You can protect your teeth while playing sports in many ways. First, your daily routine and regular check-ups help, but you should also think about other methods. Custom mouthguards are great for keeping your smile safe.
At Derby Dental, we care about the safety of our Austin patients’ teeth. Custom mouthguards are one of the general dental services we offer to help protect your smile. If you play contact sports, a custom mouthguard should be at the top of your equipment list.
The Protective Power of Custom Mouthguards
Custom mouthguards are essential for preventing injuries and protecting your teeth during various activities. These can include playing sports, or managing teeth grinding issues and a TMJ disorder.
Our dentists create these mouthguards to fit your teeth perfectly. Unlike store-bought options, dentists tailor them to your unique dental needs. This personalized approach not only gives you better protection but also ensures a comfortable fit. You can breathe and talk easily while wearing them.
How Custom Mouthguards Protect Your Teeth
When playing sports, custom mouthguards absorb and spread out the impact during an accident. This helps prevent trauma to your teeth and surrounding areas. It lowers the risk of fractures, dislocations, and other injuries.
Custom mouthguards can also be helpful at night. For those who grind their teeth, custom night guards act as a cushion. They absorb pressure and prevent too much wear on the tooth surfaces. This guards against fractures, enamel erosion, and other grinding-related issues.
Custom mouthguards can also provide proper jaw alignment and cushioning, reducing strain on your jaw joints. This helps prevent TMJ disorders from getting worse. For more information on how we treat TMJ disorders, please see TMJ Treatment.
Finally, a custom mouthguard can help protect your investment in your smile. People with braces or other orthodontic devices benefit from mouthguards during physical activities. These guards protect both your teeth and orthodontic gear, ensuring your treatment’s success.
Maintaining Your Mouthguard
Keeping your custom mouthguard clean is easy. While it may be easy to forget, it’s important. Plaque and bacteria can stick to your mouthguard, raising the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Follow these simple tips to keep the guard clean and in great shape:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your custom mouthguard often with mild soap and lukewarm water. This helps stop bacteria from growing and keeps it clean. Don’t use hot water, as it can change the shape of your mouthguard.
- Proper Storage: Store your mouthguard in a ventilated case. This allows air to circulate and keeps it safe from damage, dirt, and mold.
- Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups to check the condition of your mouthguard. This way, you get ongoing protection and the best performance. Young patients should get a new mouthguard once a year or sports season.
Custom Sports Mouthguard FAQs
How long does it take a dentist to make a custom mouthguard?
It usually takes 1 to 2 weeks for a dentist to make a custom mouthguard. This process includes taking impressions of your teeth, sending them to a dental lab, and then fitting the mouthguard to your mouth. It might take longer if the dentist needs to fix any dental issues first.
Can my sports mouthguard prevent snoring at night?
A sports mouthguard shields your teeth during physical activities and usually doesn’t affect snoring. Snoring happens because of blocked airways or other health issues. If you snore at night, see a doctor or a dentist who knows about sleep problems for the right diagnosis and treatment. They might suggest a night guard or other ways to help with your snoring.
Why do my teeth hurt after wearing my mouthguard?
One reason could be that the mouthguard doesn’t fit well on your teeth, putting pressure on certain areas and causing discomfort. If the mouthguard is too tight, it can also tense up your jaw muscles and lead to tooth pain.
Grinding or clenching your teeth while wearing it can add to the discomfort too. Make sure your mouthguard fits correctly and isn’t causing unnecessary pressure on your teeth. If the pain continues, see a dentist to check for any underlying issues and find ways to make it more comfortable. Call us at 512-862-1463 to request an exam and consultation.