Abstract: A dental device is provided in which an upper arch (12) and a lower arch (14) are inserted in a user's mouth. A deformable material (20) is included with upper arch (12) and lower arch (14) so as to allow a user to form his or her own teeth molding. A post (16) extends from the upper arch (12) and contacts the lower arch (14) so as to extend the user's lower jaw forward, thereby reducing snoring.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for enhancing isometric exercises and methods of using same. In particular, the apparatus for enhancing isometric exercises includes a substantially rigid annular exercising assembly which is placed in a user's mouth and held in place by a user's lips. The substantially rigid annular exercising assembly has an exterior and an interior member which connect and thereby form a trough. The anterior, medial and posterior surfaces of the user's lips fit within the trough thereby providing the mechanism for holding the substantially rigid annular exercising assembly in the user's mouth. In this manner, the substantially rigid annular exercising assembly is essentially freestanding and does not require the user to tense, grind, or strain the jaw or Templar-Mandibular Joint. When in place, the substantially rigid annular exercising assembly increases isometric resistance during exercise, weight training, or facial toning.

Abstract: A sports guard for fitting over the upper arch and teeth of a user is disclosed. The sports guard comprises broadly a base member of polyethylene and a layer of EVA encasing the polyethylene. The polyethylene and EVA show a surprising and unexpected affinity for each other. They are able to flex with each other and be heated and cooled without delaminating. This provides a solution to a longstanding problem in this art.

Abstract: A performance enhancing and force absorbing mouthguard adapted to fit the upper teeth of the mouth of an athlete wherein the mouthguard is quadruple or quintuple composite material of distinct materials. The first internal layer is a non-softenable 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. A hard, durable reverse bite plate wedge is thicker rearwardly and lowers 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.

Abstract: A performance enhancing and force absorbing mouthguard adapted to fit the upper teeth of the mouth of an athlete wherein the mouthguard is quadruple or quintuple composite material of distinct materials. The first internal layer is a non-softenable 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. A hard, durable reverse bite plate wedge is thicker rearwardly and lowers 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.

Abstract: A performance enhancing and force absorbing mouthguard adapted to fit the upper teeth of the mouth of an athlete wherein the mouthguard is quadruple or quintuple composite material of distinct materials. The first internal layer is a non-softenable 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. A hard, durable reverse bite plate wedge is thicker rearwardly and lowers 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.

Abstract: A performance enhancing and force absorbing mouthguard adapted to fit the upper teeth of the mouth of an athlete wherein the mouthguard is quadruple or quintuple composite material of distinct materials. The first internal layer is a non-softenable 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. A hard, durable reverse bite plate wedge is thicker rearwardly and lowers 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.

Abstract: A performance enhancing and force absorbing mouthguard adapted to fit the upper teeth of the mouth of an athlete wherein the mouthguard is quadruple or quintuple composite material of distinct materials. The first internal layer is a non-softenable 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. A hard, durable reverse bite plate wedge is thicker rearwardly and lowers 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.

Abstract: A method of advertising with a mouthguard for providing a mouthguard for protecting the teeth of a wearer and for advertising. The method of advertising with a mouthguard includes providing a mouthguard having a bottom wall with a generally U-shaped configuration. An outer wall and an inner wall being coupled to and extending up from the bottom wall such that teeth of a user may be positioned between the outer and inner wall. Securing indicia on an outer surface of the outer wall of the mouthguard such that the indicia is visible when the mouthguard is in a user's mouth.

Abstract: A formable mouthguard with teeth (10) having a mouthguard (12) which comprises a mouthguard outer side (12O) attached to a mouthguard inner side (12I) by a mouthguard bottom (12B) which has an open mouthguard bottom right end (12BR) and an open mouthguard bottom left end (12BL). An upper jaw (14) positioned on an outer surface of the mouthguard outer side (12O). The upperjaw (14) has an upper jaw gum (14A) interspersed with a plurality of upperjaw teeth (14B).

Abstract: A customizable dental appliance adapted to lie within the mouth of a person including of occlusal posterior pads optionally with a connective arch or a u-shaped style base with upstanding labial and/or buccal walls. The appliance is made of low-density polyethylene.

Abstract: A performance enhancing and force absorbing mouthguard adapted to fit the upper teeth of the mouth of an athlete wherein the mouthguard is quadruple or quintuple composite material of distinct materials. The first internal layer is a non-softenable 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. A hard, durable reverse bite plate wedge is thicker rearwardly and lowers 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.

Abstract: A performance enhancing and force absorbing mouthguard adapted to fit the upper teeth of the mouth of an athlete wherein the mouthguard is quadruple or quintuple composite material of distinct materials. The first internal layer is a non-softenable 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. Disconnected anterior impact braces extend anteriorly to a medial region forming a gap therebetween. A hard, durable reverse bite plate wedge is thicker rearwardly and lowers 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.

Abstract: A performance enhancing and force absorbing mouthguard adapted to fit the upper teeth of the mouth of an athlete wherein the mouthguard is quadruple or quintuple composite material of distinct materials. The first internal layer is a non-softenable 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. A hard, durable reverse bite plate wedge is thicker rearwardly and lowers 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.

Abstract: A performance enhancing and force absorbing mouthguard adapted to fit the upper teeth of the mouth of an athlete wherein the mouthguard is quadruple or quintuple composite material of distinct materials. 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. A hard, durable reverse bite plate wedge is thicker rearwardly and lowers 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.

Abstract: A performance enhancing and force absorbing mouthguard adapted to fit the upper teeth of the mouth of an athlete wherein the mouthguard is quadruple or quintuple composite material of distinct materials. The first internal layer is a non-softenable 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. A hard, durable reverse bite plate wedge is thicker rearwardly and lowers 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.

Abstract: A customizable dental appliance adapted to lie within the mouth of a person consisting of occlusal posterior pads optionally with a connective arch or a u-shaped style base with upstanding labial and/or buccal walls. The appliance is made of low-density polyethylene.

Abstract: The invention pertains to the medical devices and may be used as the method for prophylaxis and treating snoring and sleep apnea, and also for preventing gnashing of teeth during a sleep. The device contains joined through the connecting element the cup-shaped fixture and outer and inner restrictive petals with the holes. The petals are set up on the connecting element with an opportunity of moving along it and fixing on it.

Abstract: A performance enhancing and force absorbing mouthguard adapted to fit the upper teeth of the mouth of an athlete wherein the mouthguard is quadruple or quintuple composite material of distinct materials. The first internal layer is a non-softenable 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. A hard, durable reverse bite plate wedge is thicker rearwardly and lowers 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.

Abstract: A custom fitted, 2 layered mouthguard apparatus consisting of a standard U-shape configuration with personalized images engraved upon the primary layer within the region of the anterior incisors also with optional manipulated forms that will increase the appeal of the mouthguard to potential users. The engraved area is colored to distinguish the designs from the base color of the mouthguard. Upon the completion of the coloring process the mouthguard is covered with a clear layer of thin pressure laminated thermoplastic material, which is interdentated to provide a more comfortable Temporomandibular fit.

Abstract: A system for use in patient comprising, a first mouthguard and a second mouthguard, each mouthguard having a front, a back, an internal channel and an external surface, wherein each internal channel has an occlusal surface for engaging the patient's teeth, and where the first mouthguard has disposed on the external surface opposite the occlusal surface a first base, and the second mouthguard has disposed on the external surface opposite the occlusal surface, a second base, with the first base connected to a first and second tube and the second base is connected to a third and fourth tube; and wherein the first and second tubes are positioned opposite each other on the first base; and the third and fourth tubes are positioned opposite each other on the second base, and all tubes are located the same distance from the front of the mouthguard; a right wedge with an right upper wedge surface and a right lower wedge surface, wherein the right wedge further comprises (i) an upper right connector extending from the

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: An anti-snoring device has maxillary and mandibular bite forms with outwardly extending pivots which are mounted to the bite forms by frameworks which are at least partially embedded in the bite forms. This retains the pivots securely in place even in the face of extensive bruxing. In constructing the device, a jig may be used for positioning the pivots. The method of manufacturing the device involves casting the frameworks, such that each framework has a pair of pivot mounts, mounting pivots to the pivot mounts, and at least partially embedding the frameworks in the bite forms.

Abstract: A performance enhancing and force absorbing dental appliance adapted to lie within the mouth of an athlete consists of an occlusal posterior pad made of quadruple composite material comprising four layers of distinct materials, further comprising a first layer of a durable, resilient material; a second layer of non-softenable, flexible material; a third layer of a hard, very durable material; and a fourth layer of a softenable material, engageable with the occlusal surfaces to space apart the upper and lower teeth, to absorb shock and clenching stress. An adjustable arch adapted to expand and contract to be molded to the palate is provided connecting the posterior pads together within the mouth and out of the way of the tongue to maintain the position of the occlusal posterior pads within the mouth during use and to prevent loss of the pads such as by swallowing. An expandable serpentine bridge may be embedded in the arch.

Abstract: A portable case for storing an orthodontic retainer. The case includes a movable cover that provides access to the interior of the case. A switch mounted within the case actuates a timer circuit when the retainer is disposed within the case and the cover of the case is closed. After the retainer is placed within the container and the cover is closed, the timer begins counting. When a preset period of time has elapsed, the timer actuates an audible signal generator. Upon actuation, the audible signal generator generates a pulsed audible signal such as a beep. The audible signal is preferably generated periodically, with progressively shorter intervals between audible signal pulses. The audible pulses serve to remind the owner to replace the retainer in his or her mouth after eating. Further, in the event that the case is misplaced, the audible signal can be used to locate the retainer case.

Abstract: An oral device for holding the tongue pressed against the roof of the mouth, thereby promoting suction closing the lips and encouraging breathing through the nose. The device has a U-shaped front wall extending along the exterior surface of the user's upper and lower teeth, and a tongue supporting platform projecting horizontally and rearwardly from the front wall. The tongue supporting platform is located substantially midway between the top and bottom surfaces of the front wall. In one embodiment, the tongue supporting platform is continuous along the interior surface of the front wall. In another embodiment, the tongue supporting platform is discontinuous, having a right side section and a left side section, and being absent at the center of the front wall. In still another embodiment, the oral device has a forwardly projecting handle.

Abstract: A device (10) for improving a user's breathing includes an upper arch (12) that is adapted to receive at least some of the user's upper teeth and a lower arch (14) that is adapted to receive at least some of the user's lower teeth. A deformable material (16) couples the upper arch (12) to the lower arch (14) and includes an aliphatic polyester. The deformable material (16) is bonded to the upper arch (12) and bonded to the lower arch (14) to fix the forward position of the lower arch (14). The aliphatic polyester may include a polycaprolactone polymer. The deformable material (16) may be placed in a deformable state to allow the lower arch (14) to be adjusted to a new position.

Abstract: A thermoformed plastic dental retainer and method of construction including rapid cooling of the retainer, typically using a refrigerant coolant, as the retainer sets on a dental impression cast. The dental retainer is constructed by first forming an impression of a patient's upper or lower dentition and constructing the cast from the impression The retainer is vacuum-thermoformed over the cast using a sheet, plate or disc of thermoformable plastic and a vacuum or pressure thermoforming machine. As the thermoformed plastic retainer sets on the cast, the retainer is rapidly cooled typically by spraying a refrigerant coolant on the retainer.

Abstract: A one-piece customizable dental appliance for the mouth of an athlete is comprised of an occlusal posterior pad for each side of the posterior teeth engageable with the occlusal surfaces to space apart the teeth and to absorb shock and clenching stress. A band is provided connecting the posterior pads together within the mouth and out of the way of the tongue to maintain the position of the occlusal posterior pads within the mouth during use and to prevent loss of the pads such as by swallowing. Portions of the pads are scored so that they may be easily cut away to customize the appliance for smaller mouths.

Abstract: A mouthguard (10) is made from a sheet of copolyester, of about 5 mm in thickness, and has insiginia (11) observable on its front portion (13). The insignia is provided by an indentation (11) formed in the outside face (13) of the front of the mouthguard (10). The indentation (11) is formed by applying a stencil in a predetermined shape to the desired place on the mouthguard (10) when the mouthguard (10) is pliant. The indentation (11) is at least partially filled with a material of contrasting color (12).

Abstract: A dentifrice form consisting of a dry compound of sodium bicarbonate as an oral bactricidal agent and oral antacid, psyllium husk fiber as a delivery system being an absorbent expansive binder and a flavoring agent. The dentifrice form is then placed in a porous dental mouth tray which is lined with a permeable matrix moistened with potable water. The dentifrice form in the tray is then moistened with potable water and the tray with the moistened dentifrice form is inserted into the oral cavity and placed against the upper or lower dental arch so as to cause the dentifrice form to be in contact with the teeth and gums of the respective arch for a period of seven minutes. The process is then repeated for the remaining dental arch.

Abstract: A mouth guard for medical use is made of nonrigid plastic material and comprises a U-shaped portion forming a through opening to receive an instrument therein. The opening is shaped as a keyhole having a wider portion and a narrower portion that is open at one side of the mouth guard. Radially protruding flanges are provided at the ends of the annular portion. The instrument can be introduced laterally into the wider portion of the keyhole through the narrower portion under resilient yielding of the U-shaped portion.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivery of medicaments to oral tissues is provided. The apparatus operates on the principle of a vacuum pump such that medicaments are essentially sucked into spaces within the dental tissue upon reversal of pressure from negative to positive pressure. The apparatus comprises a resilient plastic material forming a frontal buccal shield, and dental trays for upper and lower dental arches. The device is operated by moving the jaw in a chewing motion after placing medicaments in the upper and lower trays.

Abstract: The invention has for its object to provide a dental protector against bruxism adapted to protect the teeth from clenching, insure stability during wear, and applicable to many persons. The dental protector comprises a protective part (2) configured generally in the form of the letter U in conformity with the dental arc and adapted to cover the occlusal faces of the teeth and an engaging part (3) contiguous to the inner circumference of the protective part and adapted to cover the posterior surfaces of the teeth, the lower stratum (2y) of the protective part, which is to contact with the teeth, and the engaging part being formed from a thermoplastic resin having a softening temperature lower than the boiling temperature of water and the upper stratum (2x) of the protective part which is flat being formed from a material which does not soften at the above softening temperature.

Abstract: A novelty product includes a holder to be held inside the mouth of a user and a carrier to be held removably by the holder and having a first compartment containing a chemiluminescent solution separated from a second compartment containing an activator for the chemiluminescent solution by a frangible barrier. The carrier may be inserted into the holder and the holder flexed to break the barrier and mix the chemiluminescent solution and activator to produce chemiluminescent light inside the mouth of a user. The carrier can be replaced upon the light produced diminishing.

Abstract: An oral device for holding the tongue pressed against the roof of the mouth, thereby promoting suction closing the lips and encouraging breathing through the nose. The device has a U-shaped channel for engaging the upper teeth of the user, the channel comprising a vertical wall. A platform protects horizontally and inwardly from the U-shaped channel. This platform is located at the level of the bottom surfaces of the upper teeth, and supports the tongue. The platform bears concave indentations molded to conform to individual teeth of the user. The platform has a nominally flat bottom surface, at least one drainage hole enabling saliva to pass to the bottom of the mouth, and a slot opening to the rear of the device.

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 nonretaining/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: A device is provided for the treatment of teeth including an outer layer of non-porous polymeric material forming a trough, an inner layer forming an inner lining of the trough, and a treatment layer including a treatment agent disposed between the outer layer and the inner layer. The inner layer allows penetration of the treatment agent through after an aqueous solution is introduced to the device. A device is provided for the treatment of teeth including an outer layer of non-porous polymeric material in the form of a trough, wherein the trough has an outside and an inside surface. An outer lining layer is proximate to the inside surface of the outer layer; the outer lining layer includes a material for retaining a treatment agent. An inner lining layer forms an inner lining of the trough, wherein the inner lining layer includes a water-permeable material. A treatment layer is disposed between the inner lining layer and the outer lining layer, wherein the treatment layer includes a treatment agent.

Abstract: A buccal protector made of a single, solid piece of polyurethane resin extracted from castor oil and having a basic dental arcade shape. The buccal protector may be molded from the polyurethane resin. The polyurethane resin preferably has an average polymer which comprehends A219 (type 2¼). The buccal protector includes an orifice for intubation.

Abstract: A performance enhancing and force absorbing dental appliance adapted to lie within the mouth of an athlete having an occlusal posterior pad made of quadruple composite material comprising four layers of distinct materials, further having a first layer of a durable, resilient material; a second layer of non-softenable, flexible material; a third layer of a hard, very durable material; and a fourth layer of a softenable material, engageable with the occlusal surfaces to space apart the upper and lower teeth, to absorb shock and clenching stress. An adjustable arch adapted to expand and contract to be molded to the palate is provided connecting the posterior pads together within the mouth and out of the way of the tongue to maintain the position of the occlusal posterior pads within the mouth during use and to prevent loss of the pads such as by swallowing. An expandable serpentine bridge may be embedded in the arch.

Abstract: A bite block for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy having a tubular body with a proximal end and a distal end and defining a channel open at the proximal and distal ends, a shield connected to the tubular body at the proximal end, and a tongue depressor connected to the tubular body at the distal end. The tongue depressor comprises a plate connected to a bottom side of the distal end of the tubular body and is curved downwardly. The bite block has a chamber open to the channel in the bite block. A viscous bio-compatible lubricant in said chamber can contact and coat the end of an endoscope or other instrument when the instrument is inserted through the bite block. A removable tab can be pulled away from an opening into the chamber to expose the lubricant after the bite block has been placed in a patient's mouth. A lumen extends from the proximal end to the distal end of the tubular body, through the wall of the tubular body.

Abstract: A two piece pliable, edible, flavored mouthpiece to be worn by one consenting adult performing oral sexual activities such as cunnilingus and fellatio, and the like, on another consenting adult. The mouthpiece can be formed from pliable flavored edible materials such as but not limited to starch jellied candies, gelatin candy(i.e. Gummy Bears TM), starch gelatin, licorice, chewing gum, and the like. The mouth piece includes a top U-shaped single piece set for fitting about the front top and partial top side teeth of the wearer, and a bottom U-shaped single piece set for fitting about the front bottom and partial bottom side teeth of the wearer. The wearer clenching down customizes the fit of the mouthpiece therein and changes the sharp hard edges of the teeth to be soft and rounded. Each piece uses more material adjacent to between the front teeth, tapering to less material toward the back of the side teeth.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for preventing grinding of the upper and lower teeth of a person wearing braces. The apparatus provides a bite guard adapted to prevent grinding of the teeth of a person wearing braces, the bite guard comprising a U-shaped base having a first surface, a second surface, a U-shaped inner side, and a U-shaped outer side, and a width at least as wide as the person's teeth, and a plurality of flexible hooks attached to the outer side and projecting at a first selected angle relative to a direction normal to the first surface. The method provides a way for preventing dental grinding of occlusal surfaces of a patient wearing braces, the method comprising positioning a bite guard between the occlusal surfaces of the patient's upper and lower teeth, and attaching the insert to the patient's braces on the upper or lower teeth.

Abstract: A performance enhancing and force absorbing dental appliance adapted to lie within the mouth of an athlete consists of an occlusal posterior pad made of quadruple composite material comprising four layers of distinct materials, further comprising a first layer of a durable, resilient material; a second layer of non-softenable, flexible material; a third layer of a hard, very durable material; and a fourth layer of a softenable material, engageable with the occlusal surfaces to space apart the upper and lower teeth, to absorb shock and clenching stress. An adjustable arch adapted to expand and contract to be molded to the palate is provided connecting the posterior pads together within the mouth and out of the way of the tongue to maintain the position of the occlusal posterior pads within the mouth during use and to prevent loss of the pads such as by swallowing. An expandable serpentine bridge may be embedded in the arch.

Abstract: An adjustable and customized dental appliance for the mouth of an athlete is comprised of a composite occlusal posterior pad for each side of the posterior teeth engageable with the occlusal surfaces to space apart the teeth and to absorb shock and clenching stress. An adjustable band or wire is provided connecting the posterior pads together behind the anterior teeth and out of the way of the tongue to maintain the position of the occlusal posterior pads within the mouth during use and to prevent loss of the pads such as by swallowing.

Abstract: A uniquely constructed mouth protector designed to minimize discomfort and speech interference associated with conventional athletic mouthpieces includes a pair of posterior splints for encompassing the posterior teeth. Each posterior splint includes an inner and outer wall, both of which terminate at or near the gum line so as to minimize discomfort to the wearer. The posterior splints may be interlinked with a connecting strip that is disposed behind the anterior teeth and extends across the wearer's palate. The device is designed to protect either the upper or lower posterior teeth while allowing a wearer's tongue to contact the anterior teeth thereby minimally interfering with clear speech.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for fitting a dental device are provided in which an upper arch (12) receives a drive mechanism (16). Drive mechanism (16) is controlled by a controller (32). The drive mechanism (16) allows for translational adjustment of a post (18). Post (18) contacts a lower arch (14), thereby causing a user's lower jaw to extend forward. The post (18) is adjusted for maximum effectiveness in reducing snoring while maintaining comfort. The position of the post (18) is then recorded and a permanent dental device is made with a post in a corresponding position.

Abstract: A kinesiological mouthpiece includes a strap assembly with a bridge, a pair of extensions extending generally rearwardly and outwardly from the bridge and a pair of wings extending generally rearwardly from the extensions. The strap assembly is flexible for forming in a generally U-shaped use configuration. The wings are displaced at a different level from the bridge whereby the bridge can be positioned generally between the lower teeth and the lower lip with the wings approximately located on bite lines of the back teeth. A pair of bitepad assemblies are rotatably and longitudinally-adjustably mounted on the wings and each includes a bitepad with upper and lower contact surfaces for contacting by the back teeth.

Abstract: Braces for dentifacial functional orthopaedic and periodontal treatment made of natural or synthetic, flexible, food-grade material, generally consisting of a double cradle (or trough), these two cradles having externally, in a plane, a flaring U-shape and separated by a thick horizontal partition (3). The braces are further characterised in that: (a) the portion of the cradle designed for receiving the lower incisors is sufficient for fitting in the lower four incisors; (c) the height of the side lingual (2) and vestibular (1) partitions defining the channel designed for receiving the lower incisors (4), from the thick horizontal partition (3), is at least equal to the height of the incisors up to their neck.

Abstract: An intra-oral appliance is disclosed for repositioning the user's mandible anterior to the user's maxillary teeth thus opening the user's oral and pharyngeal passageway and preventing snoring and sleep apnea. The appliance is two U-shaped plates joined to form a hinge. The upper plate has a labial-buccal wall but no lingual wall, which allows anterior positioning of the tongue. The lower plate has both a labial-buccal wall and a lingual wall. The walls are pliable to reduce pressure on the user's teeth and vary in height and thickness. Lingual tabs are employed to help position the appliance. A method for using the intra-oral appliance is also disclosed.