Abstract: An intra-oral device comprising an upper splint (7100), a lower splint (7200) and a pair of lateral connecting rods (7300). Each connecting rod has a first rod end (7310) that connects to the lower splint and a second rod end (7320) that connects to the upper splint. The connecting rods (7300) are configured to maintain the mandible in an advanced position relative to the maxilla. The upper splint (7100) includes at least one upper gutter portion (7110) that retains the upper splint on the maxilla. The lower splint (7200) includes at least one lower gutter portion (7210) that retains the lower splint on the mandible. The thickness of the at least one upper gutter portion and/or the at least one lower gutter portion may vary across the profile of the teeth.

Abstract: Method for determining a patient's open-position occlusal plane comprising: obtaining a global model of the patient's jaw including a model of the mandible and maxilla in articulation; determining a natural occlusal plane of the patient from a global model of the patient's jaw in a centric occlusion position; determining a necessary opening to enable the advancement of the patient's mandible; determining a mandibular virtual plane from the global model of the patient's jaw in an open position based on the necessary opening determined; and determining the open-position occlusal plane from the mandibular virtual plane, the natural occlusal plane and the global model of the jaw in the open position based on the necessary opening determined. A method of designing a mandibular advancement device for a patient based on the open-position occlusal plane is also described as well as the resulting mandibular advancement device.

Abstract: Systems and methods for systems and methods for improvement of a person's performance and well-being by determining and maintaining an orthopedically optimized position of the person's jaw. In one embodiment, TENS is applied to the patient's jaw muscles to relax and deprogram the muscles, the person's TMJs are evaluated and reduced, and neural shear in the patient's upper cervical spine is minimized by orthopedically aligning the patient's head and neck (CC complex), thereby causing the patient's jaw to move toward an orthopedically optimized position (CM complex). A bite registration of the upper and lower jaws is taken, with molars and premolars at least 2 millimeters apart, the front teeth not touching, and preferably a vertical index of 17-21 millimeters. Molds of the persons upper and lower teeth may be positioned using the bite registration, and an orthopedic alignment device (OAD) may be formed between the molds.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an orthodontics and temporomandibular joint balancing appliance, particularly to an orthodontics and temporomandibular joint balancing appliance, which eliminates asymmetric imbalance of a temporomandibular joint caused by pressure applied to upper incisor teeth and lower incisor teeth, thereby cushioning every teeth occlusion and blocking nervous system compression, so as to minimize teeth damage and improve wearing comfortness.

Abstract: A dental appliance having an integrally formed reservoir and/or an ornamental design integrated thereon. The ornamental design can be selected or customized by a patient. The design can be created by directing energy to the dental appliance to alter a material property of at least a portion of the appliance to create the design. Alternatively, a groove or recess can be formed on a surface of the appliance to either mechanically retain an ornamental design or the groove or recess can be filled with ink to form the design. The appliance, including the integrally formed reservoir, can be formed using direct fabrication techniques.

Abstract: Disclosed are a detachable dental appliance which is outstandingly durable and can protect the teeth from clenching and bruxism and a fabricating method therefor.

Abstract: A maxillary, mandibular, or dual concussion orthotic that substantially reduces concussion resulting from forces applied to the lower jaw, and a method of producing the orthotic. The orthotic device produced according to the method described herein is objectively measured and produced to physiological parameters for an individual user. The orthotic is constructed so that the mandibular teeth are firmly indexed into the orthotic to hold the mandible in a specific position relative to the maxilla. The upper and lower jaws are positioned by the orthotic to act as a unit, and cooperate with the orthotic to effectively dissipate concussive forces and provide spacing of the temporomandibular joint, resulting in the decompression of the joint to mitigate transmission of concussive forces from the condyles of the mandible to the temporal bones of the skull.

Abstract: A sensor module generates sensor data in response to an impact to protective headgear, wherein the sensor module includes an accelerometer and a gyroscope and wherein the sensor data includes linear acceleration data and rotational velocity data. A device processing module generates event data in response to the sensor data. A device interface sends the event data to a monitoring device when the device interface is coupled to the monitoring device.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the present disclosure include a dental appliance for treating/preventing sleep apnea and snoring. The dental appliance may be a wedge-shaped device designed to be positioned between the lower and upper jaw, wherein the device is thicker within a front area of the mouth and thinner within a back area of the mouth. The device may include upper and lower teeth channels to accommodate the teeth and a plurality of breathing ports positioned between the upper and lower teeth channels, the breathing ports being configured to allow a user to breathe through the ports while the appliance is in use. The appliance may force the mouth and airway into an unnaturally open position without requiring the lower jaw to be displaced forward. A tongue rest may extend through the device to support the tongue, while simultaneously providing slight upward pressure on the tongue to further open the airway.

Abstract: An improved vibrating orthodontic device is provided wherein motor speed is controlled by capacitive sensor, and thus lacks moving parts that are required by encoder use. The improved device also uses a tungsten offset weight, reducing size by more than 50%, yet still produces the needed force. The device is thus smaller, lighter and more robust.

Abstract: A device for therapeutic includes a rigid screen (1) that is insertable behind the upper and lower lips of a user's mouth, the screen having a compound curvature and in a horizontal plane generally U-shaped profile, and in a vertical plane a convexo-concave cross-sectional profile that is gradually flattening from a central mid region towards the left and right ends (12, 13) thereof, the ends extended to reach at least past the premolar teeth on each side in the upper and lower jaws of the user when applied. A handle is attached to extend forward from a central mid region in the convex front face of the screen, the handle including a rigid stem (2) projecting from the front face at a neutral angle with respect to upper (5) and lower (6) halves of the screen (1), diverging from the stem in the vertical view.

Abstract: The invention provides an endoscopic-enabled tongue depressor, as part of a mouth gag unit, with two-grooved design, where the first groove is for intubation, and the second groove accommodates the secure and adjustable placement of an optic device and associated method of use. The inventive tongue depressor enables full endoscopic procedures of the upper airway, such as nasopharynx, by providing a surgeon the ability to operate with both hands and an unobstructed view of a target area in the upper airway, in addition to real-time observation of the surgical field for other surgical staff (such as nursing staff, technicians, students and residents).

Abstract: Disclosed are devices, systems and methods for treating periodontal disease and/or other oral wounds using particularized oral appliances and associated negative pressure systems. The various oral appliances include one or a plurality of surfaces for engagement with various anatomical structures within the oral cavity, where the engagement can include sealing engagement with soft tissue (gingival) surfaces of the upper and/or lower dental arches. Additional features disclosed can further promote healing of regions affected by periodontal pocket formation.

Abstract: Embodiments are provided for utilizing metallic portions in dental positioning appliances. One embodiment includes a removable dental positioning appliance having a shell having one or more cavities shaped to receive and reposition one or more teeth from a first orientation to a successive orientation and where at least a portion of the shell is formed from a metallic mesh material.

Abstract: A medical device for combating overweight or obesity in humans by achieving a more rapid feeling of satiety utilizes a bite raiser which can be connected to the human maxilla and/or mandible and which covers at least some of the occlusal surface of the masticatory teeth. A splint adapted to tooth crowns equips at least some of the masticatory teeth with an occlusal elevation for reducing the size of the masticatory surface. The occlusal elevation overlies the cusp tips of a masticatory tooth in order to link the bite elevation to a spanning of the masticatory relief of the covered masticatory tooth.

Abstract: A fluoride-releasing dental composition includes a polymeric compound selected from (meth)acrylate polymers, (meth)acrylate copolymers, ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers, and mixtures and combinations thereof; and a cariostatically effective amount of a fluoride compound. A dental appliance made from the fluoride-releasing dental composition.

Abstract: The invention is a mouthpiece that is connected to a tube connected to a bladder or liquid reservoir. The mouthpiece is constructed to remain comfortably in a user's mouth during sporting events or other activities, allowing the user to easily and effectively hydrate without distraction, and allowing the user to have both hands available.

Abstract: The invention provides mouth guards sized and configured to prevent jaw clenching and teeth grinding and methods of using the mouth guards. One embodiment provides a one-piece mouth guard made of a semi-rigid, springy, flexible polymer that includes an arcuate tray portion having a front, a rear, a top side and a bottom surface, the arcuate tray portion sized and configured to at least partially cover a person's upper tooth set, and an elastic lower tooth set-engaging tab portion extending from the front of the arcuate tray portion, which tab portion, in its relaxed state, further extends downward below the bottom surface of the tray portion and partially rearward toward the rear of the tray portion so that, rearward of the point the tab portion extends from the tray portion, a space is present between the bottom surface of the tray portion and the tab below.

Abstract: Oral appliances adapted to for spacing the occlusal surfaces of the teeth of a user are disclosed. The oral appliances have an integral retention band interconnecting a first bite pad and a second bite pad. The first bite pad can include a first spacer and the second bite pad can include a second spacer that are configured to maintain the spacing of the occlusal surfaces of opposing teeth of a user during clenching or upon an impact to the jaw. Methods for the manufacture of composite oral appliances are also disclosed. The methods include forming a composite oral appliance over a model of a user's mouth.

Abstract: A device is provided for use with a medical implant for delivering an agent to a designated site of action in a body of a patient. The agent-delivery device comprises a body member having an inner surface and a projection on the inner surface of the body member. An agent-delivery medium is associated with the body member. The agent-delivery medium includes a therapeutic agent for treating the body of the patient. The body member is adapted to be secured to the medical implant such that the projection operatively engages the medical implant for spacing the inner surface of the body member from the implant, and the agent-delivery medium is configured to release the therapeutic agent after implantation in the body of the patient. In alternative embodiments, the agent-delivery device comprises a first body member having an inner surface and a second body member having an inner surface.

Abstract: A dental appliance is disclosed designed to protect a wearer's dentitions against injury from impacts suffered in sports or other activities that can cause chipping, fracturing, dislodging or evulsion of teeth. The appliance may be custom-fittable with at least one pocket having an energy absorbing fluid. The energy absorbing fluid be nanosuspensions of small particles in viscous fluids that can undergo shear thickening when the dental appliance is struck by an object. The appliance dampens and diffuses horizontal and axial forces and directs them away from dentitions thereby reducing the risk for dental injuries.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides method, systems, and devices for expanding arch of teeth. A device for expanding an arch of teeth of a patient can include a removable shell formed of a first material having a number of cavities formed therein. The number of cavities are shaped to receive teeth of a patient. A device for expanding an arch of teeth of a patient can include an arch element extending from the removable shell in a lingual direction and across an arch width of the removable shell. The arch element can be formed of the first material and a second material that is a different material than the first material, can be designed to expand an arch of the teeth of the patient, and can have a width specific to a stage of a treatment plan.

Abstract: An occlusal splint arrangement, in particular for sleep apnea therapy includes a maxillary miniplast splint that can be arranged on the maxillary row of teeth and a mandibular miniplast splint that can be arranged on the mandibular row of teeth. The maxillary miniplast splint can be brought to bear against the mandibular miniplast splint. The arrangement includes at least one maxillary positioning guide and at least one mandibular positioning guide, wherein the relative position of the miniplast splints toward each other can be defined in the longitudinal direction and/or in the transverse direction by a form fit between the maxillary and the mandibular positioning guides. The maxillary and/or mandibular miniplast splint include at least one mounting device, and at least two different positioning guides can be secured as mutual replacements on the same mounting device, whereby at least two different relative positions can be defined between the miniplast splints.

Abstract: An apparatus and a system for delivering a two-tier oxidative therapy to a dental patient. The apparatus is a mouthpiece made of rubber or thermoplastic elastomer that provides a full or partial coverage of the teeth and gums to be treated, firstly with vaporized hydrogen peroxide and later, ozone gas. The design of the mouthpiece encompassing multiple injection tubes also allows all surfaces of all teeth and gums to be treated at the same time, thereby offering a quick, painless and economical procedure to the dental patient.

Abstract: The present invention provides a thin elastomeric mouth guard which covers the teeth to provide a smooth surface during oral sex. The mouth guard will feature different colors and flavors to enhance lubrication and to promote a more enjoyable experience for both the giving and receiving party. Furthermore, it may encourage parties to engage in oral sex, as it reduces risk and discomfort.

Abstract: Ventilator associated pneumonia (VAP) may be prevented in a patient, or its occurrence reduced in a population of patients, by using an anti-VAP device or an anti-VAP material such as an anti-VAP mouthpiece that absorbs secretions. By reducing the problem of bacterial-containing secretions that otherwise build up in the airway of, and elsewhere in, the intubated patient, VAP can be prevented from occurring in intubated patients, such as patients intubated with an endotracheal tube (ETT) or a nasogastric tube. Anti-VAP mouthpieces also are useable in non-intubated patients to maintain oral hygiene.

Abstract: Improvements in cushioned custom dental guard to be constructed with EVA instead of Polyshok. The molding process ensures that the mouth guard provides even fit on all of the teeth. The custom fit is performed by taking an impression of the upper teeth and gums of the user. The dental guard can then be constructed to ensure a proper custom fit. Each layer provides a different function to provide an ideal cushion, as well as integration of artwork that is visible through the front of the dental guard. The dental guard may include air cells or chambers. The air cells provide a cushion by compressing the air cells to absorb an impact and spread the force of the impact over a greater area. A reinforcing wire maintains the shape and distribute impact forces. The reinforcing wire is completely embedded and encapsulated within the dental guard.

Abstract: A mouthpiece of medical grade silicone that has two connecting portions, one a molded shallow trough that wraps around and contours the teeth, and another a flap or wing portion that attaches to the front of the shallow trough and that acts to sit between and keep separate the teeth and lips.

Abstract: A dental appliance is disclosed designed to protect a wearer's dentitions against injury from impacts suffered in sports or other activities that can cause chipping, fracturing, dislodging or evulsion of teeth. The appliance may be custom-fittable with at least one pocket having an energy absorbing fluid. The energy absorbing fluid be nanosuspensions of small particles in viscous fluids that can undergo shear thickening when the dental appliance is struck by an object. The appliance dampens and diffuses horizontal and axial forces and directs them away from dentitions thereby reducing the risk for dental injuries.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved devices, systems and methods for repositioning teeth from an initial tooth arrangement to a final tooth arrangement. Repositioning is accomplished with a system comprising a series of polymeric shell appliances configured to receive the teeth and incrementally reposition individual teeth in a series of successive steps. The individual appliances may be formed from layers having different stiffnesses (elastic moduluses), and the stiffnesses of successive appliances may be different, or both.

Abstract: A mouthguard holder for temporarily securing an athletic mouthguard to an exterior side of a helmet is provided. The mouthguard holder generally comprising: a support post base adapted to contact the exterior surface of the helmet, a support post with a first end and second end, a retaining member coupled to the support post at the support post second end the retaining member radially extending out away from the support post forming a mouthguard receiving pocket between the support post base and the retaining member where the receiving pocket is adapted to removably secure a mouthguard to the exterior side of the helmet.

Abstract: A jaw exercise device includes a generally arcuate central elastomer plate with generally planar surfaces in opposed relationship. The planar surfaces have a plurality of protuberances depending therefrom; each protuberance being generally cylindrical in shape with each having an axis oriented to be perpendicular to the generally planar surface from which it depends. Each protuberance has protuberance walls, the walls having a protuberance height between a protuberance crown and a protuberance base. Two arcuate U-shaped channels are configured each to receive teeth of one of an upper or lower jaw of the user, within the channel. Each U-shaped channel defines a plurality of receptacles. Each receptacle located in a manner to receive, when urged into mating engagement with the central elastomer plate, a corresponding one of the protuberances.

Abstract: A respiratory tract bore opening keeping device includes generally a main body that has two sides each connected to a resilient plate. The resilient plates each have a distal end that is remote from the main body and includes a protruding section having an increased thickness formed thereon. The main body has an outer side on which an upper lip positioning section and a lower lip positioning section are formed. The main body has an inner side on which an upper tooth positioning section and a lower tooth positioning section are formed in such a way that the lower tooth positioning section is in front of the upper tooth positioning section. The keeping device is depositeable in the mouth of a person with lips and teeth respectively positioned on the lip and teeth positioning sections to change the configuration of the tongue and the location of the lower jaw.

Abstract: Embodiments of methods, devices and systems are presented for communicating information in an explosive environment. An explosion proof video and data communication module includes features that prevent the generation of a spark or other ignition sources that could ignite explosive dust, gas or vapors in the air. The explosion proof video and communications relay modules may operate independently or as a group to provide real-time information, situation awareness, functionally and responsiveness for personnel that are in explosive environments.

Abstract: A two-component whitening system has a de-sensitizing effect as well as re-mineralizing capability. The system may be an unfoamed, a foamed or a foamable composition. The system has a first component with at least one peroxide compound, at least one source of phosphate and at least one gelling agent; and a second component with at least one source of calcium, strontium and/or mixtures thereof. The second component may also contain at least one gelling agent, and the composition maybe present as a foam or is foamable. The composition may be packed in a two-compartment syringe.

Abstract: A pre-fabricated, pre-programmed or custom-made guidance package is provided. The Anterior Guidance Package (AGP) of current invention is comprised of one maxillary guidance component and one mandibular guidance component produced in many shapes and sizes. Those components are attached to a maxillary retention piece and a mandibular retention piece, respectively when the mandible is at a point defined by an operator to provide ideal anterior guidance for the mandible, or to provide specialized guidance for a damaged stomatognathic system. In contrast to all current bruxism or Tempor-mandibular disorders (TMD) appliances, the AGP according to current invention provides a wide range of features and options including three-dimensional control, superior mechanical advantage and preferable vertical dimension at rest.

Abstract: A vital signs monitor system is integrated with personal protective equipment (“PPE”) so that upon wearing the PPE, the monitor is placed in an operational position to monitor a vital sign. In one embodiment, the vital signs sensor comprises a thermal sensor located at a mouth guard to automatically make operational contact with tissue under the tongue when the mouth guard is worn. A second vital signs monitor comprising reflective pulse oximetry devices senses oxygen saturation and heart rate. Vital signs data are communicated to an RF module located in an associated helmet for transmission to a remote location. A gateway at that remote location receives the transmitted vital signs data and forwards that data to a data collection, organization, and access system that is programmed to make the vital signs data available over the Internet.

Abstract: A mouth guard includes a pair of spaced-apart molar receiving members with an inner wall extending therebetween. The inner wall is configured for insertion between a user's lips and teeth. An outer wall is configured to confront an exterior surface of the user's lips. A conduit extends between the inner and outer walls and includes a passage formed therethrough. The passage extends through the inner wall between the molar receiving members and extends through the outer wall whereby a user may breathe or drink through the passage.

Abstract: A mandibuiomaxillary fracture stabilization system, methods of forming the system, and methods of using the system are described. The system includes upper and lower splints that can be custom molded to fit the teeth of a patient and a locking mechanism that can temporarily lock the splints to one another. The splints are attached to the patient's dentition with a dental adhesive and the locking mechanism includes first and second components that are attached to the upper and lower splints, respectively. The locking mechanism includes a quick-release pin that allows the jaw to be freed in case of emergency.

Abstract: A set of occlusal splints includes a maxillary splint engageable over a maxillary superior dental arch of a mouth; and a mandibular splint engageable over a mandibular dental arch of the mouth. Each one of the maxillary splint and the mandibular splint is substantially U-shaped with an anterior section and two posterior sections extending from opposite ends of the anterior section. Each one of the maxillary splint and the mandibular splint has an inner wall surface defining a cavity shaped and configured to encase teeth of the corresponding one of the dental arches and an opposed outer wall surface, the outer wall surface having a contact surface at the anterior section. The maxillary and mandibular splints are operable in a contact configuration, wherein the contact surfaces of the maxillary and mandibular splints are abutted one against the other, and wherein an occlusal face of the posterior sections are spaced apart from one another.

Abstract: A dental device has a U-shaped carrier with at least one channel for embracing an arch of teeth. There are recessed insets in the channel. Discrete inserts carrying a beneficial agent can fit into the insets and release the agent gradually. The device may be used in a therapeutic application and 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 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. The inserts may be replaced or refreshed to maintain the beneficial agent. A dental device having a core carrying a beneficial agent inside a liquid-permeable shell functions as an infant's teething device.

Abstract: An oral airway and intubation assisting device that protects a patient's teeth and includes a wedge adapted to redirect force from the patient's incisor teeth to the patient's maxilla, a block adapted to hold the patient's mouth open, and an airway guide adapted to prevent the tongue from closing the throat and maintain a clear passage for air. Additionally, the device may include a tube retainer adapted to secure the intubation tube against movement.

Abstract: A tooth impact protection guard incorporates a posterior portion with a labial margin substantially at a contour of an alveolar ridge. The posterior portion extends over an occlusal surface of each posterior tooth and covers the lingual cusps to a posterior lingual margin at the cemento-enamel junction. An anterior portion has a contiguous labial margin with the posterior portion at a contour of the attached alveolar ridge. The anterior portion terminates in an anterior lingual margin substantially adjacent an incisal edge of each anterior tooth with an overlap of between 2 and 5 mm.

Abstract: Novel tools, accessories and methods for fixing a patient's upper and lower jaws together with flexible straps are disclosed. The tools are intended to either allow placement of a flexible strap to bind items to the teeth, or for using a flexible strap to fasten the upper and lower jaw into place, among other purposes. These accessories include a washer with a ratchet head for mounting on a bone screw, a bone screw with integrated ratchet head, dental blocks for use with the bone screws and washers, a flexible strap provided with a dissection tip for forcing the strap through tissue, and combinations thereof, and tools for inserting flexible straps through the gums, among other tools and accessories.

Abstract: An aqueous oral spray designed to treat mouth guards against bacterial infection comprising: 1. A naturally derived di-basic amino acid derivative, 2. A natural sweetener which inhibits the adhesion of bacteria to the oral cavity and, 3. Optionally a natural flavor and/or natural dye 4. Optionally a mouth guard surface modified to absorb specific components of above oral aqueous solution so as to render mouth guard more effective overtime in inhibiting microorganism growth on surface and in contact with mouth surfaces compared with unmodified mouth guard surface.

Abstract: A stabilizing mouthpiece includes features that reduce or prevent displacement of the mouthpiece either laterally or forward and backward when the mouthpiece is in use. In one implementation, the stabilizing mouthpiece may include one or more lateral shift guards that rest adjacent to inner or outer surfaces of a user's molars, incisors, or cuspids. In another implementation, the stabilizing mouthpiece may include elongated ridges or biased grips that resist posterior-to-anterior movement of the mouthpiece.

Abstract: A stabilizing mouthpiece includes features that reduce or prevent displacement of the mouthpiece either laterally or forward and backward when the mouthpiece is in use. In one implementation, the stabilizing mouthpiece may include one or more lateral shift guards that rest adjacent to inner or outer surfaces of a user's molars, incisors, or cuspids. In another implementation, the stabilizing mouthpiece may include elongated ridges or biased grips that resist posterior-to-anterior movement of the mouthpiece.

Abstract: A stabilizing mouthpiece includes features that reduce or prevent displacement of the mouthpiece either laterally or forward and backward when the mouthpiece is in use. In one implementation, the stabilizing mouthpiece may include one or more lateral shift guards that rest adjacent to inner or outer surfaces of a user's molars, incisors, or cuspids. In another implementation, the stabilizing mouthpiece may include elongated ridges or biased grips that resist forward and backward movement of the mouthpiece.

Abstract: A teeth grinding preventing device to be put in an oral cavity of a user includes a main body portion formed into a substantially arcuate shape along a curve of a maxillary teeth alignment of the user and configured to cover an occluding surface of the maxillary teeth, a sensor portion embedded in the main body portion to extend in parallel to the occluding surfaces of maxillary and mandibular teeth and configured to detect an occlusal force and output a detection signal, a teeth grinding determining portion configured to receive the detection signal and determine whether or not the user is grinding the teeth, and a stimulation providing portion configured to provide the user with a stimulation when the teeth grinding determining portion determines that the user is grinding the teeth, and the stimulation providing portion is provided to be mountable and demountable with respect to the main body portion.

Abstract: Improvements in cushioned custom dental guard to be constructed with EVA instead of Polyshok. The molding process ensures that the mouth guard provides even fit on all of the teeth. The custom fit is performed by taking an impression of the upper teeth and gums of the user. The dental guard can then be constructed to ensure a proper custom fit. Each layer provides a different function to provide an ideal cushion, as well as integration of artwork that is visible through the front of the dental guard. The dental guard may include air cells or chambers. The air cells provide a cushion by compressing the air cells to absorb an impact and spread the force of the impact over a greater area. A reinforcing wire maintains the shape and distribute impact forces. The reinforcing wire is completely embedded and encapsulated within the dental guard.