Gum Shields (Bite Raising Appliances)
We offer gum shields (bite raisers) for people who clench and grind their teeth. A gum shield can protect teeth at night, helping to reduce wear and tear. We also provide gum shields for sports, as it is very important to protect teeth from knocks during sports activities.
What are Gum Shields?
Clenching and grinding, also known as parafunction or bruxism, can cause pain in the jaw joints and wear of the teeth. Gum shields protect the teeth by raising the bite, so you’re grinding the gum shield not your teeth and the muscles are working in a different range - changing their stress.
Anyone who plays contact sports needs a well fitting gum shield that extends past the gum margins to protect teeth from knocks and bangs. We offer a scanning service with gum shields that are custom made and returned within ten days.
The Benefits of Gum Shields
Preventing injury to the teeth and gums is better than trying to repair them following injury
A custom made device will fit the teeth closely and will extend onto the gums too offering more protection
In adults gum shields can last many years
Different colours can be made
A gum shield discludes the teeth meaning the muscles are working in a different position. The muscles will not be so sore
A custom made gum shield will fit the teeth closely
The gum shield will prevent wear from the opposing teeth when it is worn - usually at night
The Gum Shields Process
1
We will scan the upper teeth using an intra oral scanner. There is no need for dental impressions.
2
Scans for a gum shield usually take less than five minutes.
3
The scans of your teeth are sent digitally to our laboratory in Dorset.
4
The custom gum shield will then be posted to us and we can arrange for collection or fitting.
Types of Gum Shield
We offer different types of gum shields that can be used to prevent wear from bruxism (teeth grinding). The gum shields can be soft or a hard soft combination. If there is a major jaw joint (temporomandibular joint) problem then a fully hard michigan split can also be constructed.
Gum shields made to prevent wear and help muscular problems are usually made for the lower teeth - unless it is a Michigan splint - which is made for the uppers.
Sports gumshields are made for the upper teeth to prevent catastrophic trauma.
The type of guard will be discussed with you at your consultation. Sometimes you will need more than one guard.
Our Facial Aesthetics Practitioner
All facial aesthetics treatments are carried out by Dr Ailsa David, a medically accredited practitioner, ensuring safe, professional and high quality care tailored to you. Ailsa trained with Professor Brian Franks on his Medical Aesthetic Non-Surgical Interventions Training course in 2023. She holds certification for Botulinum Toxin Part 1 (for the upper face) and Dermal Fillers Parts I and II (for lower face and lip augmentation)
"I love carrying out facial aesthetics because small, carefully placed treatments can make a big difference to how someone feels about themselves. I really enjoy helping people feel more confident, refreshed, and like the best version of themselves.”
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the specific need for the gumshield but they can prevent sports injuries or prevent wear of teeth and help with jaw joint problems.
What does a gum shield do?
In adults a gum shield can last years, as your mouth is not changing. However, if the grinding is severe they can need replacement regularly.
How long do the gum shields last?
We would recommend changing your gum shield every five years - if it’s still needed at that time.
When should you replace a gum shield?
A gum shield can be soaked in retainer brite solutions or cleaned with a soft toothbrush. Do not soak the gum shield in hot water as it will distort.
How do I clean a gum shield?
You will be supplied with a storage box for your gum shield. We do not recommend wrapping the bite raiser appliance in tissue as tissues then get thrown away.
How do I store my gum shield?
Mouth guards and gum shields are the same, but they can have different uses and designs. One can be to prevent sports injuries and the other to prevent wear of teeth or help with jaw joint problems. Sports guards tend to be made from thicker materials.
What is the difference between a mouth guard and a gum shield?
Care for the whole family
"I contacted Courtyard Dental Practice after years of deliberating teeth straightening with various other dentists. I inquired about Invisalign, and everything was explained so clearly."
Sonia Jandu
"The dentist Ailsa and Emily the nurse were really supportive and the appointment went really well."
Claire Treanor
"I went there today with my 5 years old for a check up and filling. They been great! Dr Freedman and Emily have been so friendly, professional and quick! "
Raquel Garcia Haro
"Alexia & her team are fantastic! I’m definitely a nervous patient but they were so great, a visit doesn’t make me nervous at all."
Suzi Ovens
"I just want you to know how much I appreciate you as a dentist - my wife has been terrified of the dentist for years.... now look at her! "
"Very happy with how professional Ailsa & Vicki was. Treatment was explained to me and I was made very comfortable."
"'I never thought a trip to the dentist could be something I would look forward to . Thank you all so much!"
"Thank you so much for the treatment this morning, my teeth feel much more comfortable. My visit to your practice was so reassuring I feel much more positive, "
"Lovely welcoming helpful staff and festive practice (its december) Dentist very knowledgeable and explained my treatment plan to me in a way that I can understand.!"
"I contacted Courtyard Dental Practice after years of deliberating teeth straightening with various other dentists. I inquired about Invisalign, and everything was explained so clearly."
Sonia Jandu
"The dentist Ailsa and Emily the nurse were really supportive and the appointment went really well."
Claire Treanor
"I went there today with my 5 years old for a check up and filling. They been great! Dr Freedman and Emily have been so friendly, professional and quick! "
Raquel Garcia Haro
"Alexia & her team are fantastic! I’m definitely a nervous patient but they were so great, a visit doesn’t make me nervous at all."
Suzi Ovens
"I just want you to know how much I appreciate you as a dentist - my wife has been terrified of the dentist for years.... now look at her! "
'Very happy with how professional Ailsa & Vicki was. Treatment was explained to me and I was made very comfortable.'
"I never thought a trip to the dentist could be something I would look forward to . Thank you all so much!"
'I love coming to the dentist because the staff are so friendly, smiley & kind"
"Dentist very knowledgeable and explained my treatment plan to me in a way that I can understand."
"Thank you so much for the treatment this morning, my teeth feel much more comfortable."
