Caring for your smile entails more than brushing and flossing each day. For many people, it also means using mouth guards and night guards in Livonia. These devices are essential in protecting your teeth from damage as a result of sports or grinding or clenching teeth at night. Understanding what is available and when it is appropriate to use all of them helps mitigate many potential problems from developing.
What is a Mouth Guard?
A mouth guard is a protective device that covers teeth. They are made out of different types of durable materials to absorb shock and stress from the teeth and jaw. A dentist in Livonia may suggest a mouth guard for children, teens, and adults who are participating in sports or who are bruxers (people who grind their teeth, either diurnally or nocturnally).
Mouth Guards come in many different types, and it is up to you and your dentist to figure out which works best for your needs.
Types of Mouth Guards
- Stock Mouth Guards
These mouth guards are mass-produced and sold in most sporting goods stores. They are relatively inexpensive, but because they are not customized for your mouth, they do not fit very well. As a result, they may be uncomfortable, and they usually provide limited protection.
- Boil and Bite Mouth Guards
These mouth guards are made soft in hot water and then fit in your mouth by biting down on them. For most athletes, boil-and-bite mouth guards will provide better fits than stock guards, and they are reasonably priced.
- Custom-fit Mouth Guards
Custom-fit guards are made by a dental provider. Custom-fit guards are also the best fit and comfort, but are made from an impression of your teeth. This type of guard would be recommended for maximum protection (either in contact sports or for people who grind their teeth long-term).
How do Mouth Guards Protect your Teeth?
Mouth guards work by providing a barrier between your teeth, lips, tongue, and jaw. By providing an area of cushion, the risks of broken teeth, soft tissue injuries, and even jaw issues can be reduced. Athletes use them to reduce the impact of collisions. Those who grind their teeth at night can wear them to prevent enamel loss from wear, as well as the risk of chipped and cracked teeth.
Night Guards for Teeth Grinding
A dental night guard is designed for the specific purpose of allowing someone who clenches or grinds their teeth while they sleep to have a barrier while doing so. Over time, grinding can lead to sensitive teeth, headaches, jaw pain, and potential restorative procedures. A night guard is a way to relieve pressure while also protecting against long-term damage to your teeth.
Mouth Guard Sleeping
There are some people who grind their teeth and do not even realize it. A mouth guard for sleeping can help immensely. If you wear a mouth guard regularly, not only can you prevent further erosion of your teeth, but you can also wake up without a sore jaw or headache. Your dentist can help you find the right mouth guard for you.
Why Wear a Mouth Guard?
- Prevents dental injuries—will prevent broken or chipped teeth while playing sports or grinding your teeth.
- Reduces jaw/lower jaw strain—reduces stress on your jaw muscles and joints
- Protects previous dental work—will protect any crowns, bridges, and fillings
- Improves sleep quality/comfort—causes relief of tension from grinding or clenching.
When Should You Consider a Mouth Guard?
A mouth guard could be helpful if you:
- Play physically demanding sports like football, hockey, or basketball.
- Bruxism or waking up with jaw pain.
- You experience sensitive teeth due to loss of enamel.
- You currently have restorative dentistry and would like to keep it protected.
Which Mouth Guard is Right for You?
The right kind depends on your lifestyle:
- For athletes, Custom or boil-and-bite are best.
- It is advised that people who grind their teeth use a customized night guard.
- Because children’s teeth are growing, they will likely need a guard that is much more flexible.
- Going to a dentist to receive professional advice will consider your issues.
Taking Care of Your Mouth Guard
To prolong the life of your mouth guard and maintain its hygiene:
- Rinse your mouth guard after each use with cool water.
- To prevent bacteria, keep your mouth guard in a ventilated case.
- Rinsing with hot water will cause your mouth guard to become distorted.
- Bring it along when you visit your dentist, so they can evaluate the condition of your mouth guard.
Protect Your Smile with Majestic Dentistry
Taking care of your teeth is important at every age! At Majestic Dentistry, we help you make decisions and help protect your smile, whether you need a mouth guard for sports or at night for grinding or clenching. Don’t wait until you are uncomfortable or have damaged your teeth—take the first step to keeping your teeth healthy and strong today!
Contact Majestic Dentistry to schedule your appointment and learn how the right mouth guard can protect your smile in the years to come!