Teeth Protectors (e.g., Mouthpieces) Patents (Class 128/861)
  • Patent number: 5657765
    Abstract: An erotic stimulator in the form of a tongue is provided. The stimulator comprises a flexible, elongated member having a mouthpiece at its base end whereby a user can manipulate the stimulator while leaving the hands free during gynecological stimulation with the device. The device has a plurality of raised projections on its surface to provide enhanced stimulation to the more sensitive areas of the female anatomy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Inventor: Steven S. Est
  • Patent number: 5649534
    Abstract: The improved endotracheal bite block includes an elongated bite tube having a central endotracheal tube-receiving cavity extending therethrough to the front and rear ends of the bite tube. The bite tube is relatively inflexible and has an elongated post extending rearwardly thereof. The post has a strap-receiving slot therein and a rear retaining wall extending laterally outwardly for releasably holding an adhesive strip in place on the bite block, which tape also is used to hold an endotracheal tube against the bite block. The bite block further includes an elongated flexible strap with a strap retainer at one end and an opposite free end which can be passed through the slot and around an endotracheal tube and then can be cinched up to anchor the endotracheal tube and bite block together. Preferably, the bite tube is C-shaped in cross-section and single walled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1997
    Inventor: Stephen W. Briggs, III
  • Patent number: 5646216
    Abstract: A unitary plural-material, interocclusal dental appliance is disclosed for use in connection with orthodontic/orthopedic treatment of the teeth and jaws of a patient's mouth. The appliance includes a first region made from a first material that provides a relatively hard expanse with first and second surfaces, and with the second surface being contactable by one such set of teeth. The second surface may be constructed with a substantially planar shape, or with a shape conforming generally to the cusps of such one set of teeth. A second region is joined to the first region, and is made from a second material that provides a relatively soft, persistently resilient enclosure for the other such set of teeth. The second region includes plural zones, each of which is structured to allow an adjacent enclosed tooth to move toward the first surface of the first region, with such movement resulting in penetration of corresponding teeth into the relatively hard first material for a relatively precise distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Inventors: Sherman L. Watson, Jimmie J. Jones, Richard W. Moore
  • Patent number: 5624257
    Abstract: An appliance for repositioning the temporomandibular joint has a base portion and inner and other flanges which form upper and lower U-shaped channels for receiving the teeth of the upper and lower jaws. The inner flange has a central tab and a pair of slots on opposite sides of the tab to allow for lateral adjustment of the appliance. In an alternative embodiment, the appliance has ribs on the outer flange, to engage the teeth of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Inventor: Christopher J. Farrell
  • Patent number: 5620011
    Abstract: A diver's mouthpiece, having a conventional first portion, which includes a molded front flat member which is secured along the forward surface of the gums of the diver during use, and a teething member on each inner surface of the flat, molded member, so that a diver's teeth may bite into the teething member to help maintain the mouthpiece in place. There is further provided a pocket formed in each of the teething members, the pocket so shaped so as to accommodate a mint gel capsule in each of the pockets for the mouthpiece. There is further provided a pair of ducks extending between the pocket of the mouthpiece between the pocket containing the mint gel and the inner surface of the teething members, so as to define a flow track for the gel when the teeth of the diver bite into the teething members and rupture the outer casing of the mint gels in the teething members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1997
    Inventor: Damian T. Flowers
  • Patent number: 5590643
    Abstract: A mandibular protracting oral intubating airway has a rigid main body with a mouthpiece portion at the forward end. The mouthpiece portion has an annular front flange and a bite portion extending a short distance rearwardly therefrom which is generally oval-shaped in transverse cross section and has an annular rear flange at the rear end thereof. A flat, generally C-shaped tongue retractor portion extends rearwardly from the rear flange of the bite portion and curves downwardly. A resilient annular sleeve encircles the bite portion between the front and rear flanges and has a series of longitudinally spaced generally arcuate grooves extending transversely across its exterior top and bottom surfaces. When properly positioned in the mouth of a patient, the upper and lower teeth are retained in the grooves of the resilient sleeve with the mandible protracted maximally forward relative to the maxilla.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1997
    Inventor: Gary H. Flam
  • Patent number: 5584687
    Abstract: A performance enhancing and force absorbing 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, to absorb shock and clenching stress. An arch 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Assignee: E-Z Gard Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Maureen P. Sullivan, Henry D. Cross, III
  • Patent number: 5582560
    Abstract: A jaw exercising apparatus includes an elongated plate having a pair of bite pads projecting from the rearward surface of opposing ends of the plate. An aperture is formed through the plate intermediate the bite pads so as to permit air flow therethrough. Each bite pad has a pair of upper and lower ridges projecting therefrom generally parallel with the plate with upper and lower biting surfaces extending between the plate and the ridges. Preferably, the entire exercising apparatus is formed as a single integral piece of resilient compressible and stretchable material such as silicone rubber. The biting surfaces of each bite pad are preferably either parallel to one another, or diverging from outward ends towards the center of the exercising apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Inventor: Gerald L. Magnuson
  • Patent number: 5570702
    Abstract: A prophylactic device and associated method for preventing contamination between the mouth and a mouthpiece. The prophylactic device is a generally tubular structure, having a two open ends, that is made of a highly elastic and water impermeable material such as latex. The tubular structure is configured to conform to the contours of the mouthpiece as the mouthpiece is placed within the tubular structure. As the tubular structure is pulled over the mouthpiece, the tubular structure stretches and conforms to the mouthpiece, thus creating a watertight seal against the mouthpiece. When applied to a mouthpiece, the tubular structure covers the exterior surfaces of the mouthpiece. One end of the tubular structure is the folded into itself and is passed through the center of the mouthpiece, thereby protecting the interior surfaces of the mouthpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Inventor: David Forman
  • Patent number: 5566684
    Abstract: A molded mouthguard is shaped in the configuration of a maxillary arch. The mouthguard includes a trough which is channel shaped in transverse cross section and a moldable upper fill which extends higher than the channel at least at the front, rear and buccal walls of the trough. The fill comprises a low softening temperature thermoplastic such as a suitable EVA and the trough is formed of a higher softening temperature thermoplastic. The mouthguard is suitable for do-it-yourself custom molding and is heated by emersion in water to a glass transition temperature which is below boiling temperature, e.g. within a range of 140.degree. F. to 180.degree. F., for approximately two minutes. The mouthguard is then inserted into the mouth, and centered against the teeth of the maxillary arch. The user then bites, causing the fill to extrude over the labial and buccal front, sides and rear of the trough as the fill conforms to the impression of the upper teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Assignee: Dental Concepts Inc.
    Inventor: Eugene C. Wagner
  • Patent number: 5562105
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for exercising small joints such as the temporomandibular joint connecting the upper and lower jaws, fingers and toes of a user and for toning jaw muscles of the user. First and second members coupled together so that at least one of the members is movable relative to the other member. An expandable and contractible fluid reservoir is positioned between the first and second members so that the first and second members will move relative to each other as the expandable and contractible reservoir expands and contracts. At least one of the members is then positioned to exercise the joint, specifically to exercise the jaw. To use the apparatus, the user places the first and second members gently into the mouth and then squeezes a fluid source connected to the expandable and contractible reservoir to expand and contract the reservoir thereby moving the jaws or joint to be exercised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Assignees: Steven B. Syrop, Howard Israel, Edward C. Meyers
    Inventors: Steven Syrop, Howard Israel
  • Patent number: 5562106
    Abstract: A non-surgical oral appliance for improving breathing, and abating or completely alleviating snoring sounds and symptoms while sleeping. The patient is pre-tested and pre-fitted for the appliance so that appliance positions the mandible in an open position and protrusive position to hold the mouth partially open. The appliance has a right and left extension wherein each extension has upper and lower surfaces pre-molded to the contour of the patient's back teeth. A bridge connects the right and left extensions having been pre-molded to conform to the upper palate of the patient's mouth. The upper and lower surfaces of each extension are spaced to provide optimum mouth height that was pre-tested to alleviate the snoring sound. Upon insertion, the appliance facilitates an air passage for breathing and also allows the patient to talk while remaining virtually invisible to an observer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Inventors: David W. Heeke, Walter Britt
  • Patent number: 5533524
    Abstract: A mouthguard which has a generally U-shaped intra-oral portion for placement in a patient's mouth and a generally U-shaped extra-oral portion which is placed outside the patient's mouth. The intra-oral portion may be shaped for bilateral placement between the upper and lower anterior teeth or the upper and lower posterior teeth, or for unilateral placement between the upper and lower canine teeth. There are narrow indentations between the arms of the extra-oral and intra-oral portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1996
    Inventor: Sue A. F. Minneman
  • Patent number: 5533523
    Abstract: A hollow tubular mouthpiece that is clampable between the front teeth of a patient that is to receive a medical instrument through the mouth and into the esophagus. The mouthpiece has two spaced flanges to fit over the outside of the lips on the proximal end of the mouthpiece and behind the front teeth on the distal end of the mouthpiece with the intermediate space to be clamped between the biting front teeth. A central hollow passageway permits the instrument to be inserted. A lower curved tongue plate extends inwardly and downwardly to depress the patients tongue and to guide the forward end of the instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1996
    Inventors: Robert Bass, Jr., James G. Barsamian
  • Patent number: 5513984
    Abstract: A spacer for elevating occlusion position is composed of a plastic material which can be deformed by occlusion pressure; and a plurality of ball members having a predetermined diameter. The ball member is made of a material which cannot be deformed by subjecting occlusion pressure, and the ball member is embedded in the plastic material so as to be in a plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1996
    Assignees: Molten Corporation, Chugoku Shiken Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Masato Ueno
  • Patent number: 5511562
    Abstract: A dental appliance for treating temporomandibular joint disorders that includes a U-shaped channel member having an inner side wall and an outer side wall. A plurality of connectors positioned between the inner and outer side walls divide the dental appliance into an upper and lower compartment for receiving a patient's upper and lower teeth, respectively. A pliable material fills the upper and lower compartments so that the grinding or clenching the patient's teeth is prevented and the patient's mandible can be set in a desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Inventor: Raymond R. Hancock
  • Patent number: 5490520
    Abstract: A dental appliance for treating bruxism is provided which, according to one aspect of the invention, has a mouthpiece containing an electric source, electrodes, and circuitry connecting the source to the electrodes, and circuitry connecting the source to the electrodes. The electrodes are disposed to contact an interior surface of the wearer's mouth to conduct electric stimuli to the mouth. Included in the electronic circuitry, are sensors which trigger the flow of electric current from the source to the electrodes when squeezed together by the wearer's teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 13, 1996
    Assignee: Schaefer Partnership
    Inventors: Donald W. Schaefer, deceased, Melvin P. Siedband
  • Patent number: 5469865
    Abstract: A mouthguard which has a generally U-shaped intra-oral portion for placement in a patient's mouth and a generally U-shaped extra-oral portion which is placed outside the patient's mouth. The intra-oral portion may be shaped for bilateral placement between the upper and lower anterior teeth or the upper and lower posterior teeth, or for unilateral placement between the upper and lower canine teeth. There are narrow indentations between the arms of the extra-oral and intra-oral portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Inventor: Sue A. F. Minneman
  • Patent number: 5467783
    Abstract: An apparatus for intra-oral use including a framework having an upper curved platform and a lower curved platform, each of the platforms being defined by two walls extending from and separated by a floor, a material bonded to the upper and lower curved platform adapted to be molded in a shape suitable for relatively snugly receiving maxillary teeth of a user and for relatively loosely receiving mandibular teeth of the user when the user's mouth is closed in a normal, closing arch, and a cavity formed between the upper and lower platforms adapted to receive the tongue of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Inventor: Thomas E. Meade
  • Patent number: 5462066
    Abstract: An anti-snore device, which includes a U-shaped thermoplastic mouthpiece, moldable to fit the jaw definition of the wearer which device has a generally H-shaped cross section, with rearwardly diminishing elevations of the outer and inner vertical walls, both above and below the base to which these walls are attached. The outer wall features front facing opposed upper concave and lower convex areas. The device also includes a downwardly extending flange which extends into the lingual or tongue side of the teeth vestibule of the user to maintain the lower jaw in a forward posture. An optional removable handle of similar thermoplastic material to aid the custom molding process for the fit to the wearer may be employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Inventor: David T. Snyder
  • Patent number: 5462067
    Abstract: A disposable shield device which serves to keep food away from the gums and teeth during eating is made from an integral piece of thin plastic film having a substantially rectangular perimeter defined by opposed end edges and parallel first and second long edges. A compliant strip is positioned along the first edge for fitting against the front gum line. Two slits entering from the second edge define a center flap and paired outer flaps. An adhesive strip positioned on the center flap adjacent the second edge enable the outer flaps to securely overlap the center flap, thereby achieving close fit against the rear gum line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Inventor: Ira Shapiro
  • Patent number: 5447168
    Abstract: A mouthguard for protecting lips against impact trauma on orthodontic appliances (braces), protecting teeth from sports trauma, protecting teeth from clashing together or grinding; and, protecting the temporomandibular joint (T.M.J.) from traumas due to a blow to the mandible. The mouthpiece comprises a curved flexible element, having two or more substantially central apertures extending therethrough and a notched portion on the upper and lower surface thereof. On the inner posterior surface of the element, an inwardly projecting portion extends at right angles thereto on each side of the aperture and designed to be grasped by the teeth. The mouthguard lays against the outer surface of the teeth with the curved flexible element and extends into the buccal folds superiorly and interiorly of the cheek where the muscles hold it in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1995
    Inventor: James J. Bancroft
  • Patent number: 5427117
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Inventor: W. Keith Thornton
  • Patent number: 5406963
    Abstract: A method of making a mouthguard by fabricating a relatively more rigid main body of a material, such as ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer for example, and directly molding onto the troughs of the main body a liner which is of a relatively less rigid material, such as ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer for example, that bonds directly to the material of the main body to form a mouthguard in which the trough liner is tooth-impressionable after having been so bonded. The mouthguard has a tri-laminar occlusal wall composed of the lower durometer liner sandwiching the higher durometer main body material, and the mouthguard exhibits surprising impact-absorbing characteristics that are helpful in protecting certain cranio-facial bone structure in response to certain impacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1995
    Inventor: Loren S. Adell
  • Patent number: 5406962
    Abstract: An intra-oral appliance that is associated with a pair of dental arches having a trough for receiving an upper dental arch. A second layer in a covering relation to the first layer opposite the trough, the second layer being relatively harder than the first layer. A third layer in covering relation to the second layer opposite the first layer. The third layer is relatively harder that the second layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1995
    Assignees: Loren S. Adell, Michael Adell
    Inventor: Loren S. Adell
  • Patent number: 5401234
    Abstract: An intraoral appliance which when worn by a singer or other vocalist acts to improve the quality of the voice and increase its power. The appliance is constituted by a pair of spacer pieces molded to conform to select teeth in the oral cavity of the vocalist, the pieces being seated on molars or other teeth on opposing sides of either the upper or the lower dental arch. The smooth head surfaces of the pieces are raised slightly above the teeth on which they are seated to prevent the arches from meeting and causing the mandible supporting the lower arch to slide forward relative to the maxilla to an extent limited by the parameters of the temporomadibular joint. The displaced mandible serves to release tension on the muscles of the head, neck and chest associated with the mandible, giving rise to greater and more efficient respiration, a relaxation of the hyoid bone supporting the tongue and its muscles and from which the larynx is suspended, and a relaxation of the vocal cords of the larynx.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1995
    Inventor: Barry M. Libin
  • Patent number: 5386821
    Abstract: The device of the present invention is a bite block for use with endotracheally intubated patients. The bite block is generally U-shaped and made of a hard but pliable material. The termini of each of the legs of the "U" are wedge shaped, being thinner at the terminus of each leg. A curved rib connects the two legs. The combination of the wedge-shaped legs and the curved rib allow the interjaw compressive forces to be borne by the molars rather than the incisors or front teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 7, 1995
    Inventor: Karl A. Poterack
  • Patent number: 5385155
    Abstract: A mouthguard sizing kit includes a dentition impression plate for placement into the mouth to receive a dentition imprint when forced against the upper dentition suitably by the lower jaw. A mouthguard sizing device is provided which indicates small to large mouthguards for comparison with the dentition imprint on the dentition impression plate for selection of the correctly sized small to large mouthguard for the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1995
    Assignee: E-Z Gard Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon D. Kittelsen, Paul C. Belvedere, Anne M. Kittelsen
  • Patent number: 5381783
    Abstract: A new and improved mouthpiece apparatus which includes a breathing channel, wherein the apparatus includes a first wedge portion for wedging between top teeth and bottom teeth of a first side of a wearer's mouth. A second wedge portion is provided for wedging between top teeth and bottom teeth of a second side of a wearer's mouth, and a bridge member connects the first wedge portion to the second wedge portion. The first wedge portion and the second wedge portion lie in a common plane, and the bridge member projects upward from the common plane, such that a wearer's tongue can be located under the bridge member in a natural resting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1995
    Inventor: Roger L. Hintz
  • Patent number: 5365946
    Abstract: A mouthguard releasable in-line tether assembly including a forwardly extending tether-connecting tab extending from an anterior portion of a mouthguard. The anterior portion has a forward end adapted to releasably receive and hold a breakaway tab fastener in parallel or in-line arrangement with the tab. The tab fastener is pivotally held by a stiff tether to permit pivotal movement of the fastener along a first axis perpendicular to both the tab and the tether. The tether further has a face mask end adapted to pivotally hold a face mask catch connectable to a face mask and to permit pivotal movement of the tether along a second axis parallel to the first axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1994
    Assignee: E-Z Gard Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Norm J. V. McMillan
  • Patent number: 5353810
    Abstract: A wishbone tether is provided for remote anchor attachment of the mouthguard assembly which is worn by the user to protect the teeth, tongue, mouth and lips of the user. The wishbone tether has a U-shaped portion extending from the canine regions of the mouthguard to permit clearance at the forward end of the mouthguard for the unhindered movement of the tongue and lips for clear speaking while wearing the mouthguard assembly. A tab remote connecting portion extends forwardly from the U-shaped portion having attachment structure for remote attachment of the wishbone tether and mouthguard assembly to a remote anchor chosen from a group comprising of a helmet, a headgear, a face mask and an user's neck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Assignee: E-Z Gard Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon D. Kittelsen, Paul C. Belvedere
  • Patent number: 5339832
    Abstract: A composite mouthguard has a flexible and tough, softenable thermoplastic mouthguard portion with a U-shaped base having upward inner lingual and outer labial walls extending from the base. A shock absorbing and attenuating nonsoftening, resilient, low compression, elastomer framework is embedded in the mouthguard portion to absorb, attenuate and dissipate shock forces exerted on the mouthguard during athletic activity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1994
    Assignee: E-Z Gard Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon D. Kittelsen, Paul C. Belvedere
  • Patent number: 5328362
    Abstract: A unitary plural-material, interocclusal dental appliance is disclosed for use in connection with orthodontic/orthopedic treatment of the teeth and jaws of a patient's mouth. The appliance includes a first region made from a first material that provides a relatively hard expanse with first and second surfaces, and with the second surface being contactable by one such set of teeth. The second surface may be constructed with a substantially planar shape, or with a shape conforming generally to the cusps of such one set of teeth. A second region is joined to the first region, and is made from a second material that provides a relatively soft, persistently resilient enclosure for the other such set of teeth. The second region includes plural zones, each of which is structured to allow an adjacent enclosed tooth to move toward the first surface of the first region, with such movement resulting in penetration of corresponding teeth into the relatively hard first material for a relatively precise distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1994
    Inventors: Sherman L. Watson, Jimmie J. Jones, Richard W. Moore
  • Patent number: 5323787
    Abstract: An apparatus for protecting and treating teeth including a mouthpiece and storage container is disclosed. The mouthpiece has an arcuate or U-shaped body and is molded from a thin layer of soft, absorbent, and pliable elastomeric material. A continuous U-shaped channel is dimensioned for receiving the upper teeth of a user and is formed in the body in a location adjacent its periphery for a length coextensive with the U-shaped periphery of the body. The body has an integral center portion which arches upwardly from the U-shaped channel to conform to the similarly upwardly arched or convex form of the roof of the mouth or palate of the mouthpiece user. The U-shaped channel may be enclosed and filled with encapsulated setting materials to form a permanent, form-fitting dental impression for the upper teeth of the user. A medicated pad may be adhesively positioned over the enclosed channel to relieve sore gums and teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1994
    Inventor: Andrea P. Pratt
  • Patent number: 5320114
    Abstract: A boiling and stabilization tray has a handle end, shank portion and mouthguard cradle end for supportably receiving and stabilizing a mouthguard for custom fitting. The mouthguard cradle end is connected to the shank opposite the handle end and has a platform for supportably receiving the mouthguard base. An upwardly curved crescent portion engages and supports the anterior and posterior portions of the upward inner lingual wall of the mouthguard. Upwardly curved tabs also extend from the cradle end for engagement with and support of the anterior portion of the upward outer labial wall of the mouthguard. The cradle supports and stabilizes the softened mouthguard during heating, assists in positioning and aligning of the heated mouthguard within the user's mouth, and assists the user in custom fitting of the mouthguard with respect to the user's upper and lower jaw teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1994
    Assignee: E-Z Gard Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon D. Kittelsen, Paul C. Belvedere
  • Patent number: 5316020
    Abstract: A device for preventing snoring stops pharyngeal snoring by making the jaw (7) and consequently the base of the tongue (4) project forwards thereby creating an adequate opening of the pharyngeal canal (5). The device also prevents velar snoring by holding the mouth closed by means of hooks (11) positioned both towards the upper dental arch and towards the lower dental arch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1994
    Inventor: Ernest Truffer
  • Patent number: 5313960
    Abstract: An oral appliance and method for reducing snoring including upper and lower mouthpiece portion, each of which having a rigid structural core and a relatively soft outer portion which may be conformed to fit the upper teeth of the user. The upper and lower mouthpiece portions are first mounted on a holder with the upper mouthpiece portion positioned forward a desired offset amount from the lower mouthpiece portion (preferably about 3.0 mm). The entire assembly is then heated and the outer soft material of the upper and lower mouthpiece portions softens and may be placed in the mouth to permit the mouthpiece portions to be conformed to the upper and lower teeth. Once the upper and lower mouthpiece portions have been properly fitted, the assembly is removed from the mouth and allowed to set into a permanent state. The upper and lower mouthpiece portions are then removed from the holder and attached directly to one another without any offset therebetween forming the full mouthpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1994
    Assignee: Marc S. Bernstein
    Inventor: Barbara R. Tomasi
  • Patent number: 5299936
    Abstract: A spacer for elevating occlusion position is composed of a plastic material which can be deformed by occlusion pressure; and a plurality of ball members having a predetermined diameter. The ball member is made of a material which cannot be deformed by subjecting occlusion pressure, and the ball member is embedded in the plastic material so as to be in a plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Assignees: Molten Corporation, Chugoku Shiken Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Masato Ueno
  • Patent number: 5293880
    Abstract: An athletic mouthguard adapted for use by athletes and other persons engaged in physical activities which might result in occlusal or craniofacial stress. In one embodiment, the athletic mouthguard is a unitary structure which comprises a mouthpiece and an elongated strap adapted for attachment to the face mask of a helmet or the like. The mouthpiece, which is designed for use over the upper set of teeth of the wearer, includes an inner peripheral wall, an outer peripheral wall, and a connecting wall, the inner surfaces of which define a channel. The occlusal surface of the channel is more narrow in the anterior region and becomes more broad as one moves posteriorly so as to accommodate the non-uniform widths of the various teeth. In addition, the occlusal surface of the channel becomes progressively more concavely-shaped as one moves posteriorly from the first bicuspid tooth to accommodate the increasing convexity of the posterior teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1994
    Inventor: Steven J. Levitt
  • Patent number: 5277202
    Abstract: A dental orthosis is provided for use in the treatment of snoring. The upper portion of the device defines a trough for receiving some of the upper teeth of the patient. The rear wall of the trough is truncated so that the device can accommodate both narrow and wide dental arches so that one size of the device can accommodate substantially all users. Once inserted into the mouth the device snugly engages the upper teeth, particularly the front teeth, and remains positioned independent of natural motions of the lower jaw. The lower portion of the device is formed into a ramp structure whereby natural jaw motions result in the engagement of the lower teeth with the ramp, which will cam the lower jaw into a more forward position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Assignee: MB Hays, Inc.
    Inventor: Marvin B. Hays
  • Patent number: 5277203
    Abstract: A bite plate is provided to protect a user's teeth from damage due to teeth grinding and/or long term interdigitating pressure, as during cervical traction. The device defines a trench for receiving at least some of the upper teeth of a user and is self fitting to accommodate both narrow and wide dental arches. Once inserted into the mouth the device snugly engages the front teeth and remains positioned, keeping the teeth of the upper and lower jaws from directly engaging and being damaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Assignee: MB Hays, Inc.
    Inventor: Marvin B. Hays
  • Patent number: 5235991
    Abstract: A mouth guard which has two main portions, a stiff, thin planar portion and a compressible portion. The thin, stiff planar portion is capable of deflecting mouth and cheek tissues. The planar portion extends from two arms, or the outer and upper aspect of a solid triangle, to a handle opposite the arms. The compressible portion extends above and below the plane of the planar portion on each arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1993
    Inventor: Sue A. Minneman
  • Patent number: 5234005
    Abstract: A tethered, protective mouthguard assembly for attachment to a helmet or headgear including a mouthpiece portion, a connecting member integrally formed with the mouthpiece and provided with a tether attachment element therein, a separate breakaway tether constructed of a cord-like or strap-like material and a corresponding attachment element connected with the tether for selectively and easily attaching the tether to and detaching the tether from the connecting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1993
    Assignee: E-Z Gard Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon D. Kittelsen, Timothy J. Thomas
  • Patent number: 5203695
    Abstract: A tooth positioner which is formed out of molded plastic to conform about arches defined by upper and lower rows of teeth, the positioner being generally U-shaped in plan and H-shaped in cross-section, the positioner having troughs sized and shaped to conform to the arches, the troughs being defined by lingual and labial-buccal flanges joined together by an isthmus including a wire embedded in the lingual flange to alter the shape of at least one of the arches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Inventor: Earl O. Bergersen
  • Patent number: 5203324
    Abstract: A mouthpiece for use in diving or medical equipment, among others made of moldable resilient material having an offset between upper and lower jaw, a bite plane which is tapered with the bite plane formed by wings which have varying thickness to create the taper in which the wing members have substantially vertical surfaces on either side thereof for contacting the lateral surfaces of the user's cuspids and bicuspids and in which the main body portion has upper and lower apron and eminence skirts for avoiding contact with the user's frenum and cuspid eminences and in which the internal wing members have a range in size, at the cuspid, from about 6 to about 12 mm in width, from about 14 to about 40 mm in length and from about 2 mm to about 8 mm in thickness. The greater the offset, the shorter the length of the internal wing members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Assignee: Kinkade Family Partnership
    Inventor: Donald J. Kinkade
  • Patent number: 5203351
    Abstract: A container for a mouthguard has two closed positions. In one of these, there is an opening between confronting margins of the top and bottom halves of the container that allows an integral attaching strap of the mouthguard to pass through. Intra-oral devices such as mouthguards can be customized by using a manually operated electric gun to progressively melt a stick of pharmaceutical hot melt material and dispense the melted material onto a device, such as to fill a space in a trough of a mouthguard. Such a gun may have two barrels for melting sticks of different durometer, or a single barrel for melting a dual-durometer stick. The gun also has a quick-attach, quick-release mechanism for interchanging different dispensing nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Assignees: Loren S. Adell, Michael Adell
    Inventor: Loren S. Adell
  • Patent number: 5183057
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for exercising small joints such as the temporomandibular joint connecting the upper and lower jaws, fingers and toes of a user. First and second members are coupled together so that at least one of the members is movable relative to the other member. An expandable and contractible fluid reservoir is positioned between the first and second members so that the first and second members will move relative to each other as the expandable and contractible reservoir expands and contracts. At least one of the members is then positioned to exercise the joint specifically to exercise the jaw, the user will place the first and second members gently into the mouth and then squeezing a fluid source connected to the expandable and contractible reservoir to expand and contract said reservoir thereby moving the jaws or joint to be exercised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1993
    Inventors: Steven B. Syrop, Howard Israel
  • Patent number: 5165424
    Abstract: A method for whitening the teeth of a person, comprises the steps of a retainer made of a plastic material adapted to be moldable when heated for conforming to the shape of one of the upper and lower teeth of the person; heating the retainer until soft and moldable without losing its basic shape; fitting the retainer around one of the upper and lower teeth; applying a layer of tooth whitening composition inside the retainer; wearing the loaded retainer for several hours each day until the teeth to be whitened have become whiter; replacing the tooth whitening composition every 1-2 hours; and repeating the above steps with another retainer for the other of lower and upper teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1992
    Inventor: Harvey N. Silverman
  • Patent number: 5165423
    Abstract: A tooth guard whistle is provided which consists of a curved mouthpiece worn between the teeth and lips of a person for protecting the teeth. The mouthpiece has a central air passage and a plurality of side air passages. A small wind instrument is connected to the central air passage, so that in a first instance when the lips of the person do not cover the side air passages, the person can breath through the curved mouthpiece, while in a second instance when the lips of the person cover the side air passages, the person can force air through the central air passage to operate the small wind instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1992
    Inventors: Ian K. Fowler, George Spector
  • Patent number: 5152301
    Abstract: A thermoplastic mouthguard has a U-shaped base with top and bottom sides and upward inner lingual and outer labial walls forming a channel for the upper jaw teeth having posterior and anterior portions. Occlusal posterior pads are on the bottom side of the base along the posterior portions of the guard to space apart the anterior teeth of the lower jaw from the anterior portion of the bottom side of the U-shaped base and to lessen pressure and possible impact forces exerted at the temporomandibular joint. Occlusal impact chambers are located within the occlusal posterior pads for shock dissipation and absorption. Anteriorly directed ridges are located along the bottom of the impact surfaces of the occlusal posterior pads for custom fitting of the mouthguard and tending to move the lower jaw anteriorly when a force impact is imposed upon the lower jaw. An anterior impact brace is located along the anterior portion of the outer labial wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1992
    Assignee: E-Z Gard Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon D. Kittelsen, Norm J. V. McMillan