Abstract: An apparatus and associated method for accurately producing an accurate impression of a patient's teeth. The apparatus includes an improved impression tray assembly that more accurately models the teeth. The impression tray includes a segment of curable material having a top edge, a bottom edge, a face surface and a rear surface, wherein the face surface and the rear surface extend between the top edge and the bottom edge. The impression tray also includes a base plate having a peripheral edge and a groove disposed in the base plate proximate a section of the peripheral edge. The groove is adapted to receive the bottom edge of segment of curable material, thereby supporting the segment of curable material as a vertical wall. The combination of the base plate and the vertical wall of curable material produces an impression tray. The impression tray is filled with impression material and placed in the mouth.

Abstract: A single dental appliance that both alleviates snoring and protects teeth from bruxism. The appliance (10) has an upper section (12) which is mounted on the upper jaw. Opposing the upper section (12) is a lower section (14) which is mounted on the lower jaw. Both the upper and lower section have an anterior region (16, 18) and two posterior regions (20, 22; 24, 26). A hard outer shell (32, 34) secures in a soft inner liner (28, 30) which conforms with the teeth and cushions the jaw against impact forces. The hard outer shell (32, 34) serves to protect the teeth against grinding. The combination of the liner and the shell distribute forces associated with grinding.