Thermoplastic Or Thermosetting Type Patents (Class 128/862)
  • Publication number: 20140053852
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an apparatus for improved breathing is provided. The apparatus may include an improved oral appliance, an improved mask, an improved coupler to couple an oral appliance to a mask, and/or a combination of these improvements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Inventors: W. Keith Thornton, Alastar Edwin McAuley
  • Patent number: 8656926
    Abstract: A device and method for relieving head, neck, facial, joint and tooth pain. An intra-oral device, worn over the upper or lower incisors, allows at least one opposite tooth to contact the rear wall of the device, only within the user's freeway space, and prevents upper and lower posterior teeth from contacting. The device facilitates deprogramming and releasing of the upper and lower jaw muscles. The device includes an extruded or molded shell made of a hard polycarbonate or similar hard plastic material. The internal surface of the shell may be secured in place for the user or lined with a low molding temperature thermoplastic resin, allowing the user to mold the internal aspect of the device onto and over the teeth to produce a fitted device. This relieves the stresses, strains, pains and damage that can be caused by parafunctioning of the dental neural-muscular system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventors: Marc Doctors, Randy Widen
  • Patent number: 8646632
    Abstract: A mouthpiece has a bite-off-prevention feature. The mouthpiece has been manufactured from an elastomeric parent material with at least one first component, where a reinforcing component embedded within the parent material forms the bite-off-prevention feature and derives from the same group of substances or group of materials as the first component. The reinforcing component is preferably composed of fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Medela Holding AG
    Inventors: Peter Vischer, Beda Weber, Erich Pfenniger, Stefan Baumann
  • Publication number: 20140034066
    Abstract: A customizable scuba-diving mouthpiece for gripping with a diver's teeth, the mouthpiece including including a front member forming a horizontal passageway and a U-shaped back member with a pair of leg portions each including a thermoformable custom-moldable bite portion which in some embodiments is substantially X-shaped in cross-section along the bite-line. Upper-inner and lower-inner wall-portions of each leg portion may terminate rearwardly beside the diver's premolars and forward of the diver's first molar, thereby reducing gagging effect. The passageway may be defined by tapered inner sidewall portions defining the greatest between-sidewall-portions cross-dimension at the leg portions. A bite-limiter may be inserted into the passageway and includes a bite-limiting portion positioned for engagement with the diver's incisors to control the degree of bite and depth of tooth impressions, the bite-limiting portion having a thickness no greater than one third of a passageway vertical dimension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Randall Moles
  • Publication number: 20140007884
    Abstract: A mouthpiece includes a first body configured to be secured over one or more teeth of a user. The first body comprises a frame for location about at least one of a molar or a premolar of user, as a first bite pad between upper teeth and lower teeth. The first bite pad is molded in the frame while in situ in the mouth of the user and the first bite pad is formed by a PVS material. The first bite pad is in contact with at least one of a molar or a premolar of user, and the first bite pad defines an exterior shape of at least a portion of the teeth of a user. There is a similar second body with a connector between the first body and the second body and together these form the appliance for the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventor: David Scott Frey
  • Patent number: 8607798
    Abstract: A custom mouthguard may be formed from a multiple layer assembly including an ethylene vinyl acetate/thermoplastic polyurethane layer, an ethylene vinyl acetate layer and an intervening impact shield and elastomeric framework. The elastomeric framework may include one or more posterior occlusal pads. The custom mouthguard may be molded to a positive mold of an individual's upper teeth and gums.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Shock Doctor, Inc.
    Inventors: Jay N. Turkbas, Daniel J. Brett
  • Publication number: 20130327343
    Abstract: Described herein is a high performance mouthguard. Generally, the mouthguard includes a base that includes at least one facial wall, at least one lingual structure extending from the base such that the base, the facial wall, and the lingual structure define a trough having an inner surface, a heat-softenable material disposed in the inner surface, defining a channel, and at least one protrusion that includes a heat-softenable material projecting into the channel from the heat-softenable material disposed on the inner surface of at least one of the at least one facial wall and the at least one lingual structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventors: William Cook, Mark H. Herman
  • Patent number: 8573224
    Abstract: A method for forming a custom-molded oral appliance for positioning a user's jaw proximate to centric occlusion is disclosed. The method includes heating a thin sheet of material comprising a polycaprolactone polymer. The thin sheet of material is positioned within the user's mouth. The user's jaw is positioned proximate to centric occlusion. The thin sheet of material is molded around at least respective portions of the user's upper and lower dental arches such that each of the respective portions of the user's upper and lower dental arches form respective impressions on opposite sides of the thin sheet of material. The thin sheet of material is transitioned to a substantially non-deformable state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Airway Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: W. Keith Thornton
  • Patent number: 8544472
    Abstract: A fastener suitable for connecting two parts of a dental splint together in a prearranged or predetermined spatial relationship to treat a person suffering from a sleep disorder is described. In one form the fastener comprises a base member and a cover member arranged to define a cavity therebetween. A movable connector is located within the cavity, the movable connector interconnecting the two parts of the dental splint. The fastener has an adjustor movably connected to the connector such that the position of the connector is moved in response to movement of the adjustor by adjusting the position of the adjustor, the connector in the form of a hook moves the other part of the dental splint so as to reposition the jaws of a person being treated for the sleep disorder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: MDSA Pty Ltd
    Inventor: John Gaskell
  • Publication number: 20130247922
    Abstract: This invention is a shock absorbing mouth guard used by athletes to reduce the transfer of impact energy between the upper and lower jaw and thus prevent or greatly reduce injury to the mouth and jaw area. This is accomplished through the utilization of an outer and inner member. The outer member is made of a hard ridged material and acts as a support were as the inner member is made of a soft flexible rubber like material and acts like a shock absorber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventor: Brian Kamradt
  • Publication number: 20130247923
    Abstract: Described herein is a high performance mouthguard. Generally, the mouthguard includes a tray formed from a non-softenable material. The tray generally includes an arched wall comprising a top, a bottom, a lingual surface, and a facial surface and, in addition to the arched wall, at least one generally vertical recess in at least a portion of the lingual surface. The mouthguard further includes a generally arched trough formed from a heat-softenable material. Generally, the trough includes an arched t wall comprising a lingual surface and a facial surface. Moreover, the trough includes at least one member protruding from the facial surface that is positioned and shaped to fit within the at least one recess of the tray.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventors: William Cook, Mark H. Herman
  • Patent number: 8496009
    Abstract: A dual arch dental appliance including a body which contains a pair of impact absorbing members located in molar regions of the arches. The impact absorbing members are selected from plastic material that exhibits high impact absorption coupled with low resilience or rebound. The result is an appliance which transfers minimal shock to the wearer. The appliance preferably further includes a bumper for providing enhanced impact protection to all of the user's upper and lower teeth. An airway opening is preferably provided to facilitate breathing when the appliance is clenched between the teeth. A post may be provided for structural reinforcement of the airway opening and, optionally, for receiving a tether for fastening the device to a helmet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Brain-Pad, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph S. Manzo
  • Publication number: 20130146068
    Abstract: An intubation tube oral appliance system for providing a semi-customized support for an intubation tube that protects the intubation tube and facilitates the delivery of oral hygiene materials to reduce the incidences of ventilator associated pneumonia (VAP). The intubation tube oral appliance system generally includes a tube support, a first tray extending from the tube support and a second tray extending from the tube support. The tube support is formed to receive an intubation tube and a strap secures the intubation tube to the tube support. The first tray and the second tray include a thermoplastic layer that is formed to the ventilation patient's teeth. An antibacterial solution and/or fluoride solution is placed within the first tray and second tray prior to insertion into the ventilation patient's mouth to reduce dental plaque and VAP.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Inventors: Jason R. Van Wagenen, Holly D. Carlson
  • Publication number: 20130146069
    Abstract: An intubation tube oral appliance system for providing a semi-customized support for an intubation tube that protects the intubation tube and facilitates the delivery of oral hygiene materials to reduce the incidences of ventilator associated pneumonia (VAP). The intubation tube oral appliance system generally includes a tube support, a first tray extending from the tube support and a second tray extending from the tube support. The tube support is formed to receive an intubation tube and a strap or securing member secures the intubation tube to the tube support. The first tray and the second tray include a thermoplastic layer that is formed to the ventilation patient's teeth. An antibacterial solution and/or fluoride solution is placed within the first tray and second tray prior to insertion into the ventilation patient's mouth to reduce dental plaque and VAP.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: JHV ENTERPRISES LLC
    Inventor: JHV ENTERPRISES LLC
  • Patent number: 8453650
    Abstract: A mouthpiece includes a first body configured to be secured over one or more teeth of a user. The first body comprises a frame for location about at least one of a molar or a premolar of user, as a first bite pad between upper teeth and lower teeth. The first bite pad is molded in the frame while in situ in the mouth of the user and the first bite pad is formed by a PVS material. The first bite pad is in contact with at least one of a molar or a premolar of user, and the first bite pad defines an exterior shape of at least a portion of the teeth of a user. There is a similar second body with a connector between the first body and the second body and together these form the appliance for the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: MDM
    Inventor: David Scott Frey
  • Patent number: 8439044
    Abstract: A dental appliance for maintaining a separation between the occlusal plane surfaces of the posterior teeth in order to avoid or minimize the adverse effects of bruxism, especially while sleeping. The appliance comprises bitepad assemblies, side assemblies for adjustably receiving the bitepad assemblies, and a strap assembly for connecting the side assemblies. Bitepad cores are provided with solid projections and mechanical locks that enhance bonding with associated overmolds for improved durability. Side assembly flanges are divided to achieve independent flexibility and improved conformity for enhanced stability and comfort. A mesial area of the connecting strap assembly is thickened and rigidified to create a flare in the areas of the cuspid roots to minimize irritation and discomfort to the gum tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas W. Brown
  • Publication number: 20130068237
    Abstract: A dental appliance, related methods of manufacture, and compositions of matter are disclosed herein. In various aspects, the dental appliance may include material layers bonded to one another. The bond between the material layers may be formed, at least in part, by interdigitation of the material layers with one another. Methods of forming the interdigitation are disclosed herein. Compositions of matter that may include interdigitated material layers are disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Applicant: BITE TECH, INC.
    Inventors: Mark H. Herman, William Cook
  • Publication number: 20130068236
    Abstract: The mouthguard of the present invention is provided with at least one recess in its base to receive a projection of a tool. The tool being made from a material which retains its shape at a temperature when the material of the mouthguard is ductile and susceptible to remoulding. By placing the mouthguard and tool together in the mouth of the user the thinning of the depth of the base of the mouthguard can be minimised whilst still enabling shaping of the mouthguard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventor: Anthony Lovat
  • Publication number: 20130066236
    Abstract: A mouthguard apparatus is disclosed herein. In various aspects, the mouthguard apparatus includes an electronics package adapted to attach removably to a dental appliance. The dental appliance may be configured to be secured within the mouth of a user. At least portions of the electronics package adapted to extend external to a mouth of the user when the electronics package is attached to the dental appliance and the dental appliance is secured within the mouth of the user, in various aspects. Related methods are disclosed herein. This Abstract is presented to meet requirements of 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b) only. This Abstract is not intended to identify key elements of the apparatus and methods disclosed herein or to delineate the scope thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: BITE TECH, INC.
    Inventors: Mark H. Herman, William Cook, Lawrence Calcano
  • Publication number: 20130029291
    Abstract: A jaw-joint protective device is provided for whitening and brightening a wearer's teeth while protecting the teeth, tongue, lips, jaw, and other delicate structures of the vital cranial triad (VCT) from injury and/or for supporting the condyle of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in a relatively fixed (stable) position thereby stabilizing the jaw and the VCT during head contact activity, exercise, physical rehabilitation, C-force acceleration, teeth grinding disorders and sleep apnea and or permit the components of a VCT disorder to be realigned for proper healing. This device is an over-the-counter purchased, boil and bite device for whitening at least one tooth while protecting the jaw-joint, providing maxillary and mandibular teeth seats for protection of the mouth and/or healing of the VCT.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Edward D. Williams
  • Publication number: 20130008453
    Abstract: Mouth guards of varying designs. The mouth guard is generally moldable and has non-planar biting surfaces. In other embodiments, the mouth guard has base members or flanges that have means for retaining medicaments and the like. Other versions have thermochromic elements selected to allow color changes at desired temperatures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2011
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Inventors: D. Scott Morgan, David L. Morgan
  • Publication number: 20130000652
    Abstract: An oral orthosis includes a holder in the shape of a mouthpiece, including a curved arcuate trough-like upper section which receives a formable material. The formable material does not occupy the entire trough but rather includes voids between the formable material and the inner surfaces of trough of the holder to allow expansion of the formable material into the voids during the molding process when tooth pressure is placed on the formable material. This design results in elimination of the excess formable material which otherwise would require removal by trimming. Additionally, the formable material is placed in the trough in a configuration which includes indexing indentations along the centerline of the material, such that, during the molding process, the mouthpiece containing the formable material is easily centered along the edges of the user's teeth to provide a precise fitting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: Ranir, LLC.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Joe Fisher, Scott Salmon, Josh Hartl
  • Publication number: 20120325225
    Abstract: A miniaturized mouthpiece for repositioning the user's mandible, thereby creating an edge to edge relationship of the user's anterior teeth, without covering or extending to the user's posterior teeth. This miniaturized mouthpiece may be formed from a substantially trapezoidal mouthpiece blank having major and minor sides that are substantially parallel to one another. These major and minor sides may be connected by two equal length non-parallel sides. This blank will typically have a gently curved and raised contact area that follows the curvature of the user's anterior dental arches. The mouthpiece blank will often be made of a thermoplastic material, so that upon application of heat, the blank can be deformed around the user's maxillary central incisors and often the user's maxillary lateral incisors as well, thus creating a mouthpiece that does not cover the user's molars or premolars, yet which creates an interocclusal gap when worn.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventor: Trevor Scott Small
  • Publication number: 20120325224
    Abstract: A self-customizable dental appliance adapted to lie within the mouth of a person including occlusal pads with a connecting arch or a u-shaped style base with upstanding labial and lingual walls. The appliance is formed of a semi-crystalline polyolefin polymer or crystallizable blend. In one embodiment, the appliance is formed of elastomeric propylene-ethylene polypropylene, optionally including high density polypropylene. An optional occlusal lifting pad can be used in the self-customizable dental appliance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventors: Monroe Elkin, Manese Rabeony
  • Publication number: 20120318280
    Abstract: The present application is directed to a mouth guard to protect the user's teeth and/or jaw. It is important that the mouth guard fit tightly and properly in order to fully protect the user. The present invention achieves the proper fit by having cilia in the cavity that comes in contact with the user's teeth. These cilia move to allow the mouth guard to fit tightly and properly. In addition, the mouth guard of the present invention may contain flavoring such as Gatorade, bubble gum flavoring, as well as the traditional cherry, orange and grape that can be released into the oral cavity of the user while wearing the mouth guard. This allows the user to taste the flavoring while using the mouth guard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2012
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventor: John Maurello
  • Patent number: 8333202
    Abstract: An adjustable dental device for use with a CPAP system in the treatment of sleep apnea and snoring is comprised of an upper bite block, a lower bite block having one or more tongue retainers, means for adjustably connecting the upper bite block to the lower bite block, and means for connecting the dental device to a CPAP system. The adjustable dental device is compatible with a variety of CPAP systems, including systems that utilize nasal inserts and systems that utilize a nasal mask.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Inventor: Donald Richard Lyons
  • Patent number: 8333203
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for transmitting vibrations via an electronic and/or actuator assembly through a custom-fitted dental appliance are disclosed herein. The customized fitting is done by the user. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded intra-orally on a tooth or oral tissue. The electronic and actuator assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating actuator element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Sonitus Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: John Spiridigliozzi, Amir Abolfathi, Emir Deljkich
  • Publication number: 20120298118
    Abstract: A mouth piece assembly (20) for relaxing muscles associated with a jaw of a person having teeth (22). The assembly includes a mouth piece body (24) having a cross-section presenting a pocket (38). The mouth piece body (24) is engaged to the teeth (22) of the person and the person's vertical dimension of occlusion is measured and compared to a predetermined range of 19±2 mm. At least one calibrating member (44) is inserted into the pocket (38) of the mouth piece body (24) to increase the height of the mouth piece body (24) so that the person's vertical dimension of occlusion is increased into the range of 19±2 mm. While wearing the resulting mouth piece assembly (20), the person experiences increased strength, stamina, and balance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Inventor: Michael C. Hutchison
  • Patent number: 8316857
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in treating a breathing condition includes a first dental arch, a second dental arch, two bodies coupled to the first dental arch, and two receivers coupled to the second dental arch. The first dental arch is configured to receive at least some of a wearer's teeth. The second dental arch is configured to receive at least some of a wearer's teeth. Each body includes a front stop, a rear stop, a threaded member, and a hook. The threaded member is configured to be coupled between the front stop and rear stop of the body and configured to rotate relative to the body. The hook comprises a threaded passage configured to engage the threaded member, and an arm configured to engage a second dental arch. The hook is configured to travel between the front stop and rear stop of the body in response to rotational adjustment of the threaded member to adjust the lower dental arch relative to the upper dental arch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: AirWay Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: W. Keith Thornton
  • Patent number: 8316859
    Abstract: An interocclusal appliance is formed from a single polymer material composition as one unitary piece or from multiple polymer material compositions as a two-piece preform. The two-piece preform includes a base material and an impression material that has a softening point lower than the base material. Teeth are received into the heat-softened impression material, so as to contour the impression material. A portion of the impression material also may contour to a portion of the user's palate. In certain embodiments, substantially no polymeric material contacts the front surfaces of the front teeth, leading to greater comfort and better air flow between front teeth. In still another embodiment, the appliance fits over front teeth only and no polymeric material contacts the maxillary molars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Hayloft Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank M. Lesniak
  • Patent number: 8312884
    Abstract: An intra-oral device used for people that snore or have sleep apnea is designed to move a user's lower jaw forward relative to the user's immovable upper jaw and to prevent the user's mouth from inadvertently opening while sleeping. The device includes upper and lower appliances fitted to the user's respective upper and lower dental arches. The lower appliance possesses a partially embedded bracket. An adjustment element is integrated into the upper portion of the bracket. With the user's mouth closed and the upper and lower appliances positioned over the user's respective dental arches, the adjustment element is moved rearward by worm action into load bearing contact against the forward facing immovable vertical contact wall of the upper appliance. This action moves the lower appliance forward, and thus, the user's lower jaw with its anatomically attached tongue are also moved forward relative to the mouth which in turn opens the user's airway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Inventor: Brian D Fuselier
  • Publication number: 20120285473
    Abstract: A dual layer mouthguard with a U-shape polycarbonate/EVA or elastomeric material skeletal base includes channels and ramps to ensure a uniform thickness on the occlusal, buccal and lingual surfaces of the teeth for proper alignment of the jaw and positioning for protection during the placement of the mouthguard. The liner is softer than the base when introduced to heat and remains softer as it is cooled. The base may also include metal/magnetic insertion to serve as a tethering device for temporary storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: The WrightGuard, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Duane WRIGHT
  • Patent number: 8297286
    Abstract: The present embodiment relates to the use of a musculoskeletal repositioning device in physical rehabilitation and athletic training by causing increased muscular strength and power and decreased muscular tension especially during the physical rehabilitation and athletic training. The device guides the condyles and articulating discs of the temporomandibular joint from a neutral or passive position into an active power position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: RampUP, LLC
    Inventor: Gerald N. Smernoff
  • Patent number: 8267093
    Abstract: An orthodontic assembly articulation device for causing a mandible to move relative to a maxilla includes a lower splint fitted with a lower reinforcement and an upper splint fitted with an upper reinforcement. The reinforcements are connected by a system of rods mounted with sliding capability. A ball joint couples each system of rods with a part of the reinforcements. The ball joint is interdependent with an extension oriented perpendicularly and screwed into a support element interdependent with a corresponding part of the reinforcements. The ball joint engages with the hemispherical cage of an end piece secured to each system of rods. The cage is in communication with an opening of the end piece to allow articulation of the system of rods of about 90° in a vertical plane and about 360° in a horizontal plane, while preventing any swinging of the end piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Orthogem
    Inventor: Franck Marie-Catherine
  • Patent number: 8261748
    Abstract: A device for treating sleep apnea, the device comprising a tongue attachment member and a maxilla attachment subassembly. The tongue attachment member is fabricated having a sheath interlock member extending upward from a dorsal side of a sheath. The sheath is shaped to conform to a surface of an individual's tongue. A tongue receiving cavity is formed within the sheath, the cavity comprising an opening provided at a proximal end for receiving the individual's tongue. The sheath is referenced having a dorsal side and a ventral side. A sheath interlock member extends outward from the dorsal side. The maxilla tray is shaped to conform to and removably engage with an individual's upper dental arch. A tray interlock member extends from an interlock side of the maxilla tray and is positioned to interlock with the sheath interlock member, whereby the system extends an individual's tongue forward to treat sleep apnea.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Inventor: Howell Goldberg
  • Patent number: 8215312
    Abstract: An upper tray adapted to receive a wearer's maxillary teeth. A lower tray adapted to receive the wearer's mandibular teeth. A first upper ridge is carried on a maxillary occlusal surface of the upper tray. A second upper ridge is carried on the maxillary occlusal surface of the upper tray posterior to and spaced from the first upper ridge. A lower ridge is carried on a mandibular occlusal surface of the lower tray received between the first upper ridge and the second upper ridge. The lower tray is movable to a forward position where the lower ridge abuts the first upper ridge to limit forward movement of the lower tray in relation to the upper tray, and the lower tray is movable to a rearward position where the lower ridge abuts the second upper ridge to limit rearward movement of the lower tray in relation to the upper tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventors: Charles Garabadian, Renee McPhee
  • Patent number: 8205617
    Abstract: An oral appliance is provided for the treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. The oral appliance includes an upper tray adaptable to conform to a user's maxillary dentition and a plurality of lower trays, each of the lower trays adaptable to conform to the user's mandibular dentition. At least some of the lower trays are structured to engage the upper tray, each of the lower trays are structured to impart a different fixed amount of mandibular advancement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Eugene N. Scarberry, Gary Lotz, Lance Busch, Robert Dale Parks, Christopher Stygar, Ronald B. Kemnitzer
  • Patent number: 8205618
    Abstract: The present invention is a mouthguard to be used in sports to protect the mouth and teeth from blows to the face and head. The mouthguard has a three layer laminate construction and is fabricated from thermoplastic material that may be softened in hot water to enable a user to form it to the contours of his or her mouth. The mouthguard is formed from an upper portion shaped into a channel with holes distributed on the channel floor and a lower platform with posts aligned to fit into the holes. A part of the posts extend from the upper portion to the platform to form gaps between the upper portion and the platform with the gaps acting as air cushions. In one embodiment, a strap is attached to the assembled mouthguard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Shield Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Berghash, Daniel D'Arcy
  • Publication number: 20120118298
    Abstract: A device and method for relieving head, neck, facial, joint and tooth pain. An intra-oral device, worn over the upper or lower incisors, allows at least one opposite tooth to contact the rear wall of the device, only within the user's freeway space, and prevents upper and lower posterior teeth from contacting. The device facilitates deprogramming and releasing of the upper and lower jaw muscles. The device includes an extruded or molded shell made of a hard polycarbonate or similar hard plastic material. The internal surface of the shell may be secured in place for the user or lined with a low molding temperature thermoplastic resin, allowing the user to mold the internal aspect of the device onto and over the teeth to produce a fitted device. This relieves the stresses, strains, pains and damage that can be caused by parafunctioning of the dental neural-muscular system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Inventors: Marc Doctors, Randy Widen
  • Publication number: 20120111343
    Abstract: A custom mouthguard may be formed from a multiple layer assembly including an ethylene vinyl acetate/thermoplastic polyurethane layer, an ethylene vinyl acetate layer and an intervening impact shield and elastomeric framework. The elastomeric framework may include one or more posterior occlusal pads. The custom mouthguard may be molded to a positive mold of an individual's upper teeth and gums.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2011
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Applicant: Shock Doctor, Inc.
    Inventors: Jay N. Turkbas, Daniel J. Brett
  • Patent number: 8151799
    Abstract: A breathing device for intra-oral use particularly useful to increase the air flow through the nares, the nasal passages, pharynx, and larynx of a user includes a generally U-shaped member curved in an arch to conform to a user's upper dentition, edentulous maxillary ridges, or any prosthetic device. The U-shaped member is provided with at least one wall having a depth slightly greater than the vertical dimension of a user's upper dentition and a receptacle to receive the upper dentition, edentulous ridge, or prosthetic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventors: James T. Hazard, Max M. Behr
  • Patent number: 8113206
    Abstract: Oral appliances adapted to for spacing the occlusal surfaces of the teeth of a user are disclosed. The oral appliances have a major connector 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Bite Tech, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Roettger, Robert C. Molhoek, Jon D. Kittelsen, Henry D. Cross, III, Paul A. Broadbent, Paul L. Bradshaw, Paul C. Belvedere, William L. Ballanoff
  • Publication number: 20120031411
    Abstract: An oral appliance intended to treat bruxism, snoring, apnea, TMJ and/or palatal lift with a retention line member that uses the interproximal embrasure space between adjacent teeth of the patient user to secure the appliance within the oral cavity as the patient user sleeps. The shape and position of the inter-proximal embrasure space prevents an attached retention line member from dislodging while the user is asleep but permits removal of the appliance upon waking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventor: Richard HORIAN
  • Patent number: 8105210
    Abstract: A jaw relaxation exercise appliance and method of use to relieve the symptoms of the temporal mandibular joint (TMJ), such as limited opening and jaw pain, that is inexpensive and easy to use. The appliance may be form fit to each user and is designed to be a partial coverage appliance with a bottom guide plane for ease of movement to achieve optimal jaw position. It is also intended to be utilized in conjunction with an exercise. The appliance should be used for short intervals during the day. Patients are directed to slowly move or slide their lower jaw forward and then slowly slide the lower jaw rearward along the plane to a point of comfort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Harvey G. Seybold
  • Patent number: 8100131
    Abstract: A “boil and bite” mouthguard including projections to improve moulding of the mouthguard to the user's teeth is described. The mouthguard also includes a base-wall configuration that acts to minimise thinning of the base during moulding and use of the mouthguard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: OPRO International Ltd.
    Inventors: Paul Swann, Peter Searle
  • Patent number: 8082923
    Abstract: A device and method for relieving head, neck, facial, joint and tooth pain. An intra-oral, semi-custom, separating device, worn over the upper anterior teeth, allows at least one lower anterior tooth to contact the rear wall of the device within the user's freeway space and prevents lower posterior teeth from contacting upper posterior teeth. The device provides a method of deprogramming and releasing the muscles of the upper and lower jaws. The device comprises an extruded or molded shell made of a hard polycarbonate or similar hard plastic material. The internal surface of the shell is lined with a moldable thermoplastic resin with a low molding temperature which allows the user to mold the internal aspect of the device onto and over the teeth to produce a custom fitted device. This relieves the stresses, strains, pains and damage that can be caused by parafunctioning of the dental neural-muscular system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Randmark Dental Products, LLC
    Inventors: Marc Doctors, Randy Widen
  • Patent number: 8061358
    Abstract: The present embodiment relates to the use of a musculoskeletal repositioning device in the birthing process by causing increased muscular strength and decreased muscular tension especially during the “push” phase of child birth. The device guides the condyles and articulating discs of the temporomandibular joint from a neutral or passive position into an active power position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: RampUP, LLC
    Inventor: Gerald N. Smernoff
  • Publication number: 20110247635
    Abstract: A dental guard system for fitting boil and bite dental guards so that undesirable deformations of the guard are avoided during the fitting of the guard to the user. The system includes a boil and bite dental guard and an associated forming tray configured to be generally rigid but conformable in that it tends to retain its shape so as to inhibit undesirable deformations of the guard, yet enables the guard to form to the teeth of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2011
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Applicant: DENTEK ORAL CARE, INC.
    Inventor: John M. Jansheski
  • Publication number: 20110186055
    Abstract: TENS can be applied to the TMJ of an athlete for a period of time to deprogram muscles. After TENS, a desired position of the lower jaw relative to the upper jaw can be determined and recorded. The desired position can be a physiological resting position, or a performance position in which the lower jaw is positioned anteriorly relative to the physiological resting position. A mouthpiece can be prepared including bite portions configured to substantially space apart and position the jaws according to the desired position, and substantially prevent movement of the lower jaw relative to the upper jaw. A connecting portion connects the bite portions within the mouth, and may extend labially along the anterior teeth and associated gum region of the lower jaw, and may be sized and shaped to substantially lie out of the way so as to not impede speech of the athlete.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2010
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Applicant: MAKKAR ATHLETICS GROUP INC.
    Inventors: Anil Kumar Makkar, Trevor Robert Laingchild, Preston Joseph Dokuchie
  • Publication number: 20110186056
    Abstract: The present embodiment relates to the use of a musculoskeletal repositioning device in the birthing process by causing increased muscular strength and decreased muscular tension especially during the “push” phase of child birth. The device guides the condyles and articulating discs of the temporomandibular joint from a neutral or passive position into an active power position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventor: Gerald N. Smernoff