Oral Appliances

At Complete Dental Health L.L.C, we create customized oral appliances to treat a number of conditions. This simple non-invasive treatment can help treat conditions like teeth grinding (bruxism), sleep apnea, bite problems, or other jaw joint disorders. Our dentists Dr. Kendall Wood and Dr. Matthew Schapper use a variety of innovative designs depending on your condition and your personal needs and desires.

Snore guards

Snoring is an issue caused by the narrowing or blocking of the airway leading to the disruption of airflow, which ultimately causes the throat's soft palate and tissues to vibrate. The narrower the airway becomes, the louder the vibration/ snoring. Snoring can be treated with the help of snore guards that works by maintaining an open, unobstructed airway in the throat during sleep. However, before using snore guards, consult a doctor so as to rule out sleep apnea. If the patient doesn't suffer from sleep apnea but snoring is the only issue, a snore guard is the best option.

Bruxism (Grinding of teeth) 

Bruxism, the medical term for tooth grinding, is an oral parafunctional activity that occurs in most people at some point in their lives. Grinding of the teeth and clenching of the jaw usually occur during a person’s sleeping hours, but occasionally even during the day. The causes of bruxism are not always known, but anxiety, stress, and TMJ, are all considered factors. Though teeth are the hardest substance in our bodies, damage can occur when grinding forces start to wear them away. Bruxism will harm teeth, muscles, and jaw joints over time. It can also cause gum recession and tooth loss as grinding can damage the soft tissues and lead to loose teeth. Grinding can also shorten and blunt the teeth leading to muscle pain and headaches. Also, the abnormal wear patterns on the occlusal (chewing) surfaces of the teeth caused by bruxism can lead to fractures, if left untreated, may require restorative treatment at a later time. Severe bruxism can also lead to painful arthritis in the temporomandibular (TMJ) joints that allow the jaw to open and close smoothly.

If you notice chipped or flattened teeth or if you are waking up with a sore jaw or suffering from headaches, visit us and consult our dentists to treat your problems.

The use and wearing of an oclusal guard, can help mitigate headaches and reduce symptoms from bruxism.

Athletic Sports Guards

If you are someone who actively participates in contact sports, it is important to wear an athletic sports guard to protect your teeth. A mouthguard is an athletic appliance that fits over your teeth and protects your lips, tongue, face, and jaw. Failure to wear an athletic mouthguard while participating in sports could leave you at risk for tooth traumas, injuries, and even tooth loss. Researches show that mouthguards can even reduce the seriousness of concussions.

Studies show that 13% to 39% of all dental injuries are sports-related. Therefore, it is highly recommended for athletes who participate in contact sports like hockey, boxing, or rugby to wear mouthguards. In addition, bicyclists, weightlifters, and gymnasts also benefit from mouthguards to prevent injuries to the mouth. Dentists and the ADA recommend mouthguards for everyone who engages in any recreational activity that poses the risk of injury to your mouth.