55 results about "Teeth clenching" patented technology

An oral appliance for treating sleep apnea and bruxism is formed of a maxillary tray and a mandibular tray. The maxillary tray carries a maxillary bite pad projecting downwardly toward an opposed mandibular occlusal surface. The mandibular tray carries a mandibular bite pad projecting upwardly toward an opposed maxillary occlusal surface. The maxillary bite pad is posterior to the mandibular bite pad such that upon sufficient relative posterior movement of the mandibular tray, the maxillary bite pad engages the mandibular bite pad and limits posterior movement of the mandibular tray. At least one surface, chosen from the anterior face of the maxillary bite pad and the posterior face of the mandibular bite pad, defines a guide plane disposed at an upward and forward slant. The maxillary bite pad and the mandibular bite pad are engageable at the guide plane for advancing the mandibular tray along the guide plane upon vertical closure between the trays. A smooth pad is disposed over the occlusal surface of at least one of the trays, guarding the occlusal surface from engagement with the opposed bite pad.

An oral appliance for treating sleep apnea and bruxism is formed of a maxillary tray and a mandibular tray. The maxillary tray carries a maxillary bite pad projecting downwardly toward an opposed mandibular occlusal surface. The mandibular tray carries a mandibular bite pad projecting upwardly toward an opposed maxillary occlusal surface. The maxillary bite pad is posterior to the mandibular bite pad such that upon sufficient relative posterior movement of the mandibular tray, the maxillary bite pad engages the mandibular bite pad and limits posterior movement of the mandibular tray. At least one surface, chosen from the anterior face of the maxillary bite pad and the posterior face of the mandibular bite pad, defines a guide plane disposed at an upward and forward slant. The maxillary bite pad and the mandibular bite pad are engageable at the guide plane for advancing the mandibular tray along the guide plane upon vertical closure between the trays. A smooth pad is disposed over the occlusal surface of at least one of the trays, guarding the occlusal surface from engagement with the opposed bite pad.

A new biofeedback modality for the treatment of bruxism. A mildly aversive, safe, liquid is inserted into, and sealed in, small, bilaterally-sleeved, polyethylene capsules. Two capsules are attached to a specially-constructed dental appliance which comfortably and securely places them between the lower and upper teeth. The appliance and capsules are worn at night or at other times when bruxism is suspected to occur. Whenever a sleeping or an awake patient attempts to brux, the capsules rupture and the liquid is released into the mouth. The liquid then draws the patient's conscious attention to, and forestalls, any attempt of teeth clenching or grinding. Variations of the method and device can be used to diagnose bruxism and to sustainably release medications and odor-masking substances into the mouth,.

A system and method for fabricating an interim dental guard device for preventing or reducing damage caused by bruxism to existing dentition and / or restorative dental work. The device is composed of a material that, when heated, is moldable around at least a portion of a patient's dental arch so as to form an impression of at least a portion of the dental arch, and that is solid at about normal body temperature so as to retain the impression once formed.

An intraoral mandibular advancement device to treat problems associated with sleep disorders in a user having an obstructed airway, the disorders including, without limitation, snoring, obstructive sleep apnea, gastroesophageal reflux disease and / or bruxism having a main body for attachment to the user's mouth and having a central portion; a protrusive element distending from the central portion of the main body such that when worn by the user the element causes mandibular advancement sufficient to expand the oropharangeal space and reduce the obstruction; and a retainer extending from the main body for retention of the device in the user's mouth when worn during the user's sleep state. The main body is either complimentary with the user's palate and lingual surfaces of the maxillary teeth, rests against the palate and lingual surface of the user's anterior mandibular teeth when the device is inserted in the user's mouth, or customized to rest against two, four or six of the user's front teeth. The protrusive element is of distension between 5 and 15 mm, and optimally 10 mm downwardly from the main body, and can be adjusted such that the advancement ranges between 1.0 and 7.0 mm, and having an initial treatment protrusion of 3.0 to 4.0 mm, or ½ of the total potential maximum protrusive range. A method for diagnosis and delivery of the device is also shown.

A one-piece molded bruxism treatment device which in upright orientation has top and bottom parts, including:a. an elongated band having top and bottom edges and having a generally U-shape defining a closed front end part and legs extending rearward along a front-to-rear direction, and adapted to be positioned around the outer surfaces of a person's upper gums and teeth, the front end and legs having top and bottom edges, each of the legs terminating as a foot having a bottom edge below the bottom edges of the front end and legs,b. the front end top edge having a downward extending recess adapted to provide clearance for a person's frenulum when the device is positioned in the person's mouth with the band between the person's upper lip and upper teeth, andc. two generally planar bite pads oriented generally horizontally, each extending from one of the feet of the band medially toward the other, each of the bite pads having top and bottom surfaces and adapted to be positioned on one side of the person's jaw between the facing surfaces of a person's upper and lower teeth, andd. each the bite pads being, at least in part, resiliently deformable, thus adapted to absorb forces when the bite pad is clenched between the person's upper and lower teeth.

A pre-fabricated, pre-programmed or custom-made guidance package is provided. The Anterior Guidance Package (AGP) of the current invention is comprised of one maxillary guidance component and one mandibular guidance component. These components are attached to a maxillary retention piece and a mandibular retention piece, respectively when the mandible is in centric relation, to provide superior anterior guidance for the mandible. The AGP also provides immediate relief of centric occlusion / centric relation discrepancy (posterior interferences) when used as a night guard. In contrast to all other bruxism / TMJ splints, the components of the AGP according to current invention can provide a wide range of features for broad application, three dimensional patterning, steepness of inclination and many other considerations dependent upon the purpose being expressed. The primary purpose is to provide a superior anterior guidance equipped night guard for the amelioration of the damage and pain caused by bruxism.

Described herein is an apparatus and method of detecting bruxism. The method includes the steps of: capturing a video of a subject, performing by circuitry included in the apparatus, spatial filtering of each image frame included in the captured video. Further, the method includes generating by circuitry, a filtered image by temporally filtering the spatially filtered image frames, the temporally filtered image including data belonging in a first frequency range, and wherein a subset of data is associated with a predetermined color variation to indicate presence of bruxism in the subject.

The present invention provides a novel composition of matter comprised of a mixture of two specific classes of compounds—Free-B-Ring flavonoids and flavans—for use in the prevention and treatment of diseases and conditions associated with mouth, gums and teeth. This composition of matter simultaneously inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymatic activity and reduces cytokine production at the mRNA level in normal, aged and damaged periodontal cells and tissues. This invention further provides a method for the prevention and treatment of diseases and conditions of the mouth, gums and teeth. The method for preventing and treating diseases and conditions of the mouth, teeth and gums is comprised of administering to a host in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of a composition comprising a mixture of Free-B-Ring flavonoids and flavans synthesized and / or isolated from a single plant or multiple plants, preferably in the Scutellaria, Oroxylum, Acacia or Uncaria genus of plants and pharmaceutically and / or cosmetically acceptable carriers. Finally the present invention provides a method for the prevention and treatment of diseases and conditions of the mouth, teeth or gums, including but not limited to periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis, periodontitis, pulpitis, periodontal conditions caused by the physical implantation of oral dentures, trauma, injuries, bruxism, neoplastic and other degenerative processes; material alba, pellicles, dental plagues, calculus, and stains. Use of the composition described herein also affords the benefit of maintaining optimum saliva production and pH, minimizing bacterial growth, reducing the formation of pellicles and plague, inhibiting tooth decalcification and tooth caries (decay), promoting remineralization, which yields healthy gums, whitening teeth, maintaining healthy oral hygiene and reducing oral malodour (halitosis).

A device for preventing bruxism comprises a carrier (1) intended for receiving in a mouth of a user. The carrier (1) comprises at least a part (2,3) of an electronic biofeedback system. According to the invention the carrier comprises a jaw-shaped body which is adapted to lie only on an outer side against at least a part of a jaw of the user.

The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for preventing, diagnosing, monitoring, and / or treating bruxism as well as related diseases of an individual. In a first aspect the invention relates to an apparatus for preventing bruxism of an individual, comprising: means for applying a plurality of stimulation signals for providing relaxation of at least one of the masticatory and / or facial muscles of said individual, means for applying said stimulations signals with a predefined setting, and means for applying said stimulations signals independent of activity of said muscle(s). The invention may be suitable for both nocturnal and awake bruxism.

A dental appliance for maintaining a separation between the occlusal plane surfaces of the posterior teeth in order to avoid or minimize the adverse effects of bruxism, especially while sleeping. The appliance comprises bitepad assemblies, side assemblies for adjustably receiving the bitepad assemblies, and a strap assembly for connecting the side assemblies. Bitepad cores are provided with solid projections and mechanical locks that enhance bonding with associated overmolds for improved durability. Side assembly flanges are divided to achieve independent flexibility and improved conformity for enhanced stability and comfort. A mesial area of the connecting strap assembly is thickened and rigidified to create a flare in the areas of the cuspid roots to minimize irritation and discomfort to the gum tissue.

An apparatus and method for selecting and outputting characters by making a teeth clenching motion for disabled person are disclosed. The apparatus includes: an electromyogram signal obtaining unit including electromyogram sensors disposed at both sides for generating an electromyogram signal according to a predetermined muscle activated when a disabled person clenches teeth, and a ground electrode connected to a body of the disabled persons for providing a reference voltage; and an electromyogram signal processing unit for outputting a character by identifying a teeth clenching motion pattern of each block according to a side of teeth clenched, a duration of clenching teeth and consecutive clenching motions through analyzing the obtained electromyogram and selecting characters according to the identified teeth clenching motion pattern.

A nose plug has two nostril plugs and a bridge section interconnecting the two plugs. The nostril plugs has a generally symmetrical body along an extending axis, having sides that are tapering or bulging, to better conform to nostril cavities. The nostril plugs are shaped, sized and structured from a resilient material (e.g., open or closed cell foam), which can be compressed and inserted into and filling the cavities of the nostrils of a patient to seal the breathing air passages through the nose. The nostril plugs are securely lodged in the nostrils under expansive force of the resilient material. The nose plug device may be constructed with the nostril plugs and bridge section connected in a monolithic structure.

A dental appliance for maintaining a separation between the occlusal plane surfaces of the posterior teeth in order to avoid or minimize the adverse effects of bruxism, especially while sleeping. The appliance comprises bitepad assemblies, side assemblies for adjustably receiving the bitepad assemblies, and a strap assembly for connecting the side assemblies. Bitepad cores are provided with solid projections and mechanical locks that enhance bonding with associated overmolds for improved durability. Side assembly flanges are divided to achieve independent flexibility and improved conformity for enhanced stability and comfort. A mesial area of the connecting strap assembly is thickened and rigidified to create a flare in the areas of the cuspid roots to minimize irritation and discomfort to the gum tissue.

A dental appliance for maintaining a separation between the occlusal plane surfaces of the posterior teeth in order to avoid or minimize the adverse effects of bruxism, especially while sleeping. The appliance comprises bitepad assemblies, side assemblies for adjustably receiving the bitepad assemblies, and a strap assembly for connecting the side assemblies. Bitepad cores are provided with solid projections and mechanical locks that enhance bonding with associated overmolds for improved durability. Side assembly flanges are divided to achieve independent flexibility and improved conformity for enhanced stability and comfort. A mesial area of the connecting strap assembly is thickened and rigidified to create a flare in the areas of the cuspid roots to minimize irritation and discomfort to the gum tissue.

A dental appliance for treating bruxism is disclosed. The appliance may include upper and lower portions. The upper portion may comprise a first base and a first feature. The first base may engage the upper teeth of a patient. The first feature may secure to an anterior area of the first base and comprise a concave surface forming a concavity. The lower portion may comprise a second base and a second feature. The second base may engage the lower teeth of the patient. The second feature may secure to an anterior area of the second base and comprise a protrusion. As the patient bites down, the protrusion may contact the concave surface at a point of contact that is a sole or initial contact between the upper and lower portions. Thus, the interaction of the protrusion and concave surface may control certain mandibular loadings and motions of the patient.

An apparatus and method for selecting and outputting characters by making a teeth clenching motion for disabled person are disclosed. The apparatus includes: an electromyogram signal obtaining unit including electromyogram sensors disposed at both sides for generating an electromyogram signal according to a predetermined muscle activated when a disabled person clenches teeth, and a ground electrode connected to a body of the disabled persons for providing a reference voltage; and an electromyogram signal processing unit for outputting a character by identifying a teeth clenching motion pattern of each block according to a side of teeth clenched, a duration of clenching teeth and consecutive clenching motions through analyzing the obtained electromyogram and selecting characters according to the identified teeth clenching motion pattern.

Provided is a soft flexible oral appliance having protuberances that mimic naturally occurring dental Tori. An upper, palatial appliance and a lower, mandibular appliance may be used in conjunction or separately to alleviate a variety of disorders, improve facial tone, and increase physical performance. The appliances are lightweight, thin, and do not prohibit normal speech patterns when in use Small protuberances are strategically molded along key surfaces of each appliance to stimulate nerves in the tongue and affect forward protrusion. Forward positioning of the tongue dilates the airways of the throat improving breathing while the use is sleeping, playing sports, or talking. It also reduces bruxing or grinding of the teeth. A method is further provided, for adding protuberances to other types of oral appliances, thereby conferring some of the benefits listed above on appliances originally intended for other dental uses.

A removable prosthodontic device for treating or diagnosing bruxism is disclosed. The present invention also provides a method for making a removable prosthodontic device. The present invention further provides a prosthodontic device for administering pharmacologic, tooth whitening and breath freshening compounds.

Methods for preventing or treating bruxism, including alleviating or eliminating one or more symptoms, diseases or conditions associated with or resulting from bruxism, using dopaminergic agents such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors that increase dopaminergic activity and dopamine agonists, are disclosed.

A dental appliance for maintaining a separation between the occlusal plane surfaces of the posterior teeth in order to avoid or minimize the adverse effects of bruxism, especially while sleeping. The appliance comprises bitepad assemblies, side assemblies for adjustably receiving the bitepad assemblies, and a strap assembly for connecting the side assemblies. Bitepad cores are provided with solid projections and mechanical locks that enhance bonding with associated overmolds for improved durability. Side assembly flanges are divided to achieve independent flexibility and improved conformity for enhanced stability and comfort. A mesial area of the connecting strap assembly is thickened and rigidified to create a flare in the areas of the cuspid roots to minimize irritation and discomfort to the gum tissue.

The present invention provides a novel composition of matter comprised of a mixture of two specific classes of compounds—Free-B-Ring flavonoids and flavans—for use in the prevention and treatment of diseases and conditions associated with mouth, gums and teeth. This composition of matter simultaneously inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymatic activity and reduces cytokine production at the mRNA level in normal, aged and damaged periodontal cells and tissues. This invention further provides a method for the prevention and treatment of diseases and conditions of the mouth, gums and teeth. The method for preventing and treating diseases and conditions of the mouth, teeth and gums is comprised of administering to a host in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of a composition comprising a mixture of Free-B-Ring flavonoids and flavans synthesized and / or isolated from a single plant or multiple plants, preferably in the Scutellaria, Oroxylum, Acacia or Uncaria genus of plants and pharmaceutically and / or cosmetically acceptable carriers. Finally the present invention provides a method for the prevention and treatment of diseases and conditions of the mouth, teeth or gums, including but not limited to periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis, periodontitis, pulpitis, periodontal conditions caused by the physical implantation of oral dentures, trauma, injuries, bruxism, neoplastic and other degenerative processes; material alba, pellicles, dental plagues, calculus, and stains. Use of the composition described herein also affords the benefit of maintaining optimum saliva production and pH, minimizing bacterial growth, reducing the formation of pellicles and plague, inhibiting tooth decalcification and tooth caries (decay), promoting remineralization, which yields healthy gums, whitening teeth, maintaining healthy oral hygiene and reducing oral malodor (halitosis).

A device and method for tracking and reducing bruxism and related conditions. In one embodiment using an optical muscle activity sensor and a prediction based biofeedback method for reducing bruxism. The device can also be used to track bruxism by the user or a health professional. One embodiment is worn as a headband and positioned over the temporalis muscle with biofeedback provided directly to the temporalis muscle.

Provided is a soft flexible oral appliance having protuberances that mimic naturally occurring dental Tori. An upper, palatial appliance and a lower, mandibular appliance may be used in conjunction or separately to alleviate a variety of disorders, improve facial tone, and increase physical performance. The appliances are lightweight, thin, and do not prohibit normal speech patterns when in use. Small protuberances are strategically molded along key surfaces of each appliance to stimulate nerves in the tongue and affect forward protrusion. Forward positioning of the tongue dilates the airways of the throat improving breathing while the use is sleeping, playing sports, or talking. It also reduces bruxing, or grinding of the teeth. A method is further provided, for adding protuberances to other types of oral appliances, thereby conferring some of the benefits listed above on appliances originally intended for other dental uses.

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