Based on the provided reference which describes part of the fitting process, correctly positioning a gum shield once it's in your mouth involves biting down and using your tongue.
To put a gum shield in your mouth and fit it properly after it has been prepared (typically softened), you follow specific steps to ensure it conforms to your teeth. The reference highlights these key actions:
- Bite down top and bottom. This action helps seat the gum shield onto both your upper and lower teeth simultaneously, initiating the molding process.
- Push your tongue right onto the roof of your mouth. Applying pressure with your tongue against the roof of your mouth helps push the gum shield upwards and outwards against your teeth and gums, aiding in creating a snug fit.
Following these steps ensures that the softened material molds around your dental structure. As the reference notes, the outcome after washing the gum shield clean is having "all your teeth marks" visible, indicating that the fitting process has successfully captured the shape of your teeth.
By biting down and using your tongue to apply pressure, you help create a custom impression within the gum shield, which is essential for its protective function.
