Mouthguards are very important in protecting teeth and oral tissues when playing sports. Athletes who play contact sports are more likely to take blows to the face and mouth with a hand, ball, stick, etc., which can lead to painful and expensive dental injuries.
A mouthguard can prevent injuries to the teeth, jaws, and surrounding structures. There are many benefits to wearing a custom mouthguard from a dentist versus one that you purchase from a store. Flower Mound Dental offers custom mouthguards in Flower Mound, TX for young and old patients seeking the maximum amount of protection for their teeth, oral tissues, and jaw.
The Importance of Sports Mouthguards
Engaging in sports, especially contact sports, puts you at risk for dental injuries. A properly fitted mouthguard is a protective barrier, reducing the impact force on the teeth. It can prevent injuries such as teeth fractures, jaw dislocations, and cuts to the soft tissues in the mouth.
Mouthguards not only protect oral health but can also reduce the risk of concussions. They provide a cushioning effect by absorbing shock. This minimizes the transmission of force to the head during impact, thus aiding in overall injury prevention. Wearing a custom-crafted mouthguard to fit perfectly in your mouth can help lower your risk of concussion.
A mouthguard is crucial for individuals with braces or other orthodontic appliances. It will protect your braces, minimize the risk of soft tissue injuries, and protect your teeth.
A well-fitted mouthguard can contribute to the overall health of the temporomandibular joint. The custom mouthguard will support and reduce excessive forces on the jaw joint during sports activities.
Custom Mouthguards vs. The Store-Bought Options
A custom mouthguard from a dentist offers a personalized fit that conforms precisely to an individual’s teeth and mouth. This level of customization ensures optimal protection and comfort. This type of secure fit is superior to the one-size-fits-all approach of store-bought options.
Dentist-made mouthguards are constructed from high-quality materials. These materials tend to be more durable and effective in absorbing impact forces. Store-bought alternatives may use weaker, thinner materials. This compromises their protective capabilities and lifespan.
The comfort of a mouthguard is important for an athlete’s performance. Custom mouthguards are tailored to the unique oral anatomy of the patient. This makes them more comfortable and less likely to restrict breathing or speech. Athletes can play more comfortably and consistently during sports activities.
Custom mouthguards are designed to withstand the rigors of contact sports. The material they are made of offers greater durability compared to all the store-bought options. This longevity ensures that the mouthguard will remain effective and durable for longer.
Your Flower Mound dentist will provide professional guidance throughout the entire process. They will help assess your needs, address oral health considerations, and provide recommendations based on your sport.
Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea
An oral appliance for sleep apnea is a custom-fitted device designed to treat mild to moderate sleep apnea. Sleep apnea occurs when the airway is partially or completely blocked during sleep, leading to disrupted breathing. A sleep oral appliance resembles a sports mouthguard but differs in many ways. It is worn during sleep and repositions the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open. Patients can breathe freely without disruptions.
They are custom-made in our dental office to ensure a comfortable and effective fit. This custom fit contributes to increased patient compliance. Unlike a CPAP machine, patients are more comfortable and will not have to wear a mask all night. To learn more about oral appliances for sleep apnea, see Sleep Apnea.
Oral Splints for TMJ Treatment
An oral splint, also known as a bite splint or occlusal splint, is a dental appliance used to treat TMJ disorders. Teeth grinding, often associated with TMJ, can be successfully addressed with an oral splint. The splint acts as a protective barrier, preventing wear and damage to the teeth caused by grinding.
Oral splints also stabilize the temporomandibular joint, helping alleviate symptoms of TMJ disorders. The splint helps relax the muscles involved in jaw movement, reducing tension and discomfort associated with TMJ disorders. To learn more about oral splints, see TMJ Treatment.
Caring for Your Custom Mouthguard
Since your mouthguard needs to protect your teeth, you must take good care of it. Otherwise, it can’t do its job properly. Start by rinsing out the mouthguard with warm water each time you take it out of your mouth. Never use hot water, as it can warp the material. At least once daily, brush the mouthguard with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or mild soap. This prevents bacteria from building up on the mouthguard.
When you wash your guard, leave it in a ventilated area to dry. Never put it in a non-ventilated case after use or cleaning, as bacteria love a warm, wet environment. At least once a week, soak your mouthguard in denture cleaner or another antibacterial rinse. This prevents any bacteria from holding on and eliminates the odors in your guard.
When you’re not wearing it, store your mouthguard in a ventilated case. Never trap it in something with no ventilation. This allows you to always know where it is and protects it from damage. Keep your mouthguard and case away from heat sources or direct sunlight. Heat melts and warps plastic, changing the fit of your guard and preventing it from providing complete protection.
You know your mouthguard best, so be vigilant for signs of deterioration. If you see visible signs of wear and tear or notice that the fit has changed, the guard may need repair or replacement. When your guard doesn’t feel right in your mouth, there’s likely something wrong. Any of these signs can indicate that your guard isn’t providing adequate protection.
Call today to schedule your appointment for a custom mouthguard in Flower Mound, TX. You can reach our dentist’s office by calling 972-640-7891 or request an appointment online by filling out the form.