Mouthguards are dental appliances made from resin or vinyl that are worn over an individual's teeth to protect them from injury. Mouthguards are most often used when playing sports, especially contact sports, or during other recreational outdoor activities. When you or your child participate in any of these activities, it's important to use a mouthguard to prevent dental injuries. The risk of dental injury is much higher if you play sports without a mouthguard.
Types of Mouthguards
Sports Mouthguards
A mouthguard can protect your teeth from damage while you're playing sports or participating in other activities where your teeth or mouth may get injured. Physical trauma to the mouth can result in broken, chipped, or dislodged teeth. It can also harm soft tissue.
A sports mouthguard is a removable dental appliance that you wear over your teeth to protect them. It fits comfortably over the arch of your mouth and can make a world of difference in protecting your teeth.
Nightguards
Patients who grind their teeth during sleep may find that wearing a mouthguard at night reduces symptoms. Wearing a customized nightguard can protect your teeth from damage and headaches or temporomandibular joint issues.
>What Is a Custom Mouthguard?
A custom mouthguard is made to fit perfectly and comfortably based on impressions of your teeth. This type of mouthguard offers the highest level of comfort and protection when compared to other types, such as boil-and-bite mouthguards.
What Are the Benefits of Wearing a Mouthguard?
- One of the main benefits of wearing a mouthguard is protection against dental injuries.
- Mouthguards can also prevent you from snoring.
- A mouthguard is ideal for preventing teeth grinding and clenching, which can cause tooth damage over time.
- A mouthguard can also help prevent temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD).
- A mouthguard can also help reposition the tongue, keeping the airways open during sleep.
What Is a Nightguard?
A nightguard is a type of oral appliance that can prevent damage caused by teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. Bruxism is an oral parafunctional activity that occurs during sleep and can cause damage to your teeth. Custom-made nightguards are designed to fit comfortably in your mouth and are worn while you sleep to protect your teeth from nighttime damage.
What Are the Benefits of a Nightguard?
There are many benefits of using a nightguard for teeth grinding, and your dentist can help you determine if one would be beneficial for you. Some of the most common benefits are listed below:
- Protects natural teeth from damage
- Reduces the occurrence of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)
- Allows patients to get a better night’s sleep
- Costs less than other treatments
- Can be easily customized to fit each patient’s unique needs
You can reach out to our dental practice at (972) 562-0197, visit Dentist McKinney TXat 400 N Tennessee St, McKinney, TX 75069, or book an appointment online for a consultation with our dentists.
