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Swallowing assessment and improvement systems and methods

  • US 9,474,483 B2
  • Filed: 08/12/2014
  • Issued: 10/25/2016
  • Est. Priority Date: 08/12/2013
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A system for assessing swallowing function, comprising:

  • a) an intraoral device comprising a flexible metal frame having a central linear portion comprising a proximal end positioned towards an anterior opening of a mouth and a distal end positioned towards a back of the mouth when said intraoral device is placed into a subject'"'"'s mouth and first and second branches that extend perpendicularly outward from opposite sides of said central linear portion, each of said branches having a distal end;

    a first sensor positioned on a first region of said frame;

    a second sensor positioned on a second region of said central linear portion of said frame near said distal end of said central linear portion, wherein said second region of said central linear portion of said frame positions said second sensor at a boundary between a subject'"'"'s hard and soft palate when said intraoral device is placed into a subject'"'"'s mouth;

    a third sensor at said distal end of said first branch; and

    a fourth sensor at said distal end of said second branch;

    b) a registration component at said proximal end of said central linear portion of said flexible metal frame, said registration component comprising first and second sub-components each comprising an interior opening through which said central linear portion is inserted and wherein a gap that fits said subject'"'"'s teeth or gum exists between said first and second sub-components; and

    c) a computing device comprising a display and comprising a processor in electronic communication with said sensors wherein said processor is configured to display a diagnostic and therapeutic protocol to said subject that instructs said subject to actuate said sensors with the subject'"'"'s tongue over a period of time to improve lingual strength.

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