Our mantra at Dubbo Family Dentists is that prevention is far superior to cure. For this reason, we recommend that a custom-fitted mouthguard be worn whenever you or your child is playing a contact sport. Custom-fitted mouthguards are the only safe mouthguards.
To have a custom-fitted mouthguard made, an impression is taken of your teeth. The mouthguard is then molded to the cast of your mouth for an accurate custom-made fit. It is recommended that growing kids get a new mouthguard every 12 months, or sooner if the old one no longer fits comfortably. It is also recommended that the fit of a mouthguard be checked every 12 months. If you have private health insurance, you will receive a benefit for a mouthguard. At Dubbo Family Dentists we have the top-of-the-line German-made mouthguard making machine to make superior mouthguards.
Feel free to refer to the ADA for their opinion on custom-fitted mouthguards:
http://www.ada.org.au/app_cmslib/media/lib/0803/m122630_v1_mouthguard%20poster%20a3.pdf
An occlusal splint is small custom-made appliance worn over your top or bottom teeth at night to prevent wear from grinding in your sleep. Bruxism (also known as night-time grinding) is a very common condition, where you clench or grind your teeth during your sleep. It is not unusual for people to be completely unaware that they are doing this in their sleep but can be indicated by waking up with tired jaws or tender teeth, where it may be uncomfortable to eat breakfast, regular headaches, poor sleeping etc. At Dubbo Family Dentists we have the top-of-the-line German-made machine to make excellent occlusal splints.
If you would like to discuss mouthguards or occlusal splints further, please contact our friendly staff on (02) 6882 5444.