A dental mouthguard is an oral appliance that protects your teeth and gums. We may recommend a custom mouthguard for various reasons, and different types are available. Clock Tower Dental can provide dental mouthguards for children and adults.
This guide explains what a mouthguard is, how it works, and the available types. We also cover how to care for your mouthguard to help it last longer.
What Is a Mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a removable dental appliance designed to cover your teeth. It is custom-made so that it will fit comfortably and securely.
Most will fit over your upper teeth, but sometimes, we recommend that you have a mouthguard over your lower teeth as well.
Why Would I Need a Mouthguard?
There are several reasons why we may recommend a mouthguard, which includes:
- To prevent clenching and grinding (bruxism).
- Protect your teeth during contact sports like boxing, soccer, hockey, or basketball.
- Protect your teeth during other activities where there is a risk you could take a blow to the mouth, like gymnastics or skateboarding.
- Treating mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnoea.
- Treating temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).
What Are the Different Types of Mouthguards Available?
There are three main types of mouthguards that we may prescribe which are described below.
Sports Mouthguards
A sports mouthguard will protect your teeth, gums, and jaws from damage during sports. Wearing a well-fitting custom sports mouthguard can reduce your risk of knocked-out teeth, jaw injuries, and concussion.
Our sports mouthguards are made from tough thermoplastic and come in various colors. They are custom-designed to provide maximum protection and can be thickened in critical areas. A custom sports mouthguard is comfortable, allows you to breathe freely, and will not fall out.
Mouthguards for Bruxism and TMJ
Bruxism is a destructive habit that can damage teeth significantly and cause gum recession. It can also affect your temporomandibular joints or jaw joints.
Bruxism tends to be a nocturnal habit, so this night guard is generally worn during sleep, although you can also wear it during the day if you wish.
A mouthguard for bruxism will fit tightly yet comfortably over your upper teeth. It is made from a thin, durable plastic material, and once in the mouth, your teeth will grind harmlessly against the guard.
Teeth grinding and clenching are often linked to TMJ, so treating it can reduce stress on your jaw joints, relieving the pain of this condition.
Mouthguards for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can prevent a restful night’s sleep and impact your overall health. Someone with OSA will stop breathing many times during sleep as the muscles supporting their airway collapse inward during sleep.
A dental splint for OSA helps to hold open the airway by placing the jaw in a slightly forward position. The design also helps prevent the tongue from flopping backward and obstructing breathing.
What are the Benefits of a Custom Mouthguard?
The benefits of a custom mouthguard are outlined below.
Preventing Serious Dental Injuries
A custom mouthguard can help prevent serious dental injuries or even tooth loss during sports. The cost of restorative dentistry for sporting injuries can be high, especially over a lifetime, and dental trauma can be very upsetting.
Treating Bruxism and TMJ and Preventing Further Damage to Teeth and Jaws
A night splint can form part of a treatment plan for bruxism, preventing further damage to your teeth. Some people may find that wearing a night guard can break a bruxism habit within a few weeks, while others will need to wear it for longer.
Successfully Treating OSA More Comfortably
A night splint is a comfortable way to treat this issue if you have mild or moderate OSA. A night guard can be an alternative treatment for more severe OSA and might be suitable for anyone who is struggling to use a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machine (CPAP).
How is a Custom Mouthguard Made?
The procedure is very simple.
- After identifying that you need a mouthguard, we can take a digital scan of your teeth, creating a virtual 3D model of your mouth.
- Your mouthguard is custom-designed and fabricated using this model so that it will fit precisely and comfortably.
- Once ready, we will show you how to insert and remove it and ensure you know how to look after it.
Caring For Your Mouth Guard
It is important to look after your mouthguard and keep it clean.
- It is best to clean your teeth before using your mouthguard.
- When you remove it, rinse it under cool running water and clean it using gentle dish soap and a soft-bristled brush. Do not use hot water that could warp it.
- Store your mouthguard in the case provided, away from heat that could distort it.
- Keep your mouthguard out of reach of pets that could use it as a chew toy.
Bring your mouthguard with you to every checkup so we can ensure it still fits properly and isn’t worn.
How Long Will a Mouthguard Last?
You can expect your mouthguard to last several years with the right care. However, if you clench and grind, you might need to replace it more frequently. We may also need to replace a child’s mouthguard more frequently as their teeth and jaws develop.
How Much Will a Mouthguard Cost?
A mouthguard is inexpensive and well worth the cost. We can advise you on the exact price when you visit Clock Tower Dental. Purchasing a custom mouthguard could save thousands of dollars in restorative dental care. Dental insurance may partly cover the cost of a custom mouthguard.