Buccal
Of the cheeks.

Buccal Shield
Also called the labial shield. Term refers to the continuous roll of material on the outer edge of the biting surface of the mouthguard. This shield overhangs the edge by about 3mm and works in conjunction with the flat occlusal table it surrounds to significantly reduce the incidence of lower jaw fractures.

Gel
Term used by Signature Mouthguards to describe the intimate customising material available with the Signature Type 3 ProPlusGel Mouthguards. This gel is a special addition silicone material.

Labial
Of the lips.

Labial Shield
Also called the buccal shield. Term refers to the continuous roll of material on the outer edge of the biting surface of the mouthguard. This shield overhangs the edge by about 3mm and works in conjunction with the flat occlusal table it surrounds to significantly reduce the incidence of lower jaw fractures.

Lamination
The use of multiple layers of material formed over each other and bonded together to produce a single unit of material. Generally provides increased strength and allows more flexible customisation of the mouthguard.

Occlusal Surface
A term from clinical dentistry to describe the biting surface of teeth.

Occlusal Table
Describes the flat biting (occlusal) surface of the mouthguard where the opposing teeth (usually the lower teeth) meet evenly and simultaneously.

Oro-facial
Relating to the mouth and face.

RDT
Registered Dental Technician.

Thermoforming / Thermoformers
This general term has different meanings depending on the particular industry. In technical dentistry, thermoforming is a process of using heat and applied pressure to material being thermoformed. The materials used in Signature mouthguards are ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA) and polycarbonate.
The thermoforming process is carried out in a temporarily sealed chamber in a thermoforming machine. While the process is technically superior to older vacuum forming methods, extensive research and experience has had to be acquired to ensure that the correct thickness and even distribution of material in the mouthguard is achieved. Expert techniques and quality control is paramount.

Vacuum Forming
This is the older technique of forming technology used in mouthguard construction. In general terms it uses an air evacuation system to facilitate the forming of material over a model.
It is said that the pressure achieved is less than that achieved in the latest thermoforming techniques and thus the tendency for material thinning and uneven distribution in critical areas is increased. Lamination is also not practical using this technology.