Oral Appliance Therapy Tweed Heads

Oral appliance therapy uses custom-fitted dental devices to address a range of conditions affecting the teeth, jaw, airway, and sleep. At iHeart Smiles at Tweed Dental on Kirkwood Road, we design and fit oral appliances tailored to your specific clinical situation, whether you're managing teeth grinding, jaw discomfort, snoring, sleep apnoea, or looking for protection during sports.

For patients dealing with bruxism (the clinical term for teeth grinding and clenching), a custom occlusal splint worn at night protects the teeth from the forces generated during grinding, which can otherwise lead to worn enamel, cracked teeth, sensitivity, and jaw pain. Unlike over-the-counter night guards, a custom splint is precisely fitted to your bite, making it more comfortable to wear consistently and allowing the jaw to rest in a more natural position.

For patients diagnosed with snoring or mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnoea, a mandibular advancement splint can be a comfortable alternative to CPAP therapy. The appliance gently holds the lower jaw in a slightly forward position during sleep, keeping the airway open and reducing the obstruction that causes both snoring and apnoea events. We work alongside sleep physicians for patients with diagnosed sleep apnoea, so the appliance is part of a properly coordinated care plan.

Oral appliances also play an important role in sports protection. A custom-fitted mouthguard absorbs and distributes impact forces, reducing the risk of dental trauma, lip and tongue injuries, and concussion. Custom guards are notably more protective and more comfortable than boil-and-bite versions sold over the counter.

The fitting process begins with a clinical assessment to determine which appliance is most appropriate. Detailed impressions or digital scans are taken and sent to a dental laboratory, where the appliance is custom-fabricated to your bite. At a follow-up appointment, the appliance is fitted, adjusted for comfort, and you're given instructions on how to wear, clean, and store it.

We see patients for oral appliance therapy from across Tweed Heads, Banora Point, Terranora, and the southern Gold Coast, including patients referred by sleep physicians, GPs, and other dentists.