Up Your Preventive Dental Care Game with Customized Mouthguards
A mouthguard or a dental splint is a soft piece of plastic molded to fit snugly over your teeth. Without a mouthguard, your smile might suffer from sports injuries or bruxism-induced pressure if you are a chronic teeth grinder.
Need to protect your smile in Framingham, Massachusetts? Welcome to Framingham Family Dental Care! We offer custom-made mouthguards to provide optimal comfort and superior protection for your smile.
Always consider custom-made mouthguards
Mouthguards aren’t created equal. Generic or off-the-shelf mouthguards are cheap and convenient but rarely fit well. Generic dental devices are made without considering the specifics of your dentition. As such, they tend to shift or move when inside your mouth.
Another option you can consider is boil and bite mouthguards. These dental devices are created using a flexible material that stretches when exposed to high temperatures. While these devices are better than their generic counterparts, they don’t offer the optimal protection you deserve.
Your smile is unique, and so should be your mouthguard. Dentists like Drs. Arvi Duka and Adelina Duka offer customized mouthguards after taking your bite impressions. Customized mouthguards provide maximum protection and are comfortable enough to allow you to breathe and communicate when in your mouth.
Custom-made mouthguards available at our practice
Our practice offers dental exams, cleanings, and fluoride treatments to protect teeth and gums from diseases and decay. Our preventive dental care services also include mouthguards to protect your smile from injury.
Mouthguard options you can find in our office include:
- Athletic mouthguard: Do you participate in contact sports like rugby, football, wrestling, and boxing? You need a sports dental guard to protect your teeth and gums from blows and knocks. Similarly, you should wear an athletic mouthguard for non-contact games like cycling, gymnastics, and skating. A sports guard absorbs the shock from blows, knocks, and falls to protect your teeth from structural damage and prevent lacerations to your cheeks, lips, and gums.
- Bruxism nightguards: Chronic teeth grinding (bruxism) exerts pressure on your teeth, resulting in dental damage and TMJ-related symptoms. A custom nightguard creates a barrier between the lower and upper teeth, reducing bruxism-induced pressure.
Nightguards & Sport Guards FAQs
What is a night guard, and how does it work?
A night guard is a custom-made dental appliance worn over the teeth during sleep. It acts as a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth to prevent damage caused by grinding or clenching, known as bruxism. The guard absorbs the pressure and reduces the wear and tear on your teeth, protecting enamel and minimizing jaw muscle strain.
Who needs a night guard?
People who grind or clench their teeth at night, often unknowingly, can benefit from a night guard. Signs include waking up with jaw pain, headaches, tooth sensitivity, or damaged teeth. Night guards are also recommended for those with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, as they help alleviate pressure on the jaw joint.
What causes teeth grinding (bruxism), and how can a night guard help?
Bruxism can be caused by stress, anxiety, abnormal bite alignment, sleep disorders, or even certain medications. Grinding or clenching puts excessive force on teeth and jaw muscles, leading to pain, tooth damage, and headaches. Wearing a night guard cushions the teeth reduces friction, and helps relax jaw muscles, effectively preventing the harmful effects of bruxism.
What is a sports guard, and why is it important?
A sports guard, also called a mouthguard, is a protective device worn during athletic activities to shield the teeth, gums, and jaw from injury. It’s essential for athletes in contact sports like football, hockey, or basketball, but it is also useful in any sport where falls or collisions occur. Sports guards reduce the risk of broken teeth, cuts inside the mouth, and jaw fractures.
How does a sports guard protect my teeth during sports?
Sports guards absorb and distribute the impact force from hits or falls, protecting your teeth and soft tissues from trauma. Cushioning the jaw also helps prevent concussions or jaw dislocations. A properly fitted sports guard stays securely in place and provides shock absorption, significantly lowering the chance of dental injuries during physical activity.
Can I get a custom sports guard for better fit and protection?
Yes, custom sports guards are made from moulds of your teeth and offer superior comfort, fit, and protection compared to over-the-counter options. They are designed to fit your mouth precisely, making it easier to breathe and speak while wearing them. Custom guards also tend to be more durable and provide better shock absorption, making them the preferred choice for serious athletes.
How do I know if I need a night guard or sports guard?
You may need a night guard if you experience symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, tooth sensitivity or have noticed wear on your teeth due to grinding or clenching at night. A sports guard is necessary if you participate in sports or physical activities where dental injuries are a risk. Individuals who grind their teeth and play sports might need both types of guards to protect their oral health effectively. Consulting with your dentist is the best way to determine which guard suits your needs.
Need a custom mouthguard in Framingham, MA? We invite you to talk to Framingham Family Dental Care to learn about our mouthguard options. Call us today at (508) 665-2016 to protect your smile and oral health!
