Your dentist submits a pre-treatment estimate using ADA procedure code 09940 for an occlusal guard. If approved your dentist simply sends us a full-arch maxillary impression or cast. A flexible custom protective occlusal guard is fabricated and returned to your dentist. Ultimately multi-function preventive occlusal guards save patients and insurance companies money. Other than fluoridation, occlusal guards rank as one of the most important contributions that dentistry has made to preventive medicine.
Infractions are tiny craze lines in tooth enamel.
They can occur with trauma or differences in the coefficients of thermal expansion of dentin, enamel or various restorative materials. At times these micro-fractures preceed cuspal separation. Thermal sensitivity or discomfort when biting may be signs of iminent fracture. Intelligent use of occlusal guards can sometimes prevent or delay the need for expensive root canal, posts and crowns especially when grinding or clenching is present. Your family dentist is the best judge.