TMJ Jaw Splint Sliding Plane for Neuromuscular Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing jaw training apparatuses fail to provide a biomechanically and neurophysiologically favorable environment, often causing discomfort and degenerative diseases, and lack the ability to effectively influence neuromuscular control of the temporomandibular joint.
Innovation Solution
An individually manufactured apparatus with upper and lower jaw modules featuring a smooth, inclined separating-sliding plane oriented according to cranial symmetry, allowing perpendicular force application and minimal lateral forces, and incorporating marginal gaps and projections for stable yet mobile jaw movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a splint with a sliding contact surface is used to allow transverse displacement, then the lower jaw can be moved, but the sliding plane is not inclined relative to the chewing plane and creates lateral pressure on the teeth
Solution Approach 1:
The separating surface is deliberately designed with an inclination angle relative to the chewing plane, creating an asymmetric configuration that allows transverse displacement while preventing lateral pressure on the teeth. The inclination angle is specifically chosen to match the cranial orientation, ensuring that the sliding movement occurs in a biomechanically favorable direction away from the teeth.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a new dimensional aspect by inclining the separating surface relative to the chewing plane. This inclination creates a third dimension of movement that allows transverse displacement to occur in a plane that is elevated relative to the tooth structure, thereby enabling the sliding motion without direct lateral contact with the teeth.
2Shape
If apparatuses are used to displace the lower jaw transversely, then cosmetically pleasing tooth position can be achieved, but severe disturbances in the biomechanics and neurophysiology of the jaw muscles and temporomandibular joint occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention converts the potentially harmful lateral displacement forces into a beneficial training mechanism. By allowing controlled transverse movement of the lower jaw along the inclined separating surface, the apparatus transforms what would normally be harmful biomechanical disturbances into a therapeutic training stimulus that improves neuromuscular control and stabilizes the temporomandibular joint.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus incorporates implicit feedback mechanisms where the position and movement of the lower jaw are continuously monitored through the separating surface geometry. The inclined surface provides mechanical feedback that guides the jaw into optimal positions and maintains proper alignment, while the movement itself serves as feedback for neuromuscular training of the jaw muscles.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If bite splints are worn permanently to relieve temporomandibular joint tension, then joint compression is reduced, but neuromuscular tension increases and biomechanical function is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from a static bite splint design to a dynamic training apparatus. The separating surface is designed to allow controlled movement and sliding of the lower jaw, transforming the rigid, static compression into a dynamic, movement-based training mechanism. This dynamic design enables the jaw muscles to actively engage and stabilize the joint during functional movement, reducing neuromuscular tension while maintaining joint relief.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates rapid, sustainable neuromuscular and biomechanical improvements by training the jaw muscles, reducing tension, and preparing the temporomandibular joint for further therapy with minimal discomfort.
Implementation Method 1
There is an almost frictionless plane and predominantly exactly transversely sliding separating surface between the upper jaw module and the lower jaw module
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for training the muscular, sensorimotor and neurophysiological systems of the temporomandibular joint and for positioning and guiding the lower jaw relative to the upper jaw. The apparatus includes at least two modules which lie against one another in the region of a comparatively large-area separating-sliding plane without teeth or tooth fissures or comparable shapes obstructing the sideways movement of the modules relative to one another along the separating-sliding plane. At least one of the two modules is designed as an upper jaw module which has a plurality of recesses for the teeth of the upper jaw, said recesses approximately forming an arch, and a first smooth sliding surface. At least one of the two modules is designed as a lower jaw module having a plurality of recesses for the teeth of the lower jaw and a second smooth sliding surface.