Your teeth are strong, but they are not indestructible. A sports injury, accidental impact, or nighttime teeth grinding can cause chips, cracks, excessive wear, and other dental problems. Mouthguards provide a simple way to help protect your teeth from damage.

At Crosstown Dental Palmyra, we can help patients determine when a mouthguard may be beneficial and whether a custom dental mouthguard is the right choice.

What Is a Mouthguard?

 A mouthguard is a protective appliance worn over the teeth. Depending on its purpose, it can help cushion the teeth against an impact or provide protection from damage caused by grinding and clenching.

There are several types of mouthguards available. Some can be purchased at sporting goods stores or pharmacies, while custom mouthguards are made by a dentist specifically for your mouth.

A comfortable, properly fitted mouthguard is important because you are more likely to wear it consistently.

Who Should Wear a Sports Mouthguard?

Sports mouthguards are often associated with contact sports such as football, hockey, boxing, and lacrosse. However, dental injuries can occur during many other activities.

Athletes participating in basketball, baseball, soccer, wrestling, martial arts, skateboarding, gymnastics, and other activities may also benefit from protecting their teeth.

A mouthguard can help absorb and distribute the force of an impact. This may reduce the risk of chipped, cracked, broken, or knocked-out teeth as well as injuries to the lips, cheeks, and tongue.

Children, teenagers, and adults who participate in activities with a risk of facial impact should consider using appropriate mouth protection.

Can Mouthguards Help With Teeth Grinding?

Mouthguards can also be used for patients who grind or clench their teeth, a condition known as bruxism.

Many people grind their teeth while sleeping and do not realize it. Possible signs include worn or flattened teeth, chipped enamel, tooth sensitivity, morning headaches, or sore jaw muscles.

A dentist may recommend a custom nightguard to create a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth. This can help reduce damage caused by repeated grinding and clenching.

A nightguard and an athletic mouthguard serve different purposes, so they should not be considered interchangeable.

Why Choose a Custom Mouthguard?

Store-bought mouthguards can provide some protection, but they are designed to fit a wide range of people. A custom mouthguard is created using impressions or digital scans of your teeth.

Because it is made specifically for your mouth, a custom appliance can provide a secure fit while making it easier to speak and breathe comfortably.

Your dentist can also select the type and thickness of the appliance based on how it will be used.

How Do You Care for a Mouthguard?

Rinse your mouthguard after each use and clean it according to your dentist’s instructions. Store it in a protective, ventilated case and keep it away from excessive heat.

Check your mouthguard regularly for cracks, tears, or changes in fit. Children and teenagers may require replacements as their teeth and jaws continue to develop.

Bring your mouthguard to routine dental appointments so your dentist can evaluate its condition and fit.

Protect Your Smile With a Mouthguard

Preventing a dental injury is much easier than repairing one. Whether you participate in sports or grind your teeth at night, the right mouthguard can provide valuable protection.

Crosstown Dental Palmyra provides preventive and comprehensive dental care to help patients protect their smiles. If you are interested in a sports mouthguard or custom nightguard, contact our office to schedule an appointment and discuss the best option for your needs.