Spin-off applications of mouthguards

The spin-off applications of mouthguards are many and varied. Their uses range from protective to therapeutic and span all areas of medicine and dentistry. The designs range from simple minor modifications of the soft athletic mouthguard to sophisticated adaptations containing gears or electric switches. Their creative applications have provided relief to the cancer patient, increased independence to the handicapped and limited mobility patient, protection to the dentition of the patient undergoing general anesthesia, relief for the TMJ syndrome sufferer, and decreased risk of damage to the teeth and palate of the intubated infant, to name only a few. The adaptations and applications of this simple device are inspired by the needs of the patient and limited only by the imagination of the provider.