Devices used to improve speech, swallowing and mastication

Abstract

A complemental series of handheld, tactile devices in kit form to assist in behavioral modification training techniques as well as utilizing the techiques of "resisted movement" and "successive approximation". Each positioner device is handheld, with one portion protruding from the lips and the other portion loosely fitting on the patient's hard plate. Different shapes are introduced to the tongue and lips on each respective device. A commonalty within the interdependent positioner devices is presented by an elongated palatal base defining a convex upper surface to engage the palate, a manipulable handle projecting from the base and the respective devices are further characterized in configuration. Variations in configuration such as elongation, thickenings and apertures of the positioners involve primary modification to the palatal base and adjacent interconnection of the handle, whereby upon activation the patient may exercise his tongue and lips to achieve consonantal speech sounds, perfect swallowing techniques, and aid in mastication.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.