Mouth Guards are used to protect your teeth from injury. There are different types of mouth guards for different uses. Most mouth guards are used to protect from sports injuries or bruxing (grinding and clenching your teeth). Mouth guards can be bought over-the-counter but your dentist can design a custom-fit one. To be most effective mouth protectors should fit precisely and comfortably. They should resist damage, be easy to clean, and be durable. Most mouth guards are designed only to cover the top teeth but under special circumstances (i.e. braces) the dentist might include a guard for your bottom teeth as well. Read on to find out more about the types of mouth guards and their uses.
Uses
Mouth guards are used to protect children and adults while partaking in sports or sport activities such as football, lacrosse, hockey, boxing, skateboarding, mountain biking, gymnastics, or any other activity that poses a risk of injury to your mouth, teeth, and the soft tissue surrounding your teeth. A nocturnal mouth splint, or mouth guard, are recommended for people who grind and clench their teeth at night to help protect against tooth damage.
Types
Custom-Fit: These mouth protectors come highly recommended by dentists because they are individually designed to accommodate the patient’s needs and fit. They are made from an impression of your teeth and fabricated in a professional dental laboratory. Although more expensive, the custom-made mouth guard is designed to provide optimal comfort and protection.
Boil and Bite: These mouth protectors can be found at drug stores, department stores, and sporting goods stores. The thermoplastic material is softened in hot water then placed in the mouth and shaped around the teeth with your fingers and tongue.
Stock Mouth Protectors: Preformed and ready to wear, stock mouth protectors tend to be inexpensive and can be found at drug stores, department stores, and most sporting good stores. Their fit is not adjustable, and they can be bulky, and make breathing and talking difficult.
ABOUT YOUR GRAND PRAIRIE DENTIST:
Dr. Quinn Smith is a well-respected and highly experienced general, restorative, and family dentist in Grand Prairie, TX. He takes a patient-first approach that starts from the moment patients enter our Pecan Tree Dental office, and he offers a three-year guarantee on all dental work that he performs. Whether you and your family are new or returning patients, you can schedule a consultation or your next appointment with Dr. Smith by contacting us at (972) 262-5111.
