U.S. patent application number 13/136280 was filed with the patent office on 2013-01-31 for dual use exercise whitener appliance.
The applicant listed for this patent is Edward D. Williams. Invention is credited to Edward D. Williams.
Application Number | 20130029291 13/136280 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47597483 |
Filed Date | 2013-01-31 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130029291 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Williams; Edward D. |
January 31, 2013 |
Dual use exercise whitener appliance
Abstract
A jaw-joint protective device is provided for whitening and
brightening a wearer's teeth while protecting the teeth, tongue,
lips, jaw, and other delicate structures of the vital cranial triad
(VCT) from injury and/or for supporting the condyle of the
temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in a relatively fixed (stable)
position thereby stabilizing the jaw and the VCT during head
contact activity, exercise, physical rehabilitation, C-force
acceleration, teeth grinding disorders and sleep apnea and or
permit the components of a VCT disorder to be realigned for proper
healing. This device is an over-the-counter purchased, boil and
bite device for whitening at least one tooth while protecting the
jaw-joint, providing maxillary and mandibular teeth seats for
protection of the mouth and/or healing of the VCT. This invention
provides a device for customized fitting that is purchased
over-the-counter that is versatile for protecting not only the
mouth but also a larger area, the vital cranial triad which
includes the TMJ, while at the same time allows for audible speech,
reduces sleep disorders of snoring, grinding and clenching of teeth
with additional benefits.
Inventors: |
Williams; Edward D.;
(Philadelpha, PA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Williams; Edward D. |
Philadelpha |
PA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
47597483 |
Appl. No.: |
13/136280 |
Filed: |
July 29, 2011 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
433/215 ;
128/848; 128/862 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61C 19/066 20130101;
A61F 5/566 20130101; A63B 71/085 20130101; A61F 2005/563
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
433/215 ;
128/862; 128/848 |
International
Class: |
A61C 17/00 20060101
A61C017/00; A61F 5/56 20060101 A61F005/56; A61C 5/14 20060101
A61C005/14 |
Claims
1. A jaw joint therapeutic teeth whitening and protective and
device for protecting a wearer's lips, teeth, and other delicate
structures of the head including the vital cranial triad (VCT),
which is comprised of the bones and tissue structures found in the
temporomandibular joint, temporal tympanic bone of the ear canal,
and the inferior lateral surface of the petrous temporal bone at
the floor of the middle cranial fossa and related structures within
the full maxillary and mandibular arches of the mouth, comprising
a) a U-shaped base having a bilateral posterior dental region and
anterior dental region with integrated maxillary and mandibular
components where the components are adapted for securement within
the full maxillary and mandibular arches of the mouth, whereby the
mandibular component is offset downwardly and forwardly from the
maxillary component so that the mandible is set in a
protruding-like position, b) a full arch occlusal impact chamber in
the maxillary and mandibular dental regions of the base composed of
a hard resilient material for dissipation and absorption of shock
imposed upon the mandible, maxilla, head, jaw joint and facial
structures, c) the maxillary flange component comprising labial and
buccal walls (flanges) projecting upwardly from the base forming
with the base and providing for seating a custom fitting whitening
strip or whitening agent, used during the custom fitting procedure,
and protecting the maxillary teeth, d) the mandibular flange
component comprising labial and buccal walls projecting downwardly
and forwardly from the base forming with the base and providing for
seating a custom fitting bleaching strip or bleaching pad, used
during the custom fitting procedure, and protecting the mandibular
teeth, and a reinforced anterior dental region with a deep labial
flange to support and guide the mandible into the engineered
functionally prognathic position creating the force attenuating
recoil space of the jaw-joint, and a lingual lock of the lingual
wall in the anterior dental region of the device projection
downwardly from the base forming with the base and providing for
stability and support against forces driving the mandible back from
the prognathic position while supporting and strengthening anterior
teeth, e) custom fitting whitening strips that are composed of an
independent and separate elastomeric material that conforms to the
u-shaped articulated mandibular and maxillary buccal and labial
walls of the device, which during the custom fitting procedure
creates on the inside or tooth surface of the labial and buccal
walls of the maxillary and mandibular components an inverse
whitening cavity for containing and retaining a whitening agent, f)
an articulating rim in the lingual wall of the maxillary component
in the anterior dental region projecting upwardly from the base
forming with the base of the device high enough to support the
maxillary anterior teeth, and permitting the tongue of the wearer
to be placed against the lingual surface of the anterior maxillary
teeth for articulating speech, and g) a functional and efficient
air passageway in the anterior region of the integrated components
of the device to facilitate breathing, expectorating, and speaking,
wherein a more heat stable elastomeric material of the anterior
dental regions of the maxillary and mandibular components and the
posterior components bilaterally maintain the framework and shape
of the device and dissipate and absorb shock imposed upon the
wearer's head and the remainder of the device is made of a more
heat sensitive thermoplastic material that softens when heated to a
temperature greater than body temperature but less than or equal to
100.degree. C. and rigidly stiffens when cooled so that the device
can be perfectly fitted in situ.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the hard resilient material is a
thermoplastic elastomer.
3. The device of claim 1, wherein the functional passage is an
airway, expectorant orifice or an articulation chamber.
4. The device of claim 1, wherein the incisal locks are diminished
in height but maintain the stability of the lock, while they
maintain the support and strength for the incisal teeth but they
have been reduced to insure tongue posture against the lingual
surface of the maxillary anterior teeth to promote articulation and
speech with the exercise whitener in place.
5. The device in claim 1, wherein different materials of the device
will maintain the mandibular and maxillary dental arches locked in
a bite surface that stabilizes the jaw against lateral and
traumatic jaw displacement made of a common boil and bite dental
material and having a secondary material which maintains the
mandibular prognathic repositioning of the lower jaw and structural
integrity of the device during the boil and bite phase of fitting
and eliminating the need for a palatal component of conventional
mouthguards.
6. The device of claim 1 wherein the airway space is substantially
larger than the ones in conventional mouth guards so as to create a
greater flow than in conventional mouthguards of passive and active
airflow and freeway space for articulation.
7. The device of claim 1, wherein the custom fitting bleaching
strips are solid hard pieces of elastomer materials that are an
integral part of the device not as easily affected by the heating
process of the device.
8. The device of claim 1, wherein the custom filling bleaching
strips are pads that are directly placed onto the facial surface of
at least one tooth prior to the boiling and biting fitting process
whereby the pad or pads provide separate indentations for a custom
fitting chamber for each surface of a tooth.
9. The device of claim 1, wherein an adjustable labial knotch
prevents injuries of the attached labial frenum while allowing the
labial flange to seat higher into the labial fold of the mouth for
greater fitting and labial adaptation and greater definition of the
bleaching cavity allowing for greater retention of the whitening
agent.
10. A method of treating a jaw-joint disorder and other facial
fractures by a person having such a disorder comprising wearing the
device of claim 1 when participating in athletic activity or when
in need to correct such disorder, wherein wearing the device holds
the temporomandibular joint and jaw components in a stable and
functional position for a sufficient time period in order to afford
protection, stability, and healing thereof.
11. A method for supporting and enhancing the teeth clenching
mechanism and incorporating bodily strength and balance during
physical rehabilitation, or exercise while whitening the teeth
comprising wearing the device of claim 1 while participating in
rehabilitation or exercise.
12. A method of fitting in situ the device of claim 1 in the mouth
of a user comprising heating the device in hot water to a
temperature greater than body temperature but less than or equal to
100.degree. C. to soften certain portions of the device, immediate
placing the device in the wearer's mouth, the wearer biting down on
the base so as to make teeth impressions in the base while the
wearer is applying suction and pressure to the device with the
tongue, lips, and oral musculature and further molding the device
with corresponding fingers and lip pressures, removing the device
from the wearer's mouth, cooling the device down whereby the device
hardens to a rigid form, and removing the bleaching strips from the
device and discarding them, whereby the device is now customized to
the wearer's mouth.
13. A method of treating sleep disorders of snoring, grinding and
clenching of teeth, and sleep apnea while whitening the teeth
comprising wearing the device of claim 1 while sleeping.
Description
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to a dual function protective device
that not only protects the oral cavity especially the teeth while
exercising and, or engaging in sports but also whitens or brightens
the teeth while wearing the device. More particularly, this
invention will support and protect the teeth, jaw joint structures,
and facial muscles, while whitening the teeth during physical
events (e.g., exercise, fitness, physical training, rehabilitation,
playing, sleeping and military maneuvers).
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In the prior art, one method for whitening teeth is to use
plastic strips that are impregnated with a whitening agent and are
adhered to the teeth. The manufacturer says that they can be worn
at any time during the day or even at night when sleeping. Another
method of whitening teeth is to use whitening appliances composed
of two individual and separate custom fitted bleaching trays bought
over the counter or fitted by the dentist. These non-articulated
separate and individual trays are placed on the upper (maxillary)
and lower (mandibular) teeth respectively. The frequency of use and
time of wear for the individual bleaching tray is directly related
to the concentration and type of whitening agent and the
individual's desired shade of the color change.
[0003] The forces of teeth clenching, facial tension and the
repetitive body pounding of physical events cause many of the
exercise induced headaches and other adverse physical or cognitive
symptoms. Teeth clenching is an oral function that engages the
trigeminal nerve and the muscles of mastication. The teeth
clenching mechanism is a dynamic and an involuntary function
occurring during physical events, stress, anger, teeth grinding,
concentration and other physical and mental activities. This reflex
mechanism encompasses the structures of the dental organ, muscles
of mastication, and the jaw joint complex and is facilitated by the
Vagus nerve. The teeth clenching reflex mechanism (TCRM) is in part
responsible for the physiological attributes of strength, endurance
and other physical coordinating actions. TCRM can also reduce
stress, tension, or pain associated with many types of bodily
injuries, exercise, physical therapy and/or rehabilitation
activities and the like. Note, as a person engages in lifting a
heavy object, he/she involuntarily clenches his/her teeth. These
physiological attributes of the teeth clenching reflex mechanism
reverse themselves out and are diminished with injury, damage, or
excess wear of the jaw joint structure and the premature or early
loss of (posterior) teeth.
[0004] As pointed out, the jaw joint structure is a vital component
of the teeth clenching reflex mechanism and the described physical
attributes. Chronic teeth clenching habits, teeth grinding
disorders, stress, tension, repetitive body pounding physical
activities, external impact vibration forces in the work place, and
trauma will produce adverse consequences, debilitating changes,
abuse and wear and tear of the jaw joint structure. These
destructive episodes occurring in the jaw joint structure impair
the Vagus nerve functions of the clenching reflex mechanism. The
consequence of this pathology will result in the loss of endurance,
strength, muscular response and more rapid fatigue with greater
muscular pain during physical activities. In conjunction with
headache manifestations, the jaw joint pathology produces other
physical and cognitive symptoms. These symptoms may include:
facial, neck, eye, ear and shoulder pain and tenderness; popping,
clicking, and crepitation joint sounds when opening or closing the
mouth; grinding of teeth; malocclusion (i.e., teeth do not meet
together well or meet improperly); localized dental pain; ringing
in the ears; increased irritability; decrease in the attention span
and the physical output and other symptoms. Many of these symptoms,
although familiar to the participant, are not often realized or
associated with jaw joint pathology by the participant, providers
of heath care, military, or the sports community.
[0005] The strenuous forces of teeth clenching, facial tension, and
pounding forces of exercise, which damage the jaw joint, are
transmitted through this jaw joint structure onto the base of the
skull directly affecting the temporal lobe of the brain,
manifesting the exercise induced temporal headache. Anatomically,
the thin bony ceiling of the jaw joint structure is the thin bony
floor at the inferior lateral surface of the middle cranial fossa
of the skull. The middle cranial fossa is the bony structure within
the skull that supports, cradles, and houses the temporal lobe of
the brain.
[0006] The excessive and intensive teeth clenching, brought about
by the strains of exercise, the nocturnal habits of sleep, habitual
teeth grinding, and the like, will also produce damaging occlusal
or bite forces against the teeth and intra-oral structures. These
forces may cause sheering and fracturing of the teeth, dental
restorations and related structures. Chronic teeth grinders and
participants in the advanced levels of strength training often
experience structural damage of the dentition.
[0007] This invention relates to the health values and the
importance of exercise, sports, fitness and life style
modifications. Health, fitness, personal appearance and life style
modifications are the essential motivators for exercise. Obesity is
the number two (2) preventable cause of death in this country.
However, the trends of obesity are rapidly growing in our society,
particularly in the youth who have substituted the computers for
exercise and outdoor growth stimulating activities. The loss of
physical education in many school systems, the high consumptions of
fast foods, and baggy clothes are also other contributing factors
in juvenile obesity. The epidemic trends of obesity in youth are
closely followed by diabetes and also lend to the increase risk of
internal organ damage, hypertension, strokes, peripheral vascular
diseases and the like. Exercise has become a vital aspect in the
struggles against obesity, physical rehabilitation, and disease
management, with a focus on systemic exercise for conditions such
as diabetes, coronary heart disease, high cholesterol, body mass
index, depression, sleep apnea and others. Motivation for exercise
has become a major concern in the health care delivery system.
[0008] America is aging faster than the growth rate at the younger
end of the spectrum. Of the 275 million people in the US, 95
million are less than 25 years of age, 139 million are between 25
and 65 and the remaining 36 million are over 65. The over 65-age
group is expected to double in the next 25 years. The elderly
population increased 11 times from 1990-1994, while the non-elderly
population grew just 3 times. The population of Americans age 85
and older is steadily on the rapid increase exponentially with
time. Americans are living longer.
[0009] Demographic shifts and technology breakthroughs are
coexisting as the elderly embrace all new technology that will
improve their lifestyles including good health, fitness, and
personal appearance. Coinciding with this shift and technology
breakthrough are the contributions of modern dentistry. The
American public is less likely to believe or accept the concept
that the full denture is the destiny earmarked for the elderly. The
successful dental trends in the prevention of teeth loss have
improved dramatically. The baby boomer market has shown an aversion
for and a remarkable reduction in the use and wear of full
dentures. This reduction in the use of dentures converts to an
escalation in the retention of the natural teeth in this rapidly
growing elderly population. The natural aging process of teeth will
show or reflect darker colors with age. These darker colors of the
natural teeth are becoming less acceptable in health, fitness,
personal appearance and life style modification. Many of the youth
and younger Americans are also dissatisfied with the color of their
teeth, which may be due to early dental injuries or other
unforeseen health factors. Millions of Americans are motivated by
the concept of whiter, brighter teeth projecting a healthier
smile.
[0010] Teeth whitening has become the glare of attention in health,
fitness, personal appearance and life style modification. Brighter,
whither teeth builds self-confidence, enhances the personal
appearance, and adds to the development of personal relationships
and a pleasing smile. These factors compliment and enhance the
exercise, health, strength, fitness and wellness programs.
[0011] U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,810,193 and 5,636,379 disclose jaw joint
protective devices that provides protection for the teeth, lips,
jaw, and other delicate structures of the vital cranial triad (VCT)
from injury and/or for supporting the condyle of the
temporomandibular joint in a relatively stable position. The VCT
constitutes the condyle of the mandible, inferior lateral surface
at the floor of the middle cranial fossa and the anterior temporal
tympanic bone of the ear canal.
[0012] Hence, since health values that stress the importance of
exercise, fitness, and life style changes are becoming increasingly
necessary to people for different reasons, a need exists for
simplifying yet multi-tasking procedures in order for people to
achieve more personal objectives in the same period of time in
order to fit the objectives into busy schedules. The present
invention solves multi-tasking with regard to whitening teeth,
protecting teeth, protecting and supporting the jaw joint while
engaging in physical activities.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] The present invention is directed to a jaw-joint therapeutic
teeth whitener and protective device for protecting a wearer's
lips, tongue, teeth, VCT, and other oral structures within the full
maxillary and mandibular arches of the mouth, and jaw-joint
structures by repositioning the condyle in relationship to the
fossa. The device is composed of:
a) a U-shaped base having a bilateral posterior dental region and
an anterior dental region with integrated maxillary and mandibular
components where the components are adapted for securement within
the full maxillary and mandibular arches of the mouth, whereby the
mandibular component is offset downwardly and forwardly from the
maxillary component so that the mandible is set in a secure and
protruded position; b) an occlusal impact chamber in the mandibular
and maxillary dental regions of the base filled with a resilient
material for absorption and dissipation of shock away from the
teeth, jaw joint, and related facial structures; c) the maxillary
flange component is composed of the labial and buccal walls
projecting upwardly from the base forming with the base and
providing for seating a custom fitting bleaching strip, used during
the custom fitting procedure, which creates on the inside or dental
surface of the labial and buccal walls an inverse bleaching cavity
for containing and retaining a whitening agent; d) the mandibular
flange component composed of the labial and buccal walls projecting
downwardly from the base forming with the base and providing for
seating a custom fitting bleaching strip, used during the custom
fitting procedure, and protecting the mandibular teeth, and a
reinforced anterior dental region with a deep labial flange to
support and guide the mandible into the engineered functionally
prognathic position creating the force attenuating recoil space of
the jaw-joint and lingual lock of the lingual wall in the anterior
dental region of the device projecting downwardly from the base
forming with the base and providing for stability and support
against forces driving the mandible back from the prognathic
position while supporting and strengthening anterior teeth; e)
custom fitting bleaching strips that are composed of an independent
and separate elastomeric material that conforms to the U-shaped
articulated mandibular and maxillary buccal and labial walls of the
device, which creates on the inside or dental surface of the labial
and buccal walls of the maxillary and mandibular components an
inverse bleaching cavity for containing and retaining a whitening
agent, f) an articulating rim in the lingual wall of the maxillary
component in the anterior dental region of the device that
eliminates the need for a palatal component, so that the tongue of
the wearer can be placed against the lingual surface of the
anterior maxillary teeth for articulating speech; and g) a
functional air-way passage from canine to canine in the anterior of
the integrated components to facilitate breathing, expectorating,
and speaking.
[0014] The present invention also relates to a method of fitting in
situ by the wearer of the above mentioned jaw-joint protective,
exerciser bleaching device by first heating the device in hot water
to a temperature greater than body temperature to soften certain
portions of the device with bleaching strips in place and
immediately placing the device in the wearer's mouth and the wearer
biting down on the base so as to make teeth impressions in the base
while sucking with added finger pressure against the upper and
lower lips, molding the dental surface of the maxillary and
mandibular labial and buccal flanges (walls). Then, the device is
removed from the user's mouth and then cooled, whereby the device
hardens to a rigid form maintaining the impression of the teeth,
arch form and bleaching cavity of the wearer thereby customizing
the device. The bleaching strips are removed and discarded.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 is a sectional frontal view of the mouth showing the
airway opening or expectorant orifice in the exercise whitener
device.
[0016] FIG. 2 is a partial side view of the head showing the
components of the functional change in the temporomandibular joint
complex with the exercise whitener device in place.
[0017] FIG. 3 is a frontal view of the exercise whitener device
showing the adjustable labial knotch and airway space.
[0018] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the device showing the
articulating rim, bleaching strip, and no palatal component.
[0019] FIG. 5 is a rear view of the exercise whitener device,
looking from the rear to the front of the device showing the
bleaching strips in place.
[0020] FIG. 6 is a rear view of the exercise whitener device,
looking from the rear to the front of the device showing the
formation of the bleaching cavities.
[0021] FIG. 7 is a side view of the exercise whitener device with
the bleaching strips in place being placed in a user's mouth for
fitting.
[0022] FIG. 8 is a view showing the user biting down into the
maxillary and mandibular channels while molding the buccal and
labial walls of the device for in situ fitting.
[0023] FIG. 9 is a view showing the removal of the device for
cooling.
[0024] FIG. 10 is a view showing the removal and discarding of the
bleaching strip from the maxillary component of the device after
cooling of the device.
[0025] FIG. 11 is a view showing the removal and discarding of the
bleaching strip from the mandibular component of the device after
cooling of the device.
[0026] FIG. 12 is a view showing the adding of a whitening agent to
the newly formed bleaching cavities of the device for use by the
wearer.
[0027] FIG. 13 is a view showing the re-insertion of the whitening
device with the bleaching agent in place.
[0028] FIG. 14 is a view showing the whitening device with the
whitening agent in place in the mouth creating the safety margin in
the jaw joint space to reduce lower jaw impact concussions.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0029] It has been surprisingly found that a mouth guard appliance
can achieve multi-tasking by not only providing protection to the
oral cavity, jaw joint, and enhancing the teeth clenching reflex
mechanism (TCRM) but also can brighten and whiten teeth at the same
time.
[0030] In accordance with the present invention, the exercise
whitener device combines the utilities of an intra-oral impact
appliance, (i.e., the stress, anxiety, grinding attenuation and
impact absorption intra-oral appliances) with the teeth whitening
or teeth bleaching trays system.
[0031] The present invention allows the user to engage in the
activities of exercise, rapid acceleration devices, physical
therapy, sports, military maneuvers, sleep apnea reduction, and the
like while bleaching or whitening the teeth effectively at the same
time. The exercise whitener will also enhance the physical
attributes of the TCRM, producing the notable increase in strength,
energy and endurance with the reduction of pain and stress of
exercise during use. It will allow the user to get more physical
benefits out of exercise in the least amount of time.
[0032] The application of this invention is a great motivator for
exercise in disease management, obesity, physical therapy, strength
training, health, fitness, and wellness. This teeth whitening and
strength enhancing intra-oral appliance can also be used for the
physical science and impact of sports. This invention achieves the
aesthetics of a brighter, whiter smile with the appeal of a
stronger, more fit and healthier body.
[0033] With the anterior opening, the repositioning of the lower
jaw and the increase in the size or volume of glottis airway space,
this appliance will reduce snoring in a large user population while
whitening the teeth. This enhances interpersonal relationships with
the significant other by reducing sleep apnea, promotes more
restful sleep, and builds self-confidence with a brighter whiter
smile.
[0034] It has been found that the exerciser, jaw-joint protective
and teeth whitening device composed of two different types of
materials for different purposes can be used by a wearer to provide
protection not only to the oral cavity but also to the vital
cranial triad (VCT) and component structures and provide teeth
whitening during wear. The VCT broadens the defined structural
component of what is commonly known as the temporomandibular joint.
The invention supports the mandible and condyle in a relatively
fixed position thereby stabilizing the lower jaw and VCT during
head contact, exercise, physical therapy, teeth grinding and sleep
apnea activities and/or to permit the components of any VCT
disorders to be realigned reducing load forces to the jaw joint
during head contact and/or physical activities or bodily jarring
forces during selective teeth whitening procedures.
[0035] This device is simple in structure and fitting components
but it is strong in purpose for achieving the maximum protection
for the delicate bones and structures of the base of the skull, the
jaw joint and oral cavity and providing the bleaching cavity for
discretionary teeth whitening activities. The simple exerciser,
jaw-joint protective and teeth whitening device of the present
invention can be simply adapted to a wearer's mouth perfectly in
situ by the wearer heating the device in water and then placing it
in his/her mouth and biting down on the device so as to make an
impression of the occlusal surfaces of the teeth in the occlusal
impact surface of the dental arches and molding the dental surface
of the labial and buccal walls of the device to create the custom
fitted gel cavity which will set up in a few seconds.
[0036] The present invention has integrated base of the double
arches forming upper and lower bite channels of the exercise
whitener, which are composed of upper and lower labial and buccal
walls and upper and lower lingual walls, (see FIG. 5). The labial
and buccal walls are the beacons of this invention. The outside
surfaces of the labial and buccal walls will be in contact with the
lips and cheeks. The inside surface of the labial and buccal walls
will contact and cover the front surface of the teeth and parts of
the gums (gingiva), (see FIG. 1). For the ease of fitting during
the boil and bite custom fitting process only, the custom fitting
bleaching strips are used (see FIG. 5). The custom fitting
bleaching strips are made from a material that is more stable and
less responsive in heat than the labial and buccal flange (wall)
material. In the design of the boil and bite fitting of the
appliance, the placement of the custom fitting bleaching strips is
essential. The custom fitting bleaching strips are seated between
the inside surface of the upper and lower labial and buccal walls
of the device and the facial or outside surface of the teeth, (see
FIG. 5). This insures the formation of the bleaching cavity or
negative impression, (see FIG. 6), on the inside surface of the
upper and lower labial and buccal walls during the fitting process.
After the fitting procedure the custom fitting bleaching strips are
discarded (see FIGS. 10 & 11). The bleaching cavity, formed on
the inside surface of the upper and lower labial and buccal walls,
holds and retains the whitening agent against the front or labial
and buccal surfaces of the teeth to maximize the whitening
proficiency during use. In another embodiment, the user may also
opt to mold the custom fitting bleaching strips directly for one or
more teeth to provide a more detailed or specific whitening
pattern. In this embodiment, buccal pads are placed directly onto
each of the user's teeth that are to be bleached prior to the
boiling and biting of the device. This embodiment enables the user
to either focus in on a single tooth or as many teeth as desired
for treatment up to the user's entire mouth. These fitting
procedure embodiments have created a custom fitted mouth guard
appliance in combination with custom fitted bleaching or whitening
trays. The whitening agent can be in the form of a strip, paste,
gel, or solution and can come in different strengths and flavors.
The whitening agents may be used discretionarily with the exercise
whitener device.
[0037] In order to understand and appreciate the structural
features and benefits of the exerciser, jaw-joint protective and
teeth whitening device of the present invention, a brief review of
the anatomy for which the device protects and functions will be
described.
[0038] FIG. 2 shows the functionally protected position of the VCT
complex and the bleaching gel cavity against labial and buccal
surfaces of the teeth with the device in place. The area of the
mouth affected by the bleaching gel cavity of the device is the
facial surfaces of the mandibular and maxillary teeth. The areas of
the head, protected by the device are the oral cavity or mouth that
is composed of the teeth that sit in a rigidly fixed upper jaw 2
and a moveable lower jaw 1 which is movably connected to the
cranium at the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The joint is defined
by two primary bones, the mandibular bone 1, which articulates with
the temporal bone as a ball (condyle 2) and socket (glenoid fossa
3) joint.
[0039] Referring to either side of the human head, the temporal
bone houses the very thin and delicate glenoid fossa 3 (laying on
the bone of this fossa is the temporal lobe of the brain) which is
the socket of the temporomandibular joint. The articular eminence 5
forms the anterior component of the fossa. Positioned between the
condyle 2, the most posterior ball-like structure of the mandible,
and the fossa 3 is the soft tissue of the meniscus (cartilage or
disc) of the TMJ. The auditory meatus 6, temporal tympanic bones 7
a, b, c, and post glenoid process 8 are also shown. The post
glenoid process 8 and the anterior superior surface of the temporal
tympanic bones 7a,b,c unite at 9. Housed in the temporal tympanic
bones 7a,b,c are the auditory and balance mechanisms, among other
vital structures. Medially and inferiorly to the medial surface of
the condyle 2 is the inferior surface of the petrous temporal bone
porting a complex of cranial nerves trunks as they exit from the
base of the brain and housing the internal carotid artery which is
the primary supply of blood to the brain.
[0040] In the case of internal derangement including of teeth
clenching, facial tension and the repetitive body pounding of
physical exercise, fitness, strength, and physical training,
rehabilitation, sleep apnea, teeth grinding, and sports related
injuries of the VCT, the aberrant forces from these events tap,
abruptly slam or damagingly compress the condyle against the
delicate structures of the VCT. These load forces will produce
radiographically discernible fractures associated with concussions
and structural changes of the delicate bones and contusions,
compressions, or herniations of the soft tissue of the VCT. Thus,
it should come as no surprise that athletes and persons suffering
from VCT injuries or changes often present cognitive symptoms
reflecting neurologic and circulatory deficit. These cognitive
symptoms may include migraine-like headache, earache, facial pain,
bloodshot eyes, exercise induced headaches, photosensitivity,
muscle weakness, pain and numbness of extremities, vomiting,
vertigo, impaired speech, raspy voices, and decrease in hearing
abilities among other clinical symptoms.
[0041] In conjunction with the aforementioned structures, the
mandibular and maxillary dentition and gingiva, as well as, the
tongue, lips, and other oral structures must be protected during
exercise, physical rehabilitation, sports activities, military
maneuvers, and during external vibration activities (such as air
hammer drilling, rotary air craft vibration, etc).
[0042] In accordance with the present invention, the device (FIGS.
5 and 6) employs a design to prevent and overcome dental and
jaw-joint problems typically as a result of contact sports while
motivating participators to engage in these activities with teeth
whitening enhancement. The device is composed of a reinforced
anterior dental region and bilateral posterior dental regions where
the maxillary and mandibular teeth are functionally seated having
labial border 10, lingual border 15, buccal border 11, articular
rim 12, lingual lock 13 and bleaching cavities 17a and b. The upper
and lower bleaching strips 17a and b create the bleaching cavities
17a and b. The exerciser, jaw-joint protective teeth whitener
repositions the lower jaw and condyle in a downward and forward
position relative to the normal or centric position of the condyle
2 (see FIG. 2). In other words, the lower jaw is extended in a
prognathic position. This device also establishes an occlusal
offset that positions the incisal surfaces of the mandibular
incisel teeth downward and forward in relationship to the maxillary
incisal teeth. This device also establishes an occlusal lock that
creates a relationship between the upper and lower teeth in such a
way as to minimize lateral, adverse, and relative movement during
contact. In other words, the device maximizes jaw stability and
locks the lower jaw in an extended position. The downward and
forward position of the lower jaw in conjunction with the device
creates the anterior functional freeway space 14 and force
attenuation space 1 of the jaw joint. This device also establishes
a well-defined indentation or cavity 17a and b in the dental
surface of the maxillary and mandibular labial and buccal walls of
the device to provide an effective cavity to hold and retain
whitening agents for the efficient teeth whitening procedures of
the maxillary and mandibular dentition.
[0043] A palatal portion commonly found in conventional mouthpieces
normally ending just before the soft palate of the mouth is absent
from this jaw-joint protective device because of the engineered
design for strength in the mandibular and maxillary posterior bite
components of this device; moreover, it would impair articulated
speech and in many cases elicited a gag reflex. The labial-buccal
borders 10 and 11 are present and positioned in the mucco-buccal
fold of the mouth avoiding impingement of the labial frenum and
posterior muscle attachments. The adjustable labial knotch 18
enables the wearer to place the labial flange high into the labial
fold of the mouth without cutting or damaging the labial frenum
while maintaining the integrity of the bleaching strip 16 and the
newly formed bleaching cavity 17.
[0044] FIG. 4, the top plain view, shows that the lingual surface
is reinforced by the articular rim 12 behind the maxillary anterior
teeth from canine to canine likewise, the labial-buccal maxillary
flange is reinforced by the bleaching strip 19.
[0045] FIG. 5, the rear view, shows in accordance with the present
invention, the custom fitting bleaching strips 16a and b are
composed of an independent and separate hard elastomeric material
that conforms to the U-shaped articulated mandibular and maxillary
components of the device. The bleaching strips 16a and b of this
invention are not easily affected by heat and are used only for the
custom fitting procedure and are then removed and discarded. The
rigid elastomeric material bleaching strips 16a and b run primarily
the length of the inside or dental surface of the maxillary and
mandibular labial and buccal walls but are shorter and narrower
than the length and height of the maxillary and mandibular labial
and buccal walls. The bleaching strip components are seated from
the base of the maxillary channel between the inside surface or
dental surface of the labial and buccal walls and the labial and
buccal (facial) surfaces of the maxillary teeth. In the lower jaw,
the bleaching strip component is seated from the base of the
mandibular channel between the inside surface or dental surface of
the labial and buccal walls and the labial and buccal (facial)
surface of the mandibular teeth. The bleaching strip components
also may be altered for the specific fit of one or more teeth to
create the bleaching cavity for a specific bleaching pattern as
needed. In this embodiment, pads are placed directly onto each of
the teeth that is to be bleached. These pads are also made of a
rigid material that will not harm the tooth or teeth that is strong
enough to make the desired impression in the device as needed. When
the buccal pads are placed directly onto the facial surface of the
tooth/teeth just prior to the boil and bite fitting, these pads or
pad will produce an indentation on the tooth or teeth surface of
anterior and buccal flanges of the device, shown in FIG. 6. These
indentations are the sites for the placement of the whitening
medium.
[0046] When the device is placed in the mouth with the mandible
placed in the functionally protruded position, the mandibular and
maxillary units being integrated into one unit protects the oral
cavity and positions the condyle of the VCT into a protective and
exaggerated position that also enhances the function of the TCRM.
The engineered mandibular jaw placement is governed by the device,
the kinesiological functional physiology, the condyle-fossa
physiology, the force attenuation space, and the functional
free-way space.
[0047] FIGS. 1. and 2 show the comparison of the design of the
exerciser, jaw-joint protective teeth whitener device in the mouth
in FIG. 2 is such that the upper and lower dental arches are held
in a spaced-apart position of desired dimensions with an airway 14
(or saliva orifice) so that the participant wearing the device can
readily breathe or expectorate or talk, depending on the activity.
This functional airway space 14 is in the anterior sextant
component of the mouth that is composed of an oversized space that
can be extended from premolar to premolar or canine to canine. The
anterior free-way space 14 also can be used as a means to grasp the
device, which enables the jaw-joint protective appliance to be
removed from an injured or unconscious participant. In FIG. 2,
number 1 shows the force attenuation space that is the acquired
safety margin in the jaw joint space gained by the design of the
device when properly placed in the mouth and the mandibular and
maxillary bleaching cavities 19a and b are formed during the
fitting procedures.
[0048] FIG. 5 shows the lingual view of the maxillary arch that has
a thicker, tapered, depressed portion in the anterior region that
defines an articulating rim 12 which aids in the production of
speech and gives support to the lingual surface of the anterior
teeth. This articulating rim 12 combined with the anterior free way
air space 14 enables the wearer to speak, to breathe actively and
passively through the mouth while wearing the jaw-joint protective
and whitening appliance. The down and forward positioning of the
mandible physiologically increases the volume of the glottis airway
space. This enhances the oxygen exchange with the lungs. With this
improved functional airway space 14, if the participant should
become unconscious, a patent airway is always maintained.
[0049] The present invention also relates to a method of fitting in
situ by the wearer of the above-mentioned jaw-joint protective and
whitening device (FIGS. 7-14). Either the user or someone assisting
him (or her), for instance in the case of a minor child, can heat
the device in hot water to a temperature greater than body
temperature but less than or equal to 100.degree. C. to soften
certain portions of the device, as engineered, and immediately
placing it in the wearer's mouth (see FIG. 7). The wearer with the
custom fitting bleaching strip in place, then bites down on the
base of the device (FIG. 8) so as to make teeth impressions in the
base and applies suction and pressure with, e.g., the tongue,
fingers, lips, oral musculature, to create a good firm fit. The
wearer also applies suction and pressure with the use of fingers,
lips, oral musculature, to create a good firm fit of the labial and
buccal flanges against the custom fitting bleaching strips. Then
the device is removed from the mouth and cooled down (FIG. 9)
whereby the device hardens to a rigid form. The cooling step only
takes a few seconds. After cooling, the custom fitting bleaching
strips are removed and discarded (FIGS. 10 and 11). The whitening
agent is then placed in the bleaching channels of the device (FIG.
12) and the device is then placed back in the mouth (FIG. 13) with
the user's head in a tilted down position so as not to disturb the
whitening agent This device can be used just as a teeth whitener or
brightener appliance during a physical activity, sleep, or just
relaxing.
[0050] FIG. 14 shows the jaw joint stabilizing and whitening device
in place with bleaching strips removed and whitening agent placed
in the bleaching canals and condyle displaced down and forward away
from the glenoid fossa creating a safety margin against lower jaw
impact concussions.
[0051] In the device, the reinforced anterior and posterior dental
regions of the maxillary and mandibular components are composed of
a resilient thermoplastic material for dissipation and absorption
of shock imposed upon the wearer's head during sporting or
exercising activities. In the portions of the device where the
teeth surfaces are in direct contact with the device, the device is
made of thermoplastic material that softens when heated in water
above body temperature and rigidly stiffens when cooled so that the
device can be perfectly fitted in situ. The remainder of the device
is made of a rigid elastomeric material that maintains its rigidity
when heated in water above body temperature.
[0052] This device and the custom fitting bleaching strip are
mass-produced in various sizes to fit different prospective users
such as men, women, and children. The normal sizes are large,
medium, or small. The device can be produced, for example, by
injection molding or machine stamping techniques that are well
known in the art.
[0053] The occlusal bite channel and wall material of the device
are normally made of a thermoplastic material such as ethylene
vinyl acetate that can withstand pressure, is easily molded, and is
inert to the mouth chemistry of the person wearing it. This
thermoplastic material must be able to soften when heated above
body temperature but below or equal to 100.degree. C. and yet to
harden again when it is cooled down outside of the user's mouth for
molding to the impression of the wearer's mouth. Natural rubber can
also be used for producing the jaw-joint protector and whitener
device of the present invention which rubber must be heavy duty,
non-toxic, and inert, which would be well known to a person in this
art.
[0054] The resilient material that is used as the primary
foundation for the framework and shape for the reinforced anterior
dental region in the maxillary and mandibular components and
posterior component bilaterally and the custom fitting bleaching
strips, would normally be prepared from a different material from
that of the rest of the device that serves the function of strength
for protection. The material is normally a thermoplastic material
such as an elastomer. An example of this elastomer is a Kraton
material. Natural rubber can also be used for producing these
resilient portions of the jaw-joint protector of the present
invention which rubber must be heavy duty, non-toxic, and inert and
stable to the heating temperature of this device, which would be
well known to a person in this art. Other materials for the device
that meet the specifications of the American Dental Association for
intra-oral use would be known to a person in the art.
[0055] Many advantages of the exerciser, jaw-joint protective,
teeth whitener device of the present invention exist over the
conventional mouth guards. The present invention absorbs shock,
traumatic vibrations and impacts to the head forces, displaces the
condyle in a downward and forward position creating the force
attenuation space dissipating and absorbing these load forces
previously directed to the VCT, protects maxillary and mandibular
dentition while whitening the teeth. The adjustable labial knotch
prevents injuries of the attached labial freneum while allowing the
labial flange to seat higher into the labial fold of the mouth for
greater fitting and labial adaptation and greater definition of the
bleaching cavity allowing for greater retention of the whitening
agent. The exerciser, jaw-joint protective, teeth whitener device
also eliminates compression of the disc and condyle-fossa space of
the TMJ with trauma to the head, provides greater stability against
traumatic displacement of the lower jaw onto the delicate bones in
the head, decreases trauma to the anterior components of the
tongue, decreases the incidence of lip injuries "the teeth through
the lip syndrome", and enhances the clenching mechanism while
allowing the participant to functionally breath through the
mouth.
[0056] The continued wearing of this device of the present
invention promotes healing of an injured condyle-fossa complex and
other facial structures while the participant actively engages in
sports, exercise, physical therapy, traumatic vibration force
induced environments, sleep or at rest. Since articulated speech
can be performed and nutrients passed through the air way space
when the device is being worn by a person and is comfortable in the
mouth, it is conceivable that this device can be used in arch
stabilization and repair of other facial and jaw fractures;
therefore, users of the device can use the device as a medical
appliance. In other words, the exerciser, jaw-joint protective,
teeth whitener device of the present invention facilitates
remodeling and repair of injured condyle-fossa relationship, VCT
components and other facial bones. This device also increases
functional physical output and strength of the athlete by
repositioning the condyle away from the injured structures in the
VCT; this is another incentive why it can be worn either while a
wearer is actively participating in a sport or just performing
normal everyday activities or being at rest. This device can also
be used to increase palatal airflow patterns during sleep and
thereby reduce snoring. The wearing of this device will also
mitigate the adverse forces associated with clenching and grinding
of the teeth during sleep.
[0057] While the invention has been described with respect to
specific embodiments, it should be understood that the invention
should not be limited thereto and that many variations and
modifications are possible without departing from the spirit and
scope of the invention.
* * * * *