Mouthguards, also known as mouth protectors, play a critical role in safeguarding oral health. They are particularly significant for individuals who participate in sports or recreational activities where the risk of injury to the face and mouth is prevalent. The primary function of a mouthguard is to cushion any blow to the face. This minimizes potential damage, such as broken teeth and injuries to lips, tongue, jaw, or facial soft tissues.
The Importance of Custom Mouthguards
Custom-made mouthguards offer an unmatched level of protection compared with their store-bought counterparts. Dental professionals create these devices with hard acrylic material that covers either upper or lower teeth. Of course, we design these for your unique needs. These custom devices provide optimal fit and comfort. Patients suffering from Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders often resort to night guards as part of non-invasive treatment plans. Clenching or grinding teeth during sleep can lead to tooth wear along with headaches and jaw pain – symptoms commonly associated with TMJ disorders.
Professionally made custom night guards serve as an effective solution against these issues by preventing tooth wear while reducing painful symptoms. On the other hand, sports mouthguards shield primarily the front section of top teeth, which are more exposed due to their protruding nature. According to Dr. Thomas Long, the team dentist for the Carolina Hurricanes professional hockey team, this makes them more susceptible to trauma than the bottom ones. This is because they are set further back inside the oral cavity.
Different Types Of Mouth Guards And Their Uses
While custom-made mouthguards present superior benefits, they might not be affordable for everyone; hence, alternative types like “boil-and-bite” models available at drugstores and sporting goods stores could serve as viable options, albeit offering less fit precision than customized versions. Sports mouthguards made from flexible, thick plastic protect athletes’ smiles during physical activities, but due to their bulky design, they aren’t suitable for night use.
Similarly, night guards aren’t meant to be used during sports due to their design, which doesn’t cover the front teeth. A properly fitted mouthguard is essential for individuals with braces or fixed bridgework as it can prevent damage to brackets and other orthodontic appliances in case of facial trauma. Moreover, it acts as a protective barrier between braces and the inner cheek or lips. This prevents gum injuries and cheek abrasions.
Maintaining Your Mouthguard
Mouthguard maintenance is key in ensuring its longevity and effectiveness. Regular cleaning using cool, soapy water followed by thorough rinsing keeps them hygienic. Routine inspections for signs of wear or ill-fitting indicate that replacement might be required. It’s important to remember that children and teenagers may need frequent replacements since their mouths are undergoing growth changes.
Additionally, storing mouthguards in vented sturdy containers prevents bacterial growth. Furthermore, keeping them out of reach from pets will save them from becoming chew toys. Whether you’re an athlete seeking protection during games or someone suffering from TMJ disorders, we have options. We can create a custom mouthguard for your needs. We can provide optimal comfort fit along with superior protection against potential oral damage.