Negative pressure oral apparatus
US10149783B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 22, 2016 |
| Grant date | Dec 11, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 22, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61C17/10
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
This invention provides an oral apparatus and method capable of alleviating or curing snore and obstructive sleep apnea by applying a negative pressure through a mini oral interface to the oral cavity. The mini oral interface creates a secure connection between the interface and mouth or teeth and prevents the interface from falling off. The oral interface also provides fixation between upper and lower lips (or tooth) and prevents opening of patient's mouth during sleeping. The negative pressure pulls the tongue toward upper palate and also pulls the soft palate forward as well. By moving the tongue and the soft palate in a forward direction, the patentcy of the upper airway near the pharynx is maintained to prevent sleep-disordered breathing. The negative pressure will pull the lips inward to close the mouth ad prevent air from entering the oral cavity from atmosphere. The negative pressure will also pull the soft palate into contact with the rear surface of the tongue to create a seal that prevents the air from entering the oral cavity through the nasal airway.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.