A mouthguard is essential to protect your teeth when playing contact sports, and a nightguard can prevent damage when you grind your teeth at night. For both of these, a custom mouthguard is ideal. It’s fitted perfectly to your teeth. As part of our general dentistry services, Mill Creek Dental provides high-quality custom mouthguards.
Getting a Custom Mouthguard in Canton, TX
The first step in getting a custom mouthguard is scheduling an appointment with your dentist. They will take impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental laboratory, where the mouthguard will be custom-made just for you. This process typically takes a couple of weeks, but the end result is well worth the wait.
Once your custom mouthguard is ready, you’ll return to your dentist for a fitting. They will ensure that it fits properly and comfortably in your mouth, making any necessary adjustments to ensure a snug and secure fit. Your dentist will also provide you with instructions on how to care for your mouthguard and how to properly clean it to ensure its longevity.
Store-Bought Vs. Custom Mouthguards
Store-bought mouthguards are available at most sporting goods and come in various sizes and styles. They are typically made from a boil-and-bite material that softens in hot water and molds to the shape of your teeth when you bite them. While store-bought mouthguards are convenient and inexpensive, they may not provide the best fit or protection.
On the other hand, custom mouthguards are made by a dentist and are individually tailored to fit your mouth comfortably and securely. They are typically crafted from high-quality materials that offer superior protection and durability. Custom mouthguards are more expensive than store-bought options, but many athletes find the investment worth it for the added peace of mind.
Pros and Cons
One of the main advantages of custom mouthguards is their superior fit. Because they are custom-made to your mouth shape, they offer a snug, comfortable fit that stays in place during intense physical activity. This helps to reduce the risk of injury to your teeth, gums, and jaw.
Custom mouthguards also provide better protection against concussions. Studies have shown that properly fitted mouthguards can help reduce the risk of concussions by absorbing and dispersing impact forces that would otherwise be transmitted to the head and brain. This added level of protection can be crucial for athletes who participate in contact sports.
In addition to superior protection, custom mouthguards offer improved breathability and speech capabilities. Because they are made to fit your mouth precisely, they do not interfere with breathing or speaking as some store-bought options might. This can help you stay focused and perform best during sports and physical activity.
Despite the benefits of custom mouthguards, some athletes may still opt for store-bought options due to their lower cost and convenience. While store-bought mouthguards can provide some protection, they may not offer the same comfort, fit, and durability as custom mouthguards.
Sports Mouthguards Vs. Nightguards
Sports mouthguards are essential for athletes in contact sports such as football, hockey, and basketball. They provide a protective barrier between the teeth and soft tissues of the mouth, reducing the risk of injuries such as broken teeth, cuts to the lips and cheeks, and jaw fractures. They are usually made of durable materials like hard plastic or silicone, which can withstand the impact of a blow to the face or mouth.
Wearing a sports mouthguard can also help to prevent concussions, as it can absorb some of the force from a direct hit to the jaw or head. This added protection is especially important for athletes with a higher risk of head injuries. Many sports leagues and organizations require athletes to wear mouthguards during games and practices to minimize the risk of dental and facial injuries.
On the other hand, nightguards alleviate the symptoms of teeth grinding and jaw clenching, also known as bruxism. These conditions often occur during sleep, when the person is unaware of their actions. Bruxism can lead to worn-down teeth, jaw pain, headaches, and other oral health issues without intervention. Nightguards are custom-made devices. They fit over the teeth and provide a cushioning effect, preventing them from grinding against each other.
Nightguards help protect teeth from excessive wear and tear caused by bruxism. By wearing a nightguard while sleeping, individuals can reduce the risk of developing cavities, tooth sensitivity, and enamel erosion. Additionally, nightguards can help alleviate muscle tension in the jaw and reduce the frequency and intensity of jaw-clenching episodes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have questions about custom mouthguards? Well, we have answers! Discover the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about custom mouthguards.
How long does it take to get a custom mouthguard made?
Getting a custom mouthguard usually takes about 1 to 2 weeks. The process involves taking impressions of your teeth during your first visit and fabricating the mouthguard in a dental lab. Your dentist will fit and adjust it during a follow-up appointment.
Can custom mouthguards be adjusted or repaired?
Your dentist can often make minor adjustments to custom mouthguards to improve fit or comfort. However, if the mouthguard is cracked, torn, or no longer fits properly due to dental changes, it may need to be repaired or replaced entirely.
Can custom mouthguards cause gum irritation?
No, properly fitted custom mouthguards should not cause gum irritation. If irritation occurs, it may indicate an improper fit or buildup of bacteria. Regular cleaning and dental check-ups help ensure a comfortable fit and proper hygiene.
Do custom sports mouthguards protect against concussions?
While custom sports mouthguards protect teeth, lips, and gums from injuries, they may also reduce the risk of concussions by absorbing impact forces. However, they cannot guarantee complete concussion prevention and should be used alongside other protective gear.
Can I wear a custom mouthguard if I have braces?
Yes, custom mouthguards can be made for people with braces to provide protection during sports or prevent damage from grinding. We design them to fit over the brackets and wires without interfering with orthodontic treatment. Adjustments may be needed as teeth shift during treatment.
Are custom mouthguards safe for people with TMJ disorders?
Yes, we often recommend custom mouthguards for people with TMJ disorders to reduce jaw strain and prevent teeth grinding. They help reposition the jaw slightly, relieving tension in the temporomandibular joint and reducing pain or discomfort associated with TMJ issues.
Do custom mouthguards interfere with breathing during sports?
No, custom mouthguards are designed to fit snugly without obstructing airflow. Their precise fit allows athletes to breathe and speak more easily than with bulky, over-the-counter mouthguards. This makes them ideal for high-performance sports.
Schedule an Appointment
Do you need a sports mouthguard or protection from teeth grinding at night? Call our office or schedule an appointment online.
