Mouthguards
Mouthguards provide vital protection for the teeth, lips, mouth, and jaw. We strongly recommend mouthguards for children involved in sports, especially contact sports, and for those who are developing their permanent teeth but still grind their teeth.
Dental Mouthguards and Dental Night Guards
Mouthguards are crucial for athletes of all ages participating in contact sports or other physical activities. These guards absorb impacts, helping to prevent serious injuries that could lead to costly and painful dental issues. Our mouthguards are custom-made from lightweight materials, ensuring they are comfortable and do not interfere with breathing or speaking.
Night guards, similar to mouthguards, are worn during sleep to protect against damage from bruxism, a condition in which individuals unknowingly clench or grind their teeth at night. Without intervention, bruxism can lead to tooth fractures, breakages, headaches, and jaw pain.
-
What types of dental mouthguards exist?
There are three types of mouthguards:
- Stock mouth protectors: These ready-to-wear mouthguards are available at most sporting goods stores. While inexpensive, they offer limited protection due to their bulkiness and inability to be adjusted for fit, often making breathing and speaking difficult.
- Boil and bite mouth protectors: Available at sporting goods stores, these mouthguards are better fit than stock protectors. They are softened in hot water before being molded to the teeth. However, like stock protectors, they may still be bulky and less effective in protection.
- Custom-fitted mouthguards: These mouthguards are individually designed and made in a dental office according to your dentist’s specifications. After taking an impression of your teeth, the dentist creates a mouthguard that offers superior protection and comfort. This customized fit ensures that the mouthguard does not harm your teeth or adversely affect your bite.
-
Why are mouthguards important for athletes?
Wearing a mouthguard during sports is essential for several reasons. Mouthguards help distribute the force of an impact evenly across all teeth, reducing the risk of displacing or damaging any individual tooth. They also protect soft tissues, such as the tongue and gums, and can prevent fractures to the jaw and teeth. Additionally, mouthguards may reduce the risk of concussions by cushioning the impact between the upper and lower teeth and diminishing the force transmitted to the skull.
Need a Mouthguard?
If you have more questions about mouthguards and night guards, please contact our office, and we will be happy to discuss further.
