Labial Connector

Abstract

A uniquely constructed labial connector designed to enhance protection to the anterior teeth and tongue, and maximize compliance with mouth protector regulations in sports, includes a resilient material overlaying the labial and incisal surfaces of the anterior teeth of a wearer, commencing vertically at the lingual-incisal line angle and terminating at a predetermined distance below the gum line and extending horizontally canine to canine. The device is designed to protect either the upper or lower anterior teeth while optimizing clear speech, thereby minimizing the probability of injury to the teeth and other oral tissues while maximizing athlete compliance with mouth protector regulation.

Description

BACKGROUND[0001]The following non-provisional specification is related to provisional patent application Ser. No. 61 / 965989, Filing Date Feb. 12, 2014, Applicant, Carl A. Barnes, Sr., a US citizen, Residence; 3652 Merritt Anne Dr., Baton Rouge, La., Titled, “Mouth Protector”. The present invention relates to a labial connector particularly designed to optimize protection of a wearer's anterior teeth while not interfering with clear speech and comfort, interferences associated with conventional mouthpieces.DESCRIPTION OF PRIOR ART[0002]Athletes such as football players, boxers and basketball players typically wear a mouthpiece on the upper teeth that minimizes impact associated with blows to the jaw, mouth or chin. A conventional mouthpiece includes a labial connector that covers the anterior teeth, front and back, is substantially u-shaped and is constructed with a moldable plastic. Typically, the device is preheated allowing a user to bite into the device to form a mold of the teet...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention introduces a labial connector for sports and other activities that aims to protect soft and hard tissue in the oral cavity from blows. The device comprises a resilient material that extends over the anterior teeth and tongue. It is designed to enhance protection while not interfering with speech or mouthpiece regulations. Additionally, the labial connector is easy and inexpensive to manufacture. Overall, the invention provides a convenient and effective solution for those who need to protect their mouths during sports or other activities.

Problems solved by technology

Such devices, however, have numerous disadvantages.

The interior side walls typically contact the palatal region of the mouth resulting in significant discomfort and gagging.

In addition, the conventional mouthpiece completely encompasses both the front and rear surfaces of the anterior teeth thereby interfering with clear speech.

Accordingly, certain athletes such as quarterbacks must speak clearly when communicating signals to teammates, must repeatedly remove the mouthpiece while speaking and reinsert it which is burdensome, inconvenient and exposes the wearer to germs.

Furthermore, each of the above described disadvantages discourages some athletes from wearing mouthpieces thereby resulting in increased frequency of brain and tooth related injuries.

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