Mouth guard

Abstract

A mouth guard that is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds individual teeth of an maxillary dentition A or a mandibular dentition of a user, and is attached to the maxillary dentition A or the mandibular dentition of the user, the mouth guard having a thickness of 0.1 to 5.0 mm. A portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first molar D and a second molar E of the maxillary dentition A or the mandibular dentition is, when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition A or the mandibular dentition of the user, formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar D and the second molar E.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a mouth guard used in sport competition and the like.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Conventionally, in a contact sport that demands players to perform a play with a strenuous motion such as boxing, rugby or American football, to prevent a player from having a wound on his / her teeth or in his / her mouth or brain concussion due to an impact that the player receives from the outside, a mouth guard has been used. Further, it has been also known that a mouth guard has sport ability enhancing effects such as an effect of allowing a user to improve biting itself, an effect of allowing a user to generate a strong biting force, or an effect of allowing a user to increase his / her concentration. Accordingly, recently, a mouth guard has started to be used in so-called non-contact sports such as golf, ping pong, swimming, tennis and the like where a player neither receives a direct contact or a strong impact on his / her body from the outside.

[0003] As such a mouth guard, for example, there has been proposed a mouth guard that covers at least teeth between left and right first molars on an upper jaw or a lower jaw wherein, on either occlusal surface out of a left occlusal surface covering portion that covers an occlusal surface ranging from the left first molar to a left premolar or a right occlusal surface covering portion that covers an occlusal surface ranging from the right first molar to a right premolar, a groove having a fixed width that penetrates from a buccal side to a tongue side is formed (see patent literature 1).CITATION LISTPatent Literature

[0004] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2022-080136SUMMARY OF INVENTIONTechnical Problem

[0005] However, conventional mouth guards including the mouth guard described in the above-mentioned patent literature 1 are configured such that the entirety of the mouth guard has a large thickness to absorb an impact thus giving rise to drawbacks such as a drawback that strong biting is difficult when a user intends to perform strong biting, a drawback that breathing is difficult when it is unnecessary for a user to perform strong biting, a drawback that conversation is difficult, a drawback that taking necessary water is difficult, and a drawback that a user feels nauseated by a chance.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned circumstances, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a mouth guard that allows a user to easily perform strong biting at the time of performing strong biting and is excellent in wearing feeling.Solution to Problem

[0007] The inventor of the present invention has made extensive studies to solve these problems. As a result of the studies, the inventor has found that, by forming a mouth guard of a thin wall thickness type having a shape capable of forming a gap between the mouth guard and a valley portion of a molar tooth, the gap ensures a sufficient strong biting distance and performs a buffering function, a user can easily perform strong biting at the time of performing strong biting, and the mouth guard gives a comfortable wearing feeling to a user. The inventor has arrived at the present invention based on such finding.

[0008] Specifically, the present invention is as follows.

[0009] [1] A mouth guard that is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds individual teeth of a maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, and is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, the mouth guard having a thickness of 0.1 to 5.0 mm, wherein

[0010] a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one molar tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion and the valley portion of the molar tooth.

[0011] [2] The mouth guard according to [1], wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first premolar and a second premolar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar.

[0012] [3] The mouth guard according to [2], wherein the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar has either a convex cross-sectional shape or a U-shaped cross-sectional shape.

[0013] [4] The mouth guard according to [2] or [3], wherein a distance between an outer surface of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar and a bottom of the valley portion of the premolar is 1.0 to 5.5 mm.

[0014] [5] The mouth guard according to any one of [2] to [4], wherein the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned in the valley portion of the premolar has a convex cross-sectional shape that includes a first premolar protruding portion and a second premolar protruding portion each having a gap therein.

[0015] [6] The mouth guard according to any one of [2] to [5], wherein a buffer material is disposed on an inner surface of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar.

[0016] [7] The mouth guard according to any one of [2] to [6], wherein the mouth guard is formed by molding using an ethylene vinyl acetate resin.

[0017] [8] The mouth guard according to any one of [2] to [7], wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at an anterior tooth occlusal portion (anterior occlusal portion) of an anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user.

[0018] [9] The mouth guard according to [8], wherein the portion that is positioned at the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth has a shape selected from a group consisting of a convex cross-sectional shape, a U-shaped cross-sectional shape, and a flat cross-sectional shape.

[0019]

[10] The mouth guard according to [8] or [9], wherein the portion that is positioned at the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth has a convex cross-sectional shape that includes an anterior tooth protruding portion (anterior protruding portion) having a gap therein.

[0020]

[11] The mouth guard according to any one of [8] to

[10] , wherein a buffer material is provided to an inner surface side of the portion that is positioned at the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth.

[0021]

[12] The mouth guard according to any one of [8] to

[11] , wherein the anterior tooth is a central incisor.

[0022]

[13] The mouth guard according to any one of [2] to

[12] , wherein the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least a first molar and a second molar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition has a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user.

[0023]

[14] A method of manufacturing a mouth guard comprising mounting a gap forming mold in a valley portion of at least one of a first premolar and a second premolar of a dentition model that is formed by molding corresponding to a maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, covering the dentition model on which the gap forming mold is mounted by a heated thermoplastic resin sheet, and applying a vacuum suction to the thermoplastic resin sheet thus forming the thermoplastic sheet into a shape that conforms to an outer shape of the teeth portions of the dentition model.

[0024]

[15] The method of manufacturing a mouth guard according to

[14] , wherein, in addition to the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar of the dentition model, a gap forming model is mounted in an anterior tooth occlusal portion of an anterior tooth.

[0025]

[16] The method of manufacturing a mouth guard according to

[15] , wherein the anterior tooth is a central incisor.

[0026]

[17] The mouth guard according to [1], wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first molar and a second molar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar.

[0027]

[18] The mouth guard according to

[17] , wherein the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar has either a convex cross-sectional shape or a U-shaped cross-sectional shape.

[0028]

[19] The mouth guard according to or

[18] , wherein a distance between an outer surface of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar and a bottom of the valley portion of the molar is 1.0 to 6.5 mm.

[0029]

[20] The mouth guard according to any one of to

[19] , wherein the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned in the valley portion of the molar has a convex cross-sectional shape that includes a first molar protruding portion and a second molar protruding portion each having a gap therein.

[0030]

[21] The mouth guard according to any one of to

[20] , wherein a buffer material is disposed on an inner surface of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar.

[0031]

[22] The mouth guard according to any one of to

[21] , wherein the mouth guard is formed by molding using an ethylene vinyl acetate resin.

[0032]

[23] The mouth guard according to any one of to

[22] , wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at an anterior tooth occlusal portion of an anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user.

[0033]

[24] The mouth guard according to

[23] , wherein the portion that is positioned at the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth has a shape selected from a group consisting of a convex cross-sectional shape, a U-shaped cross-sectional shape, and a flat cross-sectional shape.

[0034]

[25] The mouth guard according to or

[24] , wherein the portion that is positioned at the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth has a convex cross-sectional shape that includes an anterior tooth protruding portion having a gap therein.

[0035]

[26] The mouth guard according to any one of to

[25] , wherein a buffer material is provided to an inner surface side of the portion that is positioned at the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth.

[0036]

[27] The mouth guard according to any one of to

[26] , wherein the anterior tooth is a central incisor.

[0037]

[28] A method of manufacturing a mouth guard comprising mounting a gap forming mold in a valley portion of at least one of a first molar and a second molar of a dentition model that is formed by molding corresponding to a maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, covering the dentition model on which the gap forming mold is mounted by a heated thermoplastic resin sheet, and applying a vacuum suction to the thermoplastic resin sheet thus forming the thermoplastic sheet into a shape that conforms to an outer shape of the teeth portions of the dentition model.

[0038]

[29] The method of manufacturing a mouth guard according to

[28] , wherein, in addition to the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar of the dentition model, a gap forming model is mounted in an anterior tooth occlusal portion of an anterior tooth.

[0039]

[30] The method of manufacturing a mouth guard according to

[29] , wherein the anterior tooth is a central incisor.

[0040]

[31] The mouth guard according to [1], wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first premolar and a second premolar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar, and further a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first molar and a second molar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar.Advantageous Effects of Invention

[0041] The mouth guard according to the present invention is excellent in enabling a user to easily perform strong biting at the time of performing strong biting, and to have comfortable wearing feeling.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING

[0042] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a mouth guard according to a first embodiment of a first present invention, wherein (a) illustrates the mouth guard in a state before the mouth guard is attached to, and (b) illustrates a state of the mouth guard in a state where the mouth guard is attached to.

[0043] FIG. 2 is a side view of the mouth guard illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0044] FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a first premolar portion when the mouth guard illustrated in FIG. 1 is attached to the first premolar portion, wherein (a) illustrates a state where a user has not yet performed strong biting, and (b) illustrates a state where the user has performed strong biting.

[0045] FIG. 4 is an explanatory view of a method of manufacturing mouth guards according to first to third embodiments of the first present invention, where (a) indicates an enlarged cross-sectional view of a first premolar portion of the mouth guard according to the first embodiment, (b) indicates an enlarged cross-sectional view of a first premolar portion of the mouth guard according to the second embodiment, and (c) indicates an enlarged cross-sectional view of a first premolar portion of the mouth guard according to the third embodiment.

[0046] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a mouth guard according to a fourth embodiment of the first present invention.

[0047] FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a central incisor portion when mouth guards according to fourth to six embodiments according to the first present invention are attached to, wherein (a) is the enlarged cross-sectional view of a central incisor portion of the mouth guard according to the fourth embodiment, (b) is the enlarged cross-sectional view of a central incisor portion of the mouth guard according to the fifth embodiment, and (c) is the enlarged cross-sectional view of a central incisor portion of the mouth guard according to the sixth embodiment.

[0048] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a mouth guard according to a first embodiment of a second present invention, wherein (a) illustrates the mouth guard in a state before the mouth guard is attached to, and (b) illustrates a state of the mouth guard in a state where the mouth guard is attached to.

[0049] FIG. 8 is a side view of the mouth guard illustrated in FIG. 7.

[0050] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a mouth guard according to a second embodiment of the second present invention.

[0051] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a mouth guard according to a third present invention.DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS[Mouth Guard According to Present Invention]

[0052] A mouth guard according to the present invention is a mouth guard having a thickness of 0.1 to 5.0 mm that is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds individual teeth of an maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, and is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of a molar tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion and the valley portion of at least one molar tooth. In the present invention, the molar teeth include premolars and molars. To be more specific, a first premolar, a second premolar, a first molar, a second molar and the like are named. Further, in the present invention, anterior teeth include central incisors (incisors), lateral incisors (incisors), canine teeth (thread incisors).

[0053] In the present invention, in the oral cavity, there is a case where a buccal side or a labial side is referred to as “an outer side”, and a lingual side or a palatal side is referred to as “an inner side” with respect to teeth. Further, a biting distance means a distance that the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition changes its position or moves by a pressing force of a teeth that opposedly faces the portion. Further, in the present invention, there is a case where a surface of the mouth guard that is not brought into contact with the teeth when the mouth guard is attached to the dentition is referred to as “an outer surface” and a surface of the mouth guard that is brought into contact with the teeth when the mouth guard is attached to the dentition is referred to as “an inner surface”.[Mouth Guard According to First Embodiment]

[0054] The mouth guard according to the first embodiment is a mouth guard having a thickness of 0.1 to 5.0 mm that is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds individual teeth of an maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, and is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first premolar and a second premolar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar.

[0055] In the mouth guard according to the first present invention, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms the gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar. With such a configuration, the gap portion that is formed by the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the first premolar and / or the second premolar secures a sufficient biting distance and, at the same time, performs a buffer function and hence, the mouth guard can easily bite at the time of biting whereby the mouth guard can exhibit a sufficient biting function. Further, the mouth guard according to the first present invention is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to the dentition of a user and, at the same time, has an extremely thin thickness of 0.1 to 5.0 mm. Accordingly, even when the user cannot strongly bite, the user can easily perform breathing, can easily perform conversation, can take necessary water easily, and does not feel nauseated. That is, the mouth guard according to the first present invention has a sufficient biting function. Further, the mouth guard according to the first present invention does not obstruct breathing and the like and hence, the user can have excellent mounting feeling. Further, the mouth guard according to the first present invention can prevent external injury, and can prevent damages on teeth and gum caused by a biting pressure generated at the time of biting strongly or clenching.

[0056] In the mouth guard according to the first present invention, a predetermine gap is formed on at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar and hence, a load to a tooth (a pain) at the time of performing strong biting can be suppressed compared to a case where the gap is formed in a molar whereby the mouth guard can perform strong biting with a properly strong force and, at the same time, can be used for a long time.

[0057] The mouth guard according to the first present invention is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to the individual teeth of the maxillary dentition and the mandibular dentition. That is, with respect to the mouth guard according to the first present invention, the entirety of the mouth guard is formed by molding into a horseshoe shape and, at the same time, the individual portions are formed by molding into the shapes of the teeth of a user. Accordingly, the mouth guard is configured such that the mouth guard is fitted on the teeth and covers the teeth at the time of being attached to the teeth (see FIG. 1). The user may be an adult or a child. Further, the mouth guard according to the first present invention may be formed by molding into a shape where a part of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is missing. To be more specific, for example, a mouth guard may be formed into a shape where anterior teeth that include central incisors, lateral incisors, and canine teeth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user are missing. In the case of the mouth guard that is formed by molding into the shape where the anterior teeth portions are missing, it is preferable that the mouth guard include a connecting portion that connects the left and right maxillary dentitions (or mandibular dentitions). With such a configuration, an accidental swallowing of the mouth guard or the loss of the mouth guard can be prevented.

[0058] The mouth guard according to the first present invention is a mouth guard of a type that is attached to the maxillary dentition or a mouth guard of a type that is attached to the mandibular dentition. It is preferable that the mouth guard according to the first present invention be the mouth guard of a type that is attached to the maxillary dentition. The mouth guard according to the first present invention covers at least coronal portions (teeth and gums). However, it is preferable that the mouth guard include fold portions that extend toward a gum side from a lower end side (a tooth neck portion side). By making the fold portions snugly adhere to the gum, the mouth guard can protect the gum and, at the same time, the mouth guard is made to fit on the teeth more snugly. A length of the fold portion is preferably 0.5 to 20 mm, and is more preferably 1.0 to 15 mm, and is still more preferably 3.0 to 12 mm. It is preferable that the fold portion be disposed on at least one of an outer side and an inner side of the teeth, and it is more preferable that the fold portion be disposed on both outer and inner sides of the teeth.

[0059] A material used for forming the mouth guard according to the first present invention is not particularly limited provided that the mouth guard can be formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to a dentition of a patient. For example, a thermoplastic resin material such as an ethylene vinyl acetate resin (an EVA resin), a polyolefin rubber material, a silicone rubber material, a biomass composite plastic material and the like are named. It is preferable to use a thermoplastic resin material, and it is particularly preferable to use an ethylene vinyl acetate resin material with respect to the thermoplastic resin material.[Thickness of Mouth Guard According to First Present Invention]

[0060] A thickness of the mouth guard according to the first present invention is 0.1 mm to 5.0 mm, is preferably 0.2 to 4.0 mm, and is more preferably 0.25 to 3.0 mm, and is still more preferably 0.3 to 2.0 mm. By setting the thickness of the mouth guard according to the first present invention in such ranges, even when the user cannot perform biting, the user can easily perform breathing and the like. Further, it is possible to form a gap that secures a sufficient space between a valley portion of a first premolar and a second premolar and the mouth guard with more certainty. Further, in the same manner, it is possible to form a gap that secures a sufficient space in the inside of a first premolar portion and a second premolar portion with more certainty.[Portion that is Positioned in Valley Portion of Premolar]

[0061] In the mouth guard according to the first present invention, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar is formed into the shape that forms the gap between the portion and the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user. However, it is preferable that the mouth guard have a shape such that a gap is formed on portions that are positioned at valley portions of both the first and second premolars. Further, a plurality of gaps may be formed with respect to one premolar. In a case of the mouth guard according to the first present invention for a child, a desired gap is formed on a baby tooth that corresponds to the first premolar or the second premolar.

[0062] In the mouth guard according to the first present invention, as the shape of the portion of the mouth guard that forms a gap between the mouth guard and the valley portion, a non-V-shaped cross-sectional shape is named. The non-V-shaped cross-sectional shape means a cross-sectional shape when viewed from an anterior teeth side to a posterior teeth side. Usually, in a case where a mouth guard is formed by molding into a shape corresponding to a dentition, a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of a premolar has a V shape that conforms to a V-shape cross-sectional shape (although the V-shape cross-sectional shape becomes an inversed V shape in case of the maxillary dentition, in the present invention, the V-shape cross-sectional shape also includes such a vertically inverted shape). On the other hand, in the present invention, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar is not made to conform with the V-shape of the valley portion of the premolar and is formed in a non-V-shaped cross-sectional shape so as to form a predetermine gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of the premolar (the portion of the mouth guard being brought into a non-contact state with the valley portion).

[0063] To be more specific, as the non-V-shaped cross-sectional shape, for example, a convex cross-sectional shape (see FIG. 4(a)), a U-shaped cross-sectional shape (see FIG. 4(b)), a flat cross-sectional shape (see FIG. 4(c)) and the like are named. In the same manner as the V-shape, the non-V-shape includes an inversed non-V-shape.

[0064] A distance (a distance X in FIG. 3) between an outer surface of the portion of the mouth guard according to the first present invention that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar and a bottom of the valley portion of the premolar is preferably 1.0 to 5.5 mm, is more preferably 1.5 o 5.0 mm, and is still more preferably 2.0 o 4.5 mm. In a case where a difference in height is generated due to the difference in position of the bottom of the valley portion of the premolar at the time of measurement, the largest distance is used as such a distance.

[0065] The portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar may include a buffer material on an inner surface side thereof. That is, the portion of the mouth guard may be configured such that the buffer material is filled in a gap formed between the valley portion of the premolar and the portion of the mouth guard. As such a material, a material that is softer than a material for forming the entire mouth guard such as a sponge made of urethane, for example, can be named.[First Premolar Protruding Portion and Second Premolar Protruding Portion]

[0066] In the present invention, as a preferred specific mode of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar, a mode having a convex cross-sectional shape can be named where the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar include a first premolar protruding portion and / or a second premolar protruding portion having a gap in the inside thereof. Protruding portions of the first premolar protruding portion and the second premolar protruding portion perform a buffer function while securing a sufficient strong biting distance at the time of performing strong biting. Accordingly, the mouth guard (the user) can easily perform strong biting at the time of performing strong biting thus exhibiting a sufficient strong biting function.

[0067] The first premolar protruding portion and the second premolar protruding portion are protruding portions formed at the position of the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition. These first and second premolar protruding portions protrude downward (in a case of the maxillary dentition) or upward (in a case of the mandibular dentition) and have a gap inside thereof (see FIG. 3). The first premolar protruding portion and the second premolar protruding portion are pressed from a downward side or from an upward side and are pushed into the gap inside the protruding portion by the opposedly facing premolars at the time of strong biting and hence, a user can bite with a sufficient biting distance whereby the user can strongly bite. Further, at this point of time, the first premolar protruding portion and the second premolar protruding portion are soft and hence, a load to a tooth (a pain) can be reduced whereby the user can strongly bite to a reasonable extent.

[0068] As the shape of the first premolar protruding portion and the second premolar protruding portion, for example, a semispherical shape, a frustoconical shape, a circular pillar shape and the like are named.

[0069] The shape of the gap formed in the first premolar protruding portion and the second premolar protruding portion is not particularly limited, and usually is a shape that corresponds to the shape of the protruding portions. For example, in a case where the shape of the first premolar protruding portion and the second premolar protruding portion are a semispherical shape, the gap in the first premolar protruding portion and the second premolar protruding portion is formed into a semispherical shape. A buffered material may be filled in the inside of the first premolar protruding portion and the second premolar protruding portion. As the buffer material, it is preferable to use a material softer than a material for forming by molding the entire mouth guard. For example, a sponge made of urethane or the like is named.[Portion that is Positioned at Anterior Occlusal Portion of Anterior Tooth]

[0070] In the mouth guard according to the first embodiment, as described above, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion. Further, the mouth guard may be a mouth guard where a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at an anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior occlusal portion of the anterior tooth. That is, in the mouth guard according to the first embodiment, it is further preferable that the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition be formed into a shape where, when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, a gap is formed between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth. In such a configuration, the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth means surface portions of the teeth that are brought into contact with each other when the anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition and the anterior tooth of the mandibular dentition bite each other. The portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth is formed so as to form a gap and hence, when the anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition and the anterior tooth of the mandibular dentition bite each other, the gap portion of the mouth guard according to the present invention supports the contacting anterior tooth and hence, a load to other teeth such as the molar teeth and the like can be dispersed whereby the user can maintain a relaxed state without generating a strong biting force. As the anterior tooth that forms the gap of the mouth guard, it is preferable to use the central incisor (incisor), and it is particularly preferable to use two central incisors of the maxillary dentition and the mandibular dentition. In case of a baby tooth, a desired gap is formed in a baby tooth corresponding to an anterior tooth.

[0071] In this embodiment, the shape of the gap formed between the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth and the portion of the mouth guard may be any form provided that a predetermined gap is formed between the portion of the mouth guard and the surface of the anterior tooth.” That is, usually, in a case where a mouth guard is formed by molding into a shape corresponding to a dentition, a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at anterior occlusal portion of anterior tooth has a flat cross-sectional shape that conforms to the shape of the anterior tooth. On the other hand, in the present invention, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth is not made to conform with the flat shape of the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth and forms a predetermine gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth (the portion of the mouth guard being brought into non-contact state with the anterior tooth). That is, the portion of the mouth guard is formed into a non-flat cross-sectional shape.

[0072] To be more specific, as the shape of the non-flat cross-sectional shape, for example, a protruding cross-section (see FIG. 6(a)) and the like are named. Further, as the anterior occlusal portion where the gap is formed, for example, a back side of the anterior tooth (see FIG. 6(a)), a front side of the anterior tooth (see FIG. 6(b)), a distal end side of the anterior tooth (see FIG. 6(c) and the like are named.

[0073] A distance (see a distance Y in FIG. 6) between an outer surface of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of the anterior tooth and the anterior occlusal portion (the surface of the anterior tooth) of an anterior tooth is preferably 1.0 mm to 5.5 mm, is more preferably 1.5 mm to 5.0 mm, and is still more preferably 2.0 mm to 4.5 mm. In a case where a difference in height is generated due to the difference in position of the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth at the time of measurement, the largest distance is used as such a distance.

[0074] The portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of anterior tooth may include a buffer material on an inner surface side of the portion of the mouth guard. That is, the portion of the mouth guard may be configured such that the buffer material is filled in a gap formed between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior occlusal portion of anterior tooth. As the buffer material, it is preferable to use a material softer than a material for forming by molding the entire mouth guard. For example, a sponge made of urethane or the like is named.[Anterior Tooth Protruding Portion]

[0075] In the first present invention, as a specifically preferred mode of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of anterior tooth, a mode can be named where the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of anterior tooth is a portion having a protruding cross section that includes an anterior tooth protruding portion having a gap inside thereof. The protruding portion of the anterior tooth protruding portion performs a buffer function and a function of supporting the tooth. Accordingly, a load on the tooth is dispersed at the time of strongly biting and hence, the user can bite in a relaxed manner without strongly biting.

[0076] The anterior tooth protruding portion is a portion that is disposed at the position of the anterior occlusal portion of anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition, extends sideward, downward (in a case of the maxillary dentition) or upward (in a case of the mandibular dentition), and has a gap inside thereof (see FIG. 6). The anterior tooth protruding portion is pressed toward the opposedly facing anterior tooth from downward or from upward at the time of strongly biting, and supports the opposedly facing anterior tooth. Accordingly, a load on the tooth at the time of strong biting can be dispersed and hence, the user can bite in a relaxed manner without strong biting. Further, at this point of time, the anterior tooth protruding portion is soft and hence, a load (a pain) to the tooth can be reduced, and the user can strongly bite.

[0077] As the shape of the anterior tooth protruding portion, for example, a semispherical shape, a frustoconical shape, a circular pillar shape and the like are named.

[0078] The shape of the gap formed in the anterior tooth protruding portion is not particularly limited, and usually is a shape that corresponds to the shape of the protruding portion. For example, in a case where the shape of the anterior tooth protruding portion is a semispherical shape, the gap in the anterior tooth protruding portion is also formed into a semispherical shape. A buffered material may be filled in the inside of the anterior tooth protruding portion. As the buffer material, it is preferable to use a material softer than a material for forming by molding the entire mouth guard. For example, a sponge made of urethane or the like is named.

[0079] Usually, the anterior tooth protruding portion is provided to a tooth on a one-to-one basis. However, two or more anterior tooth protruding portions may be provided to one tooth. Further, the anterior tooth protruding portion may be provided to each of anterior teeth on a one-to-one basis. However, the anterior tooth protruding portion may be provided covering two or more anterior teeth. It is preferable that the anterior protruding portion may be formed over two central incisors (incisor).[Mouth Guard According to Second Embodiment]

[0080] The mouth guard according to the second embodiment is a mouth guard having a thickness of 0.1 to 5.0 mm that is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds individual teeth of an maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, and is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first molar and a second molar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar.

[0081] In the mouth guard according to the second present invention, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms the gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar. With such a configuration, the gap portion that is formed by the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the first molar and / or the second molar secures a sufficient biting distance and, at the same time, performs a buffer function and hence, the mouth guard can easily bite at the time of biting whereby the mouth guard can exhibit a sufficient biting function. Further, the mouth guard according to the second present invention is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to the dentition of a user and, at the same time, has an extremely thin thickness of 0.1 to 5.0 mm. Accordingly, even when the user cannot strongly bite, the user can easily perform breathing, can easily perform conversation, can take necessary water easily, and does not feel nauseated. That is, the mouth guard according to the second present invention has a sufficient biting function. Further, the mouth guard according to the second present invention does not obstruct breathing and the like and hence, the user can have excellent mounting feeling. Further, the mouth guard according to the second present invention can prevent external injury, and can prevent damages on teeth and gum caused by a biting pressure generated at the time of biting strongly or clenching.

[0082] The mouth guard according to the second present invention is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to the individual teeth of the maxillary dentition and the mandibular dentition. That is, with respect to the mouth guard according to the second present invention, the entirety of the mouth guard is formed by molding into a horseshoe shape and, at the same time, the individual portions are formed by molding into the shapes of the teeth of a user. Accordingly, the mouth guard is configured such that the mouth guard is fitted on the teeth and covers the teeth at the time of being attached to the teeth (see FIG. 7). The user may be an adult or a child. Further, the mouth guard according to the second present invention may be formed by molding into a shape where a part of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is missing. To be more specific, for example, as the mouth guard of the second embodiment, a mouth guard that is formed by molding into a shape where anterior portions (a central incisor, lateral incisors, canine teeth) and premolar portions on an maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition are missing, a mouth guard that is formed by molding into a shape where an anterior portion of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition are missing and the like are named. In a case of the mouth guard formed by molding into a shape where a portion including an anterior portion is missing, it is preferable that the mouth guard includes a connecting portion that connects left and right maxillary dentitions (or left and right lower dentitions). With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent an accidental ingestion or missing of the mouth guard.

[0083] The mouth guard according to the second present invention is a mouth guard of a type that is attached to the maxillary dentition or a mouth guard of a type that is attached to the mandibular dentition. It is preferable that the mouth guard according to the second present invention be the mouth guard of a type that is attached to the maxillary dentition. The mouth guard according to the first present invention covers at least coronal portions (teeth and gums). However, it is preferable that the mouth guard include fold portions that extend toward a gum side from a lower end side (a tooth neck portion side). By making the fold portions snugly adhere to the gum, the mouth guard can protect the gum and, at the same time, the mouth guard is made to fit on the teeth more snugly. A length of the fold portion is preferably 0.5 to 20 mm, and is more preferably 1.0 to 15 mm, and is still more preferably 3.0 to 12 mm. It is preferable that the fold portion be disposed on at least one of an outer side and an inner side of the teeth, and it is more preferable that the fold portion be disposed on both outer and inner sides of the teeth.

[0084] A material used for forming the mouth guard according to the second present invention is not particularly limited provided that the mouth guard can be formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to a dentition of a patient. For example, a thermoplastic resin material such as an ethylene vinyl acetate resin (an EVA resin), a polyolefin rubber material, a silicone rubber material, a biomass composite plastic material and the like are named. It is preferable to use a thermoplastic resin material, and it is particularly preferable to use an ethylene vinyl acetate resin material with respect to the thermoplastic resin material.[Thickness of Mouth Guard According to Second Present Invention]

[0085] A thickness of the mouth guard according to the second present invention is 0.1 mm to 5.0 mm, is preferably 0.2 to 4.0 mm, and is more preferably 0.25 to 3.0 mm, and is still more preferably 0.3 to 2.0 mm. By setting the thickness of the mouth guard according to the second present invention in such ranges, even when the user cannot perform biting, the user can easily perform breathing and the like. Further, it is possible to form a gap that secures a sufficient space between a valley portion of a first molar and a second molar and the mouth guard with more certainty. Further, in the same manner, it is possible to form a gap that secures a sufficient space in the inside of a first molar portion and a second molar portion with more certainty.[Portion that is Positioned in Valley Portion of Molar]

[0086] In the mouth guard according to the second present invention, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar is formed into the shape that forms the gap between the portion and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user. However, it is preferable that the mouth guard have a shape such that a gap is formed on portions that are positioned at valley portions of both the first and second molars. Further, a plurality of gaps may be formed with respect to one molar. In a case of the mouth guard according to the second present invention for a child, a desired gap is formed on a baby tooth that corresponds to the first molar or the second molar.

[0087] In the mouth guard according to the second present invention, as the shape of the portion of the mouth guard that forms a gap between the mouth guard and the valley portion, a non-V-shaped cross-sectional shape is named. The non-V-shaped cross-sectional shape means a cross-sectional shape when viewed from an anterior teeth side to a posterior teeth side. Usually, in a case where a mouth guard is formed by molding into a shape corresponding to a dentition, a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of a molar has a V shape that conforms to a V-shape cross-sectional shape (although the V-shape cross-sectional shape becomes an inversed V shape in case of the maxillary dentition, in the present invention, the V-shape cross-sectional shape also includes such a vertically inverted shape). On the other hand, in the present invention, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar is not made to conform with the V-shape of the valley portion of the molar and is formed in a non-V-shaped cross-sectional shape so as to form a predetermine gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of the molar (the portion of the mouth guard being brought into a non-contact state with the valley portion).

[0088] To be more specific, as the non-V-shaped cross-sectional shape, in the same manner as the mouth guard according to the first present invention, for example, a convex cross-sectional shape, a U-shaped cross-sectional shape, a flat cross-sectional shape and the like are named (see FIG. 4). In the same manner as the V-shape, the non-V-shape includes an inversed non-V-shape.

[0089] A distance (same as a distance X in FIG. 3) between an outer surface of the portion of the mouth guard according to the second present invention that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar and a bottom of the valley portion of the molar is preferably 1.0 to 6.5 mm, is more preferably 1.5 o 6.0 mm, and is still more preferably 2.0 o 5.5 mm. In a case where a difference in height is generated due to the difference in position of the bottom of the valley portion of the molar at the time of measurement, the largest distance is used as such a distance.

[0090] The portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar may include a buffer material on an inner surface side thereof. That is, the portion of the mouth guard may be configured such that the buffer material is filled in a gap formed between the valley portion of the molar and the portion of the mouth guard. As such a material, a material that is softer than a material for forming the entire mouth guard such as a sponge made of urethane, for example, can be named.[First Molar Protruding Portion and Second Molar Protruding Portion]

[0091] In the present invention, as a preferred specific mode of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar, a mode having a convex cross-sectional shape can be named where the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar include a first molar protruding portion and / or a second molar protruding portion having a gap in the inside thereof. Protruding portions of the first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion perform a buffer function while securing a sufficient strong biting distance at the time of performing strong biting. Accordingly, the mouth guard (the user) can easily perform strong biting at the time of performing strong biting thus exhibiting a sufficient strong biting function.

[0092] The first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion are protruding portions formed at the position of the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition. These first and second molar protruding portions protrude downward (in a case of the maxillary dentition) or upward (in a case of the mandibular dentition) and have a gap inside thereof. The first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion are pressed from a downward side or from an upward side and are pushed into the gap inside the protruding portion by the opposedly facing molars at the time of strong biting and hence, a user can bite with a sufficient biting distance whereby the user can strongly bite. Further, at this point of time, the first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion are soft and hence, a load to a tooth (a pain) can be reduced whereby the user can strongly bite to a reasonable extent.

[0093] As the shape of the first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion, for example, a semispherical shape, a frustoconical shape, a circular pillar shape and the like are named.

[0094] The shape of the gap formed in the first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion is not particularly limited, and usually is a shape that corresponds to the shape of the protruding portions. For example, in a case where the shape of the first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion are a semispherical shape, the gap in the first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion is formed into a semispherical shape. A buffered material may be filled in the inside of the first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion. As the buffer material, it is preferable to use a material softer than a material for forming by molding the entire mouth guard. For example, a sponge made of urethane or the like is named.[Portion that is Positioned at Anterior Occlusal Portion of Anterior Tooth]

[0095] In the mouth guard according to the second embodiment, as described above, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion. Further, the mouth guard may be a mouth guard where a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at an anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior occlusal portion of the anterior tooth. That is, in the mouth guard according to the second embodiment, it is further preferable that the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition be formed into a shape where, when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, a gap is formed between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth. In such a configuration, the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth means surface portions of the teeth that are brought into contact with each other when the anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition and the anterior tooth of the mandibular dentition bite each other. The portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth is formed so as to form a gap and hence, when the anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition and the anterior tooth of the mandibular dentition bite each other, the gap portion of the mouth guard according to the present invention supports the contacting anterior tooth and hence, a load to other teeth such as the molar teeth and the like can be dispersed whereby the user can maintain a relaxed state without generating a strong biting force. As the anterior tooth that forms the gap of the mouth guard, it is preferable to use the central incisor (incisor), and it is particularly preferable to use two central incisors of the maxillary dentition and the mandibular dentition. In case of a baby tooth, a desired gap is formed in a baby tooth corresponding to an anterior tooth. Further, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of anterior tooth has substantially the same configuration described with respect to the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth of the mouth guard according to the above-mentioned first embodiment and hence, the description of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of anterior tooth is omitted.[Mouth Guard According to Third Embodiment]

[0096] As described above, the mouth guard according to the first embodiment is configured such that a gap is formed between the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar and the valley portion. On the other hand, as described above, the mouth guard according to the second embodiment is configured such that a gap is formed between the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion. The mouth guard according to the first present invention and the mouth guard according to the second present invention may be combined with each other. That is, in the mouth guard according to the third embodiment, the portion of the mouthguard that is positioned in the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar is formed into a shape that forms a space between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion, and further, the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar is formed in a shape that forms a space between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion. The portion of the mouth guard positioned in the valley portion of the premolar has substantially the same configuration as the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned in the valley portion of the premolar of the mouth guard according to the above-mentioned first present invention, and the portion that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar has substantially the same configuration as the portion positioned at the valley portion of the molar in the mouth guard of the above-mentioned second present invention.

[0097] To be more specific, for example, the mouth guard according to the third present invention is a mouth guard having the following mode is named. That is the mouth guard according to the third present invention is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to individual teeth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of a user, is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, and has a thickness of 0.1 mm to 5.0 mm. The portion of the mouth guard positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition is formed into a shape where a space is formed between the portion of the mouth guard and at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar is formed at the time of mounting the mouth guard to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user. Further, the portion of the mouth guard positioned in the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition is formed into a shape that forms a space between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar at the time of mounting the mouth guard on the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user.

[0098] It is sufficient that the mouth guard according to the third present invention is a mouth guard where the space is formed between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar and, at the same time, the space is formed between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar. As the combination of molar teeth by which the space is formed together with the portion of the mouth guard, for example, “the first premolar and the first molar”, “the first premolar and the second molar”, “the second premolar and the first molar”, “the second premolar and the second molar”, “the first premolar, the second premolar and the first molar”, “the first premolar, the second premolar and the second molar”, “the first premolar, the first molar and the second molar”, “the second premolar, the first molar and the second molar”, “the first premolar, the second premolar and the first molar, the second molar” and the like are named.

[0099] Also in the mouth guard according to the third present invention, in the same manner as the mouth guards according to the first and second present inventions, the portion of the mouth guard positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of the anterior tooth is formed into a shape that forms a space between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth.[Method of Manufacturing Mouth Guard]

[0100] The mouth guard according to the above-mentioned present invention can be manufactured using a dentition model formed by molding corresponding to a maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, and digital data of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user.

[0101] To be more specific, in a case where the mouth guard is manufactured using the dentition model, the following methods are named. A space forming model is installed in a valley portion of at least one of a first premolar and a second premolar of a dentition model formed by molding, and the dentition model in which the space forming model is installed is covered by a heated thermoplastic resin sheet, and the thermoplastic resin sheet is sucked by vacuum thus forming by molding the thermoplastic resin sheet into a shape that conforms to an outer profile of the teeth portions of the dentition model (the method of manufacturing the mouth guard according to the first present invention). A space forming model is installed in a valley portion of at least one of a first molar and a second molar of a dentition model formed by molding, the dentition model in which the space forming model is formed is covered by a heated thermoplastic resin sheet, and the thermoplastic resin sheet is sucked by vacuum thus forming the thermoplastic resin sheet into a shape that conforms to profile of the teeth portions of the dentition model (method of manufacturing the mouth guard according to the second present invention). A space forming model is installed in a valley portion of at least one of a first premolar and a second premolar of a dentition model formed by molding and in a valley portion of at least one of a first molar and a second molar of the dentition model, the dentition model in which space forming models are installed is covered by a heated thermoplastic resin sheet, the thermoplastic resin sheet is sucked by vacuum, and the thermoplastic resin sheet is formed into a shape that conforms to a profile of teeth portions of the dentition model (the method of manufacturing a mouth guard according to the third present invention). In this case, portions of the mouth guard that are positioned in the valley portion of the premolar and the valley portion of the molar are formed by molding using a gap forming model that is installed on the dentition model, and the spaces are formed by molding between the portions of the mouth guard and the valley portions. As the shape of the space forming model, for example, a spherical shape, a semispherical shape, a frustoconical shape, a circular pillar shape, a triangular pillar shape, a circular conical shape, an angular conical shape and the like can be named. In the same manner as the position of the mouth guard that is positioned in the valley portion of the premolar and the portion of the mouth guard positioned in the valley portion of the molar, a space forming model is installed in an anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth, and a portion of a mouth guard positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of the anterior tooth can be also formed by molding. Further, in place of vacuum suction, it may be also possible to adopt a method where a thermoplastic resin in a liquid form is sprayed to a dentition model, and the thermoplastic resin is formed by molding into a shape that conforms to a profile of teeth portions of the dentition model.

[0102] Hereinafter, one embodiment of the mouth guards according to the first to the third present inventions is specifically described using drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment.

[0103] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a mouth guard according to the first embodiment of the first present invention, wherein (a) illustrates a state before the mouth guard is attached to, and (b) illustrates a state where the mouth guard is attached to. FIG. 2 is a side view of the mouth guard illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a first premolar portion when the mouth guard illustrated in FIG. 1 is attached to, wherein (a) illustrates a state where a user does not bite strongly, and (b) illustrates a state where the user bites strongly. FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 are views where a maxillary dentition of the user is viewed from a lower jaw side. Further, FIG. 3 is a view as viewed in a direction from an anterior teeth side to a posterior teeth side.

[0104] As illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment of the first present invention is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to a maxillary dentition A of the user using a thermoplastic resin sheet, and is used in a state where the mouth guard 1 is attached to the maxillary dentition A of the user. The mouth guard 1 includes first premolar protruding portions 12a, 12b at portions 10a, 10b that are positioned in valley portions of first premolars B of the maxillary dentition A, and second premolar protruding portions 16a, 16b at portions 14a, 14b of the mouth guard 1 positioned in valley portions of second premolars C, that is, the portions 10, 14 positioned in the valley portions of the first premolar B and the second premolar C of the maxillary dentition A have a convex shape in cross section.

[0105] The entirety of the mouth guard 1 is integrally formed by molding into a horseshoe shape, and individual portions are formed by molding into shapes of teeth of the user. As illustrated in FIG. 1 (b), the mouth guard 1 is configured to be fitted on and to cover the teeth when the mouth guard 1 is attached to.

[0106] The thermoplastic resin sheet used in the manufacture of the mouth guard 1 is an ethylene-vinyl acetate resin sheet. A thickness of the ethylene-vinyl acetate resin sheet before molding is approximately 0.5 mm, and a thickness of a portion of the mouth guard 1 after molding that covers the tooth (a thickness of the ethylene-vinyl acetate resin sheet after molding) is approximately 0.45 mm.

[0107] The mouth guard 1 includes an inner fold portion 18 on a palatal side (an inner side) of teeth, and an outer fold portion 20 on a buccal side, a labial side (an outer side) of teeth. The inner fold portion 18 and the outer fold portion 20 extend from a lower end (tooth neck portion) of a coronal portion to a gingival side, and have a length of approximately 8 mm.

[0108] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the first premolar protruding portion 12a is a portion that protrudes downward (a lower jaw side) by a distance between an outer surface 24 of the first premolar protruding portion 12a and a bottom of the valley portion 26 of the first premolar B of approximately 2.1 mm (distance X). Due to the existence of such a protruding portion, the gap 22 is formed between the first premolar protruding portion 12a and the valley portion 26 of the first premolar B. Further, the first premolar protruding portion 12a has a semispherical gap 23 in the inside thereof. The second premolar protruding portion 16a has substantially the same configuration.

[0109] In the mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment of the first present invention described above, the portions 10, 14 that are positioned at the valley portion of the first premolar B and the second premolar C include the first premolar protruding portion 12 and the second premolar protruding portion 16 thus forming gaps. With such a configuration, a sufficient strongly biting distance can be held between the protruding portions of the first premolar protruding portion 12 and the second premolar protruding portion 16 and the gap portions and hence, at the time of strongly biting (FIG. 3(b)), the mouth guard 1 can strongly bite and can exhibit a sufficiently strong biting function. Further, the mouth guard 1 is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to the dentition of the user using a thin ethylene vinyl acetate resin sheet and hence, even when the user cannot strongly bite (FIG. 3(a)), the user can easily perform breathing, can easily perform conversation, and can easily take necessary water. Further, the user does not feel nauseated. That is, the mouth guard 1 possesses a sufficient strong biting function and, at the same time, does not obstruct the user's breathing, and exhibits excellent wearability. Further, in the mouth guard 1, the first premolar protruding portion 12 and the second premolar protruding portion 16 are disposed at the position of the first premolar B and the position of the second premolar C, and the gaps are formed between the first premolar protruding portion 12 and the second premolar protruding portion 16 and the first premolar B and the second premolar C and hence, a load (a pain) that the patient feels at the time of strongly biting can be suppressed compared to the case where the first premolar protruding portion 12 and the second premolar protruding portion 16 are formed at the position of the molars D, F. Accordingly, the patient can strongly bite and, at the same time, can use the mouth guard 1 for a long time.

[0110] Subsequently, the method of manufacturing the mouth guard according to the first present invention is described. In the description made hereinafter, FIG. 4 is an explanatory view of the method of manufacturing the mouth guard according to the first present invention, wherein (a) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the first premolar portion of the mouth guard according to a first embodiment, (b) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a first premolar portion of a mouth guard according to a second embodiment, and (c) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a first premolar portion of a mouth guard 1 according to a third embodiment. In FIG. 4(a) to FIG. 4(c), an upper stage illustrates a state where a mouth guard covers a dentition model on which a gap forming mold is attached to, and a lower stage illustrates a state where the mouth guard is removed from the dentition model. Further, (a) to (c) are views as viewed in a direction from an interior teeth side direction toward a posterior teeth side.

[0111] In the first present invention, the mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment is configured such that the portions of the mouth guard that are positioned on the valley portions of the first premolar B and the second premolar C of the maxillary dentition and the mandibular dentition have a convex cross-sectional shape. The mouth guard 2 according to the second embodiment is configured such that the portions of the mouth guard that are positioned on the valley portions of the first premolar B and the second premolar C of the maxillary dentition and the mandibular dentition have a U-shaped cross-sectional shape. The mouth guard 3 according to the third embodiment is configured such that the portions of the mouth guard that are positioned on the valley portions of the first premolar B and the second premolar C of the maxillary dentition and the mandibular dentition have a flat cross-sectional shape.

[0112] First, the method of manufacturing the mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment of the first present invention described above is described.

[0113] As illustrated in FIG. 4(a), a spherical body 30 having a diameter of approximately 1.5 mm that forms a gap forming mold is disposed in the valley portion 28 of the first premolar F of the dentition model formed by molding, the dentition model on which the spherical body 30 is disposed is covered by a heated thermoplastic sheet, and a vacuum suction is applied thus forming the thermoplastic sheet into a shape that conforms to an outer shape of the teeth portions of the teeth model. Accordingly, the mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment where the portion of the mouth guard 1 that is positioned in the valley portion of the premolar portion has a convex cross-sectional shape is manufactured.

[0114] Next, the mouth guard 2 according to the second embodiment of the first present invention described above is described. The description of the constitutional members that are substantially identical to the corresponding constitutional members of the above-mentioned mouth guard 1 is omitted by giving the same symbols.

[0115] As illustrated in FIG. 4(b), in the manufacture of the mouth guard 2 according to the second embodiment, a gap forming mold 32 having a shape that extends in a longitudinal direction along a valley portion (a groove) of a premolar having an inverse triangular cross section (a shape obtained by inverting a triangular pillar) and having a height slightly lower than a corresponding height in the third embodiment described later is used. By performing a vacuum suction in the same manner as the above-mentioned first embodiment, the mouth guard 2 where the portion of the mouth guard 2 positioned at the valley portion of the premolar has a U-s shaped cross section is manufactured.

[0116] Next, the mouth guard 3 according to the third embodiment of the first present invention described above is described. The description of the constitutional members that are substantially identical to the corresponding constitutional members of the above-mentioned mouth guard 1 is omitted by giving the same symbols.

[0117] As illustrated in FIG. 4(c), in the manufacture of the mouth guard 3 according to the third embodiment, a gap forming mold 34 having a shape where that extends in a longitudinal direction along a valley portion (a groove) of a premolar having an inverse triangular cross section (a shape obtained by inverting a triangular pillar) and having a height higher than a corresponding height in the second embodiment described is used. By performing a vacuum suction in the same manner as the above-mentioned first embodiment, the mouth guard 3 where the portion of the mouth guard 3 positioned at the valley portion of the premolar has a flat cross section is manufactured.

[0118] In the mouth guards 1 to 3 manufactured by the manufacturing method of the present invention, the gap portion 22 that the portions positioned at the valley portions of the first premolar portion B and the second premolar portion C perform a buffer function while securing a sufficient strong biting distance and hence, the mouth guards 1 to 3 can easily perform strong biting at the time of performing strong biting whereby the mouth guards 1 to 3 can exhibit a sufficient biting function.

[0119] Next, mouth guards according to the fourth to sixth embodiment of the first present invention are described.

[0120] In the description made hereinafter, FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the mouth guard according to the fourth embodiment of the first present invention. FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a central incisor portion when a mouth guard according to the fourth embodiment of the first present invention is attached to, wherein (a) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the central incisor of the mouth guard according to the fourth embodiment, (b) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the central incisor of the mouth guard according to the fifth embodiment, and (c) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the central incisor of the mouth guard according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 5 is a view of a maxillary dentition of a user as viewed from a lower jaw side, and FIG. 6 is a view as viewed in a direction of a left buccal side illustrating a state where a central incisor of the mandibular dentition is brought into contact with the mouth guard.

[0121] This embodiment is substantially equal to the mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention except for a point that a premolar protruding portion having a gap inside thereof is formed on the portion of the mouth guard 1 positioned at a premolar occlusal portion of the anterior teeth of the maxillary dentition. The description of the constitutional members that are substantially identical to the corresponding constitutional members of the above-mentioned mouth guard 1 of the first embodiment of the first present invention is omitted ted while giving the same symbols.

[0122] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the mouth guard 4 according to the fourth embodiment of the first present invention includes anterior teeth protruding portions 38a, 38b having a gap therein on portions 36a, 36b that are positioned at an anterior occlusal portion on a back side of the central incisors (anterior teeth) G of the maxillary dentition A. As illustrated in FIG. 6(a), the anterior tooth protruding portion 38b (38a) is a portion where a distance between an outer surface 40 of the anterior tooth protruding portion 38a (38b) and the anterior occlusal portion 42 (the surface of the tooth) of the central incisor protrudes toward a lower jaw side by approximately 2.1 mm (distance Y). With the existence of such a protruding portion, a gap 44 is formed between the protruding portion and the anterior occlusal portion of the central incisor G.

[0123] As illustrated in FIG. 6(b), the mouth guard 5 according to the fifth embodiment of the first present invention further includes an anterior tooth protruding portion 48 having a gap 44 therein on a portion 46 positioned at the tooth occlusal portion on a front side of the central incisor G of the maxillary dentition A.

[0124] As illustrated in FIG. 6(c), the mouth guard 6 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention further includes an anterior tooth protruding portion 52 having a gap therein on a portion 50 positioned at the tooth occlusal portion on a distal end side of the central incisor G of the maxillary dentition A.

[0125] The mouth guards 4 to 6 according to the fourth embodiment to the sixth embodiment of the present invention include the anterior tooth protruding portion 38, 48, 52 having a non-flat cross-sectional shape that forms the gap respectively. Accordingly, when the upper teeth and the lower teeth bite each other, the anterior tooth protruding portion 38, 48, 52 supports the anterior tooth with which the anterior tooth protruding portion 38, 48, 52 is brought into contact. Accordingly, a load applied to other teeth such as molar teeth can be dispersed and hence, a user can perform biting in a relaxed manner without biting strongly.

[0126] Next, a mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment of the second present invention is described. In the description made hereinafter, FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment of the second present invention, wherein (a) illustrates a state before the mouth guard is attached to, and (b) illustrates a state where the mouth guard is being attached to. FIG. 8 is a side view of the mouth guard illustrated in FIG. 7. FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 are views of a maxillary dentition A of a user as viewed from a lower jaw side. In this embodiment, this embodiment differs from the first embodiment of the above-mentioned first present invention with respect to a point that the mouth guard includes a first molar protruding portion and a second molar protruding portion each protrude upward and have a gap therein at position of valley portion on a first molar and a second molar of the maxillary dentition.

[0127] As illustrated in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, the mouth guard 4 according to the first embodiment of the second present invention is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to a maxillary dentition A of a user using a thermoplastic resin sheet, and is used by being attached to the maxillary dentition A of the user. The mouth guard 4 includes first molar protruding portions 112a, 112b on portions 110a, 110b that are positioned at valley portions of first molars D of the maxillary dentition A, and also includes second molar protruding portions 116a, 116b on portions 114a, 114b that are positioned at valley portions of second molars E of the maxillary dentition A. That is, the portions 110, 114 that are positioned at the valley portions of the first molars D and the second molars E of the maxillary dentition A are formed into a convex cross-sectional shape.

[0128] The entirety of the mouth guard 4 is formed into a horseshoe shape by integral molding and, at the same time, individual portions of the mouth guard 4 are formed into shapes of teeth of a user. As illustrated in FIG. 7 (b), the mouth guard 4 is configured to engage with the teeth by fitting engagement when the mouth guard 4 is attached to.

[0129] A thermoplastic resin sheet used in the manufacture of the mouth guard 4 is an ethylene-vinyl acetate resin sheet. A thickness of the ethylene-vinyl acetate resin sheet before molding is approximately 0.5 mm, and a thickness of a portion of the mouth guard 4 after molding that covers the tooth (a thickness of the ethylene-vinyl acetate resin sheet after molding) is approximately 0.45 mm.

[0130] The mouth guard 4 includes an inner fold portion 18 on a palatal side (an inner side) of teeth, and an outer fold portion 20 on a buccal side, a labial side (an outer side) of teeth. The inner fold portion 18 and the outer fold portion 20 extend from a lower end (tooth neck portion) of a coronal portion to a gingival side, and have a length of approximately 8 mm.

[0131] The first molar protruding portion 112a is a portion that protrudes downward (a lower jaw side) by a distance between an outer surface of the first molar protruding portion 112a and a bottom of a valley portion of a first molar D of approximately 2.1 mm. Due to the existence of such a protruding portion, a gap is formed between the mouth guard 4 and the first molar D. Further, the first molar protruding portion 112a has a semispherical gap in the inside thereof. The second molar protruding portion 116a has substantially the same configuration.

[0132] The first molar protruding portions 112a, 112b and the second molar protruding portions 116a, 116b have substantially the same configuration as the first molar protruding portions 12a, 12b and the second molar protruding portions 16a, 16b of the mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment of the first present invention and hence, the description of these portions is omitted from the drawing (see FIG. 3).

[0133] In the mouth guard 4 according to the first embodiment of the second present invention, the portions 110, 114 of the mouth guard that are positioned at the valley portions of the first molar D and the second molar E include the first molar protruding portion 12 and the second molar protruding portion 16 and form the gaps. With such a configuration, the protruding portions of the first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion and the gap portion secure the sufficient biting distance. Accordingly, the mouth guard 4 can easily bite at the time of biting whereby the mouth guard 4 can exhibit a sufficient biting function. Further, the mouth guard 4 is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to the dentition of a user using a thin ethylene vinyl acetate resin sheet and hence, the entirety of the mouth guard 4 does not have a large thickness. Accordingly, even when the user cannot perform strong biting, the user can easily perform breathing, can easily perform conversation, can easily take water, and does not feel nauseated. That is, the mouth guard 4 has a sufficient biting function. Further, the mouth guard 4 does not obstruct breathing and hence, the user can have excellent mounting feeling. Still further, the mouth guard 4 can prevent external injury, and can prevent damages on teeth and gum caused by a biting pressure generated at the time of biting strongly or clenching.

[0134] Subsequently, the method of manufacturing the mouth guard 4 according to the first embodiment of the second present invention is described.

[0135] The method of manufacturing the mouth guard 4 according to the first embodiment of the second present invention is substantially equal to the method of manufacturing the mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment of the first present invention and hence, the illustration of the method is omitted (see FIG. 4(a)).

[0136] A spherical body 31 having a diameter of approximately 1.5 mm that forms a gap forming mold is disposed in the valley portion of the first molar D of the dentition model formed by molding, the dentition model on which the spherical body is disposed is covered by a heated thermoplastic resin sheet, and a vacuum suction is applied thus forming the thermoplastic sheet into a shape that conforms to an outer shape of the teeth portions of the teeth model. Accordingly, the mouth guard 4 according to the first embodiment of the second present invention where the portion of the mouth guard 4 that is positioned in the valley portion of the molar has a convex cross-sectional shape is manufactured.

[0137] Subsequently, the mouth guard according to the second embodiment of the second present invention is described. In the description made hereinafter, FIG. 9 is a schematic view of the mouth guard according to the second embodiment of the second present invention. FIG. 9 is a view of a maxillary dentition of a user as viewed from a mandibular dentition. In this embodiment, the mouth guard according to the second embodiment of the second present invention is substantially equal to the mouth guard according to the first embodiment of the second present invention except for a point that a mouth guard 5 has an anterior tooth protruding portion having a gap at positions of portions that are positioned at an anterior tooth occluding portion of anterior teeth of the maxillary dentition, besides positions that are disposed at valley portions of premolar. Further, the description of the constitutional members that are substantially identical to the corresponding constitutional members of the above-mentioned mouth guard 1 of the first embodiment of the above-mentioned second present invention is omitted by giving the same symbols.

[0138] As illustrated in FIG. 9, the mouth guard 5 according to the second embodiment of the second present invention includes the anterior teeth protruding portions 138a, 138b having a gap therein at portions 136a, 136b that are positioned at the anterior teeth occlusal portion on a back side of the central incisors G of the mandibular dentition A. The anterior teeth protruding portions 138a, 138b of the mouth guard 5 according to the second embodiment of the second present invention have substantially the same configuration as the anterior teeth protruding portions 38a, 38b of the mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment of the above-mentioned first present invention and hence, the illustration of the anterior teeth protruding portions 138a, 138b is omitted (FIG. 6(a)).

[0139] The mouth guard 5 according to the second embodiment of the second present invention includes the anterior teeth protruding portions 138a, 138b of a non-flat cross-sectional shape each forming a gap therein. With such a configuration, when the maxillary dentition and the maxillary dentition clenched each other, the anterior teeth protruding portions 138a, 138b support the anterior teeth that are in contact with the anterior teeth protruding portions 138a, 138b and hence, a load applied to other teeth such as molar teeth are dispersed whereby a user can bite in a relaxed state without biting strongly.

[0140] Next, a mouth guard according to the third embodiment is described. In the description made hereinafter, FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the mouth guard according to the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a view of a maxillary dentition of a user as viewed from a mandibular side. In this embodiment, the mouth guard includes first molar protruding portions and second molar protruding portions that each protrude upward and have a gap therein at positions of valley portions on a first premolar and a second premolar of the maxillary dentition and at valley portions of a first molar and a second molar of the maxillary dentition. The description of the constitutional members that are substantially identical to the corresponding constitutional members of the mouth guard 1 of the first embodiment of the above-mentioned first present invention and the corresponding constitutional members of the mouth guard 4 of the first embodiment of the above-mentioned second present invention is omitted by giving the same symbols.

[0141] As illustrated in FIG. 10, a mouth guard 6 according to the third embodiment includes first premolar protruding portions 12a, 12b at portions 10a, 10b that are positioned at valley portions of first premolars B of a maxillary dentition A, includes second premolar protruding portions 16a, 16b at portions 14a, 14b that are positioned at valley portions of second premolars C of a maxillary dentition A, includes first molar protruding portions 112a, 112b at portions 110a, 110b that are positioned at valley portions of first molars D of the maxillary dentition A, and includes second molar protruding portions 116a, 116b at portions 114a, 114b that are positioned at the valley portions of second molars E.EXAMPLE

[0142] Using the mouth guard in the first and second embodiments, a biting force, motility and wearability are evaluated.Example 1[Manufacturing Method]

[0143] The mouth guard of the first invention was prepared in such a manner that a spherical ball having a diameter of approximately 1.5 mm was disposed in valley portions of a first premolar and a second premolar of a dentition model that was formed by molding corresponding to a maxillary dentition of a user (a subject who experienced the example 1), the dentition model on which the spherical ball was disposed was covered by an ethylene vinyl acetate sheet having a thickness of approximately 0.5 mm, and a vacuum suction was performed so as to form the mouth guard by molding into a shape that conforms to an external shape of teeth portions of the dentition model.[Biting Strength Measurement]

[0144] Using a dental press scale II (manufactured by GC Corporation), a maximum biting strength when the mouth guard the first present invention was attached to and a maximum biting strength when the mouth guard was not attached to were measured. The measurement was performed with respect to healthy five men and women in twenties to fifties (subjects 1 to 5).

[0145] The result of the measurement is indicated in Table 1.TABLE 1Biting force when Biting force when user user mounts does not mount Subjectmouth guardmouth guard11506.2N860.1N2  2127N  925N31400.2N  920N4  1705N  925N5  1200N  753N

[0146] As can be understood from Table 1, it was found that a biting force is enhanced when the user wears the mouth guard according to the first present invention.[Motility Evaluation]

[0147] The evaluation of motility was performed based on the increase or the decrease of the number of times of squats and the number of times of side-to-side jumps performed by the subjects when the subject wears the mouth guard and when the subject does not wear the mouth guard. As a result, with respect to the squats, it was found that the number of times of squats when user wears the mouth guard was increased by 10 to 30% compared to the number of times of squats when the user does not wear the mouth guard. With respect to the side-to side jumps, it was found that the number of times of side-to side jumps when user weas the mouth guard was increased by 15% compared to the number of times of side-by-side jumps when the user does not wear the mouth guard.

[0148] From the above-mentioned result, it was found that the mouth guard of the first present invention can enhance the motility performance when the user wears the mouth guard.[Wearability Evaluation]

[0149] A survey was conducted to gather feedbacks from the subjects 1 to 5 with respect to wearability when each subject wears the mouth guard of the first present invention.

[0150] The evaluation “very good” was given when the subject felt no discomfort and felt that it is easy to breathe and performs conversation. The evaluation “good” was given when the subject felt discomfort but of a level that causes no problem in practical use, and felt that it is easy to breathe and perform conversation. The evaluation “fair” was given when the subject felt a slight discomfort and felt that it was slightly difficult to breathe, and the evaluation “bad” was given when the subject felt a discomfort and became uneasy in wearing the mouth guard.

[0151] The result is indicated in Table 2TABLE 2SubjectWearing feeling1very good2good3very good4very good5very good

[0152] As indicated in Table 2, it is found that the mouth guard of the first present invention is excellent in wearing feeling.Example 2[Manufacturing Method]

[0153] The mouth guard of the second invention was prepared substantially in the same manner as the example 1 except for that a spherical ball having a diameter of approximately 1.5 mm was disposed in valley portions of a first molar and a second molar of a dentition model that was formed by molding corresponding to a maxillary dentition of a user (a subject who experienced the example 2).[Biting Strength Measurement]

[0154] Using a dental press scale II (manufactured by GC Corporation), a maximum biting strength when the mouth guard the second present invention was attached to and a maximum biting strength when the mouth guard was not attached to were measured. The measurement was performed with respect to healthy three men and women in twenties to fifties (subjects A to C).

[0155] The result of the measurement is indicated in Table 3.TABLE 3Biting force when Biting force when user mounts user does not mount Subjectmouth guardmouth guardA  1665N 875NB  1705N 925NC2000.2N1200N

[0156] As can be understood from Table 3, it was found that a biting force is enhanced when the user wears the mouth guard according to the second present invention.[Wearability Evaluation]

[0157] A survey was conducted to gather feedbacks from the subjects A to C with respect to wearability when each subject wears the mouth guard of the second present invention.

[0158] The evaluation “very good” was given when the subject felt no discomfort and felt that it is easy to breathe and performs conversation. The evaluation “good” was given when the subject felt discomfort but of a level that causes no problem in practical use, and felt that it is easy to breathe and perform conversation. The evaluation “fair” was given when the subject felt a slight discomfort and felt that it was slightly difficult to breathe, and the evaluation “bad” was given when the subject felt a discomfort and became uneasy in wearing the mouth guard.

[0159] The result is indicated in Table 4TABLE 4SubjectWearing feelingAgoodBgoodCgood

[0160] As indicated in Table 4, it is found that the mouth guard of the second present invention is excellent in wearing feeling.INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0161] The mouth guard according to the present invention can be used as a mouth guard in sport athletics and hence, the mouth guard is industrially useful.REFERENCE SIGNS LIST1 mouth guard (first embodiment of first present invention)

[0163] 2 mouth guard (second embodiment of first present invention)

[0164] 3 mouth guard (third embodiment of first present invention)

[0165] 4 mouth guard (first embodiment of second present invention)

[0166] 5 mouth guard (second embodiment of second present invention)

[0167] 6 mouth guard (embodiment of third present invention)

[0168] 10 portion that is positioned in valley portion of first premolar B

[0169] 12 first premolar protruding portion

[0170] 14 portion that is positioned in valley portion of second premolar C

[0171] 16 second premolar protruding portion

[0172] 18 inner fold portion

[0173] 20 outer fold portion

[0174] 22 gap

[0175] 23 gap

[0176] 24 outer surface of first premolar protruding portion 12a

[0177] 26 valley portion of first premolar B

[0178] 28 valley portion of first premolar F of dentition model

[0179] 30 spherical body

[0180] 32 gap forming mold

[0181] 34 gap forming mold

[0182] 36 portion that is positioned at anterior occlusal portion on back side of central incisor G 38 anterior tooth protruding portion

[0183] 40 outer surface of anterior tooth protruding portion 38b

[0184] 42 anterior occlusal portion of central incisor G

[0185] 44 gap

[0186] 46 portion that is positioned at anterior occlusal portion on front side of central incisor G

[0187] 48 anterior tooth protruding portion

[0188] 50 portion that is positioned at anterior occlusal portion on distal end side of central incisor G

[0189] 52 anterior tooth protruding portion

[0190] 110 portion that is positioned in valley portion of first molar D

[0191] 112 first molar protruding portion

[0192] 114 portion that is positioned in valley portion of second molar E

[0193] 116 second molar protruding portion

[0194] 118 inner fold portion

[0195] 120 outer fold portion

[0196] 136 portion that is positioned at anterior occlusal portion on back side of central incisor G

[0197] 138 anterior tooth protruding portion

[0198] A maxillary dentition

[0199] B first premolar

[0200] C second premolar

[0201] D first molar

[0202] E second molar

[0203] F first premolar of dentition model

[0204] G central incisor (anterior tooth)

Examples

first embodiment

[Mouth Guard ]

[0054]The mouth guard according to the first embodiment is a mouth guard having a thickness of 0.1 to 5.0 mm that is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds individual teeth of an maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, and is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first premolar and a second premolar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar.

[0055]In the mouth guard according to the first present invention, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the seco...

second embodiment

[Mouth Guard ]

[0080]The mouth guard according to the second embodiment is a mouth guard having a thickness of 0.1 to 5.0 mm that is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds individual teeth of an maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, and is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first molar and a second molar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar.

[0081]In the mouth guard according to the second present invention, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar of t...

third embodiment

[Mouth Guard ]

[0096]As described above, the mouth guard according to the first embodiment is configured such that a gap is formed between the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar and the valley portion. On the other hand, as described above, the mouth guard according to the second embodiment is configured such that a gap is formed between the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion. The mouth guard according to the first present invention and the mouth guard according to the second present invention may be combined with each other. That is, in the mouth guard according to the third embodiment, the portion of the mouthguard that is positioned in the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar is formed into a shape t...

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a mouth guard used in sport competition and the like.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Conventionally, in a contact sport that demands players to perform a play with a strenuous motion such as boxing, rugby or American football, to prevent a player from having a wound on his / her teeth or in his / her mouth or brain concussion due to an impact that the player receives from the outside, a mouth guard has been used. Further, it has been also known that a mouth guard has sport ability enhancing effects such as an effect of allowing a user to improve biting itself, an effect of allowing a user to generate a strong biting force, or an effect of allowing a user to increase his / her concentration. Accordingly, recently, a mouth guard has started to be used in so-called non-contact sports such as golf, ping pong, swimming, tennis and the like where a player neither receives a direct contact or a strong impact on his / her body from the outside.

[0003] As such a mouth guard, for example, there has been proposed a mouth guard that covers at least teeth between left and right first molars on an upper jaw or a lower jaw wherein, on either occlusal surface out of a left occlusal surface covering portion that covers an occlusal surface ranging from the left first molar to a left premolar or a right occlusal surface covering portion that covers an occlusal surface ranging from the right first molar to a right premolar, a groove having a fixed width that penetrates from a buccal side to a tongue side is formed (see patent literature 1).CITATION LISTPatent Literature

[0004] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2022-080136SUMMARY OF INVENTIONTechnical Problem

[0005] However, conventional mouth guards including the mouth guard described in the above-mentioned patent literature 1 are configured such that the entirety of the mouth guard has a large thickness to absorb an impact thus giving rise to drawbacks such as a drawback that strong biting is difficult when a user intends to perform strong biting, a drawback that breathing is difficult when it is unnecessary for a user to perform strong biting, a drawback that conversation is difficult, a drawback that taking necessary water is difficult, and a drawback that a user feels nauseated by a chance.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned circumstances, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a mouth guard that allows a user to easily perform strong biting at the time of performing strong biting and is excellent in wearing feeling.Solution to Problem

[0007] The inventor of the present invention has made extensive studies to solve these problems. As a result of the studies, the inventor has found that, by forming a mouth guard of a thin wall thickness type having a shape capable of forming a gap between the mouth guard and a valley portion of a molar tooth, the gap ensures a sufficient strong biting distance and performs a buffering function, a user can easily perform strong biting at the time of performing strong biting, and the mouth guard gives a comfortable wearing feeling to a user. The inventor has arrived at the present invention based on such finding.

[0008] Specifically, the present invention is as follows.

[0009] [1] A mouth guard that is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds individual teeth of a maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, and is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, the mouth guard having a thickness of 0.1 to 5.0 mm, wherein

[0010] a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one molar tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion and the valley portion of the molar tooth.

[0011] [2] The mouth guard according to [1], wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first premolar and a second premolar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar.

[0012] [3] The mouth guard according to [2], wherein the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar has either a convex cross-sectional shape or a U-shaped cross-sectional shape.

[0013] [4] The mouth guard according to [2] or [3], wherein a distance between an outer surface of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar and a bottom of the valley portion of the premolar is 1.0 to 5.5 mm.

[0014] [5] The mouth guard according to any one of [2] to [4], wherein the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned in the valley portion of the premolar has a convex cross-sectional shape that includes a first premolar protruding portion and a second premolar protruding portion each having a gap therein.

[0015] [6] The mouth guard according to any one of [2] to [5], wherein a buffer material is disposed on an inner surface of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar.

[0016] [7] The mouth guard according to any one of [2] to [6], wherein the mouth guard is formed by molding using an ethylene vinyl acetate resin.

[0017] [8] The mouth guard according to any one of [2] to [7], wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at an anterior tooth occlusal portion (anterior occlusal portion) of an anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user.

[0018] [9] The mouth guard according to [8], wherein the portion that is positioned at the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth has a shape selected from a group consisting of a convex cross-sectional shape, a U-shaped cross-sectional shape, and a flat cross-sectional shape.

[0019]

[10] The mouth guard according to [8] or [9], wherein the portion that is positioned at the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth has a convex cross-sectional shape that includes an anterior tooth protruding portion (anterior protruding portion) having a gap therein.

[0020]

[11] The mouth guard according to any one of [8] to

[10] , wherein a buffer material is provided to an inner surface side of the portion that is positioned at the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth.

[0021]

[12] The mouth guard according to any one of [8] to

[11] , wherein the anterior tooth is a central incisor.

[0022]

[13] The mouth guard according to any one of [2] to

[12] , wherein the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least a first molar and a second molar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition has a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user.

[0023]

[14] A method of manufacturing a mouth guard comprising mounting a gap forming mold in a valley portion of at least one of a first premolar and a second premolar of a dentition model that is formed by molding corresponding to a maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, covering the dentition model on which the gap forming mold is mounted by a heated thermoplastic resin sheet, and applying a vacuum suction to the thermoplastic resin sheet thus forming the thermoplastic sheet into a shape that conforms to an outer shape of the teeth portions of the dentition model.

[0024]

[15] The method of manufacturing a mouth guard according to

[14] , wherein, in addition to the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar of the dentition model, a gap forming model is mounted in an anterior tooth occlusal portion of an anterior tooth.

[0025]

[16] The method of manufacturing a mouth guard according to

[15] , wherein the anterior tooth is a central incisor.

[0026]

[17] The mouth guard according to [1], wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first molar and a second molar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar.

[0027]

[18] The mouth guard according to

[17] , wherein the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar has either a convex cross-sectional shape or a U-shaped cross-sectional shape.

[0028]

[19] The mouth guard according to or

[18] , wherein a distance between an outer surface of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar and a bottom of the valley portion of the molar is 1.0 to 6.5 mm.

[0029]

[20] The mouth guard according to any one of to

[19] , wherein the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned in the valley portion of the molar has a convex cross-sectional shape that includes a first molar protruding portion and a second molar protruding portion each having a gap therein.

[0030]

[21] The mouth guard according to any one of to

[20] , wherein a buffer material is disposed on an inner surface of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar.

[0031]

[22] The mouth guard according to any one of to

[21] , wherein the mouth guard is formed by molding using an ethylene vinyl acetate resin.

[0032]

[23] The mouth guard according to any one of to

[22] , wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at an anterior tooth occlusal portion of an anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user.

[0033]

[24] The mouth guard according to

[23] , wherein the portion that is positioned at the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth has a shape selected from a group consisting of a convex cross-sectional shape, a U-shaped cross-sectional shape, and a flat cross-sectional shape.

[0034]

[25] The mouth guard according to or

[24] , wherein the portion that is positioned at the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth has a convex cross-sectional shape that includes an anterior tooth protruding portion having a gap therein.

[0035]

[26] The mouth guard according to any one of to

[25] , wherein a buffer material is provided to an inner surface side of the portion that is positioned at the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth.

[0036]

[27] The mouth guard according to any one of to

[26] , wherein the anterior tooth is a central incisor.

[0037]

[28] A method of manufacturing a mouth guard comprising mounting a gap forming mold in a valley portion of at least one of a first molar and a second molar of a dentition model that is formed by molding corresponding to a maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, covering the dentition model on which the gap forming mold is mounted by a heated thermoplastic resin sheet, and applying a vacuum suction to the thermoplastic resin sheet thus forming the thermoplastic sheet into a shape that conforms to an outer shape of the teeth portions of the dentition model.

[0038]

[29] The method of manufacturing a mouth guard according to

[28] , wherein, in addition to the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar of the dentition model, a gap forming model is mounted in an anterior tooth occlusal portion of an anterior tooth.

[0039]

[30] The method of manufacturing a mouth guard according to

[29] , wherein the anterior tooth is a central incisor.

[0040]

[31] The mouth guard according to [1], wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first premolar and a second premolar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar, and further a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first molar and a second molar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar.Advantageous Effects of Invention

[0041] The mouth guard according to the present invention is excellent in enabling a user to easily perform strong biting at the time of performing strong biting, and to have comfortable wearing feeling.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING

[0042] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a mouth guard according to a first embodiment of a first present invention, wherein (a) illustrates the mouth guard in a state before the mouth guard is attached to, and (b) illustrates a state of the mouth guard in a state where the mouth guard is attached to.

[0043] FIG. 2 is a side view of the mouth guard illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0044] FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a first premolar portion when the mouth guard illustrated in FIG. 1 is attached to the first premolar portion, wherein (a) illustrates a state where a user has not yet performed strong biting, and (b) illustrates a state where the user has performed strong biting.

[0045] FIG. 4 is an explanatory view of a method of manufacturing mouth guards according to first to third embodiments of the first present invention, where (a) indicates an enlarged cross-sectional view of a first premolar portion of the mouth guard according to the first embodiment, (b) indicates an enlarged cross-sectional view of a first premolar portion of the mouth guard according to the second embodiment, and (c) indicates an enlarged cross-sectional view of a first premolar portion of the mouth guard according to the third embodiment.

[0046] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a mouth guard according to a fourth embodiment of the first present invention.

[0047] FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a central incisor portion when mouth guards according to fourth to six embodiments according to the first present invention are attached to, wherein (a) is the enlarged cross-sectional view of a central incisor portion of the mouth guard according to the fourth embodiment, (b) is the enlarged cross-sectional view of a central incisor portion of the mouth guard according to the fifth embodiment, and (c) is the enlarged cross-sectional view of a central incisor portion of the mouth guard according to the sixth embodiment.

[0048] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a mouth guard according to a first embodiment of a second present invention, wherein (a) illustrates the mouth guard in a state before the mouth guard is attached to, and (b) illustrates a state of the mouth guard in a state where the mouth guard is attached to.

[0049] FIG. 8 is a side view of the mouth guard illustrated in FIG. 7.

[0050] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a mouth guard according to a second embodiment of the second present invention.

[0051] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a mouth guard according to a third present invention.DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS[Mouth Guard According to Present Invention]

[0052] A mouth guard according to the present invention is a mouth guard having a thickness of 0.1 to 5.0 mm that is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds individual teeth of an maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, and is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of a molar tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion and the valley portion of at least one molar tooth. In the present invention, the molar teeth include premolars and molars. To be more specific, a first premolar, a second premolar, a first molar, a second molar and the like are named. Further, in the present invention, anterior teeth include central incisors (incisors), lateral incisors (incisors), canine teeth (thread incisors).

[0053] In the present invention, in the oral cavity, there is a case where a buccal side or a labial side is referred to as “an outer side”, and a lingual side or a palatal side is referred to as “an inner side” with respect to teeth. Further, a biting distance means a distance that the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition changes its position or moves by a pressing force of a teeth that opposedly faces the portion. Further, in the present invention, there is a case where a surface of the mouth guard that is not brought into contact with the teeth when the mouth guard is attached to the dentition is referred to as “an outer surface” and a surface of the mouth guard that is brought into contact with the teeth when the mouth guard is attached to the dentition is referred to as “an inner surface”.[Mouth Guard According to First Embodiment]

[0054] The mouth guard according to the first embodiment is a mouth guard having a thickness of 0.1 to 5.0 mm that is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds individual teeth of an maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, and is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first premolar and a second premolar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar.

[0055] In the mouth guard according to the first present invention, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms the gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar. With such a configuration, the gap portion that is formed by the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the first premolar and / or the second premolar secures a sufficient biting distance and, at the same time, performs a buffer function and hence, the mouth guard can easily bite at the time of biting whereby the mouth guard can exhibit a sufficient biting function. Further, the mouth guard according to the first present invention is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to the dentition of a user and, at the same time, has an extremely thin thickness of 0.1 to 5.0 mm. Accordingly, even when the user cannot strongly bite, the user can easily perform breathing, can easily perform conversation, can take necessary water easily, and does not feel nauseated. That is, the mouth guard according to the first present invention has a sufficient biting function. Further, the mouth guard according to the first present invention does not obstruct breathing and the like and hence, the user can have excellent mounting feeling. Further, the mouth guard according to the first present invention can prevent external injury, and can prevent damages on teeth and gum caused by a biting pressure generated at the time of biting strongly or clenching.

[0056] In the mouth guard according to the first present invention, a predetermine gap is formed on at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar and hence, a load to a tooth (a pain) at the time of performing strong biting can be suppressed compared to a case where the gap is formed in a molar whereby the mouth guard can perform strong biting with a properly strong force and, at the same time, can be used for a long time.

[0057] The mouth guard according to the first present invention is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to the individual teeth of the maxillary dentition and the mandibular dentition. That is, with respect to the mouth guard according to the first present invention, the entirety of the mouth guard is formed by molding into a horseshoe shape and, at the same time, the individual portions are formed by molding into the shapes of the teeth of a user. Accordingly, the mouth guard is configured such that the mouth guard is fitted on the teeth and covers the teeth at the time of being attached to the teeth (see FIG. 1). The user may be an adult or a child. Further, the mouth guard according to the first present invention may be formed by molding into a shape where a part of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is missing. To be more specific, for example, a mouth guard may be formed into a shape where anterior teeth that include central incisors, lateral incisors, and canine teeth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user are missing. In the case of the mouth guard that is formed by molding into the shape where the anterior teeth portions are missing, it is preferable that the mouth guard include a connecting portion that connects the left and right maxillary dentitions (or mandibular dentitions). With such a configuration, an accidental swallowing of the mouth guard or the loss of the mouth guard can be prevented.

[0058] The mouth guard according to the first present invention is a mouth guard of a type that is attached to the maxillary dentition or a mouth guard of a type that is attached to the mandibular dentition. It is preferable that the mouth guard according to the first present invention be the mouth guard of a type that is attached to the maxillary dentition. The mouth guard according to the first present invention covers at least coronal portions (teeth and gums). However, it is preferable that the mouth guard include fold portions that extend toward a gum side from a lower end side (a tooth neck portion side). By making the fold portions snugly adhere to the gum, the mouth guard can protect the gum and, at the same time, the mouth guard is made to fit on the teeth more snugly. A length of the fold portion is preferably 0.5 to 20 mm, and is more preferably 1.0 to 15 mm, and is still more preferably 3.0 to 12 mm. It is preferable that the fold portion be disposed on at least one of an outer side and an inner side of the teeth, and it is more preferable that the fold portion be disposed on both outer and inner sides of the teeth.

[0059] A material used for forming the mouth guard according to the first present invention is not particularly limited provided that the mouth guard can be formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to a dentition of a patient. For example, a thermoplastic resin material such as an ethylene vinyl acetate resin (an EVA resin), a polyolefin rubber material, a silicone rubber material, a biomass composite plastic material and the like are named. It is preferable to use a thermoplastic resin material, and it is particularly preferable to use an ethylene vinyl acetate resin material with respect to the thermoplastic resin material.[Thickness of Mouth Guard According to First Present Invention]

[0060] A thickness of the mouth guard according to the first present invention is 0.1 mm to 5.0 mm, is preferably 0.2 to 4.0 mm, and is more preferably 0.25 to 3.0 mm, and is still more preferably 0.3 to 2.0 mm. By setting the thickness of the mouth guard according to the first present invention in such ranges, even when the user cannot perform biting, the user can easily perform breathing and the like. Further, it is possible to form a gap that secures a sufficient space between a valley portion of a first premolar and a second premolar and the mouth guard with more certainty. Further, in the same manner, it is possible to form a gap that secures a sufficient space in the inside of a first premolar portion and a second premolar portion with more certainty.[Portion that is Positioned in Valley Portion of Premolar]

[0061] In the mouth guard according to the first present invention, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar is formed into the shape that forms the gap between the portion and the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user. However, it is preferable that the mouth guard have a shape such that a gap is formed on portions that are positioned at valley portions of both the first and second premolars. Further, a plurality of gaps may be formed with respect to one premolar. In a case of the mouth guard according to the first present invention for a child, a desired gap is formed on a baby tooth that corresponds to the first premolar or the second premolar.

[0062] In the mouth guard according to the first present invention, as the shape of the portion of the mouth guard that forms a gap between the mouth guard and the valley portion, a non-V-shaped cross-sectional shape is named. The non-V-shaped cross-sectional shape means a cross-sectional shape when viewed from an anterior teeth side to a posterior teeth side. Usually, in a case where a mouth guard is formed by molding into a shape corresponding to a dentition, a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of a premolar has a V shape that conforms to a V-shape cross-sectional shape (although the V-shape cross-sectional shape becomes an inversed V shape in case of the maxillary dentition, in the present invention, the V-shape cross-sectional shape also includes such a vertically inverted shape). On the other hand, in the present invention, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar is not made to conform with the V-shape of the valley portion of the premolar and is formed in a non-V-shaped cross-sectional shape so as to form a predetermine gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of the premolar (the portion of the mouth guard being brought into a non-contact state with the valley portion).

[0063] To be more specific, as the non-V-shaped cross-sectional shape, for example, a convex cross-sectional shape (see FIG. 4(a)), a U-shaped cross-sectional shape (see FIG. 4(b)), a flat cross-sectional shape (see FIG. 4(c)) and the like are named. In the same manner as the V-shape, the non-V-shape includes an inversed non-V-shape.

[0064] A distance (a distance X in FIG. 3) between an outer surface of the portion of the mouth guard according to the first present invention that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar and a bottom of the valley portion of the premolar is preferably 1.0 to 5.5 mm, is more preferably 1.5 o 5.0 mm, and is still more preferably 2.0 o 4.5 mm. In a case where a difference in height is generated due to the difference in position of the bottom of the valley portion of the premolar at the time of measurement, the largest distance is used as such a distance.

[0065] The portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar may include a buffer material on an inner surface side thereof. That is, the portion of the mouth guard may be configured such that the buffer material is filled in a gap formed between the valley portion of the premolar and the portion of the mouth guard. As such a material, a material that is softer than a material for forming the entire mouth guard such as a sponge made of urethane, for example, can be named.[First Premolar Protruding Portion and Second Premolar Protruding Portion]

[0066] In the present invention, as a preferred specific mode of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar, a mode having a convex cross-sectional shape can be named where the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar include a first premolar protruding portion and / or a second premolar protruding portion having a gap in the inside thereof. Protruding portions of the first premolar protruding portion and the second premolar protruding portion perform a buffer function while securing a sufficient strong biting distance at the time of performing strong biting. Accordingly, the mouth guard (the user) can easily perform strong biting at the time of performing strong biting thus exhibiting a sufficient strong biting function.

[0067] The first premolar protruding portion and the second premolar protruding portion are protruding portions formed at the position of the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition. These first and second premolar protruding portions protrude downward (in a case of the maxillary dentition) or upward (in a case of the mandibular dentition) and have a gap inside thereof (see FIG. 3). The first premolar protruding portion and the second premolar protruding portion are pressed from a downward side or from an upward side and are pushed into the gap inside the protruding portion by the opposedly facing premolars at the time of strong biting and hence, a user can bite with a sufficient biting distance whereby the user can strongly bite. Further, at this point of time, the first premolar protruding portion and the second premolar protruding portion are soft and hence, a load to a tooth (a pain) can be reduced whereby the user can strongly bite to a reasonable extent.

[0068] As the shape of the first premolar protruding portion and the second premolar protruding portion, for example, a semispherical shape, a frustoconical shape, a circular pillar shape and the like are named.

[0069] The shape of the gap formed in the first premolar protruding portion and the second premolar protruding portion is not particularly limited, and usually is a shape that corresponds to the shape of the protruding portions. For example, in a case where the shape of the first premolar protruding portion and the second premolar protruding portion are a semispherical shape, the gap in the first premolar protruding portion and the second premolar protruding portion is formed into a semispherical shape. A buffered material may be filled in the inside of the first premolar protruding portion and the second premolar protruding portion. As the buffer material, it is preferable to use a material softer than a material for forming by molding the entire mouth guard. For example, a sponge made of urethane or the like is named.[Portion that is Positioned at Anterior Occlusal Portion of Anterior Tooth]

[0070] In the mouth guard according to the first embodiment, as described above, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion. Further, the mouth guard may be a mouth guard where a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at an anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior occlusal portion of the anterior tooth. That is, in the mouth guard according to the first embodiment, it is further preferable that the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition be formed into a shape where, when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, a gap is formed between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth. In such a configuration, the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth means surface portions of the teeth that are brought into contact with each other when the anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition and the anterior tooth of the mandibular dentition bite each other. The portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth is formed so as to form a gap and hence, when the anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition and the anterior tooth of the mandibular dentition bite each other, the gap portion of the mouth guard according to the present invention supports the contacting anterior tooth and hence, a load to other teeth such as the molar teeth and the like can be dispersed whereby the user can maintain a relaxed state without generating a strong biting force. As the anterior tooth that forms the gap of the mouth guard, it is preferable to use the central incisor (incisor), and it is particularly preferable to use two central incisors of the maxillary dentition and the mandibular dentition. In case of a baby tooth, a desired gap is formed in a baby tooth corresponding to an anterior tooth.

[0071] In this embodiment, the shape of the gap formed between the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth and the portion of the mouth guard may be any form provided that a predetermined gap is formed between the portion of the mouth guard and the surface of the anterior tooth.” That is, usually, in a case where a mouth guard is formed by molding into a shape corresponding to a dentition, a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at anterior occlusal portion of anterior tooth has a flat cross-sectional shape that conforms to the shape of the anterior tooth. On the other hand, in the present invention, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth is not made to conform with the flat shape of the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth and forms a predetermine gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth (the portion of the mouth guard being brought into non-contact state with the anterior tooth). That is, the portion of the mouth guard is formed into a non-flat cross-sectional shape.

[0072] To be more specific, as the shape of the non-flat cross-sectional shape, for example, a protruding cross-section (see FIG. 6(a)) and the like are named. Further, as the anterior occlusal portion where the gap is formed, for example, a back side of the anterior tooth (see FIG. 6(a)), a front side of the anterior tooth (see FIG. 6(b)), a distal end side of the anterior tooth (see FIG. 6(c) and the like are named.

[0073] A distance (see a distance Y in FIG. 6) between an outer surface of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of the anterior tooth and the anterior occlusal portion (the surface of the anterior tooth) of an anterior tooth is preferably 1.0 mm to 5.5 mm, is more preferably 1.5 mm to 5.0 mm, and is still more preferably 2.0 mm to 4.5 mm. In a case where a difference in height is generated due to the difference in position of the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth at the time of measurement, the largest distance is used as such a distance.

[0074] The portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of anterior tooth may include a buffer material on an inner surface side of the portion of the mouth guard. That is, the portion of the mouth guard may be configured such that the buffer material is filled in a gap formed between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior occlusal portion of anterior tooth. As the buffer material, it is preferable to use a material softer than a material for forming by molding the entire mouth guard. For example, a sponge made of urethane or the like is named.[Anterior Tooth Protruding Portion]

[0075] In the first present invention, as a specifically preferred mode of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of anterior tooth, a mode can be named where the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of anterior tooth is a portion having a protruding cross section that includes an anterior tooth protruding portion having a gap inside thereof. The protruding portion of the anterior tooth protruding portion performs a buffer function and a function of supporting the tooth. Accordingly, a load on the tooth is dispersed at the time of strongly biting and hence, the user can bite in a relaxed manner without strongly biting.

[0076] The anterior tooth protruding portion is a portion that is disposed at the position of the anterior occlusal portion of anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition, extends sideward, downward (in a case of the maxillary dentition) or upward (in a case of the mandibular dentition), and has a gap inside thereof (see FIG. 6). The anterior tooth protruding portion is pressed toward the opposedly facing anterior tooth from downward or from upward at the time of strongly biting, and supports the opposedly facing anterior tooth. Accordingly, a load on the tooth at the time of strong biting can be dispersed and hence, the user can bite in a relaxed manner without strong biting. Further, at this point of time, the anterior tooth protruding portion is soft and hence, a load (a pain) to the tooth can be reduced, and the user can strongly bite.

[0077] As the shape of the anterior tooth protruding portion, for example, a semispherical shape, a frustoconical shape, a circular pillar shape and the like are named.

[0078] The shape of the gap formed in the anterior tooth protruding portion is not particularly limited, and usually is a shape that corresponds to the shape of the protruding portion. For example, in a case where the shape of the anterior tooth protruding portion is a semispherical shape, the gap in the anterior tooth protruding portion is also formed into a semispherical shape. A buffered material may be filled in the inside of the anterior tooth protruding portion. As the buffer material, it is preferable to use a material softer than a material for forming by molding the entire mouth guard. For example, a sponge made of urethane or the like is named.

[0079] Usually, the anterior tooth protruding portion is provided to a tooth on a one-to-one basis. However, two or more anterior tooth protruding portions may be provided to one tooth. Further, the anterior tooth protruding portion may be provided to each of anterior teeth on a one-to-one basis. However, the anterior tooth protruding portion may be provided covering two or more anterior teeth. It is preferable that the anterior protruding portion may be formed over two central incisors (incisor).[Mouth Guard According to Second Embodiment]

[0080] The mouth guard according to the second embodiment is a mouth guard having a thickness of 0.1 to 5.0 mm that is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds individual teeth of an maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, and is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first molar and a second molar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar.

[0081] In the mouth guard according to the second present invention, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms the gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar. With such a configuration, the gap portion that is formed by the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the first molar and / or the second molar secures a sufficient biting distance and, at the same time, performs a buffer function and hence, the mouth guard can easily bite at the time of biting whereby the mouth guard can exhibit a sufficient biting function. Further, the mouth guard according to the second present invention is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to the dentition of a user and, at the same time, has an extremely thin thickness of 0.1 to 5.0 mm. Accordingly, even when the user cannot strongly bite, the user can easily perform breathing, can easily perform conversation, can take necessary water easily, and does not feel nauseated. That is, the mouth guard according to the second present invention has a sufficient biting function. Further, the mouth guard according to the second present invention does not obstruct breathing and the like and hence, the user can have excellent mounting feeling. Further, the mouth guard according to the second present invention can prevent external injury, and can prevent damages on teeth and gum caused by a biting pressure generated at the time of biting strongly or clenching.

[0082] The mouth guard according to the second present invention is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to the individual teeth of the maxillary dentition and the mandibular dentition. That is, with respect to the mouth guard according to the second present invention, the entirety of the mouth guard is formed by molding into a horseshoe shape and, at the same time, the individual portions are formed by molding into the shapes of the teeth of a user. Accordingly, the mouth guard is configured such that the mouth guard is fitted on the teeth and covers the teeth at the time of being attached to the teeth (see FIG. 7). The user may be an adult or a child. Further, the mouth guard according to the second present invention may be formed by molding into a shape where a part of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is missing. To be more specific, for example, as the mouth guard of the second embodiment, a mouth guard that is formed by molding into a shape where anterior portions (a central incisor, lateral incisors, canine teeth) and premolar portions on an maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition are missing, a mouth guard that is formed by molding into a shape where an anterior portion of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition are missing and the like are named. In a case of the mouth guard formed by molding into a shape where a portion including an anterior portion is missing, it is preferable that the mouth guard includes a connecting portion that connects left and right maxillary dentitions (or left and right lower dentitions). With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent an accidental ingestion or missing of the mouth guard.

[0083] The mouth guard according to the second present invention is a mouth guard of a type that is attached to the maxillary dentition or a mouth guard of a type that is attached to the mandibular dentition. It is preferable that the mouth guard according to the second present invention be the mouth guard of a type that is attached to the maxillary dentition. The mouth guard according to the first present invention covers at least coronal portions (teeth and gums). However, it is preferable that the mouth guard include fold portions that extend toward a gum side from a lower end side (a tooth neck portion side). By making the fold portions snugly adhere to the gum, the mouth guard can protect the gum and, at the same time, the mouth guard is made to fit on the teeth more snugly. A length of the fold portion is preferably 0.5 to 20 mm, and is more preferably 1.0 to 15 mm, and is still more preferably 3.0 to 12 mm. It is preferable that the fold portion be disposed on at least one of an outer side and an inner side of the teeth, and it is more preferable that the fold portion be disposed on both outer and inner sides of the teeth.

[0084] A material used for forming the mouth guard according to the second present invention is not particularly limited provided that the mouth guard can be formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to a dentition of a patient. For example, a thermoplastic resin material such as an ethylene vinyl acetate resin (an EVA resin), a polyolefin rubber material, a silicone rubber material, a biomass composite plastic material and the like are named. It is preferable to use a thermoplastic resin material, and it is particularly preferable to use an ethylene vinyl acetate resin material with respect to the thermoplastic resin material.[Thickness of Mouth Guard According to Second Present Invention]

[0085] A thickness of the mouth guard according to the second present invention is 0.1 mm to 5.0 mm, is preferably 0.2 to 4.0 mm, and is more preferably 0.25 to 3.0 mm, and is still more preferably 0.3 to 2.0 mm. By setting the thickness of the mouth guard according to the second present invention in such ranges, even when the user cannot perform biting, the user can easily perform breathing and the like. Further, it is possible to form a gap that secures a sufficient space between a valley portion of a first molar and a second molar and the mouth guard with more certainty. Further, in the same manner, it is possible to form a gap that secures a sufficient space in the inside of a first molar portion and a second molar portion with more certainty.[Portion that is Positioned in Valley Portion of Molar]

[0086] In the mouth guard according to the second present invention, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar is formed into the shape that forms the gap between the portion and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user. However, it is preferable that the mouth guard have a shape such that a gap is formed on portions that are positioned at valley portions of both the first and second molars. Further, a plurality of gaps may be formed with respect to one molar. In a case of the mouth guard according to the second present invention for a child, a desired gap is formed on a baby tooth that corresponds to the first molar or the second molar.

[0087] In the mouth guard according to the second present invention, as the shape of the portion of the mouth guard that forms a gap between the mouth guard and the valley portion, a non-V-shaped cross-sectional shape is named. The non-V-shaped cross-sectional shape means a cross-sectional shape when viewed from an anterior teeth side to a posterior teeth side. Usually, in a case where a mouth guard is formed by molding into a shape corresponding to a dentition, a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of a molar has a V shape that conforms to a V-shape cross-sectional shape (although the V-shape cross-sectional shape becomes an inversed V shape in case of the maxillary dentition, in the present invention, the V-shape cross-sectional shape also includes such a vertically inverted shape). On the other hand, in the present invention, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar is not made to conform with the V-shape of the valley portion of the molar and is formed in a non-V-shaped cross-sectional shape so as to form a predetermine gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of the molar (the portion of the mouth guard being brought into a non-contact state with the valley portion).

[0088] To be more specific, as the non-V-shaped cross-sectional shape, in the same manner as the mouth guard according to the first present invention, for example, a convex cross-sectional shape, a U-shaped cross-sectional shape, a flat cross-sectional shape and the like are named (see FIG. 4). In the same manner as the V-shape, the non-V-shape includes an inversed non-V-shape.

[0089] A distance (same as a distance X in FIG. 3) between an outer surface of the portion of the mouth guard according to the second present invention that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar and a bottom of the valley portion of the molar is preferably 1.0 to 6.5 mm, is more preferably 1.5 o 6.0 mm, and is still more preferably 2.0 o 5.5 mm. In a case where a difference in height is generated due to the difference in position of the bottom of the valley portion of the molar at the time of measurement, the largest distance is used as such a distance.

[0090] The portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar may include a buffer material on an inner surface side thereof. That is, the portion of the mouth guard may be configured such that the buffer material is filled in a gap formed between the valley portion of the molar and the portion of the mouth guard. As such a material, a material that is softer than a material for forming the entire mouth guard such as a sponge made of urethane, for example, can be named.[First Molar Protruding Portion and Second Molar Protruding Portion]

[0091] In the present invention, as a preferred specific mode of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar, a mode having a convex cross-sectional shape can be named where the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar include a first molar protruding portion and / or a second molar protruding portion having a gap in the inside thereof. Protruding portions of the first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion perform a buffer function while securing a sufficient strong biting distance at the time of performing strong biting. Accordingly, the mouth guard (the user) can easily perform strong biting at the time of performing strong biting thus exhibiting a sufficient strong biting function.

[0092] The first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion are protruding portions formed at the position of the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition. These first and second molar protruding portions protrude downward (in a case of the maxillary dentition) or upward (in a case of the mandibular dentition) and have a gap inside thereof. The first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion are pressed from a downward side or from an upward side and are pushed into the gap inside the protruding portion by the opposedly facing molars at the time of strong biting and hence, a user can bite with a sufficient biting distance whereby the user can strongly bite. Further, at this point of time, the first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion are soft and hence, a load to a tooth (a pain) can be reduced whereby the user can strongly bite to a reasonable extent.

[0093] As the shape of the first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion, for example, a semispherical shape, a frustoconical shape, a circular pillar shape and the like are named.

[0094] The shape of the gap formed in the first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion is not particularly limited, and usually is a shape that corresponds to the shape of the protruding portions. For example, in a case where the shape of the first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion are a semispherical shape, the gap in the first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion is formed into a semispherical shape. A buffered material may be filled in the inside of the first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion. As the buffer material, it is preferable to use a material softer than a material for forming by molding the entire mouth guard. For example, a sponge made of urethane or the like is named.[Portion that is Positioned at Anterior Occlusal Portion of Anterior Tooth]

[0095] In the mouth guard according to the second embodiment, as described above, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion. Further, the mouth guard may be a mouth guard where a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at an anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior occlusal portion of the anterior tooth. That is, in the mouth guard according to the second embodiment, it is further preferable that the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition be formed into a shape where, when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, a gap is formed between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth. In such a configuration, the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth means surface portions of the teeth that are brought into contact with each other when the anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition and the anterior tooth of the mandibular dentition bite each other. The portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth is formed so as to form a gap and hence, when the anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition and the anterior tooth of the mandibular dentition bite each other, the gap portion of the mouth guard according to the present invention supports the contacting anterior tooth and hence, a load to other teeth such as the molar teeth and the like can be dispersed whereby the user can maintain a relaxed state without generating a strong biting force. As the anterior tooth that forms the gap of the mouth guard, it is preferable to use the central incisor (incisor), and it is particularly preferable to use two central incisors of the maxillary dentition and the mandibular dentition. In case of a baby tooth, a desired gap is formed in a baby tooth corresponding to an anterior tooth. Further, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of anterior tooth has substantially the same configuration described with respect to the anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth of the mouth guard according to the above-mentioned first embodiment and hence, the description of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of anterior tooth is omitted.[Mouth Guard According to Third Embodiment]

[0096] As described above, the mouth guard according to the first embodiment is configured such that a gap is formed between the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar and the valley portion. On the other hand, as described above, the mouth guard according to the second embodiment is configured such that a gap is formed between the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion. The mouth guard according to the first present invention and the mouth guard according to the second present invention may be combined with each other. That is, in the mouth guard according to the third embodiment, the portion of the mouthguard that is positioned in the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar is formed into a shape that forms a space between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion, and further, the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar is formed in a shape that forms a space between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion. The portion of the mouth guard positioned in the valley portion of the premolar has substantially the same configuration as the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned in the valley portion of the premolar of the mouth guard according to the above-mentioned first present invention, and the portion that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar has substantially the same configuration as the portion positioned at the valley portion of the molar in the mouth guard of the above-mentioned second present invention.

[0097] To be more specific, for example, the mouth guard according to the third present invention is a mouth guard having the following mode is named. That is the mouth guard according to the third present invention is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to individual teeth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of a user, is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, and has a thickness of 0.1 mm to 5.0 mm. The portion of the mouth guard positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition is formed into a shape where a space is formed between the portion of the mouth guard and at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar is formed at the time of mounting the mouth guard to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user. Further, the portion of the mouth guard positioned in the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition is formed into a shape that forms a space between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar at the time of mounting the mouth guard on the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user.

[0098] It is sufficient that the mouth guard according to the third present invention is a mouth guard where the space is formed between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar and, at the same time, the space is formed between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar. As the combination of molar teeth by which the space is formed together with the portion of the mouth guard, for example, “the first premolar and the first molar”, “the first premolar and the second molar”, “the second premolar and the first molar”, “the second premolar and the second molar”, “the first premolar, the second premolar and the first molar”, “the first premolar, the second premolar and the second molar”, “the first premolar, the first molar and the second molar”, “the second premolar, the first molar and the second molar”, “the first premolar, the second premolar and the first molar, the second molar” and the like are named.

[0099] Also in the mouth guard according to the third present invention, in the same manner as the mouth guards according to the first and second present inventions, the portion of the mouth guard positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of the anterior tooth is formed into a shape that forms a space between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth.[Method of Manufacturing Mouth Guard]

[0100] The mouth guard according to the above-mentioned present invention can be manufactured using a dentition model formed by molding corresponding to a maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, and digital data of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user.

[0101] To be more specific, in a case where the mouth guard is manufactured using the dentition model, the following methods are named. A space forming model is installed in a valley portion of at least one of a first premolar and a second premolar of a dentition model formed by molding, and the dentition model in which the space forming model is installed is covered by a heated thermoplastic resin sheet, and the thermoplastic resin sheet is sucked by vacuum thus forming by molding the thermoplastic resin sheet into a shape that conforms to an outer profile of the teeth portions of the dentition model (the method of manufacturing the mouth guard according to the first present invention). A space forming model is installed in a valley portion of at least one of a first molar and a second molar of a dentition model formed by molding, the dentition model in which the space forming model is formed is covered by a heated thermoplastic resin sheet, and the thermoplastic resin sheet is sucked by vacuum thus forming the thermoplastic resin sheet into a shape that conforms to profile of the teeth portions of the dentition model (method of manufacturing the mouth guard according to the second present invention). A space forming model is installed in a valley portion of at least one of a first premolar and a second premolar of a dentition model formed by molding and in a valley portion of at least one of a first molar and a second molar of the dentition model, the dentition model in which space forming models are installed is covered by a heated thermoplastic resin sheet, the thermoplastic resin sheet is sucked by vacuum, and the thermoplastic resin sheet is formed into a shape that conforms to a profile of teeth portions of the dentition model (the method of manufacturing a mouth guard according to the third present invention). In this case, portions of the mouth guard that are positioned in the valley portion of the premolar and the valley portion of the molar are formed by molding using a gap forming model that is installed on the dentition model, and the spaces are formed by molding between the portions of the mouth guard and the valley portions. As the shape of the space forming model, for example, a spherical shape, a semispherical shape, a frustoconical shape, a circular pillar shape, a triangular pillar shape, a circular conical shape, an angular conical shape and the like can be named. In the same manner as the position of the mouth guard that is positioned in the valley portion of the premolar and the portion of the mouth guard positioned in the valley portion of the molar, a space forming model is installed in an anterior occlusal portion of an anterior tooth, and a portion of a mouth guard positioned at the anterior occlusal portion of the anterior tooth can be also formed by molding. Further, in place of vacuum suction, it may be also possible to adopt a method where a thermoplastic resin in a liquid form is sprayed to a dentition model, and the thermoplastic resin is formed by molding into a shape that conforms to a profile of teeth portions of the dentition model.

[0102] Hereinafter, one embodiment of the mouth guards according to the first to the third present inventions is specifically described using drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment.

[0103] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a mouth guard according to the first embodiment of the first present invention, wherein (a) illustrates a state before the mouth guard is attached to, and (b) illustrates a state where the mouth guard is attached to. FIG. 2 is a side view of the mouth guard illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a first premolar portion when the mouth guard illustrated in FIG. 1 is attached to, wherein (a) illustrates a state where a user does not bite strongly, and (b) illustrates a state where the user bites strongly. FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 are views where a maxillary dentition of the user is viewed from a lower jaw side. Further, FIG. 3 is a view as viewed in a direction from an anterior teeth side to a posterior teeth side.

[0104] As illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment of the first present invention is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to a maxillary dentition A of the user using a thermoplastic resin sheet, and is used in a state where the mouth guard 1 is attached to the maxillary dentition A of the user. The mouth guard 1 includes first premolar protruding portions 12a, 12b at portions 10a, 10b that are positioned in valley portions of first premolars B of the maxillary dentition A, and second premolar protruding portions 16a, 16b at portions 14a, 14b of the mouth guard 1 positioned in valley portions of second premolars C, that is, the portions 10, 14 positioned in the valley portions of the first premolar B and the second premolar C of the maxillary dentition A have a convex shape in cross section.

[0105] The entirety of the mouth guard 1 is integrally formed by molding into a horseshoe shape, and individual portions are formed by molding into shapes of teeth of the user. As illustrated in FIG. 1 (b), the mouth guard 1 is configured to be fitted on and to cover the teeth when the mouth guard 1 is attached to.

[0106] The thermoplastic resin sheet used in the manufacture of the mouth guard 1 is an ethylene-vinyl acetate resin sheet. A thickness of the ethylene-vinyl acetate resin sheet before molding is approximately 0.5 mm, and a thickness of a portion of the mouth guard 1 after molding that covers the tooth (a thickness of the ethylene-vinyl acetate resin sheet after molding) is approximately 0.45 mm.

[0107] The mouth guard 1 includes an inner fold portion 18 on a palatal side (an inner side) of teeth, and an outer fold portion 20 on a buccal side, a labial side (an outer side) of teeth. The inner fold portion 18 and the outer fold portion 20 extend from a lower end (tooth neck portion) of a coronal portion to a gingival side, and have a length of approximately 8 mm.

[0108] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the first premolar protruding portion 12a is a portion that protrudes downward (a lower jaw side) by a distance between an outer surface 24 of the first premolar protruding portion 12a and a bottom of the valley portion 26 of the first premolar B of approximately 2.1 mm (distance X). Due to the existence of such a protruding portion, the gap 22 is formed between the first premolar protruding portion 12a and the valley portion 26 of the first premolar B. Further, the first premolar protruding portion 12a has a semispherical gap 23 in the inside thereof. The second premolar protruding portion 16a has substantially the same configuration.

[0109] In the mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment of the first present invention described above, the portions 10, 14 that are positioned at the valley portion of the first premolar B and the second premolar C include the first premolar protruding portion 12 and the second premolar protruding portion 16 thus forming gaps. With such a configuration, a sufficient strongly biting distance can be held between the protruding portions of the first premolar protruding portion 12 and the second premolar protruding portion 16 and the gap portions and hence, at the time of strongly biting (FIG. 3(b)), the mouth guard 1 can strongly bite and can exhibit a sufficiently strong biting function. Further, the mouth guard 1 is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to the dentition of the user using a thin ethylene vinyl acetate resin sheet and hence, even when the user cannot strongly bite (FIG. 3(a)), the user can easily perform breathing, can easily perform conversation, and can easily take necessary water. Further, the user does not feel nauseated. That is, the mouth guard 1 possesses a sufficient strong biting function and, at the same time, does not obstruct the user's breathing, and exhibits excellent wearability. Further, in the mouth guard 1, the first premolar protruding portion 12 and the second premolar protruding portion 16 are disposed at the position of the first premolar B and the position of the second premolar C, and the gaps are formed between the first premolar protruding portion 12 and the second premolar protruding portion 16 and the first premolar B and the second premolar C and hence, a load (a pain) that the patient feels at the time of strongly biting can be suppressed compared to the case where the first premolar protruding portion 12 and the second premolar protruding portion 16 are formed at the position of the molars D, F. Accordingly, the patient can strongly bite and, at the same time, can use the mouth guard 1 for a long time.

[0110] Subsequently, the method of manufacturing the mouth guard according to the first present invention is described. In the description made hereinafter, FIG. 4 is an explanatory view of the method of manufacturing the mouth guard according to the first present invention, wherein (a) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the first premolar portion of the mouth guard according to a first embodiment, (b) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a first premolar portion of a mouth guard according to a second embodiment, and (c) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a first premolar portion of a mouth guard 1 according to a third embodiment. In FIG. 4(a) to FIG. 4(c), an upper stage illustrates a state where a mouth guard covers a dentition model on which a gap forming mold is attached to, and a lower stage illustrates a state where the mouth guard is removed from the dentition model. Further, (a) to (c) are views as viewed in a direction from an interior teeth side direction toward a posterior teeth side.

[0111] In the first present invention, the mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment is configured such that the portions of the mouth guard that are positioned on the valley portions of the first premolar B and the second premolar C of the maxillary dentition and the mandibular dentition have a convex cross-sectional shape. The mouth guard 2 according to the second embodiment is configured such that the portions of the mouth guard that are positioned on the valley portions of the first premolar B and the second premolar C of the maxillary dentition and the mandibular dentition have a U-shaped cross-sectional shape. The mouth guard 3 according to the third embodiment is configured such that the portions of the mouth guard that are positioned on the valley portions of the first premolar B and the second premolar C of the maxillary dentition and the mandibular dentition have a flat cross-sectional shape.

[0112] First, the method of manufacturing the mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment of the first present invention described above is described.

[0113] As illustrated in FIG. 4(a), a spherical body 30 having a diameter of approximately 1.5 mm that forms a gap forming mold is disposed in the valley portion 28 of the first premolar F of the dentition model formed by molding, the dentition model on which the spherical body 30 is disposed is covered by a heated thermoplastic sheet, and a vacuum suction is applied thus forming the thermoplastic sheet into a shape that conforms to an outer shape of the teeth portions of the teeth model. Accordingly, the mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment where the portion of the mouth guard 1 that is positioned in the valley portion of the premolar portion has a convex cross-sectional shape is manufactured.

[0114] Next, the mouth guard 2 according to the second embodiment of the first present invention described above is described. The description of the constitutional members that are substantially identical to the corresponding constitutional members of the above-mentioned mouth guard 1 is omitted by giving the same symbols.

[0115] As illustrated in FIG. 4(b), in the manufacture of the mouth guard 2 according to the second embodiment, a gap forming mold 32 having a shape that extends in a longitudinal direction along a valley portion (a groove) of a premolar having an inverse triangular cross section (a shape obtained by inverting a triangular pillar) and having a height slightly lower than a corresponding height in the third embodiment described later is used. By performing a vacuum suction in the same manner as the above-mentioned first embodiment, the mouth guard 2 where the portion of the mouth guard 2 positioned at the valley portion of the premolar has a U-s shaped cross section is manufactured.

[0116] Next, the mouth guard 3 according to the third embodiment of the first present invention described above is described. The description of the constitutional members that are substantially identical to the corresponding constitutional members of the above-mentioned mouth guard 1 is omitted by giving the same symbols.

[0117] As illustrated in FIG. 4(c), in the manufacture of the mouth guard 3 according to the third embodiment, a gap forming mold 34 having a shape where that extends in a longitudinal direction along a valley portion (a groove) of a premolar having an inverse triangular cross section (a shape obtained by inverting a triangular pillar) and having a height higher than a corresponding height in the second embodiment described is used. By performing a vacuum suction in the same manner as the above-mentioned first embodiment, the mouth guard 3 where the portion of the mouth guard 3 positioned at the valley portion of the premolar has a flat cross section is manufactured.

[0118] In the mouth guards 1 to 3 manufactured by the manufacturing method of the present invention, the gap portion 22 that the portions positioned at the valley portions of the first premolar portion B and the second premolar portion C perform a buffer function while securing a sufficient strong biting distance and hence, the mouth guards 1 to 3 can easily perform strong biting at the time of performing strong biting whereby the mouth guards 1 to 3 can exhibit a sufficient biting function.

[0119] Next, mouth guards according to the fourth to sixth embodiment of the first present invention are described.

[0120] In the description made hereinafter, FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the mouth guard according to the fourth embodiment of the first present invention. FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a central incisor portion when a mouth guard according to the fourth embodiment of the first present invention is attached to, wherein (a) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the central incisor of the mouth guard according to the fourth embodiment, (b) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the central incisor of the mouth guard according to the fifth embodiment, and (c) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the central incisor of the mouth guard according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 5 is a view of a maxillary dentition of a user as viewed from a lower jaw side, and FIG. 6 is a view as viewed in a direction of a left buccal side illustrating a state where a central incisor of the mandibular dentition is brought into contact with the mouth guard.

[0121] This embodiment is substantially equal to the mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention except for a point that a premolar protruding portion having a gap inside thereof is formed on the portion of the mouth guard 1 positioned at a premolar occlusal portion of the anterior teeth of the maxillary dentition. The description of the constitutional members that are substantially identical to the corresponding constitutional members of the above-mentioned mouth guard 1 of the first embodiment of the first present invention is omitted ted while giving the same symbols.

[0122] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the mouth guard 4 according to the fourth embodiment of the first present invention includes anterior teeth protruding portions 38a, 38b having a gap therein on portions 36a, 36b that are positioned at an anterior occlusal portion on a back side of the central incisors (anterior teeth) G of the maxillary dentition A. As illustrated in FIG. 6(a), the anterior tooth protruding portion 38b (38a) is a portion where a distance between an outer surface 40 of the anterior tooth protruding portion 38a (38b) and the anterior occlusal portion 42 (the surface of the tooth) of the central incisor protrudes toward a lower jaw side by approximately 2.1 mm (distance Y). With the existence of such a protruding portion, a gap 44 is formed between the protruding portion and the anterior occlusal portion of the central incisor G.

[0123] As illustrated in FIG. 6(b), the mouth guard 5 according to the fifth embodiment of the first present invention further includes an anterior tooth protruding portion 48 having a gap 44 therein on a portion 46 positioned at the tooth occlusal portion on a front side of the central incisor G of the maxillary dentition A.

[0124] As illustrated in FIG. 6(c), the mouth guard 6 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention further includes an anterior tooth protruding portion 52 having a gap therein on a portion 50 positioned at the tooth occlusal portion on a distal end side of the central incisor G of the maxillary dentition A.

[0125] The mouth guards 4 to 6 according to the fourth embodiment to the sixth embodiment of the present invention include the anterior tooth protruding portion 38, 48, 52 having a non-flat cross-sectional shape that forms the gap respectively. Accordingly, when the upper teeth and the lower teeth bite each other, the anterior tooth protruding portion 38, 48, 52 supports the anterior tooth with which the anterior tooth protruding portion 38, 48, 52 is brought into contact. Accordingly, a load applied to other teeth such as molar teeth can be dispersed and hence, a user can perform biting in a relaxed manner without biting strongly.

[0126] Next, a mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment of the second present invention is described. In the description made hereinafter, FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment of the second present invention, wherein (a) illustrates a state before the mouth guard is attached to, and (b) illustrates a state where the mouth guard is being attached to. FIG. 8 is a side view of the mouth guard illustrated in FIG. 7. FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 are views of a maxillary dentition A of a user as viewed from a lower jaw side. In this embodiment, this embodiment differs from the first embodiment of the above-mentioned first present invention with respect to a point that the mouth guard includes a first molar protruding portion and a second molar protruding portion each protrude upward and have a gap therein at position of valley portion on a first molar and a second molar of the maxillary dentition.

[0127] As illustrated in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, the mouth guard 4 according to the first embodiment of the second present invention is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to a maxillary dentition A of a user using a thermoplastic resin sheet, and is used by being attached to the maxillary dentition A of the user. The mouth guard 4 includes first molar protruding portions 112a, 112b on portions 110a, 110b that are positioned at valley portions of first molars D of the maxillary dentition A, and also includes second molar protruding portions 116a, 116b on portions 114a, 114b that are positioned at valley portions of second molars E of the maxillary dentition A. That is, the portions 110, 114 that are positioned at the valley portions of the first molars D and the second molars E of the maxillary dentition A are formed into a convex cross-sectional shape.

[0128] The entirety of the mouth guard 4 is formed into a horseshoe shape by integral molding and, at the same time, individual portions of the mouth guard 4 are formed into shapes of teeth of a user. As illustrated in FIG. 7 (b), the mouth guard 4 is configured to engage with the teeth by fitting engagement when the mouth guard 4 is attached to.

[0129] A thermoplastic resin sheet used in the manufacture of the mouth guard 4 is an ethylene-vinyl acetate resin sheet. A thickness of the ethylene-vinyl acetate resin sheet before molding is approximately 0.5 mm, and a thickness of a portion of the mouth guard 4 after molding that covers the tooth (a thickness of the ethylene-vinyl acetate resin sheet after molding) is approximately 0.45 mm.

[0130] The mouth guard 4 includes an inner fold portion 18 on a palatal side (an inner side) of teeth, and an outer fold portion 20 on a buccal side, a labial side (an outer side) of teeth. The inner fold portion 18 and the outer fold portion 20 extend from a lower end (tooth neck portion) of a coronal portion to a gingival side, and have a length of approximately 8 mm.

[0131] The first molar protruding portion 112a is a portion that protrudes downward (a lower jaw side) by a distance between an outer surface of the first molar protruding portion 112a and a bottom of a valley portion of a first molar D of approximately 2.1 mm. Due to the existence of such a protruding portion, a gap is formed between the mouth guard 4 and the first molar D. Further, the first molar protruding portion 112a has a semispherical gap in the inside thereof. The second molar protruding portion 116a has substantially the same configuration.

[0132] The first molar protruding portions 112a, 112b and the second molar protruding portions 116a, 116b have substantially the same configuration as the first molar protruding portions 12a, 12b and the second molar protruding portions 16a, 16b of the mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment of the first present invention and hence, the description of these portions is omitted from the drawing (see FIG. 3).

[0133] In the mouth guard 4 according to the first embodiment of the second present invention, the portions 110, 114 of the mouth guard that are positioned at the valley portions of the first molar D and the second molar E include the first molar protruding portion 12 and the second molar protruding portion 16 and form the gaps. With such a configuration, the protruding portions of the first molar protruding portion and the second molar protruding portion and the gap portion secure the sufficient biting distance. Accordingly, the mouth guard 4 can easily bite at the time of biting whereby the mouth guard 4 can exhibit a sufficient biting function. Further, the mouth guard 4 is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds to the dentition of a user using a thin ethylene vinyl acetate resin sheet and hence, the entirety of the mouth guard 4 does not have a large thickness. Accordingly, even when the user cannot perform strong biting, the user can easily perform breathing, can easily perform conversation, can easily take water, and does not feel nauseated. That is, the mouth guard 4 has a sufficient biting function. Further, the mouth guard 4 does not obstruct breathing and hence, the user can have excellent mounting feeling. Still further, the mouth guard 4 can prevent external injury, and can prevent damages on teeth and gum caused by a biting pressure generated at the time of biting strongly or clenching.

[0134] Subsequently, the method of manufacturing the mouth guard 4 according to the first embodiment of the second present invention is described.

[0135] The method of manufacturing the mouth guard 4 according to the first embodiment of the second present invention is substantially equal to the method of manufacturing the mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment of the first present invention and hence, the illustration of the method is omitted (see FIG. 4(a)).

[0136] A spherical body 31 having a diameter of approximately 1.5 mm that forms a gap forming mold is disposed in the valley portion of the first molar D of the dentition model formed by molding, the dentition model on which the spherical body is disposed is covered by a heated thermoplastic resin sheet, and a vacuum suction is applied thus forming the thermoplastic sheet into a shape that conforms to an outer shape of the teeth portions of the teeth model. Accordingly, the mouth guard 4 according to the first embodiment of the second present invention where the portion of the mouth guard 4 that is positioned in the valley portion of the molar has a convex cross-sectional shape is manufactured.

[0137] Subsequently, the mouth guard according to the second embodiment of the second present invention is described. In the description made hereinafter, FIG. 9 is a schematic view of the mouth guard according to the second embodiment of the second present invention. FIG. 9 is a view of a maxillary dentition of a user as viewed from a mandibular dentition. In this embodiment, the mouth guard according to the second embodiment of the second present invention is substantially equal to the mouth guard according to the first embodiment of the second present invention except for a point that a mouth guard 5 has an anterior tooth protruding portion having a gap at positions of portions that are positioned at an anterior tooth occluding portion of anterior teeth of the maxillary dentition, besides positions that are disposed at valley portions of premolar. Further, the description of the constitutional members that are substantially identical to the corresponding constitutional members of the above-mentioned mouth guard 1 of the first embodiment of the above-mentioned second present invention is omitted by giving the same symbols.

[0138] As illustrated in FIG. 9, the mouth guard 5 according to the second embodiment of the second present invention includes the anterior teeth protruding portions 138a, 138b having a gap therein at portions 136a, 136b that are positioned at the anterior teeth occlusal portion on a back side of the central incisors G of the mandibular dentition A. The anterior teeth protruding portions 138a, 138b of the mouth guard 5 according to the second embodiment of the second present invention have substantially the same configuration as the anterior teeth protruding portions 38a, 38b of the mouth guard 1 according to the first embodiment of the above-mentioned first present invention and hence, the illustration of the anterior teeth protruding portions 138a, 138b is omitted (FIG. 6(a)).

[0139] The mouth guard 5 according to the second embodiment of the second present invention includes the anterior teeth protruding portions 138a, 138b of a non-flat cross-sectional shape each forming a gap therein. With such a configuration, when the maxillary dentition and the maxillary dentition clenched each other, the anterior teeth protruding portions 138a, 138b support the anterior teeth that are in contact with the anterior teeth protruding portions 138a, 138b and hence, a load applied to other teeth such as molar teeth are dispersed whereby a user can bite in a relaxed state without biting strongly.

[0140] Next, a mouth guard according to the third embodiment is described. In the description made hereinafter, FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the mouth guard according to the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a view of a maxillary dentition of a user as viewed from a mandibular side. In this embodiment, the mouth guard includes first molar protruding portions and second molar protruding portions that each protrude upward and have a gap therein at positions of valley portions on a first premolar and a second premolar of the maxillary dentition and at valley portions of a first molar and a second molar of the maxillary dentition. The description of the constitutional members that are substantially identical to the corresponding constitutional members of the mouth guard 1 of the first embodiment of the above-mentioned first present invention and the corresponding constitutional members of the mouth guard 4 of the first embodiment of the above-mentioned second present invention is omitted by giving the same symbols.

[0141] As illustrated in FIG. 10, a mouth guard 6 according to the third embodiment includes first premolar protruding portions 12a, 12b at portions 10a, 10b that are positioned at valley portions of first premolars B of a maxillary dentition A, includes second premolar protruding portions 16a, 16b at portions 14a, 14b that are positioned at valley portions of second premolars C of a maxillary dentition A, includes first molar protruding portions 112a, 112b at portions 110a, 110b that are positioned at valley portions of first molars D of the maxillary dentition A, and includes second molar protruding portions 116a, 116b at portions 114a, 114b that are positioned at the valley portions of second molars E.EXAMPLE

[0142] Using the mouth guard in the first and second embodiments, a biting force, motility and wearability are evaluated.Example 1[Manufacturing Method]

[0143] The mouth guard of the first invention was prepared in such a manner that a spherical ball having a diameter of approximately 1.5 mm was disposed in valley portions of a first premolar and a second premolar of a dentition model that was formed by molding corresponding to a maxillary dentition of a user (a subject who experienced the example 1), the dentition model on which the spherical ball was disposed was covered by an ethylene vinyl acetate sheet having a thickness of approximately 0.5 mm, and a vacuum suction was performed so as to form the mouth guard by molding into a shape that conforms to an external shape of teeth portions of the dentition model.[Biting Strength Measurement]

[0144] Using a dental press scale II (manufactured by GC Corporation), a maximum biting strength when the mouth guard the first present invention was attached to and a maximum biting strength when the mouth guard was not attached to were measured. The measurement was performed with respect to healthy five men and women in twenties to fifties (subjects 1 to 5).

[0145] The result of the measurement is indicated in Table 1.TABLE 1Biting force when Biting force when user user mounts does not mount Subjectmouth guardmouth guard11506.2N860.1N2  2127N  925N31400.2N  920N4  1705N  925N5  1200N  753N

[0146] As can be understood from Table 1, it was found that a biting force is enhanced when the user wears the mouth guard according to the first present invention.[Motility Evaluation]

[0147] The evaluation of motility was performed based on the increase or the decrease of the number of times of squats and the number of times of side-to-side jumps performed by the subjects when the subject wears the mouth guard and when the subject does not wear the mouth guard. As a result, with respect to the squats, it was found that the number of times of squats when user wears the mouth guard was increased by 10 to 30% compared to the number of times of squats when the user does not wear the mouth guard. With respect to the side-to side jumps, it was found that the number of times of side-to side jumps when user weas the mouth guard was increased by 15% compared to the number of times of side-by-side jumps when the user does not wear the mouth guard.

[0148] From the above-mentioned result, it was found that the mouth guard of the first present invention can enhance the motility performance when the user wears the mouth guard.[Wearability Evaluation]

[0149] A survey was conducted to gather feedbacks from the subjects 1 to 5 with respect to wearability when each subject wears the mouth guard of the first present invention.

[0150] The evaluation “very good” was given when the subject felt no discomfort and felt that it is easy to breathe and performs conversation. The evaluation “good” was given when the subject felt discomfort but of a level that causes no problem in practical use, and felt that it is easy to breathe and perform conversation. The evaluation “fair” was given when the subject felt a slight discomfort and felt that it was slightly difficult to breathe, and the evaluation “bad” was given when the subject felt a discomfort and became uneasy in wearing the mouth guard.

[0151] The result is indicated in Table 2TABLE 2SubjectWearing feeling1very good2good3very good4very good5very good

[0152] As indicated in Table 2, it is found that the mouth guard of the first present invention is excellent in wearing feeling.Example 2[Manufacturing Method]

[0153] The mouth guard of the second invention was prepared substantially in the same manner as the example 1 except for that a spherical ball having a diameter of approximately 1.5 mm was disposed in valley portions of a first molar and a second molar of a dentition model that was formed by molding corresponding to a maxillary dentition of a user (a subject who experienced the example 2).[Biting Strength Measurement]

[0154] Using a dental press scale II (manufactured by GC Corporation), a maximum biting strength when the mouth guard the second present invention was attached to and a maximum biting strength when the mouth guard was not attached to were measured. The measurement was performed with respect to healthy three men and women in twenties to fifties (subjects A to C).

[0155] The result of the measurement is indicated in Table 3.TABLE 3Biting force when Biting force when user mounts user does not mount Subjectmouth guardmouth guardA  1665N 875NB  1705N 925NC2000.2N1200N

[0156] As can be understood from Table 3, it was found that a biting force is enhanced when the user wears the mouth guard according to the second present invention.[Wearability Evaluation]

[0157] A survey was conducted to gather feedbacks from the subjects A to C with respect to wearability when each subject wears the mouth guard of the second present invention.

[0158] The evaluation “very good” was given when the subject felt no discomfort and felt that it is easy to breathe and performs conversation. The evaluation “good” was given when the subject felt discomfort but of a level that causes no problem in practical use, and felt that it is easy to breathe and perform conversation. The evaluation “fair” was given when the subject felt a slight discomfort and felt that it was slightly difficult to breathe, and the evaluation “bad” was given when the subject felt a discomfort and became uneasy in wearing the mouth guard.

[0159] The result is indicated in Table 4TABLE 4SubjectWearing feelingAgoodBgoodCgood

[0160] As indicated in Table 4, it is found that the mouth guard of the second present invention is excellent in wearing feeling.INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0161] The mouth guard according to the present invention can be used as a mouth guard in sport athletics and hence, the mouth guard is industrially useful.REFERENCE SIGNS LIST1 mouth guard (first embodiment of first present invention)

[0163] 2 mouth guard (second embodiment of first present invention)

[0164] 3 mouth guard (third embodiment of first present invention)

[0165] 4 mouth guard (first embodiment of second present invention)

[0166] 5 mouth guard (second embodiment of second present invention)

[0167] 6 mouth guard (embodiment of third present invention)

[0168] 10 portion that is positioned in valley portion of first premolar B

[0169] 12 first premolar protruding portion

[0170] 14 portion that is positioned in valley portion of second premolar C

[0171] 16 second premolar protruding portion

[0172] 18 inner fold portion

[0173] 20 outer fold portion

[0174] 22 gap

[0175] 23 gap

[0176] 24 outer surface of first premolar protruding portion 12a

[0177] 26 valley portion of first premolar B

[0178] 28 valley portion of first premolar F of dentition model

[0179] 30 spherical body

[0180] 32 gap forming mold

[0181] 34 gap forming mold

[0182] 36 portion that is positioned at anterior occlusal portion on back side of central incisor G 38 anterior tooth protruding portion

[0183] 40 outer surface of anterior tooth protruding portion 38b

[0184] 42 anterior occlusal portion of central incisor G

[0185] 44 gap

[0186] 46 portion that is positioned at anterior occlusal portion on front side of central incisor G

[0187] 48 anterior tooth protruding portion

[0188] 50 portion that is positioned at anterior occlusal portion on distal end side of central incisor G

[0189] 52 anterior tooth protruding portion

[0190] 110 portion that is positioned in valley portion of first molar D

[0191] 112 first molar protruding portion

[0192] 114 portion that is positioned in valley portion of second molar E

[0193] 116 second molar protruding portion

[0194] 118 inner fold portion

[0195] 120 outer fold portion

[0196] 136 portion that is positioned at anterior occlusal portion on back side of central incisor G

[0197] 138 anterior tooth protruding portion

[0198] A maxillary dentition

[0199] B first premolar

[0200] C second premolar

[0201] D first molar

[0202] E second molar

[0203] F first premolar of dentition model

[0204] G central incisor (anterior tooth)

Examples

first embodiment

[Mouth Guard ]

[0054]The mouth guard according to the first embodiment is a mouth guard having a thickness of 0.1 to 5.0 mm that is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds individual teeth of an maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, and is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first premolar and a second premolar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar.

[0055]In the mouth guard according to the first present invention, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the seco...

second embodiment

[Mouth Guard ]

[0080]The mouth guard according to the second embodiment is a mouth guard having a thickness of 0.1 to 5.0 mm that is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds individual teeth of an maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, and is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first molar and a second molar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar.

[0081]In the mouth guard according to the second present invention, the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar of t...

third embodiment

[Mouth Guard ]

[0096]As described above, the mouth guard according to the first embodiment is configured such that a gap is formed between the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar and the valley portion. On the other hand, as described above, the mouth guard according to the second embodiment is configured such that a gap is formed between the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion. The mouth guard according to the first present invention and the mouth guard according to the second present invention may be combined with each other. That is, in the mouth guard according to the third embodiment, the portion of the mouthguard that is positioned in the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar is formed into a shape t...

Claims

1. A mouth guard that is formed by molding into a shape that corresponds individual teeth of a maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, and is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user, the mouth guard having a thickness of 0.1 to 5.0 mm, whereina portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one molar tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion and the valley portion of the molar tooth.

2. The mouth guard according to claim 1, wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first premolar and a second premolar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar.

3. The mouth guard according to claim 2, wherein the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar has either a convex cross-sectional shape or a U-shaped cross-sectional shape.

4. The mouth guard according to claim 2, wherein a distance between an outer surface of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar and a bottom of the valley portion of the premolar is 1.0 to 5.5 mm.

5. The mouth guard according to claim 2, wherein the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned in the valley portion of the premolar has a convex cross-sectional shape that includes a first premolar protruding portion and a second premolar protruding portion each having a gap therein.

6. The mouth guard according to claim 2, wherein a buffer material is disposed on an inner surface of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the premolar.

7. The mouth guard according to claim 2, wherein the mouth guard is formed by molding using an ethylene vinyl acetate resin.

8. The mouth guard according to claim 2, wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at an anterior tooth occlusal portion of an anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user.

9. The mouth guard according to claim 8, wherein the portion that is positioned at the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth has a shape selected from a group consisting of a convex cross-sectional shape, a U-shaped cross-sectional shape, and a flat cross-sectional shape.

10. The mouth guard according to claim 8, wherein the portion that is positioned at the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth has a convex cross-sectional shape that includes an anterior tooth protruding portion having a gap therein.

11. The mouth guard according to claim 8, wherein a buffer material is provided to an inner surface side of the portion that is positioned at the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth.

12. The mouth guard according to claim 8, wherein the anterior tooth is a central incisor.

13. The mouth guard according to claim 2, wherein the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of at least a first molar and a second molar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition has a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user.

14. A method of manufacturing a mouth guard comprising mounting a gap forming mold in a valley portion of at least one of a first premolar and a second premolar of a dentition model that is formed by molding corresponding to a maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, covering the dentition model on which the gap forming mold is mounted by a heated thermoplastic resin sheet, and applying a vacuum suction to the thermoplastic resin sheet thus forming the thermoplastic sheet into a shape that conforms to an outer shape of the teeth portions of the dentition model.

15. The method of manufacturing a mouth guard according to claim 14, wherein, in addition to the valley portion of at least one of the first premolar and the second premolar of the dentition model, a gap forming model is mounted in an anterior tooth occlusal portion of an anterior tooth.

16. The method of manufacturing a mouth guard according to claim 15, wherein the anterior tooth is a central incisor.

17. The mouth guard according to claim 1, wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at a valley portion of at least one of a first molar and a second molar of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar.

18. The mouth guard according to claim 17, wherein the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar has either a convex cross-sectional shape or a U-shaped cross-sectional shape.

19. The mouth guard according to claim 17, wherein a distance between an outer surface of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar and a bottom of the valley portion of the molar is 1.0 to 6.5 mm.

20. The mouth guard according to claim 17, wherein the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned in the valley portion of the molar has a convex cross-sectional shape that includes a first molar protruding portion and a second molar protruding portion each having a gap therein.

21. The mouth guard according to claim 17, wherein a buffer material is disposed on an inner surface of the portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at the valley portion of the molar.

22. The mouth guard according to claim 17, wherein the mouth guard is formed by molding using an ethylene vinyl acetate resin.

23. The mouth guard according to claim 17, wherein a portion of the mouth guard that is positioned at an anterior tooth occlusal portion of an anterior tooth of the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition is formed into a shape that forms a gap between the portion of the mouth guard and the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth when the mouth guard is attached to the maxillary dentition or the mandibular dentition of the user.

24. The mouth guard according to claim 23, wherein the portion that is positioned at the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth has a shape selected from a group consisting of a convex cross-sectional shape, a U-shaped cross-sectional shape, and a flat cross-sectional shape.

25. The mouth guard according to claim 23, wherein the portion that is positioned at the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth has a convex cross-sectional shape that includes an anterior tooth protruding portion having a gap therein.

26. The mouth guard according to claim 23, wherein a buffer material is provided to an inner surface side of the portion that is positioned at the anterior tooth occlusal portion of the anterior tooth.

27. The mouth guard according to claim 23, wherein the anterior tooth is a central incisor.

28. A method of manufacturing a mouth guard comprising mounting a gap forming mold in a valley portion of at least one of a first molar and a second molar of a dentition model that is formed by molding corresponding to a maxillary dentition or a mandibular dentition of a user, covering the dentition model on which the gap forming mold is mounted by a heated thermoplastic resin sheet, and applying a vacuum suction to the thermoplastic resin sheet thus forming the thermoplastic sheet into a shape that conforms to an outer shape of the teeth portions of the dentition model.

29. The method of manufacturing a mouth guard according to claim 28, wherein, in addition to the valley portion of at least one of the first molar and the second molar of the dentition model, a gap forming model is mounted in an anterior tooth occlusal portion of an anterior tooth.

30. The method of manufacturing a mouth guard according to claim 29, wherein the anterior tooth is a central incisor.

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