Sports mouthguard with functional performance-enhancing effect

Abstract

The invention relates to a sports mouthguard (1B) for a person, characterised in that the degree of engagement of the teeth is chosen such that the person's mandibular joint is in the myocentric position when the opposing surfaces of the teeth of the two jaws are brought into contact, wherein the sports mouthguard is dimensioned in the front on the vestibular side down to the vestibular fold (8) and in the side tooth region transitions on the vestibular and palatal side at tooth neck height, wherein in the front on the palatal side the teeth are covered up to the extent of half of the tooth crown, and a harmonic relation between the surfaces when in contact can be set and controlled by uniform occlusal contacts.

Description

[0001] Sports mouthguard with functional performance-enhancing effect

[0002] Description

[0003] The proposed solution relates in particular to a sports mouthguard according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0004] A sports mouthguard is a mouthguard worn on the upper jaw during various sporting activities to provide optimal protection for the mouth, jaw, and teeth from traumatic forces. It does this by cushioning and distributing the applied force.

[0005] The sports mouthguard is attached to the arch of teeth in the upper jaw. The lower jaw bites into this arch on the occlusal surface (chewing surface) as a counterbite. Because the lower jaw has a certain amount of freedom of movement, it can bite in various positions.

[0006] The typical manufacturing methods for sports mouthguards were described in an article in the ZMK-Aktuell (ZMK-Aktuell) dated December 18, 2013, by Dr. Min-Jung Oh and Prof. Dr. Paul-Georg Jost-Brinkmann (Oh, Min-Jung and Jost-Brinkmann, Paul-Georg, ZMK Aktuell, December 18, 2013). They can be divided into several categories: The ready-made sports mouthguard is a mouthguard consisting of a preformed plastic shell that is held in place by biting. This results in a poor fit and impairs both speech and breathing.

[0007] The "Boil & Bite" mouthguard is heated in a water bath and is then adjusted by the athlete. This can cause the material to become too thin in some areas and lose its protective function. Biting through is also possible. In addition, if the teeth have severe undercuts, the sports mouthguard may be difficult to remove.

[0008] With a "two-component mouthguard," a plastic material is poured into a prefabricated shell and adjusted by the athlete. One disadvantage is the lack of a lower jaw bite. Boxer's mouthguards are custom-made for athletes, but cover both the upper and lower jaws, thus restricting speech and breathing.

[0009] A custom sports mouthguard made by a dentist is currently the best solution. This uses ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) films, which are pulled over the previously formed upper dental arch using a thermoforming machine. Soft, flexible films are used to absorb force, which can be reinforced with a harder film insert in the anterior region. The lower jaw bite is created using a bite registration and a fixator. Compared to other manufacturing methods, the custom sports mouthguard offers better retention, better protection, and improved breathing. However, with further extension of the palate, comfort and speech are often limited.

[0010] In addition to these manufacturing methods described in (Oh, Min-Jung and Jost-Brinkmann, Paul-Georg, ZMK Aktuell, December 18, 2013), there is also the possibility of printing a sports mouthguard with a 3D printer.

[0011] Other dental splints that are sold for use during sports are performance-enhancing functional splints in the lower jaw (e.g. DPS splint).

[0012] The performance-enhancing effect is based on studies describing how a modified mandibular position in a myocentric position results in better balance control (Gangloff, Pierre, Louis, Jean-Paul, and Perrin, Philippe, "Dental occlusion modifies gaze and posture stabilization in human subjects," Neuroscience Letters, 2000, 293, 203-206). Bite splints in a myocentric position have an ergogenic effect, for example, by increasing shoulder strength and muscle activation in healthy subjects (Dias, Amändio, et al., "Effects of occlusal splints on shoulder strength and activation," Annals of Medicine, 51, 2019, S1, S15-S21).

[0013] In addition, a bite splint can improve the symmetry of the running pattern, which can help minimize injuries (Maurer, Christian, et al., Influence of the Lower Jaw Position on the Running Pattern, PLoS ONE, 10, 2015, Vol. 8).

[0014] The performance-enhancing effect of a performance-enhancing functional splint was also confirmed in a pilot study (Ohlendorf, Riegel, et al., Effect of changes in the position of the mandible on the quality of movement in sports motor tests, Manuelle Medizin, 5, 2011).

[0015] Further literature shows that occlusal disturbances can lead to a decrease in performance (Leroux, Eric, et al., Influence of dental occlusion on the athletic performance of young elite rowers: a pilot study, Clinics. 73, 2018, e453).

[0016] Against this background, the proposed solution is based on the task of creating a sports mouthguard that corresponds to the protective function of a custom-made sports mouthguard in the upper jaw and is accompanied by a functional performance-enhancing effect. Furthermore, a special design is intended to optimize speech function.

[0017] This object is achieved with the sports mouthguard of claim 1, which is designed in particular as a sports mouthguard with a functional, performance-enhancing effect.

[0018] The proposed solution provides a sports mouthguard with a bite adjustment that ensures the temporomandibular joint is in a myocentric position during biting. The dimensions of the sports mouthguard extend from the vestibular area up to the occipital crease in the anterior region and from the vestibular and palatal areas to the level of the cervical vertex in the posterior region. In the anterior region, the teeth are encompassed up to half of the crown, and a harmonious occlusion can be adjusted and controlled through uniform interlocking contacts. The bite adjustment ensures that the temporomandibular joint is in a myocentric position when wearing the sports mouthguard.

[0019] The temporomandibular joint is adjusted to a myocentric position so that the lower jaw is in a myocentric position during biting. Myocentric is the bite position in which the involved masticatory muscles achieve their optimal and symmetrical function. In myocentric position, the lower jaw falls into a resting position that corresponds to the physiological resting length of the relaxed and coordinated masticatory muscles.

[0020] By adjusting the stomatognathic system, altered proprioceptive signals from the mandible are transmitted via the trigeminal nerve, leading to a concomitant contraction of the temporomandibular system (TMS). The TMS and the whole-body neuromuscular system are connected via the central nervous system. Thus, neuromuscular reactions can influence the musculoskeletal system and have a positive effect on physical performance. Furthermore, a consistent and harmonious bite is required to avoid interference. Interference can negatively impact performance due to neuromuscular imbalance. The locking of the bite is adjusted in the resting position, the usual relaxed position (2-4 mm).

[0021] The positive performance effect of the myocentric position has been demonstrated in several studies. For example, in a study by Bracco & Deregibus (Effects of different jaw relations on postural stability in human subjects, Neuroscience Letters, 2004, 228-230), the effects of myocentric positioning on postural control were examined in 95 subjects. The results show that a myocentric mandibular position improves postural balance in the frontal plane. A 2018 study by Maurer et al. (Strength improvements through occlusal, PLoS ONE, 2018, 2) confirmed that significantly higher values ​​are achieved in the squat jump, countermovement jump, drop jump, trunk extension, leg press strength, and force development rate in myocentric positioning. Improvements between 3% and 12% (minimum and maximum) were observed.

[0022] Ohlendorf et al. support this with their finding that a myocentric mandibular position can compensate for balance deficits (Ohlendorf, et al., Short-term effects of a temporarily induced occlusion change on postural control in male competitive athletes, Swiss Journal of Sports Medicine and Sports Traumatology, 61 (1 ), 7-12, 2013).

[0023] In addition, the readjustment of the lower jaw and masticatory muscles leads to altered proprioceptive signals from the lower jaw, which are transmitted via the trigeminal nerve to the TMS (temporomandibular joint system). Contractions of the TMS are transmitted via the central nervous system to the whole-body neuromuscular system, thereby influencing the musculoskeletal system.

[0024] The proposed solution provides the best possible protection for the mouth, jaw, and teeth from traumatic forces by optimally dampening and distributing the applied force. Furthermore, the tongue has sufficient space to avoid impeding speech.

[0025] In one embodiment of the proposed solution, the distance of the sports mouthguard from the neck of the tooth is at least 5 mm for teeth 11, 12, 21, 22, at least 4 mm for teeth 13, 23, at least 3 mm for teeth 14, 24, at least 2 mm for teeth 15, 25 and at least 1 mm for teeth 16, 26. Teeth 17, 18, 27, 28 are not included in the sports mouthguard because anatomical structures such as the cheekbone and masticatory muscles already protect these teeth. The shortening also improves wearing comfort. In particular, the thinner layer thickness towards the molars ensures greater comfort.

[0026] In another embodiment, the sports mouthguard is designed for a child, in which case the distance of the sports mouthguard from the neck of the tooth is 1 mm shorter than for adults. Specifically, the distance of the sports mouthguard from the neck of the tooth is at least 4 mm for teeth 12 and 22, at least 3 mm for teeth 13 and 23, at least 2 mm for teeth 14 and 24, and at least 1 mm for teeth 15 and 25.

[0027] In addition, in another embodiment, the distance of the sports mouthguard from the palatal neck of the tooth is 1 mm for teeth 15, 16, 25 and 26.

[0028] In addition, in another embodiment, the sports mouthguard for teeth 14, 24 rests palatally directly at the tooth / gum transition.

[0029] In another embodiment, the sports mouthguard covers teeth 11, 12, 13, 21, 22, and 23 palatally up to half of the crown. This means that the sports mouthguard's contours lie on the equator for these teeth, meaning the sports mouthguard covers approximately half.

[0030] In another embodiment, the sports mouthguard also features a thin, tapered palatal edge that extends toward the teeth or gums. This thin, tapered edge serves to improve the transition from the sports mouthguard to the teeth / gums.

[0031] In addition, the sports mouthguard features a further design with a delicate palatal design on the palate. This delicate design is designed to avoid restricting speech and breathing by, among other things, giving the tongue space. This improves comfort. Delicate here specifically refers to thinner layer thicknesses, such as for teeth 13-23: 4-6mm vestibular, 2-3mm palatal, 3-6mm incisal; for teeth 14-15, 24-25: 4-5mm vestibular, 2-3mm palatal, 2-4mm occlusal; for teeth 16, 26: 3-5mm vestibular, 2-3mm palatal, 2-4mm occlusal.

[0032] In another embodiment, the sports mouthguard is customized for a person, with its production based on at least one scan of the person's maxillary and mandibular dental arches. Such a scan is typically performed using an intraoral scanner. Furthermore, the scan is typically performed when the jaw is in a myocentric position. This is achieved, for example, through the cotton roll exercise or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), which decouples the neurons from the masticatory muscles.

[0033] The cotton roll exercise typically works like this: While the patient is sitting, with their head in a normal position, two slightly moistened cotton rolls are placed in the area of ​​the first premolars, and they are asked to relax. The basic principle of this test is that simply decoupling the occlusion through anterior pre-contacts can reflexively lead to muscle relaxation (Meyer et al., Die Schienentherapie, zm, 103, No. 22 A, 2013). After approximately two minutes of relaxation, the cotton rolls are removed. With the patient in an upright posture and with the practitioner lightly but pressure-freely touching the tip of the chin, the patient is asked to gently close the lower jaw in a rotating motion until the first tooth contact occurs. This position is fixed in the anterior position using bite registration material, and the bite relationship is recorded using the intraoral scanner.

[0034] TENS typically works as follows: The masticatory muscles are stimulated by transcutaneous, very low-frequency current pulses of very short duration (500 psec) with approximately 12 mA per side at a frequency of 0.5-1 Hz. This stimulates the nerve conduction of the masticatory muscles (branches of the trigeminal nerve), leading to brief contraction and, in the pauses, relaxation of the muscles. This causes the masticatory muscles to relax, which leads the lower jaw to a neuromuscular relaxation position (myocentric). During TENS, occlusal contact must be prevented by placing cotton rolls at the level of the first premolars on the right and left.

[0035] After 30-60 minutes, the bite registration is performed with the patient in an upright position. While the dentist gently but non-pressure-free touches the tip of the chin, the patient is asked to gently close the lower jaw in a rotating motion until the teeth first make contact. This position is fixed in the anterior region using bite registration material, and the bite relationship is recorded with the intraoral scanner.

[0036] In another embodiment, the sports mouthguard features evenly supported bite grooves across the entire occlusal surface. By transferring the myocentric lower jaw position in the form of engineered bite grooves on the occlusal sports mouthguard surface of the upper jaw, a defined bite is established. Furthermore, during protrusion and laterotrusion movements, the punctiform bite is typically decoupled, allowing the lower jaw to glide on linear guide contacts.

[0037] In another embodiment, the sports mouthguard also features one or two bite grooves for each antagonistic tooth, each with a diameter of 1 to 2 mm and a bite depth of 1 mm. The bite grooves correspond to the anatomical shape of the antagonistic tooth cusps. Thus, they follow the so-called lock-and-key principle.

[0038] In addition, in another embodiment, the sports mouthguard has a vertical distance between the teeth of at least 2 mm and a maximum of 4 mm when worn by a person. The minimum 2 mm serves to guarantee adequate protection, while the maximum 4 mm serves to ensure that breathing and speech are not excessively impeded. Furthermore, a 2-4 mm interocclusal distance corresponds to the physiological distance in the resting position, i.e. the physiologically relaxed position of both jaws relative to each other without tooth contact. The relaxed position also minimizes muscle tension, which also improves wearing comfort for the person and does not restrict speech and breathing.

[0039] In a further embodiment, the sports mouthguard has at least one sensor and / or at least one microchip. The at least one sensor and / or the at least one microchip can be used to measure health parameters, in particular speeds or collisions, of a person wearing the sports mouthguard.

[0040] In a further embodiment in which the sports mouthguard has at least one sensor and / or microchip, the at least one sensor and / or the at least one microchip is configured to transmit measured values ​​to an external device, in particular a smartphone. The external device is configured to evaluate these measured values ​​and display the results of the analysis. In particular, this evaluation can be carried out using an app on a smartphone. Such an analysis enables, among other things, a training and / or game analysis of a person. It is also conceivable for several people to wear such a sports mouthguard in a game and for all people to be evaluated so that, for example, the team performance can be evaluated.

[0041] In another embodiment, the sports mouthguard also includes at least one device for delivering nutrients, electrolytes, and / or minerals. The nutrients are dissolved by saliva and absorbed into the body through swallowing and mucosal absorption. This allows the athlete to receive all the essential nutrients, preventing deficiencies.

[0042] If the sports mouthguard has at least one device for delivering nutrients, electrolytes, and / or minerals, then in a further embodiment, the sports mouthguard has the at least one device at the level of teeth 16 and / or 26 and / or palatally between teeth 11 and 21. Installing the device at the level of the molars (teeth 16, 26) is sensible because this is where the parotid gland duct is located, allowing the nutrients, electrolytes, and / or minerals to be flushed out of the device. An additional or alternative installation palatally between teeth 11 and 21 is sensible because this is where the nutrients, electrolytes, and / or minerals can be released by tongue movement and the swallowing process.In one embodiment of the proposed solution, the sports mouthguard comprises layers of different films that are designed with a specific extent so that the bite of the opposing jaw rests on the hard film. In addition, the bite is adjusted so that the temporomandibular joint is in a myocentric position when biting together. This has a positive effect on postural control and performance. The dimensions of the sports mouthguard are vestibular in the front up to the occlusal fold and continue vestibularly and palatally in the posterior region up to the level of the neck of the tooth. This protects the tooth crowns and roots in the event of an impact on the front teeth. In the palatal area, the teeth are covered up to half of the crown to allow sufficient space for the tongue and optimize speech function.Harmonic occlusion is adjusted and controlled by uniform tooth contacts to prevent interference contacts and the associated negative impact on performance.

[0043] In a further embodiment of the proposed solution, the layers of the sports mouthguard are made of three EVA films, each with different expansions, degrees of hardness, and layer thicknesses. The first layer consists of a soft, elastic, rubber-like film (2 mm thick, Young's modulus = 15 MPa) that extends into the crease in the vestibular anterior region (from 3 to 3) and is shortened to the neck of the tooth in the posterior region, following the tooth contour. In the palatal anterior region, the extension extends to the middle of the tooth crown. The second layer is a hard-elastic intermediate insert (min. 0.75 mm thick, Young's modulus = 2200 MPa). This is also adapted to the crease in the anterior region to provide additional protection for the crowns and roots of the teeth. The incisal edges from 3 to 3 are covered with the second layer. In the posterior region, the hard intermediate foil is approx.The third layer is shortened 2 mm above the anatomical tooth equator so that it does not extend into undercuts, but only rests occlusally. The third layer again consists of a soft, elastic film (min. 2 mm thick, Young's modulus = 15 MPa), which has the same expansion as the first layer. The first and third layers enclose the second layer.

[0044] In another embodiment of the sports mouthguard, the bite of the opposing jaw (lower jaw) is fixed to the hard-elastic middle layer (Young's modulus = 2200 MPa) in a myocentric temporomandibular joint position. This creates a stable bite with little elastic deformation. To enable the bite of the lower jaw in a myocentric position, a dental centric registration is created after the individual impression is taken. In addition, a facebow registration (also digital) is taken to simulate the patient situation in the articulator as precisely as possible. The occlusal surface of the sports mouthguard is ground down until the opposing jaw (lower jaw) only bites in specific areas. This creates the specific bite depressions. The special myocentric fixation of the lower jaw through the bite in the sports mouthguard can achieve a performance-enhancing effect and a positive impact on postural control.The occlusal bite block (= layer thickness) corresponds to a nominal thickness of between 2-4 mm, which corresponds to the bite block in the resting position (= usual relaxed position). During protrusion and laterotrusion movements, the punctiform bite is decoupled, allowing the lower jaw to glide on linear guide contacts.

[0045] In another embodiment, the sports mouthguard consists of a homogeneous structure and can be manufactured using at least one 3D printer. 3D printing typically enables the homogeneous appearance. Typically, DLP and / or SLA printers with a wavelength between 385 and 405 are used.

[0046] In another embodiment, the sports mouthguard is made of elastic photopolymerizable, methacrylic-based resin.

[0047] Wherein the elastic photopolymerizable, methacrylic-based resin in a further embodiment has a density of 1.1 g / L, a viscosity of less than 1.5 Pas, a Shore hardness D in the range of 65 to 85 MPa, a flexural strength in the range of 2 to 50 MPa, a water absorption of less than 32 pg, an impact strength of more than 45 J / m and an elongation at break of more than 40 percent.

[0048] Typically, the build process is carried out with z-resolutions of 40 to 100 pm / mm 3 .

[0049] Typically, such a 3D-printed sports mouthguard is post-treated by washing it with isopropanol. Light curing in a light oven is performed at OV wavelengths of 250 to 390 nm, using inert gas or a vacuum to prevent a dispersion layer. In addition, support structures are typically removed, and the surface is finished with milling and / or polishing.

[0050] Furthermore, in a further embodiment, such a sports mouthguard that can be produced by at least one 3D printer is produced based on a sports mouthguard design by printing from the at least one 3D printer. The sports mouthguard design can be designed using at least one external software, in particular so-called computer-aided design software, wherein at least one scan of the upper jaw dental arch and the lower jaw dental arch can be transferred to the at least one external software, and the at least one external software is configured to evaluate the scan and offer a user interface with which the sports mouthguard design can be designed. Using the user interface, a person can design the sports mouthguard design and adapt it individually to a person and take design specifications into account, in particular design specifications for the upper jaw.The user interface displays, among other things, the virtual articulation of the digital upper and lower jaw models according to the myocentric bite registration. In particular, the external software allows the transfer of at least one scan to design bite grooves on the occlusal surface of the upper jaw of the sports mouthguard, which can be used to specify a defined bite for the patient. Once completed, the sports mouthguard design is typically transferred to a 3D printer.

[0051] In another embodiment, such external software is based on artificial intelligence, which is configured to independently design the sports mouthguard. Based on collected scan data and the input of specifications, an artificial intelligence can be trained to independently design the sports mouthguard.

[0052] In another embodiment, the sports mouthguard features at least one imprint, particularly a logo or name. To further customize the sports mouthguard, it is possible to emboss an imprint onto it, making it easier for a person to distinguish between different sports mouthguards. This can include a logo, a name, but also a club logo, a jersey number, or images. The imprint can be fully or partially multicolored.

[0053] In another embodiment, the sports mouthguard is multi-colored. For example, the sports mouthguard can be colored in the colors of a sports club. For example, a different color can be chosen for the front and back teeth.

[0054] In another embodiment, the sports mouthguard consists of at least three layers of 3D printing. The layers differ in that they are based on different printing resins. This can lead to improved shock absorption and protective effect.

[0055] In another embodiment of such a sports mouthguard, two layers are based on the same printing resin, and a middle layer, located between the two layers, is based on a different printing resin that is harder than the printing resin of the two layers. Thus, there are three layers in the soft / hard / soft configuration. Typically, the hard layer is located primarily in the anterior region to achieve improved shock absorption and protective effect.

[0056] The proposed solution also relates to a method for manufacturing a sports mouthguard, wherein the sports mouthguard is manufactured individually for a person by scanning the maxillary dental arch and the mandibular dental arch at least once and wherein at least one scan is performed in myocentric position.

[0057] In one embodiment of this method, the scan is transmitted to at least one external software and a sports mouthguard design is designed using the external software.

[0058] In a further embodiment, the at least one external software comprises an artificial intelligence that can independently design the sports mouthguard design.

[0059] In another embodiment, the sports mouthguard design can be printed by a 3D printer.

[0060] An embodiment of a proposed method can be implemented in particular with an embodiment of a proposed sports mouthguard. The features and advantages explained above and below for embodiments of a proposed sports mouthguard therefore also apply to embodiments of a proposed method, and vice versa.

[0061] Further advantages and features of the proposed solution will become clear in the following description of embodiments with reference to the figures.

[0062] Here we show:

[0063] Figure 1 schematic representation of a jaw in myocentric position when biting on a sports mouthguard Figure 2 the extension of a sports mouthguard with three layers in the front vestibular

[0064] Figure 3 the extension of a sports mouthguard with three layers in the front palatinal

[0065] Figure 4 the extension of a sports mouthguard with three layers in the posterior region vestibular

[0066] Figure 5 the extension of a sports mouthguard with three layers in the posterior region palatinal

[0067] Figure 6 the bite of the lower jaw in the sports mouthguard and the bite depressions on the occlusal surface

[0068] Figure 7 the bite of the lower jaw into the sports mouthguard with three layers as

[0069] Cross section in the posterior region

[0070] Figure 8 the extension of a sports mouthguard from a homogeneous microstructure from vestibular to the front teeth

[0071] Figure 9 the extension of a sports mouthguard from a homogeneous microstructure from palatinal to the anterior teeth

[0072] Figure 10 the extension of a sports mouthguard from a homogeneous microstructure of vestibular in the posterior region

[0073] Figure 11 the extension of a sports mouthguard from a homogeneous microstructure from palatinal in the posterior region

[0074] Figure 12 the bite of the lower jaw in the sports mouthguard and the bite depressions on the occusal surface

[0075] Figure 13 of a sports mouthguard made from a homogeneous microstructure as a cross-section in the posterior tooth area to show the thin edge at the transition to the tooth / gum

[0076] Figure 14A schematic representation of a sports mouthguard with a device for delivering nutrients, electrolytes and / or minerals

[0077] Figure 14B schematic representation of a sports mouthguard with a device for delivering nutrients, electrolytes and / or minerals

[0078] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a jaw in a myocentric position, resulting from biting into a sports mouthguard 1B. Myocentricity is the bite position in which the involved masticatory muscles achieve their optimal and symmetrical function. In myocentricity, the lower jaw falls into a resting position that corresponds to the physiological resting length of the relaxed and coordinated masticatory muscles. The even support of the lower jaw in the bite grooves 2.1 of the sports mouthguard 1B in myocentricity leads to a reduction in occlusal disturbances with symmetrical masticatory muscles. This results in uninterrupted neuromuscular function.

[0079] In addition, Figure 1 shows the dimensions of the sports mouthguard 1 B. In the front, this extends vestibularly up to the fold 8 and in the posterior region, it continues vestibularly and palatally to the level of the neck of the tooth, whereby in the front palatally the teeth are encompassed up to half of the tooth crown, so that a harmonious occlusion is possible through uniform tooth contacts.

[0080] Figures 2-5 show the design of a three-layer sports mouthguard 1 on the maxillary dental arch from various perspectives and dimensions. They depict the vestibular anterior 3, the vestibular posterior 4, the palatal posterior 5, the palatal anterior 6, and the occlusal surface 7.

[0081] Figures 2-5 show a sports mouthguard 1B consisting of three layers 1. Typically, such a sports mouthguard 1B consists of three EVA films with different expansions, degrees of hardness, and layer thicknesses. The first 1.1 and third 1.3 layers typically consist of a soft-elastic, rubber-like film (2 mm thick, E-modulus = 15 MPa), and the second layer 1.2 typically consists of a hard-elastic intermediate insert (min. 0.75 mm thick, E-modulus = 2200 MPa). Typically, the first 1.1 and the third layer 1.3 enclose the second layer 1.2.

[0082] Figure 2 shows a sports mouthguard 1B consisting of three layers 1 in the vestibular front of the upper jaw 3. As can be seen in Figure 2, the first layer 1.1 extends into the crease 8 in the vestibular anterior tooth region (from 3 to 3). The second layer 1.2 is also adapted in the anterior tooth region up to the crease 8, as shown in Figure 2, in order to achieve additional protection for tooth crowns and roots. The incisal edges from 3 to 3 are covered with the second layer 1.2. The third layer 1.3 has the same extent as the first layer 1.1.

[0083] Figure 3 shows a sports mouthguard 1 B consisting of three layers 1 in the palatal anterior region of the upper jaw 6. As can be seen in Figure 3, the second layer 1.2 typically extends in the palatal anterior region to the middle of the tooth crown, so that the teeth are covered up to half of the tooth crown. A harmonious occlusion can be adjusted and controlled through uniform interlocking contacts. Figure 4 shows a sports mouthguard 1 B consisting of three layers 1 in the vestibular posterior region of the upper jaw 4. The second layer 1 .2 is shortened in the posterior region approximately 2 mm above the anatomical tooth equator, as shown in Figure 4, so that it does not extend into tooth undercuts, but only rests occlusally. In addition, the incisal edges from 3 to 3 are covered with the second layer 1 .2, as shown in Figure 4.

[0084] Figure 5 shows a sports mouthguard 1 B consisting of three layers 1 in the palatal posterior tooth region of the upper jaw 5. The second layer 1 .2 is shortened in the posterior tooth region approximately 2 mm above the anatomical tooth equator, as shown in Figure 5, so that it does not extend into tooth undercuts, but only rests occlusally.

[0085] Figures 6 and 7 show the lower jaw bite 2 in the sports mouthguard 1 B with the resulting bite depressions 2.1.

[0086] Figure 6 shows a sports mouthguard 1B with its bite recesses 2.1 on the occlusal surface 7. The bite recesses 2.1 provide a defined bite, which, when worn and biting on, places the jaw in the myocentric position. As shown in Figure 6, the sports mouthguard 1B has one to two bite recesses 2.1 for each antagonistic tooth; these typically have a diameter of 1 to 2 mm and a bite depth of 1 mm.

[0087] Figure 7 shows what the bite looks like on a sports mouthguard 1B consisting of three layers 1 for two teeth. As in Figure 2, such a sports mouthguard 1B typically consists of three EVA films. The upper jaw tooth is encased in the sports mouthguard 1B, with the first layer 1.1 and third layer 1.3 enclosing the second layer 1.2. When biting, the cusps of the lower jaw tooth are located in the bite groove 2.1. The bite grooves 2.1 typically correspond to the anatomical shape of the antagonistic cusps and thus follow the so-called lock-and-key principle.

[0088] Figures 8-11 show the design of a sports mouthguard 1B from a homogeneous microstructure on the maxillary dental arch in various perspectives and dimensions. Shown are the vestibular anterior 3, the vestibular posterior region 4, the palatal posterior region 5, the palatal anterior 6, and the occlusal surface 7. Figure 8 shows a sports mouthguard 1B consisting of a homogeneous microstructure in the vestibular anterior 3 of the maxilla. As can be seen in Figure 8, the sports mouthguard 1B extends into the occlusal fold 8 in the vestibular anterior region (from 3rd to 3rd). This expansion provides additional protection for tooth crowns and roots.

[0089] Figure 9 shows a sports mouthguard 1B consisting of a homogeneous microstructure in the palatal anterior region of the maxilla 6. As can be seen in Figure 9, the sports mouthguard 1B typically extends in the palatal anterior region to the middle of the tooth crown, thus encompassing the teeth up to half of the tooth crown. A harmonious occlusion can be adjusted and controlled through uniform interlocking contacts.

[0090] Figure 10 shows a sports mouthguard 1B consisting of a homogeneous microstructure in the vestibular posterior region of the upper jaw 4. As shown in Figure 10, not all teeth are included. Typically, teeth 17, 18, 27, and 28 are not included in the sports mouthguard 1B, as anatomical structures such as the zygomatic bone and masticatory muscles already protect these teeth. The shortening also improves wearing comfort.

[0091] Figure 11 shows a sports mouthguard 1 B consisting of a homogeneous structure in the palatal posterior tooth region of the upper jaw 5. The sports mouthguard 1 B is shortened in the posterior tooth region approximately 2 mm above the anatomical tooth equator as shown in Figure 11, so that it does not extend into tooth undercuts, but only rests occlusally.

[0092] Figure 12 shows a sports mouthguard 1B with its bite recesses 2.1 on the occlusal surface 7. The bite recesses 2.1 provide a defined bite, which, when worn and biting on, places the jaw in the myocentric position. As shown in Figure 12, the sports mouthguard 1B has one to two bite recesses 2.1 for each antagonistic tooth; these typically have a diameter of 1 to 2 mm and a bite depth of 1 mm. Figure 12 shows a modification of the embodiment according to Figure 6 with respect to the coverage of the teeth.

[0093] Figure 13 shows the contours of a sports mouthguard 1B from a homogeneous micrograph on an upper jaw tooth 9. As can be seen in Figure 12, the edge of the sports mouthguard 1B is thin towards the tooth or gum. This thin, tapered edge serves to improve the transition from the sports mouthguard 1B to the tooth / gum. Figures 14A and 14B show a sports mouthguard 1B with a device for releasing nutrients, electrolytes, and / or minerals VA. The nutrients are dissolved by saliva and absorbed into the body via the swallowing process and mucosal resorption. This allows, for example, all important nutrients to be supplied to the athlete and deficiency symptoms to be prevented.

[0094] In Figure 14A, such a device (VA) is located at the level of the molars (teeth 16, 26). This makes sense because the parotid duct is located there, allowing nutrients, electrolytes, and / or minerals to be flushed out of the device.

[0095] In Figure 14B, such a device VA is located palatally between teeth 11 and 21. This is useful because the nutrients, electrolytes and / or minerals can be dissolved there by the tongue movement and the swallowing process.

[0096] List of reference symbols

[0097] 1 layer

[0098] 1.1 First layer (soft elastic, 2 mm layer thickness) 1 .2 Second layer (hard elastic, 0.75 mm layer thickness)

[0099] 1 .3 Third layer (soft elastic, 2 mm layer thickness)

[0100] 1 B Sports Mouthguard

[0101] 2 Lower jaw bite

[0102] 2.1 Bite depressions 3 Maxillary anterior vestibular

[0103] 4 Upper jaw posterior region vestibular

[0104] 5 Upper jaw posterior region palatinal

[0105] 6 Maxillary anterior palatal

[0106] 7 Occlusal surface 8 Intraoral fold

[0107] 9 maxillary tooth

[0108] 10 lower jaw tooth

[0109] VA device for the delivery of nutrients, electrolytes and minerals

Claims

Claims 1. A sports mouthguard (1 B) for a person, characterized in that the bite is adjusted so that the person's jaw joint is in a myocentric position when biting together, wherein the dimensions of the sports mouthguard are vestibular in the front up to the occlusal fold (8) and in the posterior region vestibular and palatal to the level of the neck of the tooth, wherein in the front palatal the teeth are encompassed up to half of the tooth crown, and a harmonious occlusion can be adjusted and controlled by uniform tooth contacts.

2. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to claim 0, characterized in that the distance of the sports mouthguard 1 B from the neck of the tooth vestibularly is at least 5 mm for the teeth 11, 12, 21, 22, at least 4 mm for the teeth 13, 23, at least 3 mm for the teeth 14, 24, at least 2 mm for the teeth 15, 25 and at least 1 mm for the teeth 16, 26.

3. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to claim 0, characterized in that the sports mouthguard (1 B) is designed for a child and the distance of the sports mouthguard (1 B) from the neck of the tooth is at least 4 mm vestibularly for teeth 12, 22, at least 3 mm for teeth 13, 23, at least 2 mm for teeth 14, 24 and at least 1 mm for teeth 15, 25.

4. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distance of the sports mouthguard (1 B) from the palatal neck of the tooth for teeth 15, 16, 25 and 26 is in the range of 0.5 to 1.5 mm, in particular 1 mm.

5. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sports mouthguard (1 B) for the teeth 14, 24 rests palatally directly at the tooth / gum transition.

6. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sports mouthguard (1 B) covers the teeth 11, 12, 13, 21, 22, 23 palatally up to half of the tooth crown.

7. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sports mouthguard (1 B) has a thin palatinal edge towards the tooth or gum.

8. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sports mouthguard (1 B) is decoratively designed palatally in the palate area.

9. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sports mouthguard (1 B) is individualized for a person in that it can be produced using at least one scan of the person's upper jaw dental arch and lower jaw dental arch.

10. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sports mouthguard (1 B) has evenly supported bite recesses (2.1) on the entire occlusal surface (7).

11. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sports mouthguard (1 B) has one to two bite recesses (2.1) for each antagonistic tooth with a diameter of 1 to 2 mm and a bite depth of 1 mm and the bite recesses (2.1) correspond to the anatomical shape of the antagonistic tooth cusps.

12. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sports mouthguard (1 B) has a vertical distance between the teeth of at least 2 mm and a maximum of 4 mm when worn.

13. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sports mouthguard (1 B) has at least one sensor and / or at least one microchip and with the at least one sensor and / or the at least one microchip, health values ​​of the person, in particular speeds or collisions, can be measured.

14. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to claim 0, characterized in that the at least one sensor and / or the at least one microchip is configured to transmit measured values ​​to an external device, in particular a smartphone, and the external device is configured to evaluate these measured values ​​and to display the results of the analysis.

15. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sports mouthguard (1 B) comprises at least one device for the release of nutrients, electrolytes and / or minerals (VA), wherein the device (VA) is arranged in particular at the level of the teeth 16 and / or 26 and / or palatally between the teeth 11 and 21.

16. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is made of films, in particular of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) films, and the layers (1) of different films are designed in a certain extent so that the bite of the opposing jaw rests on the hard film.

17. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to claim 16, characterized in that the layers (1 ) are made of three EVA films which have different dimensions, degrees of hardness and layer thicknesses and the first (1.1 ) and the third (1.3) enclose the second layer (1.2).

18. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to claim 17, characterized in that the first layer (1.1) consists of a soft elastic, rubber-like film (2 mm thick, E-modulus = 15 MPa) which extends into the fold in the vestibular anterior tooth region (from 3 to 3) and is shortened in the posterior tooth region to the neck of the tooth and follows the contour of the tooth and in the palatal anterior tooth region the extension goes up to the middle of the tooth crown.

19. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that the second layer (1.2) is a hard-elastic intermediate insert (min. 0.75 mm thick, E-modulus = 2200 MPa), which is adapted in the anterior tooth region up to the fold (8), and the incisal edges from 3 to 3 are covered with the second layer (1 .2), and in the posterior tooth region the hard intermediate film is shortened approx. 2 mm above the anatomical tooth equator, so that it does not reach into tooth undercuts, but only rests occlusally.

20. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to claim 17, 18 or 19, characterized in that the third layer (1 .3) consists of a soft elastic film (min. 2 mm thickness, E-modulus = 15 MPa) which has the same extension as the first layer (1.1).

21. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to claim 16, characterized in that the bite of the opposing jaw (lower jaw) is fixed on the hard-elastic middle layer (E-modulus = 2200 MPa) in myocentric temporomandibular joint position.

22. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to claim 21, characterized in that the occlusal surface (7) of the sports mouthguard (1 B) is ground until the opposing jaw (lower jaw) only bites in at specific points, whereby the specific bite depressions (2.1) are created.

23. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that the occlusal bite block (= layer thickness) corresponds to a nominal thickness of between 2-4 mm, which corresponds to the bite block in the resting floating position (= usual relaxed position), during protrusion and laterotrusion movements the punctual bite is decoupled so that the lower jaw glides on linear guide contacts.

24. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to claim 21, 22 or 23, characterized in that after the individual impression is taken, a dental centric registration is made and, in addition, a facebow registration is taken in order to simulate the patient situation in the articulator as precisely as possible.

25. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that after the individual impression is taken, a dental centric registration is made, in addition, a facebow registration is taken in order to simulate the patient situation in the articulator as precisely as possible, the occlusal surface (7) of the sports mouthguard (1 B) is ground until the opposing jaw (lower jaw) only bites in at specific points, whereby the specific bite depressions (2.1) are created.

26. Method for producing a sports mouthguard (1 B) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that after the individual impression has been taken, a dental centric registration is made, in addition a facebow registration is taken in order to simulate the patient situation in the articulator as precisely as possible, the occlusal surface (7) of the sports mouthguard (1 B) is ground until the opposing jaw (lower jaw) only bites in at specific points, whereby the specific bite depressions (2.1) are created.

27. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sports mouthguard (1 B) consists of a homogeneous structure and can be produced by at least one 3D printer.

28. A sports mouthguard (1B) according to claim 0, characterized in that the sports mouthguard (1B) is made of elastic photopolymerizable, methacrylic-based resin.

29. A sports mouthguard (1B) according to claim 0, characterized in that the elastic photopolymerizable, methacrylic-based resin has a density of 1.1 g / L, a viscosity of less than 1.5 Pas, a Shore hardness D in the range of 65 to 85 MPa, a flexural strength in the range of 2 to 50 MPa, a water absorption of less than 32 g, an impact strength of more than 45 J / m and an elongation at break of more than 40 percent.

30. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to at least one of claims 0 to 0, characterized in that the sports mouthguard (1 B) has at least one impression, in particular a logo or a name.

31. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to at least one of claims 0 to 0, characterized in that the sports mouthguard (1 B) is multi-colored.

32. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to at least one of claims 0 to 0, characterized in that the sports mouthguard (1 B) consists of a 3D print with at least three layers, wherein the layers (1 ) differ in that they are based on different printing resins.

33. A sports mouthguard (1 B) according to claim 0, characterized in that the first (1.1) and third layer (1.3) are based on the same printing resin and enclose a second layer (1.2), said second layer (1.2) being based on a different printing resin which is harder than the printing resin of the other two layers (1).

34. A sports mouthguard (1B) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the layer thicknesses for teeth 13-23: 4-6mm vestibular, 2-3mm palatal, 3-6mm incisal; for teeth 14-15, 24-25: 4-5mm vestibular, 2-3mm palatal, 2-4mm occlusal; for teeth 16, 26: 3-5mm vestibular, 2-3mm palatal, 2-4mm occlusal.

35. Method for producing a sports mouthguard (1 B) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sports mouthguard (1 B) is produced individually for a person by scanning the upper jaw dental arch and the lower jaw dental arch at least once, with at least one scan being carried out in the myocentric position.

36. Method according to claim 35 for producing a sports mouthguard (1 B), characterized in that the scan is transmitted to at least one external software and this at least one external software evaluates the scan and offers a user interface by means of which a sports mouthguard design can be designed.

37. Method according to claim 36, characterized in that the at least one external software comprises artificial intelligence and can independently design the sports mouthguard design.

38. Method according to one of claims 05 to 07, characterized in that the sports mouthguard design can be printed by a 3D printer.