Mouthguards are key for protecting your teeth and mouth when playing sports, especially contact sports. If you’re an athlete, blows to the face from a hand, ball, or stick can lead to painful and costly dental injuries. A mouthguard helps shield your teeth, jaw, and mouth from harm. At Flower Mound Dental, we offer custom mouthguards for people of all ages looking for maximum protection.
Benefits of Sports Mouthguards
Playing sports can increase your risk of dental injuries, but a properly fitted mouthguard acts as a barrier, reducing the impact on your teeth. It helps prevent injuries like broken teeth, jaw dislocations, and cuts inside your mouth.
Mouthguards also lower the risk of concussions. They absorb shock, reducing the impact of force on your head. A custom-made mouthguard fits perfectly, which helps with comfort and reduces the chance of concussion.
For those with braces or other dental devices, mouthguards protect both the braces and the mouth, lowering the chance of injuries. A well-fitted mouthguard also supports the jaw joint, reducing excess pressure and improving joint health.
Custom Mouthguards vs. The Store-Bought Options
A custom mouthguard, made by a dentist, is designed to fit your mouth precisely, giving better protection and comfort than store-bought ones. Store-bought mouthguards use thinner materials that may not hold up as well, reducing their ability to protect you from impact.
A comfortable mouthguard is important for athletes. A custom one will fit your mouth’s shape, making it more comfortable and allowing you to breathe and speak more easily. This personalized fit also ensures the mouthguard lasts longer and performs better over time.
When you choose a custom mouthguard, your dentist will guide you through the process, making sure the mouthguard fits your needs and is suited to your sport.
Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea
For those with mild to moderate sleep apnea, an oral appliance can keep the airway open at night. It looks like a sports mouthguard but is worn during sleep and adjusts the position of the jaw and tongue to improve airflow.
Custom-made for each patient, these devices are comfortable and help increase patient use. Unlike CPAP machines, there’s no mask involved. To learn more, visit our Sleep Apnea page.
Oral Splints for TMJ Treatment
An oral splint, or bite splint, is used to treat TMJ disorders and helps with issues like teeth grinding. The splint serves as a barrier, protecting teeth from grinding-related wear. It also supports the jaw joint, reducing tension and relieving TMJ symptoms. To learn more, visit our TMJ Treatment page.
Caring for Your Custom Mouthguard
Proper care keeps your mouthguard effective. Rinse it with warm water after each use—avoid hot water, which can warp it. Brush it daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or non-abrasive toothpaste to prevent bacteria buildup.
After cleaning, let it dry in a ventilated area. Avoid putting it in a closed case right away, as bacteria thrive in warm, wet places. Once a week, soak it in denture cleaner or an antibacterial rinse to remove bacteria and odors.
Store your mouthguard in a ventilated case when not in use, and keep it away from heat or direct sunlight, which can warp the plastic and change its fit. Check it regularly for signs of wear. If it doesn’t fit well, it may need repair or replacement to provide full protection.
Schedule Your Custom Mouthguard Appointment
Call us today at 972-640-7891 to schedule an appointment for a custom mouthguard in Flower Mound, TX. You can also fill out the form on our website to request an appointment.