Patent ID: 8172725

Claim:
A jaw exerciser comprising: an elongated first portion disposed along a first axis, characterized by two opposing ends and a first cross-section having a first area and a first shape, wherein the first potion is configured to be inserted into the mouth, and includes an outer surface adapted to be engaged and clenched by the teeth; an elongated second portion disposed along a second axis arranged at an angle that is in the range of approximately 90 to 180 degrees relative to the first axis, characterized by two opposing ends, an outer surface, and a second cross-section having a second area and a second shape, wherein the second potion is configured to remain outside the mouth when the first portion is inserted into the mouth; and an intermediate portion characterized by a third cross-section having a third area and a third shape, wherein the intermediate potion joins one of the two opposing ends of the first portion to one of the two opposing ends of the second portion such that the first, second, and intermediate portions are arranged in one plane, and is configured to be grasped and encircled by the lips in a plane aligned with the third cross-section to thereby retain saliva inside the mouth; wherein the third shape is one of substantially round and substantially elliptical, and at least one of the first and second shapes is rectangular; and wherein the jaw exerciser is characterized by unitary construction and at least one of the first and second portions is configured for mastication.