Oral device to inhibit mastication and ingestion of solid food

Abstract

The present invention is oral device that inhibits mastication and ingestion of solid food while minimizing intrusiveness and discomfort in other oral activities. This device is ideal for individuals following an all-liquid diet without relying on willpower alone. The oral device allows a full range of motion of the jaw and the wearer keeps the ability to open and close the mouth, allowing all oral functions other than chewing and swallowing solid food. In various embodiments of the invention, the oral device comprises a set of retainers worn over teeth or retainer bars bonded to, or integrated as part of the retainers. A set of flexible mastication barriers coupled to the retainers or retainer bars and extending from mandible to the maxilla on the lingual side of the mouth inhibit the movement of solid food to the occlusal surfaces of the posterior teeth for chewing. An artificial intelligence platform is implemented to improve fabrication of the oral device and predict and eliminate undercuts in the retainers or retainer bars.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.