One popular orthodontic equipment is known as a mouth guard. In this blog, we will talk more about its definition, types, and when it should be worn. Let’s dive in!
What Are Mouth Guards?
Mouth guards are covers for your teeth. They help protect your teeth from injury, especially during sports or if you grind your teeth at night. They can also help if you have a jaw problem, snore, or have sleep apnea (a condition where you stop breathing for short periods while sleeping). There are many types of mouthguards available. Both kids and adults can use them.
Types of Mouthguards
There are three main types of mouthguards. Let’s talk about each of them!
1. Stocked Mouth Protectors
Stock mouth protectors are pre-formed and ready to use. They are inexpensive and can be found at most sporting goods and department stores.
Due to their standard size and quality, they cannot be adjusted for a better fit, which makes them bulky which can make breathing and talking difficult. They offer little to no protection and are not often recommended by dentists.
If you need better protection, especially for activities like sports or climbing, consider custom options that fit more comfortably and effectively.
2. Boil and Bite Mouth Protectors
Boil-and-bite mouth protectors are available at many sporting goods stores and usually fit better than stock mouth protectors. They are made from thermoplastic material.
To use them, you first heat them in hot water to soften. Then, you place the softened guard in your mouth and shape it around your teeth using your fingers and tongue.
3. Custom-Fitted Mouth Protectors
Custom-fitted mouth protectors designed based on your dental needs. They are individually designed, made, and produced in a dental office as per your dentist’s instructions. Your dentist first makes a mold of your teeth, and then a mouth guard is created from this mold using special materials. Because of the custom fitting and the extra work involved, these mouth guards cost more than other types but offer the best comfort and protection.
Uses of MouthGuards – Medical and Otherwise
Let’s talk about conditions which necessitate the use of mouth guards!
Prevention From Sport Injury
Both kids and adults can use mouth guards. Dentists can advise patients who play sports such as football, boxing, soccer, hockey, basketball, and field hockey.
However, some uses are entirely noncontact sports, such as gymnastic sports, and other recreational activities, such as mountain biking, hiking, or ice skating. Mouth guards offer protection against various mouth and teeth injuries during such activities.
Teeth Clenching or Bruxism
Adults and children who grind their teeth at night should get a nocturnal bite plate or bite splint to prevent damage.
A mouth guard helps position your jaw to reduce the harm from clenching and grinding. It also allows your jaw muscles to relax, which can help relieve pain.
Sleep Apnea
If you suffer from a medical condition known as sleep apnea, a custom-made mouth guard can adjust your jaw to keep your airway open while you sleep.
You might use this mouth guard with a CPAP machine, which helps treat sleep apnea, or on its own. You’ll probably need to wear it every night.
Overall Insights
Mouth guards are tools which protect your teeth integrity they can be worn by kids and adults both. While some are mass-produced and available at stores, others are custom made depending on specific needs.
Dentists at Spring Cypress Dental provide comprehensive care and assessment for multiple dental problems. Call us at (281) 256-3222 to book your appointment.