Method of adjusting dimensions of anterior mandibular fixation device and coupling assembly of mandibular anterior fixation device

摘要

The lower anterior fixation device 102, 302 includes a first brace member 104, 304 that engages the user's upper dentition, a second brace member 106, 306 that engages the user's lower dentition, A number of connection assemblies 108, 308 for respectively connecting the brace members to the second brace members. Some of the coupling assemblies each include an actuating element 114, 314 that automatically adjusts dimensions 136, 336 of the coupling assembly. The actuation element is selected from the group consisting of a biasing element 114 and a volume responsive material 314.