Intraoral Device for Symptomatic Management, Neuromuscular Deprogramming, and Relief of Occlusal Overload in Adult Patients: Analysis of a Registered Utility Model

Bruxism is an involuntary neuromuscular activity involving clenching and grinding of the teeth with a predominantly central etiology. Rather than preventing its onset, therapeutic strategies focus on managing its clinical consequences and relieving neuromuscular overload in adult patients. Grounded in the IDEAL-D framework for medical device innovation at Stage 0 (Preclinical Conceptual Design), this study presents the theoretical design and biomechanical rationale of a newly registered intraoral utility model (Utility Model ES 1 310 364 U) aimed at masticatory muscle relaxation and symptomatic management of bruxism. With intellectual property protection now formally established, this work lays the necessary theoretical foundation prior to physical prototype fabrication and clinical evaluation. The device consists of an elastic handle and a metal or glass sphere designed to move within the oral cavity, utilizing material contact to induce a somatosensory sensation intended to promote neuromuscular deprogramming and relieve pre-sleep tension. Guided intraoral mobilization along the buccal mucosa is modeled to provide mechanical stimulation that supports vasodilation and reduces muscle hypertonicity, while accounting for clinical safety and screening for potential contraindications such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Overall, this manuscript establishes a protected, low-cost biomechanical framework and proof-of-concept for the management of bruxism in adults, laying the groundwork for future physical prototyping and clinical trials employing surface electromyography.