Mouthguards are multifunctional dental devices that serve a variety of patients in different ways. Customized to fit your smile, a mouthguard is made of a plastic, easy-to-clean material that is worn similarly to a retainer. Our patients who engage in contact sports commonly utilize mouthguards. In fact, many sports like football, wrestling, or gymnastics, require a mouthguard as a part of the required part of the uniform.
Patients who suffer from chronic jaw pain, teeth grinding, or sleep apnea may be recommended to use a mouthguard for extra protection while they sleep. Regardless of why you’re using your mouthguard, it is good to have one on hand. As your trusted general dentist in Westminster, MD, Dr. Bowersox can create a customized mouthguard to fit your smile’s unique needs. Our patients love our customized mouthguards because they are a cost-effective way of preventing future tooth damage.
Custom Mouthguard FAQs
What’s the difference in customized mouthguards vs. over-the-counter options?
Over-the-counter options are a one-size-fits-all approach to teeth protection. Your smile is not just like anyone else’s smile. It’s important to take into consideration that your mouthguard needs to fit snuggly into your mouth for max protection.
If your mouthguard slips around or falls out while you are engaging in a contact sport, you could risk severe tooth damage. Our mouthguards are made from dental impressions of your teeth, which allows for a more comfortable and secure fit.
How does a night guard help with jaw pain?
A night guard is designed to hold your jaw in a healthy resting position while you sleep. Many patients grind their teeth or clench their jaw in their sleep, especially if they are under high stress.
A night guard prevents this action, making sure that if you do bite down on your teeth, they do not experience this extra pressure through the guard. This helps you wake up with a fully rested jawbone, and reduces the tension held in your facial muscles as you sleep.
How does a night guard help with sleep apnea?
A night guard helps sleep apnea patients maintain a proper airway as they sleep. A collapse of soft tissues in your mouth, may cause sleep apnea, which prevents you from breathing properly and causes loud snoring. With a customized night guard, your soft tissues will be held in place, helping you maintain proper airflow.
How long do custom made mouthguards last?
Depending on how well you take care of it, a custom mouthguard can last anywhere from three to five years. However, wear and tear over time may necessitate that you replace your mouthguard at least once a year at the very least.
Can a mouth guard cause damage to my teeth?
When properly worn, a custom mouthguard has been shown to help promote gum health. However, you might do harm to your gums if you use a dirty, damaged, or improperly fitted mouthguard. It is very important to clean your mouthguard and wear it properly at all times.
Can I drink water while wearing my mouth guard?
Water consumption while wearing a mouthguard is completely acceptable. It is important to be sure to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before putting on a mouthguard to reduce the risk of tooth decay and the accumulation of bacteria. Water is the only drink that is safe to consume with your mouthguard in.