Occlusal splints (night guards) for grinding at Northbridge Dentists

Bruxism refers to the grinding and clenching of teeth that usually occurs while asleep (although it can also happen while people are awake). It is called “parafunctional” because it is a function for which the mouth and jaw were not originally intended (like speaking, chewing and breathing). The grinding and clenching of teeth can cause wear, cracks and chipping of teeth, as well as damage to the muscles and jaw joints.

Damage to the joint (TMJ) is either temporary (acute) or ongoing (chronic). For people that suffer TMJ pain it can be very debilitating   

Occlusal splint (night guard) is an acrylic or Nylon guard which fits over the teeth on either the upper or lower arch to protect them from further wear. Splints at Northbridge Dentists are custom fitted, light weight and comfortable but extremely strong and resistant to wear and grinding.
Not only do splints protect the teeth, but they also open the bite slightly to take the load off the jaw joints. This can help with the management of TMJ problems.

Snoring and sleep apnoea Somnomed type dental appliances near me

Snoring is caused by one or more of our respiratory structures vibrating as air travels along our airways during sleep. It is estimated some 30% of the adult population snore. Snoring can be loud and disruptive, especially for partners and family members.

Sleep Apnoea is a condition where there are periods of partial or complete cessation of breathing during sleep. To an observer this may sound like a gasp or even choking sound. It can lead to poor memory, concentration, headaches and irritability. Conversely, in kids it can manifest with ADHD-like symptoms. OSA is serious. It has been linked to heart disease, increased blood pressure and the risk of a life-threatening heart attack or stroke.

Treatment for snoring and sleep apnoea. Dental appliances are just one facet in targeting snoring and OSA. Dental appliances work by stopping the lower jaw (mandible) from falling back while we are sleeping on our back. Attached to the mandible is the tongue. By keeping the mandible forward, we also stop the tongue from falling back and blocking our throat.

A Mandibular Advancement Splint is the name of the type of dental appliance which can help hold the lower jaw in a more forward position. At Northbridge Dentists we have incredibly comfortable, custom made, 3D printed appliances which can help manage this.

Custom professional mouthguards

Both adults and kids can benefit from mouth guards when playing sport. The best mouthguard you can get is a custom-made mouthguard from your dentist. Chemist and sport-shops may stock “boil-and-bite” mouthguards. These are not properly fitted to protect against all impact types and intensities. See our blog about mouthguards here