Sports Dentistry is not limited to mouthguards, it includes the treatment and prevention of oral/facial athletic injuries and related oral diseases and manifestations.
For any participant in sport it is imperitive for them to undergo preseason screenings and examinations to prevent injuries. Examinations include health histories, at risk dentitions, diagnosis of caries, maxilla/mandibular relationships, orthodontics, loose teeth, dental habits, crown and bridge work, missing teeth, artificial teeth, and the possible need for extractions of wisdom teeth. These extractions should be done months prior to playing competitive sports as to not interfere with their competition or weaken their jaws during competition. Determination of the need for a specific type and design of mouthguard is made at this time.
Sports Injuries
Dr Cary Fraser specialises in mouth injuries and re-implantation of knocked out teeth. His many years of experience in emergency dental treatment has made sure he is at the forefront of techniques and technology that will aid in a speedy recovery.
Balance
Balance and co-ordination is key to most sports. Dr Cary Fraser uses innovative techniques that will help balance your body through shifts in your jaw. His holistic approach to the body sees surprisingly effective results.
Mouthguards
Mouthguard design and fabrication is also extremely important. There are four types of mouthguards. Stock, Boil and Bite, Vacuum Custom made, and Pressure Laminated Custom made. Dr Cary Fraser can provide all of these as well as his unique method of making mouthguards that will IMPROVE YOUR STRENGTH & PERFORMANCE, he can provide demonstrations of its effectiveness in the consultation at the surgery.
Mouthguards bought at sporting stores, without the recommendation of a qualified dentist, should not be worn. They do not provide the optimum treatment and are often ill fitting making them ill equipped to deal with idiosyncrasies athletes and children may have. Idiosyncrasies are to be noted during mouthguard design and fabrication. These may include jaw relationships where mouthguards may have to be designed on the mandibular arch such as a Class III prognathic bite. Otherwise, where possible, mouthguards should be built on the maxillary (upper) arch.
Erupting teeth (ages 6-12) should be noted so the mouthguard can be designed to allow for eruption during the season. Boil and bite mouthguards do not allow for this eruption space.
For patients with braces, special designs for the mouthguards are essential to allow for orthodontic movement without compromising on injury prevention and fit. This can only be achieved through consultations with your dentist..
If you have any questions about our services, please contact us today at (02) 9363 3388.