sections for each jaw component which can be separated for ease of insertion and removal by patients. The separable components can be moved along an inherent guidance system and safely secured in the closed position by a bilateral locking mechanism. By virtue of the difference in paths of location of the main and the separate sections of each component, effective resistance to dislodgement of the appliance is obtained and maintained. This constitutes the claimed significant improvement in appliance retention.

Abstract: A bruxism appliance and a method of forming a bruxism appliance is described for providing a patient and a dentist with a visual indication of the degree of bruxism by the patient. The invention teaches the application of an abradable composition to the non-retaining/opposing dentition contacting surfaces of the appliance in order that specific wear patterns can be observed on the appliance following use by a patient.

Abstract: An intra-oral cavity device for preventing contact between upper and lower teeth of an anesthetized patient. The device includes an elongate pillow that when gripped between the teeth of a patient, prevents contact between the teeth and/or gums and thereby prevents damage to the teeth and/or gums. The pillow may be made of a fibrous, porous and/or absorbent material. The device is adapted for single use and thus disposal after use by a patient. A method of the use of performing surgery using such a device is also provided.

Abstract: A method and device for stopping a person from snoring while sleeping comprising a narrow strip having adhesive covering one surface or a buccal tab which can be affixed to a snore prevention intra-oral device, both of which block the snoreway space of the person.

Abstract: A personal air filtration device has a cylindrical exhalation tube, with a one-way valve thereon. Concentric around the periphery of the exhalation tube and integrally connected to the exhalation tube rearward (proximate the user's mouth) of the one-way valve is a filter media housing. Filter media is contained between the housing and the tube. A plurality of perforations in the exhalation tube, rearward of the one way valve but forward from the housing connection ring, provide inhaled air ingress to the exhalation tube. Inhaled air forces the one-way valve closed, so that air is directed through the filter media, passes through the perforations and into the exhalation tube where the user can take in the cleansed air. The pressure of the exhaled air through the exhalation tube causes the one-way valve to open, so that exertion by the user is minimized.

Abstract: A respiration assisting apparatus is provided, including a first anchor structure for fitting between the teeth and the cheek of a first side of a user mouth to retain the apparatus in operational position; and a lip separating structure extending forwardly from the first anchor structure for passing between and separating the lips of a user. The first anchor structure and lip separating structure preferably include venting openings for permitting oxygen to reach adjacent mouth tissue. The first anchor structure preferably includes an upright first anchor panel. The lip separating structure preferably includes a projection channel extending longitudinally forward from the first anchor structure. The respiration assisting apparatus optionally additionally includes a tongue suppressing bridge.

Abstract: A mouthguard (10) of “C” shaped configuration having a forward portion (11) from which there rearwardly diverges a pair of arms (12). The mouthguard (10) in transverse cross section is of a “U” shaped configuration. In one embodiment each arm (12) is provided with a ridge (22) which acts as a shield, while the forward portion (11) is thickened so as to provide a labial shield (23).

Abstract: A respiratory mask provides improved sealing through the use of an intraoral mouthpiece with a large sealing area. A tubular extension, configured at one end to accept standard respiratory fittings, is the conduit for gas delivery to the intraoral mouthpiece. The respiratory mask may also include an intraoral oropharyngeal airway which flexes so that it can be inserted without the need for rotation or use of a tongue blade. The respiratory mask may also include an external shield to enhance sealing and provide a barrier of protection for the healthcare provider. The mask's design allows for a novel handgrip technique that allows a single healthcare provider to ventilate with enhanced sealing.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for treating the temporomandibular joint. The device includes pads (5) for placing on the occlusal surfaces of the posterior teeth (Z) of the left-hand and right-hand sides of the mouth, wherein the pads are filled with fluid (F), and are connected to each other by means of a tube (7) for fluid exchange. To improve the wearing comfort, it is proposed according to the invention that each pad (5) has on one side of it a means (1, 3, 4, 8) for clamping on the posterior tooth (Z).

Abstract: An oral application for snoring prevention which has a flattened tube with an unobstructed airway and ridges on the inferior surface for pulling the tongue forward out of the path of the airway while the superior surface of the tube follows closely the hard and soft palate. The tube is short and extends in the oral cavity or mouth to a location which will not cause a gag reflex.

Abstract: A mouthpiece includes a wall having an anterior section and a plurality of posterior sections. Retaining wings are coupled to the anterior section. The retaining wings conform to the anatomy of the user's buccal vestibule. The method of customizing the mouthpiece includes cutting the retaining wings.

Abstract: Systems and related methods treat snoring and other sleep related disorders by stabilizing the position of a tongue in an oral cavity. The systems and methods employ an operative element sized and configured to be fitted to less mobile tissue in the oral cavity. The operative element is further constructed and arranged to interact with a tongue in the airway to stabilize a preferred tissue orientation. The operative element can comprise a suction source sized and configured to draw more mobile tongue tissue toward the suction source. The operative element can comprise a magnetic source sized and configured to magnetically attract material fitted to more mobile tongue tissue in the airway.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided to fix a thermoplastic mask to a patient. The apparatus includes a member formed to be positioned adjacent a cranio facial bone, a fixation member coupled to the member, and a fastener plate. The fastener plate couples the mask to the fixation member so that the member is in a fixed position relative to the mask.

Abstract: A mouthguard (10) has a U-shaped base (11) having an upper surface (16) and a lower surface (18). An inner wall (19) extends upwardly from an inner margin of the base upper surface. An outer wall (21) extends upwardly from an outer margin of the base upper surface. The inner and outer walls defined with the base upper surface a trough adapted to receive a person's upper teeth. The improvement comprises a recess (24) that extends into at least one of the inner wall and base proximate the wearer's front or incisor teeth, and extends between the base upper and lower surfaces. The recess is so positioned, configured and arranged as to enable the wearer to suck fluids from the trough through the recess when the mouthguard is installed such that the mouthguard will fit more closely then if such fluids were present in the trough.