Whether you’re an athlete participating in contact sports or someone who grinds their teeth while sleeping, protecting your smile should be a priority. Mouthguards are dental appliances designed to cushion and shield your teeth, providing numerous benefits beyond just oral protection.

In this blog, we will delve into the advantages of wearing mouthguards and highlight why they are essential for maintaining oral health and preventing dental injuries.

What Are Mouthguards?

Mouthguards are dental appliances designed to cover and protect the teeth, gums, and surrounding oral structures. They are typically made of a flexible, durable material that can withstand impact and provide cushioning. Mouthguards come in various forms, including over-the-counter options and custom-made devices created by dental professionals.

There are three main types of mouthguards:

Stock Mouthguards

These are pre-formed, ready-to-wear mouthguards available in most sporting goods stores or pharmacies. Stock mouthguards come in limited sizes and offer minimal customization. While they provide a basic level of protection, they often do not fit well, making them less comfortable and less effective in preventing dental injuries.

Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

Boil-and-bite mouthguards are also available in many retail stores and can be molded to fit the wearer’s teeth. This type of mouthguard is made from a thermoplastic material that softens in hot water. After softening the material, it is placed in the mouth, where it conforms to the teeth and gums by biting down. While boil-and-bite mouthguards offer better fit and protection compared to stock mouthguards, they still have limitations in terms of customization.

Custom-Made Mouthguards

Custom-made mouthguards are fabricated by dental professionals. They offer the highest level of protection, comfort, and fit since they are individually designed based on the unique contours of a person’s mouth. The process typically involves taking impressions of the teeth and gums, which are then used to create a personalized mouthguard. Custom-made mouthguards provide optimal protection for athletes engaged in high-impact sports or individuals with specific dental needs.

Protection against Dental Injuries

One of the primary benefits of wearing a mouthguard is its ability to protect your teeth and mouth from injuries during physical activities. Mouthguards act as a cushion, absorbing the impact and distributing the force of a blow or trauma, thereby reducing the risk of broken teeth, jaw fractures, and soft tissue damage.

Whether you participate in high-impact sports like football or engage in recreational activities like cycling or skateboarding, a properly fitted mouthguard is a vital accessory that can help prevent dental emergencies.

Prevention of Teeth Grinding

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a common condition that can occur during sleep or even subconsciously during the day. It can lead to enamel wear, tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, and other dental issues. Custom-made mouthguards, known as nightguards, are specifically designed to address this problem.

Nightguards create a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, minimizing the effects of grinding and clenching. By wearing a nightguard, you can effectively reduce the wear and tear on your teeth, alleviate jaw discomfort, and improve the overall quality of your sleep.

Orthodontic Protection

For individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment, mouthguards are crucial for protecting the investment made in their smiles. Braces and other orthodontic appliances can increase the risk of oral injuries during physical activities. A mouthguard provides a barrier that helps shield the braces, wires, and soft tissues of the mouth from potential damage.

By wearing a mouthguard, orthodontic patients can continue to participate in their favorite sports or activities with confidence, knowing that their teeth and braces are well-protected.

Preservation of Dental Work

If you have invested in dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, or veneers, wearing a mouthguard is essential for their longevity. Accidental impacts or trauma can lead to the fracture or dislodgment of dental restorations, requiring costly repairs or replacements.

A mouthguard acts as a protective shield, reducing the risk of damage to your dental work. By wearing a mouthguard, you can safeguard your investment and ensure that your dental restorations remain intact and functional for years to come.

Conclusion

Wearing a mouthguard offers a wide range of benefits, from protecting against dental injuries during physical activities to preventing teeth grinding and preserving dental restorations.

By investing in a properly fitted mouthguard, you can safeguard your smile and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your teeth and oral structures are well-protected.

Consult with your dentist to determine the most suitable mouthguard for your specific needs and take proactive steps to maintain your oral health. Visit Alphington Dental Care today!