[Kirton in Lindsey, 28/04/2017]– Dee Kay Dental, a practice based in Lincolnshire, provides gum shields to prevent tooth grinding in their patients. The practice customises the shields to accommodate the patients’ jaw structure and lifestyle requirements.

Preventing Tooth Grinding

Dentists prescribe gum shields, also known as mouth guards, for patients who need treatment for bruxism (teeth grinding) as well as temporomandibular (jaw) joint disorders.Originally used by those who engage in high-contact sports to prevent injury or trauma, they may also serve as a treatment for severe teeth grinding.

Teeth grinding is a subconscious behaviour which involves the clenching of the jaw, leading to high amounts of pressure on both the upper and lower set of teeth. Dentists from Dee Kay Dental associate teeth grinding with stress and warn their patients about the damage the habit may cause.Grinding may disfigure and strain the jaw as well as it resulting in chipped teeth.

Customising the Fit for Improved Protection

Dee Kay Dental assesses their patients and produces an impression of their teeth. The technicians will pattern the gum shields after the mould for a comfortable and secure fit around the patient’s gums. Gum shields are made of a thick rubber-like material that provides flexible movement for the jaw, causing it to bounce back when clenched. This technology prevents teeth from grinding together.

Adult patients do not need to have their gum shields replaced regularly. However, adolescents with developing jaw structures may need to visit their dentist for a new mould pattern. Those who also frequently participate in contact sports are more likely to get a prescribed replacement because of the increased pressure placed on the shields.

About Dee Kay Dental

Dee Kay Dental’s procedures are based on the knowledge that beautiful smiles begin with healthy teeth and gums. Their experience in cosmetic dentistry and oral healthcare allows the practice to provide a comprehensive range of services. Their treatments include teeth straightening and whitening, dental implants, amalgam fillings, white fillings, root canal and others.

For more information about Dee Kay Dental and their services, visit their website at deekaydental.com.