Mouthguards

What is the purpose of a mouthguard?

In most instances, a mouthguard fits over your upper teeth and helps prevent injuries to your teeth, tongue, and soft tissue. It's typically made of a soft, pliable material such as plastic or thermoplastic. 

The two main purposes for mouthguards are to protect your teeth from grinding and clenching at night and to protect your teeth while participating in sports where they can become damaged.

Sports such as soccer, skateboarding, football, or martial arts may require mouthguards to be used by participants. When you wear a guard to protect your teeth from nighttime teeth grinding, a condition called bruxism, it’s often called a night guard. 

Who needs a mouthguard?

Anyone who plays an active sport that carries a risk of falling or making contact with another player can benefit from wearing a mouthguard. Even certain fitness activities can increase your risk of dental damage.

If you often wake up with a headache or a sore jaw, there's a good chance you grind your teeth at night. This can damage both your teeth and your jaw joints. A night guard can protect your teeth while you get the rest you need to thrive. 

Your dentist can design and fabricate a comfortable custom mouthguard that addresses your individual grinding and clenching issues. Mouthguards are manufactured for people of most ages. 

Generic, over-the-counter mouthguards are often ill-fitting, making it difficult to breathe properly or to speak. They may also be less durable and more subject to tearing.

Research shows that young athletes who do not wear mouthguards are 60 times more likely to damage their teeth. Yet, in a recent youth sports survey, 67% of parents admitted that their children do not wear a mouthguard during organized sports.

Can I wear a mouthguard if I already wear braces?

Yes, even people who wear braces may need to wear a mouthguard, especially when playing sports. If your braces aren't removable like the Invisalign® system, the dentist creates a mouthguard that fits securely over them to help protect your mouth in the event of a collision or impact.

To learn more about mouthguards and how they can protect your teeth, call the office of Shara Miller, DDS, to schedule an appointment or request one online today.