Mouth Guards
If you play sports or grind your teeth, a mouth guard may be recommended by your dentist to protect teeth from damage. Injuries can happen at any time, even while you’re sleeping, so a mouth guard is the best way to maintain your oral health and keep teeth from being damaged.
Why do I need a mouth guard?
Dental injuries are often caused by playing sports. When children and adults neglect to wear mouth guards while playing sports, injuries can occur without notice. No matter what sport it is, there is always a chance of dental injury and problems with the mouth.
You can also experience problems while sleeping if the jaw becomes clenched or teeth rub together, which is known as grinding. When this occurs, teeth can become worn down, chipped, broken, or damaged in other ways. A mouth guard keeps a barrier between teeth, preventing any damage from occurring during the night.
Signs that you may grind your teeth at night:
Increased tooth pain or sensitivity
Tired or tight jaw muscles
Jaw, neck or face pain or soreness
Pain that feels like an earache
Dull headache starting in the temples
Damage from chewing on the inside of your cheek
Disrupted sleep
If you or your child actively participate in sports or are experiencing any of the symptoms of teeth grinding listed above, you should consider using a custom-fitted mouth guard. Talk to our dentists at WoodSprings Dentistry during your next dental appointment to discuss your concerns and questions.
What types of mouth guards are there?
There are three different kinds of mouth guards: stock mouth guards, boil and bite mouth guards, and custom fitted mouth guards. Stock guards as well as boil and bite guards can be bought at stores and are used while playing sports. Custom mouth guards are made to fit your teeth perfectly, providing the best experience in both comfort and protection.
Our dentists at WoodSprings Dentistry can provide you with custom-fitted mouth guards in order to protect your teeth and prevent painful injuries.
How do I care for my mouth guard?
If you have a mouth guard, it is important to take care of it so that your teeth can be protected properly. Here are some tips to care for your mouth guard and keep teeth protected while you’re playing sports or sleeping.
Gently scrub the mouth guard using soap and water
Keep your mouth guard stored in a case when they are not in use
Keep the mouth guard away from direct sunlight or hot water
Avoid chewing on your mouth guard
Your WoodSprings Dentistry professionals can provide you with mouth guards custom made to fit properly onto your teeth. Our dental experts are available throughout the week, so call our office to schedule an appointment with our dentists for an examination, a cleaning, and a mouth guard to protect your teeth.
If you are looking for a dentist in The Woodlands or Spring, TX, who provides custom-fitted mouth guards, call WoodSprings Dentistry today.