Mouthguards & Nightguards

What Are Mouthguards & Nightguards

Mouthguards are protective devices worn over your teeth during physical activities, such as sports. They cushion your teeth against impacts, preventing broken teeth, injuries to your lips, tongue, face, or jaw. Mouthguards are especially important for contact sports like football, basketball, and hockey. Night guards are similar to mouthguards but are worn while you sleep. They are designed to prevent damage caused by teeth grinding or clenching, a condition known as bruxism. Wearing a night guard can help prevent tooth wear, jaw pain, headaches, and other issues related to bruxism.

Whether you need a mouthguard for sports or a night guard for sleep, our dental practice can create a custom solution to keep your smile safe and healthy for the long term.

How effective are mouthguards in preventing sports injuries, and when should they be used?

Mouthguards are highly effective in preventing sports-related dental injuries, particularly in high-contact sports like football or hockey. They are designed to absorb and disperse the force from blows to the face. Custom-fitted mouthguards are comfortable and do not impede breathing or speech. This allows athletes to perform at their best without distraction or discomfort.

Numerous studies and dental health organizations support the effectiveness of mouthguards. The American Dental Association (ADA) advocates for the use of mouthguards in a wide range of sports, citing significant reductions in the incidence and severity of oral injuries. They should be worn during any activity where there's a risk of impact to the mouth, such as during games or practices.

How do nightguards help with teeth grinding and alleviate sleep-related symptoms?

Night guards provide a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth. This cushion prevents the direct contact of teeth, reducing wear and tear on the enamel and preventing chips, cracks, and excessive tooth wear. By wearing a night guard, the pressure exerted during grinding or clenching is evenly distributed across your teeth and jaw. This helps alleviate the stress on specific teeth and reduces the risk of damage to your teeth and jaw joints.

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